(w)healthy

Today, we’re tackling one of the most overlooked foundations of kids’ health: physical literacy. It’s time we stop treating movement as optional. Like reading or writing, it’s a skill every child deserves to master. And few people understand that better than Dr. Ali McManus, Director of the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at UBC Okanagan where she also directs the Pediatric Inactivity & Exercise Physiology Research Lab, or PERL lab. Her work explores how physical literacy develops across the lifespan and how early experiences with movement influence our physical and mental well‑being for decades to come. Ali’s research bridges science and everyday life — connecting lab data with the realities of classrooms, families, and communities. Today, we’ll talk about what the evidence is showing, the real‑world choices shaping our kids’ relationships with movement, and how we can all play a part in steering this ship back in the right direction.

Today on the (w)healthy podcast we’re talking about an area of women’s health that needs to be talked about way more. It affects far more women than most of us realize — and for many women, the impacts last long after treatment ends. About a year and a half ago, thanks in part to a sizable donation from the Mississauga-based FDC Foundation, the Gynecologic Oncology Surgical Program was brought to Kelowna General Hospital. This was huge for the hundreds of women each year who are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers — those of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, vagina, and vulva — here in the Southern Interior. And now, we have the capacity to perform these delicate, life-saving surgeries right here at KGH!

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are welcoming back Dr. Sophia Capo, a pediatric optometrist and founder of A B See Vision Therapy in Kelowna. When Dr. Capo first joined us, she helped us understand that vision is about so much more than eyesight. It shapes how children learn, move, regulate their emotions, build confidence, and experience the world around them. And yet, children’s vision challenges can be incredibly easy to miss. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, it has been estimated that only 14% of children under the age of six receive professional eye care — even though early detection and treatment of vision problems can have a significant impact on a child’s development, learning, and well-being! This is a conversation you won't want to miss! To learn more about the projects and initiatives that Dr. Capo is currently working on please visit ABSee.ca

Today we're joined by Pediatrician Dr. Alysha Mackenzie-Feder for a conversation about the inward experience of medicine, the realities of raising a family while working in health care, what it means to witness suffering every day, and how we can remain connected to others without losing ourselves in the process.A Deeper Well | Discover Inner Peace

Heart disease is the broad term used to describe many conditions — problems that affect the structure and function of the heart or the blood vessels that supply it. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in Canada, affecting millions of people and placing enormous demand on our health-care system. But it’s also one of the areas of medicine where prevention, early detection, and rehabilitation can dramatically change outcomes. Understanding how the heart works — and what happens when something goes wrong — can help people recognize risks earlier, recover more effectively, and in many cases avoid serious cardiac events altogether. Which is why today on the (w)healthy podcast we are joined by Dr. Kevin and Anne Pistawka, they are the Medical and Executive Directors of the Central Okanagan Association for Cardiac Health (COACH) — a community program that helps people living with heart disease recover, rebuild confidence, and adopt heart-healthy lifestyles. Together, they can provide comprehensive insight on the subject of cardiac care: treatment and recovery, medicine and lifestyle, hospital and community.

Multiple Sclerosis, commonly referred to as MS, is a condition that many of us have a limited understanding of. But with Canada having some of the highest rates of MS in the world many Canadians are wanting to learn more. In this episode we are joined by Dr. Scott Meckling, a leading neurologist here in Kelowna who specializes in multiple sclerosis. This conversation is about unpacking both sides of the MS story; what we know, what we're learning, and what it actually means for people living with MS today.

As of 2025, about 8.1 million Canadians are aged 65+, roughly 19.5% of the population. That proportion is expected to rise to about 23–25% by 2040. Meaning that the “oldest old” population is growing fastest! So what can we do to prepare ourselves for aging? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are joined by Dr. Jenn Jakobi, Director of the Institute of Healthy Living and Chronic Disease Prevention and Professor of Health and Exercise Science at UBCO, to talk about how we can support healthy aging through movement, community design, and research that centers the voices of older adults themselves.

In Canada, more than 772,000 people are currently living with dementia, and that number is expected to nearly double within the next 20 years. Which is why today we are joined by Dr. Pieter Strauss, a physician and clinical researcher who is not just observing where Alzheimer's research is going, he's actively involved in the trials that are shaping what's coming next!

Just over a year ago on Day of Giving the community rallied to raise funds to bring Vinni, a surgical robot, to Kelowna General Hospital. A year later we are joined by the Head of Robotics, Dr. Dimitri Coutsinos, to get an update on Vinni's first months at KGH and hear about all of the amazing work they've been up to! Whether you donated to the campaign or saw Vinni around town this is an update you won't want to miss!

April is Parkinson's Awareness Month and we are beyond excited to be introducing a very special new member of the Humphreys Family Movement Disorder Clinic, Dr. Talyta Grippe. Dr. Grippe is a neurologist with specialized training in neurophysiology and Parkinson's disease, and brings with her to Kelowna an extremely specialized knowledge base and emerging therapies. Through a partnership between the KGH Foundation and the Humphreys Family Foundation, a new model of care is being built, one that doesn’t just bring specialists here but supports them to do the full scope of their work.

Spring has sprung and with the nicer weather finally settling in to the Okanagan Valley you may have noticed the runners are back! But lots of us wonder what sort of impact running has on our joints? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are joined by JF Esculier, a physiotherapist and co-founder of MoveMed Physiotherapy in Kelowna. Whether you're new to running or a seasoned pro JF answers all the burning questions you're bound to have!

You may recognize Patrick from his former position as a KGH Foundation Board Member but did you know that Patrick's first true connection with KGH was at the beginning of his kidney disease journey? 10 years later and Patrick is the grateful recipient of a kidney transplant and has dedicated his time to community and giving back, wherever possible!To become an organ donor or to learn more about kidney disease visit https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-an-Organ-Donor

In Canada our health care system is labelled as 'universal' but what does that really mean? And what does it look like in practice? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are joined by economist, Dr. Ross Hickey, who breaks it down for us and explains how the 'universal' system actually works in Canada, how other systems are working elsewhere, and the vital role community plays in it all. No matter how much knowledge you already have on the system this is an episode where you're sure to learn something new!

In our second conversation with Elder Leon Louis, he shares syilx teachings on the true meaning of medicine, not just as something we take when we’re sick, but as a living relationship with land, water, plants, ceremony, and community. Guided by the Medicine Wheel, he speaks to balance across the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual parts of our lives, and the responsibility we carry for the natural world.In Loving Memory ofCEWEL’NALeon Louis17 October, 1951 - 21 March, 2026“Way kulenchuten, thank you grandmothers and grandfathers for this life”

Do you have someone in your life who’s routines and day to day activities look a bit different? Or maybe that someone is you, always struggling to catch your tail? In this week’s episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with adult ADHD specialist Irene Spelliscy to talk about how ADHD can manifest for adults and you may be surprised to learn just how many aspects of one’s life it is affecting.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are beyond excited to be joined by Dr. Jeff Wong, the new Head of Pediatrics at Kelowna General Hospital. Speaking with Dr. Wong is like a breathe of fresh air and we feel that the conversation needs little introduction. If you live in the Okanagan and you have children, plan to, or know someone with children you're going to want to tune in!

Join KGH Foundation CEO Allison Young on the year-end episode of the (w)healthy Podcast as we revisit key moments from 2025, share campaign progress, and outline hopeful plans for 2026.Happy holidays from the KGH Foundation Team.

We’ve all heard the horror stories and seen the movies, but what is med school really like? And what about for those students studying right here in the Okanagan? In this week’s episode of the (w)healthy podcast we are joined by second year medical student, Christine Ashenhurst, to ask the questions we’re all wondering. Christine takes us through a day in her life, the unique challenges of the MCAT, what keeps her motivated, and more. Whether you are curious about med school yourself or know someone who is, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Everybody poops. But for one in three kids, it’s not easy. And it may be the reason your child is struggling with bedwetting. In this episode, Angus MacKay, a pediatric physiotherapist specializing in pelvic floor health specifically for children, gets into the potty talk, in a good way. Bedwetting and constipation in children is no joke. Learn the causes, warning signs, when to become concerned and what you can to help your little human ‘take care of business’.

Men, turns out the most important muscles for strength and confidence aren’t built in the gym… In this episode, physiotherapist Corrine Wade joins Shauna to talk about men’s pelvic floor health and how it impacts sexual function, back pain, stress, bladder control, and prostate recovery. Nearly half of Canadian men experience erectile dysfunction and one in nine deal with incontinence, yet few realize the pelvic floor plays a role in all of it. It’s not awkward, it’s awareness!

This episode is about honouring different ways of knowing, and of learning through story, honouring Indigenous teachings, and exploring how they can guide how we think about health - as individuals and communities.  Syilx Elder Leon Louis joins Shauna for a conversation that can only be described as thoroughly immersive from start to finish. Together they explore how stories and relationships can guide us toward a more integrated and compassionate understanding of health and health care for everyone.  In Loving Memory ofCEWEL’NALeon Louis17 October, 1951 - 21 March, 2026“Way kulenchuten, thank you grandmothers and grandfathers for this life”

Pelvic floor therapy doesn’t have to be as daunting as you may have originally thought. In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose is joined by physio therapist and pelvic floor specialist, Corinne Wade. Together, they dive into many of the different ways we can support our pelvic floor and in turn make changes to so many parts of our lives.

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in Canada, yet it is still widely misunderstood and often missed, particularly in girls and women. In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose speaks with Dr. Elliot Frank, a dual-certified family physician and an inspiring model of integrated and inclusive health care in our community. Dr. Frank shares his insight on how ADHD presents at different stages of life, why timely diagnosis matters, and the challenges that can arise when it goes unrecognized. He also offers his perspective on the most current approaches to care, from evidence-based treatment to practical supports that help people thrive. This is a thoughtful and informative conversation for anyone seeking to better understand ADHD and its impact across a lifetime.

We often talk about sleep as something we should “get more of,” but rarely stop to ask why it matters in the first place. In this episode, Dr. Wayne Lai returns to help us better understand sleep as a foundational part of whole-body health. From how disrupted sleep affects your mood, focus, and immune system to what might actually be keeping you up at night, this conversation explores how sleep impacts daily life in ways we often overlook. If you’re struggling to feel rested, or just curious about what better sleep could mean for your health, you’ll want to take a listen.This is our third episode with Dr. Lai, if you enjoyed this one be sure to check out the other two!

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose speaks with Counsellor Ashley Phillips about how trauma impacts our mental health and why we don’t always recognize it. Ashley explains the difference between "big T" and "little t" trauma, what happens in the brain during a traumatic experience, and how EMDR therapy can help people process what’s been holding them back. This conversation offers a deeper understanding of how trauma works and what healing can look like.

Money is more than numbers in a bank account. It is peace of mind, security and a vital part of your overall health. In this episode of (w)healthy, host Shauna Nyrose talks with Rod Gibbings, Senior Financial Consultant at IG Wealth Management, about why financial health is such a critical pillar of well-being. Rod shares practical strategies for planning a secure retirement, guiding young adult children toward independence, working effectively with a financial planner and navigating money conversations as a couple. He also reflects on personal experiences, including health challenges and the sudden loss of a dear friend and colleague, that have shaped his perspective on what it truly means to live well. This is not just a conversation about building wealth for the future, it is about creating freedom and living a life that aligns with your values today.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Dr. Brittany Schamerhorn, licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, joins us to unpack the complex world of women’s hormones, perimenopause, and metabolic health. Drawing from her clinical experience and evidence-informed approach, Dr. Schamerhorn shares why so many women feel unheard in the health care system, and how a more personalized, integrative model of care can make all the difference. Her insights offer a fresh, grounded perspective on what it means to truly care for women’s health.

We all know sleep is important, but what’s really happening in the brain while we rest? In this solo episode, Dr. Wayne Lai — neurologist and sleep medicine specialist — breaks down the science of sleep in clear, practical terms. From deep sleep cycles to why you wake up at 3 a.m., this conversation will leave you better informed about what your brain truly needs to heal, function, and thrive.

Concussions affect hundreds of thousands of Canadians every year, yet many remain misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode, host Shauna Nyrose speaks with Dr. Wayne Lai, neurologist and sleep medicine specialist, and Gerome Louie, a clinician specializing in concussion care. Together, they unpack what happens in the brain during injury, how sleep and mental health play a role in recovery, and what we all need to know about the lasting impact of concussions. Whether you're recovering yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers insight, clarity, and hope.

What if the real prescription for lifelong health isn't found in a clinic, but on a playground, in a pool, or during a triathlon? In this episode, we sit down with Drew Mitchell, Director of Physical Literacy at Sport for Life, to explore how movement shapes our health, our communities, and our sense of belonging. From saving a beloved triathlon to creating more inclusive sport systems, Drew shares powerful stories and insights on why physical literacy matters at every age and in every body.

What if aging didn’t have to mean decline? In this episode, Dr. Grant Pagdin, a Kelowna-based physician and expert in regenerative and preventative medicine, joins us to explore the future of healing. From stem cell therapy and PRP, to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and lifestyle medicine, Dr. Pagdin unpacks what’s real, what’s emerging, and what it means to take control of your health span, not just your lifespan.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, local fitness pro Taylor Kolar shares why strength training is essential, especially for women over 40. We bust common fitness myths, explore social media trends, and talk about building a sustainable routine that fits your age, goals, and lifestyle. Plus, we dive into the role of nutrition, cardio, and mindset in supporting long-term health and strength.

What if your jaw pain, your back tension, or that old shoulder injury weren’t just physical? In this episode, we sit down with physiotherapist Vince Cunanan to talk about TMJ, movement dysfunction, stress, and how pain can be both a signal and a story. Vince shares why healing often begins with awareness and how we can start reconnecting with the bodies we’ve learned to ignore.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Dr. Diana Kim, a Kelowna-based neurologist, to explore the inner workings of brain health, from the everyday impacts of stress and sleep, to the life-changing consequences of stroke and neurological disease.

What if your headaches, brain fog, or a child’s struggles in school were actually rooted in vision — not eyesight, but how the brain processes what we see? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Dr. Sophia Capo, optometrist and founder of A B See Optometry and Vision Therapy in Kelowna, unpacks the powerful connection between vision, brain health, and healing. We explore how vision therapy is helping kids and adults recover from concussions, overcome learning challenges, and reclaim quality of life — all through a new lens.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Beth Walley, Executive Director of the Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice, for a grounded and hopeful conversation about the evolving landscape of primary care. Together, they explore what primary care really means, why it matters, and how it's changing to meet the needs of patients and providers. From the role of relationships and community partnerships to the challenges of access and physician burnout, this episode offers thoughtful insight into how care can become more connected, compassionate, and ultimately, closer to home.You can register to get a family doctor or nurse practitioner at this link https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/find-care/health-connect-registry

What’s stopping us from eating well? For most people, it’s not knowledge — it’s time, energy, and real life. Morgan Decksheimer, founder of Meal Prep For You, joins us to talk nutrition and how local food can help us live healthier, one meal at a time.

How do you know if your child’s physical development is ontrack? When is toe-walking, poor coordination, or delayed milestones a sign to seek support? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with pediatric physiotherapist Milena Perini to explore the critical role movement plays in a child’s overall well-being. With over 20 years of experience, Milena shares insights on early intervention and common misconceptions. She also offers practical advice for parents looking to support their child’s development at home. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious about how movement shapes a child’s future, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. Tune in to learn how small steps today can lead to big strides tomorrow!

Did you know your oral health can impact your heart, brain,hormones, and even your confidence? Kelowna dentist and implant specialist Dr. Michael Webster joins (w)healthy podcast host Shauna Nyrose to explore the surprising links between dental care and general well-being. From childhood cavities to perimenopause challenges, dental implants to overall health—discover why caring for your teeth might be one of the most important health investments you’ll ever make.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Buddhist chaplain, meditation teacher, and somatic movement practitioner Melissa Berry Appleton to explore the evolving landscape of spiritual health. From the power of presence and mindfulness to the intersection of science and contemplative practice, Melissa shares insights on how we can cultivate resilience and inner well-being in a fast-paced world. Whether you're seeking balance, healing, or a deeper sense of purpose, this conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating modern life with intention and grace.

Allergies, sinus issues, and other ENT conditions arebecoming more common, especially in the Okanagan. In this episode of the (w)healthypodcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Dr. Jon Dautremont, ENT specialist andfounder of Basis, to discuss why these issues are increasing, how the localclimate plays a role, and what people can do to manage symptoms. He sharesexpert insights on treatment options, practical ways to find relief whilewaiting for specialist care, and when surgery might be necessary. A must-listenfor anyone struggling with chronic congestion, sinus infections, or allergies.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kluftinger, a leading expert in breast cancer and general surgery, to discuss the evolving landscape of breast cancer care. From early detection and surgical options to post-operative care and patient advocacy, Dr. Kluftinger offers invaluable insights into what patients and families can expect during their journey. We also explore the role of general surgery in comprehensive cancer treatment and how collaborative care models are improving patient outcomes. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides essential knowledge and compassionate guidance on navigating breast cancer care.

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Dr. Dianne Burrows, a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Interior Dermatology Centre in Kelowna, BC. Dr. Burrows shares her journey into dermatology and discusses the importance of skin health as a vital component of overall well-being. The conversation delves into common skin conditions, their impact on mental and emotional health, and the latest advancements in dermatological treatments. Listeners will gain valuable insights into maintaining healthy skin and learn about innovative treatments. Whether you're dealing with a specific skin issue or simply interested in enhancing your skin health, this episode offers expert advice and practical tips to help you achieve your (w)healthiest skin.

Join (w)healthy podcast host Shauna Nyrose in a compelling conversation with Dr. Kathy Wise from Olive Fertility Centre. In this episode, they explore the complex world of fertility, tackling questions like: "Whose issue is infertility, really?" and "When is the right time to take action?" Dr. Wise debunks common fertility myths—including whether birth control causes infertility—and addresses the stigma surrounding these misconceptions. She also provides insights into prevalent conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, empowering listeners with the knowledge to better understand their reproductive health.

In this insightful episode of the w(healthy) podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Melissa Fedderson, Manager of Campus Wellness at UBCO and former Centre Manager of Foundry, to discuss the critical state of youth mental health. Together, they explore how parenting styles, strict monitoring, and screen time are shaping the mental wellbeing of today’s youth. Melissa explains why young people are often the "canaries in the mine," providing early signals about the broader mental health challenges our society faces. Tune in for a compelling conversation on anxiety, depression, and the future of mental wellbeing—and how we can better support the youth who are showing us the way forward.

In this insightful episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Shelagh Turner, a leading voice in mental health advocacy, to unpack the essential — and often misunderstood — differences between mental health and mental illness. They explore the challenges many face in accessing critical mental health services and discuss systemic barriers that leave individuals and families searching for support.  Shelagh and Shauna also highlight tangible actions that can foster mental well-being in our communities, from early intervention to building networks of connection and understanding. If you’ve ever wondered how we can bridge the gap and create a healthier, more compassionate society, this conversation is a must-listen. 

In this “snack-size” follow-up episode, Shauna Nyrose sits down once again with Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation, to look ahead at what’s on the horizon for 2025. From expanding JoeAnna’s House to moving cancer care forward and bringing new services closer to home, Allison shares her excitement for the transformative projects that are poised to impact our community in the year ahead.    Discover how your support is paving the way for better care, closer to home — and why the future of health care in the Southern Interior has never looked brighter. 

As the year draws to a close, join Shauna Nyrose and Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation, for a bite-sized holiday conversation that looks back on 2024. In this reflective episode, Allison shares the standout moments and milestones that defined the past year in health care and philanthropy, and what she’s most grateful for as we look ahead. From community triumphs to the power of generosity, this heartfelt conversation is a reminder that giving truly changes everything.    Pour a cup of something warm and take 20 minutes for a gratitude check — because sometimes, the smallest moments make the biggest difference. 

In this episode of the w(healthy) podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Danielle Nobel-Brandt to explore how the environments we live in profoundly impact our health, longevity, and overall well-being. From the role of urban planning to the social determinants of health, Danielle unpacks how the design of our cities affects everything from physical health to mental wellness. She passionately advocates for choice, equity, and the power of thoughtfully built environments to create healthier, more vibrant communities. Discover how your neighborhood might be influencing your health — and what it means to shape cities that offer everyone a fair chance at well-being. 

In this inspiring episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Ginny Becker, the Executive Director of the Children and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) in Kelowna. Known for her transformative leadership and ability to authentically push boundaries, Ginny is a driving force for system change in the region. She shares her insights on what it means to inspire action in others, proving that even small efforts can create a ripple effect of meaningful change.    Ginny also offers a glimpse into the impactful work of the CYAC, which provides vital advocacy and support for children and youth navigating challenging circumstances. With a refreshing blend of determination and compassion, she reflects on the personal values and energy that fuel her ability to tackle difficult work with kindness and unwavering resolve.    Whether you're a community advocate, a leader, or simply looking for inspiration to make a difference, this episode will leave you energized to use your own superpowers for good.    Notes: If you’d like to participate in the quick #notinmycity course Ginny refers to in this episode, or to find more information on how to spot human trafficing, please visit cyackelowna.com/not-in-my-city/