What does it mean to be healthy from an Indigenous perspective? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Elder Leon Lewis joins Shauna Nyrose for a conversation about the teachings of the syilx Nation, the wisdom of community, and the medicine found in connection. Together, they explore how stories and relationships can guide us toward a more balanced and compassionate understanding of health.
Pelvic floor therapy doesn’t have to be as daunting as you may have originally thought. In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose is joined by physio therapist and pelvic floor specialist, Corinne Wade. Together, they dive into many of the different ways we can support our pelvic floor and in turn make changes to so many parts of our lives.
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in Canada, yet it is still widely misunderstood and often missed, particularly in girls and women. In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose speaks with Dr. Elliot Frank, a dual-certified family physician and an inspiring model of integrated and inclusive health care in our community. Dr. Frank shares his insight on how ADHD presents at different stages of life, why timely diagnosis matters, and the challenges that can arise when it goes unrecognized. He also offers his perspective on the most current approaches to care, from evidence-based treatment to practical supports that help people thrive. This is a thoughtful and informative conversation for anyone seeking to better understand ADHD and its impact across a lifetime.
We often talk about sleep as something we should “get more of,” but rarely stop to ask why it matters in the first place. In this episode, Dr. Wayne Lai returns to help us better understand sleep as a foundational part of whole-body health. From how disrupted sleep affects your mood, focus, and immune system to what might actually be keeping you up at night, this conversation explores how sleep impacts daily life in ways we often overlook. If you’re struggling to feel rested, or just curious about what better sleep could mean for your health, you’ll want to take a listen.
This is our third episode with Dr. Lai, if you enjoyed this one be sure to check out the other two!
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose speaks with Counsellor Ashley Phillips about how trauma impacts our mental health and why we don’t always recognize it. Ashley explains the difference between "big T" and "little t" trauma, what happens in the brain during a traumatic experience, and how EMDR therapy can help people process what’s been holding them back. This conversation offers a deeper understanding of how trauma works and what healing can look like.
Money is more than numbers in a bank account. It is peace of mind, security and a vital part of your overall health. In this episode of (w)healthy, host Shauna Nyrose talks with Rod Gibbings, Senior Financial Consultant at IG Wealth Management, about why financial health is such a critical pillar of well-being. Rod shares practical strategies for planning a secure retirement, guiding young adult children toward independence, working effectively with a financial planner and navigating money conversations as a couple. He also reflects on personal experiences, including health challenges and the sudden loss of a dear friend and colleague, that have shaped his perspective on what it truly means to live well. This is not just a conversation about building wealth for the future, it is about creating freedom and living a life that aligns with your values today.
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Dr. Brittany Schamerhorn, licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, joins us to unpack the complex world of women’s hormones, perimenopause, and metabolic health. Drawing from her clinical experience and evidence-informed approach, Dr. Schamerhorn shares why so many women feel unheard in the health care system, and how a more personalized, integrative model of care can make all the difference. Her insights offer a fresh, grounded perspective on what it means to truly care for women’s health.
We all know sleep is important, but what’s really happening in the brain while we rest? In this solo episode, Dr. Wayne Lai — neurologist and sleep medicine specialist — breaks down the science of sleep in clear, practical terms. From deep sleep cycles to why you wake up at 3 a.m., this conversation will leave you better informed about what your brain truly needs to heal, function, and thrive.
Concussions affect hundreds of thousands of Canadians every year, yet many remain misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode, host Shauna Nyrose speaks with Dr. Wayne Lai, neurologist and sleep medicine specialist, and Gerome Louie, a clinician specializing in concussion care. Together, they unpack what happens in the brain during injury, how sleep and mental health play a role in recovery, and what we all need to know about the lasting impact of concussions. Whether you're recovering yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers insight, clarity, and hope.
What if the real prescription for lifelong health isn't found in a clinic, but on a playground, in a pool, or during a triathlon? In this episode, we sit down with Drew Mitchell, Director of Physical Literacy at Sport for Life, to explore how movement shapes our health, our communities, and our sense of belonging. From saving a beloved triathlon to creating more inclusive sport systems, Drew shares powerful stories and insights on why physical literacy matters at every age and in every body.
What if aging didn’t have to mean decline? In this episode, Dr. Grant Pagdin, a Kelowna-based physician and expert in regenerative and preventative medicine, joins us to explore the future of healing. From stem cell therapy and PRP to male hormone balance and lifestyle medicine, Dr. Pagdin unpacks what’s real, what’s emerging, and what it means to take control of your health span, not just your lifespan.
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, local fitness pro Taylor Kolar shares why strength training is essential, especially for women over 40. We bust common fitness myths, explore social media trends, and talk about building a sustainable routine that fits your age, goals, and lifestyle. Plus, we dive into the role of nutrition, cardio, and mindset in supporting long-term health and strength.
What if your jaw pain, your back tension, or that old shoulder injury weren’t just physical? In this episode, we sit down with physiotherapist Vince Cunanan to talk about TMJ, movement dysfunction, stress, and how pain can be both a signal and a story. Vince shares why healing often begins with awareness and how we can start reconnecting with the bodies we’ve learned to ignore.
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Dr. Diana Kim, a Kelowna-based neurologist, to explore the inner workings of brain health, from the everyday impacts of stress and sleep, to the life-changing consequences of stroke and neurological disease.
What if your headaches, brain fog, or a child’s struggles in school were actually rooted in vision — not eyesight, but how the brain processes what we see? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Dr. Sophia Capo, optometrist and founder of A B See Optometry and Vision Therapy in Kelowna, unpacks the powerful connection between vision, brain health, and healing. We explore how vision therapy is helping kids and adults recover from concussions, overcome learning challenges, and reclaim quality of life — all through a new lens.
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Beth Walley, Executive Director of the Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice, for a grounded and hopeful conversation about the evolving landscape of primary care. Together, they explore what primary care really means, why it matters, and how it's changing to meet the needs of patients and providers. From the role of relationships and community partnerships to the challenges of access and physician burnout, this episode offers thoughtful insight into how care can become more connected, compassionate, and ultimately, closer to home.
What’s stopping us from eating well? For most people, it’s not knowledge — it’s time, energy, and real life. Morgan Decksheimer, founder of Meal Prep For You, joins us to talk nutrition and how local food can help us live healthier, one meal at a time.
How do you know if your child’s physical development is ontrack? When is toe-walking, poor coordination, or delayed milestones a sign to seek support? In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with pediatric physiotherapist Milena Perini to explore the critical role movement plays in a child’s overall well-being. With over 20 years of experience, Milena shares insights on early intervention and common misconceptions. She also offers practical advice for parents looking to support their child’s development at home. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious about how movement shapes a child’s future, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. Tune in to learn how small steps today can lead to big strides tomorrow!
Did you know your oral health can impact your heart, brain,hormones, and even your confidence? Kelowna dentist and implant specialist Dr. Michael Webster joins (w)healthy podcast host Shauna Nyrose to explore the surprising links between dental care and general well-being. From childhood cavities to perimenopause challenges, dental implants to overall health—discover why caring for your teeth might be one of the most important health investments you’ll ever make.
In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Buddhist chaplain, meditation teacher, and somatic movement practitioner Melissa Berry Appleton to explore the evolving landscape of spiritual health. From the power of presence and mindfulness to the intersection of science and contemplative practice, Melissa shares insights on how we can cultivate resilience and inner well-being in a fast-paced world. Whether you're seeking balance, healing, or a deeper sense of purpose, this conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating modern life with intention and grace.
