Kristin Bogdonas
Host, "Wellness Wake Up Call"Kristin Bogdonas began employment with University of Illinois Extension in August 2013 and serves Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark counties in her role as nutrition & wellness educator. Bogdonas provides research-based programs and resources to diverse audiences via experiential, interactive programming as well as web-based platforms and social media outlets. She strives to inspire healthy lifestyles in others so people can live their best lives.
She is focused on chronic disease prevention and management, food preservation, food safety, and fostering partnerships to create a culture of wellness where people live, learn, work, and play. She also mentors students and provides hands-on opportunities in community nutrition education.
Bogdonas earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University with a concentration in nutrition and dietetics. She then went on to complete her Master of Public Health degree from Southern Illinois University. She has certifications to teach Navigating Difference, Trauma Informed Care, Fit & Strong, and ServSafe for certified food protection managers.
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In this episode of Wellness Wake Up Call, we highlight National Nutrition Month’s message to “Find Advice Backed by Science.” Learn how to identify credible sources for nutrition information and why working with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) can provide personalized, evidence-based guidance to support your health goals. Small steps toward trusted information can make a lasting difference. -
In this episode of Wellness Wake Up Call, we celebrate National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition.” This week’s focus, Power Your Day with Nutrition, encourages building balanced meals with all five food groups, eating a variety of colorful foods, and avoiding restrictive diets that promise quick fixes. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference in supporting long-term health. Content provided by Rachel Mannen, Food and Nutrition Educator with University of Illinois Extension. -
This episode of Wellness Wake Up Call focuses on nutrition and self-care during cancer treatment. Listeners learn practical tips for managing common side effects, maintaining strength, and using food and hydration to support healing and energy. -
This episode of Wellness Wake Up Call explores the connection between physical activity and cancer risk. Listeners learn how regular movement supports immune health, reduces inflammation, and plays an important role in lowering the risk of developing cancer. -
This episode of Wellness Wake Up Call highlights the importance of cancer screenings and early detection. Listeners learn why regular screenings matter, common screening recommendations by age and risk, and how taking proactive steps can help improve health outcomes. -
This episode of Wellness Wake Up Call explores cancer risk and the role healthy lifestyle choices play in prevention. Listeners learn how habits such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating more fruits and vegetables, and staying physically active can help lower cancer risk and support overall health. Content provided by University of Illinois Extension. -
This episode of Wellness Wake Up Call shares practical tips for supporting healthy circulation during the winter months. Listeners learn how cold temperatures affect blood flow and simple steps they can take to keep blood moving through regular activity, proper warmth, and balanced nutrition. -
This episode of Wellness Wake-Up Call explores the main components of blood and the important roles they play in keeping the body healthy. Listeners learn how plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets function, and why routine blood tests can offer valuable insight into overall health. -
This episode of Wellness Wake-Up Call explores the factors that affect blood donor eligibility during National Blood Donor Month. Listeners learn about age and health requirements, medical considerations, and donation timelines, along with why understanding eligibility helps maintain a reliable blood supply. Content provided by Kristin Bogdonas, food and nutrition educator with University of Illinois Extension. -
This January episode of Wellness Wake-Up Call highlights National Blood Donor Month and the lifesaving impact of blood donation. The segment explains how donated blood supports patients in need, why shortages are common during the winter months, and how easy and safe the donation process can be.
