In this compelling panel discussion, host Shelly Brantley, Board Member of the California State Rural Health Association, brings together the powerhouse team behind UC Berkeley’s groundbreaking Rural Health Innovation Program. You'll hear from program founder and nationally recognized rural health leader Lynn Barr, faculty director Kim MacPherson, and two dynamic scholars blazing new trails in rural public health: Michelle Saenz and Rexanne Greenstreet.

You’ll also hear how students gain hands-on policy experience through trips to Washington, D.C., where they meet with congressional staff and advocate for fairer healthcare reimbursement for rural communities.

This episode is a must-listen for public health professionals, rural leaders, policymakers, and anyone who believes health equity shouldn't be determined by a zip code.

Tune in and hear how UC Berkeley’s Rural Health Innovation Program is not just educating the next generation of rural changemakers—it’s empowering them to lead the movement.

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

•  Lynn Barr's Journey and Insights
•  Kim McPherson's Background and Focus
•  Anne's Experience in Public Health
•  Michelle's Role in Behavioral Health
•  Founding the Rural Health Innovation Program
•  Challenges in Rural Health
•  Designing a Unique MPH Program
•  Student Perspectives and Community Impact
•  Challenges in Public Health
•  Michelle's Policy Fellowship Experience
•  Empowerment Through Advocacy
•  California State Rural Health Association
•  Personal Growth and Opportunities
•  Applying Knowledge in Public Health
•  Financial Empowerment and Creativity
•  Encouragement for Prospective Students

Connect with Our Guests:

• Lynn Barr: LinkedIn
• Kim MacPherson: UC Berkeley
• Michelle Saenz: LinkedIn
• Rexanne Greenstreet: LinkedIn 

Resources

• UC Berkeley School of Public Health – Online MPH (Rural Health Innovation Program), 

The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. 

For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.

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Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.