Curious what really happens during a ketamine therapy session? In this eye-opening episode of (w)healthy, Dr. Anita Sanan explains the safety measures, fears, and overwhelming evidence surrounding ketamine therapy. As the Medical Director at the pioneering EntheoMed Ketamine Therapy & Wellness Clinic, and an experienced Anesthesiologist at KGH, Dr. Sanan sheds light on this emerging area of treatment. She explains the differences between recreational and therapeutic use, k holes, the 70% success rate in those with depression, and how exactly her sessions work. Join us as we dissect the controversy sparked by recent events and delve into the profound, positive impacts of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Learn more about Kelowna’s Ketamine clinic at https://entheomed.ca.

In this episode of (w)healthy, we explore radiology, gratitude, work-family balance, and how Endovascular Thrombectomy (EVT) is changing the game in health care. Dr. Nevin De Korompay is an Interventional Radiologist who supported the Foundations fundraising efforts to bring EVT therapy to KGH and is now the Head of Radiology. He talks about the satisfaction of successfully pulling a deadly clot out of a patient's brain, and how rewarding it is when you run into them living their lives to the fullest afterwards.

Learn more about EVT at Kelowna General Hospital at www.kghfoundation.com/stroke-campaign-close/

Hear how one woman is turning the tide on youth homelessness. Our youth are facing a multitude of challenges, but Sarah Mackinnon is on a mission to flip the script! Tune in to (w)healthy to hear from the Vice President of Youth and Family at BGC Okanagan, who brought a community program tackling youth homelessness from Australia to Kelowna. Upstream is a groundbreaking and award-winning program that supports local youth facing multiple barriers to resiliency. We dive into the main areas of risk, the incredible power of partnerships, the emotional toll of caring so deeply, and why supporting our youth’s support systems is so vital.  

Learn more about how Upstream contributing to a healthier next generation at www.bgco.ca/upstream 

When it comes to acute care, your health outcome is important. But increasingly, health care leaders like Dr. Devin Harris are advocating for more when it comes to measuring the success of our health care system. Dr. Harris is the Executive Medical Director of Quality, Engagement and Research for Interior Health. He explains why your experience in hospital matters more than ever. From hospital ‘secret’ shoppers, to workplace wellness initiatives for health care staff, and the role that we all should have in informing the care we receive, it’s a fascinating episode that helps pull back the curtain on what’s being done to change how we support patients in our community.

Learn more about Dr. Harris’s background and role at https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019HLTH0133-001873.

Before we learn why 80% of strokes are preventable, we explore topics such as the escalation of misinformation, knowledge keepers, and community representation.  

In this episode of (w)healthy, Dr. Aleks Tkach shares how to prevent and notice strokes, and how every moment matters. He also discusses the power of listening to community, innovations in stroke care, and the simplicity of healthy lifestyle changes. Learn about brain health from the Neurologist cowboy who’s working to radically advance stroke care in the interior of BC and beyond.  

See how endovascular therapy is helping stroke patients at KGH by watching Michelle Linekin’s story on Global News at https://globalnews.ca/news/9898572/okanagan-stroke-patients-endovascular-therapy/. 

We all know sleep is important - but in this episode of (w)healthy, sleep expert Dr. Ron Cridland sheds light on just how vital good sleep is for conditions above and beyond insomnia or sleep apnea. With more than half of the population suffering from sleep disorders, many of us don’t even realize we are sleeping poorly. Dr. Cridland, who was awarded the first publicly funded, private sleep lab in western Canada, takes a deep dive into why so many people are struggling with sleep, what impacts sleep, and how you can take control and sleep well. 

Learn more about sleep health and sleep disorders at www.goodsleephealth.ca  

View Dr. Ron Cridland’s sleep clinics at www.thesleepclinics.ca  

"Will I lose my hair? How do I tell my family? But I'm super healthy, how did this happen? Will I live to see my kids graduate? Am I going to die?" These are just some of the impossible questions and anxieties that Carly Gunn was grapping with after being diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a lump while breast-feeding her baby daughter. She shares candidly with Shauna about her lived experience with a cancer diagnosis, who also talks openly about her own journey with breast cancer in 2019. Featuring deeply personal stories of heartbreak and triumph, it's a (w)healthy episode not to be missed. 

You just felt a lump in your breast- what's next? How can you be proactive about your breast or prostate health? Signs to look for? Questions to ask your doctor? All that and more, including Shauna's personal cancer journey, on this episode of (w)healthy with Radiologist, Dr. Brenda Farnquist.

For more information on booking a mammogram through BC Cancer, visit Get Screened (bccancer.bc.ca)

What does it mean to be (w)healthy? Why is the KGH Foundation launching a podcast? How are the roles of health care foundations changing? We explore all that, and more, with Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation, on the very first episode of the (w)healthy podcast!

Your mother’s menopause doesn't have to be your menopause. Women will spend decades in perimenopause and menopause, but the research and conversation surrounding these topics is minimal. Jenn Pike, a leading expert in holistic health and advocate for women’s wellness, is determined to change this. 

In this episode, Jenn Pike shares her knowledge as a Functional Diagnostic Nutritionist, Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Certified Yoga & Pilates Instructor, Medical Exercise Specialist, and best-selling author. Learn simple science-based strategies to help women optimize their health so they can navigate this window of time with grace and optimal health. We dive into the importance of holistic health, weight loss myths, and the importance of listening to your body. 

Visit Jenn Pike’s website focused on women’s health and hormones at www.jennpike.com.  

You can also listen to her podcast ‘The Simplicity Sessions’ to learn more about how women can optimize their health, hormones and more. 

‘It’s not the mountain we conquer, it’s ourselves.’ In this episode of (w)healthy, Emergency Room Physician Dr. Neil Long shares his inspiring take on failure and tackling wicked problems in health care. We explore the importance of innovation and partnerships, his ideas for managing the burnout crisis, and how he fell into becoming a doctor. From conquering Everest, to planting the seeds to bring the second cadaver lab in Canada here to Kelowna, we sit down with the doctor who’s challenging the status quo.

Learn more about Kelowna’s Body Donor Lab at www.kghfoundation.com/health-systems-innovation/

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 the way for better care, closer to home — and why the future of health care in the Southern Interior has never looked brighter. 

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 reminder that giving truly changes everything. 

 

Pour a cup of something warm and take 20 minutes for a gratitude check — because sometimes, the smallest moments make the biggest difference. 

In this not to be missed episode of (w)healthy, James brings vulnerability to the table and shares his personal experience in a mental institution, battles with addiction, bi-polar condition, and dark periods. We sit down for a real, honest, and inspiring conversation with Men’s Mental Health Advocate James Addington.

Hear how he’s fostering a culture of mental wellness in his businesses, how he’s challenging gender norms, how he’s sparking much needed conversations around mental health, and what strategies he uses to feel his very best mentally. From happiness and ice cream to suicide, we delve deep into the high and lows of being human.

Read James full think piece Modern Man: A feminine man in a masculine world at www.jacexperiences.com/the-modern-man/Blog%20Post%20Title%20One-gh5tc.

He’s not your stereotypical heart patient, he’s an active, young, and healthy physiotherapist who eats well and is married to a dietician. Still, he experienced a major cardiac event after a mountain bike ride when he was just 40 years old.

In this episode of (w)healthy, we sit down with Dan Colbeck to hear what it felt like and the events that led up to the heart surgery at KGH that saved his life. We explore prevention, the importance of screening, cholesterol types, what makes a healthy community, and how genetic heart disease effects families. This insightful episode is key for anyone wanting to learn more about improving their heart health and overall wellbeing.   

Read more about Dan Colbeck’s story and SAVE BC at www.kghfoundation.com/matters-of-the-heart. 

Ageing is inevitable, but there are ways to combat cognitive decline at any age. In this episode of (w)healthy, we hear from Dr. Daryl Wile, Neurologist, and founder of the Humphreys Family Movement Disorder Clinic. From understanding the complexities of Parkinson’s disease to exploring the effects of brain fog, smartphone use, and the critical roles of sleep and stress, Dr. Wile provides valuable insights and tips to maintain cognitive vitality. Tune in for a deep dive into the science of neurodegenerative disorders and discover strategies to help your brain thrive. 

Dr. Wile is determined to create a system of care for those with Parkinson’s and movement disorders in the Interior of BC. His innovative work has helped establish Kelowna as a centre for excellence in brain health, and recently inspired a $1 million donation to Kelowna’s Movement Disorder Clinic. Hear from the Doctor working to grow neurology services in the BC Interior. 

Learn more about local exercise and activities, support groups, resources, and more at www.okmove.ca/resources.  

Learn more about Kelowna’s Humphreys Family Movement Disorder Clinic at www.okmove.ca.

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 the power of thoughtfully built environments to create healthier, more vibrant communities. Discover how your neighborhood might be influencing your health — and what it means to shape cities that offer everyone a fair chance at well-being. 

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 effect of meaningful change. 

 

Ginny also offers a glimpse into the impactful work of the CYAC, which provides vital advocacy and support for children and youth navigating challenging circumstances. With a refreshing blend of determination and compassion, she reflects on the personal values and energy that fuel her ability to tackle difficult work with kindness and unwavering resolve. 

 

Whether you're a community advocate, a leader, or simply looking for inspiration to make a difference, this episode will leave you energized to use your own superpowers for good. 

 

Notes: If you’d like to participate in the quick #notinmycity course Ginny refers to in this episode, or to find more information on how to spot human trafficing, please visit cyackelowna.com/not-in-my-city/

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 the resilience and human connection that fueled health care workers through the darkest days of the pandemic, as well as the often-overlooked innovation that emerged from crisis. 

 

Jaymi also shares her belief that the pandemic stifled idea generation, creating a lasting need for spaces that encourage bold, innovative thinking. In a time when health care is at a crossroads, she explains why it’s crucial to reset the approach and allow professionals the freedom to think differently, reinvent processes, and forge a new path forward. 

 

Join us for an inspiring discussion on resilience, reinvention, and how a post-pandemic health care system can emerge stronger than ever. 

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. You’ll gain clarity on the process behind drug premiums, how MSP premiums are structured, and how drug coverage really works. Jeff also shares why employers are so invested in keeping their employees healthy and how this impacts the benefits packages they offer. Tune in for a fresh perspective on navigating health care funding in Canada, with insights that will empower YOU to make the most of your benefits. 

 

Bonus content: If you’re looking for a list of resources from industry-leading sources for Canadian group employee benefits & health insurance, HR, and corporate health & wellness information visit  www.simplybenefits.ca/en-ca/industry-information 

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 into our bodies’ natural cues rather than succumbing to the latest fads. 

As a strong advocate for intuitive eating, Erin emphasizes how we can approach food in a way that’s both joyful and beneficial for our overall well-being. She also talks about Inspire Health, an organization she is part of, that supports cancer patients with compassionate, science-backed guidance and support. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that cuts through the noise of diet culture, offering clarity, empowerment, and a path toward truly supportive food choices. 

Bonus content: Curious about Inspire Health and what they can offer on your cancer journey? Check them out here -> https://inspirehealth.ca/ 

As a nurse, she was tired of waiting for change for Indigenous patients, but now she’s transforming care for equity-seeking communities, including newcomers to Canada, Indigenous peoples, and soon, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. In this episode of (w)healthy, we connect with Renée Gauthier, Executive Director of the Rutland Community Clinic.  

Discover how the new clinic is revolutionizing access to holistic health care for underserved populations with a special focus on empowering women's health and supporting youth mental health. We delve into the importance of multiculturalism in the workplace, the power of feedback loops, and the need to build meaningful relationships with local Indigenous communities.  

Join us to hear one woman's journey from caregiver burnout to leading a community-driven initiative that’s reshaping the way care is delivered! 

Learn more about the Rutland Community Clinic at www.rutlandcommunityclinic.ca. 

In this illuminating episode of (w)healthy, Dr. Ryan Foster takes us inside the world of the Intensive Care Unit, sharing firsthand experiences from the most extreme medical emergencies. He discusses the delicate balance between maintaining quality of life and fostering hope for a positive outcome, and how he navigates these challenging conversations with families who never expected to face such difficult decisions.  The ICU Physician also shares the realities of COVID-19 on the frontlines, the strategies used to manage the crisis across the province, and how it strengthened bonds among healthcare teams. Tune in for a powerful look at life, death, and the resilience of the human spirit. 

In a time where contradictory advice and type 2 diabetes are on the rise, Registered Dietician Kristy Hodgins shares some effective and sustainable dietary changes to help you fuel your body to feel your very best. In this episode of (w)healthy, we explore fad diets, sustainable lifestyle changes for weight loss, and how nutrition impacts your long-term health.  

Hear from the Wellness Dietician herself on what makes a poor diet, how you can regulate your insulin levels, and how your nutrition needs change throughout your lifespan. Tune in to hear how our diet impacts our overall wellbeing. 

View Kristy’s website at www.thewellnessdietitian.ca. 

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 misconceptions. She also provides insights into prevalent conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, empowering listeners with the knowledge to better understand their reproductive health.

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," providing early signals about the broader mental health challenges our society faces. Tune in for a compelling conversation on anxiety, depression, and the future of mental wellbeing—and how we can better support the youth who are showing us the way forward.

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 Shauna also highlight tangible actions that can foster mental well-being in our communities, from early intervention to building networks of connection and understanding. If you’ve ever wondered how we can bridge the gap and create a healthier, more compassionate society, this conversation is a must-listen. 

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 whilewaiting for specialist care, and when surgery might be necessary. A must-listenfor anyone struggling with chronic congestion, sinus infections, or allergies.

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 and how collaborative care models are improving patient outcomes. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides essential knowledge and compassionate guidance on navigating breast cancer care.

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, and the latest advancements in dermatological treatments. Listeners will gain valuable insights into maintaining healthy skin and learn about innovative treatments. Whether you're dealing with a specific skin issue or simply interested in enhancing your skin health, this episode offers expert advice and practical tips to help you achieve your (w)healthiest skin.

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.

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, 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.

You can register to get a family doctor or nurse practitioner at this link https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/find-care/health-connect-registry

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.

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.

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 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.