The Rhody Wellness Podcast
by URI Health Promotion
Welcome to Rhody Wellness, your go-to podcast for all things health and wellness! Join us as we tackle sensitive topics head-on, guided by interviews with top experts and doctors. We're here to provide you accurate information, practical tips, and campus resources tailored to your needs. We're also sitting down with students just like you, sharing their personal journeys and insights on these very topics. Tune in for inspiring conversations that remind us we're never alone in our journey towards wellness.
Episodes
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End of Year
In today’s episode, I sat down with two graduating seniors from the Class of 2026, along with one student preparing to step into their senior year. Together, we had an engaging conversation about what lies ahead and what they’ve learned along the way. We talked about their plans for the upcoming...
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Student Perspectives on Sexual Assault
TW: Sexual Assault, Rape In this episode, I talk with Emily, a student and peer health educator at URI, about the realities of sexual assault and the urgent need for awareness and education. We unpack stigmas and misconceptions, discuss how society often falls short in supporting survivors, and…
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The Hidden Opponent: Mental Health in Sports
This episode features Amanda, a campus captain for The Hidden Opponent at URI, a national organization dedicated to supporting student athlete mental health. We dive into why mental health is often treated differently than physical health in sports, and how pressures like performance, coaching…
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Gym Intimidation- College Students
In this episode, we explore the challenges of building the confidence to use a school gym—an experience that can feel intimidating for many. Our guest, Bella, a student here at URI, shares her personal journey, offering honest insights into overcoming gym-related anxiety. She also provides...
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The Many Forms of Grief: Dealing with Grief – Part 2
In this second installment of our grief mini-series, Allison Hall, a URI Clinical Counselor, dives deeper into what grief really looks like and how to cope with it. She breaks down the different forms of grief and grief therapy, shares specific strategies, and explains common experiences and...
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The Many Forms of Grief: Understanding Loss in College
Grief is not just about death, and it does not follow a clear set of steps. In this episode, we talk about what grief really is, the stages of grief and why they are not linear, and some of the common emotions and reactions people experience. We are joined by Allison Hall, a clinical counselor…
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Peer Support at URI
In this episode, we explore the importance of peer support and its role in mental health. We’re joined by Rhody Stronger Together, a student-led club focused on peer support, mental health advocacy, and education. We discuss how normalizing mental health conversations can reduce stigma and share...
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Back in the Classroom: College the Second Time Around
What does college look like when you’re not 18, living in a dorm, or figuring life out for the first time? In this episode we talk to Mike, a veteran and parent, about what it was really like coming back to college for a second time. Mike talks about balancing family responsibilities, navigating...
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Vaccines: How They Work & Why They Matter
How do vaccines actually work, and how effective are they? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jeff Bratberg, Professor of Pharmacy Practice, to explain the science behind vaccines, what efficacy means, and why vaccines are a cornerstone of public health. A clear, evidence-based conversation...
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The College Recovery Program
In this episode, I sit down with Leetal to talk about the College Recovery Program including what it offers, who it’s for, and how it supports students navigating addiction recovery or reassessing their relationship with substances. We talk about the importance of connection, discuss the…
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Transfer Student Experience & the RI Promise Program
In this episode, I chat with Johnny Marchetti, a junior at the University of Rhode Island who’s part of the RI Promise Program. After two years at CCRI, Johnny made the move to URI, and he’s here to share what that transition was really like. We talk about everything from transferring credits and...
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Suicide Prevention and the QPR Framework: Refer
This is Part 3 of our three-part series on QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention. In this episode, we talk with Jessica Greene, a certified QPR trainer, about the final step: Refer. Jessica explains how to connect someone in crisis with professional help and community resources, and…
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Suicide Prevention and the QPR Framework: Persuade
This is Part 2 of our three-part series on QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training. In this episode, we talk with Jessica Greene, a certified QPR trainer, about the second step: Persuade. Jessica discusses how to communicate care and concern when someone may be at risk, and…
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Suicide Prevention and the QPR Framework: Question (Part 1)
This is Part 1 of our three-part series on QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training. In this episode, we talk with Jessica Greene, a certified QPR trainer, about the first step: Question. Jessica explains how to recognize warning signs of suicide and how asking directly and...
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Questions from a First Year Student
In this episode, I sit down with Gianna, an incoming freshman, to answer her questions about the first year of college, covering everything from study tips and the best places to buy books to navigating campus life and social situations.
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Life After Graduation - Grad School Process
Graduation is more than just a ceremony—it's a turning point. In this episode, we unpack the emotional highs and lows of leaving college, the real talk about maintaining friendships when everyone’s heading in different directions, and what the grad school application process actually looks like....
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Guided Meditation
Take a moment to pause, reset, and reconnect with your breath. In this soothing guided meditation, we’ll gently walk through mindful breathing techniques designed to reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and release built-up tension from the body. Whether you’re starting your day or winding…
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Building Resilience Through Gratitude
In this episode, we’re joined by Rachael, a wellness specialist at the University of Rhode Island, to talk about the powerful connection between resilience and gratitude. Rachael shares how practicing gratitude has helped her navigate challenging moments, and offers tips on how to start a…
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Love That Lasts: College, Commitment & Long Distance
In this episode, I talk with Alex, a college student in a long-term relationship, about how to make love last while balancing the chaos of college life—and growing into your own person. We explore how to stay connected through distance, how to handle conflict in healthy ways, and the importance…
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Trying to Quit Nicotine?
We sit down with Jessica Greene, the Assistant Director of URI Health Promotions, to talk about what it is like to quit nicotine and the many benefits that come along with it. We also discuss the free nicotine replacement therapy that URI offers and how you can get started today! Trying to quit?...
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Reclaiming Body Image
In this episode, we sit down with Mary Godek, Vice President of Member Education and Viktoria Krasteva, Health & Wellness Chair of the URI Panhellenic counsel to have an open conversation about body image. We discuss how it’s shaped by social media, gym culture, photo editing, and mental health....
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Nutrition for Gym Rats
In this episode, I sit down with URI nutrition specialist Kelli Kidd to dive into the world of diets and fitness goals. We cover the differences between cutting, bulking, and intermittent fasting — and Kelli answers the age-old question: which diet is best for reaching your goals? Plus, we…
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Freshman 15: Myths, Facts & Sustainable Nutrition
The "Freshman 15" is a phrase every college student hears—but how much of it is actually true? In this episode, we break down the myths and realities of college weight gain with nutrition specialist Kelli Kidd. We’ll discuss what really causes weight fluctuations, how to maintain a balanced diet...
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Eating Concerns & Building a Better Relationship with Food
Today we talk with the URI Eating Concerns Advisory (URIECA). This student-led space is dedicated to learning about eating concerns, finding fellowship with students who share similar struggles, and offering a place to relax and reflect. We discuss the club’s mission, common eating concerns, and...
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Beyond the Vape: Students Share Their Journey to Quit
Quitting vaping isn’t just about putting down the device—it’s a journey of mental, emotional, and physical health. Hear from students who successfully quit as they share how they overcame cravings, challenged misconceptions, and experienced unexpected benefits. They’ll also reveal what motivated...
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From Gym Anxiety to Gym Confidence
In this episode, we sit down with Leetal to talk about her inspiring gym journey—how she overcame gym anxiety, took the first steps toward fitness, and built confidence along the way. We dive into the mental and physical benefits of working out, share motivational tips for anyone hesitant to…
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Exercise is Medicine
In this episode we talk with Leetal, a URI student spearheading the Exercise is Medicine program. It is a new program focused on connecting students with fitness in fun ways. Listen to our conversation to learn more Leetal and how you can add exercise into your daily life step-by-step.
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How to Tackle Sleep in College
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Warren Schwartz, a psychologist here at URI, about sleep. Sleep is one of the five pillars of health. Learn how it affects your everyday life and how you can harness the power of good sleep, even for insomniacs! We discuss several sleep habits, like sleep…
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Perfecting Posture
In this episode, two graduate students from the physical therapy program discuss the importance of posture. They explain why we should be paying attention to it now, how to improve it, and the impact poor posture has on both students and adults. Drawing from their expertise in ergonomics and...
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Navigating Nursing
In this episode, Residential Academic Mentor (RAM) Eva shares her insights on thriving in a challenging nursing program. We discuss the realities of clinicals, balancing school with life, and managing test-taking anxiety. Eva offers guidance on succeeding in nursing school while maintaining...
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Reducing Harm When Doing Drugs
In this episode, we sit down with Arielle Sherman, an alcohol and drug educator from the University of Rhode Island, to discuss the crucial topic of substance safety. Join us as we explore how to find a safe limit with cannabis, what to do in the event of an extreme reaction, and harm reduction...
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The Wellness Vending Machine
In this episode, we chat with Elizabeth, a pharmacy student passionate about health and wellness. She discusses the wellness vending machine in the library's 24-hour room, offering affordable health essentials like medicine and personal care items. We explore the machine’s commitment to privacy,...
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Finding Your Limit: Harm Reduction Strategies for Drinking
In this episode, we chat with Arielle Sherman, a drug and alcohol specialist, to explore the drinking culture on college campuses. We dive into how to find your limits with alcohol, ensuring that your choices are safe and informed if you choose to drink. Arielle shares insights on recognizing the...
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Understanding Your Anxiety
In this episode, we interview Dr. Warren Schwartz, a psychologist, about the complexities of anxiety. We discuss common symptoms, coping strategies, and where to find help at URI. Dr. Schwartz shares effective self-soothing techniques to incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you seek…
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Violence Prevention
TW: Discussion of domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault. In our final installment with Kelley Ryan, the URI VPAS coordinator, we focus on violence prevention in college settings. We’ll explore the signs of sexual assault, domestic violence, and dating violence, empowering…
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Understanding Consent: Beyond Yes and No
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Kelley Ryan, a passionate advocate for VPAS (Violence Prevention and Advocacy Services), to delve deep into the multifaceted topic of consent. Kelley shares her expert insights on what consent truly means beyond a simple “yes” or “no,” and discusses...
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Sexual Assault 101
TW: Sexual Assault In today's episode, we talk with Kelley Ryan (URI's VPAS student advocate) about sexual assault and the immediate steps a person who has been sexually assaulted can take. Kelley tells us what questions she asks during a VPAS meeting, what a person can do to support their friend...
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What is Interpersonal Violence?
TW: Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Harassment In this episode, we sit down with Kelley Ryan, the confidential victim advocate for URI students, to discuss interpersonal violence. We talk about what it is, where students can go for resources, what Title 9 is, how it can impact URI students…
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Freshman Year: Expectations vs. Reality
In this episode, we sit down with Katie Sweeney, a current sophomore, to talk about her experiences during freshman year. She candidly discusses what she expected when she went into her freshman year versus the challenges that actually happened. Listen along as we talk about roommate issues…
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About this show
Welcome to Rhody Wellness, your go-to podcast for all things health and wellness! Join us as we tackle sensitive topics head-on, guided by interviews with top experts and doctors. We're here to provide you accurate information, practical tips, and campus resources tailored to your needs. We're also sitting down with students just like you, sharing their personal journeys and insights on these very topics. Tune in for inspiring conversations that remind us we're never alone in our journey towards wellness.
Hosted by
URI Health Promotion