Brewing Wellness

Brewing Wellness is a podcast created by the UFT Member Assistance Program to support the well-being of public school educators and the social-emotional health of their students.

Brewing Wellness is all about brewing the conversation with fellow educators. We cover everything from mindfulness meditation to confronting substance use – either your own, your students or a loved one — to navigating interpersonal relationships in challenging times.

A new episode is released on the final Monday of each month.

Listen to Brewing Wellness wherever you get your podcasts. It’s available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Podcasts and SoundCloud.

Navigating Seasonal Changes

Sep 30, 2024

In the Season 6 premiere of the Brewing Wellness podcast, Jessica Torres, a licensed master social worker with the Victim Support Program, talks with District 11 Representative Dana Falciglia about navigating the transition into a new season. Listen in as they discuss both the highs and the lows in the change of season...

UFT + Vibrant: About our 24/7 mental health helpline

Aug 26, 2024

We chat with Carleton Archer, the vice president of operations at Vibrant Emotional Health, about the UFT’s exciting new partnership with Vibrant. This collaboration has launched a 24/7, year-round mental health support line for UFT members. Listen in as we discuss the importance of this new initiative and...

Summer Self-Care for Educators

Jul 29, 2024

In this episode of the Brewing Wellness Podcast, we’re joined by Workplace Wellness Specialist Mike Veny. Listen as he discusses his journey to becoming a workplace wellness specialist, defines what self-care means to him and shares tips on how to use the summer to rest and recharge.

How physical activity can support mental wellness

Jun 24, 2024

Our physical and mental health are connected: Research shows that exercise can boost your mood and lead to a more positive outlook on life. In this episode of the Brewing Wellness podcast, Shanna Honkomp, a social work graduate and yoga instructor, and Stuart Kaplan, UFT Staten Island Safety and Health...

Advocacy for LGBTQ Rights

May 28, 2024

Just in time for Pride Month, this episode of the Brewing Wellness podcast features a conversation with UFT educator Rashad Brown, co-chair of the UFT’s Pride Committee. He joins Mindy Rosier of the UFT Teacher Center for a discussion of the committee’s advocacy and goals, which include creating safe spaces...