Public Health Matters

Moms are often the ones caring for everyone else—but who’s taking care of them? In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re talking about why self-care isn’t selfish…it’s essential. Becky is joined by nurses and Women’s Way Coordinators Kjersti Hintz and Jade Gross to explore the “default caregiver” role, the mental load many women carry, and how small, realistic self-care moments can make a big impact. They also dive into prevention, the importance of screenings, and how programs like Women’s Way help connect women to the care they need.This Mother’s Day, it’s a reminder to slow down, check in with yourself, and prioritize your health because you matter too. GUEST INFORMATION – Kjersti Hintz has been a registered nurse for more than 30 years. She currently serves as the Case Management Coordinator at Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health and is the Women’s Way Coordinator for the Bismarck and Minot regions. Jade Gross has been a registered nurse for 24 years. She is the Western Plains Public Health Women’s Way Coordinator, serving Morton, Sioux, Grant, McLean, Mercer, Mountrail and Oliver counties.Kjersti and Jade are passionate about helping communities stay healthy…working to improve access to care, promoting early cancer detection, connecting women with services and making sure people have the resources they need to thrive.RESOURCESWebsites hhs.nd.gov/health/women/womens-way bismarcknd.gov/363/Womens-Way westernplainsph.org/womens-wayFacebook facebook.com/northdakotawomensway facebook.com/BBPublicHealth facebook.com/westernplainsph 

Becoming a first-time mom can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re taking a closer look at the Nurse-Family Partnership and how it supports moms from pregnancy through early parenthood.Becky sits down with Nurse Supervisor Jessica Linneman to talk about the power of home visiting, what families can expect from the program, and how personalized, judgment-free support helps moms build confidence and reach their goals. From real-life stories to practical guidance, this conversation highlights how early support can make a lasting difference for both mom and baby.Whether you’re expecting, know someone who is, or simply want to learn more about how communities support families, this episode is a reminder that strong beginnings start with support…and you’ve got this.Guest Info: Jessica Linneman has been a registered nurse for 21 years working with families and children. Jessica started her nursing career working in the NICU, Pediatrics and Birthing Center and in 2009 took a career as a public health nurse working in various prevention programs. In 2019, Western Plains and Bismarck Burleigh Public Health embarked on a journey to implement Nurse-Family Partnership in 5 ND counties (Burleigh, Morton, Grant, Mercer, Oliver and Sioux). Jessica is the Nurse-Family Partnership Nurse Supervisor and supports 4 nurses is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Child Passenger Safety Technician and a member of American Nurses Association and ND Nurses Association. Jessica works as a part-time academic staff teaching Public and Community Health Nursing to future nursing students.RESOURCESWebsite: westernplainsph.org/nurse-family-partnershipFacebook: facebook.com/NFPinND 

Helping parents feel confident, informed, and supported.Parenting comes with big decisions and plenty of opinions. You deserve steady, trustworthy support along the way.On this episode of Public Health MATTERS, host Becky has a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Kathy Anderson, about childhood health, including immunizations, and how prevention helps protect families and communities.💜 In this episode, we cover:✨ How prevention plays a powerful role in keeping kids safe🤝 The importance of trusted healthcare partnerships🧭 Resources and people who can support families in making informed decisions🏡 Simple, practical tips for overall wellbeing at home🌎 How everyday choices connect to the health of our communitiesNo pressure. No overwhelm. Just clear information and supportive conversation you can trust.Guest Bio: Dr. Kathy Anderson is a double board-certified general pediatrician and integrative medicine physician.  She has been practicing in Bismarck, North Dakota for over 15 years and in April of 2020, Dr. Anderson launched her own pediatric practice, Nurturing Wellness Pediatrics, where she works with families to optimize the health, development and learning, wellness, and safety of the whole child using an evidence-based approach, and with a strong focus on prevention.Originally from New York, Dr. Anderson completed her undergraduate and medical studies at Brown University through the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) before obtaining residency training in Pediatrics through the University of Hawaii.  Driven by the challenges of disease, health, and healing that she had seen as a child, and with a desire to understand the art of medicine as well as the science of medicine, she went on to complete her fellowship in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona. Dr. Anderson is an assistant professor of pediatrics for the University of North Dakota.  She has served as an officer for North Dakota American Academy of Pediatrics starting in 2010 and completed her presidency for NDAAP in July 2022.  She continued on in leadership in National Pediatric Leadership through the American Academy of Pediatrics as Regional Champion of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and is currently the District Vice Chair for District VI for the American Academy of Pediatrics.  In 2022, she began serving on the board of directors of Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota and is also a board director at Foundations for a Healthy North Dakota.  Inspired by her patients and families, and driven by her own children, Dr. Anderson brings curiosity, tenacity, and passionate problem-solving to all the work with which she engages whether it be clinical, education and advocacy, or systems- based work.

💛 Heart-to-Heart: Keeping ND HealthyHeart disease is the leading cause of death in North Dakota…but the good news is, there’s so much we can do to prevent it.In this Heart Health Month episode, host Becky sits down with Tony Burke from the American Heart Association for an honest, encouraging conversation about heart health. Together, they explore how small, everyday choices, strong partnerships, and community voices come together to create healthier lives across our state.🎙 New episode drops Friday, February 6!💜 You’ll hear about:❤️ Why heart health matters now more than ever⏱ Simple, heart-smart tips you can start today🤝 How community collaboration makes a real difference📣 How your voice can help build a healthier North DakotaGUEST INFORMATIONTony is an inspirational senior executive with over 25 years of facilitative leadership experience, who is a proactive, collaborative, community-focused visionary bridge walker with expertise in organizational and community change management. As a Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMPTM), he leads with the values of accountability and kindness by leaning into his certified strengths of strategic, belief, achiever, responsibility, and connectedness.After serving almost 20 years in the fire service, including a 4-year appointment in Washington DC with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Burn Foundation leading over 300,000 members in the field of burn prevention, advocacy, and survivor support, he committed himself to non-profit work, and service to the community, through his strong desire and understanding change is good. After spending time in the disaster response and recovery sectors, (Public and Private) a complex health care startup, the food bank industry, he joined the American Heart Association in April 2022 with the focus to increase heart and brain health, and health equity, through collective community change efforts and trusted relationship building. He serves as Government Relations Director serving South & North Dakota and in September 2024 was promoted to Government Relations, Regional Team Lead which includes oversight for Nebraska.RESOURCESWebsite  heart.org/en/affiliates/north-dakotahttps://www.foundationnd.org/mphc

In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we explore a refreshing truth about wellness: you don’t need a perfect routine or a major life overhaul to feel healthier. Small, simple choices can make a big difference over time.Host Becky is joined by Katie Johnke for a practical, down-to-earth conversation about what health can look like in real life. From busy schedules to everyday stress, this episode focuses on realistic ways to support your well-being—without pressure or perfection.💛 Segment Highlights:✨ Movement That Fits Your Day – Easy ways to add more movement without carving out extra time.🥕 Nutrition That Sticks – Small, manageable food swaps that support health without feeling restrictive.🎶 Creativity & Mental Well-Being – How music, art, and hobbies can lift your mood and reduce stress.👯‍♀️ Connection Matters – Why staying connected to your community plays a key role in overall health.⏱ 5-Minute Wellness Wins – Simple actions you can start today to support your physical and mental health.Whether you’re balancing work, family, or just trying to feel a little better day by day, this episode offers practical ideas you can actually use.Because wellness isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the little things that count. 💛Public Health MATTERS.GUEST INFORMATIONKatie Johnke has served as the Nutrition and Health Promotion Coordinator for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health and the City of Bismarck since 2013. A Licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Lactation Counselor, she leads initiatives focused on nutrition education, active transportation, maternal and child health, and chronic disease prevention. With more than a decade of experience in public health, Katie is passionate about community wellness and enjoys running, coaching, and supporting her kids in sports.RESOURCESWebsite  www.bismarcknd.gov/359/Nutrition-and-Health-Promotion  

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 INFORMATIONDr. 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.RESOURCESWebsite   hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health

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

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 INFORMATIONLaura 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

Episode Three – Purpose:  The Heart of AgingWe’re all doing it…getting older. But healthy aging isn’t just about staying active or eating well, it’s deeply connected to public health. From safe housing and fall prevention to access to care, social connection, and thoughtful community design, public health plays a powerful role in helping people live longer, healthier, and more independent lives.In this episode, we’ll explore how having a sense of purpose along with small, smart changes at the community level, can make a big difference as we age, and what helpful resources are available for support. Together, we can create communities that help you, your loved ones, and your neighbors thrive at every stage of life. Public Health MATTERS.GUEST INFORMATIONJosh Askvig has been with AARP since 2011, serving as State Director since 2016. A tireless advocate for older North Dakotans, Josh brings a wealth of experience from his work on Capitol Hill, as a campaign consultant, and in education. He also served two terms as a Bismarck City Commissioner. Throughout his career, Josh has been committed to improving communities, championing the needs of older residents, and making North Dakota a better place to live for all ages.RESOURCESCaregiving:  www.aarp.org/caregiving/  Volunteering:  www.aarp.org/Iwant2volunteer

Back-to-school time can feel a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!In this episode, we’re sharing simple, real-life tips to help your family ease into the school year with less stress and more confidence. From tackling bedtime routines to packing lunches and checking in on emotions, we’ve got you covered.Public health is part of everyday life, especially when it comes to keeping kids healthy, happy, and ready to learn.💙 Public Health MATTERS.Take a deep breath, hit play, and let’s kick off the school year together…you’ve got this!

Public health is part of our daily lives, even if we don’t always notice it. It’s about the quiet, consistent work that keeps our families and communities healthy and safe every single day.In this episode, we explore how public health shows up working behind the scenes — protecting health, strengthening families, and stepping up when it matters most.Join us for honest, down-to-earth conversations about the challenges we face and the simple, powerful ways we can support each other.Healthier communities don’t happen by accident; they happen when we work together. And it all starts here.Public Health MATTERS. Now more than ever.Guests: Renae Moch (Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health) & Erin Ourada (Western Plains Public Health)