Genetics is a study of the interlocking wave of life. A multifaceted subject, genetics provides insight into our DNA, ancestry, health, and risk for certain diseases. Join us as we discuss the many aspects of genetics with our experts: genetics professor Dr. Ann Blakey and genetic counselor Olivia McMillan.  Habtis by HLC habitsbyhlc #habitsbyhlc #habits #healthylifestylecenterpodcast #ballstatepodcast ..read more

Health disparities impact communities daily. The disparities stem from inequitable differences in disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health in socially disadvantaged populations. We will discuss health disparities with local experts. Dr. Abebe and Dr. Renbarger will discuss their research on health disparities, and Pastor Neil Kring and Executive Director of Whitely Community Council,  Ken Hudson, will share the challenges they face within the community. Habtis by HLC habitsbyhlc #habitsbyhlc #habits #healthylifestylecenterpodcast #ballstatepodcast ..read more

Sleep is vital to our well-being but can be challenging to come by. Studies indicate over 50 million people in the US have a sleep disorder, and over 100 million people of all ages report not getting enough restful sleep.  In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Aubrey Shell, a clinical psychologist at IU Health specializing in sleep disorders and cognitive behavioral treatment for insomnia. Dr. Shell will discuss common issues she sees in her practice and how she helps her patients get a better night's rest.  Podcast Director Dr. Doll also rejoins this episode to discuss her journey ..read more

Happy one-year anniversary to Habits Podcast!  To commemorate our one-year episode, we are discussing with experts why the podcast was created: The Healthy Lifestyle Center.   The Healthy Lifestyle Center, or HLC, often referred to, is a free clinic on the Ball State University campus that offers adults free health services and fitness classes. Built in 2017, the HLC has been going strong for five years.  Learn more about the HLC with our guests, Tiffany Norman and Dr. Shannon Powers.  Tiffany Norman is currently a grad student and student clinician at the HLC, pursuing ..read more

Holidays can be the most stressful time of year. Join us as we speak with two experts about common holiday stressors and the best ways to deal with them in a safe and healthy manner.  Dr. Bowman is a licensed physiologist and counseling and social psychology professor at Ball State. She has previously served as president of the Society of Counseling Psychology, Division 17 of the American Psychological Association.  Dr. Brasel is an associate professor of accounting at Ball State;  her primary area of research is behavioral auditing, including auditor decision-making and audit ..read more

As we observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, our episode features insightful discussions with Dr. Lynn Witty, Outreach Coordinator at the Healthy Lifestyle Center, and Destiny Cherry, Assistant Director of Health Promotion and Advocacy at Ball State. Join us as they share their expertise and perspectives on lung health and tobacco cessation.  Dr. Witty is a former pulmonologist and is now a dedicated tobacco cessation counselor at the Healthy Lifestyle Center. Dr. Witty passionately advocates for raising awareness about the harmful effects of smoking and vaping, embodying a c ..read more

October marks Bone and Joint Awareness Month.  In this episode, we speak with Dr. Bryant Keirns, Assistant Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at Ball State University, and  McKayla Tucker, a 3rd-year Ph.D. at the University of Indianapolis.  Dr. Keirn's research focuses on the relationship between diet and lifestyle factors. He provides insight into how nutrition and diet affect bone health. He gives us tips on how to maintain healthy bones and overall gut health.  To contact Dr. Keirns about any of his research or to become a participant in one of his upcoming studies ..read more

June was Pride Month! We wanted to take the opportunity to highlight how people within the LGBTQ+ community experience healthcare and some of the challenges they face when receiving treatment.  Join us as we speak to Leo Caldwell, Assistant Lecturer at Ball State's School of Journalism and Strategic Communication. Leo identifies as a trans man and will discuss his health journey and helpful resources for LGBTQ+ individuals in the community and East Central Indiana.  ..read more

May was all about mothers and maternal health! Join the mother takeover as Dr. Doll hosts and talks to Dr. Trainor and Dr. Hess about their experiences during pregnancy, birth, and child-rearing.  Dr. Trainor serves as the Healthy Lifestyle Centers director and has previously worked as a licensed clinical social worker and therapist with a focus on mothers and infants.   Dr. Hess is the founder of Muncie’s Maternal Mental Health Coalition; she is passionate about supporting and assisting new moms and families. This episode will highlight the resources available to expectant mother ..read more

April is Substance Use Awareness Month. Join us in hearing stories about addiction, recovery, and what the Muncie community is doing to help those in need.  Meet Jordan, a person in active recovery ready to tell his story and help encourage others to get better; he is joined by Dr. Place, Director of Community Research and Administration for Ball State's Substance Use Research and Community Initiatives (SURCI) Program; she is helping him and others in their journey.  Also, meet Lisa,  who has been through recovery in the past and is now a community expert helping others as the ..read more