It’s a Matter of Your Health with Dr. Veita Bland

Few conversations express love more powerfully than planning for our final needs. On It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland welcomes Mrs. Shanna Jackson Sheats, licensed funeral director and operations manager at Jackson-McWhorter Funeral Home, for an enlightening discussion about preparing families for life’s most difficult moment. Mrs. Jackson-Sheets explains how documenting funeral preferences, medical directives, legal decisions, financial arrangements, and cultural traditions can reduce emotional stress, prevent family conflict, and protect savings. She also clarifies the differences between pre-planning, pre-paying, and final-expense insurance. Planning is not surrendering hope; it is an act of love, wisdom, and responsibility. Begin today: start the conversation, record your wishes, appoint someone you trust, and ensure your important documents are easy to find. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

What health questions have you been wanting to ask? In this mailbag edition of It’s a Matter of Your Health, producer Marben Bland joins host Dr. Veita Bland to answer listeners’ questions from across the country. Learn about possible chemical exposure from synthetic and human hair used in protective styles, why treating hearing loss may help protect cognitive health, and how to maintain an exercise routine when life gets busy. Dr. Bland also shares ways to reduce microplastic exposure and explains why patients should take notes, ask questions, and become active partners in their healthcare. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

What if your next vacation could improve your health?Join Dr. Veita Bland on this edition of It's a Matter of Your Health as she welcomes Fiore Montgomery, owner of Just Get Up and Go Travel, for an inspiring conversation about the growing connection between travel and wellness.Discover how intentional travel can reduce stress, improve mental well-being, strengthen relationships, and create lifelong memories. Learn why immersive cultural experiences, intimate small-ship cruises, and thoughtful travel planning are becoming the preferred way to explore the world. You'll also hear practical advice on traveling with chronic health conditions, the importance of travel insurance, using technology to make travel safer, and how supporting local communities can make every journey more meaningful.Whether you're planning your first international adventure or your next unforgettable getaway, Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Did you know better health may begin right outside your door? Join Dr. Veita Bland, MD, host of It's a Matter of Your Health, as she welcomes Corey McNair, founder of Yah Rootz, for an inspiring conversation about sustainable gardening, fresh food, and healthier living. Discover how anyone—even with a balcony or small patio—can grow nutritious food, save money, reduce stress, and strengthen their community. Learn practical gardening tips, the surprising health benefits of fresh produce, and why every seed planted is an investment in your family's future. Tune in and discover how growing your own food can help you cultivate a healthier life—one plant at a time! Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

How can parents help children return to school confident, curious, and ready to succeed? In this episode of It's A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, welcomes Dr. Melanie James, Principal of Bettye Henderson Holston Elementary School in Athens, Georgia. Together, they discuss practical, affordable ways families can prevent summer learning loss through reading, conversation, positive experiences, healthy routines, and balanced technology use. They also explore the role of artificial intelligence in education, the importance of sleep and schedules, and simple strategies every parent can use to foster a lifelong love of learning. This informative conversation offers practical advice to help children thrive throughout the school year. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Could your family history help protect your future? Join host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, as she welcomes Zoe Lindsey Mills, CGC, a board-certified genetic counselor, for an eye-opening conversation about hereditary cancer and genetic testing. Learn who should consider genetic counseling, the warning signs in family medical history, how genetic testing can guide prevention and treatment, insurance coverage, legal protections against genetic discrimination, and why sharing results with loved ones can save lives. Whether you're concerned about breast, ovarian, pancreatic, colorectal, or other hereditary cancers, this informative episode empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and your family's future. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Guest Host: Marben Bland (sitting in for Dr. Veita Bland) Guest: Dr. Joanne Spence, Certified Yoga Therapist, Author, Educator, and Former Clinical Social WorkerEpisode DescriptionWhat if one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, improve sleep, ease chronic pain, and calm your nervous system begins with something you're already doing—breathing?In this episode of It's a Matter of Your Health, guest host Marben Bland sits in for Dr. Veita Bland to explore the life-changing benefits of yoga with Dr. Joanne Spence, an internationally respected certified yoga therapist and educator.Dr. Spence explains why yoga is truly "for every body"—regardless of age, fitness level, mobility, or previous experience. She dispels common myths that yoga is only for flexible people or those who can perform difficult poses and demonstrates how gentle movement, mindful breathing, and self-awareness can improve physical and emotional well-being.Listeners will learn:Why breathing is one of the most powerful tools for regulating the nervous system.How yoga can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and poor sleep.The difference between commercial fitness yoga and therapeutic yoga.Why chair yoga makes the practice accessible to older adults and people with limited mobility.How trauma-informed yoga helps people heal while respecting individual experiences.A simple one-minute daily practice anyone can begin today.A guided breathing exercise designed to activate the body's natural "rest and digest" response.Dr. Spence also shares her own remarkable story of recovering from chronic pain following a serious automobile accident and explains how yoga transformed both her health and her life's work.Whether you're completely new to yoga or looking for a gentle way to improve your overall health, this conversation offers practical, evidence-informed advice that you can begin using immediately.About Our GuestDr. Joanne Spence is a certified yoga therapist, author, educator, and former clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience. She served as the first yoga therapist at Western Psychiatric Hospital in Pittsburgh and has taught yoga in hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, community centers, and wellness programs. She is the author of Transform Yoga: A Toolkit for Therapists and co-author of Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Responsive Yoga Teaching.Connect with Dr. Joanne Spencewww.joannespence.com https://substack.com/@joannespence Learn MoreVisit www.drblandradio.com for additional episodes, health resources, and blogs from It's a Matter of Your Health.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Grief rarely follows a schedule. In this thoughtful edition of It's A Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland, M.D., welcomes Rev. Dr. Teresa Fry Brown, a professor at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, for a candid conversation about loss, healing, and resilience. Drawing on professional expertise and personal experience, Dr. Fry Brown explains why grief is not linear and why there is no “right” way to mourn. Together, they discuss the loss of spouses, parents, and loved ones, the value of grief counseling, and how milestone events—birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and family celebrations—can unexpectedly renew feelings of loss. A compassionate and encouraging conversation for anyone navigating grief.  Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

As hurricane season begins, preparation can make all the difference. In this important episode of It's a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, welcomes Scott Muthersbaug, Public Information Officer for Guilford County Emergency Services, to discuss how families can prepare for hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other emergencies.Learn what should be included in an emergency kit, how to protect important documents, prepare pets and elderly loved ones, create a family emergency plan, and identify trustworthy sources of information during a crisis. Scott shares practical, life-saving advice that every household can use before disaster strikes.Don't wait until the storm is at your doorstep. Listen now and learn how to protect your family and community.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this edition of It's a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, welcomes Zoe Lindsay Mills, Board-Certified Genetic Counselor with Cone Health's Hereditary Cancer Program, for a fascinating conversation about genetic testing and hereditary cancer risk. Together, they explore who should consider genetic testing, how family history can reveal hidden health risks, and the role genetic counselors play in helping patients make informed decisions. Highlights include discussions about BRCA genes, cancer prevention strategies, genetic privacy protections, insurance concerns, and the differences between clinical and direct-to-consumer testing. This informative episode empowers listeners to better understand their family health history and the growing role of personalized medicine in improving health outcomes. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

What should you do before your first doctor's visit in 10 years? Can a continuous glucose monitor help prevent diabetes? How do friendships affect longevity? Which fruits and vegetables have the highest pesticide levels? In this engaging Mailbag Edition of It's A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, joined by producer Marben Bland, answers listeners' questions with practical, easy-to-understand medical advice. Learn why preventive care matters, how lifestyle choices impact your health, ways to stay connected as you age, and which foods make the Environmental Working Group's "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists. Don't miss this informative episode packed with tips to help you live a healthier, longer life!Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

How often do we take our eyesight for granted? On this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland welcomes renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Roy Whitaker Jr. for an eye-opening conversation about glaucoma, aging eyes, and protecting your vision for life.Dr. Whitaker explains why glaucoma is called the “silent thief of sight,” the warning signs people should never ignore, and why African Americans face higher risks of blindness from the disease. The discussion also covers eye exams for children and adults, cataracts, dry eyes, diabetes, hypertension, nutrition, sunglasses, and the latest treatments helping preserve sight today.This informative episode is a reminder that protecting your vision starts with prevention, awareness, and regular eye care.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

This week on It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland welcomes Mrs. Shiron  Saunders, Co-Director of Education for Dudley Products, for an eye-opening conversation about healthy hair care, protective styles, alopecia, relaxers, wigs, and natural hair maintenance. From braids and lace fronts to scalp health and professional hair care, Mrs. Saunders shares practical tips to help listeners avoid damage and protect their hair for the long term. The discussion also explores the importance of self-love, proper hair care education, and knowing when to seek professional help. Whether you wear your hair natural, relaxed, braided, or styled, this empowering episode reminds us that healthy hair starts with healthy habits and informed choices. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this edition of It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland welcomed etiquette expert Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute and co-host of the Awesome Etiquette Podcast, for a timely conversation on graduation etiquette, weddings, Zoom manners, and the growing role of AI in everyday life.Listeners learned how to handle graduation invitations and gifts gracefully, navigate family tensions during milestone celebrations, plan meaningful weddings without unnecessary pressure, and practice professionalism during virtual meetings. Lizzie also shared important insights about using AI responsibly while keeping the human touch in communication.This engaging conversation reminds us that good etiquette is more than rules—it’s about respect, relationships, and thoughtful communication in every season of life.Listen to It’s a Matter of Your Health for more conversations that inform, inspire, and empowerFind more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

This week’s episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health delivers timely, practical, and life-saving insight into a topic affecting millions - allergies. Featuring expert voices like Dr. Joel Gallagher and Nurse Practitioner Ann Ames, this conversation goes far beyond sneezing and tissues.From understanding the difference between allergies and infections to uncovering how environmental factors like climate change, pollution, and even antibiotics impact our immune systems, this episode is packed with real-world knowledge you can use immediately. One powerful moment highlighted how misdiagnosis of symptoms could delay the detection of serious conditions—reminding us why professional care matters.Listeners will also appreciate practical tips on: ✔️ Managing pollen exposure ✔️ Choosing the right medications ✔️ Avoiding common treatment mistakes ✔️ Navigating rising healthcare costs with smart solutionsWhat stands out most is the show’s ability to connect science to everyday life, especially in addressing how socioeconomic conditions affect health outcomes in our communities.If you’ve ever wondered why your allergies seem worse—or what to do about it—this episode is a must-listen.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland is joined by Dr. Patricia Whitfield to explore the critical connection between aging and mental health. From isolation, grief, and caregiving stress to ageism and cognitive challenges, older adults face unique but often overlooked struggles. The conversation highlights how mental and physical health are deeply connected—and why staying active, maintaining relationships, and seeking support are essential to aging well. Listeners are encouraged to stay engaged, build community, and not face life’s transitions alone.This episode reminds us: healthy aging isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living well, staying connected, and caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Spring into better health with this powerful Mailbag episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health featuring Dr. Veita Bland! From quality sleep and clean eating to stress management, physical activity, and meaningful relationships, this episode is packed with practical, life-changing health tips. Learn why “muscle is the currency of aging,” how proper nutrition fuels your body, and why medication adherence matters. Plus, get expert insights into trending GLP-1 weight-loss treatments, supplements, and seasonal allergies.If you’re ready to take control of your health, boost energy, and live longer—this episode is a must-listen!Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Nearly 63 million Americans are caregivers—and many are overwhelmed, exhausted, and unseen. On this powerful episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland, MD sits down with Alexis Williams, Executive Director of Caregiver Connect, to unpack the realities of caregiving in 2026. From burnout and financial strain to practical solutions, resources, and emotional support, this conversation delivers life-changing insight for families navigating care for loved ones. If you’re caring for someone—or love someone who is—this episode is for you. Stay informed, stay encouraged, and remember: your health matters too. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this powerful episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland (hypertension specialist, family medicine) welcomes guest Dr. Jyothi Mann, gastroenterologist, to discuss colon cancer awareness, prevention, and life-saving screenings. Learn why early detection, colonoscopy, and lifestyle choices are critical as colon cancer rises in younger adults. Discover key insights on screening guidelines (starting at 45), gut health, probiotics, diet, and risk factors like family history and inflammation. Dr. Mann emphasizes that colon cancer is preventable and urges everyone to take action through regular screenings and healthy living. This episode delivers practical, evidence-based health strategies to protect your life and improve overall wellness.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

During It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD welcomes Dr. Kardie Tobb, D.O., a leading expert in women’s heart health, to address the urgent crisis of Black maternal health. They discuss how Black women face significantly higher risks of maternal mortality regardless of income or education due to systemic inequities, chronic stress, and healthcare bias. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy, culturally competent care, and proactive management of conditions like hypertension and diabetes. This powerful episode calls listeners to be informed, vigilant, and engaged in improving outcomes for women and families everywhere. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this powerful Women’s History Month edition of It’s A Matter Of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland interviews Dr. Benita Varnado, founder of WE Holistic Wellcare Center and a board-certified OB/GYN, to discuss women’s health through every stage of life. From puberty to reproductive years, menopause, and beyond, this insightful conversation explains what every woman should understand about her changing body. Dr. Vernado provides practical advice on sexual health, fertility planning, menopause management, and holistic wellness. This episode empowers women with knowledge, encourages proactive care, and reminds us that each woman’s health journey is unique. Don’t miss this informative and impactful discussion designed to help women succeed at every stage.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this powerful episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland sits down with consumer expert and real estate professional Carmen Palmer to explore how rising costs are impacting our health and daily lives From grocery shopping and housing to transportation, medical care, travel, and education, this conversation connects the dots between the Consumer Price Index and your well-being.You’ll gain practical, real-world strategies to stretch your dollars without sacrificing your health—meal planning tips, housing insights, insurance reviews, smart travel hacks, and more. If inflation is affecting your budget, this episode offers clarity, wisdom, and actionable solutions.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this powerful episode of It’s A Matter Of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with Rev. Dr. Matthew L. Brown to confront a conversation many avoid—the growing crisis among boys and men. Drawing on the research of Richard V. Reeves, Anne Case, and Angus Deaton, the discussion explores widening education gaps, declining wages for working-class men, rising father absence, and the alarming reality that nearly 75–80% of suicides are male.Rev. Dr. Brown challenges the narrative that men are simply “angry,” suggesting instead that many are confused, disconnected, and searching for purpose. The conversation highlights how isolation, generational trauma, economic shifts, and stigma around mental health are fueling despair—particularly among Black men. But this episode is not about blame. It’s about solutions.From mentorship and educational reform to faith communities creating safe spaces for vulnerability, this episode calls for restoring meaning, accountability, empathy, and purpose. Because strength is not the absence of vulnerability—it’s the ability to handle it well.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this empowering episode of It's a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland delivers a timely “house call” reminding listeners to slow down and be intentional about caring for their bodies. She offers practical, affordable guidance on nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and preventive care—emphasizing that small, consistent choices can significantly improve long-term health. From preparing healthier meals at home and incorporating short “exercise snacks” into busy days, to prioritizing quality sleep and mindfulness, Dr. Bland breaks wellness into manageable steps. She also highlights the importance of oral health, smoking cessation, vaccinations, blood pressure control, and regular screenings. The message is clear and compassionate: taking time to care for yourself is not a luxury; it’s essential to living longer and living well. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland, M.D. sheds light on multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic neurological disease affecting nearly one million Americans. Joined by Dr. Dewan L. Lee, PhD, a higher education leader and ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the conversation combines medical insight with personal experience. Dr. Lee shares her MS journey, explaining symptoms, diagnosis challenges, treatment options, and the health disparities Black women face. This powerful discussion reminds listeners that MS is not a death sentence but a call for awareness, early diagnosis, advocacy, and strong support systems. Informative, honest, and deeply human, this episode encourages listeners to pay attention to their bodies and prioritize their health.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

This week’s Mailbag Show tackles real questions from listeners across the country with practical, science-based guidance. Dr. Vida Bland addresses winter dry skin and shares simple steps to protect and restore skin health, from gentle cleansers to smart moisturizing habits. The show also explores why vaccines matter—especially as we age—and how immunizations protect not just individuals, but entire communities. For younger listeners, the conversation turns to fitness and nutrition, emphasizing that you can’t out-exercise a poor diet. Finally, Dr. Bland breaks down what “eating clean” really means and offers clear advice on vitamins, minerals, and supplements to support long-term health. Informative, accessible, and empowering—this episode reminds us that caring for our bodies is a daily, intentional practice.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this episode, Dr. Veita Bland is joined by Dr. Cynthia Snyder, infectious disease expert and Director of Infection Prevention at Moses Cone Hospital, to break down what’s happening with this intense flu season, vaccine updates, and how families can stay protected. From flu A (H3N2) to COVID, RSV, and childhood vaccines, this episode delivers trusted medical insight you need right now.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland is joined by fitness expert Coach Hilton Ferguson of Full-Time Fitness to start 2026 on the right foot. They discuss why big goals need daily vision, how nutrition is more important than workouts alone, and how small, consistent habits—like movement, hydration, sleep, and accountability—lead to lasting health changes. From realistic weight-loss strategies to fitness at any age or ability, this conversation reminds us that your future self is shaped by what you do today. Let’s make 2026 a year of intention, discipline, and better health, one day at a time. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with pediatric dentist Dr. Connie Epps for a powerful conversation on why oral health is more than just a smile—it's a window into your overall wellness.✨ Highlights from the ShowPoor oral hygiene is linked to at least 15 diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s.The mouth is the gateway to the body—bacteria in your mouth can travel into the bloodstream and affect major organs.Brushing correctly matters: Dr. Epps explains how simple daily habits can prevent long-term health problems for both children and adults.Don’t miss this informative and eye-opening conversation. Your mouth may be small—but it has a big impact on your health.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this powerful episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with Dr. Nanette Funderburk of the SEL Group to unpack the troubling rise in suicides among young people.They discuss: • The intense pressures young people face in today’s hyperconnected world • How “protecting” kids from failure has weakened emotional resilience • Why brain development plays a major role in risky decisions • What warning signs adults must not ignore • Practical, compassionate steps anyone can take to support struggling youthThis conversation is honest, eye-opening, and full of hope — a must-listen for parents, educators, caregivers, and communities who want to keep our kids safe.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

This week on It’s a Matter of Your Health, Producer Marben Bland stepped in to guest-host alongside Dr. Veita Bland for one of our most popular segments — the Mailbag Show!Listeners from across the country wrote in with smart, real-life questions about blood pressure, diet, inflammation, and the power of sleep. Dr. Bland broke it all down with clarity, compassion, and practical steps you can start using today.Here are a few highlights from this episode:💙 Blood Pressure: New guidelines show we should aim for below 120/80 to protect both heart and brain health. 🥗 Diet & Inflammation: “You are what you eat” isn’t just a saying — it’s science. Dr. Bland shared the top inflammatory foods to avoid and healthy options to replace them. 😴 Sleep: It's not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Good sleep heals the body, strengthens memory, and even improves longevity.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

As the temperature drops, our pets feel the chill too! In this insightful episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland welcomes veterinarian Dr. Alexandria Farris of Southeast Community Animal Hospital in Greensboro, NC, for a heartwarming discussion on how to keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy through the winter months.Dr. Farris shares expert advice on: 🐕 Keeping indoor and outdoor pets warm with heated beds and cozy spaces 🐈 Recognizing signs of hypothermia and arthritis in senior animals 🥣 Adjusting diet and exercise to prevent holiday weight gain 💉 Maintaining vaccines and heartworm prevention during cold weather 🎵 Reducing stress with music, comfort, and mindful guest interactions during the holidaysWhether you’re a seasoned pet owner or new “fur parent,” this episode offers practical, compassionate guidance to help your four-legged family thrive all season long.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing — or costly! In this week’s episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with Jeannie Skepsie from the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIP) to break down how to make wise, affordable Medicare choices.With open enrollment running from October 15 to December 7, now is the perfect time to review your plan, compare options, and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your money. SHIP counselors provide free, confidential, and unbiased help to guide you through the process.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than pink ribbons—it's about action and education. In this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with radiologist Dr. Ashley Hawkins to break down everything you need to know about mammograms—from when to start, what dense breast tissue means, to how AI is changing early detection. Whether you're 40, 65, or 85—this is a must-listen conversation that could save lives. Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, a hypertension specialist and family medicine doctor, welcomes guests Linda G. Butler, Dr. Sheila Brown, and Suzelle Wyville-Jones, co-authors of AI-Powered Business Transformation: From Strategy to Scalable Execution in Weeks.In this episode, they explore:·       What AI really is—and why it's more common than you think· Every day, examples of AI are already working through your phone, GPS, voice assistants, and wearables·       The top myths about AI, from job fears to Hollywood-style robot takeovers·       Real-life health applications: symptom tracking, medical scribes, medication reminders, and more·       Simple first steps to start using AI wisely and confidently·       Why underserved communities must claim a seat at the AI table to ensure equity and accessFind more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Did you know that dogs in the U.S. produce over 10 million tons of waste every year? 🐶💩 How we handle this daily reality affects more than just our lawns — it impacts our public health, environment, and neighborhood pride.On this episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland speaks with James Wimberly, owner of Duty Calls, about why picking up after our pets is not just courteous — it’s essential for protecting our communities. 🌿🏡🎧 Listen now and get the real scoop:  Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this week’s episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD, talks with Dr. Cynthia B. Snyder, Medical Director of Infection Prevention at Cone Health. Together, they break down what you need to know heading into flu, COVID, and RSV season.💡 Key Points:·       Why the flu vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone over 6 months.·       Timing matters—why October is the best time to get vaccinated.·       High-dose vaccines for adults 65+ and why they matter.·       The latest on COVID boosters, RSV vaccines, and prevention tips.·       Growing Lyme disease concerns in North Carolina and how to stay safe outdoors.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this week’s episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland, MD is joined by Danielle Bumarch, RN, JD, President & CEO of HonorBridge, and Sherman Transou, leadership coach and heart transplant survivor. Together, they explore the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation—especially in minority communities where the need is greatest.💡 Highlights of the episode:Why over 103,000 Americans are waiting for transplants—and why minorities are disproportionately affected.The role of education, community partnerships, and faith in breaking down barriers to donation.Sherman’s inspiring journey from life-threatening illness to receiving a new heart and running a half-marathon.How each of us can give the ultimate gift: the gift of life.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland is joined by Dr. Lewis Ross Brown (Environmental Toxicologist) and Dr. Shamara Brown (Environmental Chemist) to uncover the hidden dangers in America’s water supply.What you’ll learn:1.     The dangers of PFAS “forever chemicals,” heavy metals, and pesticides in our water.2.     Why bottled water and aging infrastructure may not be the safe alternatives we think.3.     Practical steps you can take at home—like using the right filtration systems—to protect your family.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In this powerful episode of It’s A Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland is joined by Mrs. Kaleah Cowsar-Tate, a licensed professional counselor and clinical supervisor, for an in-depth conversation on Black women’s mental health during Suicide Prevention Month.Together, they unpack the myths and stigma that often silence conversations around therapy, the unique pressures Black women face—including racism, sexism, and the weight of the “Strong Black Woman” stereotype—and why mental health care is just as essential as physical health.Listeners will walk away with practical strategies to protect their peace:Using grounding techniques, journaling, and safe sister circlesSetting healthy boundaries without guiltPracticing intentional self-care and coping skills for resilienceThis episode is a call to slow down, breathe, and remember that protecting your peace is protecting your health.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Host Dr. Veita Bland, MD welcomes lifestyle and travel expert Carman Palmer for a lively and insightful conversation on this summer’s biggest travel trends.From solo journeys to eco-conscious escapes, local immersion, and digital detox retreats, this episode is packed with health-focused travel ideas that feed your soul and protect your peace. Whether you’re planning a “coolcation,” diving into noctourism, or just looking to reset with a spa day—this conversation has something for everyone.🎧 Tune in and make wellness your destination this summer!Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

This week on It's a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland welcomes back veterinarian Dr. Alexandria Farish from Southeast Community Animal Hospital. 🐾 Together, they dive into smart travel tips for pet owners, how to choose the best boarding or pet-sitting options, ways to prevent summer heat dangers, and why a little research goes a long way before bringing a new pet home. Plus, they discuss current pet health risks like bird flu.If you love your pets like family, this episode is a must-listen! 🐶🐱Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this powerful episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland sits down with housing expert Yyokkia Lawson to uncover the deep ties between where we live and how we live. From asthma to anxiety, eviction to education—this conversation explores the silent but devastating health impacts of housing instability and affordability.Discover how housing policies shape health disparities and what we can do about it.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Dr. Veita Bland sits down with Dr. Mark D. Cook—Associate Professor of Exercise Physiology and Immunology—for an eye-opening conversation on how exercise works like medicine, transforming everything from heart health to gut health, immunity, and chronic disease management.🔍 Key Highlights: • Why physical activity isn’t the same as exercise • How exercise supports healthy blood sugar, cholesterol, and brain function • The relationship between medications, exercise, and chronic illness management • The science behind stress, mitochondria, and aging • Tips for safely exercising with health conditions and medicationsThis isn’t just fitness talk—it’s a life-saving conversation.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Sneezing, itchy eyes, and that relentless pollen? You’re not alone! On this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, host Dr. Veita Bland dives into the realities of allergy season with guests Dr. Joel Gallagher and Chrissy Dale, Family Nurse Practitioner at the Allergy and Asthma Center of North Carolina. They break down why allergies are on the rise, how to manage symptoms, and whether to really blame Dad for your sniffles!Highlights from this episode:🌳 Why are allergies worse this year? Climate change, CO2 levels, and more – find out why pollen is becoming more of a problem.💉 Should you consider allergy shots? Discover how they work and why they might be the key to long-term relief.🧬 Is it really Dad’s fault? Exploring the genetic factors that make allergies more likely in kids.🎧 Tune in for practical tips and a fresh perspective on allergies, treatments, and staying comfortable this spring.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

In the latest episode of It's a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland, MD interviews Phyllis Hightower, author of Ten Keys to Avoid Debt, The Devil's Evil Borrowing Trap. They discuss how financial stress affects mental and physical health, including hypertension and poor nutrition. Mrs. Hightower shares practical tips on budgeting, saving, and building an emergency fund. 💪🏾💰Tune in to learn how financial wellness can improve your health! 🎧 Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

It's Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and we're diving deep into the importance of early screening and prevention on It's a Matter of Your Health! 🩺💙Host Dr. Veita Bland, a hypertension specialist and family medicine doctor, sits down with Dr. Vincent Schooler , a gastroenterologist at Eagle Gastroenterology, to discuss the rising rates of colon cancer in younger adults, the importance of screenings starting at age 45, and how diet plays a role in prevention.🔹 What is colon cancer, and why are rates increasing in younger adults? 🔹 When should you start getting screened? 🔹 Colonoscopy vs. at-home stool tests—what’s best? 🔹 The truth about colonoscopy prep (yes, we talk about the dreaded drink! 😬)💡 Over 90% of colon cancers are preventable with screening! Don't wait—tune in and get informed.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Mental health counseling is more important than ever, with over 59 million adults in the U.S. seeking treatment in 2023. The stigma surrounding mental health has decreased, encouraging more people to get the help they need.In this episode of It’s a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Vita Bland speaks with Ms. Connie Brown, a licensed clinical social worker with 20+ years of experience, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger management.Key topics include: 🧠 The impact of COVID-19 on mental health 💔 How isolation affected adults, teens, and children 🔎 Therapy approaches like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-informed care 🔥 Strategies for coping with stress, anger, and anxiety 📲 The role of social media in mental healthMental health matters. If you or someone you know is struggling, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.🎧 Listen to It’s a Matter of Your Health wherever you get your podcasts! 🔗 Visit www.drblandradio.com for past episodes and more Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

Host Dr. Veita Bland sits down with Dr. Anthony Fletcher, the 20th President of the Association of Black Cardiologists. They dive into the importance of education, prevention, and equitable access to quality cardiovascular care.Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com

On this week's It's a Matter of Your Health, Dr. Veita Bland, MD welcomes back Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute and co-host of the Awesome Etiquette podcast! 🏛️✨We dive into the etiquette of lifestyle changes—how to gracefully navigate conversations about quitting drinking or smoking, handling dietary restrictions at social events, and even knowing when it's time to find a new social circle. 💬🍽️Find more great content on our website www.drblandradio.com