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Public Health Matters

Public Health Matters

By: Dakota Media Access
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 Public health is all around us — in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the choices we make every day. Public Health MATTERS dives into the real stories shaping our health and how communities support each other. Whether you’re health-savvy or just curious, join us for insights that connect us all. Because when we care for each other, our whole community gets stronger — and it all starts with us.Copyright Dakota Media Access Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • Public Health Matters Ep. 6 - Surviving the Holidays

    Public Health Matters Ep. 6 - Surviving the Holidays
    Dec 5 2025
    In this episode, we get real about something many people quietly struggle with during the holiday season: mental and behavioral health.
    Even when the holidays are wrapped in glitter, traditions, and high expectations, the reality is that this time of year can feel overwhelming and you're not alone. Our guest, Dr. Shauna Eberhardt, joins us to walk through why this season can be so challenging and how we can care for ourselves and each other.

    💜 Segment Highlights:
    ❤️ Behavioral Health Is Health – Understanding why mental well-being is just as essential as physical health, especially during a high-pressure season.
    ✨ Holiday Chaos vs. Holiday Connection – Why the season can lead to overthinking, overextending, and emotional burnout.
    🎄 Letting Go of “Perfect” Traditions – How shifting expectations and setting boundaries can bring back calm and meaning.
    💬 How Public Health Can Help – From connecting people to mental health resources to supporting those navigating alcohol or nicotine use, learn how public health plays a vital role in seasonal well-being.
    🧘 Small Steps for a Healthier Season – Simple, realistic ways to find steadiness, comfort, and connection when the holidays feel heavy.
    Whether you're juggling stress, navigating family dynamics, or just trying to stay grounded, this episode offers support and perspective to help you move through the season with more ease.
    Because it’s more than cheer and cookies. It's about finding the support that helps you feel healthier and more connected this holiday season.

    Public Health MATTERS.

    GUEST INFORMATION
    Dr. Shauna Eberhardt, is a licensed clinician in mental health and substance use disorder services in North Dakota. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and is currently the Clinical Director at the Behavioral Health Policy Division within ND Department of Health & Human Services.

    RESOURCES
    Website hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health
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    26 mins
  • Public Health Matters Ep. 5 - Forget Me Not: Brain Health 101

    Public Health Matters Ep. 5 - Forget Me Not: Brain Health 101
    Nov 7 2025
    In this episode, we dive into one of the most important and often misunderstood topics in public health: brain health. Our guest, Melanie, joins us to explore what brain health looks like across a lifetime, how communities in North Dakota are supporting those living with dementia, and what we can all do to protect our minds as we age.

    💜 Segment Highlights:
    🧠 Dementia Care Services in North Dakota – Discover a free, statewide program that helps families navigate memory loss with compassion and support.
    🥦 The “Brain Health Recipe” from the US POINTER Study – Learn the lifestyle ingredients proven to reduce dementia risk at any age.
    🔍 The Power of Early Diagnosis – Why knowing sooner can open doors to treatment, research, and hope.
    🤝 Public Health Is a Team Sport – See how communities, caregivers, and local partners can make brain health everyone’s business. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, curious about prevention, or simply want to better understand brain health, this episode reminds us that it’s never too early — or too late — to start caring for your brain. Public Health MATTERS.

    GUEST INFORMATION Melanie Gaebe, is the North Dakota Public Policy Director for the Alzheimer’s Association. She earned a Master of Arts in Political Science from American Military University while working as the policy analyst for the ND Department of Agriculture. Melanie is a member of a number of public health organizations and serves on multiple boards. In her spare time, Melanie spends her time reading, knitting, and camping when the weather allows. RESOURCES 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/alzmnnd
    🐦 Twitter/X: x.com/alzmnnd
    📸 Instagram: instagram.com/alzmnnd
    💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/alzheimer’s-association-minnesota-north-dakota
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    59 mins
  • Public Health Matters Ep. 4 - Talk Like Their Future Depends on It

    Public Health Matters Ep. 4 - Talk Like Their Future Depends on It
    Oct 3 2025
    Today on Public Health Matters, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools adults have to help keep kids safe…conversations. Not just one big “talk,” but ongoing, everyday check-ins that build trust and help guide kids through life’s challenges. Whether it’s navigating friendships, making healthy choices, or facing peer pressure, these small but meaningful chats can have a big impact. They promote confidence, safety, and strong decision-making skills. They matter more than you might think. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle, teacher, or simply someone who cares about the wellbeing of kids in your community, your connection makes a difference. Join us as we explore how staying connected can support children’s behavioral health and help them thrive. Public Health MATTERS.

    GUEST INFORMATION
    Laura Anderson, MPH, is the Behavioral Health Division Policy Director with North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. She received her Master's in Public Health at the University of Iowa and has fifteen years of experience in substance use prevention and behavioral health program and policy administration.

    RESOURCES
    📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/parentslead
    📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/parents_lead/ • parentslead.org
    Interactive activities: parentslead.org/activities/interactive
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    46 mins
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