PSA: Mental Health Awareness Month

PSA: Mental Health Awareness Month

This episode of the Y Health Podcast is a special Mental Health Awareness Month PSA from host Cougar Hall focused on the importance of slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and strengthening social connection. Drawing on insights from thinkers like Sam Harris, James Baraz, and David Brooks, Dr. Hall discusses how mental health is an essential part of overall well-being and why normalizing conversations around stress, anxiety, and emotional struggles matters. Through reflections on mindfulness, letting go of judgment, and building meaningful relationships, this episode offers practical and thoughtful invitations for improving mental and emotional health in everyday life.  Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale

Classroom Edition: Mind, Body, Health part 2 with Cougar Hall

In this Classroom Edition of the Y Health Podcast, Cougar Hall explores the powerful role stress plays in our physical and mental health, drawing from Chapter 2 of his Mind-Body Health course at Brigham Young University. As Part 2 of this series, this episode builds on foundational concepts to take a deeper look at how we experience and manage stress in everyday life. This episode breaks down three essential truths about stress: how our perception shapes the stress response, why simplifying our lives and adjusting our attitudes can reduce unnecessary strain, and how moderate, short-term stress is not only normal—but necessary for growth. Cougar challenges the common belief that a stress-free life is the goal, offering a more balanced and empowering perspective. Listeners are also introduced to key insights from leading experts, including the concept of the “biology of courage,” the importance of connection through “caring-created resilience,” and the idea that we can trust ourselves—with help from others and from faith—to face life’s challenges. The episode wraps with practical, real-life strategies to better manage daily stress, from setting priorities and arriving early to creating supportive environments and building strong relationships. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking to better understand how stress works, this second installment offers actionable tools and a fresh mindset to help you navigate life with greater confidence and resilience. Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale

Anthony Bates on Building Christ-Centered Leaders: BYU Sorenson Center’s Model of Morals, Ethics, and True Belonging

What does it truly mean to be a leader—and how can centering our lives on Christ transform the way we lead, serve, and connect with others? In this episode of the Y Health Podcast, Dr. Cougar Hall sits down with Dr. Anthony Bates from BYU’s Sorenson Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership to explore the powerful principles behind the Christ-Centered Leader Model. Dr. Bates shares his personal journey, insights on balancing love, accountability, and agency, and real-life examples of how leadership applies not only in the workplace, but in families, communities, and everyday decisions. This conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own leadership and discover how small, intentional choices can create lasting impact. Key takeaways include: *  How moral and ethical leadership begins with personal values and relationships  *  Why balancing love, accountability, and agency is essential in leadership  *  Practical ways to apply Christ-centered leadership in parenting, work, and service  *  The power of staying centered on Christ when facing life’s tensions and decisions Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale

Classroom Edition: Mind, Body, Health part 1 with Cougar Hall

In this Classroom Edition of the Y Health Podcast, host Cougar Hall introduces listeners to one of Brigham Young University’s most impactful courses: Mind-Body Health (HLTH 383). As Part 1 of this series, Cougar draws from over 15 years of teaching the class to share the foundational principles of psychoneuroimmunology—the science of how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence physical health and immune function. This episode offers a meaningful glimpse into the course’s core topics, including stress, personality, resilience, sleep, relationships, and the powerful roles of humor, altruism, and mindfulness in overall well-being. Cougar also reflects on the lasting influence of his former professor and explains how he came to carry on the course’s legacy. At the heart of the episode is a powerful concept known as the “Law of Present Moment Living”—a framework that challenges the common habit of postponing happiness until life feels perfect. Instead, listeners are invited to embrace both the good and the difficult aspects of life simultaneously, cultivating gratitude, awareness, and emotional balance in the present. Whether you're a student, a health professional, or simply someone seeking greater peace and perspective, this first installment provides practical insights and timeless wisdom to help you live more fully—right here, right now. Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale

Progress with Patience: Marathon Training and the Spiritual Lessons of Running with Iain Hunter

In this episode of Y Health, host Dr. Cougar Hall sits down with renowned BYU exercise science professor and elite distance runner Dr. Ian Hunter to explore the lifelong impact of movement, motivation, and meaningful connection through running. From his unexpected journey from middle-distance track athlete to world-ranked marathoner, Dr. Hunter shares how a single 15-mile run changed the trajectory of his life. Together, they break down practical, science-backed strategies for runners at every level—from beginners just getting started to experienced athletes aiming to improve performance. But this conversation goes far beyond mileage and pace. Dr. Hunter offers powerful insights into injury prevention, strength training, and finding the right running shoes, while also highlighting the deeper benefits of physical activity—improved mental health, lasting social connections, and even spiritual clarity. Whether you're training for your first 5K, chasing a marathon PR, or simply searching for a sustainable way to stay active, this episode will inspire you to find your “why” and discover the kind of movement that enriches your body, mind, and spirit. Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale