A Healthier Michigan Podcast

Protein is added to everything, including waffles, chips and even your Starbucks drink. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö to discuss protein and whether you are eating the right amount or too much. In this episode of the A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

The average person spends 4.5 hours a day on their smartphone. And starting your day with a burst of information, comparison culture and breaking news? That can spike stress. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Amy Milewski, Vice President of Clinical Partnerships and Associate Chief Medical Officer. Together, they discuss doomscrolling, your smartphone and whether you should be checking it in the morning. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

We all know we should be getting seven to eight hours of sleep. After all, we spend nearly one-third of our lives doing it. But here’s something most people don’t realize: not all sleep is created equal. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Peter Graham, Chief Medical Officer of Blue Care Network. Together, they discuss what deep sleep is, how to get more of it and what happens during deep sleep. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

We've all felt it: you’re cruising through your day and suddenly—bam—it’s 3 p.m. and your eyelids get heavy, your focus dips and a nap sounds like the best idea anyone has ever had. Why does this happen? On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Crystal Lee, Medical Director in Clinical Decision Support. Together, they discuss the midday crash, what it is and ways to minimize it. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Olive oil, avocado oil, canola oil, coconut oil and even the classic vegetable oil. With so many options available, which oils should we be cooking with? On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö. Together, they discuss the different types of cooking oils, which you should be using and why. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Rising drug prices impact premiums and people alike. Hear how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is putting pharmacy innovations to work to reduce costs and expand access for our members and customers.

Sleep aids are everywhere, and new sleep trends are emerging as sleep becomes a major wellness priority. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Laura Hatton, Manager of Behavioral Health Parity at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss color noise, how they can help you sleep and the differences between them. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

It seems like everyone is walking around with a water bottle and that’s a good thing. However, water bottles can pose a sneaky health risk. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Jessica Huhn, Medical Director for Provider Engagement at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss the benefits of water bottles and how they can become a health hazard. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

With the start of every year, health trends begin to emerge. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö. Together, they discuss some of the health trends you should be paying attention to and some you could even try yourself. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Binge drinking is more common than you think—discover its hidden risks to your body and mind in this must-listen episode. Dr. William Beecroft, Medical Director of Behavioral Health at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, explores the surprising ways binge drinking affects your physical health, mental well-being and overall lifestyle. From short-term consequences to long-term risks, you’ll learn the warning signs of excessive alcohol use and practical strategies to reduce harm. Hosted by Chuck Gaidica, this episode explores:

When the daylight hours get shorter, it can really affect our mood. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Health Care Analyst Josh McCullough. Together, they discuss the winter blues, happy lights and other ways to improve your mood. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Both short term and long-term stress can have a negative impact on our health. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Care Management Physician Dr. Angela Seabright. Together, they discuss the effects of stress on us both mentally and physically. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Anxiety vs Stress: What’s the difference? It’s important to know and understand the difference. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Medical Director of Behavioral Health, Dr. William Beecroft. Together they discuss how stress and anxiety are caused, symptoms of each and how to deal with them. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

When our schedules get busy, we have to be able to stick to our routines. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Medical Director of Provider Engagement, Dr. Heather Stamat. Together they discuss how important it is to have healthy goals and how to prioritize yourself when your schedule is limited. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

Red Light Therapy: is it a scam or does it have any real health benefits? On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Clinical Director of Blue Care Network, Dr. Peter Graham. Together they discuss Red Light Therapy, its effects and the differences between professional care and at-home devices. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

More than just the latest TikTok trend, fibermaxxing has real benefits. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö, together they discuss what the trend is, why you need fiber and how much you should have. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by the Director of Behavioral Health & Planning for BCBSM, Dr. Julia Isaacs. Together, they talk ways to enjoy exercising, what is temptation bundling?, and what other strategies are there to change your mindset? In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by the Clinical Director of Blue Care Network, Dr. Peter Graham. Together, they talk about the AQI, what is it?, and how it can help prepare you for the day. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Care Management Physician for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Dr. Angela Seabright. Together, they talk about the good and bad of energy drinks, what's in them, and some other ways you could get the energy you need to go about your day. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Shanthi Appelö. Together, they explore ways to combat inflammation, why its bad long term and how small changes in your lifestyle can help fight it. In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore: