Episodios

  • Don’t Judge a Snack by its Cover... or Should You?

    Don’t Judge a Snack by its Cover... or Should You?
    Mar 24 2026
    You may have noticed new labels popping up on some of your favourite snacks but what are they, what do they actually mean, and how can they help you make more informed choices? In this episode of Healthy Habits, Happy Homes, we break down everything you need to know about front-of-package labelling in Canada. Joined by PhD candidate, Emily Ziraldo, from the University of Toronto, we explore what these labels are designed to do, how to interpret them, and what they mean for your everyday food decisions. Whether you’re grocery shopping for your family or just curious about the changes on store shelves, this episode will help you feel more confident navigating nutrition labels.
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    24 m
  • Is Social Media Affecting Our Brains?

    Is Social Media Affecting Our Brains?
    Mar 10 2026
    Join us for this episode as we explore the timely and widely discussed topic of social media and its effects on the brain. With platforms becoming an ever-present part of young people’s daily lives, many are asking: Why are these platforms so addictive, and how are they influencing brain development? From the pull of endless scrolling to the phenomenon of “doomscrolling,” we unpack what is really happening behind the screen. To help us navigate these important questions, we are joined by Dr. Emma Duerden, Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Neuroscience & Learning Disorders, and leader of the Developing Brain Lab at Western University. Her research examines how social media and screen time shape brain development, mental health, and learning outcomes in children and adolescents. Together, we discuss what the science says about social media use, how it may be impacting youth, and what parents, educators, and young people themselves should know.
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    27 m
  • Understanding Vaping in Teens

    Understanding Vaping in Teens
    Feb 9 2026
    Vaping. Smoking. Nicotine. What’s actually going on with teens today? In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Nicholas Chadi MD, a pediatrician and adolescent medicine expert, for a thoughtful and evidence-based conversation about vaping and teens. While this topic can feel complicated, it’s an important conversation to hear. We explore how vaping differs from smoking, why many teens are vaping, and what harmful effects we are starting to see. Dr. Chadi also shares how parents can start open, supportive conversations with their teens and highlights other nicotine products we should be aware of. Dr. Chadi also hosts his own podcast, Healthy Teens, where he explores key issues affecting youth health and well-being.
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    31 m
  • The Facts of Fibre

    The Facts of Fibre
    Jan 20 2026
    Join us for this awesome episode all about fibre with none other than the Queen of Fibre herself, Mairlyn Smith. Mairlyn is a professional home economist and food writer, and a familiar face on Cityline and Breakfast Television. With a background in acting, she brings humour and warmth to everything she does including this episode. We dive into what fibre is, why it matters, and share practical, everyday tips for getting more fibre into your diet for you and your family. And of course, we couldn’t miss talking about her world-famous fart walk!
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    32 m
  • Food Systems: Why Should We Care?

    Food Systems: Why Should We Care?
    Dec 2 2025
    In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Evan Fraser, Director of the Arrell Food Institute and global leader in understanding agri-food tech, climate change, and the future of food. Join us for an engaging and eye-opening conversation about where our food really comes from and where it's headed. We chat about what a 'food system' actually means from farm to fork, and why families play such an important role in building healthier, more sustainable futures. We also discuss the rise of the agri-food field and what young people should know about the future of food. Oh and we talk about peanut butter cups.
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    34 m
  • ChatGPT & Kids: Impacts on Learning and Development

    ChatGPT & Kids: Impacts on Learning and Development
    Nov 18 2025
    In this episode, we are exploring one of the most talked-about concepts today: AI. More specifically, we are diving into how tools like ChatGPT are impacting kids’ learning and development. We’re joined by Dr. Tiffany Munzer, MD, a developmental–behavioral pediatrician and digital media researcher at the University of Michigan. Together, we break down AI integration in daily life and what this means for children’s learning and emotional development . We also look ahead at the future of AI in the classroom and the rise of AI “companions” as social supports. Join us for an exciting and eye-opening conversation about this rapidly evolving tool, including and how we can help our kids use it wisely.
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    29 m
  • Episode 75: A Geriatrician's Guide to Healthy Aging & Supporting Aging Parents

    Episode 75: A Geriatrician's Guide to Healthy Aging & Supporting Aging Parents
    Oct 28 2025
    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Alejandra Villalobos, a dedicated geriatrician with over 18 years of experience caring for older adults. From her early work providing home visits to seniors in underserved communities in the Bronx to her current role at Mackenzie Health in Richmond Hill, Dr. Villalobos has spent her career championing dignity, independence, and quality of life for aging adults. Together, we explore what it really means to age well, from the habits that make the biggest difference in your 40s and 50s to the daily practices that support long-term health and vitality. Dr. Villalobos also shares compassionate, practical advice for families supporting aging parents including how to navigate tough conversations, promote independence safely at home, and recognize early signs of cognitive decline. Whether you’re thinking about your own healthy aging journey or caring for an older loved one, this conversation offers real-world insights to help every generation age smart. Soundtrack Music by @vladest_art — Positive Thinking License: Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported: creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
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    42 m
  • Welcome Episode: Meet our new co-hosts Manahil & Heemani!

    Welcome Episode: Meet our new co-hosts Manahil & Heemani!
    Oct 6 2025
    We’re kicking off a brand-new season with fresh voices and exciting conversations! In this welcome episode, meet our new co-hosts, Manahil Zaid and Heemani Bhatt, both Masters students in Applied Nutrition. Get to know them, hear about their journeys, and learn what inspires their approach to health and wellness. We also chat about the vision for this season and what listeners can look forward to as we continue exploring the science (and stories!) behind healthy living. Tune in for a fun, heartfelt conversation that sets the stage for an inspiring season ahead! Soundtrack Music by @vladest_art — Positive Thinking License: Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
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    17 m