Texas A&M faculty from across the university have successfully submitted expert explainer videos to the Associated Press - through the AP Campus Insights Initiative - that have been placed in numerous national and international news stories.
Here are a few of the most recent placements:
Dr. Heather Lench
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
No one is immune from getting bored and psychologists say that – like an emotional response – it’s a signal that whatever you’re doing isn’t interesting, relevant to your goals, or important to you in any way. However, research shows that boredom can offer mental health benefits depending upon how you respond to it. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Lench elaborates that efficient responses include thinking out and pursuing new and creative opportunities, while ineffective responses include distracting yourself with devices (scrolling and binge watching) and engaging in risky behaviors (drinking and drug usage) – which lead to anxiety and depression. So, when boredom inevitably strikes, embrace it and train your focus on things that are important to you/goals you want to accomplish/opportunities you want to create. Likewise, help your teens to use their boredom as motivation to accomplish goals.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Anchorage (AK), Bryan (TX), Casper (WY), Champaign (IL), Chicago (IL), Columbus (OH), Detroit (MI), Evansville (IL), Houston (TX), Jackson (MS), Lake Mary (FL), Los Angeles (CA), Milwaukee (WI), New Orleans (LA), New York (NY), Orlando (FL), Portland (OR), Seattle (WA), St. Louis (MO), Tampa (FL) and Washington DC.
Dr. David Anderson
Department of Agricultural Economics
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
As beef prices continue to rise, experts point to a declining supply (based upon rising input costs and reduced herd sizes) and strengthening consumer demand. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Anderson explains that the relationship between cattle numbers and market pricing can only be improved over time. It takes several years from calf birth to market-ready beef, so – despite the incentive for ranchers to increase production – supply will ultimately depend upon biology.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Amarillo (TX), Bryan (TX), Jefferson City (MO), Lubbock (TX) and Waco (TX).
Dr. Sherecce Fields
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
While starting a new year often means ‘making changes’ for most people, sticking to those resolutions is where they often struggle. According to Dr. Fields' expert explainer video, there are a few steps that can be taken to put one’s best foot forward and give themselves the best odds at long-term success. Step One: Start small with 2-3 manageable goals. Step Two: Make sure goals are specific, measurable, achievable and relevant. Step Three: Keep a specific deadline in mind. If/When lapses happen, Dr. Fields cautions people to remember not to give up but to reevaluate and replan another goal.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Anchorage (AK), Beaumont (TX), Bryan (TX), Casper (WY), Columbia (SC), Columbus (OH), Dallas (TX), Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Fairbanks (NC), Knoxville (TN), Los Angeles (CA), Nashville (TN), Orlando (FL), Phoenix (AZ), Portland (OR), Shreveport (LA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Kristy Cuthbert
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
The joys of the holiday season are often balanced with stress and anxiety. From travel to gifting and all of the costs and gatherings in between, experts say no one is immune to holiday stress and a good portion stems from the pursuit of the “perfect” holiday celebrations depicted in our media. To manage those expectations and give ourselves a break, Dr. Cuthbert suggests being realistic and embracing the imperfections within the uniqueness of our families and celebrations. In her expert explainer video, she encourages people to incorporate family members in their plans and embrace minor annoyances to create new family traditions. Be intentional about being present with those you share the holidays with and not focused on digital devices.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Anchorage (AK), Casper (WY), Chicago (IL), Dallas (TX), Des Moines (IA), Detroit (MI), Erie (IN), Fort Wayne (IN), Jacksonville (FL), Juneau (AK), Knoxville (TN), Mobile (AL), Philadelphia (PA), San Diego (CA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Kristina Paradowski Lange
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
With millions of people preparing to travel for the holidays, a significant amount will travel with their pets and animal experts encourage pet owners to properly plan before embarking on their journeys. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Paradowski specifies that when road tripping with pets it is crucial that pets be secured, to have emergency food and water on hand, as well as it is important to stop for bathroom breaks with opportunities for pets to stretch their legs. When flying, anticipate your pet’s anxieties and consult with your veterinarian about medications because most vets discourage stowing pets in cargo. Upon reaching the destination, Dr. Paradowski also cautions pet owners to ease their pets into unfamiliar/crowded/stressful social situations to alleviate their anxiety in adjusting.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Austin (TX), Columbus (OH), Detroit (MI), El Paso (TX), Houston (TX), Kansas City (MO), Los Angeles (CA), Orlando (FL), Roanoke (VA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Jay Maddock
Department of Environmental & Occupational Health
School of Public Health
While kids take their winter break from school, public health experts are encouraging a limit on screen time and social media usage. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Maddock expounds by describing a retro 80s or 90s style winter break where kids engage in non-digital activities like getting outside (sledding, skating scavenger hunting where applicable) or interacting with those in the house (playing board games, etc.).
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Houston (TX), Los Angeles (CA), Providence (RI), San Diego (CA), San Francisco (CA) and Toledo (OH).
Dr. Brian Anderson
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
Because the holidays are a time to spend with loved ones, the sights and sounds of the season can serve as painful reminders for people who are mourning lost loved ones. While most people may avoid holiday festivities as a coping mechanism, Dr. Anderson recommends doing the opposite to overcome those negative emotions. In his expert explainer video, he explains that time doesn’t really heal wounds and that the only way to change emotional associations with old memories is to ultimately create new memories. It does take time, but newer memories compete with older ones until the newer memories are our primary association to stimuli. To help avoid getting overwhelmed, Dr. Anderson suggests being selective with how you engage potential triggers and consistently seeking out positive experiences as opposed to dwelling on the pain of loss.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Charleston (SC), Colorado Springs (CO), Detroit (MI), Knoxville (TN), St. Louis (MO) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Kristy Cuthbert
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
As we gear up for the peak of the holiday season, psychological experts are sharing strategies for ensuring your social battery stays charged. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Cuthbert explains that mental fatigue can feel different from person to person, can manifest in ways ranging from brain fog to feeling physically tired, and ultimately can prevent from being fully present and engaged in the moment. As event invitations mount and people seek to balance the fear of missing out, the recommendation is to prioritize events by analyzing the factors that impact social battery – How many people will be there? How much conversation is required? What type of people will be there? Are they close friends or just acquaintances? Dr. Cuthbert suggests having fun and not feeling obligated to engage in every single person or activity. Remain mindful of the fact that you may come face to face with people you don’t necessarily care for. Predetermine the activities you’re willing to participate in, the emotional reactions you want to display, and manage things that will inevitably frustrate you.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Bangor (ME), Cincinnati (OH), Detroit (MI), Houston (TX) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Sarah Manning
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
While pets can liven up a home, some can also put them at risk for house fires. Along with the recommendation to fireproof your home during the holiday season, Dr. Manning's expert explainer video reminds pet owners to take certain steps to reduce the risks of pets accidentally starting house fires. Removing stove knobs when they aren’t in use, for example, can prevent ignition from pets hopping on the stove top or bumping into them. If pets tend to be mischievous, it might best to secure them or limit their access to certain rooms when pet owners are away. Considering flameless candles and warmers can prevent accidents associated with leaping pets and wagging tails. Dr. Manning also encourages pet owners to be sure to unplug Christmas lights before leaving the home, and take time to devise a pet-friendly emergency evacuation plan that is practices on a regular basis.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Augusta (GA), Austin (TX), Casper (WY), Charleston (SC), Jacksonville (FL), Kansas City (MO), Nashville (TN), Philadelphia (PA), Phoenix (AZ), Roanoke (VA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Jonathan Jensen
Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management
College of Education & Human Development
With so many sports taking place at the end of the year, its important to understand how team performance impact fans psychologically. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Jensen shares that 50+ years of psychological theory and paradigm study say the impacts of sports fandom ranges from daily mood changes to broader purchase decisions. When teams wins, fans want to take on the persona of their team and think of the team’s success as their own. A psychological mechanism is then triggered causing fans to want to clothe themselves in the team’s success to demonstrate their alliance with the team and other fans. When teams lose, however, fans may distance themselves from the team to protect their own ego and self-esteem. There are still fans that support losing teams and will wear their apparel as a badge of honor to signify their diehard ‘no matter what’ fandom.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Augusta (GA), Austin (TX), Charleston (SC), Columbus (OH), Denver (CO), Duluth (MN), Eden Prairie (MN), Houston (TX), Kansas City (MO), Knoxville (TN), Minneapolis (MN), Phoenix (AZ) and Topeka (KS).
Professor Thomas McMillan
Arch H. Alpin III '80 Department of Marketing
Mays Business School
Trends show that holiday shoppers are buying less this holiday season. While retailers are projecting tighter budgets and higher income consumers driving sales, Professor McMillan's expert explainer video details that many consumers are generally focusing on quality over quantity – a singular large gift versus a number of stocking stuffers. He projects that experiential gifts will be popular to satisfy people’s desire to spend quality time. Professor McMillan explains that self-care items and appliances will serve as gifts people will really be able to use. just as durable goods – leather goods, minimalist jewelry – will make a comeback amid their tech-based retail counterparts.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Bryan (TX), Detroit (MI), Grand Rapids (MI), Greensboro (NC), Lansing (MI), Lubbock (TX), Providence (RI), Roanoke (VA), Salt Lake City (UT) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Tyler Prochnow
Department of Health Behavior
School of Public Health
Contrary to popular belief, some health behavior experts are saying that online connections via social media are beneficial to the mental health of adolescents. Calling back to the original purpose of social media in his expert explainer video, Dr. Prochnow explains that there are still means of utilizing social media to connect people as opposed to isolating them. Posting, sharing and looking up resources are all active connection activities, while passively and aimlessly scrolling prohibits ultimate fulfillment of the social interactions human beings need. Researchers hope that providing quality support to adolescent social media users will assist in promoting better mental health, but stress that no online interaction is more mentally healthy than in-person connection.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Atlanta (GA), Baton Rouge (LA), Boston (MA), Casper (WY), Cleveland (OH), Columbus (OH), Dallas (TX), Denver (CO), El Paso (TX), Fairbanks (AK), Hartford (CT), Houston (TX), Juneau (AK), Los Angeles (CA), Minneapolis (MN), Phoenix (AZ), Portland (ME), Rapid City (SD), St. Louis (MO), San Francisco (CA), Tampa Bay (FL) and Topeka (KS).
Dr. Natalie Johnson
Department of Environmental & Occupational Health
School of Public Health
As people plan to gift and prepare food for the holidays, experts urge intentionality in cleaning and preparation of cooking and storage materials to avoid microplastics, heavy metals and forever chemicals contamination. In her expert explainer video detailing her research into how high heat can migrate chemicals into our food, Dr. Johnson suggests people avoid putting plastics in the microwave and that they are dishwasher safe because plastics that are not are more likely to release microplastics into the environment. Likewise, older ceramic dishes may contain heavy metals – specifically lead and cadmium – which can cause cancer. She also recommends not preheating nonstick pans while they are dry because excess heat can activate forever chemical compounds in the teflon.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Augusta (GA), Columbus (OH), Florence (SC), Green Bay (WI), Houston (TX), Jackson (MS), Knoxville (TN), New Orleans (LA) and Portland (ME).
Dr. Troy Bickham
Department of History
College of Arts & Sciences
Love it or hate it, Americans consume more than 24 million pounds of candy corn each Halloween. Detailing the snack's history since the candy explosion following the period of World War II sugar rationing, Dr. Bickham's expert explainer video elaborates that the holiday snack has been most popular in rural America and continues to undertake numerous efforts to entice more people to try it. From strawberry sour and apple cotton to turkey and Thanksgiving stuffing flavors, today’s candy corn selections includes a wide variety of flavors, shapes and sizes.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Columbus (OH), Dayton (OH), Detroit (MI), Evansville (IN), Green Bay (WI), Houston (TX), Lake Charles (LA), Lexington (KY), New Orleans (LA), Portland (ME), Rapid City (SD), Roanoke (VA) and Salt Lake City (UT).
Dr. Larry J. Suva
Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Strong bones are the foundation to a healthy body and intentionally prioritizing bone healthy early in life is essential to preventing diseases like osteoporosis later in life. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Suva states that this lifestyle begins with parents setting good examples of healthy lifestyle choices – active exercising, going to playgrounds, making sure there is sufficient calcium intake – while their children are in crucial bone development phases. Then, as children begin to get growing pains, parents must be attentive to their frequency and intensity for signs of potential orthopedic issues.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Austin (TX), Denver (CO), Green Bay (WI), Honolulu (HI), Houston (TX), Knoxville (TN), Lexington (KY), Norfolk (VA), Providence (RI), Roanoke (VA), San Diego (CA), Seattle (WA), St. Louis (MO) and Wilmington (NC).
Dr. Grace Heneks
Department of English
College of Arts & Sciences
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, taking breaks throughout the day to engage with content that makes you laugh can help improve your emotional well-being. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Heneks clarifies that humor carries dual benefits to our health; while it is a socially shared affective experience that can help us build connections with others, laughter also helps your body take in more oxygen - which can help regulate your heart rate and stress responses. While certain humor can be polarizing and divisive, Dr. Heneks recommends diving into more wholesome comedy and being intentional about training your social media algorithms to provide you with more content to make you smile.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Albany (NY), Austin (TX), Duluth (MN), Erie (PA), Evansville (IL), Fargo-Valley City (ND), Idaho Falls (ID), Lake Charles (LA), Providence (RI) and Rapid City (SD).
Dr. Kristi L. Allgood
Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics
School of Public Health
October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and doctors are urging women to get their mammograms for early detection, faster recoveries and higher survival rates. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Allgood cautions that its no longer a death sentence to hear the word “cancer” in a doctor’s office. And, with breast cancer being the second most prominent type of cancer in women, more women are catching breast cancer at earlier stages – due to timely screenings – which greatly improves their expected survival rates. Dr. Allgood clarifies that good mammogram should never hurt and that there's nothing to fear because the importance of mammograms is early detection - which itself is worth the discomfort of the exam.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Cincinnati (OH), Dallas (TX), Gainesville (FL), Monterey (CA), Orlando (FL), Rapid City (MI), Rockford (IL) and San Francisco (CA).
Dr. Stephen Courtright
Department of Management
Mays Business School
A new study states that good looks may impact an individual's opportunities to advance into professional leadership roles. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Courtright explains that we have a natural tendency to equate attractiveness with one’s warmth (Are you good with people?) and competence (Are you good at your job?). While there is no tangible correlation between either men or women's looks and their professional effectiveness, we also tend to consider looks [and gender] more than a potential leader’s qualities that really count – like intelligence and personality traits. If an individual has any reason to feel less confident in their attractiveness, Dr. Courtright recommends that they overcompensate with their warmth and competence. Despite the proven 'beauty bias in the workplace,' researchers also clarify that the focus on superficial traits minimize over time.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Atlanta (GA), Bangor (ME), Birmingham (AL), Denver (CO), Des Moines (IA), Detroit (MI), Evansville (IL), Fort Wayne (IN), Gainesville (FL), Houston (TX), Kansas City (MO), Los Angeles (CA), New Orleans (LA), Orlando (FL), Philadelphia (PA), Phoenix (AZ), Providence (RI), Rockford (IL) and St. Louis (MO).
Dr. Sarah A. Hamer
Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
With increased alarm about the "kissing bug-transmitted" Chagas disease, researchers are seeking to hedge panic and spread awareness with facts. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Hamer clarifies that Chagas disease is endemic, not new to the United States, and - in fact - has even been found in 1,000-year old mummified human remains right here in Texas. Aside from the broad distribution of cases across South America, Central America, Mexico and the southern United States, she explains that the risks of contracting Chagas disease are relatively low for most people – the highest risk groups being hunters and campers coming into close contact with wildlife and those living in substandard housing particularly in rural areas with limited access to pest control. However, Dr. Hamer goes on to say that Chagas disease symptoms are typically mild and can be ignored, putting human and canine patients at risk for critical pulmonary and/or gastrointestinal issues in the long-term. While Chagas disease is not normally transmittable from human-to-human or animal-to-human, the kissing bug – like a mosquito or tick – is the usual transmitter of the parasitic infection and because they are drawn in by carbon dioxide, they typically bite sleeping humans in the face and neck regions – earning them the moniker “kissing bugs”.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Austin (TX), Dayton (OH) and Las Vegas (NV).
Dr. Kate Creevy
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
According to veterinarians, keeping dogs lean and active is critical to their health and longevity. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Creevy assures pet owners that taking dogs on regular walks and playing games with toys that keep dogs moving definitely helps. She goes on to explain that a dog's body condition score is what allows veterinarians to properly assess a dog's health relative to their weight. However, determining 'whether your dog needs to go on a diet' is a simple as feeling your dogs ribs by running your hands along its sides - you want to be able to feel their ribs easily, but don't to be able to see them from a distance.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Albuquerque (NM), Anchorage (AK), Casper-Riverton (WY), Columbus (OH), Houston (TX), Jackson (MS), Juneau (AK), Los Angeles (CA), Milwaukee (WI), New Orleans (LA), San Francisco (CA) and Tampa (FL).
Professor Thomas McMillan
Department of Marketing
Mays Business School
With Starbucks’ early release of their annual pumpkin spice latte, retailers are figuring more means of capitalizing on the “taste” of the Fall season and for as long as they can. In his expert explainer video, Professor McMillan explains that pumpkin spice has become synonymous with a piece of – and the vibe of – the Fall season that consumers are willing to pay a little more for because they know it will only be available for a short period of time. Likewise, companies can catch the attention of shoppers with new packaging and comfortably venture into the flavor palette without spending millions on research and development.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Casper (WY), Charleston (SC), Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Evansville (IN), Las Vegas (NV), Los Angeles (CA), Nashville (TN), Orlando (FL), Rock Island (IL), San Antonio (TX), Tampa (FL), Tampa Bay (FL) and Washington DC.
Dr. Stephen Talcott
Department of Food Science & Technology
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
As retailers beginning bringing back their pumpkin spiced food offerings, researchers reveal that the flavor combination contains chemical compounds to awaken our senses just as much as it reminded us of the Fall. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Talcott explains that the natural combination of spices provide everything from a paired cooling sensation and bite within the mouth to the natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that can improve cardiovascular and cognitive health. Pumpkin spice latte fans might also experience a serotonin boost because of the neurons firing in their brains along with the coffee’s caffeine.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Detroit (MI), Erie (PA), Lexington (KY), Los Angeles (CA), Miami (FL), Milwaukee (WI), Providence (RI), Sacramento (CA), San Diego (CA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Mark Benden
Department of Environmental & Occupational Health
School of Public Health
Research into work productivity outputs cite that Friday is statistically the least productive day of the work week. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Benden explains that regardless of the semantics of the work arrangements, overall productivity remains relatively the same while datapoints like typing speed and mouse usage steadily decrease every day after Monday. Public health experts believe these findings may fuel future discussions about the potential impacts a four-day work week may have on productivity, but suggest managers look to accomplish goals by Friday mornings before fatigue sets in.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Albuquerque (NM), Austin (TX), Bakersfield (CA), Detroit (MI), Duluth (MN), Erie (PA), Houston (TX), Jackson (MS), Knoxville (TN), Los Angeles (CA), Milwaukee (WI), Orlando (FL), Pensacola (FL), Providence (RI) and Richmond (VA).
Dr. Weston Porter
Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Marking the annual World Breast Cancer Research Day, researchers are echoing the importance of early detection with an added emphasis on identifying causes of the disease for the delivery of more effective treatments. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Porter elaborates on his study of the risks of aggressive post-partum breast cancers and why established treatments are proving ineffective against them. The ages of women having their first child is believed to be a factor, as more and more people are having children later in life, so women in these risk groups should be actively communicating with their doctors.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Bangor (ME), Brown Deer (WI), Charleston (SC), Cincinnati (OH), Dallas (TX), Erie (PA), Houston (TX), Las Vegas (NV), Los Angeles (CA), Miami (FL), Milwaukee (WI), Mobile (AL), New York (NY), Providence (RI), San Antonio (TX), Seattle (WA), Shreveport (LA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Alice Blue-McLendon
Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
August 12th marks National Elephant Day and experts say they are more than worthy of being celebrated. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Blue-McLendon details the intricacies of how elephants socialize - explaining that most herds of elephants you see are primarily female because they kick males out once they become teenagers. She also details their value to maintaining environmental biodiversity – spreading seeds and clearing wooded areas for new plant growth, and the importance of our support of the species – which remains under threat of poaching and habitat loss.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Austin (TX), Columbus (OH), Detroit (MI), Greensboro (NC), Kansas City (MO), Knoxville (TN), Lubbock (TX), New Orleans (LA), Providence (RI), Sacramento (CA), San Diego (CA), St. Louis (MO), Tampa (FL) and Tyler (TX).
Professor Thomas McMillan
Department of Marketing
Mays Business School
As children prepare to return to school, parents are seeking much more bang for their bucks as they purchase new school supplies. In his expert explainer video, Professor McMillan projects that retailers will launch value pricing promotions to combat school supply price hikes caused by tariff-based market uncertainty. He recommends spreading supply purchases out over time, prioritizing immediate/essential classroom needs and delaying purchases of accessories like electronics.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Albany (NY), Amarillo (TX), Anchorage (AK), Atlanta (GA), Bangor (ME), Casper (WY), Chicago (IL), Cincinnati (OH), Detroit (MI), Green Bay (WI), Las Vegas (NV), Lima (OH), Los Angeles (CA), Orlando (FL), Pensacola (FL), Rapid City (SD), Reno (NV), San Antonio (TX), Seattle (WA), Toledo (OH), Tyler (TX) and Washington DC.
Dr. Audrey Cook
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
August 8th is National Cat Day! And, in her expert explainer video, Dr. Cook encourages the almost 49 Million American households owning cats to ensure they’re keeping their pets in the best health by maintaining a great relationship with their primary veterinary care provider. She also reminds cat owners to ask about strategies for reducing pet stress prior to visiting the vet, and to utilize the nationally recognized system for feline-friendly veterinary practices to find the closest one.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Albany (NY), Augusta (GA), Austin (TX), Duluth (MN), Erie (PA), Knoxville (TN), Los Angeles (CA), Providence (RI) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Erin Ray
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
While dogs typically enjoy opportunities to cool off in bodies of water, it's very important that owners take the proper safety precautions. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Ray specifies that any natural body of water you take your dog to should have moving water to prevent the impacts of possible toxins. Pet owners should also watch for watercrafts, check for wildlife or dangerous litter, consider using pet life jackets, and remain mindful of your dog's swimming abilities.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Anchorage (AK), Austin (TX), Bakersfield (CA), Chicago (IL), Cincinnati (OH), Dallas (TX), Denver (CO), Des Moines (IA), Detroit (MI), Green Bay (WI), Kansas City (MO), Knoxville (TN), Las Vegas (NV), Los Angeles (CA), Milwaukee (WI), Minneapolis (MN), New Haven (CT), Sacramento (CA), Salt Lake City (UT), St. Louis (MO) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Erik Nielsen
Department of Atmospheric Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
Heat domes are stationary high-pressure weather systems that typically result in warmer atmospheric conditions. In his expert explainer video, Dr. Nielsen explains that while these occurrences can take place throughout the year, they intensify during the summer months in the southern regions. And, to understand the full impact of these phenomena, assessing the resulting heat stress – moisture, wind strength, and signs of heat-related illness – is most important.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Anchorage (AK), Casper (WY), Charlottesville (VA), Cincinnati (OH), Dallas (TX), Detroit (MI), Duluth (MN), Jackson (MS), Milwaukee (WI), Minneapolis (MN), New Orleans (LA), Providence (RI), San Francisco (CA), Seattle (WA), Southfield (MI), Toledo (OH), Tampa and Tampa Bay (FL).
Dr. Troy Bickham
Department of History
College of Arts & Sciences
While the Independence Day barbeque preparations began, Dr. Bickham broke down just how certain July 4th favorites became holiday menu staples. His expert explainer video details that annual celebration of America’s independence didn’t really begin until after the Civil War and that popular culture of the 1890s continue to resonate in our celebrations today – namely through German sausages (hotdogs) and potatoes (potato salad), and the advance of refrigeration (cream-topped red and blue berry desserts).
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Bakersfield (CA), Chicago (IL), Cincinnati (OH), Detroit (MI), Duluth (MN), Evansville (IN), Jackson (MS), Las Vegas (NV), Milwaukee (WI), Mobile (AL), New Bedford (MA), New Orleans (LA), Phoenix (AZ), Portland (ME), Providence (RI), Tampa and Tampa Bay (FL).
Dr. Sonja Swiger
Department of Entomology
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
Cases of the mosquito-borne West Nile virus have begun popping up in at least 11 states across the country, as cases are typically documented through the summer months and into the fall. In her expert explainer video, Dr. Sonja Swiger specifies that West Nile is endemic – never going away – and a pathogen that is increasingly having adverse impacts on younger and younger demographics. Increasingly inclement weather conditions can influence the number of annual cases, so people must remain cautious as temperatures [and atmospheric moisture] fluctuate.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including San Diego (CA), Tampa Bay (FL), San Antonio (TX), Austin (TX), Nashville (TN), Wichita Falls (KS) and Winston-Salem (NC).
Dr. Natalie Johnson
Department of Environmental & Occupational Health
School of Public Health
With increased outdoor activity during the summer months, its just as important for your sunscreen and insect repellants of choice to effectively protect your health as well as your skin. According to Dr. Johnson's expert explainer video, mineral-based creams and lotions are preferable to aerosol sunscreens due to the inhalation and respiratory irritation risks. Likewise, it is much more effective to protect younger children with netting as opposed to exposing them to chemical insect repellants.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including East Providence (RI), Detroit (MI), Erie (PA), Milwaukee (WI), Evansville (IN), Austin (TX), Green Bay (WI), Portland (OR), Tampa Bay (FL), Las Vegas (NV), Mobile (AL), Duluth (MN), Anchorage (AK), Nashville (TN), Jackson (MS), Atlanta (GA), Dallas (TX), Topeka (KS) and Beaumont (TX).
Dr. Andrea Ettekal
Department of Educational Psychology
College of Education & Human Development
As the summer begins, youth sports take the mantel for helping adolescents develop life skills while they break from the structure of the school environment. According to Dr. Ettekal's expert explainer video, participating in youth sports exposes children to controlled success and failure within the elements of competition while simultaneously providing them opportunities to develop empathy, compassion and the ability to overcome adversity.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Tampa (FL), Tampa Bay (FL), Houston (TX), Lansing (MI), Rockford (IL), Albany (NY), West Palm Beach (FL) and New Orleans (LA).
Professor James "Jim" Guinn
Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management
College of Education & Human Development
Conflict arises in multigenerational workspaces when miscommunication leads to misconceptions of intention. Dr. Guinn's expert explainer video specifies that remaining mindful of tone, clearly defining communication styles, and being intentional about direct communication, are the keys to resolving conflict and bridging generational gaps.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Hartford (CT), Detroit (MI), Shreveport (LA), Milwaukee (WI), Evansville (IN), Austin (TX), Los Angeles (CA), Cincinnati (OH), Tampa (FL), Augusta (GA), Lubbock (TX), Jackson (MS), Topeka (KS) and Toledo (OH).
Dr. Stephanie C. Payne
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
As traffic continues to build up on roadways nationwide, Dr. Payne's expect explainer video details her investigation of what inspires drivers to remain focused behind the wheel. According to her research, drivers' accountability to loved ones directly correlates to a drivers' likeliness for demonstrating responsibility to safety and less distracted driving behavior.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Providence (RI), Odessa (TX), Duluth (MN), Springfield (IL), Dallas-Fort Worth (TX), Atlanta (GA), Austin (TX), Tampa (FL), Bangor (ME), Seattle (WA), Amarillo (TX), Knoxville (TN), Augusta (GA) and Davenport (FL).
Dr. Debra "Deb" Zoran
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, Dr. Zoran's expert explainer video reminds pet owners that its critical for dogs to stay active in support of their mental and physical health regardless of inclement weather conditions. She specified that exercise early and late in the day keeps their fur from absorbing too much heat from direct sunlight while also keeping paw pads from burning, and cautioned owners to be mindful of the signs that your dogs is getting overheated.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Evansville (IN), Erie (PA), Cincinnati (OH), Rapid City (SD), Baton Rouge (LA), Phoenix (AZ), Juneau (AK), Lubbock (TX), Richmond (VA), Providence (RI), Seattle (WA), Amarillo (TX), Detroit (MI), Chicago (IL) and Austin (TX).
Dr. Heather Lench
Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
College of Arts & Sciences
While life can occasionally seem to feel out of control, Dr. Lench's expert explainer video encourages focusing on ‘controlling the controllables’ and being intentional about engaging in things that are meaningful and bring joy to build habits conducive to improved overall mental and physical health.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including East Providence (RI), Detroit (MI), Pensacola (FL), Tampa (FL), St. Petersburg (FL), Denver (CO), Idaho Falls (ID), Juneau (AK), Fairbanks (AK), Atlanta (GA), Los Angeles (CA), Casper (WY), Topeka (KS), San Francisco (CA), New Orleans (LA), Chicago (IL), Kansas City (MO), Lansing (MI), Indianapolis (IN) and Bakersfield (CA).
Dr. Rhonda Rahn
Department of Health Behavior
School of Public Health
Dr. Rahn submitted an expert explainer video specifying that stress is normal part of life with positive and negative impacts on our minds and bodies. The key to health living, she explained, is managing stress in healthy and productive ways.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Milwaukee (WI), Greenville (SC), Seattle (WA), Odessa (TX), Detroit (MI), Duluth (MN), Bangor (ME), Knoxville (TN), Dallas-Fort Worth (TX), Washington DC, Hartford (CT), Erie (PA), San Antonio (TX), Cincinnati (OH), Jackson (MS), Columbus (OH), Los Angeles (CA) and Tampa (FL).
Dr. Bonnie Beaver
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Dr. Beaver's expert explainer video revealed that roughly 99% of the dogs in the U.S. have some sort of behavioral issue stemming from aggression, fear and anxiety, or separation and attachment issues.
Her video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Lubbock (TX), Honolulu (HI), Milwaukee (WI), Seattle (WA), Detroit (MI), New Orleans (LA), San Francisco (CA), New York (NY) and Eden Prairie (MN).
Dr. Troy Bickham
Department of History
College of Arts & Sciences
As one of the world’s largest tea drinkers, and in recognition of National Tea Day, Dr. Bickham's expert explainer video detailed the accidental origins of tea drinking in China almost 5,000 years ago, the beverage's transition into a global commodity, and ultimately a part of almost 160 million Americans' daily routine.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including Providence (RI), Duluth (MN), Houston (TX), Topeka (KS), Milwaukee (WI), Erie (PA), Minneapolis (MN), New Orleans (LA), Austin (TX), Knoxville (TN), Hartford (CT), Orlando (FL) and Eden Prairie (MN).
Dr. Troy Bickham
Department of History
College of Arts & Sciences
As Easter approaches, Dr. Bickham's expert explainer video shared the traditional German folklore elements that introduced the concepts of an egg-laying bunny that has evolved over time into a $23.6 billion holiday featuring presents, treats, candy and toys.
His video was placed in multiple stories and markets including a German publication, Beaumont (TX), Portland (ME), Abilene (TX), Seattle (WA), Fort Wayne (IN), Richmond (VA).