Listen on your favorite platform - https://pod.link/1687031374 About the Guests: Jazzmin Robled: Jazzmin is a dedicated community health professional who has been working with the Southern Nevada Health District for nearly five years. She began as a community health worker focusing on assisting mothers with children under the age of one and later advanced to a program coordinator role. Jazzmin now leads two teams, including the innovative "Embracing Fatherhood" program, aimed at empowering fathers in the greater Las Vegas area. Dr. Julpohng "JP" Vilai: Dr. J.P. is the Vice President of the Nevada chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. With a strong background in pediatrics, Dr. J.P. advocates for children's health, particularly focusing on vaccination and developmental health. He is committed to fostering better understanding and implementation of immunization practices, emphasizing the importance of credible, science-based healthcare decisions for children. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens delve into the vital subjects of community health and vaccination with their distinguished guests, Jasmine and Dr. J.P. The conversation centers on health innovations like the Embracing Fatherhood program, as well as the crucial public health topic of school vaccinations. Jazzmin elaborates on how the Embracing Fatherhood program empowers fathers in Las Vegas by providing necessary resources and education to support family health. Dr. J.P., a leading pediatrician, sheds light on the importance of childhood vaccinations, addressing prevailing skepticism and misconceptions. As the episode unfolds, Jazzmin highlights the significance of supporting fathers in their parenting roles through personalized visits and comprehensive resource linking, often addressing the needs of broader family units. Meanwhile, Dr. J.P. provides expert insights into Nevada's vaccination requirements, the critical need for catching up on missed immunizations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and overcoming vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation. Listeners are encouraged to rely on trusted medical sources and maintain an open dialogue with healthcare providers to make informed health decisions. Key Takeaways: • The Embracing Fatherhood program offers valuable support and education to fathers and father figures, promoting healthier family structures in the Las Vegas area. • Vaccinations are critical to public health, safeguarding not only individual children but also protecting against wider community outbreaks. • Nevada mandates specific vaccines for school entry, and timely immunization is emphasized to prevent common childhood illnesses. • Families who missed vaccinations due to the pandemic are encouraged to catch up to ensure comprehensive immunization coverage. • Trust in validated medical sources and dialogue with healthcare providers is crucial in making informed, evidence-based health decisions. Notable Quotes: 1. "Embracing Fatherhood is a new fatherhood program... tailored for dads... the goal is to empower fathers in their new role." - Jazzmin Robled 2. "Vaccines are safe, they're effective, they're one of the most effective ways to prevent disease." - Dr. J.P. 3. "It's not just about protecting your own child, but also protecting other people as well." - Dr. J.P. 4. "We want to have a conversation. We want to acknowledge that parents have fears, rightfully so." - Dr. J.P. Resources: • Southern Nevada Health District: www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org (http://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org) • Get Healthy Clark County: www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/shoptalk (http://www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/shoptalk) • Healthy Children: HealthyChildren.org (https://www.healthychildren.org) • Immunize Nevada: ImmunizeNevada.org (https://www.immunizenevada.org) Tune in to the full episode to gain comprehensive insights into fostering improved community health through initiatives like Embracing Fatherhood and understanding the crucial role of vaccinations. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "A Healthier Tomorrow"!

Will Rucker and Ciara Owens celebrate June's vibrant health and cultural observances with insightful discussions on "A Healthier Tomorrow." Guest Mekale Holmes shares her experiences in tobacco prevention and the impactful "Because We Matter" initiative. Zarina Washington introduces the Nevada Creative Arts Collective, highlighting improv's role in stress management and resilience. The episode highlights the community's role in promoting smoke-free environments, exploring alternative therapies, and supporting diverse cultural celebrations, providing valuable resources and fostering unity through shared health goals.   About the Guests: Mekale Holmes: MekaleHolmes is a dedicated public health professional at the Southern Nevada Health District, where she works in the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. With over six years of experience in the Tobacco Control Program, Mekalecoordinates the "Because We Matter" initiative, which aims to address smoking within the community, particularly focusing on tobacco-related health disparities affecting African Americans. Zarina Washington: Zarina Washington is the creative director and executive director of the Nevada Creative Arts Collective. Her organization leverages the power of the arts to build resilience, utilizing methods such as improvisational arts to facilitate personal growth and community engagement. Zarina's passion for community service is evident in her work, which seeks to create a cultural shift towards healthier lifestyles through artistic expression. Episode Summary: Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens for an engaging episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," where they usher in June with a celebration of diversity, health awareness, and community engagement. This month marks a plethora of vital observances including Pride Month, Men's Health Month, Juneteenth, and National Safety Month. The show kicks off by highlighting various health and wellness initiatives aimed at fostering a smoke and vape-free lifestyle, especially within African American communities in Las Vegas. Throughout the episode, MekaleHolmes Floyd, from the Southern Nevada Health District, shares insightful information about the dangers of tobacco use, particularly focusing on the pressing issue of vaping among youth. The show extensively discusses the impact of tobacco on health, the importance of quitting, and the resources available to assist in quitting nicotine addiction. The session progresses to introduce Zarina Washington, who delves into the workings of the Nevada Creative Arts Collective. She emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of arts as a tool to build resilience and cope with life's stressors, offering a creative avenue for personal and communal transformation. Key Takeaways: • Tobacco and Health Risks: Tobacco use, including vaping, presents significant health risks, contributing to diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and lung cancer. • Community-Centric Approach: Smoking is highlighted as a community-wide issue rather than just an individual problem, necessitating collective action to create smoke-free environments. • Role of Arts in Healing: Improv and other arts are effective tools for fostering resilience, providing individuals with innovative methods to manage stress and enhance their well-being. • Resources for Smoking Cessation: Numerous free resources are available to assist individuals in quitting smoking, including local initiatives like "Because We Matter." • Cultural Shift through Arts: The Nevada Creative Arts Collective is working to implement arts as a means to build community resilience and promote healthier lifestyles. Notable Quotes: 1. "No amount of smoke is safe, not in any amount, not in any form." – Mekale Holmes 2. "The arts can be a healing balm… that's life." - Zarina Washington 3. "Life is chaotic, but you can be resilient and keep moving forward." - Zarina Washington Resources: • Because We Matter: becausewematterlv.org (http://becausewematterlv.org/) • Nevada Quit Line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW • Southern Nevada Health District: gethealthyclarkcounty.org (http://gethealthyclarkcounty.org/) • Nevada Creative Arts Collective: Instagram - @nevadacreativearts (https://www.instagram.com/nevadacreativearts) The insights in this episode equip listeners with valuable information on tobacco control, community health promotion, and the transformative power of the arts. Tune into the full episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" to deep dive into these essential topics, and stay connected for more enlightening discussions.  

Explore Nevada's mental health landscape as Will Rucker and Ciara Owens discuss the state's last-place ranking in mental health access with Anna Bobb, MPH, Executive Director of the Path Forward coalition and Dr. Mason Turner from Intermountain Health. Discover collaborative care models, barriers to mental health support, and stress management strategies. Later, Minjia Yan unveils the revitalization of Las Vegas' Chinatown, tackling public safety, infrastructure, and community involvement. Gain insights on social determinants of health and how community-driven projects are shaping a healthier future. Stay informed on upcoming local events promoting mental wellness and empowerment. About the Guests: Anna Bobb, MPH: Anna Bobb, MPH is a key proponent in the advocacy of mental health care access and is Executive Director of the Path Forward coalition, a Washington, D.C.-based group dedicated to improving mental health and substance use disorder treatment accessibility. Anna is instrumental in promoting the collaborative care model, aiming to enhance mental health services within primary care settings. Dr. Mason Turner: Dr. Mason Turner is the Senior Medical Director for the Behavioral Clinical Program at Intermountain Health. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Turner is a leading figure in improving behavioral health care delivery. He actively promotes innovative strategies in mental health services, emphasizing accessibility and integrated care models. Minjia Yan: Minjia Yan specializes in commercial real estate and serves as a project consultant for the Clark County Chinatown Redevelopment project. She is heavily involved in policy and regional planning concerning housing, transportation, and economic development within Southern Nevada. Minjia brings significant expertise in community-driven urban planning and redevelopment. Episode Summary: In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens guide a vibrant discussion on mental health access and community redevelopment with their expert guests, Anna Bobb of Path Forward, Dr. Mason Turner from Intermountain Health, and Minjia, a key figure in the redevelopment of Las Vegas's Chinatown. The episode dives deep into the less visible aspects of public health—mental wellness and the influence of urban design—calling listeners to engage with the tools and insights necessary for fostering stronger, healthier communities. Anna Bobb and Dr. Mason Turner reveal that Nevada ranks 51st in the U.S. for mental health care access and outcomes, highlighting an urgent need for change. Their dialogue introduces the collaborative care model, a promising solution aimed at integrating mental health services into primary care settings, thus breaking down barriers to access. With precision and empathy, Dr. Turner and Anna demonstrate how this model could save thousands of lives and enhance service delivery through strategic partnerships among healthcare providers, patients, and behavioral health coordinators. Switching to urban redevelopment, Minja shares the fascinating history and future plans for revitalizing Las Vegas's Chinatown. Explaining how urban redevelopment intersects with public health, she recounts how community-driven approaches are transforming this area into a more vibrant and equitable space. Through infrastructure upgrades and policy adjustments, the Chinatown redevelopment project aims to address social determinants of health, ensuring accessibility and safety for residents and visitors. This episode blends insights into mental health innovations and community redevelopment, empowering listeners to envision and participate in a healthier, better-planned tomorrow. Key Takeaways: • Nevada has an immense opportunity to improve mental health care access, underscoring the pressing need for innovative solutions like the collaborative care model. • Collaborative care integrates mental health services into primary care settings, greatly enhancing patient access and treatment efficacy. • Las Vegas's Chinatown redevelopment project is a community-driven initiative focused on infrastructure improvement and socioeconomic stability. • Social determinants of health play a critical role in community planning and public health, as evidenced by the Chinatown revitalization efforts. • Mental health and urban development are deeply interconnected, influencing community well-being and individual health outcomes. Notable Quotes: 1. "We like to say, there is no health without mental health care." — Anna Bobb 2. "Collaborative care is one of those bright spots about how we go about trying to change and really right size the care to the person that's in front of us." — Dr. Mason Turner 3. "All of the things that we touch, we see, the buildings that we live and work in, have an impact in our ...

About the Guests: Trinh Dang-Mai is the Executive Director of NAMI Southern Nevada. With a background stemming from personal experiences with mental health challenges and the impact of trauma, particularly as the child of refugees from the Vietnam War, she has dedicated her career to mental health advocacy. Originally starting in education, Trinh’s journey into mental health work began when she sought help and connected with NAMI's family-to-family education class. She has been involved with NAMI since 2011-2012 and has since been an influential figure in promoting mental well-being and recovery. Chris Wells is a licensed cosmetologist with over 23 years of experience and a salon owner for three years. Chris is passionate about the relationship between internal health and the condition of hair, skin, and nails. Participating actively in community health initiatives like the Beauty Salon Health Outreach Project, Chris is committed to incorporating health awareness into her salon environment. Episode Summary: Join Will Rucker in a captivating episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," where the conversation centers around mental health awareness, the stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and the intersection of beauty and health. This episode highlights the importance of a holistic approach to wellness, integrating insights from Trinh Dang-Mai of NAMI Southern Nevada, and Chris Wells, a seasoned salon expert. Tune in to gain inspiration and practical wisdom about maintaining mental and heart health. This engaging conversation focuses on the multifaceted aspects of mental health recovery, with Trinh Dang-Mai sharing her personal journey. The dialogue emphasizes healing from trauma and managing mental challenges with an understanding of neuroplasticity and therapy. Listeners will learn about NAMI's initiatives, including their upcoming walk at Lorenzi Park on October 18, a community event aimed at raising awareness and providing support for individuals dealing with mental health issues. Trinh explains how recognizing warning signs early and fostering community support are essential to preventing issues, especially for youth. In the second part of the episode, Will, Amineh Harvey, and Chris Wells discuss Salon Talk, focusing on heart health and perimenopause. Amineh outlines the importance of keeping women's health front and center, especially concerning the cardiovascular implications of perimenopause. The session provides valuable insights into managing health from a preventative standpoint, with practical tips shared by healthcare professionals. The episode closes with a motivational call to embrace mental and physical wellness practices, showcasing how supportive community engagements create spaces for healing and growth. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the connection between historical trauma and current mental health challenges can foster empathy and drive effective recovery approaches. • Hosting community events like NAMI Walks helps bring awareness to mental health issues and offers resources to those in need. • Addressing perimenopause and its impact on heart health can empower women to take charge of their well-being during major life transitions. • Collaboration between health educators and community salons creates a relaxed setting for important health discussions and screenings. • Early intervention, appropriate therapy, and healthy lifestyle changes are crucial elements in managing mental health effectively. Notable Quotes: • "What the pot saw as a flaw was actually its gift." – Will Rucker • "You know, mental health isn't just only material wealth. Mental health is about our feelings and emotions." – Trinh Dang-Mai • "But there's ways to rewire our brain… we have to become self-aware first." – Trinh Dang-Mai • "Care about your heart like you care about your hair." – Chris Wells • "Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women." – Amineh Harvey Resources: • NAMI Southern Nevada: Visit NAMI Southern Nevada (https://www.nami.org/Find-Your-Local-NAMI/Affiliate/State-Organization/Affiliate-Name/nami-southern-nevada) for mental health resources and support group information. • NAMI Walks: Attend the event on October 18, Lorenzi Park. • Salon Talk and Screening: Learn about the event at Ego Trip Salon on May 18 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM discussing heart health during perimenopause. • American Heart Association Guidelines: For more information on blood pressure guidelines. Engage in this enlightening episode to expand your understanding of mental and physical health and join our community-driven discussions to make a tangible difference in your and others' well-being. Keep listening to "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more empowe...

About the Guest: Mai Tran serves as the Nevada Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). With a profound personal connection to the cause, Mai has been a passionate advocate, having volunteered as a crisis counselor for over a decade before joining AFSP. Her work at AFSP focuses on suicide prevention through research, education, advocacy, and support, mobilizing community efforts for mental health awareness and support for those impacted by suicide. Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage with Mai Tran, the Nevada Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Together, they delve into the profound impact of suicide on communities and individual lives, discussing strategies for prevention and avenues for support. The episode sheds light on the multifaceted approach of AFSP in suicide prevention, emphasizing research, community education, advocacy, and support systems for survivors of suicide loss. Mai Tran shares her personal journey of turning loss into purpose, which has fueled her commitment to this cause. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Out of the Darkness Walk in Las Vegas, a significant community event aimed at fostering hope, awareness, and collective healing. As the hosts and Mai discuss the importance of safe language, community engagement, and proactive mental health practices, listeners are provided with practical insights and resources to contribute to this crucial effort. Key Takeaways: • The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention focuses on four pillars: research, education, advocacy, and support. • Mai Tran emphasizes the importance of shifting language around suicide to safer, de-stigmatizing terms. • The Out of the Darkness Walk is a pivotal community event in Las Vegas, designed to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention. • Engagement with mental health practices, like taking short exercise breaks and spending time in nature, can significantly promote wellness. • There are numerous resources available through AFSP and community partners for those affected directly or indirectly by suicide. Notable Quotes: • "You're not alone. There are people who want to support you and help you." - Mai Tran • "I just feel so emotional seeing the community come together; it’s really beautiful." - Mai Tran • "It's not important to know the ‘why’ behind a suicide, but rather to honor the person." - Mai Tran • "Our mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide." - Mai Tran • "Life is too short to wait. The time is now for what you want to do." - Mai Tran Resources: • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – afsp.org (https://afsp.org) Listeners are encouraged to participate in the upcoming community events, deepen their understanding of mental health issues, and explore the resources shared in this episode. Stay connected for more impactful discussions and insights on "A Healthier Tomorrow."

About the Guests: Tina Dorch is the manager of the Office of Minority Health and Equity for the state of Nevada. With a tenure spanning seven years, Tina has been an advocate for health equity and literacy, striving to ensure access to healthcare resources for underrepresented communities. She has experience leading initiatives that address the social determinants of health, focusing on systemic change and empowering minoritized groups. Nelly Pelaez represents the Southern Nevada Health District and works on multi-unit housing initiatives to mitigate secondhand smoke exposure. Her collaborative efforts aim to promote smoke-free environments, improving the health and wellness of Nevada communities. Robin Crawford is affiliated with the Nevada State Apartment Association, a trade group supporting rental housing providers through political advocacy, education, and community outreach. Episode Summary: Welcome to "A Healthier Tomorrow" with hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens, where today's episode delves into crucial topics surrounding public health and community advocacy. The show begins with a vibrant discussion about April being designated as Healthy Homes Month and highlights the importance of reducing secondhand smoke exposure at home. Will and Ciara are joined by special guests who bring their expertise to the table, discussing health equity, minority health initiatives, and smoke-free housing policies. Tina Dorch from the Nevada Office of Minority Health and Equity kicks off the conversation, emphasizing community empowerment through systemic health changes. She discusses the breadth of services and support KnowMe provides and highlights the importance of National Healthcare Decision Day, encouraging listeners to attend the event at the United Way of Southern Nevada. Following this, Nelly and Robin join the dialogue to discuss collaborative efforts between the Southern Nevada Health District and the Nevada State Apartment Association. Together, they champion initiatives like Be Healthy, Breathe Easy, Live Smoke-Free, aimed at reducing secondhand smoke exposure. This episode underscores the power of community partnerships in promoting healthier living environments across Nevada. Key Takeaways: • Health Equity Advocacy: Tina Dorch emphasizes the role of the Office of Minority Health and Equity in promoting systemic change and increasing access to health resources for minoritized communities, addressing both racial and socioeconomic factors. • National Healthcare Decision Day: This event focuses on empowering community members with resources to make informed healthcare decisions and legal preparations for future health scenarios. • Smoke-Free Housing Initiatives: Collaborative efforts between the Southern Nevada Health District and housing associations are crucial in promoting smoke-free policies across multi-unit residences to protect residents from secondhand smoke. • Community Collaboration: The importance of various community, health, and government stakeholders coming together to uplift public health through education, advocacy, and access to vital resources. • Resource Accessibility: Both guests highlight the availability and necessity of accessible resources, from legal aid in healthcare decision-making to housing policies supporting healthier urban living environments. Notable Quotes: • "Equity empowers people. The office is about health literacy, systemic change, and being a voice for underserved individuals in our community." - Tina Dorch • "In that difficult moment of illness or loss, clear is kind. It's vital to make your preferences known to avoid family disputes." - Tina Dorch • "There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke; complete elimination is the only way to fully protect communities." -Nelly Pelaez • "Every resident deserves to have a safe and healthy place to call home." - Robin Crawford Resources: • Get Healthy Clark County: gethealthyclarkcounty.org (http://gethealthyclarkcounty.org/)  | 1-800-QUIT-NOW • Nevada Office of Minority Health and Equity: Search for "KnowMe" or "Nevada Office of Minority Health and Equity" for more information. • National Healthcare Decision Day Event: Held at the United Way of Southern Nevada, 5830 West Flamingo Road. • Southern Nevada Health District: Contact at 702-759-1216 for assistance with smoke-free housing policies. Listen to the full episode for an engaging discussion on how collective efforts can create a healthier future for all. Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes from A Healthier Tomorrow!

About the Guests: Chelsea Bishop Chelsea Bishop is a registered nurse with significant experience working on a pediatric floor in Las Vegas. After her daughter was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, she dedicated six and a half years to securing the necessary care, which inspired her advocacy work. Chelsea is a co-founder of Act for Kids Nevada, an organization formed to elevate the family voice and work towards a comprehensive pediatric healthcare system in Nevada. Ashley Floyd Ashley Floyd is a seasoned mental health advocate, peer recovery leader, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. She plays an active role in pushing mental wellness in her community and leverages her involvement with organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and NAACP to advocate for culturally competent care. Dr. Liz Glover Dr. Elizabeth Glover is a sociologist and a prominent advocate for the health needs of women and girls of color. She serves as the health chair for the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and is dedicated to fostering coalition building and community support for improved mental health awareness and services. Episode Summary: Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens for an invigorating discussion on "A Healthier Tomorrow," a program devoted to breaking stigmas, sharing resources, and uplifting community wellness in Las Vegas. This episode features a panel of inspiring women—Chelsea Bishop, Ashley Floyd, and Dr. Liz Glover—each dedicated to transforming healthcare and mental wellness landscapes for children and women of color in Nevada. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that uncovers personal stories of perseverance, advocacy, and coalition building aimed at making comprehensive healthcare more accessible. Chelsea Bishop takes the stage with a powerful story that motivated her to champion pediatric healthcare reform. As Las Vegas grows, the demand for a freestanding children's hospital becomes increasingly critical—a vision that Chelsea is passionately pursuing alongside her organization, Act for Kids Nevada. Meanwhile, Ashley Floyd and Dr. Liz Glover spearhead transformative dialogues surrounding Black women's mental health, advocating for holistic approaches that celebrate healing and cultural competence. Key moments from the episode feature intimate discussions on turning personal pain into purpose and creating a safe space for community empowerment through strategic partnerships and dedicated events. Key Takeaways: • Chelsea Bishop founded Act for Kids Nevada to advocate for a freestanding children's hospital and comprehensive pediatric care in Nevada, inspired by her daughter's battle with cancer. • Intermountain Health's commitment to building a dedicated children's hospital marks a significant step forward in addressing the state's fragmented healthcare system. • Ashley Floyd and Dr. Liz Glover emphasize the importance of coalition building and culturally competent care in improving Black women's mental health services. • The Black Women's Mental Health Tea and Talk event offers a safe space for Black women to discuss their mental wellness and access community resources. Notable Quotes: • "You can be kind in your advocacy. You can use your strong voice and share what we need here in Nevada." – Chelsea Bishop • "Healing out loud is about creating those safe spaces to share our challenges and triumphs in the face of mental health hurdles." – Ashley Floyd • "Kids make up 20% of our community, but they are 100% of our future." – Chelsea Bishop • "We rebuild broken places by ensuring every black woman knows that she can seek help and be heard." – Dr. Liz Glover • "Clear is kind." – Will Rucker Resources: • Act for Kids Nevada (http://www.actforkidsnevada.org/) – Learn about the organization Chelsea Bishop co-founded. • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Access mental health resources tailored for the Black community. • NAACP and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. – Supporting mental wellness initiatives. • Follow Chelsea Bishop, Ashley Floyd, and Dr. Liz Glover on social media for updates on advocacy and events. For a deeper dive into the stories and insights shared in this episode, don't miss the full discussion on "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay tuned for more enriching conversations designed to foster a healthier, more informed, and connected community.

In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosted by Will Rucker and Ciara Owens, the focus is on promoting heart health and community wellness in conjunction with Black History Month. This episode features Amineh Harvey and Brittnee Aldea from the Southern Nevada Health District, who discuss initiatives to improve healthcare access and awareness in Las Vegas, and Tameka Henry from Obodo Collective, who shares exciting news about the Obodo Grocer. The vibrant conversation centers around the importance of heart health, particularly in the African American community, and how various events and programs aim to support health education and wellness. Throughout the episode, listeners will learn about the grand opening of the Obodo Grocer and the beneficial pop-up produce stands at the Bonneville Transit Center, offering increased access to fresh produce. Key programs include the Heart of Community block party and various health screenings intended to inform and empower the local population. By spotlighting events like blood pressure screenings at local barbershops and heart health trivia contests, the show emphasizes proactive health management and community support. Key Takeaways: • Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women, highlighting the critical need for awareness and preventative measures. • The Southern Nevada Health District focuses on increasing community access to fresh produce through initiatives like the Obodo Grocer and pop-up produce stands. • Events like the Heart of Community block party aim to educate on heart health while providing free health services and engaging family activities. • Awareness in the African American community about high blood pressure and cardiovascular health is vital, as 41% of African Americans in Clark County have high blood pressure. • Changing dietary habits, reducing processed food intake, and cooking with flavorful, low-sodium alternatives can drastically improve heart health. Resources: • Get Healthy Clark County: gethealthyclarkcounty.org (http://gethealthyclarkcounty.org/) - for information on health events, programs, and resources in Clark County. • Obodo Collective: Information on the grand opening event can be found at the Obodo Grocer's page. • Southern Nevada Health District: Engages in various health outreach programs, focusing on community health improvements. This episode is an inspiring conversation about community health initiatives and offers listeners a guide to enhancing communal and personal well-being. Tune in to "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more expert insights and upcoming events that promote a healthy lifestyle. Don't miss this opportunity to get informed and involved in your community's health.