A Healthier Tomorrow

Will Rucker & Ciara Owens
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

Health is about more than doctor visits and diagnoses. It's about the neighborhoods we live in, the relationships we build, the opportunities we have, and the choices we make every day. Welcome to A Healthier Tomorrow, the weekly radio show and podcast exploring the people, programs, and ideas shaping health across Southern Nevada. Broadcast from the heart of Las Vegas on KCEP 88.1 FM, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens bring together physicians, public health leaders, researchers, advocates, and community changemakers for conversations that are informative, practical, and deeply human. Through a partnership with the Southern Nevada Health District, each episode connects listeners to trusted information and local resources while exploring the issues that matter most—from mental health, chronic disease, and injury prevention to health equity, community wellness, and the social factors that influence how long and how well we live. Whether we're discussing diabetes prevention, youth mental health, maternal health, suicide prevention, brain health, leadership in healthcare, or the latest public health initiatives, our goal is simple: help people understand not only what affects health, but why it matters and what they can do about it. Every conversation is grounded in evidence, driven by compassion, and focused on building healthier communities. What You'll Find Here: Real Conversations Honest discussions with local experts, community leaders, and people making a difference. Real Solutions Practical resources, prevention strategies, and tools you can use in everyday life. Real Community Stories and perspectives that reflect the unique strengths and challenges of Southern Nevada. Because a healthier tomorrow isn't built by healthcare alone. It's built by all of us. About the Hosts: Will Rucker is a public health leader, community builder, speaker, and coach dedicated to helping people focus on what matters, care for others well, and build healthier communities through connection and compassion. Ciara Owens is a trusted community voice and advocate for health education and wellness who brings warmth, insight, and a deep commitment to empowering Southern Nevadans with the information they need to thrive. Join us each week as we explore what it means to live healthier lives and create a healthier tomorrow, together. Listen on your favorite platform - https://pod.link/1687031374

  1. The Leadership Prescription for Personal and Professional Health with Dr. Maia Carter

    May 27

    The Leadership Prescription for Personal and Professional Health with Dr. Maia Carter

    Health doesn't just happen in exam rooms - it happens in boardrooms, leadership meetings, and community spaces. Dr. Maia Carter joins A Healthier Tomorrow to explore why leadership may be one of the most overlooked public health interventions of our time. If you've ever wondered how better leaders create healthier communities, this conversation is for you. Join Will Rucker and Dr. Maia Carter as they explore The Leadership Prescription, the THRIVE Framework, and the leadership lessons every professional needs before stepping into their next level. About the Guest: Dr. Maia Carter is a distinguished medical doctor, public health professional, and certified leadership coach. With 18 years of medical practice and over 11 years in leadership roles, Dr. Carter is a respected authority in the healthcare sector. She has authored the insightful book "The Leadership Prescription," which provides a framework for developing leadership skills, particularly for clinicians stepping into leadership roles. Dr. Carter also holds a Master's in Public Health, highlighting her dedication to community health and wellness. Episode Summary: Welcome to a profound discussion on A Healthier Tomorrow with host Will Rucker, featuring the insightful Dr. Maia Carter. In this enriching episode, Dr. Carter dives into the intersections of healthcare, leadership, and personal identity. She shares a compelling narrative that encapsulates the journey from technical excellence to becoming a competent leader, emphasizing the critical need for emotional intelligence and self-leadership skills. Dr. Maia Carter explores the essential leadership skills required for clinicians venturing beyond patient care into roles of influence and decision-making. Through her book "The Leadership Prescription," she introduces the Thrive Framework—a comprehensive guide for developing leadership competence that transcends healthcare and applies universally. Dr. Carter discusses the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and harnessing natural gifts, combating challenges like imposter syndrome, and the profound impact of community and relationships on personal and professional growth. Key Takeaways: Leadership requires a blend of technical skill and the ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics and emotional intelligence. The Thrive Framework: A guide for leaders focusing on Trust, Harnessing strengths, Rebounding, Impacting financial well-being, Valuing relationships, and Empowering resources. Clinicians need to be part of decision-making processes in healthcare to balance business efficiency with patient wellness. Coaching helps unlock a person's potential by exploring their inherent answers and aligning actions with internal motivations. Success in leadership comes from understanding and maintaining one's core values and mission. Notable Quotes: "Trust our leadership identity, knowing who you are before anyone else gives you any validation." - Dr. Maia Carter "A coach asks really powerful, thought-provoking questions to uncover the answers within the coachee." - Dr. Maia Carter "Health happens at home. We can see them in the hospital and discharge them, but what happens at home, that's where health really is." - Dr. Maia Carter "Leadership is how we think and how we speak, even more so than any formal management training." - Dr. Maia Carter "We have to lead ourselves first. We have to give ourselves the same compassion and love that we give everyone else." - Dr. Maia Carter Resources: Dr. Maia Carter's Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok: @DrMaiaLeadershipCoaching LinkedIn: MD Carter319 Book: "The Leadership Prescription" available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble Explore the full episode for an enlightening journey through the nuances of leadership beyond healthcare and learn how to embody the principles of the Thrive Framework in your personal and professional life. Stay tuned for more engaging content on A Healthier Tomorrow!

    28 min
  2. How to Hack a Mosquito: The Science of Saving Southern Nevada

    May 13

    How to Hack a Mosquito: The Science of Saving Southern Nevada

    Did you know the world's deadliest animal is thriving right here in the Las Vegas desert?   From deploying natural predators like bats to the strategic release of genetically modified mosquitoes, discover the cutting-edge science and "biological hacking" being used to protect Southern Nevada from unpredictable diseases like the West Nile virus. Whether you thought mosquitoes couldn't survive in the desert or you are just looking to protect your family this summer, this episode is a must! About the Guests: Vivek Raman: Vivek Raman is a dedicated professional supervising the environmental health program with Southern Nevada Health District. He has a wealth of experience in public health, specifically focusing on mosquito surveillance, engaging with the community to trap and test mosquitoes for diseases like West Nile virus. His career began with service in the Peace Corps, sparking his passion for combating vector-borne diseases across various communities. Dr. Louisa Messenger: Dr. Louisa Messenger is an esteemed assistant professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Public Health. She spearheads the mosquito lab at UNLV, collaborating with local health authorities to enhance mosquito surveillance and research activities. Dr. Messenger's commitment extends to educating the community about mosquito-borne diseases and exploring innovative mosquito control strategies. She focuses not only on researching insects but also on eliminating them due to their health risks. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" hosted by Ciara Owens, listeners gain critical insights into the burgeoning issue of mosquito presence in Southern Nevada. Despite its desert landscape, Las Vegas faces a growing concern of mosquitoes, which pose significant public health risks. The discussion coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month and Women's Health Month, emphasizing the importance of overall wellbeing. Ciara introduces Vivek and Dr. Louisa Messenger—experts in mosquito surveillance and public health—who join to shed light on the risks mosquitoes pose and the steps being taken to monitor and control their impact. Throughout the episode, Vivek explains the intricate process of mosquito surveillance and the necessity of community involvement in mitigating this issue. Dr. Louisa elaborates on the biological intricacies of mosquitoes and emphasizes their distinction as the most dangerous animals on the planet due to the severe diseases they can spread, such as West Nile virus. The conversation also addresses misconceptions about mosquito prevalence in the desert environment and explores innovative solutions to reduce mosquito populations. The episode urges residents to adopt preventative measures at personal, household, and community levels to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses. Key Takeaways: Mosquitoes, deemed the most dangerous animals globally, significantly impact public health, even in desert landscapes like Southern Nevada. Community engagement and awareness are crucial in tackling mosquito issues, focusing on reducing standing water and applying effective repellents. Strategic mosquito control requires a coordinated approach, blending biological, mechanical, and chemical management to prevent resistance and protect ecosystems. Innovatively utilizing natural predators like bats and strategic release of genetically modified mosquitoes could provide substantial benefits in mosquito abatement efforts. Personal protection methods like using recommended insect repellents, wearing appropriate clothing, and effectively managing household environments are vital in preventing bites and their associated health risks. Notable Quotes: "Statistically, mosquitoes are the most dangerous animals on the planet." - Dr. Louisa Messenger "Mosquitoes are absolutely a public health concern here in Las Vegas and across Clark County." - Ciara Owens "The only thing really predictable about West Nile is that it's unpredictable." - Vivek Raman "It just takes one of us to bring a pathogen off the airplane from some other part of the world to establish transmission here." - Dr. Louisa Messenger "Prevention starts in your own backyard." - Vivek Raman Resources: Southern Nevada Health District Mosquito Surveillance Page: Get Healthy Clark County CDC Mosquito Information: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention UNLV Mosquito Lab: (Information to be updated by Dr. Louisa Messenger) Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at the Southern Nevada Health District For an engaging and thorough exploration of mosquito surveillance and prevention, tune in to this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay connected for more insightful discussions that contribute to healthier communities across Nevada.

    29 min

  3. Apr 8

    Family Fitness and Fun: Celebrating National Minority Health Month

    What would happen if everything you thought was helping you relax… was actually keeping you trapped? In this episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, we uncover how menthol tobacco is engineered to hook communities, why what you eat might be shaping your mental clarity more than you realize, and how Las Vegas is quietly building a blueprint for a healthier future. From No Menthol May, to the surprising connection between your gut and your mind, to real community solutions happening right now… this conversation might change how you see your health, your habits, and your power. About the Guests: Mekale Holmes: Mekale Holmes is a passionate health advocate working with the Southern Nevada Health District, championing the cause against menthol tobacco use, particularly in African American communities. She's an influential figure behind the local expansion of the national no Menthol May campaign, tirelessly working with faith-based and community organizations to raise awareness about menthol tobacco's effects on health. Amineh Harvey: Amineh Harvey is a Senior Health Educator with the Southern Nevada Health District, leading heart disease and stroke prevention programs. She has a strong commitment to promoting community health and delivers impactful resources and knowledge through community-oriented events and programs. Stacey Dougan: Chef Stacey Dougan is a renowned plant-based chef and nutritionist with over 25 years of experience. As a restaurateur and entrepreneur with a dedication to holistic wellness, Stacey educates families and communities about nutritious and balanced eating, often blending culinary arts with wellness advocacy. Episode Summary: In this enriching episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage listeners in a vital conversation about community health and the role of preventive measures in cultivating wellness. Broadcasting from Las Vegas, this episode features insightful discussions on the benefits of being present in one's life, the harmful impact of menthol in tobacco products, and the power of nutritious food. With a blend of personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode highlights how individuals can weave wellness into their daily lives while also considering the broader public health landscape. Mekale Holmes addresses the adverse effects of menthol tobacco products and the no Menthol May campaign, encouraging the community's involvement to combat these issues. Meanwhile, Stacey Dougan shares her journey and expertise in plant-based nutrition, revealing how mindfulness and proper eating habits can foster both mental and physical health. Amineh Harvey provides insights into making health resources accessible through community events like the Heart of the Community Block Party, demonstrating the importance of linking individuals with critical health services and educational opportunities. Together, these discussions spotlight the myriad ways Las Vegas communities are coming together to experience and promote nutritious, smoke-free living. Key Takeaways: The no Menthol May campaign raises awareness about the targeted marketing of menthol tobacco in African American communities and the health risks associated with its usage. Community events like the Heart of the Community Block Party serve as valuable gatherings to promote health education and offer free health screenings, fostering a more informed and empowered community. Chef Stacey Dougan emphasizes the connection between diet and overall well-being, suggesting plant-based diets beneficially impact both mental and physical health. Highlighting the role of mind-body connection, several guests stress the importance of mindfulness practices such as meditation and how they contribute to a healthier lifestyle. The synthesis of education, nutrition, and cultural engagement creates a holistic approach toward achieving public health goals within underserved populations. Notable Quotes: "Menthol reduces the harshness of smoking and makes it easier to start and harder to quit." — Mekale Holmes "You can't really hear if you're full of junk; your gut is directly related to your brain." — Stacey Dougan "Health is wealth, and it's very important that we feed our mind, body, and our soul." — Amineh Harvey "Teach your children how to cook, then you don't have to struggle every night." — Stacey Dougan Resources: Southern Nevada Health District Nevada Tobacco Quit Line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW Because We Matter Las Vegas (becausewematterlv.org) To dive deeper into how you can integrate healthier habits into your life while understanding the broader impacts of community health initiatives, tune into the full episode. Stay connected for more transformative conversations that inspire and equip you toward living a richer, health-oriented life.

    29 min

  4. Feb 11

    The Hidden Salt Trap: Are You Eating Your Way to Hypertension?

    Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens as they explore heart health in this informative episode. Featuring guests Angel Garcia, Amineh Harvey, and Daidre Gamboa from Dignity Health and Southern Nevada Health District, the discussion covers essential topics such as hypertension, heart disease prevention, and practical lifestyle adjustments. Discover the benefits of a 20-second hug, low sodium tips, and learn about community programs like the Healthy Heart program and blood pressure screenings. Embrace heart health and discover the connection to overall wellbeing with expert insights and community resources. About the Guests: Angel Garcia: Angel Garcia is a dedicated health educator from Dignity Health who specializes in chronic disease prevention. With a personal journey that transitioned from graphic design to public health, Angel brings a wealth of knowledge on heart disease, healthy living, and education as a preventive tool for cardiovascular conditions. Amineh Harvey: Amineh Harvey represents the Southern Nevada Health District and is known for curating events like the "Salon Talk," which promotes heart health among black women. She is a proactive figure in public health, focusing on creating awareness and education in minority communities. Daidre Gamboa: Daidre Gamboa is a public health expert from the Southern Nevada Health District, focusing on community outreach and education related to cardiovascular health. Her work emphasizes trust-building within communities to promote better health outcomes. Episode Summary: In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage in an enlightening discussion on heart health, marking February as Heart Month. The episode features Angel Garcia from Dignity Health and experts Amineh Harvey and Daidre Gamboa from the Southern Nevada Health District. As they delve into the topics of heart disease, blood pressure awareness, and preventive health measures, they underscore the significance of building a healthier community through education and proactive health management. Throughout the episode, the guests highlight critical factors influencing heart health, especially within African American and Hispanic communities. They discuss the impact of social determinants like systemic racism and health disparities, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's health numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. The speakers explore various strategies for managing heart health, from reducing sodium intake to regular physical activity and stress management, encapsulating an integrative approach to chronic disease prevention. Key Takeaways: Heart Health Awareness: February is Heart Month, focusing on increasing awareness about heart disease, especially in minority communities, which have higher prevalence rates. Education as Prevention: Education is vital in chronic disease prevention, empowering individuals with knowledge to make healthier lifestyle choices. Community Engagement: Programs like "Salon Talk" and blood pressure screenings in local barbershops and salons foster community involvement and trust-building for better health practices. Managing Blood Pressure: Understanding the different categories such as elevated and hypertensive crisis is crucial for early intervention and management of heart health. Sodium Reduction: Sodium intake should be monitored primarily from processed foods rather than added salt, with recommended levels being 1500mg for those with high blood pressure. Notable Quotes: "Knowing your numbers is crucial for managing your health effectively, including your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose." - Angel Garcia "What’s good for the heart is good for the brain." - Amineh Harvey "Education is the best method of prevention." - Angel Garcia "To improve heart health, we should embrace more physical activity, manage stress, and focus on healthy dietary choices." - Angel Garcia "Trust is essential in community health interventions, and we strive to build that through outreach and events." - Daidre Gamboa Resources: Southern Nevada Health District Website for Community Events: www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org "Because We Matter LV" Summit Information: www.becausewematterlv.org Listeners are encouraged to engage with these initiatives and participate in upcoming events, making informed choices about their heart health. Don't miss out on joining more enriching conversations in future episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow."

    29 min
  5. Everyone Has a Status: The Facts About HIV in Las Vegas (And Why Testing Matters) on A Healthier Tomorrow

    12/10/2025

    Everyone Has a Status: The Facts About HIV in Las Vegas (And Why Testing Matters) on A Healthier Tomorrow

    Everyone has a status—and knowing it can save lives.  Clark County continues to see HIV diagnosis rates higher than the national average, with disproportionate impact on Black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. Yet stigma, silence, and misinformation still keep too many people from getting tested or accessing prevention tools that already exist. In this powerful year-end conversation, the Healthier Tomorrow hosts sit down with public health and HIV-prevention leaders to talk honestly about what’s happening in Southern Nevada—and what we can do about it. From home testing kits and mobile clinics to PrEP and PEP, this episode breaks down the facts, challenges the shame, and centers compassion, faith, and community as essential parts of public health. About the Guests: Chris Reynolds is featured as both a host and a guest in the episode. He is the President of the Southern Nevada Health Consortium and serves as the HIV Services Director for ASP Cares Pharmacy. Chris's role in public health is marked by his advocacy and leadership in HIV prevention and community engagement. Raychel Holbertis a health educator at the Southern Nevada Health District, working on educating the community about public health issues and partnering on initiatives to improve healthcare access. Cheryl Radeloff is a Senior Health Educator with the Office of Disease Surveillance. She collaborates with the HIV Prevention Planning Group and is instrumental in health education and public health coaching. Episode Summary: In this special year-end episode of the Healthier Tomorrow radio program, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens reflect on the journey of 2025 and share insights on future goals for 2026. They delve into a comprehensive discussion on health topics ranging from diabetes and heart health to maternal support and youth mental health, emphasizing the impacts noted in the Las Vegas community. The episode features the pressing issue of HIV prevention and education within Clark County. Guest experts Raychel Holbertand Cheryl Radeloff explore the current state of HIV in Southern Nevada, highlighting the critical need for testing and addressing racial disparities in HIV rates, especially among black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. The discussion extends to novel prevention strategies, including home testing and innovative biomedical interventions like PEP and PrEP, underscoring the importance of knowing one's HIV status. As Ciara Owens articulates, "Everyone has a status, and we should all know it," it's clear this vital message is at the heart of the episode's theme. Key Takeaways: Clark County faces a higher rate of HIV diagnoses compared to the national average, with significant racial disparities affecting black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. The hosts and guests emphasize the importance of HIV testing and the new initiatives in place to make testing more accessible, including home test kits and mobile testing units in underserved areas. Various HIV prevention strategies are discussed, such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), offering multiple routes for protective health measures against HIV. Stigma and medical mistrust remain barriers to effective HIV prevention and treatment, especially among communities of color. Community engagement, particularly with faith leaders and the significance of breaking the stigma within the church, is crucial for improving health outcomes. Notable Quotes: "Everyone has a status, and we should all know it." — Ciara Owens "HIV is not related to your morality. All different types of people get HIV in many different types of ways." — Cheryl Radeloff "There is no shame about protecting yourself and there is no shame about living with HIV." — Raychel Holbert Resources: Southern Nevada Health District (HIV Testing): Southern Nevada Health District ASP Cares Pharmacy and HIV Services Can Community Center AIDS Healthcare Foundation Dignity Health UMC Quick Care Clinics Fremont Public Health Center Collect to Protect Program for at-home testing Engage with the full episode to dive deeper into the initiatives and voices shaping the health landscape of Southern Nevada. Stay connected for more impactful discussions in the future episodes of Healthier Tomorrow.

    28 min
  6. Beyond Crisis: Building a Culture of Mental Wellness for Nevada's Youth

    11/26/2025

    Beyond Crisis: Building a Culture of Mental Wellness for Nevada's Youth

    Teen mental health in Nevada is in crisis, but the story doesn’t end there. In this powerful episode, Jana Velasco shares how Hope Means Nevada is equipping teens with the tools to regulate emotions, choose joy, and build resilience long before a crisis emerges. Through human connection, socio-emotional learning, and community support, we explore how young people can reclaim their power—becoming the “captains of their own ship,” even in the most challenging times. About the Guest: Jana Velasco Jana Velasco is the Executive Director of Hope Means Nevada, an organization dedicated to promoting youth mental wellness throughout the state. With a mission to eliminate teen suicide, Jana leverages her personal and professional experiences to connect with teens facing mental health challenges. Her leadership in the organization aims to provide vital tools and resources to Nevada’s youth to foster emotional regulation. Jana’s commitment to serving the community is also informed by her role as a mother and advocate for mental health awareness. Episode Summary: In this special edition of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens delve into an essential conversation on hope and mental health with Jana Velasco, Executive Director of Hope Means Nevada. This episode carries a particular focus on providing practical solutions and support for youth mental wellness across Nevada, addressing the state's unfortunate ranking of 51st for youth mental health in the nation. Jana Velasco introduces the Teen Hope Academy, a proactive program aimed at equipping young individuals with skills in emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance. This comprehensive initiative is designed to be accessible through virtual sessions, promoting mental wellness over crisis response. The hosts and Jana discuss the importance of choosing hope and joy, stressing the need for positive, compassionate community initiatives that engage both teens and adults. Throughout the conversation, they explore the impact of socio-emotional learning and the broader implications of mental health tools for long-term community transformation. Key Takeaways: Youth Mental Health: Nevada ranks last in youth mental health, prompting initiatives like the Teen Hope Academy. Importance of Emotional Regulation: Teen Hope Academy teaches emotional regulation to empower teens, showing promise for reducing youth suicide rates. Hope and Resilience: The episode underscores choosing hope, resilience, and joy, especially during challenging times. Community Support: Building a supportive community and engaging in continuous, meaningful conversations are vital to this effort. Proactive Engagement: Parents and adults should engage teens in mental wellness strategies before reaching a crisis point. Notable Quotes: "Hope to me is limitless... It’s human connectivity that keeps us strong." - Jana Velasco "Choosing hope, choosing joy, and not saying toxic positivity... One of the few things we get to actually choose is our attitude." - Ciara Owens "We are creating our own worlds... And as the world might say they are powerless, they are actually the captains of their own ship." - Jana Velasco "We’re not solitary individuals... Conversation is healing." - Jana Velasco Resources: Hope Means Nevada: hopemeansnevada.org 988 Crisis Text Line: A resource for immediate, confidential help. Southern Nevada Health District: Support and partnership on community health initiatives. Jamison Fellowship: A network for adult development, highlighting community building and personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the full episode for a deeper understanding of the impacts of youth mental health initiatives and to stay engaged with future episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more inspiring discussions.

    29 min
  7. From Smoke to Sugar: Tackling Two Silent Killers on A Healthier Tomorrow

    11/12/2025

    From Smoke to Sugar: Tackling Two Silent Killers on A Healthier Tomorrow

    What do nicotine, diabetes, and your daily habits have in common? More than you think. Today, we’re diving into two of the biggest — and most preventable — health threats facing our community. If you’ve ever wondered how to quit for good, or how to avoid a lifetime of medications, this episode is for you. About the Guests: Cassandra Miraz is a dedicated health educator with the Southern Nevada Health District’s tobacco team. Holding both a bachelor's and a master's degree with a focus in public health, Cassandra is passionately involved in community wellness, aiming to impact lives positively by promoting tobacco cessation and healthier lifestyles. Amy Runge serves as a Clinical Nurse Manager at UMC Hospital and manages the Healthy Living Institute at UMC. With 30 years of nursing experience and a robust background in health promotion and chronic disease management, Amy emphasizes preventative care, striving to enhance health education and wellness outcomes across the community. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens guide listeners through pressing public health challenges, focusing on tobacco use and diabetes. Joined by insightful guests Cassandra Miraz and Amy Runge, the show delivers a wealth of knowledge tailored for health-conscious individuals and communities aiming to nurture a healthier tomorrow. The episode delves into the intricacies of nicotine addiction, secondhand smoke, and practical strategies to quit smoking while also exploring the vast landscape of diabetes management and prevention. The discussion opens with Cassandra Miraz enlightening the audience about the pervasive effects of nicotine across various tobacco products. Her engaging insights into nicotine addiction, secondhand, and even third-hand smoke, bring to light the importance of comprehensive community strategies for reducing tobacco consumption. Amy Runge then enriches the conversation with her expertise in diabetes, stressing how lifestyle modifications can significantly mitigate health risks associated with diabetes. She advocates for proactive measures, such as regular screening and personalized health education, underscoring the program resources available through UMC's Healthy Living Institute. Key Takeaways: Nicotine Addiction: Nicotine, particularly in tobacco products like vapes and cigarettes, is highly addictive and hinders brain development, necessitating community-focused cessation efforts. Secondhand and Third-Hand Smoke: Both pose significant health risks. Exposure extends beyond close proximity to smokers, affecting anyone nearby or in areas where smoke residues linger. Diabetes Awareness: Diabetes is a growing health crisis, with one in five people unaware of their condition. Type 2 diabetes, primarily due to lifestyle factors, is preventable with proper education and lifestyle changes. Prevention and Management: Through programs like the Healthy Living Institute at UMC, individuals gain valuable knowledge and tools to manage or prevent diabetes, emphasizing the importance of screening and lifestyle modification. Community Support: Resources, advocates, and community events like the Great American Smoke Out aim to empower individuals to quit smoking and adopt healthier habits. Notable Quotes: "Nicotine tends to alter people's brain chemistry. It's one reason why we put a big emphasis on preventing tobacco use, as it can really hinder brain development." – Cassandra Miraz "Secondhand smoke exposure causes roughly over 480,000 deaths per year nationwide. It's just as dangerous as smoking a tobacco product." – Cassandra Miraz "If our body and pancreas are not processing the food we eat, it can cause lifelong problems. Screening is so important." – Amy Runge "I want to empower people... You can make modifiable changes in your lifestyle and bring it back [under control]." – Amy Runge "Today is a perfect day to start quitting because it's a journey." – Cassandra Miraz Resources: Southern Nevada Health District Tobacco Cessation Resources: GetHealthyClarkCounty.org Nevada Tobacco Quit Line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) NOT Program for Youth: notforme.org UMC Healthy Living Institute: umcsn.com/events This episode dives into the critical issues of tobacco use and diabetes, offering practical advice and resources for a healthier lifestyle. For an in-depth exploration of these topics, tune in to the full episode and stay engaged with "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more insightful discussions and health-promoting content.

    27 min
  8. The Tiny Surgeon: A Pediatric Doctor’s Guide to Child Safety with Dr. Erik Pearson

    10/22/2025

    The Tiny Surgeon: A Pediatric Doctor’s Guide to Child Safety with Dr. Erik Pearson

    What keeps a pediatric surgeon up at night on Halloween? It’s not the ghosts—it’s what ends up in the ER.” In this special Halloween episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, Dr. Erik Pearson joins Will Rucker and Ciara Owens to share real stories, expert tips, and surprising truths about keeping kids safe—from glow stick hacks to the dangers of costume fabrics and magnets. This is the conversation every parent should hear before trick-or-treating begins. About the Guest: Dr. Erik Pearson is a pediatric surgeon with a strong background in treating a variety of pediatric cases, from complex congenital conditions to routine surgeries like appendectomies. Having completed his pediatric surgery training at Emory University in Atlanta, Dr. Pearson currently practices in Las Vegas, where he has been a dedicated part of the community since 2017. His medical career started with a dramatic introduction during the one October event at Sunrise Hospital, marking his commitment to the community. Dr. Pearson is passionate about pediatric healthcare and emphasizes compassion as a core component of effective medical care. Episode Summary: Welcome to another engaging episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" with hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens. As the vibrant fall season sets in, this episode takes a spooky yet insightful turn as it dives into the safety measures surrounding Halloween. The discussion kicks off with Halloween anecdotes and how the community gears up for this festive season with a close look at costume tips and candy sharing. Venturing into more serious territory, the episode shines a spotlight on pediatric health and safety, especially focusing on Halloween-related concerns. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Erik Pearson joins the show with his expert insights as a pediatric surgeon. He discusses the common and potentially hazardous injuries associated with Halloween among children, providing practical tips for maintaining safety. From advocating for the use of commercial pumpkin carving kits to recommending sequins or safer costume alternatives for visibility, Dr. Pearson covers a broad spectrum of effective preventative measures. Additionally, the episode addresses broader safety concerns, such as pedestrian safety, emphasizing the importance of parental vigilance and community responsibility. Dr. Pearson’s experience and stories reveal both the challenges and rewards of working in pediatric surgery, underscoring the profound responsibility of caring for children's health. Key Takeaways: Common Halloween Injuries: Pumpkin carving leads as a source of injuries; avoid using kitchen knives and opt for commercial pumpkin carving kits. Pedestrian Safety: Children are twice as likely to be hit by cars on Halloween; adopt reflective clothing, glow sticks, and ensure visibility. Fire Hazards: Use LED lights in pumpkins and choose non-flammable materials for costumes to prevent burns. Parental Vigilance: Balance between creating a safe environment and allowing children autonomy to explore and learn. Community Role: Both drivers and non-parents should actively participate in ensuring children's safety during festive times. Notable Quotes: "Most kids who get hit by automobiles, it's happening between 5:30 and 9:30 pm." - Dr. Erik Pearson "I know that you're really worried, and I know that this is really scary. And if it wasn't scary, then that would be abnormal." - Dr. Erik Pearson "The greatest responsibility somebody can have is taking care of somebody else's child." - Dr. Erik Pearson "We want fire retardant sequins if you can find them." - Dr. Erik Pearson "Slow-moving missiles in the abdomen" regarding how magnets interact within the body. - Dr. Erik Pearson Encourage your curiosity and deepen your understanding by listening to the full episode. Tune in for more enlightening discussions and expert insights on "A Healthier Tomorrow," where we prioritize living compassionately and preparing for a healthier future. Stay connected and keep an eye out for more episodes that bring the community together through knowledge and shared experiences.

    27 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Health is about more than doctor visits and diagnoses. It's about the neighborhoods we live in, the relationships we build, the opportunities we have, and the choices we make every day. Welcome to A Healthier Tomorrow, the weekly radio show and podcast exploring the people, programs, and ideas shaping health across Southern Nevada. Broadcast from the heart of Las Vegas on KCEP 88.1 FM, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens bring together physicians, public health leaders, researchers, advocates, and community changemakers for conversations that are informative, practical, and deeply human. Through a partnership with the Southern Nevada Health District, each episode connects listeners to trusted information and local resources while exploring the issues that matter most—from mental health, chronic disease, and injury prevention to health equity, community wellness, and the social factors that influence how long and how well we live. Whether we're discussing diabetes prevention, youth mental health, maternal health, suicide prevention, brain health, leadership in healthcare, or the latest public health initiatives, our goal is simple: help people understand not only what affects health, but why it matters and what they can do about it. Every conversation is grounded in evidence, driven by compassion, and focused on building healthier communities. What You'll Find Here: Real Conversations Honest discussions with local experts, community leaders, and people making a difference. Real Solutions Practical resources, prevention strategies, and tools you can use in everyday life. Real Community Stories and perspectives that reflect the unique strengths and challenges of Southern Nevada. Because a healthier tomorrow isn't built by healthcare alone. It's built by all of us. About the Hosts: Will Rucker is a public health leader, community builder, speaker, and coach dedicated to helping people focus on what matters, care for others well, and build healthier communities through connection and compassion. Ciara Owens is a trusted community voice and advocate for health education and wellness who brings warmth, insight, and a deep commitment to empowering Southern Nevadans with the information they need to thrive. Join us each week as we explore what it means to live healthier lives and create a healthier tomorrow, together. Listen on your favorite platform - https://pod.link/1687031374

Information

  • Creator
    Will Rucker & Ciara Owens
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    A Healthier Tomorrow