In this episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox from Greene County Public Health is joined by Darla Gray, a nurse with Xenia Community Schools, for Bullies, Boosters, Bedtimes and Broccoli. As families prepare for a new academic year, they discuss key health tools to keep kids thriving—everything from immunizations and sleep routines to nutrition and emotional well-being. Tune in for practical tips and expert advice to help your child start the school year strong and stay healthy all year long.

In this episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox explores the issue of food access in Greene County, Ohio. She is joined by Alex Klug from the Hall Hunger Initiative, an organization dedicated to addressing hunger through community partnerships, education, and advocacy. Together, they discuss what food insecurity looks like locally, the challenges families face in accessing nutritious food, and how summer programs, farmers’ markets, and community gardens are helping to bridge the gap. The episode also highlights efforts to promote healthy eating through food literacy and nutrition education, and offers ways for community members to get involved. It’s an insightful look at how Greene County is working to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, healthy food year-round.

In this episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox takes us “Behind the Ink” to explore how public health plays a vital role in keeping tattoos and piercings safe for everyone. Joined by Allison Glascoe and Margaret Fischer from Greene County Public Health, we dive into the licensing process, health and safety standards, and the regulatory framework that governs body art establishments. From compliance and enforcement to the broader community impact, this conversation reveals the behind-the-scenes work that protects both artists and clients. Whether you're an artist, a shop owner, or just curious about the safety of body art, this episode has insights you won’t want to miss.

In this enlightening episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox sits down with Mike Leventhal to dive deep into critical issues surrounding men’s health—a topic that too often flies under the radar. Together, they unpack the stigma around mental health, exploring how outdated gender norms and societal expectations can prevent men from seeking the help they need. Mike shares insight into why many men are hesitant to go to the doctor, often delaying care until symptoms become severe. He and Laurie discuss the cultural and emotional barriers that contribute to this reluctance and explore potential solutions to overcome them. Listeners will walk away with practical tips for getting and staying healthy—from building a solid relationship with a healthcare provider, to incorporating small, sustainable changes in daily habits, to breaking the silence around mental health. Whether you're a man looking to take charge of your health or someone who cares about one, this episode offers valuable advice, encouragement, and a reminder: taking care of your health is a sign of strength, not weakness. Key Topics: 1. Stigma and silence: Why mental health remains taboo for many men 2. The “invincibility” myth and its impact on preventive care 3. Actionable strategies for improving physical and mental well-being 4. The importance of normalizing doctor visits and check-ups Tune in and take the first step toward healthier living—for yourself or the men in your life.

In this episode, host Laurie Fox chats with Jillian Drew and Justin Moon, both from Greene County Public Health, about Community Health Improvement Week.

This episode explores the challenging yet rewarding experience of serving on a local board of health. Guests Nancy Terwoord and Sylvia Ellison, both members of the Greene County Board of Health, share stories and challenges about their experiences.

This episode focuses on developing the public health workforce and strategies for increasing interest in pursuing a career in public health. Dr. Sara Paton is the guest.

In this episode, we’ll chat with Donecha Daniels about National Minority Health Month and the importance of public health programs and initiatives affecting health outcomes in minority communities. Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

You won’t want to miss this episode about National Public Health Week happening April 7-13, 2025! Host Laurie Fox and guest, Noah Stuby, will chat about the themes for the week, and how they impact public health at the local level.

In this episode, we’re focusing on Tobacco Cessation and Prevention, with a spotlight on the power of youth advocacy. You'll hear about an exciting event being organized by local teens from Teens Against Tobacco, a passionate group under Youth Move with Greene County Family and Children First. Take a listen!

In this episode, Terry Strieter chats with host, Laurie Fox, about the Global Day of Unplugging on March 7-8, 2025, and the Disconnect to Connect Coalition.

In this episode, host Laurie Fox chats with Dr. Karen Mathews from Central State University in celebration of African Americans in Public Health and Healthcare and in honor of Black History Month. You won’t want to miss this episode!

In this episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox chats with Stephanie Yenn, Executive Director for the American Heart Association Dayton to discuss Heart Month. Serving as a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, Stephanie will share tips on heart health, showcasing her dedication to ensuring equitable health in all communities. You won’t want to miss this episode! Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Public Health Matters, host Laurie Fox sits down with Brenden Gitzinger, an Indoor Environmental Professional and President of Environmental Doctor of Dayton, to discuss Radon Action Month. The conversation covers the health risks associated with radon exposure, levels found in Greene County, the importance of testing your home for radon, and effective mitigation strategies to reduce radon levels. Tune in to learn how you can protect your home and your health from this invisible, yet dangerous gas.

Start the new year off right! Is it time for a healthier, better version of you? Join host Laurie Fox and special guest Kim Sheehan as they dive into the essentials of sticking to your 2025 wellness resolutions. Tune in for expert tips, motivation, and practical advice on how to make lasting lifestyle changes that will help you thrive in the year ahead.

Dr. Kevin Sharrett joins host, Laurie Fox, to discuss National Influenza Vaccination Month. They will discuss virus severity, types of vaccines, who should consider taking it, mortality rates, distinguishing between flu, COVID, and RSV, and so much more. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

Health Educator, Lauren Toy, and host Laurie Fox talk about the Ohio Tobacco Quit Line and the Great American Smokeout.

This episode covers issues surrounding the Halloween holiday and the dangers of distracted driving, the importance of seat belt use and pedestrian safety.

This short and sweet episode is timely to wrap up the month of September with good reminders about your family's emergency preparedness plan, as well as preparations to make for the coming viral season with the circulation of flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

This episode features guests Suzanne Fogarty and Jasmine Jones from the Women, Infants and Children's (WIC) program offered through Greene County Public Health. The topic is Breastfeeding Awareness Month.