Health Simplified

Cold, Flu and RSV Simplified with Dani Hill

Cold, flu, and RSV season can be overwhelming, especially as families gear up for back-to-school and the start of fall. In Cold, Flu & RSV Season Simplified, host Zenola Smith sits down with Dani Hill to break down what you need to know about these common viruses and how to keep your loved ones safe. 
 
Dani explains how cold, flu, and RSV spread, who is most at risk, and simple prevention strategies that actually work. The conversation also covers vaccine considerations, how to avoid getting sick, managing symptoms at home, and when it is best to visit urgent care versus  a trip to the ER . 
 
Whether you are a parent preparing kids for school, caring for older relatives, or just looking to stay healthy, this episode offers trusted, easy-to-follow advice to help your family navigate the season with confidence. 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
Understanding what cold, flu, and RSV symptoms are and how they differ 
How these viruses spread and why they spike during back-to-school and fall 
Practical prevention tips for families, including healthy habits and vaccines 
Recognizing symptoms across age groups and when to manage care at home 
Knowing when to call your pediatrician or primary care provider 
When to choose urgent care versus when a trip to the ER is needed 
Guidance for parents of newborns, toddlers, school-aged kids, and vulnerable groups 
Myths and misconceptions about RSV vs cold vs flu 
How to protect high-risk populations and limit the spread within families 
Preparing your household for the season and keeping everyone as healthy as possible 
 
About the Guest 
Dani Hill is a Certified Health Education Specialist with over 15 years of experience developing wellness and prevention programs. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise from Virginia Tech and a Master’s degree in Health Promotion from the University of Alabama. At Sentara Health Plans, Dani focuses on creating action-oriented messaging and practical health education that helps individuals and families make informed decisions about their well-being. Her work centers on visual learning and empowering communities through accessible, evidence-based wellness strategies. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
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Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
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Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

Aging and Mental Health Simplified with Tommy Bateman

Mental well-being matters at every stage of life, but for older generations it often comes with unique challenges. 
 
To help us break this down, Tommy Bateman, Director of Behavioral Health at Sentara Health Plans, shares insight into the mental health struggles that baby boomers and older adults may face, and how to address them with care and understanding. 
 
This episode shines a light on the importance of normalizing mental health conversations among older generations. While Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z are more open about discussing these issues, many baby boomers grew up in a time when mental health was rarely talked about. As they navigate retirement, changes in health, loss of independence, and the grief that often comes with aging, these conversations are more important than ever. 
 
We’ll explore why finding the right therapist matters, the differences between men and women in approaching mental health, and how to cope with grief, loss, and the search for meaning and purpose later in life. 
 
Trigger Warning This episode includes discussion of mental health struggles and suicide. If you or a loved one is in crisis, help is available. Please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone. 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
Conversations around baby boomers and mental health 
How the aging process impacts emotional well-being 
The critical role of a strong relationship with your therapist 
Male and female attitudes toward talking about mental health 
Coping with despair and the danger of suffering in silence 
Grief, loss, and the search for purpose and meaning 
 
About the Guest 
Tommy Bateman is a healthcare leader with more than a decade of experience in behavioral health and strategic management. He currently serves as the Director of Clinical Practice Management at Sentara Health Plans, where he leads initiatives to improve care quality and enhance outcomes through value-based contracting.  
A graduate with master’s degrees in business, counseling, and criminal justice, Tommy has worked across both healthcare and justice systems. His career spans counseling, managing behavioral health teams, and developing programs for underserved populations. Known for combining data-driven strategy with a deep commitment to patient well-being, Tommy brings both expertise and compassion to the conversation on mental health. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

Vaping & E-Cigarettes Simplified with Kira Koon

Over the past two decades, vaping has become increasingly common, often replacing traditional cigarettes, especially among young people. Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, involves using an electronic device to turn a liquid into an aerosol that is inhaled. These aerosols often contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, along with other chemicals and flavorings that can carry health risks. 
 
In this episode, our host sits down with Kira Koon, Health Educator at Sentara Health Plans, to break down the real dangers of vapes and e-cigarettes, both short-term and long-term. Kira also clears up common myths about vaping being a safer option than traditional smoking and explains why it can be just as harmful, if not more so, for young people. 
 
The conversation looks at teen vaping trends and what makes youth especially vulnerable to nicotine addiction. Kira shares practical advice for parents on how to talk to their teens about vaping and what signs to watch for. 
The episode wraps up with evidence-based ways to quit nicotine, what a realistic quit journey can look like, and the resources and support that can help along the way. 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
Vapes, vaping, and e-cigarettes 
Tobacco products and how they’re marketed 
Nicotine and how nicotine addiction works 
Short-term and long-term health risks of tobacco and vaping 
Teen vaping trends and why youth are especially at risk 
How to talk to teens about vaping and nicotine use 
Evidence-based ways to quit, including smoking cessation programs 
 
About the Guest 
Kira is a Health Educator in the Health and Preventive Services department at Sentara Health Plans, where she develops health education programs and resources for both plan members and the wider community. 
 
She holds a Master of Public Health degree from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and Promotion from James Madison University. She is also a Certified Health Education Specialist. 
 
With nearly 20 years of experience in public health and health promotion, Kira’s work spans employee wellness, community health, grant management, and program development, implementation, and evaluation. She has worked across healthcare systems, national non-profits, academic institutions, and government agencies in areas including tobacco cessation, chronic disease prevention, injury prevention, behavioral health, and stress management. 
 
Kira is passionate about making health resources relevant and accessible, and she is dedicated to helping individuals and groups along their health behavior change journey. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

The Opioid Crisis Simplified with Shambri Myers (Part 2)

In Part 2 of our conversation on the opioid crisis, we shift focus from understanding opioid use to navigating the difficult path of recovery. 
 
Opioids — including oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, and heroin — are powerful pain relievers, but their misuse has led to addiction, overdose, and a growing public health emergency. Recovery is possible, but it takes more than willpower. It takes knowledge, support, and compassion. 
 
In this episode, our host is joined again by Shambri Myers, Manager of Behavioral Health Care Management at Sentara Health Plans, to explore the realities of opioid addiction recovery. We’ll break down treatment options like buprenorphine, methadone, suboxone, and naltrexone, and discuss the pros and cons of detox strategies like tapering versus going cold turkey. Shambri also sheds light on the physical and emotional challenges of withdrawal, the risk of relapse, and how having a strong support system can make all the difference. 
 
Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand this issue, this episode offers honest, accessible insight into what it really means to recover from opioid addiction. 
 
Trigger Warning This episode contains discussions about opioid addiction, drug use, and mental health, including references to substances such as fentanyl and heroin. These topics may be triggering for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. 
 
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available 
 SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
Medication-assisted treatment options for opioid addiction 
What detox looks like, including the physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal 
The difference between tapering off opioids and quitting cold turkey 
Common signs and stages of relapse, and how to spot them early 
Barriers to treatment, including access, stigma, and lack of support 
How peer support groups and recovery networks help people stay on track
 
About the Guest 
Shambri Myers, LCSW, CSAC, is the Manager of Behavioral Health Care Management at Sentara Health Plans, specializing in substance use disorders. She brings deep experience from her work in community mental health, medication-assisted treatment, and substance abuse counseling.   
   
Since joining Sentara Health Plans in 2018, Shambri has led initiatives to support members facing behavioral health and addiction challenges. Her background includes supporting drug court participants, providing in-home services, and helping individuals navigate recovery.   
   
Outside of work, Shambri is passionate about mentorship and community engagement. She devotes time to Created for Purpose Mentoring, a program supporting adolescent girls, and believes deeply in the power of service to create change. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

The Opioid Crisis Simplified with Shambri Myers (Part 1)

Opioids impact the brain and body in powerful ways, making this one of the most challenging forms of addiction. In this episode, we explore how opioids affect both the brain and body, how addiction often begins with a prescription, and what signs to look for in yourself or someone you love. 
 
Our guest, Shambri Myers, Manager of Behavioral Health Care Management at Sentara Health Plans, shares insights on the psychological and physiological impact of opioid use disorder, who is at risk, and how to recognize when someone needs help. 
 
Trigger Warning  This episode includes discussions about opioid addiction, drug use, and mental health, including references to substances such as fentanyl and heroin. Listener discretion is advised. 
 
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available  SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)  Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
What opioids are and their role in pain management 
How a prescription for pain can lead to addiction through euphoric response 
Why opioid addiction affects people from all ages and walks of life 
How to recognize addiction in yourself and others 
The physiological and physical realities of opioid addiction 
 
About the Guest 
Shambri Myers, LCSW, CSAC, is the Manager of Behavioral Health Care Management at Sentara Health Plans, specializing in substance use disorders. She brings deep experience from her work in community mental health, medication-assisted treatment, and substance abuse counseling. 
 
Since joining Sentara Health Plans in 2018, Shambri has led initiatives to support members facing behavioral health and addiction challenges. Her background includes supporting drug court participants, providing in-home services, and helping individuals navigate recovery. 
 
Outside of work, Shambri is passionate about mentorship and community engagement. She devotes time to Created for Purpose Mentoring, a program supporting adolescent girls, and believes deeply in the power of service to create change. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

Postpartum Depression Simplified with Kate Maas

Postpartum depression is the most common pregnancy complication—yet many parents suffer in silence. Postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders can affect anyone. In this episode, we’re breaking the stigma and shedding light on the realities of postpartum mental health. 
 
Join us for a conversation with Kate Maas, Manager of Marketing Development and Outreach on the Maternal Child Health team at Sentara Health Plans. We’ll explore postpartum depression and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), including risk factors, warning signs, support systems, and treatment options. 
 
Whether you're a new parent, a healthcare provider, or someone supporting a loved one, this episode offers real talk and meaningful insights to help navigate the postpartum and maternal health journey. 
 
If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum mental health, support is available:  
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 
 
You’re not alone—and help is just a call away. 
 
Key Topics Discussed 
Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) 
“Baby Blues” vs. Postpartum Depression 
The Importance of Postpartum Planning and the Role of Night Doulas 
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety 
How to recognize the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety. 
Mental Health Resources and Postpartum Support Systems for New Parents 
 
About the Guest 
Kate Maas is Manager, Marketing Development and Outreach at Sentara Health Plans, specializing in maternal and child health, with 18 years working with families and children in healthcare and 14 years in the health plan space working to bring awareness, resources and support to women, children and their caregiver systems with a focus on education and access to prenatal and postpartum care services. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here. 

Menopause Simplified with Suzanne Coyner

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, marking the end of her menstrual cycle, and it often brings with it a range of changes—physical, emotional, and social. In this episode of Health Simplified, host Fallon Morey sits down with Suzanne Coyner, a healthcare leader with both personal and professional experience, to break down the facts about menopause and perimenopause, debunk some common myths, and offer practical advice. Suzanne shares her insights on how older women can support younger women through this transition, while reminding us that there is life after menopause and it’s going to be okay. 
 
Topics Discussed
Perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopausal stages and symptoms
Common menopause symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances 
Biological and emotional impact of menopause on mental and physical health 
Menopause impact on women of color 
The importance of menopausal support systems from partners, families, and communities 
Practical tips and strategies for managing menopause symptoms 
 
About the Guest
Suzanne Coyner recently retired after a distinguished career at Sentara Health Plans. With a BS in Nursing from Norfolk State University and a Masters in Health Administration from VCU, Suzanne has dedicated over 30 years to healthcare, working with patients and members across Sentara Health. Her experience spans a wide range of roles, from bedside nursing to leadership positions in clinical process improvements and health plan management. In her most recent role as Director of Clinical Innovations and Client Relationships, Suzanne focused on improving care for Medicare, DSNP, and Medicaid members. 
 
Loved this Episode? Let us Know! 
If you found this conversation helpful, insightful, or eye-opening, take a moment to rate and review Health Simplified on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important health conversations that matter. 
 
To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 
 
Stay Connected  
Follow us on social media to stay updated 
 
Facebook: @sentarahealthplans 
Instagram: @sentarahealthplans 
YouTube: @sentarahealthplans 
LinkedIn: Sentara Health Plans 
 
Disclaimer 
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 
 
By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented h