Podcast

Join host Chuck Gaidica and expert guests as they explore wellness, fitness, mental health, and food and nutrition to help you live a healthier and happier life.
Podcast

Do Natural Sleep Aids Promote Better Sleep?

According to UC Davis Health, sleep is one of the three pillars of health. It promotes improved mental function, helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces stress, and improves mood to name a few. However, getting quality sleep can be easier said than done for some. In a 2022 Gallup survey, it showed that 1 in 3 adults do not regularly get the recommended amount of uninterrupted sleep. So, for those that have trouble sleeping, can natural sleep aids be a way to help improve sleep quality?

Podcast

Why You Should Consider Power Naps

For many of us, we’ve likely experienced the mid-day slump at least once in our lives. According to the Sleep Foundation, it’s normal for people to experience a drop in energy after lunch due to the body’s natural circadian rhythm. There are a myriad of options to break out of the fog and get your energy back up, but our focus today is something that’s accessible to most people – a nap. And we’re not talking carving an hour out of your day. A lot can be accomplished in less time that you may think. Power naps can be this tightrope walk when it comes to getting it just right to achieve the maximum benefit. We’ll uncover how to approach them on this episode.

Podcast

How Positive Self-Talk Reduces Stress

According to the National Science Foundation, the average person has 12,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day. Of those, 80% are negative. On a previous episode, we discussed the negativity bias and how negative thoughts often carry more weight in our minds than positive ones. And too often, the pattern of self-talk we develop is negative due to experiences we’ve had throughout our lives. Frequent negative self-talk may lead to decreased motivation and greater feelings of helplessness. So, is it possible to combat negative thoughts by changing our outlook to something more positive?

Podcast

How to Stock Your Cupboards for Better Heart Health

Our kitchen cupboards are a window into our diet. There are items in there that are in constant rotation while others might be collecting dust. However, something we might not think about is how these items we stock up on affect our heart health. So, when it comes to the foods we choose, which staples should we always have on hand to better our heart health?

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Podcast

What Numbers You Should Focus on for Good Heart Health

Majority of us have gone to the doctor’s office for a routine checkup and have gone through our chart with the doctor. It’s possible we don’t think twice about what is being relayed to us unless our doctor shows some concern with the results. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pay attention to our numbers until somethings wrong. On this episode, we’re going to cover what numbers you should focus on for good health, what they mean and what you can do to proactively keep your heart healthy.

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Podcast

What to Look for in a Good Workout Routine

There are so many options available to us when it comes to choosing a workout, which is great because it allows us so much variety to find something that suits what we’d enjoy in a fitness plan. From on-demand series to YouTube videos and local gym classes or equipment. Creating a workout routine is very much a choose your own adventure approach to a healthy lifestyle. So, when we are creating one, what should we be looking for in our exercises that makes a well-rounded workout routine?

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Why You Shouldn't Make a New Year's Resolution
Podcast

Why You Shouldn't Make a New Year's Resolution

At the start of the New Year, it seems like it’s only a matter of time until we start talking about resolutions. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing. We take a moment to reflect on something we want to change for the better in our lives. But it often comes with this all-or-nothing mentality. Or even worse, a lofty goal that isn’t realistic to reach in the amount of time we set aside to achieve it. So, would it make more sense just to do away with resolutions and try something different?

How to Overcome Negativity Bias
Podcast

How to Overcome Negativity Bias

It’s odd how negative moments can outweigh positive ones. We could experience a day that was great overall. But one small, negative experience can make us fixate on that moment and forget the rest of the positive moments from that day. According to Columbia University, research shows that we often remember negative or traumatic experiences over positive ones. Why is it that we put so much focus on negativity? And what impact can that have on us?

Michigan Bucket List: Winter Edition
Podcast

Michigan Bucket List: Winter Edition

In 2022, Thrillist ranked Michigan third for how miserable its winters are. And they might have a point in some cases. Majority of the days, there’s cloud coverage. Days get shorter and shorter as daylight dwindles. And not to mention, the temperatures can range from 36°F to 16°F. And that might be enough for someone to say, “I’ll see you in spring.” But even so, we know there are some exciting things to do and experience in Michigan even in the winter. And that’s what we plan to uncover on today’s episode.

How to Recover from Burnout
Podcast

How to Recover from Burnout

Stress creeps up on all of us. And if we don’t find ways to minimize stress, it can pile up to a point where we become burnt out. This is especially true when juggling work, friendships, family and more – it can get to a point where we neglect our own self-interest and become consumed with the responsibilities that surround us with no outlet. So how do we pull back to maintain balance between our responsibilities and our passions? What can we do to recognize burnout early on and act before we’re consumed by it?

Do Food Sensitivity Tests Actually Work?
Podcast

Do Food Sensitivity Tests Actually Work?

As of recent, the popularity of food sensitivity testing has been on the rise. These tests promise to provide answers to digestive issues such as heartburn, abdominal pain, and bloating to name a few. As for access to these tests, they’re not hard to acquire with at-home kits being sold online. The process of getting answers about your digestive health tailored to you seems so simple. Who wouldn’t want to get insights on how certain foods interact with one’s body and improve how they feel? But how reliable are these tests? Are they too good to be true?

Easy Ways to Increase Your Veggie Intake
Podcast

Easy Ways to Increase Your Veggie Intake

At some point in your life, it’s possible you’ve heard someone say, “it’s important to eat your veggies so you can grow up to be big and strong.” And it’s also likely some of us didn’t read much more into that statement. To an extent, a majority of us know that vegetables are good for us because that’s what we were told growing up. However, according to the CDC, 91% of adults aren’t getting the daily recommended of vegetables. During this conversation, we’ll shed light on the benefits of vegetables and creative ways we can incorporate them into our diet.

Is 10,000 Steps a Day Fact or Myth?
Podcast

Is 10,000 Steps a Day Fact or Myth?

10,000 steps a day should be familiar to most – especially if you have ever purchased a fitness tracker that keeps count of your steps. Over the course of interacting with different health experts on this show, we’ve come to find out that exercise is very much an individual, case-by-case approach. So that makes us wonder if “10,000 steps a day” is a good baseline or are there more questions we should be asking ourselves to figure out what’s the right step goal we should be aiming for daily? On this episode, we’ll uncover exactly that to help understand what the best approach to select, maintain and achieve our daily step goal might really be.

How to Start and Maintain a Routine
Podcast

How to Start and Maintain a Routine

Does it seem like any time you start a new routine, it feels like it’s only a matter of time until it falls apart? We plan, make schedules, and stay on top of the routine we set in place. But the moment we have the tiniest of setbacks, everything comes apart at the seams and we can’t get back into the rhythm of our daily routine. Why do minor missteps cause our routines to unravel? What can we do to ensure we stick to the healthy habits we set out for ourselves?

How to Reduce Carbon Footprint with Food
Podcast

How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Food

In recent years, there’s been focus on the impact various sources from energy to the car we drive can impact our environment. Even food has been said to have an impact. But if we wanted to eat more sustainably to reduce the effects on our environment, how do we go about that? Do we eat locally? Opt for organic? Choose free range? Or skip meat entirely? In this episode, we’ll uncover how you can approach and incorporate sustainable food into your diet without feeling overwhelmed.

Is There an Optimal Time to Work Out?
Podcast

Is There an Optimal Time to Work Out?

There’s no question that finding time to work out whenever you can is better than not doing it at all. But what if you wanted to optimize your workouts to get the most benefit? Is there a specific time of day that’s optimal to maximize the results you get from working out?

People doing skin care routine
Podcast

Are These Social Trends Harming Your Skin?

Can beef tallow really help improve your skin? Does a jade roller really give you a glow? To help separate skincare fact from fiction, we’ll uncover if these trending hacks actually work.

Effects of Dehydration on the Body
Podcast

Ways Dehydration is Affecting You That You Didn’t Realize

Did you know 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated? Find out the signs and side effects of dehydration as well as ways you can stay hydrated.

Foods Facts You've Heard But Aren't True
Podcast

“Food Facts” You’ve Heard But Aren’t True

Misinformation touches everything - even our food. On this episode, we

Can Food Impact Your Lifespan by the Minute?
Podcast

Can Food Impact Your Lifespan by the Minute?

Can eating a hot dog reduce your lifespan by 36 minutes? On this episode, we explore a study analyzing the impact foods can have on lifespan by the minute.

How to Maintain Balance Between Mental and Physical Health
Podcast

How to Maintain Balance Between Mental and Physical Health

Did you know there’s a strong link between our mental and physical health? On this episode, we discuss how each affects the other and ways to maintain balance.

Mackinac Policy Conference 2023 - Chuck Gaidica with Gary Miles
Podcast

The Power of the Past and Present

Wrapping his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck talks to attendees about the power of the past and present of Michigan history.

Mackinac Policy Conference 2023 - Chuck Gaidica with Fred Hunter
Podcast

The Power of Investing in Youth and the Future of Our Communities

Continuing his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck talks to attendees about investing in youth and the future of our communities.

Mackinac Policy Conference 2023 - Chuck Gaidica with Athina Papas
Podcast

The Power of Business and Philanthropy in Detroit

Chuck Gaidica is back for another bonus episode to talk to conference attendees about business and philanthropy happening in Detroit.

Mackinac Policy Conference 2023 - Chuck Gaidica with Lynda Rossi
Podcast

The Power of Working Together in Health Care Now and Into the Future

At the 2023 Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck speaks with attendees to discuss how leaders are tackling issues in the healthcare space.

Health Benefits of Donating Blood
Podcast

Health Benefits of Donating Blood

Donating blood is important for saving lives for those receiving blood, but it can also be beneficial to the donor. Find out how.

How to Cope with Negative Body Image
Podcast

How to Cope with Negative Body Image

From media to societal pressures, there’s a lot that can influence how we feel about our physical appearance. Here's how to cope with those feelings.

Benefits of Starting a Garden
Podcast

Benefits of Starting a Garden

If you’re discovering gardening for the first time, you might be surprised to find out there are quite a few benefits to getting your hands in the dirt.

How Chronic Stress Impacts Our Weight
Podcast

How Chronic Stress Impacts Our Weight

Do you gravitate towards comfort food when you’re feeling stressed? There could be a reason for that. Find out more on the relationship between stress and food.

When Stress Becomes Chronic
Podcast

How to Know When Stress Becomes Chronic

Frazzled? Anxious? Tense? What do we do when stress becomes long-lasting to the point where it’s noticeably weighing on us? Find out here.

Effects of Caffeine on the Body
Podcast

How Does Caffeine Affect the Body?

Sleep, jitters, a morning pick me up - we all know that caffeine is known to affect all of these things, but what is it’s true impact?

TikTok Sleep Trends
Podcast

TikTok Sleep Trends – Do They Actually Work?

Did you know 1 in 3 U.S. adults aren't getting enough sleep? so we decided to search social media for sleep hacks and ask a doctor if they're worth trying.

Is It Safe to Eat Food After Its Expiration Date?
Podcast

Is It Safe to Eat Food After Its Expiration Date?

When it comes to use by dates, it's common to throw food out when it's passed the expiration date. but is it really expired? we'll unpack that here.

What to Look for When Reading Food Labels
Podcast

What to Look for When Reading Food Labels

Low-fat, low-calorie, low-carb. We see these phrases on products at grocery stores thinking they're a healthy option, but are they truly? find out more here.

Is Organic Overrated or Underrated?
Podcast

Is Organic Food Overrated or Underrated?

There's a perception that organic foods are more nutritious and environmentally friendly than non-organic foods, but they actually better for us? find out.

Are Food Additives Harmful to Our Health?
Podcast

Are Food Additives Harmful to Our Health?

it’s estimated that an individual consumes 140-150 pounds of food additives each year. Can ingesting additives have a negative impact on our health long-term?

How to Reset Your Health This New Year
Podcast

How to Reset Your Health This New Year

In the New Year, it seems like we’re so focused on diet and exercise. However, there are other aspects of our health we could focus on. Find out more here.

How to Digitally Detox from Technology
Podcast

How to Digitally Detox from Technology

Technologically, we’re living in a time where we’ve never been more connected in our lives. However, overuse of tech could impact our wellbeing. Find out how.

How Does Helping Others Help You
Podcast

How Helping Others Helps You

You’ve likely heard the phrase “it’s better to give than receive.” But did you know that when we help others, it’s actually better for our health? Find out how.

Behind the Scenes of America's Thanksgiving Parade
Podcast

Behind the Scenes of America’s Thanksgiving Parade

We're peeling back the curtain on america's thanksgiving parade. everything from balloons to floats, find out what goes into one of detroit's most iconic event.

Holiday Food Myths Busted
Podcast

Holiday Food Myths Busted

Should you do a post-holiday cleanse to lose weight? Or substitute ingredients in your holiday meal to prevent weight gain? Those myths and more debunked here.

Vegan and Vegetarian Diet Myths Debunked
Podcast

Vegan and Vegetarian Diet Myths Debunked

We’ve heard a lot of different things about vegan and vegetarian diets, both good and bad. But what’s true and what’s false? We debunk myths about each.

How I was Diagnosed with ADHD as an Adult
Podcast

How I was Diagnosed with ADHD

It’s common for adults to find out later in life that they have ADHD, but how does someone seek help if it’s never crossed their mind that they might have it?

Why You Should Consider Low Impact Workouts
Podcast

Why You Should Consider Low Impact Workouts

Can low impact workouts be just as effective as high impact workouts? We explore if it's possible to get similar results while being easier on our joints.

How to Eat Intuitively
Podcast

Intuitive Eating – What to Know Before Trying

Non-diet approaches like intuitive eating seem to be gaining popularity. Can this approach to eating be beneficial to our diet or is it another fad?

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Podcast

Why You Should Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

While it’s healthy for us to establish a comfort zone, getting out of it can be good for us as well. So how can we get comfortable with being uncomfortable?

Are These Health Drinks Actually Healthy? - Chuk Gaidica and Shanthi Appelo
Podcast

Are These Health Drinks Actually Healthy?

Drink trends are flooding social media claiming to have numerous health benefits. But are these actually healthy or is it all hype? We unpack all of that here.

How to Improve Flexibility
Podcast

Are You Doing These Stretches to Stay Flexible?

Flexibility shouldn’t be something we start to pay attention to the moment we notice limitations in our daily lives. Here's how to improve and maintain it.

How to Eat Healthy While Traveling
Podcast

How to Eat Healthy While Traveling

When planning your next vacation, eating healthy might be the last thing on your mind. So how do we maintain balance with our food options during our next trip?

How to Keep Your Brain Healthy
Podcast

Do This to Keep Your Brain Healthy

We’ve all had moments where we've misplaced something and can't remember where it is. but is forgetfulness we should be concerned about as age?

Why Men Have Shorter Lifespans Than Women
Podcast

Why Men Have Shorter Lifespans Than Women

The average male life expectancy is five years less than females. What factors contribute to this and what can men do to expand their longevity? Find out here.

Chuck Gaidica with Quentin Messer
Podcast

Inside the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 4

Wrapping his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck talks to attendees about the business community's changing civic role in polarizing times.

Chuck Gaidica with Cheryl Carrier at the Mackinac Policy Conference
Podcast

Inside the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 3

Continuing his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck talks to attendees about the business community's changing civic role in polarizing times.

Chuck Gaidica with Bob Riney
Podcast

Inside the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 2

Chuck Gaidica is back for another bonus episode to talk to conference attendees about the business community's changing civic role in polarizing times.

Chuck Gaidica with Dan and Amy Loepp at the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference
Podcast

Inside the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 1

On this episode, Chuck talks to conference attendees about the business community's changing civic role in polarizing times and its impact on michiganders.

How to Cope with Postpartum Depression
Podcast

How to Cope with Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can develop anywhere from a few weeks to six months after delivery. Listen to how you can identify PPD and when to seek help for it.

How to Quiet Your Mind Before Bed
Podcast

How to Quiet Your Mind Before Bed

At some point we've found ourselves unable to fall asleep at night because of racing thoughts. in this episode, we explore what can do quiet our minds.

How to Get Your Garden Ready for Spring
Podcast

How to Get Your Garden Ready for Spring

With warmer weather right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about getting your garden in order for the season. Listen to hear how.

How Your Living Space Affects Your Well-Being
Podcast

How Your Living Space Affects Your Well-Being

Can our living space really have a direct impact on our well-being? Hear what you can do to make small changes to your space to improve your well-being.

Can Food Positively Impact Our Sleep?
Podcast

Can Food Positively Impact Your Sleep?

Can food really help improve our sleep? Are there specific foods that will lead to a better night's rest? we unpack all that here.

Chuck Gaidica with Christy McDonald
Podcast

In Jamie’s Memory: Christy McDonald Shares Her Family’s Personal Journey with Colon Cancer and the Importance of Early Screening

In hopes of raising awareness and providing information on screening, warning signs and more, we share a personal story of the effects of colorectal cancer.

Uncommon Spices to Add to Your Pantry
Podcast

Uncommon Spices You Should Add to Your Pantry

Herbs and spices can transform a dish and really make the flavors come alive. In this episode, we deep dive into uncommon spices you may just want to try.

A Healthier Michigan Podcast 100th Episode
Podcast

Reflecting on 100 Episodes

We've reached our 100th episode and we're celebrating by sharing what we've learned over the years producing show.

How does stress impact our heart health?
Podcast

How Does Stress Impact Our Heart Health?

Stress is a common part of life. But what happens if we experience elevated levels of stress on a consistent basis? Could it be harmful to our heart health?

How Micro Habits Can Help Elevate Your Fitness Goals
Podcast

How Micro Habits Can Elevate Your Fitness Goals

When we try to introduce healthy habits, we go about it the wrong way by setting overly ambitious goals. Hear how you can set yourself up for success this year.

Is It Possible to Lose Weight with Diet Alone?
Podcast

Is It Possible to Lose Weight with Diet Alone?

What if we followed a tried-and-true diet for weight loss and solely that? Would we be able to lose weight with diet alone? Find out here.

How to Maintain Your Mental Health This Winter
Podcast

How to Maintain Your Mental Health This Winter

Winter can be challenging for many as the weather can directly impact our mood. So, what can we do to take care of our mental health as colder weather rolls in?

How to Maintain Good Immunity This Winter
Podcast

How to Maintain Good Immunity This Winter

Let’s face it – no one enjoys feeling tired, run down or sick. So what can we do to maintain good immunity and protect ourselves this winter season?

How to Be Mindful During the Winter
Podcast

How to Be Mindful During the Holidays

The holidays can be a time of joy and excitement, but they can also very easily become stressful. Listen to how mindfulness can help relieve holiday stress.

What Your Mouth Says About Your Health
Podcast

What Your Mouth Says About Your Health

Our mouths play such an important role when it comes to how our bodies function, but can we get a snapshot of our overall health by looking in our mouths?

Why You Shouldn't Focus Solely on Weight Loss for Good Health
Podcast

Why You Shouldn’t Solely Focus on Weight Loss for Good Health

When looking to get healthy, we may associate weight loss with the gold standard for success when it comes to being healthy, but there's more to it than that.

How to Calculate Macronutrients
Podcast

Macronutrients – What They Are and How to Calculate Them

Counting macros can feel overwhelming as it's a little more involved than simply counting calories. here are tips on how to simplify tracking them.

How to Fight Fatigue
Podcast

How to Fight Fatigue with Food

We've all experienced that midday slump where it feels like our energy levels are tapped. what we eat throughout the day might be reason we're so tired.

Christa Funk with Chuck Gaidica
Podcast

Inside the 2021 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 3

Wrapping his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck Gaidica chats with attendees about the impact the pandemic has had on the health of Michiganders.

Chuck Gaidica and Stephen Henderson sit at a long, gray table in the main dining room of the Grand Hotel smiling towards the camera.
Podcast

Inside the 2021 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 2

Chuck Gaidica is back for another bonus episode to talk to conference attendees about the health of Michiganders at the Mackinac Policy Conference.

Dan Loepp and Amy Loepp with Chuck Gaidica
Podcast

Inside the 2021 Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 1

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica talks to conference attendees about the hurdles they've overcome the past 18 months and impact it's had on michiganders.

How to Improve Your Health with Technology
Podcast

How to Improve Your Health with Technology

With constant advancements in technology, our options for self-care have increased tremendously. So how do we take advantage of this tech to improve our health?

What You Need to Know About Colonoscopies
Podcast

What You Need to Know About Colonoscopies

We know once we reach a certain age, it's recommended we get a colonoscopy - but why? here, uncover everything you need to know about colonoscopies.

How to Get Organized and Feel Better About Your Space
Podcast

How to Get Organized and Feel Better About Your Space

For some, staying organized is an ongoing battle and it fills us with stress and anxiety. But maybe we just haven't found an organizing style that works for us.

How to Make Working Out Fun
Podcast

Is It Possible to Make Working Out Fun?

For the most part, working out feels like...well, work. But is there a way to make our workouts something we look forward to doing. Here's how to make it fun.

How to Take Care of Your Gut
Podcast

How to Take Care of Your Gut

Our gut impacts our immune system, heart, weight, and even mental health so it's important to keep it healthy. here's what you can do take care of it.

Exploring Culture Through Food
Podcast

Why Food Is the Best Way to Explore New Cultures

There are so many ways that different ingredients from all over the world are making it onto our plate. Exploring new cultures through food is easier than ever.

Michigan Summer Bucket List
Podcast

Michigan Bucket List: Hidden Gems to Visit This Summer

With more than 13,000 miles of trails and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan has quite the offering. Discover hidden gems across the state to check out this summer.

How Mental Health Stigma Affects Men
Podcast

How Mental Health Stigma Affects Men

When it comes to their mental health, men struggle to ask for help, but what is holding them back from seeking the care they need? Listen to find out.

How to Stop Eating Junk Food
Podcast

Why We Crave Junk Food and Ways to Curb It

For some, we've leaned on junk food to get through the daily stressors of life, especially this past year. learn how curb your cravings and eat healthy.

How to get and stay motivated
Podcast

How to Get and Stay Motivated

Motivation feels like the main ingredient to get things done, but it isn’t a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits all desire to act. Learn how to get motivated here.

Pandemic Stress on the Emotional Well-being of Women
Podcast

Pandemic Stress: How It’s Impacting the Emotional Well-Being of Women

This last year has taken a bigger toll on women's mental health than men, but what can be done to help ease the stress of pandemic? we unpack that here.

Stress and Alcohol - What It's Doing to Our Health
Podcast

Stress and Alcohol: What It’s Doing to Our Health

During the pandemic, alcohol consumption has grown from 21% to 40.7%. People are turning to alcohol to ease stress, but how is it affecting our overall health?

Health Benefits of Laughter
Podcast

Laughter – What is It Doing for Our Health?

We've all heard that laughter is the best medicine, but what it doing for our health? find out how benefits us both mentally and physically.

Is Blue Light Bad for Your Eyes?
Podcast

Is Blue Light Bad for Our Eyes?

On average, we spend three hours and 43 minutes on our phone per day. It's clear screen time has increased, but what is it doing to our eyes? find out here.

Effects of Emotional Eating on Our Health
Podcast

The Effects of Emotional Eating on Our Health

Food can impact our mood greatly, but when we’re feeling down or upset, it can be tempting to eat our emotions. Hear how to take control of emotional eating.

Podcast

Is My Diet Affecting My Heart Health?

Using crash diets to lose weight quickly can do more harm than good to our heart health. Here are our recommendations on the best diets for healthy hearts.

How to Emotionally Strengthen Relationships
Podcast

How to Emotionally Strengthen Relationships

We've all experienced emotional fatigue at some point during the pandemic and it can weigh on our relationships. here are tips how to emotionally reconnect.

How Housing Instability Affects Our Health
Podcast

How Housing Instability Affects Our Health

Each night, more than 8,300 Michiganders face the possibility of not having a place to go home. Find out how this can cause a cascading effect on one's health.

What We Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine
Podcast

COVID-19 Vaccine – What We Know

With the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S., there are still a lot of questions about what we can expect with the vaccine. Here's what we know.

The Importance of Self-Reflection
Podcast

The Importance of Making Time for Self-Reflection

Aristotle said, "Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." Looking within is part of personal growth. Discover how to make the most of self-reflection.

Diet Trends for 2021
Podcast

Food Forecast: Diet Trends for 2021

With 2021 right around the corner, we share our predictions of what diet trends we'll see in the new year.

Podcast

How to Overcome Cabin Fever

Cabin fever can feel like the walls are closing in around us. As we head into winter, here's what we can do to avoid feeling stir crazy, irritable and restless.

How Vaping Affects Your Health
Podcast

How Vaping Affects Your Health

In recent years, vaping has exploded in popularity. It's been touted as a safer form of smoking. but without much evidence, is it really than cigarettes?

Podcast

How Daylight Savings Affects Our Sleep

The time change is something we experience every year, but it doesn't change the fact that it can disrupt our sleep cycle. here's how to adjust shift.

Podcast

How Food Insecurity is Contributing to Poor Health

In the past year, 1 in 8 households had difficulty providing food for all members living together. Learn how food insecurity is impacting communities.

How to Handle a Mental Health Crisis
Podcast

How to Handle a Mental Health Crisis

A mental health crisis can happen to people in all walks of life, but they don't have to go it alone if they're struggling. discover how help those in need.

What is clean eating?
Podcast

What is Clean Eating?

With clean eating, there's this perception that certain foods may be bad or even dirty. can some actually cleaner than others?

How to Build Resilience
Podcast

How to Build Resilience

Life brings new challenges at every turn. No matter the obstacle, building resilience in the face of adversity can be powerful for our emotional well-being.

Myths and Misconceptions About Immunization
Podcast

Myths and Misconceptions About Immunization

Understanding immunization can be information overload - both good and bad - causing us to wonder if we should or shouldn't get vaccinated. we unpack that here.

Preparing for Back to School During a Pandemic
Podcast

Preparing for Back to School During a Pandemic

A new school year is quickly approaching, yet there's uncertainty as to what that will look like this fall. here's how prepare based on we know.

How to get healthy skin through diet and exercise
Podcast

How to Get Healthy Skin with Diet and Exercise

Good skincare isn't only about what we apply to our skin, but also put into bodies. here are tips on how get healthy skin with diet and exercise.

How to Treat Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder
Podcast

How to Ease Summer SAD

Seasonal affective disorder isn’t just a winter condition. It can also occur in summer, disrupting your sleep and altering your mood.

Life After Social Isolation
Podcast

The Effects of Isolation on Mental Health

Have you been struggling or thriving during quarantine? Here’s how COVID-19 has changed the way society views mental health.

Foods That Fight Inflammation
Podcast

How to Fight Inflammation with Food

Looking for a natural way to reduce inflammation? Head to your local grocery store to find a healthy remedy.

Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
Podcast

The Impact of Exercise on Mental Health

Running is more than an exercise, it’s a life saver. Discover how this healthy hobby is changing the scope of mental health care.

Podcast

Foods That Help Boost Mental Health

Food isn't only for fueling our bodies. it can also impact mood and how we feel on a daily basis. eating these foods help increase mental health.

How to Store Food Long Term
Podcast

How to Maximize the Shelf Life of Food

Do you know how long groceries can last? Here are some tips on how to store and preserve your favorite foods.

apple
Podcast

Best and Worst Foods for Our Teeth

We can be the best at cleaning our teeth, however, food can still have a major impact on our oral health. Acids, carbs and sugars - we'll unpack all that here.

how much sugar is too much
Podcast

How Much Sugar is Too Much?

These days, it seems sugar is in everything. Whether it’s natural or artificial, too much can lead to serious health problems.

Coronavirus - Covid-19
Podcast

COVID-19: What We Know About the Novel Coronavirus

The global spread of COVID-19 has led to an influx of information leaving many with questions. This is what we currently know about the novel coronavirus.

Guided Mindfulness Meditation
Podcast

Guided Mindfulness Meditation

With practice, mindfulness is a skill we can all deepen. Take a moment to be present with yourself through this guided meditation.

How to Practice Mindfulness
Podcast

How to Practice Mindfulness

Everyone is born with the ability to be mindful. Here's how to remove distractions and reconnect with your inner self.

Grace Derocha - A Healthier Michigan Podcast
Podcast

Benefits of Healthy Snacking

Did you know snacking can be a good thing? Discover how eating between meals can help to improve your diet.

Chuck Gaidica with Dan Muncey
Podcast

Are Home Workouts Effective?

Home workouts are convenient, but are they effective? Here’s how to improve your health and make a significant change with little to no equipment.

Kristian Hurley, Chuck Gaidica and Grace Derocha
Podcast

Cholesterol – What Impacts Our Levels?

Cholesterol can have a serious effect on heart health. Here’s how to monitor your levels to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Chuck Gaidica and Grace Derocha
Podcast

Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail

Do you have goals for the new year? Before tackling any resolutions, discover how and why most of them fail.

Chuck Gaidica with Dan Muncey
Podcast

How to Track Your Fitness Progress

Are you starting a new fitness plan? Here’s how to stay motivated while tracking your short and long-term progress.

Chuck Gaidica with Kristian Hurley
Podcast

How Much Sodium is Too Much?

Sodium naturally occurs in most foods. But when consumed in excessive amounts, it can lead to chronic health issues like heart disease.

Chuck Gaidica, Michelle Dunaway, Grace Derocha
Podcast

How to Measure and Manage Portion Sizes

When it comes to food, how much is too much? Here are some tips on how to maintain a balanced diet using portion control.

Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy?
Podcast

Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy?

Plant-based meats are quickly becoming a fast food staple. But are they as healthy as everyone says?

Haunted Places in Michigan
Podcast

Haunted Places in Michigan

Michigan has a rich and storied history of haunted sites. From old restaurants to motels and lighthouses, these lively tales are ready to be told.

Chuck Gaidica with Grace Derocha
Podcast

How to Boost Your Immune System

Are you prepared for flu season? These simple food hacks can boost your immune system and help fight disease.

Chuck Gaidica with Grace Derocha
Podcast

Tips to Navigate a Farmers Market

Michigan farmers markets are a treasure trove of in-season produce. Skip your commercial grocer and discover the benefits of buying local.

Chuck Gaidica with Grace Derocha
Podcast

What is Considered Processed Food?

Most foods undergo some type of processing. Whether it’s minimal or major, it can have a notable effect on your current and long-term health.

Chef Kristin Podolinski Chuck Gaidica and Grace Derocha
Podcast

Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

Looking to limit your sodium? Here’s why herbs and spices are a healthier, more flavorful seasoning alternative.

Marissa Jarrett on A Healthier Michigan Podcast
Podcast

Fitness Plans for Busy Schedules

Struggling to make time for your workouts? Here are some tips on how to fit regular exercise into your busy schedule.

Chuck Gaidica and Grace Derocha for A Healthier Michigan Podcast
Podcast

Guide to the Healthiest Cooking Oils

Cooking oil will add flavor to any recipe. But it can also be high in calories and saturated fat. Here’s how to choose the healthiest oil for your next meal.

Chuck Gaidica with Vince McKinnon and Susan Okonkowski
Podcast

Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Aging

You can’t turn back time, but you can prepare for the future. With proper diet, exercise and rest, one can slow the signs of aging.

Chuck Gaidica with Grace Derocha and Sue Hudnut
Podcast

Best Vegetables to Plant in Late Summer

Ready to dust off your green thumb? Discover the best vegetables to plant for a late-summer garden.

Chuck Gaidica and Grace Derocha
Podcast

Are Eggs Healthy for You?

Are eggs good for you? They're a great source of nutrients, but are linked to serious health conditions like heart disease and high cholesterol.

Chuck Gaidica with Paul Yauk and Dan Muncey
Podcast

Hidden Gems to Hike in Michigan

Celebrate 100 years of Michigan’s state parks by exploring the open trail. Discover nature’s treasures, as well as the mental and physical benefits of hiking.

Chuck Gaidica with Keith Collins at Grand Slam
Podcast

At the Agent Grand Slam Event

[Bonus Episode] Chuck Gaidica attends the Grand Slam Event in Traverse City and talks to agents about what they’re seeing in the health and wellness landscape.

Mark Wallace and Chuck Gaidica at the Mackinac Policy Conference
Podcast

Inside the Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 3

Wrapping his time at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Chuck Gaidica chats with attendees about health initiatives that are impacting the state of Michigan.

Brian Calley and Chuck Gaidica at the Mackinac Policy Conference
Podcast

Inside the Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 2

Chuck Gaidica is back for another bonus episode to talk to conference attendees about their health journeys at the Mackinac Policy Conference.

Mackinac Policy Conference - Dan and Amy Loepp with Chuck Gaidica
Podcast

Inside the Mackinac Policy Conference – Part 1

On this bonus episode, Chuck Gaidica talks to conference attendees about their health journeys as well as health initiatives that impact their community.

Dr. Kristyn Gregory and Chuck Gaidica
Podcast

Effects of Social Media on Teens

Social media has become a huge part of our lives. Find out how it's growing presence will impact the next generation.

Grace Derocha, Chuck Gaidica, Dr. Jann Caison-Sorey
Podcast

Identifying Behavioral Health Concerns in Children

Childhood can be an emotional rollercoaster. Here's how to identify behavioral health issues that may signify a more serious problem.

Cindy Bjorkquist, Chuck Gaidica and Elizabeth Lewis
Podcast

Well-Being for Moms

Motherhood can be a demanding experience. Here are some tips on how busy moms can improve and maintain their well-being.

Dr. Raymond Hobbs - A Healthier Michigan Podcast Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Podcast

Mental Health for Caregivers

Are you suffering from caregiver burnout? Learn how to juggle your growing responsibilities, while maintaining your own mental and physical health.

Financial Well-Being - Chuck Gaidica and Matt Wozny
Podcast

Ways to Improve Financial Well-Being

Take control of your finances with these simple money management tips.

How to Test for Common Food Allergies
Podcast

How to Test for Common Food Allergies

How do you know if you have a food allergy? Here are some life-changing tips to help you safely navigate your diet.

National Nutrition Month
Podcast

National Nutrition Month

Ready to clean up your diet? Discover why National Nutrition Month is the perfect time to embrace healthier habits.

Heart Healthy Fats
Podcast

Healthy Fats that are Good for the Heart

Are all fats created equal? Discover the pros and cons of the macronutrient and its effect on the body.

Aerobic vs Anaerobic
Podcast

Aerobic vs Anaerobic – What’s the Difference?

Do you know your max heart rate? Discover the origin on this magic number and how it can benefit your workout routine.

How to Create Your Own Workout Plan
Podcast

How to Create Your Own Workout Plan

Ready to break a sweat? Learn to how to make realistic, sustainable workouts that will deliver long-term results.

Kick off to a Healthy New Year
Podcast

Kick Off to a Healthy New Year

Eager to reach your health and fitness goals? Start the new year by gaining a fresh perspective on nutrition.

A Healthier Michigan Podcast
Podcast

New Episodes Starting January 10th

A Healthier Michigan Podcast is back with new episodes covering nutrition, fitness and much more!

Guided Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Podcast

Guided Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Stress can have a mental and physiological effect on the body. Learn how to regulate muscle tension, while lowering blood pressure with progressive muscle relaxation.

Guided Imagery Meditation
Podcast

Guided Imagery Meditation

If you can see it, you can believe it. Learn more about guided imagery and its impact on stress management.

Relaxation Techniques for Stress
Podcast

Relaxation Techniques for Stress

Inhale serenity and exhale anxiety. With a simple relaxation technique, you can stop stress in its tracks. All you need is 10 minutes and an open mind.

Difference between stress and anxiety
Podcast

Difference Between Stress and Anxiety

At some point, 50% of us will have a diagnosable mental health condition. We explore the difference between stress and anxiety, and self-screening options.

Benefits of Stress
Podcast

Benefits of Stress

Stress isn’t always bad. It’s there as a warning sign to help us react to our surroundings. Chuck and Dr. DiFranco discuss how we can benefit from our stress.

What is Stress?
Podcast

What is Stress?

Stress is a very normal reaction. It's there to help us out, which people may find strange. listen chuck gaidica and dr. difranco discuss what is stress.

Finding Balance in Life
Podcast

Finding Balance in Life

Stress is something we carry with us whether it's coming home or going to work. on this episode, we discuss how can find balance in life through resilience.

Podcast

Wellness Tips for the Workplace

Workplace well-being can positively impact productivity and reduce health care costs when implemented correctly. Listen to our wellness tips for the workplace.

Importance of Social Interaction
Podcast

Importance and Health Benefits of Social Interaction

Hanging with friends can equal more than just a good time. Discover the many health benefits of social interaction on A Healthier Michigan Podcast.

Health Benefits of Journaling
Podcast

Benefits of Journaling and The Positive Impact on Your Health

Rewiring our brain to be positive can help us clear our emotions of negativity. On this episode, we discuss gratitude and the health benefits of journaling.

What Does Physical Well-being Mean?
Podcast

What Does Physical Well-being Mean?

The key to physical well-being is physical activity, good nutrition and practicing mindfulness. Listen for more tips on how to achieve physical well-being.

Dimensions of Wellness and What is Well-being
Podcast

The Dimensions of Wellness, and What is Well-being?

Emotional, psychological and social well-being play important roles in our overall health. We explore the dimensions of wellness and explain well-being.

How to Set Goals and Achieve Them
Podcast

How to Set Goals and Achieve Them

Having a game plan when choosing a health goal can be beneficial in the long run. On this episode, Chuck and Grace discuss how to set goals and achieve them.

How to Start Meal Prepping
Podcast

How to Meal Prep for Beginners

Meal prepping can sound and feel overwhelming, but in the long run, it can save us time and money. Hear how to start meal prepping with Chuck and Grace.

The Importance of Gut Health
Podcast

The Importance of Gut Health

Chuck and Grace discuss why gut health is important for our overall health. A healthy gut can boost immunity, absorb nutrients and lead to better brain health.

Why diets don't work
Podcast

Why Diets Don’t Work

There are many different reasons why diets don't work. chuck and grace talk about why that is what we can do to get the most out of our health goals.

macronutrients vs micronutrients and the five food groups
Podcast

Macronutrients vs. Micronutrients and the Five Food Groups

This episode touches on macronutrients vs micronutrients and the five food groups, plus how they all work together.

Podcast

How to Have a Healthy Relationship with Food

On our first episode, we talk about how to have a healthy relationship with food. We assess our hunger level and understand how we can fuel our body with food.

A Healthier Michigan Podcast - Audio Mixer Board
Podcast

A Healthier Michigan Podcast is Coming This Summer!

A Healthier Michigan launches a brand new podcast with host Chuck Gaidica covering topics related to nutrition, wellbeing and stress reduction.

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
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