Public Health Matters

About Public Health Matters

Public health is all around us — in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the choices we make every day. Public Health MATTERS dives into the real stories shaping our health and how communities support each other. Whether you’re health-savvy or just curious, join us for insights that connect us all. Because when we care for each other, our whole community gets stronger — and it all starts with us.

Publisher

Dakota Media Access

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 Jul 2025

Latest episode

2 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 16 - When Relationships Cross The Line

2. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 15 - Wait…Environmental Health Does WHAT?

   Have you ever stopped to think about what goes on behind the scenes to keep the places where we eat, swim, live and play safe? From the food on your plate and the water in your pool to tattoos, septic systems and water quality, environmental health is part of our everyday lives in ways you might not realize. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, Becky sits down with Lana Schmidt, Registered Environmental Health Sanitarian at Western Plains Public Health, for a fun, casual conversation about what environmental health really looks like—and why so much of this important work happens behind the scenes. Together, they explore the many hats environmental health wears and the role prevention plays in protecting our communities. 🛡️🌎 ☕ Grab your favorite drink and join us as we take a behind-the-scenes look at: 🍔 Food safety: What happens before your first bite? 🏊 Swimming pools & water quality: What goes into keeping that water safe? 🖊️ Body art: What does environmental health have to do with tattoos and piercings? 🚽 Septic systems: Why is something we rarely think about so important? 🔎 Prevention: How can identifying potential problems early help protect people and the environment? You may not always notice environmental health at work, and that's often a good thing! But there's a lot happening behind the scenes to help businesses meet requirements, provide safe services and reduce potential health and environmental risks. Because public health isn't just about what happens at the office. It's happening all around us, every day. Public Health MATTERS is about making public health personal by connecting our community with practical tips, expert insights and local resources to help everyone make healthier choices. Guest Information Lana Schmidt is a licensed veterinary technician as well as a Registered Environmental Health Sanitarian at Western Plains Public Health. Throughout her career she has been fortunate to work in a variety of settings. Lana wears multiple hats every day focusing on prevention, promotion, and protection.

3. 

   7 Aug 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 14 - TikTok Said It, So It Must Be True...Right?

   Have you ever heard a health tip and thought, “Wait…is that actually true?” 🤔 From social media trends and internet searches to advice passed down from friends and family, health information is everywhere. But with so much information floating around, it can be tricky to separate fact from fiction. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, Becky sits down with Jess Barker, Director of Nursing at Western Plains Public Health, for a fun, casual conversation about some of the most common health myths and misconceptions. Together, they dig into why certain myths stick around, how misinformation spreads, and how we can all become better health detectives. 🕵️♀️🔎 ☕ Grab your favorite drink and join us as we tackle questions like: 📱 Why do some myths go viral? 💡 How do you find accurate information? 🏥 What does public health really do to help keep our communities healthy? Whether you’ve heard it online, from a friend, or have just always wondered if it was true, this episode will leave you with a few “aha!” moments and some helpful tools for making informed health choices. Because when it comes to your health, it’s always worth asking: “Is that a fact…or is that a myth?” Public Health MATTERS is about making public health personal by connecting our community with practical tips, expert insights, and local resources to help everyone make healthier choices. Guest Information: Jessica Barker is the new Director of Nursing for Western Plains Public Health. Throughout her nursing career she has been fortunate to work in a variety of settings including the hospital, assisted living facility, nursing home, and clinic. She has over 10 years’ experience working in a Public Health office, where her true passion for nursing remains. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, running, and reading. This job aligns with her health belief of striving for a healthier tomorrow through prevention, promotion, and protection.

4. 

   3 Jul 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 13 - Protecting North Dakota's Greatest Resource: Its People

   Every day, North Dakotans head to work with one goal in mind: to make it home safely at the end of the day. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, Becky sits down with Art Thompson, Director of North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI), for a conversation about workplace safety, injury prevention, and the people behind the jobs. Many people know WSI for workers' compensation, but their work goes far beyond responding to injuries. Art shares how WSI partners with employers, workers, healthcare providers, and communities across North Dakota to help prevent injuries before they happen and support workers when they do. Becky and Art also discuss the powerful message behind North Dakota's Get Home Safe campaign and why workplace safety isn't just about policies and procedures, it's about protecting the people, families, and communities that matter most. Whether you work in healthcare, agriculture, construction, education, energy, or any other field, this episode is a reminder that behind every job title is a person, and someone waiting for them to come home. Guest Information Art Thompson serves as Director of North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI), the state's sole provider and administrator of workers' compensation services. Appointed director in 2022, Art leads efforts focused on workplace safety, injury prevention, and supporting injured workers throughout their recovery journey. A native of Washburn, North Dakota, Art has spent much of his career working alongside North Dakota businesses and industries in both the public and private sectors. Prior to joining WSI, he served as executive director of the North Dakota Concrete Council and has held leadership roles in business development, communications, and industry relations throughout the state.

5. 

   5 Jun 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 12 - It's Quitting Time

   In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re talking about Quit Week 2026 happening June 7–13 across North Dakota and this year’s message: It’s Quitting Time. Becky is joined by Neil Charvat from North Dakota’s Tobacco Prevention and Control Program to talk about what quitting really looks like today, from cigarettes to vaping to nicotine pouches. This conversation centers on support, not judgment and the many ways people can find help when they’re ready to make a change. They explore why nicotine is so addictive, how quitting looks different for everyone, and the wide range of community and public health resources available across North Dakota. From NDQuits coaching and quit aids to local public health and healthcare supports, there are people ready to meet you where you are and walk alongside you in your quit journey. Whether someone is ready to quit now, thinking about it, or just curious, this episode is a reminder: you are not alone, and support is available without judgment whenever you’re ready. GUEST INFORMATION – Neil Charvat has worked in the state tobacco prevention and control program for eighteen years, twelve years as program manager. As a former tobacco user North Dakota native, Neil is motivated to help provide people with nicotine addiction treatment resources and prevent youth tobacco and nicotine initiation. RESOURCES Websites NDQuits phone and web resources. Phone: 800-Quit-Now or web: hhs.nd.gov/health/ndquits (https://hhs.nd.gov/health/ndquits)

6. 

   1 May 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 11 - Take Care of Yourself: Because You Matter Too

   Moms are often the ones caring for everyone else—but who’s taking care of them? In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re talking about why self-care isn’t selfish…it’s essential. Becky is joined by nurses and Women’s Way Coordinators Kjersti Hintz and Jade Gross to explore the “default caregiver” role, the mental load many women carry, and how small, realistic self-care moments can make a big impact. They also dive into prevention, the importance of screenings, and how programs like Women’s Way help connect women to the care they need. This Mother’s Day, it’s a reminder to slow down, check in with yourself, and prioritize your health because you matter too. GUEST INFORMATION – Kjersti Hintz has been a registered nurse for more than 30 years. She currently serves as the Case Management Coordinator at Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health and is the Women’s Way Coordinator for the Bismarck and Minot regions. Jade Gross has been a registered nurse for 24 years. She is the Western Plains Public Health Women’s Way Coordinator, serving Morton, Sioux, Grant, McLean, Mercer, Mountrail and Oliver counties. Kjersti and Jade are passionate about helping communities stay healthy…working to improve access to care, promoting early cancer detection, connecting women with services and making sure people have the resources they need to thrive. RESOURCES Websites hhs.nd.gov/health/women/womens-way (https://hhs.nd.gov/health/women/womens-way) bismarcknd.gov/363/Womens-Way  (https://bismarcknd.gov/363/Womens-Way) westernplainsph.org/womens-way (https://westernplainsph.org/womens-way) Facebook facebook.com/northdakotawomensway (https://facebook.com/northdakotawomensway) facebook.com/BBPublicHealth (https://facebook.com/BBPublicHealth) facebook.com/westernplainsph (https://facebook.com/westernplainsph)

7. 

   3 Apr 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 10 - You've Got This: The Support Every First Time Mom Deserves

   Becoming a first-time mom can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we’re taking a closer look at the Nurse-Family Partnership and how it supports moms from pregnancy through early parenthood. Becky sits down with Nurse Supervisor Jessica Linneman to talk about the power of home visiting, what families can expect from the program, and how personalized, judgment-free support helps moms build confidence and reach their goals. From real-life stories to practical guidance, this conversation highlights how early support can make a lasting difference for both mom and baby. Whether you’re expecting, know someone who is, or simply want to learn more about how communities support families, this episode is a reminder that strong beginnings start with support…and you’ve got this. Guest Info: Jessica Linneman has been a registered nurse for 21 years working with families and children. Jessica started her nursing career working in the NICU, Pediatrics and Birthing Center and in 2009 took a career as a public health nurse working in various prevention programs. In 2019, Western Plains and Bismarck Burleigh Public Health embarked on a journey to implement Nurse-Family Partnership in 5 ND counties (Burleigh, Morton, Grant, Mercer, Oliver and Sioux). Jessica is the Nurse-Family Partnership Nurse Supervisor and supports 4 nurses is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Child Passenger Safety Technician and a member of American Nurses Association and ND Nurses Association. Jessica works as a part-time academic staff teaching Public and Community Health Nursing to future nursing students. RESOURCES Website: westernplainsph.org/nurse-family-partnership (https://westernplainsph.org/nurse-family-partnership) Facebook: facebook.com/NFPinND (https://facebook.com/NFPinND)

8. 

   6 Mar 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 9 - In Their Corner: Helping Parents Feel Confident Informed and Supported

   Helping parents feel confident, informed, and supported. Parenting comes with big decisions and plenty of opinions. You deserve steady, trustworthy support along the way. On this episode of Public Health MATTERS, host Becky has a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Kathy Anderson, about childhood health, including immunizations, and how prevention helps protect families and communities. 💜 In this episode, we cover: ✨ How prevention plays a powerful role in keeping kids safe 🤝 The importance of trusted healthcare partnerships 🧭 Resources and people who can support families in making informed decisions 🏡 Simple, practical tips for overall wellbeing at home 🌎 How everyday choices connect to the health of our communities No pressure. No overwhelm. Just clear information and supportive conversation you can trust. Guest Bio: Dr. Kathy Anderson is a double board-certified general pediatrician and integrative medicine physician.  She has been practicing in Bismarck, North Dakota for over 15 years and in April of 2020, Dr. Anderson launched her own pediatric practice, Nurturing Wellness Pediatrics, where she works with families to optimize the health, development and learning, wellness, and safety of the whole child using an evidence-based approach, and with a strong focus on prevention. Originally from New York, Dr. Anderson completed her undergraduate and medical studies at Brown University through the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) before obtaining residency training in Pediatrics through the University of Hawaii.  Driven by the challenges of disease, health, and healing that she had seen as a child, and with a desire to understand the art of medicine as well as the science of medicine, she went on to complete her fellowship in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona. Dr. Anderson is an assistant professor of pediatrics for the University of North Dakota.  She has served as an officer for North Dakota American Academy of Pediatrics starting in 2010 and completed her presidency for NDAAP in July 2022.  She continued on in leadership in National Pediatric Leadership through the American Academy of Pediatrics as Regional Champion of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and is currently the District Vice Chair for District VI for the American Academy of Pediatrics.  In 2022, she began serving on the board of directors of Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota and is also a board director at Foundations for a Healthy North Dakota.  Inspired by her patients and families, and driven by her own children, Dr. Anderson brings curiosity, tenacity, and passionate problem-solving to all the work with which she engages whether it be clinical, education and advocacy, or systems- based work.

9. 

   6 Feb 2026

   Public Health Matters Ep. 8 - Heart-to-Heart Keeping ND Healthy

   💛 Heart-to-Heart: Keeping ND Healthy Heart disease is the leading cause of death in North Dakota…but the good news is, there’s so much we can do to prevent it. In this Heart Health Month episode, host Becky sits down with Tony Burke from the American Heart Association for an honest, encouraging conversation about heart health. Together, they explore how small, everyday choices, strong partnerships, and community voices come together to create healthier lives across our state. 🎙 New episode drops Friday, February 6! 💜 You’ll hear about: ❤️ Why heart health matters now more than ever ⏱ Simple, heart-smart tips you can start today 🤝 How community collaboration makes a real difference 📣 How your voice can help build a healthier North Dakota GUEST INFORMATION Tony is an inspirational senior executive with over 25 years of facilitative leadership experience, who is a proactive, collaborative, community-focused visionary bridge walker with expertise in organizational and community change management. As a Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMPTM), he leads with the values of accountability and kindness by leaning into his certified strengths of strategic, belief, achiever, responsibility, and connectedness. After serving almost 20 years in the fire service, including a 4-year appointment in Washington DC with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Burn Foundation leading over 300,000 members in the field of burn prevention, advocacy, and survivor support, he committed himself to non-profit work, and service to the community, through his strong desire and understanding change is good. After spending time in the disaster response and recovery sectors, (Public and Private) a complex health care startup, the food bank industry, he joined the American Heart Association in April 2022 with the focus to increase heart and brain health, and health equity, through collective community change efforts and trusted relationship building. He serves as Government Relations Director serving South & North Dakota and in September 2024 was promoted to Government Relations, Regional Team Lead which includes oversight for Nebraska. RESOURCES Website  heart.org/en/affiliates/north-dakota https://www.foundationnd.org/mphc

10. 

    9 Jan 2026

    Public Health Matters Ep. 7 - Healthy-ish Little Things Count

    In this episode of Public Health MATTERS, we explore a refreshing truth about wellness: you don’t need a perfect routine or a major life overhaul to feel healthier. Small, simple choices can make a big difference over time. Host Becky is joined by Katie Johnke for a practical, down-to-earth conversation about what health can look like in real life. From busy schedules to everyday stress, this episode focuses on realistic ways to support your well-being—without pressure or perfection. 💛 Segment Highlights: ✨ Movement That Fits Your Day – Easy ways to add more movement without carving out extra time. 🥕 Nutrition That Sticks – Small, manageable food swaps that support health without feeling restrictive. 🎶 Creativity & Mental Well-Being – How music, art, and hobbies can lift your mood and reduce stress. 👯♀️ Connection Matters – Why staying connected to your community plays a key role in overall health. ⏱ 5-Minute Wellness Wins – Simple actions you can start today to support your physical and mental health. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or just trying to feel a little better day by day, this episode offers practical ideas you can actually use. Because wellness isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the little things that count. 💛 Public Health MATTERS. GUEST INFORMATION Katie Johnke has served as the Nutrition and Health Promotion Coordinator for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health and the City of Bismarck since 2013. A Licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Lactation Counselor, she leads initiatives focused on nutrition education, active transportation, maternal and child health, and chronic disease prevention. With more than a decade of experience in public health, Katie is passionate about community wellness and enjoys running, coaching, and supporting her kids in sports. RESOURCES Website  www.bismarcknd.gov/359/Nutrition-and-Health-Promotion (https://www.bismarcknd.gov/359/Nutrition-and-Health-Promotion)

11. 

    5 Dec 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 6 - Surviving the Holidays

    In this episode, we get real about something many people quietly struggle with during the holiday season: mental and behavioral health. Even when the holidays are wrapped in glitter, traditions, and high expectations, the reality is that this time of year can feel overwhelming and you're not alone. Our guest, Dr. Shauna Eberhardt, joins us to walk through why this season can be so challenging and how we can care for ourselves and each other. 💜 Segment Highlights: ❤️ Behavioral Health Is Health – Understanding why mental well-being is just as essential as physical health, especially during a high-pressure season. ✨ Holiday Chaos vs. Holiday Connection – Why the season can lead to overthinking, overextending, and emotional burnout. 🎄 Letting Go of “Perfect” Traditions – How shifting expectations and setting boundaries can bring back calm and meaning. 💬 How Public Health Can Help – From connecting people to mental health resources to supporting those navigating alcohol or nicotine use, learn how public health plays a vital role in seasonal well-being. 🧘 Small Steps for a Healthier Season – Simple, realistic ways to find steadiness, comfort, and connection when the holidays feel heavy. Whether you're juggling stress, navigating family dynamics, or just trying to stay grounded, this episode offers support and perspective to help you move through the season with more ease. Because it’s more than cheer and cookies. It's about finding the support that helps you feel healthier and more connected this holiday season. Public Health MATTERS. GUEST INFORMATION Dr. Shauna Eberhardt, is a licensed clinician in mental health and substance use disorder services in North Dakota. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and is currently the Clinical Director at the Behavioral Health Policy Division within ND Department of Health & Human Services. RESOURCES Website   hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health (https://hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health)

12. 

    7 Nov 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 5 - Forget Me Not: Brain Health 101

    In this episode, we dive into one of the most important and often misunderstood topics in public health: brain health. Our guest, Melanie, joins us to explore what brain health looks like across a lifetime, how communities in North Dakota are supporting those living with dementia, and what we can all do to protect our minds as we age. 💜 Segment Highlights: 🧠 Dementia Care Services in North Dakota – Discover a free, statewide program that helps families navigate memory loss with compassion and support. 🥦 The “Brain Health Recipe” from the US POINTER Study – Learn the lifestyle ingredients proven to reduce dementia risk at any age. 🔍 The Power of Early Diagnosis – Why knowing sooner can open doors to treatment, research, and hope. 🤝 Public Health Is a Team Sport – See how communities, caregivers, and local partners can make brain health everyone’s business. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, curious about prevention, or simply want to better understand brain health, this episode reminds us that it’s never too early — or too late — to start caring for your brain. Public Health MATTERS. GUEST INFORMATION Melanie Gaebe, is the North Dakota Public Policy Director for the Alzheimer’s Association. She earned a Master of Arts in Political Science from American Military University while working as the policy analyst for the ND Department of Agriculture. Melanie is a member of a number of public health organizations and serves on multiple boards. In her spare time, Melanie spends her time reading, knitting, and camping when the weather allows.   RESOURCES 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/alzmnnd (https://www.facebook.com/alzmnnd) 🐦 Twitter/X: x.com/alzmnnd (https://x.com/alzmnnd) 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/alzmnnd (https://www.instagram.com/alzmnnd) 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/alzheimer’s-association-minnesota-north-dakota (https://www.linkedin.com/company/alzheimer%E2%80%99s-association-minnesota-north-dakota)

13. 

    3 Oct 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 4 - Talk Like Their Future Depends on It

    Today on Public Health Matters, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools adults have to help keep kids safe…conversations. Not just one big “talk,” but ongoing, everyday check-ins that build trust and help guide kids through life’s challenges. Whether it’s navigating friendships, making healthy choices, or facing peer pressure, these small but meaningful chats can have a big impact. They promote confidence, safety, and strong decision-making skills. They matter more than you might think. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle, teacher, or simply someone who cares about the wellbeing of kids in your community, your connection makes a difference. Join us as we explore how staying connected can support children’s behavioral health and help them thrive. Public Health MATTERS. GUEST INFORMATION Laura Anderson, MPH, is the Behavioral Health Division Policy Director with North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. She received her Master's in Public Health at the University of Iowa and has fifteen years of experience in substance use prevention and behavioral health program and policy administration. RESOURCES 📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/parentslead (http://www.facebook.com/parentslead) 📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/parents_lead/ (http://www.instagram.com/parents_lead/) • parentslead.org (http://www.parentslead.org) Interactive activities: parentslead.org/activities/interactive (http://www.parentslead.org/activities/interactive)

14. 

    8 Sept 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 3 - Purpose The Heart Of Aging Well

    Episode Three – Purpose:  The Heart of Aging We’re all doing it…getting older. But healthy aging isn’t just about staying active or eating well, it’s deeply connected to public health. From safe housing and fall prevention to access to care, social connection, and thoughtful community design, public health plays a powerful role in helping people live longer, healthier, and more independent lives. In this episode, we’ll explore how having a sense of purpose along with small, smart changes at the community level, can make a big difference as we age, and what helpful resources are available for support. Together, we can create communities that help you, your loved ones, and your neighbors thrive at every stage of life. Public Health MATTERS. GUEST INFORMATION Josh Askvig has been with AARP since 2011, serving as State Director since 2016. A tireless advocate for older North Dakotans, Josh brings a wealth of experience from his work on Capitol Hill, as a campaign consultant, and in education. He also served two terms as a Bismarck City Commissioner. Throughout his career, Josh has been committed to improving communities, championing the needs of older residents, and making North Dakota a better place to live for all ages. RESOURCES Caregiving:  www.aarp.org/caregiving/  (https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/) Volunteering:  www.aarp.org/Iwant2volunteer (https://www.aarp.org/Iwant2volunteer)

15. 

    1 Aug 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 2 - Backpacks, Bedtimes, & Breakfast

    Back-to-school time can feel a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, we’re sharing simple, real-life tips to help your family ease into the school year with less stress and more confidence. From tackling bedtime routines to packing lunches and checking in on emotions, we’ve got you covered. Public health is part of everyday life, especially when it comes to keeping kids healthy, happy, and ready to learn. 💙 Public Health MATTERS. Take a deep breath, hit play, and let’s kick off the school year together…you’ve got this!

16. 

    11 Jul 2025

    Public Health Matters Ep. 1 - Public Health: The Work You Don't See, But Can't Live Without

    Public health is part of our daily lives, even if we don’t always notice it. It’s about the quiet, consistent work that keeps our families and communities healthy and safe every single day. In this episode, we explore how public health shows up working behind the scenes — protecting health, strengthening families, and stepping up when it matters most. Join us for honest, down-to-earth conversations about the challenges we face and the simple, powerful ways we can support each other. Healthier communities don’t happen by accident; they happen when we work together. And it all starts here. Public Health MATTERS. Now more than ever. Guests: Renae Moch (Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health) & Erin Ourada (Western Plains Public Health)

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