Advanced Communication Skills that Foster Collaboration & Teamwork (3/26/24)- This practical presentation covers several key interpersonal skills that help strengthen workplace relationships including learning to focus the needs of others, how to respond instead of react during conflict, and ways to amicably resolve disagreements.
View Recording HERE
A Life of Happiness And Fulfillment with Prof. Raj Raghunathan (4/21/22)- In this 1 hour webinar we will discover what it takes to have "A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment" with Prof Rajagopal Raghunathan. Prof Raj is a professor of Marketing at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin. Throughout his career he has given a few TED talks, and is the author of the popular book, "If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Happy?". He teaches an online course on happiness, and relies on themes from psychology, behavioral science, decision theory and marketing to explain consumption behavior. He also studies the impact that people’s judgments and decisions have on their own happiness and fulfillment. If you are at all interested in being happier, join us!
Learn more about Prof. Raj's work through his website: www.happysmarts.com
View Recording HERE
BCBS New Year, Healthier You Series - This Workshop Series, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, is intended for health plan participants and will feature three presentations in-person at the Highland Campus with virtual options for those off-site. The presentations will help employees understand how they can utilize the wellness programs offered through the HealthSelect of Texas® medical plans and explore ways to improve wellness through nutrition, exercise and more.
Journey to Health (1/31/25)- From getting enough exercise to eating a well-balanced diet, you have many ways to maintain your health and wellness. This presentation will introduce you to the wellness resources and tools available to you and your covered dependents through the HealthSelect of Texas® medical plans. These resources will include Buena Vida, 3 new condition management programs, lifestyle programs and also the fitness program...all resources that will help you on your journey to wellness.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Nutrition in a Nutshell (2/7/25): Good nutrition is necessary to keep your body functioning normally, maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of certain diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and some cancers. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight both take permanent solutions and changes in lifestyle. This educational webinar focuses on:
• making the right food choices
• the importance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
• informational tips on how to read food labels
• serving sizes
• portion control
• basal metabolic rate
• how to maintain a healthy weight
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Fitness for Life (3/7/25): Learn about the short- and long-term benefits of exercise and the components that make up a fitness program. This free webinar will also cover:
• fitness myths
• steps you can take to start a fitness routine
• recommended body fat percentages
• guidelines for aerobic activity and strength training
• how to choose a fitness facility
• options for home fitness on a budget
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Behavioral Neuroscience of Adaptability: Changing Habits with Russell Frohardt, Ph.D. (10/17/22) - Human bodies and minds have evolved to adapt to physical, psychological, and social shifts over many generations. Dr. Frohardt will talk about the surprising health risks of unchecked stress that result from modern life and how to keep chronic stress in check. We will talk about how you can un-hack your brain from some of the bad habits that can lead to stress, addiction, or just annoyance. Having a basic understanding of how some of these systems work allows you to take control of your behaviors, whether you want to improve a skill or break a bad habit, contributing to improved social connections and overall wellness.
View Recording HERE
Benefit Highlight: Hello Heart (9/4/24) - Join us to learn about a new program called Hello Heart that helps you manage your cardiovascular health! Hello Heart is offered to HealthSelect of Texas® and Consumer Directed HealthSelectSM medical plan participants at no additional cost and includes a free Hello Heart blood pressure monitor that pairs directly with your smartphone. Participants with a history of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease may benefit from this program.
View Recording HERE
Benefit Highlight: Hinge Health (9/18/24) - Join us to learn about the Hinge Health program. Hinge Health helps relieve joint, muscle and back pain with personalized digital exercise therapy at no additional cost to HealthSelect of Texas® and Consumer Directed HealthSelectSM medical plan participants. The program includes virtual sessions, unlimited one-on-one coaching and motion tracking technology for instant form connection.
View Recording HERE
Benefit Highlight: Learn to Live Digital Mental Health Platform (9/25/24) - Join us to learn about the Learn to Live program. Whether you’re facing a challenge or want to proactively manage your mental health, you can learn new skills and get help in breaking old patterns that may be holding you back. Digital mental health programs from Learn to Live can teach you how to adjust unhelpful thoughts and manage your mood using cognitive behavioral therapy and one-on-one coaching support.
View Recording HERE
Beyond Bookshelves: The Role of Libraries in your Well-being (1/11/24)- Join us for an engaging webinar featuring the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC), tailored for employees and retirees of state government and higher education institutions. Discover how your local library can support you and your overall well-being.
In this session, TSLAC experts will guide you through the various ways libraries can be leveraged as dynamic tools for education, research, and relaxation. From finding special collections to using cutting-edge technologies, learn how libraries can empower state professionals and retirees to thrive.
Key Topics:
• Using local libraries for personal and professional development
• Navigating digital collections and technologies
• State library resources for state employees and retirees
View Recording HERE
Boost your impact: One team’s journey to one-minute messages (10/19/23)- Change how you communicate. Do this by adopting Smart Brevity. Smart Brevity is a better way to create, share, and consume information in the cluttered digital world. It's a formula for communication effectiveness.
View Recording HERE
Building Better Brain Health (9/28/23) - Our brain has many important functions including our ability to communicate, make decisions, and problem-solve. It is responsible for how we function and interact with the world around us. Our brains age, just like the rest of our body. This class will cover lifestyle strategies that can support healthy brain aging. This webinar will also include a fun interactive activity to get your brain going!
View Recording HERE
Building Healthy Relationships with Celesta Harris, Ph.D. & Laura Townsend, Psy.D. (3/1/22)- Relationship challenges, at work and in our personal lives, can often be a major source of stress. In this webinar you will take away strategies to build healthy, relationships including:
- active listening and reflection,
-empathy vs. sympathy, and
-setting boundaries and expectations.
View Recording HERE
Building Healthy Workplace Relationships & a Supportive Culture (4/28/22)- In this one hour interactive and engaging webinar LTC David Yebra (US Army Ret.), will discuss strategies to help you build a stronger and more cohesive workplace through the following concepts:
-Insightful discussion about the leader’s role in influencing organizational culture. We will share concrete ways that leaders can directly impact the culture.
-Powerful questions can lead to better communication, the development of new ideas, the building of supportive relationships, and increased performance.
-Assessing personal risk and the leader’s ability to express vulnerability for a healthier workplace.
View Recording HERE
Build a resilient, smarter brain with Sandra Bond Chapman, Ph.D. (9/9/21)- Join us as Dr. Sandra Chapman, Distinguished University Professor and Chief Director of the Center for BrainHealth at UT Dallas, shares groundbreaking research proving we can make our brains smarter and healthier whatever our starting point.
Learn how simple changes can lead to improved productivity, mental energy, stronger health and well-being. No matter what your age, Dr. Chapman will inspire you to use the power of your mind as she provides practical strategies to improve your own brain health.
This webinar will be conversational in nature and will provide plenty of time for your questions.
View Recording HERE
Building a Culture of Respect (11/29/23)- This important session focuses on building awareness in staff of the attitudes, emotions, behaviors, etc. that create barriers to a respectful workplace culture; and providing self management and interpersonal skills training that will lead to more openness, effective communication, greater collaboration, and better management of differences at the office.
View Recording HERE
Caring for you while you care for others (12/4/24)- Looking after a family member with an illness or disability, an elderly relative, or a child can be a hugely rewarding experience. However, caring for others can also be tiring, as there are many demands on a caregiver’s time and energy. Caring affects an individual, their family, their relationships, and their work in many ways—practically, physically, emotionally, and financially. When people are simply coping day-to-day and responding to the needs of others, it is easy to neglect their own wellbeing. But there are ways to make simple changes to promote a better sense of health and wellbeing, whatever an individual’s caring role might be.
In this session, participants will:
•Be helped to acknowledge their feelings about caring for others
•Understand the impact of caring on them, their work, family, and relationships
•Learn different strategies that can help them stay well while caring for other people
•Learn how to create a personal wellbeing toolkit
•Understand the support available to parents and caregivers
View Recording HERE
Coping Strategies to Build Resilience with Kevin Gilliland, Ph.D.- Resilience is defined as the ability to quickly recover from difficult challenges. Since March we have had more challenges than we could have possibly imagined. In this webinar, we will discuss coping strategies that can help us deal with challenges most effectively. You will take away strategies from this webinar that will help you build mental, physical, and emotional resilience to prepare you for the next challenge you face.
About the Speaker: Kevin Gilliland, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, researcher, professor, professional speaker, business owner, and a master communicator in the world of psychology. As part of the Naturally Slim team, he teaches strategies to help people build resilience, improve their health and quality of life. Kevin specializes in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse and addiction. He lives in the D/FW area with his wife and three children and is also an avid outdoorsman and a three-time Ironman triathlete.
View Recording HERE
Coping With Change (5/14/25) - Change is a fact of life. Every day brings about change -whether positive or negative -and even the positive changes can be stressful. The inability to cope with change can be detrimental to mental and physical health. In this session, discover tools and techniques to successfully manage change and thrive.
View Recording HERE (Will be posted once available)
Curious about Brain Health? Ask a Neuroscientist! with Russell Frohardt, Ph.D. (9/8/22) - In this interactive Q&A session you will hear from Russel Frohardt, Ph.D. and will have opportunities to ask your questions about our most important organ (our brains!) Submit your questions in advance to lacy.wolff@ers.texas.gov or ask them during the live session.
About the speaker: Dr. Russell Frohardt is the Dean for Academic Success at Northwest Vista College. He served as Interim Dean and Associate Dean of the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience at St. Edward's University.
Dr. Frohardt received his B.A. in Psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, his M.A. and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Vermont, and he completed a three-year postdoctoral fellowship at Dartmouth College before coming to Texas.
His research interests span the neurobiology of learning and memory, spatial navigation, sexual behavior, and models of relapse and addiction.
View Recording HERE
Dealing with your Pet's Anxiety with Dr. Kathryn Wrubel, Ph.D. (10/21/21)- Join us for this interactive webinar to learn how you can support your pets that experience anxiety.
Dr. Wrubel received her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Austin. She completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine in the Animal Behavior Clinic and the Tufts University School of Medicine in the Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. Dr. Wrubel has expertise in treating dog and cat aggression, feline house soiling and marking, compulsive behavior, and parrot behavioral conditions. She is energized by tackling complex and difficult behavior cases and helping pets to be successful in their homes.
View Recording HERE
Development, Attachment & Relationships (5/16/24) - Join us for a new webinar exploring the dynamics of development, attachment, and relationships, and their impact on mental health featuring Albert Lucio, Wellness Coordinator for Texas Department of Health and Human Services. Albert will delve into the nuances of attachment styles and how they shape our interpersonal connections, and influence emotional well-being. Gain valuable insights to foster healthier relationships and mental well-being. Albert has vast experience from his time at Texas Department of Family and Protective Services providing education on this topic to help establish empathy and understanding during the adoption process. HIs valuable insights and understanding of this topic can be help support anyone that wants to better understand how attachment styles impact all types of relationships.
View Recording HERE
Developing a growth mindset: a session for employees (9/10/24) - Cultivating a growth mindset within the workplace plays a pivotal role in unlocking potential and propelling professional growth. This session is geared toward helping participants nurture a growth mindset and create a desire for continuous development. Throughout this session, participants will gain access to tangible and effective strategies designed to enhance their ability to embrace a growth mindset, and acquire actionable approaches to cultivate and sustain a growth-oriented perspective.
In this session, participants will:
•Understand how embracing a growth mindset can positively impact their professional journey
•Recognize common situations that trigger a fixed mindset and learn techniques to overcome them
•Discover the power of adopting a “yet” attitude to foster a continuous desire for learning and improvement
•Learn effective methods to navigate challenges proactively and with confidence
View Recording HERE
Discovering the power of self-awareness (8/6/24) - Being self-aware is like holding a compass to navigate the complexities of life. It is a valuable tool that helps people make smart decisions, connect with others, and be true to themselves. Like a ship needs a north star, self-awareness guides life’s adventures. In this session, participants will explore the topic of self-awareness, uncover the layers of their identity, and gain insights into how self-awareness can help them overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.
In this session, participants will:
•Discover how self-awareness shapes their decisions, relationships, and overall life experiences
•Dive into the depths of who they are, exploring their values, passions, and dreams
•Understand their unique strengths and areas for personal growth
•Engage in self-reflection activities that promote growth and meaning
View Recording HERE
Drug and Alcohol Awareness (11/21/24) - Austin Community College is dedicated to the health and welfare of its employees and is not only committed to informing the campus community about its policies on alcohol and drug use in accordance with the federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, but also to providing supportive resources.
Employees may use drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with a variety of challenges in their lives. ACC cares about your health and has a responsibility to ensure a safe and productive working and learning environment. Both employees and management must recognize and address substance abuse in the workplace. Employees have a right to receive support and care.
This informational session, hosted by the ACC Human Services Department and the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance, will dive into the risks associated with drug and alcohol use and offer resources to help those dealing with chemical dependency, substance abuse, or alcoholism.
Join this session to:
•Recognize the signs and symptoms of substance use
• Understand the impact of substance abuse on one's work and personal life
• Understand the stages of abuse, addiction and the recovery process
• Learn how to help yourself or someone else experiencing substance abuse
• Understand employer and employee rights and responsibilities
View Recording HERE
Emotional Management in Relationships: How to Respond Instead of React (2/19/25)- This important presentation provides an overview of the emotional self-management skills necessary to have effective interactions with others. The session discusses ways to identify your feelings, be sensitive to the feelings of others, and manage our emotions so that we don’t overreact during conversations.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Envisioning Your Future and Setting Goals with David Yebra (1/13/22): If you are wondering where to start in 2022 or need a little inspiration, you will definitely want to attend this webinar led by David Yebra, from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
In this informative webinar you will hear inspiring stories and will be led through reflection exercises with powerful, actionable strategies that can support your health and wellness as we move into 2022. Bring a notepad and something to write with and plan to walk away with some great insights and strategies into your mental, physical and spiritual health!
View Recording HERE
Estate Planning: Five Essential Documents (10/22/24)- Being responsible for taking care of ourselves and being independent is part of the American Dream. While we would like to believe that we will remain in good health, are we truly prepared if something unexpected happens? If we become unable to speak for ourselves, would our loved ones know what we want? Do we know what our parents and grandparents would want?
This session will discuss the essential documents that will help you and your family be better prepared financially, legally, and emotionally. Join this session to:
• Learn how to get your legal affairs in order, so that you and your family will be prepared for any unexpected health crisis AND know what to do when you pass away
• Know the questions that need to be asked, the decisions that need to be made, and who should be in charge
• Determine what legal documents you need to have prepared to accomplish your goals
• Understand what to do with the documents once you have them prepared.
View Recording HERE
Estate Planning: Five Essential Documents (12/12/23)- Being responsible for taking care of ourselves and being independent is part of the American Dream. While we would like to believe that we will remain in good health, are we truly prepared if something unexpected happens? If we become unable to speak for ourselves, would our loved ones know what we want? Do we know what our parents and grandparents would want?
This session will discuss the essential documents that will help you and your family be better prepared financially, legally, and emotionally. Join this session to:
• Learn how to get your legal affairs in order, so that you and your family will be prepared for any unexpected health crisis AND know what to do when you pass away
• Know the questions that need to be asked, the decisions that need to be made, and who should be in charge
• Determine what legal documents you need to have prepared to accomplish your goals
• Understand what to do with the documents once you have them prepared.
View Recording HERE
Finding Joy in All Life Stages (8/21/25) - Finding joy in everyday life is key to success. Regular joy boosts immunity, fights stress and pain, promotes longevity, and encourages healthier living.
Join Angie Jenkins, MA, AOH Wellness Consultant and Certified Health Coach, for a virtual session on Finding Joy in All Life Stages. Angie will explore the difference between joy and happiness, share statistics and benefits of joy, and offer practical ways to find joy at every life stage
View Recording HERE
Finding Strength in Connection (5/25/23)- What makes a good life? In this webinar we will dive into the longest ongoing happiness research study in the world, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, to discuss what makes a truly happy life. Physical activity, nutrition, sleep and stress management are all important, but there is one factor that consistently rises to the top as the most important: the quality and strength of our relationships.
View Recording HERE
Four Steps to Maximizing Your Potential (2/6/24) - This practical presentation provides a roadmap to help individuals focus on further developing their unique strengths and abilities including: assessing their talents; embracing the full value of them; identifying opportunities to use them in greater ways; and planning for their use in meeting the needs of others.
View Recording HERE
Gratitude: Science & Practical Application (12/7/23) - In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the proven benefits and practical application of gratitude.
Gratitude has been studied and researched extensively. We now know that a daily practice can have a profound effect on health and quality of life. This skill (that can be learned) rewires the brain, shifts perspective and builds mental and emotional resilience. Resilience helps us to handle daily hassles and stress more effectively. Participants will leave this workshop with:
• the scientific research on how gratitude affects the brain and increases resiliency
• ways to integrate gratitude into your daily rituals and habits
• a weekly gratitude log that can be used to maintain a consistent practice
View Recording HERE
Health Dividends from Investing in Others (10/21/22)- Join us as we discuss how investing in others through personal, voluntary, and meaningful charitable giving yields benefits not only for the recipient, but for the giver as well.
About the speaker: Greg Bennett is United Way of Texas’ Director of Statewide Initiatives. In this role, Greg supports local United Ways across Texas in a variety of roles, including as a member of the Department of State Health Services’ Preparedness Coordinating Council, State Campaign Manager for the Texas SECC - State Employee Charitable Campaign, Texas VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Assisting in Disaster), a member of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program Texas State Set-Aside Committee, as well as providing support for local United Ways’ resource development fundraising efforts. Prior to joining United Ways of Texas, Greg worked for nine years in Resource Development at United Way for Greater Austin, managing United Way’s relationships with key corporate partners, such as IBM and H-E-B. Greg also worked at the Austin American-Statesman for eight years as a Community Development Assistant where he helped carry out the newspaper’s philanthropic support of local nonprofit organizations.
View Recording HERE
Healthy Heart, Healthy You (2/13/25)- Even though there are proven heart protective strategies, more than a million Americans will have a coronary event this year, such as a heart attack or some other complication of heart disease. Studies have shown that the keys to preventing heart disease lie in five basic lifestyle changes: quitting tobacco, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Please join us for this informative class to discuss these five key topics, as well as helpful tips on improving your overall heart health.
View Recording HERE
Healthy Holiday Mindset (11/16/23)- In this fun and interactive webinar you will receive tips to help you:
-remember what’s really important this holiday season,
- give meaningful gifts that won’t break the bank,
- maintain mental and physical well-being,
- and enjoy your favorite holiday foods without feeling guilty.
We will also debunk some myths and common misconceptions about holiday weight gain!
View Recording HERE
How to Thrive in a Multi-Generational Workplace Environment (6/25/24)- This session discusses the differences between the five generations in today’s workplace and provides tools to help the participants to better understand and collaborate with colleagues from each.
View Recording HERE
Improv Poetry with Brian Francis (10/18/22) - Get your day started with a quick 15 minute Improv Poetry event featuring Brian Francis, retired Executive Director of Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. In this session you will be able to engage with our speaker to provide words to inspire this artistic style of poetry!
View Recording HERE
How to Understand & Deal with Generational Differences (12/6/23) - This important topic provides an overview of the differences between the four generations currently in the workplace, and discusses several strategies for communicating effectively between them.
View Recording HERE
It's Time Y'all! with Baker Harrell, Ph.D.- At a time when we may have lost momentum towards our health goals, Baker Harrell, is here to motivate and inspire. Harrell is a highly recognized thought leader and is the founder of It’s Time, Texas, a non-profit organization that has led over a million Texans to become more active. Growing up in rural Mississippi, Harrell struggled with his weight as a child and decided he wanted to change his health behavior at the early age of 11. His personal journey set him on a path to help others improve their health through community wellness initiatives and coalitions. Harrell received his master’s degree and a Ph.D. from The University of Texas in Austin in Health Education. Harrell will inspire with his personal journey and will give you the formula be your best self by:
Establishing your why statement,
Connecting your why to your what, and
Creating an action plan for how to live your why through purposeful action.
*Note: this is the keynote address to participants of the state-wide Get Fit Texas Challenge, but it is open to anyone that wants to be inspired!
View Recording HERE
Keep Sharp with Sanjay Gupta, MD (FREE Center for Brain Health Event) - DNA does not tell the whole story – we all have the power to build our optimal brain. Let's uncover the science and learn how to apply it in our own lives so we can Keep Sharp.
BrainHealth Presents Dr. Sanjay Gupta – neurosurgeon, author and a leading voice on health, wellness and active living – offers insights gleaned from writing his bestseller, Keep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age.
If you enjoy this talk we invite you to join The BrainHealth Project, a landmark study led by the Center for BrainHealth with an innovative approach to brain training that teaches you to focus on your own strengths and performance, empowering you to continue becoming the best version of yourself.
View Recording HERE
Life's Essential 8 with Dr. Eduardo Sanchez (2/16/23) - What is your ideal cardiovascular health and how can you attain it for a long and healthy life? In this webinar, Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, Chief Medical Officer for the American Heart Association (AHA), answers these questions and walks us through the playbook for achieving your ideal cardiovascular health.
Dr. Sanchez will share the AHA’s valuable tool Life’s Essential 8, outlining seven predictors of heart health and the pathway for achieving ideal cardiovascular health. Life’s Essential 8® includes four modifiable behaviors (not smoking, eating healthy, being physically active, and sleep) and four biometric measures (weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar). This webinar will give you actionable steps and resources for protecting and preserving your heart health. Dr. Sanchez will also discuss AHA programs that are addressing aspects of Life’s Essential 8®.
View Recording HERE
Matters of the Heart (2/10/22)- Did you know that today your heart will beat approximately 115,200 times? Often we don’t think about our hearts because they are working diligently to pump blood to our muscles and vital organs without being the focus of our attention. Even though it’s the organ that supplies blood and oxygen to our bodies to keep us alive, many of us take this for granted. In this interactive webinar, Michael Harper, FitnessTraining Supervisor for the Texas Department of Public Safety, will discuss the biggest risk factors for heart disease and explain what you can do to keep your heart healthy including how you best fuel your body—and your heart, as well as ways to get moving and incorporate physical fitness into your daily routine. Don’t take your heart for granted. Even small changes can help you take care of this vital organ that you use more than 100,000 times a day!
View Recording HERE
Men’s Health and Human Performance (6/23/22) - Join us for a new webinar featuring neuroscientist, Russell Frohardt, Ph.D., who will discuss challenges and opportunities unique to men’s health, both physical and mental. If you identify as a man, or have a man in your life that you care about, you will want to attend this webinar.
Topics include:
top concerns for men’s health,
mental health and men…from stigma to solutions, and
strategies to improve mental and physical performance.
View Recording HERE
Men's Health: Live Better, Longer with Dr. Alex Lesko, MD (10/17/23)- Men generally fall behind women when it comes to taking care of themselves. Men’s life expectancy is six years less than that of a woman. The majority of men do not have a physician and usually do not follow recommended health screening schedules. This webinar will focus on age-appropriate preventive screenings, colorectal cancer, and the importance of controlling cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, atherosclerosis, angina, heart attacks and strokes. Men’s health issues will also be discussed along with daily steps for healthy eating, exercising, lowering alcohol use, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
View Recording HERE
Men's Health Masterclass - Join us for engaging conversations in our Men's Health Masterclass! This 3-part series will dive deep into issues that impact men's health. If you are a man or you care about a man, join us to learn strategies to support good health for men.
Week 1 (11/7/24): Preventive Health 101- Men can be safer, stronger and healthier at work, home and play when they make healthy choices daily and get care when they need it. Improving men's health is not limited to the doctor's office or hospital. It starts at home with individuals and families taking steps to live safer and healthier lives.
View Recording HERE (will be posted once available)
Week 2 (11/14/24): Mental Health, Stress & Accidental Injury- Our expert speakers will share practical insights to help men lead healthier, safer lives.
View Recording HERE (will be posted once available)
Week 3 (11/21/24): Heart Healthy Men- In this session, Dr. Alex Lesko will discuss key heart health numbers every man should know, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart rate. He will also highlight valuable resources and programs available to help men manage and improve their cardiovascular health. Join us for practical tips to protect your heart and stay informed about your health.
View Recording HERE (will be posted once available)
Mindset: the Key to Unlocking Human Performance- Uncover how your mindset affects your actions, relationships, and performance and health habits in this webinar from the Texas DPS Fitness and Wellness Unit during Mental Health Awareness Month.
Through this interactive webinar, you will have the opportunity to:
establish a compelling wellness vision
discover the values that drive your daily habits
differentiate between a fixed and growth mindset
examine your own self-limiting belief
View Recording HERE
Nature & Your Health with Heather Kuhlken (6/30/22)- Join us for a new webinar featuring Heather Kuhlken, a biologist and outdoor educator who inspires individuals and families to fall in love with nature and reap the benefits, ranging from better health to more resilient brains and stronger family connections. Through her nonprofit organization, Families in Nature, Heather has spent the past 12 years inspiring and teaching families how and why to spend more time in nature.
Webinar topics include:
Why and how nature is beneficial for our health
How much time we should be spending in the outdoors for specific benefits (Nature Rx!)
And where and how to spend more time outside to receive these benefits.
View Recording HERE
Nature & Your Health with Jesus Aguirre (6/13/24) - Join us for an enlightening webinar featuring Jesús Aguirre, Chair of the National Recreation & Parks Board (NRPA), and former CEO for the Waterloo Greenway, to learn how spending time in nature can positively impact your health and well-being.
During this webinar, you will:
hear the latest research on the benefits of nature
take away valuable resources
will have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session
View Recording HERE
Overcome Imposter Syndrome - Imposter syndrome is the fear of being exposed as a fraud because an individual doubts their own successes, achievements, talents, qualifications, and abilities. It is a psychological phenomenon that gets in the way of high achievers of any gender, age group, nationality, or profession performing at their peak level. During this session, participants will learn about imposter syndrome, how it creates self-doubt in their mind, and why it strengthens their inner critic. It will focus on helping participants become aware of their inner critic and learn strategies to silence the imposter that can hold them back.
In this session, participants will learn to:
•Understand imposter syndrome
•Identify what causes imposter syndrome
•Recognize their own imposters
•Develop strategies to silence their inner critic
View Recording HERE
The Power of Vulnerability (5/18/22)- In this one-hour webinar, Kristen and Erica, back by popular demand, will discuss why leaning into our vulnerability is one of the ways we can destigmatize mental health in our workplaces and beyond.
Discussion topics include:
The stigma that surrounds mental health
Vulnerability -- what it is, why we experience it, and how it can change your life
Empathy as the antidote to shame
Identifying and embracing “crossroads moments” and changing your direction
View Recording HERE
Prioritize YOU...you are worth it! (10/18/21)- Prioritizing self-care is not always easy, but it is the only way to be at your best for those around you. Each one of us has been impacted both personally and professionally by the massive changes we have faced since March 2020. While the "rules" are still changing, it's critical to prioritize both your physical and emotional health.
What can that look like for you? Todd Whitthorne, one of the country's leading public speakers regarding health, wellbeing, and productivity, and the author of “Fit Happens!...Simple Steps for a Healthier, More Productive Life!” will share very timely and actionable strategies to not only manage, but actually flourish during these times of challenge.
Discussion topics will include:
Languishing, that “meh” feeling that is somewhere between depression and flourishing
The flow state, finding flow is self-care and can improve our overall health and well-being
Strategies to build physical and emotional resilience
View Recording HERE
Recover from Compassion Fatigue (6/20/24)- Empathy can be a double-edged sword. While it can be enormously beneficial to the recipient, it can lead to exhaustion for the person providing it, due to the high level of emotional engagement it often involves. The more a person invests in others who are going through trauma, the more they too can start to feel some of that turmoil.
In this session, participants will learn about how caring for other people’s needs can be rewarding but challenging. They will learn about compassion fatigue, its impact, and how to look after their own emotional health and needs without becoming too overwhelmed.
In this session, participants will learn to:
• Recognize triggers that can lead to symptoms of compassion fatigue and stress
• Examine their own emotions and responses when they are challenged by high-stress events
• Develop alternative strategies, including meditation and breathing exercises, to defuse high stress levels
• Evaluate their life and identify areas that they would like to change
View Recording HERE
Strengthening the Team (4/28/23) - This webinar offered through HR Staff Professional Development and Evaluations is presented through our Deer Oaks Employee Assistance Program. This will be an interactive session designed to provide supervisors and team members with practical strategies for building stronger interpersonal bonds and creating a more positive workplace environment in the department.
The session discusses
the barriers to creating a positive team environment
the basics of working effectively with interpersonal differences (personalities, generations, etc.)
several core communication approaches that are key to strengthening relationships among team members
View Recording HERE
Suicide Prevention Series: Language Matters (9/6/24) - When discussing suicide, language matters. In this webinar, provided by Texas HHS Office of Mental Health Coordination, the state suicide prevention team will discuss ways to talk about suicide in a clear and factual manner. Participants will be given tips for safe messaging about suicide prevention.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Suicide Prevention Series: Thriving Together- Building Workplace Resilience Through Connection (9/13/24) - In this webinar, offered through Texas Office of Mental Health Coordination, learn how authentically engaging in reciprocity positively affects help-seeking, help-offering and prevents suicide.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Suicide Prevention Series: Warriors Burden: The Deadly Price of Silent Suffering and How We Can Heal our Military Heroes (9/20/24) - Participants will explore suicide prevention through the eyes of a veteran with lived experience. Delving into the struggles service members face when transitioning to civilian life, this webinar offers strategies for fostering open dialogue and support to aid in their healing. This webinar is provided the Texas HHS Office of Mental Health Coordination.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Suicide Prevention Series: Suicide Prevention for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (9/27/24) - In this webinar, offered through Texas HHS Office of Mental Health Coordination, Lisa Morgan, Co-Chair of the Autism and Suicide Committee of the American Association of Suicidology, will share important ways to connect with individuals with autism spectrum disorder who may be thinking about suicide.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Tackling Sleep & Stress Fatigue (9/26/23)- Sleep is an essential function that allows your body and mind to recharge, remain healthy, and stave off diseases. Many factors can impact the quality and duration of your sleep, such as the amount of time you spend on screens, the amount of physical exercise you do, and your level of stress. Stress management plays a key role in tackling sleep problems and stress related fatigue.
Join this session to:
• Understand why sleep is important
• Explore different types of sleep and sleeping disorders
• Understand the relationship between stress and sleep
• Learn about the stages and symptoms of stress
• Develop strategies to cope with stress fatigue and improve your sleep quality
View Recording HERE
Taking it Outside: Safe ways to Exercise Outdoors (6/16/21)- Research shows a strong connection between being in nature and our physical and emotional health. Join Morgan Prince of the Texas DPS Fitness Wellness Unit to learn tips and tricks to get the most out of your outdoor workouts.
This webinar offered by the Texas DPS Fitness Wellness team will include:
principles of exercise programming
safety considerations
creative ways to exercise in the great outdoors
View Recording HERE
Teamwork: The Essentials (6/11/25) - Effective communication within teams is crucial for achieving personal and professional goals. In this session, participants will dive into team dynamics through discussions, hands-on exercises, and insightful debriefs. We’ll explore proven strategies for fostering collaboration and resolving conflicts, while learning how to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios. By the end of the seminar, participants will walk away with practical tools and resources to inspire their teammates, enhance teamwork, and ensure seamless collaboration to achieve shared objectives.
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
The Great Outdoors with Rodney Franklin (6/24/21)- The great outdoors are great for your health! Learn why and how to spend more time in nature!
Get inspired and informed with this webinar featuring the dynamic Rodney Franklin, Texas State Parks Division Director at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Growing up in rural Northeast Texas, Director Franklin became an avid outdoorsman, joining TPWD at the age of 17. Director Franklin will share his love of the outdoors and strategies for you and your family to enjoy the amazing health benefits of being outside.
Simply being in nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies. We will also get a firsthand look at the many opportunities made available through the State Parks system. As Director Franklin says, “Life is better outside!”
View Recording HERE
The Social Network that Matters Most: Your Brain w/Mark D'Esposito, MD: (FREE Center for Brain Health Event)- Learn about the neural mechanisms underlying social interactions, working memory, cognitive control and frontal lobe function. How can we leverage them and strengthen them?
Dr. D'Esposito is a professor of neuroscience and psychology and director of the Wheeler Lab for Advanced Brain Studies at the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute at UC Berkeley. He is also a practicing neurologist. A Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, he has authored 400+ research publications and seven books on behavioral neurology and cognitive neuroscience.
This talk is sponsored through The Center for Brain Health, who has invited us to participate in their Spring Speaker Series! Each month they will be featuring world renowned researchers and speakers on topics related to brain health. All of the talks are virtual and at no charge. For more information, visit the Center for Brain Health's events FAQ or contact brainhealthevents@utdallas.edu with any questions.
View Recording HERE
The Well Woman Webinar Series: Heart Health (5/15/25) - Join us for the second session of The Well Woman webinar series in celebration of Women’s Health Month!
Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist and VP of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart, will discuss:
The importance of heart health for women at every stage of life, including perimenopause and menopause
Practical steps to maintain a healthy heart and support cardiovascular well-being
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
The Well Woman Webinar Series: Movement & Pelvic Floor Strength (5/22/25) - Join us for the third and final session of The Well Woman webinar series in celebration of Women’s Health Month! Dr. Bijal Toprani, a pelvic floor therapist at Hinge Health, will discuss:
How physical activity can help women improve strength and relieve joint and muscle pain
The benefits of pelvic floor therapy for bladder and bowel control, pelvic pain, and pregnancy- and postpartum-related issues
Ways to access pelvic floor therapy and support your long-term well-being
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Thrive by Design: Fresh Start, New Habits! (1/16/25) - Welcome to "Thrive by Design," a virtual workshop led by Lacy Wolff, MS, Coordinator for Statewide Well-being Initiatives at Employees’ Retirement System of Texas. As we step into 2025, join us in exploring the art of building strong habits that to set the foundation for a fulfilling year.
In this engaging one-hour session, Lacy draws on her wealth of experience and expertise to guide you through practical strategies and exercises grounded in the behavior change research. Discover the power of intentional habit building and learn how small, deliberate changes can lead to big improvements in your well-being.
Key Topics:
• Behavior Design Basics
• Components of a habit
• The Fogg Behavior Model
• Establishing Tiny Habits
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
TRS/ERS Ready to Retire Presentation - Do you have questions about your TRS retirement plan? Curious about when you might be able to retire and what you will need to do when that time comes? Learn more through these online presentations.
Understanding Burnout - In this presentation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas will define burnout and discuss how it is different from stress. They will also cover the causes, risk factors and symptoms of burnout, and provide you with tips and lifestyle improvements to help you prevent burnout. Blue Cross Blue Shield will also provide door prizes for those participating in person.
View Recording HERE
Understanding Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset (11/17/22)- ACC does not pay into Social Security...how could that impact you upon retirement? Join us for a discussion about the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset and how these two laws may affect you. We will also discuss the origin and reasoning behind the laws.
This online training is provided through Social Security Administration.
View Recording HERE
Virtual Wellness Fair: Adapt & Thrive with Todd Whitthorne (10/17/22)- In this 60-minute session Todd Whitthorne will share motivational and actionable strategies to help you adapt and thrive!
About the speaker: Todd Whitthorne is recognized as one of the country's leading public speakers regarding health, wellbeing, and productivity. He's also the author of “Fit Happens!...Simple Steps for a Healthier, More Productive Life!” In addition, Todd serves as the Chief Inspiration Officer for Wondr Health, a Dallas-based company dedicated to improving the health and productivity of organizations nationwide.
View Recording HERE
Wellness for Men- Live Better, Longer (6/29/23)- Men generally fall behind women when it comes to taking care of themselves. Men’s life expectancy is six years less than that of a woman. The majority of men do not have a physician and usually do not follow recommended health screening schedules. This webinar will focus on age-appropriate preventive screenings, colorectal cancer, and the importance of controlling cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, atherosclerosis, angina, heart attacks and strokes. Men’s health issues will also be discussed along with daily steps for healthy eating, exercising, lowering alcohol use, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
View Recording HERE
Why Wellbeing Matters (1/30/25) - The impact of the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world is still unfolding. With that comes the long-term mental health implications of trauma. It is predicted that by 2030, mental illness could cost the global economy more than cancer, diabetes, and respiratory disorders combined. People want to see their employers making authentic efforts in this space, so organizations need to move beyond merely "wellbeing washing"—not properly offering their people the mental health support they need, despite supporting mental health publicly.
This session will help leaders learn the importance of paying attention to the mental wellbeing of their workforce—from an individual and business case perspective. It will look at supporting employees and advocating for employee wellbeing, and discuss how to provide positive, proactive, and comprehensive mental wellbeing support.
Join this session to:
• Understand why organizations should focus on mental wellbeing
• Learn the business case for a focus on wellbeing
• Understand how to align this with business needs and priorities
View Recording HERE (Link will be posted once available)
Women's Health with Dr. Elisa Brown-Pruett, MD (10/18/23)- Women face health different health challenges and have different health risks than men. Dr. Brown can answer your questions on topics related to pregnancy, hormones, incontinence, sexual health, perimenopause, menopause, cancer screening and more.
View Recording HERE
Your Retirement Plan at Work (10/24/24)- Have you thought of setting aside extra money into one of ACC's voluntary retirement plans? Not sure where to get started or what it all means? One of our approved vendors, Corebridge Financial, will be onsite to discuss the benefits of signing up for a plan. This presentation will cover the basics of 403b and 457 plans as well as how ROTH contributions can benefit retirement planning. Kimberly Wilder and Benjamin Bowman will present and be available to answer any questions. A fun trivia game, prizes and snacks will be offered.
View Recording HERE