Public Health Matters

Every day, North Dakotans head to work with one goal in mind: to make it home safely at the end of the day. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, Becky sits down with Art Thompson, Director of North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI), for a conversation about workplace safety, injury prevention, and the people behind the jobs. Many people know WSI for workers' compensation, but thei...

In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re talking about Quit Week 2026 happening June 7–13 across North Dakota and this year’s message: It’s Quitting Time. Becky is joined by Neil Charvat from North Dakota’s Tobacco Prevention and Control Program to talk about what quitting really looks like today, from cigarettes to vaping to nicotine pouches. This conversation centers on support, not judgm...

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...

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 p...

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 ep...

💛 Heart-to-Heart: Keeping ND Healthy Heart 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 partnership...

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 epis...

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...

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 Dak...

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...

Episode Three – Purpose:  The Heart of Aging We’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....

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...

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 conversation...