WPSU Digital

12 Degrees: A Wellness Podcast

If you’re motivated to improve your wellness but struggle to integrate positive practices into the demands of daily living, 12 Degrees is the podcast for you. Produced by WPSU in collaboration with the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, 12 Degrees explores the twelve dimensions that influence longevity and the quality of life. Hosts Lindsey Whissel Fenton, Christina Lightner, and Deshna Nagar share personal experiences along with relevant research that can help you thrive.

12 Degrees is produced by WPSU in collaboration with the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing.

Coming March 2025

Hosts

Lindsey Whissel Fenton, MEd, CT (she/her)
Senior Producer/Director and Instructional Designer at WPSU

Lindsey Whissel Fenton, MEd, CT is an Emmy award-winning filmmaker, international speaker, and grief educator. In her current role as a senior producer/director and instructional designer at PBS/NPR affiliate WPSU, Lindsey focuses on projects related to grief, trauma, and mental health. She is the creator of Speaking Grief and Learning Grief, founder of Empathic Media, and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG). Lindsey earned her bachelor’s degree in Cinema and Digital Arts from Point Park University, her master’s degree in Learning, Design, and Technology from Penn State, and is Certified in Thanatology through the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). She is a dog-mom, an avid reader, and a rock climber.

Christina Lightner, PhD, CRNP, WHNP-BC, CNE (she/her)
Assistant Teaching Professor and Coordinator of Academic Wellness at the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing

Dr. Christina Lightner is an Assistant Teaching Professor and Coordinator of Academic Wellness at the Penn State University Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. She is an advocate for personal health and well-being and aims to inspire others to live their best life. Dr. Lightner integrates wellness into the College environment through her leadership, connections with faculty and staff, and offering student support. She is a Registered Nurse and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (WHNP-BC) in Pennsylvania and has 16 years of experience as a nurse and teacher in labor and delivery, women’s health, maternal-child nursing, and simulation coordination. She is a National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®), a trained facilitator for the Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment program, and a Mental Health First Aider. Dr. Lightner earned her Associate Degree in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees from Penn State University, a Master of Science in Nursing with a major in Women’s Health from the University of Cincinnati, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Deshna Nagar (she/her)
Graduate Student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation at Penn State, Graduate Assistant at WPSU, and Counselor Intern with Centre Volunteers in Medicine and Centre County Correctional Facility

Deshna Nagar is an emerging counselor, researcher, and advocate. She has worked with diverse communities across clinical, justice-involved, and educational settings, focusing on intersectionality and empowerment. Outside of her work, you’ll find her soaking up nature, creating art, and embracing her inner drama queen.

This podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.  Please consult your physician or other qualified health care provider immediately if you are experiencing any suicidal thoughts. If you are in crisis, help is available for free, 24/7 in the U.S by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at: 988. More information is available here: https://988lifeline.org/

Episodes

What Is Wellness?

In the premiere episode, hosts Lindsey Whissel Fenton, Christina Lightner, and Deshna Nagar introduce themselves and the 12 Degrees podcast.

3/11/25 | 9 min

The 12 Degrees

The hosts discuss the 12 interconnected degrees of wellness, highlighting the importance of proactive self-care and realistic, sustainable practices.

3/11/25 | 13 min

Physical

Physical wellness emphasizes maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and preventive healthcare.

3/10/25 | 28 min

Intellectual

Intellectual wellness involves the continuous pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking. It involves engaging in lifelong learning, problem-solving, and activities that challenge the mind.

Social

Social wellness is about forming meaningful relationships and maintaining a strong support network. It includes effective communication, fostering trust, and engaging in social activities that bring joy and connection. Social connections mitigate stress, depression, and burnout.

Financial

Financial wellness is the ability to effectively manage financial resources, plan for the future, and minimize financial stress. It includes budgeting, saving, and making informed financial decisions. 

Emotional

Emotional wellness involves recognizing, expressing, and constructively managing emotions. It includes developing resilience, stress management, and seeking support when needed. Self-care, mindfulness, and fostering positive relationships contribute to emotional well-being. 

3/8/25 | 41 min

Digital

Digital wellness refers to the mindful and balanced use of technology to support well-being. It involves managing screen time, preventing digital fatigue and burnout, and fostering meaningful online interactions. 

Spiritual

Spiritual wellness involves finding purpose, meaning, and connection to values, beliefs, or faith. It is not limited to religious practices but also includes personal growth, meditation, and a sense of peace.

Environmental

Environmental wellness emphasizes the impact of surroundings on well-being. This includes creating safe, clean, and sustainable spaces at home, work, and in the community.

Career

Career wellness involves pursuing work that aligns with personal values, strengths, and professional goals and mastering professional competencies while maintaining work-life harmony. Emphasizes finding fulfillment and joy in professional work. Related content: Pennsylvania Pathways Career Readiness Resources

Creative

Creative wellness encourages self-expression through various forms of art, innovation, storytelling, and problem-solving. Engaging in creative activities promotes relaxation, problem-solving, and emotional expression. 

Cultural

Cultural wellness is the ability to appreciate, respect, and actively engage with diverse cultures, including one’s own. It fosters self-awareness, open-mindedness, and belonging by embracing cultural identity while recognizing the lived experiences of others. 

Service

Service wellness is about contributing to the well-being of others and giving back to the community through volunteer work, advocacy, and acts of kindness. Engaging in service fosters personal fulfillment, social connection, and a sense of purpose, benefiting both the giver and the recipient. 