A Healthier Michigan Podcast

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Ann Marie Wakula, certified personal trainer and macro nutrition coach. Together, they discuss how we can navigate colder months to keep our bodies active when all one might feel like doing is sitting on the couch.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Setting small, realistic goals to maintain an active routine and healthy habitsFinding ways to incorporate movement throughout the day, even in small amountsTrying new winter activities and sports to stay motivatedPrioritizing sleep, nutrition, and self-care to support overall wellnessDeveloping a balanced plan and schedule to stay consistent with healthy behaviorsYou can learn more about Ann Marie at her website, or Instagram page.

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Health Care Analyst for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Josh McCullough. Together, they explore how to spot signs that work has become your identity.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore the importance of seeking balance, setting boundaries, and getting input from trusted support networks to prevent work from overshadowing other meaningful aspects of life.

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Susanna Rickman, Suicide Prevention Manager for Gryphon Place. Together, they discuss ways to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:How talking openly about mental health issues, without shame or stigma, can be an important step to break down barriers.How listening for potential warning signs and being willing to have difficult conversations can help connect people to support.How mental health professionals and community resources can help provide guidance and normalize discussions about mental health.

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Angela Seabright, Care Management Physician of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss our biological age, or the age your body functions, and what we can do to improve it.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:How biological age can be improved throughDietExerciseSleepStress management

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Sydney Lipsey, Manager of Behavioral Health Strategy and Planning for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss ways to overcome perfectionism.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Signs of perfectionismEffects of perfectionism on mental health and wellbeingWays to overcome perfectionism

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Nick Nerbonne, Media, Digital and Industry Relations Director for Travel Michigan. Together, they discuss Michigan destinations to check out this fall.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:What makes Michigan a great destination for fall travelMichigan fall destinations to add to your bucket listBest places for leaf-peeping and enjoying fall foliage

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Health Care Analyst for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Josh McCullough. Together, they discuss what it means to be in a funk and ways to get out of one.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:What it means to be in a funk and how it's different from clinical depressionCommon signs of being in a funkEffective ways to rest and recharge while in a funkHow engaging in creative activities might help one feel better

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Medical Director of Behavioral Health for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Dr. Kristyn Gregory. Together, they discuss how taking adult timeouts can be beneficial to our wellbeing.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:What are adult timeoutsHow these timeouts help reassesses priorities and manage energy efficientlyStrategies to employ during timeouts to promote relaxationPractical steps to incorporate adult timeouts into ones daily routine

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. David Baird, dermatologist. Together, they discuss skincare products to be mindful of and how to approach skincare this summer.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Why it's important to be cautious of certain skincare products in the summerSteps to take to protect your skin from sun sensitivity while using certain skincare productsHow to tell if a certain products causes sun sensitivityAlternatives you can use to reduce sun sensitivity

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Shanthi Appelö, registered dietitian for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they explore the benefits of summer fruits across the state of Michigan.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Fruit that is in season and the benefits of themTips for u-pick farmsStrategic ways to get your daily serving of fruitWays to make your fresh fruit last longer

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. William Beecroft, Medical Director of Behavioral Health for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network. Together, they discuss how being near a body of water can benefit our mental health.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Why water has a calming effect on the mindWhat mental health benefits are associated with spending time near waterHow individuals can incorporate regular exposure to water into their daily lives

In the upcoming episodes, we'll feature conversations from the Mackinac Policy Conference, which centers around the theme "Bridging the Future Together." This theme invites dialogue on inspiring collaboration across divides and addresses key issues for Michigan’s future, including business growth, education, infrastructure, innovation, and equity. We’re continuing our conversations with conference attendees and hope you enjoy these bonus episodes.On part 3 of this series, we’ll be focusing on value partnerships between BCBSM and provider partners.Guests:Tricia Keith - CEO-Elect of Blue Cross Blue Shield of MichiganKerry Ebersole Singh - EVP Chief Talent and Engagement Officer of Michigan Economic Development CorporationBrian Calley - President of the Small Business Association of MichiganMatt Pepper - President and CEO of Michigan HumaneDavid Merritt - Give Merit Board Chair; Kuhu Saha - Executive Director of Give Merit

In the upcoming episodes, we'll feature conversations from the Mackinac Policy Conference, which centers around the theme "Bridging the Future Together." This theme invites dialogue on inspiring collaboration across divides and addresses key issues for Michigan’s future, including business growth, education, infrastructure, innovation, and equity. We’re continuing our conversations with conference attendees and hope you enjoy these bonus episodes.On part 2 of this series, we’ll be focusing on value partnerships between BCBSM and provider partners.Guests:Greg Handel - Vice President of Education & Talent at the Detroit Regional ChamberMarlo Rencher - President, Detroit Means BusinessChristianne Malone - Chief Program Officer at Tech TownKaty Trudeau - President of Eastern Market

For the next few episodes, we’ll be bringing you conversations from the Mackinac Policy Conference. This year, the conference is focusing on “Bridging the Future Together”, which will invite dialogue among speakers and attendees on ways leaders will inspire radical collaboration across divides. With focus on the greatest issues and opportunities in Michigan, the concept of “Bridging the Future Together” will cover key themes critical to Michigan’s future including attracting businesses and jobs, improving education outcomes to ensure workforce readiness, strengthening infrastructure, and leading with innovation and equity. We thought it’d be a great opportunity to talk to attendees about how “Bridging the Future Together” will benefit the state of Michigan within their sectors. We hope you enjoy these bonus episodes.On part 1 of this series, we’ll be focusing on value partnerships between BCBSM and provider partners.Guests:Dan Loepp - President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Amy Loepp - Co-Founder, Impact100 Oakland CountyBob Riney - President & CEO of Henry Ford HealthRob Casalou - President & CEO of Trinity HealthDavid Miller - President of U-M HealthRuthanne Sudderth - Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Sydney Lipsey, Manager of Behavioral Health Strategy and Planning for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss ways manifestation may affect your wellbeing.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:How manifestation is viewed and definedDifferences between manifestation and positive thinkingHow to approach practicing manifestation

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Shanthi Appelö, registered dietitian for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss how certain food pairings can help increase nutrient absorption.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Why certain food pairings benefit our healthFood combinations that are better for nutrient absorptionMisconceptions about pairing foodsHow often you should be utilizing food pairings to help nutrient absorption

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Angela Moore, NASM Master Trainer & Fitness Nutrition Specialist. Together, they discuss better ways tackle your to-do list.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:How effective to-do lists can positively impact your wellbeingAspects of creating an effective to-do listTools to help streamline to-do listsStrategies to help prevent to-do lists from becoming overwhelmingFor more info on Angela Moore, visit Angela T. Moore (empoweredbyangela.com)

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Shanthi Appelö, registered dietitian for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss ways we can snack smarter on the go.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:What to consider when choosing snacksCommon mistakes when snacking and how to avoid themTips for navigating portion sizesEffective strategies for navigating smarter snacking habits

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Angela Seabright, Care Management Physician for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss whether or not sleep aids promote better sleep.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Common difficulties achieving restful sleepCommonly recommended sleep aids"Sleep cocktails" and if they're effectiveHow natural sleeps aids play within a broader approach to sleep

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Angela Seabright, Care Management Physician for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss the benefits of power naps.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:Optimal duration of power napsPrimary benefitsPotential long-term health benefitsPractical tips for taking a successful power nap