(w)healthy

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 fro...

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 partn...

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 ...

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 heal...

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 ...

Allergies, sinus issues, and other ENT conditions arebecoming more common, especially in the Okanagan. In this episode of the (w)healthypodcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Dr. Jon Dautremont, ENT specialist andfounder of Basis, to discuss why these issues are increasing, how the localclimate plays a role, and what people can do to manage symptoms. He sharesexpert insights on treatment options, practical ways to find relief whilew...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kluftinger, a leading expert in breast cancer and general surgery, to discuss the evolving landscape of breast cancer care. From early detection and surgical options to post-operative care and patient advocacy, Dr. Kluftinger offers invaluable insights into what patients and families can expect during their journey. We also explore the role of general surgery in comprehensive cancer treatment a...

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Dr. Dianne Burrows, a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Interior Dermatology Centre in Kelowna, BC. Dr. Burrows shares her journey into dermatology and discusses the importance of skin health as a vital component of overall well-being. The conversation delves into common skin conditions, their impact on mental and emotional health, ...

Join (w)healthy podcast host Shauna Nyrose in a compelling conversation with Dr. Kathy Wise from Olive Fertility Centre. In this episode, they explore the complex world of fertility, tackling questions like: "Whose issue is infertility, really?" and "When is the right time to take action?" Dr. Wise debunks common fertility myths—including whether birth control causes infertility—and addresses the stigma surrounding these misconcept...

In this insightful episode of the w(healthy) podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Melissa Fedderson, Manager of Campus Wellness at UBCO and former Centre Manager of Foundry, to discuss the critical state of youth mental health. Together, they explore how parenting styles, strict monitoring, and screen time are shaping the mental wellbeing of today’s youth. Melissa explains why young people are often the "canaries in the mine,...

In this insightful episode of the (w)healthy podcast, Shauna Nyrose sits down with Shelagh Turner, a leading voice in mental health advocacy, to unpack the essential — and often misunderstood — differences between mental health and mental illness. They explore the challenges many face in accessing critical mental health services and discuss systemic barriers that leave individuals and families searching for support. 

Shelagh and Sh...

In this “snack-size” follow-up episode, Shauna Nyrose sits down once again with Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation, to look ahead at what’s on the horizon for 2025. From expanding JoeAnna’s House to moving cancer care forward and bringing new services closer to home, Allison shares her excitement for the transformative projects that are poised to impact our community in the year ahead. 

Discover how your support is paving t...

As the year draws to a close, join Shauna Nyrose and Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation, for a bite-sized holiday conversation that looks back on 2024. In this reflective episode, Allison shares the standout moments and milestones that defined the past year in health care and philanthropy, and what she’s most grateful for as we look ahead. From community triumphs to the power of generosity, this heartfelt conversation is a re...

In this episode of the w(healthy) podcast, host Shauna Nyrose sits down with Danielle Nobel-Brandt to explore how the environments we live in profoundly impact our health, longevity, and overall well-being. From the role of urban planning to the social determinants of health, Danielle unpacks how the design of our cities affects everything from physical health to mental wellness. She passionately advocates for choice, equity, and t...

In this inspiring episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we sit down with Ginny Becker, the Executive Director of the Children and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) in Kelowna. Known for her transformative leadership and ability to authentically push boundaries, Ginny is a driving force for system change in the region. She shares her insights on what it means to inspire action in others, proving that even small efforts can create a ripple e...

In this compelling episode, Shauna is joined by Jaymi Chernoff, Executive Director of Quality and Patient Safety at Interior Health, who joined Kelowna General Hospital as Executive Director on the very day the world shut down due to COVID-19. With a unique perspective on the unprecedented challenges that unfolded, Jaymi pulls back the curtain on what health care teams faced—and overcame—behind the scenes. She speaks candidly about...

Shauna sits down with Jeff Cox, Co-Founder of Simply Benefits, for an insightful dive into Canada’s health care system and the ‘benefits’ available. Jeff uncovers what’s really behind the benefits we rely on—and who they’re truly designed to serve. 

Jeff breaks down the essentials, beginning with how Canada’s universal health care system operates, where private funding fits in, and the crucial role employer-provided benefits play...

In this episode of the (w)healthy podcast, we ask a question that stirs much debate: Does sugar cause cancer? Registered dietitian and intuitive eating advocate Erin Wile unpacks the myths surrounding sugar, exposes the pitfalls of fad diets, and explains how media messaging can mislead us about what truly supports our health. Erin discusses the power of food to nourish without restriction, sharing her expertise on how we can tune ...