State of Wellbeing, a podcast from South Dakota State University

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with campus counselor Julia Walker to take a deeper dive into social anxiety—what it is, how it differs from generalized anxiety, and why it can be especially challenging in college settings. They explore common signs and symptoms, the impact of technology and social media, and practical, evidence‑based strategies for managing anxiety in social situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Define social anxiety and identify common signs and symptoms associated with it.
2. Explain why social anxiety can be particularly challenging in college and early adulthood settings.
3. Identify practical, evidence-informed strategies for managing social anxiety in social and academic situations.
4. Identify campus counseling resources available to support students experiencing social anxiety.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What are some of the physical signs and symptoms of social anxiety?
2. What are two tips for reducing social anxiety in social settings?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlyn Walters is joined by Mariah, Director of Recreation and Fitness at the Miller Wellness Center, and Mya, a graduate student and student-athlete in SDSU’s Nutrition and Dietetics program, to explore the power of nutrition and its impact on overall wellbeing. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the conversation focuses on how food fuels not just academic and athletic performance, but also mood, focus, and emotional regulation. Together, they unpack common nutrition myths, including misconceptions around carbohydrates, protein, detoxes, and supplements, while emphasizing a balanced, food‑first approach to fueling the body.
 
 
Learning Objectives
After listening to this episode, listeners should be able to:
1. Identify common nutrition and health myths and apply evidence-based perspectives to challenge misinformation.
2. Apply principles of body respect by shifting focus from appearance to function, strength, and self-care.
3. Describe how nutrition supports energy, mood, and academic and physical performance.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What are two compliments you can think of that don't relate to weight loss?
2. What are two common myths you have heard about health or nutrition?
3. What is one key takeaway from this episode that challenged how you think about nutrition and body image, and how might you apply it in your own daily life?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters, Wellbeing Specialist at South Dakota State University, is joined by Alexis Truskolawski, Fraternity and Sorority Life Advisor, for an open and informative conversation about alcohol, alcohol harm reduction, and campus support resources. Together, they explore the work of ADAPT (Alcohol and Drug Awareness Prevention Team) and discuss common misconceptions about college drinking culture, the short- and long-term impacts of alcohol on physical, mental, and academic wellbeing, and the real financial and personal costs that can come with drinking. Listeners will also learn about alcohol-free alternatives on campus and resources available for students who may be concerned about their own or a friend’s alcohol use.
 
Learning Objectives:
After listening to this podcast episode, listeners should be able to:
1. Describe key impacts of alcohol use on physical health, mental wellbeing, sleep, and academic performance.
2. Apply practical harm reduction strategies to reduce risks related to alcohol use.
3. Identify campus resources and support options for themselves or others related to alcohol and wellbeing.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What are two harm reduction strategies that can be used to limit or reduce drinking harms?
2. What are two costs related to drinking/consuming alcohol? 
 

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters, wellbeing specialist at South Dakota State University, is joined by Julia Walker, counselor at the SDSU Counseling Center, to discuss Thrive in the Classroom: A Toolkit for Empowering Faculty to Nurture Healthy Learning Spaces. The toolkit is a resource that helps faculty create healthier learning environments and includes classroom activities, crisis response tools, information about campus resources, and podcast-based assignments.

This episode of State of Well-Being highlights the many benefits and opportunities available through the Miller Wellness Center at South Dakota State University, with a focus on membership, programming, and community engagement. Host Caitlin Walters is joined by Kevin, the Member Services Coordinator, who shares insights into how the facility serves not only students but also faculty, staff, and the broader community.
 
Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify key features and amenities offered by the Miller Wellness Center.
2. Explain the different membership options and access points for faculty, staff, and community members.
3. Discuss how participation in wellness activities can support work-life balance and holistic well-being.
 
Processing Questions
1. Which amenities or programs mentioned in the episode are most appealing to you and why?
2. In what ways can faculty and staff serve as roles models for student well-being? How might that influence campus culture?
3. How could you incorporate one new wellness activity or habit into your routine based on what you heard in this episode?

This episode of the "State of Wellbeing" series focuses on decision-making, particularly from the perspective of college students. Hosted by Kevin Sackreiter, the discussion features Gabriel Hertler, a mental health counselor, as they delve into the complexities of decisions students face, including academics, relationships, and personal habits.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify common challenges college students face when making decisions about academics, relationships, and personal habits.
2. Reflect on personal values and how they influence decision-making.
3. Identify SDSU resources that support students in personal and academic growth.
 
Processing Questions:
1. Can you identify a recent decision you made that had a significant impact on your life? What factors influenced that decision?
2. Reflect on a time when you overcommitted to one aspect of your life (e.g., academics, relationships, or leisure). How did it affect other areas of your life?
3. Have you ever tried to form a new habit? What challenges did you face during the process, and how did you address them?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter talks with Dr. Katelyn Romsa and graduate student Marianna Pavlis about what resiliency really means for students, faculty, and staff at SDSU. They explore common myths, everyday ways to strengthen resilience, and the importance of support systems, boundaries, and self‑care. A quick, meaningful conversation for anyone looking to grow through life’s challenges.

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Nicole Gertken, Viena Klipfel, and Jasmine Monnier from the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center discuss how students can recover from mistakes and missteps and continue to have success in college. They also touch on the role of faculty and staff in supporting students through these challenges.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will recognize common academic and non-academic mistakes as opportunities for personal and academic growth, fostering a mindset of resilience and adaptability.
Students will develop techniques to manage and recover from academic or personal setbacks, including goal setting, reflecting on missteps, and focusing on positive future actions.
Students will demonstrate knowledge of campus resources, such as academic advising, Study Hub, and counseling services, and their role in supporting academic and personal success.
 
Processing Questions:
What support resources are available to assist students at SDSU when dealing with mistakes and missteps? Why does SDSU invest in these resources and how does that connect to your own student success?
What are some strategies to overcome typical missteps that students make?
How can the concepts of resilience and success discussed in the podcast help you prepare for life beyond college?

Resiliency. Grit. Persistence. We all know these terms, but what do they really mean for our mental and physical wellbeing? In this two part episode, Senior Associate Athletic Director Holly Van Vlymen and Jackrabbit student athletes Clay Carlson and Akeela Jefferson discuss the importance of resiliency and how to build it.

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Jake Heidenreich, Fitness and Aquatics Coordinator at the Miller Wellness Center, to explore practical strategies for setting and achieving goals—just in time for the New Year. Jake shares insights on creating realistic, sustainable resolutions and explains why motivation matters. Whether you’re planning a fitness journey or simply looking to improve your wellbeing, this conversation offers actionable tips to help you stay on track and thrive throughout the year.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Define instrinsic and extrinsic motivation and identify examples of each.
2. Identify practical techniques for building habits and maintaining accountability.
3. Evaluate common reasons why New Year's resolutions fail and propose strategies to overcome these challenges.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What is the difference between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation, and why is it important to have a balance of both?
2. What are some effective ways to maintain accountability when working toward a goal?
3. Why is it important to give yourself grace when you fall off track, and how can reframing setbacks help you stay committed?