Today's Takeaway with Florine Mark

With Tareq Azim, entrepreneur and author

What scares you? Is it a fear of illness or death? Are you afraid of heights or enclosed spaces? Or, does the fear of failure in business or personal relationships scare you? Perhaps it’s a fear of the unknown. Some people suffer from an extreme fear of simply “being” afraid. “Phobophobia” is a rare medical condition characterized by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations or difficulty breathing that might even require a need for medication.

Although most of us don’t suffer from phobophobia, we all have times in our life when we’re afraid of something. But how that feeling of fear affects us can vary from simple anxiety to intense trauma that disrupts our daily life and could distort our perception of reality.

Whatever it is that makes our palms sweat, our heart pound, and triggers our fight or flight response, we want to run far away from whatever provokes those uncomfortable feelings. However, running away isn’t the answer. Because what happens the next time you come up against that very same fear-causing situation? Those feelings will surface again and again until we learn to overcome our fear.

One of the keys to overcoming fear is knowing what the triggers are and understanding the underlying cause. Sometimes just talking through our fear and exploring what to do in the event of a worst-case scenario might be enough to loosen the hold that phobia has over us. The very act of imagining how we would respond might provide the confidence to know we’ll get through it.

Phobias such as the fear of swimming or being underwater might be addressed over time by learning to swim and increasing our comfort level in the water. But in the beginning, just knowing what to do when we are overcome with panic is a big part of managing our fear going forward. Getting to a quiet place, calming ourselves with deep breathing exercises or meditation, and focusing our thoughts on something comforting or empowering are all things we can do in the moment to work through that fear.

If you want to learn more about how we can stop letting fear rule our lives, then please listen to Florine’s interview with entrepreneur and author, Tareq Azim, whose book, Empower, Conquering the Disease of Fear, provides some wonderful strategies for learning how to overcome our fears.

Hi, I’m Florine Mark, and welcome to “Today’s Takeaway.” Have you ever been afraid to try something because you were convinced you would fail?

Sometimes anxiety and our fear of failure can paralyze us especially if we think we’ll let others down. We may even sabotage our efforts by giving up too easily. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if we could learn to control our fear rather than allow it to control us? What if the very thing we fear most, could actually motivate us to succeed? When we are faced with no other alternative, then perhaps fear could help us achieve something we might not otherwise try.

My guest today is Tareq Azim. A former college football star, entrepreneur, and author, Tareq grew up the son of Afghan refugees, who fled the Soviet invasion with their young family, in search of a better life in America. He is also the founder of Empower, a unique fitness training facility where he works with elite athletes such as NFL superstar, Marshawn Lynch. But in addition to training sports legends, Tareq also works with ordinary individuals who aren’t professional athletes. But regardless of who he is training, Tareq’s approach is the same; he doesn’t see himself as their coach, but rather, as their teammate. Tareq is helping his teammates achieve their dreams by overcoming their fears and strengthening their mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing that his unique training methods could work in a variety of ways, Tareq wrote a book called, Empower, Conquering the Disease of Fear. He’s here today

to share his philosophy and some of his training techniques with us to help us overcome our fears.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Tareq talks about how his family coming to the United States from Afghanistan influenced the shape of his entire life.
How did sports help Tareq feel accepted and valuable growing up, and what do they mean to him today?
Tareq’s desire to join the Navy Seals or Air Force Special Operations was motivated by a desire to overcome fear and utilize it for growth.
What led Tareq to play Division 1 football?
How did Tareq end up training elite athletes?
Why does Tareq call his fitness clients his “teammates”?
Why is fear the biggest driving force in our lives?
What can we learn from fear?
How did Tareq overcome his fear when he met with a Taliban warlord to open a women’s boxing gym in Afghanistan?
What did Tareq learn from visiting Afghanistan after 9/11?
Tareq talks more about his book, Empower.

Today’s Takeaway:

Fear can paralyze us. We might be so afraid to step outside of our comfort zone or do something different, that sometimes we don’t even try! But think of all the lost opportunities! All the life experiences we may have missed out on, the jobs or promotions we failed to apply for, or the chance to start a relationship with someone. We lose out simply because we allow our fears to control us. But if we change our mindset to overcome these fears, we might be able to change our lives for the better.

Tareq’s book, Empower gives some amazing examples of just how much can be accomplished once we learn to embrace our fear. By working through that fear rather than running to avoid it, we can go far beyond what we ever imagined might be possible. Sometimes to accomplish change, instead of focusing on our differences, why not focus on what we share in common? Tareq used the shared love of sports to inspire change in Afghanistan by establishing a Women’s Boxing Federation. To gain approval for this program, Tareq had to overcome his fear when meeting with Taliban warlords. His methods demonstrate how the most important and overlooked area in our body is our brain! By working to understand what we fear and overcoming our discomfort, we can accomplish amazing things! Remember that every single day is a gift and when we embrace fear as a gift rather than a burden, we can grow even stronger with that gift and unlock our true potential. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Sports gave me freedom. Sports made me feel what I was seeking to feel, and what I still seek to feel as an adult, which is accepted, valuable, and relevant.” — Tareq [7:16]
“I realized that it was fear that was preventing our growth, and it was fear that was preventing our capability and our capacity.” — Tareq [8:31]
“I'm not necessarily fighting fear, but I’m embracing fear and utilizing it for why it exists.” — Tareq [8:51]
“I’m very, very proud of being an individual of Afghan having the American Opportunity.” — Tareq [13:11]
“We’ve been so embraced with open arms since the day we've come to this country.” — Tareq [13:43]
“I always believed that sport and physical activity is one of the most underutilized medications for mental and emotional health disorders.” — Tareq [14:26]
“My teammates, or my clients, actually do more for me than I do for them.” — Tareq [16:09]
“I’m obsessed with trying to find the biggest problems in the world that people haven’t been able to solve.” — Tareq [18:29]
“Fear is, in my perspective, actually designed to just make you conscious, and hold you accountable to your truths.” — Tareq [20:46]
“What sport gave me is this capability and this recognition of what a peace and reconciliation tool it could be for a being.” — Tareq [25:13]
“I learned the value of being and believing in destiny. I also learned about the power and the influence of intentionality and communication.” — Tareq [29:29]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Tareq on Instagram

Tareq Azim

Empower: Conquering the Disease of Fear

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With Bonnie Burk, the Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource

Despite dire predictions based on labor strikes, global wars, and the reoccurring threats of inflation and recession, employment growth in the United States remained strong throughout 2023. But what lies ahead for 2024? What industries are hiring and what markets are downsizing their employee base? Where are the best job opportunities and how does the rising demand for Artificial Intelligence and other new emerging technologies impact the employment market?

As our population ages and skilled workers retire, that leaves a shortage of qualified talent to replace them. In the past, employers would automatically disqualify or dismiss candidates without a college degree, but from a recruitment standpoint today, they might need to focus less on degree-based hiring in favor of skill-based hiring. Companies that plan to hire additional staff should be prepared to match current market wages if they hope to remain competitive and recruit quality talent.

According to Bonnie Burk, the Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource, a staffing company that specializes in IT and Computer Engineering, service industries like healthcare, hospitality, and transportation continue to be plagued by labor shortages, while other industries such as the tech sector are aggressively reducing their headcount. While their core business staff may remain intact, these companies will continue to right-size their staffing needs by trimming other departments such as legal, accounting, and HR. Although the demand for Artificial Intelligence is growing rapidly, it can’t replace the need for a creative workforce or specially trained, skilled workers.

Even as employers prioritize onsite attendance, job seekers are pushing back against the “return to office” trend in favor of remote or hybrid opportunities that offer more flexibility and a better work-life balance. While it’s expected that wages will remain relatively flat, employers may focus instead on cost-of-living increases. Mature job seekers who have suddenly found themselves unemployed may want to remember the following when updating their resumes. Make sure that the resume length is no more than two pages in total. If you fear your age might work against you, it’s okay to leave out the dates of your education and the former employment periods. For more information on current employment trends and tips, please check out Florine’s 2022 interview with Bonnie.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did Bonnie get into recruiting?
How is the job market different today than in the past?
Why are employees changing jobs so frequently today?
How can companies afford to pay what job seekers are desiring and still make money?
What are some of the biggest challenges that employees currently have in finding qualified candidates?
What about workers such as administrative professionals or technicians?
How criminal background and driving records can often be an obstacle for those seeking employment.
What industries offer the greatest hiring opportunities in today’s job market?
Why are so many long-term employees deciding on early retirement?
The importance of leaving your current place of employment on a good note.
Bonnie shares her professional recommendations for companies facing a personnel shortage.

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the biggest concerns for employers in 2022 has been the difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified employees. The Department of Labor statistics indicate there are presently 11.3 million job openings which equates to 1.7 jobs available for every unemployed person. This would suggest that job seekers would have an easy time finding a job and yet, despite aggressive salary offers, companies have been unable to fill open positions. Although the desire to work remotely has definitely impacted the current job market, that’s not the only reason why there are so many job openings. The number of highly-skilled workers who voluntarily left the workforce since 2020 seeking early retirement is significantly higher than in recent years. Replacing these individuals with their unique skill sets or finding qualified individuals who meet specific job requirements is one of the biggest challenges for companies and recruiters. Although the job market might be filled with job-seeking individuals, they may lack the credentials and skill sets needed for a particular job posting. These positions can remain open and unfilled for months if not years while the employer waits for the ideal candidate to appear.

In addition, as we’ve heard, other factors may automatically disqualify candidates from certain jobs, such as people who can’t pass background checks due to their criminal background, education level, or immigration status. So what’s the answer? Should employers relax their strict employment requirements? Offer advanced schooling grants or on-the-job training? Should the government allocate funds for tax credits in exchange for continuing education or advanced degrees in specific fields? Employers may need to rethink their approach to talent acquisition to change how they address employee retention and staffing to keep their workforce competitive. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of having an enjoyable, fulfilling job that not only allows us to pay our bills but offers the chance for continuing education and advancement is truly a gift. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The easiest way to get a bump in salary is to switch jobs.” — Bonnie [10:10]
“There is a huge skills mismatch with the people who are actively looking for a new role and the posted jobs there.” — Bonnie [12:15]
“Sometimes ageism comes into play. I see that more than any other diversity issue.” — Bonnie [17:59]
“I believe being a teacher is one of the greatest things you can do.” — Florine [19:24]
“There are so many people looking for a new role.” — Bonnie [23:48]
“For current employees, I really suggest that they (employers) upskill or cross-train and promote their internal employees. You want to hang on to the ones you already have.” — Bonnie [29:40]
“Growth doesn’t always mean a higher salary.” — Bonnie [31:58]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

IntegriSource

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With Jessica Golbus, Clinical Instructor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School

Are you familiar with the term “wearable medical technology?” If not, perhaps you should be. One of the biggest advances in the field of medicine today has been the use of medical devices like smartwatches and home health monitoring equipment. Patients and medical professionals alike have noted significant benefits when using these devices to monitor and treat a variety of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The mainstream use of wearable health technology has become so popular that insurance companies and even employers are now willing to provide these devices free of charge. Health insurance companies recognize there’s a beneficial subscriber impact from a reduction in hospital visits, which translates to huge cost savings for the insurer. By providing the subscriber with a device, the patient can now play a role in monitoring their health and be aware of any changes before they reach a critical point that requires hospital admission. Some employers are also willing to provide these devices because a healthier employee is more reliable, which equates to a reduction in employee turnover and a more stable workforce.

To learn more about the various types of devices and the role they play in aiding patient health, we’re going to be speaking with Dr. Jessica Golbus, a Clinical Instructor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School. Her research focuses on how digital health technology, like smartwatches, can improve the quality of care and treatment for patients with advanced heart disease.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What are wearable medical devices?
Some examples of wearable devices, such as the Oura ring, the AFib History App on the Apple Watch, and FitBit.
What is the Kardia6L?
How do wearable devices transmit data, and what should we do with that data?
The benefits of wearable devices such as fitness trackers.
More about the type of patient that should wear a medical device.
Other types of home monitoring equipment that are popular today.
The innovations Jessica sees for medical devices in the future.
Jessica talks more about the research she is doing at the Wearables in Reducing Risk and Enhancing Daily Life-style (WIRED-L) Center.
What types of things can we do to improve our cardiovascular health?

Today’s Takeaway:

We’re so very fortunate to live during a time when medical science and innovation play such a critical role in improving the quality of life and perhaps even saving patient lives. As we’ve heard, wearable tech devices are improving the lives of cardiac patients who are now able to monitor their condition and be alerted in the event of an irregular heartbeat. Studies indicate that cardiac rehab patients benefit from using wearable devices in conjunction with exercise-based rehabilitation programs. The latest version of the Apple Watch can actually measure an EKG to detect A-Fib and the information can be shared with their treating physicians. Diabetic patients can wear medical devices that continuously monitor blood sugar levels to alert them of changes based on their food or activity levels. These CGMs can even be used with insulin pumps that deliver insulin directly into their body when needed. According to Business Insider Intelligence research, more than a quarter of the U.S. population will use wearable technology in 2024. The field of medical technology is only in its infancy. It’s only going to continue to grow and expand from here as we continue to learn and discover what these devices can do in terms of the quality of information and care they provide. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from using the wonderful monitoring tools and devices at our disposal is a gift that can literally save lives! I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We typically think of wearable devices as capturing data passively. There are things that you’re most familiar with, such as step count, location, heart rate, sleep, which can also collect data actively.” — Jessica [5:18]
“One of the things that is interesting is you can bring together both actively and passively collected wearable devices to form kind of composite scores or to make inferences.” — Jessica [6:03]
“I think it's really important that readers understand that there is actually little ability right now for patients to share their data with their clinicians in any sort of automated fashion. It's really beholden upon them to take ownership over their wearable device data.” — Jessica [6:38]
“Not all data is created equal from a wearable device.” — Jessica [6:40]
“We can all benefit from increased physical activity. So if you think of it from that perspective, I think we could all benefit from owning a wearable device like a smartwatch.” — Jessica [10:38]
“When I think about what I'm excited about in the future, it’s about the application of this technology to improve health.” — Jessica [14:42]
“You can imagine how much more helpful it would be if I could see how somebody’s physical activity levels changed over time to get that longitudinal continuous view over their health, and so I think that that is going to be a really ripe area for research. Right now, we really don’t know how to interpret that data to make clinical decisions, and so I don’t think that the wearable device data is being used as effectively as it could be.” — Jessica [15:46]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School

Jessica Golbus

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With Cathy Russ, Director of The West Bloomfield Michigan Public Library

As the snow and cold weather arrive, there’s no better time to hunker down and catch up on our reading. But with so many newly released books, it’s hard even to know where to begin. Thankfully, your local librarian can offer some great recommendations. According to Cathy Russ, the Director of The West Bloomfield Michigan Public Library, celebrity autobiographies are extremely popular right now. In addition to number-one bestsellers by Matthew Perry and Britney Spears, recently published memoirs by Henry Winkler, Barbara Streisand, and Dolly Parton make great holiday gifts.

Or, if you prefer best-selling fiction novels, Cathy suggests, The Exchange, the sequel to John Grisham’s blockbuster novel, The Firm. If you’re looking for your next book club, check out Tom Lake, by Ann Patchett, an emotionally gripping family saga that takes place during the pandemic in Northern Michigan.

According to Cathy, the availability of digital streaming Apps like Hoopla and Kanopy makes lending libraries more accessible than ever before. In addition to eBooks and movies, you can borrow your favorite audiobook or download music to your phone. You can even take advantage of the library waiting list through the App and place a hold on a particular item. Best of all, instead of paying a monthly surcharge to your favorite music streaming service, the cost is free. Just think of the money you’ll save!

But did you know that many public libraries also offer a full range of business services? When was the last time you visited your local library? If it’s been a while, you might be surprised to learn all the amazing things the library provides these days. In addition to internet access, printing, scanning, and faxing, many libraries also have private meeting rooms available.

One of the advantages of “working” from a library is the convenient hours of operation. The majority of public libraries offer evening hours and are open seven days a week. If you need help researching a particular topic or perhaps studying industry trends for a new business venture, why not ask the librarian for help? You could even access the library database from the comfort of your own home. Finally, to keep up with all the latest offerings, you can follow your Library on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to learn about upcoming events. Please listen to Florine’s 2021 interview with Cathy Russ.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What happens at a book club?
How are book clubs organized, and who usually picks the book?
What happens if you don’t like the book you’re assigned to read?
Do themed book clubs exist?
How book clubs can help you expand your knowledge and even what you are interested in reading.
What are some of the most popular authors and books right now?
What are Book Group kits?
Cathy talks about a few of her favorite books that she’s read this year, including Firekeeper’s Daughter and The Thursday Murder Club.
What is the Best Seller’s Club and the Reader’s Advisory?
Some of the fun and fabulous events and programming at the West Bloomfield Public Library.
Cathy explains the benefits of two apps: Hoopla and Kanopy.

Today’s Takeaway:

Talking about a well-loved book is not only fun, but it can also enhance our understanding of others who have differing perspectives. By reading and learning about other races, cultures, or philosophies, we put ourselves into the mindset and emotions of others who think and live differently than we do. Discussing a particularly thought-provoking book with others can introduce unfamiliar concepts that may be foreign to our experience but might ultimately foster a greater sense of unity and actually bring people together or inspire compromise. Instead of observing from a distance, perhaps we may learn the reasons behind their beliefs or actions. And at a time when we are so divided as a nation and as a society, that can only be a good thing! In addition, public libraries offer many free resources and the opportunity to participate in fun community events. If you haven’t visited your public library in a while, what are you waiting for? There’s no better gift right now than treating yourself to your new favorite book and taking some much-needed “me time” to pause, read and reflect! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Book clubs can be organized in whatever way suits the book club. Some people have a book club, but it's really a wine club where they occasionally talk about books. Some people really want to get right into the book and only talk about the book. So I think the important thing is however the club is organized is that it meets the needs of its members.” — Cathy [5:16]
“The key to the organization of book clubs is just to make sure everybody's on the same page, if you will, and that everybody understands what the purpose is.” — Cathy [5:55]
“That's the beauty of book clubs because it’s not one size fits all. And it really can be tailored to what you want it to be.” — Cathy [8:11]
“Some of the best book discussions come from when people don’t like the book.” — Cathy [8:40]
“You have a different take on it than I do, and we can have a cool discussion just about that.” — Cathy [12:19]
“Virtual book clubs grew in popularity, because it was a way for people to connect, and it was a way for people to talk about something other than the pandemic, and talk about stories and stay in touch and have discussions that weren't about politics necessarily, or about things that were dividing us, but things that were bringing us together.” — Cathy [13:04]

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

West Bloomfield Public Library

West Bloomfield Public Library Facebook

West Bloomfield Public Library Instagram

Cathy Russ on LinkedIn

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir

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With Haley Cassar, professional makeup artist and skin care advocate

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a professional makeup artist working behind the scenes at a fashion show or photoshoot? Behind those beautiful, glamorous photos, the makeup artist is busy putting in days or even weeks of research and preparation ahead of the shoot to achieve the client’s theme and artistic vision.

While most of us don’t have the opportunity to appear in a designer fashion show, we can still book an appointment for a professional makeup application. And with the holidays right around the corner, there’s no better time to start planning our look for that special occasion. A good starting point is knowing what colors and techniques are trending right now. According to professional makeup artist and skin care advocate, Haley Cassar, big, bold statement lips paired with smokey eyes in bronze or brown shades are especially popular right now. Hair can be worn up or pulled back and accessorized with headbands and clips. Add a bit more blush and false lashes and you’re ready for your big night out!

Since having a professional makeup artist isn’t an everyday option for most of us, we asked Haley what are some of the biggest mistakes women make when applying their own makeup? Not surprisingly, she said that wearing too much makeup when we’re trying to cover up imperfections can actually backfire and draw more attention if it looks caked on. Keep in mind that not every new trend or technique is right for you. For example, if you have a very narrow face, contouring can make your features look harsh. When working with a new client, Haley says that the first step is to carefully evaluate their appearance and accentuate their natural beauty.

A professional makeup artist knows how to minimize a particular feature by covering up thin lips, large pores, or droopy eyelids. But the most important tip of all is to apply makeup in a way that will compliment your features and enhance your appearance. If you want to hear more skincare and makeup tips, please check out Florine’s interview with Haley Cassar.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How Haley’s background as an artist helped her get into beauty and skin care.
Why is having a good skincare routine the first step in applying makeup?
What are the main steps for a good skincare routine?
What are retinol and hyaluronic acid, and what do they do?
The most important things to remember when applying makeup.
What is a tinted moisturizer, and why does Haley recommend them?
What is a “no makeup” makeup look?
Haley’s pick for her product to get that “no makeup makeup” look.
Why do women get stuck in a rut or a dated routine with their makeup application?
Tips for building a base before you put on makeup so that it lasts for the whole day.
How can we achieve that glamorous look?

Today’s Takeaway:

I know I look better when I take the time to put a touch of makeup on. From a mental health standpoint, doing something that makes us feel better about ourselves is a sign of a healthy sense of self and indicative of good self-care. For me, it’s part of my daily routine and when I’m getting dressed in the morning or applying a little makeup, I like to listen to music. It’s also a great time to listen to a podcast and just enjoy some soothing “me time.” Having a routine that is familiar and a constant in our lives can feel very comforting. Remember that every day is a gift and sometimes the simplest of things, such as routinely applying makeup, styling our hair, or doing those early morning stretches to make ourselves start the day with a smile can be the best gift of all. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You want to have a really good skincare routine because you want your face to be like a smooth canvas.” — Haley [6:18]
“Always make sure you have built your layers with your skincare first. Always, always, always.” — Haley [10:38]
“The “no makeup makeup” is when you're using the least amount of things possible to make you feel comfortable to get out the door.” — Haley [12:46]
“If I had to pick one makeup to use the rest of my life as a “no makeup makeup” look, it would be mascara.” — Haley [13:21]
“It's really just what makes you feel comfortable and what gives you a little bit of alertness to your look.” — Haley [13:46]
“I use all different products from all different locations and I always use them on myself first before I use them on a client.” — Haley [16:28]
“I just think that switching up your routine will help you get kind of out of a rut. Small little tweaks make the biggest difference.” — Haley [16:50]
“I think if you're ever going to a special occasion… wear lashes. You can never go wrong with lashes.” — Haley [19:52]

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Haley Cassar

Haley Cassar on Linkedin

Dermologica

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With Denise Ilitch, podcaster and President of Ilitch Enterprises

When you grow up in one of the most influential and successful families in the country, your family name and reputation precede you. People may feel they know you before you’ve even been introduced. While a family name can open doors and expose you to amazing opportunities, there is also the inherited weight of that family legacy.

Denise Ilitch recalls how her parents invested their life savings in a little pizza store in Garden City, Michigan. Although it was a big risk, that purchase eventually became the fastest-growing pizza franchise in America. It paved the way for what is now one of the most successful global enterprises in the world. Today, the Ilitch family empire includes two major league sports teams, several entertainment complexes, and extensive real estate holdings. Mike and Marian Ilitch never took their success for granted and believed in the importance of giving back to those less fortunate. They first opened the Little Caesars Love Kitchen in 1985 as a way to aid disaster victims and feed the hungry. To date, more than 6.5 million meals have been provided to those in need. Founded in 2000, the Ilitch Charities organization made it possible to do more and they’ve donated thousands of volunteer hours and $250 million to worthy causes in support of community programs.

From an early age, Denise was taught to prioritize hard work and the importance of giving back. When her father would ask, “What did you contribute to the world today?” there was never any doubt as to what was expected of her and Denise embraced that challenge fully. Today, Denise is considered one of the most influential businesswomen in America. Over the past 30 years, she has distinguished herself as a respected business leader, an advocate for women and children, an outspoken community leader, and a philanthropist. She’s also a mother and devoted Grandmother.

In addition to her duties as President of Ilitch Enterprises, LLC, Denise will launch her campaign for a third term as a University of Michigan Regent along with the next season of her podcast, “The Denise Ilitch Show.” Well-versed in politics, Denise is a frequent guest on the Sunday CBS News Morning roundtable, “Michigan Matters.” She recently appeared alongside Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett and CEO of Michigan Business Network, Chris Holman, touching on a wide range of topics from the UAW strike, the horrific terrorist attack in Israel, and the Detroit Lions. You won’t want to miss Florine’s interview with the very accomplished and inspirational, Denise Ilitch.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was it like for Denise growing up in a family of seven children, that also happened to be one of the most powerful families in the U.S.?
Why did Denise’s father and mother decide on pizza?
What was Little Caesars like from the beginning, before it became one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the country?
What lessons did Denise learn from both her very successful father and mother?
Denise’s parents were both different personalities, but they worked together perfectly.
Much to Florine’s delight, Denise’s mother, Marian, was the first guest on her “Remarkable Women” radio show.
The Ilitch family’s vital role in rebuilding the city of Detroit and renovating The Fox Theater.
Denise discusses Ilitch Charities and Little Caesars Love Kitchen.
What it was like for her father Mike to purchase the Detroit Tigers as a huge baseball lover. Fun fact — he was even drafted by the Tigers before buying them in 1992!
Denise’s tragic loss of a brother due to addiction, and the lesson it taught her about how important it is to reach out for help.
Denise talks about her role as a Regent at the University of Michigan.
What are the biggest issues facing women and children today?
What would we be surprised to learn about Denise?

Today’s Takeaway:

Being named one of Crain’s 100 Most Influential Women is a tremendous honor. Just as her mother was previously recognized for the very same award, Denise exemplifies what it means to be one of the city’s most influential women. She’s an outstanding businesswoman, community leader, and someone who advocates tirelessly on behalf of others. Denise inherited a family legacy that’s been credited with rebuilding a major American city. She was taught the importance of giving back to the community and guards her family legacy with grace and dignity. She continues to inspire and provide leadership in business, philanthropy, and education. Denise uses her podcast as a platform to motivate and inform others. Her guests are people she admires for their confidence, perseverance, and how they dealt with adversity. Every single day gives us gifts. My gift today is to talk to Denise and honor her for all the wonderful and amazing things that she has done in her life. She is truly an outstanding woman and role model! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Many people told them pizza was a trend, but of course, he proved it wasn’t.” — Denise [7:28]

“We all ended up at some point or another working in the family business because that’s what it was when we started from day one.” — Denise [8:18]

“There are so many lessons I’ve learned from [my father]. But, I would say probably the biggest lesson is to be kind to others, to be humble, and to give back to the community.” — Denise [9:02]

“What I admire about my mom and what I’ve seen her do in the business is that she perseveres. Failure is not an option.” — Denise [10:44]

“He bought the Tigers and for him, it was a dream come true. It was really like watching a passionate fan run the team.” — Denise [17:26]

“Reach out for help, as much as you can.” — Denise [18:08]

“I encourage people, not to allow that stigma to stand in the way of getting help for your loved one.” — Denise [19:32]

“It’s a family disease, not just the disease of one person.” — Denise [19:42]

“It's a privilege for me to be a regent at the University of Michigan. It's my alma mater. I love the University and I love the work that we do. It's very exciting and fun to be on the board because you can help students and you can help people.” — Denise [20:51]

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Denise Ilitch — The University of Michigan

Little Caesars

Ilitch Companies

Denise Ilitch Show

Detroit Tigers

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With Sterling Hawkins, Motivational Speaker, Business Consultant and Author

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your life is falling apart and you feel like a total failure? Perhaps you’ve been laid off from your dream job or a long-standing relationship is suddenly over. You might feel as if your entire world has come crashing down.

When we’re at a low point in our lives, the obstacles in front of us may seem insurmountable. We know things will eventually get better, but how can we dig ourselves out of this hole and find the strength to go on? It’s hard to even know where to begin.

Perhaps the answer might be staring us right in the face. Maybe the very thing we fear most can become the pathway forward. According to business consultant, motivational speaker, and author,

Sterling Hawkins, fear shouldn’t paralyze us or be an excuse not to pursue our dreams. Sterling says we should actively seek out the source of our discomfort, and then face it head-on rather than run from it.

During an interview with Florine in September of 2022, Sterling spoke about his book, “Hunting Discomfort.” Sterling shares how he overcame his own deepest fear and how he was able to find success. If you want to learn more about his step-by-step plan to get past the fears that block you from achieving your dreams, please listen to Florine’s interview with Sterling Hawkins.

Please note: This episode was recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How does discomfort negatively affect us?
Sterling describes “discomfort” from a business or corporate perspective.
Sterling’s fall from the top after thinking he was going to cash in selling his business. He found himself in his 30s, six figures in debt, living with his parents, and feeling inadequate.
Why is turning away discomfort so detrimental to us?
What if you are already uncomfortable and fear embracing even more discomfort?
What are our “discomfort defaults”?
How did Sterling overcome his fear of public speaking, even after his first presentation in Singapore when he felt as if he had failed?
The 5 Steps to Getting Through Discomfort.
What is a street gang?
Sterling gives a few inspirational success stories from clients and people he’s met along the way.

Today’s Takeaway:

Sterling’s book is called “Hunting Discomfort.” In his book, he provides a terrific five-step plan for how to overcome our biggest challenges. We don’t have to deny ourselves the career success or the personal achievements we dream of, simply because it hasn’t worked out in the past. Instead, think of today as a fresh start and a chance for a “do-over.” Are you willing to pursue your dream “No Matter What”? If so, then the first step is identifying the obstacles that have previously blocked you from reaching your goals. Allowing your past to control your future limits your true potential. It’s important to remember that the past is simply that, the past. It has little or no bearing on the present or the future unless we choose to let it. Don’t resign yourself and think this is just the way it is. It doesn’t have to be — not if you’re willing to do the hard work by facing your discomfort.

Start thinking of your belief system as a muscle that needs to be exercised. Remember the very first time you tried a physical fitness workout and you were convinced you’d never be able to do it? But over time and with repetition, you were successful. Do you remember how wonderful it felt? Despite your doubts, you pushed through the discomfort to get the desired result. It’s the same way with challenging our beliefs, we need to push past those thoughts that are crippling our progress.

Instead of accepting the status quo, dream bigger and reach higher! Challenge yourself! Stop letting those feelings of doubt and fear block you! Do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Make that commitment! That new and different experience could be just what you need to jumpstart the future you dream of. Sterling teaches us that growth is only possible if we lean into the discomfort and face it head-on. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of feeling that discomfort could lead to growth and ultimately, put you on the path to success. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I went from this sure thing of success, we’re going to all go public and buy islands and crown ourselves the next Steve Jobs, to living in my parents' house in my 30s, which is quite a humbling experience, I have to say.” — Sterling [7:75]
“The only way out is through.” — Robert Frost [8:45]
“I said, okay, if the way out is through, I’m going to go after the things that scare me most.” — Sterling [10:00]
“Your greatest challenges are the doorways to what will become your greatest successes.” — Sterling [12:38]
“You’re not only the joy and the happiness and the good times. You’re equally and just as validly, the uncomfortable moments, the painful moments, the sorrowful moments, maybe even anger-filled moments.” — Sterling [13:37]
“If you want to build your resilience, your courage, your breakthrough results, you hunt the discomfort, no matter what form it’s in and no matter how it feels.” — Sterling [16:39]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Hunting Discomfort: How to Get Breakthrough Results in Life and Business No Matter What, by Sterling Hawkins

Sterling Hawkins

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With Lisa Lapides Sawicki, Certified Life Coach and Motivational Speaker

We frequently hear the term “self-sabotage” but what does it mean? What is self-sabotage and how can it harm us? When we act, consciously or unconsciously, in a way that prevents us from achieving a long-desired goal, that is self-sabotage. Common examples of sabotaging behaviors might take the form of missing an important deadline at work, eating a tub of ice cream while on a diet to lose weight, self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, or abruptly ending a happy relationship, simply out of a fear of being hurt. In each of these examples, the person who self-sabotages does so out of an abundance of fear that they will ultimately fail. As a result, they quit before they can be seen as a failure by others. But quitting on their own initiative feels like the safer option because it gives them the control.

What causes us to self-sabotage? We all have unresolved issues. For example, if a person has a history of low self-esteem, a difficult childhood, or an emotionally abusive relationship, these are just a few of the issues that can lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. If you haven’t dealt with your personal demons and believe you’re not deserving or worthy of success, you may find yourself creating barriers that prevent it.

A person can spend their entire life being unwilling to “put themselves out there” because of their fear of failure. But the good news is that we can learn how to overcome our self-destructive tendencies. If you want to learn how to recognize this pattern, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview with Certified Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, Lisa Lapides Sawicki. Lisa’s workshops help uncover how our thoughts, feelings, and actions direct our lives and more importantly, how we can learn to change our behavior and overcome these destructive impulses.

Please note: This episode was recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why do we self-sabotage?
What are some common ways that people sabotage themselves?
Examples of negative self-beliefs and habits that keep people stuck or sabotaging their dreams to stay safe.
Can self-sabotage be related to addiction?
People may respond negatively or in unkind ways when you set boundaries and stop self-sabotaging.
Is self-sabotage always connected to achieving a goal?
What does Lisa mean by the “monkey mind”?
How can we break through self-sabotage in a positive way?
How to deal with people who are jealous or insecure about your success or who try to sabotage your dreams.
How our background and childhood could affect how we think and talk to ourselves about what’s possible.
Why people sabotage themselves in romantic relationships.
What is cognitive dissonance?
How do we learn to stop sabotage?

Today’s Takeaway:

A fear of commitment, low self-esteem, or feeling that we don’t deserve to be happy or successful in life are just some of the reasons why we deliberately sabotage ourselves. If you’re always missing out on that dream job or if that happy long-term relationship is just out of reach, maybe it’s time to ask yourself if you are the obstacle. Are you getting in the way of achieving your hopes and dreams? There is nothing shameful in admitting we might be sabotaging ourselves. You may need help in overcoming those behaviors but think of it as an opportunity to learn and grow so you can finally be happy to live the life you desire.

Stop procrastinating. The future you dream of starts now! Set a realistic and attainable goal for yourself and go after it. Put together a “road map” outlining each of the steps along your journey to success. Instead of taking actions that undermine your progress, hold yourself accountable by sharing your progress with your support team at every stage of the journey. Celebrate every small victory and be proud of your accomplishment! If you do that consistently and enjoy each small step, you’ll be well on your way to realizing your dreams. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from changing our behavior to ensure we accomplish our goals is a gift that will keep on giving. You too can realize your dreams and build the life you always dreamed of for yourself. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Self-sabotage is when we actively, passively or unconsciously think thoughts and take action (or no action) that absolutely sabotages our success, wants, goals, or desires.” — Lisa [4:45]
“For some people, they have really big regrets when they don’t accomplish something that they have continued to self-sabotage their whole life.” — Lisa [5:51]
“I think overwhelmingness can be self-sabotage. Pressure, not focusing, being too embarrassed to share with people some of their goals.” — Lisa [7:15]
“A lot of people have a fear of success, and they absolutely sabotage their opportunities when they come up.” — Lisa [7:26]
“If you make your custom design plan, it doesn't have to be anybody else's plan. It's your plan.” — Lisa [8:12]
“I think it’s about boundary setting with other people when you want to go through a desired goal or new behavior.” — Lisa [10:06]
“There’s a lot of ways besides our goals that we self-sabotage. It’s like that monkey mind that comes.” — Lisa [11:20]
“You only have one day. It’s today.” — Florine [14:03]
“It’s a realistic self-awareness and a realistic response to what’s happening. It’s not just asking for a pie-in-the-sky result, but really saying, ‘I can positively handle whatever happens.’” — Lisa [14:11]
“It’s not about the outside world. It’s about working with who you are and doing the big things you want to do, and not letting anyone stop how far you want to go.” — Lisa [14:33]
“It takes a really strong person to not fall prey to the criticisms and the judgments of other people.” — Lisa [16:43]
“It's been fairly recent, but it's been a process of self-evolving and self-awareness and self-coaching.” — Lisa [19:54]
“We are going to be imperfect and we need to accept that.” — Lisa [31:33]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Lisa Lapides Sawicki

Self Coach Now Website

IG: @mycoachlisa

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With Dr. Kim Eagle, a cardiologist from the University of Michigan and the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center.

Did you know that October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month? What is a sudden cardiac arrest and how does it differ from a heart attack? Although the two are thought to be similar, they are actually quite different. A heart attack occurs when there is an insufficient flow of blood to the heart. This is typically caused by a circulatory problem such as a blockage or an Aneurysm. But a sudden cardiac arrest results from “an electrical failure” where the heart malfunctions due to an irregular rhythm and suddenly stops beating. While a heart attack may be preceded by a history of warning symptoms, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, a sudden cardiac arrest or SCA usually occurs without warning, and in 95% of the cases, it will be fatal. Although an unexpected blow to the chest, such as the one suffered by the Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin, could disrupt the heart’s electrical rhythm, an acute onset of emotional distress or anxiety could also trigger life-threatening arrhythmias. The signs of sudden cardiac arrest are a sudden collapse and the loss of consciousness. If a person has stopped breathing after collapsing, it is likely they’re experiencing an SCA. It is critical to act immediately by calling 911 and promptly administering CPR. The likelihood of survival may increase if you have access to a portable defibrillator, more commonly known as an AED. These devices are frequently found in public places such as sports stadiums and come equipped with voice-guided instructions for use by untrained individuals. Prior to her death in October of 2023, Florine recorded an interview with Dr. Kim Eagle, a renowned cardiologist from the University of Michigan and the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center. If you want to learn more about the signs and symptoms of heart disease and the simple lifestyle changes that could lessen your risk of a heart attack, please listen to Florine’s interview with Dr. Eagle.

Please note: This episode was previously recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How does heart disease impact other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity?
What type of screening occurs for cardiac health?
The importance of getting an annual physical.
How does the lack of resources affect those who get treated for cardiovascular disease?
What are four simple things we can do to improve our heart health today?
What foods should we avoid for heart disease, and which should we try to eat more of?
What about coffee or alcohol?
How regular exercise helps to extend our life span.
How Dr. Kim gets in his 10,000+ steps a day.

Today’s Takeaway:

I want to thank Dr. Kim Eagle for being my guest today. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every 36 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease. On an annual basis, every one in four deaths in the U.S. are caused by heart disease. Since 2014, the financial toll in the U.S. from heart-related deaths including medical services, prescription drugs, and loss of productivity due to death exceeds $219 billion per year. That’s $219 billion and this year's numbers might well exceed that figure due to the complications of COVID-19! Something’s got to change. If you want to ensure that you and your loved ones don’t become part of these statistics, Dr. Eagle has given us four simple changes that you can implement today. If you just follow his suggestions, you can lessen your risk of developing heart disease. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

When we talk to patients about trying to understand their risk and prevent future events, the first thing is to start with understanding their numbers, and that requires them to work with a doctor.” — Dr. Eagle [4:52]
“It's very important to have an annual physical.” — Dr. Eagle [6:05]
“Cardiovascular disease and resources matter.” — Dr. Eagle [6:35]
“When there is a disparity of socio-economic status, this can then lead to a lack of access to medical care, preventive therapies, and so forth.” — Dr. Eagle [7:51]
“If you look at your plate, you want your plate to be rich in color, full of fruits and fresh vegetables.” — Dr. Eagle [12:07]
“A Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, where the protein is a healthy protein.” — Dr. Eagle [13:11]
“Any movement at all is incredibly healthy for cardiovascular health, and also mental health.” — Dr. Eagle [16:37]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Kim Eagle Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Health

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With David Norec, author and activist

The rate of childhood or pediatric obesity has increased dramatically in the past few years with approximately one-third of children in the U.S. diagnosed as overweight or obese. While many people may dismiss childhood obesity as something they’ll eventually grow out of, more often than not, obese children become obese adults who risk developing any number of health-related issues. Sadly, these same health consequences might have been avoided if their obesity had been addressed in childhood. Being overweight significantly increases the likelihood of a child developing type 2 diabetes and other potential health consequences, such as high blood pressure and sleep apnea, that could result from childhood obesity. Pediatric diabetes also increases the likelihood of developing serious health complications later in life such as retinopathy, neuropathy, kidney, and cardiovascular disease. But the risk is not just limited to physical consequences. Childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes are also associated with an increased risk for psychological problems such as severe depression, binge eating, and an overall reduced quality of life. Today, we’re going to be speaking with David Norec, an author and activist who is drawing attention to the problem of childhood obesity through his books and combating it in a wonderfully creative manner.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

David talks about how diabetes has impacted his life and affected his family.
What was it like for David growing up in the most obese city in America?
How did David get diagnosed with diabetes, and how has he changed his life?
What is type 2 diabetes and how does it differ from type 1?
The importance of getting physical movement every day. For David, it’s his daily walks at the mall.
What inspired David to write a book and create an action plan to address the problems of childhood obesity and diabetes?
More about David’s book, Exo and Cy, and how it inspires both parents and children to win the battle against obesity.
What are Storybook Walks and Fit Lit parks that encourage families to get out in the world and move?
Why a healthy lifestyle can be an ingredient in academic success.

Today’s Takeaway:

Childhood obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S., particularly in socioeconomically deprived communities where children don’t have access to healthy, well-balanced meals. As we learned from David, for the past six years, McAllen, Texas has been named the fattest city in America. Over 40% of the population in the Rio Grande Valley is currently obese or diabetic. Studies indicate that being overweight as a child or adolescent is one of the biggest risks for type 2 diabetes, especially when combined with a family history of diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle. That’s truly frightening when you consider that more than 1.5 million deaths a year are directly attributed to diabetes. But as we’ve heard today, early intervention is the key. Educating children and their parents on the importance of proper nutrition and daily physical activity is the first step. Making sure that at-risk children, especially those with food insecurity issues, have access to healthy meal options and safe opportunities for daily physical fitness can go a long way toward reversing a family history of obesity. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from giving children the tools to become their own best health advocate from a young age, is a gift that will keep on giving for a lifetime! I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Diabetes is my family member, which is ridiculous and sad, but that’s my life.” — David [3:20]
“It’s a sad and slow process and it’s very difficult to see your loved ones go through that.” — David [5:20]
“It has to be part of life, and not just for diabetes, but other obesity-related illnesses, to just do something rather than just sitting inside and not doing anything.” — David [8:21]
“It’s too late for my brothers and too late for my sister, but it’s not too late for the next generation.” — David [9:14]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Adventures of Exo and Cy

David Norec: Instagram

David Norec: LinkedIn

David Norec: Website

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With Dr. Kurt Wharton, OBGYN, Chief of Women’s and Children’s Clinical Care at Corewell Health, and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oakland University, William Beaumont School of Medicine.

Have you or someone you know ever suffered from postpartum depression? If so, then you know how devastating this potentially life-threatening condition can be for mothers and their newborn babies. Bringing an infant home for the first time should be a blissful experience for a new mother. She’s finally able to spend some precious time getting acquainted and bonding with her child. But instead, she’s experiencing an ongoing nightmare of fear, anxiety, depression, and guilt. She may feel so much shame about not being the happy, perfect mother she dreamed of, that she’s afraid to admit how she’s struggling. But keeping those feelings secret, can make her feel even more alone and isolated. Although the severity of symptoms can vary greatly, approximately one out of seven new mothers in the United States will experience some form of postpartum depression this year. In its most extreme form, mothers may be driven to the point of suicide and may even attempt to harm their beloved child. Make no mistake about it-these mothers love and desperately want only the best for their child, but when caught in the grip of mental illness, they may lose all sense of reality.

What causes postpartum depression and how is it treated? To learn more about this insidious condition and all about the new drug that was recently approved to combat it, we’re going to be speaking with Dr. Kurt Wharton, OBGYN, Chief of Women’s and Children’s Clinical Care at Corewell Health, and Professor of obstetrics and gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What exactly is postpartum depression, and why do some women get it and some don’t?
What are some of the reasons that women have postpartum depression?
Who are some celebrities and public voices that have spoken out about postpartum depression to help take the stigma away?
Does postpartum depression affect women of all ages?
What are some of the symptoms of postpartum depression, and how is it diagnosed?
Some staggering statistics: up to 20% of women may suffer from postpartum depression, which can equal up to 560,000 women every year.
Is a history of depression before pregnancy an added risk?
What is the greatest barrier to treating postpartum depression?
Dr. Kurt talks about some of the recent breakthroughs in medicine used for postpartum depression now.
How do we move past the stigma of mental health, and is there any hope for those listening who may suffer from PPD now?
What was Florine’s experience like with postpartum depression?

Today’s Takeaway:

At long last, a medication is available that offers relief for patients. In some patients, promising results are seen within a matter of days. With every day that passes without the crippling fear, guilt, anxiety, and depression that characterizes PPD, these women are finally able to spend time bonding with their newborn infants and experience the true joy of motherhood. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift associated with bringing a baby into this world should be a time filled with love, joy, excitement, and discovery. A new mother should never be deprived of this special time. Post-Partum Depression or PPD is an illness. Please remember there’s no shame in admitting when we need help to overcome depression. And now that help is available, please take advantage of it for you and your precious baby! I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Interestingly, many people know they have it. I’ve had several patients refer themselves to me. But that’s not enough because sadly, we know that at least 50% of all cases are not diagnosed at all and they are missed.” — Kurt [5:00]
“It’s supposed to be a time you’re expected to be excited and to admit that you’re not happy and not feeling well; women are just too afraid to say that. So what we do is we have to ask.” — Kurt [5:20]
“It can happen to any woman at any time of the situation, and each pregnancy can be different.” — Kurt [6:14]
“Every woman is at risk. There are women who are at higher risk who do just fine and women who appear to have no risk factors at all, other than the fact that they had a baby. So we have to give everyone that same opportunity to receive help.” — Kurt [9:39]
“Mental health should be looked upon equally as we do all other medical conditions, whether it’s heart disease, joint disease, infectious disease, diabetes.” — Kurt [11:29]
“If we don’t treat them, we do know what the outcome will be.” — Kurt [11:59]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Kurt Wharton LinkedIn

Dr. Kurt Wharton- Beaumont Health

Corewell Health Obstetrics and Gynecology

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With Jaye Sciullo, Michigan Executive Director of Susan G. Komen & Dr. Shoshana Hallowell, Surgical Oncologist at Ascension Health

The month of October is “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.” Throughout the month, we see the color pink everywhere to remind us of the critical need for early cancer detection and immediate access to the very best care. The entire month is symbolized by events and crowds dressed in pink, taking to the streets, chanting, and hoisting colorful signs. Pink merchandise of all types is available for purchase and there are even special pink pizza delivery boxes. For years, NFL players even wore pink on the playing field to help raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.

Although there’s an upbeat, fun quality to this carnival atmosphere, the sobering cause behind it remains the same. This year, more than 44,000 women in the U.S. alone could die from this disease. The two most common risk factors for developing breast cancer are being born female and getting older. Having a family history of breast cancer could increase that risk.

But the news is not all bad. Early detection is one of the biggest weapons that we have in fighting the disease and proper screening can literally save lives. In addition, prioritizing good habits such as maintaining a healthy weight, proper nutrition, limiting alcohol consumption and regular exercise may lower your risk of breast cancer. Finally, it’s important to remember that even if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there are promising new treatments on the horizon that have proven effective in blocking a cancer cell’s ability to proceed through the growth cycle, thereby preventing the cancer from spreading. Last year, Florine interviewed Jaye Sciullo, the Executive Director for the Michigan chapter of Susan G. Komen, and Dr. Shoshana Hallowell, a surgical oncologist with Ascension Health. Please listen to Florine’s interview and learn how you can join the fight against breast cancer.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

When did Jaye become involved with Susan G. Komen?
The two major types of breast cancer.
Why is breast cancer harder to treat than other cancers?
Is it common to have the cancer go into the lymph nodes?
What can we do to lessen our risk of cancer?
Why is it important to get early screening and mammograms?
70% of breast cancers diagnosed in women under the age of 50 have been found by the women themselves.
What is the BRCA gene, and how do you get tested?
Susan G. Komen’s 360-degree approach to conquer breast cancer and provide support.
What role can a co-survivor play in help and healing?
How can you help a loved one who may have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer?
Some of the newer modalities to treat breast cancer and some promising news on the horizon.
How a healthy lifestyle can help decrease your risk of developing cancer.
What is a “smart bomb”?

Today’s Takeaway:

A cancer diagnosis is life-changing and we’re often filled with fear and uncertainty as to what may lie ahead. But the mission of the Susan G. Komen organization is dedicated to making sure that no breast cancer patient has to go it alone. Since Susan G. Komen was founded in 1986, we have seen a 40% reduction in breast cancer mortality. The Komen organization is committed to being alongside the patient throughout the entirety of their cancer journey. In addition to providing financial support when needed, there are virtual nurse navigators who will assist patients in preparing for doctors’ appointments and provide a list of necessary questions to ask. Afterward, they can also help explain the mass of information that patients receive. Based on the statistics shared today, we all probably know someone battling breast cancer. We are hopeful that soon we can find a cure so that future generations can look forward to a life without this deadly disease. Remember that every single day is a gift and even when life throws us a curveball, we have the gift of freedom of choice. We get to choose our response and how we handle adversity is up to each and every one of us. We can choose to fight our battle with grace, dignity, and courage, knowing that we will find the support we need every step of the way. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I think that it is difficult these days to not be touched by breast cancer in some way.” — Jaye [4:55]
“I can be an advocate and I can be knowledgeable about the patient experience. But it isn’t the same as experiencing it myself. And I try to be careful about not speaking for the breast cancer community in that capacity.” — Jaye [5:05]
“Breast cancer is harder to treat because it’s very complex. It’s one of the few cancers that not only does tumor size and location matter but also how the tumor responds to hormones and different proteins.” — Dr. Shoshana Hallowell [6:26]
“There are many things that you can do to lessen your risk of developing cancer. I think the most important thing is to be aware of your own health.” — Dr. Shoshana Hallowell [7:12]
“Susan G. Komen is committed to a world without breast cancer. And our mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs of our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.” — Jaye [11:54]
“Ask the patient what they need. Not everyone needs a freezer full of casseroles or is ready to answer questions about what is inherently a very, very private diagnosis.” — Jaye [13:45]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Susan G. Komen

Ascension Health

Shoshana Hallowell, MD

Stand For H.E.R

Race for the Cure

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With Sandra Ali, award-winning journalist and news anchor

Do you know that one of the most stressful life events a person can experience is a job change? Even if we’re leaving for more money or a better opportunity, we may still feel a tremendous sense of anxiety at the thought of “starting over” and having to prove ourselves in a new position. The very thought of change can be stressful and sometimes we may avoid making a change simply because we feel more comfortable in our current situation. For example, perhaps you’re unhappy in your current living situation but the thought of packing up and moving to a new home is just too overwhelming. However, staying somewhere just because it feels “comfortable” doesn’t lead to happiness or fulfillment. While a career or housing move are examples of major life changes we initiate, sometimes changes come without warning or action on our part. The loss of a loved one, going through a separation or divorce, undergoing major surgery, or being terminated from a job are examples of stressful life events. But sometimes even these traumatic life-altering events can eventually result in positive changes. For example, breaking off a toxic or unhealthy relationship can lead to other happier relationships. Moving to a new home can be a wonderful chance to meet new friends and improve our quality of life.

When we have an opportunity in front of us, we have to carefully evaluate and weigh out the options. How do we know when to make a change in our life? What is the right time to leave the comfortable and familiar “nest” to try something different? My guest today is award-winning news anchor, Sandra Ali. After more than a decade at the local NBC Affiliate, WDIV, Sandra recently became the news anchor at CBS News Detroit Morning. For many years, CBS didn’t have a local presence. Now the network is fully committed to earning their place as Detroit’s preferred source for up-to-the-minute news. Sandra is part of the winning team to make that happen. We’re going to talk with her about what led to this change and how she knew it was the right time.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did Sandra know it was time to make a change?
As a single mother, what was the thought process for Sandra to make a big career switch?
What were some of Sandra’s biggest concerns and challenges with making a major move?
What about the fear of regretting a decision?
How Sandra prioritizes herself and her wellness during her busy schedule.
What were some of Sandra’s favorite moments while at WDIV?
What about this move to CBS News Detroit Morning has surprised Sandra the most and made her the happiest?
Sandra shares some great advice for those who may be looking to make a big change in their life.

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the life lessons we’ve heard from Tony Robbins is the saying, “By changing nothing, nothing changes.” As scary as the thought of making a major change is, if we’re unhappy or dissatisfied with our life, then perhaps, a fresh start is the answer. If it’s a situation at work that’s bringing you down, then finding a new opportunity where you feel energized, valued, and productive may be just what you need. If a relationship is causing more unhappiness than joy and you simply can’t work it out, it may be a sign that this relationship is not healthy for you. As we’ve heard today, making a choice to go in a different direction from our familiar path is never an easy one, but ultimately it can bring us to a much better place than we’re at now. If you’re contemplating making a big change and you’re finding it difficult to come to a decision, take a step back to look at it objectively. Write down all the major pros and cons. Talk it over with a trusted friend or confidant. Try to visualize what “living that change” will look like for you. Making a major change won’t happen overnight. It’s a process that takes time and effort. There may be some initial discomfort. But after the initial culture shock and growing pains subside, you’ll start to see things in a whole new light, and that fresh beginning could be everything you hoped for and more. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get taking that leap into something new can be the start of a truly magical journey. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I had that kind of nagging where I knew that I was meant to be doing more.” — Sandra [3:27]
“I think for me, it was all about growth. I think that we know as women when we’ve done everything we can and we’ve topped out, whether it’s in a relationship, a friendship, a job, whatever it might be.” — Sandra [7:25]
“I knew that there had to be some other challenges and some other opportunity for growth for me. I needed more.” — Sandra [7:35]
“Sometimes you just have to jump in and do it and set all of those fears aside.” — Sandra [9:29]
“It may not be perfect, but there's a lesson there somewhere.” — Sandra [9:59]
“It’s so exciting to be part of something that is at the ground level. We’re starting from scratch.” — Sandra [12:29]
“In terms of how we want this to look and how we want to present, the sky’s the limit, which is fantastic. That doesn’t happen often, and it doesn't happen often in TV news, for sure.” — Sandra [13:15]
“Stop moving. Take a moment, to get grounded, take as much time as you need to become aware of what you want so that you can think clearly and you can make a decision coming from a place of peace and groundedness.” — Sandra [14:11]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sandra Ali

Sandra Ali on Instagram

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With Sandra Ali, award-winning journalist and news anchor

One of the biggest challenges working women face is finding that delicate

balance between a fulfilling home and family life and our demanding

work schedule. Juggling the responsibilities of work and child care can feel overwhelming but it’s equally important that we make time for ourselves to recharge our batteries with an active, enjoyable social life and supportive friends.

Sometimes, just to fit it all in, we have to make a few sacrifices. For example, it may mean attending an event but leaving early in order to fulfill another pre-existing obligation, or learning to creatively multi-task and find additional time in unexpected ways. One person who has mastered the art of the multi-task, is award-winning journalist and news anchor, Sandra Ali. Fitting in Zoom meetings or podcast interviews while waiting for her children in the school pick-up lane in her car is just one of the many ways Sandra makes the most out of her packed schedule. But even the most disciplined and organized among us may encounter the occasional speed bump. When that happens, it might be time to take a step back to re-assess the situation and consider alternative scenarios. Recognizing that a change is called for is only part of the solution. Knowing how and when to make that change can be just as challenging. Recently, Sandra found herself in that very situation. She realized that a change might be in order and she sat down with Florine to tell her how she decided it was the right time to make a change.

Be sure to tune in next week and listen to Florine’s brand-new interview with Sandra Ali and hear all about her exciting lifestyle change and what life looks like today. In the meantime, please listen to Florine’s initial interview with Sandra from February of 2022 as she talks about the challenges facing working mothers.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Sandra talks about moving to Egypt as a child before returning to New York to go to school.
What does Sandra remember about living in Egypt?
Sandra talks about attending both NYU for musical theatre and Syracuse University for journalism.
What made Sandra decide to get into journalism?
What are some crazy or strange things that have happened to Sandra while on air?
How does Sandra keep detached from a story that is highly emotional?
How was it for Sandra to be in the public eye when she was pregnant?
Sandra prioritizes spending quality time with her four children, even if it means sacrificing other activities like making beds or doing laundry.
What does Sandra mean by learning to put herself first?
Sandra leads by example by showing her kids what it looks like to eat healthy foods and take care of your body.
How can we treat pregnant women better in our society?

Today’s Takeaway:

There are so many things we can learn from Sandra. She’s a wonderful role model for women showing that even in the fast-paced, competitive world of broadcast TV news, it’s possible to find a healthy, work-life balance. Sandra is candid about her own journey and shares how she learned to practice good self-care. As working mothers, it’s so important to prioritize our own needs and learn to set healthy boundaries for ourselves. But what does that look like? Maybe it involves learning to say, “No” to the demands of others or setting aside that valuable “Me Time” to go for a run or yoga. Whatever it is that makes you feel better and gets your endorphins flowing enough to recharge your battery those precious few minutes can make all the difference. Instead of feeling exhausted or mentally drained, just giving ourselves that little break can help us regain the physical and emotional energy we need to be present at home or on the job. Remember that every single day is a gift and when we make ourselves a priority, we get stronger and everyone else around us benefits from that healthy example that we set. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“It’s a cultural thing, that you have family members step in and help when you don’t have anyone else.” — Sandra [5:41]
“I fell in love with the theater. To me, it was magical, and it was like an escape, and I fell in love with everything about the theater.” — Sandra [8:04]
“I fell in love with books and the written word, and I've always been that way.” — Sandra [9:08]
“Ultimately, what wins is usually a surprise.” — Sandra [13:26]
“I have a lot of mom friends who will watch something and call me immediately afterward and say, how did you sit through that?” — Sandra [14:09]
“I know the most important thing that I had decided was that I have to let [my children] know how much I love them all of the time, no matter what.” — Florine [19:33]
“It wasn’t until I really started to prioritize the things that I needed that were non-negotiable that changed everything for me.” — Sandra [22:18]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sandra Ali

Sandra Ali on Instagram

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with Dr. Joel Kahn, The Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity

Do you ever dream about finding the hidden Fountain of Youth? Just imagine if we could put an end to disease and aging and actually turn back the clock to a time when our physical body was at its peak for health, strength, and optimum performance. If it were only possible, how amazing that would be! Everybody wants to find that magic pill or potion that will grant us a longer, healthier life. Instead, as we age, the risk of developing heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s grows with every passing decade. Over time, our bodies may begin to decline and our immune system weakens. Although a relatively healthy individual might suddenly become ill without warning, in most instances, these diseases have been slowly developing in our bodies for years. We may have even gotten early warning signs we’ve chosen to overlook or ignore entirely, because the thought of what lies ahead is too frightening to contemplate. But as scary as that sounds, maybe it’s not too late. Perhaps there are things we can do right now to delay the onset of old age and keep our bodies functioning with strength and vitality.

My guest today is Dr. Joel Kahn from The Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity. According to Joel, if we are willing, we can heal our bodies and live a life free of disease and illness. We’re going to talk with him about lifestyle changes we can begin immediately that can delay and perhaps even eliminate the unhealthy consequences of physical and mental aging.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What are the reasons a seemingly healthy person will fall into decline?
What are the “Big Four” that we should be concerned about?
What are some of the new technologies that help us keep track of our health?
What kind of testing should we be getting on a yearly basis?
The type of heart disease testing that Dr. Kahn recommends.
Why is modern medicine so focused on treating the disease rather than preventative medicine?
The science behind movement helps us live a longer and healthier life.
Lifestyle measures like keeping a healthy weight and diet can also help us live a healthier life.
The importance of getting enough sleep.
What can we learn from studying the Blue Zone diet about longevity?
Why does Dr. Kahn eat vegan, and what does a typical day in his diet look like?
With all the different diets out there, how do we choose the right one?
What exercise should someone start with if they haven’t been doing it regularly?

Today’s Takeaway:

While we may not be able to drink from the Fountain of Youth, it may be possible to heal our bodies from within to recover from illness while regaining our lost strength and overall health. Most of us have been taught to expect that as we age, our health will decline and our physical and mental capacity will diminish. But what if it doesn’t have to be that way? What if by making lifestyle changes today, we not only live longer; we live better? We can actually enjoy living and improve the quality of our daily lives. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from practicing preventative medicine today could very well mean the difference between a long, healthy, and active lifestyle and one that is characterized by chronic pain and illness. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We should work as early in life as possible to identify risks and lifestyle patterns and prevent, prevent, prevent.” — Dr. Joel [3:02]
“It’s all about early testing and aggressive detection, and there have been major advances that go beyond just eating a huge salad every day.” — Dr. Joel [4:42]
“There clearly is a shift to what we’re calling lifestyle medicine. Young doctors are interested in lifestyle medicine.” — Dr. Joel [12:12]
“If you want to live a long and healthy life, you want to try and maintain the healthiest weight you can.” — Dr. Joel [14:09]
“If you're getting seven to eight hours of good sleep without snoring, you are involved in one of the most powerful anti-aging programs you can be involved in.” — Dr. Joel [15:03]
“Genes load the gun, but your lifestyle pulls the trigger.” — Dr. Joel [19:46]
“You're not going to find health in a fast food restaurant.” — Dr. Joel [25:37]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Joel Kahn

The Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity

Live to 100

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With Wendy Steele, CEO and Founder of Impact100

Do you ever feel as if there aren’t enough hours in the day? We’re constantly being pulled in so many different directions with work, family, and social obligations. This becomes even more challenging for working mothers, because we may stay up late to review our children’s homework and then get up early the next morning to cover all their needs before we head to our jobs. As our to-do list continues to grow, sometimes we may feel overwhelmed and guilty because we can’t imagine taking on even one more task. This might be especially true when we’re approached to help out with a volunteer commitment. We truly want to say “yes” and support a worthy cause but it’s simply too much for one person to accomplish. However, what if we were to join a group of like-minded individuals with the same objective and work together to reach that goal? As an African Proverb states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Perhaps the key to success might be to pool our talents in support of each other. Some of the biggest hurdles in life can be overcome if we work together for the betterment of all. Communities can be built, businesses can be launched and families can thrive based upon our collective efforts.

That’s the premise behind the successful non-profit, “Impact100.” When CEO and Founder, Wendy H. Steele first launched her innovative approach to fundraising, she created a new model for how women can give back to their communities, meet the people who can make things happen, and help other women succeed. Recognized by Forbes in 2021 as one of the Top 50 Most Impactful Women Over 50, Wendy’s efforts to engage and support female entrepreneurs have generated more than 123 million dollars. We’re going to speak with Wendy to learn what led to the creation of Impact100 and hear about the amazing legacy she established for women to help other women in communities around the world.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Wendy talks about her childhood and how she learned the importance of doing chores for her family at a young age.
The concept of community involvement and leaving the world in a better place than how you found it.
How losing Wendy’s mother at a young age instilled the concept of women supporting other women.
What does Impact100 do?
Why did Wendy want to create Impact100?
How much does Impact100 cost, and what if a woman can’t afford the total $1000 amount right away, or at all?
Can men become involved with Impact100?
Why is it so important to truly understand the challenges of the nonprofits that you support?
What are some of the reasons that women want to join Impact100?
Wendy shares the story of their first grant recipient, the Dental Clinic.

Today’s Takeaway:

Although we may want to help our neighbors and others who might be struggling in our community, sometimes the task feels overwhelming. We think to ourselves, how can my little contribution ever make a difference? Well, as we just heard, when our donation is combined with matching donations from hundreds of other women, together we make a significant amount that can literally transform a non-profit and help them achieve their goals. In this way, dreaming big becomes a reality. For anyone who wants to make a difference in this world and leave a lasting legacy, this is how you do it. The Impact100 growth demonstrates how the spirit of generosity is contagious. When others see the good that can come from a charitable act, they want to become a part of it. Wendy has created a model for ensuring that each new chapter has the ability not only to affect immediate changes in their community but also to lay the foundation for future generations to benefit. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from volunteering and giving to others is a gift that ultimately will end up benefiting and enriching our own lives in ways we never could have imagined. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We were trained from an early age to always leave a place a little bit better than we found it.” — Wendy [3:54]
“They were really a council of moms, coaching my dad and helping to raise me and my little sister.” — Wendy [6:36]
“Between the work my dad did and my grandparents, I was surrounded by people who truly demonstrated how we should all look out for each other and what community and family can really be.” — Wendy [6:42]
“Not only did the community need what these women had, but these women needed to understand what it felt like to be a part of the solution.” — Wendy [10:22]
“From hopeless to hopeful.” — Wendy [19:32]
“A lot of men are fascinated by the power of impact. They also want to contribute.” — Wendy [23:20]
“Identifying those heroes in the communities running nonprofits that are making a positive impact and helping them fund those causes was a life-changing experience.” — Wendy [10:48]
“When you have women at both ends of the spectrum and every shade of the rainbow in between, we can engage in conversations that lead to better decisions and better outcomes.” — Wendy [13:22]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Impact100

Wendy Steele

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With Wil Wheaton — author, actor, and blogger

Once upon a time, being called a “geek” was considered an insult. But how times have changed! Today, being labeled a geek is the epitome of “cool.” Just think about it; some of the wealthiest people in the world such as Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg were self-described geeks. Now, they have the last laugh. Their eye-popping wealth isn’t the only advantage. Being recognized as a genius has suddenly become very desirable. Over the past few years, the TV game show “Jeopardy” has enjoyed a popular resurgence with accomplished masters like James Holzhauer, Mattea Roach, and Amy Schneider proving just how attractive it is to be known as a trivia genius.

Finally, if there was any doubt as to how completely pop culture has embraced the nerd, all we need to do is look at hugely popular TV shows like “The Big Bang Theory” and “Young Sheldon” that celebrate the hilarity and inner geek in all of us. As someone who unapologetically championed the geek role his entire life, Wil Wheaton, a very talented actor, author, and blogger proves just how cool it is to be a geek.

Since his interview with Florine last year, Wil competed in the finals of Celebrity Jeopardy, his New York Times bestselling memoir, Still Just A Geek, was recently nominated as a finalist for the 2023 Hugo Award and a new game show where he will be the host, is currently in production on Amazon Prime. In addition to his many voiceover and acting roles, Wil has also become an outspoken advocate of mental health, bravely sharing his own history of anxiety and depression in order to help others. To hear more about how he has battled to overcome the challenges of living with mental illness, please listen to my interview with Wil Wheaton.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Wil talks about the challenges of his upbringing and how he learned to embrace who he really is, as an individual.
Wil’s hard decision to step away from his parents and work on his own growth and personal healing.
Who is Wil at his core?
What was Wil's experience being a child actor?
Wil shares some of his memories of struggling with anxiety and depression as a child.
The feelings of exploitation and abandonment that Wil felt after torment and abuse happened to both him and his sister on a set, and led him to develop PTSD with flashbacks.
The relief that getting help gave Wil.
What is the most important thing that Wil has learned about himself so far?

Today’s Takeaway:

Mental illness and depression don’t discriminate. It can affect anyone without regard for education, financial status, race, or religion. Unfortunately, there’s still a lot of shame and stigma surrounding the disease of mental illness. People struggling with mental illness are often perceived as “weak,” “broken” or “damaged.” But if we wouldn’t describe a person with diabetes as weak or damaged then mental illness shouldn’t be treated any differently. It’s also important to recognize that there are different kinds of depression. A person may experience short-term situational depression linked to a particular life event such as a death or divorce. Wil says that asking someone for help can be hard, especially when you’re afraid that whoever you confide in will tell you to just “suck it up and deal with it.” But when that person gets the support they need, it can make a huge difference.

Instead of telling someone they’re weak, we need to actually listen and support them. We can learn to be more compassionate and supportive. When an individual has a mental illness that tricks their brain into thinking they’re a bad person who doesn’t deserve to be happy or is a burden to their loved ones, that person certainly doesn’t need anyone making them feel worse. Don’t be afraid to ask how they’re doing or how you might help.

Remember that every day is a gift and we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to seek help when we need it. There’s no shame in admitting that we or a loved one suffers from depression. Whether it's short-term situational depression or chronic depression, asking for help is a brave first step, and following through to get that help is a sign of strength and courage. Whether it’s through therapy or daily medication, whatever steps you take, could change your life for the better in ways you never imagined. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I was so locked into how to solve this complex equation, that I never knew that the equation didn’t have a solution because it wasn't about me.” — Wil [8:53]
“I am an advocate for marginalized people and people who are on the fringes of society all over the world.” — Wil [9:17]

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With Jacqueline Wilson, former “First Lady,” of Wayne State University and advocate for homeless students

With fall approaching, that means the start of the fall college semester and students will soon be attending classes. As we help them pack up their bedding along with all their dorm or apartment essentials, we think of the fun they’ll be having exploring their new living situation and meeting their roommates.

When we hear the excitement in their voices as they purchase their textbooks and enroll for classes, we just hope they’ll find a healthy balance between studying and extracurricular activities. For many people, the college experience was one of the best times in our lives and we want our children to experience the same joy, appreciation, and excitement we felt. We want their eyes to be opened by new experiences as they grow, mature, and begin achieving their dreams for the future. But not every student experiences college in the same way. If we were fortunate enough to have our parents support us or if we qualified for financial grants, then our experience was probably just as I described.

But did you ever think about those students who can’t afford student housing and don’t have any financial support as they enter college? What becomes of them? Where do they live? What is their college experience like? How do they juggle schoolwork and part-time jobs to support themselves? Is college even an option for them? To learn the answers to these questions and more, you’ll want to hear my interview with Jacqueline Wilson.

As the wife of Dr. M. Roy Wilson, the former President of Wayne State University, Jacqueline is well known as an advocate for combating the problem of homelessness among the student body and in the city of Detroit. She’s so passionate about the problem of student homelessness that she established the HIGH program to ensure that no student is denied an education or the ability to pursue a degree due to financial hardship or a lack of housing. If you want to learn more about how this charitable program supports WSU students who may be struggling financially, please listen to my interview with the former “First Lady,” of Wayne State University, Jacqueline Wilson.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is the HIGH Program? (Helping Individuals Go Higher) and what does the program offer?
Where does the HIGH Program house the students or help them in their current living situation?
How do the students find the HIGH Program?
The HIGH Program is unique just to Wayne State, and there is no other one like it in the United States.
How is the HIGH Program funded?
What inspired Jacqueline to establish the HIGH Program?
We don’t typically think of college students as being amongst the homeless population. How common is it?
What are some of the other challenges that these students face, and what other services does the HIGH Program offer?
How do you address the concerns of students who may be reluctant to come forward because of the potential shame or embarrassment associated with being homeless?
How does someone become eligible for the HIGH Program and go through the process to find housing?
Jacqueline shares some HIGH Program success stories, along with its 100% graduation rate.
Does the HIGH Program have a board of advisors?

Today’s Takeaway:

The problem of homelessness among college students is real. With the high cost of college tuition today, not everyone can afford to live in a dormitory or other student housing. Not having a safe place to live may prevent a college student from attending college and pursuing a degree. Being able to support the college dreams and academic aspirations of hard-working students is what the HIGH program is all about and we are so very grateful to Jacqueline Wilson and others for drawing attention to this very worthy cause and helping support these students.

Despite the most unlikely of beginnings, sometimes having just one other person believe in you and support your dreams can make all the difference in the world. A perfect example is the story of eighteen-year-old Sky Castner who’ll be attending Harvard University to study law as a freshman this fall. Sky dreamed of attending Harvard from the time she was in elementary school in Conroe, Texas. But given her humble beginnings, that seemed unlikely to happen. Born in prison to an incarcerated mother and raised by a single-parent father with bipolar disorder, Sky was referred to a local Mentor program. Her Mentor, Mona Hamby, formed a very close bond with Sky and supported her education goals all through school, even taking her on a road trip to visit Harvard. At her high school graduation ceremony, where Sky graduated third in her class, she was recognized for her academic achievements. Now, she’s off to Harvard in the fall, on a full scholarship. Jacqueline Wilson’s HIGH Program is all about helping students like Sky overcome the challenges of homelessness so that they can pursue their collegiate dreams. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from a college education and the people who support our academic dreams, may help make this world a far better place for all of us. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We would have to go to events every night, go to all of our schools and colleges, and support athletics, music, and the arts. So it was a full-time job. It was a role that I embraced wholeheartedly and at the same time, started my program for the homeless students.” — Jacqueline
“We want to make sure that the students are not homeless or precariously housed.” — Jacqueline
“There’s no other program like this in the country, where the student does not have to pay it back, and we help students get to graduate.” — Jacqueline
“Once people realize that there are homeless college students, it’s an easy sale. They want to give.” — Jacqueline
“Most of our funding has come from generous donors, either alums, or people that have been in a situation where they were almost homeless, but they made it and they want to give back. Those are usually our biggest donors.” — Jacqueline
“We were able to house students there among all the other students. So it was great, and there was no shame involved.” — Jacqueline
“Every student that we’ve helped through the HIGH program has graduated. So, we have a 100% graduation rate.” — Jacqueline

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Wayne State University

HIGH Program

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With Joyce Weiss, Communication Coach and Author

Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s not what you said, but how you said it?” Sometimes having a conversation with another person can be a potentially explosive situation filled with dangerous mixed messages. Judging by the expression on the other person’s face, it’s obvious that he or she completely misinterpreted your message. But it’s probably not their fault. Sometimes, despite our best intentions, what we mean to say gets “lost in translation” traveling from our brain to our mouth. Or, another example might be if we say something complimentary but our words come out all wrong. When we say, “Wow! You look wonderful for a woman your age!” instead of hearing the genuine compliment in our words, all she hears is “a woman your age.” It’s a stinging reminder of her age and that she looks good only in comparison to “older” women. Ouch! But being aware of the potential pitfalls in how we communicate could help us avoid these conflicts in the future. Today, we’re going to hear how to speak more appropriately with others in our life. My guest today is Joyce Weiss, a communication coach and author. She is known as the “Queen of Conflict Resolution,” Joyce is here to tell us about the most common conversational pitfalls and give us some tips on how to avoid them.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why do we often stick our foot in our mouth when we talk to others?
What is an example of “the gap” in conversation, and how can it save us from embarrassing ourselves or hurting someone else’s feelings?
What are some of the most common mistakes we make when we speak with others?
The importance of listening and making eye contact when having a conversation.
What are curiosity questions?
How can we help others feel more included at a social event or when introducing them to others?
How can we learn to communicate with other individuals who don't share our political or philosophical beliefs, but still insist on debating or lecturing us?
What should we say to people that are suffering or have an illness but still want to have a great conversation with them?
What is a conversation bully?
How to get away when someone keeps monopolizing the conversation?
How can we make conversations feel safe for others, where they feel less judged?

Today’s Takeaway:

Certain people are gifted with the ability to speak with others in a way that draws people to them. These individuals can walk into a room and soon, even complete strangers feel comfortable in their presence. People genuinely enjoy speaking with them and feel an immediate sense of connection. But not everyone has that skill. The good news is that with practice, we can all learn to become better communicators. We can take advantage of the fact that we were born with two ears and one mouth. Since our ears rarely get us into trouble and our mouth often does, sometimes the safest route is to listen more and speak less. By becoming better listeners, we become better communicators. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from learning to hold our tongue and speak to others without alienating them is a gift that will draw others to us and make our relationships with others infinitely richer. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The gap is the space in between, for us to think, hmm, how can I say this without putting my foot in the mouth? That gap is truly our friend. And many times we just don’t use it.” — Joyce
“It’s more important for people to feel heard than what we say.” — Joyce
“People really need to pay attention to the fact that it’s more important for them to feel heard than for what we say.” — Joyce
“Listen and ask those curiosity questions. We have to stop thinking about what we want to say in the conversation.” — Joyce
“Ask a curiosity question and so many times you can go a little deeper, and it’s a little easier.” — Joyce
“A safe conversation is when other people feel heard, and they feel comfortable speaking their voice.” — Joyce
“Stop taking everything so personal, and telling yourself the wrong story.” — Joyce

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Joyce Weiss

Kick Conflict To The Curb

Linkedln.com/in/JoyceWeiss

YouTube.com/user/JoyceWeiss

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With Dr. Paradi Mirmirani, Dermatologist and Hair Loss Specialist at Kaiser Permanente

When it comes to a person’s physical appearance, hair is one of our most defining features. Do you ever notice how when asked to describe a woman physically, one of the first adjectives given is hair color? Is she blonde, brunette, or a redhead? We might then go on to describe the style. For example, does she wear her hair cropped, braided, or long? Is she wearing a weave or extensions? As we age and a person’s hair thins, that beautiful, thick head of luxurious hair becomes even more desirable because it can give us a more youthful appearance. But just as our hair defines a person’s physical appearance, the sudden loss of hair can be a profoundly disturbing experience. When hair loss is due to a medical treatment such as chemotherapy, the individual can take comfort in knowing that in most cases, the hair will grow back. But what if it happens suddenly and for an unknown reason? Not knowing the cause or if the hair will ever grow back, can be extremely upsetting. What causes hair loss? What treatments are available and how long does it take for hair to grow back? My guest today is Doctor Paradi Mirmirani. She is a board-certified dermatologist and hair loss specialist from Kaiser Permanente and faculty of the American Board of Dermatology.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How does our genetics play a role in hair loss?
What is the most common reason for hair loss?
Does coloring your hair or getting a perm have anything to do with hair loss?
The difference between hair thinning and hair loss.
What about the color of your hair?
Do women suffer from hereditary pattern hair loss the way that men do?
If we know that hereditary hair loss runs in the family, can we prevent this before it starts to happen?
What is the cause of alopecia areata, and can it affect other parts of our body that have hair such as our eyebrows and eyelashes?
What roles do stress and hormones play in hair loss?
Can hair grow back on its own even after someone has gone through chemotherapy?
Is there any treatment that is best for overall hair regrowth?
What is microneedling?
What should we know before wearing a wig?
Where can people go to seek care for their hair?

Today’s Takeaway:

We always want to make sure that we maintain a healthy diet that provides enough protein and other nutrients to nourish healthy hair. A variety of things can weaken and damage our hair follicles, leading to hair loss. There’s no question that if we suddenly lose our hair, it can be a frightening and emotionally distressing time. We may feel self-conscious or insecure about our appearance and wonder if our hair will ever grow back. The good news is that although we can’t stop hair loss once it’s started, there may be treatments that will enable the hair to grow back. Seeing a dermatologist who can correctly diagnose the cause and provide treatment options will give you the best chance for healthy regrowth. Remember every day is a gift and having a beautiful healthy head of hair is a gift we can’t take for granted. But as painful as losing our hair can be, thankfully, there may be treatments available. So why not give yourself the gift of hope and healing by working with a trained specialist? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The most common reason for hair loss is genetics. Hereditary hair loss can affect up to 50% of both men and women.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“You want to preserve the hair fiber, it's kind of like a really expensive cashmere sweater.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“I tell people that your haircare is a gentle cycle only label and that kind of gives you the idea of how you should treat your hair.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“We haven’t really found any good treatments for genetic disorders of any sort, and that includes hair loss.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“When you have a significant increase in hair loss, then it’s important to check in with your doctor to make sure that there are no underlying medical issues.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“One of my workhorses for hair regrowth is minoxidil either topically or orally. No matter what the cause of the hair loss, it can help thicken the hair, give you a larger diameter, and keep the hair in a growth phase for longer.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“Most men are quite happy with a little bit of extra hair on the top, they are quite excited. Women want a lot more so it's a matter of expectations.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“I tell my patients when they come in, I want you to look in the mirror and really be happy with what you’re seeing.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani
“I really encourage patients to seek care and not to suffer at home. Hair is a really important part of who we are and our persona, our self-identity. And when we lose hair, it can be a real blow.” — Dr. Paradi Mirmirani

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Paradi Mirmirani

Dr. Paradi Mirmirani LinkedIn

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with Sarah Ansboury, Pickleball Coach and Director of Pickleball Instruction at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

The sport of Pickleball continues to be the fastest-growing sport in America. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, new courts are popping up all over the country. Currently, there are more than 10,000 courts in the United States but that number continues to grow by several dozen every month. So what is it about Pickleball that makes it such a popular fitness craze? One of the reasons the sport has become so popular in recent years is that it’s a high-energy, low-impact game that appeals to players of all ages. It’s fairly easy to learn and a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get moving. The open-play format allows players to show up and “rotate in,” which makes it especially attractive for singles. What a great way to socialize, meet others and get fit! Sports clubs and hotel groups such as Omni Resorts and Marriott , are adding courts for Pickleball, while a new restaurant chain called Chicken N’ Pickle, which combines the sport with a full food and drink menu, has plans to expand within the next year throughout the U.S. At Chicken N’ Pickle, you can make an evening of it and play Cornhole, Shuffleboard, and Ping Pong without having to go elsewhere to dine. So, if you want to learn more about the game everyone is talking about, please listen to Florine’s interview with one of the top Pickleball coaches in the world, Sarah Ansboury.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Where does the name pickleball come from?
Do you have to know how to play tennis to play pickleball?
The importance of taking a lesson or two before you go out and play.
What attracted Sarah to pickleball?
Why do so many people get injured playing pickleball?
Where can you find a pickleball instructor?
What happens at a pickleball camp?
What kinds of shoes and outfits should you wear when playing pickleball?
What type of paddle is the best to use for pickleball?
Can you play pickleball on a tennis court?
What is the most important advice for first-time players?
Why has pickleball taken off in the last few years?
What are the health benefits of pickleball?
What is the future of pickleball and how can we get the next generation invested and just as excited?
Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball?
What is the single biggest frustration for new players?

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the reasons why Pickleball is popular is that it’s a great way to socialize and meet people. Unlike many other leisure sporting activities, Pickleball is very inclusive and social. The fun, competitive nature of the sport and love of the game brings people together. You don’t even need to show up with a partner. You can just simply “walk on and rotate in.” It’s also a great way to stay fit or get in shape. Not only is it a good cardiovascular workout but it can also improve balance, hand-eye coordination, and muscle tone. Best of all, Pickleball can be played both indoors or out, so it’s not weather-dependent. Remember that staying active and spending time socializing with others is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves. So if you’re looking for a fun new activity, why not give yourself the gift of a Pickleball lesson? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Pickleball is such a welcoming, open sport for everyone. People just want you to keep playing.” — Sarah
“There is a way to play properly, technically, that is going to be easier on your body.” — Sarah
“The nice thing about pickleball is that you don’t have to have a partner, you can just go out, and you always pick up a game.” — Florine
“The great thing about pickleball is it’s much easier to learn than most other racquet or paddle sports, especially as an adult.” — Sarah
“You will meet someone from every walk of life.” — Sarah
“It’s getting people active, it’s getting people social.” — Sarah
“At the end of the day, there’s not a day or a week that goes by that I literally talk to someone where Pickleball has changed their life.” — Sarah
“What I’m seeing so much is people’s health just improving.” — Sarah
“Be willing to get uncomfortable. A lot of times people, especially adults, are afraid to try something new, and so much of jumping into Pickleball is opening yourself up.” — Sarah

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sarah Ansboury

Palmetto Dunes — Hilton Head Island

USA Pickleball Association

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With Paige Payne, Master Gardner and
Landscape Design Instructor

Did you know that one of the best ways to support our physical and mental health is to spend more time outdoors? It’s true! The benefits of being outdoors and breathing in the fresh air could strengthen our immune system, help us sleep better at night, and reduce stress. After all, what could be more relaxing than sitting in the sunshine, surrounded by beautiful foliage?

As we spend more time relaxing in our yards, one of the biggest design trends over the past few years has been the expansion of our outside home living areas. According to a recently published study, creating an outdoor oasis for entertaining or relaxing has become one of the most desirable priorities among more than 62% of homeowners. Building outdoor kitchens along with living and dining areas allows us to bring traditionally indoor activities into our yard and expand our living space significantly. Instead of relying solely on a single barbecue grill, these days many outdoor gourmet kitchens include pizza ovens, pellet smoke grills, as well as small refrigerators and counters with built-in sinks for washing and prepping food.

Dining areas can include plenty of outdoor seating as well as firepit tables and bars. Outdoor living rooms designed with comfortable conversation pit sofas, outdoor TVs, and gas fireplaces offer a heavenly refuge for relaxing, studying, or even working outdoors. Best of all, these outdoor spaces can be used year-round when enclosed in a pavilion or other structure that includes heating lamps and retractable Screens. In addition to expanding your outdoor living area, imagine yourself surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden. Picture someplace that’s restful, peaceful, and tranquil where you can go to meditate or simply enjoy nature. In July of 2021, Florine interviewed Master Gardner and Landscape Design Instructor, Paige Payne. If you want to learn more about the benefits of having a tranquility or meditation garden, please listen to Florine’s interview with Paige.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did Paige get involved in horticulture?
What did Paige study in school for a career in horticulture?
Paige’s mother was a huge gardener, and her dad also grew a big vegetable garden.
What is anthropology, and why was Paige initially interested in it?
What are the three types of anthropology, and what is permaculture design?
How can you get started in your own backyard using the resources you already have?
How does permaculture affect our health positively and help us feel more tranquil and connected?
Paige shares some tips for a beginning gardener on how to get started.
What is a tranquility or meditation garden, and how can you create one?
Tips for adding some great vegetables to grow, flowers to bloom, and meditation elements to create a space that’s right for you.
How to create a space that is intentionally designed for your environment.

Today’s Takeaway:

There is a reason why meditation and tranquility gardens have recently become so popular. Finding that personal “me time” away from the demands of the day really helps to improve our mood and our mental well-being.

Sometimes it’s exhausting and mentally taxing to be “on call” throughout the day in response to the needs of others. But just taking five or 10 minutes to breathe, relax, and re-center ourselves mentally and emotionally can make all the difference. If you already practice meditation, you already know just how beneficial that time can be. But do you sometimes find it challenging to quiet your mind and begin your meditation practice? How much easier would it be to immediately achieve that meditative state if you had that perfect tranquil spot to get away from it all? Surrounding ourselves with beautiful greenery might not only help us to forget our problems, but it can also help us “reboot” after a stressful moment and transform the rest of our day.

Connecting with nature is one of the healthiest ways I know to sustain ourselves mentally and lift our spirits. So, remember to give yourself the gift of time and serenity by creating an outdoor space that’s all your own. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I knew I wanted to be outside, as nature has always been my happy place.” — Paige [4:22]
“I really got the opportunity to learn from the ground up by observing and interacting with landscapes.” — Paige [6:04]
“I did see how much joy gardening brought to [my parents]. So yes, it’s in my blood.” — Paige [7:36]
“I do think that there is a definite impact on people based on their natural environment and their connection to it.” — Paige [8:49]
“In permaculture, we’d like to mimic nature in that way by creating a system where each component is connected to and supports the next component in the design.” — Paige [9:48]
“We look to go a step further by making the homestead zero waste using the available resources, turning waste into energy, and working with the environment that's already there, rather than trying to recreate a system that is maybe not suited for that environment.” — Paige [11:21]
“Each and every little eco ecosystem encourages us to connect with our natural environment, which creates a feeling of peace, calm, connection, and realizing that you’re part of a larger whole.” — Paige [12:13]
“The ultimate goal of permaculture is that it all becomes less work, more beauty.” — Paige [13:22]
“It’s tuning in to what brings you joy.” — Paige [16:12]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Paige Payne

Online Landscape Designs

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with Dr. Robyn Graham, host of The Robyn Graham Show and author of the book, You, Me and Anxiety.

Do you worry about what others think of you? Does the thought of public speaking make you physically ill? Are you someone who dreads dinner parties because you’re so afraid of saying the wrong thing? Or, perhaps you worry about being humiliated because you’ve dressed inappropriately. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. We all have moments of doubt and at times, might question what others think of us. That’s not uncommon. But if we’re constantly worrying about what people think of us, that could make it harder to trust others or develop intimate friendships. The very thought of “being judged by others,” could make us unwilling to try new experiences because we’re afraid of failing. It might even cause us to decline social invitations or avoid going out in public altogether. Living with the constant fear of how others might interpret your words or actions could actually cause you to miss out on life’s best moments. While we may spend more time living our lives online, by doing so, we make ourselves vulnerable to negative commentary through social media.

In its most extreme form, if someone frequently experiences intense and unrealistic fears of being watched and judged negatively by others, that individual might be suffering from social anxiety disorder. But it’s important to recognize that social anxiety or social phobia is a debilitating mental health condition that can begin in childhood and, if not treated, may only get worse with time. Can social anxiety be overcome? How can we learn to stop caring so much about what others think? If you want to learn the answers to these questions and more, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Dr. Robyn Graham, host of The Robyn Graham Show and author of the book, You, Me and Anxiety. Robyn is going to share with us tips, tools, and strategies for our children who suffer from anxiety and how we, as parents, might help support them.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why do we care so much about what others think?
How do we “should” ourselves so much that we actually hold ourselves back?
What makes someone get anxiety?
What is a panic attack?
How can anxiety manifest in physical symptoms?
Are there people that are more susceptible to worrying about what others think of them?
What can we do about teaching parenting in schools to help children understand and manage their anxiety?
What was Dr. Robyn’s experience with anxiety and how did she finally learn more about the brain to apply it in ways that would help her?
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and how can it help someone?
How can journaling help us change our negative thoughts to more positive ones?
How medication along with therapy can prove helpful for those suffering from anxiety.
How should we respond when someone says something that makes us feel hurtful?
Possible signs of anxiety amongst children and teens, and the possible long-term effects of untreated anxiety.

Today’s Takeaway:

It’s hard not to notice when someone says something rude or unkind about us because it’s hurtful. Sometimes even if the comment was made in jest, we may find ourselves questioning if what they said has any merit. But just because someone said something mean doesn’t make it true. They could have been teasing or perhaps were deliberately trying to hurt us out of anger or spite. Even if their words weren’t spoken in anger but rather meant as constructive criticism, they might have been wrong in how they saw the situation. At the end of the day, it’s within our control to determine how much credit we give their words. There’s an old saying that states, “What someone else thinks or says about me is none of my business.” As odd as that sounds, it’s true. They’re only stating their opinion, which they’re entitled to have. But we don’t have to agree with it. In all likelihood, we can’t change it, so the only thing we can do is let it go. Remember that every day is a gift and we have the gift of choice. If we are making healthy, honest choices for ourselves by behaving in a kind, intentional, and respectful manner towards ourselves and others, then there is very little anyone can say that will hurt us. Just hold your head high and keep doing the next right thing for yourself. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“There are a lot of physical manifestations. And so it's really important to identify what those are, and what you're experiencing, and then what's triggering those experiences or those symptoms.” — Dr. Robyn [7:01]
“It wasn't until I was an adult that I actually got the help I needed to navigate my anxiety and manage my anxiety in a more positive way.” — Dr. Robyn [12:05]
“You can catch those thoughts and start challenging them. This takes a lot of practice and intentionality.” — Dr. Robyn [16:01]
“When you write down that negative thought and write the opposite positive thought next to it, your brain is going to see that positive thought, your brain will start to then be able to be better controlled. You will have more control over those negative thoughts to catch them sooner, and change them sooner so that you end up having more confidence and believing more in the positive situations in your life versus the negative.” — Dr. Robyn [17:10]
“Keep in mind that anxiety and depression often go hand in hand.” — Dr. Robyn [20:47]
“Sometimes we need that chemical change in our brain in order for our brain to accept that therapy.” — Dr. Robyn [21:02]
“If someone says something to you that was hurtful, you can say, ‘You know what, I'm really sorry, you're having a bad day. If there's something I did to make you feel that way about me, could you tell me what it is because I would like to make it better’.” - Dr. Robyn [23:21]
“When anything happens to us in life, we have a choice. We have a choice to be positive, or we have a choice to be negative.” — Dr. Robyn [23:24]
“The worst possible thing you can do is say, I'm sorry, but…” — Dr. Robyn [25:33]
“We need to be aware of anxiety, and we need to stop the stigma around mental illness.” — Dr. Robyn [27:49]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Robyn Graham

You, Me, and Anxiety

The Robyn Graham Show

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with Janette Ghedotte, licensed Clinical Psychologist, Founder, and CEO of Accurate Body Language.

Have you ever heard the saying, “What a person doesn’t say is often far more revealing than what they do say?” We may not be aware of it, but without saying a word, our posture or the look on our face can speak volumes. Even when we’re not aware of it, we may give off subtle little signs that reveal our true thoughts and emotions. But when our body language conflicts with our words, it may have an adverse effect on our relationships with family and friends. Others may question whether we are being sincere in what we’re saying to them. We may wonder if they’re lying to us. It might even negatively impact our career as well. For example, our credibility in the workplace could be damaged if managers or co-workers suspect we’re not being truthful. This may be especially harmful when working with customers or clients who rely upon our honesty. That’s just one example of why reading body language is so important. Learning how to interpret those cues is what the study of body language is all about. If you want to learn more about the subtle non verbal signals that reveal a person’s true feelings or if you just want to make sure your words match your own body language, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Janette Ghedotte, a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Founder, and CEO of Accurate Body Language, Janette is known for her ability to analyze a person’s hidden emotions and determine whether a person is telling the truth or being deceitful.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is body language?
How did Janette first become interested in the study of body language?
What are some ways that we understand facial and body language, and what can facial expressions tell us about that person?
Why is it so important that a mother understands facial and body language?
How can understanding body language help us in business and as an employer?
It’s important to remember that every body language gesture is just one piece of the puzzle.
Some body language giveaways that someone is being dishonest.
An example of someone in the public eye whose mannerisms really don't match their verbal responses.
The importance of body language in politics and business.
Why are people suffering from addiction more likely to be deceptive?
How can someone practice their mannerisms to overcome nervous habits and movements?

Today’s Takeaway:

Lies and deceptive behavior occur everyday. We’ve all heard stories of being misled by false advertising or individuals who have been taken advantage of by a con man. Maybe you know someone who suffers from addiction and you've fallen for their deceptive behavior. We might fall for their lies simply because we truly want to believe that individual is telling the truth and besides, they would never lie to us. Or, would they? But just imagine if you could know when someone is deliberately lying to you. If we could learn the signs and behavioral clues that accompany and contradict their words, we wouldn’t have to second guess ourselves. We wouldn’t have to question whether we can trust them or feel betrayed afterwards. When we’re at our job, body language awareness for both ourselves and others could lead to increased sales and a healthier, happier workplace. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from being able to know who we can depend upon for their honesty, integrity and truthfulness is a priceless gift. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Anything nonverbal is communicating often with greater trustworthiness and credibility than the spoken word, which can be manipulative, and deceitful.” - Janette [7:30]
“The way you move across the stage or onpoint helps put context and credibility to your verbal words.” - Janette [9:16]
“Women who raise their babies women typically are better at catching body language clues, because they have that practice with raising babies.” - Janette [10:08]
“If you don't know these clues, then you miss that opportunity to resolve the prospective discomfort, objections, or uncertainty. And what we don't know costs us more than we ever realized.” - Janette [13:10]
“The greater the motivation, the greater the amount of potential to lie.” - Janette [19:48]
“From head to toes, the body always shows the truth.” - Janette [24:49]
“When we know how to detect and decode body language, it is our superpower.” [25:18] - Janette

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Accurate Body Language

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with Melanie Brim, President and CEO of the Michigan Health Council.

Have you noticed it’s increasingly difficult to schedule an appointment with a medical specialist? If you’re calling for the first time, perhaps you’re being told the doctor is no longer accepting “new patients.” Or, when they do offer an appointment, it’s for a date several months in the future. If you’re wondering why it’s so hard to get in to see a doctor these days, it could be because our country is in the midst of a serious healthcare crisis. The entire healthcare industry is experiencing such a severe staffing shortage of trained, qualified employees that public health officials regard it as one of the nation’s top patient safety concerns. For patients, the lack of trained hospital staff means longer wait times for emergency room visits, inadequate, or even subpar, patient care along with an increased risk of hospital-acquired infections. But the problem isn’t just limited to hospitals.

Numerous clinics and healthcare facilities across the country have been forced to shut their doors because they lack the staff to keep them open. This means patients have to travel much farther for treatment. Although our healthcare system experienced staffing challenges prior to COVID-19, particularly among the nursing profession, the pandemic greatly magnified the problem.

The pandemic left our healthcare professionals mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted, and as healthcare workers began leaving the field en masse, that only increased the staffing shortage which led to additional stress and burnout for the remaining employees. Where does the situation stand today? What can we do to address and improve the healthcare staffing shortage? What does it mean for patient care? If you want to learn the answers to these questions and more, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Melanie Brim, President and CEO of the Michigan Health Council. Melanie is going to speak with us about how the MHC researches trends and identifies solutions for these issues. We’ll also discuss what lies ahead for patients and our healthcare industry.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is the role of the Michigan Health Council?
The educational role of the Next Generation Health Careers Academy and Scrubs Club programs is to get the next generations excited about leadership opportunities and careers in the healthcare industry.
Where does the MHC get its funding?
Melanie’s concern about a much smaller labor force coming, and how to compete with other industries such as tech and engineering.
Does MHC work with nursing schools?
Are there health councils all over the country doing things similar to what the Michigan Health Council is doing?
What impact has the pandemic had on healthcare professionals in Michigan?
Why are patients being told that it can take several months to get an appointment to see a physician?
What should patients do that need an appointment ASAP?
How does the staffing shortage impact other employees such as pharmacists, home health care workers, or dialysis centers?
With a shrinking talent pool, what steps can healthcare employers take to attract new employees while retaining current healthcare professionals?
How can hospitals support healthcare workers more?
While we wait to see the doctor, what can telehealth and telemedicine do?

Today’s Takeaway:

Unfortunately, the pandemic caught us all by surprise and we were unprepared for the level of devastation that took place. While we hope to never experience a global event like that ever again, there are ways we can address some of the problems that still persist. It’s important to recognize that our healthcare professionals are doing the very best they can with the limited personnel and the procedures they have in place. They’re aware of the problems this presents for patients. While there are no easy answers to these ongoing issues, there are short-term solutions such as telemedicine options that can provide relief. Studying trends and forecasting staffing and other issues affecting the industry is an important part of our ability to continually improve the quality of healthcare for patients. By studying and compiling these statistics, we gain knowledge so that we’re better prepared to implement procedures to offset upcoming gaps. Remember that every day is a gift and sometimes the very best gifts arise from the painful life lessons of the past. Today’s problems give us the opportunity to learn and grow from our mistakes and provide a pathway for continued improvement and better solutions in the future. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We have an educational program, particularly right now with a K-5 where we go into schools and introduce some concepts about health and wellness, but then also the careers that come along with those.” — Melanie [4:50]
“The earlier you start exposing students to the health careers, the more likely they are to decide to go into that as a field.” — Melanie [5:09]
“We actually are a very unusual nonprofit, we actually have programs that generate revenue.” — Melanie [6:34]
“We've been concerned that as a result of COVID-19 and all the media around it, young people might be kind of scared off from becoming American healthcare.” — Melanie [9:24]
“During COVID-19, the turnover rate, meaning people leaving their jobs and changing jobs, or leaving the profession, increased almost 10% in one year, which is a pretty big increase during COVID-19.” — Melanie [14:13]
“The workload for physicians is significant because they are trying to catch up with all those people who didn't get services during the year and a half at the front end of COVID-19.” — Melanie [16:03]
“For the less urgent things, I really encourage people to manage their health care to know when they need to be seeing a doctor next, and trying to get themselves booked out as far as possible.” — Melanie [19:11]
Today, you can actually make more at Arby's or McDonald's than you can as a direct care worker, as a home health aide.” — Melanie [22:06]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Michigan Health Council

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with Hilary Simmet, Marketing Specialist for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Michigan

When was the last time you visited your local park? If it’s been awhile, you may want to reacquaint yourself with all of the wonderful activities available at the park these days. For example, right here in Southeastern, Michigan we have so many beautifully developed and maintained parks. They offer something for everyone to enjoy such as running, hiking, and biking trails and several even have lakes where you can spend the day at the beach and rent a canoe or kayak. There’s no better time than summer to plan an adventure at your local park. Several parks even offer overnight camping so you could make it a summer vacation destination. Pack a picnic, toss a football and relax in the sun. Depending upon what your park offers, there might even be an opportunity to spend the day golfing, fishing, or playing on a waterslide with the kids. If you’re looking for fun outdoor activities or perhaps something new to try, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Hilary Simmet, Marketing Specialist for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Michigan. Hilary is here to tell us about all the wonderful activities available right now at the Metroparks.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What are some activities that you can do at the Metroparks?
How much does it cost to rent a canoe or kayak for the day?
How can someone sign up for the Trail Challenge?
How many of the parks have golf courses?
How did the Trail Challenge come about, and what can someone expect once they sign up?
The amenities at the park, such as picnic shelters, picnic tables, barbecue grills and concession stands.
What about the indoor spaces available to rent for a private event, such as a wedding?
What are some of the most popular events that the park offers?
How about some of the concerts and music events?

Today’s Takeaway:

Staying physically active and breathing in the fresh air outdoors is one of the best things we can do to maintain a healthy mind and body. We’re so very fortunate to have the most amazing parks where we can enjoy a variety of fun, healthy outdoor activities throughout the year. There’s so much to see and do and there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. Maybe you can rent boats, play golf, ride bikes and horses, or if you prefer to stay indoors, many parks have Nature Centers and museums to visit. At the Metroparks here in Michigan, you can plan an evening picnic and listen to live music under the stars with their free Summer Concert Series. So check online in your area to find out what’s available. Whatever it is that brings you a sense of enjoyment, your local parks are sure to provide it. Remember that every single day is a gift and the gift we get from spending time outdoors in nature with our loved ones is one of the most precious gifts of all! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“There's so much to do, especially now that it’s summer. We have a lot of aquatic facilities.” — Hilary [2:04]
“By logging miles, we mean you can hike, bike, paddle, rollerblade, push a stroller, etc. However you’d like to take in your miles, you can do it at the metro parks.” — Hilary [4:42]
“If you're looking for an event that is huge, has a lot of public participation, maybe it's a concert for kids or a concert for adults; maybe you want to do some dancing or put the kids in a bounce house and get them all tired before bedtime. We have an event for you this summer.” — Hilary [5:43]
“It's always a great day at the Metro Parks. It doesn't matter the weather, you're always going to have a great day at the Metro Parks.” — Hilary [12:49]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Huron-Clinton Metroparks

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With Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association

Did you know that the week of May 7th‒13th was National Hospital Week? During that week, we pay tribute to our healthcare workers and thank them for their service. Governor Gretchen Whitmer honored our dedicated hospital employees with the following message, “Whether you’re preparing food for patients and staff, providing care at the bedside, doing rounds, performing surgery, or handling critical maintenance needs, the work you do keeps our hospitals safe and makes them more effective.” Although hospitals faced staffing and financial struggles in the past, those challenges have grown significantly since the early days of the pandemic. Faced with the frightening task of containing the deadly outbreak while caring for multitudes of quarantined patients, exhausted healthcare workers were pushed to the brink physically and mentally. With staffing levels already strained, hospital employees were subjected to significantly longer hours with fewer breaks. In addition to the increased threat to their own health and safety, employees may have faced childcare or other family issues resulting from COVID-19-related job loss or illness.

Thankfully, the worst days of the pandemic are behind us, but the aftereffects linger on. Staff shortages continue to plague hospitals and healthcare centers. One of the biggest reasons cited is employee burnout. The ongoing physical, emotional, and mental toll led to a huge increase in early retirement and employee resignations. So, how are local hospitals coping with these issues and what does this mean for the future of Michigan healthcare? If you want to learn the answers to these questions and more, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association. Brian is here to talk to us about the current state of Michigan Hospitals and explain how the MHA supports our healthcare workers.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is the Michigan Health and Hospital Association?
How does the MHA advocate for hospitals?
Do most hospitals belong to the Association?
What impact has the pandemic had on hospitals in Michigan?
Are we more prepared for a pandemic than we were in 2020?
How do we encourage more of the younger generation to explore going into nursing and the caregiving industry?
How has the nursing shortage changed partnerships between nursing schools and hospitals?
What are some of the other areas affected significantly by staffing shortages?
What other problems do hospitals currently face?
Why are people so violent against healthcare workers?
How can we ensure the safety of our healthcare employees?
In addition to major hospitals, how does the staffing shortage impact other care facilities such as nursing homes?
If someone wants to contact the MHA, what is the best way to do so?

Today’s Takeaway:

Working in a hospital can be a very challenging environment. While performing these vital life-affirming jobs, our healthcare employees are on the front lines dealing with patients and their loved ones during the worst and most stressful times in their lives. They may have to treat patients who are delusional, in pain, or simply uncooperative. In addition to the patients themselves, they may encounter family members who are verbally or physically abusive. Just imagine how you would feel if you were physically abused or verbally threatened while you were simply trying to do your job. When we’re in pain or a loved one is ill, it’s important to respect the job of the healthcare workers and remember we are in their care. They have the knowledge and tools to help us recover. We need to let them do their job. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of health and recovery is wholly dependent upon our healthcare workers. So take a moment to remember how hard they are working to help us and don’t forget to thank them for all that they do and the sacrifices they may be making. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Our hospitals, whether large or small, urban or rural, have been through an incredible challenge these last few years. And we’re so incredibly proud of the work that they do every single day 24/7, 365, to care for all Michiganders.” — Brian [3:26]
“We really do a number of things that can promote the health and well-being of our staff and the patients they serve.” — Brian [4:06]
“When we walk into the governor’s office, or a state senator or representative’s office, we can legitimately say we are here as the voice of the entire field.” — Brian [5:07]
“Efficiency is the enemy of preparedness.” — Brian [8:18]
“I think we have to have a serious conversation about the financial viability of the rest of the healthcare infrastructure versus the pharmaceutical industry.” — Brian [18:38]
“We’re really doing whatever we possibly can to create the best possible workplace for our health care providers.” — Brian [23:55]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Michigan Health and Hospital Association (MHA)

Michigan Hospital Careers

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with Shawn Brynes, Franchise Owner of StretchLab

When most of us think of stretching, it’s something we might spend a few minutes doing to limber up before exercising, or afterwards to cool down. But did you know that stretching on its own is a great form of exercise? Not only does stretching build and tone your muscles, but it can help avoid injury, increase flexibility or agility, and maximize performance. It might even improve your posture! In professional sports, it’s the job of the team trainer to keep athletes operating in peak performance mode. They do this by utilizing a strict regimen of pre- and post-game stretches. The trainer can manipulate and stretch the individual muscles and joints in order to minimize pain and discomfort, increase range of motion, or improve an athlete’s speed. But these days, having a trainer stretch your muscles, manipulate your joints and optimize your physical fitness isn’t just for professional athletes. One of the fastest-growing franchises in the nation provides group or one on one, stretching sessions with specially trained individuals who stretch and tone your muscles and joints for you. If you want to minimize muscle discomfort, increase your range of motion, and improve your circulation, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Shawn Brynes, the franchise owner of StretchLab, to explain why stretching could be the best exercise of all.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why is stretching so beneficial for our health and well being
Is it more important to stretch before or after we exercise?
How can stretching help us avoid and heal from injuries?
How does regular stretching improve athletic fitness?
Should we stretch every day, even when we don’t exercise?
What areas of the body should we focus on?
What is “assisted stretching”?
Why is assisted stretching more effective?
What is StretchLab and how did Shawn become involved?
How often should we stretch?
Is it too late to start stretching, and how can it help us age well?
What is M.A.P.S. technology and how does it work?
What is a Flexologist?

Today’s Takeaway:

We tend to take for granted all the many ways we rely on our body, from brushing our teeth to basic household chores and picking up after the kids or pets, until suddenly, we hurt ourselves. When an injury prevents us from doing even the most basic of movements, our life is disrupted in ways we can’t even begin to imagine. Suddenly we have to rely on others to do all those things for us. We may need help getting dressed, or have someone else walk our dog. But as we’ve heard today, most injuries tend to occur when muscles, ligaments, and joints aren’t properly conditioned. Although a majority of injuries occur during sports-related activities, sometimes just stepping wrong as you get out of the car could cause an injury. Too much pressure or the slightest movement the wrong way might lead to ruptures or tears. That’s why it’s so very important to properly condition your body to maximize your range of motion. When a joint or ligament is too tight, it could snap when it’s put under pressure. But if it’s accustomed to a wider range of motion, that joint or tendon will be far more resilient and forgiving, even under strain. Taking a few extra minutes to stretch each day could save you from injury, not to mention the added mental benefit of giving yourself a few extra minutes to breathe deep and relax. Remember that every day is a gift and having a healthy body is a gift we can never take for granted. So cherish your body and do everything you can to condition it properly. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Certainly increasing our mobility in our flexibility helps humans do what we’re really designed to do, which is to be in motion.” — Shawn [2:19]

“A body that’s prepared and stretching via assisted stretching or stretching on our own helps us increase that range of motion and flexibility and prepares us to do those activities that we love to do and that we have to do.” — Shawn [2:45]

“Stretching, first and foremost, should not hurt. And I think there was a common misconception for a time that if it didn’t hurt, it didn’t work.” — Shawn [10:11]

“I'm looking for things that can help me maintain my mobility and my flexibility, so I can do the things that I really enjoyed doing into my 60s and 70s. I think assisted stretching is one of those things that can certainly help.” — Shawn [22:15]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

StretchLab

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We hear a lot of talk in the media these days about mental illness. In fact, this podcast frequently covers the topic with the goal of understanding the disease and supporting those who struggle with a mental disorder. But there can be a lot of confusion about what qualifies as mental illness. Sometimes, it’s used as an excuse for everything from mass shootings to road rage. And while that may be true in some specific instances, we’re seeing it used today, for example, as a shield for hate crimes, anti-semitism, and mass murder. For many who suffer day-in and day-out with crippling depression, anxiety, and other forms of debilitating mental illness, these individuals often can’t even get out of bed in the morning. They’re not focused on committing crimes.

Sometimes severe depression can’t be controlled by traditional means. In June of 2019, Florine interviewed author and well-known “mommy blogger,” Heather Armstrong, who described how her crippling depression made it impossible to even get out of bed in the morning or take a shower. Nothing Heather tried relieved her symptoms. Medication didn’t help. Therapy didn’t help and her substance abuse issues only contributed to the problem. By 2017, Heather was so desperate that she participated in an experimental treatment protocol that left her clinically brain-dead for several minutes at a time. Her memoir entitled, The Valedictorian of Being Dead, tells how the experimental procedure helped to, at least temporarily, alleviate her symptoms. Heather’s bravery and openness in sharing the most painful aspects of her life proved to be an inspiration to many and led to her being named one of Forbes’ List of Most Influential Women. But perhaps because there’s a lot of shame and stigma surrounding the disease of mental illness, Heather’s openness in sharing her struggles also made her a frequent target of online trolls. Sadly, during the pandemic, Heather suffered a relapse and on May 9th of this year, Heather took her own life. She was only 47 years old and left behind two teenage daughters. Heather’s deteriorating mental state became evident in her spiraling blog posts and her words provoked online trolls who subjected Heather to horrific online bullying about every aspect of her life.

It’s important to remember cruelty and bullying only make a bad situation worse. Instead of ostracizing, mocking, and abusing those who are struggling, let’s recognize that the most vulnerable members of our society need our compassion, understanding, and grace, and as a memorial tribute, please listen to Florine’s interview with Heather Armstrong. And remember that every single day is a gift and when you are at your lowest point, remember that this too shall pass. If you truly are having suicidal thoughts, please reach out and pick up the phone. Help is only a phone call away. Please call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 800-273-8255.

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Heather Armstrong

Heather Armstrong IG

Dooce.com

The Valedictorian of Being Dead: The True Story of Dying Ten Times to Live, by Heather B. Armstrong

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With Kathleen Grissom, Bestselling Author

Having a passionate dream and believing in yourself could transform your daily life. It provides a reason to spring out of bed in the morning and it can motivate you to keep going late at night, working overtime in pursuit of that dream. That passion may even change how we see the world by letting us imagine what our life might look like, if only things were different.

Maybe your passion involves the arts and your dream is to become a dancer or a singer. Perhaps you’ve dreamed of writing a novel and even submitted a written draft to a publishing company. Years ago, I dreamed about writing a book, and one day, that dream became a reality. When I was first approached about writing the memoir that eventually became my book, “Talk to The Mirror,” I was already a well-known businesswoman. I was fortunate to meet with several publishing companies in New York who expressed an interest.

But what if you’re an unknown author? How do you get your foot in the door with a publishing company? How do you convince a publisher that your debut novel might just become their next bestseller?

When I’m reading a particularly enjoyable novel, I often wonder about the writer’s process. How did the author come up with the theme for their novel? Where did they find the inspiration for their characters or come up with those shocking plot twists? If the author is writing a historical novel based on a real-life person, how do they go about researching the characters? If you want to learn more about what it takes to write (and publish) that bestselling novel, you’ll want to listen to my interview with New York Times Bestselling author, Kathleen Grissom. Her very first novel, The Kitchen House, was originally published in 2010. It went on to become a bestseller and by 2016, her book was already in its 21st printing and had sold more than 400,000 copies. That’s quite an accomplishment for an unknown author! Kathleen’s with us today to talk about her newest historical novel, Crow Mary.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was the inspiration behind The Kitchen House?
What is the book about?
Does Kathleen have any history with writing?
Kathleen was raising cashmere goats before she became a best-selling author.
What are the things Kathleen learned when studying the publishing industry?
What types of research did Kathleen do when writing The Kitchen House?
How did Kathleen find an agent?
How did The Kitchen House develop legs? Did Kathleen go on book tours, go to book clubs, etc?
What is Kathleen’s book Crow Mary about?
Is Kathleen disciplined in her writing process?
What's the biggest challenge in writing a fictionalized historical account of an actual person?
How does Kathleen balance the need for historical accuracy against the commercial desire for a readable and interesting storyline?
How did Kathleen go about recreating Crow Mary’s life, and obtaining such detailed information about the language, the clothing and the food, and the customs?
What does Kathleen want readers to take away from Crow Mary?

Today’s Takeaway:

Crow Mary provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives, customs, and rituals of Native American culture during the late 1800s. It’s based on the true story of a brave woman and the personal sacrifices she made standing up for what she believed in to protect the lives of others. Kathleen’s passion for strong women and their place in history led to her career as a bestselling author. Following your passion won’t always lead to becoming a bestselling author. But finding something that brings you pleasure and enjoyment can be its own reward. In addition, you might find others to connect with who share that same interest or passion. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from following our passion can bring excitement, joy, and fun into our daily lives simply by spending time doing something that we enjoy. And sometimes, if we’re very lucky, we might even get to pursue our passion to the point where it becomes a full-time endeavor and financially rewarding as well. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“A movie started to play in my head and in my mind's eye; I was just pulled right into the story.” — Kathleen
“I came home and I sat down and I said, ‘Where are you?' And with that, the movie started to play. I picked up my pencil and I followed behind. So that's how I came to write “The Kitchen House.” — Kathleen
“I was ill-equipped to write when I think back now. I really was.” — Kathleen
“I just knew from the beginning that I was meant to get it published. And so I studied the publishing business.” — Kathleen
“My main concern was that I would stick to the facts. The rest of it, I pray, and I asked for guidance.” — Kathleen
“I didn’t know that I could become a writer. I thought those were extraordinary people. And then I discovered that writers were just ordinary people who might write something extraordinary. I realized I could be a writer.” — Kathleen / Susan Isaacs
“I needed to be able to understand the nuances and the subtleties of her [Crow Mary’s] culture, to be able to allow her voice to authentically come through. And so that was my goal, to really authentically understand the culture.” — Kathleen

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Kitchen House

Crow Mary

Kathleen's Website

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With Dr. Jonathan Fellows, Board Certified Neurology Specialist

No one could have anticipated in March of 2020 the staggering toll COVID-19 would have on the world as millions lost their lives and others continue to suffer long-term health consequences. But now, more than three years later, the public health emergency has expired in the U.S. Even though the W.H.O. still classifies COVID as an ongoing global health threat, there is cause for optimism as we are at long last reaching a point where increased levels of immunity may soon lead to a reduction in virus-related deaths.

But what can we expect going forward and what about the ongoing impact on patients still experiencing long COVID symptoms? How are those individuals doing today? What are the more common long-term symptoms and are these patients finally doing better and feeling some relief? If so, what treatments have proven effective in treating long COVID? Here’s what we do know today: while the range and severity of symptoms can vary greatly from one patient to the next and a small minority of patients continue to suffer from ongoing kidney, cardiac, and circulatory issues, most patients diagnosed with long COVID experience less severe symptoms.

In addition to a loss of smell or taste, some of the most common symptoms include chronic fatigue and brain fog, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal issues, and headaches. For patients suffering from these long COVID symptoms, a number of different medications are recommended that could help reduce brain fog and chronic fatigue and may help with inflammation and provide relief from long COVID body aches and pains. In addition to these medications, doctors recommend that patients adopt an anti-inflammatory diet, get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and manage their stress — all of which have been shown to reduce symptoms of long COVID. If you want to learn more about the possible effects of long COVID and how it can be treated, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview with Dr. Jon Fellows, a board-certified neurology specialist who talks about specific neurological symptoms experienced by those patients diagnosed with long COVID.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the most common neurological symptoms that COVID-19 patients are experiencing?
What does “brain fog” mean?
Can you have “brain fog” without having had COVID-19?
Does the vaccine help with long-hauler COVID-19 symptoms?
Why do only certain COVID-19 patients experience severe neurological symptoms?
How much does obesity factor into developing neurological diseases and conditions?
Should people who have had COVID-19 still get the vaccine?
Are diabetic people more at risk for COVID-19?
What, if anything, can help these symptoms disappear?
Dr. Fellows mentions other common neurological diseases.
What are movement disorders?
What danger does the new variant present?
What are Dr. Fellows’ thoughts on those who are hesitant to vaccinate?
Why hasn’t the FDA fully approved the vaccine?
Important stroke warning signs and symptoms to look out for.

Today’s Takeaway:

With many of us returning to work, socializing with friends and family, eating at restaurants, and attending sporting events, life is feeling very different from a year ago! But not all of us are so fortunate. For those COVID-19 patients who are experiencing ongoing symptoms, they feel like they’re still in the thick of this pandemic.

As we’ve heard, while most of these symptoms will disappear or improve over time, there are things we can do to minimize our symptoms. Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in some form of exercise, controlling stress, and getting good rest and sleep are important steps. If you’re one of the lucky ones who stayed healthy during the pandemic and didn’t get sick, that doesn’t mean you weren’t affected. Perhaps the lack of social interaction affected our mindset and we experienced a cognitive slump this past year. Do you feel as if you lack energy and focus? It’s easy to drift into a sort of malaise when we’re not being mentally stimulated by work and social activities. So, how can we re-engage and strengthen our cognitive abilities? Reading, playing trivia games, assembling puzzles, or whatever you can do to stimulate your brain are ways to sharpen your skills and improve your critical thinking. Remember that every day is a gift and your brain needs exercise just like the other muscles in your body. So stimulate and challenge your mind! Get out there and try new things. Experience new places, make new memories, and just enjoy every moment! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“A day doesn't go by that I don't have a patient come in that had COVID-19 weeks ago and is still having symptoms, and probably the biggest one is that brain fog.” — Dr. Fellows

“This is so this long hauler syndrome is not unique to COVID-19. We've seen this forever.” — Dr. Fellows

“Studies have shown that the patients that have the greatest immunity against infection, or really reinfection, in this case, would be patients who have had COVID-19 and then went on to get the vaccine. That's the magic bullet right there.” — Dr. Fellows

“Brain fog, by and large, is one of the most common complaints that patients who have had COVID-19 complain of.” — Dr. Fellows

“In general, patients are getting better about a month after COVID-19.” — Dr. Fellows

“About 10% of all patients who get COVID-19 will go on to develop long-hauler syndrome.” — Dr. Fellows

“The patients that are most at risk for long-term health problems are the patients that are more likely than not to develop the long-hauler phenomenon.” — Dr. Fellows

“The single best thing we can do in terms of brain health is activity.” — Dr. Fellows

“I would say that the vast majority of patients show improvement to complete resolution.” — Dr. Fellows

“What I tell patients is that it has been my ticket to enjoy life a little bit. I can feel very comfortable going places being around people just knowing that I'm vaccinated and that I have that layer of protection.” — Dr. Fellows

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Jonathan Fellows at Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders (MIND)

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with Lisa Lapides Sawicki, Certified Life Coach

What do you think of when you hear of a “conflict” between two people? Do you automatically roll your eyes or feel your stomach clench with anxiety? Or, is your first impulse to try and “smooth things over” and diffuse the conflict before things escalate any further? While that might give the parties a chance to cool off, it doesn’t resolve the underlying issue. Having a disagreement with someone doesn’t have to lead to a conflict and on occasion, a conversation about a difference of opinion can prove beneficial. Sometimes conflicts actually identify hidden issues and bring to light disagreements that can ultimately strengthen relationships or bring about creative solutions that move a project forward, allowing both parties to feel as though progress has been achieved. But how you approach the other person and address that conflict can make all the difference. If you want to learn more about how to successfully resolve conflicts and hear tips for strategies on having conversations that can produce solutions and promote a win-win feeling for both parties, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Certified Life Coach, Lisa Lapides Sawicki.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the various types of conflict?
Why there are just some people that you can’t resolve conflict with.
How healthy conflict and resolution can be good.
What are some common reasons that people have disagreements?
Why family conflict tends to be harder to resolve.
When do you need outside help to resolve your conflict?
Where can someone go to find a professional to help them resolve their conflict?
What is meant by the term “conflict resolution”?
Why should we focus on the issue at hand, rather than the words?
What should you do if the other person keeps pointing the finger at you?
Why is writing things down on a legal pad or whiteboard much better than just keeping it in conversation?
The importance of empathy in resolving conflict.
What are some great strategies for handling conflict in the workplace?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we’re living or working with others, we bring our own unique vision and experience to a situation. But if our approach differs on how we accomplish something or what needs to happen, it may inevitably lead to disagreements or conflicts. That’s especially true when communicating with others if we express our needs, wants, or desires without regard for what the other person is thinking or feeling. That single-minded, narrow focus is often the cause of many disagreements that can lead to conflict. While it’s important to communicate our own feelings and needs in a calm and forthright manner, it’s equally important that we actively listen to those around us to understand their point of view. If the goal is to resolve the conflict in a way that serves the needs of both parties, focus on the actual issues and try to come up with a compromise rather than escalating the conflict itself by assigning blame and allowing our emotions to get in the way. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from learning to listen and pay attention to the needs and feelings of those around us even when we disagree, could lead to fewer misunderstandings and help us identify and resolve the issues that divide us. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Conflict happens when two people or more disagree, and it escalates and becomes kind of an elephant in the room, or something that there’s disappointment or has to be negotiated or compromised.” — Lisa [2:12]
“Every issue is not worth being processed. So you have to really understand and clarify what’s worth confrontation, what’s worth resolving.” — Lisa [2:42]
“Conflict resolution with family members is really a high-level communication.” — Lisa [8:26]
“In a conflict, there can be two unreasonable people, and you need outside help.” — Lisa [9:01]
“You have to be really great with human nature to get to resolve. It’s not black and white.” — Lisa [11:51]
“When we focus on the facts, we start to be able to dissect cleanly and fairly and objectively what’s really happening.” — Lisa [14:37]
“The words get in the way. So we have to go down to facts, to start to really resolve the problem at hand, and to negotiate and collaborate and come to some kind of compromise and understanding.” — Lisa [15:15]
“Empathy is hugely important to be somebody who can effectively have conflict resolution.” — Lisa [17:14]
“We always have to negotiate in little ways, and big ways.” —Lisa [26:32]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Lisa Lapides Sawicki

Family Conflict Factsheet

Strong Tips for Healthy Family Management

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With Christina Beck, Director of Content for Supportiv

What do you do when you’re tossing and turning in the middle of the night, panicking about a situation or suddenly overcome with anxiety? Your first thought might be to reach for the phone to call a family member or friend… only it’s three o’clock in the morning and you don’t want to wake them or cause them to worry. But as you sit there alone, feeling more anxious and desperate and counting the hours till dawn, you’re finding it harder and harder to calm yourself. Instead, what if we could contact an anonymous stranger who actually understands our concerns because they’ve experienced the very same thing? Sometimes just talking openly and honestly about our feelings is exactly what we need to feel better. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could anonymously talk about our fears and challenges and not concern ourselves with how our words might be misinterpreted by the other person? We could vent openly without fear of judgment and perhaps even learn how the other person handled their own situation. If worries about relationships, family dramas, or struggles at work are keeping you up at night, then maybe talking about the situation with someone who experienced those same challenges might help. Even if their situation isn’t identical to what you‘re experiencing, it could help to speak with a like-minded person who shares your concerns. That’s the idea behind Supportiv. Supportiv is a digital peer-to-peer network that matches you with a specially trained moderator who will connect you with the right support network team members. If you want to learn more about what Supportiv is and how it works, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Christina Beck, Director of Content for Supportiv.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Supportiv?
How did the idea for Supportiv come about?
Do you see each other on the chat, or is it completely anonymous?
What privacy does Supportiv guarantee the user?
Is it really 24/7?
What are the steps that you can take to reach and talk with someone?
What is the wait time before you are connected with someone on the service?
What is precision peer support?
How does Supportiv differ from traditional forms of mental care or group therapy?
Is Supportiv covered by insurance?
What is the typical cost of a session?
How does someone become a moderator, and what kind of training do they receive?
What are some of the common situations in which Supportiv could provide help for their users?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we’re in the midst of a crisis or a challenging situation and don’t know which way to turn, our emotions get in the way when we’re overwhelmed by feelings of anger, insecurity, sadness, or grief. Listening only to the voice inside our head, we might not see the situation clearly. But if we talk with someone who experienced a similar situation, we may find comfort and validation just knowing we’re not alone. By talking things over, we might sometimes figure out an answer, soothe our hurt feelings, or lose at least some of our anger. It might help to have a neutral third party listen and empathize. It’s certainly preferable to keeping things bottled up inside which only allows the situation or feelings to fester and grow. Perhaps the best thing about the Supportiv network is that it’s not just a one-way street. For the individual on the other end of the phone, it provides an opportunity for them to look back and relate how they’ve come out on the other side. Sharing their story of recovery and growth can be very rewarding. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from supporting and being there for others is not only helpful for them, it can bring us a sense of purpose and personal clarity. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“That part of the mission is to allow people to seek help on their own terms, when and how they need it. That means you don’t have to use just the right vocabulary. You don’t have to disclose or receive a diagnosis or download an app. You don’t have to schedule around your unpredictable life.” — Christina [3:07]
“Being anonymous makes it easier to just be vulnerable and seek help in the first place.” — Christina [4:05]
“We look at chat as sort of the great equalizer. Anybody, a Ph.D. or a high school dropout can still connect over a similar issue.” — Christina [4:40]
“Precision peer support is really the patented cutting-edge technology that allows Supportiv to match you with the best peers for whatever topic you want to discuss. It’s basically almost magic just based on your answer to that one question: what’s your struggle?” — Christina [8:53]
“Online peer support at Supportiv isn't a replacement for therapy. But it can be a much more flexible and comfortable option when you really need immediate support.” — Christina [11:31]
“In these roles are people who have been through difficult experiences and who really feel how powerful it is not just to feel listened to but to feel heard.” — Christina [15:03]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Supportiv

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With Sinziana Luchian, Director of Healthcare Initiatives at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce

One of the biggest challenges employers have faced since the early days of the pandemic is reassuring employees that their workplace is not only safe but that changes have been implemented to ensure a healthy work environment. But what is meant by the term “healthy work environment?” These days in addition to making sure that employees feel secure and valued in their jobs, many employers are also taking steps to encourage the ongoing health and well-being of their workforce. A wide range of supportive services are available to companies that want to create an inclusive and cohesive work environment. For example, activities and information that promote a healthy lifestyle and forming good habits may help reduce employee stress and burnout. When employers demonstrate that they take their employee’s health and well-being seriously, it might result in a more productive effort and an increase in employee engagement. If you want to learn more about how companies and employees can work together to create a healthier work environment, you’ll want to listen to my Sinziana Luchian, the Director of Healthcare Initiatives at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is a healthy work environment?
What is the role of the Detroit Regional Chamber in promoting a healthy workplace?
From a productivity standpoint, how are healthy work environments more successful?
Where could a company start to start implementing taking health and well-being more seriously?
Does it have to cost a lot to start these initiatives, or are there low-cost options?
What are some of the benefits that membership in the Chamber offers small businesses?
What can employers do to model wellness and encourage health in their employees?
Is there a correlation between companies with a solid wellness strategy and fewer employee sick days?
Why does the Chamber recommend that companies include a social element as part of their health and wellness culture?
How companies can support the physical, mental, and emotional health of their employees.

Today’s Takeaway:

There is a saying that “good health is good for business.” When employers cultivate a positive healthy workplace, they make it easier for employees to adopt and maintain healthy habits. In addition to increased reports of physical illness, job-related stress can also lead to increased rates of depression and anxiety. Employees who “love their jobs” are more likely to be found working at companies that score highest in promoting a work environment where there is less stress and where they feel valued. But having a healthy work environment goes beyond supporting the physical and mental health of their employees. It’s also about creating and ensuring an environment that is emotionally safe, and free of gossip, intolerance, or harassment. One way to promote a sense of inclusivity is by scheduling offsite team events where management can participate alongside their employees and everyone can “compete” on an equal basis. The advantages for companies that prioritize wellness is that in addition to a healthier, happier workforce, may have increased productivity and engagement, less stress and even the potential for a reduction in group plan insurance costs, all of which might lead to an improved bottom line. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from feeling our best physically and mentally could help us perform better at work and still have plenty of energy left over to enjoy our time with family and friends. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“A healthy workplace is flexible. It's inclusive and supportive of each employee's health and wellness journey. And really, the way to do this is to communicate with your employees and find out what's important to them regarding their well-being.” - Sinziana 2:09
“Happy and healthy employees are more present and engaged day to day, as well as more productive in their jobs.” - Sinziana 4:36
“Really try to engage your workforce in health and wellness activities, and see what's important to them, what's working, what's not working, and go from there.” - Sinziana 11:34
“I think that’s the important part, is creating the culture. It has to trickle from the top down.” - Sinziana 11:40
“Health-focused environments need to trickle from the top down for them to be successful.” - Sinziana 11:55
“Companies who invest in their employees through a wellness strategy see fewer sick days, medical leave and see a more productive and engaged workforce.” - Sinziana 17:29

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Detroit Regional Chamber

sluchian@detroitchamber.com

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With Beth Thayer, Director of Henry Ford Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

When you are diagnosed with a chronic illness such as Type 2 Diabetes, some lifestyle changes may be in order. But the good news is that by adopting healthy habits and with careful blood sugar monitoring, you will not only feel better but you could avoid the potential for long-term complications. One of the biggest complications associated with diabetes is the increased risk of cardiovascular disease which could result in heart attacks, stroke, or even sudden death. Obesity is a contributing factor to developing cardiovascular disease because the additional weight puts an increased toll on the body's ability to function safely and efficiently. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, and clogged arteries are just a few of the metabolic changes associated with excessive weight gain. In addition, when you’re morbidly obese, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems may develop. That’s why it’s important for anyone diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes to carefully monitor their blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight. If you want to learn proven tips on how to successfully manage Type 2 diabetes with a healthy diet and increased physical activity, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Beth Thayer, the Director of the Henry Ford Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why is maintaining a healthy weight so important for people living

with Type 2 diabetes?

Beth shares some foods to incorporate into your diet that can help stabilize blood sugar.
What role does diet play for someone diagnosed with diabetes?
What is insulin resistance, and how does it make it harder for a person to lose weight?
Are there foods we should eliminate to balance our blood sugar?
Are all breads bad? Do we really need to cut out carbs?
What is the plate method and how does it help us balance our meals?
Beth walks us through a wonderful, satisfying, and healthy look at what a typical breakfast, lunch, and dinner can look like.
What if someone wants to go gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan? How can they make sure they are getting all the nutrients they need?
Ideas for meal planning when one child has been diagnosed with diabetes and his or her siblings don’t have diabetes?
What suggestions do you have for healthy snacks and desserts for

people with diabetes?

Why is it so important for people with diabetes to incorporate daily activity or exercise into their routine?
What is “pre-diabetes”?
What is recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with this condition?

Today’s Takeaway:

Losing weight may be one of the best and most important ways to protect our health and guard against developing Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and many other long-term health complications. While it would be great if we could simply lose weight at the drop of a hat to look our best and be the healthiest we can be, the truth is that there are no easy shortcuts.

While it’s not a quick fix, the best way to lose weight continues to be watching what we eat, exercising portion control, and getting plenty of activity each day. The ideal meal plan should incorporate foods that are nutritious and protein-rich along with plenty of healthy fruits and vegetables. The sign of a great weight loss plan is one that helps you learn new eating habits and change your lifestyle in ways that you’ll want to continue so you can keep the weight off. In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, increased physical activity may be the key to losing weight and keeping it off. Regular exercise not only helps you lose body fat, but it can also lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Best of all, research has shown that regular physical activity can help you control your diabetes better by reducing the amount of sugar (glucose) in your bloodstream and decreasing insulin resistance. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from losing excess weight and optimizing our health is truly the gift of a lifetime — a lifetime that can be spent loving ourselves and enjoying how we look and feel. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“In some cases, weight loss is actually enough to restore blood sugar levels to normal. So even if it doesn’t get your blood sugar completely back to normal, it might lower your need for insulin therapy, or other medications that control your diabetes.” — Beth [4:34]
“No, don’t eliminate carbohydrates. You need carbohydrates for energy, your brain needs it to function. And then we need the nutrients that carbohydrate foods like whole grains, fruits and dairy, and even vegetables can provide.” — Beth [9:09]
“So when we’re looking at someone who has diabetes, it’s not only the right foods, that’s a key piece. But it’s also looking at the amount that you’re eating of these foods, and how you note that food throughout the day.” — Beth [11:07]
“Don’t, don’t be shy with those vegetables!” — Beth [15:20]
“So instead of stigmatizing the child or anyone who has diabetes, adjusting the meal plan for that person who has diabetes, for the whole family is going to be really important.” — Beth [21:32]
“Physical activity is so important for all of us. But with someone who has diabetes, it’s especially important.” — Beth [23:06]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Henry Ford Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Henry Ford Blog

Diabetes Helpline 313-874-7495

View Details

With Meryl Comer, Award Winning Journalist and TV Producer

When you’re a caregiver for an adult with a cognitive disability such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, there could be numerous challenges involved in taking that individual out in public. Simple errands such as going to the grocery store or dining out at restaurants can prove to be an exhausting endeavor, filled with unpredictable behaviors. Parents of autistic children often experience the same thing. When you’re the parent of a child with autism, a big part of their recommended treatment plan is establishing a comforting daily routine. Along with providing a safe and familiar home environment, it’s equally important to allow for regular social interaction, time spent outdoors in the fresh air, and keeping the child engaged with regular activities.

Sensory overload or unfamiliar circumstances can be upsetting and confusing. The disruption in an individual’s daily routine could lead to a public meltdown with tantrums, or violent outbursts. For the caregiver witnessing these behaviors is not only unsettling and embarrassing, but it also requires knowing how to safely extricate the child or adult from that situation and find a way to calm their outburst. It helps to have on hand a tool kit of soothing items such as noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget devices, and anti-bacterial wipes that might distract them. For a cognitively impaired adult, understanding the source of their anxiety or removing the trigger could help, as well as re-focusing their attention on you. The most important thing is to remain calm. Raising your voice or demanding that he or she calms down, will only make the situation worse. Instead, experienced caregivers often carry a small pocket card that they hand out to restaurant employees or others explaining that the person has dementia and that they’re simply having a “bad day.”

If you would like to learn more about the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s 2022 interview with Meryl Comer. A former award-winning journalist and TV producer, Meryl is well-versed in caring for a loved one with cognitive disabilities.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are some of the things people can do to reduce their risk of dementia?
What are some of the risk factors for dementia?
How does it affect men or women more?
What are some of the symptoms of early dementia?
Could Alzheimer’s be genetic?
Dementia has become the leading cause of death for women in the United Kingdom and Australia surpassing heart disease. In the United States, women over the age of 60 are twice as likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's as they are with breast cancer.
Meryl discusses both her mother and husband developing Alzheimer’s and the physical, emotional, and financial toll it took on her family.
Meryl talks about Us Against Alzheimer’s, and why feels so passionately about their mission.
What is the current research behind Alzheimer’s, and are we making any headway against solving it?
How does medical insurance typically handle covering Alzheimer’s, and why can it take such a financial toll on families?
What treatments are there today for someone diagnosed with early onset of the disease?
Why is so little known about Alzheimer’s compared to other diseases?
Meryl talks about the personality shifts that often accompany an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Why is it so important to establish a daily routine for the patient?
Why are women so often misdiagnosed in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease?

Today’s Takeaway:

Currently, two-thirds of all Alzheimer's patients worldwide are female. Dementia has become the leading cause of death for women in the United Kingdom and Australia, surpassing heart disease. In the United States, women over the age of 60 are twice as likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s as they are with breast cancer. The sad truth is that many women’s health symptoms are often ignored, misunderstood, or even dismissed. As women, we might be led to believe that mild cognitive impairment or forgetfulness is just our hormones or a normal sign of aging. But what if that’s not the cause? In women, early symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease might be attributed to brain fog, fatigue, depression, or simply distraction due to rigorous family and work schedules. But knowing your family history and paying attention to the early warning signs are critical for proper diagnosis.

It’s also important if you are the one caring for a family member or loved one with dementia that you establish a strong support network. As a primary caretaker, the toll upon your own health and wellness can be enormous. Make sure you have others who can pitch in to help and that you connect with a local caregivers group with whom you can ask questions and share advice. It’s important to note that not all symptoms of dementia lead to an Alzheimer's diagnosis. There are a variety of treatable conditions that can cause dementia-like symptoms such as untreated sleep apnea, Lyme disease, thyroid problems, or even vitamin deficiencies. But it’s vitally important to consult a trained medical professional to properly evaluate the symptoms and

determine the cause in order to begin proper treatment. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“No one is prepared for the cost of this disease.” — Meryl [6:41]
“That age of 50 to 70 is a really critical period for identifying risk and resilience — Meryl [7:09]
“All you’re doing is really staying healthy until science catches up. That's your target.” — Meryl [7:38]
“If you have a loved one in your home, you’d better show up at unexpected times. And you’d better show up and watch what's going on and pay close attention.” — Meryl [20:54]
“For those listening who are on the frontlines of the care, you live with very small victories, just getting through the day. Don't get so far ahead in the disease because you shut yourself down. You need the stamina.” — Meryl [33:18]
“I just want honesty from the doctors. I think we have to push the doctors to tell us what's going on.” — Meryl [37:50]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Meryl Comer

Slow Dancing with a Stranger

Us Against Alzheimer’s

View Details

With Jessie Garrison from GreenPath Financial Wellness

One of the most challenging situations a person can experience is financial hardship. Few things keep us up at night more than the fear of not being able to pay our bills. A sudden change in financial circumstances could jeopardize our ability to pay our mortgage, buy groceries, or even put gas in the car. A financial crisis may result from a variety of reasons such as unexpected medical bills, the sudden loss of a job, a death in the family, or a divorce. Any one of these events might abruptly lead to financial insecurity. Even the cost of rising inflation or high credit card balances could put us in financial jeopardy. But as the mountain of bills continues to accumulate, we may feel as though we are sinking underwater without a life raft. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome a sudden financial crisis. A good first step toward resolving this situation is seeking the aid of trained experts who specialize in working with individuals struggling with financial issues. They advise their clients of all the different options available to them so they can satisfy their creditors and ultimately regain their financial independence. With their help and guidance, clients have been able to consolidate their balances, pay off creditors, and turn their finances around. My guest is a perfect example of someone who did exactly that.

As a 21-year-old college student, Jessie Garrison was literally drowning in credit card debt and planning to declare personal bankruptcy. But at the last minute, she was encouraged to contact a credit counseling agency, GreenPath Financial Wellness. That phone call not only saved her financial future, it ultimately led her to a wonderful career path that would not have been possible had she not gone through the experience she did.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Jessie get herself in a financial bind at such a young age?
How did Jessie turn things around and start working for GreenPath?
What are the typical consequences of someone falling into serious debt?
How can these financial hardships affect someone mentally and emotionally?
What are counseling sessions like at GreenPath?
What is a certified financial expert?
Where is Jessie now in her financial wellness journey?
What type of work does GreenPath do?
What would she say to someone who is feeling overwhelmed?
Jessie reminds us that you don’t have to go through financial troubles alone.
How can GreenPath help someone get back on the right path to financial freedom?
What advice would Jessie have now for her 20-year-old self?
Are there any long-term negative consequences associated with being on a Debt Management Plan?
Jessie was able to improve her credit score to be in the top-tier category, and she now pays off her balance immediately rather than letting it rack up.

Today’s Takeaway:

The threat of a financial crisis can feel overwhelming. When you are faced with losing your home or rental property, you worry about where you will go next and how you can afford to live. If you can’t pay your bills, how will you support your family and put food on the table? But as we’ve heard today, even the most dire financial situations can be overcome. Jessie’s story is proof that just because a person is deep in debt today, it doesn’t mean that it will always be that way. There are solutions available and trained professionals who can help you. Following their advice, payment plans can be agreed upon with creditors and financial stability can be restored. You will learn that you are not alone and there is a solution. A trained professional can help you navigate the obstacles to financial freedom and understanding all of your options can help alleviate some of the fear and anxiety and show you a path forward. There’s light at the end of the tunnel. It will take time and discipline and sacrifices may have to be made but the end result is worth it. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of achieving financial stability is a gift that is truly priceless for you and your family. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“I ended up using credit cards to support my living expenses.”— Jessie [4:00]
“Maxed-out or late payments can make it more difficult to secure new loans or credit cards in the future. Or, it could be more difficult to get a mortgage or more expensive if you do get new loans.” — Jessie [7:03]
“Financial hardship weighs heavily on people. It can impact their self-worth. It can lead to anxiety, depression, or negative impact on relationships.” — Jessie [8:03]
“Our financial situation is so closely tied to our safety and our feeling of security. As a result, financial hardship has a significant mental and emotional toll.” — Jessie [8:33]
“You really do not have to be alone navigating a difficult financial situation.” — Jessie [9:03]
“Today, I feel like I'm in a much better place financially. I truly believe because of that one conversation with GreenPath. It changed my life.” — Jessie [13:48]
“Every type of conversation is geared to help our clients understand and work towards financial wellness.” — Jessie [16:05]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

GreenPath Financial Wellness

View Details

With Gayle Schindler, Chef, Author, and Food Blogger

With the skyrocketing cost of grocery bills, it’s more important than ever before to shop wisely and avoid food waste. Instead of eating out, ordering in, or a last-minute trip to the grocery store, you can save time and money by having everything you need on hand to whip up delicious meals. While strategies such as cutting coupons and buying sale items in bulk help reduce food costs, you can save even more money with careful planning. Using items you already have on hand in your pantry, you can prepare multiple dishes with common ingredients, expand your meal options and avoid unnecessary purchases. Plus, eating at home is a great way to ensure that you and your family eat healthy meals. Great meals begin with a well-stocked kitchen and pantry and if becoming a more organized cook and reducing your food costs is important to you, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Gayle Schindler, Chef, Food Blogger and author of the new cookbook, Stocked: Flavor Bombs and Staples For Your Kitchen. Rather than simply providing recipes, Gayle’s cookbook teaches you how to shop, stock, and prepare meals. It’s a “one-stop shop” for everything you need to know, to set up an organized, efficient kitchen and pantry so you can begin enjoying a variety of delicious meals with ingredients you already have on hand.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Stocked isn’t your typical cookbook. How did Gayle come up with the

idea and such a unique format for this book that she calls a “cooking book”?

Why was it important to focus more on shopping, storing, and prepping

food rather than simply providing recipes?

What are some of the most important things to keep in your pantry?
How can stocking your kitchen save you money and time and help you eat healthier?
What things does Gayle always keep in her pantry?
Why does Gayle take things out of their original packaging when she gets home from shopping?
What can you do with leftovers?
The importance of food safety in your home.
What do “sell by” and “use by” labels really mean?
What is a “flavor bomb”?
What are some of Gayle’s favorite meal prep shortcuts?
Most of us fall back on the same tired old meal choices. How can we get

out of that rut?

Today’s Takeaway:

During the course of our conversation last year, when I initially interviewed Gayle, she realized that not everyone knows how to properly stock their pantry and organize their kitchen. Sometimes the universe provides us with an opportunity in the most unexpected way. Gayle recognized that and it led to her journey of writing this cookbook. She not only discovered a gap in the market for a unique approach, but she also brought her wealth of knowledge and personal experience. Writing this book allowed her to share her passion for cooking and love of food with others. She wrote this book as a guide to show that food prep and meal planning don’t have to be a chore. Instead, it can be fun and enjoyable as well as a time-saving, cost-efficient way to prepare our meals. The next time you’re struggling to come up with what to make for dinner, before you run to the store or order takeout, why not raid your pantry first? Gayle’s cookbook provides plenty of delicious meal suggestions using ingredients you already have on hand. For example, that can of condensed tomato soup combined with a bit of Tabasco, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire, and mustard might make a terrific sauce for frozen fish. In addition, using food you already have in the house, can help reduce your overall grocery costs. Remember that food doesn’t just nourish our bodies. When we create healthy and enjoyable meals to share with our loved ones, we also feed our souls. Every day is a gift and the gift we get from taking the time to plan ahead and think about how we shop, cook and prepare those meals is a gift we give to ourselves but it also sets a wonderful example for our loved ones on how to stock their own kitchen and pantry. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“Making sure that you have what you need in your kitchen is a much more natural way to work through your kitchen.” — Gayle [4:20]
“The packaging that comes into the store it's not always the best one to store it in.” — Gayle [10:41]
“A flavor bomb is my sort of my vernacular for ingredients that add a ton of flavor to your foods that are not sugar or salt.” — Gayle [21:51]
“This is not a cookbook, it is a cooking book. And it's really a book about grocery shopping. And when you talk about grocery shopping, you have to talk about reading labels.” — Gayle [25:42]
“All natural doesn't mean anything. Arsenic is natural too and it's not anything you want.” — Gayle [26:55]
“Always having something ready to go, always having those fresh vegetables so I can always throw a salad together with something on top of it.” — Gayle [33:02]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Gayle Schindler, Chef, Food Blogger, and author

Stocked: Flavor Bombs and Staples For Your Kitchen

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With Michael Bertaut, Health Care Economist and Straight Talk blog author with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana.

We’re fortunate to live at a time when we have so many different health insurance plans available, but why does choosing a health insurance plan have to be so complicated? Sadly, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all health insurance plan. The most cost-effective plan for one person could lead to significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for someone else, based on different medical issues or ongoing care needs. Sometimes even when you’ve had the same insurance coverage for years, things happen in life that suddenly require a brand new insurance plan. For example, if you recently changed jobs or experienced another qualifying life event it can be confusing to know what to look for or determine the best plan for you and your family. This is especially true when that change requires switching from an employer-paid plan to private-pay insurance. Understanding all the different factors that come into play when determining the best plan is confusing and may even result in your selected insurance plan not covering medically necessary procedures or treatments. That’s why it’s important to take the time to carefully research all your different options and fully understand the benefits of choosing one plan over another.

If you want to learn how to select the best plan to meet your specific healthcare needs, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Michael Bertaut, Health Care Economist and Straight Talk blog author with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why is choosing health insurance so complicated?
Why do we need health insurance?
Are there insurance plans that pay for almost all of our medical care costs?
What are the three most important factors to consider when choosing a health insurance plan?
What is a deductible?
What is considered an “emergency” for care, and can someone really be turned away if they are experiencing a medical crisis?
The difference between a premium vs. a deductible.
What is a Health Savings Account or HSA?
What is an FSA?
What is the difference between a PPO and an HMO?
What if you can’t afford insurance or your work doesn’t offer it?
What is COBRA and how does it work?
What medical screenings are provided free of cost?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we’re dealing with a health crisis, we don’t even want to think about the resulting financial burden. At that moment, all we care about is the health and well-being of ourselves or our loved ones and the last thing we want to hear in the midst of a medical emergency is that the best possible treatment option isn’t available because our insurance won’t cover it. But while we’re focused on getting the best possible care for ourselves or our loved ones, the meter keeps ticking and emergency room visits or hospital bills, even for a short stay, can quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars. With every bandage or pill dispensed, the tally keeps growing.

Surgery, extended hospital stays, and ongoing care can easily run into hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s no wonder that the first thing we are asked for when scheduling a doctor’s appointment or entering an emergency room is our insurance card. Without adequate insurance, a person’s finances or even life savings could be wiped out. That’s why it is so very important to do the research, ask the right questions and seek out professional advice when necessary to ensure that you are getting the best possible coverage available for you and your family.

Although insurance is something we purchase hoping we never have to rely on it, it’s critical to have it if we ever do need it. Remember that every day is a gift and the security of knowing that you and your family are properly insured is a gift that can literally save a life. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“Here in America, we have managed, kind of accidentally, to create what I call the most expensive health care system on Earth, that nobody can afford to pay for out of their own pocket.” — Michael [2:33]
“There are plans that are out there that will let you pick how much risk you want to pull onto yourself.” — Michael [5:54]
“Typically, people start thinking hard about their health insurance as they get a little older and perhaps get married, or have children or move to another state or change jobs. Those are the things that we see are big trigger events.” — Michael [7:12]
“I can literally call healthcare.gov during open enrollment. And I can be sitting in a center getting chemotherapy while I'm on the phone. It doesn't give them any right to ask me a single medical question. In 2023, they can’t ask me a thing.” — Michael [11:17]
“Health insurance is a mess, right? We know it. It's complex. It's a messy system. It's almost the most heavily regulated form of insurance on the planet.” — Michael [37:16]
“So we know it’s tricky to explain. We work really hard to do everything in plain English, stay away from insurance jargon, stay away from medical jargon, and just keep it simple.” — Michael [37:46]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

michael.bertaut@bcbsla.com

Mentioned in This Episode:

Straight Talk https://www.straighttalkla.com

View Details

With Michael Bertaut, Health Care Economist and Straight Talk blog author with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why is choosing health insurance so complicated?
Why do we need health insurance?
Are there insurance plans that pay for almost all of our medical care costs?
What are the three most important factors to consider when choosing a health insurance plan?
What is a deductible?
What is considered an “emergency” for care, and can someone really be turned away if they are experiencing a medical crisis?
The difference between a premium vs. a deductible.
What is a Health Savings Account or HSA?
What is an FSA?
What is the difference between a PPO and an HMO?
What if you can’t afford insurance or your work doesn’t offer it?
What is COBRA and how does it work?
What medical screenings are provided free of cost?

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“Here in America, we have managed, kind of accidentally, to create what I call the most expensive health care system on Earth, that nobody can afford to pay for out of their own pocket.” — Michael [2:33]
“There are plans that are out there that will let you pick how much risk you want to pull onto yourself.” — Michael [5:54]
“Typically, people start thinking hard about their health insurance as they get a little older and perhaps get married, or have children or move to another state or change jobs. Those are the things that we see are big trigger events.” — Michael [7:12]
“I can literally call healthcare.gov during open enrollment. And I can be sitting in a center getting chemotherapy while I'm on the phone. It doesn't give them any right to ask me a single medical question. In 2023, they can’t ask me a thing.” — Michael [11:17]
“Health insurance is a mess, right? We know it. It's complex. It's a messy system. It's almost the most heavily regulated form of insurance on the planet.” — Michael [37:16]
“So we know it’s tricky to explain. We work really hard to do everything in plain English, stay away from insurance jargon, stay away from medical jargon, and just keep it simple.” — Michael [37:46]

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

michael.bertaut@bcbsla.com

Mentioned in This Episode:

Straight Talk https://www.straighttalkla.com

View Details

With Ross Douthat, Author, and New York Times Opinion Columnist

With spring approaching, we look forward to the opportunity to spend more time outdoors. But while we’re enjoying the warm weather and sunshine, we also need to be aware of the heightened risk of contracting tick bites. Although tick exposure might occur any time of year, ticks tend to be at their most active during the warmer months of April through September and we need to be extra cautious. Reducing our exposure to ticks isn’t simply about avoiding an annoying insect bite, it’s about the very real threat of contracting a serious tick-borne infection such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain

spotted fever.

According to the CDC, Lyme disease is the most frequent tick-borne infection with over 300,000 new cases diagnosed every year in the United States. Keep in mind that since the ticks that transmit Lyme disease, deer ticks, are roughly about the size of a pinhead when they come out in late spring and early summer, they’re often difficult to see. That’s why it’s so important to avoid getting bitten. The CDC recommends a number of simple precautions we can take to avoid tick bites while still enjoying our time outdoors. One of the best ways to protect ourselves is by being careful to avoid tick habitats. Ticks love to hide in areas of tall grasses and heavily wooded areas. When hiking, it’s best to stay in the middle of the trail and avoid uncut, grassy edges where ticks may be lurking. Since ticks get Lyme disease from mice, it’s important to do everything we can to eliminate mouse habitats and avoid attracting them to our gardens or campsites. This includes eliminating mouse-friendly wood piles and rock piles where mice live and breed.

Try to avoid going barefoot and whenever possible, wear long-sleeved clothing. Apply and re-apply insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET. Another recommendation is to use Permethrin, a commonly-used tick pesticide that can be applied to clothing and will safely remain on clothes for months without having to be reapplied. It’s equally important to protect our beloved pets. Dogs are especially susceptible to tick bites and tickborne diseases. Work with your veterinarian to discuss Tick prevention. In addition to keeping our pets healthy and tick-free, we are also guarding against them

unwittingly bringing these nasty insects into our homes.

One of the most frightening aspects of Lyme disease is that it is often hard to diagnose and if left untreated, it can lead to horrific long-term consequences. That’s what happened to New York Times columnist, author, and podcast host, Ross Douthat. If you have any questions as to how debilitating and serious a tick bite can become, you’ll want to check out Florine's December 2021 interview with Ross as he discussed his book, The Deep Places, which documented his five-year journey and ultimate recovery from Lyme disease.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How was Ross’s life before his illness?
How did the symptoms begin?
When did Ross first get the diagnosis of Lyme disease?
What treatment did Ross get, and did it help?
Does Ross know when he got bit?
What inspired Ross to write his book Privilege?
How writing runs in Ross’s family.
Was Ross healthy before his illness?
Why does Lyme Disease persist so badly in people?
How did Ross’s geographic location affect his diagnosis?
Did doctors dismiss Ross’s symptoms?
How Lyme disease treatment can be very costly.
How did his illness impact Ross’s family?
Did Ross try any homeopathic approaches?
How long did Ross suffer before he got any relief?
Is there a chance that Ross’s illness will come back?
How did Ross get through the dark times?
What would listeners be surprised to learn about Ross?
What brings Ross happiness these days?

Today’s Takeaway: At a time, when so many people are still recovering, from the coronavirus, and still, exhibiting neurological symptoms, months, after contracting the virus, our definition, of what it means, to live with an ongoing chronic illness has changed. We no longer see chronic illness, as the unique, or rare exception, that perhaps we once did. Instead, we now know, it to be far more common than we might ever have imagined. When the medical profession may not have the answers, or our symptoms fall outside the norm, many patients, choose to do the research themselves to find other treatment options. We may find relief, from our symptoms, outside traditional medicine, but whatever it is, that works for you and offers relief, is worthy of exploring.

There is no better gift, than the gift, of a healthy body and a healthy mind. The lesson to be learned from Ross’s experience is that there is hope, for someone diagnosed with a chronic illness. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway”.

Quotes:

“I probably saw 10‒15 doctors in the span of two or three months and none of them had any clear idea of what was going on.” — Ross
“If you have one of these chronic conditions where there isn’t an official CDC approved approach to treating it, then they are less likely to be able to help you.” — Ross
“I was healthy. I was 35 and I’d had a few things here and there, but I’d never been sick for probably more than a week-and-a-half in my whole life.” — Ross
“I was accustomed to having my body do the things that I asked it to do.” — Ross
“Lyme disease is famous for this bullseye rash that develops around the tick bite.” — Ross
“Before I started getting better, in the period when I was just sort of trying things desperately and unable to find something, the sense that things were just falling apart was incredibly, incredibly strong.” — Ross
“A whole network of people, but especially spouses, carry a particular kind of weight with these illnesses.” — Ross
“One lesson is that things can get better. It’s important to have faith and confidence that they can get better even when things are at their worst.” — Ross
“Hope is essential for human existence, but not hope alone. You also have to act.” — Ross
“In the end, other people can help you, but when it comes to illness, only you understand your symptoms at some level; only you will know when you get better, and you have to fight for that.” — Ross

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ross Douthat

Ross Douthat for NYT Opinion

The Deep Places: A Memoir of Illness and Discovery, by Ross Douthat

Privilege: Harvard and the Education of the Ruling Class, by Ross Gregory Douthat

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WITH Dr. Don Grant, 2022 President of the American Psychological Association, Society for Media Psychology and Technology and Chair of the American Psychological Association, Device Management and Intelligence Committee

Did you know we’re currently in the midst of a national mental health crisis for teens and young adults? Sadly, it’s true. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of teen suicides along with soaring rates of teenage depression, substance abuse, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and self-harming behaviors. Suicide is now the third-leading cause of death among 15‒24-year-olds, exceeded only by accidental deaths and homicide. A 2021 study found that 48% of young people admitted to struggling with mental health issues and more than one-third of those went untreated. A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Health indicated that for young children diagnosed with depression and anxiety, approximately half of their mental health issues were evident by age 14.

Although psychological counseling and medication are available for children as young as five years of age who have clinically diagnosed mental problems, roughly two-thirds of these children have not received treatment or proper medical intervention. Perhaps now, more than ever before, we need to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms so that vulnerable, at-risk young people can feel supported and understood and get the early intervention they may need.

If you want to learn more about how we can help young people who may be struggling with mental health issues, please listen to my interview with Dr. Don Grant, 2022 President of the American Psychological Association, Society for Media Psychology and Technology, and Chair of the American Psychological Association, Device Management, and Intelligence Committee.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What are some of the primary mental health disorders for teens and young adults?
What happened in 2012 for us to see a spike in depression, anxiety, and suicide?
What are some of the symptoms that parents and educators have to watch out for?
What are some of the primary mental health disorders for teens and young adults?
How to notice if your kids are suffering from what Don calls #compare and #despair.
What to do if you notice a difference in your child’s social media.
How can filters on social media damage a teen’s self-confidence and self-image?
How can parents talk to their kids about online bullying?
What is the online disinhibition effect?
What are cyberbullying and cyber aggression?
The three different people that can be involved in a cyber-aggressive act, whether it’s in real life or online.
What parents need to know before they give their kids their first device.

Today’s Takeaway:

A variety of factors such as poverty, fear of global warming along with the pandemic, and excessive consumption of social media have contributed to the rise in mental health issues for young people and adults. Increased rates of low self-esteem, stress, and anxiety have left this generation far more vulnerable to incidents of bullying, fears of being ostracized, and chronic depression. Young people who experience recurring incidents of abuse or chronic neglect or witness domestic violence, or parental mental health or substance abuse problems are particularly vulnerable. The increasing number of children as young as ten years old attempting suicide is a particularly alarming statistic. There is help available but early intervention is critical. Teaching young children to modify their thoughts and behavior is far more effective at an early age. Inpatient programs may offer the best chance of success. It’s important we don’t allow shame or stigmatization to take precedence over obtaining early treatment and intervention for a young person in crisis. Remember every day is a gift and the gift we get from recognizing when a young person is struggling and getting them the help they need can make a huge difference not only in their childhood but also in their mental health as an adult as well. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Look at your kids and their behavior. If you see a big change, then certainly investigate what’s going on.” — Don
“We have to remember, social media is completely self-curated, we can create that store window in any way we want.” — Don
“If anyone, and especially a teenager is posting anything on social media, what do they need? Why are they putting it out there? — Don
“It’s the kid and adults as well. They have FOMO. They’re feeling like they’re not current. They’re feeling like they’re not relevant.” — Don
“Cyberbullying is part of cyber aggression, and it can look a lot of different ways.” — Don
“The first thing I tell parents is: model behavior.” — Don
“There is no seat belt for social media.” — Don

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

American Psychological Association

View Details

With Bridjet Morris, Influencer and Lifestyle Blogger

There was a time when we relied exclusively on newspapers, TV, or radio for the latest news updates. If we wanted information on the latest fashion and makeup trends, we’d spend hours gazing at colorful magazine ads or watching television commercials. But as magazine revenues plummeted and TV viewers began fast-forwarding through commercials, advertisers had to find new ways to get their products before the public. Thus began the golden age of the product “Influencer.” Influencers are all over the media, promoting product endorsements and touting the newest fashion trends. But what is an influencer and how can you become one? If you’re already in the public eye or a well-known celebrity, companies are beating down your door to get you to promote their products. But if you’re not a celebrity, can you still be paid to sponsor products? If you’re just starting as an influencer, how do you expand your following or find sponsors? If you want to learn what it takes to become an influencer and build a brand, then you’ll want to listen to my interview with popular women’s empowerment mentor and motherhood and lifestyle blogger, Bridjet Morris.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What exactly is an influencer?
Bridjet’s 3 Es of blogging and influencing: Educate, Empower, and Entertain.
Bridjet walks us through the process of developing her brand and how she finds companies and people to partner with.
Should someone have a niche or can you be an influencer in a broad sense?
Who inspired Bridjet to blog and create content?
What are the qualities that make influencers successful?
How does someone make money being an influencer?
What does a motherhood influencer talk about?
How does someone gain more followers?
What are the common questions she gets?
What does it mean to be a micro-influencer?
What kinds of brand partnerships does she do?

Today’s Takeaway:

Unless you’re already a well-known celebrity with a huge social media following, you’re not going to become an internet sensation overnight. It takes a tremendous amount of time, dedication, and commitment to build a brand and become a successful influencer. You need to know your audience, be relatable and get them to engage with you. Especially if you want your followers to rely upon your sponsored product recommendations or tips on how to make their lives easier. As we’ve heard from Bridjet, once you’ve identified your platform and area of expertise, it’s important to establish that sense of authenticity that allows your audience to see you as someone they can trust, relate to, and connect with on a regular basis. It’s also important to recognize that you’re cultivating a community of like-minded individuals and sometimes it takes a village to validate and support each other. Remember every day is a gift and the gift we get from being vulnerable enough to reveal our true selves to others may very well encourage them to be just as real in return with us. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.

Quotes:

“To be honest with you, I kind of think we’re all influencers in our own way.” — Bridjet
“Honestly, it's just about having really vulnerable conversations because I think that's how my audience connects with me.” — Bridjet
“My platform and my mission is to help inspire other women who feel alone and like they are the only ones going through something.” — Bridjet
To be honest with you, my personal brand is ever-evolving, just like I am so you know just constantly cultivating that.” — Bridjet
“The people that influenced me the most were the old school influencers, fashion bloggers.” — Bridjet
“To be a blogger, you need to show some consistency, you need to use your voice, and you need to assert yourself as a thought leader.” — Bridjet
“I try just to be authentic and honest. And that's, I think, where the true connection comes in.” — Bridjet

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Bridjet Morris

Bridjet Morris Instagram

View Details

With Dr. Valerie Young, Co-Founder of Imposter Syndrome Institute

Are you familiar with the term Imposter Syndrome? It’s cropping up all over the media these days. But what does it really mean and who is most likely to experience it? More importantly, are there ways we can overcome it?

It’s not unusual for women (and men) to suffer from occasional feelings of self-doubt, especially if we’re tackling new challenges or doing something for the first time. But all too often, as women, we may fall into the trap of believing we need to be perfect. But trying to live up to our own impossibly high standards may actually be sabotaging our chance for success. Going through life feeling like a fraud and fearing the stigma of exposure is an emotionally exhausting and unsustainable way to live. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

If feelings of self-doubt are interfering with your day-to-day life because you truly believe you’re less qualified, talented, or intelligent than others think you are, then you may be suffering from “Imposter Syndrome.”

If you want to learn how to overcome the negative beliefs and feelings that may be creating barriers to your success, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Dr. Valerie Young, the Co-founder of Imposter Syndrome Institute. After obtaining her doctorate from the University of Massachusetts, where she studied internal barriers to women’s occupational achievements, she worked in corporate management for a Fortune 200 Company. Today, recognized as one of the foremost experts in treating Imposter Syndrome, Valerie is uniquely qualified to counsel other women on how to recognize the signs and overcome the feelings associated with this syndrome.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What exactly is imposter syndrome?
How our family messaging and upbringing affect whether or not we experience imposter syndrome.
Why are so many of the obstacles women face in achieving success, “internal”?
How we tend to conflate competence and confidence.
What are some of the symptoms of imposter syndrome?
Dr. Valerie talks about what drew her to the field and her passion for understanding why so many capable women suffer from imposter syndrome.
What does The Impostor Syndrome do and who are the type of people they work with?
How can people move through their imposter syndrome and have the confidence to go after what they want?
Why does talking to ourselves in a positive manner matter?
How can we build up more confidence?
Everyone loses when bright people play small.

Today’s Takeaway:

Almost everyone suffers from self-doubt on occasion but if you frequently

struggle with the belief that you’re less talented, competent, or qualified

than others believe you are, you could have Imposter Syndrome. By constantly questioning your abilities, you may actually set yourself up for failure based on your unrealistic self-defeating expectations.

Asking for help to overcome the shame and stigma that could be

preventing you from achieving the kind of success you desire isn’t a sign of

weakness or incompetence. Instead, it’s the first step toward healing. If you

are seeking to overcome these negative self-defeating thoughts,

Imposter Syndrome Institute may be able to help.

For example, instead of telling yourself you’re not deserving of a

particular job, you can learn to believe you’ve been given this role for a

reason and that you are the best and most qualified individual. You can learn

when you don’t know something, how to recruit someone who does have the

information or the ability and with their help, you can both succeed. Remember every day is a gift and the gift we get from believing in ourselves

and knowing when to reach out to others and ask for their assistance is

not a sign of weakness but a sign you’re already on the path to success.

I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.

Quotes:

“In my experience, there are men who painfully experience impostor feelings, but I find it tends to hold women back more.” — Dr. Valerie
“We tend to conflate competence and confidence.” — Dr. Valerie
“If you belong to any group for whom there are stereotypes about competence or intelligence, you’re going to be more susceptible to impostor feelings.” — Dr. Valerie
“If I’m going to overlook your 30% I want you to overlook my 30%.” — Florine
“What if we spent as much time focusing on both feeling more confident, but also projecting it even when we don't feel it?” — Dr. Valerie
“The more positive you feel, the more confidence you’re going to have.” — Florine
“The key is to not wait until you feel confident. Feelings are the last to change; you have to change your thoughts first and then your behaviors.” — Florine
“Who do you think you are to not go for it?” — Florine

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Impostor Syndrome Institute

View Details

WITH Miriam Sherk, a board-certified music therapist

Has there ever been a time in your life when you were in a bad mood and you found yourself singing along to a song on the radio and when the song ended, you just felt better? Listening to music, playing an instrument or singing can soothe us mentally and emotionally by reminding us of happier times or comforting memories.

That’s the goal of music therapy; to use music and melodies to connect with or process emotions in a healthy and beneficial manner. Mental health experts are discovering the benefits of music therapy as an alternative to standard therapies of counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy for patients who suffer from depression and anxiety.

Although music therapy is not a cure for depression or anxiety, music is a powerful mood stimulant that can make a big difference in how a patient responds to treatment. Music can bring about positive changes in a patient’s mental and emotional well-being when used in a therapeutic setting.

Music therapy can improve the patient’s ability to communicate and interact with others as well as help the patient develop coping and relaxation skills. For example, the physical act of strumming a guitar or playing the piano is soothing and may temporarily offset feelings of depression and anxiety.

Even if the patient has no prior history of musical ability, music therapy can improve a patient’s concentration and self-confidence. Listening to music also releases dopamine, a feel-good hormone that can induce happy moods or help relieve pain. Using music to improve a patient’s mental or physical state is not new. During World War II, soldiers of war experiencing PTSD or painful physical injuries responded well to traveling musicians who volunteered to play their instruments for wounded veterans. Doctors noted a significant improvement in the patient’s physical and mental condition and as a result, hospitals began to hire these musicians.

In 1944, Michigan State University became the first college in the world to

offer a degree program in music therapy. If you would like to hear more about how music can be used in a therapeutic setting to address mental and physical challenges, then you’ll want to listen to Florine’s 2021 interview with Miriam Sherk, a board-certified music therapist and the founder of Ann Arbor Music Therapy.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How Miriam got into music and started playing the bassoon.
What is a Certified Musical Therapist?
What goes into the training of a Musical Therapist?
Miriam shares her experience of playing in an orchestra.
What inspires Miriam to use music as therapy and to make it her career?
How can music therapy help dementia patients?
How does a music therapist determine what type of treatment is appropriate for the client?
What types of instruments are used in music therapy?

Today’s Takeaway:

Music has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. Just listening to music brings a smile to my face and puts me in a better frame of mind. But I’ve also personally experienced how music can help heal us too. Years ago, when I was recovering from surgery, I became allergic to pain medication and instead, I used music to help manage my pain.

Now, when I think of music, I think of all the ways it can literally transform the lives of others! Being able to communicate and feel a connection with others is one of the greatest joys in my life. I can’t imagine how difficult it is for someone who can’t speak or communicate. But if music could help someone express themselves, just think how amazing it would be for that individual and their loved ones!

Using music to unlock communication skills, calm our emotions or trigger memories might be just the beginning of what might be possible. Connecting people through music is what music therapy is all about. Helping a stroke patient who can’t verbalize words but can communicate their thoughts through song is truly a miracle!

We’ve all had times when we struggle and feel depressed or out of sorts. Instead of giving in to our anger or sadness, why not put on some music and dance your cares away? It may not make your problems disappear but I know you’ll feel better! It really worked for me! So go ahead, give yourself the gift of music, and sing or dance as if you’re a star on Broadway!

I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Something music therapists often speak of is that we give ourselves in a very vulnerable personal way by engaging in music.” — Miriam

“All of us came to music therapy as musicians. It’s what we love, and that’s what we get a lot of joy through.” — Miriam

“The wonderful thing about music therapy training is that it is such a diversified training.” — Miriam

“It's very important for me as the music therapist, not to be prescriptive about music, but to assess what music is most engaging, most connecting and connected to their own lives in a meaningful way.” — Miriam

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ann Arbor Music Therapy

View Details

With Danielle Todd, Executive Director of Make Food Not Waste.

How often do you go through your pantry and refrigerator discarding perishable food items based on their “sell by” or “use by” dates? Do you rely on those dates to determine whether an item is “safe to eat?” Or, do you pay no attention and regularly eat food well past the posted date? Would you be shocked to learn that those dates have absolutely nothing to do with consumer food safety? It’s true! “Sell by” dates are designed to help grocers manage their inventory and rotate stock on their shelves. It has nothing to do with food safety. As a consumer, the only date you may wish to look for in stores is the “use by” dates. However, keep in mind those dates merely indicate when the product is at its peak for quality and flavor. Although these “use by” dates have little to do with actual food safety, many of us assume that once this date has passed, the item is not safe to eat. Into

the bin it goes, where it will eventually wind up in a landfill, further

contributing to the needless waste of food that could otherwise be safely

consumed.

Recent statistics reveal that Americans waste 40% of the food that is

grown in this country. Most of that waste comes from consumer homes

and commercial restaurants and stores. Although most of us would

assume that the majority of wasted food comes from restaurants; in reality, the biggest source of food waste occurs at home. But it doesn’t have to be that way and there are simple things we can all do to reduce the problem of food waste. For example, are you familiar with the term “food upcycling?” One of the best ways to reduce our grocery bills is by adopting a “zero waste” strategy and finding new ways to re-purpose items we would normally consider waste in delicious and nutritious recipes.

If you want to learn more about reducing waste through food upcycling and perhaps lower your grocery costs, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Danielle Todd, the Executive Director of Make Food Not Waste.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Danielle’s passion for food waste reduction and more about her background before she started Make Food Not Waste.
How can food reduction be good for environmental issues, especially climate change?
Why has food waste become such a problem for the planet and the community?
About how much food ends up in landfills each year in the United States?
Danielle shares some great ideas for composting and using our food waste in a resourceful way.
What do “sell by” and “expired” mean, and when should we really get rid of our food?
What is methane, and what does it do to the environment?
How much money does the typical family of four waste on unused food each year?
What is food upcycling?
How can someone become part of the Make Food Not Waste community?

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the biggest changes we’ve seen over the past few years has been the increased cost of groceries. Grocery prices rose 13 percent over the last year outpacing the annual 8.2 percent inflation rate for all consumer products, according to the most recent Labor Department data. The price of fruits and vegetables increased by 10.4 percent, while milk increased by 15.2 percent and eggs soared by a whopping 30.5 percent. There are numerous reasons why prices rose including supply chain and transportation issues, the war in Ukraine, and extreme droughts throughout the U.S. While we can’t do much to control the increased cost of groceries, we can take steps to ensure that we utilize every item of food we buy and stretch those dollars to the fullest potential.

There are so many ways to maximize our food dollars by taking the scraps we would normally discard as waste and turning them into healthy, delicious meals. For several years now restaurant chefs have been learning to reduce their overhead by doing more with the food that they purchase. Yesterday’s roast chicken dinner may be today’s White Chicken Chili special. The same strategies chefs employ to reduce waste can prove just as efficient in our homes. Be creative, plan ahead when you go to the grocery store, and think in terms of multiple meals you can freeze and store. If you find that you have a surplus of fresh produce or pantry items you can’t use, you can always donate to “Make Food Not Waste” or a local food pantry. Remember that every single day is a gift and the gift we get from learning to upcycle food not only benefits our wallet but it can provide a wonderful gift to others in the community and it may very well help save the environment and our planet. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Food waste reduction is considered one of the best solutions to climate change.” — Danielle

“The only date that is required by the federal government to have a true expiration date is on baby formula. So everything else is really up to manufacturers, grocery stores, the state, everyone has different rules, there's a lot of inconsistency.” — Danielle

“Use your senses. If you give it a sniff and it smells bad, don’t drink it.” — Danielle

“When we think about climate change, we really think about transportation energy, and we don’t realize that what we do every day has a real impact.” — Danielle

“The average family of four throws away about $2,000 a year in food that they could eat.” — Danielle

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Make Food Not Waste

View Details

With Courtney Stevens, Director of Virtual Care at Henry Ford Health

Are you familiar with the term “telemedicine?” Perhaps you or a family member have used telemedicine in the past for non-emergency medical issues. But if you’re not familiar with Telemedicine, it’s the ability for medical personnel to consult, treat, and monitor their patients remotely using advanced telecommunication tools. Instead of waiting days or even weeks to get in to see your doctor in person, Telemedicine offers the ability to be seen, diagnosed, and treated within hours. Using your smartphone, tablet, or computer, patients can simply download an app and communicate “face to face” with their doctors, nurses, and therapists. The reassuring presence of a doctor who can provide immediate medical care and advice in diagnosing and treating a variety of non-emergency medical conditions is an enormous benefit for both the patient and the medical staff. Patient information remains confidential, costs are reduced, and the overall patient experience can be greatly improved by eliminating the commute and time spent in the doctor’s office waiting to be seen. Telemedicine can help the medical team by alleviating the stress of healthcare professionals who are overwhelmed trying to keep up with increasing patient demands. By improving overall efficiency in seeing and treating patients in a timely manner, many physicians are now offering their patients 24/7 access to medical care with an “on-call doctor.” If you are looking for ways to gain increased access to your medical care provider, then you’ll want to listen to my interview with Courtney Stevens, the Director of Virtual Care at Henry Ford Health.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is Telemedicine, and how does it work?
How does someone make an appointment for the first time on Telemedicine?
How does Telemedicine protect our privacy and security?
Do most doctors at Henry Ford Health offer Telemedicine?
How has Telemedicine evolved over the past couple of years?
What are the reasons for most Telemedicine visits?
What is the typical fee for a Telemedicine visit?
What is the average turnaround time from requesting a telemedicine visit to being able to speak with a doctor?
What are some of the drawbacks of Telemedicine, and how can these be solved?
What is digital literacy?
What are the many specialties and medicines that Telemedicine can offer?

Today’s Takeaway:

Over the past few years, medical care providers are learning how they can greatly improve patient care and follow-up through the use of Telemedicine. Being able to offer their patients an option for 24/7 care and monitoring alleviates much of the strain on overburdened medical staff and it creates a cost-effective and immediate response for many non-emergency medical issues. Veterinarians are now even beginning to offer virtual services as well. Although Telemedicine allows you to discuss non-emergency medical care with a doctor by phone or online at a time that’s convenient for you, it doesn’t always replace the need for in-person doctor visits. There are certain services that cannot be provided through Telemedicine. For example, healthcare professionals don’t have the ability to perform routine lab work on blood or urine samples, or test a patient’s heart rate and blood pressure. If you want to ensure that you are getting the best medical care available, use Telemedicine services in combination with your in-person doctor visits. You can take advantage of Telemedicine while still having your in-person physician provider oversee your medical care. Remember that every single day is a gift and the increased accessibility that Telemedicine offers is the gift that allows us to give our physical and mental health the priority it deserves. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“What we're really referring to is a provider and a patient connecting, breaking down the barriers of space and time so that they no longer need to be in the same clinical room, or even the same geography.” — Courtney
“We can offer convenient and excellent health care for patients from the convenience of their homes.” — Courtney
“Think of it as a virtual urgent care.” — Courtney
“They don't need to come to a physical brick and mortar, they are able to do that from the convenience of their home or their local gym or work and still get that care they need to be on the road to recovery.” — Courtney
“It’s readily available, which is a great opportunity.” — Courtney
“And that's the beauty of being able to offer, the scheduled option with any of our providers across the organization is you're able to have that continuity of care with the provider and be able to see them from either in-person to a video or virtual visit.” — Courtney

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Henry Ford Health

Courtney Stevens

View Details

With Dr. James Bragman, Sports Medicine & Geriatric Specialist

What do you think of when you hear the word retirement? Do you think of all the things you have wanted to do but didn’t have time for? Or, does the idea of retirement scare you because you can’t imagine not having a meaningful job to do each day? It’s not uncommon that as we age, we may experience memory loss. But did you know that one of the most important ways you can protect your brain and mental health is through daily exercise? Not only does regular exercise help us maintain our muscle tone, physical strength, and balance, but it also helps to strengthen our immune system and stay mentally fit as well. Numerous studies have shown that as we age, staying physically active and fit in our senior years is one of the best ways to protect our brain health and improve our memory. Numerous studies have shown the rate of mental slowdown is almost twice the rate for inactive adults compared to those who are active.

If you want to learn more about the many benefits and ways we can stay physically active throughout our life, then you’ll want to listen to my interview with Dr. James Bragman from West Bloomfield Internal Medicine. Dr. Bragman specializes in both sports and internal geriatric medicine. He is a Full Clinical Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine as well as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Michigan State University. In addition, he has more than 20 years of experience, including working as a national medical expert for CNN radio.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What does a sports medicine physician do?
Why is stretching of paramount importance, and how can we build stretching into our everyday routine?
What is cognitive decline and what are some ways to prevent it?
How we can eat to support our mental and physical health?
How to maintain a sharp status even as we age.
What can cause cognitive impairment in people?
What are some great coping mechanisms for stress reduction?
Is it ever too late to start moving and getting exercise?
What is the recommended number of days per week we should be exercising?
What types of mental exercises are the most effective for maintaining a healthy brain?

Today’s Takeaway:

There are numerous advantages to staying physically active. In addition to maintaining our fitness level, balance, and physical strength, staying active can help reduce blood pressure, lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, and may even help with blood sugar for diabetics. In addition, there’s evidence to suggest that it may also reduce the risk of certain cancers. But as we’ve heard today, now there are more reasons than ever before to incorporate regular exercise sessions into our weekly routine because it also helps to keep our brains healthy. There is nothing that ages us faster than cognitive decline. Having a healthy and fully functioning brain helps us feel younger, more vital, and more connected to our lives and our loved ones. Staying active doesn’t have to be a chore. You can take up yoga, pilates, or any other activity that gets you moving. Have fun while increasing your physical and mental fitness. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of staying physically active may just be the key to prolonging your life expectancy and improving the quality of your life as you age. It’s all up to you. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You have a lot of options. Not everyone is able to do a standing toe touch like your mother.” — Dr. James Bragman

“It's a learned skill, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.” — Dr. James Bragman

“It's the old proverbial if you don't use it, you lose it.” — Dr. James Bragman

“The more physically active you are, it's part of the underpinnings of what I call Aging Gracefully in 2023.” — Dr. James Bragman

“It's committing to something that you are happy doing and can do for the rest of your life.” — Dr. James Bragman

“People need coping mechanisms, and exercise is a fantastic way of doing it.” — Dr. James Bragman

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

West Bloomfield Internal Medicine

248-855-7453

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With Sleep Medicine Specialist Dr. David Gessert

What’s your idea of the perfect vacation getaway? Imagine if money were no object and you could go anywhere, would you choose to sightsee in an exotic, glamorous location? Or, is your idea of the perfect getaway a sunny beach somewhere? Although our concept of the ideal vacation may vary, rarely do we book a trip with the idea of getting away from home simply for a good night’s sleep. Instead, we return home filled with wonderful memories but feeling like we may need a vacation after our amazing trip just to recover!

Well, that might be about to change. One of the hottest wellness trends for 2023 is booking a vacation with the primary goal of getting a proper night’s rest. According to a recent article in “Pure Wow,” several well-known luxury hotels are now offering wellness travel packages that prioritize the perfect night’s sleep. These days, new hotels are being designed specifically to promote sleep, health, and well-being with features such as sound-deadening materials in the doors, walls, and floors to ensure a quiet night’s rest along with air purifiers and soft lighting.

Taking it one step further, the Hotel Cadogan in London features a Sleep Concierge service where you can book a session with leading hypnotherapist and sleep expert, Malminder Gill. The service also includes sleep-inducing meditation recordings by Gill along with a “Pillow menu” that allows you to select your choice of pillow firmness, weighted blankets, a bedtime tea, and a scented pillow mist, all designed to support the best possible sleep. But you don’t have to travel to London to get the perfect night’s sleep. Right here in the U.S., numerous hotels are also offering sleep packages. For example, the Westin Hotel chain is famous for the sleep amenities they provide, including Lavender Balms, White Tea body lotions, and scented candles along with their luxurious Heavenly Bedding. The Park Hyatt in New York provides sleep masks along with their Sleep Suites which feature the Bryte Restorative Bed that dynamically adjusts to the guest’s sleep stages throughout the night to relieve pressure points and control the climate and temperature of the bed. Finally, the new Fairmont Century Plaza offers a combination of infrared technology, compression therapy, and healing sound waves on a specially designed anti-gravity bed. Additional amenities include CBD bath bombs, oversized soaking tubs, and black-out curtains.

If a “sleep destination” trip isn’t an option right now, there are still simple things you can do to get a better night’s sleep. For example, establish a nightly routine by going to bed at the same time every night and rising at the same time every morning. Exercise early in the morning rather than late at night so you don’t get overstimulated and find it hard to fall asleep. Spending just fifteen minutes outside in the sunlight, even during the winter, could help reduce insomnia. Finally, don’t bring your phones, iPads, and laptops into your bedroom because the blue screen light can trick your brain into thinking it’s still daytime.

But if these helpful suggestions don’t result in a better night’s sleep, you may wish to consult a doctor. And in the meantime, check out my 2021 interview with Sleep Medicine Physician, Dr. David Gessert from Henry Ford Health.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did David get involved in sleep medicine?
Can we break up our sleep instead of getting it all at once?
What is sleep deprivation?
What is “microsleep” and why is it dangerous?
How much sleep should adults aim to get every night?
Why is sleep deprivation linked to triggering anxiety and depression?
What role does a good night’s sleep play in balancing our hormones?
How much sleep do children and teenagers need?
What are the five categories of sleep disorders?
What is sleep apnea and why do people snore?
How can some people function on very little sleep?
Is it possible to catch up on lost sleep?
What is included in healthy sleep hygiene?
Does lack of sleep cause weight gain?
Is there such a thing as getting too much sleep?
How does the loss of sleep affect your immune system and mental health?
What about sleeping pills like Ambien?
How can you combat chronic sleep deprivation?
What is involved in sleep apnea testing and treatments?
How can you contact Dr. David Gessert to schedule an appointment?

Today’s Takeaway:

A chronic lack of sleep is not only exhausting and leaves us feeling tired and irritable, but it also can be extremely damaging to our health. It’s not just our physical health that can be affected. A chronic lack of sleep can also trigger bouts of extreme anxiety and depression. But the good news is that there are ways to make up for lost sleep. Practicing good sleep hygiene can be the first step toward getting a better night’s sleep. Making positive changes to your nightly regimen by creating a healthy bedtime routine might help you sleep better at night. Identify the factors that are preventing you from getting your best night’s sleep. Eliminating caffeine and power drinks after mid-day, reducing your alcohol consumption, practicing meditation or deep breathing, and avoiding heavy meals before bedtime are all ways in which we can improve our chances for a good night’s sleep. By providing our body with the adequate rest it needs, we not only give ourselves the chance to perform at our best the following day, but we’re able to be there for our loved ones as well. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of a good night’s sleep is a gift we need to give ourselves. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“A lot of the really good quality sleep comes at the end of a long stretch of sleep.” — David

“Anybody's going to be irritable if you don't get enough sleep. And so that can make it tougher for the kids to behave during school.” — David

“You know, the heavier you are, the more likely you are to snore, and the more likely you are to develop sleep apnea.” — David

“If you’re under six hours, you’re not getting enough sleep.” — David

“For people who continuously don’t get enough sleep, their performance continues to decline.” — David

“It’s not really possible to catch up on sleep. You have to maintain getting adequate sleep each night.” — David

“Simple fixes can have a very large difference in your sleep quality.” — David

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

David Gessert, MD

Make an appointment with Dr. Gessert or call 313-916-4417

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With Rebecca Gade Sawicki, Professional Blogger and Travel Consultant

Having the opportunity to travel and enjoy new experiences away from our day-to-day routine may be one of life’s greatest pleasures. If you’re traveling abroad or touring the U.S., there are so many amazing sights to see and delightful places to visit. Where do you like to travel? Does your perfect destination involve lying on a sun-soaked beach or seeing an exhibition at the museum?

Touring historical landmarks and sampling local cuisine is one of my favorite things to do but if you’re traveling with dietary restrictions, traveling and eating abroad can be a challenge. Imagine going to a restaurant in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language and trying to communicate the foods you can’t eat with the restaurant staff. This can be especially troubling if you have food allergies or other health issues. Instead of focusing your itinerary on all the exciting places you’ll be visiting, you become preoccupied with how to eat and where to dine. But wouldn’t it be helpful if you could have someone else do the research for you before you arrive at your destination?

Today, we’re speaking with professional blogger and travel consultant, Rebecca Gade Sawicki, whose popular blog, “Veggies Abroad,” is designed not just for vegetarians and vegans but for anyone traveling anywhere with dietary restrictions.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What prompted Rebecca to start her blog, “Veggies Abroad”?
What type of information on both food and travel does Rebecca include in her blog?
Has Rebecca ever traveled to a place where there really were no options available?
Rebecca talks about her journey into being vegan and gluten-free.
How Rebecca got to the root of her own issues and used food sensitivity testing to find out which foods she was sensitive to and couldn’t digest.
How does Rebecca get her protein?
What dishes does Rebecca get when she’s eating cuisine like Japanese or Chinese?
What are a few of Rebecca’s favorite cities in the U.S. and UK to get veggie-friendly foods?
Rebecca shares her advice for people with a new dietary change who don’t know where to begin when traveling.

Today’s Takeaway:

Traveling abroad and visiting other countries may be one of life’s greatest pleasures. But if dietary restrictions are keeping you from traveling or adding unnecessary stress to your trip planning, why not work with a food travel expert to advise you? Instead of missing out, you may travel abroad with confidence and find local places that have been pre-screened and recommended for their ability to provide safe dietary meals that meet your needs. Remember that whatever you define as the perfect trip, you won’t be able to enjoy it from the comfort of your couch. As a vegan, gluten-free world traveler and foodie, Rebecca’s been able to find plenty of healthy, enjoyable meal options and she’s happy to share this information in her travel blog, “Veggie’s Abroad.” Remember that every day is a gift and the gift that we get from making wonderful memories by learning about different places and cultures is a gift that will last a lifetime. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The biggest issue is going somewhere and they don’t have an option. That’s the most frustrating thing.” — Rebecca
“We just try to reinforce the ethics and morals that we feel of why we have made these decisions.” — Rebecca
“It was never a phase and it was something that both my sister and I felt strongly about.” — Rebecca
“Whether you are vegan or gluten-free, it’s a night and day change from a decade ago with all the options.” — Rebecca
“As a vegan, I don’t see it as a dietary thing, it’s a lifestyle for me.” — Rebecca

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Veggies Abroad

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With Rick Olderman, Sports and Orthopedic Therapist and Author

Living with chronic pain can impact the quality of our lives in ways we never

imagined. The debilitating emotional and mental toll of living with ongoing

pain can affect virtually every aspect of our lives. It may become difficult to

function as we once did. In addition to limiting physical movement and functionality, it can interfere with sleep, impact our mood, and wreak havoc on our work and social lives. Studies have shown that some individuals living with chronic pain have trouble being productive and holding jobs. They are also four times more likely to develop problems with depression or anxiety.

Although sometimes chronic pain can be alleviated through surgery or

with medication, that may not be a solution for everyone. It’s hard to do your job when you’re so heavily medicated, so the choice for many patients is living with the ongoing pain, which can lead to frequent absences from work when the pain becomes unbearable. The financial aspects can be staggering. Medical costs and lost wages can destroy family finances, in addition to the toll on our healthcare system where billions are spent caring for patients suffering from chronic pain. But imagine if we were able to control physical pain and discomfort without the need for surgery and daily pain medication. What if it were possible to find other ways to overcome pain and reduce

Inflammation? If you’re looking for alternative solutions for pain relief, you’ll want to listen to my interview with professional Sports and Orthopedic

Physical Therapist, Rick Olderman. He’s spent the past 25 years

helping patients learn to live pain-free.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the most common causes of chronic pain?
What is the most common misconception about chronic pain?
Rick talks about suffering from chronic back pain himself.
What is Sensory Motor Amnesia?
Rick shares some examples of success stories with patients, and how he’s been able to help them.
How can depression and emotional trauma affect our chronic pain?
What exercises does Rick recommend to help minimize occasional minor aches and pains?
Who should you first turn to if you suffer from chronic pain?
Rick talks about his new book called Solving the Pain Puzzle and switching from a brick-and-mortar business to online to help more people.
How do our everyday behaviors contribute to our chronic pain?
Why is back pain one of the most common types of chronic pain people suffer from, and what role does locking our knees play?
What is the most common misconception about chronic pain?

Today’s Takeaway:

Living with chronic pain may hurt us mentally, emotionally, and physically. It may sap our energy, emotionally and physically. It may sap our energy, take away our motivation and diminish our enjoyment of daily life. Although surgery may not be an option for every type of pain and commonly prescribed pain medications may not be the answer, that doesn’t mean we

have to accept a life living in constant pain — not when other alternatives are available. Don’t you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to explore every option and you might find the one that’s right for you? The type of help and healing from the pain that Rick described today is just one example and it’s very possible that his approach might prove life-changing for you just as it has for so many of his patients. Remember that living every single day to the fullest is a gift and a healthy body without pain is the very best gift we can give ourselves. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I think we in medicine are not doing a good job understanding pain.” — Rick
“We’re not doing a good enough job because of how we’ve been trained to look at things from a component standpoint rather than a systems standpoint.” — Rick
“I do a three-minute plank every day, and it’s good for me!” — Florine
As a physical therapist, I’m a big advocate of exercise because that helps our body and brain function better.” — Rick
“Most pain is happening in patterns of dysfunction.” — Rick
“These home programs that I’ve created are solving the patterns of dysfunction that are causing just about everyone’s chronic pain.” — Rick
“We as medical providers filter information that could be helpful for our patients through our belief systems.” — Rick

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rick Olderman

Solving the Pain Puzzle

Rick’s Free Pain Test

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With Taylor Hale, Miss Michigan USA 2021

Little did we know when Florine interviewed former Miss Michigan USA pageant winner, Taylor Hale, earlier this year that she was about to embark on a completely different type of reality TV competition that would crown her the winner and almost $1,000,000 (one million dollars) richer. As the season 24 winner of CBS TV’s “Big Brother,” Taylor won the $750,000 grand prize and became the first Black female to win the coveted title. Taylor also achieved another “first” by becoming the only series winner to ever be voted “America’s Favorite Houseguest” by the viewers, which brought her another $50,000. The same charming personality traits and people skills that earned Taylor the title of “Miss Congeniality” during her pageant days also impressed her fellow housemates who voted 8-1 for her as the “Big Brother” winner. But although she eventually won the respect and admiration of her fellow housemates and the TV audience, the road to the winners’ circle wasn’t an easy one. Early on, Taylor experienced instances of bullying and racism from her fellow housemates. But in choosing to respond with grace and dignity by forgiving those who attacked her, Taylor slowly made inroads and ultimately earned the respect of her fellow competitors. Instead of letting someone else’s bad behavior block her from achieving her goal, she kept her eye on the prize and focused on her dream of becoming the first black woman to win the competition. So how has Taylor’s life changed since winning the title? Well… it turns out the monetary prize wasn’t the only souvenir she took from her time in the Big Brother house. She formed a very strong friendship with her former housemate and fellow competitor, Joseph Abdin, who was one of her strongest allies in the house and a welcome source of support. But once the series ended, their relationship began to heat up and romance blossomed. If you want to find out what’s next for the pair and more about this beautiful, talented and delightful young woman, you’ll want to check out Florine’s interview with Taylor from earlier this year.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Taylor’s childhood like?
Who inspired Taylor to start competing in pageants throughout her life?
What was it like for Taylor to attend George Washington in DC?
How did Taylor get started in blogging and fashion?
Did Taylor get started in politics while in college?
Was Taylor popular or bullied in school?
How did Taylor’s parents help build her confidence?
Did Taylor ever suffer from body image issues?
How did the pageant world help Taylor develop healthy habits?
What inspired Taylor to enter her first beauty pageant?
How does Taylor train for a pageant?
How many other women competed in Miss Michigan, and what are they like?
Is it expensive to be in pageants and are there sponsorships?
Is there diversity and representation in the pageant world?
What are the other contestants like?
How does being in pageants affect Taylor’s dating life?
How has Taylor used her title to inspire others?
What did Taylor enjoy most about pageants?
What does Taylor do today professionally?
Taylor shares some success stories from her work as a personal stylist.

Today’s Takeaway:

There is no single standard that defines what is beautiful.

Various cultures around the world define the concept of physical

perfection differently. But the truth is that real beauty comes in all

shapes and sizes. It’s important to recognize that genuine beauty is

not merely skin deep; rather how we behave and treat others is the

real testament to our attractiveness.

Remember that every day is a gift and the gift that we get from learning to appreciate and honor our own beauty, both inside and out, will allow us not only to value ourselves, but we can share the spotlight and appreciate the beauty of others. Think of it this way, the most beautiful gardens are made up of a wide variety of flowering plants, each one with its own unique appearance. On their own, each of these flowers is lovely, but when combined together, they make for an absolutely dazzling array of colorful blooms. Our individual differences are what make us shine when we unite together.

I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway” and if you enjoy

this podcast, don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Quotes:

“If not me, then who?” — Taylor
“These are just stories that moved me. I got to see who these women were from a holistic standpoint and I was completely sold on competing.” — Taylor
“That’s how I learned that you can still value beauty; you can value style and fashion without sacrificing your intelligence.” — Taylor
“I don’t want to be President, but I wouldn’t mind being Chief of Staff.” — Taylor
“What’s important to me is being visible.” — Taylor
“I want to make sure that I’m actually representing where I actually came from.” — Taylor
“Everybody there wants to be the best. It ups the ante for competition but you’re never alone.” — Taylor
“It’s beyond friendship. It’s a sisterhood bond.” — Taylor
“I can’t fix everything happening in the world, I can’t change everybody’s opinion of me. All I can do is be the best version of myself.” — Taylor
“Not everyone’s going to like me and if everybody does like me, that means I’m losing a little bit of myself and I always want to be true to who I am.” — Taylor
“The body that I had at Miss USA is not the body that I have now but the eating routines, the healthy habits that I made, those are what’s important to me and those are the things that will stick with me for the rest of my life.” — Taylor
“Don’t do it for the body. Do it for the health.” — Taylor
“I want to be a human being first that just so happens to have a crown and a sash on her as well.” — Taylor
“I think what we all do every day is pageantry!” — Taylor

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Taylor Hale on Instagram @thetaylormack

Miss Michigan USA 2021 on Instagram

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With Amy Peterson, Rebel Nell Co-Founder

Over the past few years, the plight of women being homeless has increased. According to a 2021 survey, more than half a million people in the U.S. are homeless, and approximately 39% of those are women and girls. For individuals working in retail or the hospitality industry, the resulting loss of so many jobs during the pandemic put them in difficult financial situations and they could no longer afford to pay rent. Moving in with family or sleeping on a friend’s couch isn’t a long-term solution, especially when children are involved. While homeless shelters may present an alternative to living on the streets, they aren’t the safest environment for single women and young children. It’s not uncommon for a woman to suddenly find herself homeless and in over her head without a safety net. We wonder what we could possibly do to help. But sometimes the best way we can help someone is to do so in a way that provides them with the means to help themselves. For example, what if we could provide that person with the education, training, and support to truly change their life for the better?

What if there was a self-sustaining way to create educational opportunities for women and help them find full-time employment and independence, even if they’re living on the streets or in a homeless shelter? Since 2014, Detroit-based organization, Rebel Nell, has been providing this solution. Rebel Nell offers training, employment, housing assistance, and other types of support to women who are homeless or living in shelters. If you want to find out how to help women by giving them the tools to achieve financial freedom and live independently, you’ll want to listen to my interview with Rebel Nell co-founder, Amy Peterson.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Rebel Nell exists to provide equitable employment opportunities and wraparound support for women with barriers.
Rebel Nell is located in Detroit and hires from six local shelters.
Who can benefit from Rebel Nell’s services and training?
What type of jewelry and gifts does Rebel Nell make, and how does that help the women?
Amy talks about her dream of wanting to be the first female general manager of a Major League Baseball Team, and how she found her way to Rebel Nell.
How did Eleanor Roosevelt play a role in the inspiration for Rebel Nell?
Amy talks about the important relationships her company has built, including one with the Detroit Lions.
What type of training does Rebel Nell offer the women in terms of finances and business?
Amy discusses how Rebel Nell’s jewelry and gifts are made from repurposed material and even graffiti collected from the walls in Detroit.
What does it mean to make ethical and sustainable jewelry?
When you are wearing a Rebel Nell piece, you are wearing the hard work and power of a strong woman.
How can you purchase a piece of Rebel Nell jewelry if you are interested?
How does Rebel Nell make money as a non-profit?

Today’s Takeaway:

There are many causes dear to my heart, but few things give me greater satisfaction than seeing women helping other women. Whether it’s reaching a personal wellness goal or success in business, education, or community involvement, I’m thrilled to cheer on their accomplishments and celebrate their achievement. When we work together to support the success of others, amazing things can happen. Amy’s organization, Rebel Nell, is a perfect example of just how much can be accomplished when we come together to support each other. When Amy and her partner Diana came up with the idea of training women to create beautiful pieces of jewelry from discarded bits of graffiti, they had no idea of the impact their fledgling program would have. In addition to their goal of helping women find their way out of poverty, they also found that by teaching them a marketable skill and paying them a good wage, they were able to raise their self-esteem and confidence. By teaching other life skills such as financial management or providing housing assistance and ongoing educational opportunities, these women began to blossom with the increased support and attention. Sometimes all it takes to make a positive impact on someone’s life is to show you care and that you’re there to support their efforts. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift that we get from joining together to help another person can be a gift that keeps on giving. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“From a very young age, I wanted to be the first female general manager of a major league baseball team.” — Amy

“My business partner and I realized that we have a shared love for Eleanor Roosevelt. She was incredible. A Civil rights advocate, women's rights advocate, a true pioneer.”

“Women are like teabags; put them in hot water, and they get strong.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

“You see the impact and the power of each piece of jewelry and how that resonates not only with the women that we employ, but with those customers and their stories.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rebel Nell

View Details

With Board-Certified Neurology Specialist, Dr. Marina Novikova

As we grow older, it’s only natural that our bodies don’t respond as they once did. Our hearing or eyesight might not be what it used to be, our reflexes may be a bit slower, and our balance might be off. Just as our bodies age, our brains might also begin showing signs of cognitive decline. We find ourselves misplacing keys or cell phones, and even forgetting the names of people or places we’ve known for years. While it’s not uncommon for our brains to slow down as we age, it’s also not inevitable. Even if we do notice a change, there are numerous ways we can slow the progression of any cognitive disability, and even improve our memory. The same healthy habits that are already linked to better physical health can also help maximize brain health. Sometimes, things like limiting alcohol and sugar consumption, avoiding tobacco, and exercising regularly help keep our bodies healthy and lessen the risk of early cognitive decline.

There are other ways we can stay mentally active and alert. If you

would like to learn more about the simple changes you can begin taking today to maximize your brain’s cognitive ability, then you’ll want to hear my interview with board-certified neurology specialist, Dr. Marina Novikova with Henry Ford Health.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is cognitive decline and what are the early symptoms?
The important role that diet and sufficient vitamins play in brain health and cognition, specifically B12.
The difference between normal cognitive decline and symptoms of a serious brain disorder.
If you suspect a problem with cognition, who should you first go to on your healthcare team?
How sugar and inflammatory foods affect our brain and cognition.
A few simple things you can do now to maintain healthy cognitive function later.
What's the relationship between high blood sugar or high cholesterol and a decline in cognitive function?
The role that anxiety and depression play in cognitive decline and how we can seek help for problems with these issues.
Why are sleep and proper rest crucial for a healthy brain?
What specific brain exercises might help brain function?

Today’s Takeaway:

As we age, our brains slow down and begin to show signs of mental decline. But we can slow normal cognitive impairment by taking steps to optimize memory and brain function. Just as with a computer, our brain functions as the body's hard drive and control panel. But it requires regular care and proper maintenance. Just as we engage in physical exercise to strengthen and tone our bodies, we need to exercise our mind too in order to maintain functionality and overall brain health. We stay mentally active by continuing to set goals and try new things. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Cognitive decline is a change in your cognition. It doesn’t have to be memory, but it can be a change in how fast you process new information, comprehension, or a change in your moods.” — Dr. Marina
“Life constantly gives us some unknowns and we don’t really have that much control over it. But, we can potentially control how we react to it.” — Dr. Marina
“Anxiety and depression often affect memory and cognition.” — Dr. Marina
“You have to push yourself a little bit further and try new things.” — Dr. Marina
“The most important thing you can do is physical activity. It increases the blood flow to the brain and activates the brain in a different way.” — Dr. Marina
“We know that certain stages of sleep are very important for our brain health in general.” — Dr. Marina

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Marina Novikova

Henry Ford Health

View Details

With Rhonda Walker, News Anchor at WDIV-TV 4 Detroit

Our local morning news anchors are one of the constants in our daily lives. We rely on them for breaking news stories, weather, and traffic updates. Our day wouldn’t be the same without their reassuring voices and friendly banter. Aside from the smiling faces we see on TV, how well do we really know our favorite news personalities? If they have to be on-air before dawn, what time do they get up in the morning? And how does their challenging schedule impact family and social commitments? What do they like to do in their free time? How do they use their public persona and platform to sponsor charitable causes or hobbies that they are passionate about?

Today we’re speaking to Rhonda Walker, the award-winning early morning news anchor at WDIV-TV 4 Detroit. In addition to anchoring the morning news for the past 20 years, Rhonda has been a beacon of light serving the city by establishing her own charity and giving her time and attention to numerous other boards and community organizations.

She’s here to give us a glimpse into her very busy day and life; especially what it’s really like to be a local media personality and community leader. And of course. tell us all about the Rhonda Walker Foundation.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What did Rhonda do before becoming a morning news anchor?
How did Rhonda decide to become a news anchor?
Who writes the copy for traffic and weather reporters?
What are Rhonda’s ties to Detroit?
What time does Rhonda go to bed and wake up in the morning?
What is the process like to get ready for the morning news?
How does Rhonda’s schedule impact her personal and family life?
Does Rhonda keep the same schedule on the weekends?
What would viewers be most surprised to learn about Rhonda?
What’s the hardest part of Rhonda’s job?
How does Rhonda deal with the emotional toll of tragic stories?
What is Rhonda’s health and fitness routine like?
All about the Rhonda Walker Foundation and its mentoring programs.
Where and how does Rhonda do her fundraising?

Today’s Takeaway:

From the outside looking in, the job of a TV news anchor appears to be glamorous and exciting. But we also need to recognize the hard work and sacrifices that go into being a TV journalist. It can be quite difficult to remain professional and hold emotions at bay while reporting on tragic stories. It’s also a job that brings great visibility and a powerful voice to shed light on important issues. As the saying goes, “With great power or privilege comes great responsibility.” Rhonda has taken on that challenge by using her power and platform to improve the lives of others. Having the ability to make a positive impact on someone else is really a gift. And Rhonda is able to do that through her service to the community. Whether it’s through her charitable foundation or acting as a spokesperson and community liaison, she truly is an amazing role model for all of us. Today is a gift. Rhonda showed us how we should make every day a gift through kindness, giving back, and doing something we truly love to do. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“In television, there has to be a lot of balance; you want to be able to appeal to your audience.” — Rhonda
“I’m one of those kinds of people that will master whatever the job entails, and so I made sure that I was the best.” — Rhonda
“The hardest part of the day is just being able to wake up at that hour.” — Rhonda
“I am a very emotional person, and I tend to feel the emotion of the people that are going through the news that we’re reporting.” — Rhonda
“It’s a hard business. There are times where it’s just exhausting and upsetting.” — Rhonda
“We’re people too. We have a job to do and we have to separate that sometimes.” — Rhonda
“For me, I’m just trying to pay it forward.” — Rhonda

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rhonda Walker Foundation

WDIV-TV 4

View Details

Bonnie Burke, Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource

Have you changed jobs recently? Are you currently seeking employment? Or are you an employer who is finding it difficult to meet your staffing needs? Whether you’re a job seeker or a hiring manager, you’ve undoubtedly seen significant changes in the job market and workforce over the past few years. The pandemic affected not only how we did our jobs, but also where we worked, when working remotely was necessary to avoid Covid exposure. But today, even as more companies are asking their staff to return full-time to the office, many employees continue to work virtually not only out of necessity but out of choice with the justification that working from home provides a greater work/life balance.

Even though employees feel less connected to their co-workers and miss social interaction, the flexibility that remote work offers seems to be worth it. But is the increased demand to work remotely the primary reason why so many positions remain unfilled? Or are there other explanations beyond the current lack of job fulfillment? To help understand both sides of the employment story, today we’re speaking with Bonnie Burke. She is the Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource, a boutique IT and Computer Engineering staffing company. Bonnie is here to discuss the employment market for both the hiring manager and the job seeker.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How is the job market different today than in the past?
The reasons behind constant job changes in today’s workplace.
How can companies afford the high wage demands of today’s job seekers?
Some of the biggest challenges that hiring managers face in finding qualified candidates.
What industries offer the greatest hiring opportunities these days?
Ageism and other discrimination issues in the hiring process.
Why are so many long-term employees opting for early retirement?
Two weeks’ notice and other requirements for quitting your job today.
Helping the people that work for you to avoid getting sick.
Recommendations for companies facing a personnel search shortage.

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the biggest concerns for employers in 2022 has been the difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified employees. The Department of Labor Statistics indicates there are presently 11.3 million job openings, which equates to 1.7 jobs available for every unemployed person. This suggests that job seekers would have an easy time finding a job and yet, despite aggressive salary offers, companies have been unable to fill open positions. Although the desire to work remotely has definitely impacted the current job market, that's not the only reason why there are so many job openings. The number of highly skilled workers who have voluntarily left the workforce since 2020, seeking early retirement, is significantly higher than in recent years. Replacing these individuals with their unique skill set or finding qualified individuals who meet specific job requirements is proving to be one of the biggest challenges for companies and recruiters.

In addition, as we’ve heard, there are other factors that automatically disqualify candidates from certain jobs, such as people who can’t pass background checks due to their criminal background, educational level, or immigration status. So what’s the answer? Should employers relax their strict employment requirements? Should they offer advanced schooling grants or on-the-job training? Should the government allocate funds for tax credits in exchange for continuing education or advanced degrees in specific fields? Employers may need to rethink their approach to talent acquisition to change how they address employee retention, and staffing in order to keep their workforce competitive. Remember, every day is a gift, and the gift of having an enjoyable, fulfilling job that not only allows us to pay our bills but offers a chance for continuing education and advancement, and feeling good as much as we can every single day is really a gift. Give that gift to yourself. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s Today’s Takeaway.

Quotes:

“Job seekers today come to the table having several other offers in hand and they use those offers to negotiate the best salary they can.” — Bonnie
“There’s a huge skills mismatch with the people who are actively looking for a new role and the posted jobs there.” — Bonnie
“Sometimes ageism comes into play. I see that more than any other diversity issues.” — Bonnie
“During the pandemic, so many positions couldn’t be done remotely. And so, because of that people just walked away.” — Bonnie
“I really recommend employers upskill or cross-train and promote their internal employees. Hang onto what you already have.” — Bonnie
“If you’ve already got somebody that’s employed by you, and you want to keep them and you love their skill set, figure out ways to offer them growth within the company.” — Bonnie

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

IntegriSource

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Emily Camiener, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist with Diet Detroit

We’re so very fortunate today to live in a time with so many different food options and ways to enjoy our meals. Whether we’re preparing our meals at home, or dining out with proper planning, we can enjoy a variety of healthy, delicious, and nutritious options. Mealtime doesn’t ever have to be boring. But sometimes, having too many choices can lead to confusion, especially when it comes to choosing the right dietary plan.

Whether you’re making a lifestyle change to a plant-based diet or seeking to lose weight through Weight Watchers or any other popular weight loss plan, we hear so much information on how to eat and what to eat, that it can be mind-boggling. Sometimes what’s missing from all that information is the science and the explanation behind it. For example, does the human body process certain foods more efficiently than others? As well, how do we derive nutrients from what we eat? Can we actually slow our body’s aging process? Today, we’re speaking with Emily Camiener, a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist with Diet Detroit. Emily is here to answer all of these questions, and many more to help us better understand which eating plans are best for certain individuals.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What should we be looking for with any dietary changes?
The importance of thinking long-term when it comes to your diet, as extremely restrictive plans are not necessarily going to benefit our long-term health.
Emily discusses her “nutritarian approach.”
What exactly are nutrients, and how do we get them from our food?
What does the term “essential nutrients” mean?
Why is fiber so important to our health and well-being?
What are soluble fiber and insoluble fiber?
How much protein does the body need on a daily basis, and what are some foods that have good protein?
What is the relationship between what we eat and how we feel?
What are some of the foods that we need to limit?
What our microbiome is and how we can use that information to feel better, reduce inflammation, and improve our mood.
Emily walks us through an example of what a healthy day of eating may look like.

Today’s Takeaway:

As we age, the human body weakens, and we become more susceptible to injury and illness. But what actually causes our bodies to age throughout our lifetime is that our bodies take quite a beating as we adapt to changing environmental factors, ultraviolet rays, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, inflammation, or infection. In addition, there are psychological factors such as stress that put our health at risk of significant damage. While there’s no magic pill or anti-aging pill, there are steps that we can take that slow the aging process by avoiding pollutants, reducing alcohol consumption, and not smoking. We can give our bodies the tools to fight illness, injury, and death.

In addition, as we've learned today, eating a healthy diet filled with foods that nourish us and strengthen our immune system can increase our chances of living longer. There are incredible health benefits to be gained from eating a nutritious, high-fiber diet. Fiber keeps our digestive system flowing by eliminating toxins and waste. Eating enough fiber to maintain a healthy gut is critical to longevity because it actually helps nourish our bodies, maintain our metabolism and give cells what they need. Most individuals with healthy gut bacteria are more likely to live longer and avoid heart disease and certain cancers along with type two diabetes. A healthy high-fiber whole-food diet can also lower cholesterol and blood pressure. We’ve all heard the expression that our body is a temple, and we should treat it accordingly. I believe that having a healthy body is a gift and I’m grateful for it every day. But if I don’t take care of it, who will? So give yourself a gift every day. Eat good foods, eat a variety of foods, eat high-fiber foods, and enjoy your life. Get moving a little bit. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s Today’s Takeaway.

Quotes:

“Insoluble fiber is like a workout for your digestive tract.” — Emily
“Most Americans consume about 15% of their daily calories from protein.” — Emily
“Protein foods provide something called amino acids, which are the building blocks that our body uses to actually grow and maintain your muscle tissue.” — Emily
“Nutrition is so personalized and individualized.” — Emily
“If people want to avoid an entire food group, like dairy, it’s very important for them to really understand what nutrients they’re not getting so that they can then make those appropriate swaps.” — Emily
“Nutrition isn't something that you can just take something away, and then not fill it back in.” — Emily
“By eating a more healthy diet, you can improve your microbiome and keep certain diseases at bay.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Diet Detroit

Emily Camiener

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With Larry Oleinick, Founder of Nonprofit Heart 2 Hart Detroit

Over the past few years, substance abuse and mental health issues increased significantly as a result of the isolation brought about by the pandemic. For these vulnerable individuals, the added loss of jobs or familial support led to a noticeable increase in the homeless population. Whereas in the past, veterans or the elderly made up a majority of the homeless, today there’s a growing number of younger individuals living on the streets. Although many of these young people are motivated to seek employment, they find it increasingly difficult without a steady paycheck or stable housing. For a homeless individual, simply showing up to their job or even an interview, wearing clean clothes and freshly bathed can be a huge challenge.

But sometimes out of the most devastating of personal experiences, we find miracles do happen. What if I were to tell you the story of a military veteran living on the streets whose entire life changed after a chance meeting with a small group of local volunteers? Offering him a sandwich, the group said they visit that same spot several days a week with food and personal hygiene items and encouraged him to come back. Soon, he became a regular visitor to the group, seeking not only their sandwiches and hot coffee but drawn to their welcoming smiles and friendly conversation. The volunteers didn’t judge him or make him feel uncomfortable. In time, he opened up to them and shared his story. With their support and encouragement, eventually, this individual found the will to seek recovery from his drinking. With the aid of the Veterans Administration, he found a good job and housing assistance.

It took a few years but as this individual continued to excel at his job, he was promoted to a managerial position that allowed him to purchase his own home. Today, he travels around the country speaking on behalf of his company and sharing his personal story! What a miracle!

The Oxford dictionary defines the word miracle as “a highly improbable or extraordinary event, development, or accomplishment that brings very welcome consequences.” Typically, when we think of the word miracle, we attribute divine intervention but some miracles happen through the power of human intervention. Sometimes, even the simplest, well-intentioned act can lead to the most extraordinary consequences and enrich a person’s life in ways we never anticipated.

At a time when many of us may be feeling cynical and world-weary, it’s comforting to learn that good people and good deeds still exist and that by acting in ways that benefit each other, we can seemingly rise above the chaos to actually give birth to miracles. If you want to learn more how a small, simple gesture such as showing up with a friendly word of encouragement, a hot cup of coffee, and a nutritious sandwich can help someone overcome the hardest of circumstances, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview with Larry Oleinick of Detroit-based charity, Heart 2 Hart from June of 2021.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Larry’s home life like growing up in Oak Park, MI?
How did Larry come up with the name Heart 2 Hart?
What was Larry doing before he started his nonprofit?
Did Larry or anyone close to him ever experience homelessness?
Where does Larry get the food?
Why do some people choose not to go to a shelter?
What is Heart 2 Hart’s unique offering?
How is the food prepared and distributed?
Did the pandemic complicate distributing food and finding volunteers?
Does Larry have a relationship with the people he helps?
Does Larry see people he’s helped actually get off the streets?
Has Larry ever felt threatened when helping people?
What does Larry deliver besides food to help people?
What’s the biggest misconception about people sleeping on the street?
How do those sleeping on the streets get their medical needs met?
How can people donate to or volunteer with Heart 2 Hart?

Today’s Takeaway:

The events of the past year have taken a toll on everyone, but perhaps none more so than a person who suddenly found themselves without a home in the midst of a global pandemic. We want to help those in need, but the magnitude of the problem feels so enormous and overwhelming. But Larry has demonstrated how even the smallest of steps can make a major impact. Larry’s spontaneous and selfless gesture one day on his lunch hour led to founding Heart 2 Hart. We never know when the actions we take today might blossom into something grander tomorrow. Instead of telling yourself you can’t possibly make a difference, why not focus on doing one small gesture today to bring a smile to someone’s face? Remember, every day is a gift and we’re so lucky to be here. When we set aside our own problems for a short while to help others who are less fortunate, we always feel better. We may even gain a new perspective about our own situation. When I lend a helping hand to others I feel a renewed sense of purpose and I’m much better equipped to handle my own challenges. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for nine years we get in the van and go down and try to make a difference for that day.” — Larry
“There’s a lot of issues that people that aren’t in the system don’t understand about shelters.” — Larry
“We build relationships with people. We just don’t hand them something and go away. We have ongoing conversations.” — Larry
“We have to make sure we give them what they need.” — Larry
“How do we really know how we would react if certain things happened to us?” — Larry
“We’re not doctors, we’re not nurses, we’re just nice people.” — Larry
“It was my heart giving to the people who were in Hart plaza.” — Larry
“It may be a play on words but it was really just hearts connecting.” — Larry
“As I had always volunteered in the past, it would be great to put a little energy into giving back to people.” — Larry
“A lot of people are just walking around in pain.” — Larry

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Heart 2 Hart Detroit

Donate Today!

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With Larry Oleinick, Founder of Nonprofit Heart 2 Hart Detroit

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Larry’s home life like growing up in Oak Park, MI?
How did Larry come up with the name Heart 2 Hart?
What was Larry doing before he started his nonprofit?
Did Larry or anyone close to him ever experience homelessness?
Where does Larry get the food?
Why do some people choose not to go to a shelter?
What is Heart 2 Hart’s unique offering?
How is the food prepared and distributed?
Did the pandemic complicate distributing food and finding volunteers?
Does Larry have a relationship with the people he helps?
Does Larry see people he’s helped actually get off the streets?
Has Larry ever felt threatened when helping people?
What does Larry deliver besides food to help people?
What’s the biggest misconception about people sleeping on the street?
How do those sleeping on the streets get their medical needs met?
How can people donate to or volunteer with Heart 2 Hart?

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for nine years we get in the van and go down and try to make a difference for that day.” — Larry
“There’s a lot of issues that people that aren’t in the system don’t understand about shelters.” — Larry
“We build relationships with people. We just don’t hand them something and go away. We have ongoing conversations.” — Larry
“We have to make sure we give them what they need.” — Larry
“How do we really know how we would react if certain things happened to us?” — Larry
“We’re not doctors, we’re not nurses, we’re just nice people.” — Larry
“It was my heart giving to the people who were in Hart plaza.” — Larry
“It may be a play on words but it was really just hearts connecting.” — Larry
“As I had always volunteered in the past, it would be great to put a little energy into giving back to people.” — Larry
“A lot of people are just walking around in pain.” — Larry

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Heart 2 Hart Detroit

Donate Today!

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With Sarah Eldridge, Weight Watchers Coach

The holidays are such an exciting time of year. It’s a time for celebrating when we look forward to office parties, sharing family meals, and annual get-togethers. But the holidays can also be an especially difficult time if you have lost a loved one during the past year. It’s hard to feel happy and excited about the upcoming holidays when you’re mourning the loss of a beloved family member. After all, there’s an empty seat at the dinner table and that person’s absence can overshadow even the most enjoyable of occasions. Even though we may pretend we’re fine and put on a happy face for the kids, inside we’re grieving and just trying not to dissolve in a puddle of tears.

But instead of mourning, why not use the holiday this year as an opportunity to celebrate the life of your lost loved one? For example, light a candle in their memory and have everybody at the table share their favorite personal story about that beloved person or the most important life lesson they learned from that person. There may still be tears shed but it doesn’t have to be a time only for sadness and grief. By sharing something humorous or uniquely quirky about that person, you get everyone laughing through their tears and you will all feel better for it.

The start of a New Year is also the perfect opportunity to channel our grief into something positive and life-affirming by setting a new goal for ourselves or doing something in honor of that individual. What if everyone at the table could be inspired and pledge to do something beneficial in that person’s memory? You could encourage, lift each other, and promise to share success stories the following year.

For example, we might be inspired to honor our loved one by pledging to run a half marathon, take up a new hobby, or raise money for a good cause. Or, a school-age child could set a goal of improving their grades in a particular class or taking on a school project that reminded them of their lost relative. Whatever it is that inspires you and your family to do something good to benefit yourselves or the community, there’s no better way to show your lasting love and memorialize that individual.

Last year Florine interviewed Sarah Eldridge, a Weight Watchers Coach who was inspired to make positive changes in her own life after losing a loved one. The changes that Sarah made not only improved her life, but she was also able to channel her personal pain to accomplish something that her loved one wasn’t able to do in his lifetime. She shared similar challenges and found a way to turn them around so she didn’t suffer the same mistakes. If you want to learn how to channel grief into something positive and life-affirming, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview with Sarah.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Sarah describes her father’s life and struggles.
How her Dad’s death inspired Sarah to make changes in her own life.
Did Sarah’s friends and family support her journey?
When did Sarah notice a change in herself?
What was Sarah’s biggest challenge?
What kind of self-care did Sarah do?
What does Sarah do differently now that she’s lost weight?
What is some advice Sarah would give to people struggling?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we experience a devastating loss, it’s only natural to want to give in to our pain. But remember that the best way to move forward through our grief is to use it as a motivation. We can learn from the mistakes of our grief and the mistakes of others. We can direct our pain to accomplish a meaningful goal. Just as Sarah demonstrated, sometimes an overwhelming emotion can provide the added strength and determination we need to succeed. When she committed to losing weight and beginning her wellness journey, she was honoring her father’s memory with every pound she lost. By channeling our grief in positive ways, we might also inspire others in their quest by providing education or awareness. Or perhaps, we can pay tribute and honor those we’ve lost. Out of great pain can sometimes come great beauty. Our losses don’t have to define us. Instead, we can choose to let them inspire us. Remember that every day is a gift, and yesterday’s loss just might be the start of tomorrow’s beginning. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“My father was a man that, if you met him, you loved him.” — Sarah
“I did it for me. I did it for my health and I did it because I wanted to love myself more.” — Sarah
“It really gave me the courage to kind of branch out.” — Sarah
“I started to notice a change in my mindset as I saw a little success.” — Sarah
“I started being nicer to myself.” — Sarah
“Treat yourself like your own best friend.” — Sarah
“I always looked at self-care as something rich people do or other people do.” — Sarah
“Self-care is head to toe, including my mindset.” — Sarah
“I try to exercise every day even if it’s just something small like getting my steps in.” — Sarah

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

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With Dr. Geoffrey L. Cohen, Stanford Professor and Author of the book, “Belonging”

One of our most fundamental human needs is feeling a connection with others to avoid feeling lonely and isolated. As social creatures, our need to bond and connect with others is an important part of our basic survival instinct. History shows that being a part of a group is not only important for our continued survival but accomplishing tasks is far easier with the aid of others. When we think of a group we tend to think of large organizations with many members, but in reality, a group can be as small as two people. When the group comes together, there’s an understanding that all the needs of the group will be protected and confidences maintained. We take comfort in knowing we belong and we’re valued.

Today we are speaking with Stanford University professor and author Dr. Geoffrey L. Cohen. His new book, “Belonging,The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides” studies our fundamental desire to belong and how our perception of group membership can impact our sense of security along with our mental and emotional well-being.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why is the need to belong so fundamental to humans?
Has Dr. Cohen ever felt left out of a group?
Why “stigmas” are often what lead to excluding people.
What inspired Dr. Cohen to write the book Belonging?
Did Dr. Cohen become a professor due to his need to belong?
What are some tools to get over being too self-critical?
Why perception, mindset, and attitude can really shape experiences.
What role do media and social media play in how we view ourselves?
Why does anxiety seem to be on the rise?
What does being excluded do to an individual?
What is stereotyping?
Why is empathy so important yet challenging?

Today’s Takeaway:

From the time we are school-aged children and throughout our entire lives, whether we are at home, work, or within our communities, the need to feel seen and heard is critical to our emotional development and mental health. Belonging to a group combats feelings of isolation and loneliness. Therefore, the fear of being rejected or excluded from that group can be one of the most alarming and painful life experiences. Being accepted by a particular group not only validates us as individuals, but we also feel a sense of connection and security. Sometimes we will go to great lengths to stay part of a group even if the group culture is at odds with our personal beliefs. For example, think of all the stories of young, naive college freshmen that pledge a sorority or fraternity and put themselves in harm’s way with excessive and dangerous alcohol consumption. They do so simply because of their deep-rooted desire to be accepted by their peers. Just as we desire to be perceived as members of a particular group, we may be equally determined to keep others out of that group. Whether an “us vs. them” mindset stems from feeling threatened or a perception that resources are scarce, many problems in society come from our inability to see others as individuals. Instead, we ostracize an entire group and choose to align ourselves against them. Giving another person the opportunity to feel seen and heard is a gift. As we heard, it’s important to empathize and communicate in a way that invites cooperation. Instead of alienating others, we can give them the gift of acceptance by allowing them to feel included and by respecting them as individuals. Remember that every day is a gift. Be good to yourself and be good to those around you. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The need to belong is important for humans as a social species because we just can’t go at it alone.” — Dr. Cohen
“Built into our DNA is a need to connect.” — Dr. Cohen
“Together, collaborating in common purpose, we can change the world.” — Dr. Cohen
“The thing about belonging that’s very interesting is it’s so situational.” — Dr. Cohen
“Your mental prism is your prison.” — Dr. Cohen
“Perception is so, so powerful.” — Dr. Cohen
“Our mindsets shape our experience.” — Dr. Cohen
“I believe that anxiety is often, as a lot of research has demonstrated, comes out of feeling disconnected, alone.” — Dr. Cohen
“One of the most nerve-wracking messages our central nervous system can send to the rest of our body is, ‘You are alone.’” — Dr. Cohen
“We are evolved to be together.” — Dr. Cohen
“When people feel, especially chronically lonely, it ratchets up the threat system.” — Dr. Cohen
“Yeah, empathy is a good thing but how you do it, the techniques, often matter a lot more than we think.” — Dr. Cohen

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Purchase Belonging by Dr. Geoffrey L. Cohen

Dr. Geoffrey L. Cohen’s Website

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With Carly Mark, Fashion Designer & Puppets and Puppets Founder

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to go behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week (NYFW)? It all sounds so glamorous and exciting, but what is it really like backstage at a show? What’s it like for the designers and where do they get their inspiration for a collection? How do designers style models for a show and come up with hair and makeup to compliment their fashion?

My guest today, Carly Mark, is a New York based fashion designer. Her line of clothing Puppets and Puppets (PNP) have appeared in NYFW since their debut collection premiered in 2019. A 2022 Counsel of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Nominee for the American Emerging Designer of the Year Award, Carly’s eye-catching designs are uniquely unconventional and resemble beautiful, surreal sculptures. I’m incredibly proud to say that Carly is not only a wonderful and talented artist and designer, but she’s also my granddaughter!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Carly shares all about her first runway show back in 2019.
How did Carly introduce herself as a new designer at NYFW?
How did Carly get the inspiration for her highly celebrated handbags?
Has PNP had many copycats?
What are the prices for the bags?
What kind of clothing does PNP offer?
What is the target demo for the clothing?
Where can you buy PNP?
Do you need an agent to get your clothing into stores?
How did Carly feel watching her clothes in the first fashion show?
What was Carly’s internship with Versace like?
How does finding models, styling, hair, and makeup come together?
Who is in charge of lighting and music for a fashion show?
How does Carly manage the backstage stress at a show?
Does Carly have celebrity clients?
What is unique about the PNP line?
How do people get invited to a fashion show?
What are some lessons Carly has learned since her first show?
What is the craziest thing that has ever happened backstage?
What is the day after the show like for Carly?
What did Carly do after being nominated for the CFDA award?
How does Carly choose her colors?

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the most popular ways that we express ourselves is through the clothing we wear. The women's wear fashion industry is estimated to bring in annual revenues of almost $900B! When you factor in the additional revenue for men and children’s wear, the annual revenue of the fashion industry will exceed THREE TRILLION DOLLARS! Currently the fashion industry employs more than 1.8 million people with an average hourly rate of slightly more than $25/hour. If a designer is fortunate enough to display their collection at a major fashion show, they are not only trying to make a positive impression for their peers and journalists, they are often looking for an audience to purchase their designs. For the consumer, having such a wide range of styles, colors, designs, and clothing options to choose from is not only a gift but it’s how we show our individuality. It’s how we define the image we present in public. For fashion designers, it’s not only their livelihood but it’s an expression of their artistic dreams and visions. These shows support an entire industry of people and allow them to share their cherished creations for the world to see. So for all of you designers, please keep dreaming and keep designing so we can all continue to enjoy the fruits of your amazing vision and be inspired by your designs. Remember that today is a gift and you make it what you want it to be! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“People love fashion and people want to see what new young designers are doing.” - Carly
“Putting a show together really takes a village and it’s all about synchronizing a ton of people.” - Carly
“I love what I do, but I signed up for a really crazy job!” - Carly
“People want to wear what’s cool and new and be the best thing out there.” - Carly
“Every show is a little bit different and all I can do is my best.” - Carly
“I try to be better every day and I try to evolve every season.” - Carly
“It’s mayhem…it’s true mayhem! But the show must go on.” - Carly
“I’m a very good fixer.” - Carly
“There are some days that are tough, and there are some days that are great.” - Carly

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Puppets and Puppets Clothing Line

Puppets and Puppets on Instagram

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With Christy Howden, Co-Founder & Owner of Wolverine Pickleball

Have you ever heard the old expression, “Behind every cloud, there is a silver lining”? In the midst of our darkest moments, we might discover a silver lining. It could come from the most unexpected place or in the most unlikely way, but there it is! A glimmer of hope that provides a genuine blessing or even a new start that might never have been possible unless we first went through that painful journey. Whether we were actively seeking a fresh beginning or simply stumbled upon it by accident, the silver lining fills us with hope and sheds a beacon of light. No one would ever expect a global pandemic to provide an opportunity to establish a silver lining for the community.

Our guest today, Christy Howden is here to tell us how, without any prior experience, she successfully launched a brand new business venture in the midst of COVID-19 and provided a wonderful benefit for her community. As her business grew, so did their loyal following because of the safe, healthy, and enjoyable distraction it offered from the fear and uncertainty of what lay ahead.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What made Christy decide to open a pickleball facility?
How many courts does Christy have and where is it?
What was Christy’s background prior to the pandemic?
What initially attracted Christy to pickleball?
What makes pickleball such a social sport?
How do pickleball tournaments work and where can you find them?
How did the community’s response inspire Christy to open her own business?
What are the logistics and price points for pickleball play?
What makes Wolverine Pickleball unique?
What are the safety precautions for playing pickleball?
How does Christy plan to expand her pickleball business?

Today’s Takeaway:

Believing in silver linings helps us develop the kind of resilient spirit that can see us through the worst of times. When Christy and Leslie first began playing pickleball together, it was merely a social diversion they both enjoyed to take the stress out of their daily lives. Then as they began organizing and coordinating pickleball tournaments in the midst of the pandemic, they saw how it helped so many others stay active and socialize during a difficult and challenging time. The positive response from the community gave them the courage to push forward with their plans to open up Wolverine Pickleball. Today, Wolverine Pickleball is at the forefront of expanding opportunities for the sport. They are now the fastest-growing pickleball destination in the Midwest. What an amazing success story! Viewing tough times as a chance for growth gives us an opportunity to see things we might not otherwise consider. Being able to choose how we live our lives is a gift because we get to author our own life story and write the next exciting chapter. So why not continue to look for your silver lining? You never know what amazing opportunities await behind that next cloud. Remember that every day is a gift. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“It has changed my life!” — Christy
“Once you start playing pickleball, you just want more and more of your friends to join.” — Christy
“Now this is my second act.” — Christy
“The community has been solid with helping us out.” — Christy
“It’ll be one of the biggest pickleball facilities in the Midwest and near the top for the country.” — Christy

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Wolverine Pickleball

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With Rebecca Zung, Narcissism Negotiation Expert & Attorney

We all have moments in our life when we may feel manipulated by another person’s words or actions. We’re so busy giving in to their demands that our own needs could get lost in the shuffle. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Multiple studies indicate that this type of narcissistic behavior is on the rise and social media plays a part in encouraging and cultivating this trend. Studies have shown that young people are particularly susceptible to the influence of social media and have become obsessed with cultivating their online profile to garner the most “likes.” They become increasingly dependent upon the admiration of others to feed their self-esteem which increases their narcissistic personality traits. When a person deliberately insists on having their own way or displays an excessive sense of entitlement, it can have a negative effect on others. After all, it’s not pleasant to be around individuals who are so attention-seeking and so self-absorbed that they completely disregard the needs of those around them.

Narcissism can manifest itself in more than one way. “Grandiose narcissism” is the most well-known, with the individual displaying high self-esteem and self-assuredness and they look to others to fulfill their excessive sense of entitlement. However, a person who is diagnosed with “vulnerable narcissism” exhibits low self-esteem, defensive behavior, and an insistence on having things their way. When they don’t get their way, they can react with anger and hostility. In order to avoid that explosive reaction, those around them quickly surrender and the cycle of manipulation continues. But there are ways to avoid being a victim of that behavior. Last year Florine interviewed Rebecca Zung, a very successful attorney and Narcissism Negotiation Expert. If you want to learn how to deal more effectively with the narcissist in your life, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What exactly is a narcissist?
What is the difference between a controlling person and a narcissist?
What are some traits and characteristics of narcissists?
Why is it so hard to communicate with narcissists?
What is Rebecca’s “Slay” strategy in dealing with narcissists?
What is gaslighting and what are some examples?
How do narcissists groom and condition people?
Can a narcissist “get better”?
How can you manage a relationship or interaction with a narcissist?

Today’s Takeaway:

Working with or loving a person with narcissistic tendencies can sometimes be very difficult. They may demand perfection from those around them and have an unrealistic need for control. When confronted or criticized, things can turn ugly very quickly. If they feel threatened, they can actually make you feel as though you are the “bad guy.” When it’s a minor disagreement and we recognize the signs, we can negotiate for what we need and avoid being drawn into an argument. One of the most frightening aspects of dealing with a narcissist is the way they manipulate us into thinking we are the crazy ones when we are not. Trust your instincts and know that you matter. Only YOU get to determine your value and worth. In order for others to treat you with respect, you have to believe in yourself and know your worth. Today is a gift and in order to give ourselves the gift of a happier tomorrow, we can learn how to take better care of ourselves today. So enjoy today and enjoy the people around you. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“They don’t have any internal feeling of value at all so they feel like they have to get all of their sense of value from external sources.” — Rebecca
“They feel completely empty inside.” — Rebecca
“A narcissist controls people in order to feel a sense of value for themselves.” — Rebecca
“The motivation behind anything that they do is something called narcissistic supply, and that’s anything that feeds that ego.” — Rebecca
“They do tend to lie a lot, I think that they tend to project their behaviors onto other people.”— Rebecca
“Because they have no inner sense of value, they just don’t have the ability to have any sense of care or empathy for other people.” — Rebecca
“The diamond level supply for a narcissist is always going to be how it looks; their reputation and how they look to the community is always, always, always more important than anything else.” — Rebecca
“Gaslighting is something that all narcissists do.” — Rebecca
“The not-so-secret secret is that they’re actually more afraid of you than you are of them.” — Rebecca
“They’re actually the worst right before they’re ready to give up.” — Rebecca

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rebecca Zung website

Crush My Negotiation Worksheet

Rebecca Zung on YouTube

Rebecca Zung on Instagram

Rebecca Zung on Twitter

Negotiate Your Best Life podcast

Negotiate Like You M.A.T.T.E.R.: The Sure-Fire Method to Step Up and Win

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With Dr. Marc Siegel, Board Certified Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist

Did you know that the discovery of insulin has significantly increased longevity and reduced the toll diabetes takes on people’s lives? Insulin was first discovered more than 100 years ago but sadly the rate of people diagnosed with diabetes today is higher than it’s ever been. One of the fastest-growing rates of diabetes has been among young children and adolescents.

Currently, diabetic patients make up more than 12% of the U.S. population with an additional 1.4 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes every year. While obesity is viewed as a major contributing factor, an aging population and a sedentary lifestyle are also to blame. Chronic health conditions such as

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes not only make it difficult for diabetic patients to regulate their blood sugar, but it also puts them at risk for a variety of

complications. A diabetic patient is more susceptible to heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney issues in addition to other complications such as vision loss and limb amputation. That’s why taking a proactive role in managing diabetes is so very important.

Current medical research is focused on finding new and innovative ways to treat, or hopefully cure, diabetes. In addition to new medications that may replace the need for daily insulin injections, scientists are seeing promising results in Type 1 diabetic patient trials using embryonic stem cells to stimulate the patient’s pancreas into manufacturing insulin. If successful, these therapeutic trials could lead to a potential breakthrough in treating diabetic patients. In the meantime, it’s also important to note that living with diabetes does not have to limit or in any way prevent a patient from enjoying a full and active lifestyle. Insulin pumps, daily monitoring of blood sugar levels, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can go a long way towards improving the health and well-being of diabetic patients.

In June of last year, Florine interviewed Dr. Marc Siegel, a board-certified ophthalmology surgeon and respected glaucoma specialist who also happens to be living with Type 1 diabetes. Marc is a perfect example of a patient who doesn’t let his chronic diagnosis get in the way of living and enjoying his life.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is glaucoma and how is it treated?
What are cataracts?
Is there hope that someone who is blind will be able to see one day?
What is macular degeneration?
Do vitamins and supplements for the eye actually work?
What was Marc’s onset of diabetes like?
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Is Type 1 diabetes more likely to happen in your childhood years?
Is diabetes genetic?
How is insulin administered and glucose monitored?
How does Marc monitor his diet and exercise?
How does Marc keep such a positive attitude?
What would Marc like to say to people living with diabetes and other chronic illnesses?

Today’s Takeaway:

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, there’s nothing to stop you from living life any differently than someone without diabetes. Marc has a wonderfully positive attitude and he doesn’t let his diagnosis prevent him from practicing medicine, performing surgery, loving his family, exercising, eating what he wants, and enjoying his life. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, he’s also a clinical assistant professor instructing medical students. Having a positive attitude can make all the difference. If you don’t believe me, just look at the many known professionals and athletes with Type 1 diabetes like Baltimore Ravens’ Mark Andrews, musician Nick Jonas, and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. We are so very lucky to live in a time when medical technology can help us manage our symptoms and improve our ongoing care. Our attitude and how we manage our symptoms play a role in overcoming even the most challenging of circumstances. While we can’t alter our diagnosis, we can choose how we respond. By taking an active role, listening to your body, and practicing good self-care, you can still live a full, active life despite a chronic illness. Life has so much to offer us. So why not dream BIG? Live large, take a chance, and don’t let others discourage you from achieving your dreams. Remember that every day is a gift, and no one ever got to the Winner’s Circle by sitting on the sidelines! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You can lead a full, active, healthy life but it’s something that requires ongoing attention; it doesn't just go away.” — Marc
“Roughly ⅓ of Type 2s can control their blood sugar with diet and exercise alone.” — Marc
“Moderation is great.” — Marc
“In a certain sense, you have an illness that you can participate in helping to make yourself better.” — Marc
“You’re a healthcare provider because you will know your own body better than anybody else.” — Marc
“Ophthalmology is a gift. It really is because we can give people the ability to maintain or keep or improve their vision.” — Marc
“It’s a very life-changing event; I was mad, I was frustrated, I was depressed. All of the above.” — Marc
“Especially as a diabetic, I want to take care of myself. I’m an active guy. I want to remain that way.” — Marc
“For both a Type 2 and a Type 1, healthier eating, healthier diet, and exercise make your blood glucose control easier. It works together with your medication to help make your control easier.” — Marc
“Nothing tastes as good as the way I look and feel.” — Florine
“I really believe that you can’t control, often, the cards that you’re dealt, but you can only control how you deal with those cards that were dealt to you.” — Marc
“I may not be happy that this is a problem I’m going to have for the rest of my life, but I absolutely am going to do everything under my control to lead a full, active life, and keep myself as healthy as I can for as long as I can.” — Marc
“You can’t control that you have the problem, but you can control how it does or doesn’t affect your life.” — Marc

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Marc Siegel — Glaucoma Center of Michigan

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With Pam Mathis, Founder & Creator of Hula Fit Nation

Did you know that the Hula Hoop we played with as a child is now one of the best new fitness devices? Although Hula Hoops have been around for more than 60 years, they only recently became popular as a fitness tool. Research shows using a Hula Hoop as an aerobic activity produces similar results to salsa or belly dancing. In fact, a recent Mayo Clinic study showed that a woman working out with a Hula Hoop can burn about 200 plus calories in 30 minutes. According to the study, when compared with other aerobic activities such as walking or ballroom dancing, the Hula Hoop participants showed a significant increase in abdominal muscle mass, compared to the walking group. In addition to burning calories, the Hula Hoop may also trim inches from your waistline and hips and strengthen your core. Best of all, working out with a Hula Hoop and trying to keep it spinning is just plain fun!

Today, we’re speaking with Pam Mathis. She is the Founder and creator

of Hula Fit Nation, a Hula Hoop fitness instructional program that can be done outside or virtually. Pam is here to tell us how using a Hula Hoop can be a fun, energetic way to slim down and strengthen your core.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Is it hard to learn to do the Hula Hoop?
What is Pam’s background?
What led Pam to start Hula Fit Nation?
What does it cost to buy a Hula Hoop?
What are the physical benefits of Hula Hooping?
What are the mental and emotional benefits of using a Hula Hoop?
What’s the difference between a regular and a weighted Hula Hoop?
How can someone take a Hula Fit Nation class?
What should you wear when Hula Hooping?
What are the different weights of Hula Hoops to use?
How does Pam keep the workouts interesting?
How can someone take Pam’s classes virtually?

Today’s Takeaway:

There’s no better way to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health than through exercise and daily movement. The many health benefits associated with physical activity are well known. Regular exercise improves circulation and may even lower blood pressure and help regulate blood sugar. Studies also suggest that the release of endorphins can help relieve pain and boost pleasure. Strengthening our core is not only about trimming inches and looking better, building your abdominal muscles can improve posture and balance and minimize the risk of lower back injuries. A strong core can also aid breathing and digestion. Staying healthy and getting fit doesn’t have to require an annual gym membership or costly exercise equipment. Using canned goods from your pantry can substitute for free weights and as we’ve heard today, an inexpensive Hula Hoop can be your secret weapon for getting fit. And while the weather’s nice, it’s also a great opportunity to get outdoors and join in the fun of a group class with others at Hula Fit Nation. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from keeping physically active and exercising is a gift that will help us breathe better, improve our sleep, and lift our spirits. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“It’s the best $45-50 you will ever spend.” — Pam
“Using a weighted hoop several times a week can help you burn calories, lose fat, and strengthen your core as well as improve your balance and flexibility.” — Pam
“Using a weighted hoop is a healthy release of tension and feelings of anxiety by incorporating movement, breathing, and repetition” — Pam
“Using a weighted Hula Hoop is a great stress reliever and it’s fun fitness.” — Pam
“The best way to Hula Hoop is with music.” — Pam
“Research shows that by using a weighted Hula Hoop 30 minutes several times a week you can burn up to 210 calories or more.” — Pam
“The lighter the hoop, the more energy it takes to keep that hoop up. The heavier the hoop, the easier it is to keep it up.” — Pam

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Hula Fit Nation Website

Hula Fit Nation on Instagram

Hula Fit Nation on Facebook

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With Rochelle Riley, Director of Arts & Culture for the City of Detroit

What do you think of when you hear the word “community”? Do you think of the city where you grew up or the neighborhood where you live? Perhaps you think of your place of worship or an organization you belong to. The dictionary defines the word community as “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”

Although we may each have a different idea of what our community is, it most likely inspires a sense of connection or belonging. When I think of the word community, I think of our city which is made up of so many different communities within the city. Despite our differences, it is our city’s vibrant history that binds us all together.

Today, we’re speaking with nationally syndicated journalist, Rochelle Riley. She’s the Director of Arts and Culture for the City of Detroit. Rochelle is here to tell us all about how the city is transforming blight into art by turning darkened alleys into beautiful sitting areas and providing a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Rochelle’s successful career in journalism lead to her new position as the Director of Arts and Culture?
What was Rochelle’s end goal when she first took the job?
What is a community art project?
How can you get young people involved in the community?
All about the Detroit Mayor’s “Blight to Beauty” campaign.
What is the “Arts Alley Initiative”?
What is the process for designing and creating the murals?
How do they find artists to paint the murals?
What are some other community art projects that are currently transforming the city?
How does Rochelle’s department support Detroit’s rich musical history?
How can listeners get involved to benefit the city?
All about the novel Rochelle is writing.

Today’s Takeaway:

Instead of darkened, trash-filled alleys, thanks to the “Arts Alley Initiative,” these same alleyways have now been transformed into works of art and community gathering places that we can all enjoy. There’s no better way to enrich our city than by creating something beautiful and useful to erase the blight. Belonging to a community within our city helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. When we feel part of a community, we feel a sense of connection and we take comfort and inspiration from others within the group. But belonging to a community isn’t a one-way street. In addition to how the community within a city benefits us, we have a responsibility to give back. There is no better way to feel a part of something than by giving our time and working in tandem with others for a united cause. When we believe in something, it is so gratifying to find others who share that belief. That role of giving back can take a variety of forms and it may look completely different for each one of us. As you’ve heard today, there are many ways to give back and be a part of the solution to make our city better. You don’t need to be musically inclined or artistic. We all bring our own unique strengths and abilities. Perhaps you excel at organizing or performing administrative tasks. Or, you could volunteer to clean up trash and plant an urban garden. Whatever it is that you do well, step up and volunteer to do it. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“When you say ‘community,’ it means 19 different things to 19 different people.” — Rochelle
“There’s nothing that we can’t do, all of us together.” — Rochelle
“My goal is to see how people live, see the way that we live, and always make it better.” — Rochelle
“My office has a policy; no artist works for free that works for me.” — Rochelle
“I know we’re an industrial city, but we don’t have to be all gray and brown.” — Rochelle
“I don’t think people understand just how pervasive American culture is.” — Rochelle
“I want every person to feel like this is something they’re responsible for; whether you’re the CEO of a company or a teacher that’s underpaid.” — Rochelle
“You can always make your day better if you start with dancing.” — Rochelle

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Detroit ACE

Rochelle Riley’s Website

Twitter: @RochelleRiley

Young, Gifted, & Woke

Artspace

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With Jaye Sciullo, Michigan Executive Director of Susan G. Komen & Dr. Shoshana Hallowell, Surgical Oncologist at Ascension Health

What goes through your mind when you hear the word “cancer?” Fear of the

unknown? How will this affect my loved ones? Will I survive? Second only to heart disease, cancer is a leading cause of death for adults in the United

States. Although the word “cancer” in itself is scary, not all cancers are alike. In fact, there are types of cancer that are easier to treat and often result in

full remission.

With more than 290,000 new diagnoses predicted for 2022 alone, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women. Approximately 13% of women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. This means there is a 1-in-8 chance a woman living in the U.S. will develop breast cancer. But this also means there is a 7-in-8 chance she’ll never have the disease.

Thankfully, advances in genetic testing, immunotherapy, and other promising new trials are transforming the way we treat breast cancer. Today, we’re going to talk with Jaye Sciullo and Dr. Shoshana Hallowell, a surgical oncologist with Ascension Health. Jaye is the Executive Director for the Michigan chapter of Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading breast cancer organization. They’re with us today to answer our questions and tell us about the latest advances in breast cancer treatment.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When did Jaye first become involved with Susan G. Komen?
How difficult is it for Jaye to put herself in the shoes of the women she represents?
What are the different types of breast cancer?
Why is breast cancer often harder to treat than other cancers?
Besides not smoking, what are other things can we do to lessen our risk of cancer?
How important are mammograms?
What exactly are the BRCA genes and what does it mean?
How does Susan G. Komen help patients and families?
What do you recommend for friends and family members who want to help support co-survivors and patients?
Some promising information about new trials and treatments.
What role do diet and exercise play in developing and progressing cancer?
What is a smart bomb?
All about the 2022 Komen Detroit Race for the Cure.

Today’s Takeaway:

A cancer diagnosis is life-changing, and we’re often filled with fear and uncertainty as to what may lie ahead. But the mission of the Susan G. Komen organization is dedicated to making sure that no breast cancer patient has to go it alone. Since Susan G. Komen was founded in 1986, we have seen a 40% reduction in breast cancer mortality. The Komen organization is committed to being alongside the patient throughout the entirety of their cancer journey. In addition to providing financial support when needed, there are virtual nurse navigators who will assist patients in preparing for doctor appointments and provide a list of necessary questions to ask. Afterward, they can also help explain the mass of information that patients receive. Based on the statistics shared today, we all probably know someone battling breast cancer. We are hopeful that soon we can find a cure so that future generations can look forward to a life without this deadly disease. Remember that every single day is a gift and even when life throws us a curveball, we have the gift of freedom of choice. We get to choose our response and how we handle adversity is up to each and every one of us. We can choose to fight our battle with grace, dignity, and courage, knowing that we will find the support we need every step of the way. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I think that it’s difficult these days to not be touched by breast cancer in some way.” — Jaye
“Breast cancer is harder to treat because it’s very complex.” — Dr. Hallowell
“There are many things that you can do to lessen your risk of developing cancer. I think the most important is to be aware of your own health.” — Dr. Hallowell
“70% of breast cancers diagnosed in women under the age of 50 have been found by the women themselves.” — Dr. Hallowell
“Screening is important. The modality in which you’re screened is also important.” — Dr. Hallowell
“Susan G. Komen is committed to a world without breast cancer.” — Jaye
“Our mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs of our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.” — Jaye
“When you’re newly diagnosed, you don’t know what you don’t know. And it’s often a very winding path of self-discovery and learning how to advocate for yourself.” — Jaye
“No two paths are alike.” — Jaye
“Women with dense breast tissue need additional screening and women that are high risk need additional screening.” — Dr. Hallowell

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Susan G. Komen of Michigan

2022 Komen Detroit Race for the Cure

Dr. Shoshana Hallowell — Ascension

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With Rachel Stewart, President of Gardner White Furniture

The three most important elements for a healthy lifestyle consist of getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and exercising. While a healthy, nutritious diet and regular exercise are essential for a healthy lifestyle, giving our body time to rest and recharge is also vital to our health and wellbeing. Studies have shown that a chronic lack of sleep for an extended period of time can lead to serious medical conditions such as diabetes and increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.

But what is a sufficient amount of sleep? While we should try to get at least 8 hours of sleep, it’s important to make sure the time we spend in bed is quality sleep. We need to give our body and mind the opportunity for comfort and relaxation. If we’re sleeping fitfully or tossing and turning all night long, the source of our inability to sleep might be our mattress . Mattresses don’t last forever and it may be time to replace yours. But with so many different types of mattresses on the market today, it can be challenging to know which mattress is best to meet our needs. That’s why we need the advice of a trained expert.

Today, we’re going to talk to Rachel Stewart from Gardner White Furniture, the number one mattress store in Michigan. Rachel is an expert in the different types of mattresses and she’s here to explain how choosing the right mattress can lead to a better night’s sleep.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How often should you get a new mattress and what should you do with the old one?
Why is getting a good night’s sleep so important to our health and wellbeing?
How could a lack of sleep affect us mentally, emotionally, and physically?
Can the type and condition of the mattress we have really affect our sleep?
Is a firmer or softer mattress better?
If you suffer from chronic neck or back pain issues, which type of mattress is best for you?
How can you tell that your mattress is getting old?
What is a dual comfort mattress?
What are the best mattresses available today and do they always cost more?
What are motion base mattresses or sleep systems?
Why do you recommend lying on a variety of different mattresses before purchasing them?
What tips or suggestions do you have for people who come into the store to try out the various mattress types?
What is the difference between store bought mattresses and the type of mattresses in a box ordered online?
If a new mattress isn’t in your budget right now, are there things one can do to extend the life of their current mattress?

Today’s Takeaway:

A chronic lack of sleep is not only exhausting, it may also be harmful to

our health. In addition to the health issues we’ve already mentioned, weight

gain and a weakened immune system can also result from a lack of sleep.

Although there are a variety of reasons why we’re not getting the sleep we need, one of the easiest to correct is having a comfortable, supportive mattress. Since there is no such thing as a “one size fits all type of mattress”, finding a mattress that meets your needs can be a very personal experience. While you may prefer a firm rather than a soft mattress, that may not be your sleeping partner’s first choice. As we heard today, there are options such as

dual comfort mattresses to address that issue. In addition, because mattresses come in a variety of materials and price, the wide range of mattress types can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to seek the advice of a mattress expert. They can answer all your questions and help you

decide which type of mattress is best suited to meet both of your needs.

Getting a good night’s sleep and making sure your body has a chance to rest and recuperate is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for maintaining good

health and peak performance. Remember that everyday is a gift and

the gift of a good night’s sleep is easily attainable when the mattress

we’re sleeping on is the cause of our sleepless nights. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You know it when it’s not working for you anymore. It’s just not comfortable.” - Rachel
“If we do not sleep enough, we have seen there’s a 45 % increase in heart disease, 2x as likely to get cancer, 3x as likely to get diabetes, 5x as likely to be depressed.” - Rachel
“We need to find a way to prioritize what we sleep on to make sure it fits our body.” - Rachel
“The big thing when you’re looking at sleep is spinal alignment. If your spine is not aligned, you’re not going to be sleeping well.” - Rachel
“It really comes down to comfort. If you’re not comfortable you’re not sleeping well.” - Rachel

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Gardner White Furniture - Mattresses

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With Kevin Sherry, ALS of Michigan Board Member and Caregiver

There are few things in life that are more painful than watching a loved one

struggle with a serious illness. I personally experienced this myself when my amazing husband, Bill, was diagnosed with ALS, a terminal illness more commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” ALS is a progressive neuromuscular disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, the patient loses their ability to move, speak, eat, and breathe. Currently, there is no test to confirm or rule out ALS and it’s often diagnosed only after excluding other diseases that may cause these symptoms.

Today, we talked with Kevin Sherry. Kevin sits on the board of ALS of Michigan and he first became involved with the organization after his wife, Allison, was diagnosed with ALS when she was only 50 years old. Although the average life expectancy of an ALS patient can be as little as two to five years from the time of diagnosis, thankfully, Allison’s symptoms continue to progress slowly and she considers herself one of the “lucky ones.”

We talked with Kevin about caring for a loved one afflicted with ALS and the amazing devices that can help patients improve their quality of life.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What were Allison's initial symptoms?
Why did a diagnosis take so long?
After finally getting a diagnosis, what were some of the steps Kevin took to find help and support?
What is Allison’s condition now?
Do all patients experience the same type of symptoms?
What are some of the biggest challenges of living with or caring for someone with ALS?
Is there any type of physical therapy or exercise that helps patients with ALS?
How does ALS of Michigan help support patients and family members?
Is there financial assistance available through ALS of Michigan?
How can friends and family members help patients and their primary caregivers?
What are the upcoming Walk N’ Roll Events and how does the money raised benefit ALS patients?
What are some of the speech assistive devices and speech pathology that helps ALS patients communicate?

Today’s Takeaway:

It’s natural when we hear a loved one has a serious illness, that our initial reaction is fear and uncertainty. We may feel anxious, frightened and frustrated upon learning of a life altering diagnosis. But it’s also a reminder that life is short and to spend time with your loved ones doing the things you love most. When we received my husband Bill’s diagnosis, he refused to sit around and feel sorry for himself. Instead, we made it a point to get out of the house, socialize with friends and family and to live our lives as best as we could! When his mobility became an issue, we were fortunate enough to get a van with a lift for his wheelchair so we could go out on field trips. Although our life was very different from what we were used to before he got ALS, we still tried every day to find joy and happiness in our lives. Remember that every single day is a gift and even when you’re living with a serious illness, it’s important to cherish life. Will our days look like what we envisioned for ourselves before the diagnosis? No, of course not. But we can still find beauty, love, and joy in each and every day. Look for the silver linings. Surround yourself with love and laughter. And don’t forget to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you each and every day. I always end every note, every

letter, and every phone call with “Love, love, love!” I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“It’s very difficult to come up with a diagnosis.” - Kevin
“Early on Allison made the conscious decision to not let the diagnosis define her.” - Kevin
“No two cases are the same.” - Kevin
“Our mission is dedicated to helping pALS (People with ALS), their families, their caregivers, live life as fully as possible.” - Kevin

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

ALS of Michigan

Walk ‘n Roll for ALS

University of Michigan ALS Clinic

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With Sterling Hawkins, Motivational Speaker, Author, and Business Consultant

Have you ever resisted trying something because it reminded you of a similar situation in the past that didn’t work out? It’s human nature to turn away when we are triggered by painful memories or feel uncomfortable. We feel that sense of anxiety churning in our stomach, and it’s so uncomfortable that our first impulse is to make those feelings stop. That discomfort is so powerful, that instead of pursuing our desired goal we find ourselves settling for less than what we want simply because of our past disappointments. We don’t want to experience that pain again so we may convince ourselves that it’s just not meant to be. But if you want to learn and grow, you need to face that discomfort head on. Acknowledging those uncomfortable feelings is not the same as admitting defeat. In fact, it could actually be the key to our success.

Today we’re talking with Sterling Hawkins. He’s an international motivational speaker, author, and business consultant who helps Fortune 500 companies connect with their target customers and identify their best solutions. If painful memories are preventing you from reaching your goals, Sterling’s new book, Hunting Discomfort, gives step-by-step instructions on how to get past those feelings and the toxic beliefs that are blocking your progress.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Was Sterling always comfortable speaking in public?
What did Sterling study and previously do in his career?
What made Sterling become a public speaker?
When did Sterling first realize that the only way forward was to face discomfort and go through it?
What was Sterling’s first public speaking job like and what was his message?
Why is turning away from discomfort destructive?
What are some of the ways people experience discomfort?
How did Sterling work through his discomfort and become a public speaker?
Where did Sterling’s fear of public speaking start?
How did Sterling overcome the fear of public speaking?
What is Sterling’s Five Step System?
What is the #NoMatterWhat Movement?
A personal story from Sterling.

Today’s Takeaway:

We don’t have to deny ourselves personal success or achievements just because it hasn’t worked out in the past. Instead, think of today as a fresh start and a chance for a do over. Are you willing to pursue your dream no matter what? If so, the first step is identifying the obstacles that have previously blocked you from reaching your goals. Allowing your past to control your future limits your true potential. It’s important to remember that the past is simply that! It has little or no bearing on the present or the future unless we choose to let it. Don’t resign yourself and think, “This is just the way it is.” It doesn’t have to be if you're willing to do the hard work by facing your discomfort. Start by thinking of your belief system as a muscle that needs to be exercised. Remember the very first time you tried a physical fitness workout, and you were convinced you’d never be able to do it? But over time and with repetition, you were successful. Remember how wonderful it felt when, despite your doubts ,you pushed through the discomfort to get the desired results? It’s the same thing with challenging our beliefs. We need to push past those thoughts that are crippling our progress. Instead of accepting the status quo, dream bigger and reach higher. Challenge yourself. Stop letting those feelings of doubt and fear block you. Do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Make that commitment. That new and different experience could be just what you need to jumpstart the future that you’ve always dreamed of. As Sterling says, growth is only possible if we lean into the discomfort and face it head on. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of feeling that discomfort could lead to growth and ultimately put you on the path to success. I know you can do it! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Results are always on the other side; for me and for all of us.” - Sterling
“I avoided discomfort for many years.” - Sterling
“Your greatest challenges are the doorways to what will become your greatest successes.” - Sterling
“The way out is through, you just have to have the courage to go through no matter what.” - Sterling
“You’re not hunting discomfort; you're living with it and probably rationalizing why you have it.” - Sterling
“When you embrace discomfort, turn towards it instead of turning away from it, in a way it’s embracing all of you.” - Sterling

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sterling Hawkins Website

Sterling Hawkins on Instagram

Hunting Discomfort

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With Sterling Hawkins, Motivational Speaker, Author, and Business Consultant

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Was Sterling always comfortable speaking in public?
What did Sterling study and previously do in his career?
What made Sterling become a public speaker?
When did Sterling first realize that the only way forward was to face discomfort and go through it?
What was Sterling’s first public speaking job like and what was his message?
Why is turning away from discomfort destructive?
What are some of the ways people experience discomfort?
How did Sterling work through his discomfort and become a public speaker?
Where did Sterling’s fear of public speaking start?
How did Sterling overcome the fear of public speaking?
What is Sterling’s Five Step System?
What is the #NoMatterWhat Movement?
A personal story from Sterling.

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“Results are always on the other side; for me and for all of us.” - Sterling
“I avoided discomfort for many years.” - Sterling
“Your greatest challenges are the doorways to what will become your greatest successes.” - Sterling
“The way out is through, you just have to have the courage to go through no matter what.” - Sterling
“You’re not hunting discomfort; you're living with it and probably rationalizing why you have it.” - Sterling
“When you embrace discomfort, turn towards it instead of turning away from it, in a way it’s embracing all of you.” - Sterling

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sterling Hawkins Website

Sterling Hawkins on Instagram

Hunting Discomfort

View Details

Dr. Wendy Suzuki, Neuroscientist, Professor, and Dean of the College of Arts & Science at NYU

What do you think of when you hear the word “anxiety?” Do you get a feeling of heightened alertness and that sense of doom and gloom? Anxiety is our mind’s internal warning system and it’s often characterized by fear, worry, or feelings of apprehension. When we become aware of feeling anxious, the first thing we want to do is make those uncomfortable feelings go away. But there are times when anxiety can actually work to our advantage and be a force for success, progress, and positive change in our lives. For example, in an emergency situation, anxiety could help us react faster and protect us from danger. Scientists have found that in certain situations, stress and anxiety can keep us motivated and provide an opportunity for growth or self discovery. In addition, if that sense of anxiety is triggered by worrying about all the things that might go wrong, it could also help you to be more cautious, make better decisions and be better prepared. But there are times when too much anxiety can be crippling and paralyze us with excessive worry and the inability to make a decision or take action. In those instances, our mental stress can actually cause physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, eating, or even breathing. Instead of allowing our anxiety to control us, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could harness those negative feelings and turn them around to work for us?

Last year, Florine interviewed Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a successful author and neuroscientist at New York University. Her book, Good Anxiety, talks about how to take control of our anxiety. Dr. Suzuki has appeared on both “Good Morning America” and “CBS This Morning” to discuss how this can benefit us. In the past year, Dr. Suzuki has also become the Dean of NYU’s College of Arts and Sciences. If you would like more helpful tips and suggestions on how you can master your own anxiety, check out Florine’s interview and pick up a copy of the recently released paperback version of Good Anxiety.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is the study of neuroscience?
What led Wendy to become a neuroscientist?
What is “good anxiety”?
What are some examples of good anxiety in everyday life?
What is Dr. Suzuki’s #1 tool for calming anxiety?
What’s the difference between good anxiety and clinical anxiety?
Why are so many more young people experiencing anxiety today?
How did COVID increase anxiety?
How does Dr. Suzuki control her anxiety?
How does music impact anxiety and our brains?
Why is suppressing or denying our negative emotions a bad thing?
What impact does mindset have on anxiety?
What are the top 2 superpowers of anxiety?
How has Dr. Suzuki benefited from resilience in her own life?
Can grief bring on anxiety?
What is tea meditation?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we’re feeling stressed and anxious, we may want to run away as far as we can from the people or situations that trigger us. But people who suffer from severe anxiety often become even more vulnerable and anxious when they try to remove their sources of stress. As humans, we crave connection. The feeling of being supported and understood is vitally important to our wellbeing. By isolating, the resulting loneliness may make the situation even worse. Instead, for these individuals, seeking treatment with a licensed professional is one of the best ways that you can handle your anxiety. There are so many people available to help us all!

But for everyday anxiety, when we pay attention to how we feel physically and mentally, we may learn to recognize the situations that typically make us anxious. Dr. Wendy Suzuki says that instead of allowing anxiety to control us, we might become more emotionally resilient and better able to handle our everyday stress by NOT allowing anxiety to control us. We may learn to channel those negative emotions in ways that might make us more productive, focused, and creative. So treat every day as a gift. Breathe, exercise, meditate, put on music...drink tea! Do whatever you can to make yourself feel good. Turn your focus to something positive. We only live once, so every day should be lived to the fullest potential. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The best lectures, the best talks, the best presentations I’ve ever given in my entire career, and I’ve given a lot of them, are the ones where I was a little bit scared…I had those butterflies.” - Dr. Suzuki
“My number one go-to tool to calm that anxiety is deep breathing.” - Dr. Suzuki
“Deep breathing is activating our natural de-stressing part of the nervous system.” - Dr. Suzuki
“I can’t think of a more uncertain situation in my lifetime than COVID.” - Dr. Suzuki
“I found myself making friends with my own anxiety.” - Dr. Suzuki
“I realized that that feeling of anxiety didn’t evolve in our species just to annoy us.” - Dr. Suzuki
“It is useful. It is protective.” - Dr. Suzuki
“Good anxiety is the understanding that, at its core, anxiety and that underlying physiological stress response is evolutionarily protective for us. (It is good! It is actually essential for our survival.)” - Dr. Suzuki
“At its core, anxiety is a particular kind of brain activation.” - Dr. Suzuki
“90% of the American public, before the pandemic, raised their hands and said, ‘I experience anxiety.’” - Dr. Suzuki
“As humans we were not evolved to only live in the happy zone.” - Dr. Suzuki

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Wendy Suzuki

Good Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of the Most Misunderstood Emotion

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With Helen Ellis, Bestselling Author

Summer is a great time for planning barbecues and outdoor get-togethers or even a weekend away with your closest girlfriends. You don’t have to travel far. After all, a weekend getaway with dear friends is more about the company you keep than the destination. It’s time to just relax, kick your feet up, let your hair down, and simply enjoy being with the women who know and love you best. If you’re lucky enough to have a group of gal pals you frequently travel with, you already know the healing power a girls’ trip can bring. But if you’ve never treated yourself to a girls’ trip, then why wait? Come up with a plan, and set it in motion. And in the words of bestselling author Helen Ellis, “Bring Your Baggage And Don’t Pack Light.”

A native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Helen moved to New York in her early 20s to pursue a career as a writer. Not only is she delightfully funny and very proud of her southern heritage, but behind Helen’s charming accent and sweet demeanor, is an accomplished professional poker player who knows how to disarm even her toughest opponents.

Helen’s book Southern Lady Code is a tongue-in-cheek manual for dispensing southern wit and wisdom. From an early age, Southern women are taught the value of good manners and the need to always be kind. Acting ugly, impolite, or mean is frowned upon. Instead, Helen cites numerous examples where that charming accent and impeccable southern manners can diffuse even the most challenging of situations. For example, Helen advises that saying, “No, thank you” is a complete sentence with no further explanation or excuse required. Or, instead of describing someone as a “control freak,” say it the southern way, “She means well.” Finally, simply saying, “I’m not in charge,” is another way of telling someone they’re doing something wrong and according to the Southern lady code, that’s just one of the ways Southern ladies manage to speak up and get their point across without alienating those around them.

Last year, when Florine interviewed Helen Ellis, she’d just published her latest

book Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light; a charming and hilarious collection of essays about the healing power of lifelong friendships. Currently, Helen is at work on her latest collection of stories entitled KISS ME IN THE CORAL LOUNGE: Intimate Confessions from a Happy Marriage which is scheduled for release next year.

So, if you want to hear some brilliant tips from the Southern lady code and

discover why humor is often our best line of defense, check out Florine’s

interview with the wise and very funny, bestselling author, Helen Ellis.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was it like for Helen moving from Alabama to NYC?
How did Helen meet her husband?
What was Helen’s education and career path in writing like?
What was it like working for Chanel?
What makes women of the South unique?
How did Helen decide to write a book about female friendships?
What is a “second-best friend”?
What are the different friend groups Helen is a part of?
Why does the book focus only on female friendships?
Why does Helen think women 5‒10 years older than you make the best friends?
How does Helen find her groups of friends?
How did Helen become a professional poker player?
How can you tell when someone is a very good friend?
What does Helen do when a friend hurts her feelings or has a vastly different opinion?
Why does Helen think laughter is so important?

Today’s Takeaway:

Helen’s book, Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light, demonstrates how sharing your feelings with your closest girlfriends and looking at our situation with humor may see us through the darkest of times. Talking through your fears with a close girlfriend might provide a solution or motivate you to take the next best step for yourself. At the very least, it may help us see the humor in our lives. And we could all do with a bit more laughter these days. A good sense of humor makes it easier to cope when you don’t feel well or you’re in any kind of pain. Laughter really is the best medicine. When we laugh, we release endorphins that not only lift our mood but might improve our health. Laughter helps us navigate the daily frustrations of life. When we’re able to see our situation in its proper perspective, it might even improve our social life. People are drawn to others who make them laugh. Carl Reiner said if we keep laughing, we’ll live forever. At the very least, it certainly makes life more enjoyable. Remember that every day is a gift, so get out there and live, laugh, and enjoy every moment. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Women in the South will tell you what they think, tell you what we think, but just give it a little bit of a sugar coating.” — Helen
“You have to respect those who have gone before you.” — Helen
“In my experience, at this age, if someone hurts my feelings I just let it sit.” — Helen
“We all make mistakes. I know I’ve surely hurt people’s feelings unintentionally.” — Helen
“Some subjects I just stay away from with certain friends.” — Helen
“A sense of humor really is the best medicine.” — Helen
“I wrote another book and no one would publish it. And then I wrote another book, no one would publish it. I wrote a third book, no one would publish it… and then I quit writing for years.” — Helen
“When your best friend isn’t available and you call me, I will show up and help you!” — Helen
“Being the second-best friend is a good gig if you can get it. I’m number 2! I’m number 2!” — Helen
“I really wanted to focus on the women and our bonds. The women in your life, they’re the ones that make the phone calls, they’re the ones that show up at the hospital, they’re the ones that make the dinner plans. We really carry the crux of a lot and I wanted to shine a light on that.” — Helen
“A very good friend of yours wants you to look as good as possible.” — Helen

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light

Southern Lady Code

American Housewife

Helen Ellis on Twitter

Bring Your Baggage and Don't Pack Light: Essays

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With Dr. Tony Moreno, Health Promotion & Human Performance Professor At Eastern Michigan University

Do you prioritize physical activity and staying fit as part of your weekly routine? Are you exercising regularly or staying physically active by playing sports? Do you look forward to exercise as part of your healthy lifestyle? Or, are you someone for whom exercise is “out of the question” because you believe you’re too old, unfit, or unwell to be more active? Unless you’re under a doctor's orders not to exercise, studies have shown that no matter your age or current fitness level, as long as you set realistic goals, you can benefit from increased physical activity. Fitness is for everyone; it just might look different for each individual, based on their strength, flexibility, and overall stamina and conditioning. But even if you’ve never exercised before, it’s never too late to get started. Before starting a first-time exercise routine, it’s important to speak with a physician to establish realistic goals and understand your physical limitations.

However, once you’ve done that, the next step is finding an activity or exercise plan you enjoy. If it’s fun and engaging, you’ll be more likely to continue doing it. If you’re new to exercise, you might be surprised to learn how quickly your body responds. It’s also never too late to build muscle. Studies show that people in their 60’s and 70’s can rebuild muscle. If you’ve led a sedentary lifestyle until now, then start being more active simply by walking. There’s no better all-around exercise and even a short walk will help to engage those muscles. But if walking seems like too much of a hurdle for now, then start by simply stretching. Gentle stretches will also help to engage the muscle by creating resistance.

According to Dr. Tony Moreno, a professor in the school of Health Promotion and Human Performance at Eastern Michigan University, whatever your

fitness level or however you choose to begin adding more movement into

your day, your body will benefit and you’ll notice a difference. You’ll feel better and have more energy. So, if you’re looking for ways to become more active,

you’ll want to check out Florine’s interview with Dr. Tony Moreno.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Tony’s background?
Why is it important to exercise almost every day?
Does your body need to rest from exercise during the week?
How can exercise help to overcome burnout?
What is physical literacy?
How can you stay physically active beyond traditional exercises?
How can you gain confidence in your physical movement?
How can you change the narrative surrounding your exercise?
Where can you gain the education needed to increase your physical literacy?
What exercises can be modified to best suit your abilities at any age?
How can you improve your balance every single day?
What is the best time of day for exercise?
What is a fit desk and how can it help you exercise at work?
What is kinesiology and what area of it does Tony teach?
What is biomechanics?
How did Tony earn an appointment on the governor’s council on physical fitness and what initiatives is the council working on?

Today’s Takeaway:

In addition to improving our mood and mindset, daily exercise can help with weight management, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of injury. Regular exercise improves your heart health and your oxygen flow, builds muscle tone and strength, and might even reduce high blood sugar. Studies show that many people view exercise as a chore, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I know I want to take care of myself and live to be 120, look and feel good, and continue exercising. Using a fitness watch or other device to track your daily steps or physical activity can really help motivate you to exercise more. In addition, exercise with a workout buddy and a little friendly competition is not only fun but also helps motivate us on the days when we find it a little harder to get started. So start sharing your fitness activity and hold each other accountable. If you’re bored with your daily workout routine, try something different. There are so many fun classes out there to discover. Try something different, mix it up, and challenge yourself! Even if you don’t have time for a daily workout, simple changes can make a difference. It’s never too late to get started. Treat your body like the gift that it is and just keep moving. You might feel better, sleep better and it just might improve your mental sharpness. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We should promote and encourage everyone to be physically active.” — Dr. Moreno
“Physical literacy is important for everyone to embrace.” — Dr. Moreno
“The important thing here is movement.” — Dr. Moreno
“If you don’t have confidence in something, you’re not likely to do it.” — Dr. Moreno
“We need to make people comfortable and confident in how they move.” — Dr. Moreno
“We know that physical movement has a very strong association with good physical and mental health.” — Dr. Moreno
“Not being personally fulfilled or excited about what we do on a daily basis can lend itself to some of these mental health issues, and physical activity can combat that.” — Dr. Moreno
“You are responsible for maintaining purposeful physical activity throughout your lifespan.” — Dr. Moreno
“If it’s fun, and you enjoy it, and you’re passionate about it, you’re more likely to do it.” — Dr. Moreno

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Tony Moreno

Michigan Fitness

View Details

With Dr. Tony Moreno, Health Promotion & Human Performance Professor At Eastern Michigan University

According to Dr. Tony Moreno, a professor in the school of Health Promotion and Human Performance at Eastern Michigan University, whatever your

fitness level or however you choose to begin adding more movement into

your day, your body will benefit and you’ll notice a difference. You’ll feel better and have more energy. So, if you’re looking for ways to become more active,

you’ll want to check out Florine’s interview with Dr. Tony Moreno.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Tony’s background?
Why is it important to exercise almost every day?
Does your body need to rest from exercise during the week?
How can exercise help to overcome burnout?
What is physical literacy?
How can you stay physically active beyond traditional exercises?
How can you gain confidence in your physical movement?
How can you change the narrative surrounding your exercise?
Where can you gain the education needed to increase your physical literacy?
What exercises can be modified to best suit your abilities at any age?
How can you improve your balance every single day?
What is the best time of day for exercise?
What is a fit desk and how can it help you exercise at work?
What is kinesiology and what area of it does Tony teach?
What is biomechanics?
How did Tony earn an appointment on the governor’s council on physical fitness and what initiatives is the council working on?

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“We should promote and encourage everyone to be physically active.” — Dr. Moreno
“Physical literacy is important for everyone to embrace.” — Dr. Moreno
“The important thing here is movement.” — Dr. Moreno
“If you don’t have confidence in something, you’re not likely to do it.” — Dr. Moreno
“We need to make people comfortable and confident in how they move.” — Dr. Moreno
“We know that physical movement has a very strong association with good physical and mental health.” — Dr. Moreno
“Not being personally fulfilled or excited about what we do on a daily basis can lend itself to some of these mental health issues, and physical activity can combat that.” — Dr. Moreno
“You are responsible for maintaining purposeful physical activity throughout your lifespan.” — Dr. Moreno
“If it’s fun, and you enjoy it, and you’re passionate about it, you’re more likely to do it.” — Dr. Moreno

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Tony Moreno

Michigan Fitness

View Details

With Renee Turnbell, Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Therapist

Did you know that June is PTSD Awareness Month? Perhaps you might be asking, “What is PTSD, and what are the symptoms?” Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be defined as ongoing emotional distress or difficulty recovering from a traumatic event. A trauma is a shocking or dangerous event that’s either witnessed or personally experienced by an individual who feels their life is in imminent danger. Sadly, in recent years PTSD, and a newly diagnosed form of PTSD related to a history of repeated exposure to the triggering event, are on the rise. Many people think PTSD is associated primarily with veterans of war whose tour of duty has ended, yet the trauma of what they experienced is still with them. However, it’s important to note that you don’t have to be a veteran to experience PTSD. Virtually anyone can suffer from the condition. A variety of traumatic situations can result in PTSD such as physical assault, car accidents, sudden death of a loved one, sexual abuse, and more. If the lasting effect is a trigger for ongoing trauma, then it is PTSD. It’s estimated that 60% of men and 50% of women may experience a traumatic event at least once in their lifetime. As a result, 8 out of every 100 people will develop PTSD at some point in their lives. That’s why it’s so important to understand the underlying cause and effect, as well as the preferred treatments for this condition. The good news is that PTSD can be treated.

My guest today is Renee Turnbell. She’s a licensed clinical social worker and therapist with the John D. Dingell Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit. Through her work with the VA, Renee is very familiar with the symptoms, the impact on her patients, and how to successfully treat PTSD.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Renee’s background and why was she drawn to the VA?
What is PTSD?
What is C-PTSD?
What are the main symptoms of PTSD?
Is PTSD considered a mental illness?
Do medications work for PTSD?
Is there a cure for PTSD?
Why are more first responders and healthcare workers experiencing PTSD?
What are the PLEASE Skills?
How can someone get diagnosed with PTSD?
What does Renee do to help her patients?
How do service dogs help with PTSD?
What should we do if we suspect a loved one is experiencing PTSD?
Other ways to seek help.

Today’s Takeaway: Current statistics indicate that roughly 12 million adults in the U.S. report struggling with PTSD. The key here is that these statistics are based only upon those cases reported. Way more people could be suffering from PTSD but may be unwilling to seek treatment perhaps out of a sense of shame or embarrassment. Being diagnosed with PTSD is certainly not a sign of weakness or anything to be ashamed of. PTSD is a very treatable condition and there is no need to go on suffering when help is readily available. Sadly, our society can be extremely harsh and judgemental. For someone who is already in an emotionally fragile state, the fear of how others may treat them may cause them to remain silent. That’s why it’s so important that people feel safe in admitting when they are struggling and feel supported in their efforts to seek help. Remember, that every day is a gift. If someone around us is suffering as a result of trauma, we need to be understanding and compassionate. Asking for help takes courage and we want to be part of their solution rather than contribute to their pain. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Not everybody who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD.” — Renee
“Usually with good self-care and support, it won’t develop into PTSD.” — Renee
“When we think of an illness, we think of something being wrong with somebody. Somebody wouldn’t have PTSD if they didn’t experience the trauma.” — Renee
“PTSD actually affects the brain on a structural level.” — Renee
“There’s really no cure for PTSD, but some people can see a complete resolution of their symptoms through therapy.” — Renee
“I think that’s one of the biggest things; survivors sometimes do feel alone. And they don’t feel understood.” — Renee

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

John D. Dingell Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center

National Center for PTSD

If you are experiencing thoughts about harming yourself or others, you can text or call the Suicide or Crisis Lifeline at 988.

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With Wil Wheaton, Actor, Author, & Blogger

We hear a lot about depression these days. We may even have experienced it ourselves or have a loved one who suffers from it. For those who have never experienced chronic depression, it’s hard to understand how it feels. Perhaps you’re even thinking, “Why can’t they just pull themselves out of it?” One of the most confusing aspects of depression is that it can create a distorted reality and a person may genuinely believe that their feelings are grounded in reality. It’s important to understand that, although depression is characterized as a mental illness, there might be a physical imbalance in their brain chemistry. Until that imbalance is corrected, the symptoms of depression will continue even if the person tries to hide them.

Mental illness can happen to anyone. For example, think of a successful individual that seems to have it all: a thriving career, wealth, and a loving family. You might think, “How can this person possibly be depressed?” Since we never know what goes on behind closed doors, a person’s life may be very different from the image they present in public. We may never know the struggles someone faces. It’s important to remember that even when someone seems to have it all, it doesn’t make them immune to pain, suffering, or depression.

My guest today is actor, author, and blogger, Wil Wheaton. You may know him from the 1980s movie Stand by Me. You may know him best as Wesley Crusher from Star Trek: The Next Generation, or from his recurring role on the most successful sitcom of all time, The Big Bang Theory. But Wil is also a very successful writer and when he launched his blog WilWheaton.Net, he became one of the first popular blogs with more than three million followers. Discovering his genuine passion for writing, Wil has written several books detailing his life and struggles with mental illness, including his most recent memoir, Still Just a Geek. So what has Wil learned about himself since 2004? How has his life changed and how was it impacted by mental illness? Listen to find out!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How would Wil describe himself?
What were the family dynamics in Wil’s household growing up?
Did Wil enjoy being a child actor?
What are Wil’s earliest memories of struggling with mental illness?
What made Wil decide to speak out about his struggles?
Why did Wil wait so long to seek help for his mental illness?
What made Wil finally seek help?
How do Wil’s wife and children support him?
Does Wil still have contact with his parents?
What is the most important thing Wil has learned about himself?

Today’s Takeaway: Mental illness and depression don't discriminate. It can affect anyone without regard for education, financial status, race, or religion. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of shame and stigma around mental illness. People struggling with mental illness are often perceived as weak, broken, or damaged. But if we wouldn’t describe someone with diabetes as weak or damaged, then mental illness shouldn’t be treated any differently. It's also important to realize that there are different kinds of depression. A person may experience depression linked to a particular event such as a death, divorce, or job loss, etc. Wil says that asking someone for help can be very hard, especially when you’re afraid that whoever you confide in will tell you just to suck it up and deal with it. But when someone gets the support they need it can make a huge difference. It’s up to all of us to be empathetic, supportive, and listen; instead of telling someone they are weak. We can all learn to be more compassionate and supportive. When an individual has a mental illness that tricks their brain into thinking they are a bad person who doesn’t deserve to be happy or is a burden to their loved ones, that person certainly doesn’t need anyone making them feel worse. Don’t be afraid to ask how someone is doing and how you can help. Remember that every day is a gift and we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to seek help when we need it. There is no shame in admitting that we (or a loved one) suffer from depression. Whether it’s short-term situational depression or chronic depression, asking for help is a very brave first step. Following through to get that help is a sign of strength and courage. Whether it’s through therapy and/or medication, whatever steps you take could change your life in ways you’d never have imagined. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I was learning that the only way you are worth anything at all is when you’re convincing people you’re the best.” — Wil
“I had been raised to believe that mental illness was a weakness and that mental illness was your fault.” — Wil
“I decided that I would speak openly and honestly and fearlessly about my experiences with mental illness, being an abused child and surviving exploitation, because one of the key ways abusers control their victims is through shame.” — Wil
“I also wanted to talk about living with mental illness because it’s living with mental illness.” — Wil
“Mental illness doesn’t control me or define me.” — Wil
“I manage it with medication and therapy, and I have an amazing life now.” — Wil
“I have this incredibly happy, joyful, and just fantastically fulfilling life because I don’t let my mental illness control me.” — Wil
“Maybe I’m not broken. Maybe I’m just wounded.” — Wil
“Everyone is going through something. Every single person you encounter is going through something in their lives.” — Wil

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

WilWheaton.Net

Still Just a Geek

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With Lisa Lapides Sawicki, Certified Life Coach

Have you ever set a realistic and attainable self improvement goal only to find your progress blocked before you ever achieved that goal? If you find your answer is “yes” to that question, was the obstacle preventing your success within your control? If so, you might be guilty of self sabotage. When a person consciously or unconsciously hinders their own success through destructive words or behavior, that is called self sabotage. We all have moments in our life where something doesn’t turn out as planned, but self sabotage occurs when we get in the way of our own progress. There are many reasons why someone might unknowingly do this. For example, fear of failure can be so overwhelming that it causes a person to quit before someone else sees them fail. For others, the fear of success might be the cause. The thought of actually attaining that long desired goal creates a state of fear or anxiety because now they feel they might not be able to live up to those expectations. There are many reasons why we get in the way of our own progress, but if you know it’s happening you can sometimes stop yourself from sabotaging your chances for success.

My guest today is certified Life Coach,Lisa Lapides Sawicki. We speak with Lisa about what causes us to sabotage ourselves and more importantly how we can learn to overcome these self destructive impulses.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is self sabotage?
What are some examples of self sabotage?
Can others sabotage you?
What is the “monkey mind”?
Can positive self talk help people overcome self sabotage?
Why do people break others down in their quest to succeed?
Has Lisa ever self sabotaged?
How habits can contribute to self sabotage.
How do people sabotage romantic relationships?
What is cognitive dissonance?
How do we learn to stop self sabotaging?
How do we live a more “normal” life?

Today’s Takeaway: A fear of commitment, low self esteem, or feeling undeserving of happiness or success, are just some of the reasons why we deliberately sabotage ourselves. If you’re always missing out on that dream job, or if that happy long term relationship is just out of reach, maybe it’s time to ask yourself, “Are you the obstacle?” There is nothing shameful in admitting we might be sabotaging ourselves. You may need help in overcoming these behaviors, but think of it as an opportunity to learn and grow so you can finally be happy to live the life you deserve every day. Stop putting things off, stop procrastinating! The future you dream of starts now. Set a realistic and attainable goal for yourself and go after it! Put together a road map outlining each of the steps along your journey to success. Instead of taking actions that undermine your progress, hold yourself accountable by sharing your progress with your support team at every step of the journey. Celebrate every small victory and be proud of your accomplishments. If you do that consistently and enjoy each small step daily, you’ll be well on your way to realizing your dream. Remember, every day is a gift and the gift we get from changing our behavior to ensure that we accomplish our goals is a gift that will keep on giving. You too can realize your dreams and build the life you’ve always dreamed of for yourself. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Self sabotage is when we actively, or passively, or unconsciously, think thoughts and take actions, or no actions, that absolutely sabotage our success.” - Lisa
“For some people they really have regrets, big regrets, when they don’t account for something that they have continued to self sabotage their whole life.” - Lisa
“It’s not about the outside world; it’s working with who you are.” - Lisa
“The inner talk is our world.” - Lisa
“It all starts with the inner talk.” - Lisa
“It takes a really strong person to not fall prey to the criticisms and the judgements of other people.” - Lisa
“I can have the feast and the fun without the excess.” - Lisa
“Insecurity is why people will self sabotage a loving relationship.” - Lisa
“Make a custom design plan that’s doable for you.” - Lisa
“Mistakes are lessons to be learned.” - Lisa

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Lisa Sawicki

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With Dr. Myra Danish, Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

According to a published report by The Aesthetics Society, Americans spent over $9 billion on plastic surgery in 2020. In 2021, that figure of $9 billion was easily surpassed. The carefully staged images we continue to see on social media lead to an unrealistic desire for patients who wanted to surgically enhance their features or resemble their favorite celebrities. Over the past two years, face lifts, eye lifts, and rhinoplasties are the most commonly requested procedures. In addition, the growing ability for people to work from home makes it far easier to take a few days off to recover post-surgery.

The latest trend in plastic surgery today is moving away from copying celebrity features, and instead embracing a patient’s individuality. Patients still want to look like themselves, but with an improved and more natural, individualized look. If you’re contemplating getting some work done to enhance your physical beauty, it’s important to be realistic about the desired outcome.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic procedures, then you’ll enjoy this week’s updated episode featuring a 2021 interview with Dr. Myra Danish. Dr. Danish provides a great insight into the world of plastic surgery, how to know if you are a candidate for a cosmetic procedure, and the different options available today.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the most popular cosmetic procedures right now?
Are all procedures done with an anesthetic in a hospital?
How long does the mini-facelift take and what is the recovery time frame?
All too often, plastic surgeons face the unenviable task of informing patients that what they’re asking for just isn’t attainable. Instead, manage your expectations.
What is the age range of the patients Dr. Danish sees?
Is Dr. Danish performing more surgical procedures or injectables?
Dr. Danish is seeing more men than ever before.
What does Dr. Danish recommend for patients who may be fearful of a surgical procedure?
What is a laser facial?
What is Botox (and Botox-like products) and how long does it last?
What are fillers and how do you know which one to use?
Are procedures or injectables available where you can walk out of the office looking 10 years younger?
What is Hyaluronic Acid and what are some of the benefits we are seeing in the category?
Are injectables safe for everyone? Who wouldn’t be a candidate?
How can people with acne make their skin look better?
What is the difference between Dr. Danish’s expertise and other doctors for injectables?
Dr. Danish talks about the role of social media and photoshopping in creating impractical beauty standards.

Today’s Takeaway:

Whether you’re seeking a cosmetic procedure because you’re motivated to improve your appearance on video calls or simply because you want to look better, it’s important that you’re doing it for the right reasons. First and most importantly, make sure this is something you’re doing for yourself and not anyone else. If you like the adorable way your eyes crinkle with smile lines or you think the shape of your nose gives you character, then don’t let anyone else convince you otherwise! You’re beautiful just as you are! But if you feel unhappy when you look in the mirror or when you see yourself on ZOOM, then it may be time for a change. Only you know what will help you feel the most beautiful inside and out. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options might be the answer. A non-invasive treatment such as Botox or a dermal filler might be an option to help you feel better. Remember that every single day is a gift and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And the most important beholder is you. So start every day by finding one thing about your appearance that you like. For example, do you like the way your legs look in the jeans you’re wearing today? Or do you feel the freckles on your face make you look younger? Go ahead! Talk to the mirror and tell yourself how good you look! Or if you want some change, consult a good plastic surgeon or dermatologist. I talk to the mirror every single day! We all need to be our #1 cheerleader. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The aging process is really based on your genetics, on your skin type, on your lifestyle.” — Dr. Danish

“There are a number of fillers and the way I choose it is just based on the patient’s anatomy and their needs to look more youthful.” — Dr. Danish

“Every face is unique.” — Dr. Danish

“Everybody in aging loses volume.” — Dr. Danish

“You can look 10 years younger with skillful injections.” — Dr. Danish

“When you are an injector, it’s very important to know your in and out.” — Dr. Danish

“You don’t want an injector who is not experienced or doesn’t know what to do.” — Dr. Danish

“In my office, we call it the injectable lunchtime lift.” — Dr. Danish

“The media and social media is so active in the lives of the younger people and really I think erodes the self-esteem of younger women, because they keep redefining what is beautiful and what is sexy; and that’s a problem.” — Dr. Danish

“So much of the pictures that are shown are photoshopped and retouched.” — Dr. Danish

“Everybody should look normal, natural, themselves, but their best self.” — Dr. Danish

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Myra Danish

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With Dr. Victor Strecher, Public Health Professor at the University of Michigan and Founder of Kumanu

Did you know that active individuals whose lives are filled with purpose, may have a reduced risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia? It is estimated that by 2050, people over the age of 65 will comprise roughly 16% of the world's population, and it’s also expected the rate of Alzheimer's and other dementia diagnoses will triple from the current rate of 57 million to 152 million.

Keeping our minds active and engaged is important, but how we build a healthy lifestyle is key through diet, exercise, and meaningful activities. Whether it’s volunteering, socializing, or spending time in nature, living with purpose and intention can slow the rate of cognitive decline and lessen the risk of depression, leading to an overall better quality of life.

Last year, Florine interviewed Dr. Vic Strecher, a University of Michigan Professor and the founder of the digital platform, Kumanu. In addition to educating us on what a purpose-filled life looks like, Vic also talked about how Kumanu helps people find their purpose, and how to live with purpose even if they are facing hardship. This conversation is more relevant today than ever, as so many events in the news can distract us from living in our true purpose.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What does Kumanu mean and how was the name chosen?
How doing something that is purpose-driven and meaningful delivers more long-lasting results than merely satisfying our hedonistic urges.
Kumanu believes our well-being starts with asking “why.”
It’s the little, everyday things that can add up to our purpose.
How does Kumanu work for both individuals and corporations?
How does having a purpose, or lack thereof, affect our well-being?
People with a low purpose are more likely to become depressed, and even develop Alzheimer’s disease.
How to live with purpose even when you’re facing hardship.
How a life-changing personal tragedy transformed Vic and his family.
What is the connection between behavioral science and cancer prevention?
Thinking about community is not just important for individuals, but for businesses as well, and can also help boost revenue.
How does our society, as a whole, need to think more about transcending purpose?
Why did Vic leave his behavioral science job?
What are the different applications for Kumanu?
Why Vic hasn’t quit his day job teaching at the University of Michigan.
What happens to our brains during times of fear?
What does describing Kumanu as a “next-generation well-being company” mean?

Today’s Takeaway:

Studies have shown that people with a purpose lead longer, happier lives. Living your life with purpose isn’t just about being more productive with your day; it’s critical to your health, happiness, and overall well-being. Once you identify your purpose, it’s important to align your actions each day with that mission. It gives you a reason to get up in the morning and sets the tone for your entire day. Is your life lacking purpose right now? If you answered yes to that question, I urge you to find something you're passionate about that gives your life meaning. It could be something big or even very small. What excites you? What makes you happy? Think of how you could make that your purpose. The search for a meaningful life begins with YOU. Only we can determine the direction of our lives and choose what we do with the opportunities we are given. Remember that every day is a gift. When we begin our day with a specific purpose and accomplish what we set out to do we’re not only achieving more, we feel better about it. For years I felt like a failure because I couldn’t lose weight, but once I took charge, went to Weight Watchers, and learned how to develop habits, my purpose changed. My purpose is now to enjoy life, live healthy, and tell the people around me that I love them. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Kumanu is actually Māori for ‘nourish and cherish.’” — Vic
“All I mean by having a purpose in life is that you have a goal or set of goals that matter most in your life.” — Vic
“We need to care more about what we care about.” — Vic
“Most of us have more than one purpose.” — Vic
“People with a stronger purpose are less likely, on average, to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s.” — Vic
“We know scientifically that people with a transcending purpose, thinking about things bigger than yourself, their genes actually express more antibodies.” — Vic
“I just want to help people become more purposeful.” — Vic
“Only focusing on the ‘how’ to do something is to me not as important as the ‘why.’” — Vic
“If you start thinking about your customers, communities, even the vendors and valuing them, you end up making more value yourself.” — Vic

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Kumanu

Dr. Victor Strecher’s Books on Amazon

Life on Purpose: How Living for What Matters Most Changes Everything

Firms of Endearment: How World-Class Companies PROFIT from Passion and Purpose

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With Sarah Ansboury, Professional Pickleball Player & Director of Instruction at Palmetto Dunes Resort

Did you know that pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America?! According to a recent report in USA Today, the United States has over five million pickleball players with the number of players increasing by almost 40% in just the last two years. So what is pickleball and why has it become so popular? It’s been described as a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Its popularity is largely due to the fact that it’s easy to learn and it appeals to all ages; with a third of the players over the age of 55. Although the state of Florida is often referred to as the “Pickleball Capital,” the truth is pickleball is actually more popular in locations like Seattle and Des Moines. In fact, the sport of pickleball originated on Bainbridge Island off the coast of Washington.

So what does it take to learn pickleball and begin playing? And where can you find courts and or lessons? Also, how did the name originate?! My guest today, Sarah Ansboury, is a professionally ranked pickleball player and instructor. In addition to being the Director of Pickleball Instruction at Palmetto Dunes Ocean Resort in Hilton Head and their touring professional player, Sarah is one of the top pickleball coaches in the world. We’re going to learn from Sarah the answer to all these questions and more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Where does the name pickleball come from?
What attracted Sarah to pickleball?
Why do so many people get injured playing pickleball?
Where can you find a pickleball instructor?
Can you play pickleball on a tennis court?
What is the most important advice for first-time players?
Why has pickleball taken off in the last few years?
What are the health benefits of pickleball?
What is the future of pickleball?
Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball?
What is the single biggest frustration for new players?

Today’s Takeaway: One of the reasons pickleball is popular is that it’s a great way to socialize and meet people. Unlike many other leisure sporting activities, pickleball is very inclusive and social. The fun competitive nature of the sport and love of the game brings people together. You don’t even need to show up with a partner! It’s also a great way to stay fit or get in shape. Not only is it a good cardiovascular workout, but it can also improve balance, hand-eye coordination, and musical tone. Best of all, pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors. Remember that staying active and spending time socializing with others is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves. So if you’re looking for a fun new activity, why not give yourself the gift of a pickleball lesson? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The great thing about pickleball is it’s much easier to learn than most other racquet or paddle sports; especially as an adult.” — Sarah
“You will meet someone from every walk of life.” — Sarah
“It’s getting people active, it’s getting people social.” — Sarah
“What I’m seeing so much is people’s health just improving.” — Sarah

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sarah Ansboury’s Website

Sarah Ansboury on YouTube

USA Pickleball Association

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With Dr. Kristine Vazzano, Clinical Psychologist & Clinical Director

What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you smile at the person you see looking back at you? I do! I say, “Hello, Florine. It’s going to be a great day!” When I look at my mirror image, I’m so grateful for my health, my life, and my happiness. But it wasn’t always that way! There was a time when I was 50 pounds overweight, and I avoided looking in the mirror. Looking back, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without that experience motivating me to make positive changes. At one time or another, some of us will experience dissatisfaction when we look in the mirror. It’s not uncommon to want to change our appearance or anything else in our life, but statistics have shown that over the past two years there has been a significant increase in the number of people seeking help for severe body image issues and eating disorders.

My guest today, Dr. Kristine Vazzano, is a clinical psychologist specializing in treating eating disorders and body images, and is also the Clinical Director and Founder of Mindfullness, an outpatient clinic offering treatment for those who suffer from these conditions. Dr. Vazzano will tell us what is considered a body image issue, what causes them, how they are treated, and much more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the different body image issues?
What causes body dysmorphia?
Do body image issues impact both men and women?
How do you diagnose a body image issue?
What does mindfulness mean?
Why Dr. Vazzano focuses more on body acceptance than weight.
Has COVID-19 caused more body image issues?
What is the difference between anorexia and bulimia?
Is an eating disorder (ED) a type of addiction?
What are some success stories from Dr. Vazzano’s clients?
What is cognitive behavioral therapy and how is it used to treat EDs?
Is group therapy helpful for EDs?
What is intuitive eating?
Are there medications that can help with an ED or body image issue?

Today’s Takeaway: Eating disorders can be regarded as another type of addiction that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Inpatient hospitalizations for adolescents with eating disorders and other body-image-related health conditions rose over 25% in 2020. Since then, the number has increased even more. During the first 12 months of COVID-19, the number of hospital admissions among adolescents with eating disorders at the University of Michigan Medical School more than doubled. Over the course of the pandemic, the National Eating Disorder Association Helpline reported a 40% increase in call volume. It’s important to seek professional help for any body image concerns that could lead to an eating disorder. As we heard today, there are a variety of treatments that can address these issues, and contacting a qualified therapist who can explore such treatment plans with you is the best course of action. It’s the first step toward getting better. We all have things about ourselves that we wish we could change, and in working to improve ourselves we want to do so in a way that is healthy and sustainable. Remember that every day is a gift, and the gift that we get from learning to love and accept ourselves for who we are is the best gift that we can ever give to ourselves. Learn to befriend the person in the mirror! And treat yourself as you would your own best friend. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“There’s really a range when we look at body image struggles and difficulties that people experience.” — Dr. Vazzano
“It can be a struggle to get ready or to look in the mirror or it can get in the way of relationships or wanting to be with people.” — Dr. Vazzano
“It is not in any way of how much or how little somebody weighs. It has nothing to do with weight.” — Dr. Vazzano
“That concept of mindfulness is that idea of being present.” — Dr. Vazzano
“With intuitive eating, there’s the belief there are no good foods, there are no bad foods; it's about really finding the way to incorporate what your body wants and needs.” — Dr. Vazzano

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Mindfullness

National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)

If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder; you can call the toll-free, confidential NEDA Helpline, Monday‒Thursday from 9:00 a.m.‒ 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 9:00 a.m.‒5:00 p.m. at 1-800-931-2237.

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With Haley Cassar, Makeup Artist and Skincare Advocate

Did you know the attitude we wake up with in the morning could impact our mood for the rest of the day? That’s why it’s so important to begin our day with something positive. For example, I begin every day looking in the mirror and saying, “Good morning, Florine! It’s going to be a great day and you’re going to make it great!” How do you start your day? Are you checking your phone and crossing off items on your to-do list? Are you rushing around trying to get to work or to get the kids out the door? Or do you begin your day with meditation or exercise? Before you step out of the house in the morning, do you spend a few moments on your hair and makeup or do you feel it’s only necessary for special occasions when you want to look your very best for family or friends? How about doing it just for you? I do it because it gives me that extra lift. What gives you that extra lift?

Research has shown that during the pandemic having a daily routine and doing simple tasks helped maintain our sense of normalcy and actually improved our mental outlook. But there are times when we want to try something new. Right now is a great time to update your look or experiment with different techniques and products to change your style. Even men are taking more care of their appearance. In addition to grooming, hairstyling, and improving skincare routines, plastic surgeons are also seeing many more men coming in for procedures. Did you know there are special techniques makeup artists use for camera-ready makeup that lasts for hours? Do you ever wonder what it takes for Hollywood stars to get ready for their red carpet appearances? Wouldn’t it be great if we could learn some of those secrets too?

My guest today, Haley Cassar, is a professional makeup artist and skin care advocate. Haley shares tricks and tips for applying makeup to suit every occasion; from a quick everyday look to getting ready for the next big event!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Haley’s background?
What are the basics of a skincare routine?
What do the various skincare products do?
What is the most important thing to remember when applying makeup?
What are tinted moisturizers?
What is a “no-makeup look”?
What are the essentials for everyday makeup?
How can we get out of a rut with our makeup routine?
What are Haley’s tips for eyebrows?
What should we know about false eyelashes?
What are Haley’s tips for glamorous makeup?

Today’s Takeaway: I know I look better when I take the time to put a touch of makeup on. From a mental health standpoint, doing something that makes us feel better about ourselves is a sign of a healthy sense of self and indicative of good self-care. Having a routine that is familiar and constant in our lives can feel very comforting. Remember, every day is a gift. Sometimes the simplest of things such as routinely applying makeup, styling our hair, or doing early morning stretches help us start the day with a smile. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You want to have a really good skincare routine because you want your face to be like a smooth canvas.” — Haley
“Your basics are going to be cleanse, tone, and moisturize.” — Haley
“If I had to pick one makeup to use the rest of my life as a no-makeup-makeup look, it would be mascara.” — Haley
“It’s really just what makes you feel comfortable and what gives you a little bit of alertness to your look.” — Haley
“Switching up your routine will help you get out of a rut.” — Haley
“Small little tweaks make the biggest difference and will help you get out of a rut.” — Haley
“I think whenever you’re going to a special occasion, wear lashes.” — Haley

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Haley Cassar on Instagram

Dermalogica

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With Dr. Emily Levin, Board Certified Dermatologist

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer

in the United States with a one in five chance of being diagnosed

with it during your lifetime? When diagnosed early, basal cell or

squamous cell carcinomas tend to be low-risk and readily treatable.

But the third type of skin cancer, Melanoma, is far more aggressive and

harder to treat. Skin cancer is typically caused by excessive exposure to the sun and is the body's reaction to damage caused by ultraviolet rays. As

we age, skin cancer tends to be more prevalent, but in addition, certain

genetic factors can increase our risk of developing skin cancer. For example, men have a higher incidence of skin cancer than women. Caucasians with fair skin are more at risk as are individuals with a family history of the disease. Finally, certain medications or medical procedures such as radiation treatments may actually increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

But as much as we love being outdoors, especially during this time of year, there are steps we can take to reduce our risk of skin cancer exposure. In addition to applying creams and lotions with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, it is recommended that we avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm when the sun is strongest and wear sunglasses. Furthermore, cover your face with a broad brimmed hat and shield your arms and legs with long-sleeved shirts and pants. For added protection, you can also wear specially designed clothes treated with built in UPF 50 or Ultraviolet Protection Factor to prevent the suns rays from touching your skin. Also, it is a myth that tanning beds and sun lamps are safer than being outdoors. In fact, the opposite is true, due to the concentration of UV rays in these devices, they actually pose a greater risk for cancer.

Finally, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an annual skin care full body scan with your dermatologist to evaluate and monitor any signs of moles or lesions that could indicate cancer cells.

But as much as we love being outdoors, especially during this time of

year, there are steps we can take to reduce our risk of skin cancer

exposure. Last year, Florine interviewed Dr. Emily Levin, board certified

Dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon. In addition to talking about

skin cancer prevention, Dr. Levin provides some very helpful information

about caring for our skin throughout our life.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When did Emily decide she wanted to be a dermatologist?
How does our complexion change as we age?
Why antioxidants are so important for our skin.
How can we uplevel our daily skincare routine?
How does our diet affect our skin and complexion?
What should we be looking for in our sunscreen?
Do collagen supplements and topical creams really work?
What skincare products should everyone be using?
Breaking down the different types of Retin-A.
What should daily/nightly skincare routine look like?
What is Botox used for?
What are fillers used for?
What are the best products to use to grow eyelashes?
What products are available for thinning hair?
What are the three most important things we can do to care for our skin at any age?

Today’s Takeaway:

We all want to spend more time outdoors but remember that even though sunshine feels good on our face, we can do irreversible damage if we don’t wear sunscreen. In addition to prematurely aging our skin, we might also be putting ourselves at risk of developing skin cancer. And it’s not just the sun that can cause damage to our skin. Winter weather can also worsen certain conditions like Psoriasis. So, the next time you visit your dermatologist to address skincare issues and get your annual body scan, why not come prepared with a list of questions on how to adapt your skincare routine throughout the year? Your dermatologist will have all the answers. I know mine does (Hint: it’s Dr. Emily!) Just as our bodies age, so does our skin and we need to care for it differently than we did when we were younger. That means different skincare products and regimens. It may take time to show the results, but if we follow the proper care guidelines the differences will be worth it. Remember, every day is a gift. Make the most of every day. Eat properly, exercise, and see your doctors for all of the necessary annual exams. When we care properly for our skin, we’ll not only look better but we’ll help reduce our risk of skin cancer. Be healthy, everyone. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“My friends in high school used to joke that I was going to be a dermatologist someday.”

“I kept gravitating towards medicine and when I was in medical school dermatology was just calling my name. I continued to be fascinated by the skin. You can see it, it’s tangible, you know when things are getting better or worse and I just love it.”

“The skin changes in many ways as we age, but there are certain things we should always be doing from a young age all the way through the decades of our lives.”

“Sunscreen is the most critical, #1, anti-aging, skincare prevention item that is out there.”

“Sunscreen is the one item that everybody should be using.”

“Catching skin cancer early is critical. It’s critical.”

“You have to be careful with regular soap because soap can be very harsh.”

“Eating a diet filled with antioxidants is wonderful for your skin.”

“The one sunscreen that you will use is the one you should pick.”

“There’s no reason to use any SPF under 30.”

“I love Botox!”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Northwest Dermatology Group

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With Taylor Hale, Miss Michigan USA 2021

What do you think of when you hear the words “beauty pageant contestant?” Are you envisioning a gorgeous woman with great posture, professionally-applied makeup, and beautifully styled hair? While beauty pageant contestants can also be intelligent, articulate, and talented, as a society, we tend to focus more on a person’s physical attributes. But if beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder, how do we define feminine beauty today? Are pageants an outdated concept? Are we sending the wrong message to young women by creating an artificial reality with Instagram-perfect images and carefully retouched photos? At a time when celebrities and social media influencers are dictating what is considered beautiful and desirable, are beauty pageants even relevant?

Today, the role of a pageant winner is far more important than just a pretty stand-in for a photo opp; she’s an ambassador and advocate for a variety of social causes who makes personal appearances on behalf of her chosen platform. Her participation not only draws more attention to a specific cause, it often increases public support for the cause as well.

My guest today is Miss Michigan USA 2021, Taylor Hale. We’re going behind the scenes of beauty pageants with Taylor to learn how pageant contestants differ today from previous years and discover just what it takes to become a pageant winner and how titleholders can make a positive impact on our society.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Taylor’s childhood like?
Did Taylor get started in politics while in college?
Was Taylor popular or bullied in school?
How did Taylor’s parents help build her confidence?
Did Taylor ever suffer from body image issues?
How did the pageant world help Taylor develop healthy habits?
What inspired Taylor to enter her first beauty pageant?
How does Taylor train for a pageant?
Is it expensive to be in pageants and are there sponsorships?
Is there diversity and representation in the pageant world?
What are the other contestants like?
How does being in pageants affect Taylor’s dating life?
How has Taylor used her title to inspire others?
What did Taylor enjoy most about pageants?
What does Taylor do today professionally?
Taylor shares some success stories from her work as a personal stylist.

Today’s Takeaway: There is no one single standard that defines what is beautiful. Various cultures around the world define the concept of physical perfection differently. But the truth is that real beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to recognize that genuine beauty is not merely skin deep; rather how we behave and treat others is the real testament to our attractiveness. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift that we get from learning to appreciate and honor our own beauty, both inside and out, will allow us not only to value ourselves, but we can share the spotlight and appreciate the beauty of others. Think of it this way, the most beautiful gardens are made up of a wide variety of flowering plants, each one with its own unique appearance. On their own, each of these flowers is lovely, but when combined, they make for an absolutely dazzling array of colorful blooms. Our individual differences are what make us shine when we unite together. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“These are just stories that moved me. I got to see who these women were from a holistic standpoint and I was completely sold on competing.” — Taylor
“That’s how I learned that you can still value beauty; you can value style and fashion without sacrificing your intelligence.” — Taylor
“I can’t fix everything happening in the world, I can’t change everybody’s opinion of me. All I can do is be the best version of myself.” — Taylor
“Not everyone’s going to like me and if everybody does like me, that means I’m losing a little bit of myself and I always want to be true to who I am.” —Taylor
“The body that I had at Miss USA is not the body that I have now but the eating routines, the healthy habits that I made, those are what’s important to me and those are the things that will stick with me for the rest of my life.” — Taylor
“Don’t do it for the body. Do it for the health.” — Taylor
“I want to be a human being first that just so happens to have a crown and a sash on her as well.” — Taylor
“I think what we all do every day is pageantry!” — Taylor

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Taylor Hale on Instagram @thetaylormack

Miss Michigan USA 2021 on Instagram

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With Amy Warner, Regional Director for Club Pilates

It’s no secret that the key to staying fit and in good health involves moving our bodies each day. When we intentionally move in ways that stretch and lengthen our muscles, we condition our bodies, by improving our posture and muscle tone. Not only is it good for us physically, but it gets those endorphins flowing which can also lift our mood and reduce stress. The most recent studies have shown that it may also improve our mental focus and concentration. Exercising our body may also exercise our mind.

But which exercise programs are best for us? One of the things to look for in a daily workout is a full-body, low-impact routine that won’t strain your muscles or cause injury. Placing undue stress on your joints is not only painful, but it could prevent you from exercising for a few days until you can move again without pain. You’ll also want a workout that can stabilize your core and improve your balance. That’s why Pilates has consistently been rated one of the best overall fitness and conditioning programs. A good Pilates workout provides strength, flexibility, and balance training; the perfect mix to improve posture, mobility, and mental health.

My guest today is Amy Warner. She’s the Regional Director for Club Pilates, an equipment-based pilates studio with 7 locations throughout metro Detroit and Grand Rapids. We talk with Amy about the mind/body benefits associated with Pilates and learn why this is such a great fitness activity for optimum physical and mental conditioning.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Amy’s background and how did she get started with Pilates?
What is Pilates and how is it different from yoga?
What makes Pilates different from other forms of exercise?
What are some of the benefits associated with a Pilates workout?
Why is it so important to strengthen and stabilize our core?
What is the reformer?
How is the reformer more beneficial than mat Pilates?
What is some of the other equipment that you provide at Club Pilates?
What does a typical Club Pilates class look like?
Is Pilates a “one size fits all” type of workout?
Does Pilates help you lose weight?

Today’s Takeaway: Finding an activity or exercise routine you can commit to doing several days a week is not only good for you physically, but it’s also good for your mental and emotional health. You may find that you have more energy, sleep better, and feel less anxious or stressed. When stress hormones build up in your body, it can lead to muscle spasms and pain. But finding a way to effectively “channel that stress” through a physical workout, helps to release that build-up in a healthy manner. Taking part in an overall body conditioning class like Pilates may increase your body awareness and mental focus, which could improve your memory and concentration. In addition to strengthening your core and improving your posture, you may also find yourself breathing better. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift that we get from properly nourishing and moving our bodies will only serve to make us healthier and stronger. We’ll feel better physically, we’ll have fewer aches and pains, and our mental focus will be sharper. Best of all, when both our mind and body are in balance, it has a positive effect on our mood so we act better too! Remember to treat your body as a gift. Get moving! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Pilates is a low-impact full-body workout that focuses on flexibility, strength, and body awareness through controlled movements.” — Amy
“Always moving your body is a good thing.” — Amy
You want to do what speaks to you and what you respond to so that you’re consistent and healthy.” — Amy
“Pilates is all-inclusive; it’s always full-body, it’s always low-impact.” — Amy
“It’s all-inclusive. Regardless of age or fitness level or injury we can actually help people be successful with their fitness routines.” — Amy
“If we're not using those muscles on a regular basis, they become dormant.” — Amy
“We can accommodate all ages and all fitness levels.” — Amy
“Any time you're moving your body is a good thing.” — Amy
“The nice thing about Pilates is how it increases your body awareness.” — Amy
“When you're doing good things for your body, you do tend to put better things inside for fuel.” — Amy

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Club Pilates

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With Dr. Lisa Wicker, HR Career Strategist, Author, and Mentor

Do you ever wish that when you first began your career you had a trusted ally to advise you? Wouldn’t it be great if you could simply follow in someone else’s footsteps and learn from their experience? We all make mistakes. That’s only natural and to be expected. But if this person were there to guide you early on, how many stumbling blocks or mistakes could you have avoided? That’s what a mentor can provide, a one-on-one relationship where their expertise, knowledge, and experience can help you successfully navigate challenges and develop your skills. But a strong mentor relationship is more than just a shortcut to career success. A good mentor will help set goals, maintain accountability, and provide concrete feedback to guide us.

My guest today, Dr. Lisa Wicker, is a Human Resources career strategist, author, and mentor. Voted one of the most successful businesswomen in Detroit by The Detroit News, Lisa’s passion is helping other women overcome their biggest challenges and achieve their dreams. Using her own life experiences, along with the personal strategies she’s developed for long-term success, Lisa shares why a mentoring relationship might be the key to achieving your own success and, perhaps, how to find a mentor of your very own.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Lisa get started on this career path?
Why helping other women achieve their dreams has become such a passion for Lisa.
Was it difficult for Lisa being a woman of color in the automotive industry in the ’80s?
Who were Lisa’s mentors and what did they teach her?
Why is having a mentor so important?
How can someone find a mentor?
How can being a mentor to someone else help in your own career?
What are the keys to a successful mentor relationship?
Why is networking such an important skill and where do you start?
Lisa shares a success story from one of her clients.
What does Lisa mean by, “Your purse is not your worth, but human capital is golden”?
What is the one piece of advice you would give to anyone struggling in their career?
More about Lisa’s magazine Career Mastered.

Today’s Takeaway: While it may appear that a mentor relationship is one-sided with the mentor providing the mentee with all of the benefits, a true mentor relationship is a two-way street where both individuals can benefit. For example, a younger mentee may provide technical expertise by demonstrating how to navigate social media or teach a new computer software program. A successful mentor relationship is also a great addition to any resume. Showing that you are skilled at mentoring your fellow employees and helping others develop professionally may help advance your own leadership role within your company. At the end of the day, by providing your mentee with the skills they need to succeed, you are serving the greater needs of the company and a well-trained workforce is a win-win situation all the way around. Remember every day is a gift and the gift that we get from building a close and trusting mentor relationship will reap rewards for years to come. Whether we are mentors or mentees, we can learn from each other throughout our careers and our journey in life. The friendship and invaluable experience we share can only help us mature professionally and personally. Perhaps, best of all, our mentee can pay these dividends forward by mentoring the next generation as they follow in our footsteps. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I had to learn real quickly that my education wasn’t going to get me there. I had to learn how to have relationships with people and particularly women.” — Lisa
“I have this vision that I can help advance women’s leadership; I think we all have to do our part.” — Lisa
“Attitude + Aptitude = Altitude.” — Lisa
“We can’t do all of what we want to do without support from a guidance, a trusted confidant.” — Lisa
“Mentors are there to be truthful, to be a guide, and to be a counselor to help you along the path of where you want to get to.” — Lisa
“You have to look at; what do you want in a mentor from a trust standpoint? What do you want in a mentor from an experience standpoint? What do you want in a mentor from a role-model standpoint?” — Lisa
“I’ve learned so much from my mentees.” — Lisa
“Mentorship allows me to hone my own leadership skills.” — Lisa
“I think a mentoring relationship is one of reciprocity.” — Lisa

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Lisa Wicker’s Website

Career Mastered

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With Terri Cole, Author, Therapist, and Relationship Expert

Proper communication and maintaining realistic expectations are critical elements of healthy relationships. When both parties openly discuss their expectations of each other, misunderstandings can be avoided. These discussions can also provide the opportunity to establish personal boundaries. A personal boundary is “drawing a line in the sand” by indicating to another person they may have crossed a line with you and their behavior is unacceptable. The dictionary defines the word boundary as “guidelines, rules, or limits that a person creates to identify reasonable, safe and permissible ways for other people to behave towards them and how they will respond when someone passes those limits.” Being able to speak up for ourselves to let others know when their behavior offends us is a sign of good self-care.

A repeated failure to speak up could lead to resentment and might ultimately harm or even destroy a relationship. Note that it is entirely up to us to determine what is and what is not acceptable behavior. By the same token, when we set a boundary based upon someone else’s actions, it is also up to us to decide how we will respond if that boundary is violated. A boundary can only be enforced with actions that we take ourselves. Trying to enforce a boundary by dictating that the other person does something doesn’t work. We have to be the ones responsible for taking that action.

Last year, Florine interviewed New York-based psychotherapist and relationship expert Terri Cole. Her recent book, Boundary Boss, provides proven strategies on how to set and maintain healthy boundaries in all areas of life whether it’s at work or in our personal relationships.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What does it mean to be a “Boundary Boss”?
Why is it so important to establish boundaries?
Can confrontation be healthy?
How can you create new boundaries in an established relationship?
Why is it so very difficult to say, “No”?
How can we still say “yes” to things without over-committing?
Why is accepting rejection a healthy boundary?
What are power pauses?
How boundaries vary within different power differentials.
The importance of specificity and transparency with boundaries.
Why is gratitude so essential?

Today’s Takeaway: We’re often taught, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” The message is clear: Don’t complain and go along to get along! But healthy relationships are a two-way street and require boundaries. It’s not okay for one person to always be the giver in the relationship, and it’s important for both people to get their needs met. If you’re constantly putting someone else’s feelings ahead of your own, there’s less room in that relationship for YOU. Keeping silent about your needs just to avoid confrontation isn’t healthy and can lead to resentment. This is when relationships can break down. I know when I prioritize the things that are important to me and speak up, I feel better. Remember that every single day is a gift and treat yourself as you would your best friend. When you stand firm and honor your feelings, you’re on your way to becoming your very own Boundary Boss! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Is saying ‘Yes’ when you want to say ‘No’ being nice? No. It is not. It is being dishonest.” — Terri
“As women, most of us were raised and praised to be self-abandoning codependents.” — Terri
“By keeping the peace, you start a war within yourself.” — Terri
“Why are we so afraid to have a conflict?” — Terri
“We have a right to negotiate for our preferences, our desires.” — Terri
“You are not that fragile. They are not that fragile.” — Terri
“If you’re not constantly filling conversations with a wall of words that are between you and the other person, then it invites the other person to bring more of themselves.” — Terri
“There is a better way of living your life with healthy boundaries because it deepens the intimacy in your relationships.” — Terri
“Many lives are built on checking boxes but not sort of authentically doing what is your heart’s desire or not expressing something if you think that someone else won’t like it.” — Terri
“To be a boundary boss definitely doesn’t mean that you need to be mean or rejecting.”— Terri
“It’s not all about saying no. Being a boundary boss means you can communicate in this way with ease and grace.” — Terri
“You have to decide. Are you going to be someone who keeps their word and represents yourself honestly as to how you feel?” — Terri
“When you learn the skills, you’re way less threatened by doing it.” — Terri

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Exclusive Boundary Boss Offer for Today’s Takeaway Listeners!

Boundary Boss

Terri Cole

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With Judy Schwartz, Luxury Travel Advisor With Cadence Travel

Although the pandemic disrupted many travel plans when our long-awaited dream vacations were put on indefinite hold, thankfully the travel industry is once again on the move. As travel restrictions ease, popular destinations such as New York, Paris, London, and Florence are seeing large numbers of tourists. So what does post-pandemic travel look like and what can we expect for 2022? It turns out that a lot has changed in the last two years. Eager to attract new clients, the hospitality industry is offering many amenities such as in-room streaming services, smart rooms providing wireless charging pads, and touch tablets. In order to offset the labor shortage and reduce costs, hotels are relying on technology to increase the efficiency of hotel operations with things like keyless check-in and room service delivery robots. But even with technological procedures and enhanced accommodations, travel can still be complicated.

While masks and vaccine mandates have been lifted for many destinations, there are still more than 100,000 health and travel restrictions in place around the globe. Despite the previous ease of DIY online trip planning, international destinations can still be challenging with travel restrictions varying from country to country. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult a travel professional who can help navigate the various entry guidelines and visa requirements. In addition, they can also assist you with domestic travel by booking flights, travel accommodations, and excursions. My guest today, Judy Schwartz, is a luxury travel advisor and owner of Destinations by Judy; an exclusive affiliate of Cadence Travel in La Jolla, California. We talk to Judy about current travel trends and tips for planning your next trip.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What advice does Judy have for people traveling today?
Why can a travel advisor help when you’re “stuck”?
How difficult was it to get refunds due to the pandemic?
Why does Judy recommend travel insurance?
What COVID-19 safeguards are in place for cruises?
Why is it especially helpful to use a travel advisor post-pandemic?
What are the most popular destinations right now?
What are some of Judy’s favorite destinations?
How has international travel changed post-pandemic?
What is Virtuoso?
What are some examples of customized group trips?

Today’s Takeaway: For many people, there is a renewed desire to travel, soak up new experiences, and connect with their loved ones. In planning vacations, some of us are spending more and venturing farther from home than we might have before COVID-19. Studies are showing that instead of staying in the U.S., many travelers are now booking holidays in exotic locations like Bora Bora. Expedia is referring to 2022 as the year of the GOAT, Greatest of All Trips, as travel-starved patrons are checking once-in-a-lifetime destinations off of their bucket lists. Even those who have opted to stay in the U.S. are staying longer and renting vacation homes through sites like Airbnb instead of hotels, in a desire to make up for lost time with family friends. And, finally, instead of long-delayed honeymoons, some newlyweds are planning destination weddings so they can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip with family and friends. So what are you waiting for? Why not treat yourself and make your travel dreams come true. There’s no time like the present to visit new places and enjoy making wonderful memories. And don’t forget to consult a travel professional to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Remember today is a gift… so go out and enjoy it! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Pack your patience and have a good sense of humor.” — Judy
“It’s not exactly the same as it was before.” — Judy
“If you are on your own, you’re on your own. And if you have a travel advisor when you're stuck they can help you get out of there.” — Judy
“That’s our job to advise you what you need when you go on a trip.” — Judy
“It’s gotten so complicated with what you need when you go on a trip, it’s much easier to have somebody who’s an expert in it that knows what you need.” — Judy
“The reason that’s it’s so important to go with a travel advisor is that we have relationships.” — Judy
“Everybody is having the itch to travel now.” — Judy

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Destinations by Judy

Contact Judy by email at judy.schwartz@cadencetravel.com

Cadence Travel

Allianz Travel Insurance

Virtuoso

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With Kevin Nahai, Motivational Speaker and Personal Coach

Are you a confident person? When you encounter a new situation do you feel confident in your ability to overcome whatever challenges you may face? Or does the thought of meeting new people or being in an unfamiliar situation fill you with dread? When we lack confidence in ourselves, it can undermine every aspect of our lives from our job performance to our social relationships. Of course, it’s not unusual to struggle with self-doubt on occasion, particularly when you’re in an unfamiliar situation, but there is a big difference between the occasional low self-confidence versus lacking self-confidence in everyday situations. Ultimately that chronic lack of self-confidence can jeopardize our ability to make decisions, do simple tasks, and even cause us to question our judgment. As a result, our health and well-being could suffer. When you are plagued by crippling doubt and insecurity to the point where it’s holding you back or preventing you from living a happy and fulfilling life, then it might be time to seek professional help. A trained professional can help you overcome these issues so that you can live your life with confidence and feel more comfortable in your own skin. Simple exercises or techniques can actually help us get to a point where we can be our best; even in unfamiliar situations.

My guest today, Kevin Nahai, is a motivational speaker, personal coach, and mentor. Using his own life experiences and the personal strategies he’s developed to overcome his own challenges, Kevin is now sharing his message and helping others cope with emotional challenges such as anxiety and depression. We talk to Kevin about how to develop confidence and build self-esteem so you can begin living your life to the fullest!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did being diagnosed with an incurable disease change Kevin’s life?
What were Kevin’s symptoms and side effects of his disease?
What steps did Kevin take to turn his life around?
What systems does Kevin have in place?
What does leading with personal integrity and authenticity mean to Kevin?
How did Kevin become a personal coach?
What are the most common challenges that Kevin’s clients face?
What are some of Kevin’s success stories?
What advice would Kevin give to people suffering from self-esteem issues?
What advice does Kevin have for people with anxiety?

Today’s Takeaway: If you’re suffering from emotional or mental issues that are preventing you from living your best life, it’s important to recognize that these conditions are treatable. Professional help is available. Depression, anxiety, and even crippling self-doubt are all psychological issues that can be overcome with therapy, medication, and a variety of other treatments. But first, you have to become your own best friend instead of your own worst enemy. Would you want someone you love to suffer if professional help was available? Of course not! So don’t sentence yourself to that fate. If you’re struggling, it’s time to step up, help yourself, and then reach out for help. By making the decision to seek the treatment you are already making that all-important first step toward recovery. Remember that every single day is a gift and we owe it to ourselves to do the very best we can to make a rich, fulfilling, and happy life for ourselves. As Kevin says, “Change your thoughts, change your actions, and you will change your life.” I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Change your thoughts, change your actions, and you will change your life.” — Kevin
“The more we can keep our stress low, and the more we work on keeping ourselves emotionally healthy, the more physically healthy we are.” — Kevin
“When you have high stress and high anxiety, you’re prone to all sorts of physical ailments.” — Kevin
“The problem wasn’t the Crohn’s. The problem was me.” — Kevin
“We can’t outsmart the basics.” — Kevin
“I’m just going to do the little things every day no matter how annoying they are or how much I don’t feel like doing them.” — Kevin
“I don’t have secrets. What I have are systems.” — Kevin
“We build self-esteem through esteemable behavior.” — Kevin

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Kevin Nahai

https://kevinnahai.com

Kevin Nahai on Instagram

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With Darlene King, Executive Director of the National Diversity Council

One of the positive signs over the past few years has been the spotlight placed on racial, social, and gender inequality. We’re seeing more women, people of color, and of different ethnic backgrounds hold leadership positions in the workplace and in politics. Corporations are now embracing diversity awareness training. A big part of diversity training is being sensitive to how others see themselves and learning to communicate properly by using the correct terms. Positive changes are being made to ensure people are treated fairly and offered the same opportunities regardless of race, color, gender, or sexual preference. We’re also seeing a much more diverse community being honored in the TV and Motion Picture industry. As we make strides, we have an opportunity to learn and go forward. Education is still the greatest single weapon that we have to fight racism and prejudice.

My guest today, Darlene King, is the Executive Director of both the Michigan and National Diversity Council. We talk to Darlene about social equity, inclusivity, and how we can all do our part to continue to support change in our society.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is social justice?
What is the mission of the National Diversity Council?
Why has it taken so long to discuss diversity and inclusion?
What are some examples of discrimination and “hate” in communities?
What does it mean when someone has been marginalized?
How did Darlene begin her work for diversity and inclusion?
What is the current gender pay gap?
Who creates the material for diversity training and what is ESG?
Darlene covers some correct and preferred diverse terminology.
What does nonbinary mean?
What has been the most important progress for diversity?

Today’s Takeaway: How can we do our part to embrace diversity? For starters, we’ve heard that it’s important to respect and accept others simply for who they are regardless of race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or religion. A big part of diversity training is learning to communicate properly by using the correct terms and being respectful of others. Remember that every single day is a gift. The gift that we get from embracing our differences and learning from each other will only serve to make us healthier, stronger, and better versions of ourselves. Future generations will all benefit from the work we do today. We are a great country, but we can all do our part to make it the best it can be. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Social justice is really speaking to the relevance of distribution of wealth, opportunity, and equity.” - Darlene
“That’s what social justice is; it’s about how we get to a more equitable form of the distribution of wealth and opportunity.” - Darlene
“At the beginning and the end of the day, we are all human.” - Darlene
“We all have the right to freedoms, expression, opinions and thought processes.” - Darlene
“How do we eliminate hate from our conversation and from our day to day activities?” - Darlene
“How do we embrace each other regardless of our differences?” - Darlene
“Marginalized usually refers to a group of people that have been treated insignificantly.” - Darlene
“It’s better to ask than to assume.” - Darlene
“More and more companies are concerned with creating an amazing environment and community where everyone feels that they belong.” - Darlene
“We are making progress.” - Darlene
“Be brave, be transparent, be vulnerable.” - Darlene

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

National Diversity Council

Michigan Diversity Council

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With Rick Vespa, President of English Gardens Landscape and Co-Chair of English Gardens

Spring has arrived…finally! With it comes warmer temperatures and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors. Gardening is a great way to stay grounded and feel connected to nature. What better way to celebrate Earth Day this year than by planting your spring garden? Gardening is a favorite outdoor activity but did you know plants and soil are actually beneficial to our health? It is a well known fact that sunshine and spending time outdoors can boost our moods and help fight depression. In addition, studies have also shown that the Vitamin D we get, along with antimicrobial properties found in soil, may even strengthen our immune system and help fight disease. So, go ahead…dig your hands in the dirt! It not only feels good, it's good for you. When planting a garden, soil is one of the last things we consider but it can be the most important part. It’s a key element for the health and vitality of plants and provides a crucial foundation for trees and shrubs to take root and thrive. When planting your garden, you’ll want to consult a professional to help you choose a soil composition that’s ideally suited to what you are planting.

Last year on the podcast, Florine interviewed Rick Vespa, the President of English Gardens. Rick had some wonderful tips and suggestions. This year, English Gardens is adding several new initiatives to enhance their overall customer experience such as expanding their website with helpful and educational videos, blogs, and timely gardening tips. They are also increasing the selection of products available for sale online. Finally, as part of the green initiative, English Gardens is entering into a partnership with Four Star Greenhouses to establish a free horticultural plastic recycling program. Beginning April 20th English Gardens will be collecting horticultural plastic at 5 of its 6 retail stores. The type of items that will be collected for recycling include: flats, trays, cell packs, pots of all sizes, and identifying tags. So if you want to support their green initiative or learn some great suggestions for your own garden, you'll want to hear what Rick recommends!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Some history about English Gardens.
More about English Gardens’ services.
What spring flowers are in bloom right now?
What are the easiest indoor plants to care for?
What are the Garden Pharmacy and Garden Club at English Gardens?
Are there plants that don’t need any light?
What’s the deal with Orchids?
The health benefits of plants.
When to start planting different plants.
What are fertilizer and mulch and what do we need them for?
What else does English Gardens do besides sell plants?
What’s the difference between buying a live or artificial Christmas tree?
A final word from Rick on what services English Gardens can provide.

Today’s Takeaway: Spending time outdoors in the sunshine has been proven to reduce anxiety and stress. Boosting your Vitamin D levels not only lifts your mood, but it may help fight depression and the early signs of dementia. So, get outside and get working in the garden! It’s not only great exercise, but studies show that digging in the dirt may help reduce allergy symptoms. Now that spring is here, there’s no better time to begin planting your garden. While you’re designing your new garden, make sure to leave plenty of room for a vegetable, fruit, and herb garden, as well. I am a regular shopper and browser at English Gardens. It inspires me and it can inspire you too. Remember that each day is a gift. Start your garden today, and you’ll reap the benefits all year. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“There are studies that prove that flowers, color in general, good smells…all of those things improve our mood and wellbeing.” - Rick
“Plants produce oxygen.” - Rick
“It's proven science that they clean the air.” - Rick
“Some plants can reduce pollutants in the room up to 87% in 24 hours.” - Rick

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

English Gardens

English Gardens Landscaping

Four Star Greenhouse

View Details

With Jackie Schwartz, Interior Designer and Business Owner

After spending more time at home these past two years, we have come to appreciate just how much our living space can directly affect our mood and overall sense of well-being. If our house is chaotic, disorganized or noisy, it can add to our stress and anxiety. But if we’re able to provide a cozy, calm, and restful interior for ourselves, then our sense of well-being might very well increase.

During the pandemic, we saw the importance of how creating a comfortable but cozy workspace that allowed for shared work and living space. Furnishings such as modular or sectional pieces that offer both function and flexibility can be rearranged to serve “double duty.”

Color is a great way to improve the look and feel of any room. This year, the hottest color trends include earthy neutrals, such as taupe grays along with shades of brown and warm caramels. Green is also very popular and adding a touch of black is always timeless. Finally, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of fun or whimsy with little pops of color as an accent to reflect your personal style.

Another trend that is continuing in 2022 is the desire for stylish outdoor living areas. Outdoor kitchens and comfortable, seating areas are a great way to extend your overall living space. Add a fire pit table or a heat lamp to help offset cooler temperatures.

Finally, you don’t have to spend a lot to see a noticeable change. Keep in mind that there are wonderfully cost-effective ways to update your living space simply by changing paint colors, upgrading lighting, or adding decorative accent pieces.

In February of 2021, I interviewed interior designer and business owner Jackie Schwartz. As the owner and lead designer of Home Interior Warehouse in Michigan, Jackie’s simple design changes and tips are still extremely practical and very helpful over a year later.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Jackie get started in the home design business?
What are the trends for decorating today?
Why is it called a “Warehouse”?
Jackie talks about bonding with her husband over being in the furniture business.
What are quick and inexpensive changes that will brighten our homes?
What colors help cheer people up?
What can we do to make our homes feel more welcoming when we walk in the front door?
How lamps can make a huge change in the appearance of a room.
How to decorate small spaces.
How to use books for decorating.
How pillows add dimension, especially in monochromatic rooms.
Trends for outdoor living during the pandemic.
Tips for staging your house and how to make it more attractive to prospective buyers.

Today’s Takeaway:

As we spend more time at home, shouldn’t our homes be the one place where we feel happiest and most comfortable? Look around your house. Does your home put a smile on your face? If not, perhaps it’s time to make a few changes. Don’t be afraid to swap out old pieces for new ones. Our homes should be our sanctuary, not a source of stress. Living with too much clutter may really stress you out. Make sure your home reflects your personal style. What colors make you happy? Go with what you love even if you’re on a tight budget. You can still make meaningful changes without spending a great deal of money. Whatever your budget, by turning your house into a home and turning your home into a haven, it will be money well spent. Our surroundings really do play a role in how we feel emotionally. When we love our surroundings, we can’t help but feel healthier and happier and wake up every day with a better frame of mind. That’s what I want to do! I want to be healthy; I want to feel good, and I want to live in a place that makes me feel good every day. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I am a very firm believer in creating your own personal style.” — Jackie
“I think there’s nothing better than when a home is well done but it’s your home. And it’s personal to you.” — Jackie
“I think lighting is really, really important.” — Jackie
“Lamps are like jewelry for your house.” — Jackie
“Pillows are another great way to add texture, detail, and/or color into a space.” — Jackie
“I don’t think there’s ever been a time where people have enjoyed their outdoor spaces more than they have now.” — Jackie
“Paint is one of the things that goes a really, really long way.” — Jackie
“I was the one that my friends always asked for help and advice and took shopping with them when they were making a change in their home.” — Jackie
“Word of mouth is the best advertising.” — Jackie
“Experience and passion can be just as good as having a degree. Maybe even better sometimes.” — Jackie

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Home Interior Warehouse

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With Autumn Weidenhamer, Yoga Instructor & Fitness Club Owner

One of the industries that were hardest hit during the pandemic was health clubs, with approximately 25% of public gyms closing. As a result, fitness instructors began offering online training. This completely changed the way in which we exercise. Instead of relying upon gyms to provide a place to exercise, we embraced activities that could be safely and easily done at home. But so many of us missed the socialization that in-person workouts afforded. As COVID-19 numbers began trending down and fitness clubs reopened, enterprising gym owners sought new ways to attract more members. They began to offer a variety of fitness events in social settings specifically designed to give members the opportunity to work out while getting to know each other. My guest today, Autumn Weidenhamer, is the owner of All Seasons Yoga & Fitness. She was recently voted #1 Best Yoga Studio in a viewer poll from NBC Affiliate, WDIV. All Seasons is not your typical yoga studio! It’s a mobile yoga business, meaning that Autumn teaches classes at a variety of locations. In fact, she specializes in offering yoga events at unique and creative places like libraries, parks, wineries, and even on the lake. It’s a creative and fun way to stay fit while connecting with others.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is Autumn’s background in becoming a yoga instructor?
What benefits does yoga provide compared to other exercises?
How did Autumn pivot from her original career path into yoga?
Where does someone train to be a group fitness or yoga instructor?
When did Autumn get the idea to work with local businesses to sponsor yoga events?
What are yoga events?
What are the different types of yoga and poses?
Is yoga accessible to people of all sizes?
Autumn talks about a recent yoga event at a brewery.
Do many newcomers join these yoga events?
How to get over feeling intimidated or inept at yoga.
Has Autumn established ongoing events and relationships with local businesses?
Should people do yoga every day or mix it with other exercises?
What other classes does Autumn teach and where?

Today’s Takeaway: When health clubs closed during the COVID-19 lockdown, many of us lost more than just our favorite place to work out. We also lost an opportunity to meet up and socialize with others. We learned how to exercise at home, but we missed the enjoyment of working out in a class setting. There’s nothing quite like the energy of a group to really get those endorphins flowing! One of the advantages of attending fitness events is that it’s also a great time to attract first-timers to a sport. If you’ve been trying to convince someone to join you in an exercise class, this might be an ideal way. The social setting and relaxed atmosphere can feel less intimidating than a gym or a yoga studio. So why not add a little something to your workout by attending a fitness event? Relax and unwind with others after class. Think of it as yet another way to bring your mind and spirit into that restful state of well-being. Let down your hair to connect with others! And perhaps even spark a romantic connection. Be sure to check out Autumn’s upcoming events calendar. Remember today is a gift and to enjoy the day. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I think it’s definitely connecting that mind, body, and soul.” — Autumn
“It’s focusing a lot on breath, a lot on calming your mind, adding movements into it and it’s just an exercise that really welcomes all ability levels.” — Autumn
“There’s always a way you can bring yoga into your life.” — Autumn
“I wanted to bring classes into places that people already hang out at.” — Autumn
“My goal has always been to remove intimidation from the yoga practice and I feel like being outside of a yoga studio can really help with that.” — Autumn
“With these businesses, I worked on creating a welcoming and relaxed environment.” — Autumn
“Everybody’s body is different, everybody’s day is different, so just focus on your own mat and your own body and stick with it.” — Autumn

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

All Seasons Yoga & Fitness

All Seasons Yoga & Fitness on Instagram

All Seasons Yoga & Fitness on Facebook

American Council on Exercise

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With Meryl Comer, Author, Award-Winning Journalist, and Brain Health Advocate

The human brain is a wonderfully complex organ. But when brain nerve cells are damaged, it can lead to dementia. Dementia is a progressive medical condition that destroys brain function. Alzheimer's Disease, the most common cause of dementia, accounts for an estimated 60-80% of all patients. One of the most common symptoms, short-term memory loss, can cause a person to forget entire conversations, names of close family members, important dates, and recent events. Later, symptoms may include confusion, behavioral changes, and ultimately difficulty speaking, swallowing, walking, and even forgetting to eat. The changes in brain chemistry leading to dementia may begin as early as 20 years before symptoms occur. Diagnosis in the earliest stages of mild cognitive impairment can be difficult to recognize. After diagnosis, the challenge is to establish a treatment strategy that will provide for the patient’s ongoing needs. While it’s common to care for the patient at home in the early stages of the disease, caring for a loved one suffering from dementia can be a really frightening, exhausting, and often isolating experience for the caregiver.

My guest today, Meryl Comer, is a former award-winning journalist and TV producer. Her experience as a caregiver inspired her to write the New York Times bestseller, Slow Dancing With a Stranger: Lost and Found in the Age of Alzheimer’s, about the challenges of caring for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. She’s one of the co-founders of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and has testified before Congress for dementia research and disease prevention.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the implications of longevity?
How do we handle the cost of healthcare?
What are some preventive ways to reduce risk?
What are the differences in risk factors for men and women?
What was Meryl’s journalism career like?
When did Meryl first notice dementia symptoms in her husband?
How did Meryl’s husband’s dementia progress?
When did Meryl begin taking care of her mother who also had dementia?
How patients with Alzheimer’s and caregivers become increasingly isolated.
How genetics may impact early-onset Alzheimer’s.
How can today’s technology help with early diagnostics?
What are we learning from the current research and prevention studies??
How to donate to UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.
What made Meryl decide to write her book Slow Dancing With a Stranger?
How did Meryl cope?
How did Meryl track her husband and mother’s health?
Some additional tips Meryl has for caregivers.

Today’s Takeaway: Currently two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s patients worldwide are female. Dementia has become the leading cause of death for women in the UK and Australia; surpassing heart disease. In the U.S., women over the age of 60 are twice as likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s as they are with breast cancer. In women, early symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease might be attributed to brain fog, fatigue, depression, or simply distraction due to hectic family and work schedules. Knowing your family history and paying attention to the early warning signs is critical for the proper diagnosis. The sad truth is that many women’s health symptoms are often ignored, misunderstood, or even dismissed. As women, we might be told that mild cognitive impairment or forgetfulness is just our hormones or a normal sign of aging. But what if it’s not the cause? It’s also important that if you are the one caring for a family member or loved one with dementia you establish a strong support network. As a primary caregiver, the toll upon your own health and wellness can be really enormous. Make sure that you have others who can pitch in to help and that you connect with local caregiver groups with whom you can ask questions and share advice. It’s important to note that not all symptoms of dementia lead to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis; there are a variety of treatable conditions that may cause dementia-like symptoms such as untreated sleep apnea, Lyme disease, thyroid problems, or even vitamin deficiencies. But it’s vitally important to consult a trained medical professional to properly evaluate the symptoms and determine the cause in order to begin treatment. Hopefully, soon we can all look forward to the day when we find a cure for dementia. Today is a gift; enjoy every moment of it and live the best you can by loving and giving back. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Every three seconds a new case of dementia comes online.” — Meryl
“It is challenging for everyone involved.” — Meryl
“That age of 50‒70 is a really critical period for identifying risk and resilience.” — Meryl
“You can reduce your risk by up to 40%.” — Meryl
“At age 65, women have a one in six chance of developing Alzheimer’s.” — Meryl

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s

Slow Dancing With a Stranger

Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF)

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With Keith Fishman, Therapy Dog Program Coordinator at Henry Ford West Bloomfield

Did you know that sometimes the very best medicine for a hospital patient is a visit from a therapy dog? Whether you’re a patient or a visitor, the sights and sounds of medical emergencies along with overwrought individuals can create a very stressful environment. Sometimes even a routine doctor’s visit can be nerve-wracking, so the thought of checking into a hospital may be an alarming prospect for many. That’s why the Sally and Bob Goldman Therapy Dog Program at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital is such a wonderful benefit for patients and hardworking staff. The calming presence of a trained therapy dog can work wonders in terms of reducing stress by providing a pleasant distraction from overwhelming fear and anxiety. Unlike service dogs that wear vests cautioning strangers not to pet or approach them while working, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital therapy dogs wear vests that say, “PLEASE PET ME”! And the dog’s entire day is focused upon encouraging contact and earning smiles from anxious or stressed-out individuals. If a chance meeting with one of the trained therapy dogs can put a smile on someone’s face, even just for a moment, and distract them from their pain or anxiety, that dog has done its job.

My guest today, Keith Fishman, is the Therapy Dog Program Coordinator at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital. He’s here to tell us about these amazing dogs and how they benefit everyone they come in contact with at the hospital.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Keith first get involved in training therapy dogs?
What was Keith’s previous career?
What kind of dogs does Keith have at home?
When did Keith realize he had a talent for training dogs?
Does the hospital own the dogs or are they owner-handled?
How often and how long do the dogs work?
What’s the difference between a therapy dog and a service dog?
How long has Henry Ford West Bloomfield had the therapy dog program?
Some examples of when a therapy dog has helped patients.
When dogs weren’t allowed during COVID-19, how was the program able to support the hospital staff?
Where are dogs allowed in the hospital now?
How long is the training for therapy dogs?
How you can donate to the program.

Today’s Takeaway: We tend to think of our beloved pet dogs as members of the family, but we might not think about all the different ways therapy dogs can provide help and healing. Having specifically trained therapy dogs present during a stressful situation has proven very effective in a variety of ways. The unconditional love and affection of a dog have been shown to benefit trauma victims who testify in court, help students heal in the aftermath of school shootings, and even calm autistic children. My dog calms me all of the time! So it makes sense to have therapy dogs in hospitals where they can support both patients and staff. Research shows therapy dogs can help lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness, and minimize stress. The Sally and Bob Goldman Therapy Dog Program relies 100% on public donations to cover the costs of training and operation. If you want to learn how your donation, no matter how big or small, can support the program, visit their website, call the Development Office at (313) 876-1031, or email Developmenthf@hfhs.org. Remember that today is a gift and you make it what it is! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Most dogs really are quite easily trained; it's just a matter of knowing how to work with them.” — Keith
“The dog’s life is a great life; they love doing the therapy work which is really important.” — Keith
“You see a child who hasn’t smiled all day because they’re sick that suddenly lights up because a dog walks into his room.” — Keith

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sally and Bob Goldman Therapy Dog Program

Click here to donate to the Sally and Bob Goldman Therapy Dog Program

Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital

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With Lisa Chaben, Matchmaker & Founder of Finding Love with Lisa

Living in the midst of a pandemic has made it more challenging to date and meet others with whom we might begin a relationship. In the earliest days of COVID-19, many of us thought if we were isolated and socially distanced for a few weeks, we could then get back to life as normal. But as the pandemic dragged on and we found ourselves dealing with new strains and mutations more than two years later, the ongoing social isolation and loneliness have become a new way of life. But that doesn’t make it any easier to bear; we still crave companionship. We miss going out and long for an opportunity to meet others and connect. The good news is that the pandemic finally seems to be slowing down and thanks to the vaccines, we can see a light at the end of the tunnel. According to the L.A.-based psychotherapist, Marcy Cole, “The potential to find love and connection can increase, not in spite of what is going on in the world right now but because of it.” Perhaps the fear of being alone in these most challenging of times helps us strip away the superficial and commit to each other in ways we might have resisted in the past. So, if the opportunity to connect and begin a relationship is real, maybe it’s just a question of meeting that right person. Perhaps there is no better time than now to step out on a limb by exploring new and different ways to meet the future love of our life. For example, why not hire a professional matchmaker who will do the background checks and screen candidates to find the perfect match for you?

In December of 2020, Florine interviewed Metro Detroit-based matchmaker, Lisa Chaben. According to Lisa, dating during the pandemic has actually proven to be a benefit because the people who desire her services are genuinely serious about finding love. Plus, there’s the added advantage of meeting someone for the first time on Zoom in the comfort of their own home which is far less stressful and awkward than it might be in a public setting. Today, in addition to her home base of Metro Detroit, Lisa works with clients in Arizona, Chicago, and Florida and has established herself as a proven matchmaker with more than 300 successful matches to her credit. In addition, she’s studying to become a certified Life Coach. Her concierge matchmaking service has a new name, “Finding Love with Lisa.”

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How Lisa knew she had a knack for being a matchmaker.
Why the pandemic has actually made it easier for Lisa to match people.
What exactly is a “personalized concierge dating service” and how does it work?
Lisa’s process for matching people.
How Lisa introduced her father-in-law to his future wife.
What makes Lisa’s service different?
How Lisa finds matches for her clients and some of the challenges they face.
Lisa’s recommendations for safe in-person dating during the pandemic.
How much does Lisa’s service cost?
How long does it take to get set up?
How Lisa encourages those who may be reluctant to start dating due to low self-esteem.
Getting over the stigma of a dating service.

Today’s Takeaway: Over the past two years, the strain of being stuck at home in the midst of a pandemic has contributed significantly to depression and anxiety diagnoses. Substance abuse and suicide rates are also rising as people struggle to cope. The social isolation of being single can certainly take a toll. The pandemic makes seeing friends and family, dating, and expanding our social circles very limited. In these challenging times, a professional matchmaking service may be one of the best ways to find a genuine connection. Even if it’s not the love of your life, it may be a lifelong friend that you find. At the end of the day, isn’t it worth taking a chance on love? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I just always have been a people person and I love connecting people.” — Lisa
“People just like that human touch.” — Lisa
“There is really no way for the young people to meet people.” — Lisa

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Finding Love with Lisa

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With Diane Macedo, Emmy Award-Winning Journalist on ABC News

Do you typically have trouble falling asleep or wake up in the middle of the night and lie awake for hours? Getting a good night’s sleep can be a major challenge for some people. If left untreated, it can possibly lead to long-term health risks such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or a weakened immune system. A variety of things can disrupt our sleep or keep us awake at night. Stress is a big factor, but also things like too much light or noise or what we eat and drink can interfere with our ability to sleep. Conditions such as sleep apnea or acid reflux can also affect the quality of our sleep.

My guest today, Diane Macedo, is an Emmy award-winning journalist. In addition to being the daytime anchor on ABC News, Diane frequently appears on Good Morning America and ABC World News Tonight. Diane’s job as a reporter can lead to erratic hours, and her sleep is frequently disrupted by her work schedule. When Diane developed chronic insomnia and was told that in order to get more sleep she might have to quit her dream job, she was determined to find another way to treat it and put her investigative skills to work. In her research, Diane learned that chronic insomnia is incredibly common; affecting as many as 30‒60% of adults. A lot of people assume once a bad sleeper, always a bad sleeper. Contrary to popular belief, insomnia and other sleep disorders may be learned behaviors that are treatable. Thankfully, Diane found ways to treat her own sleep issues that didn’t rely on sleeping pills or quitting her job. Her book, The Sleep Fix, includes solutions for people with sleep issues and disorders to get a better night’s sleep. She shares some of those tips with us today.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Diane’s work schedule disrupt her sleep?
How our biology affects our circadian rhythm.
How much sleep do we need?
Do we need more sleep as we get older?
What kinds of overnight jobs did Diane have?
How does insomnia differ from sleep deprivation?
When do we get the best quality sleep?
How can we adjust temperature and light to get better sleep?
Can melatonin and other sleeping pills be helpful?
What is it like working on Good Morning America?
The goal and the message of Diane’s book The Sleep Fix.

Quotes:

“When we try to force ourselves to sleep at a time that our body is not ready to, we can create something called conditioned arousal.” — Diane
“If you spend enough time awake and worried in bed, your brain will start to associate bed with the place that you are supposed to be awake and worried.” — Diane
“It is part of our biology; when our circadian rhythm starts to send us wake signals and when it then starts to send us sleep signals at night.” — Diane

Today’s Takeaway: Sleep deprivation and insomnia are at an all-time high these days with an estimated 30‒60% of the population suffering from insomnia. If you frequently find yourself feeling tired or out of sorts during the day, even if you went to bed early the night before, then you may be suffering from sleep deprivation. If you’re struggling with insomnia, sleep apnea, or any other sleep disorders, then you want to read Diane’s book The Sleep Fix. Also, be sure to see your doctor! In trying to understand the cause of her own inability to sleep, Diane wrote a comprehensive book that explains why we can’t sleep and details the relationship between the various causes behind insomnia and other sleep disturbances. Best of all, the book gives concrete step-by-step solutions on how to diagnose a variety of sleep issues and how to correct them. There are so many reasons why we can’t sleep and Diane’s book provides helpful suggestions for each of them. It’s important that if your problems persist you seek medical advice. Remember that every single day is a gift, and having a healthy mind and body means getting enough sleep. So why not give yourself the gift of a better night’s sleep by doing all that you can to create an optimum sleep environment and routine for you. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Sleep Fix

Diane Macedo

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With Sandra Ali, News Anchor for WDIV Detroit and Mom of Four

Being a working mom is never easy. Sometimes there is the unavoidable sense of mom guilt, whether you’re needed at the office or home. I know from my own experience raising my seven children while working full-time how challenging it can be to achieve a healthy work-life balance. During the pandemic, ever-changing work situations and last-minute school closings only made the role of a working mom even more challenging. In addition to adjusting to staff shortages and longer hours at work, we’re also battling the stress of ongoing exposure to COVID-19 and other related health and safety issues. If the family relies on your income you really don’t have a choice; you show up and do your job. In these ever-changing times, we rely more than ever on the news to keep us informed on what to expect and how to control and do what we can.

My guest today is award-winning journalist and news anchor, Sandra Ali. She’s best known for anchoring the weekend edition of the WDIV Channel 4 News at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. Sandra is also a frequent guest on CNN, Fox News, and other networks. She was born in New York City and spent part of her early childhood growing up in Egypt. Pursuing a double major at Syracuse in Musical Theater and Journalism, she ultimately decided on a career in broadcast journalism. After earning her master’s degree at Northwestern University, Sandra began to make her mark in the competitive and fast-paced world of TV news while raising her four children.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Sandra’s childhood like in Egypt and then New York?
What led Sandra to pursue Musical Theater and Journalism?
How did Sandra end up in Altoona, Pennsylvania?!
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to Sandra on-air?
How can Sandra tell that a story is going to be something special?
How does Sandra detach herself from an emotional or tragic story?
How was it being in the public eye when pregnant?
What ages are Sandra’s children?
What is Sandra’s work schedule like now?
How does Sandra balance work and home life?
How does Sandra practice self-care?
What does Sandra do for nutrition for her kids?
Why Sandra wants to change the conversation around women’s appearance.

Quotes:

“There are some days where I will leave the house at 7:45 in the morning with all four kids and my last time I pull into the garage is 9 o’clock after practices.” — Sandra
“It’s a very full-time job.” — Sandra
“There is a lot of stuff that’s not perfect in our house.” — Sandra

Today’s Takeaway: There are so many things that we can learn from Sandra. She’s a wonderful role model for women; showing that even in the fast-paced and competitive world of broadcast it’s possible to find a healthy work-life balance. Sandra is candid about her own journey and she shares how she learned to practice good self-care. As working mothers, it’s so important to prioritize our own needs and to learn to set healthy boundaries for ourselves. But what does that look like? Maybe it involves learning to say “NO” to the demands of others or setting aside that valuable “me time.” Maybe it’s going for a run or to a yoga class. Whatever it is that makes you feel better and gets your endorphins flowing enough to recharge your battery, do it! Those precious few moments can make all the difference. Instead of feeling exhausted or mentally drained, just giving ourselves that little break can help us regain the physical or emotional energy that we all need to feel present at home or work. Remember, every single day is a gift and when we make ourselves a priority we get stronger and everyone else around us benefits. Be sure to take care of you, love as much as you can, give back to the community, and watch Sandra Ali! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sandra Ali

Sandra Ali on Instagram

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With Dr. Michael Lutz, M.D., Urology Specialist

Did you know that the most common type of cancer is also one of the easiest to treat if diagnosed early enough? Prostate cancer is highly treatable and often curable in the early stages, but the key is early diagnosis. In the beginning stages of the disease, there might not be any signs or symptoms. That’s why it’s so important for men to have regular screenings; especially if they are high risk based on medical history. A simple blood test can lead to early detection.

My guest today is Dr. Michael Lutz. He is the President of the MIU Men’s Health Foundation, a board-certified Urinary Specialist at William Beaumont Hospital, and partner with the Michigan Institute of Urology P.C. Dr. Lutz speaks with us about male urinary health, the different types of urinary conditions, and how they are treated. He shares suggestions on how men might reduce the risk of prostate cancer and how to stay proactive about their health.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Did Dr. Lutz’s background influence his decision to become a urologist?
Has prostate cancer become more common in recent years?
When is prostate screening appropriate?
What are the early signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
What are the other tests besides blood tests to examine the prostate?
Why are men so hesitant to get screened?
Is a PSA test foolproof?
What is the prostate’s function?
Who is most at risk of developing prostate cancer?
What factors are really important for prostate health?
What are the preferred treatments for prostate cancer?
Which treatments have the best outcome?
What are common urinary problems in both men and women?
Is cranberry juice really effective for urinary tract infections?
What is MIU Men’s Health Foundation?

Quotes:

“The annual amount of diagnoses of prostate cancer is about 190,000 cases in the United States.” — Dr. Lutz
“Prostate cancer is truly a multifactorial disease.” — Dr. Lutz
“That’s what makes the disease so challenging because in most cases there are no signs or symptoms secondary to prostate cancer.” — Dr. Lutz

Today’s Takeaway: It’s all too easy to avoid going to the doctor when you aren’t experiencing symptoms, but a vitally important part of an annual medical exam for an adult male should include screening for the prostate cancer antigen. As scary as the thought of a cancer diagnosis may be, it doesn’t have to lead to a worst-case scenario. Survival rates for men with prostate cancer have increased over the years thanks to better screenings and treatment. Remember that every single day is a gift, and we owe it to ourselves to be proactive about our health. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Michael Lutz

MIU Men’s Health Foundation

William Beaumont Hospital

Michigan Institute of Urology

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With Christie Tate, NY Times Bestselling Author

The events of the past few years have been very challenging and with so many people experiencing personal or professional losses, it’s not uncommon to feel fearful, anxious, uncertain, or even depressed. Reports of surging COVID-19 numbers or the current social and political issues in the news might especially trigger these emotions. For those who lost jobs due to COVID-19 or risked their lives on the front lines, the resulting stress may be even greater. For some of us, that knot of anxiety keeps us awake at night worrying, wondering, and dreading what lies ahead. It can feel overwhelming. Yet, instead of voicing those fears aloud or seeking professional help, we’ve been taught to overcome or even deny our feelings, fearing that any sign of mental or emotional instability will cause us to be perceived as “weak.”

The lack of social interaction many of us experienced these past few years can make us feel more isolated. Without regular in-person social activities and our favorite outlets for relaxation and stress, there’s less opportunity to share our concerns. It’s hard having these intimate conversations over the phone because it just doesn’t feel as comfortable or safe as it might in person.

In reality, these feelings are now so common as to be “part of our new normal.” But if we were to acknowledge our fear and anxiety, we might find comfort and validation by discovering we’re not alone and learn what has helped others cope. Sometimes, it’s easier to be honest with a group of strangers rather than those who know us best. Instead, the “group” becomes our safe place where we find others who truly understand and perhaps even share our same feelings. This is the power of the “group.”

Last year, Florine interviewed Christie Tate, author of the best-selling book Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life. Christie’s deeply personal memoir was voted one of the best non-fiction books of 2021 and her candid interview with Florine reveals how sharing her flaws and insecurities with a room full of strangers ultimately led to healing and life-long friendships.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did isolation and depression affect Christie even while first in her law class?
How Christie’s eating disorder surfaced in childhood.
Why Christie’s focus on body image began while she was a ballerina.
When did Christie enter a 12-step recovery program for her eating disorder?
Does Christie’s former eating disorder affect her children?
What caused Christie’s feeling of “wanting to die”?
How did Christie first find group therapy?
What did Christie learn about herself in group therapy?
Is Christie still in the group?
How can someone find a group?
Does Christie still have feelings of depression?
When did Christie decide to write a book?

Quotes:

“It really was a lifesaver.” — Christie
“It really was a miracle.” — Christie
“What I know today is that a huge source of my joy is connection with other people.” — Christie

Today’s Takeaway: After many hours in group therapy, the biggest thing Christie learned was to trust others and to share her challenges. But how do you do that? For starters, you have to be open, honest, and real. It’s also important to have friends or a partner that doesn’t judge you. In my many years in WW meetings, I’ve seen how much easier it is to lose weight when I’m allowing others, who aren’t judging me, to help me. Finding others who share your common goals and understand your struggles is so important. Being with others that have the same interests can help you achieve success, and in turn, you can also encourage others to reach their goals. Perhaps most important of all, we must accept our failures, move on, and focus on our successes. There are so many things that I like about myself and I’m sure that each one of you can find so many things that you like about yourself.

There are three things that will help you to live longer. Movement and proper nutrition are fundamental, but the most important is group support or socialization. If you don’t have that socialization and people that you can depend on, you should start looking for them. If you start each day by practicing self-love and self-acceptance, you’re on your way to living a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life. Remember that every single day is a gift! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Christie Tate

Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life

Hello Sunshine: Reese’s Book Club

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With Author, Entrepreneur, and Fitness Trainer, Tareq Azim

Have you ever been afraid to try something because you were convinced you would fail? Sometimes anxiety and our fear of failure can paralyze us, especially if we think we’ll let others down. We may even sabotage our efforts by giving up too easily. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if we could learn to control our fear rather than allow it to control us? What if the very thing we fear most, could actually motivate us to succeed? When we are faced with no other alternative, then perhaps fear could help us achieve something we might not otherwise try. My guest today, Tareq Azim, is a former college football star turned entrepreneur and author. Tareq grew up the son of Afghan refugees who fled the Soviet invasion in search of a better life in America. He is also the founder of “Empower” — a unique fitness training facility where he worked with elite athletes such as NFL superstar Marshawn Lynch, as well as non-athletes. Regardless of whom he is training, Tareq’s approach is the same; he doesn’t see himself as their coach, but rather as their teammate. Tareq helps his teammates achieve their dreams by overcoming their fears and strengthening their mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing that his unique training methods could work in a variety of ways, Tareq wrote the book Empower: Conquering the Disease of Fear. He’s here today to share his philosophy and some of his training techniques with us to help us overcome our fears.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Tareq’s family background in Afghanistan and their journey to the U.S.?
What did Tareq’s post-high school and college experience look like?
How did a sports injury change the course of Tareq’s life?
How did Tareq start to train elite athletes?
Why does Tareq call his fitness clients “teammates”?
How did the pandemic impact his Empower business model?
What is Tareq’s mission right now?
Why is fear the biggest driving force in our lives?
How do Tareq’s training methods work for addiction?
What does Tareq recommend for individual physical health?
How did Tareq create social change in Afghanistan?
What did Tareq learn about himself when visiting Afghanistan post 9/11?

Quotes:

“I realized at that age and time that it was fear that was preventing our growth and it was fear that was preventing our capability and our capacity.” — Tareq
“I was almost desperate to be able to find not normal things I can do to prove to myself that I’m not necessarily fighting fear, but I’m embracing fear and utilizing it for why it exists.” — Tareq
“I found a lot of peace and self-realization and an understanding around self-capabilities through the power of sport.” — Tareq

Today’s Takeaway: Fear can paralyze us. We might be so afraid to step outside of our comfort zone or do something different, that we sometimes don't even try! Just think of all the lost opportunities! All the life experiences we may have missed out on, the jobs or promotions we failed to apply for, or the chance to start a relationship with someone. We can lose out simply because we allow our fear to control us. But if we change our mindset to overcome these fears, we might be able to change our lives for the better. Tareq’s book Empower gives some amazing examples of just how much can be accomplished once we learn to embrace our fear. By working through that fear rather than running to avoid it, we can go far beyond what we ever imagined might be possible. In order to accomplish change, instead of focusing on our differences, why not focus on what we share in common? Tareq used the shared love of sports to inspire change in Afghanistan by establishing a Women’s Boxing Federation. In order to gain approval for this program, Tareq had to overcome his own fear when meeting with Taliban warlords. His methods demonstrate how the most important and overlooked area in our body is our brain. By working to understand what we fear and overcoming our discomfort, we can accomplish amazing things! Remember that every single day is a gift. When we embrace fear as a gift rather than a burden, we can grow even stronger with that gift and unlock our true potential. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

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Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Empower: Conquering the Disease of Fear, by Tareq Azim

Tareq Azim

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With Marcy Syms, President of the Syms Foundation, Director of the TPD Group and Succession Planning Expert

Do you have a strategic plan in place for yourself or your family business when you retire? Have you established who will take over the day-to-day operations or make critical decisions in your absence? Or, if you’re the family breadwinner and suddenly become ill and can’t work, how will your family replace your lost income? Over the past few years, we’ve learned how fragile our lives and the world we live in can be, when in the blink of an eye, lives are lost, businesses shuttered, and family finances destroyed. When talking about a backup plan, such as a succession or contingency plan, many people don’t know what it is or the importance of having one. But making these contingency plans now can mean the difference between a smooth and orderly transition from one generation to the next versus years of legal battles that often divide families and cost a lot of money.

My guest today, Marcy Syms, is President of the Sy Syms Foundation. The Foundation is best known for supporting medical research, education, and independent public broadcasting. Marcy’s father Sy founded the retail clothing chain Syms. Its reputation was built on the value of personalized customer service and accountability. Working under her father, Marcy assumed the role of corporate president and in 1983 became one of the youngest female presidents of an NYSE traded company. In 1998, Marcy was promoted to CEO and under her leadership, the Syms Corporation continued its growth and expansion. Today, in addition to heading up the Syms Foundation, Marcy is also Independent Director for the TPD Group, LLC. There she advises others on succession planning and strategic training. Today she shares with us her personal and professional wisdom regarding family businesses and planning.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Marcy first start working with her father?
What was Marcy’s role in the family as a child?
What has Marcy learned about heart health function and disease?
What does Marcy do for self-care and health?
What was it like going from a family business to a public company?
How did Marcy’s father get into the department store business?
How did they come up with the company’s slogan?
What happened to the Syms retail chain?
What will happen to service in the age of online shopping?
How did Marcy become passionate about independent public broadcasting?
What is the mission of the Sy Syms Foundation?
What is the TPD Group?
Why is succession planning so important?
How does Marcy discuss her succession plan with her family?
What advice does Marcy have for succession planning?
What does Marcy do for fun?

Quotes:

“Once you become a public company and you lose the feeling of family and the control that family has over crisis and distributions and all that, it’s a very, very different experience.” — Marcy
“Don’t let your children go into the business…without other experience first.” — Marcy
“I always say that you have to communicate, it has to be something that’s not taboo, it has to be a topic.” — Marcy

Today’s Takeaway: There are so many things that we can focus on and learn from my conversation with Marcy Syms. She’s a wonderful role model for women, especially, but all people in business. She inspires us with her passion for allocating family foundation resources to enhance education, science, and the arts; ensuring that future generations will continue to benefit from her generosity. But perhaps most of all, Marcy is to be admired for her commitment to helping others provide a secure future for themselves and their loved ones through careful strategic planning. Even if you don’t own a company, you still want to plan for your loved ones and have a will in place. No one wants to be caught in an emergency situation where tough decisions must be made in the spur of the moment, but in the event that a dire situation occurs at least now the path forward is clearly defined. Making these decisions in advance when we have the time, energy, and health to calmly and carefully consider all available options is vital. It will spare us a great deal of hardship in the future for ourselves, our companies, and our families. Remember that every day is a gift, and planning ahead to provide for your family’s future makes not only sound financial sense, but it just might bring you a better night's sleep and perhaps even a longer, healthier life. It may even bring your family closer than ever before. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Marcy Syms

Sy Syms Foundation

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With Sharleen Cooper Cohen; Author, Playwright, and Producer Sometimes out of the darkest moments we find an opportunity to take our lives in an entirely new direction. It’s ironic to think that without having first gone through that horrible pain we might never have found the will or the opportunity to rediscover our passion. Have you ever heard the old saying, “When one door closes, another one opens?” Alexander Graham Bell is credited with that quote, but the full quote actually states, “When one door closes, another one opens, but we so often look so long and so regretfully at the closed door that we do not see the ones which open for us.” In order to see the newly opened door, we have to be willing to step outside of our comfort zone into the unknown and take the chance to explore the unfamiliar path. If we stay locked in our misery, we may never learn what miracles wait on the other side of that unlatched door.

My guest today, Sharleen Cooper Cohen, is an author, playwright, producer, and my very dear friend. Sharon learned how life-changing it would be to take that courageous step into the unknown and move forward when her beloved husband died at a young age. She’s here to share an inspiring story of hope, resilience, and overcoming tragedy.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What was Sharleen’s life like with her husband?
What was Sharleen’s family connection to motion pictures?
What was Sharleen’s childhood dream?
What work did Sharleen first do in her career?
When did Sharleen begin writing?
What drew Sharleen to musicals and how did she create her first one?
All about Sharleen’s musicals Stormy Weather, An Officer and a Gentleman.
What does Sharleen do for fun?
How can we find Sharleen’s newly rewritten books?

Quotes:

“I started writing when my husband died because crying just didn’t give me the satisfaction.” — Sharleen
“I cried. I cried every night for hours, but it wasn’t enough. I needed more of an expression and I started writing poetry.” — Sharleen
“It takes a lot of work, a lot of work to learn a profession.” — Sharleen
“I have been called the Goddess of Persistence.” — Sharleen

Today’s Takeaway: It’s not uncommon for a tragic loss like the death of a loved one to paralyze us with grief. While our initial instinct might be to curl up in a ball and hide from the world, we can choose to channel that devastating grief into something worthwhile that helps us heal as we process our pain. Finding that new passion or that reason to get up in the morning is not only healing for ourselves, but it may also inspire or benefit others. Sharleen turned to writing as a way to work through the grief, but when her novels connected with millions of readers around the world that success later paved the way for an entirely new career in the theater. We never know what opportunities might come our way if we don’t open ourselves up to the possibility of finding them. So don’t wait for a tragedy to push you out of your comfort zone! If there is something you dream of doing one day, why not make that day now? Remember that every single day is a gift, and when we focus only on the door that is closed we can’t see the one that has just opened up for us. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

http://officerandagentlemanmusical.com/

BROADWAY IN DETROIT

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sharleen’s Books

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With Leslie Sansone, Fitness Expert and Founder of Walk-At-Home

Did you know that walking is one of the best exercises for weight loss and overall health and fitness? Walking for at least 30 minutes a day provides cardiovascular stimulation to strengthen the heart and improve breathing, all while burning calories. Getting enough daily exercise is a great way to boost our immune system and improve our mood. Best of all, walking is something you can do anywhere, anytime, and with no equipment other than a good pair of walking shoes. Walking outside in nature or going for a walk with your dog or a good friend makes it even more enjoyable. Or, when you’re by yourself, why not listen to music, a podcast, or an audiobook to help make the time even more enjoyable?

For those of you who are looking to take your daily walk to the next level or find walking outdoors a bit more challenging in the snow and ice, you may want to check out the “Walk At Home” fitness program. Leslie’s Sansone’s “Walk At Home” is the number one in-home walking program worldwide and is available in a variety of formats. You can download the popular App, watch the YouTube channel, or stream workouts on digital devices such as Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire. With over 30 years of experience leading millions to health and wellness, Leslie Sansone is an internationally-recognized fitness expert!

Florine first interviewed Leslie in November of 2020 and since then, Leslie’s workouts have become even easier to use and access. Download her new app from the App store and subscribe so you can walk with Leslie on walktv.walkathome.com Or, for more information, visit her website at https://walkathome.com.

So if you’re ready to get walking and burn more calories than you ever thought possible “just walking,” listen to Florine’s interview with “Walk At Home” founder and renowned fitness expert, Leslie Sansone.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why is walking such a great way to get fit?
How did Leslie get started in walking as fitness?
How is traditional walking different from walking on a treadmill?
How many minutes a day does the Walk at Home program recommend?
How has the pandemic personally affected Leslie?
How does Leslie stay motivated?
How can people get started in the Walk at Home program?

Quotes:

“The true method of activity that’s going to help us through these times is walking.” — Leslie
“Outdoor walking creates more challenges to our body.” — Leslie
“The important thing is just to walk.” — Leslie

Today’s Takeaway: I want to thank Leslie Sansone for continuing to inspire us to get up and get moving. I know that walking makes me feel better mentally, physically, and emotionally. Harvard University health studies found that walking just 20 minutes a day may reduce your risk of heart disease by up to 30 percent! Leslie’s program makes walking not only fun but it’s incredibly energizing for me. I actually feel stronger and have more energy after my workout than before! So, start walking just 30 minutes a day and you’ll feel the difference in both your mind and body! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Walk At Home

Walk At Home on YouTube

Walk At Home App

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With Ross Douthat, Author and New York Times Opinion Columnist

We are so fortunate to live in a country where we have access to the finest medical care in the world. I have the utmost respect and admiration for our amazing medical professionals. But sometimes, even with our professional healthcare and cutting-edge research, we still don’t have all the answers. This is especially true with newly discovered diseases, patients exhibiting unusual symptoms, or things that fall outside of a standard diagnosis. So what are we supposed to do? Today we’ll find out!

My guest today, Ross Douthat, is a New York Times Opinion columnist, respected author, and fellow podcast host. In 2015 Ross came down with a very mysterious illness which caused him to suffer from a variety of unexplained symptoms. His body felt as if it was constantly under attack; he couldn’t eat, sleep, and his entire body ached as if it was on fire. He lost 40 pounds in 10 weeks and yet all of the medical tests kept coming back negative. So what do you do when the doctors don’t have answers or what they are prescribing isn’t helping? His new book, The Deep Places, documents his five-year journey and ultimate recovery from the chronic illness that defied all medical explanation.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How was Ross’s life before his illness?
How did the symptoms begin?
When did Ross first get the diagnosis of Lyme disease?
Did the treatment help Ross?
Does Ross remember getting bit by a tick?
What influenced Ross’s book Privilege?
How writing runs in Ross’s family.
Was Ross healthy before his illness?
How did Ross’s geographic location affect his diagnosis?
Did doctors dismiss Ross’s symptoms?
Does insurance cover Ross’s treatment?
How did Ross’s family react to and get impacted by his illness?
Did Ross try any homeopathic approaches?
How long did Ross suffer before he got any relief?
Is there a chance that Ross’s illness will come back?
How did Ross get through the dark times?
What would listeners be surprised to learn about Ross?
What brings Ross happiness these days?

Today’s Takeaway: At a time when so many people are still recovering from the coronavirus and still exhibiting neurological symptoms months after contracting the virus, our definition of what it means to live with an ongoing chronic illness has changed. We no longer see chronic illness as a unique or rare exception as perhaps we once did. Instead, we now know it is far more common than we might ever have imagined. When the medical professionals may not have the answers or our symptoms fall outside the box, many patients choose to do the research themselves to find other treatment options. We may find relief from our symptoms outside of traditional medicine. Whatever it is that works for you and offers relief is worth exploring. There is no better gift than the gift of a healthy body and a healthy mind. The lesson to be learned from Ross’s experience is that there is hope for someone diagnosed with a chronic illness. Keep trying, keep looking, and it will come. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I probably saw 10‒15 doctors in the span of two or three months and none of them had any clear idea of what was going on.” — Ross
“If you have one of these chronic conditions where there isn’t an official CDC approved approach to treating it, then they are less likely to be able to help you.” — Ross
“I was healthy. I was 35 and I’d had a few things here and there, but I’d never been sick for probably more than a week-and-a-half in my whole life.” — Ross

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ross Douthat

Ross Douthat for NYT Opinion

The Deep Places: A Memoir of Illness and Discovery, by Ross Douthat

Privilege: Harvard and the Education of the Ruling Class, by Ross Gregory Douthat

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With Denise Ilitch, President of Ilitch Enterprises

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be named one of Crain’s Detroit Business 100 Most Influential Women of the year? We’re about to find out!

My guest today, Denise Ilitch, is the President of Ilitch Enterprises, LLC, a division of Ilitch Holdings, the parent company that oversees Little Caesar Enterprises, as well Olympia Entertainment and the Fox Theatre. Denise’s family also owns and manages both the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers. Denise’s parents taught her from a very young age the value of hard work and community involvement. Committed to revitalizing the downtown area, the Ilitch family built a new state-of-the-art sports and entertainment complex called Little Caesars Arena, which is the cornerstone of The District Detroit. A tireless advocate for women and children, Denise is not only a business icon but also a lawyer, a philanthropist, a podcast host, a jewelry designer, a University of Michigan Regent, and a member of one of the most powerful and influential families in the country! Despite all of her achievements and accolades, Denise’s life has also been touched by tragedy. After struggling for years with addiction, her brother died from a drug overdose. Denise knows that the disease of addiction does not discriminate. She speaks candidly about her brother in the hope of educating and sparing others the pain her family experienced. She shares personal stories about her family, what’s next for her, and so much more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was it like growing up the eldest of seven children in such an influential family?
How did Denise’s family decide to start a pizza company?
How did Denise’s parents balance work and family life?
What are the most important lessons Denise learned from her father?
What are some of the things Denise’s mom, Marian, has taught her?
What has the legacy of her family’s endeavors been like for Denise?
More about the Ilitch charities and the Little Caesars Love Kitchen.
How did the family come to own the Detroit Tigers?
Denise shares about her brother Ron’s disease and struggles.
What it’s like being a regent at the University of Michigan.
What’s next for Denise?
Denise talks about her podcast, “The Denise Ilitch Show.”
What is it like being a grandmother?
What does Denise think are the most pressing issues facing women today?
What would listeners be surprised to learn about Denise?
What does Denise like to do in her free time?

Today’s Takeaway: Being named one of Crain’s Detroit Business 100 Most Influential Women is a tremendous honor. Just as her mother was previously recognized for the very same award, Denise exemplifies what it means to be one of the city’s most influential women. She is an outstanding businesswoman, she’s an outstanding community leader, and she is someone who advocates tirelessly on behalf of others. Denise inherited a family legacy that’s been credited with rebuilding a major American city. She was taught the importance of giving back to the community and guards her family legacy with grace and dignity. She continues to inspire and provide leadership in business, philanthropy, and education. Denise uses her podcast as a platform to motivate and inform others. Her guests are people she admires for their confidence, their perseverance, and how they dealt with adversity. Every single day gives us gifts. My gift today is talking to Denise Ilitch! It’s an honor to speak to a wonderful woman who has done so much for herself, her family, her friends, and the city of Detroit. She is a role model for all of us. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Being the oldest, I was almost like a second mom. I was given a lot of responsibility, which I think I probably still feel today.” — Denise
“The biggest lesson is to be kind to others, to be humble and to give back to the community, and to be confident.” — Denise
“What I really admire about my mom and that I’ve seen her do in the business is that she perseveres. She has enormous perseverance, failure is not really an option.” — Denise

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Denise Ilitch Website

The Denise Ilitch Show

Ilitch Companies

Ilitch Holdings

Little Caesars

Olympia Entertainment

313 Presents

Detroit Red Wings

Detroit Tigers

Love Kitchen

Crain’s Detroit Business 100 Most Influential Women

The University of Michigan Board of Regents

The District Detroit

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With Gail Urso, Cofounder of Kevin’s Song

Did you know that over the past decade the rate of suicide has increased to become one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.? Although a history of depression and mental illness may be associated with an increased risk of suicide, there are many other factors as well. Regardless of the actual cause, in every single case of suicide, the decision to take one’s life affects the surviving family members and friends. For them, the suicide of a loved one brings grief, unending questions, and regrets. While we may comfort ourselves with the thought that the person we’ve lost is no longer in pain, for those that are left behind the pain and loss don’t end. Nor do the questions like, “Why?”, “What could I have said or done that may have made a difference?”, or “How could I not notice that they were planning to do this?” Further adding to a survivor’s pain is the stigma and shame often associated with suicide. Suicide victims are labeled as mentally ill or sometimes even barred from certain burial sites according to religious doctrine. Obituary notices declining to give the cause of death further adds to the stigma and the impression of the public shaming. Sometimes instead of supporting the grief-stricken loved ones as we normally would do, people shy away from mentioning the circumstances and/or get very uncomfortable.

Thankfully, there is hope for survivors and a place where they can find understanding, empathy, and support.

My guest today, Gail Urso, is the co-founder of Kevin’s Song, a nonprofit devoted to studying the problems of suicide and mental illness while providing support for the surviving loved ones. She’s here today so we can have a frank and open discussion about suicide and hopefully dispel some of the myths and stigma surrounding it.

If you or someone you know might be considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) OR TEXT “GO” TO 741741.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why Gail started Kevin’s Song after the loss of her son to suicide and what she learned.
What Kevin was like as a child.
Why are the “signs” often missed?
What was Kevin’s adult life like?
What question would Gail ask Kevin if he were still alive?
Does suicide run in families?
How did Kevin’s death affect his family?
Are the holidays when the highest number of suicides happen?
When Gail looks back, does she think there were signs?
Does Gail see any guilt from surviving friends and family?
What is the mission of Kevin’s Song and what do they offer?
Resources are available for people experiencing depression or mental crisis.

Today’s Takeaway: In a recent report, suicide was the fourth leading cause of death for people between the ages of 35 and 44. With reports of depression, mental illness, and substance abuse on the rise, the associated risk of suicide is a growing problem. For the surviving loved ones, even in the wake of such tragedy, there may still be hope for a fulfilling and even joyful life. While there might always be a hole in your heart, with support groups like Kevin’s Song, you may find strength and healing. By providing education and awareness about suicide, the goal of Kevin’s Song is to destigmatize depression, anxiety, and mental illness so that a person can be more willing to reach out and seek professional help. Simply by listening and being more supportive of each other, perhaps we can remove the shame and isolation a person might feel by showing them there are other options. Things do get better and life is worth living. Remember that every single day is a gift and we need to cherish the time we have together today to allow for a better tomorrow. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We had no idea how much information there was about suicide; how there were signs and things to watch for.” — Gail
“We were grief-stricken, we were horrified, we were devastated. But for us it was helpful to do something.” — Gail
“People who are suicidal hide their pain. One of their goals is to never let people know how much they’re suffering because they don’t want to be a burden.” — Gail

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Kevin’s Song

If you or someone you know might be considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) OR TEXT “GO” TO 741741.

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With Courtney Jones

Have you ever wondered why we’re told to just breathe when we’re feeling stressed out? How can the act of taking a deep breath or breathing deeply change how we feel? There is scientific evidence to support breathing as a way of reducing stress. Our body goes into overdrive as it physically reacts to and processes stress. When our bodies are repeatedly subjected to periods of high stress, it could negatively impact our health. That’s why it’s so very important to find ways to relieve that physical and emotional stress. The very act of slowing our breath and inhaling deeply sends a message to our brain to calm down. It forces our heart rate to slow and our muscles to lose that tense posture. As the body relaxes, we begin to feel quieter, calmer, and finally feel better.

That’s just one reason why so many people are turning to meditation or deep breathing exercises these days. At a time when our daily stress levels are compounded by so much that’s outside of our control, it helps to process that stress in a healthy way. But deep breathing does more than just relieve anxiety. It can also combat depression, improve our digestion and even help us sleep better. Adding aromatherapy through candles or electric wax burners is another way of increasing that feeling of psychological well-being. Finally, daily exercise is also a great way to combat stress by physically burning off that anxiety. With the holidays right around the corner, why not set aside some “me time” to bring some added movement into your day?

Last year, Florine interviewed Yoga and Pilates instructor, Courtney Jones, about how exercise and proper breathing can literally transform your life for the better. These days, you can find Courtney Jones teaching Yoga, Pilates, and meditation on Zoom. Visit her website Body & Mind Unbound for more information and inspiration on your wellness journey.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Courtney started doing yoga as a stress reliever as a new mother of infant twins upon moving to Detroit.
Initially, Courtney did not like yoga.
Why is breathing so important?
How you can attend Courtney’s online classes during COVID-19 and receive a free class just for listening to this podcast!
The difference between yoga and pilates and their benefits.
The importance of building strength, especially as we age.
How Courtney began her training in fitness.
The silver lining Courtney has found during the pandemic.
How often Courtney practices yoga & pilates.
More about how Courtney motivates clients.
Tips for everyday health and fitness.

Today’s Takeaway: With so many disruptions to our daily routine right now, stress can take its toll. During times of stress, it can be even more challenging to watch what we eat, get enough sleep, or exercise. But it’s more important now than ever before to take care of your mind, body, and soul. Increasing our endorphins through physical activity is one of the most effective ways to beat stress. The spiritual practice of yoga can provide both physical and mental benefits. Simply learning to pause in the moment and breathe deeply can be one of the most calming and healing tools we have. When we feel better, we act better. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The breath is kind of the fountain of youth.” — Courtney
“I see yoga and pilates as disciplines that enhance your overall well-being.” — Courtney
“When you really feel good about the body that you’re in, then it all kind of flows together.” — Courtney

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Courtney Jones:

Body & Mind Unbound

Body & Mind Unbound on Facebook

www.unboundpilatesyoga.com

www.womanbeingwell.com

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With AJ Funchess, Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications for the Detroit Public Library

Are you in search of a new job or maybe thinking of changing industries? Maybe you’re a late bloomer or a DIY-er that wants to learn something like basic plumbing. Maybe you’re just looking for a new hobby like playing a musical instrument, but don’t know the first thing about where to begin. These days there are how-to instructional materials for just about anything and everything, and they’re all available for free at your local library!

My guest today, AJ Funchess, is the Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications for the Detroit Public Library. A wealth of information and research materials can be found both online and in-person in library catalogs. I LOVE libraries! When was the last time you visited your local public library? AJ tells us all about the amazing benefits available at his library and others across the country.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

AJ tells us all about the catalog at the Detroit Public Library.
Do many young people go into a career in libraries?
Are libraries open for in-person now?
What are some digital resources that libraries provide?
What is the “weeding” of books?
How did the pandemic affect library circulation?
What kinds of events are at the library?
Is it true you can check out a laptop from a library?
How are libraries funded?
How have library events become virtual?
What kind of events do libraries have for kids?
What is a “Mobile Library”?
What is “Ask a Librarian”?
How do you get a library card and where else can you use it?

Today’s Takeaway: Knowledge is power. There is literally a wealth of information at your fingertips that doesn’t cost a thing at the public library. For those that don’t have time to read, audiobooks are great timesavers that also allow for multitasking. They allow us to hear from our favorite authors, motivational speakers, or industry experts while doing things like driving, putting on makeup, or walking the dog. Expand your knowledge with scholastic journals, industry periodicals, or eBook versions of your favorite novels, memoirs, or business publications. Whatever the topic, you can find the information at the public library. You can even check out a laptop at some libraries. It’s truly a one-stop shop! Or if you can’t get to the library, perhaps the mobile library will come to you. So what are you waiting for? There’s no better gift that you can give yourself than the gift of knowledge. With knowledge and wisdom, today’s dreams can become tomorrow’s reality. Today is a gift. I love reading and going to the library. It truly enriches my life. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Our catalog is vast, actually. We have books from centuries ago, we have books that are current, we have materials from our special collections.” — AJ
“It’s not just books. Our catalog also includes movies, DVDs, CDs, and albums. It’s a variety of mediums of communications that we offer.” — AJ
“All of our events are free and open to the public. You do not have to have a library card to attend any of our events. It’s for everyone.” — AJ

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Detroit Public Library

Hoopla

Libby

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With Scott Stinebaugh, Director of Sales & Marketing for the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel

How often do we hear stories on the news today of airline passengers behaving in a very disruptive or even dangerous manner? Lately, it seems to be happening more and more frequently. In a recent survey, more than 60% of respondents believe that rude and discourteous behavior is on the rise. Where is this behavior coming from? Have we always been this thoughtless and inconsiderate or does the media, along with the ability to record everything on our cell phones, actually encourage it? With the holidays coming, many of us will be traveling to visit friends and family or hosting in our homes. Do you know how to be a good host and ensure that your guests feel welcome in your home? Do you prepare for their visit by making sure your guests have everything they need to be comfortable when staying in your home? Or if you’re visiting others in their home, do you know how to be a gracious guest? What if you’re staying in a hotel rather than someone’s home? Do people behave worse at a hotel?

My guest today, Scott Stinebaugh, is the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit hotel. He’s been in the hospitality industry for many years and has seen some of the best, and worst, examples of guest behavior. He shares some tips with us on today’s episode so that you can make the most of your holiday plans.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When did Scott first become interested in hospitality?
Does Scott think people are ruder today?
What are some tips for how to behave towards hospitality workers?
How can people get access to additional perks by being gracious hotel guests?
What are some tips to pack more efficiently?
How can travel etiquette apply to being a house guest?
How can we be gracious hosts while respecting our own boundaries?
How are Marriott’s hotel rooms sanitized during COVID-19?
How are damages and incidentals handled?
All about CrossFit (Scott’s practice and in the hotel!)

Today’s Takeaway: Appropriate and gracious people are kind, and their behavior is characterized by considering the feelings or needs of others. The purpose of the hospitality industry is to provide services that make your stay more enjoyable. Service is defined as “the action of helping or doing work for someone else.” But having someone help you doesn’t entitle a person to treat them in a rude or inconsiderate manner. Instead, it’s so much easier and more appropriate to treat people in a courteous, polite, considerate, and thoughtful way. That’s the very definition of gracious behavior. When we take the time to consider the feelings of others and avoid being hurtful or making someone feel uncomfortable, it’s just better! We feel better about it and we make others feel better. As we heard today, being a gracious hotel guest might even result in rewards or travel perks. Even when we’re not given anything in return, behaving in a gracious and appropriate manner costs nothing. It makes everyone happier; especially YOU. If you’re visiting someone in their home, being a gracious guest will ensure that you’ll be welcomed back. Or, if you’re the host, making your guest feel welcome can help them have a wonderful visit. This holiday season, give yourself and those around you the gift of being kind. It can be one of the best gifts that you’ll give or receive all year. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I think we’re living in a country that’s divided and I think people are COVID-19 fatigued.” — Scott
“I do think the media has shed a broader lens on it, but I do think in the world that we live in today things have escalated for sure.” — Scott
“Being kind and courteous and empathetic is always going to get you a greater result.” — Scott

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit

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With Linda McIntosh, Corporate Director of Communications for The Forbes Company

Do you love to shop? I know I do! Or, are you someone who dreads shopping and has trouble finding exactly what you’re looking for? If the thought of going to the mall fills you with anxiety and online shopping isn’t for you, there may be another solution. Have you ever thought about working with a personal stylist or personal shopper? Did you know that in many of the more popular retail stores these services are complimentary? That’s right… free! Personal shoppers can help you find the perfect outfit for that wonderful holiday party or your next big occasion. A professional stylist will advise you on what’s in style and help you create an entirely fresh image for yourself. They’ll find something that not only fits perfectly but makes you feel like a new person. In addition, a personal shopper can find the ideal gifts for your hard to please loved ones and so much more. Did I mention it’s free?!

My guest today, Linda McIntosh, is the Corporate Director of Communications for The Forbes Company. They operate and own luxury retail mall The Somerset Collection. Linda will tell us all about the personal stylist and shopping services available in the Somerset Collection where they’ll even deliver the items right to your door!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is the difference between a personal stylist and a personal shopper?
Can a personal stylist and shopper be the same person?
Will personal shoppers shop in every store in the mall?
How does the (free) home visit service work?
Do they work with men, women, and children?
How can someone get in touch with the stylists and shoppers?
What is a roaming concierge?
How does a virtual consultation work?
How has the pandemic impacted personal shopping?
Is this only for luxury stores and items?
Can you keep working with a stylist or shopper that you love?
Can you have clothing set aside to try on?
How can personal shoppers help you pack for vacation?
What are the popular holiday gift items this year?

Today’s Takeaway: Contrary to popular belief, brick-and-mortar shopping malls are not going away any time soon. Especially the Somerset Collection! In fact, according to a recent report shopping malls were more crowded in July of this past year than at any time since 2019. But shopping during the holidays is also a time when many people avoid crowded malls when even finding a parking space can be a challenge. So why not have a personal shopper do it for you? If you’re having trouble finding that perfect outfit to wear for a holiday get-together, you can work with an expert who will know exactly where to go and what will best suit your taste and body type. Or, if holiday shopping is your idea of a nightmare, why not let your personal shopper take the frustration and guesswork out of gift-giving? The holidays should be a time for joy, laughter, and sharing good times with your loved ones. So instead of stressing about the holidays this year, let the experts do the shopping for you and make this season a joyous one to remember. Remember that every day is a gift and we should spend it doing the things that are really important to us. Getting help from people who know what they’re doing can save us that precious time. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“We can make your life easier by doing shopping for you or we can enhance your life by changing and helping you enhance your style.” — Linda
“A personal shopper can simply take your list and fulfill it for you.” — Linda
“It is a growing, growing business.” — Linda

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

Somerset Collection

Email: personalstylist@thesomersetcollection.com

Call: (248) 643-6360

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With Susie Feldman, domestic violence survivor

Did you know that since the pandemic began there’s been an alarming increase in the reports of domestic and intimate partner violence? According to a study posted in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, domestic violence cases increased by 25‒33% globally in 2020. Especially concerning is the report that intimate partner violence often goes unreported and underdiagnosed by physicians. If you’re not familiar with the term, the definition of intimate partner violence is “physical, emotional, psychological, or economic abuse, stalking, or sexual harm by a current or former partner or spouse.”

Even now, as the nation mourns the tragic loss of Gabby Petito, a beautiful 22-year-old that died violently at the hands of her boyfriend, many people still don’t fully grasp just how widespread the problem of domestic violence is right now. For example, did you know that according to a published crime statistic, 16% of homicides are committed by a partner? Furthermore, according to the CDC, 25% of women and 10% of men experienced some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime. These statistics are based only on reported cases; most domestic violence cases go unreported. In the case of Gabby Petito, all of the classic signs of a long-term pattern of domestic violence and domestic abuse were present. When the police were called to investigate reports that Brian Laundrie physically assaulted Gabby in full view of several witnesses, instead of pressing charges she took responsibility for the incident by claiming she provoked it and covered for him. This happens all too often in cases of domestic violence where the victim is too afraid or ashamed to report the abuser. Sadly, this wasn’t an isolated incident. With the couple’s relationship being characterized as “turbulent” and “unstable,” the signs were all there but all too often the abuse goes unnoticed while the victim stays silent out of fear, love, or a misguided sense of loyalty. Since domestic violence knows no boundaries and affects all races, ages, religions, genders, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and educational levels, it’s become a universal problem. Given the statistics, the chances of it happening to someone we know is very possible. Would you be able to recognize the signs of domestic violence in another person?

In January of 2020, I interviewed the Director of Philanthropy and Corporate Relations at the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, Susie Feldman. Susie is also a survivor of domestic violence. Despite her courage in escaping her abuser and her resilience in building a wonderful new life for herself and her children, it’s nonetheless a sobering reminder that we never truly know what goes on behind closed doors. In this episode, Susie helps answer some very important questions such as, “How can we help someone else if we suspect abuse? What are the signs? Where can a victim of abuse turn for help?” and more. She courageously shares her story and strength, as well as resources for how to escape an abusive relationship.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Susie talks about the shame and humiliation of falling for someone who abused her.
How and when Susie finally broke her story to her loved ones.
When did Susie’s husband begin the abuse?
Why did Susie “protect” her husband through eight years of marriage?
The ways Susie’s husband began to control her.
What was Susie’s husband’s family life like?
What happened after Susie’s husband was in jail for his abuse?
A tragic story about a fellow abuse victim.
Susie’s process of divorcing her husband and rebuilding her life.
Susie’s advice for abuse victims that want to leave now.
Why does someone become an abuser?
What Susie and her kids’ life is like today.
If someone doesn’t have money and/or a support system to escape but is being abused, what should they do?
Haven provides shelter, therapists, and other resources for domestic abuse victims. You can complete everything online or call the 24-hour Crisis Hotline 1-877-922-1274

Today’s Takeaway: We like to think of our homes as our safe place, but what if someone we know is in an abusive relationship? Right now, families are spending more time together in close quarters and reports of domestic violence are increasing. Victims often stay silent; afraid to confide in even friends or family. That silence takes a toll. Maintaining our emotional health is just as important as maintaining our physical health. During the pandemic, finding a safe haven could be more difficult but make a plan. Knowledge is power. If you or someone you love is in an abusive situation, don’t hesitate to call for help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE. (7233) Every single day is a gift, and we should all feel safe and loved in our own homes. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“This is something that goes on behind closed doors.” — Susie
“Why was I scared? I knew that I was living with someone who was a walking time bomb.” — Susie
“I didn’t want to feel like a failure. I felt like, if I could be successful in life how could I be a failure in my personal life?” — Susie
Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Domestic Abuse Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE

Haven 1-877-922-1274

JFS – Agency Locator

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With M3Linked’s Executive Director MJ Nowak

Are you looking for ways to grow your business or connect with other business leaders in your community? Do you sometimes feel building a supportive business network has been an uphill battle and just out of your reach? Starting a new business takes determination, dedication, and hard work. Timing can be critical and the right connections can make all the difference in the world. When I first started out building my own business and I encountered challenges such as being turned down by banks, I needed to be resilient and creative enough to come up with other solutions. If only I could have talked with other business owners to ask their advice and learn how they succeeded with similar obstacles, but I didn’t have that option back then. Thankfully, today the situation has changed. There’s a wonderful, supportive small business community just looking for ways to help you realize your entrepreneurial dreams.

My guest today, MJ Nowak, is the Executive Director of M3Linked; a business development organization dedicated to building strong and supportive alliances. Since 2019, M3Linked has been facilitating introductions and connecting business communities across the nation. Through weekly events, members find mentors, partners, and others who can support their venture and expand their business opportunities.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How does the M3Linked concept work?
How do people come to M3Linked?
How does M3Linked meet?
How does one become a member of M3Linked?
What are the mastermind groups?
An example of a success story through M3Linked.
What does a typical event look like?
Who are some of the people that come to the meetings?
What is next for M3Linked?

Today’s Takeaway:

At a time when so many businesses continue to struggle in the wake of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to come together as a community to support each other and leverage our strengths. There’s no question that we all benefit from working together. Earlier this year, I was privileged to be the keynote speaker at M3Linked’s kickoff event, and I love interacting with so many enthusiastic people. Their energy and excitement reminded me of my own journey. We never know what life changing business alliances might be just around the corner. Sometimes it’s a single meeting or conversation that can literally change the course of your career. So be bold, be creative, be fearless, and don’t ever stop believing in your dreams. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The best business card we have is from referrals; friends of friends.” - MJ

“You don’t have to entrepreneur on an island. We are here to help you with that.” - MJ

“Our focus right now is to continue to grow around the country to provide these opportunities for small business and entrepreneurs to come together in other metropolitan areas.” - MJ

Brought to You By:

Gardner White Furniture

Mentioned in This Episode:

M3Linked

M3Linked on Linkedin

TEDx Program

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With Public Library Director, Cathy Russ

Do you love to read? Are you in a book club? I’m so grateful to have discovered the love of books at a very young age, and I still love to read. It takes me out of my own life and it gives me a richer, fuller life. Did you know that over the past few years book clubs have grown in popularity? In fact, millions and millions of Americans gather every week in person or virtually to eat, socialize, and discuss their favorite books. Most book clubs are small and consist of 10 or fewer members. During the pandemic, virtual book clubs found their book clubs really growing. Perhaps people rediscovered their love of reading as they spent more time at home, or suddenly found themselves out of work, or needed a way to socialize. Book clubs have become so popular that morning talk shows like TODAY and Good Morning America and well-known celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Jimmy Fallon are sponsoring their own book clubs.

Today reading remains one of the lowest-cost forms of entertainment. For just a few dollars, you can pick up the latest release from your favorite author and be transported to faraway lands and meet characters who will haunt your dreams or live in your memories. Or, like me, you can visit your local library and borrow a book for free. I still love holding a book and I still love going to the library and I still love going to bookstores.

My guest today, Cathy Russ, is the Director of the West Bloomfield Township Public Library. She’s an avid reader and lover of book clubs and has been involved in organizing and facilitating book clubs since 1993. She tells us all about what public libraries today can offer, and it may not be what you think!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How are book clubs organized?
What happens at a book club?
What happens when you don’t like the book that the club chooses?
Are there theme book clubs?
What are the most popular books right now?
Do book clubs ever dive into the classics?
What are “book club kits”?
Why should book clubs register with the library?
What are some of Cathy’s favorite books from this year?
What is The Bestsellers Club?
What services do public libraries offer?
Do you need a membership to use a library?
What are typical public library events?
How is a public library funded?
More about the apps Hoopla and Kanopy.
What is Friends of the Library?

Today’s Takeaway:

Talking about a well-loved book is not only fun but can also enhance our understanding of others who have very different perspectives. By reading and learning about other races, cultures, or philosophies, we put ourselves into the mindsets of those who think and live differently than we do. Discussing particularly thought-provoking books with others can introduce unfamiliar concepts that may be foreign to our experience. Ultimately this may foster a greater sense of unity and actually bring people together or inspire compromise. Instead of observing from a distance, perhaps we may learn the reasons behind their beliefs or actions. At a time when we are so divided as a nation and society, that can only be a good thing. In addition, the public libraries offer so many free resources and the opportunity to participate in fun community events. If you haven’t visited your public library in a while, what are you waiting for? There’s no better gift right now than treating yourself to your new favorite, no challenge book, and taking some much-needed time to pause, read, and reflect. Remember every day is a gift, and it’s a special gift when I can go to a library to read and take myself out of the everyday worries. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Book clubs can be organized in whatever way suits the book club.” - Cathy

“The key to the organization of book clubs is just to make sure everybody’s on the same page, if you will, and that everybody understands what the purpose is there to do.” - Cathy

“Libraries are about information. If you want to learn more about something but you’re not sure how to go about it, talk to your librarian.” - Cathy

“It’s not your grandmother’s library.” - Cathy

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

West Bloomfield Township Public Library

Firekeeper’s Daughter

Thursday Murder Club

The Man Who Died Twice

Hoopla

Kanopy

The Man Who Died Twice: A Thursday Murder Club Mystery

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With Neuroscientist and Professor Dr. Wendy Suzuki

Are you feeling stressed out, worried, and on edge these days? Do you feel distracted and find it difficult to sleep because of all of the “what if” thoughts racing through your mind? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be suffering from anxiety. Many of us have grown so accustomed to these feelings of unease and anxiety in our daily lives, especially during COVID-19, that we just chalk it up to normal life. But for others, the feelings of anxiety can feel so overwhelming it can actually interfere with daily activities. A recent Google study showed that almost 20% of the U.S. population suffers from some sort of anxiety disorder.

But there is help.

My guest today, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, is a noted neuroscientist and Professor of Neural Science and Psychology at the Center for Neural Science at NYU. She wrote a book called Good Anxiety about learning ways to channel those anxious feelings and redirect them for our benefit. According to Dr. Suzuki, we can learn to recognize and refocus our anxiety and use it to improve our lives.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is the study of neuroscience?
What led Wendy to become a neuroscientist?
What is “good anxiety”?
What are some examples of good anxiety in everyday life?
What is Dr. Suzuki’s #1 tool for calming anxiety?
What’s the difference between everyday anxiety and clinical anxiety?
Why are so many more young people experiencing anxiety today?
How does Dr. Suzuki control her anxiety?
How does music affect anxiety and our brains?
What impact does mindset have on anxiety?
What are the top two superpowers of anxiety?
How has Dr. Suzuki benefited from resilience in her own life?
What is tea meditation?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we’re feeling stressed and anxious, we may want to run away as far as we can from the people or situations that trigger us. But people who suffer from severe anxiety often become even more vulnerable and anxious when they try to remove their sources of stress. As humans, we crave connection. The feeling of being supported and understood is vitally important to our well-being. By isolating, the resulting loneliness may make the situation even worse. Instead, for these individuals, seeking treatment with a licensed professional is one of the best ways that you can handle your anxiety. There are so many people available to help us all!

But for everyday anxiety, when we pay attention to how we feel physically and mentally, we may learn to recognize the situations that typically make us anxious. Dr. Wendy Suzuki says that instead of allowing anxiety to control us, we might become more emotionally resilient and better able to handle our everyday stress. We may learn to channel those negative emotions in ways that might make us more productive, focused, and creative. So treat every day as a gift. Breathe, exercise, meditate, put on music… drink tea! Do whatever you can to make yourself feel good. Turn your focus to something positive. We only live once, so every day should be lived to the fullest potential. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Good anxiety is the understanding that, at its core, anxiety and that underlying physiological stress response is evolutionarily protective for us. (It is good! It is actually essential for our survival.)” — Wendy
“At its core, anxiety is a particular kind of brain activation.” — Wendy
“90% of the American public, before the pandemic, raised their hands and said, ‘I experience anxiety.’” — Wendy

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Wendy Suzuki

Good Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of the Most Misunderstood Emotion

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With Actress & Producer, Jane Hajduk

Putting our own needs first might feel uncomfortably selfish when others are counting on us to be there for them. But taking care of ourselves and nurturing our mind, body, and spirit can give us the energy to be fully present for others. When we honor our own needs and feed our spirit, we come away feeling refreshed, recharged, and re-energized. Simple things like meeting a friend for coffee, taking a walk in nature or a relaxing bubble bath, or just simply curling up with a good book are easy ways to practice self-care. But it’s equally important to make sure that our career dreams or lifestyle goals don’t get ignored if we give our all in support of our partner.

In November of last year, Florine recorded an interview with the talented actress and producer, Jane Hajduk. Jane knows the importance of being true to herself and achieving her own individual goals even while her husband is in the public spotlight. In addition to her own successful career where she’s currently producing “Candyland,” an upcoming TV series about life in a VA hospital, Jane’s also the wife of a well-known actor and comedy legend Tim Allen.

Speaking from personal experience on what it takes to successfully navigate Hollywood when your husband is a popular celebrity, Jane shares her thoughts on the importance of maintaining her own career and identity. Even if you’re not married to a Hollywood superstar or working in the entertainment industry, Jane’s words ring true for non-celebrity couples when it feels like one partner’s job or personal needs are prioritized over the other’s.

Welcome to Today’s Takeaway! I’m Florine Mark and my guest is Jane Hajduk. Jane’s a talented actress and TV producer who just happens to be married to comedy legend and movie star, Tim Allen. It can be difficult at times to be married to someone who’s always in the public spotlight. Is it hard to maintain a healthy self-image when you’re in the public eye? How can we be a supportive partner and still make sure that our needs are being met? Jane is going to share with us what it’s like to be the wife of a movie star while maintaining her own identity and successful career and much more, so stick around!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Initially, Jane felt cast aside by her husband’s fans, but eventually, she learned to empathize with their excitement in meeting him.
How Jane first met her famous husband, Tim Allen, at a YMCA charity event.
Jane began her career in dance and aerobics, then as a personal trainer.
How auditions have changed for Jane since becoming a mom and now during the pandemic.
Why Jane decided to pursue acting as a career.
What it’s like meeting other famous actors through Tim and not feeling ignored or overlooked.
Jane’s latest producing project is a TV series called Candyland.
How Jane got involved in supporting veteran’s charities.
What would people be most surprised to learn about Tim Allen?
How Tim and Jane honor and support their favorite philanthropy projects.
What would people be most surprised to learn about Jane?
How Jane and her family have managed to stay sane during the pandemic through theme nights, games, puzzles, and cooking.
The importance of using exercise to cope with anxiety and stress in the pandemic.

Today’s Takeaway: The number of couples suddenly divorcing due to the pandemic has skyrocketed. It’s more important than ever to build strong relationships. Sometimes if the family dynamic is unfairly tilted in favor of one spouse’s needs over the other, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself. The foundation for any healthy relationship comes from first loving and valuing yourself before we can show love to a partner, a friend, a family member, and or even the world. What can you do today to begin building a healthier relationship? Communication is key. One of the first steps we can take in maintaining our own identity and self-esteem is making sure we feel heard. You need to know when to put your needs first. Jane says it’s important to speak up and let others know when “you’re in a funk” or just need some personal space and don’t forget to be grateful for everything you do have today. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I kept thinking my time would come. And really, to be quite honest, I’m still waiting.” — Jane
“I’m a confident person. I’m not a shy person.” — Jane
“Right now, we’re at such odds. We really just need to open up our hearts and our eyes and our ears and listen because so many points are so valid.” — Jane Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Jane Hajduk

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With Attorney and WW Success Story Lisa Timmons

How we feel about ourselves can have a major impact on our emotions and how we appear to the rest of the world. Don’t you feel more social and outgoing on days when you feel your best? The opposite is also true. Do you ever feel like those negative emotions hold you back from acting and feeling how you really want to? When we internalize those feelings, we’re self-sabotaging. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

My guest, Lisa Timmons, learned not to let her feelings get in the way of living life to the fullest. In addition to being a very successful attorney, when you meet Lisa, you see a striking and beautiful woman today. In 2002‒2003 Lisa lost over 200 pounds! But after reaching her goals and achieving so much success, Lisa lost her motivation and put all of the weight back on. Beginning a weight loss or wellness journey for the first time is a big achievement, but when you’ve lost the weight only to regain it, can be truly devastating and our self-esteem suffers. It took Lisa several years, but she found her way back to WW. Today she joins us to tell us what she’s learned and how she’s avoided falling back into the setbacks she encountered before.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is Lisa’s background and when did she begin to gain weight?
How did Lisa begin her career?
Did Lisa’s weight interfere with her career and everyday life?
What was Lisa’s turning point to lose the weight?
How did Lisa gain the weight back?
What was Lisa’s “why” when she lost the weight the second time?
How long did it take Lisa to lose 200 pounds?
How did the pandemic affect Lisa’s wellness journey?
What foods are the toughest for Lisa to avoid?
What does Lisa do differently, now that she’s lost the weight?
What advice would Lisa give someone at home feeling lost in their weight loss journey?

Today’s Takeaway:

Feelings of shame and embarrassment can sabotage our self-confidence. When you’re already feeling bad, beating yourself up only makes the situation worse by reinforcing a negative message. Once we identify what we need to change, we can then take the steps towards correcting it without punishing ourselves in the process. But it’s important to do so in a positive manner. If you're working to change something in your life or yourself, you’re far more likely to be successful when you approach it with a positive attitude. We not only need to be our own best friend and our own cheerleader, but it’s important to have a strong support system as well. Having support when we need it can make all the difference in the world. Don’t let feelings of self-doubt prevent you from being your best self. Share your challenges and goals with others who can support your accomplishments and you can help support theirs. All of us have times when we struggle and feel inadequate. We all have days where we feel out of sorts. A great way to overcome obstacles is to face them head-on. Remember that each day is a gift and we have to take it one day at a time. Look into the mirror and say, “Today is a good one and I can do anything I want to do!” Go ahead and take the first step towards making your dream a reality. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“When you live a sedentary life you kind of merge with people that are living a sedentary life as well.” — Lisa

“Living a life as a heavy person you think differently than thin people.” — Lisa

“You move differently in the world when you’re that heavy.” — Lisa

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

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With Board-Certified Music Therapist Miriam Sherk

When I think of music, I know how much it lifts my spirits and brightens my day. But for some individuals, listening to music or playing an instrument is a behavioral therapy tool that can treat a variety of physical, mental, and emotional issues. For someone who can’t speak or communicate with others, music and the creative process could be the key to unlocking their ability to communicate. Just as Anne Sullivan used sign language to open up an entire world for Helen Keller, music therapy might help certain individuals communicate and connect socially. For example, for an individual recovering from a stroke or an autistic teen that doesn’t respond to others, a qualified music therapist can use music to open communication avenues that had been previously blocked. By using music to communicate with their therapist, that person is able to express themselves and interact with others. Music therapy can also treat conditions such as cognitive or developmental disabilities, dementia, or mental illness. In working with dementia patients, music therapy has been shown to aid memory and recall, calm anxiety, and even help manage pain and discomfort.

My guest today, Miriam Sherk, is a board-certified music therapist and the founder of Ann Arbor Music Therapy. She tells us all about how she helps patients and improves their quality of life through music.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is Miriam’s background?
What is a Board-Certified Music Therapist?
What is it like being a Music Therapist?
Do Miriam and her family play music outside of work?
What inspired Miriam to choose this career?
What does music do for dementia patients?
How does music therapy help people with mental illnesses?
How does Miriam determine a course of treatment?
More about drum machines and percussion for therapy.
Miriam shares an incredible success story.
More about Miriam’s work in private practice.
Miriam and Florine sing us off!

Today’s Takeaway:

Music has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. Just listening to music brings a smile to my face and puts me in a better frame of mind, but I’ve also personally experienced how music can help heal us. Years ago when I was recovering from surgery, I became allergic to pain medication and instead used music to help manage my pain. Now, when I think of music, I think of all the ways it can transform the lives of others. Being able to communicate and feel a connection with others is one of the greatest joys of life. I can’t imagine how difficult it is for someone who can’t speak or communicate, but if music could help someone express themselves just think how amazing that could be. Using music to unlock communication skills, calm emotions, or trigger memories might be just the beginning of what’s possible. Connecting people through music is what music therapy is all about. Helping a stroke patient who can’t verbalize words but can communicate their thoughts through song is truly a miracle. We’ve all had times where we struggle, feel depressed, or just out of sorts. Instead of giving in to your anger or sadness, why not put on some music and sing and dance your cares away? It might not make your problems disappear, but it will make you feel better. It really worked for me! So go ahead and give yourself the gift of music. Today is a gift. Use music to make that day even better! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“It can be really rewarding sometimes engaging folks who just are really not engaging successfully with many other clinicians or people on the treatment team.” — Miriam

“The wonderful thing about musical therapy training is that it’s such a diversified training that a big portion of my training was in psychology or psychiatric work.” — Miriam

“The beautiful thing about music therapy with somebody with dementia is that music engages our global brain functioning.” — Miriam

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ann Arbor Music Therapy

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With WDIV Style Editor Jon Jordan

The events of the last two years may have had a very significant impact on how we feel about our physical appearance. Since we were spending more time at home rather than in public, we began dressing much differently. We dress more casually and have minimized our daily makeup routine. After more than a year of avoiding crowds and socializing, now we want to step out looking and feeling our best. But what if we’ve lost or gained weight during the quarantine and our clothes no longer fit? Or we’re feeling self-conscious because we stopped wearing makeup and styling our hair? If you feel like you don’t know what’s currently in style, you’re not alone. We may even question what’s appropriate to wear out. Leggings, jeans, and nice tops are all fine for Zoom, but are they considered acceptable business attire in the office? When we look in the mirror first thing in the morning, the way we see ourselves can set the tone for the entire day. Research has proven how a mind-body connection exists and our mood can affect our skin, our hair, and even our posture! If we believe we are not looking our best, that lack of self-confidence can truly affect how we feel. For some of us, putting on a touch of makeup every morning may be the key to helping us feel good about our appearance. For others, putting on makeup may feel like an unnecessary burden that requires too much time or an expertise we just don’t have. We all have our own unique idea about what makes us feel good about ourselves.

If you're looking for new ways to refresh your look, this episode is for you. My guest today, Jon Jordan, is the style editor at NBC station, WDIV. Jon says that with so many tips and tricks available, looking our best can be effortless and easy. You can step out the door with self-confidence that you look good and it will make you feel good.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is Jon’s background?
What are Jon’s thoughts on makeup trends and makeup for different ages?
What are lash extensions and are they worth it?
Tips on using lipstick and blush.
What about makeup for men?
Skincare tips for men and women.
Is there a difference between expensive and drugstore makeup and skincare?
What procedures help with skin correction?
What should we be wearing now?
What is a capsule collection?
Jon’s thoughts on leggings.
How to get a personal shopper… for free!

Today’s Takeaway:

It’s so important we do everything we can to look and feel our best. We wouldn’t think twice about spending money on our house or a new set of tires, and yet so often we tend to put our self-care needs on the back burner. There’s always something else that takes priority! Don't we deserve to take good care of ourselves too? So go ahead. Empower yourself to be fabulous. If there’s something that’s been holding you back and making you feel less than, now might be the perfect time to make a change. When you look in that mirror and like what you see, you feel better and you have a much better day. The holidays are a perfect time to treat yourself to a facial or a makeover or collaborate with a personal shopper to develop your own unique sense of style. Whatever it is that will make you feel like a brand new and improved version of yourself, why not do it? We only have one life and today is a gift. I want to look and feel my very best. Every day should be treated as a precious gift to ourselves. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Having a sense of style, making a little bit of an effort does make everybody feel better if when they look in the mirror they like what they see. It has to color your day.” — Jon

“It’s important to keep your skin moist. It’s important to use a sunscreen 365 days of the year no matter where you live.” — Jon

“The brave new world of injectables is kind of astounding.” — Jon

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Jon Jordan — WDIV

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Entertaining over the past year has been very challenging. Long awaited milestone celebrations and annual events were repeatedly postponed, rescheduled or cancelled outright. For those planned events that did take place, numerous safety precautions and a pared down guest list were typical. But through it all, we managed to persevere and despite the numerous changes, the celebrations were beautiful, meaningful and everyone enjoyed themselves. In November of last year, Florine recorded a podcast with special events party planner, Julie Yaker, who shared some great tips and strategies for entertaining safely in the midst of a global pandemic. Her ideas are as fresh and relevant today as they were one year ago.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Julie specializes in not just making an event look beautiful but also meaningful and purposeful.
Rather than postponing weddings or major life events scheduled in the next six months, Julie recommends scaling back or modifying the events to be COVID-19-safe.
People are still finding joy in events, even though they are different.
Some techniques Julie recommends to be COVID-19-safe include masks, social distancing, utilizing outdoor spaces, individualized food and drink containers, personalized gifts, drive-by receiving lines, and more.
At this current time, staying home is really the best way to celebrate the holidays.
You can still find ways to make the holidays meaningful, whether it is virtual or in-person, through staging outdoor events in garages and in keeping old or creating new traditions.
For our mental health, Julie recommends “dressing up” for the event as you normally would, even if it’s just staying at home.
Today’s Takeaway: It’s important to find the joy in our everyday lives, especially around the holidays, and practice gratitude for the things that we do have. We don’t have to put our lives on hold, but we do have to be sensible about it. While attending events right now doesn’t look like it used to, we can still find creative ways to celebrate and find meaning.

Quotes:

“Is it exactly what everybody envisions or dreams of? No. But I do think there are ways to really make it special and meaningful. We just have to kind of twist what we think the traditional event is going to look like for right now.”
“Right now, I really do think we should stay home, be with who lives in our house and find a way to make it special with the larger family.”
“Maybe there are ways within your own family that you can create some new traditions.”
“Stay safe and celebrate! Don’t give up the happy moments.”

Brought To You By:

FLORINE MARK WW Group

Eye Catcher Events

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With Top Attorney, Narcissism Negotiation Expert, & Popular YouTube Host, Rebecca Zung

Do you sometimes feel as if someone close to you is controlling how you think and behave? Do you ever feel like someone else is calling the shots or feel that you’ve been manipulated into responding a certain way? If this sounds familiar, perhaps you’ve got a narcissist in your life. When we hear the term “narcissist” we typically think of someone who is extremely self-centered or so caught up in their own agenda that they dismiss the wishes and feelings of those around them. Spending time with a narcissist can prove challenging, but for someone diagnosed with a narcissistic personality disorder, the impact can be far more damaging. Dealing with this type of individual can wreak havoc on our lives and emotions. Their emotional abuse can be draining and downright exhausting. You may feel personally attacked, misunderstood, or even defeated. There are strategies that we can learn to help us communicate more effectively and avoid being controlled or manipulated or drawn into someone else’s controversy.

My guest today, Rebecca Zung, is a Narcissism Negotiation Expert, one of the Top 1% of attorneys in the country, and bestselling author of Negotiate Like You M.A.T.T.E.R. She also has a widely popular YouTube channel and podcast. Rebecca has appeared in publications such as Forbes, Huffington Post, Newsweek, and has been a guest on Extra and NPR. She is passionate about teaching others how to communicate effectively and not fall victim to a narcissist’s tactics.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What exactly is a narcissist?
What is the difference between a controlling person and a narcissist?
What are some traits and characteristics of narcissists?
Why is it so hard to communicate with narcissists?
What is Rebecca’s “Slay” strategy in dealing with narcissists?
What is gaslighting and what are some examples?
How do narcissists groom and condition people?
Can a narcissist “get better”?
How can you manage a relationship or interaction with a narcissist?

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“Because they have no inner sense of value, they just don’t have the ability to have any sense of care or empathy for other people.” — Rebecca

“The diamond level supply for a narcissist is always going to be how it looks; their reputation and how they look to the community is always, always, always more important than anything else.” — Rebecca

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Crush My Negotiation Worksheet

Rebecca Zung website

Rebecca Zung on YouTube

Rebecca Zung on Instagram

Rebecca Zung on Twitter

Negotiate Your Best Life podcast

Negotiate Like You M.A.T.T.E.R.: The Sure-Fire Method to Step Up and Win

“Gaslighting is something that all narcissists do.” — Rebecca

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With Sarah Eldridge, WW Member

The feelings of grief and the toll it takes on our lives and emotions can be devastating. If we’re mourning the loss of a loved one, reeling from the end of a relationship or the loss of a job, the crushing feelings of sadness and loss can seem overwhelming. There are days it feels like we will never be happy again. What if, instead of giving in to those feelings, we could channel our grief in a positive way to do something really beneficial for ourselves or others? What if we were to use this as an opportunity to change ourselves and improve our lives in ways we could never imagine?

Today’s guest, Sarah Eldridge, lost her father in 2012 from complications from a serious fall. The life lessons that Sarah took away from that sudden loss motivated her to make positive changes in her own life.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Sarah tells us about what her father was like.
How her Dad’s death inspired her to make changes in her own life.
Did Sarah’s friends and family support her journey?
When did Sarah notice a change in herself?
What was Sarah’s biggest challenge?
What kind of self-care did Sarah do?
What does Sarah do differently, now that she’s lost weight?
What is some advice Sarah would give to people struggling?

Today’s Takeaway:

When we experience a devastating loss, it’s only natural to want to give in to our pain. But remember that the best way to move forward through our grief is to use it as a motivation. We can learn from the mistakes of others and avoid making those same mistakes ourselves. We can “direct our pain” to accomplish a meaningful goal. Just as Sarah demonstrated, sometimes an overwhelming emotion can provide the added strength and determination we need to succeed. When she committed to lose weight and begin her wellness journey, she was honoring her father’s memory with every pound she lost. By channeling our grief in positive ways, we might also inspire others in their quest by providing education or awareness. Or perhaps we can pay tribute and honor those we’ve lost. Out of great pain can sometimes come great beauty. Our losses don't have to define us. Instead, we can choose to let them inspire us. Remember that every day is a gift, and yesterday’s loss just might be the start of tomorrow’s beginning. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“My father was a man that, if you met him, you loved him.” — Sarah

“I did it for me. I did it for my own health and I did it because I wanted to love me more.” — Sarah

“It really gave me the courage to kind of branch out.” — Sarah

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Florine Mark

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With Bestselling Author and Silicon Valley Journalist Brad Stone

There’s no question that technology has made a big impact on our lives, first in the workplace and now at home. While we may be busier than ever, technology helps us manage our fast-paced lifestyles. Think of all the ways companies like Amazon may save us time by providing a single website where we can research products, compare, and purchase items with a single click. Our Alexa devices turn lights on/off, provide news and weather reports, entertain us with jokes and music, and even provide cooking tips! Of course, my favorite request is asking Alexa to play the latest episode of “Today’s Takeaway with Florine Mark.” But there’s no denying that being able to purchase anything and have it delivered to our homes is an amazing convenience. When Jeff Bezos initially imagined an online store where customers could purchase literally everything and have it delivered, he wasn’t far off the mark. But of course, that was only the beginning.

Journalist and author, Brad Stone, probably knows Jeff Bezos better than anyone after extensively researching and writing two books about him and the evolution of his global empire. His first book, The Everything Store, described the birth of Amazon.com during the early years. His latest book, Amazon Unbound, is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look into Bezos’ astronomical fortune and the explosive growth of the largest retailer in the world.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

What is Jeff Bezos like?
How did Brad decide to write his first book, The Everything Store?
More about Brad’s second book, Amazon Unbound.
Why is Jeff Bezos a genius entrepreneur but a controversial employer?
What are some of Jeff Bezos’ biggest mistakes?
How has Amazon contributed to the collapse of retail stores?
Why did Amazon buy Whole Foods?
What are the Amazon Fresh stores?
What is Amazon Web Services?
How does Costco compare to Amazon?
What is Amazon’s next move?
What has been the impact of Alexa in our homes?
What about privacy with the advancement of technology?
Does Brad have thoughts on Andy Jassy as the new Amazon CEO?
How involved will Bezos be with Amazon, going forward?

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the most amazing success stories of our generation has been the explosive growth of Amazon. By 2015, Amazon became the fastest-growing company to surpass $1B in sales and employ more than 1 million people by 2020. Amazon’s annual revenues surged to over $380B. During the pandemic, Amazon became the one-stop shop for virtually all of our needs by delivering in-demand items at a time where brick and mortar stores had empty shelves. Today Amazon continues to provide employment opportunities throughout the world including right here in the Detroit area. Amazon not only changed our shopping habits but also transformed how we interact with technology in our homes. Alexa may be leading the way with smart home devices today, but according to a recent article in Time, the future of artificial intelligence is still in its infancy. 10 years from now, experts predict the smartest devices will be able to learn our habits and preferences, anticipate our needs, and initiate tasks automatically. There is also a growing concern with how smart devices like Alexa conflict with our need for privacy and impact our social lives. Although Alexa and Amazon have made staying at home easier, it’s important to remember that there is no substitute for socializing in person. I’m a hugger, and I can’t do that over the Internet. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“This is the most focused person in the world.” — Brad

“Why is Jeff Bezos a genius entrepreneur but a controversial employer?” — Florine

“I don’t think it’s right to say his life is based on a series of mistakes. I would say his life is based on ingenuity, and being far-sighted, and seeing technological advancements before anyone else.” — Brad

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

BradStone.Com

The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon, by Brad Stone

Amazon Unbound: Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire, by Brad Stone

Amazon.com

The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon

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With Weight Loss Success Story Anne Linsangan

Did you know that having a diet or workout buddy can really make a big difference in achieving your health and fitness goals? A recent study found that 70% of people who exercise with a friend or partner achieved their desired goal. Finding another person to exercise with can provide an added layer of commitment and accountability. A study conducted by ExerciseFriends.Com showed that individuals who checked in two to three times a week with a friend to share their weight loss progress enjoyed a success rate of over 89%! Making the commitment to reach your goals together provides additional support as you begin a new diet regimen or fitness routine. It’s truly a win-win scenario to both celebrate each other’s success and hold each other compatible. It’s not only more fun to have a companion, but if you feel unmotivated, an exercise buddy can provide friendly competition and added motivation to get you started. And keep you going!

Today we revisit my interview with Anne Linsangan from April of 2019. As a result of their successful health and fitness journey, Anne and her husband have appeared on the Today Show and in People magazine. Together they lost an astounding 250 pounds. They hope to inspire others in their weight loss journey and she shares with us how they did it.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

More about Anne’s childhood and personal story.
When did Anne begin to put on extra weight?
How did Anne lose 60 pounds the first time around?
What Anne’s WW experience was like.
When did Anne lose her weight the second time?
How does Anne monitor her daughter’s diet?
What does a typical day and meal look like for Anne’s family?
What were some of the most helpful things from WW meetings?
What was it like being on the Today Show?
What was the People magazine interview like?
How did Anne get her whole family involved in her health & fitness journey?
How Anne decided to run half marathons.
Does Anne still go out to eat?

Today’s Takeaway:

I love to exercise! Actually, that’s not true, but I do it because it also helps me to feel good and look better. It’s not that I hate exercise, but sometimes I get up in the morning and doubt if I can actually do it. Or, I’ll come up with excuses to delay it. But once I get started, I always feel better!

If you’re looking to be more active or fit, there are many benefits to working out with a partner. Having an exercise buddy can inspire you to try new fitness challenges or push yourself harder. Just like Anne and her husband discovered how much they really enjoyed running marathons together, you and a friend or partner might discover your special thing. The only people that fail are the people that don’t try. Don’t forget, just as your workout buddy can inspire you, you can help them achieve their goals. The support you provide to each other can be invaluable. So commit to holding each other accountable! If your partner is having a rough day and wants to skip a workout, don’t let them off the hook so easily! Even a modified workout is better than not working out at all. You may be surprised how once the endorphins start flowing, you’ll want to keep going. Find a routine that you truly enjoy so you’ll be inspired to do it...together! Give yourself the gift of life every single day, and be sure to eat those fruits and vegetables! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“You find people that you connect with that are going through the same struggles as you are...that have the same challenges.” - Anne

“It feels really good for people you haven’t seen in a while to do that double take.” - Anne

“This doesn’t happen overnight. We are working on building a healthy lifestyle and working on how to balance this weight loss life with real life.” - Anne

“It really became a family-oriented weight loss journey.” - Anne

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

ExerciseFriends.Com

Anne’s People Article

Anne on the Today Show

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With Sleep Medicine Specialist Dr. David Gessert

Does a good night’s sleep come easy to you? Or do you struggle to unwind, unplug, and get the rest that your body is craving? Do you wake up constantly throughout the night, or find it hard to fall asleep in the first place? Just like nourishing our bodies with healthy, nutritious meals, getting enough exercise, and spending quality time with loved ones and outdoors, quality sleep is essential to our overall health. And while it may seem like a luxury, without enough sleep each night, we put our bodies at risk for serious medical conditions, and might even shorten our lifespan.

My guest today, Dr. David Gessert, is an American Board of Internal Medicine certified doctor who specializes in sleep medicine and sleep disorders. He is here to explain how too little sleep can really damage our health and shares simple ways that we can improve our chances of getting a really good night’s sleep.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did David get involved in sleep medicine?
What is sleep deprivation?
How much sleep should adults aim to get every night?
How much sleep do children and teenagers need?
What are the five categories of sleep disorders?
What is sleep apnea and why do people snore?
How can some people function on very little sleep?
Is it healthy to sleep 9-11 hours a night?
Is it possible to catch up on lost sleep?
What is included in healthy sleep hygiene?
Does lack of sleep cause weight gain?
How does loss of sleep affect your immune system and mental health?
How can you combat chronic sleep deprivation?
What is involved in sleep apnea testing and treatments?
How can someone work with Dr. David Gessert?

Today’s Takeaway:

A chronic lack of sleep is not only exhausting and leaves us feeling tired and irritable, but it can also be extremely damaging to our health. It’s not just our physical health that can be affected — a chronic lack of sleep can also trigger bouts of extreme anxiety, depression, and even weight gain. But the good news is there are many ways to make up for lost sleep, like practicing good sleep hygiene. Making positive changes by creating a healthy bedtime routine might help you sleep better at night. Identify the factors that are preventing you from getting your best night’s sleep. Eliminate caffeine and power drinks after midday, reduce your alcohol consumption, practice meditation or deep breathing, and avoid heavy meals before bedtime. By providing our body with the adequate rest it needs, we are not only able to perform at our best the following day, but we’re able to be there for our loved ones as well. Remember, every day is a gift, and the gift of a good night’s sleep is a gift we need to give ourselves.

Quotes:

“A lot of the really good quality sleep comes at the end of a long stretch of sleep.” — David

“For people who continuously don’t get enough sleep, their performance continues to decline.” — David

“It’s not really possible to catch up on sleep. You have to maintain getting adequate sleep each night.” — David

“Simple fixes can have a very large difference in your sleep quality.” — David

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

David Gessert, MD

Make an appointment with Dr. Gessert or call 313-916-4417

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With Master Gardener and Permaculture Design Instructor Paige Payne

Do you ever want to just get away and escape to someplace peaceful, tranquil, and above all, private? A place where you could get away from your phone, kids, or other stresses of everyday life so you could just read, relax, or meditate. How wonderful would it be if it were only steps away and you could go there whenever you wanted? Can you imagine a secluded spot filled with greenery right in your own backyard? Or, if you don’t have a yard, learn how you can create this space indoors?

My guest today, Paige Payne, is a master gardener and certified permaculture design instructor. She is an expert in sustainability for landscape design and loves to share her passion with clients and students. She talks with us about how to design the perfect meditation garden and relaxation retreat — outdoors or indoors!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How did Paige get started working with plants?
How did studying anthropology lead Paige to working with plants?
What is Permaculture Design and how to implement it at home?
How does landscaping impact our holistic health and wellness?
Can you also plant food where flowers are?
What is a meditation or tranquility garden?
What are some of the elements to consider for the garden?
How to protect your garden from natural elements and animals.
How do you know which flowers to plant and where?
How can someone work with Paige’s Online Landscape Designs?

Today’s Takeaway:

There is a reason why meditation and tranquility gardens have recently become so popular. Finding that “me time” away from the demands of the day really helps to improve mood and mental wellbeing. Sometimes it’s exhausting and mentally taxing to be on call throughout the day in response to the needs of others. Taking 5 or 10 minutes to breathe, relax, and re-center ourselves can make all the difference in the world. If you’re already practicing meditation you know how beneficial that time is, so why not do it in a beautiful setting? Do you sometimes find it challenging to quiet your mind and begin your practice? How much easier would it be to achieve that meditative state if you had that perfect tranquil spot to escape to? Surrounding ourselves with beauty and greenery might help us forget our problems or reboot after a stressful day. Connecting with nature is one of the healthiest ways to sustain ourselves mentally and spiritually. Remember to give yourself the gift of time and serenity by creating an indoor or outdoor space just for you. Let the beautiful sounds that nature provides take you away. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Nature has always been my happy place.” — Paige

“I do think that there is a definite impact on people based on their natural environment and their connection to it.” — Paige

“You’re part of a larger whole. It’s not just you; you’re connected to all of your surroundings and those influence your health.” — Paige

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Online Landscape Designs

“How to Create a Meditation Garden”

Paige Payne on Instagram

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With Health Promotion and Human Performance Professor, Dr. Tony Moreno

Daily exercise is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy body and a healthy mind. In addition to toning our muscles and possibly losing weight, regular exercise releases endorphins that may help fight depression and sadness. Exercise boosts our mood and energizes us — I always feel better and have more energy after exercising.

If you ever feel like you’re stuck doing the same exercises day after day, or like you just can’t find the time to fit more exercise into your busy schedule, this episode is for you. These days it’s easier than ever to stay active, and my conversation with Dr. Tony Moreno is filled with tips and ideas to help get you moving. Tony is a professor in the School of Health Promotion and Human Performance at Eastern Michigan University and he’s here to explain the concept of physical literacy. With just a few simple changes you can include more physical activity in your daily routine without even feeling that you’re exercising.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Where is Tony originally from and what led him to Detroit?
Why is it important to exercise almost every day?
Does your body need to rest from exercise during the week?
How can exercise help to overcome burnout?
What is physical literacy and its connection to your health and well-being?
How can you stay physically active beyond traditional exercises?
How can you gain confidence in your physical movement?
How can you change the narrative surrounding your exercise?
Where can you gain the education needed to increase your physical literacy?
What exercises can be modified to best suit your abilities at any age?
How can you improve your balance every single day?
What time of the day is ideal for exercise?
What is a fit desk and how can it help you exercise at work?
What is kinesiology and what area of it does Tony teach?
What is biomechanics?
How did Tony earn an appointment on the governor’s council on physical fitness and what initiatives is the council working on?

Today’s Takeaway:

In addition to improving our mood and mindset, daily exercise can help with weight management, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of injury. Regular exercise improves your heart health and your oxygen flow, builds muscle tone and strength, and might even reduce high blood sugar. Studies show that many people view exercise as a chore, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I know I want to take care of myself and live to be 120, and look and feel good, and continue on exercising. Using a fitness watch or other device to track your daily steps or physical activity can really help motivate you to exercise more. In addition, exercise with a workout buddy and a little friendly competition is not only fun, it helps motivate us on the days when we find it a little harder to get started. So start sharing your fitness activity and hold each other accountable. If you’re bored with your daily workout routine, try something different. There are so many fun classes out there to discover. Try something different, mix it up and challenge yourself! Even if you don’t have time for a daily workout, simple changes can make a difference. It’s never too late to get started. Treat your body like the gift that it is and just keep moving. You might feel better, sleep better and it just might improve your mental sharpness.

Quotes:

“We know that physical movement has a very strong association with good physical and mental health.” — Tony Moreno

“Not being personally fulfilled or excited about what we do on a daily basis can lend itself to some of these mental health issues, and physical activity can combat that.” — Tony Moreno

“You are responsible for maintaining purposeful physical activity throughout your lifespan.” — Tony Moreno

“If it’s fun, and you enjoy it, and you’re passionate about it, you’re more likely to do it.” — Tony Moreno

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Tony Moreno

Michigan Fitness

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With New York Times Bestselling Author, Heather Armstrong

Did you know that one in four adults in the United States suffers from depression? Depression rates among teenagers and children are on the rise as well. The events of the past 18 months have put us all on edge, leading to feelings of fear, uncertainty, and grief. For many of us, these feelings were temporary but for those battling clinical depression, their symptoms became almost paralyzing and severely compromised their day-to-day life. What are the symptoms of depression and when is it serious enough to get help?

If excessive worrying, feelings of sadness, and difficulty concentrating are accompanied by an inability to eat, sleep, or function normally, then it might be time to seek professional help. My guest today understands this battle all too well. Heather Armstrong is the New York Times bestselling author of The Valedictorian of Being Dead: The True Story of Dying Ten Times to Live. When I interviewed Heather in June of 2019, Heather shared the story of her battle with depression that led her to a clinical trial which left her clinically brain dead for several minutes. She described what led her to such an extreme treatment, as well as how to know when it’s time to seek professional help, as well as how to support others who might be struggling with depression.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Heather’s education and career path?
How did Heather meet her husband?
When did Heather first recognize signs of depression in her life?
Who in Heather’s family also battles depression and anxiety?
What is it like living with crippling depression?
How does Heather recognize the signs and symptoms of depression?
Does exercise help combat depression?
What role did Heather’s family play in supporting her?
What medication helped Heather the most?
How did Heather voluntarily die 10 times?
Did Heather find new love while battling her depression?
What is ECT treatment and how does it “reset” the brain?
How long was Heather in the hospital, and who took care of her family?
Heather reveals her experience with depression since her treatment.
How does Heather aid her children with their depression?
Heather’s advice for supporting someone with depression.

Today’s Takeaway:

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, it’s important to realize that help is available. New medications and treatments are being developed all the time. After years of struggling, Heather finally found a treatment that worked for her, but every person is different and what works for one person might not be right for you. Keep searching until you find the best treatment for your symptoms. Your best solution could still be out there. Whatever you try, remember that every single day is a gift. When you’re at your lowest point, I hope you can remember that this too shall pass and there is a tomorrow. If you are having suicidal thoughts, please reach out and pick up the phone. Help is only a phone call away. Call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Quotes:

“I was very depressed as a child, I just never expressed it outwardly.” — Heather Armstrong

“I had resigned myself to the idea that I was never going to want to live or be happy.” — Heather Armstrong

“I really do think that getting better through this treatment is what opened my heart to my new love.” — Heather Armstrong

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Heather B. Armstrong

The Valedictorian of Being Dead: The True Story of Dying Ten Times to Live, by Heather Armstrong

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With Gayle Schindler, Professional Chef and Food Writer

One of the unique silver linings that the pandemic presented to so many of us was the opportunity to fine-tune our skills in the kitchen. Whether dabbling as a beginner or creating master-level culinary art, the common theme for all of us was the chance to enjoy quality time in the kitchen. But just how healthy are the meals — and treats — that we create for ourselves? Too often cooking at home requires a trip to the supermarket followed by hours of prepping and cooking, but that doesn’t have to be the case. When you start with a well-stocked pantry and freezer, the meal possibilities are endless.

My guest today knows how to stock the pantry to make healthy at-home cooking the easy choice. Gale Schindler is a professional chef, food writer, and blogger who has joined us to share her passion for cooking.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Gayle recounts the delicious life experiences that developed into her passion for cooking.
Where does Gayle get the ideas for her recipes?
What are the best fresh produce options to keep on hand?
Why should you consider shopping at your local farmers’ market?
How should fresh produce be stored in your kitchen?
The benefits of keeping frozen vegetables on hand.
Simple ideas for cooking edamame, cauliflower rice, green beans, and more.
Gayle’s simplest recipe includes veggies, protein, crunchy elements, and flavorful dressings.
What does Gayle write about in her food column?
What can you cook with the trendy recipe staple chili peppers?
How should you flavor your food beyond salt?
The difference a good sharp knife will make in your kitchen.
Perfecting caramelized onions, adding garlic, and using oil sprays.
What makes a meal easy and simple?
How can you quickly and safely defrost frozen chicken?
What are the benefits of preparing and eating healthy food at home?

Today’s Takeaway:

If you think cooking dinner from scratch has to involve a trip to the supermarket, followed by hours of prepping and cooking, then you’re missing out. With a little bit of creativity and a properly stocked pantry, fridge, and freezer you can have a fresh, healthy, and delicious home-cooked meal on the table in less time than it takes to order a pizza. Preparing meals at home also gives us the option of incorporating plenty of healthy ingredients. When you start with a well-stocked pantry and freezer, the meal possibilities are endless. And when we control what goes into our meals, we can also choose what we leave out, namely, trans fat and unnecessary sugar and salt. When eating at home we don’t have to be tempted to order those beautiful calorie-laden desserts either. Remember, every day is a gift and by having a well-stocked pantry you cut down on those last-minute pizza deliveries. It’s good for your wallet, good for your health, and good for your body.

Quotes:

“Farmers markets are a great place to get good ideas and to try new things.” — Gayle Schindler

“Next to fresh, frozen vegetables are your best second option.” — Gayle Schindler

“The vast majority of people eat the same food every single week.” — Gayle Schindler

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Joy of Cooking, by Irma S. Rombauer, Marion Rombauer Becker, et al.

Debbie Meyer green boxes

Debbie Meyer green bags

How to Stock Your Kitchen & Cook Quick, Easy Meals with Ingredients You Keep on Hand: A Book of Tips & Recipes, by Gayle Schindler

Kugel Chronicles

Debbie Meyer GreenBoxes 32 Piece Set – Keeps Fruits, Vegetables, Baked Goods and Snacks Fresh Longer, Reusable, BPA Free, Microwave and Dishwasher Safe, Made in USA

Debbie Meyer GreenBags 20-Pack (8M, 8L, 4XL) – Keeps Fruits, Vegetables, and Cut Flowers, Fresh Longer, Reusable, BPA Free, Made in USA

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With Bestselling Author Helen Ellis

Our relationships with our closest girlfriends are one of the most important, life-affirming relationships that we have. While male relationships are important, female friends not only provide companionship and validate our feelings, but they also provide emotional support and comfort us through the roughest of times. How often have you shared something in confidence with your best girlfriend that you wouldn’t tell anybody else?

My guest, Helen Ellis, is the author of Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light. It’s a delightful and funny collection of essays about cherished, long-term friendships among women. She highlights the intimate things we discuss with our girlfriends that we might not share with our spouses or our families because maybe they’re just a little bit too intimate (or embarrassing), but not for your girlfriend. Written with humor about real-life issues that we’re fearful of discussing in public or with anyone outside of our close circle, Helen describes the heartwarming, bittersweet side of long-term friendships and growing older together. Chosen as one of our PureWow’s “The 18 Best Beach Reads of Summer 2021”, this amusing and insightful book makes a great addition to your summer reading list.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was it like for Helen moving from Alabama to NYC?
How did Helen meet her husband?
What was Helen’s education and career path?
What was it like working for Chanel?
What does Helen think makes women from the South different?
Why did Helen decide to write a book about female friendships?
What is a “second-best friend”?
What are Helen’s different friend groups?
Why does the book focus only on female friendships?
Why does Helen think women 5‒10 years older than you make the best friends?
How does Helen find her groups of friends?
How can you tell when someone is a very good friend?
What does Helen do when a friend hurts her feelings or has a vastly different opinion?
Why does Helen think laughing is so important?

Today’s Takeaway:

Helen’s book, Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light, demonstrates how sharing your feelings with your closest girlfriends and looking at our situation with humor may see us through the darkest of times. Talking through your fears with a close girlfriend might provide a solution or motivate you to take the next best step for yourself. At the very least, it may help us see the humor in our lives. And we could all do with a bit more laughter these days. A good sense of humor makes it easier to cope when you don’t feel well or you’re in pain. Laughter really is the best medicine. When we laugh, we release endorphins that not only lift our mood but might improve our health. Laughter helps us navigate the daily frustrations of life. When we’re able to see our situation in its proper perspective, it might even improve our social life. People are drawn to others who make them laugh. Carl Reiner said if we keep laughing, we’ll live forever. At the very least, it certainly makes life more enjoyable. Remember that every day is a gift, so get out there and live, laugh, and enjoy every moment. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Bring Your Baggage and Don’t Pack Light

Southern Lady Code

American Housewife

Helen Ellis on Twitter

Quotes:

“I wrote another book and no one would publish it. And then I wrote another book, no one would publish it. I wrote a third book, no one would publish it… and then I quit writing for years.” — Helen

“When your best friend isn’t available and you call me, I will show up and help you!” — Helen

“Being the second-best friend is a good gig if you can get it. I’m number 2! I’m number 2!” — Helen

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With Dr. Jonathan Fellows, Board Certified Neurology Specialist

Now that the worst of the pandemic is hopefully behind us, things are definitely changing for the better compared to just a year ago. For most of us, although our lives may be forever changed by the events of the past year, we can resume our (nearly) normal lifestyle. But for a number of COVID-19 patients who are still experiencing lingering symptoms, their lives feel anything but normal. Long after recovering from the virus itself, these COVID-19 patients are experiencing ongoing neurological symptoms such as mental fog, fatigue, dizziness, loss of smell or taste, muscle weakness, and numbness in their hands and feet. Or, in severe cases, seizures, strokes, and delirium. Why do some patients recover quickly while others develop these ongoing and lingering symptoms? And once these symptoms appear, can someone fully recover?

My guest today, Dr. Jon Fellows, is a board-certified neurology specialist here to answer our questions along with other tips for neurological health.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the most common neurological symptoms that COVID-19 patients are experiencing?
What does “brain fog” mean?
Can you have “brain fog” without having had COVID-19?
Does the vaccine help with long-hauler COVID-19 symptoms?
Why do only certain COVID-19 patients experience severe neurological symptoms?
How much does obesity factor into developing neurological diseases and conditions?
Should people who have had COVID-19 still get the vaccine?
Are diabetic people more at risk for COVID-19?
What, if anything, can help these symptoms disappear?
Dr. Fellows mentions other common neurological diseases.
What are movement disorders?
What danger does the new variant present?
What are Dr. Fellows’ thoughts on those who are hesitant to vaccinate?
Why hasn’t the FDA fully approved the vaccine?
Important stroke warning signs and symptoms to look out for.

Today’s Takeaway:

With many of us returning to work, socializing with friends and family, eating at restaurants, and attending sporting events, life is feeling very different from a year ago. But not all of us are so fortunate. For those COVID-19 patients who are experiencing ongoing symptoms, they feel like they’re still in the thick of the pandemic. As we’ve heard, most of these symptoms will disappear or improve over time, but there are things we can do to minimize them. For example, you can maintain a healthy diet, engage in some kind of exercise (even small changes make a difference!), control stress, and get enough sleep. If you’re one of the lucky ones who stayed healthy during the pandemic and didn’t have COVID-19, that doesn’t mean you weren’t affected. Perhaps the lack of social interaction affected our minds and well-being. Do you feel as if you lack energy and focus? It’s easy to drift into a sort of malaise when you are not being stimulated by work and social activities. So how can we re-engage and strengthen our cognitive abilities? Reading, playing games, assembling puzzles, or whatever you can do to stimulate the brain or sharpen critical thinking is so beneficial. Something as simple as talking on the phone or video chatting daily with friends and family really improves how you feel and function. Remember, every day is a gift and your brain needs exercise just like other muscles in your body! So get out there, try new things, stimulate your mind, make new memories and just enjoy every moment! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Brain fog, by and large, is one of the most common complaints that patients who have had COVID-19 complain of.” — Dr. Fellows

“In general patients are getting better about a month after COVID-19.” — Dr. Fellows

“About 10% of all patients who get COVID-19 will go on to develop long-hauler syndrome.” — Dr. Fellows

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Jonathan Fellows at Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders (MIND)

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With Dr. Marc Siegel, MD, Board Certified Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist

If you’re an insulin-dependent diabetic, you know the constant blood sugar checks, daily insulin management, and 24/7 diet maintenance can feel like a tremendous burden. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Watching what we eat and monitoring glucose levels is critical, but a healthy and positive attitude is also vital to our well-being. We have to be our own best patient advocates. If we’re proactive and pay attention to what our body is telling us, we can find a consistent daily routine that works for us. Then, when there are changes to our normal diet or exercise level, we can adjust our insulin accordingly.

My guest today, Dr. Marc Siegel, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and respected glaucoma specialist. In addition to his distinguished surgical career, Marc is well acquainted with the challenges of living with Type 1 diabetes. He is here today to talk to us about the latest advances in eye surgery, and why a chronic illness doesn’t have to keep us from living our dreams. This episode will inspire you to have a positive attitude no matter what challenges might come at you!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is glaucoma and how is it treated?
What are cataracts?
Is there hope that someone who is blind will be able to see one day?
What is macular degeneration?
Do vitamins and supplements for the eye actually work?
What was Marc’s onset of diabetes like?
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Is Type 1 diabetes more likely to happen in your childhood years?
Is diabetes genetic?
How is insulin administered and glucose monitored?
How much does Marc have to monitor his diet and exercise?
Where does Marc’s positive attitude come from?
What would Marc like to say to people living with diabetes and other chronic illnesses?

Today’s Takeaway:

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, there’s nothing to stop you from living life any differently than someone without diabetes. Marc has a wonderfully positive attitude and he doesn’t let his diagnosis prevent him from practicing medicine, performing surgery, loving his family, exercising, eating what he wants, and enjoying his life. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, he’s also a Clinical Assistant Professor instructing medical students. Having a positive attitude can make all the difference. If you don’t believe me, just look at the many known professionals and athletes with Type 1 diabetes like Baltimore Ravens’ Mark Andrews, musician Nick Jonas, and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. We are so very lucky to live in a time when medical technology can help us manage our symptoms and improve our ongoing care. Our attitude and how we manage our symptoms play a role in overcoming even the most challenging of circumstances. While we can’t alter our diagnosis, we can choose how we respond. By taking an active role, listening to your body, and practicing good self-care, you can still live a full, active life despite a chronic illness. Life has so much to offer us. So, why not dream BIG? Live large, take a chance, and don’t let others discourage you from achieving your dreams. Remember that every day is a gift, and no one ever got to the Winner’s Circle by sitting on the sidelines! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“Ophthalmology is a gift. It really is because we can give people the ability to maintain or keep or improve their vision.” — Marc

“It’s a very life-changing event; I was mad, I was frustrated, I was depressed. All of the above.” — Marc

“Especially as a diabetic, I want to take care of myself. I’m an active guy. I want to remain that way.” — Marc

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Marc Siegel — Glaucoma Center of Michigan

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With Larry Oleinick, Founder of Nonprofit Heart 2 Hart Detroit

Did you know that the number of people experiencing homelessness increased dramatically due to the pandemic and associated job losses? With shelters currently at capacity, one out of every two homeless people is living on the street rather than in shelters. The pandemic only made the situation worse because self-quarantine, social distancing, and stay-at-home orders were virtually impossible to follow when you don’t have a stable residence. According to an annual “point in time” survey conducted in January 2019 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 17 out of every 10,000 people in the U.S. were experiencing homelessness. When we think of someone who is homeless, we have a very specific image in mind. But the 600,000 people in the survey of homeless individuals in the country proved that homelessness is a universal problem and not limited to any one geographic region, gender, or ethnicity.

The sheer scope of the homeless situation feels overwhelming to us. You may even ask yourself how one individual can help with a problem of this magnitude. My guest today, Larry Oleinick, is here to show how one person can truly make a difference. Larry is the founder of Heart 2 Hart Detroit; a local charity that personally delivers meals and much-needed supplies directly to homeless individuals. Larry’s mission demonstrates how one person can truly make a difference.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Larry’s home life like growing up in Oak Park, MI?
How did Larry come up with the name “Heart 2 Hart”?
What was Larry doing before he started his nonprofit?
Did Larry or anyone close to him ever experience homelessness?
Where does Larry get the food?
Why do some people choose to stay on the street and not go to a shelter?
What is Heart 2 Hart’s unique offering?
How is the food prepared and distributed?
Did the pandemic complicate the ability to distribute food and find volunteers?
Does Larry get to know the people he helps?
Does Larry see people he’s helped get off the streets?
Has Larry ever felt threatened when helping people?
What does Larry deliver besides food to help people?
How does Larry help people sleeping on the streets brave the elements?
What is the biggest misconception about homeless people?
How do homeless people get their medical needs met?
How can we donate to or volunteer with Heart 2 Hart?

Today’s Takeaway:

Quotes:

“Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for nine years we get in the van and go down and try to make a difference for that day.” — Larry

“There’s a lot of issues that people that aren’t in the system don’t understand about shelters.” — Larry

“We’re actually like an urban cavalry that drives around the city of Detroit and finds people in the area where they are situated.” — Larry

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Heart 2 Hart Detroit

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With Dr. Myra Danish, Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

We all want to look our best. But let’s be honest… when you first saw yourself on ZOOM this past year, were you taken aback when you spotted those wrinkles and the bags under your eyes? Do you worry about how you look and think it’s time to do something about it? If so, you’re not alone. Plastic surgeons everywhere are reporting a significant increase in the number of surgical and non-invasive procedures performed on patients who just want to look better. The “ZOOM effect” is real! According to a recent article in Fortune Magazine, 64% of U.S. plastic surgeons saw an increase in consultations since before COVID-19 began.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic procedures, then you’ll want to hear from my guest today, Dr. Myra Danish. She is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and double board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Danish is also the pioneer of the “lunchtime lift”; a popular mini facelift that can literally restore a more vibrant, youthful appearance in the time it takes to enjoy a weekday lunch outing. She’s here to tell us about the various options and how they work.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What are the most popular cosmetic procedures right now?
Are all procedures done with an anesthetic in a hospital?
How long does the mini-facelift take and what is the recovery time frame?
What is the age range of the patients Dr. Danish sees?
Is Dr. Danish performing more surgical procedures or injectables?
What does Dr. Danish recommend for patients who may be fearful of a surgical procedure?
What is a laser facial?
What is Botox (and Botox-like products) and how long does it last?
What are fillers and how do you know which one to use?
Are procedures or injectables available where you can walk out of the office looking 10 years younger?
Are injectables safe for everyone? Who wouldn’t be a candidate?
How can people with acne make their skin look better?
What is the difference between Dr. Danish’s expertise and other doctors for injectables?
Dr. Danish talks about the role of social media and photoshopping in creating impractical beauty standards.

Today’s Takeaway:

Whether you’re seeking a cosmetic procedure because you’re motivated to improve your appearance on video calls or simply because you want to look better, it’s important that you’re doing it for the right reasons. First and most importantly, make sure this is something you’re doing for you and not anyone else. If you like the adorable way your eyes crinkle with smile lines or you think the shape of your nose gives you character, then don’t let anyone else convince you otherwise! You’re beautiful just as you are! But if you feel unhappy when you look in the mirror or when you see yourself on ZOOM, then it may be time for a change. Only you know what will help you feel the most beautiful inside and out. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options might be the answer. A non-invasive treatment such as Botox or a dermal filler might be an option to help you feel better. Remember that every single day is a gift and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And the most important beholder is you. So start every day by finding one thing about your appearance that you like. For example, do you like the way your legs look in the jeans you’re wearing today? Or do you feel the freckles on your face make you look younger? Go ahead! Talk to the mirror and tell yourself how good you look! Or if you want some change, consult a good plastic surgeon or dermatologist. I talk to the mirror every single day! We all need to be our #1 cheerleader. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“The aging process is really based on your genetics, on your skin type, on your lifestyle.” — Dr. Danish

“There’s really a number of fillers and the way I choose it is just based on the patient's anatomy and their needs to look more youthful.” — Dr. Danish

“You can look 10 years younger with skillful injections.” — Dr. Danish

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Myra Danish

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With Karen Siegel Propis, Licensed Acupuncturist

The events of the past year have been life-changing for all of us, but especially for members of the medical community. Even the way doctors now treat patients has undergone dramatic changes with increasing reliance on telemedicine, thermometer checks on arrival, and other modifications. We’ve also seen significant changes in our philosophy of patient care; perhaps for the better! Holistic medicine, once viewed separately from Western medicine, has experienced a tremendous resurgence. Using a “whole person” approach, a holistic practitioner focuses on the patient’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical state and not just physical symptoms. With the many lifestyle changes and mental health crises brought about by the pandemic, even the most traditional of medical practitioners have recognized the importance of treating a patient’s mental and emotional symptoms along with their physical ailments. We are seeing a much greater appreciation today for holistic medicine and the positive results that can be achieved. So what is holistic medicine and how could it benefit you? My guest today, Karen Siegel Propis, is here to tell us more. She treats a wide variety of emotional and physical symptoms with Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has helped patients overcome acute and chronic pain issues as well as digestive problems, depression, menopause, and migraines. If you’re struggling with a chronic medical issue, perhaps holistic medicine could be right for you.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Karen get her start in Oriental Medicine?
What is acupuncture?
What does placing needles on the head do? And on the ear?
What is the balance method in acupuncture?
How long does acupuncture take to work?
What is Qi? (pronounced “chee”)
Where did Karen study?
What does Karen say to the people who may be afraid of needles?
Does Karen work alongside doctors?
What does acupuncture “maintenance” look like?
How much does acupuncture cost?
How does Karen treat digestive issues?
What about herbal medicine?
Karen’s final thoughts and advice on holistic care. Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Karen Siegel Propis

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With Maria Goodavage, New York Times bestselling author & dog expert.

Did you know that specially trained dogs are 94% accurate at sniffing out and detecting Covid in airports, workplaces and public events? A trial study conductedby the U.K. charity, "Medical Detection Dogs" trained dogs to detect Covid-19 scent by using more than 3,500 body odor samples from articles of clothing, such as socks and T-shirts and correctly identified individuals who had the Covid-19 virus. The success rate of the dogs exceeded all expectations, proving even more accurate than standard rapid Covid lab tests. It's expected that based upon the success of this trial, dogs will soon be deployed in crowded public areas to sniff out asymptomatic Covid-19 carriers.

Just as dogs make our lives better and richer, now we're learning how our beloved animal companions can become our very best medicine too. Trained "doctor dogs" can also help us stay healthy and warn us of impending medical emergencies in ways we haven’t even imagined.

Florine sits down this week with working dog expert, journalist, and New York Times bestselling author Maria Goodavage. Her latest book Doctor Dogs details how dogs may alert us to health episodes before they happen and other ways dogs are assisting with the detection and treatment of health disorders. She details how researchers are harnessing dog’s keen sense of smell to alert to seizures, diabetic emergencies and even sniff out Covid-19 in airports. Current studies reveal how dogs are being used in revolutionary new medical practices and scientific advancements.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Maria's father's experience as a young soldier in WWII first inspired her interest in military dogs, which led her to her path in researching other working dogs.
How dogs are trained by scent to detect specific health disorders.
Researchers look for dogs that are really motivated by rewards to be able to be trained as a working medical dog.
Labradors make up most of working dogs because of their focus and love of food.
Many of the programs using dogs to sniff out disease are still in the trial stages.
Cancer detection, for example, is not available yet for patients; it’s mainly in the research stage.
Researchers want the dogs to lead to a technology called eNose or electronic nose.
One of the most important tasks for working dogs could be detecting COVID-19 in humans.
Active COVID-19 detecting dogs are currently at work at Helsinki Airport and in the airport in Dubai.
How dogs help comfort crime, disaster, and PTSD victims.
Prison inmates are helping to train working dogs.
Today’s Takeaway: Dogs can help us stay healthy in ways we haven’t even imagined; they make our lives better and richer.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Maria Goodavage

Doctor Dogs — On Amazon

Doctor Dogs: How Our Best Friends Are Becoming Our Best Medicine

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With Bestselling Author, Journalist, and TV Producer Janice Kaplan

Did you know that 90% of Americans surveyed believe geniuses are almost always men? Who comes to mind when YOU think of the word “genius”? Why aren’t women on that list? Societal biases and the overwhelming messages on social media seem to suggest that women and young girls will be valued more for their physical appearance and how they present themselves than their intelligence or scholastic accomplishments. Are we subconsciously sabotaging young women by sending the wrong message? My guest today is New York Times bestselling author, television producer and journalist, Janice Kaplan, whom I originally interviewed in January of 2020. She’s the former editor-in-chief of Parade magazines where she was responsible for high-profile interviews such as President Barack Obama, Matt Damon, and Barbara Streisand. She’s written or co-written over a dozen books including The Gratitude Diaries, I’ll See You Again, and her latest book The Genius of Women. The book explores how women have been encouraged to hide their achievements over the years. This unconscious bias exists in science, the arts, and more. In this episode, we discuss how we can do a better job of bringing out the best in young girls today.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Janice’s childhood like?
How did Janice get her early start in journalism?
What was it like first working in New York?
Does Janice have a favorite job?
What was it like interviewing Barbara Streisand and Matt Damon?
Why has Janice moved around to so many jobs?
Why did Janice write The Genius of Women?
Why does Janice think women aren’t perceived as geniuses?
How does Janice think we can change things for women?
How parents can raise well rounded children and still pursue their own accomplishments.
Does Janice think the current generation will raise kids differently than those before us?
What would Janice’s advice be for women out there? Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Janice Kaplan

The Genius of Women: From Overlooked to Changing the World

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With Dr. Victor Strecher, Public Health Professor at University of Michigan

The events of the past year have been life-changing for everyone. Sometimes after going through traumatic or life-changing experiences, we might begin asking ourselves soul-searching questions. Why am I here? What is my purpose in life? My guest today is University of Michigan of Public Health professor Dr. Victor Strecher. As an award-winning pioneer in the field of Behavioral Science and the Founder of the digital platform, Kumanu, Vic can help us answer such questions. Kumanu’s mission is to create bigger lives, stronger organizations, and much healthier communities by providing tools that help people find and live their purpose each day. Kumanu believes our wellbeing starts with asking, “Why?”

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What does Kumanu mean and how was the name chosen?
How does Kumanu work for both individuals and corporations?
How does having a purpose, or lack thereof, affect our wellbeing?
How to live with purpose even when you’re facing hardship.
How a life-changing personal tragedy transformed Vic and his family.
What is the connection between behavioral science and cancer prevention?
Why did Vic leave his behavioral science job?
What are the different applications for Kumanu?
Why Vic hasn’t quit his day job teaching at the University of Michigan.
What happens to our brains during times of fear?
What does describing Kumanu as a “next-generation well-being company” mean?

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Kumanu

Dr. Victor Strecher’s Books on Amazon

Life on Purpose: How Living for What Matters Most Changes Everything

Firms of Endearment: How World-Class Companies PROFIT from Passion and Purpose

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With Marc Jonna, Co-Founder & President of Plum Market Grocery Stores

Over the past year, I’ve been so thankful for the everyday heroes who show up to do their job. In addition to hospital and healthcare workers, my definition of a “hero” includes the grocery store employees who stock shelves, work the registers, and deliver food to our homes. Even during the worst of this global crisis, grocery stores remained open. We continued to have food on our table because of the dedicated employees who risked their own health and wellbeing for the rest of us. Because of COVID-19, grocery stores had to change their business practices to provide a safer work and shopping environment. My guest today is the president and co-founder of Plum Market, one of my favorite local grocery stores! Marc Jonna and his brother Matt come from a family of grocers and they founded Plum Market in 2006 in Michigan and have since expanded to 7 locations throughout the country. They were one of the very first grocery store chains to respond when the pandemic began and found creative ways to continue providing healthy food choices for their customers. Marc shares his pride in the industry, discusses how the pandemic changed grocery shopping and dining habits, and how Plum Market adapted. In addition, we talk about what food trends we can look forward to in the coming year.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How was Plum Market able to remain in business during COVID-19?
How did Mark and his brother start Plum Market?
Plum Market’s presence in the school systems, offices, and even the airport.
Where does the name Plum Market come from?
Do they outsource any of their food?
Where are Plum Market locations?
Why does organic cost more?
Are people eating more canned products over fresh produce?
How are people eating differently since COVID-19?
Do people still want the concierge and delivery service as restrictions are lifted?
What specialty sections does Plum Market have?
Are self-serve salad bars back?
Does Plum Market have a food truck?
What plant-based or vegan options do they have?
Do they offer “clean” meats?

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Plum Market

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With Dr. Emily Levin, Board Certified Dermatologist

Do you start your morning with a daily skincare routine? If so, are you using the same skincare products that you used 10 years ago? Many of us stick with a skincare regimen that’s easy, comfortable, and familiar without realizing that, as we age, our skin changes. As our skin changes, so do its needs. It’s not only important that we adjust our products, but also our diets and lifestyles. My guest today is board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Emily Levin. In addition to having her own practice, she’s on staff at several hospitals where she specializes in both cosmetic and surgical dermatology. Dr. Levin will tell us all about the various changes our skin goes through as we age and her best recommendations for a skincare regimen to best protect and preserve our skin at every decade. We’ll also discuss the latest safeguards and preventative measures against skin cancer.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When did Emily decide she wanted to be a dermatologist?
How does our complexion change as we age?
Why antioxidants are so important for our skin.
Do collagen supplements and topical creams really work?
What skincare products should everyone be using?
Breaking down the different types of Retin-A.
What should daily/nightly skincare routine look like?
What is Botox used for?
What are fillers used for?
What are the best products to use to grow eyelashes?
What products are available for thinning hair?
What are the three most important things we can do to care for our skin at any age?

Today’s Takeaway:

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Northwest Dermatology Group

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With Lainie Kazan, Stage and Screen Actress & Singer

We’ve all heard our share of negative comments over the years. They can be particularly hard to hear when they come from someone whose opinion we really value. But learning to handle rejection is just part of the job in Hollywood where the word “NO” is heard more often than the word “YES.” It can be discouraging and downright depressing, however, if you’re determined not to give up, you just might find tremendous success. My guest today, Lainie Kazan, knows all about the ups and downs that come with the entertainment industry. Lainie is a Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actress and singer as well as my dear friend. You may have seen her in roles on Modern Family, The Kaminsky Method, Grey’s Anatomy, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and perhaps most notably, my personal favorite, My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Lainie also teaches acting classes at UCLA and serves on the board of her alma mater Hofstra University. Lainie has defied the odds with a career that’s spanned decades and she’s a perfect example of someone who never takes no for an answer.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When did Lainie know she wanted to be an entertainer?
What did Lainie’s early career look like?
All about the time Lainie was an understudy for Barbara Streisand in Funny Girl.
What it was like working on My Big Fat Greek Wedding… plus a surprise announcement!
What is Lainie’s favorite role she’s ever done?
How does Lainie continue to find work and stay relevant?
Lainie recently fell on some hard times but she is doing better now.
Why does Lainie think men work longer in Hollywood?
Who were Lainie’s favorite people to work with?
What is Lainie teaching at UCLA?
What does Lainie prefer — acting or singing?
A special closing serenade from Lainie!

Today’s Takeaway:

Being a successful working actress and staying relevant at any age means being willing to reinvent yourself. If you’ve ever been told you’re too old, too young, too short, too tall, or just not right for a particular job, then maybe it’s time to reinvent yourself. It takes work to stay on top of trends and a willingness to learn something new. Life becomes boring when you stop challenging yourself or learning something new. So go ahead… take control of your life! Try something new! I’m going to take singing lessons because I love to sing! Just get out there and do something that brings fun, excitement, and enjoyment to your life. Every day is a gift so enjoy it. And make the most of it. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Lainie Kazan

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

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With Terri Cole, Author, Therapist, and Relationship Expert

Do you consider yourself a good friend? Do you always say “Yes” to someone when you really want to say “No”? Do friends and family run to you for help or advice because you’re always there… even at the expense of your own health? We all do this at times, but the important thing is to recognize it. My guest today, Terri Cole, is a New York-based psychotherapist and relationship expert whose new book, Boundary Boss, explores how to effectively communicate your needs and establish healthy boundaries. When we put our needs ahead of others, that doesn’t make us selfish or a bad person. Our own emotional health needs to be the priority because when you’re emotionally fit, you’re more able to help those around you. I loved this book because Terri provides actual strategies and scripts to learn how to stop sabotaging ourselves. Not only does this episode provide so many helpful tips on how to build healthy boundaries, but as a special bonus to our listeners, she offers a free guide on how to get started becoming a Boundary Boss today!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How does Terri define a “Boundary Boss”?
Why saying “Yes” when we want to say “No” does more harm than good.
Why isn’t it okay to just acquiesce to avoid confrontation?
How can you create new boundaries in an established relationship?
Why is it so very difficult to say, “No”?
How can we still say “yes” to things without over-committing?
Why is accepting rejection a healthy boundary?
What are power pauses?
How boundaries vary within different power differentials.
The importance of specificity and transparency with boundaries.
Why is gratitude so essential?

Today’s Takeaway:

We’re often taught, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” The message is clear: Don’t complain and go along to get along! But healthy relationships are a two-way street and require boundaries. It’s not okay for one person to always be the giver in the relationship, and it’s important for both people to get their needs met. If you’re constantly putting someone else’s feelings ahead of your own, there’s less room in that relationship for YOU. Keeping silent about your needs just to avoid confrontation isn’t healthy and can lead to resentment. This is when relationships can break down. I know when I prioritize the things that are important to me and speak up, I feel better. Remember that every single day is a gift and treat yourself as you would your best friend. When you stand firm and honor your feelings, you’re on your way to becoming your very own Boundary Boss! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Exclusive Boundary Boss Offer for Today’s Takeaway Listeners!

Boundary Boss Book

Terri Cole

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With Rick Vespa, President of English Gardens Landscaping and Co-Chair at English Gardens

Now that the warmer weather is here, I’m so grateful to be spending more time outdoors soaking up that sunshine. There’s just something so wonderfully healing about being outside surrounded by the sight of those lovely green plants and smelling my beautiful flowers. But even when the weather is not cooperating, we can still bring the healthy outdoors inside our home. Did you know that indoor plants and flowers may actually boost your health? My guest today, Rick Vespa, is the President of English Gardens Landscaping and Co-Chair of English Gardens. Rick talks with us all about the health benefits of plants, how to properly care for them, when to plant them, and much more. Listen to this episode to inspire your own green thumb today!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Some history about English Gardens.
More about English Gardens’ services.
What spring flowers are in bloom right now?
What are the easiest indoor plants to care for?
What are the Garden Pharmacy and Garden Club at English Gardens?
Are there plants that don’t need any light?
What’s the deal with Orchids?
The health benefits of plants.
When to start planting different plants.
What are fertilizer and mulch and what do we need them for?
What changes did English Gardens make during COVID-19?
What does English Gardens do besides sell plants?
What’s the difference between buying a live or artificial Christmas tree?
A final word from Rick on what services English Gardens can provide.

Today’s Takeaway:

Spending time outdoors in the sunshine has been proven to reduce anxiety and stress. Boosting your Vitamin D levels not only lifts your mood, but it may help fight depression and the early signs of dementia. So, get outside and get working in the garden! It’s not only great exercise, but studies show that digging in the dirt may help reduce allergy symptoms. Now that spring is here, there’s no better time to begin planting your garden. While you’re designing your new garden, make sure to leave plenty of room for a vegetable, fruit, and herb garden, as well. I am a regular shopper and browser at English Gardens. It inspires me and it can inspire you too. Remember that each day is a gift. Start your garden today, and you’ll reap the benefits all year. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

English Gardens

English Gardens Landscaping

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With Sue Fuller, CEO and Founder of The Oliver Thomas

Why do some people overcome hard times faster than others? Why are some people more resilient? Did you know that your attitude can make a really big difference in how you handle a crisis? If you truly believe that you’re going to succeed, then you will succeed. So many of us say we can’t do it or it will be too hard. Try saying, “I CAN do this!”, and your attitude can make it happen. Today, we’re going to hear from a retail business owner who I interviewed in May or 2019.

Sue Fuller is the CEO and Founder of The Oliver Thomas brand of moderately priced, well-constructed handbags designed for the active, working woman; or anybody! When the pandemic began to threaten retail business, Sue’s positive attitude and determination were critical to her success. She was determined not to fail and she actually doubled her business during the pandemic. Listen to the interview and you’ll be inspired by Sue’s story!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

A little bit about Sue’s childhood in Wisconsin.
What did Sue study in college?
More about Sue’s early career.
How was it working for Ralph Lauren and L.L. Bean?
After six years in Maine, Sue moved back to Wisconsin to work for Kohl’s.
How did Sue end up in Michigan with Carhartt?
Just before starting her own company, Sue worked with Vera Bradley.
How did Sue finally launch The Oliver Thomas?
How do the daily operations work?
More on the multi-functionality of the bags.
Where are The Oliver Thomas bags sold and for how much?
What is Sue’s goal for the future of her line?

Today’s Takeaway:

One of the keys to successfully overcoming difficult times is your attitude; yours and yours alone! You need to fully commit and believe in what you’re doing in order to succeed. Know your strengths and use them to your advantage. Sue succeeded because she BELIEVED. Her attitude was, “I can do this!” Think about how you can adapt by changing your circumstances and making a positive impact in your life. During the pandemic, Sue doubled her sales by listening to what her customers wanted and responding to their needs. You have to listen to what’s right for you. And you have to respond to your needs. Know what you want and know how to go about getting it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. In addition to attitude, when hard times occur it’s important to be flexible. Don’t be afraid to try different things. Being innovative can be your key to success. What changes can you make? You know what they say: if you keep doing the same things over and over again without making change, you’re going to get the very same results. Vision is a dream with a blueprint. Keep doing the things you're successful at and just persevere! Every day is a gift to us and every day gives us an opportunity to try something new or make what we’re doing even better. It’s all up to you and your attitude! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

theoliverthomas.com

The Oliver Thomas on Instagram

Found Objects

Birmingham Country Club

Red Run Golf Club

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With Vanessa Bayer, Emmy-Nominated Actress, Comedian, and Author

Our social relationships with family and friends form the center of our universe. We might disagree at times, but at the end of the day, we want to show our support and be there for them. Sometimes difficult conversations are necessary. This can be hard enough for adults, but the situation becomes even more challenging when talking to children. As parents, our first impulse is to protect our children and prevent them from seeing or hearing things that might frighten them. Talking to your kids about illness or death can be especially sensitive. When our kids see us upset, how do we explain to them what we may not even understand ourselves? You may recognize my guest today, Emmy-nominated comedian and actress Vanessa Bayer, from Saturday Night Live or for her roles in movies like Office Party and Trainwreck. What you may not know about Vanessa, though, is that she was diagnosed with childhood leukemia at age 15. That experience inspired Vanessa to write the children’s book How Do You Care for a Very Sick Bear? The book helps parents talk about extremely tough subjects with their children like illness. She shares with us about her own experience with childhood illness, her career in show business, and more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Where and how did Vanessa grow up?
What kind of student was Vanessa?
What was Vanessa’s first job out of college?
How Vanessa’s illness first presented when she was 15.
How did Vanessa adapt to the side effects of chemo like losing her hair?
How Vanessa’s friends, family, and sense of humor got her through the tough times.
When was Vanessa “cancer-free”?
What was Vanessa’s first job in showbiz?
What was working on SNL like?
How did Vanessa come up with the idea for her book?
What’s next for Vanessa?
How did Vanessa end up living in Michigan for a summer?

Today’s Takeaway:

When you have a disagreement with an adult friend or family member, sometimes the best thing you can do is to stop talking and really listen. Try to understand their point of view and why they feel as they do. Remember that every single day is a gift and even when we disagree with people, we can still learn from each other. Vanessa’s experience with childhood leukemia really taught her how hard it was for family and friends when a loved one is ill and how difficult it can be for parents to talk with their children about illness. This sensitive subject and other tough conversations are ones we often shy away from — especially with very young children. As Vanessa’s book illustrates, showing how to love and care for a beloved toy who is sick might help them better understand what a loved one is experiencing and going through. Healthy communication is a two-way street and there are bound to be misunderstandings and disagreements along the way. We’re all human beings with our own opinions, but sometimes the most difficult conversations can produce the greatest results. So, let’s embrace those tough conversations and strive for a greater understanding of each other by listening to, respecting, and especially loving each other. It’s so important to forgive and forget. I truly feel lucky to be alive today and I cherish it as the gift that it is! How about you? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Vanessa Bayer

Vanessa on Instagram

How Do You Care for a Very Sick Bear?

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With Nonprofit “Detroit Hives” Founders Nicole Lindsey and Timothy Paule

The next time you feel frustrated by a situation and think you’re powerless to change it, remember that sometimes all it takes is the willingness to find the solution. It’s all about taking the very first steps. Nicole Lindsey and her partner Timothy Paule did just that. They made a commitment to help the community where they live and make a positive impact and at the same time, they were inspired to get healthy and lose weight. Four years ago, they began purchasing abandoned lots in the City of Detroit, transforming them into working beehives. Now, these beehives produce more than 50 pounds of raw honey at one time! While promoting Detroit Hives and their mission built on conservation, education, and revitalization, Nicole and Timothy were encouraged to pay attention to their own physical health and were inspired to get healthier themselves. Together they have lost a total of more than 175 pounds! Now they’re sharing their passion for sustainability, health, and wellness to help others in the community.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did they get started in their mission to help the community?
What are Nicole and Timothy’s occupations?
What was the first thing they did with the vacant lot they bought?
Where did they get the idea for beehives?
What does a bee farm look like?
How they acquired additional lots and expanded Detroit Hives?
How does their community partnership work?
How do they harvest and sell the honey?
What are the best uses for honey?
How do they give back to the youth?
How Florine inspired their health and wellness transformation.
What do they do to stay healthy and lose weight?
What are BEE WELL care packages?
More about the “February Man of the Month” award Timothy received from the “Official Detroit Task Force on Black Male Engagement” .
Does the Detroit Hives have an office?
How do bees survive in the winter?
What’s next for Detroit Hives?

Today’s Takeaway:

Nicole and Timothy are a shining example of what two people can accomplish when they dream big and pursue their dreams for tomorrow. Now is a great time to think of how we can make a positive impact on ourselves and our community. If we just make the commitment and take those first few steps, miracles can happen down the road. Through Detroit Hives, Nicole and Timothy are breathing life into vacant lots that were once characterized by litter and decay. Once they saw just how successful they were at preserving the lives of bees, they committed to getting healthy themselves and transforming their own lives. Do you have someone who can join you on your own health journey? I found a number of partners and friends through Weight Watchers who helped change my life. Pursuing our goals or passion with others not only keeps us accountable, but it helps us support and inspire one another. Remember, every single day is a gift. Bee good to yourself, bee positive, don’t bee afraid to pursue your dreams, or bee-come a healthier version of yourself! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Detroit Hives

Detroit SOUP

BEE WELL Care Packages

Detroit Task Force on Black Male Engagement

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With Monica Auslander Moreno, Registered Dietician Nutritionist (RDN)

As we spent more time at home and less time eating out this past year, meal planning has become a big part of our lives. Some people have taken online cooking classes, bought a new cookbook, or reinvented family favorites. While we’re all doing our best, it’s still important to choose the right kind of food that will give us the best nutrients and add the most benefit to our health. My guest today, Monica Auslander Moreno, is a registered dietician with a celebrity clientele that includes MLB team the Miami Marlins. According to Monica, eating certain foods can improve your health and your overall well-being. Stick around to find out what foods she recommends for spicing up your eating habits and maximizing your health benefits!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Crohn’s disease shape Monica’s path?
How does Monica’s Crohn’s manifest itself? Does she experience pain when eating?
What is a low-FODMAP diet?
When did Monica decide to become a dietician?
What’s the difference between a dietician and a nutritionist?
Learn about Monica’s business, Essence Nutrition.
What does Monica describe as a healthy diet or as she likes to call it, “habitual oral intake patterns”?
Monica details a typical day of meals for her.
Was Monica ever overweight?
The importance of movement along with food for health.
How does Monica feel about a “low carb diet”?
How did Monica begin working with the Miami Marlins?
What are Monica’s thoughts on a vegetarian diet?
How does Monica feel about sugar?

Today’s Takeaway:

I love to eat. But even more than that, I love to eat healthily. I practice mindful eating, and I truly enjoy my meals because I know I’m nourishing my mind, body, and soul. Everything tastes so much better when you treat yourself and your body to food that’s not only flavorful but good for you. Instead of reaching for that bag of potato chips or a candy bar, try something like a bowl of air-popped popcorn flavored with a delicious spice. Dill is a personal favorite of mine; I seem to put it on everything! Don’t forget—it’s really important that fruit and vegetables are the mainstays in our diet. When we give our body what it needs nutritionally, I think we sleep better and even look better! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Essence Nutrition

Essence Nutrition on Facebook

Monica on Instagram

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

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With Teresa Smith, Fashion and Beauty Influencer of T’s City Chic

There’s no doubt the pandemic has impacted how we dress. Are you tired of sweats? I know I am! Comfort and convenience have taken the place of carefully coordinated fashion. Before COVID-19, many of us looked forward to days when we could lounge around in our sweats, but now that they’ve become our daily uniform, it’s just plain boring! When we look in the mirror wearing the same type of clothes day after day, it can definitely have an effect on our mental and emotional health. So how can we find out what’s in fashion and take that first step to feeling good in our clothes? My guest today, Teresa Smith, is the fashion and beauty influencer behind T’s City Chic. She mentors women on how to dress and look stylish, regardless of age. Today she’ll share some of her shopping secrets and give suggestions on how we can look and feel our very best.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

In Teresa’s words, what is T’s City Chic and how did she get started?
What’s it like receiving free products as an influencer?
How to take the first step towards feeling good in your clothes.
What is Teresa’s process for featuring products?
How does Teresa feel about trends?
Teresa’s tips for dressing well after putting on weight.
What are Teresa’s favorite products?
A glimpse behind the scenes into Teresa’s work.
What did Teresa do before this work?

Today’s Takeaway:

Just as Teresa tells her clients, we can still look and feel our best regardless of our age or size. Today, there are many online and social media sources promoting beauty and style, so just find someone with a style you love and follow their advice. You can find so many helpful suggestions from T’s City Chic and other sites like hers. Remember, every day is a gift. Be your own cheerleader! Tell yourself every day that you are wonderful, you are beautiful, and you can do it. Dress up a little bit… I promise it’ll make you feel better! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

T’s City Chic Website

T’s City Chic on Instagram

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Dr. Laurie Lauzon Clabon, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, former Dean of Wayne University’s College of Nursing

Over the past year, so many people have lost their jobs and are still struggling to find work. Perhaps it’s time to think outside the box. Instead of seeking employment in the same field that’s failed to bring opportunities, it could be time to try a different approach. What can you do differently that might lead to a great career in another industry? Go where the job opportunities are plentiful and think of ways you might be of service to others in the community. For example, one area where there is a growing demand is nursing. When we help others, it can also have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves.

In March of 2020, I interviewed Dr. Laurie Lauzon Clabo. At the time, she was the Dean of Wayne State University’s College of Nursing. Now, she is the University’s Interim Provost and Professor. Today we’d like to replay this episode, not only in recognition of all of Dr. Clabo’s accomplishments and of the heroic nurses worldwide, but it may also inspire some of you to consider this wonderful field of nursing.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Where and how did Laurie grow up?
How did Laurie’s nursing career begin?
What Laurie enjoyed about working in the ICU.
The many paths to nursing and the different roles and duties.
Diversity in today’s nursing.
What are a nurse practitioner and a physician’s assistant?
What are the different degrees in nursing?
Why does Laurie think nursing receives little recognition?
Challenges and barriers facing nursing students.
What is it like to be a nurse?
Laurie’s thoughts on the coronavirus.
What kind of salaries do nurses get?
Thoughts on the nursing shortage.
How does Laurie prepare her students to take care of themselves?
What advice does Laurie have for family members that have loved ones in a nurse’s care?

Today’s Takeaway:

Being out of work is especially stressful. The constant rejection in applying for jobs without finding work can really take its toll on our mental health as well as finances. In today’s episode, Dr. Clabon inspired us to find something that gives us joy and brings meaning to our lives. Sometimes we can get trapped in the way we think and we don’t even give ourselves the chance to see other opportunities that might lead to even greater fulfillment. Hopefully, today we’ve opened your eyes to see how there might be another career path that will bring you happiness in helping others. It might be going to nursing school, or being an assistant nurse, as there are many things you can do in the nursing field. Or perhaps this conversation inspired you to look into another field where you can help others. Remember, every single day is a gift and it shouldn’t be taken for granted. Hopefully many, or all, of us are healthy and having a little fun. Let’s make our own happiness and health a priority. Before we take care of others, we have to take care of ourselves mentally, physically, and most of all, spiritually. I thank all of you for listening and I encourage everyone to practice gratitude for being alive, especially in this country, every day. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Laurie Lauzon Clabo

Wayne State University College of Nursing

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With Dr. Geneva Williams, Business and Community Leader and Motivational Speaker

Have you ever heard the saying, “Man makes plans… and God laughs”? What should we do when life throws us a curveball and our carefully planned life suddenly goes off in the wrong direction? How can we recover when our dream career is suddenly over, or a long-term relationship ends? How can we find our passion and turn that into a career that we love? Is there a way that our passion can also benefit the community? My guest today can help us to find those answers and more. Dr. Geneva Williams is the host of the very successful podcast “Ignite 2 Impact.” As the CEO of “Dr. Geneva Speaks,” she’s been recognized as one of Detroit’s Most Influential Women by Crain’s Detroit Business. Geneva is also a highly sought-after lecturer, personal motivator, and master leadership strategist who’s passionate about helping other women realize their full potential while impacting their community in a positive way.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Geneva regroup after losing her husband of 40 years to cancer?
What does Geneva say to people who feel they can’t go on?
How can one get involved with a nonprofit?
What advice does Geneva have for those of an older age who are feeling lost?
How did Geneva reinvent herself as an entrepreneur?
More about “Dr. Geneva Speaks.”
Geneva’s Facebook Group “eXtraordinary Women Influencers” and how to make use of tech resources.

Today’s Takeaway:

This past year has been life-changing. So many of us were forced to give up our careers or other endeavors, but it’s important to remember this situation is just temporary. Think of it as a detour, not a dead-end. If you were forced to shut down your business or you lost a job that you love, perhaps now is the time to reimagine that dream. How can you reinvent yourself or recreate your business to a career you love even more? What are your passions and abilities? Can you find a way to turn those into a career? Never let the fear of failure hold you back. You may have to try a few different things before you find the right fit, but we learn the most from our mistakes. This is a great time to think about how we can make a positive impact on our community. Remember, every single day we have is a gift. When we reach out to help others, we help ourselves. Be fearless! Tell yourself you can do it. Smile. Have some humor in your life and remember, “And this too shall pass.” The sun will always come out tomorrow… even if only in your heart. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Geneva Speaks

Ignite 2 Impact

eXtraordinary Women Influencers

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With Lydia Fenet, Author of "The Most Powerful Woman In The Room is You"

Have you ever wondered why some people succeed in business and others with the same exact credentials or experience fail? Could it be that the secret to success is ultimately within our own power? Do you know how to properly sell yourself? Do you know how to be your best advocate? Do you know how to take care of YOU and help others see how worthwhile you are? If not, perhaps my guest today can show you how to do that. In September of 2019, I interviewed Lydia Fenet. Lydia is the Global Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships and Lead Benefit Auctioneer at Christie’s Auction House. She is also a keynote speaker and author of the book “The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You”. According to Lydia, one of the secrets to success is how we present ourselves to others. Whether you’re applying for a job, making a presentation to a client, asking someone on a date, or just getting your kids to eat their peas, Lydia advises us to create an image in our mind of how we want other people to think of us. Now that you have that picture in your mind, ask yourself, “Is that how I’m appearing to others?” If not, what can you do differently? Lydia shares the secrets of her success in her book, and gives us a sneak peek into some in today’s episode.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Where and how did Lydia grow up?
What did Lydia study in college?
How did Lydia get started being an auctioneer?
When did Lydia meet her husband and what is their relationship like?
How does Lydia balance being a mother to 3 small children and working full time?
What is Lydia’s day-to-day life like at Christie’s?
What made Lydia decide to write her book?
So, how do you sell?

Today’s Takeaway:

In addition to her successful career where she’s raised more than a half a billion dollars for charity and traveled all around the world speaking on the art of selling, Lydia is also a happily married mother of 3 children. The strategies she used throughout her career apply just as well to her personal life. Remember, it’s important to be your own self-advocate. Invest the time in yourself, believe in yourself, and be confident enough to speak up. Learn how to negotiate what’s important for your needs. If you don’t, who will? I often speak to myself in the mirror to tell myself my own worth, and you can too! When we feel good about ourselves it shows, and others respond favorably to the positive energy that we give off. Go ahead and give off some real positive energy, keep smiling, stay healthy, be energetic and enthusiastic, and like yourself. Look in that mirror and tell yourself that you’re worth it and that you can help others by helping yourself. Sell yourself. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Lydia Fenet

Lydia Fenet on Instagram

“The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You”

Christie’s Auction House

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With Jackie Schwartz, Interior Designer and Business Owner

Over the past year, we’ve been spending more time than ever at home. Instead of going to work or socializing, our homes have become virtual offices, classrooms, and our nightly entertainment outlets. As much as we love being at home, we still may need to make a few changes so that our living space reflects our changing needs. For example, what’s the best way to set the stage and create a professional-looking background for Zoom meetings? Or, how can I make my home feel more comfortable or peaceful? Can a few simple changes in color or lighting really affect my mood? My guest today, Jackie Schwartz, is the owner and lead designer of Home Interior Warehouse in Michigan. She’ll share with us how simple design changes can really make a big difference in the look and functionality of our home, and perhaps even impact our mood and how we feel.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How did Jackie get started in the home design business?
What are the trends for decorating today?
What differentiates Jackie’s business from a big box store?
What are quick and inexpensive changes that will brighten our homes?
What colors help cheer people up?
What can we do to make our homes feel more welcoming when we walk in the front door?
How to decorate small spaces.
How to use books for decorating.
How pillows add dimension, especially in monochromatic rooms.
Trends for outdoor living during the pandemic.
Tips for staging your house and how to make it more attractive to prospective buyers.

Today’s Takeaway:

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Home Interior Warehouse

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With Christie Tate, NY Times Bestselling Author

Maintaining our mental and emotional health is as important as our physical health. How can we overcome our emotional barriers and find support within the community? Sometimes the power of sharing your challenges in a group setting makes all the difference. There are many kinds of support groups; some require membership. Some groups may include facilitators, therapists, or coaches, some may not. In a society that teaches us from a young age to be very careful of what we reveal in public, it may be hard to take that first step and reveal our challenges to others. But the best way we can gain support from others and make ourselves feel better is by stripping away that façade and allowing others to get to really know us and accept us for who we are. Today, we are going to talk about the power of the group. My guest is New York Times bestselling author, Christie Tate. Her memoir entitled, Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life, is a Reese Witherspoon Book Club selection and was voted one of the top nonfiction books of 2020. In the book, Christie describes how sharing the most intimate details of her daily life with her group helped her find a path to mental and emotional health. Christie discusses how her challenges with eating disorders began, when she knew she needed help, and how group therapy helped her achieve stability and fulfillment in her life.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Christie experienced deep isolation and depression despite her successful façade.
Why Christie’s eating disorder might have begun in childhood.
How Christie’s focus on body image began while she was a ballerina.
When did Christie enter a 12-step recovery program for her eating disorder?
What is Christie’s family life like, and do they know about her ED history?
What caused Christie’s feeling of “wanting to die”?
What was the first group Christie attended where she felt comfortable?
Is Christie still in the group?
How can someone find a group?
Does Christie still have feelings of depression?
When did Christie decide to write a book?

Today’s Takeaway: After many hours in group therapy, the biggest thing Christie learned was to trust others and to share her challenges. But how do you do that? For starters, you have to be open, honest, and real. It’s also important to have friends or a partner that doesn’t judge you. In my many years in WW meetings, I’ve seen how much easier it is to lose weight when I’m allowing others, who aren’t judging me, to help me. Finding others who share your common goals and understand your struggles is so important. Being with others that have the same interests can help you achieve success, and in turn, you can also encourage others to reach their goals. Perhaps most important of all: we must accept our failures, move on, and focus on our successes. There are so many things that I like about myself and I’m sure that each one of you can find so many things that you like about yourself. Make a list of all the things that you do like about yourself! On the other side of the paper, list the things that you don’t like that you can change. Don’t put down things you can’t change. Then, work on it.

There are three things that will help you to live longer: movement and proper nutrition are fundamental but the most important is group support or socialization. If you don’t have that socialization and people that you can depend on, you should start looking for them. If you start each day by practicing self-love and self-acceptance, you’re on your way to living a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life. Remember that every single day is a gift! I’m grateful for my guest, Christie Tate, and all of my listeners. I wish you all health and happiness. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Christie Tate

Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life

Hello Sunshine: Reese’s Book Club

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With Sheryl Stumbaugh, Governor’s Developmental Disabilities Council

Throughout my life, I’ve always encouraged others to reach for their dreams. When I’ve struggled personally, I look in the mirror and tell myself, “Keep going, Florine! You can do this!” And I do this until I achieve what I want to happen without hurting anybody. But what if others try to limit you socially or professionally simply because you’re different? Have you ever felt embarrassed or uncomfortable because you’re not like everyone else? That’s what it’s like to have a physical or intellectual disability. Our guest today, Sheryl Stumbaugh, is a Clinical Social Worker at Beaumont Hospital who was recently appointed by Governor Whitmer to the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council which seeks to eliminate barriers for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Sheryl knows firsthand what it’s like to overcome those barriers because she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as an infant. My own beloved sister was in a wheelchair due to Polio, so I personally relate to the struggles Sheryl discusses on the podcast. We’ll learn how to best encourage and support people with disabilities or physical limitations so they too can find success.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How old was Sheryl when she was diagnosed with CP?
What are Sheryl’s limitations?
What kind of vocation did Sheryl’s middle school prep her for?
What kind of mental aptitude test did schools give Sheryl?
How old was Sheryl when she first noticed she was different from her peers?
Did Sheryl get to do “normal” social activities like other kids?
What was Sheryl’s college experience like?
Did Sheryl have to study harder because of her disability?
How Sheryl is able to live alone with the aid of her service dog.
What does Sheryl do in her profession?
What are some of the things Sheryl recommends in her job to help kids with disabilities feel included?
The importance of setting expectations for people despite their abilities.
Sheryl’s thoughts on what it means to fail.

Today’s Takeaway: If you’re trying to achieve your dreams, don’t let anyone hold you back. Don’t be afraid to try something different. Even if you fail, every day and every failure is a gift. We learn the most from our mistakes and when we’re able to get up and try again, that’s when we’re always a winner. Believe in your dreams. When Sheryl first applied to the Governor’s Council, she didn’t hear back so she applied a second time. She refused to take no for an answer, and that eventually led to her successful appointment. Look in the mirror. Talk to yourself. Tell yourself what a great person you are and how today’s going to be a good day. Be fearless, tell yourself you can do it, and be your own best advocate. Most people respect someone who is passionate and confident about themselves and the people around them. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sheryl Stumbaugh

Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council

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With Susie Feldman, domestic violence survivor

The pandemic has left many of us feeling trapped in our homes. But even worse than the feeling of being socially isolated, there are people right now trapped at home in an abusive relationship. The fear and anxiety of being physically and/or emotionally threatened by someone you love are unimaginable. Our guest today, Susie Feldman, helps answer some very important questions such as, “How can we help someone else if we suspect abuse? What are the signs? Where can a victim of abuse turn for help?” and more. The Director of Philanthropy and Corporate Relations at the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, Susie is also a survivor of domestic violence. Despite her successful career and what appeared to be a “perfect marriage,” Susie endured years of mental, emotional, and physical abuse. She courageously shares her story and strength, as well as resources for how to escape an abusive relationship.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Susie talks about the shame and humiliation of falling for someone who abused her.
How and when Susie finally broke her story to her loved ones.
When did Susie’s husband begin the abuse?
Why did Susie “protect” her husband through eight years of marriage?
The ways Susie’s husband began to control her.
What was Susie’s husband’s family life like?
What happened after Susie’s husband was in jail for his abuse?
A tragic story about a fellow abuse victim.
Susie’s process of divorcing her husband and rebuilding her life.
Susie’s advice for abuse victims that want to leave now.
Why does someone become an abuser?
What Susie and her kids’ life is like today.
If someone doesn’t have money and/or a support system to escape but is being abused, what should they do?
Haven provides shelter, therapists, and other resources for domestic abuse victims. You can complete everything online or call the 24-hour crisis hotline 1-877-922-1274

Today’s Takeaway: We like to think of our homes as our safe place, but what if someone we know is in an abusive relationship right now? During the pandemic, families are spending more time together in close quarters and reports of domestic violence are increasing. Victims often stay silent; afraid to confide in even friends or family. That silence takes a toll. Maintaining our emotional health is just as important as maintaining our physical health. During the pandemic, finding a safe haven could be more difficult, but with the resources Susie has provided, you can make a plan. Knowledge is power. Every single day is a gift, and we should all feel safe and loved in our own homes. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Domestic Abuse Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE

Haven 1-877-922-1274

JFS – Agency Locator

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With Dr. Trini Mathew, Director of Epidemiology and Infection Control at William Beaumont Hospital

Now that COVID-19 vaccinations are finally available to the general public, people want to know: 1) how to get the vaccine, 2) where to go, 3) whether it’s safe, 4) what are the possible side effects, and 5) should everyone get vaccinated? For answers to these questions and more, we’re going to be talking to our guest Dr. Trini Mathew, the Medical Director of Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control at William Beaumont Hospital. She’s an expert in infectious diseases and international medicine and has been on the frontlines dealing with the pandemic. She’ll tell us everything we need to know about the COVID-19 vaccines. Enjoy this extremely informative conversation with Dr. Mathew.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Who is receiving the vaccine first?
Advice on how to find out how/when you can get vaccinated.
Are there enough vaccines for everyone?
How was the vaccine available so quickly?
What is the difference between the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines? Do both require two doses?
What kind of reaction can you expect to the vaccine?
What does the vaccine protect us against?
If you’ve had COVID-19, are you now immune?
Can you still transmit the virus to others after you’ve been vaccinated?
How masks and other prevention efforts have curbed flu transmission.
If you just had the shingles vaccine, is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Do you need insurance to get the vaccine?
Does diet and exercise help protect us against contracting the virus?
When does Dr. Mathew think the virus will be under control?

Today’s Takeaway: The long-awaited news that the COVID-19 vaccine is now available is so encouraging! For more information, be sure to contact your local physician or health department to find out where vaccines are being distributed in your area. Know where and when to go and be sure to MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. However, even after getting the vaccine we still need to practice prevention efforts like wearing masks, handwashing, and social distancing. We never know what tomorrow will bring and each day truly is a gift. We’re so lucky to have this day, so let’s take care to protect our physical, emotional, and mental health. We all need to work together to stay healthy and do our part to combat this pandemic. Be sure to eat well, exercise (even if it’s just walking up and down your stairs!), get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Trini Mathew

William Beaumont Hospital

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With New York Times bestselling author, Jennifer Cody Epstein.

The last year has been unbelievably challenging for everyone. Rather than focus on what’s missing from my life, I make it a point to be grateful every single day for what I have, the people around me, and the things that fill my life with joy. For example, one of those things is my love of books. On days when I’m feeling stressed or anxious, I can pick up a book and actually escape to another time and place. I love losing myself in the thrill of seeing life through someone else’s eyes and learning about faraway places I can only dream of visiting.

In January 2020, I interviewed New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Cody Epstein. Her latest novel, Wunderland, is a historical novel set in both Nazi Germany and New York City in the 1980s. It’s not only a carefully researched snapshot of history, it’s an incredibly compelling story, as well. Join me today as we revisit this wonderful interview from one year ago.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

A little bit on Jennifer’s background, including her adoption story.
Jennifer was raised Catholic but was drawn to Judaism.
Jennifer describing her college curriculum, particularly her interest in Asian Studies.
How Jennifer’s studies led to living and working in Japan for five years.
How Jennifer made the leap from journalism to writing fiction.
All about Jennifer’s first book, The Painter from Shanghai.
Why Jennifer chose the Holocaust as a subject for her latest book Wunderland and what she uncovered.
How Jennifer came to the fictional storyline in Wunderland.

Today’s Takeaway: The events of the past year have impacted all of us and the added stress has certainly taken its toll. One of the best ways I have found to give myself a much-needed break is to curl up with a really good book. Reading calms my nerves, relieves stress, and allows me to escape. Through my monthly virtual book club, I have an outlet to socialize safely during the pandemic. We not only have thought-provoking discussions about the book, but we also exchange healthy recipes. Books are not only great entertainment, but they give you a gateway to a whole community. One of the best gifts that you can give someone, is to share a book that really touched your heart or opened your eyes to a new way of thinking. I’m always giving my books away (sometimes I get them back and sometimes I don’t!), and I hope they bring as much joy to someone else as they give to me. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought to You By:

Florine Mark

Mentioned in This Episode:

Jennifer Cody Epstein

Wunderland: A Novel, by Jennifer Cody Epstein on Amazon

The Painter from Shanghai: A Novel, by Jennifer Cody Epstein on Amazon

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With Paramedic Captain Stacy Gross

Over the past year, we’ve seen our local firefighters and paramedics on the frontlines responding to emergency calls and treating patients in the midst of the pandemic. Our heroic first responders are putting their own lives at risk transporting COVID-19 patients and responding to domestic disputes and other dangerous situations, including resuscitating drug overdose patients who are often not wearing masks. While COVID-19 continues to claim lives around the country, first responders are increasingly vulnerable to catching the virus and unfortunately, making up part of that growing death toll.

As part of our salute to the brave first responders, today I would like to replay an interview from June 2019 I had with 22-year veteran firefighter and paramedic Captain Stacy Gross of the Commerce Township Fire Department. Thank you to Stacy and all of our heroic first responders.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How Stacy’s journey to becoming the first female paramedic and Captain in her department began.
What Stacy loves about firefighting.
Stacy’s career path from EMS to paramedic to firefighter.
Some of the hardest things Stacy has seen on the job.
Stacy’s message to future female firefighters.
What the calls and shifts are like for firefighters.
The salary range for firefighters.
The danger to first responders when an emergency call turns violent.
How Stacy became Captain.
An unforgettable call Stacy had where she saved a one-year-old child.
Stacy’s biggest concerns when she goes out on a call.
What it’s like living in a fire station/house.
Stacy’s advice for women looking to join the field.

Today’s Takeaway: The events of the past year have impacted us all, however, healthcare workers and first responders have suffered far more than most of us. They are risking their own lives and well-being to care for us all. They’ve seen the worst of this pandemic, but they’re still out there every single day working under incredibly difficult conditions, putting in long shifts with reduced staffs, and often with inadequate PPE. Despite their best efforts, the COVID-19 death toll continues to mount, leaving them mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally exhausted. So, the next time you see a firefighter, paramedic, or EMS worker, be sure to thank them for their service and for saving lives. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Quotes:

“I believe we have an unbreakable bond, but it’s just like any other family dynamic.” — Stacy
“I didn’t know any female firefighters and I thought, ‘Why not me?’” — Stacy
“You mentor each other.” — Stacy
“I have never broken down on a scene or anything like that, but in private we all have our moments.” — Stacy
“Don’t listen to the naysayers and anything you want to do in life, don’t listen to the critics. And sometimes the biggest critics are yourself.” — Stacy
“We actually have seen a rise in violence against first responders.” — Stacy
“Some of the hardest calls for a lot of us are those that involve children.” — Stacy
“I’m always thinking about my crew and their safety.” — Stacy

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

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With Matchmaker Lisa Chaben.

Spending so much time at home can be incredibly lonely, especially for those who are without a significant other. As the global pandemic rages on, it’s hard to know how to go about meeting someone. In today’s episode, we’ll tell you how to do exactly that. My guest, Lisa Chaben, is the founder of the personalized concierge dating service Match with Lisa. Lisa tells us all about how to make a human connection, date during the pandemic, maintain healthy relationships, and more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How Lisa knew she had a knack for being a matchmaker.
Why the pandemic has actually made it easier for Lisa to match people.
What exactly is a “personalized concierge dating service” and how does it work?
Lisa’s process for matching people.
How Lisa introduced her father-in-law to his future wife.
What makes Lisa’s service different?
How Lisa finds matches for her clients and some of the challenges they face.
Lisa’s recommendations for safe in-person dating during the pandemic.
How much does Lisa’s service cost?
How long does it take to get set up?
How Lisa encourages those who may be reluctant to start dating due to low self-esteem.
Getting over the stigma of a dating service.

Today’s Takeaway: The holiday season can be a particularly trying time for those with a history of depression. Over the past year, the strain of being stuck at home in the midst of a pandemic has contributed significantly to depression and anxiety diagnoses. Substance abuse and suicide rates are also rising as people struggle to cope. The social isolation of being single can certainly take a toll. The pandemic makes seeing friends and family, dating, and expanding our social circles very limited. In these challenging times, a professional matchmaking service may be one of the best ways to find a genuine connection. Even if it’s not the love of your life, it may be a lifelong friend that you find. At the end of the day, isn’t it worth taking a chance on love? I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Lisa Chaben:

Match with Lisa

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With Yoga & pilates instructor, Courtney Jones.

If you’re like most people, you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed out right now. Stress can take a significant toll on us; physically, emotionally, and mentally. Today you’ll hear some ways that you can overcome stress. My guest, Courtney Jones, is a pilates & yoga instructor from Body & Mind Unbound, a motivational speaker, and a life coach. Courtney shares her philosophy on the connection between mind, body, and spirituality for our overall wellbeing and provides tips to reduce stress.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Courtney started doing yoga as a stress reliever as a new mother of infant twins upon moving to Detroit.
Initially, Courtney did not like yoga.
Why is breathing so important?
How you can attend Courtney’s online classes during COVID-19 and receive a free class just for listening to this podcast!
The difference between yoga and pilates and their benefits.
The importance of building strength, especially as we age.
How Courtney began her training in fitness.
The silver lining Courtney has found during the pandemic.
How often Courtney practices yoga & pilates.
More about how Courtney motivates clients.
Tips for everyday health and fitness.

Today’s Takeaway: With so many disruptions to our daily routine right now, stress can take its toll. During times of stress, it can be even more challenging to watch what we eat, get enough sleep, or exercise. But it’s more important now than ever before to take care of your mind, body, and soul. Increasing our endorphins through physical activity, is one of the most effective ways to beat stress. The spiritual practice of yoga can provide both physical and mental benefits. Simply learning to pause in the moment and breathe deeply can be one of the most calming and healing tools we have. When we feel better, we act better. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Courtney Jones:

Body & Mind Unbound

https://www.facebook.com/bodymindunbound/?ref=py_c

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With WW Coach, Amanda McDonald.

Have you ever wanted to make a major change in your life, but you just didn’t know how to get started? The added stress from this past year has made staying on track for our goals so much harder. Whether it’s weight loss, career changes, relationships, or other goals, it can be so difficult to get motivated. My guest today, Amanda McDonald, not only lost 70 pounds through WW but is also one of our most popular WW coaches. Amanda specializes in helping people realize their dreams so they can live their best lives.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Amanda’s aha moment before she lost 70 pounds.
What Amanda tells someone when they say, “I just can’t do it.”
How important it is to recognize things in your life that just aren’t working.
Part of reaching your goals and handling setbacks is taking fluctuations in stride.
How Amanda sticks to her healthy eating habits during the holidays.
Portion control can be especially tricky during difficult times.
Accountability and support were huge factors in helping Amanda reach her weight loss goal.
How Amanda’s classes have changed due to the pandemic and how members can find virtual classes.
Amanda’s exercise regimen and how it helps her maintain her weight.
How Amanda is teaching her children healthy eating habits.
What Amanda has to say to the person listening right now who wants to get started on their weight loss journey.

Today’s Takeaway: The events of the past year have impacted all of us, but sometimes the most challenging times present the biggest opportunity for positive change. Sometimes it can actually motivate us to become a better person. Try to imagine your best life. What does it look like? How do you feel? The pandemic can make this difficult, but it will not last forever. Real change takes time. Surround yourself with people who truly support your dreams and share your vision so they can hold you accountable in a helpful way. Don’t let anyone discourage you from achieving your dreams. Think about what small action you can take right now that can help you achieve your dreams. Take a chance! You can only fail if you don’t try. Never give up trying to live the life that you want. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

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With Actress, producer and celebrity wife, Jane Hajduk.

Often when we’re in a relationship, especially if our partner is very successful, we can lose our own identity. How can we be fully supportive of others in our relationships unless we first value ourselves? Florine’s guest today is the talented actress and producer, Jane Hajduk, who is married to comedy legend and actor, Tim Allen. Jane knows the importance of being true to herself and achieving her own individual goals even while her husband is in the public spotlight.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Initially, Jane felt cast aside by her husband’s fans, but eventually, she learned to empathize with their excitement in meeting him.
How Jane first met her famous husband, Tim Allen, at a YMCA charity event.
Jane began her career in dance and aerobics, then as a personal trainer.
How auditions have changed for Jane since becoming a mom and now during the pandemic.
Why Jane decided to pursue acting as a career.
What it’s like meeting other famous actors through Tim and not feeling ignored or overlooked.
Jane’s latest producing project is a TV series called Candyland.
How Jane got involved in supporting veteran’s charities.
What would people be most surprised to learn about Tim Allen?
How Tim and Jane honor and support their favorite philanthropy projects.
What would people be most surprised to learn about Jane?
How Jane and her family have managed to stay sane during the pandemic through theme nights, games, puzzles, and cooking.
The importance of using exercise to cope with anxiety and stress in the pandemic.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Also Mentioned in this Episode:

Jane Hajduk

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With Fashion Designer and artist, Carly Mark.

Just because we're staying home these days doesn't mean we can't still dress up as if we were going to a fabulous party! When you look your best, you just feel better. So do something different for a change. Get out of your sweats, put on a favorite dress, slip into your dancing shoes, take a photo and plan a special evening at home together!

In this episode, Florine is joined by NYC-based fashion designer Carly Mark. Her clothing line is called Puppets and Puppets. She is not only a talented artist and designer but is also Florine’s granddaughter. She has been featured in many fashion magazines and was recently on the cover of Vogue Italia. Even though fashion design, fashion shows, and fashion sales have changed, Carly talks about how it's still relevant and why it's important to dress up and feel good about ourselves.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What made Carly go into fashion design.
How different cities and countries approach fashion.
Where does the name Puppets and Puppets come from?
What kind of clothes Carly is making to fit the lifestyle of people staying at home.
Because of the pandemic, online is the best way to sell to customers.
What is NYC Fashion Week and why is it still happening during the pandemic?
What is a “Lookbook”?
How Carly uses in-person and online networking to gain attention.
How Carly met her longtime co-designer, Ayla Argentina.
Holiday season fashion trends lean more towards comfort.
Unique ideas for holiday gifts.
How to try to buy more sustainable clothing.

Today’s Takeaway: One of the best ways to fight pandemic fatigue is to celebrate when we can. Even if you’re staying home, make it special. Dress up and wear your newest fashions! Create new traditions with family and friends. Celebrate the holidays and be grateful! Just because this year is different, doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy it.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Puppets and Puppets

Vogue Runway

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With EMMY Award Winning Directer, Phideaux Xavier.

Since the pandemic, General Hospital has become even more popular, providing longtime fans with an outlet where they feel they can return to their normal routine, relax and enjoy a welcome escape.

In this episode, Florine is joined by Emmy Award winning television director, Phideaux Xavier. In addition to being a talented progressive rock musician who released several albums with his band “Bloodfish,” Phideaux has worked on General Hospital since 2007.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Daytime serials date back to Charles Dickens’s era and became popularized on radio in the 1930s by Irna Phillips.
How a show that has been on the air for 58 years is able to evolve and stay current.
What is so engaging about GH is that it contains the mundane parts of everyday life but also presents a heightened version of our lives.
Storytelling is the most important part of the show.
Some behind the scenes secrets about GH during November sweeps month -more than one person will die.
The scenes that Phideuax loves directing the most; his preference for comedic scenes; particularly comedy in villains.
The special precautions and protocols used to keep actors safe during COVID-19; especially during intimate scenes.

Today’s Takeaway: As the pandemic continues and the number of positive cases continues to increase, it’s important we stay home as much as possible. But being at home doesn’t have to be boring or lonely if we use the time wisely.

Keep yourself occupied and when you just need an hour to relax, you can always turn on the TV. Engaging serial programs like General Hospital can offer a welcome escape from the routine of our day to day lives and when we pair it with at-home fitness or exercising while we watch TV, it's the perfect way to escape the stresses of the pandemic and stay engaged.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

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With Event Planner Julie Yaker.

Discussion about how events are changing during the pandemic and how people are still finding meaning and joy while being COVID-19-safe. Julie reveals changes she made to previously planned events in order to be COVID-19-safe and discusses how virtual online celebrations can be a safe alternative to in-person gatherings, as well as the importance of being grateful for the little moments in our everyday life.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Julie specializes in not just making an event look beautiful but also meaningful and purposeful.
Rather than postponing weddings or major life events scheduled in the next six months, Julie recommends scaling back or modifying the events to be COVID-19-safe.
People are still finding joy in events, even though they are different.
Some techniques Julie recommends to be COVID-19-safe include masks, social distancing, utilizing outdoor spaces, individualized food and drink containers, personalized gifts, drive-by receiving lines, and more.
At this current time, staying home is really the best way to celebrate the holidays.
You can still find ways to make the holidays meaningful, whether it is virtual or in-person, through staging outdoor events in garages and in keeping old or creating new traditions.
For our mental health, Julie recommends “dressing up” for the event as you normally would, even if it’s just staying at home.
Today’s Takeaway: It’s important to find the joy in our everyday lives, especially around the holidays, and practice gratitude for the things that we do have. We don’t have to put our lives on hold, but we do have to be sensible about it. While attending events right now doesn’t look like it used to, we can still find creative ways to celebrate and find meaning.

Quotes:

“Is it exactly what everybody envisions or dreams of? No. But I do think there are ways to really make it special and meaningful. We just have to kind of twist what we think the traditional event is going to look like for right now.”
“Right now, I really do think we should stay home, be with who lives in our house and find a way to make it special with the larger family.”
“Maybe there are ways within your own family that you can create some new traditions.”
“Stay safe and celebrate! Don’t give up the happy moments.”

Brought To You By:

FLORINE MARK

Eye Catcher Events

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With James Beard Award Nominated Chef, Lena Sareini

When our “perfect” careers or relationships end, we need to face the situation head-on, accept it, and envision a new dream for ourselves. We just need the courage to recognize and make positive changes.

Florine sits down with nationally recognized and award-winning pastry chef Lena Sareini. Lena’s fast-paced life was abruptly changed when the pandemic shut down her restaurant. In that time, she was forced to slow down and reevaluate what she really wanted her life to look like. She left her full-time job in the restaurant and is now in full pursuit of her own dreams.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Lena talks about how her childhood and Lebanese family inspired her love of food.
How Lena filled her time still creating when the pandemic forced her to be at home.
Quarantine forced Lena to slow down and it was the unexpected motivation she needed to do some self-reflection.
After restrictions were lifted, Lena went back to working in the restaurant but with the stress of working with a reduced staff and added responsibilities, it no longer made her happy.
Since leaving her job, Lena is working on a series of collaborations and projects, including pop-up dinners, that allows her to have full creative control.
What it’s like being the fiance’ of a pastry chef and how Lena keeps her desserts “healthy.”
Lena describes where she sees herself a year from now.
Today’s Takeaway: When our “perfect” careers or relationships end, we need to face the situation head-on, accept it, and envision a new dream for ourselves. We just need the courage to recognize and make positive changes.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Lena on Instagram

Bon Bon Bon

Gold Cash Gold

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With "Walk at Home" Guru, Leslie Sansone.

In this episode, Leslie discusses how, now more than ever, it’s so important to get walking. Leslie is the founder of Walk At Home and a member of the National Fitness Hall of Fame. Her program has sold more than 18 million DVDs and inspired a wildly successful mobile app. She

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Leslie is inspiring millions to get up and get walking.
Traditional walking is hugely beneficial even without intensifying.
The major health benefits of walking and how Leslie got started in her program.
Treadmills are wonderful, but walking outside among the elements and on varying terrains will add more challenges and yield more results.
The American College of Sports Medicine suggests 30 minutes of brisk exercise 5X a week.
Leslie shares her personal experience and struggles with the pandemic and how she stays motivated.
Leslie’s method is evidence-based at a pace of 15 minutes a mile or 4 MPH.
Harvard University Health Studies found walking just 30 minutes a day may reduce your risk of heart disease by 30%.
Today’s Takeaway: Start walking just 30 minutes a day to feel the difference in your mind and your body.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Walk At Home

Walk At Home on YouTube

Walk At Home App

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With Jill Littman, Executive Producer of "Restaurant: Impossible"

Change is hard and as we all adjust to our new normal, we have to be ready to do things differently. With reduced indoor capacity and fewer staff members, how can we still "eat out" and help support your local restaurants?

Florine is joined this week by Jill Littman; Executive Producer of Food Network’s Restaurant: Impossible. This Emmy-nominated show features chef Robert Irvine working with a team to makeover and relaunch a restaurant for $10k in just 48 hours. Filmed during the spring and summer of 2020, Jill and her crew set out on the road to revisit restaurants they previously helped, reopen in the wake of the pandemic. Working closely with the restaurant owners, the team finds creative new ways to reimagine the business and replace lost revenue. She talks how creativity, flexibility, and a lot of hard work have helped her to adjust to working in the new normal.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

During Restaurant Impossible: Back in Business, the team revisited 10 restaurants from across the country that they had previously helped, finding creative ways to augment revenue lost as a result of limited in-person dining.
Jill shares the struggles of filming episodes while ensuring the safety of cast and crew.
Jill is concerned about the future of restaurants, especially with cold weather coming.
When it comes to this show and this crew, there is no hierarchy in getting the work done. Everybody rolls up their sleeves and gets their hands dirty.
How they select which restaurants will be on the show.
Some behind-the-scenes secrets about chef Robert Irvine, including his love of junk food!
Travel can be challenging, especially with COVID-19 restrictions, but Jill has a great team with a common goal.
Restaurant: Impossible is set to resume its regular season, but it will be different than before as they have to limit the number of people involved and do more with a much smaller team.
According to a recent article in Forbes, more than 40% of restaurants have closed, many for good, with an estimated $240B in lost revenue.
Today’s Takeaway: Change is hard and as we all adjust to our new normal, we have to be ready to do things differently. It’s the only way we’ll grow and make things better for us ourselves, our children, and our community.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Restaurant: Impossible

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With Maria Goodavage, New York Times bestselling author & dog expert.

How specially trained dogs can help us stay healthy and warn us of impending medical emergencies in ways we haven’t even imagined.Just as they make our lives better and richer, now we're learning how our dogs can become our very best medicine too.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Maria's father's experience as a young soldier in WWII first inspired her interest in military dogs, which led her to her path in researching other working dogs.
How dogs are trained by scent to detect specific health disorders.
Researchers look for dogs that are really motivated by rewards to be able to be trained as a working medical dog.
Labradors make up most of working dogs because of their focus and love of food.
Many of the programs using dogs to sniff out disease are still in the trial stages.
Cancer detection, for example, is not available yet for patients; it’s mainly in the research stage.
Researchers want the dogs to lead to a technology called eNose or electronic nose.
One of the most important tasks for working dogs could be detecting COVID-19 in humans.
Active COVID-19 detecting dogs are currently at work at Helsinki Airport and in the airport in Dubai.
How dogs help comfort crime, disaster, and PTSD victims.
Prison inmates are helping to train working dogs.
Today’s Takeaway: Dogs can help us stay healthy in ways we haven’t even imagined; they make our lives better and richer.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Maria Goodavage

Doctor Dogs — On Amazon

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With Linda Kaplan Thaler, Bestselling Author and Advertising Legend

Nice guys don’t always finish last. We can choose to treat each other with kindness and respect even while agreeing to disagree. If we all listen carefully and try to understand where someone is coming from, we just might find common ground. And find a way to say yes instead of no.

In this episode, Florine speaks with New York Times bestselling author and advertising legend Linda Kaplan Thaler. She is the CEO and Founder of billion-dollar ad agency Kaplan Thaler Productions and is responsible for notable campaigns like the Toys “R” Us jingle, the Aflac duck, and Clairol Herbal Essences. She talks about “the power of being nice,” the importance of listening, and saying “yes,” and she sprinkles in a lot of humor, as well.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

As someone who worked on three previous Presidential campaigns, what Linda thinks of the current presidential campaign and election climate.
When it comes to political ads, where you can basically say anything you want with impunity because you are protected by free speech, consumer products are subject to strict regulations.
How we can be nice while agreeing to disagree. Listening is key.
“Zoom and Gloom” is a real phenomenon people are experiencing from the lack of in-person meetings and face-to-face interactions.
Dissent from teenagers is an evolutionary response; if parents remember this it can help improve relationships with their teens.
Essentially, everyone just wants to feel heard, be validated, and be complimented.
How being “nice with a cherry on top” got Linda a 2.5-hour interview with Warren Buffett.
You can deflect combative comments with a sense of humor.
The “bigger pie theory” means that we don’t have to steal a slice of pie from someone else, we just need to find a way to bake a bigger pie.
What the difference between saying yes or no looks like. Saying no will completely shut things down but saying yes opens us up to other opportunities.
Linda learned a lot about business and the creative process through improvisational theater; just listening and saying “yes” can yield the best moments.
Linda’s entertainment background can be seen throughout her projects.
Today’s Takeaway: Nice guys don’t always finish last. We can choose to treat each other with kindness and respect even while agreeing to disagree. If we all listen carefully and try to understand where someone is coming from, we just might find common ground. And find a way to say yes instead of no.

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

Kaplan Thaler Productions

The Power of Nice: How to Conquer the Business World With Kindness – On Amazon

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With Dr. Kim Eagle, Cardiologist and Professor at the University of Michigan

Cardiovascular disease kills more men and women worldwide than any other disease but many of the disorders may be preventable. Simple changes we can make to our daily routines can help reduce our risk of heart disease.

In this episode, Florine is joined by Dr. Kim Eagle, Cardiologist and Professor at the University of Michigan. Dr. Eagle graduated from Tufts University Medical School, completed his postgraduate fellowship at Harvard University Medical School, and is also the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Cardiovascular disease kills more men and women worldwide than any other disease but many of the disorders may be preventable.
Both genetic and environmental factors affect cardiovascular health and they are interrelated in important ways.
It’s so imperative to know our numbers; blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, medical history, family history, and other conditions, to customize prevention.
Who is most at risk for cardiovascular disease.
How COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease are related.
Advancing age is a risk factor, but the good news is we can mitigate this with preventative measures and medications.
What foods we should, and should not, be eating to stay heart healthy.
The truth about coffee and alcohol for your cardiovascular health.
Exercise is not only important for your overall health, it adds years to your life.
What exercises Dr. Eagle does every day and what he recommends.
The sobering truths about heart disease deaths in the United States.
Today’s Takeaway:

There are four simple things you can do to improve heart health today:

Visit your doctor and know your numbers
Try to attain a more healthy diet
Try to move every day; ideally 30 minutes or more
Get a flu vaccine

Brought To You By:

Florine Mark

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Florine Mark