Dive into dynamic discussions on preventing and battling burnout, enhancing your mental health, boosting your energy, fueling your body with healthy eating, and building robust wellness cultures. Join us for these informative micro-learning modules and an impactful journey towards a healthier, happier ‘U’ – because it’s all about thriving, not just surviving!
Episode 20
Mental Health Month
In this powerful episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Harry Warner, Associate Director of Student Life Counseling and Consultation Services and Director of Outreach at The Ohio State University, to unpack today’s most urgent mental health challenges — and what we can actually do about them.
What you’ll hear:
- Why anxiety is skyrocketing — and what the data tells us
- The truth about toxic behaviors like avoidance and isolation
- How our workplaces and identities shape mental health
- The surprising comeback of in-person therapy
- Actionable strategies to build emotional resilience and connection
Whether you’re navigating stress, burnout, or just want real tools to support your well-being, this conversation will give you both insight and inspiration.
24 minutes
Previous episodes
Episode 19
Spring Into Action: Boosting Your Physical Activity
In our latest episode, we explore approachable and sustainable ways to incorporate physical activity into daily life, even during the busiest seasons. Learn how simple activities — from outdoor walks to recreational sports — can have a profound impact on physical health, mental resilience, and emotional wellbeing.
We also discuss the science behind why short bouts of exercise are highly effective, how to make movement a social and enjoyable experience, and why prioritizing fitness is one of the most important investments you can make in yourself.
22 minutes
Episode 18
Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Active Individuals
Looking to power up your workouts and optimize your well-being? In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Dena Champion, Lead Dietitian at the James Comprehensive Cancer Center, to break down the essentials of nutrition for active individuals.
26 minutes
Episode 17
Heart Health
February is American Heart Month, and there’s no better time to take charge of your heart health! In this powerful episode, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Dr. Laxmi Mehta, a leading cardiologist from Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, to discuss the realities of heart disease, who’s at risk, warning signs to watch for, and the latest advancements in treatment and prevention.
22 minutes
Episode 16
The Multiple Benefits of Pet Ownership
In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Vice President and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University, and Dr. Rustin Moore, an esteemed veterinarian and Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine explore the Multiple Benefits of Pet Ownership. Discover the profound impact pets have on physical health, emotional well-being, and even behavior change, backed by cutting-edge research. Whether you’re a pet enthusiast or considering welcoming one into your life, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice.
Tune in to unlock science-driven approaches for a healthier, happier you.
12 minutes
Episode 15
Family Caregiving for a Loved One with Dementia
Are you or a loved one navigating the complexities of caregiving for someone with dementia? In this compelling episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk sits down with Dr. Mary Beth Happ, a distinguished professor and Co-Director of the Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving at The Ohio State University. Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or just beginning your journey, this episode provides evidence-based strategies and practical tips to enhance your well-being and support your loved ones effectively. Empower yourself with the knowledge and resources you need to thrive in your caregiving role.
What You’ll Learn:
- Recognize Early Signs of Dementia: Understand the crucial differences between normal aging and early dementia symptoms to ensure timely support and intervention.
- Overcome Daily Caregiving Challenges: Gain insights into managing supervision, enhancing communication, and handling behavioral changes as dementia progresses.
- Access Valuable Resources: Discover the comprehensive support offered by the Golden Buckeye Center, including cognitive screening tools, respite care, and adult day programs designed to alleviate caregiver stress.
- Embrace Future Innovations: Stay informed about the latest advancements in dementia care, from new medications and assistive technologies to dementia-friendly community initiatives and workplace support models.
22 minutes
Episode 14
Working Parent Burnout and Solutions to Help
Struggling to keep it all together as a working parent? In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and Dr. Kate Gawlik dive into the realities of working parent burnout. From navigating the chaos of pandemic parenting to discovering the hidden impact on children’s behaviors, this discussion brings to light the toll burnout can take on families. They also introduce their evidence-backed Working Parent Burnout Scale, designed to help parents identify symptoms and take action. Tune in for practical strategies to reclaim balance, foster self-care, and create a healthier environment for both you and your kids. Listen now to start breaking the burnout cycle!
Resources
- Working Parent Burnout (Website with Resources)
- Working Parent Burnout (Full Report)
- Working Parent Burnout Scale
18 minutes
Episode 13
Kindness as a Key Strategy to Enhance Happiness
Boost your happiness and well-being with simple, evidence-based strategies! In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Chief Wellness Officer at Ohio State, explores the power of gratitude and kindness with Tracy Stuck, Director of Community Partnerships. Discover how daily acts of kindness can reduce stress, enhance mood, and strengthen your social connections. Plus, learn how to build a culture of kindness in your workplace or community. Ready to spread happiness and create a ripple effect? Listen now and take the first step toward a better you!
13 minutes
Episode 12
Preventing and Managing Depression
Boost your mood and well-being with actionable insights from Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and mental health expert Jodie Liester in our latest podcast episode. Discover how to recognize the signs of depression, the simple self-care practices that make a big difference, and the powerful role of exercise in preventing mood disorders. Whether you’re seeking effective treatments or looking to enhance your mental resilience, this episode offers evidence-based tips to help you lead a healthier, happier you.
17 minutes
Episode 11
Incorporating Mindfulness and Movement into the Classroom
Unlock the secrets to enhanced student well-being and academic success with Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Vice President for Health Promotion and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University. In this episode, Dr. Melnyk invites guest Amber Essman, DNP, APRN-CNP, CLC, assistant professor of clinical nursing, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, to share practical tips and real-world examples of integrating wellness into education.
Highlights Include:
- Mindfulness in the Classroom: Learn how simple yoga practices and breathing exercises can transform student focus and reduce stress.
- Tackling Mental Health: Understand the critical need to address anxiety and depression in students and how wellness practices can make a difference.
- Building a Wellness Culture: Discover how fostering a supportive environment can create a sense of community and improve academic performance.
- Collaborative Wellness Strategies: Explore innovative ways faculty and students can work together to promote a culture of health and well-being.
16 minutes
Episode 10
Leading Well
Join us for a special episode of the Health and Wellness Briefs podcast, where host Dr. Megan Amaya interviews podcast creator Dr. Bernadette Melnyk. Dr. Melnyk shares her profound insights on the importance of leading well, both in professional and personal contexts. Learn about the ripple effect of effective leadership, the importance of aligning with people’s dreams, and how nurturing and supporting others can lead to significant personal and organizational success. With heartwarming stories and practical examples, Dr. Melnyk provides invaluable advice on mentoring, transparency, and the necessity of self-care for leaders. Tune in to discover how small, incremental changes can lead to big impacts on health and well-being.
18 minutes
Episode 9
Evidence-Based Health Care: What You Need to Know
In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and Dr. Jackie Hoying, Assistant Professor of Clinical Practice, and Director of Consumer Core Helene Fuld Health Trust National Institute for Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare, unpacks the core principles of evidence-based practice and its crucial role in enhancing clinical decision-making and patient care. Join Dr. Melnyk and Dr. Hoying for an enlightening conversation on how evidence-based healthcare can lead to better outcomes, improved patient safety, and enhanced clinical practices. Tune in to “Health and Wellness Briefs” for more evidence-based tips for a healthier, happier you
18 minutes
Episode 8
Making and Breaking Healthy Lifestyle Habits
In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and Dr. Megan Amaya, Director of Health Promotion, delve into the nuances of making or breaking healthy lifestyle habits. They emphasize the significance of setting realistic goals rooted in personal motivations and offer practical advice for overcoming challenges along the journey. By leveraging social support, monitoring progress, and celebrating successes, listeners are equipped with effective strategies to sustain long-term behavior change for improved well-being.
To learn more, visit:
13 minutes
Episode 7
Building Movement into Your Life
In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and guest Josh Winn, Wellness Program Manager and Certified Exercise Physiologist, discuss the importance of incorporating movement into daily routines. They highlight the detrimental effects of prolonged sitting and offer practical strategies for adding physical activity throughout the day, such as standing desks, shorter meetings, and strategic parking. Furthermore, they explore the benefits of movement beyond physical health, including improved mental well-being and cognitive function.
To learn more about movement, visit:
- Be More Active During Your Work Day
- Physical Activity Breaks for the Workplace, Resource Guide
- 8 Ways to Add More Movement Throughout Your Day
16 minutes
Episode 6
Celebrating Nurses During Nurses Week!
In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, celebrate and thank all nurses for everything they do! She highlights the positive effects of different wellness practice on nurses well being, to make sure they take care of themselves, as the consistenly ensure the care of others. Thank you nurses, for all you do!
13 minutes
Episode 5
Busting Alcohol-Related Myths
In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and guest Jodie Leister, Associate Director, Employee Assistant Program, discuss the myths associated with alcohol. They highlight the detrimental effects of alcohol misuse and offer strategies and resources to utilize if you or someone you know has an alcohol problem.
To learn more, visit:
- Alcohol’s Effects on the Body
- 10 Myths About Drinking Alcohol You Should Stop Repeating
- Alcoholics Anonymous
13 minutes
Episode 4
Tips for Boosting & Sustaining Daily Energy Levels
In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and guest Dr. Brenda Buffington, a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) and a Certified Exercise Physiologist, delve into strategies for boosting and sustaining daily energy levels. They emphasize evidence-based methods such as prioritizing sleep, staying hydrated with the right fluids, and fueling the body with nutrient-rich foods. Additionally, they discuss the importance of regular movement and exercise in revitalizing both the body and mind. Practical mindfulness practices are also shared to manage stress levels and enhance overall vitality.
To learn more about energy levels, visit:
18 minutes
Episode 3
Fueling Your Body with Health Eating
In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and guest Jenny Shrodes, registered dietitian, discuss strategies for healthy eating, emphasizing nutrient-dense foods and portion control. They address misconceptions about the cost and taste of healthy eating, advocating for balance and occasional treats. Practical tips for meal planning, mindful eating, and staying hydrated are shared to promote overall well-being.
For more information on healthy eating, visit:
- Nutrition Information and Find A Local Dietitian
- Sign Up For Diabetes-Friendly Cooking Demo
- OSUWMC Information and Dietitians
18 minutes
Episode 2
Preventing and Battling Burnout: Tactics That Work
In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk discusses preventing and managing burnout, highlighting key concepts and prevalence, particularly exacerbated during the pandemic. She encourages listeners to assess their own burnout levels, offering guidance based on their responses. Dr. Melnyk emphasizes the importance of self-care, setting emotional boundaries, and adopting positive coping strategies to maintain mental resilience and well-being.
To learn more about burnout, visit:
13 minutes
Episode 1
Building Wellness Cultures in Academic and Healthcare Institutions
In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk hosts Dr. Megan Amaya to dissect the core elements of a thriving wellness culture. Together, they unpack the crucial “ingredients” essential for building and preserving a robust environment of well-being. They also explore the framework of the Buckeye Wellness Innovator Program, shedding light on its successful strategies driving wellness initiatives on campus.
To learn more about cultures, visit:
To learn more about healthy habits, visit: