A Healthier Tomorrow

Will Rucker & Ciara Owens
A Healthier Tomorrow

Welcome to the podcast that's all about your health and wellbeing! Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens each month as they bring you the latest information and strategies for preventing chronic disease and living a healthy, vibrant life. With a focus on community empowerment, this podcast is your go-to resource for expert insights and practical tips on everything from nutrition and exercise to stress management and mental health. Each episode features a special guest who is a subject matter expert in the topic of the month, bringing you the most up-to-date information and cutting-edge research. Whether you're looking to take charge of your health or simply stay informed, you won't want to miss a single episode of this dynamic and informative podcast. Tune in and get ready to transform your health and your life! The A Healthier Tomorrow program is sponsored by the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion at the Southern Nevada Health District.

  1. Bikes, Health, and Happiness: Creating A Healthier Tomorrow For Las Vegas

    DEC 11

    Bikes, Health, and Happiness: Creating A Healthier Tomorrow For Las Vegas

    About the Guests: Daniel Fazekas Daniel Fazekas serves as the Transportation Planning Manager at the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Southern Nevada. With a focus on creating a healthier community, he's been instrumental in initiatives that enhance walking and biking infrastructure. Daniel's work revolves around concepts like complete streets and the RTC bike share program, aiming to diversify transportation options beyond car-centric models. Shayla Pierre Shayla Pierre is the Director of Equity Development and Community Engagement at Roseman University College of Medicine. With over a decade of experience, she has contributed significantly to community health initiatives. Her leadership in the Genesis program focuses on addressing social determinants of health by integrating medical students into communities, enhancing health access and equity. Episode Summary: As we wrap up 2024, "A Healthier Tomorrow" continues its mission of promoting wellness in the Las Vegas community. Hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens bring on Daniel Fazekas from RTC of Southern Nevada and Shayla Pierre from Roseman University to discuss transformative initiatives in public health and transportation. This episode dives into strategies geared toward building healthier and more connected communities as we head into 2025. Daniel Fazekas delves into the RTC's efforts to foster a bike-friendly environment in Southern Nevada. With a focus on creating complete streets, the discussion highlights the RTC's bike share program and its expanding influence in Las Vegas, underscoring a shift from car-centric transit to more inclusive transport options. Meanwhile, Shayla Pierre introduces the innovative community-focused endeavors of Roseman University's Genesis program. This initiative aims to prepare future medical professionals to understand and address the social drivers of health by conducting home visits in underserved areas, inspired by global health models. Key Takeaways: The RTC of Southern Nevada is making strides in increasing biking and walking accessibility through its bike share program, with expansions aided by community partnerships like the Southern Nevada Health District. Roseman University College of Medicine, through the Genesis program, will have medical students engage with communities via home visits, aiming to understand and address social determinants of health. Innovation is a cornerstone of Roseman's approach, using technology like virtual reality to enhance medical training and community engagement. Complete streets in Southern Nevada are designed to accommodate all transport users—bikers, walkers, and vehicles—balancing the city's car-centric nature with more holistic transport solutions. Both guests emphasize the importance of community involvement and systemic change to improve public health outcomes in Southern Nevada. Notable Quotes: "RTC is committed to creating more options when it comes to walking and biking." - Daniel Fazekas "The bike share program is a convenient transportation alternative for short-term trips in and around downtown Las Vegas." - Daniel Fazekas "We have a new medical school that is coming here to Southern Nevada…it's a step in the right direction in terms of having more family med doctors that are here." - Shayla Pierre "Genesis is a step in the right direction in terms of addressing these social determinants." - Shayla Pierre "For more information and to register, go to rtcsnv.com/toydrive to register there." - Daniel Fazekas Resources: RTC Southern Nevada's website for updated maps and bike share information: rtcsnv.com Healthier Tomorrow Radio Program resources: gethealthyclarkcounty.org Information on Roseman University and their programs: Roseman University website Follow RTC on social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and X Explore the transformative conversations around public health and transportation by tuning into this enriching episode. Stay with us for more insights on building healthier communities and don't miss out on future episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow."

    26 min
  2. NOV 27

    How Gratitude Journals Can Transform Your Mental Health

    Episode Summary: In this special Thanksgiving edition of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens explore the profound impact of gratitude on health and well-being. As they discuss what it means to be truly thankful, they delve into personal practices and actionable insights that can enhance both mental and physical health. The conversation provides a warm, reflective narrative that is perfect for the Thanksgiving week, encouraging listeners to pause and appreciate the good in their lives. Throughout the episode, Will and Ciara emphasize the key benefits of gratitude, such as reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall health. They touch on numerous practical strategies for cultivating gratitude, including journaling and volunteering, which foster a sense of community and personal fulfillment. Additionally, they highlight how these practices can profoundly impact one's outlook and resilience, especially in times of adversity. As they share personal stories and tips, the hosts also remind listeners about the value of savoring life's small blessings and staying connected with our roots through traditional foods and customs. Key Takeaways: Gratitude's Health Benefits: Practicing gratitude can significantly lower stress, improve mental health, and even contribute to better physical health. Daily Mindfulness: Concluding your day by reflecting on positive aspects can transform your perception and attitude towards daily challenges. Volunteering and Community Involvement: Engaging with community service fosters interconnectedness and enhances gratitude for personal circumstances. Simplicity in Food and Life: There is profound value in appreciating the natural flavors of foods and life's simple pleasures without unnecessary embellishments. Optimism and Resilience: Facing difficulties with an optimistic outlook can help extract lessons and growth from challenging situations.   Notable Quotes: "Sometimes the things you're thankful for aren't always the most beautifully wrapped things, but things that came with lessons or blessings afterwards." - Ciara Owens "Give thanks in all things… even when we are dealing with difficult circumstances." - Will Rucker "Did you really have a bad day or did you have a bad few moments?" - Ciara Owens "Volunteering is an opportunity to truly anchor oneself in gratitude and to bless someone else." - Ciara Owens "You are not just a drop in the ocean, you are the entire ocean in a drop." - Will Rucker We encourage you to listen to the full episode for an enriching experience filled with heartfelt conversations and valuable insights on embracing gratitude for a healthier life. Stay tuned for more episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow" to explore other wellness topics that can enhance your lifestyle.

    25 min
  3. Breaking Down Barriers: Access to Health and Wellness for All with Kiande Jakada

    OCT 23

    Breaking Down Barriers: Access to Health and Wellness for All with Kiande Jakada

    About the Guest: Kiande Jakada: Kiande Jakada serves as an HIV Health Educator at The Center. With a career in HIV/AIDS advocacy and education starting back in 1997, Kiande has dedicated much of his professional journey to increasing awareness and understanding about HIV as it affects diverse communities. He plays a key role in outreach initiatives, hosting educational programs and handling health services designed to equip individuals with the knowledge they need to lead healthier lives. Beyond his educational endeavors, Kiande is celebrated for his engaging and supportive presence within the Las Vegas community. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Ciara Owens and Will Rucker welcome their esteemed guest, Kiande Jakada, a dedicated HIV Health Educator at The Center. They delve into a range of vital topics from personal wellness practices, community health initiatives, to HIV prevention and education. With a candid and engaging dialogue, they unravel myths surrounding HIV and underscore the importance of knowing one's status and embracing community health resources available at The Center. Will Rucker emphasizes personal wellness strategies, reiterating the importance of managing stress and living in the moment. The conversation shifts to proactive health measures with Kiande Jakada shedding light on modern HIV prevention techniques like PrEP and PEP and their accessibility. The episode further explores the stigma surrounding HIV and The Center’s open-door policy to all seeking to realize a healthier, more informed lifestyle. Kiande promotes transparency and education, urging everyone to know their HIV status and utilize The Center’s health services. This session poignantly reflects on community unity’s power, urging listeners to participate in local health initiatives actively. Key Takeaways: Community-Centered Health Initiatives: The Center is designed as a welcoming space for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, offering services like HIV education, testing, and treatment. Importance of Knowing Your Status: Everyone should be aware of their HIV status for maintaining a healthy and informed lifestyle. Advanced HIV Prevention Options: PrEP and PEP are crucial tools now available at The Center to prevent HIV transmission. Role of Faith in Health Discussions: Faith communities are encouraged to facilitate open discussions about sexual health to dismantle stigma and support comprehensive wellness. Accessibility to Health Resources: The Center offers a wide range of services, including primary care, wellness clinics, and pharmacy access, to break down barriers to healthcare access. Notable Quotes: "We all have a status, and it's better to know your status so you can know what moves you can make in your life." – Kiande Jakada "Clarity is kindness." – Will Rucker "When you walk into the doors of the center, whatever sexual orientation you are, however you identify, is only gonna be enhanced and celebrated." – Kiande Jakada "Be real about the fact that people have sex." – Kiande Jakada "You are not just a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop. And what you do matters." – Will Rucker   Dive into the full episode for an insightful discussion on HIV awareness, personal health management, and the empowerment available through community support and education. Stay tuned to "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more engaging and enlightening narratives.

    28 min
  4. Local Heroes: Meet the Champions of Community Health and Nutrition

    OCT 9

    Local Heroes: Meet the Champions of Community Health and Nutrition

    About the Guests: Rayleen Earney: Rayleen is a representative from the Southern Nevada Health District, where she focuses on diabetes self-management and education. With extensive experience in health promotion and chronic disease prevention, Rayleen has committed her career to providing essential health resources and education to the community. She brings a wealth of knowledge about healthy eating and diabetic care, making her a vital resource for improving public health awareness. Tameka Henry: Tameka Henry serves as the Executive Director of the Obodo Collective, a non-profit geared towards eradicating multigenerational poverty, focusing on food security, education, and housing. Her passion for community building and sustainable agriculture is evident through her work on the historic west side of Las Vegas. Under her leadership, the Obodo Collective has thrived as a community hub fostering food accessibility, education, and engagement, ensuring a healthier, brighter future for the community. Episode Summary: In this informative episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage with Rayleen Earney and Tameka Henry to explore vital topics such as diabetes management, nutrition, and community farming initiatives. As the conversation unfolds, the guests discuss practical steps for diabetes prevention and the importance of self-management education. The episode is packed with insightful advice on healthy eating habits and the powerful role that fresh produce plays in maintaining optimal health. The first part of the episode focuses on understanding diabetes and its management, highlighting the increased risks and preventive measures people should be aware of. Rayleen discusses the Southern Nevada Health District's initiatives to combat diabetes through education and awareness while emphasizing that early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly influence health outcomes. In the latter half, Tameka brings attention to the Obodo Collective's pioneering work in combating food insecurity on Las Vegas's historic west side through urban farming and community involvement. Her narrative underscores the value of collective efforts, gardening, and shared knowledge to uplift the community. Key Takeaways: Diabetes management begins with awareness and informed lifestyle choices; the Southern Nevada Health District offers free educational resources for the community. Eating fresh produce and embracing physical activity plays a crucial role in diabetes prevention and overall health improvement. The Aboto Collective demonstrates the power of community-based solutions for food insecurity through their urban farming projects. Engaging with local farming initiatives can not only improve diet but also foster community engagement and well-being. Education initiatives that include whole family participation can effectively inspire healthier choices across generations. Notable Quotes: "It's always good to be tested and know what your blood glucose numbers are." - Rayleen Earney "We have built this hub in the historic west side where community can come together." - Tameka Henry "Half your plate with fruits and veggies." -Rayleen Earney "We all, we got. We have to look out for one another." - Tameka Henry "Obodo is here in the community to be that hub for health and wellness for the whole family." - Tameka Henry Resources: Get Healthy Clark County Experience the full depth of insights from this episode by listening in and join us next time for more enlightening discussions and actionable health advice on "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay engaged with the ongoing journey to improve community health and well-being.

    29 min
  5. SEP 11

    5210: The Simple Plan to Combat Childhood Obesity

    About the Guests: Dr. Steven Shane: Dr. Steven Shane is a board-certified pediatrician specializing in obesity medicine. He works at Renown Children's Hospital in Reno, Nevada, and has over a decade of experience dealing with childhood obesity. Dr. Shane is a major proponent of the 5210 program, which promotes healthy habits for children. Jake Yarberry: Jake is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist who works with the Clark County School District (CCSD) in Nevada. He is responsible for crafting the menus for student meals, ensuring that they meet USDA regulations. Jake has a rich background in both nutrition and community service, having previously worked with various organizations and entertainment ventures in Las Vegas. Episode Summary: In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens guide listeners through a smoky Las Vegas morning, focusing on the pressing issue of childhood obesity. The conversation kicks off by emphasizing the importance of taking precautions in unhealthy air conditions, and then transitions into the core topic: National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. The hosts highlight the significance of developing healthy habits during childhood, citing the alarming prevalence of obesity in Nevada's young population. The episode delves into the 5210 program, a nationally recognized initiative aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles for children. Dr. Steven Shane joins the conversation, providing expert insights into what differentiates being overweight from obesity, and explaining how the 5210 program works to tackle these issues. Jake, a dietitian from the Clark County School District, discusses the efforts made by the school system to provide nutritious meals to students, including their innovative use of "Share Tables" to reduce food waste and address hunger. The hosts also touch on community events and other initiatives aimed at fostering a healthier environment for all. Key Takeaways: 5210 Program: The 5210 initiative encourages five servings of fruits and vegetables, two hours or less of screen time, one hour of physical activity, and zero sugary drinks daily. Rising Obesity Rates: Obesity rates in Nevada are particularly high among certain ethnic groups, affecting up to one in three children in some demographics. School Initiatives: CCSD is working diligently to offer nutritious meals that meet USDA guidelines, including breakfast, lunch, and sometimes supper, along with "Share Tables" to minimize food waste. Healthy Substitutes: Alternatives to sugary drinks, such as water with fruit infusions and low-fat milk, are recommended for maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Community Support: Various community events and resources, including food distribution programs, are available to help families maintain balanced diets. Listen to the full episode for more insightful conversations on childhood obesity, community health initiatives, and practical tips to promote a healthier future. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "A Healthier Tomorrow" on KCEP Power 88!

    28 min
  6. Your Voice Matters: How to Influence Community Health Policies Today

    JUL 10

    Your Voice Matters: How to Influence Community Health Policies Today

    About the Guests: Dr. Chris Mariano: Dr. Mariano is a pediatric nurse practitioner and the supervisor for the immunizations clinic at the Southern Nevada Health District. With over 21 years of nursing experience and a focus on pediatric care, Dr. Mariano has dedicated herself to public health for the past 13 years. Her passion is ensuring the health and wellness of children in Clark County by providing essential immunization services.   Carmen Hua: Carmen is a health educator and the ChA chip coordinator for the Southern Nevada Health District in the Office of Disease Surveillance. She specializes in community health assessments and has been actively involved in multiple outreach programs and health initiatives aimed at improving community health. Tamera Travis: Tamera is an epidemiologist with the Southern Nevada Health District, focusing on health equity and the study of disease spread. She is actively involved in analyzing health data to identify and tackle health disparities across different populations within Southern Nevada. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," host Will Rucker, along with co-host Ciara Owens, dives into the critical topic of back-to-school immunizations and community health assessments with esteemed guests from the Southern Nevada Health District. Pediatric nurse practitioner Dr. Chris Lane Mariano offers invaluable insights into the importance of immunizations for preventing diseases among school-aged children, the types of vaccines required, and tips for parents to ease the vaccination process for their kids. Following Dr. Mariano's segment, health educator Carmen Hua and epidemiologist Tamera Travis share their expertise on the 2025 Community Health Assessment, emphasizing the importance of community participation in the survey to identify and address healthcare needs in Clark County. They discuss how the data collected will influence the Community Health Improvement Plan and spotlight the ongoing efforts to include marginalized and underserved populations in their research. These two sections of the episode provide a wealth of information on public health strategies, community engagement, and resource accessibility, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the well-being of the Southern Nevada community. Key Takeaways: Importance of Immunizations: Dr. Chris Lane Mariano emphasizes that immunizations are crucial for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, and hepatitis. Community Engagement: Carmen Hua and Tamera Travis urge the public to participate in the 2025 Community Health Assessment to shape the health priorities for Clark County over the next three to five years. Accessible Healthcare: Southern Nevada Health District offers free vaccines to children, ensuring no one is turned away due to lack of insurance. Collaboration: The episode highlights collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including public health agencies, educational institutions, and community partners. Health Equity: Special efforts are being made to reach out to underserved populations such as older adults, lgbt communities, and those experiencing housing instability. Notable Quotes: "Prevention is key. We have vaccine-preventable diseases, and these things shouldn’t be happening." - Dr. Chris Lane Mariano "Your voice matters and your voice counts. Take the survey to see real change in the community." - Carmen Hua "If you take just five to ten minutes to take this survey, you are making a direct difference in your community for the next three to five years." - Tamera Travis "We look at what’s happening in each family to ensure that every child gets vaccinated before they leave." - Dr. Chris Lane Mariano   Resources: Southern Nevada Health District Get Healthy Clark County Healthy Southern Nevada   For regular updates, health tips, and insightful discussions about public health, make sure to liste

    28 min
  7. Breaking Barriers: Mental Health Conversations in the Barbershop

    JUN 12

    Breaking Barriers: Mental Health Conversations in the Barbershop

    In this compelling episode of Healthier Tomorrow, host Will Rucker, along with co-host Ciara Owens, dives into a myriad of pressing health issues facing the community. With their dynamic roster of guests, they explore the significance of secondhand smoke, men's mental health, cardiovascular health, and the importance of voting for community wellbeing. Nelly Pelaez from the Southern Nevada Health District sheds light on secondhand smoke's risks, particularly in multi-unit housing, and emphasizes the importance of adopting smoke-free policies. The show also highlights the contributions of Amineh Harvey and the Barbershop Health Outreach Project, collaborating with Marcus Allen and Sylvester Obafunwa  from the Men's Room, to address critical men's health topics. From providing heart health education to fostering safe spaces for Black men to discuss mental health, this episode covers crucial initiatives aimed at improving overall health outcomes. Engaging conversations around the significance of preventive healthcare, the vital role of barbershops in the community, and actionable steps towards better health make this episode a must-listen. Resources: Southern Nevada Health District www.gethealthyClarkCounty.org Nevada Tobacco Quitline: Call 1800 QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669)  Take control of your health and support community initiatives aimed at creating a healthier tomorrow. Tune in to the full episode for more insights and stay tuned for future episodes brimming with informative content and engaging discussions.

    28 min
  8. Breaking Down the Stigma: Living with Chronic Illness

    MAR 13

    Breaking Down the Stigma: Living with Chronic Illness

    About the Guests: Rayleen Earney is an experienced health educator at the Southern Nevada Health District, with a personal connection to the fight against diabetes. With 25 years at the health district, Rayleen brings both personal and professional expertise to the table, having witnessed the impact of diabetes within her family. She is passionate about teaching classes and providing resources to help people manage their condition and prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Keiara Katz is an advocate and voice for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Not a healthcare professional, Keiara speaks from her experience of being diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting MS, the most common form of the disease. Despite being initially misdiagnosed, she has taken strides in learning about her condition and sharing her knowledge, resources, and personal journey with others. Episode Summary: In this empowering episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," host Will Rucker provides a gripping educational experience on chronic diseases impacting our community, with discussions exploring diabetes and MS. These conversations aim to illuminate paths towards managing and understanding these significant health concerns. Rayleen Earney from the Southern Nevada Health District sets the stage with a deep dive into diabetes prevention and management. She provides staggering statistics and meaningful insights, emphasizing the community's need for accessible health education and lifestyle modification to combat this growing epidemic. The focal points of her discussion include the increment in diabetes cases, indicators of prediabetes, and the critical community-based classes offered for those impacted. In tandem, Keiara Katz shares the compelling narrative of her MS journey, underscoring the challenges in diagnosis and offering invaluable resources for others on similar paths. This episode is a trove of information, merging personal testimonies with professional advice on chronic disease prevention. Key Takeaways: Approximately 37.3 million people have diabetes nationally, with an estimated 267,000 Nevadans affected by the disease. Prediabetes can often be reversed through lifestyle changes, including healthier eating, increased physical activity, and weight management. The Southern Nevada Health District provides free education and resources to help manage diabetes effectively, including interactive classes and personal goal-setting. Keiara Katz's MS journey illustrates the complexity and the importance of proper diagnosis and specialized care. Raising awareness and making informed health choices are crucial to improve quality of life for those dealing with chronic diseases like diabetes and MS. Resources: Southern Nevada Health District diabetes self-management classes: Call 702-759-1270 or email gethealthy@snhd.org. National Nutrition Month tips: Visit www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org. National Multiple Sclerosis Society: www.nationalmssociety.org. Keiara Katz's Instagram profile for registration and walk event details: @thekatzway. Engage with the full conversations to absorb the wealth of knowledge shared in this episode. For more enlightening discussions and life-altering insights, keep tuning in to "A Healthier Tomorrow."

    27 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the podcast that's all about your health and wellbeing! Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens each month as they bring you the latest information and strategies for preventing chronic disease and living a healthy, vibrant life. With a focus on community empowerment, this podcast is your go-to resource for expert insights and practical tips on everything from nutrition and exercise to stress management and mental health. Each episode features a special guest who is a subject matter expert in the topic of the month, bringing you the most up-to-date information and cutting-edge research. Whether you're looking to take charge of your health or simply stay informed, you won't want to miss a single episode of this dynamic and informative podcast. Tune in and get ready to transform your health and your life! The A Healthier Tomorrow program is sponsored by the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion at the Southern Nevada Health District.

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