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
Today we continue our new series dedicated to answering a crucial question: "What is Public Health?" This series was created to energize and demystify a field that's often misunderstood, undervalued, and underfunded. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring leaders, who use compelling storytelling and plain language to explain their focus areas, no heavy jargon allowed. In this episode, Dr. Huntley welcomes Visha Patel, an oncology nurse, cancer epidemiology researcher, and passionate public health advocate. Visha shares her personal journey from bedside nursing to population-level impact, unpacking how public health works behind the scenes to protect and uplift communities. Together they explore the definition of health, the many dimensions of public health work, the value of plain language communication, and the vital role of empathy, conversation, and storytelling in elevating public health's value for everyone. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
This episode marks the launch of our dynamic new series designed to answer one simple but crucial question: "What is Public Health?" This series was created to illuminate a field that is all too often misunderstood, undervalued, and underfunded. Inspiring leaders will join us to demystify public health by sharing their unique focus areas through compelling stories always in plain, engaging language with no heavy scientific jargon. In this premiere episode, Dr. Huntley sits down with Allie Murphy, Masters of Public Health student at the University of Texas Medical Branch, to unpack the real meaning of public health in a globalized world. From the triumphs and challenges of infectious disease control to the essential role of empathy and collaboration, this conversation turns public health from an abstract concept into an accessible and actionable force for every community. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and empowered as we kick off a series committed to making public health relevant for everyone. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
This dynamic episode with Santiago Ojeda Sainz spotlights his journey as a Master of Public Health student and passionate advocate for social and behavioral sciences, immigrant health, and micro-mobility safety. Santiago's story, leadership roles, and future ambitions illustrate the new wave of public health professionals driving innovation and collaboration to address real-world challenges in diverse communities. The episode explores mentorship, student empowerment, and urgent road safety issues, inviting listeners to take part in mentoring the next generation and advocating for safer, more equitable public health. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
This episode features an engaging and heartfelt conversation between Dr. Charlotte Huntley and Parnia Roghani-Shareef, highlighting her inspiring career journey, leadership in public health, and commitment to workforce development and behavioral health. The discussion covers actionable strategies and personal insights about building resilience, combating burnout, and fostering collaboration across the public health sector. Listeners are provided with networking advice, mentorship resources, and a glimpse into innovative overdose prevention initiatives, making this episode essential listening for public health professionals, students, and anyone interested in strengthening communities through public health action. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
Dr. Huntley sits down with Annee Morris Reed, Policy Director at the Funders Forum on Accountable Health and lecturer at George Washington University's Milken Institute School of Public Health. The conversation explores Anne's inspiring career spanning senior policy roles within the federal government, her dedication to community-driven, multi-sector partnerships, and the impact of landmark legislation like the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill (the "one big beautiful bill"). Together, Dr. Huntley and Anne unpack the vital differences between public health and healthcare, highlight actionable strategies for advocacy, and empower listeners to create positive change in their communities. Even in challenging political climates. Resources 📲 Join the PHEC Podcast Community App ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
This episode features an inspiring conversation between public health visionaries Dr. Charlotte Huntley and Dr. Marissa Levine, delving into the evolving landscape of public health leadership. Centered around the concept of regenerative leadership, the discussion explores how adaptive, systems-thinking approaches are transforming both individuals and organizations to better serve communities amid ongoing complexity. With decades of leadership experience, from serving as Virginia's State Health Commissioner to advancing work in academia, Dr. Levine offers practical strategies to strengthen emotional intelligence, collaborative cultures, and sustainable change in public and community health. Whether for aspiring leaders, health professionals, or anyone passionate about social impact, this episode offers rich insights and practical tools to nurture resilience and adaptability in today's challenging environment. 📲 Join the PHEC Podcast Community App ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
In this deeply moving and energizing episode, Dr. Huntley interviews Shanthi Hegde, a rare disease advocate, board leader, and soon-to-be public health student at Brown University. Shanthi shares her powerful journey as a young woman of color living with multiple rare bleeding disorders and an immune dysregulatory syndrome, and she details the systemic barriers patients like her face at every level of the healthcare system. Shanthi's work spans national and grassroots levels, serving on the Board of the Hemophilia Federation of America, founding innovative young adult advocacy groups, and leading education, policy, and mental health initiatives for the rare disease and bleeding disorder community. Drawing from her lived experience and academic lens, she delivers invaluable lessons on how patient stories shape policy, why rare diseases matter for public health, and how even a single voice can spark sweeping change. 📲 Join the PHEC Podcast Community App ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
In this inspiring episode, Dr. Huntley welcomes Robyn Bussey, a self-described "health equitist" and Health Equity Director at the Partnership for Southern Equity (PSE). With deep roots in rural Georgia and a passion for amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, Robyn shares her personal journey from growing up as the daughter of a beloved rural public health nurse to leading innovative, community-driven health equity initiatives across the American South. Robyn provides listeners with practical insights on building community trust, supporting maternal and reproductive health, and navigating today's complex public health landscape, especially in regions facing systemic barriers, hospital closures, and heightened political pressure. Through her work with the Just Health Academy and PSE, Robyn demonstrates what's possible when organizations and individuals come together to center communities and drive sustainable change from within. Discover actionable strategies for advocating health equity, building community capacity, and finding purpose and resilience. Even when the odds seem stacked against them. 📲 Join the PHEC Podcast Community App ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
Dr. Huntley sits down with Abby Tighe, a former CDC public health advisor and co-founder of the Fired by Fighting coalition. Together, they share an insider's look at the nationwide impact of the 2025 mass firing of thousands of CDC and HHS professionals and the dangerous dismantling of America's public health infrastructure. They also highlight how a grassroots movement is fighting back. Abby details her unexpected professional journey, her passion for equitable and rural health, and how losing her position became a rallying point for collective advocacy and transparency. Through her story and the birth of Fired by Fighting, listeners are called to action: Public health needs everyone, whether you're an expert, advocate, or everyday citizen. If you care about the health of your community, want to understand the real impact of policy changes, or are curious how you can help rebuild and protect America's public health future, this episode is for you. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Podcast Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntley, Public Health & Epidemiology Consulting
D Colli
This is a great podcast. I don’t like the sponsored undertone