Wildfire smoke can affect schools, sports, and entire communities. In this episode, our guests discuss the PurpleAirs in Schools Project and how schools can receive sensors to monitor local air quality. These sensors serve as a community resource to help guide decisions during smoky conditions. We also share practical tips and resources to keep students, families, and homes safe when air quality is poor.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—yet too many people put off screening. In this episode, join our guests Tim Fox and Sheylee Stowers as we talk about why screening matters, and how early detection can truly save lives. A simple test could make all the difference for you or someone you love.

Have you ever heard of the legal determinants of health? These are legal tools and supports that help shape people’s health outcomes by addressing legal issues, including housing stability, income, access to services, and where people live. In this episode, we’re joined by Robert Belle from Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) to talk about what the legal determinants of health look like in practice and some useful resources available to support Montanans.

In this episode our guest Jennifer Anderson spotlights Reimagining Rural, a Montana State University Extension program focused on community development and strengthening civic health across rural Montana. The conversation explores how cultivating local leadership, connections, and collaboration helps rural communities thrive. Together, these efforts highlight why rural communities are an essential part of the fabric that makes Montana great.

The holidays are here—time for fun, family, and festive cheer! But a little safety prep goes a long way. In this episode, we’re sharing tips on road safety, fire prevention, decorating smartly, avoiding slips and falls, and keeping your food fresh. So pour the cocoa, deck the halls, and join us for a happy—and safe—holiday season!

Talking Health in the 406 is available wherever you listen to your podcasts. Rate, review, and subscribe on the platform of your choice.

If you have a topic you would like to hear about, or a story to share with us, please contact us at Talkinghealthinthe406@mt.gov.

Across Montana, libraries are doing a lot more than lending books — they’re connecting communities, improving health, and expanding access to technology for their patrons. The Montana State Library (MSL) is leading the way. Join guests Bobbi deMontigny and Tracy Cook as they share how MSL’s creative programs — from webinars, to blood pressure kits, to online 'trunks' — are redefining what it means to be a library in the 21st century.

Join our guests, Mark Nay and Kayla Morris from the St. Peter’s FUSE (Frequent User Systems Engagement) Program, as they talk about what drives their passion for helping people in the Helena community. From finding housing and food to connecting folks with jobs and healthcare, Mark and Kayla are making a real difference—and changing lives along the way.

Talking Health in the 406 is available wherever you listen to your podcasts. Rate, review, and subscribe on the platform of your choice.

If you have a topic you would like to hear about, or a story to share with us, please contact us at Talkinghealthinthe406@mt.gov.

The food habits we build in childhood often continue into adulthood, influencing our long-term health outcomes. In this episode, we’re joined by guests from Farm Connect Montana and the Montana Partnership to End Childhood Hunger (MT-PECH) to explore how Montana’s local food systems—from school lunches to farmers markets—can improve lifelong health. We’ll talk about the power of locally sourced food, the challenges facing Montana’s food systems, and why what we eat truly matters.

Talking Health in the 406 is available wherever you listen to your podcasts. Rate, review, and subscribe on the platform of your choice.

If you have a topic you would like to hear about, or a story to share with us, please contact us at Talkinghealthinthe406@mt.gov.