State of Wellbeing, a podcast from South Dakota State University

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?
 

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head, Family Resource Management Field Specialist with SDSU Extension, to talk about financial wellbeing for college students and young adults. Together they explore the common money challenges students face—like paying for college, navigating scams, and managing limited budgets—and highlight the opportunities to build strong financial habits early. From developing confidence in money decisions to making plans that adapt when life changes, this conversation offers practical advice and resources to help students take control of their financial wellbeing now and into the future.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify common financial challenges faced by college students, including scams, budgeting difficulties, and paying for school expenses.
2. Recognize opportunities to build healthy financial habits during college and early adulthood.
3. Describe how financial stress can impact academic performance and overall wellbeing.
4. Explore resources available at SDSU, such as CashCourse and financial counseling, to support financial decision-making.
 
Processing Questions
1. What financial challenges mentioned in the episode feel most relevant to you or other college students you know?
2. Lorna shared the mantra: “You are in control of your money; your money is not in control of you.” What does this mean to you, and how could you apply it in your own life?
3. Think about a recent spending choice you made. How might that decision affect your financial wellbeing tomorrow or in the future?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Claire Koenecke, this year’s Grand Pooba, and Eleanor Wehseler, Marketing Assistant Pooba, to celebrate one of South Dakota State University’s most cherished traditions - Hobo Day. Claire and Eleanor share what it’s like to plan the 113th Hobo Day, offer a behind-the-scenes look at the week’s events, and reflect on the meaning and community spirit that make this tradition so special.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify key events that take place during Hobo Week and their signficance for students and the community.
2. Explain how participation in university traditions like Hobo Day fosters connection, belonging, and wellbeing among students.
3. Recognize opportunities for student involvement in planning and leading Hobo Day through the Hobo Day Committee.
 
Processing Questions:
1. Think about a tradition or event that’s meaningful to you—how does it bring people together or create shared memories?
2. How do traditions like Hobo Day help students feel a sense of belonging and connection on campus?
3. What advice would you give to a first-year student who feels hesitant to attend campus events or get involved in traditions like Hobo Day?

The South Dakota State University Student Health Clinic is dedicated to providing cost-effective, evidence-based health care tailored to students, promoting wellbeing and academic success within an inclusive and respectful setting. Janae Jacobsen, certified nurse practitioner, discusses services provided by the Student Health Clinic.
Learning Objectives:
Listeners will be able to identify at least three services provided by the Student Health Clinic.
Listeners will be able to implement two strategies to support their immune system when returning to campus.
Listeners will be able to locate the Student Health Clinic on campus.
 
Processing questions:
What is one thing you learned about the student health clinic?
What are two ways to support your immune system when returning to campus?
Where is the student health clinic located?

In this episode of State of Well-Being from South Dakota State University, host Caitlin Walters sits down with graduate student and success advisor Kennedy Goblirsch to talk about procrastination and time management—two of the biggest challenges college students face. Together, they explore why so many students put off assignments, how perfectionism and fear of failure play a role, and practical strategies to overcome these habits. From finding your peak energy times to using accountability groups, planners, and even simple rewards, Kennedy shares insights and campus resources that help students stay on track. Whether you’re a first-year student adjusting to new expectations or an upperclassman looking for better balance, this conversation offers tools to reduce stress, boost productivity, and support academic success.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify common causes of procrastination, including perfectionism, fear of failure, and distractions.
2. Apply practical strategies for overcoming procrastination.
3. Explain how campus resources can provide support for time management and academic success.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What are two strategies you can use when you feel like procrastinating?
2. What are two ways that the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center can help you when it comes to procrastination, time management, and academic success?

Living on campus means more than just sharing a room—it’s about learning communication, setting boundaries, and building a sense of community. In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Becky Peterson, Director of Housing and Residential Life, and Nathaniel Condelli, Assistant Director for Residential Life, to talk about the ups and downs of living with roommates. Together, they explore strategies for breaking the ice, handling conflict, setting boundaries, and making the most of campus housing. Listeners will also learn how community assistants and hall directors support students, and why investing in these relationships can make campus life more meaningful—and even more fun.
 
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify effective strategies for building positive relationships with roommates.
2. Apply practical approaches to navigating roommate conflicts and differences in schedules, habits, or preferences.
3. Recognize the importance of clear communication and boundary-setting in shared living spaces.
 
Processing Questions:
1. What strategies mentioned in the episode could help you break the ice and get to know your roommate better?
2. When have you found it difficult to set boundaries, and how might the roommate agreement tool help?
3. How can the skills you practice in roommate relationships - like compromise, communication, and respect - translate into other areas of your life (friendships, work, family)?
4. What small step could you take this week to connect more with your roommate or residence hall community?