Public Health Epidemiology Conversations

What if the very systems designed to protect maternal health are actually silencing the voices that matter most? Neshé Conley discovered this truth through her own traumatic birthing experiences and transformed her pain into a groundbreaking approach to public health data collection that's changing how we understand and address Black maternal health.   Resources ▶️ Website https://PublicHealthEntrepreneurs.com ▶️ Stay connected. Subscribe to our email list

What if grief isn't just personal, but a public health crisis hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Laura Vargas makes a powerful case for treating grief as a core public health priority. Drawing from her work supporting thousands of people navigating loss, especially substance-related deaths, she reveals how unaddressed grief fuels chronic disease complications, substance use, isolation, and burnout among both communities and care providers. Rather than pathologizing loss, Laura highlights the transformative power of culturally grounded peer support and community-designed spaces that help people feel seen, heard, and supported. This conversation challenges how we think about prevention, healing, and resilience and asks what becomes possible when we move grief out of silence and into community.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this powerful episode, cancer epidemiologist Dr. Robin Taylor Wilson unpacks the troubling rise of early-onset cancers and why ignoring symptoms can come at a devastating cost. The conversation goes far beyond individual risk, touching on the public's right to access science, what years of PFAS research are revealing about everyday chemical exposures, and why cutting cancer surveillance funding now would be a dangerous mistake. From student activism and misinformation to surprising data on trust in scientists, this episode is a timely reminder of what's at stake when science, policy, and public health collide.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting  

Why is it still so hard to answer the simple question: "What is public health?" In this timely episode, Dr. Huntley is joined by two voices from different generations of the field to unpack why public health remains misunderstood and why that confusion has real consequences as budgets shrink and systems are dismantled. Emily Edgar, an MPH student in epidemiology, and Dr. Nicole D. Vick, a seasoned public health strategist and workforce advocate, offer grounded, human-centered explanations of public health rooted in collaboration, community, and equity. From One Health examples connecting human, animal, and environmental wellbeing to honest conversations about burnout, bias, and historical harm, this episode moves beyond textbook definitions into language people can actually understand. This conversation is a masterclass in explaining public health through stories that resonate why it matters, who it serves, and what's at stake if we can't clearly articulate our value. If you've ever stumbled trying to explain your work to family, funders, or policymakers, this episode is for you. Resources   ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes   ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting  

When everything fell apart in just 30 days, Josie Williams didn't just survive, she began questioning the systems that were supposed to help. In this powerful episode, Josie shares how her lived experience with homelessness exposed the structural barriers baked into public health and social service systems, and how that experience now shapes her work helping organizations move from good intentions to real, equitable action. From rebuilding trust to rethinking community engagement and grant timelines, this conversation challenges what health equity actually requires. If you care about systems change rooted in lived experience, this is a must-listen.   Resources   ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this episode, Dr. Huntley talks with Montrece McNeill Ransom, JD, MPH, about what it really means to lead in public health during a time of disruption and why this moment may be full of unexpected opportunities. From her path from law school to the CDC to her current work shaping the future public health workforce, Montrece shares powerful insights on belonging, leadership, and why law is one of public health's most underused tools. This conversation will challenge how you think about public health's past, present, and future and just might leave you feeling more hopeful (and fired up) about what comes next.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting  

2025 was one of the hardest years of my life, professionally and personally. But one decision turned everything around. In this bonus episode, I'm sharing my Word of the Year for 2026 and why it became the strategy that saved my business when everything felt like it was falling apart. If you want to know what actually works when systems fail and how to position yourself for growth in uncertain times, this episode is for you.

A wellness director at a university saw an opportunity that should have been obvious. A major public health conference was coming up, complete with a wellness section, yoga sessions, and holistic health programming. Her institution's public health department already had a booth reserved. The connection was clear: wellness is public health, and she could bridge both departments while expanding student awareness of career pathways. But when she proposed attending the conference, her boss dismissed the idea immediately. The message was clear: wellness and public health are separate fields. The opportunity never even reached a budget conversation because leadership couldn't see the public health value from the start. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

How do you explain the invisible work of public health to your friends and family without using academic jargon? In this engaging installment of the "What Is Public Health?" series, Dr. Charlotte Huntley welcomes Ashley Harris, a recent MPH graduate and health advocate, and Dr. Eboni Haynes, CEO of The Mahogany Group, to discuss the art of plain-language communication and the vital importance of community buy-in. Moving beyond textbook definitions, the guests share relatable metaphors to demystify the field: Ashley describes public health as a "multifaceted superhero" working quietly in the background to prioritize proactive care over reactive treatment, using the tangible reality of built environments like counting liquor stores versus grocery stores to make the concept click for non-experts. Dr. Haynes expands the conversation to the powerful intersection of faith and public health, sharing insights on bridging the gap between healthcare systems and congregations to build trust and utilize data within ministry. Tune in to discover why public health is the essential "through line" in everything we do and learn how to advocate for the resources that protect our shared future.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

Join host Dr. Charlotte Huntley for a compelling conversation with Edward Johnson, Assistant Health Commissioner at Columbus Public Health, who proves that public health pathways are rarely linear. With a background in philosophy, politics, and economics, Edward brings a unique lens to the field, discussing how data modernization must go beyond cold numbers to harness the power of storytelling—evidenced by the transformative "Life Expectancy in Columbus Story Map" that secured cross-sector community buy-in. The discussion dives into real-world applications of public health leadership, from enacting a comprehensive flavored tobacco ban to repurposing emergency preparedness "pods" for food distribution during a massive SNAP benefits crisis. This episode explores the vital need for interdisciplinary collaboration, playing well in the "sandbox" with police, fire, and parks departments, and offers a resonant definition of the field: "How long do you live, and how well do you live those years?"   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this solo episode, Dr. Charlotte Huntley shares a deeply personal and practical conversation about navigating public health discussions with family, friends, coworkers, and communities without burning out. Grounded in her own complex grief journey and her work leading an epidemiology consulting firm, she offers a clear five-question framework to help listeners decide when a conversation is worth having, when to proceed with caution, and when to walk away.​ She connects the timing of this episode to the holiday season, when public health topics tend to surface more often amid gatherings and heightened emotions, and emphasizes that public health professionals are not responsible for correcting all misinformation or defending the entire field. Instead, she defines success as helping people within one's own sphere of influence better understand public health, while preserving personal mental health, capacity, and long-term sustainability in the work.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this conversation, Dr. Charlotte Huntley welcomes back Dr. Vinu Ilakkuvan, founder and principal consultant at Pop Health and creator of Gaslit by Corporations, to explore what it really means to go "further upstream" in public health. Vinu shares how years of working with coalitions and systems-change efforts led her to focus on power—who has it, how it's used, and why communities must reclaim it to advance health. She explains why she chose the bold framing "Gaslit by Corporations, Ignited by Community" to translate the academic idea of the commercial determinants of health into language that everyday people can connect with and act on. Throughout the episode, Charlotte and Vinu dig into plain-language communication, narrative power, and community organizing as essential strategies for countering corporate harm and shifting policy, while also highlighting the importance of community spaces (including the PHEC Podcast Community App) to strengthen collective "civic muscle."   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

Join Dr. Charlotte Huntley for a powerful conversation that connects purpose with public health, diving into the essential question: What is Public Health?  This episode is designed to help professionals and leaders communicate the field's value without academic jargon and secure much-needed community buy-in. Featuring stories from the field told by professionals creating change beyond traditional roles, including: Megan McCarthy, who defines public health as the vital "bridge between science and communities" and discusses her work in nutrition access (WIC/SNAP);  Jennifer Mandelbaum, a public health scientist and New Hampshire State Representative, who explains the field as a "promise" and "call to action" demonstrated through incremental policy steps like PFAS legislation; and Abby Tighe, who uses the relatable "roads analogy" to advocate for societal investment in health, offering an update on the mission of the newly named National Public Health Coalition (formerly Fired But Fighting) and its commitment to nonpartisan advocacy.  Tune in to discover what's possible in public health, harness your passion, and learn how to break down silos and communicate the silent, crucial work that protects our shared future.   Resources   ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this solo episode, Dr. Charlotte Huntley revisits key conversations from the year to encourage public health professionals navigating uncertainty, workforce disruption, and rapid change. She weaves together guest insights on locking arms with like-minded colleagues, mastering plain-language communication, embracing innovation and new surveillance tools, being strategic about funding and career moves, staying civically engaged, and protecting mental health through boundaries and vulnerability. Throughout, she calls listeners to "find your lane," recognize their own power, and use their unique strengths to advance public health, while staying connected through the PHEC Podcast Community app.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this powerful episode, Milwaukee's Health Commissioner Michael Totoraitis joins Dr. Charlotte H. Huntley to share an insider's view of navigating a citywide public health crisis and the evolving realities of public health leadership in 2025. Mike recounts how discovering a severe lead crisis in Milwaukee's schools exposed systemic vulnerabilities while underscoring the urgent importance of community engagement, open information sharing, and cross-sector partnerships. Their conversation highlights lessons learned from the frontlines, both in leading crisis response and in the broader struggle for advocacy, trust, and progress in public health at a time of national turbulence and resource disruption.   Resources   ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this insightful episode, Dr. Charlotte Huntley welcomes Elizabeth Green, Communications Director at the Big Cities Health Coalition, for a deep dive into the art and science of public health communication. Elizabeth brings a unique perspective with her background as a history of science professor and public health communications expert. They explore how to tell compelling public health stories that connect emotionally and intellectually with audiences, overcome jargon and misinformation, and advocate effectively for funding and policy. Elizabeth shares real-world examples like Milwaukee's lead crisis, discusses language research on harm reduction, and highlights the importance of diverse storytelling styles to build trust and support. This episode offers invaluable guidance on communicating public health's critical role with clarity, empathy, and impact. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

In this roundtable discussion, Dr. Huntley is joined by Deborah Shomuyiwa and Jessie Meyer to answer a surprisingly complex but essential question: What is public health? Using plain language and relatable examples, they each break down how public health impacts our everyday lives. From drinking clean water and wearing seatbelts to shaping community policies and creating environments that support healthier choices. Together, they highlight how public health is often quiet when it's working well, why it's different from medicine, and how personal experiences in pharmacy, emergency medical services, and advocacy can all tie back to broader population health. This episode underscores the need to better communicate, celebrate, and "sell" public health so the public can recognize its value long before a crisis hits.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

Dr. Huntley welcomes back Dr. Kristi McClamroch, epidemiologist, entrepreneur, disruptor, and founder of Courageous Public Health. This episode dives deep into the power of courage—what it means, why it matters, and how public health professionals can lean on courage as a practice and pathway to resilience during times of uncertainty and upheaval. Drawing from her journey as a mom, scientist, leader, and creator, Dr. McClamroch shares actionable guidance for individuals and organizations striving not just to survive but to transform and rebuild public health in 2025's rapidly shifting environment.   ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes   ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

This episode features Dr. Tista Ghosh, a public health physician, epidemiologist, author, and senior VP for Employee Health at a global medical device company. Dr. Ghosh shares her journey from discovering public health late in medical school to her impactful roles at the CDC, state government, and private industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights her book Before the Next Crisis, which captures frontline workers' stories, and addresses critical challenges like disinformation and distrust in public health. She offers valuable insights on the evolving field, storytelling, public-private partnerships, and advice for listening deeply to communities.   Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting

This insightful episode with Dr. Jimmie Hayes Smith explores his journey from clinical medicine to public health leadership, showcasing his dedication to community-centered healthcare, equity, and collaboration. As the administrator for Macon Bibb County Health Department in Georgia, Dr. Smith offers practical advice on navigating public health challenges, building partnerships, and empowering diverse communities across county and regional lines. His warm stories and thought-provoking tips provide inspiration to listeners at any stage of their public health careers.   Resources   ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting