ASK - Always Stay Knowledgeable Podcast

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Health & Fitness

ASK (Always Stay Knowledgeable) is a BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina podcast that brings together trusted experts to explore health, wellness, careers, community and everyday life—delivering clear, practical insights that help you stay informed and empowered.

  1. 5d ago

    How South Carolina State Parks Can Help Improve Your Health | ASK Podcast - S2 E2

    Spending time outdoors can support your physical and mental health, and you don't have to travel far to find a place to start. In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we're joined by Gwen Davenport, John Alexander and Kirby Brady from South Carolina State Parks to talk about the connection between nature and wellness. Learn how getting outside can help reduce stress, encourage physical activity and give you a break from the constant pace of daily life. Our guests share practical ideas for visitors of all ages and ability levels, from easy walking trails and picnic shelters to birding, kayaking, golf, historic sites and cabin stays. They also discuss common reasons people avoid state parks, advice for anyone who doesn't consider themselves outdoorsy, favorite parks across the state and a few hidden gems you may not know about. __________ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:24 Meet Gwen, John and Kirby 1:21 How State Parks Support Your Health 1:44 Why Nature Is Good for Your Mind and Body 2:24 Exercise Without the Treadmill 2:44 How Time Outdoors Reduces Stress 3:04 Breaking the Loop of Busyness 3:48 Mountains, Midlands and Coast in One State 4:09 How Different Environments Help You Relax 5:09 Beach in the Morning, Mountains by Afternoon 5:28 Making Physical Activity More Accessible 6:14 Activities for Every Age and Ability 6:33 Getting Exercise Without Realizing It 6:54 Why People Don't Get Outside 7:49 Advice for Wildlife Worries 8:13 Cabins, Villas and Family-Friendly Options 8:54 Picnic Shelters and Low-Impact Activities 9:31 Trails for Every Fitness Level 10:04 Advice for People Who Aren't Outdoorsy 11:02 Low-Barrier Ways to Spend Time Outside 11:24 Ranger Programs and Guided Hikes 11:42 Historic Sites in South Carolina State Parks 12:22 Where to Start Your Fitness Journey 12:44 Golf, Kayaking and Paddleboarding 13:04 Park Recommendations From the Experts 14:08 Favorite Parks Across the State 15:31 Favorite Things to Do in the Parks 16:41 Hidden Gems in South Carolina State Parks 18:26 One Thing to Remember About Getting Outside 19:39 Where to Find More Information 20:15 Memorable Moments in the Parks 21:04 The Ultimate Outsider Program 22:44 Lightning Round 24:27 Closing __________ Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ Connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbssc X: https://x.com/bcbssc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  2. Oct 13

    Open Enrollment Explained: How to Choose the Right Health Plan | ASK Podcast - S2 E1

    Open enrollment is your opportunity to review your health insurance options and make sure your coverage still meets your needs for the year ahead.__________ In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, health insurance advisor Davion explains what open enrollment is, who it applies to and how to evaluate your health insurance options with confidence.Learn how to compare plans, understand the role of premiums, provider networks and prescription coverage, and avoid common mistakes that can create challenges later in the year. Davion also shares why it's important to review your coverage annually, even if you're happy with your current plan.Whether you're enrolling for the first time, reviewing your current coverage or preparing to transition off a parent's plan, this episode offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions during open enrollment. __________Chapters:0:00 Introduction0:19 Meet Davion and the SC BLUE Center0:54 What Is Open Enrollment?1:18 What Does ACA Mean?1:41 Who Open Enrollment Applies To2:04 Who Can Buy Marketplace Health Insurance?2:41 What to Bring to an Appointment3:11 Why Health Insurance Matters3:46 Why Your Health Needs Matter4:10 When You Can Change Your Coverage4:50 Is Health Insurance Really Affordable?5:30 Looking Beyond the Monthly Premium6:15 Common Questions About Health Plans7:21 The Biggest Open Enrollment Mistakes8:04 Why You Should Review Your Plan Every Year8:24 Benefits of Choosing BlueCross8:56 Finding the Right Plan for Your Needs9:27 What to Expect at an SC BLUE Center10:22 Why Work With a Health Insurance Advisor?10:55 Do You Have to Be a BlueCross Member?11:34 Appointment Options and Enrollment Support12:08 Davion's Biggest Open Enrollment Advice13:03 Why You Should Start Early13:23 Choosing Coverage That's Right for You13:50 Services Available at SC BLUE Centers14:07 Turning 26 and Health Insurance15:04 How BlueCross Advisors Are Trained15:56 Lightning Round17:02 Closing __________Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina:https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here:https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ Connect with us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbsscX: https://x.com/bcbsscLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  3. Sep 8

    How to Build a Fitness Routine That Works for You | ASK Podcast - S1 E5

    In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, fitness coordinator Octavia shares practical advice for getting started with fitness and staying motivated. Learn how to set realistic goals, add movement to a busy schedule and recognize progress beyond the number on the scale. Octavia also discusses overcoming gym intimidation, adapting activities for different physical abilities and balancing cardio, strength training, rest and recovery. Whether you are beginning your fitness journey, returning after time away or looking for ways to maintain your progress, this episode offers approachable tips to help you find activities you enjoy and build a routine that works for you. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction0:20 Getting Started With Fitness0:37 Start Slowly and Find Activities You Enjoy1:29 How Much Exercise Do You Need?2:48 Short Workouts Can Make a Difference3:02 How to Set SMART Fitness Goals4:49 Staying Motivated When Results Take Time6:09 Why Consistency Matters7:07 Overcoming Gym Intimidation7:45 Accessible Ways to Get Moving8:28 Finding Time for Fitness9:25 Adding Movement to Your Workday10:20 Fitness With a Busy Family Schedule10:44 Exercise Options for Physical Limitations11:22 Thinking Beyond Traditional Exercise11:59 Cardio and Strength Training13:19 Why Strength Training Matters14:49 The Importance of Rest and Recovery15:53 Movement Tips for Sedentary Workdays17:30 Finding an Accountability Partner18:18 How to Maintain Your Fitness Progress19:12 Reassessing and Advancing Your Goals20:39 Octavia’s Top Fitness Advice21:40 Give Yourself Grace22:12 Fitness Lightning Round22:29 Morning or Evening Workouts?22:48 Octavia’s Favorite Outdoor Activity23:08 One Exercise That Works Multiple Muscle Groups23:25 A Quick Reset for a Busy Workday23:50 One Simple Habit for Your Health24:10 Closing Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ Connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbssc X: https://x.com/bcbssc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  4. Aug 25

    Careers at BlueCross: What Recruiters Want Applicants to Know | ASK Podcast S1 E4

    In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, BlueCross recruiter Erica offers an inside look at the application and hiring process. Erica explains how recruiters support applicants, what qualifications matter and why tailoring your resume can help you stand out. She also shares common application mistakes, interview preparation tips and guidance on cover letters, LinkedIn profiles and professional communication. The conversation also explores BlueCross culture, employee benefits and career opportunities across a wide range of fields. Whether you are actively searching for a job or preparing for your next career move, this episode offers practical advice to help you approach the hiring process with confidence. __________________________________________________ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:24 Careers at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina 0:41 What a BlueCross Recruiter Does 1:27 How Recruiters Guide Applicants 2:13 Culture and Career Development at BlueCross 3:42 Why Choose a Career at BlueCross? 4:43 What Candidates Want From an Employer 5:28 Employee Benefits and Workplace Resources 6:43 What to Do Before Applying 7:14 How to Tailor Your Resume 8:05 Understanding Required Qualifications 8:29 Making a Strong First Impression 9:28 How Applications Are Reviewed 9:45 Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid 10:48 What Makes an Application Stand Out 11:35 When to Include a Cover Letter 12:35 What Happens After You Apply 13:49 How Long the Hiring Process Can Take 14:36 Recruiter Screenings and Interviews 15:26 Salary, Work Location and Finding the Right Fit 16:30 How to Prepare for an Interview 17:39 The Importance of Honesty and Professionalism 18:52 The Biggest Application Red Flag 19:07 Why BlueCross Could Be the Place for You 19:38 Rapid-Fire Job Search Tips 20:13 Do You Need a LinkedIn Profile? 21:04 How to Stand Out at BlueCross 21:33 Why Interpersonal Skills Matter 22:34 Interview Attire and Arriving on Time 23:30 Career Opportunities Across BlueCross 24:52 Closing __________________________________________________ Explore career opportunities at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com __________________________________________________ Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ __________________________________________________ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ __________________________________________________ Connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbssc X: https://x.com/bcbssc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  5. Aug 11

    Building a Healthy Lifestyle Doesn't Have to Be Complicated | ASK Podcast - S1 E3

    In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we sit down with health coach Kylah to discuss practical ways to improve your health through small, sustainable changes. From nutrition and exercise to stress management and better sleep, Kayla shares realistic tips that fit into busy schedules. She explains why perfection isn't the goal, how healthy habits are built over time and why simple changes can have a lasting impact on your physical and mental well-being. Whether you're trying to eat healthier, move more, reduce stress or improve your sleep, this conversation offers approachable advice to help you get started. __________________________________________________ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:25 Meet Health Coach Kayla 0:48 What a Healthy Lifestyle Really Means 1:40 The Myth of Health Perfection 3:03 Healthy Eating Tips for Busy People 4:40 Why Preparation Is Key to Healthy Habits 5:18 Finding Balance and Enjoying Your Favorite Foods 6:04 The Plate Method and Portion Control 7:56 Easy Ways to Add Movement to Your Day 8:42 Why Exercise Doesn't Have to Happen All at Once 10:34 How Stress Affects Your Health 11:21 Box Breathing and Relaxation Techniques 12:20 Setting Boundaries and Reducing Screen Time 13:02 Self-Care for Caregivers and Busy People 14:52 Managing Stress Without Spending Money 15:15 Why Sleep Is Essential for Good Health 16:16 Tips for Improving Sleep Quality 17:07 Why Screens Can Interfere With Sleep 18:01 Creating a Better Bedtime Routine 18:19 Finding Trusted Health Information 19:04 How Health Coaching Can Help 20:09 One Simple Step to Start This Week 21:11 Why Healthy Habits Matter More Than Perfection 21:55 The 80/20 Approach to Healthy Living 22:54 Box Breathing Demonstration 23:20 Closing __________________________________________________ Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ __________________________________________________ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ __________________________________________________ Connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbssc X: https://x.com/bcbssc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  6. Jul 21

    Understanding Your Health Insurance: What Every BlueCross Member Should Know | ASK Podcast - S1 E2

    Health insurance can feel complicated, but understanding the basics can help you make more informed decisions and get the most from your benefits. __________________________________________________ In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we sit down with BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina customer experience expert Stephanie to discuss what members need to know about their health insurance. From deductibles, copays and coinsurance to provider networks, preventive care and telehealth, Stephanie breaks down common health insurance terms and explains how members can better understand their coverage. She also shares practical tips for using My Health Toolkit®, comparing costs, reviewing medical bills and becoming a more informed health care consumer. Whether you're selecting a health plan, scheduling an appointment or simply trying to understand a bill, this conversation provides helpful guidance to make navigating health insurance easier. __________________________________________________ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:20 Meet Stephanie and today's topic 0:38 How BlueCross gathers member feedback 2:10 Listening to members and improving experiences 2:56 Why health insurance terminology can be confusing 3:40 Transparency and understanding the claims process 4:54 How members help shape BlueCross tools and services 6:12 Understanding deductibles, copays and coinsurance 8:14 What premiums mean and choosing the right plan 10:03 Understanding provider networks 11:14 Planning for care and knowing your options 12:43 Using My Health Toolkit® 13:28 Why you should call the number on your ID card 15:23 What to know before appointments and procedures 16:11 Shopping and comparing health care costs 19:05 Comparing providers and prescription costs 20:08 Common health insurance mistakes to avoid 22:22 Benefits and discounts members may overlook 23:18 Why you should answer calls from BlueCross 24:13 Why every health plan is different 25:12 Preparing for a doctor's visit 26:04 Preventive care and staying healthy 28:02 What to do if something doesn't seem right 29:20 Using reminders and notifications 31:04 Telehealth and virtual care options 33:02 Key takeaways for members 36:15 Why member feedback matters 36:58 Where to go for help and support 38:04 Closing __________________________________________________ Check out our blog to learn more about all things BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/ __________________________________________________ Learn more and download the My Health Toolkit® app here: https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/members/manage-your-plan/my-health-toolkit/ __________________________________________________ Connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcbssc X: https://x.com/bcbssc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecross-blueshield-of-sc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbluecross/

  7. Jul 7

    Why Community Partnerships Matter for a Healthier South Carolina | Ask Podcast - S1 E1

    What does it take to build healthier, stronger communities across South Carolina? In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we talk with Elizabeth about community relations at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and how the company supports nonprofit organizations, employee volunteerism and long-term partnerships across the state. The conversation explores how BlueCross invests in areas such as health and human services, education, the arts, economic development and civic engagement. Elizabeth also shares examples of community initiatives, including support for the Nickelodeon Theater, the Columbia Museum of Art and the BlueScholars Program with Claflin University and Benedict College. This episode also highlights the role employees play in giving back through volunteer opportunities, year-round campaigns and Doing Good Works Day, the company's day of service. Elizabeth reflects on meaningful moments from her career, including employee support after Hurricane Katrina and offers practical advice for individuals or companies that want to get involved in their communities.

  8. 11/19/2024

    Vaping and Teen Mental Health with Dr. Jennifer Heath

    In this episode of “Ask A Therapist,” Dr. Jennifer Heath, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, explores the critical issue of vaping among teens. Dr. Heath discusses the short-term and long-term impacts of nicotine on the developing brain, the link between vaping and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and the social consequences of vaping. She also provides valuable insights for parents on how to recognize signs of vaping and mental health struggles in their teens, and offers practical advice on how to address these issues. Tune in to learn about evidence-based interventions and strategies to help teens quit vaping and improve their overall well-being. To see what mental health resources your health plan offers, call the number on the back of your insurance card. Follow along as our medical experts answer more common questions around mental health care. Find the entire series: ⁠⁠https://www.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/sc/blog/categories/ask-a-therapist/

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ASK (Always Stay Knowledgeable) is a BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina podcast that brings together trusted experts to explore health, wellness, careers, community and everyday life—delivering clear, practical insights that help you stay informed and empowered.

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