Empowered Living: One Step at a Time with HIW

What’s in Our Water? The Hidden Risk of Nitrates and Why It Matters

Summary:
Many people believe their tap water is safe—but new research shows that even small amounts of nitrates, a common agricultural contaminant, may increase cancer risk over time. In this episode, we explore how nitrates get into water, what the latest science is revealing, and why farming communities are especially at risk. We also uncover how industry pressure may be stalling stronger protections—and what you can do to stay informed and protected.
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance about your personal health. If you rely on well water, consider regular testing to ensure safety. The information shared reflects current scientific findings, but research evolves over time.
Scientific References & Further Reading (no links)
Environmental Research, Volume 204, 2022Environmental Health Perspectives, Volume 113, Issue 11, 2005U.S. Right To Know Report on Nitrates in Drinking Water, 2025EPA’s Estimated Nitrate Concentrations in Groundwater Used for Drinking, 2023Environmental Working Group Report on Nitrate Pollution, 2019

Climate Control: How Indoor Temperatures Affect Senior Cognitive Health

Summary: In this episode, we explore the significant impact of indoor temperatures on the cognitive function of older adults. Delving into recent research, we discuss how maintaining optimal home climates can support mental acuity and overall well-being in seniors. We also examine innovative solutions, including smart home technologies and policy initiatives, aimed at mitigating temperature-related cognitive decline in the aging population.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Individuals should consult with healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate environmental conditions for their health needs.
Scientific References & Further Reading
Home Ambient Temperature and Self-reported Attention in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Association between ambient temperature and cognitive function in Chinese older adults: A cross-sectional study
Smart Home Technology for Older Adults
*Benefits and barriers associated with the use of smart home health

Unlocking Potential: The Comprehensive Benefits of Team Sports for Children

 
Summary: In this episode, we explore how team sports help children grow mentally, emotionally, and physically. From improved brain function and school performance to reduced anxiety and better social skills, team sports offer kids a powerful tool for success. We also look at the barriers that prevent access to these opportunities — and how communities can help overcome them to make sports available to all.
DisclaimerThis podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or psychological advice. Parents and guardians should consult with qualified professionals regarding their children’s health, physical limitations, or developmental needs before beginning any new athletic activities.
Scientific References & Further ReadingJAMA Network Open – Association Between Participation in Sports and Cognitive Function in ChildrenPresident’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition – Youth Sports Benefits SummaryJournal of School Health – Extracurricular Activities and Academic Performance in Middle SchoolFrontiers in Psychology – The Psychological and Social Benefits of Youth Team SportsAmerican Academy of Pediatrics – Organized Sports for Children and Preadolescents

Springing Forward: Navigating the Health Impacts of Daylight Saving Time

 
Summary: In this episode, we dive into the science behind Daylight Saving Time and why losing just one hour of sleep can ripple through your health—from heart function and immune strength to mental clarity and accident risk. Discover how this shift impacts your circadian rhythm and what you can do to prepare and adapt with balance, insight, and care.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Individuals experiencing persistent sleep disturbances, cardiovascular symptoms, or mental health challenges should consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Scientific References & Further Reading
American Journal of Cardiology – Heart Attack Incidence Following Daylight Saving TimeSleep Medicine – Sleep Deprivation and Increased Accident Risk After DSTThe New England Journal of Medicine – Circadian Disruption and Cardiovascular RiskJournal of Applied Psychology – Workplace Injuries and DST TransitionsJournal of Biological Rhythms – Age-Related Adaptation to Circadian DisruptionsCurrent Biology – Public Health Consequences of Sleep Disruption Due to DSTNature Reviews Neuroscience – Light, Sleep, and Circadian Physiology

Snoring Solutions: Understanding Causes, Exploring Remedies, and Restoring Restful Sleep

 
Summary: In this episode, we explore the widespread issue of snoring and its impact on health and relationships. From common causes such as nasal congestion, alcohol use, and weight gain to newer approaches like mouth taping, we examine what science says about snoring relief. Learn how nasal breathing, lifestyle changes, and sleep studies may help you or your partner sleep better—together or apart.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new health strategy, especially when dealing with potential conditions like sleep apnea or chronic snoring.
Scientific References & Further Reading
Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine – Prevalence and Correlates of Habitual Snoring in Adults
Sleep and Breathing – Mouth Taping in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Randomized Controlled Trial
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine – Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Cardiovascular Risk
Journal of Otolaryngology – The Effect of Nasal Surgery on Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Annals of Internal Medicine – Comparative Effectiveness of CPAP and Oral Appliances in Treating Sleep Apnea
Harvard Health Publishing – Can Mouth Taping Help My Snoring?
Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials – What You Need to Know About Mouth Taping for Sleep

Silent Fields: The Hidden Link Between Pesticide Mixtures and Rising Childhood Cancers in Agricultural Communities

 
Summary:In this episode, we unpack a new study linking pesticide mixtures to rising childhood cancer rates in Nebraska. We explore why children are particularly vulnerable, how pesticide combinations pose a unique health risk, and what can be done to better protect families in farming communities.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health practices or if you have concerns about environmental exposures.
Scientific References & Further Reading
University of Nebraska Medical Center (2025). Environmental Pesticide Mixtures and Pediatric Cancer in Nebraska: A Population-Based Analysis.
World Health Organization (2023). Children’s Environmental Health.
Eskenazi, B., et al. (2019). Organophosphate pesticide exposure and child neurodevelopment. Environmental Health Perspectives.
National Institutes of Health (2022). Pesticide exposure and childhood leukemia: What we know.
National Pesticide Information Center. Understanding Pesticide Mixtures and Toxicity.

Unveiling the Hidden Threat: The Emergence of BTMPS, an Industrial Plastic Chemical, in Illicit Fentanyl Supplies

 
Summary:In this episode, we explore the alarming discovery of BTMPS, an industrial plastic chemical, in the U.S. illicit fentanyl supply. We discuss the potential health risks, challenges in detection, and implications for public health, providing listeners with crucial information to navigate this evolving crisis.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine or if you experience any health concerns.
Scientific References & Further Reading
Shover, C.L., et al. (2025). UV Stabilizer BTMPS in the Illicit Fentanyl Supply in 9 US Locations. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
Wang, J., et al. (2023). Comparative Study on Cardiotoxic Effect of Tinuvin 770 in a Rat Model. Toxicological Sciences, 184(2), 204–212.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST Advisory on BTMPS Detection in Drug Samples(2024).
Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association (LAPPA). (2025). BTMPS: An Industrial Chemical Adulterant in the Illicit Drug Supply.
UCLA Health Newsroom. (2025). Researchers find high levels of the industrial chemical BTMPS in illicit fentanyl.
MedRxiv Preprint. (2024). Emergence of Industrial Plastic Additives in Illicit Opioid Markets: Early Detection via DART-MS and GC-MS.

Finding Serenity During the Holidays: A Science-Based Approach to Emotional Resilience

 
Summary:In this episode, we explore how holiday stress affects the brain and body and share practical, science-supported strategies to navigate it with grace. From the 4-7-8 breathing technique to letting go of perfectionism, this conversation is designed to help you reconnect with what matters most — presence, meaning, and serenity — during the holiday season.
DisclaimerThis podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting new wellness practices, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Scientific References & Further ReadingJournal of Clinical Psychology – Breathing Exercises and Their Impact on AnxietyPsychosomatic Medicine – Cortisol, Holiday Stress, and Cardiovascular MarkersJAMA Psychiatry – The Mental Health Benefits of VolunteeringCognitive Therapy and Research – Perfectionism and Emotional DysfunctionNature Neuroscience – Grief, Pain Pathways, and Brain FunctionPsychological Science – Expressive Writing and Grief Processing

Green Tea and Brain Health: A Daily Ritual for Cognitive Resilience

Summary: In this episode, we explore a compelling new study from Japan linking green tea consumption with fewer signs of brain aging in older adults. We unpack how green tea’s antioxidants, low caffeine, and unique compounds like EGCG may protect against white matter lesions — early markers of dementia. Learn how this ancient beverage can fit into a modern wellness plan to support lifelong brain health.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Individuals with cognitive symptoms or neurological conditions should consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Scientific References & Further Reading
Antioxidants – Association Between Green Tea Consumption and White Matter Lesions in Older Adults: MRI Evidence from Japan
Neurobiology of Aging – Catechins and Their Impact on Brain Health and Alzheimer’s Risk
Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry – EGCG and Neuroprotection: Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – L-Theanine and Caffeine Synergy in Cognitive Function
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease – MIND Diet and the Prevention of Cognitive Decline in Aging Populations

Prescription for Influence: How Financial Ties Are Shaping Medical Decisions

Summary: In this episode, we explore the growing influence of pharmaceutical and device industry payments on the medical field. From drug prescriptions to surgical device choices, we uncover how billions of dollars in financial relationships may subtly shape patient care. Learn how transparency, ethical reforms, and patient empowerment are essential to restoring trust in healthcare.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Scientific References & Further ReadingJAMA Internal Medicine – Association Between Industry Payments and Physician Prescribing PatternsNew England Journal of Medicine – Industry Payments to Physicians and Prescribing BehaviorHealth Affairs – The Impact of Pharmaceutical Marketing on Healthcare Costs and UtilizationJournal of General Internal Medicine – Financial Conflicts of Interest and Clinical Decision-MakingThe BMJ – Medical Device Marketing and Physician Financial Relationships

The Hidden Risks of C-Sections: Understanding the Impact on Mothers and Babies

 
Summary: In this expanded episode, we explore the global rise in C-section rates and the associated risks for mothers and babies. We delve into the potential complications, including microbiome disruption, future pregnancy challenges, and chronic health conditions. We also discuss strategies for postpartum recovery, emphasizing scar tissue management, nutrition, and gut microbiome restoration.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals considering birth options should consult with their healthcare provider to ensure the safest and most appropriate plan for their circumstances.
Scientific References & Further Reading
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology – Long-Term Outcomes for Mothers and Infants Following Cesarean DeliveryJournal of Clinical Microbiology – Impact of C-Section on Gut Microbiome and Immune System DevelopmentBMJ Open – Associations Between Cesarean Delivery and Increased Risk of Chronic ConditionsPediatrics – Respiratory Morbidity and Neurological Outcomes Following Cesarean BirthJournal of Perinatal Medicine – Vaginal Seeding and Microbiome Transfer in C-Section Births

The Hidden Dangers of Antidepressants: Understanding the Risks and Challenges of Stopping

Summary: In this episode, we explore the widespread use of antidepressants, their potential risks, and the challenges associated with discontinuation. We discuss the long-term effects of SSRIs and SNRIs, the dangers of emotional blunting and dependency, and offer insights into safer, more effective alternatives to support mental health.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals who take antidepressants SHOULD NEVER DISCONTINUE WITHOUT FIRST consulting with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure a safe and supervised tapering process.
Scientific References & Further Reading
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – Long-Term Effects of SSRI Use on Emotional Numbness and Withdrawal SymptomsBritish Medical Journal (BMJ) – Antidepressant Overprescription and Misdiagnosis of Withdrawal SymptomsFrontiers in Psychiatry – Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction and Its Long-Term Impact on PatientsAmerican Journal of Psychiatry – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as an Alternative to Antidepressant TreatmentJournal of Psychopharmacology – Evaluating the Efficacy and Risks of Antidepressants for Mild to Moderate Depression