State of Wellbeing, a podcast from South Dakota State University

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Teresa Seefeldt is joined by Malynda Mabbitt from Instructional Design Services to explore how community and belonging can be intentionally built in online courses. As online learning continues to grow, creating meaningful connections between students, instructors, and the university is more important than ever. Togeth...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Teresa Seefeldt is joined by Kevin Sackreiter, Executive Director of the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence at South Dakota State University, for a conversation on the importance of building community in the classroom. Together, they explore how relationships, belonging, and authentic connections between faculty and students support st...

In this episode, nurse practitioner April Schneider joins State of Wellbeing to discuss practical strategies for staying safe and healthy during the summer months. The episode explores the warning signs and prevention of heat-related illnesses, sun safety, environmental risks, and severe weather. The discussion offers simple, actionable guidance to help students and community members enjoy summer...

Graduation is often seen as a moment when everything is supposed to fall into place—but for many students, it’s a time filled with uncertainty, pressure, and mixed emotions. In this episode, SDSU students share honest, relatable conversations about navigating stress, comparison, and the transition from college to “what’s next.” Whether you’re graduating, supporting a student, or simply navigating...

April is Financial Literacy Month. University Wellbeing celebrated the month by hosting Level Up Your Money: A College Financial Panel on April 15, 2026. This week's episode is a recording of this panel discussion. Join our panelists, Beth Vollan from financial aid, Bruce Johnson from the Ness School of Management and Economics, Kevin Fullerton from career development, and Autumn Garr from the cou...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with campus counselor Julia Walker to take a deeper dive into social anxiety—what it is, how it differs from generalized anxiety, and why it can be especially challenging in college settings. They explore common signs and symptoms, the impact of technology and social media, and practical, evidence‑based strategies for managing a...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlyn Walters is joined by Mariah, Director of Recreation and Fitness at the Miller Wellness Center, and Mya, a graduate student and student-athlete in SDSU’s Nutrition and Dietetics program, to explore the power of nutrition and its impact on overall wellbeing. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the conversation focuses on how food fuels not...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters, Wellbeing Specialist at South Dakota State University, is joined by Alexis Truskolawski, Fraternity and Sorority Life Advisor, for an open and informative conversation about alcohol, alcohol harm reduction, and campus support resources. Together, they explore the work of ADAPT (Alcohol and Drug Awareness Prevention Team) and discuss comm...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters, wellbeing specialist at South Dakota State University, is joined by Julia Walker, counselor at the SDSU Counseling Center, to discuss Thrive in the Classroom: A Toolkit for Empowering Faculty to Nurture Healthy Learning Spaces. The toolkit is a resource that helps faculty create healthier learning environments and includes classroom acti...

This episode of State of Well-Being highlights the many benefits and opportunities available through the Miller Wellness Center at South Dakota State University, with a focus on membership, programming, and community engagement. Host Caitlin Walters is joined by Kevin, the Member Services Coordinator, who shares insights into how the facility serves not only students but also faculty, staff, and t...

This episode of the "State of Wellbeing" series focuses on decision-making, particularly from the perspective of college students. Hosted by Kevin Sackreiter, the discussion features Gabriel Hertler, a mental health counselor, as they delve into the complexities of decisions students face, including academics, relationships, and personal habits.   Learning Objectives: 1. Identify common challenges...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter talks with Dr. Katelyn Romsa and graduate student Marianna Pavlis about what resiliency really means for students, faculty, and staff at SDSU. They explore common myths, everyday ways to strengthen resilience, and the importance of support systems, boundaries, and self‑care. A quick, meaningful conversation for anyone looking to grow thr...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Nicole Gertken, Viena Klipfel, and Jasmine Monnier from the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center discuss how students can recover from mistakes and missteps and continue to have success in college. They also touch on the role of faculty and staff in supporting students through these challenges. Student Learning Outcomes: Students will recognize com...

Resiliency. Grit. Persistence. We all know these terms, but what do they really mean for our mental and physical wellbeing? In this two part episode, Senior Associate Athletic Director Holly Van Vlymen and Jackrabbit student athletes Clay Carlson and Akeela Jefferson discuss the importance of resiliency and how to build it.

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Jake Heidenreich, Fitness and Aquatics Coordinator at the Miller Wellness Center, to explore practical strategies for setting and achieving goals—just in time for the New Year. Jake shares insights on creating realistic, sustainable resolutions and explains why motivation matters. Whether you’re planning a fitness journey o...

Donna Merkt, Director of the South Dakota Art Museum, shares insights into how art supports emotional, mental, and social wellness. The episode underscores how art—whether through creation, observation, or conversation—can contribute to individual wellbeing, strengthen social connections, and enrich campus and community life.  Student Learning Outcomes: 1. Students will be able to identify and des...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, we dive into the world of dietary supplements and their role in supporting health and wellness. Host Shari Landmark, SDSU’s Chief Wellness Officer, sits down with Dr. Joe Berendse, Associate Professor in the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, to unpack common misconceptions, safety concerns, and practical tips for supplement use. From multivit...

In this episode, two Exercise Science students and members of SDSU's Exercise is Medicine initiative discuss how physical activity supports academic success and mental health and the lifelong benefits of establishing healthy routines early. Whether you're looking to start a new habit, overcome barriers like time and motivation, or learn how exercise truly is medicine for your mind and body, this c...

As we enter into December, host Toby Uecker sits down with Dr. Amy Newstrom, faculty member in the SDSU College of Nursing, to explore the realities of mental health during seasonal transitions. Together, they break down what seasonal affective disorder (SAD) truly is, how it differs from the casual idea of “winter blues,” and why the biological, social, and emotional factors behind it are more co...

In this week's State of Wellbeing episode, Caitlin Walters and Karen Eidem discuss how gratitude shapes our mental health, helps us navigate life's challenges, and brings deeper joy to everyday moments. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about slowing down, giving thanks, and embracing a more mindful, grateful approach to wellbeing.   Learning Objectives: 1. Define gratitude and explain its rol...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Shari Landmark from the SDSU Wellness Center explores how global experiences support student wellbeing, confidence, and connection. Joined by Kailee Loofe, an SDSU student and Global Ambassador, and Cassandra Stangeland, Assistant Director for Education Abroad, the conversation dives into how studying abroad expands independence, empathy, and lifelong le...

In recognition of Stress Awareness Day, the State of Wellbeing podcast brings you a discussion into the complex world of stress - what it is, how it affects the body and mind, and ways to manage it effectively.   Learning Objectives: 1. Listeners will be able to describe stress and identify ways that stress manifests. 2. Listeners will be able to create a plan with at least three ways to decrease...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Stephen Miedema, Assistant Director of Career Education at SDSU, for an open and relatable conversation about imposter syndrome — that persistent feeling of self-doubt despite clear success and capability. Together, they explore what imposter syndrome is, why it’s so common among both students and seasoned professionals, a...

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and State of Wellbeing recognizes this month through a special episode featuring Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Michaela Willis. Dr. Willis joins us to discuss her personal journey through breast cancer. She shares candid reflections on survivorship, resilience, and the emotional toll of navigating serious health challenges wh...

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head, Family Resource Management Field Specialist with SDSU Extension, to talk about financial wellbeing for college students and young adults. Together they explore the common money challenges students face—like paying for college, navigating scams, and managing limited budgets—and highlight the opport...