Healthy Illini Podcast

College can be challenging for anyone, but for student's with disabilities it often comes with unique barriers and overlooked struggles. Today's guests share their experiences and perspectives, one as a person living with a disability and another who works with this community. Through personal stories we aim to foster a better understanding, empathy and inclusion for all. Resources:Disability Resources and Educational ServicesIf interested in volunteer opportunities email, Jason Murphy: jmurphy8@illinois.edu

oin us as we explore how our campus is transforming health and wellbeing by embracing the principles of the Okanagan Charter. Campus officially adopted the charter in February 2025 and formed the Collective Wellbeing Steering Committee. Hear from committee members who address the campus commitment to being a Health Promoting University and what the next steps will be in the coming year.Resources:Health Promoting Campus | Mental Health & Wellness | UIUC

Step into the world where creativity meets problem-solving. Siebel Center for Design is a campus resource for everyone. Today's conversation is with some staff from SDC sharing about the mindset of human-centered design, the tools and opportunities that can be gained by getting involved and accessing SDC.Resources:Home | Siebel Center for Design | Illinois Siebel Center for Design (@scdillinois) • Instagram photos and videos

Description: Whether it's on the field, on the court or on the ice, club sports bring the intensity of the game to life with opportunities to be competitive, social, and share some unique experiences to represent Illinois. Our guests from club volleyball and hockey, dive into their sport, the challenges, benefits and fun club sports brings to their college journey. Tune into the action of these sports!Resources:Club Sports | Campus Recreation | UIUCIllinois Women's Volleyball Club (@illinoisclubvolleyball) • Instagram photos and videosUNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL CLUB - HomeIllini Hockey (@illini.hockey) • Instagram photos and videosUniversity of Illinois Men's D1 Hockey

IEMS was founded in 1979 as a registered student organization and is now a part of the Illinois Fire Service Institute. They offer non-transport emergency medical services to the UI campus by providing two-person EMS teams to standby at UI student events. Tune in to learn more about how to get involved and be a part of service to others.Resource:IEMS

Orange Krush is the ultimate student group for die hard Illini fans who live for the highs, lows and everything in between. They are also the largest student-run charitable organization on the Illinois campus. Tune into today's episode to hear from some of the Krush members and how to get involved.Resources:Instagram: Orange Krush (@illini_okrush) • Instagram photos and videosEmail: orangekrushillinois@gmail.com

McKinley's Student Advisory Board (SAB) is a diverse group of students leaders dedicated to amplifying student voices, fostering positive change, and shaping student experiences at McKinley. Through collaboration with faculty, administration and peers, the SAB works to address key issues, develop initiatives and create meaningful opportunities for students. Tune in to hear more from board members and how to get involved.Resources:⁠Student Advisory Board | McKinley Health Center | UIUC

The Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign leads sustainability efforts on campus, supports climate action, and creates opportunities for student involvement. Learn about upcoming initiatives and how iSEE will shape a greener future at UIUC and beyond. Whether you are passionate about the environment or just curious, tune in to hear more from board members and how to get involved.Resources:iSEE - Illinois Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

Whether you are a dog lover or not, this episode with Olive and her handlers shares the special impact service animals have on the lives of others. Our guests share about the organization (4Paws), the journey of the pets they work with, the training to prepare them to assist someone in need, and the bonds that are made along the way. Resources:UIUC 4Paws: HomeInstagram: 4 Paws at UIUC (@4pawsuiuc) • Instagram photos and videosEmail: uiuc4paws@gmail.com4Paws For Ability: 4 Paws for Ability: Home - 4 Paws for Ability

Learn the vital role case management plays at McKinley Health Center. We talk about patient advocacy, care coordination, managing referrals and much more. Our case managers enhance patient outcomes, streamline processes and provide practical steps to manage your healthcare.Resources: McKinley Health Center: Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC

Landing your first job can be very exciting and overwhelming especially when it comes to talking about salary. Our guest from Career Services breaks down the salary negotiation process, provides tips to guide your decisions and steps to build your confidence. Resources:Home | The Career Center | UIUCGlassdoor | Job Search & Career CommunityFishbowl - Your Professional CommunityO*NET OnLine

Whether you are a student looking to be active, a fitness enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Campus Recreation is a place for everyone. Join us as we dive into the latest at Campus Rec, featuring their new Executive Director and one of their graduate assistants as they share insights, opportunities and ways to get involved. Resources: Home | Campus Recreation | UIUC Food Assistance & Well-Being Program | Campus Recreation | UIUC Initiatives | Campus Recreation | UIUC

Learn more about some of the behind the scenes at McKinley Health Center as we chat with two staff in the Medical Records department.  Find out more about what their days look like, how they support our students and a peek into who they are outside of McKinley  Resources:  Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC

As we move into colder temperatures, it's important to be aware of safety measures to take around self care and preparing for winter weather. Join us for practical insights and strategies to embrace the season while keeping yourself safe and well.  Resources:  Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC

It's finals time! Needing some survival tips to help you push through this hectic and sometimes stressful time? Take a deep breath and tune in to hear from other Illinois students who can help you with strategies to stay focused, organized and calm.  Resources: Stress Management | McKinley Health Center | UIUC Relaxation Techniques | McKinley Health Center | UIUC Stress Management Peers (@smp.uiuc) • Instagram photos and videos

Branding yourself on your path to professional growth is vital in helping you connect with industries and opportunities you may be interested in exploring. Our guest from the Career Center, talks about Linked In as a tool to help elevate your exposure and connections. Tune in to also learn more about the Career Center's available resources. Resources: Home | The Career Center | UIUC Professional Portrait Lab | The Career Center | UIUC

Join us to learn more about the mission and impact of our campus food pantry at Campus Recreation that is dedicated to supporting students. Organizers share updates, ease of access and other benefits the pantry provides. Resources: Food Assistance & Well-Being Program | Campus Recreation | UIUC  

Busy routines can make mealtime stressful but it doesn't have to be. McKinley's Dietitian and Nutrition Peers share some tips and strategies to make mealtime easier, healthier and more enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned meal prepper, just getting started or getting ready for exam time, pick up some ideas to help fuel your week. Resources: Nutrition | McKinley Health Center | UIUC McKinley Health Center - YouTube

The Office of the Dean of Students (ODOS) cares about our Illinois students. Whether it is helping with academic success, sharing university updates, addressing student concerns or leadership development their staff and services are here to help navigate your college experience. Tune in to learn more about their resources. Resources: Home | Office of the Dean of Students | UIUC

Start your journey to better eye health today. Learn from our guests who are optometrists, on how to protect your vision, understand what goes into an eye appointment and explore practical tips for maintaining healthy eyes. Resources:  Keep Your Eyes Healthy | National Eye Institute Taking Care of Your Eyes | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

Sleep is critical for overall good health. When you get adequate sleep you are that much better at everything else you want to poor time into. Learn about sleep hygiene and activities that can help you maximize your sleep and guide you in the right direction for optimal performance. Resources: Stress Management | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu)

Description: ILLINOIS Student Affairs is a premier operation that offers students resources and support that makes us stand out from others. Student Affairs is where you live, where you work out and hang out, to where you go to get well. We have the people you turn to when you need help, or are ready to plan your future. Our guests highlight the unique features of our Student Affairs on the ILLINOIS campus, and share what's ahead. Tune in today! Resources: Home | Student Affairs | UIUC (illinois.edu)

Join Illinois' 4 time Paralympian, Susannah Scaroni, as she shares her experience on competing and the importance of having a solid wheelchair. Our return guests from the Illini Wheelchair and Scooter Clinic also address the resources and equipment they provide for everyday use for wheelchair users versus for competition. Resources: Susannah Scaroni Instagram: Susannah Scaroni (@suscaroni)  Abbott World Marathon Majors: Abbott World Marathon Majors Wheelchair & Scooter Clinic: About Us – Illini Wheelchair and Scooter Clinic (illinois.edu) Clinic Email: wheelchair-clinic@mx.uillinois.edu

ADHD is not a familiar term for all. Tune in to learn more about ADHD. Our expert helps you understand some of the challenges and unique perspectives of those navigating attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder while providing strategies and resources to help manage ADHD. Resources: McKinley Mental Health:  Mental Health | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) DRES (Disability Resources & Educational Services: Disability Resources and Educational Services (illinois.edu)

Illinois has several cultural centers to serve and support our students. BNAACC provides programs and support services promoting the individual, social, cultural and academic wellbeing of Illinois' African American students. Tune in with the director to learn more about the center and how to be more engaged with them.  Resources:  Home | Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center | UIUC (illinois.edu)

Basic Needs refers to access to essential services that impact overall health and wellbeing including nutrition food, stable housing, healthcare, childcare, transportation and financial resources. Learn more about the support services available for ILLINOIS students. Resources: Basic Needs | Office of the Dean of Students | UIUC (illinois.edu) Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu)

The International Education Program at Illinois offers transformative learning experiences for students. This episode shares one of those opportunities through The Name Project. We have students from around the world who are proud to be a part of the U of I family. They share their the stories of their names and how to pronounce them. Tune in to learn more and check out the variety of videos available in our resources. Resources: The Name Project: The Name Project | International Education | UIUC (illinois.edu) Media Space Illinois: The Name Project - Illinois Media Space Story Maps - selection a location and hear those stories. | The Name Project (April 8, 2023) (arcgis.com)

McKinley is your campus health center offering you the best of healthcare services at Illinois. We strive to keep you well to excel while supporting your healthcare needs. We have reached a milestone this year, celebrating 100 years. For a century we have been taking care of Illinois students, making a difference and touching lives. Start your healthcare journey with McKinley Health Center.  Resources: McKinley Health Center: Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu)

Welcome new Illini!! Starting college is both exciting and also nerve wrecking. You may be trying to navigate multiple things to make sure you get off on the right start, of course!! The journey can feel daunting but doesn't have to be. Tune in, to listen to some advice from seasoned Illini who share tips and tricks to be well to excel your first year. Resources: Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) Home | Office of the Dean of Students | UIUC (illinois.edu) Home | Student Success, Inclusion & Belonging | UIUC (illinois.edu) FrontPage | Counseling Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) Basic Needs | Office of the Dean of Students | UIUC (illinois.edu)

Description: The NAH strives to positively impact the educational and development outcomes of Native students by fostering a sense of belonging, nurturing wellbeing, and encouraging retention through engagement, academic support, and advocacy. Tune in with our guests to learn more about the NAH and their offerings during the year. Resources: Home | Native American House | UIUC (illinois.edu) NAH Ambassadors: NAH Ambassadors | Native American House | UIUC (illinois.edu)

[10:56 AM] Carson, Jennifer Sounds good. Ready to publish for tomorrow. thanks   Title: Japan House at the University of Illinois Description: Learn more about the offerings at the Japan House while exploring the traditional Japanese arts and culture that is accessible to everyone. Resources: Japan House: Japan House | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Learn More Learn More  

oday's guests are staff in McKinley's Rehab & Sports Therapy Unit. Our Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer focus on active lifestyles that unify and integrate physical activity and wellness services. Learn more about their professions and pathway that brought them to McKinley. Resources: Rehab & Sports Therapy: Rehab & Sports Therapy | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) American Physical Therapy Association: American Physical Therapy Association | APTA National Association for Athletic Trainers: NATA | --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: Learn more about gardening, the benefits of gardening, and how people come together to create green spaces that give back to our community. Resources:  University of Illinois Extension | Illinois Extension | UIUC redoakraingarden.org Gardening can help you heal while grieving | ILRiverHort | Illinois Extension | UIUC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Everyone loves to vacation. Learn some tips for your next getaway and ways to soften the blow on your budget from Sterling Raskie at the Gies College of Business. Resources: Sterling Raskie: raskie@illinois.edu Illinois Extension Personal Finance: Personal Finances | Illinois Extension | UIUC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Navigating your career journey can be overwhelming. Today's episode joins the Career Center who shares expert insights, practical tips and resources to help meet your career goals.  Resources: Career Center: Home | The Career Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: Our guests from the campus Counseling Center take the conversation about neurodiversity beyond autism to bring a more board perspective and awareness around neurodivergence. Discussions on navigating challenges help reveal resources and ways to foster a supportive community for those who identify as neurodivergent. Resources: Counseling Center: University of Illinois Counseling Center Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative: Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative – A publish.illinois.edu site The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP): Home - The Autism Program of Illinois - TAP (tap-illinois.org) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Welcome back to part two of our Autism series. This episodes continues the conversation with a deeper focus on resources and more information about the Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative. Resources: The Autism Program at UIUC: The Autism Program at UIUC (illinois.edu) The Autism Program Email:  tap.uiuc@gmail.com Adrienne Shockley (consultation): amorris3@illinois.edu Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative: Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative – A publish.illinois.edu site --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

April is Autism Awareness Month. Join our guests today from the U of I Autism Program and the Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative (INI). Learn more about autism, resources and ways to support persons who identify with autism. We have broken this podcast into two parts since there was so much ground to cover. Check out both episodes to get the comprehensive overview of autism and INI. Resources: The Autism Program at UIUC: The Autism Program at UIUC (illinois.edu) The Autism Program Email:  tap.uiuc@gmail.com Adrienne Shockley (consultation): amorris3@illinois.edu Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative: Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative – A publish.illinois.edu site --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: McKinley's Stress Management Peers share stress management techniques and tips that have been effective for them and may help you push through the rest of the semester and to get through finals with minimal stress. Check out McKinley's Online Relaxation Exercises and upcoming stress related events that can be found on their calendar of events located on their website. Resources: McKinley Health Education, Stress Management: Stress Management | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) Online Relaxation Exercise: Relaxation Techniques | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) McKinley Wellness Peers: Peer Education | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) McKinley Stress Management Peers Instagram: smp.uiuc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

This episode features a discussion with McKinley's Administrative Nurses Roger Hobbs and Stephanie Hensch. They delve into the unique roles and responsibilities of administrative nurses, highlighting their critical function in healthcare management, staffing, and operational efficiency. The conversation also touches on the personal paths that led them to their current roles, emphasizing the wide range of opportunities in nursing and the importance of leadership and adaptability in healthcare. Resources McKinley Health Center: Home | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) American Nursing Association: Welcome to the American Nurses Association | ANA (nursingworld.org) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Today we highlight different mental health roles at McKinley and the career path taken to get there. Guests share personal journeys and the impact of their work, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in mental health care. This engaging discussion offers a unique look into the challenges and rewards of the mental health field within a university setting. Resources: McKinley Mental Health: Mental Health | McKinley Health Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) Campus Resources: Front Page | Mental Health & Wellness | UIUC (illinois.edu) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

UIUC's Office of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA) is spotlighted, featuring personal narratives from first-generation college students and staff. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of navigating university life, the role of OMSA in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, and the transformative impact of the ambassador program. Listeners are invited to explore the resources and community OMSA offers, underscoring the importance of support in achieving academic success and personal growth. Resources:  Office of Minority Student Affairs: Home | Office of Minority Student Affairs | UIUC (illinois.edu) Student Resources: Student Resources | Office of Minority Student Affairs | UIUC (illinois.edu) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

In this episode, the discussion pivots to the essential role of safety in health and well-being, featuring insights from the University's Police Department. The conversation includes guests involved with the department, highlighting innovative initiatives such as community outreach and crisis response, focusing on mental health support and the positive impact of therapy canines. These efforts underscore the department's comprehensive approach to fostering a safe and supportive campus environment. Resources: Division of Public Safety: Public Safety - University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | 217-333-1216 | police@illinois.edu At Illinois We Care --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: Students share advice and experience of enjoying warmer weather after getting out of the cold. Resources: McKinley Health Center: McKinley Health Center | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

This episode from the Healthy Illini podcast features a conversation with McKinley Health Center's dietitians, delving into the distinctions between dietitians and nutritionists, the varied career paths in dietetics, and the specialized services offered to UIUC students. It also highlights the rigorous educational and professional requirements for becoming a registered dietitian, including obtaining a master's degree, completing supervised practice, and passing a board exam, while also offering a glimpse into the personal lives of the dietitians. Resources: McKinley Health Center: McKinley Health Center | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: eatright.org   --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: Some of our military connected students share their experiences of coming back to campus after deployment and/or being active. Hear about the challenges, highlights and resources available to support our student military community. Resources: Chez Veterans Center: ⁠Home - Chez Veterans Center (illinois.edu)⁠ Illini Veterans RSO --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: We're excited to celebrate the 100th episode of the Healthy Illini Podcast! We started this exciting venture back in Fall of 2021 in hopes to connect students with relevant and college focused health and wellness information. By starting conversations with our guests, who have been students, staff, faculty and the community we have opened opportunities to widen our listeners understanding about health and wellness topics, connect them with resources, and maybe even challenge them to see another perspective. Celebrate with us while our host, Matt Schrock shares some of his favorite moments and some back story of how our podcast began. Resources:  McKinley Health Center | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign   Share topics, feedback and questions: mhcmarketing@mx.uillinois.edu --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Learn about the roles and responsibilities of our OSAs who are the front line staff at the campus health center and the career path that led them here. Resources: McKinley Health Center | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Description: Our guests today delve into the field of occupational therapy and the program at Parkland College. They discuss the therapy's nuances, its personalized approach for clients, and its diverse applications. The conversation highlights the educational journey and real-world implications of OT, emphasizing its importance in various settings and the need for empathy and understanding in patient care. Resources: Stacie Young, Instructor of Occupational Assistant Program at Parkland College: syoung@parkland.edu American Occupational Therapy Association: Join AOTA to Fuel Your Passion | AOTA --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

A follow-up discussion with Joe Trotter from Public Health about the ongoing Narcan initiative on campus and in our community. Learn more about Narcan usage and resources. Resources:  Champaign-Urbana Public Health: Champaign Urbana Public Health District - 201 W. Kenyon Rd. Champaign - (217) 352-7961 (c-uphd.org) Narcan: OTC NARCAN® (naloxone HCl) Nasal Spray McKinley Health Center: McKinley Health Center | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message

Today's episode addresses sexual assault, providing information you need to know, preventative actions that can be taken and how to support survivors. Educate yourself about this important topic, ways to get involved and learn the resources on and off campus. Resources:  At Illinois We Care Home | Women's Resources Center | UIUC (illinois.edu) RACES | Rape Advocacy, Counseling, & Education Services (cu-races.org) Rape Crisis Hotline – 217-384-4444 Races email – admin@cu-races.org RAINN | The nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization National Sexual Assault Hotline – 1-800-656-4673 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mckinley-health-center/message