A Healthier Michigan Podcast

Welcome to the A Healthier Michigan Podcast. We hope to give you a tip or two to improve your health and stay healthier longer.

It’s that time of the year again: coughing, sneezing and watery eyes. Spring not only brings lovely gardens, but also allergies. For some, these can be seasonal. For others, it’s a year-round struggle. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Medical Director of Commercial Markets Dr. Michael Kobernick. Together, they discuss allergies, which ones are common, what they are and how they happen. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:What are allergies?How do allergies affect our bodies?How do people develop allergies?How can we relieve symptoms? 

Groceries can be expensive. To avoid breaking the bank, here are some tips on how to shop smarter and stay within budget.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

[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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Stress is a very normal reaction. It's there to help us out, which people may find strange. Listen to Chuck Gaidica and Dr. DiFranco discuss what is stress.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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