LifeBeat: The Podcast

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Katherine Y. Brown, EdD, OTR/LWhat if you could save a life with just a small investment of time? In this powerful episode, internationally recognized CPR educator Dr. Katherine Y. Brown—known as “The CPR Lady”—breaks down why CPR is one of the most important skills everyday people can learn.Dr. Brown shares how CPR training doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or intimidating—and why fear and misinformation stop too many people from stepping in during emergencies. From teaching CPR in underserved and unexpected spaces to empowering children and families with life-saving knowledge, she reveals how preparation can turn ordinary bystanders into heroes.This conversation challenges myths, builds confidence, and reminds us that knowing what to do—even for a few minutes—can mean the difference between life and death.

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: K. Sean Kimbro, PhDWhat happens when science finally reflects the people it’s meant to serve? In this powerful episode of LifeBeat, Dr. Sean Kimbro—Professor at Morehouse School of Medicine—shares his journey from a teenage science fair to leading groundbreaking research focused on health equity.Dr. Kimbro breaks down how ancestry, biology, environment, and data bias shape health outcomes, and why communities of color have too often been excluded from the research that drives medical decisions. From ancestral-driven drug discovery and precision nutrition to the risks of biased AI in healthcare, this conversation reveals why representation in data is not optional—it’s essential.The episode also explores the role of community engagement, trust, and mentorship in advancing research that truly serves people. Dr. Kimbro explains how initiatives like Discovery of Us are partnering directly with Black and Brown communities to collect meaningful data, return results, and empower participants as co-creators of knowledge—not just subjects.This is a must-listen for anyone interested in health equity, community-centered research, the future of medicine, and how science can be both rigorous and human-centered.

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: J. Adrian Tyndall, MD, MPHWhat does it take to lead medicine with purpose? Dr. J. Adrian Tyndall shares his journey to Morehouse School of Medicine, the power of culture, faith, and community partnerships—and why health equity must be rooted in trust, purpose, and people.#HealthEquity #PurposeDrivenLeadership #MorehouseMedicine #CommunityHealth #BlackDoctorsMatter

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Keith T. Parker, MBAHow did Goodwill of North Georgia become one of the most powerful job engines in the Southeast? In this episode, Keith Parker—President and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia—pulls back the curtain on the strategy, partnerships, and people-centered mission that transformed a thrift store model into a workforce powerhouse.Under Parker’s leadership, Goodwill now operates 60+ stores, 50+ donation centers, and multiple career centers across 45 counties—helping tens of thousands secure jobs each year. A nationally recognized executive and former leader of major U.S. transit systems, Parker brings a rare blend of vision, innovation, and heart for community.From breaking cycles of poverty to preparing workers for the jobs of the future, this conversation reveals the dignity, purpose, and possibility behind Goodwill’s mission.Learn how jobs, training, and compassion are changing lives—one opportunity at a time.#LifeBeatPodcast #1JGCollabs #JobsJobsJobs #GoodwillNorthGeorgia #KeithParker #WorkforceDevelopment

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Elvin T. Price, PharmD, PhDAs we age, medications become a bigger part of daily life—but most people miss the key information that keeps them safe. In this episode, Dr. Elvin Price breaks down what every patient should know: why pills look different, how to handle side effects, what to ask your pharmacist, and how genetics and communication shape real health outcomes.Clear, practical, and eye-opening—this conversation will help you take control of your medications and your wellness.#AgingWell, #MedicationSafety, #AskYourPharmacist, #HealthEquityNow, #LifeBeatPodcast

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Shonta A. ChambersIn this inspiring LifeBeat conversation, host Kermit G. Payne talks with Shonta Chambers, a nationally recognized advocate, strategist, and community builder. From her roots on Atlanta’s Westside to her work in health advocacy and coalition building, Shonta reminds us that progress begins when communities listen, connect, and act together.Through stories of resilience—from Chicago’s “Toxic Tour” to the power of grandmothers who held neighborhoods together—this episode explores what it truly means to be a stakeholder. Chambers shares why trust, storytelling, and local action remain our most powerful tools for change.In this episode, you’ll learn:What it really means to be a stakeholder in your communityHow storytelling builds trust and drives advocacyThe connection between environmental justice and health equityWhy collective action matters more than titles or rolesHow to turn frustration into forward motion for the greater good✨ “Our efforts can’t just be for the people in the house—they have to be for the people in the community.” – Shaundra Chambers📍 Subscribe for more Life Beat episodes that highlight voices driving equity, health, and hope in every community.#LifeBeatPodcast #ShaundraChambers #CommunityAdvocacy #HealthEquity #StorytellingForChange #1JGCollabs #BlackHealthMatters #PublicHealthLeadership

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Cherae M. Farmer, DDSIn this powerful episode of Life Beat, host Kermit G. Payne sits down with Dr. Cherae Farmer, Dean of the School of Dentistry at Meharry Medical College, veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve, and trailblazer as the first African American Chair-Elect of the American Dental Education Association.Dr. Farmer breaks down the connection between oral health and overall wellness—showing how what happens in your mouth affects your heart, brain, and body. She shares why dental deserts, cultural barriers, and lack of access continue to affect underserved and minority communities, and how faith, education, and community partnerships can help close those gaps.00:00 – Meet Dr. Cherae Farmer, DDS01:10 – Why Oral Health Matters 03:50 – The COVID Effect 08:00 – From Pain to Comfort 12:30 – Dental Care with Heart 13:45 – Meharry Pride 22:00 – Healthcare Home, Not Just Dental Home 23:10 – Community Power 26:40 – Teledentistry Explained 28:30 – Why I Became a Dentist 31:00 – Advice for Future Dentists 34:25 – Closing Thoughts #BeTrueToYourTeeth#BlackHealthMatters#LifeBeatPodcast

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Melissa B. Davis, PhDIs your DNA the secret to unlocking better cancer treatment? 🔬 In this powerful episode of LifeBeat: The Podcast, Dr. Melissa Davis breaks down how ancestry, environment, and biology intersect to shape our health outcomes — especially in communities of color. From decoding genetic markers to challenging long-standing myths about cancer risk, Dr. Davis reveals how science and social justice are working hand-in-hand to close the health gap. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation that could change the way you think about your genes, your health, and your future.#podcast #CancerResearch #GeneticAncestry #HealthEquity #ScienceForAll #DNAAndDiversity #CancerAwareness #STEMInnovation #LifeBeat #1JGCollabs00:00 – Introduction: The DNA of Disparity02:18 – From Curiosity to Calling: Dr. Davis’s Scientific Journey06:05 – Unpacking the Science: What Cancer Really Is10:44 – The Power of Ancestry: What Our DNA Tells Us15:12 – Health Disparities in Focus19:56 – Breaking the Code: What the Data Reveals23:41 – The Human Side of Science27:58 – Hope, Healing, and the Future of Cancer Research31:46 – Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: George Perry, PhDIn this conversation, Dr. George Perry discusses the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, challenging conventional beliefs about its causes and emphasizing the importance of understanding its relationship with dementia. He highlights the significance of genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and social connections in managing cognitive health. The discussion also covers current treatment options, the role of clinical trials, and the impact of social isolation on cognitive decline, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Perry advocates for a holistic approach to Alzheimer's treatment, focusing on prevention and the importance of community involvement.#podcast #alzheimersawareness #dementia00:00 - Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease 02:29 - Understanding Alzheimer's Disease 05:20 - Dementia vs. Alzheimer's 07:06 - Challenging Conventional Wisdom 09:55 - The Role of Plaques and Tangles 12:12 - Genetic Factors in Alzheimer's 17:23 - Current Treatments and Clinical Trials 21:56 - Testing for Alzheimer's Risk 24:55 - The Impact of Social Isolation 30:16 - Future Perspectives on Alzheimer's Treatment

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Leanne Woods-Burnham, PhDIn this episode of the LifeBeat Podcast, host Kermit G. Payne sits down with Dr. Leanne Woods-Burnham, a leading researcher in prostate cancer health disparities. Together, they unpack why African American men face the highest rates of prostate cancer incidence and mortality. Dr. Woods-Burnham shares the groundbreaking research behind these disparities, the lack of representation in clinical trials, and how her work is uncovering the genetic, social, and systemic factors at play.From the lab to the community, this conversation highlights the urgent need for equity in cancer research and the fight to save Black men’s lives.#LifeBeat #1JGCollabs #podcast #ProstateCancer #CancerResearch #BlackMenHealth #HealthDisparities #Genetics #ClinicalTrials #HealthEquity #CancerAwareness #STEM #RepresentationMatters #MenHealthMatters #ScienceForChange #ProstateCancerAwareness #BlackExcellence #MedicalResearch #PublicHealth00:00 - Introduction02:04 - Dr. Woods-Burnham's Journey and Commitment to Health Equity03:17 - Understanding Prostate Cancer in Black Men06:24 - The Biology of Cancer and Genetic Links09:00 - Challenges in Genetic Research and Ancestry12:09 - The Importance of Diversity in Biospecimens13:23 - A Day in the Life of a Translational Scientist15:49 - Experiences in West Africa and Collaborative Potential18:11 - The Need for Diverse Cell Lines in Research22:21 - Community Programs and Prostate Cancer Screening23:55 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Generations

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Talitha M. Washington, PhDIn this episode of the Life Beat Podcast, host Kermit Payne engages with Dr. Talitha Washington, the executive director of the Howard University Center for Applied Data Science and Analytics. They discuss the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and data science in improving health outcomes and quality of life. Dr. Washington emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into education to foster critical thinking and curiosity, while also addressing the ethical implications of data privacy and security. The conversation highlights the need for public-private partnerships to ensure equitable access to emerging technologies, particularly for historically marginalized groups. The episode concludes with a call to stay curious and engaged in the evolving landscape of technology.#LifeBeat #1JGCollabs #podcast #ArtificialIntelligence #DataScience #Analytics #STEMEducation #CriticalThinking #DataPrivacy #HealthcareInnovation #MachineLearning #TechForGood #PublicPrivatePartnerships #FutureOfWork #DigitalEquity #EthicalAI #InnovationInHealth #CuriosityDriven #STEMForAll #SmartTech #HealthTech #DataDriven00:00 – Introduction to AI and Data Science01:35 – The Role of Data Science in Improving Lives05:03 – Integrating AI in Education and Critical Thinking09:13 – STEM Education and Curiosity12:37 – Understanding Data and Critical Thinking16:20 – Data Privacy and Security Concerns23:56 – The Future of AI in Healthcare and Beyond27:03 – Public-Private Partnerships in AI31:41 – Closing Thoughts on Curiosity and Technology

Host: Kermit G. PayneGuest: Monica K. Esquivel, PhD, RDNIn this episode of LifeBeat, host Kermit Payne speaks with Dr. Monica Esquivel about the critical issues surrounding food security, health disparities, and childhood obesity. They explore the psychosocial impacts of food insecurity on children, the cultural influences on diet, and practical strategies for creating healthier eating environments. Dr. Esquivel emphasizes the importance of family meals, the role of parents as role models, and the need to address stigma associated with childhood obesity. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of nutrition, mental health, and community engagement in fostering better health outcomes for children.#LifeBeat #1JGCollabs #podcast #FoodSecurity #HealthDisparities #PediatricNutrition #ChildhoodObesity #PsychosocialHealth #CulturalInfluences #HealthyEating #FamilyMeals #CommunityHealth #DietitianAdvice #Wellness

Host: Kermit G. Payne Guest: Saundra Maass-Robinson, MDIn this episode of the Life Beat podcast, host Mr. Kermit Payne engages with Dr. Sandra Maass-Robinson, a psychiatrist with extensive experience in clinical trials and disaster relief. They discuss the disparities in clinical trial participation, particularly among minority populations, and the importance of building trust in the healthcare system. Dr. Maass-Robinson emphasizes the need for patients to advocate for themselves and be informed about their treatment options, including clinical trials. The conversation also touches on the cultural barriers surrounding mental health discussions, the impact of trauma, and the significance of community engagement in improving mental health outcomes.#LifeBeat #1JGCollabs #podcast #clinicaltrials #mentalhealth #patientadvocacy #culturalbarriers #disasterrelief #psychiatricmedications #psychiatry #medication #trust #healthcare #qualityoflife #PTSD #communityengagement

Join Dr. Rick Kittles for an insightful conversation about the crucial connection between race, genetics, and health disparities. He challenges the myth of biological race, framing it as a social construct with deep historical roots. Dr. Kittles emphasizes the need to integrate genetic research with community engagement to effectively address health disparities, particularly in the African American community. Drawing from his extensive journey in biomedical research, he shares valuable insights and advice for future generations of researchers and community leaders. Don't miss this important exploration of how ancestry impacts health! #1JGCollabs #LifeBeat #podcast #Beyond20 #race #genetics #healthdisparities #ancestory #precisionmedicine #communityengagement #AfricanAmericanhealth #genomics #SDOH #biomedicalresearch

In this podcast episode, we talk to Dr. Carli Culjat about the role of cross-cultural communication and health literacy in enhancing health outcomes and promoting health equity. She underscores the importance for healthcare providers to honor and understand their patients' diverse cultural backgrounds while ensuring communication is clear and accessible. Dr. Culjat also sheds light on the vital role nurses play in advancing health equity and pushing for meaningful changes in healthcare policies and practices. She urges individuals to be proactive in their healthcare by asking questions, seeking support, and actively engaging in their health journey. #1JGCollabs #LifeBeat #podcast #Beyond20 #HealthEquity #CrossCulturalCommunication #HealthLiteracy #Nursing #HealthcareReform #PatientAdvocacy #CulturalCompetence #HealthCareJourney

In this enlightening video, Dr. Daniel Sarpong explores the groundbreaking Jackson Heart Study and its impact on addressing health disparities and advancing social justice. Dr. Sarpong delves into how the study, focused on cardiovascular disease among African Americans in Mississippi, has provided critical insights into health equity. He underscores the importance of tackling social drivers of health and engaging with communities to create meaningful change. Dr. Sarpong shares his academic journey from Jackson State University to Yale University, highlighting the pivotal roles of biostatistics and epidemiology in public health. He also sheds light on the contributions of Research Centers in Minority Serving Institutions (RCMI) and the value of community-based participatory research in bridging gaps in healthcare. Through his inspiring story, Dr. Sarpong demonstrates that every action, no matter how small, can contribute to significant improvements in health outcomes and the pursuit of social justice. Join us to learn about the vital intersection of research, community engagement, and systemic change in public health. #JacksonHeartStudy #HealthDisparities #SocialJustice #CardiovascularHealth #Biostatistics #Epidemiology #RCMI #CommunityResearch #HealthEquity #PublicHealth #MinorityHealth #Inspiration

In this compelling interview, Chancellor Bennie Harris shares his transformative journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading figure in higher education. Join us as Chancellor Harris discusses his vision for impacting young lives, the role of education in breaking barriers, and his path to leading the University of South Carolina Upstate. #1JGCollabs #LifeBeat #Beyond20 #podcast #Leadership #Education #Mentorship #Diversity #Inspiration #UniversityLeadership #ChancellorBennieHarris #HigherEducation

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kevin B. Sneed, Dean of the College of Pharmacy at the University of South Florida, as he delves into the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare. From discussing the current state of AI in the medical field to exploring future innovations like remote patient monitoring and digital health, Dr. Sneed shares his expert insights on how AI enhances patient care and early disease detection. Discover how AI addresses healthcare challenges, the importance of consumer education, and the exciting advancements on the horizon. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a tech enthusiast, or just curious about the future of medicine, this discussion provides valuable perspectives on the intersection of technology and health. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content on the future of healthcare and technology! #1JGCollabs #Beyond20 #podcast #LifeBeat #AIinHealthcare #DigitalHealth #RemotePatientMonitoring #ArtificialIntelligence #HealthcareInnovation #DrKevinBSneed #HealthTech #MachineLearning #FutureOfMedicine #Telehealth #DataSecurity

Accompany Kermit G. Payne as he engages in a powerful conversation with Dr. Asa Radix, an infectious disease and HIV specialist at the Callen-Lorde Community Center in New York City. Their dialogue highlights the center's remarkable history and its unwavering mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to the LGBTQ+ community. They shine a light on the wide array of services available, including primary care, transgender health, GYN services, dental health, anal health, HIV treatment, sexual health, and more. Dr. Radix passionately underscores the significance of safe spaces and the transformative role of community advisory boards in driving positive health outcomes. Additionally, they delve into the pressing issues of challenges and attacks on transgender healthcare, emphasizing the vital need for policy advocacy. Finally, they share insights on the impactful TEAM study, dedicated to enhancing cancer care for sexual and gender minorities.#1JGCollabs #Beyond20 #podcast #CallenLorde #CommunityCenter #LGBTQ+ #healthcare #transgender #health #primarycare #HIV #treatment #sexualhealth #community #advisoryboard #policy #advocacy #cancer #care

Join us as Dr. Latrice Rollins, Director, National African American Child and Family Research Center discusses the role of African American Men in the Black Family. #1JGCollabs #Beyond20 #podcast #blackmen #family #blackfamilies #blackfathers #blackexcellence #blackfamily #blackmen #blacklivesmatter #blackdads #blackfathersmatter #fatherhood #blackman #blackfatherhood #blackcommunity #blackculture #dadlife #dad #blackfamilies #black #blackunity