Ep. 26: Menopause, Midlife, and Women’s Well-Being
Menopause is more than a biological transition—it can affect women’s physical health, mental health, relationships, work, identity, and quality of life. In recognition of Menopause Awareness Month, this episode of Wellness in Today’s World features host Dr. Debra Kawahara speaking with Dr. Rebecca Thurston (Associate Dean for Women's Health Research and Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh) about what we know about menopause and where significant gaps remain.
They explore the biopsychosocial nature of the menopause transition, common physical and mental health symptoms, the importance of recognizing and treating disruptive symptoms, and how women can find evidence-based care. The conversation also challenges the stigma and “gloom and doom” surrounding menopause, highlighting midlife as a potential period of greater self-awareness, confidence, agency, and empowerment. Finally, Dr. Thurston discusses how healthcare providers, employers, and society can better support women through this universal life transition.
30 Sept 2026
Ep. 25: "The Body Digital": How Technology Shapes Who We Are
How are digital technologies changing the way we think, move, communicate, and experience our bodies? What responsibility do we have in shaping that relationship? In this episode of Wellness in Today’s World, writer and educator Vanessa Chang explores the intersection of technology, history, and what it means to be human with host Dr. Debra Kawahara. Drawing on her book The Body Digital, Chang explains how technologies have always shaped our embodied experience, while arguing that the pace and scale of today’s digital tools and AI have amplified their effects. She examines both the benefits of technology, including accessibility and connection, and its risks, including data collection, loss of consent, and the outsourcing of cognitive and emotional labor.
The conversation also explores how AI is reshaping education, cities, and other systems—and why communities should have a voice in deciding how these technologies are implemented. Ultimately, Chang encourages us to view humans and technology as engaged in an ongoing process of co-evolution and to participate intentionally in shaping that relationship.
17 Sept 2026
Ep. 24: “Psychology Can Restore Humanity”: Understanding Immigration Through Mental Health
Immigration is more than a policy debate; it’s a human experience shaped by family, trauma, resilience, culture, and belonging. As part of Latinx Heritage Month, this episode of Wellness in Today’s World features Dr. Alfonso Mercado, psychologist, researcher, and professor at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. He discusses what psychological science can teach us about the mental health challenges facing immigrant communities. Drawing on his lived experience and years of work along the U.S.-Mexico border, Dr. Mercado explores the lasting effects of family separation and immigration policies, the importance of culturally responsive and trauma-informed care, and the resilience that immigrant communities bring to the United States. He also discusses the APA’s updated research on immigration and health while challenging psychologists, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community members to recognize the humanity behind the statistics and take action to support their communities.
Who has been a guest on Wellness in Today's World
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Ben Yalom
Dr Travis Bradberry
Dr Debra Kawahara
Dr Jan Estrellado
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