State of Wellbeing, a podcast from South Dakota State University

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?

Donna Merkt, Director of the South Dakota Art Museum, shares insights into how art supports emotional, mental, and social wellness. The episode underscores how art—whether through creation, observation, or conversation—can contribute to individual wellbeing, strengthen social connections, and enrich campus and community life. 
Student Learning Outcomes:
1. Students will be able to identify and describe the ways in which art positively contributes to emotional, mental, and social wellbeing.
2. Students will demonstrate practical ways to incorporate art into their lives as a means to promote personal wellbeing.
3. Students will reflect on how art serves as a tool for self-expression, processing emotions, and building social connections across diverse communities.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What are some of the key ways that art contributes to emotional and mental wellbeing? Can you think of examples from your own life where art has had a similar effect?
2. How does art help build a sense of community and connection among people? Can you think of any examples of public art or museum spaces where this happens?
3. Based on the podcast, what new practices or habits might you explore to integrate art into your personal wellbeing routine?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, we dive into the world of dietary supplements and their role in supporting health and wellness. Host Shari Landmark, SDSU’s Chief Wellness Officer, sits down with Dr. Joe Berendse, Associate Professor in the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, to unpack common misconceptions, safety concerns, and practical tips for supplement use. From multivitamins and melatonin to energy boosters and immunity aids, we explore what’s popular among college students, what’s truly effective, and what to watch out for. 
 
Learning Objectives:
After listening to this episode, listeners should be able to:
1. Define what qualifies as a dietary supplement and explain how supplements differ from over-the-counter medications in terms of purpose and regulation.
2. Evluate supplement labels and interpret key information.
3. Apply practical tips for selecting reputable supplement brands and using verification programs to ensure product quality.
4. Understand the role of healthcare providers and campus wellness resources in guiding supplement use and promoting overall wellbeing.
 
Processing Questions:
1. Why might college students be more likely to use dietary supplements?
2. Why is it important to consult healthcare providers before starting a supplement regimen?
3. What marketing tactics should consumers be cautious of when choosing dietary supplements?

In this episode, two Exercise Science students and members of SDSU's Exercise is Medicine initiative discuss how physical activity supports academic success and mental health and the lifelong benefits of establishing healthy routines early. Whether you're looking to start a new habit, overcome barriers like time and motivation, or learn how exercise truly is medicine for your mind and body, this conversation is filled with practical insights and encouragement.
 
Learning Objectives:
After listening to this podcast, listeners should be able to:
1. Describe the purpose and goals of the Exercise is Medicine initiative and explain why it is especially relevant for college students.
2. Explain how regular physical activity supports mental and physical wellbeing as well as academic success.
3. Recognize the importance of building sustainable exercise habits early in life.
 
Processing Questions:
1. The guests talked about how exercise habits often decline after high school. What changes in your own routine or environment have influenced your activity level since coming to college?
2. What barriers do you personally face when it comes to staying active? How might the strategies discussed in the episode help you overcome these barriers?
3. Can you recall a time when movement positively affected your mental health or ability to focus? What did you notice?
4. What is one small step you feel ready to take to make exercsie a more regular and enjoyable part of your life?

As we enter into December, host Toby Uecker sits down with Dr. Amy Newstrom, faculty member in the SDSU College of Nursing, to explore the realities of mental health during seasonal transitions. Together, they break down what seasonal affective disorder (SAD) truly is, how it differs from the casual idea of “winter blues,” and why the biological, social, and emotional factors behind it are more complex than many of us realize.
 
Learning Objectives:
After listening to this episode, listeners should be able to:
1. Describe what seasonal affective disorder is and distinguish it from general "winter blues" or mild seasonal mood changes.
2. Recognize common symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder.
3. Evaluate practical strategies for interrupting negative mental health spirals.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What does it mean to be a "curious, non-judgmental observer" of your own mental health?
2. What patterns do you notice in your own wellbeing as the seasons change?
3. How might you practice more kindness toward yourself as you navigate seasonal change?

In this week's State of Wellbeing episode, Caitlin Walters and Karen Eidem discuss how gratitude shapes our mental health, helps us navigate life's challenges, and brings deeper joy to everyday moments. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about slowing down, giving thanks, and embracing a more mindful, grateful approach to wellbeing.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Define gratitude and explain its role in supporting overall wellbeing.
2. Identify practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into daily routines and mindfulness practices.
3. Describe how practicing gratitude can positively impact mental health, including reducing anxiety and improving mood.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What is one good thing that happened to you today that you can be grateful for?
2. What are some ways that practicing gratitude can impact your mental health?
3. In what ways can you incorporate gratitude into a mindfulness or self-care routine?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Shari Landmark from the SDSU Wellness Center explores how global experiences support student wellbeing, confidence, and connection. Joined by Kailee Loofe, an SDSU student and Global Ambassador, and Cassandra Stangeland, Assistant Director for Education Abroad, the conversation dives into how studying abroad expands independence, empathy, and lifelong learning. Listeners will hear firsthand stories of transformation, community, and personal growth that show how stepping outside your comfort zone can strengthen wellbeing—both at SDSU and beyond.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Explain how study abroad experiences contribute to students' overall wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging.
2. Describe the personal and professional growth that can result from engaging in global learning opportunities.
3. Identify common challenges and emotional responses students may face before, during, and after studying abroad.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What connections did you hear between studying abroad and personal wellbeing?
2. What kinds of emotional growth can occur when students experience new cultures and perspectives?
3. How might your own perspective on wellbeing or community change through a global experience?

In recognition of Stress Awareness Day, the State of Wellbeing podcast brings you a discussion into the complex world of stress - what it is, how it affects the body and mind, and ways to manage it effectively.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Listeners will be able to describe stress and identify ways that stress manifests.
2. Listeners will be able to create a plan with at least three ways to decrease stress in their lives.
3. Listeners will be able to explain why stress can be beneficial.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What is the main difference between stress and anxiety?
2. What are some ways you can reduce stress in your own life?
3. Why might stress be beneficial?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Stephen Miedema, Assistant Director of Career Education at SDSU, for an open and relatable conversation about imposter syndrome — that persistent feeling of self-doubt despite clear success and capability. Together, they explore what imposter syndrome is, why it’s so common among both students and seasoned professionals, and how it can impact performance, confidence, and sense of belonging.
 
Learning Objectives
1. Define imposter syndrome and describe how it commonly appears in academic and professional settings.
2. Recognize emotional and behavioral patterns associated with imposter syndrome.
3. Explain how feelings of self-doubt can affect performance, confidence, and belonging in both student and career roles.
4. Apply strategies for coping and identify campus and community resources that can support mental wellbeing and career confidence.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What examples of imposter syndrome stood out to you as especially relatable?
2. The conversation highlighted transitions - new roles, new jobs, or new environments - as times when self-doubt often creeps in. Why do you think these moments trigger imposter syndrome?
3. How do you typically respond when you succeed at something? Do you credit your skills and effort or dismiss it as luck or a fluke? How might reflecting more objectively help build confidence?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and State of Wellbeing recognizes this month through a special episode featuring Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Michaela Willis. Dr. Willis joins us to discuss her personal journey through breast cancer. She shares candid reflections on survivorship, resilience, and the emotional toll of navigating serious health challenges while serving in a high-profile leadership role. Listeners will hear how Michaela balanced her responsibilities with self-care, leaned on her SDSU community, and found strength in vulnerability. This episode is a testament to courage, empathy, and the power of community—and a reminder to prioritize health, seek support, and embrace resilience in the face of adversity.
 
Learning Outcomes:
1. Reflect on the significance of modeling self-care and wellbeing as a leader.
2. Discuss how personal health challenges can impact leadership capacity, empathy, and connection.
3. Recognize the importance of support systems in fostering resilience and wellbeing during serious health challenges.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What part of Dr. Willis' story resonated most with you and why?
2. What role do empathy and vulnerability play in effective leadership?
3. How can leaders model wellbeing in organizations?
4. Have you ever had to balance personal health with professional responsibilities? What strategies helped you?