If you want to listen to the full episode (XYBM 140) from this clip, search for the title: "Ep. 140: Why Black Men don’t trust the Healthcare System with Dr. Forde” — it was released on September 22, 2025

In XYBM 140, I sit down with Dr. Michael H. Forde, Director of Health Equity at Aetna Better Health of Maryland, for a powerful conversation on health, equity, and advocacy in the Black community. With over a decade of experience in public health strategy, innovation, and education, Dr. Forde leads statewide efforts to reduce disparities and improve care access for Maryland's Medicaid population. We dive into the impact of medical gaslighting on Black men and women, the importance of self-advocacy and community support, and debunk the damaging myth that Black men are “strong enough to handle it all on their own.”
Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on health equity, empowerment, and the tools Black men need to take control of their well-being. Available on all podcast streaming platforms, including YouTube.


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