The Balance Broadcast

Sydney Marshman

The Balance Broadcast spotlights the professionals driving fall prevention efforts across Iowa, from occupational therapists and physical therapists to public health leaders, housing advocates, and aging service providers. Hosted by occupational therapist, Sydney Marshman, each episode features candid conversations, local success stories, and practical strategies on aging well. Whether you're coordinating care, leading programs, or looking for new ways to collaborate, this podcast connects you with the Iowans doing the work and doing it well.

Episodes

  1. Season 2 Preview with Alejandra Moreno

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Season 2 Preview with Alejandra Moreno

    Join us for this preview episode to get a glimpse of what’s ahead in Season 2 of The Balance Broadcast—where we explore the balance between independence, support, and real-life decision-making as we age. Alejandra Moreno, nearing the end of her capstone experience, shares a preview of Season 2 as she wraps up 14 weeks with Happy at Home Consulting—offering reflections shaped by hands-on experience in family support and care navigation. For more information on dementia care and early detection, visit the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org) and connect with Eldercare Locator (https://eldercare.acl.gov) to find support in your area.

    21 min

  2. MAR 24

    Direct Care Workers and Fall Prevention

    This interview with Tanya Comer explores the vital role of direct care workers in healthcare, pathways into the profession, and strategies to attract and retain talent. It highlights the importance of quality education, workplace culture, and innovative programs to improve patient outcomes and support workforce sustainability. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central lowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the lowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    29 min

  3. FEB 19

    Meet the Co-Chairs

    Summary In this episode, Sydney Marshman hosts Liz Fridley and Trina Radske-Suchan, co-chairs of the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition. They discuss their professional backgrounds, the coalition's purpose, recent achievements, and future initiatives. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community involvement in falls prevention and the coalition's efforts to expand its impact through grant funding and local partnerships. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their communities and consider joining the coalition to contribute to falls prevention efforts. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central lowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the lowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    25 min

  4. FEB 5

    Lifelong Vitality

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Patty Quinlisk shares her extensive experience in public health and her current work in dementia prevention. She emphasizes the importance of local health departments, innovative approaches to nutrition, and the need for early education on brain health. Dr. Quinlisk discusses how community support and making healthy choices accessible can significantly impact individuals' lives, especially as they age. She also highlights the role of curiosity and lifelong learning in maintaining brain health. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central lowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the lowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    31 min

  5. JAN 31

    Cognition and Fall Prevention

    In this episode of the Balance Broadcast, Kelsey Paul Charlson, a speech pathologist, shares her journey and insights into the evolving field of speech therapy, particularly focusing on telehealth services and their accessibility for older adults. The conversation delves into the often-overlooked impacts of concussions, the stigma surrounding them, and the critical role speech therapy plays in cognitive communication and mental health. Kelsey emphasizes the need for greater awareness and access to specialized services, especially in rural areas, and discusses future aspirations for the field. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central lowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the lowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    28 min

  6. JAN 8

    Community Fall Prevention

    In this conversation, Sydney Marshman interviews Angela Drent, a health promotion specialist at Siouxland District Health Department. They discuss Angela's extensive experience in health promotion, focusing on community health initiatives, accessibility, and fall prevention for seniors. Angela shares insights on the importance of community engagement, the challenges of ensuring accessibility beyond ADA standards, and the impact of collaborative efforts in improving health outcomes. The conversation highlights the significance of addressing community needs through policy changes and inclusive practices. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    26 min

  7. JAN 2

    Oral Health and Fall Prevention

    In this episode of The Balance Broadcast, host Sydney Marshman speaks with Dr. Jim Cholewa about the intersection of dentistry and fall prevention, particularly for older adults. They discuss innovative membership plans that offer a more affordable and transparent approach to dental care, the importance of regular dental visits as we age, and the need to rebuild trust in the dental profession. Dr. Cholewa shares insights from his professional journey and emphasizes the role of dental health in overall well-being, especially in preventing falls among seniors. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870 https://samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    25 min

  8. 12/04/2025

    Mental Health for Fall Prevention

    In this episode of The Balance Broadcast, host Sydney Marshman speaks with Ashley Adams, an occupational therapist, about the intersection of occupational therapy and mental health. They discuss the importance of mental health in occupational therapy practices, the challenges of accessing mental health care, and the relationship between falls and mental health. The conversation also explores the future of aging and mental health, strategies for fall prevention, and the role of community involvement in supporting mental health. Ashley emphasizes the need for ongoing engagement and meaningful roles as individuals age, highlighting the importance of occupational therapy in facilitating these aspects. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870  https://samedaygrabbars.com/index.php/003 Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition:https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    22 min

  9. 11/19/2025

    Lifestyle Medicine in Rural Iowa

    In this episode of The Balance Broadcast, host Sydney Marshman discusses the importance of fall prevention and community health resources with Steve, the owner of 21st Century Rehab. The conversation highlights the significance of therapy services and the role of community initiatives in supporting older adults and caregivers in Iowa. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870 https://www.samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition:  https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    33 min

  10. 10/27/2025

    Navigating Care Management

    Navigating Care Management In this conversation, Kayla shares her journey into care management, discussing the challenges patients face in managing their health and the importance of building relationships with them. She emphasizes the need for education on health management, the role of care managers in preventing hospital visits, and the significance of regular check-ins to identify potential health issues. The discussion also touches on the future of aging, the impact of technology on healthcare, and the importance of understanding patients' goals for their health. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870 https://www.samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition: https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    29 min

  11. 10/11/2025

    Healing from the Inside Out

    In this episode, we explore the powerful overlap between wound care and fall prevention—two areas that often affect the same high-risk populations. Malarie Bender, PA-C, from Boone County Hospital’s Wound and Hyperbaric Center, joins us to discuss why individuals prone to falls are also more likely to develop chronic wounds and what clinicians and caregivers can do to break that cycle. We cover practical strategies like daily foot checks, supportive footwear, and safe transfer techniques that protect skin integrity and reduce shearing injuries. Malarie also shares insights on hyperbaric oxygen therapy—an emerging treatment offering new hope for patients recovering from radiation, diabetic ulcers, and other hard-to-heal conditions. Whether you’re a therapist, nurse, or caregiver, this conversation highlights how small, proactive measures can prevent complications and support healing from the inside out. Contact Angela & Mike with Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa 515-776-8870 https://www.samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition: https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    34 min

  12. 09/23/2025 ·  BONUS

    BONUS: Building Community for Better Aging

    In this episode of The Balance Broadcast, host Sydney Marshman speaks with Mike and Angela Lorden, owners of Same Day Grab Bars® of Central Iowa. They discuss their journey into the aging and caregiving field, the importance of grab bars for safety, and their commitment to serving the community. The conversation highlights the significance of professional installation, the need for accessible services in rural areas, and the value of community collaboration in supporting older adults. Contact Angela & Mike: 515-776-8870 https://www.samedaygrabbars.com/ Join the Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition: https://iacommunityhub.org/contact/

    21 min

Trailer

About

The Balance Broadcast spotlights the professionals driving fall prevention efforts across Iowa, from occupational therapists and physical therapists to public health leaders, housing advocates, and aging service providers. Hosted by occupational therapist, Sydney Marshman, each episode features candid conversations, local success stories, and practical strategies on aging well. Whether you're coordinating care, leading programs, or looking for new ways to collaborate, this podcast connects you with the Iowans doing the work and doing it well.

Information

  • Creator
    Sydney Marshman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Sydney Marshman