PODCAST · health
The Health Deli
by The Health Deli
Welcome to the Health Deli, your local stop for a fresh take on community health topics. As always, we will be serving up some delightful discussions with a focus on wellness and a side of humor. The menu is sure to satisfy everyone from the healthcare connoisseur to those with a casual interest in wellness. Come on in, grab a number, and let the guys behind the counter, Mark Young, Ben Pontefract, and Mike Klepser, tell you about today’s specials!
Episodes
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Ticked Off: Lyme Disease Is Everywhere
Ticks are everywhere, and they're bringing more than just an appetite for your blood. With Lyme disease spreading across Michigan and beyond, it's time to talk about the tiny hitchhikers making outdoor adventures a little more complicated. In this episode of The Health Deli, we're on location at...
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Explosive Diarrhea
You’ve probably heard about the recent Cyclospora outbreak—but what exactly is it, why is Michigan seeing so many cases, and should you be worried about that bagged salad in your refrigerator? In this episode of The Health Deli, the crew welcomes Dr. Karla Black from the Kent County Health...
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Vaccines, Autism & the Internet’s Favorite Argument
Few health topics generate more debate than vaccines and autism. So instead of arguing online, we decided to do something radical—we read the evidence. In this episode of The Health Deli, the crew examines the CDC's updated vaccine messaging and walks through the claims surrounding vaccines and...
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Hope House and the Healthcare Gap
What happens when you lose your job, lose your insurance, and can’t get an appointment with a primary care provider for months? In this episode of The Health Deli, we sit down with Deanna Durante, director of Hope House Free Medical Clinic in Big Rapids, Michigan, to explore the critical role…
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IV Bars: Hydration or Hype?
IV hydration bars are popping up everywhere — promising faster recovery, boosted energy, glowing skin, and the ultimate hangover cure. But are they actually helping… or just an expensive shortcut with real risks? In this episode of The Health Deli, we break down what’s really happening when you...
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Wet Hair, Jellyfish & Other Lies
If you grew up hearing things like “go outside with wet hair and you’ll catch a cold,” or “wait 30 minutes after eating before swimming,” or (somehow worse) “pee on a jellyfish sting”… this episode is for you. In this episode of The Health Deli, we take a deep dive into some of the most common...
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Read a Book. Live Longer. (Seriously.)
When was the last time you read a book? Not an email, a news headline, or a social media post...but an actual book? In this episode of The Health Deli, the crew dives into the surprisingly powerful health benefits of reading. From lowering stress levels in as little as six minutes to improving...
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Compounding: Hero, Villain, or Both?
Compounding is where pharmacy began — mixing, customizing, and creating medications tailored to individual patients. But in today’s world of blockbuster weight-loss drugs and viral telehealth ads, compounding has stepped into a much messier spotlight. In this episode of The Health Deli, we break...
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Insulin: The Miracle Extract That Changed Everything
Before insulin, a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes was essentially a death sentence. Treatment meant starvation diets, snake oil “cures,” and desperate families. In this episode of The Health Deli, we dig into the wild, dramatic, and sometimes messy history of insulin — from dog pancreas experiments...
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Calm Down: Your Blood Pressure Is Watching
High blood pressure doesn’t usually make headlines in your daily life — because you don’t feel it. That’s exactly why it’s dangerous. In this episode of The Health Deli, Dr. Shelby Kelsh walks us through the newly updated hypertension guidelines and what they mean for real people who don’t...
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Multiple myeloma? Isn’t single myeloma bad enough?
In this episode of The Health Deli, we step behind the counter to unpack a complex and often misunderstood blood cancer: multiple myeloma. We break down what multiple myeloma actually is — a cancer of plasma cells that leads to the overproduction of abnormal antibodies (monoclonal…
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Sleep Tight: Inside the World of Sleep and Sleep Studies
This week on The Health Deli, we pull back the covers on the science of sleep. From what actually happens during a sleep study to why quality rest is essential for your brain and body, we break down the stages, the tech, and the takeaways. Whether you’re a chronic night owl or a nap enthusiast,...
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Cured, Smoked, and Seasoned: What’s the Deal with Cured Meats?
This week on The Health Deli, we take a flavorful deep dive into the world of cured meats—from prosciutto and salami to bacon and beyond. We break down how curing actually works, what the latest research says about health impacts, and how to enjoy these savory favorites as part of a balanced…
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Debunking the Myth: Tylenol and Autism
This week on The Health Deli, we slice into the widely circulated claim that Tylenol (acetaminophen) causes autism. We break down where the idea came from, what the best scientific evidence actually says, and why misleading health headlines can stick around for so long. Join us as we separate…
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When the Sun Checks Out: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
In this episode, we explore why shorter days can dim our mood—and what to do about it. From the brain chemistry behind Seasonal Affective Disorder to practical, food-forward strategies you can use every day, we dive into the science, habits, and nutrition that help bring back the light. Join us…
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“Behind the Counter: How Your Pharmacist Keeps You Healthy”
Think pharmacists just count pills and print labels? Think again! In this episode of The Health Deli, we pull back the curtain on the world of pharmacy to reveal the full range of services your pharmacist can offer. From managing chronic conditions and giving vaccinations to helping you…
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The Microbial Menu: Feeding Your Gut for Better Health
In this episode, the Health Deli team dishes up the science behind your gut’s microscopic residents. Discover how what you eat shapes your microbiome, how antibiotics and stress affect it, and the latest research connecting gut health to overall well-being. It’s a feast of facts — no lab coat...
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Mediterranean Magic: A Diet Worth the Hype?
In this episode of The Health Deli, we dive into the Mediterranean diet — is it really the gold standard for healthy eating, or just another fad with good PR? We explore what makes this way of eating so popular among doctors and dietitians, the science behind its health claims, and how you can...
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Metabolism: How Your Body Burns Energy (And Why It Matters)
In this episode of The Health Deli, we’re diving into the world of metabolism. We’ll explore how it affects your body in ways you might not expect, share some surprising insights, and talk about how it all connects to your health. Tune in to learn more!
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Health Goals: Low Expectations, Big Wins
It’s the end of Season 4, and the deli crew is checking in on their health goals. Did we crush them, miss them, or just set the bar low enough to step over? Join us for some laughs, reflections, and maybe a few realistic tips on keeping health goals manageable?
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The Shingle Life: What You Need to Know
Nearly 1 in 3 people will experience shingles in their lifetime, but what exactly is it, and how can you prevent it? In this episode of The Health Deli, Michelle, Mark, and Mike break down the science behind shingles, who’s at risk, and the best ways to protect yourself. From vaccines and...
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Sugar Substitutes
This is a great episode.
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Crapulence and Contamination: A Taste of Foodborne Illness
In this episode of The Health Deli, we dive into the not-so-appetizing world of foodborne illness—where the risks are real, and the vocabulary is, well… crapulent. Join Mike, Andrew, Mark, and Michelle as they serve up a smorgasbord of facts, fun, and a few questionable pronunciations. We break...
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High Anxiety: The Hidden Side of Cannabis
Cannabis is more accessible and socially accepted than ever, but is it as harmless as it seems? In this episode of The Health Deli, Michelle is joined by Mike Klepser, guest Shelby Kelsh, and Producer Andrew to unpack the rising trend of cannabis use, especially among college students and young...
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Birth Control Without the Doctor Visit?
Can your pharmacist really write you a birth control prescription now? Yep—and we’re unpacking what that means. In this episode, we slice into Michigan’s new legislation that allows pharmacists to prescribe hormonal contraceptives. We talk eligibility, regulations, practical steps, and what this...
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Shot Down: The Story of Vaccine Hesitancy
Caution: This Episode May Cause Soreness at the Injection Site. Pull up a chair at the Deli counter for a special live Continuing Education episode! Join Mike, Mark, and a room full of pharmacists as Poppa Ben dives into the past and present of vaccine hesitancy. From the eerie origins of public...
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Stem Cells: Hope, Hype, and Hematopoiesis
Live from Ferris State University’s College of Pharmacy Spring Seminar, the Health Deli crew dives deep into the world of stem cells! Mike, Mark, and Ben, alongside producer Andrew and crew member Quinn, explore the science, ethics, and breakthroughs surrounding stem cell therapies. From early...
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Poison: Situation is Serious
In this episode, Mark and Katie dive into the intoxicating world of poison. Join them as they discuss different types of poisoning, (including those not visible to the eye), the effects of poisons, resources for help, and more.
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Talkin' Bout TB
Join Katie and Mark as the two discuss TB, tuberculosis. They go into the history, it's place in pop culture as well as modern day health, ways to (hopefully) prevent it, and more TBD.
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Birth Control 101: More Than Just the Pill
In this episode of The Health Deli, we’re breaking down the wide world of birth control. From hormonal to non-hormonal, short-term to long-term, and everything in between—we’re serving up the facts to help you understand your options. Whether you're thinking about starting birth control…
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CRISPR Uncut: Rewriting the Code of Life
In this episode we dive into the revolutionary world of CRISPR an extraordinary gene-editing technology that reshapes medicine, agriculture, and even our understanding of evolution. How does it work? What ethical dilemma's does it raise? And what does the future hold for genetic engineering? Join...
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The Shower Showdown: A Dive Into Shower Habits
In this episode of The Health Deli, the crew dives deep into the science of showering—do we really need to bathe every day? From the natural defenses of our skin to the societal pressures that keep us scrubbing, they explore the balance between cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental impact. Stay...
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The PBM Puzzle: Unpacking Pharmacy Benefit Managers
The Health Deli Crew takes a closer look at Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and their pivotal role in today’s healthcare landscape. In this episode, we dive deep into the complex world of PBMs, exploring how they shape prescription drug pricing, access to medications, and the overall healthcare...
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Brand vs. Generic: The Battle for Your Health and Wallet!
Join Ben, who's got Mike on the facts, Michelle on the tracks, Mark bringing the max, and Andrew on the Sax. The crew tackles the idea of generic versus branded medications. Tune in to hear some facts about your favorite, or not so favorite, medication brands.
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Salt – Listen with a grain of salt
Welcome back to The Health Deli, where we slice up the facts and sprinkle in some fun! Today, we're talking about salt—humanity's first "must-have" seasoning, ancient currency, and the reason some Vikings even made it across the ocean. We’ll dive into its rich history, explore its role in the…
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Penicillin: Allergic or Just Dramatic?
Step up to The Health Deli counter as Mike, Mark, and Andrew serve up a fresh take on penicillin allergies. Are you really allergic, or is it all in the chart? Discover the surprising truth about drug reactions, why penicillin gets such a bad rap, and how a little poke (with a penicillin skin…
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Unraveling Alzheimer’s: From Ancient Roots to Modern Breakthroughs
In this episode of The Health Deli, join the whole gang as we delve into the fascinating history, biology, and modern understanding of Alzheimer’s disease. Discover how the condition was even noted as far back as 2000 BC by the Egyptians. Learn about the disease's growing prevalence, the…
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From Smallpox to Mpox: Understanding the Evolution of a Virus
In this episode of The Health Deli, Mike and Mark revisit the topic of Mpox, exploring its history, transmission, and the recent rise in global cases. Learn about the virus's connection to smallpox and cowpox, the impact of waning immunity, and the measures in place for prevention and treatment....
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Should RSV Stand for “Really Spooky Virus”?
Today, we got a Sp0oOky episode of the Health Deli. We’ve talked in the past about RSV, but this past year we’ve seen increases in cases! Fortunately, we have some new vaccines that help our highest-risk patients to stay protected. Join us in the deli to find out if you should be considering an…
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Flu Season 24-25: What’s in Store?
Join Mike, Mark, and Ben for a special live episode of Influenza Update 24-25, diving into the latest on seasonal influenza and the current status of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Mike shares insights on how influenza viruses evolve, why certain strains are more dangerous, and what…
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Biting Into New Protein Possibilities
The Health Deli team dives into the “meat” of the matter—literally! With climate change sizzling and traditional food sources getting harder to serve up, it’s time to explore some alternative options. In this episode, we investigate proteins that might sound a little out-there but could fill our...
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Is Mad Cow the Bad Cow?
Get ready for some brain-bending science in this week’s episode! Don’t know what a prion is? No worries—Ben’s got you covered as he breaks down this bizarre disease, how it’s impacted Michigan lately, and what (if anything) can be done about it. Buckle up for a fascinating dive into the strange...
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Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
In this episode of The Health Deli, Mike takes us on a deep dive into a topic Mark knows all too well—hair loss! Join Mike, Mark, Katie, and producer Andrew as they shave off the mystery behind why we lose hair, the science of scalp survival, and some seriously hairy facts you never knew you...
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Medications Can Hurt You, Even If You Don’t Take Them?
In this episode of The Health Deli, Mark is joined by co-hosts Michelle, and Katie, and guest expert Ricky Thackray to dive into the often-overlooked risks of passive exposure to hazardous medications. From risks like infertility, cancer, and environmental contamination, to the various routes of...
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Fresh Takes - Update on Avian Influenza
On this new update segment called "Fresh Takes" Mike will get us up to speed on a topic we covered back on May 28th, 2024 in "Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza."
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Welcome to Season 4!
On this episode, every team member will create a set of personalized wellness goals. Each person will track progress and hold each other accountable throughout Season 4. The staff roster is full at the deli, so buckle in and enjoy the ride!
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Vaping...you are going to want to listen to this one.
On this second episode with our new hosts, Mark, Kaite, and Michelle discuss smoking and vaping. Is it harmful? Should you quit? The shotgun plunger! https://a.co/d/3EHvl19 Resources to help quit vaping: National Quit Line 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-800-784-8669 or text QUITNOW to 333888 or try the...
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PED’s Effective but not safe
Our topic today is Performance-enhancing drugs. Mark is joined by two new co-hosts, Dr. Katie Axford and Dr. Michelle Kelly. We hear a lot about PEDs (mostly about a famous athlete who tested positive) so we can assume that they give athletes an advantage but are they safe? Mark goes through his...
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So, Mark Wanted to Talk About Farts? PART 2
In this episode, Mark continues the discussion surrounding the involuntary functions that our bodies do every day. Last time we talked about why we need to yawn, hiccup, vomit, get goosebumps, burp and today we pick it up at farting, sweating, and sneezing. In this episode the guys behind the...
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Questions from Seniors
On this episode of The Health Deli, Mike and Mark tackle questions from the elders of our population. They cover three topics. The first is memory loss and I can't remember the other two... Listen to find out!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the Health Deli, your local stop for a fresh take on community health topics. As always, we will be serving up some delightful discussions with a focus on wellness and a side of humor. The menu is sure to satisfy everyone from the healthcare connoisseur to those with a casual interest in wellness. Come on in, grab a number, and let the guys behind the counter, Mark Young, Ben Pontefract, and Mike Klepser, tell you about today’s specials!
HOSTED BY
The Health Deli
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Health Deli have?
The Health Deli currently has 108 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Health Deli about?
Welcome to the Health Deli, your local stop for a fresh take on community health topics. As always, we will be serving up some delightful discussions with a focus on wellness and a side of humor. The menu is sure to satisfy everyone from the healthcare connoisseur to those with a casual interest in...
How often does The Health Deli release new episodes?
The Health Deli publishes regularly with 108 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Health Deli?
You can listen to The Health Deli on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Health Deli?
The Health Deli is created and hosted by The Health Deli.
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