Lacy interviews her ERS co-workers, Armando Villarreal and Amy Chamberlain about an unusual “office gift exchange.” When Amy learned that Armando was undergoing daily dialysis in January, she already knew what that meant… that his kidneys were failing and that his life had become extremely difficult. In this episode, Amy and Armando share their story about what it’s like to be in need of a kidney and what it’s like to become a living donor. Although Amy’s kidney was not a match for Armando, she decided to donate to a stranger through the National Kidney Registry (NKR) so that Armando can be matched with another donor and return to living a long and full life.  https://www.kidneyregistry.org/https://freakonomics.com/podcast/make-me-a-match-update/https://www.kidney.org/transplantation/livingdonors/general-information-living-donationShare your well-wishes for Armando to wellness@ers.texas.gov

In the second part of this two-part series on women’s health, Lacy brings your questions about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), urinary incontinence, sex drive, hormones and weight gain (and more!) to Dr. Elisa Brown-Pruitt, M.D., Regional Director for the Laura Bush Institute for Women’s Health at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Odessa. In a recent webinar with Dr. Brown, we received more questions from participants than we had time for, many of them on this topic. In Part 2 of this two-part episode series, Dr. Brown gives her thoughtful answers to questions like:What is PCOS and is it our fault? (no!)How can I treat the symptoms of PCOS, like weight gain, at any age? How should birth control pills be used as a treatment for PCOS?What impacts lack of sex drive in women and how can we address it?What causes urinary incontinence in women, and how can we prevent and treat it?What kinds of specialists can best diagnose and treat pelvic floor disorders?What causes vaginal atrophy and how can we treat it?Resources: Link to full Webinar RecordingLink to CDC Women's Health Information

In this two-part series, Lacy brings your questions about menopause and perimenopause to Dr. Elisa Brown-Pruitt, M.D., Regional Director for the Laura Bush Institute for Women’s Health at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Odessa.In a recent webinar with Dr. Brown, we received more questions from participants than we had time on this topic, so we’re using the podcast to share the answers. In Part 1 of this two-part episode series, Dr. Brown gives her thoughtful answers to questions like:What are the causes of and the difference between menopause and perimenopause, and how long does each stage last?How can you treat symptoms like hot flashes, poor sleep and mood, or a slow-down in libido and metabolism? For treating symptoms, what kind of hormone replacement therapies are safe and effective, and which over-the-counter supplements do you recommend? Can you become pregnant when you are in the perimenopausal stage? Resources:  Link to full Webinar RecordingLink to CDC Women's Health Information

Lacy talks with Dr. Alex Lesko, Executive Medical Director for the ERS HealthSelect health plans, about how we can support our male family members and friends when it comes to their health and well-being. Up to 60% of men do not see a doctor on a regular basis and are less likely to take ownership of their health and well-being than those who do. For example, 36% of men (vs. 50% of women) get annual check-ups in the ERS HealthSelect plans; compared to women, men are also more likely to develop a chronic condition, such as hypertension, have shorter life spans, and are more likely to die by suicide. Why? And what can we do about it?Lacy and Dr. Lesko talk able the key reasons that keep men from seeing the doctor and the important role their spouses play in changing that. They also discuss the cues to look for when someone is struggling with a mental health issue, and the ways that the ERS HealthSelect plans can help them access the care they need.Registration link for Dr. Lesko's webinarWebinar ArchivesERS Wellness PageHealthSelect Men's Health Webpage

Lacy talks with Tara Humphreys, Field Interpretation Coordinator with Texas State Parks, who shares her passion for connecting our hearts and minds with all that our state parks have to offer. With 89 parks that are as varied as this state, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department celebrates 100 years our Texas State Parks with special events – making this a particularly fun time to visit! Whether you are seasoned park visitor or brand new to experiencing the outdoors, Tara says “We’ve got you!”Tara shares the resources for planning your visit and your activities (including accessible options) – from walking to hiking, to kayaking and birdwatching. Or just sit and take in the sights, sounds. Never camped? Tara shares information about an affordable program for a group of up to 6 people called Texas Outdoor Family that will provide all the camping gear you need and teach you how to use it.Resources:LINK to Andy Walton’s song about the Frio River or Garner State ParkAnnual Park Pass – 512-389-8900 or purchase at a local state park $70 for a primary holder (valuable if you visit more than a couple of parks a yearTPWD Centennial Celebration Information - check out all of the celebration opportunities at State Parks around the state! State Parks for Beginners - easy steps to get started using our beautiful state parks! Texas Outdoor Family Page - let the experts take you out camping! Groups of 6 can learn how to camp through this program

In this episode Lacy talks with Todd Whitthorne, a nationally recognized health and wellness speaker about the one key driver for health and happiness, the quality of our relationships.  Todd shares insight on what distracts us from our relationships and strategies for how to be more intentional in building healthy relationships at work and home.  Register for Todd's Webinar through this registration link. Watch recordings of previous webinars through the ERS Wellness Channel. Learn more about wellness offerings, upcoming events and more through the ERS Wellness Webpage. Links to resources mentioned in the webinar:Harvard Study of Adult Development The Good Life Surgeon General's Advisory on LonelinessLondon Black Cab Study

If you’re a State of Texas employee, you might already know about the free fitness classes offered online almost every day of the work week. The new Virtual Wellness Calendar features a range of classes lead by other state employees, including Jewell Smith of Office of Attorney General; Mackenzie McIntyre of Texas Department of Transportation, and , Rachel Schey of Alamo College District.In part 2 of this series  you will hear why these wonderful people are providing this resource and how Virtual Fitness classes may help to support mental health as well! Join and share this resource with your friends and colleagues: Resources: http://www.wellness.texas.gov/Challenge.htmProvide feedback or ask questions:  lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov

Meet our fitness instructors!If you’re a State of Texas employee, you might already know about the free fitness classes offered online almost every day of the work week. The new Virtual Wellness Calendar features a range of classes lead by other state employees, including Jewell Smith of Office of Attorney General; Mackenzie McIntyre of Texas Department of Transportation, and , Rachel Schey of Alamo College District.Get to know these inspirational women and why they teach, in addition to their day job. What motivates them? (spoiler alert… it’s YOU!) And hear their passion for meeting people at their own fitness level!Resources: http://www.wellness.texas.gov/Challenge.htm

In this episode Lacy talks with Lesley Jimenez, MPH, who serves as the Statewide Wellness Coordinator at Texas Department of State Health Services. Lesley shares how the Get Fit Challenge came to be, what she does to support health and wellness of state agencies and how we can participate and get the most of out the Get Fit Texas Challenge! Learn more about the challenge through the Get Fit Texas Website.Enjoy a virtual fitness class with other participants through the Virtual Fitness Calendar.and read the code that supports wellness policies and initiatives at our state agencies.Register to see who won the challenge in our webcast or attend other wellness events through the ERS Wellness Calendar.  If you have feedback or questions, please email me at lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov.

In the final episode of a 3-part “music and wellness” podcast series, we listen to the music and stories from state employees (TxDOT & TDI) who shared their time and musical talent at our 2022 state employee virtual wellness fair.  This episode is co-hosted by Jimmy Anderson, a state worker and drummer for the Austin band The Bandoliers. Experience the power of music in this very special series. Check out all of the afternoon concerts and more through the 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Channel.Send feedback for this episode and these performers to lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov

In this second of a 3-part “music and wellness” podcast series, we listen to the music and stories from state employees ( from ERS, TDI, TPWD and CPA) who shared their time and musical talent at our 2022 state employee virtual wellness fair. Each of the musicians reflects on the how role of music in their lives has changed over time and the ways it contributes to their own well-being. This episode is co-hosted by Jimmy Anderson, a state worker and drummer for the Austin band The Bandoliers – whose music is featured on this episode. Experience the power of music in this very special series. Check out all of the afternoon concerts and more through the 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Channel.Send feedback for this episode and these performers to lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov

In this first of a 3-part “music and wellness” podcast series, we listen to the music and stories from state employees who shared their time and musical talent at our 2022 state employee virtual wellness fair. Each of them reflects on how music has contributed to their own wellness in surprising ways. This episode is co-hosted by Jimmy Anderson, who not only plays in the Austin band The Bandoliers, he also served as videographer for our wellness fair concert series and works for the Office of Comptroller Accounts. Experience the power of music in this very special series.Check out all of the afternoon concerts and more through the 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Channel.Send feedback for this episode and these performers to lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov

How can slam poetry change your day? In this very unique and short episode of the podcast, Lacy introduces Brian Francis, retired executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and a nationally acclaimed slam poet. We get to hear Brian as he uses the words submitted to him from state employees to create a poem on the spot. The words and the poem are inspired by the theme of our most recent State Employee Virtual Wellness Fair: Adapt & Thrive. Feel inspired by Brian’s weaving of words into a tapestry of emotions, aspirations and song. We are all poets. Words matter. And today is our moment. Watch Brian Francis' full poetry session in video formatYou can also check out all of this year's sessions from the 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair through the 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Channel!

Lacy talks with Dr. Genovese, Chief Medical Officer for Acadia Healthcare, the largest standalone provider of behavioral health care in the U.S., about trauma’s impact on the brain and what we can do about it. Part 1 of this conversation focused on trauma’s impact on the brain and practices that support resiliency when you experience trauma. In this second part of the conversation, Dr. Genovese outlines symptoms of post-traumatic stress and shares effective psychological therapies for trauma – from talk therapies and EMDR to somatic experiencing.  Dr. Genovese says there are many options for us to try as we seek to heal from trauma. Taking the first step is an act of courage and your HealthSelect of Texas insurance plan provides coverage for mental health treatment.Mental Health Resources: HealthSelect of Texas Virtual Mental Health VisitsHealthSelect of Texas Mental Health Information2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Mental Health Toolkit

Lacy talks with Dr. Genovese, Chief Medical Officer for Acadia Healthcare, the largest standalone provider of behavioral health care in the U.S., about trauma’s impact on the brain and what we can do about it. Learn about the ways we all experience trauma on a daily basis and the unusual amount of trauma experienced by first responders, who make up a significant portion of our state employee population. Dr. Genovese describes how unmanaged stress can change how your brain is wired and how you see the world. He also shares strategies for preparing yourself and for taking care of yourself during or after a traumatic or stressful experience. He also touches on the surprising impact of alcohol consumption on stress.Check out the recent webinars we have offered on Brain Health: Dr. Russell Frohardt, Ph.D. Q&A with a Neuroscientist Mindfulness & Your Brain WebinarSleep & Your Brain WebinarRegistration is OPEN!  October 17-21, 2022 Virtual Wellness Fair Registration Page!

Lacy talks with Holly Cuozzo, a fitness specialist with the Texas Department of Public Safety. At the time of this interview, groceries cost 10% more than they did a year ago. With two teenage boys to feed, Lacy empathizes with other families feeling this impact on her household. Learn how Holly and Lacy approach eating well and economically at home, work and on the go. You’ll be craving Holly’s fried rice recipe at the end! Resources: MyPlate | U.S. Department of Agriculture for meal planningEating Well on a Budget Webinar with Holly Cuozzo, MSDPS Fitness Wellness Unit webpageERS Wellness Events CalendarHolly's Easy Fried Rice RecipeIngredients:• 3 ½ cups Brown or White Rice, cooked• 1 cup Chicken Breast, Ham, Pork, or Tofu, cooked and chopped (optional)• 2 Eggs, beaten• 1 cup Mixed Vegetables, cooked and chopped* *use fresh or frozen• 2 Green Onions, slices• 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil• Soy Sauce and/or Hot Sauce to tasteYield: 4 servingsInstructions:1. Wash hands with soap and water.2. Heat pan. Add 1 tsp of oil. Add eggs and scramble.3. Remove cooked eggs and set aside.4. Add the rest of oil (2 tsp) to pan. Stir fry rice, breaking up lumps by pressing rice against pan.5. Add cooked protein and/or vegetables. Stir fry until heated.6. Add green onions, reserved eggs, and sauce to taste. Serve hot.7. Cover and refrigerate leftovers within two hours.

Lacy talks to state employee and competitive sand sculptor Albert Lucio about “flow,” a mental state that’s highly correlated happiness and well-being. Anyone can experience “flow” by engaging with your passions and even work in ways that challenge you. Having served for 16 years with the Department of Family and Protective Services while pursuing his passion for building giant sand sculptures, Albert shares insights for creating flow in daily activities and new challenges that interest you. Learn his tips for finding activities that interest you (or that might interest you if you approached them differently) and how to overcome a lack of motivation. ERS Wellness Webinar: Finding Flow at Work and in Life with Albert LucioAlbert’s sand sculpting photos : https://albertlucio.com/Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiRise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance by Steven KotlerSearch Meet Up to connect with other people who share your interests

Lacy visits with Melanie Odums from the non-profit Trellis Company about new information that can have a huge impact your financial health.  If you have been making payments on student loan debt over the years while employed by a state agency (or any governmental entity), a public school or institute of higher educations, or a non-profit, you might be eligible for loan forgiveness from the federal government. There have been temporary changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, making even more people eligible for loan forgiveness. But borrowers must apply to the U.S. Department of Education before October 31, 2022, to take advantage of these temporary, more relaxed rules.Melanie Odums is an Accredited Financial Counselor and has been working in the financial aid industry for 17 years.   She has had a variety of roles in financial aid administration and loan servicing, including working one-on-one with college students and families.  Through this work she has helped many individuals understand and navigate the financial aid process, their student loans, and their personal finances. She has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Texas State University.Resources mentioned in the podcast:Upcoming webinars can be found at the ERS Wellness Events CalendarTrellis webpage with more resources and links Text Questions to: (512) 359-8838

Years before Alexis Schminke became a fitness instructor with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Alexis was an active child from an active family, who became a teen who struggled with body image and her relationship with food. She later became a forensic scientist with DPS and even later, found her passion for health and wellness… and for her own changing body.Alexis talks about her journey to becoming an active adult and what keeps her motivated to feel good in her body.Resources: Movement Mindset Webinar LinkVirtual Fitness Calendar LinkHealthSelect Wellness Benefit ResourcesERS Discount Purchase Program Link

In this short episode Lacy discusses how your mindset impacts your movement. She reflects on her childhood experiences that helped her to build movement mindset and how her mindset changed when she no longer had team sports in her life. Through a new activity she found a renewed sense of purpose and way to move that has been a cornerstone of her movement practice for the past 18 years.  In this podcast you will hear 5 strategies to help you build or maintain your movement mindset! Resources mentioned during this episode: 1 Degree of Difference WebinarState Employee Virtual Fitness CalendarJoin us for a webinar on this topic on July 14th from 10-11 a.m.: Movement Mindset Registration Link