Nearly all women go through menopause—and many younger women go through perimenopause. But because it’s a subject we rarely talk about, many women don’t know what to expect, especially when they start to experience mental health issues. Guest: Catherine O’Keeffe, known as the Wellness Warrior and “Ireland’s first menopause coach.” Guest hosts: Holly Greer, HPE’s Global Wellness Program Manager; and Kim Field, HPE’s UKIMESA HR Director ..read more

Did you know that changing your diet can help you to feel happier? In this episode, we explore the science of nutritional psychiatry—how food can improve symptoms of behavioral health issues like depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, Alzheimer’s disease, and more. Guest: Uma Naidoo, M.D., Harvard-trained psychiatrist, Cornell-trained nutrition expert, and professional chef ..read more

To honor our team members who are veterans, this Veterans Day episode focuses on the invisible wounds of military service—mental health issues of veterans—and the resources HPE offers to these brave women and men who have done so much for us. Guests: Guy Strawder, Revelations Counseling and Consulting; and Joseph Mack and Todd Sullivan, HPE team members who lead HPE’s Veterans Employee Resource Network (VERN ..read more

The creative arts have the power to change our brains, making us feel happier, healthier, and even smarter. Scientists can see that when we look at or engage in the creative arts, an area of the brain lights up and releases chemicals that can help us cope with stress, depression, and much more. Guest: Susan Magsamen, executive director of the International Arts + Mind Lab, from the Brain Science Institute at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine ..read more

A happier and healthier life is within your reach! This episode looks at 3 keys to unlocking it: gratitude, compassion, and self-care. We'll look at the science behind a few simple habits that can lead to better physical and emotional health, improved sleep, stronger relationships, and more happiness overall. Guest: Dr. Brad Shuck, Associate Professor and Program Director of the Human Resource and Organizational Development program at the University of Louisville in Kentucky ..read more

For many of us, money issues can add a lot of stress and anxiety to our lives. In this episode, we talk to an expert about how financial stress can create health problems—and what you can do to reduce that stress. Guest: Jeanne Thompson, Senior Vice President, Workplace Solutions Thought Leader, Fidelity Investments ..read more

What are the top men's health questions on your mind? That's the question we posed to HPE team members all over the world. In a special Straight Talk For Real Life podcast episode in support of International Men's Day (November 19), HPE's Chief People Officer, Alan May, talks with Ronesh Sinha, M.D. (aka "Dr. Ron"), an internal medicine physician, author, and popular speaker, to get answers to many of those important questions. Guests: HPE Chief People Officer Alan May and Ronesh Sinha, M.D ..read more

Parenting is a demanding job even in the best circumstances. However, it can be even more difficult for parents who have children with learning, social, or behavioral challenges. In this episode, we discuss how to best support children with special needs and their families. Guest: Angela Nelson, vice president and executive director of clinical services at Rethink Benefits ..read more

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of stress and anxiety. But now it's time to journey from the "fear zone" to a place that is healthier and happier. This short episode—part of a collective mini-series about navigating the uncharted road ahead—contains helpful tips to build your emotional fitness and find purpose and a sense of personal growth from what you experienced (called Post-Traumatic Growth). Guest: Rod Hart, senior practice leader in Aon's National Health Transformation Team ..read more

As schools, daycare centers, and camps reopen, parents and children may be dealing with stress and anxiety about what's ahead—and whatever that's like. Parents will play an enormously important role in helping the transition be successful. In this episode, we provide expert tips for reassuring children to feel prepared and confident as they step out into this "new normal." Guest: Ellen Contente, parenting coach and founder of Heart-Centered Programs ..read more