The Healthy Project Podcast

How can families in under-resourced communities access timely, culturally responsive hearing care for infants who are deaf or hard of hearing? In this episode, host Corey Dion Lewis is joined by Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP, and Dr. Lauren Ramsey to explore the systemic, social, and structural barriers that impact access to early intervention and audiology services.Together, they unpack how health systems, policy gaps, and social determinants influence care — and how teleaudiology may be part of the solution.Topics Covered:The impact of health literacy, transportation barriers, and medical mistrust on early hearing careThe potential of teleaudiology to bridge equity gaps in underserved communitiesHow insurance and policy structures shape access to pediatric hearing servicesWhy trusted relationships are essential for long-term care engagementPractical steps policymakers, providers, and advocates can take today to expand equitable accessWhy Listen: This conversation blends public health research, clinical insights, and community perspectives, offering actionable ideas for anyone working at the intersection of health, equity, and social systems. It’s a must-listen for professionals in maternal and child health, health policy, and community-based care.About the Guests:Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP Speech-language pathologist, public health consultant, and advocate for equitable access to communication services. Founder of a private practice serving diverse populations.Dr. Lauren Ramsey Public health researcher and consultant with 20+ years of experience in maternal and child health, health equity, and racial and ethnic disparities in care access.Resources & Links:Connect with Pamela Rowe on LinkedInConnect with Dr. Lauren Ramsey on LinkedInContact: hello@healthyprojectmedia.comJoin the movement: healthyproject.co — sign up for the newsletter & get involved ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis talks with Pamela Oren-Artzi, COO and co-founder of GRIN, a digital oral health platform reimagining how care is delivered for underserved communities. Pam shares her journey from technology leader to health innovator, the challenges of addressing oral care deserts, and how GRIN’s accessible, affordable tools are transforming the way providers reach patients—no broadband required.We explore why oral health must be recognized as a core social driver of health, the connection between oral disease and chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, and the ripple effects that poor access to dental care can have on individuals, families, and the economy. Pam also offers valuable insights for health tech innovators on how to build equity into products from the ground up.📌 Sponsored by GRIN – Learn more at https://www.get-grin.com/Shownotes: 00:00 – Introduction & Welcome 00:45 – Meet Pam Orrin & the GRIN Mission 03:15 – Why Oral Health is Overlooked in Health Tech 06:35 – The Global Oral Health Crisis 09:00 – Early GRIN Impact Stories in Underserved Communities 12:20 – The Link Between Oral Health & Full Body Health 14:30 – Why Oral Health is a Social Determinant of Health 17:10 – Economic & Social Ripple Effects of Poor Oral Care 19:40 – Absenteeism, Malnutrition, and Hidden Impacts 23:30 – Building Equity into Product Design 25:15 – Serving Digitally Excluded Communities 26:40 – Measuring Equity, Efficiency & Behavioral Change 31:20 – Reducing Health System Burden 34:10 – Making Care Efficient for Patients & Providers 36:05 – Uplifting Communities Through Health Technology 38:25 – The Future of Digital Oral Health 43:20 – Advice for Health Tech Innovators 44:12 – How to Connect with GRIN 46:52 – Closing Thoughts ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Stacy Wells, a purpose-driven leader and DEI practitioner working at the intersection of behavioral health, education, and public service. From her early days in the classroom to her current role leading health equity efforts in Minnesota’s direct care and treatment system, Stacy shares the challenges and lessons of navigating systemic racism, healthcare disparities, and the politicization of equity work.Together, they explore how cultural humility, lived experience, and community input must shape our systems of care, and why staying committed to the work matters now more than ever.Follow and subscribe to The Healthy Project Podcast for more conversations that push health equity forward.🔗 For health information and resources, visit: www.healthyproject.co📌 Shownotes: 00:00 – Welcome and intro to Stacy Wells 01:10 – Stacy’s shift from PR to education to public health 03:45 – Minnesota’s persistent disparities in education and health 06:30 – The intersection of youth education and healthcare systems 09:15 – Supporting individuals with complex behavioral health needs 13:30 – Why cultural humility matters in direct care 18:00 – Including lived experience in designing care 22:15 – When community feedback challenges systems 28:00 – Speaking truth in professional spaces 30:50 – DEI backlash and its toll 36:15 – Holding space for joy and rest as a Black woman in the work 42:00 – Why staying curious and connected is key 43:30 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Stacy Wells ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis is joined by Sister Mary Haddad, President and CEO of the Catholic Health Association of the United States. Together, they get into the pressing issue of proposed Medicaid funding cuts and the far-reaching implications for millions of Americans, particularly those in underserved communities. Sr. Mary offers expert insight into what these changes could mean for access to care, the healthcare workforce, and the moral responsibility we share in supporting those who are vulnerable. This is a timely and vital conversation about healthcare, equity, and advocacy.📌 Show Notes:Introduction to Sister Mary Haddad and her role at CHA (00:33)Overview of Medicaid and why it's essential (02:48)Details on proposed funding cuts and their potential impact (04:50)The urgency of the moment and why it matters now (08:51)Who is most at risk from these changes (10:53)Consequences for emergency rooms and healthcare access (12:23)Discussion on work requirements and policy misconceptions (13:07)Effects on state governments and local economies (15:30)Broader societal impact beyond Medicaid recipients (16:30)Consequences for healthcare providers and Catholic health systems (19:13)CHA’s advocacy efforts and how citizens can get involved (23:44)A message of hope and community resilience (27:36)Where to learn more and take action (29:48) ★ Support this podcast ★

What if the key to better health isn’t treatment—it’s prevention?In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, Corey Dion Lewis breaks down the true meaning of preventative health and why it matters. From early screenings to lifestyle changes, Corey explains how staying ahead of illness can save money, boost energy, and extend your life.We cover:What counts as preventative careHow early detection worksWhy prevention puts you in control of your healthSimple steps you can take todayThis isn’t about reacting. It’s about being ready.Subscribe, rate, and share with someone who needs a reminder to book that checkup. ★ Support this podcast ★

ITamar Blue, founder of Mental Happy, joins Corey Dion Lewis on The Healthy Project Podcast to explore how group therapy and community-based care are changing the future of mental health.In this episode, you’ll hear: • Why group support is often more effective than one-on-one therapy • How Mental Happy empowers both participants and providers • The cultural and structural gaps in mental health care • Why more therapists are shifting to cash-based models • How virtual communities are breaking down stigma in Black mental health spacesWhether you’re a provider, peer specialist, or just someone looking for emotional support, you’ll gain insights into what true community healing can look like.Guest:Tamar Blue Founder & CEO, Mental Happy Website: https://www.mentalhappy.comSocial Media Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarlucienblue/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mentalhappy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentalhappyhumans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livementalhappy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mentalhappyinc ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, we feature an inspiring artist interview with Ariel, part of the Freedom of Expression Project. Ariel shares her journey into sewing art, creating handmade purses, and how sewing by hand supports mental health and creativity. We talk about creative coping strategies, colorful yarn projects, and beginner sewing inspiration. Learn how personal expression through art, community art projects, and therapeutic art activities can help reduce stress and build community. This Freedom of Expression artist series highlights the power of creative expression and artist storytelling. Watch to hear how sewing reduces stress and fuels personal creativity.Learn more about the Freedom of Expression Project here: https://www.foeproject.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

In this heartfelt episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Sadie, a creative soul whose journey with mental health, adoption, and anxiety has been transformed through art.Sadie shares how drawing, painting, origami, and glitter have become more than just hobbies—they’re her tools for healing, self-expression, and emotional strength. She talks about the power of community, her dream to open an inclusive art studio, and how creativity gives people a sense of purpose and belonging.This episode is part of our collaboration with the Freedom of Expression Project, highlighting voices that use art for emotional resilience and empowerment.🎨 Topics Covered:Art therapy and mental healthOvercoming anxiety through creativityBuilding community through self-expressionThe role of faith and support systemsFinding purpose through art🔗 Learn more about the Freedom of Expression Project and how you can support inclusive creative spaces in the video description.#mentalhealth #arttherapy #creativeexpression #freedomofexpression #belonging #anxietyrelief #healthypodcast #publichealth #youthempowerment #healingthroughart #communitysupport ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Brian Foster to explore how community health workers are transforming diabetes care—especially in underserved communities. Brian shares his personal journey with type 1 diabetes and his work with the American Diabetes Association. They discuss the connection between diabetes and heart disease, health equity, patient trust, and why community-based care is critical for improving outcomes.Topics: type 1 diabetes, diabetes education, community health workers, healthcare access, health equity, social determinants of health, American Diabetes Association, chronic disease management, public health policy, Black health equity, Healthy Project Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this eye-opening episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis explores the concept of food swamps—urban environments where unhealthy food options far outweigh nutritious ones. While much attention has been given to food deserts, food swamps reveal a deeper layer of the public health crisis tied to systemic racism, zoning laws, and chronic disease disparities. From obesity and diabetes to nutrition literacy and community health, Corey breaks down the critical role of the built environment in shaping our health outcomes.Whether you're a public health professional, community advocate, or just passionate about food justice and health equity, this episode offers a powerful and personal perspective on turning food swamps into food sanctuaries.Show Notes:What is a food swamp and how does it differ from a food desert?Real-life stories from Corey’s work as a safety net health coachHow systemic barriers and zoning laws impact food accessThe link between food environments and chronic diseaseExploring the intersection of food insecurity, fast food, and public healthSolutions: from urban farming and farmers markets to nutrition education and local policy reformWhy tackling food apartheid is about more than food—it's about justice and equityActionable steps to support low-income communities in accessing healthier food optionsThe role of Social Determinants of Health in shaping Long-term wellbeingLinktree: https://linktr.ee/thehealthyproject📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to keep the conversation around community health and equity going. ★ Support this podcast ★

Try Opal AI Today! 🔗 For Therapists: heyopal.com 💬 Free AI Chat for Anyone: chat.heyopal.com 🎉 Exclusive Discount for Clinicians! Get 40% off your first year + 1 month free with code: PODCASTIn this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Cole Smith, founder of Opal, to explore the intersection of AI and mental health care. They discuss how AI therapy tools and digital mental health platforms are reshaping therapy, improving mental health accessibility, and addressing key concerns like AI bias in therapy and mental health data privacy. Cole shares insights on building a mental health startup, the future of AI-powered therapy, and how Opal is working to foster trust in healthcare technology.Tune in as we talk about ethical AI in healthcare, the challenges and opportunities of teletherapy innovation, and how AI can support therapists rather than replace them. If you're curious about the future of digital therapy, how AI is closing the gap in mental health equity, and what this means for rural mental health, this episode is a must-listen!Show Notes:00:01 – Welcome to The Healthy Project Podcast with Corey Dion Lewis 00:46 – Introducing Cole Smith, founder of Opal, and his passion for AI in mental health 01:43 – The importance of strengthening the therapeutic alliance with AI support 02:09 – Ethical concerns in AI-powered therapy: Privacy, bias, and trust 03:21 – Overcoming resistance to AI in healthcare: How technology is here to stay 04:35 – The human element of AI in mental health: Balancing automation and personal connection 06:52 – How AI therapy assistants can help therapists better understand clients 08:30 – Addressing mental health accessibility in rural communities through AI 09:54 – Breaking down cost barriers and the fragmented nature of mental health tech startups 11:29 – The challenge of finding a therapist: How AI can improve patient-provider communication 14:29 – Helping healthcare professionals navigate AI tools without falling into fear traps 17:43 – How therapists can evaluate AI platforms for data privacy and HIPAA compliance 19:08 – The future of Opal: Expanding AI-powered mental health coaching to more healthcare sectors 21:11 – Where to find Cole Smith and explore Opal’s AI mental health resourcesGuest: Cole Smith Founder of Opal AI, a mental health tech company creating AI-driven solutions for therapists and patients.Resources & Links:Follow Cole Smith on LinkedIn📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected! 💡 Never miss an episode – subscribe to The Healthy Project Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify & more. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Dr. Seun Ross, a leading expert in health justice and racial disparities in medicine. They discuss the difference between health equity and health justice, the impact of medical racism, and the role of policy change in health equity. Dr. Ross also shares her work in removing racial bias in healthcare and how it led to 700 Black patients moving up on the kidney transplant list.If you're passionate about public health advocacy, systemic racism in medicine, and healthcare reform, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!What You’ll Learn in This Episode✅ The difference between health equity and health justice✅ How medical racism is embedded in clinical decision tools✅ The role of structural barriers in healthcare and their impact on health disparities✅ The groundbreaking work Dr. Ross has done to eliminate race in medicine✅ How policy change in health equity can improve outcomes for marginalized communities✅ Actionable steps for public health experts and healthcare professionals to advocate for health justiceEpisode Chapters⏳ 00:00 - Introduction – Corey Dion Lewis introduces the topic and guest.⏳ 00:37 - Meet Dr. Seun Ross – Background on Dr. Ross and her passion for health justice.⏳ 01:48 - Defining Health Justice – The difference between health equity, health justice, and social determinants of health.⏳ 04:01 - Layers of Health Inequity – Understanding structural barriers in healthcare and racial disparities in medicine.⏳ 06:21 - Why Well-Intended Programs Fail – The need for holistic approaches in healthcare reform.⏳ 08:24 - Addressing Root Causes – Why fixing social determinants of health alone isn’t enough.⏳ 10:51 - Race in Medicine: A Structural Barrier – How racial bias in healthcare affects patient care.⏳ 12:20 - Removing Race from Clinical Guidelines – Dr. Ross’s work in eliminating medical racism from clinical decision tools.⏳ 15:10 - The Impact of Removing Race-Based Algorithms – Real-world effects of policy change, including kidney transplant disparities.⏳ 17:02 - The Role of Multidisciplinary Experts – Why public health experts, sociologists, and policy makers must work together.⏳ 19:50 - Navigating Healthcare Advocacy in 2025 – How to continue healthcare advocacy despite political challenges.⏳ 21:46 - Health Equity and the Law – Legal protections for health justice movement and healthcare inequities.⏳ 23:31 - Dr. Ross’s Future Advocacy Work – Upcoming projects with the Encoding Equity Alliance.⏳ 25:09 - Closing Thoughts & How to Connect – Where to find Dr. Seun Ross online.Resources & Links🔗 Connect with Dr. Seun Ross on LinkedIn🔗 Learn more about the Encoding Equity AllianceConnect with Me:Website: https://www.coreydionlewis.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreydionlewis/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreydlewis/Learn More About The Healthy Project:Website: https://www.healthyprojectmedia.com/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thehealthyprojectSupport & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to:👍 Like & Subscribe on YouTube⭐ Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify 📢 Share this episode with fellow public health experts and healthcare professionals! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, based on questions from the My City My Health conference, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Daniel Zinnel, CEO of Proteus, to explore the intersections of health equity, farm worker health, and immigrant health care. They discuss Proteus' innovative programs, including mobile healthcare delivery, health and safety training, cancer prevention efforts, and the critical role of community health workers. Daniel shares insights on addressing health disparities, building impactful partnerships, and creating culturally responsive care for underserved communities. Tune in to discover strategies for supporting migrant worker health and overcoming challenges like mass deportations and healthcare access barriers.Show Notes:[00:01] Introduction to the Healthy Project Podcast and host Corey Deion Lewis[00:24] Special episode overview: My City My Health conference and Ask a Pro platform[01:02] Meet Daniel Zennel, CEO of Proteus, and learn about the organization's history and mission[02:32] Overview of Proteus' services: Job training, education assistance, and health resources[04:25] Health and safety training: Addressing heat stress, pesticide exposure, and farm worker safety[06:02] Mobile healthcare delivery model: Bringing care directly to farm workers[07:18] Health equity in action: The role of farm workers in our daily lives and bridging care gaps[09:25] Supporting immigrant health: Strategies to address diverse community needs[17:29] Translators and AI in healthcare: Balancing technology and human interpretation[22:51] Preparing for mass deportations: Organizational strategies for supporting vulnerable populations[30:02] Cancer prevention initiatives: Focus on breast, cervical, and colorectal screenings[32:40] The importance of partnerships: How collaborations expand public health impact[35:41] Daniel’s personal connection to farm worker advocacy and Proteus' mission[38:40] Closing remarks and how to connect with ProteusLinks and Resources:Learn more about Proteus: ProteusInc.netFollow Proteus on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTubeConnect with Daniel Zennel on LinkedIn: Daniel ZennelSupport the Healthy Project Podcast: Like, subscribe, and review to help amplify the conversation!Call to Action:Interested in partnering or supporting? Reach out at hello@healthyprojectmedia.com. Let’s push the boundaries of health equity together! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis and guest Julian Lee dive into crucial topics like health equity, type 2 diabetes, and African American health disparities. Together, they explore systemic racism in healthcare, aversive racism, healthcare structural barriers, and health outcomes disparities, with a focus on the African American community in Sioux City, Iowa. Learn about unconscious bias in healthcare, health inequity solutions, and the impact of income inequality and health. This conversation emphasizes improving healthcare trust, patient advocacy, addressing racial health disparities, historical healthcare inequities, and the role of DEI in healthcare. Gain insights into community health challenges, reducing diabetes complications, and the social determinants of health. Show Notes:0:00 – Introduction and Welcome2:15 – Meet Dr. Julian Lee: His Role and Passion for Health Equity3:42 – Exploring Racism’s Impact on Diabetes Outcomes in African Americans5:38 – A Personal Journey: How Losing His Father Inspired Advocacy8:57 – Moving from Awareness to Action in Health Equity10:25 – Convincing People to Care: Addressing Resistance and Building Compassion15:20 – Racism in Healthcare: Aversive, Structural, and Overt Forms20:06 – The Curb Cut Effect: How Inclusive Solutions Benefit All29:18 – Tackling Bias and Stereotyping in Clinical Interactions33:03 – Structural Changes for Health Equity: Workforce Diversification and Accountability36:27 – Mistrust in Healthcare: Historical Roots and Present Challenges40:49 – Key Findings on Diabetes Disparities in African American Communities43:44 – Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Dr. Julian Lee Learn More About Healthy Project Media:Website: https://www.healthyprojectmedia.com/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thehealthyproject Enjoyed this episode? Like, subscribe, and share to help spread awareness  ★ Support this podcast ★

DiscussIn this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis dives deep into the often-overlooked topic of medical debt and how it disproportionately affects under-resourced communities. Corey is joined by Jenifer Bosco, a Senior Attorney at the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) and co-author of the Model Medical Debt Protection Act. Together, they explore the causes of medical debt, the role of healthcare systems and insurance companies, and practical solutions that can protect vulnerable individuals from crippling financial burdens.Jenifer shares actionable insights on how to navigate the healthcare system, what hospitals and policymakers can do to alleviate medical debt, and how civic engagement can empower individuals to demand change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the deep-rooted complexities of medical debt and what can be done to bring about health equity and financial relief.Show Notes:00:00 - Intro: Corey welcomes listeners and introduces the topic of medical debt and its impact on underserved communities.01:14 - Guest Introduction: Meet Jenifer Bosco, Senior Attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, who shares her work on financial and medical debt advocacy.02:35 - Causes of Medical Debt: Jenifer explains the common causes of medical debt, from rising healthcare costs to lack of insurance and high out-of-pocket expenses.05:22 - Impact of Medical Debt on Access to Healthcare: Discussing how the fear of medical bills can prevent people from seeking necessary healthcare services.07:39 - The Role of Healthcare Systems: Jenifer talks about what hospitals can do to reduce the burden of medical debt, including financial assistance programs and better debt collection practices.10:18 - Importance of Financial Assistance Policies: Understanding the need for more accessible and transparent financial aid options for low-income patients.15:47 - The Role of Insurance Companies: Corey and Jenifer discuss how underinsurance and high-deductible health plans contribute to medical debt, and the role of expanding Medicaid.19:33 - Empowering Communities: Civic engagement strategies to help communities advocate for better healthcare policies and protections from medical debt collection.24:03 - The Future of Medical Debt Reform: Jenifer shares her perspective on how ongoing reforms and consumer protection laws can shape a more equitable healthcare system.25:22 - How to Connect: Resources and contact information for Jenifer Bosco and the NCLC for those looking to learn more or get involved.Resources Mentioned:Jenifer Bosco on LinkedInNCLC on FacebookTwitter: @nclc4consumersNCLC WebsiteNCLC’s Medical Debt ResourcesNCLC’s Model Medical Debt Protection ActStay Connected!If you enjoyed this episode and want to stay up to date with all things health, wellness, and public health advocacy, make sure to follow me on social media:X (formerly Twitter): @CoreyDionLewisFacebook: Health Coach LewInstagram: @CoreyDionLewisLinkedIn: Corey Dion LewisTikTok: @CoreyDionLewisWebsite: CoreyDionLewis.com ★ Support this podcast ★

In this powerful episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, Corey Dion Lewis revisits a heartbreaking yet vital story that shines a light on the devastating impact of air pollution on public health. Inspired by his 2022 interview with Marisol Iglesias-Gonzalez on the health impacts of climate change, Corey shares the story of Ella Roberta Kissi-Debrah, a young girl from London whose life was tragically cut short by asthma, exacerbated by extreme air pollution. This episode explores how air pollution disproportionately affects marginalized communities, the importance of systemic change, and actionable steps we can take to prevent similar tragedies.Learn how we can fight for clean air, health equity, and climate justice. Don't miss this call to action!Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: Ella's Story and Climate Change01:18 - Ella Roberta Kissi-Debrah: The Devastating Impact of Air Pollution03:14 - The Legal Breakthrough: Air Pollution as a Cause of Death05:20 - Air Pollution's Disproportionate Effect on Vulnerable Communities06:10 - Solutions: Addressing Air Pollution Systematically08:18 - Closing Thoughts: Advocacy and Action for Clean AirCheck out the 2022 episode with Marisol Iglesias-Gonzalez on the health impacts of climate changeStay Connected!If you enjoyed this episode and want to stay up to date with all things health, wellness, and public health advocacy, make sure to follow me on social media:X (formerly Twitter): @CoreyDionLewisFacebook: Health Coach LewInstagram: @CoreyDionLewisLinkedIn: Corey Dion LewisTikTok: @CoreyDionLewisWebsite: CoreyDionLewis.comFollow me for insights, updates, and tips on health equity, mental wellness, and more! Let’s keep the conversation going!Subscribe for more content on health equity, climate change, and public health!#AirPollution #HealthEquity #ClimateJustice #CleanAir #EllaRobertaKissiDebrah ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis speaks with Kris Bennett, Director of Prostate Cancer Health Equity Initiatives at Movember, about the pressing issue of prostate cancer in Black men. September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and Kris shares key insights on how early detection, increased awareness, and addressing systemic health disparities can save lives. Discover why Black men are at higher risk for prostate cancer and what’s being done to promote equity in healthcare.Learn about the importance of PSA tests, breaking the silence around men’s health, and actionable steps for early diagnosis and better outcomes. If you care about men’s health, health equity, and cancer prevention, this episode is a must-listen!Show Notes:00:00 – Introduction to Prostate Cancer Awareness MonthCorey introduces the topic of prostate cancer awareness, especially its impact on Black men, and welcomes guest Kris Bennett.02:15 – Meet Kris Bennett from MovemberKris shares his background in public health, basketball, and his journey into health equity initiatives.05:30 – Why Black Men Are at Higher Risk for Prostate CancerA deep dive into the statistics and systemic factors that disproportionately affect Black men when it comes to prostate cancer diagnosis and outcomes.09:00 – Cultural Barriers: Why Aren’t We Talking About It?Kris discusses the cultural stigmas and barriers that prevent open conversations about prostate health, especially in underserved communities.12:45 – Breaking Down Barriers to Accessing HealthcareThe conversation shifts to the challenges Black men face in accessing quality healthcare and the need for building trust with providers.16:30 – The Importance of PSA Testing for Early DetectionLearn about the PSA test, why it’s critical for early diagnosis, and how Black men can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings.20:15 – Movember’s Prostate Cancer Health Equity InitiativeKris shares details about Movember’s groundbreaking initiatives aimed at reducing prostate cancer disparities and improving outcomes for men of color.26:00 – Call to Action: Steps You Can TakeCorey and Kris discuss actionable steps listeners can take to support prostate cancer awareness, including getting screened and having important conversations about men’s health.31:00 – How to Connect with Kris Bennett and Learn More About MovemberClosing remarks with information on how to reach out to Kris Bennett and get involved with Movember’s health equity initiatives. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis dives deep into the concept of healthcare access and how it drives health disparities. What does it mean to have access to healthcare truly, and how do barriers like cost, location, and cultural competency create massive gaps in health outcomes? We explore the five dimensions of healthcare access—availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and quality—and discuss how they intertwine to shape the lives of marginalized communities. With real-world examples, current data, and actionable solutions, this episode challenges healthcare professionals to reimagine what access to care should look like and how they can make it happen.Show Notes:Episode Highlights:What healthcare access really means (03:12)The five dimensions of healthcare access (05:01)How lack of access contributes to health disparities (08:40)Real-world examples, including Black maternal health (12:25)Solutions: What can be done to improve access? (16:10)Actionable steps for healthcare professionals (19:35)Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) Data on Uninsured Rates by RaceCommonwealth Fund Report on Healthcare Debt and AvoidanceCDC Report on Preventable Maternal DeathsWorld Health Organization’s (WHO) Five Dimensions of Healthcare AccessAffordable Care Act (ACA) Impact on Marginalized PopulationsRole of Community Health Workers in Expanding Healthcare AccessTelehealth Expansion and Its Potential to Reduce Health DisparitiesDon’t just listen—take action! Whether you're working in policy, healthcare, or advocacy, find one area where you can influence access to care. Share this episode with colleagues, subscribe for more health equity insights, and check out the resources for deeper dives into the research we’ve covered.Connect with Us:Follow Corey on Instagram: @coreydionlewisSubscribe to The Healthy Project Podcast for more episodesVisit our website: www.healthyproject.coSubscribe to the newsletter for health equity updates and more: Subscribe hereLeave Us a Review!If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners passionate about health equity! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis is joined by Coach Melody, President and Chief Wellness Strategist at Unwrap U, to discuss one of the most pressing health issues affecting our youth: childhood obesity. They dive deep into the alarming statistics, practical solutions for families, and the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition. Coach Melody also shares insights on her successful FamFun3K initiative, encouraging families to get moving and prioritize their health.Get inspired by Coach Melody's wisdom and learn how small changes in daily habits can significantly impact the lives of children and families. Let’s get active, eat well, and combat childhood obesity together!🔔 Subscribe for more health equity conversations and tips!Chapters:00:00 - Introduction02:00 - Coach Melody's background and passion for wellness04:12 - Alarming childhood obesity statistics07:10 - The impact of school meals on childhood obesity10:25 - Balancing healthy eating with limited resources12:35 - Physical activity and its mental health benefits15:00 - Practical tips for families to stay active together17:12 - FamFun3K: The movement to fight childhood obesity19:30 - How to join the FamFun3K and stay connected with Coach MelodyStay connected with Coach Melody:Website: https://www.unwrapyou.com/FacebookInstagramLinkedinYouTube Stay Connected with The Healthy Project:Subscribe to our newsletter for updates: The Healthy Project NewsletterFollow us on social media for the latest episodes and health tips.#HealthyProjectPodcast #ChildhoodObesity #FamFun3K #Wellness #Nutrition #PhysicalActivity #HealthEquity ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us as we explore ethical community engagement, health justice, and health equity with Dr. Ebony Johnson. In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, we dive into data diversity, community trust, public health, research ethics, policy impact, and the social determinants of health. This conversation, hosted by Corey Lewis, uncovers the challenges and opportunities in community-based research, partnerships in research, health communication, health policy, health outcomes, and the critical need for diversity in research.Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode and subscribe to The Healthy Project for more health disparities and equity insights.Key Topics Covered:Introduction to Ethical Community Engagement: What it is and why it’s crucial for health justice.Shared Power in Research: Moving from a researcher-subject dichotomy to a partnership model.Building Community Trust: Strategies for researchers to earn and maintain trust within communities.Data Diversity & Representation: The impact of diverse data on research outcomes and health policy.Challenges in Public Health Research: Addressing the difficulties of connecting with underrepresented groups.Health Equity vs. Health Justice: Understanding the difference and why both are essential.Policy Impact on Health Outcomes: How data can be used to influence health policy and create equitable health systems.The Intersection of Physical Activity & Health Justice: Dr. Johnson’s personal story of how powerlifting ties into her work in health equity.Final Thoughts & Call to Action: Encouraging listeners to engage with The Healthy Project and stay connected with Dr. Ebony Johnson.Connect with Dr. Ebony Johnson:LinkedIn: Ebony DJWebsiteStay Connected with The Healthy Project:Subscribe to our newsletter for updates: The Healthy Project NewsletterFollow us on social media for the latest episodes and health tips.Chapter Markers:0:00 - Introduction1:00 - What is Ethical Community Engagement?3:45 - The Importance of Shared Power in Research7:15 - Building Trust Between Communities and Researchers10:40 - Challenges in Data Diversity and Representation15:00 - Partnering with Organizations for Better Health Outcomes20:15 - Health Equity vs. Health Justice24:30 - The Role of Policy in Health Equity29:00 - Intersection of Powerlifting and Health Justice33:00 - How to Connect with Dr. Ebony Johnson34:00 - Subscribe to The Healthy ProjectEpisode Resources:Social Determinants of HealthCommunity-Based Participatory Research (CBPR)Health Equity ToolsSupport: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your network. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Healthy Project for more discussions on health equity, public health, and community engagement.Contact Us:Website: The Healthy ProjectEmail: podcast@healthyprojectmedia.com ★ Support this podcast ★