Stay ConnectedCurious about the people who are making the world healthier and safer for us all, and what set them on that path?
Get inspired as the CDC Foundation interviews experts who share their unique perspectives on today’s toughest health challenges, such as antibiotic resistance, global disease outbreaks, health equality and more.
Copyright: © 2019 CDC Foundation All rights reserved
Have you ever asked yourself what routine auto repairs can teach us about how we think of our investment in public health? Listen in on our latest Contagious Conversations podcast as host Claire Stinson uncovers the answers and details how quick action quashed a recent outbreak of an illness long considered to be eliminated in the United States.
In this episode, “The Costs of Getting Sick,” we explore the overlap between public health and the health of our economy with guests Dr. Dan Filardo of CDC, Dr. Michael Osterholm of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy and Dr. Alexander Sloboda of the Chicago Department of Public Health. Join us!
Episode Quotes
“Obviously, the rash, the fever, cough, red, itchy eyes, runny nose are the symptoms commonly you get with measles, but it can also be very dangerous, and it can be deadly sometimes.”
— Dr. Alexander Sloboda, Medical Director of Immunization and Emergency Preparedness Programs, Chicago Department of Public Health
“Because this case was in a large congregate setting, we were really in communication with Chicago right off the bat, anticipating that there might be an outbreak.”
— Dr. Dan Filardo, a medical officer with CDC’s measles team
“You have outbreaks in schools with these vaccine-preventable diseases, you interrupt education substantially. Now, what's the cost of that? What does that mean? What happens when kids fall behind? What happens when the teachers can't teach? And, unfortunately, we don't have a lot of these things qualified or quantified in terms of what they really mean, economically.”
— Dr. Michael Osterholm, author and director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy
Thanks to Our Guests
Dr. Dan Filardo, a medical officer with the measles team at CDC
Dr. Alexander Sloboda of the Chicago Department of Public Health
Dr. Michael Osterholm, author and director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy
For more information and full episode transcripts, go to Contagious Conversations.
Host Claire Stinson welcomes you to a special year-end episode of Contagious Conversations focused on highlights from the 2023 season! Listen to selections from the year’s episodes on topics as diverse as heath threats facing Black women; training the next generation of public health professionals; and the respiratory triple threat posed by COVID-19, influenza and RSV.
Highlights featured include the groundbreaking vaccination approach that led to the eradication of smallpox in 1980; how investigators zeroed in on the cause of an outbreak of a drug-resistant strain of pseudomonas aeruginosa found in contaminated eye drops; the health threats most common to women, and the particular challenges faced by Black women; a conversation with new CDC director Dr. Mandy Cohen; and more.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:25] Drs. Bill Foege and Mark Rosenberg codeveloped a project called “Becoming Better Ancestors: Nine Lessons to Change the World”. Dr. Foege talks about his inspiration for this project.[3:09] Dr. Laura Evans discusses the triple threat of COVID-19, influenza and RSV, and shares with the audience her thoughts on how to stay healthy and the importance of vaccines against respiratory threats.
[4:37] April was National Minority Health Month and for that occasion Dr. Judy Monroe spoke with Dr. Melody McCloud, an Atlanta-based obstetrician/gynecologist, who shared her insight into the most common health threats women face.
[6:22] CDC epidemiologist Dr. Danielle Rankin talks about her role investigating the cause of the outbreak of a drug resistant strain of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa.
[7:21] CDC director Dr. Mandy Cohen speaks with Dr. Judy Monroe about the experience she brings to her position and CDC’s priorities going forward.
[8:59] Drs. Ezekiel Emanuel and Jerome Adams discuss hypertension in America and the risks it poses to almost half of U.S. adults. In this episode, Dr. Adams highlights the ethnic inequities in diagnosing and controlling this silent killer.
Doctors have long known that hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a leading risk factor for heart attack and stroke. Yet today, nearly half of all adults in the United States have hypertension, creating a silent public health threat.
Host Dr. Judy Monroe is joined by Dr. Jerome Adams and Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel. Dr. Adams is a former U.S. Surgeon General of the United States and now serves as the executive director of Purdue University’s Health Equity Initiatives. Dr. Emanuel is vice provost for global initiatives and the Diane v.S. Levy and Robert M. Levy University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. In this episode, the doctors discuss the health risks posed by hypertension, reasons why it is so prevalent in the U.S. and the steps we can all take to stay healthy.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:46] Why is hypertension so prevalent?
[2:20] Dr. Emanuel discusses the lack of exercise as a contributing factor to high hypertension rates in the U.S. adult population.
[2:52] Dr. Emanuel addresses the issues of poor diet, processed food and high sodium intake as they relate to hypertension.
[3:13] Obesity is a major factor for hypertension.
[3:50] Alcohol consumption as a contributor to high rates of hypertension.
[4:23] Dr. Adams highlights the impact of poor hypertension control among those impacted.
[7:14] What steps can Americans take to address the higher impact of hypertension among the Black community?
[8:53] Dr. Adams discusses systemic racism and its impact on hypertension control.
[9:30] Dr. Emanuel emphasizes what he calls ‘huge’ health inequities in hypertension.
[10:44] The lack of awareness regarding hypertension is part of the problem.
[12:50] During the pandemic, more people were lost each year to hypertension than to COVID-19.
[13:06] Dr. Adams explains the three goals of the Surgeon General’s call to action.
Mentioned in This Episode: Surgeon General’s Call to Action
Each year, fall means heading back to school for the nation’s students. But as students, teachers and school staff return again this year, the social, academic and mental health impacts of the pandemic are still being felt.
In this episode, host Claire Stinson speaks with Heather Martel-Balfour about the mental health challenges faced by students and teachers in today's educational environment, and the approaches educational professionals used to cope with the strains of the workplace. Heather is a social worker and behavioral interventionist for a small rural school in southern Maine. She is starting her 15th year in public education, with her roles spanning from educational technician and paraprofessional to her current role as a licensed clinical social worker.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:04] Heather talks about her role at the school she works in.
[1:51] What does Heather love most about her job?
[2:37] Heather shares her perspective regarding the overall mood of teachers and students in the first weeks of school.
[3:15] Is there optimism or worry about being behind in the curriculum due to COVID-19?
[4:21] What are some of the major challenges that affect teacher and staff mental health?
[5:56] Heather affirms her work in education is harder now than ever before.
[6:50] What are some particular challenges for students in rural settings?
[9:13] What are the greatest challenges for teachers returning to school this year?
[11:22] How do these challenges impact the students' mental health?
[13:12] Heather discusses the resources she would like to see available for educational professionals.
[14:12] What steps can teachers take to reduce stress?
[17:26] What can students do to reduce stress?
[20:09] What are the biggest opportunities for overcoming mental health challenges for teachers?
Mentioned in This Episode:
We're bringing you a special episode this month, as our president and CEO sits down for a conversation with Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Administrator.
Dr. Cohen has extensive experience leading large and complex organizations and a proven track record protecting Americans’ health and safety. An internal medicine physician by training, Dr. Cohen led the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services during the COVID crisis, where she was lauded for her outstanding leadership and her focus on equity, data accountability and transparent communication. She also transformed the North Carolina Medicaid program through the state’s Medicaid expansion.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:58] What does Dr. Cohen want people to know about her? What were her thoughts while deciding to accept the position as CDC Director?
[4:47] What are Dr. Cohen’s priorities as she becomes the CDC Director?
[7:56] What skills did Dr. Cohen learn at the state level that she thinks will translate to this new position at CDC?
[12:05] Dr. Cohen discusses the current status of COVID-19.
[13:34] What does Dr. Cohen believe public health success looks like?
[15:51] The nation faces considerable political divisions and there are trust gaps between public health organizations and some Americans. How do public health and CDC regain that trust?
[18:03] What is CDC doing to address the health threats of climate change?
[20:28] How is CDC preparing for new public health challenges?
[22:19] Where are we winning in public health and how will CDC replicate those wins?
[25:15] What is the most exciting thing about your position at CDC?
Mentioned in This Episode:
In 2022, a mysterious outbreak of a deadly drug-resistant bacteria began spreading across several U.S. states. A CDC investigation would eventually reveal an unusual culprit: common eye drops.
In this episode, Dr. Danielle Rankin takes us behind the scenes of the investigation, sharing how they made their big break and what we've learned as a result.
Dr. Rankin is an epidemiologist for the Antimicrobial Resistance Team in the Division of Healthcare Quality and Promotion at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prior to pursuing her PhD, she was an epidemiologist for the Florida Department of Health Healthcare Associated Infections Program. Dr. Rankin has published 28 manuscripts and throughout her career has conducted over 70 infection control assessments and investigated more than 60 domestic infectious disease outbreaks.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:37] When did CDC first learn about the Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections?
[2:58] What led to discovering the bacteria transmitted through eye drops?
[4:30] What was Dr. Rankin’s first big break in this investigation?
[6:42] What do we know about this bacteria and its origin?
[8:25] Bacteria like these are constantly evolving to resist antibiotic treatment; Dr. Rankin talks about the cause of antibiotic resistance and the role of CDC in researching solutions.
[10:08] Dr. Rankin talks about the role of CDC on a global scale.
[10:39] What steps does CDC take when an outbreak like this occurs?
[12:42] Why are partnerships critical in responding to outbreaks?
[13:40] What is the outbreak investigation state currently? Do any threats remain?
[15:48] Has anything surprised Dr. Rankin about this particular outbreak?
[17:33] How is CDC preparing to meet the challenge of future outbreaks?
Mentioned in This Episode:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death for Americans overall. And sadly, our nation’s veterans face even higher rates of suicide. In this month's episode, we discuss the crisis of veteran suicide and the community-based preventative approaches being taken today.
Joining us in this conversation is Nicola Winkel, project director for the Arizona Coalition for Military Families. ACMF is a nationally recognized public-private partnership focused on building Arizona's statewide capacity to care for, serve and support service members, veterans and their families and communities. In her role, Nicola oversees the coalition’s Be Connected Program, a support ecosystem for service members, veterans and their families. Winkel is also the spouse of a veteran herself and has more than 20 years experience in nonprofit program development and implementation.
If you know of a veteran experiencing a crisis, dial 988, then press 1 for help.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:04] Nicola discusses the challenges many veterans and service members are facing.
[2:33] In the past decade, Americans have become more aware of the hardships faced by veterans.
[3:24] Nicola shares the mission of the Arizona Coalition for Military Families.
[4:16] Nicola addresses the importance of upstream efforts in suicide prevention.
[6:20] Why are organizations such as the Arizona Coalition for Military Families so important for veteran suicide prevention?
[7:24] What is veteran engagement like with community-based organizations?
[8:44] Nicola discusses how the community integration and connectedness model in building an ecosystem of support.
[11:04] Nicola talks about the Coaching into Connection Program.
[12:22] Veterans have shared experiences that helped them connect to each other through bad times.
[14:35] Nicola discusses her organization’s involvement in the Veteran Suicide Prevention Evaluation project.
[16:36] How has their increased capacity for evaluation most significantly impacted their work?
[17:20] Nicola describes the evolution of their programming.
[20:42] What does Nicola see as the greatest opportunity to prevent suicide and protect our veterans?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn more about the CDC Foundation’s efforts to prevent veteran suicide.
Physicians face many challenges in treating people living with pain, especially in light of the U.S. opioid overdose epidemic. In today's episode, we speak with Dr. Chris Jones on how physicians are handling these challenges, and the steps CDC is taking at a community level to help address the issue.
Dr. Chris Jones is Director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Jones's career in public health includes leadership and advisory roles at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Mental Health.
This month's episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:39] Dr. Jones talks about his role at CDC.
[3:15] Dr. Jones discusses the impact of the opioid epidemic in the United States.
[5:05] Dr. Jones speaks of CDC’s Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain that was released last November.
[5:41] What challenges do physicians face when treating people dealing with chronic pain during the opioid epidemic?
[9:24] What was the response from physicians and pharmacists to the opioid prescribing guidelines released in 2022?
[12:50] Dr. Jones talks about the work CDC is doing regarding the opioid epidemic at a community level.
[17:48] Dr. Jones highlights the value of collaboration.
[19:58] What is the greatest opportunity to address the opioid overdose epidemic?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn more about the work of CDC regarding the opioid epidemic
As we emerge from the COVID public health emergency, it is a critical time to think about the future of public health. The next generation of public health workers will be charged with leading through the challenges that lie ahead. In this episode, we speak with Anna Heilers and Dr. Antoine Denis, two public health students who are preparing to meet these public health challenges of tomorrow.
Anna is currently an MPH candidate at Indiana University, Purdue University Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health. She works with the Indiana State Department of Health while in school, and during her schooling has had broad professional experience through research, internships, data collection and supporting infectious disease investigations. Antoine is an MPH student at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. In 2022, he launched an effort to improve health safety in New York City by strengthening a network of hand sanitation stations in subway stations and other transportation nodes around the city.
This month's episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:24] How did Anna get interested in public health?
[2:28] Dr. Denis shares how he got involved in public health.
[4:18] Why is engaging in the public health world important?
[6:33] What is driving schools of public health to so actively support the work of health departments across the country?
[8:20] Anna talks about the reasons for collaboration between the schools of public health and health departments.
[10:03] Antoine talks about the goals of the RISE project.
[12:35] What was the biggest surprise during the RISE project?
[14:48] Antoine speaks of Academic Immersion in Health Care, a nonprofit organization he founded.
[17:28] Anna shares her experience at the Department of Health and her current role as a Covid 19 epidemiologist on the CDC reporting team.
[20:03] How does Anna balance the workload of study while engaging in active public health work?
[21:55] Where are organizations strongest and weakest in providing public health students opportunities to interact with their communities?
[24:20] How does Anna think her experiences will shape her future career in public health?
[25:19] Antoine shares how he believes his experience will shape his future career in public health.
[27:00] What does Antoine see as the most significant challenges ahead in public health?
[28:38] Anna shares what she believes are the biggest challenges ahead in public health.
Mentioned in This Episode:
April is National Minority Health Month, and this episode we're sitting down with Dr. Melody McCloud to discuss the health threats faced by minority women—Black women in particular—as well as the vital role of equity in public health.
Dr. McCloud is an obstetrician-gynecologist who became the first black woman to establish an OB-GYN practice in DeKalb County, Georgia. Dr. McCloud is also the founder and medical director of Atlanta Women's Healthcare PC and lectures nationwide on women's health, sex and social issues. Her recent book, entitled Black Women's Wellness: Your "I've Got This!" Guide to Health, Sex, and Phenomenal Living, was released in January.
This month's episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
1:40] Dr. McCloud talks about her life journey and what drew her to the field of medicine.
[3:28] What are some of the most significant physical health threats faced by minority women, and what effect do societal stresses have on black women’s physical health?
[4:55] Dr. Monroe and Dr. McCloud discuss homicide as the sixth leading cause of death among Black people.
[6:00] Dr. McCloud speaks of the journey of writing her book.
[7:49] What changes has Dr. McCloud seen in maternal health outcomes?
[10:22] What are the most important steps that women, particularly minority women, can take to improve their health and well-being?
[13:06] Why is it essential that we focus on health equity? Where can this focus lead us in public health?
[15:29] Dr. McCloud addresses implicit racial bias.
[16:15] Dr. McCloud speaks of the societal stress black women experience.
[17:19] What bright spots does Dr. McCloud see in public health related to women?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Black Women's Wellness: Your "I've Got This!" Guide to Health, Sex, and Phenomenal Living
You've probably heard a lot recently about the so-called "tridemic" or "tripledemic." This concurrent impact of COVID-19, influenza and RSV introduced major challenges to our public health system...but taught major lessons, too.
David Snyder, director of content for the CDC Foundation, is your guest host for today’s episode. He's joined by Dr. Laura Evans, a professor in the Division of Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the University of Washington and medical director of critical care at the University of Washington Medical Center. Dr. Evans also serves as the principal investigator of the Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Preparedness study—known as SARI Prep—supported by the CDC Foundation as a way to provide better clinical care and treatment for those with severe respiratory illness.
In this episode, David and Laura discuss the recent tridemic of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as the origins, purpose and impact of the Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Preparedness study.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:36] Dr. Evans talks about the unique and remarkable event of the recent tridemic.
[3:22] How does an acute respiratory infectious disease affect the life of someone infected?
[5:18] Dr. Evans talks about what lessons we have learned from seasonal influenza.
[6:07] What barriers do we face in educating people about the health risks of respiratory infections?
[8:08] Dr. Evans explains how COVID affects every aspect of our society.
[8:45] Dr. Evans speaks of the origins of the Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Preparedness study.
[11:33] What are the main goals of the study?
[14:18] Dr. Evans shares the importance of remembering that patient care doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it occurs within a healthcare system.
[15:45] How do you measure the level of stress suffered by medical staff and people caring for patients with respiratory infectious diseases?
[19:08] Dr. Evans talks about the infrastructure necessary for an effective emergency response.
[22:24] Dr. Evans shares what surprised her during the study.
[24:06] How can this study prepare us for the next outbreak?
Mentioned in This Episode:
What lessons can we learn from public health victories like the eradication of smallpox? How can we expand those lessons to the fight against non-infectious diseases, too? And how can each of us become a better ancestor to the generations to come?
This episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, in conversation with Dr. Bill Foege and Dr. Mark Rosenberg.
Dr. Foege is a renowned physician and epidemiologist well known for his contributions to the eradication of smallpox in the late 1970s. A former CDC director, Dr. Foege has spent his career championing the science and management of vaccines and vaccination.
Dr. Mark Rosenberg is a physician-scientist trained in infectious diseases, psychiatry and public health, who served as the founding director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control and as the U.S. assistant surgeon general. From 2000-2016, Dr. Rosenberg was president and CEO of The Task Force for Global Health, which was instrumental in providing people in the developing world with greater access to vaccines and critical medicines.
Through The Center of Global Health Innovation, Dr. Foege and Dr. Rosenberg codeveloped a project called “Becoming Better Ancestors™: 9 Lessons to Change the World,” dedicated to solving global health concerns and creating positive change for future generations.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
1:45] Dr. Foege speaks about the nine lessons he learned from eradicating smallpox.
[5:44] Were these lessons applied to the public health response to COVID-19?
[8:51] Dr. Rosenberg shares why he advocates for global health collaboration in his project Becoming Better Ancestors™.
[9:34] The five essential parts of forming a successful coalition.
[11:25] Dr. Foege talks about the effective approach to eradicating smallpox.
[14:45] Dr. Foege talks about Becoming Better Ancestors™ and what they want to achieve with this project.
[21:25] What does it mean to become a better ancestor to Dr. Foege?
[22:51] What do Dr. Foege and Dr. Rosenberg believe it will take for public health to stay ahead of future public threats?
[28:16] Dr. Rosenberg explains why these lessons apply to non-infectious disease problems.
[30:19] Dr. Rosenberg emphasizes the power of compassion
Mentioned in This Episode:
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How can creative messaging and the arts help people better understand issues around antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance? Our guests discuss the power of art to promote public health and protective behaviors, as well as the power of patient advocacy in raising awareness about these issues.
This episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, in conversation with Dr. Meghan Perry and Ella Balasa. Dr. Perry is an infectious disease physician in the Scottish National Health Service and a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Her experience with infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance sparked the idea for a musical titled "The Mold That Changed the World," which details the life of Dr. Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of penicillin. Ella has endured a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis and has experienced lung infections by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Her journey led her to become a patient advocate for cystic fibrosis.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:54] Dr. Perry shares how she became involved in the production of “The Mold that Changed the World.”
[5:20] Dr. Perry talks about the story within the story of Alexander Fleming’s groundbreaking discovery.
[6:06] Ella talks about her journey as a patient with cystic fibrosis.
[10:16] Dr. Perry talks about the innovative therapies in the field of antimicrobial resistance.
[14:55] What unique opportunities do the arts present for public health messaging?
[17:21] Ella talks about becoming a patient advocate.
[21:18] Does Ella think that medical professionals can better communicate to the public the threats posed by anti-microbial resistance and how to avoid contributing to the problem?
[23:10] Ella talks about the economic aspects of prescribing antibiotics.
[23:47] Dr. Perry talks about other emerging public health issues that could also benefit from art as a medium to spread awareness.
[25:10] The guests reinforce the idea that people should only take antibiotics when they absolutely need them.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, is your special host for today’s episode, as we discuss nutrition, medicine and public health with Dr. Thea James and Dr. Elizabeth Petelin... starting with a mystery clinical case that at first seems straight out of the 18th century.
Dr. James is an associate professor at the Boston Medical Center, vice president of mission, associate chief medical officer and co-executive director of the Health Equity Accelerator. Dr. James also serves on the board of Community Servings, an organization that engages communities to provide scratch-made, medically tailored meals to individuals and their families experiencing critical or chronic illness and nutrition insecurity. Dr. Petelin is in her third year of residency in the Family Medicine Residency Program at MercyOne in Des Moines, IA, and has a background in kinesiology.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] Dr. Petelin talks about an unusual medical case and how her team ultimately made the diagnosis.
[4:44] How does an illness more closely associated with the 18th century arise today?
[6:19] Dr. James speaks of the importance of proper diet and nutrition in the overall health of the patients she sees in her practice.
[8:42] How do Dr. James and her colleagues work with patients to address nutrition issues?
[10:46] What kind of exposure to the connection between diet, nutrition and overall patient health did Dr. Petelin have when she was a medical student? How much did she learn about social determinants of health?
[13:31] How much exposure to the public health system did Dr. Petelin have before her residency?
[15:31] Dr. James talks about how Community Servings work.
[19:12] How can we do a better job educating medical students on the importance of nutrition?
[20:44] Dr. Petelin shares her advice on why she always asks about patient nutrition.
[21:04] Dr. James encourages doctors to use patient visits to fully engage with patients and set high bars.
[22:25] Dr. Monroe discusses the US national strategy to end hunger and nutritional deficiencies.
Mentioned in This Episode:
In our latest episode, we discuss the gaps that exist in today’s healthcare systems around climate change and health, and what young people in particular are doing to bridge those gaps.
Our guests today are Hazel Rogers and Ben Rabin. Hazel is the assistant director of patient experience and cultural transformation at Mt. Sinai Morningside in New York, where she advocates for patients and employees on issues of health, equity and inclusion. Ben is a fifth-year medical student at Atlanta’s Emory University, and has worked closely with faculty and other students to make climate change a formal part of the Emory Medical School curriculum.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:38] What prompted Ben to take action on the health impacts of climate change?
[2:51] When did Ben get involved in shortening the gap between medical training and the impact of climate change on health?
[3:57] What training would better prepare medical students for the health impacts of climate change?
[5:25] What factors enabled Ben and his peers succeed?
[7:29] Hazel talks about her role at Mount Sinai.
[8:30] What is the biggest climate health threat facing the communities Hazel works with?
[9:49] Did the pandemic bring to light particular disparities in the community Mount Sinai serves?
[12:22] Hazel discusses getting involved with the community and knowing more about them to better serve their needs.
[13:31] How does Ben envision better aligning the public health and clinical care systems to tackle the health impacts of climate change together?
[15:26] Ben discusses reframing the climate change conversation from one of economics to one of health?
[17:22] How can we better bring community health into the current healthcare structure?
[18:51] What or who gives Hazel the most hope about effectively addressing climate change and the health issues that we face today?
[20:21] What or who gives Ben the most hope about effectively addressing climate change and the health issues that we face today?
Mentioned in This Episode:
This month, we're talking monkeypox: what is it, what CDC is doing to tackle the outbreak and what challenges face future disease responses.
Our guest expert is Jennifer McQuiston, DVM, the deputy director of the Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology within the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases. As a veterinarian, Dr. McQuiston specializes in outbreak investigation and research involving diseases that spread from animals to people. She believes that helping people understand how to prevent disease is her most important job, and has dedicated her career to turning science into easy-to-understand disease detection and prevention strategies to keep both people and animals healthy and active.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:36] Dr. McQuiston talks about her role at CDC.
[2:33] What is monkeypox and how is it transmitted?
[3:56] What is CDC doing to address the monkeypox outbreak?
[5:21] Dr. McQuiston talks about her work with contact tracing and how the vaccination program started in the US.
[6:42] How is CDC dealing with the challenges of facing another disease outbreak with people experiencing COVID fatigue?
[8:11] Are there learnings from the COVID response that have helped with the monkeypox response?
[10:07] Dr. McQuiston talks about the stigma that certain populations are facing.
[12:41] Dr. McQuiston addresses the importance of partnerships in the monkeypox response.
[15:39] What are the biggest challenges ahead for the next disease outbreak response?
[17:19] Dr. McQuiston gives advice to anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in public health.
In honor of International Podcast Day, we're releasing a bonus episode that takes a look back at some of our most memorable Contagious Conversations episodes from 2022!
Whether you're new to our podcast and curious what we're all about, or a long-time listener interested in a quick recap of the year, tune in for a retrospective on some of the fascinating discussions on public health we've been having lately.
(For a full transcript of today's episode and more, visit cdcfoundation.org/conversations.)
This episode we discuss the critical role businesses play in keeping their employees and communities safe during a public health crisis. Plus, learn about the Health Action Alliance, a partnership that has helped nearly 4,000 employers do just that.
Our guest this month is Stephen Massey, co-founder of Meteorite, a social impact firm. Stephen is a social entrepreneur and communications expert who builds unlikely partnerships for social good. Over the past two decades, he has led integrated cause-marketing campaigns in the U.S. and abroad on a wide range of social issues, including public health, civic engagement, climate change and early literacy.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:21] Stephen shares his background and details why partnerships are so important.
[4:16] Stephen talks about the role of the Health Action Alliance partnership.
[6:49] Stephen shares examples of the work of the Health Action Alliance.
[8:31] What has it been like for Stephen to engage in partnerships for social good?
[9:21] Stephen speaks about the Alliance’s plan to release a pandemic preparedness plan for business.
[9:57] Stephen outlines the reasons why now is the time to start preparing for the next pandemic.
[12:51] What lessons have businesses learned from the COVID 19 pandemic? How can businesses be better prepared to keep their employees and communities safe during future public health crises?
[13:40] Stephen addresses social determinants of health to emphasize the importance of communities.
[15:23] Companies' relationships really matter.
[18:35] Stephen talks about the role of businesses in protecting the health of their employees and in bolstering community health.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn about the COVID-19 Detection Dog program—a collaboration between the California Department of Public Health and Early Alert Canines—which is introducing a new, less invasive, and more fun method of testing to schools across the state. Dr. Carol Glaser of the CADoH and Carol Edwards of EAC tell the story.
Carol Edwards began her career in dog obedience training at the age of 13 and since then has immersed herself in the behavioral science of dog training. Dr. Carol Glaser is the Assistant Deputy Director in the office of the State Public Health Laboratory Director and medical officer for the infectious disease laboratories at the California Department of Public Health. Dr. Glaser is also the Laboratory Director for the California Department of Public Health K-12 School Antigen Program.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:14] Dr. Glaser talks about her background and about her role at the California Department of Public Health.
[2:35] Carol Edwards shares details about her background and talks about the mission of Early Alert Canines.
[3:30] Dr. Glaser speaks about the COVID-19 Detection Dog Program.
[5:15] Carol Edwards discusses her early conversations with Dr. Glazer about the ability of dogs to detect COVID-19 in humans.
[6:28] What are the benefits of using dogs in schools instead of more traditional swab tests?
[7:32] Dr. Glaser talks about the environmental impact of this program.
[8:50] Carol Edwards discusses the positive reaction of children when they see the dogs coming to school.
[10:35] Carol Edwards talks about two dogs, Rizzo and Scarlett, trained for this program.
[11:26] How are dogs selected and trained to detect COVID in humans?
[12:28] Has a program like this ever been implemented before?
[13:55] What makes using dogs to detect COVID particularly unique and effective?
[14:23] Carol Edwards shares her experience with this program and her favorite part of it.
[15:19] Dr. Glaser talks about the opportunities she sees arising for this kind of project during future pandemics or outbreaks.
[16:38] Carol Edwards talks about the future of this program and the roles dogs can play during future pandemic or outbreaks.
Mentioned in This Episode:
For our milestone 30th episode, we're bringing you 3 discussions in one! Host Claire Stinson introduces a collection of speakers from this year’s Aspen Ideas Health Festival, an annual event that brings together innovative thinkers and doers to address the world's biggest health challenges. Listen as the CDC Foundation's own Dr. Judy Monroe and Pierce Nelson talk climate change with Dr. Patrick Breysee, wastewater surveillance with Dr. Marlene Wolfe, and restoring trust to public health with Dr. Karen DeSalvo.
Dr. Patrick Breysse is the director of the National Center for Environmental Health Agency for Toxic Disease Registry at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Marlene Wolfe is assistant professor for Environmental Health at Emory University. Dr. Karen DeSalvo is chief health officer at Google.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[2:02] Dr. Patrick Breysee shares his thoughts on how climate and health are related and what we can all do to reduce this threat.
[3:49] Dr. Patrick Breysee talks about specific things communities are doing to address the direct bond between climate change and health.
[4:54] What can the private sector do to help? Dr. Breysee talks about building climate-resilient communities.
[6:36] Dr. Marlene Wolfe talks about wastewater surveillance and how it has been applied in a new way since the COVID-19 pandemic.
[10:18] Dr. Wolfe talks about how wastewater surveillance can be used to address health equity issues.
[12:20] Dr. Wolfe talks about some of the opportunities to apply technology to monitor and help mitigate the effects of climate change.
[15:45] Dr. Karen DeSalvo discusses some of the challenges facing public health today.
[17:01] Dr. DeSalvo talks about the Commonwealth Fund’s recommendations for building a public health system that addresses ongoing and future health crises, advances equity and earns trust.
[19:09] Dr. DeSalvo addresses the issue of funding and its linkage to the expectations to meet standards for protecting different communities.
[22:10] Dr. DeSalvo talks about the recommendation in the Commonwealth Fund Report about adding an Undersecretary for Public Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
[23:55] Dr. DeSalvo shares how we can restore trust in public health.
In this episode, we'll discuss the link between people experiencing homelessness and public health and what CDC is doing to address this issue. CDC's Dr. Emily Mosites details the unique health challenges for those living with homelessness and discusses state and local solutions to this national issue.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations
Key Takeaways:
[1:32] Dr. Mosites shares how her work in public health was inspired by her being a global adventurer at heart.
[2:43] In her role as Epidemic Intelligence Officer in Alaska, Dr. Mosites investigated an outbreak of a new strain of a Streptococcus that was affecting people experiencing homelessness. Dr. Mosites shares how this outbreak led to her work on issues that affect people experiencing homelessness.
[4:14] Dr. Mosites explains the link between people experiencing homelessness and public health.
[5:32] What particular challenges did people experiencing homelessness face during the COVID-19 pandemic?
[7:17] Did COVID-19 serve as a catalyst to help advance this issue in some communities?
[7:40] What is CDC doing to address the issue of homelessness?
[10:30] Is there a need for more understanding in the public health community about the issues facing people experiencing homelessness?
[11:18] Dr. Mosites shares successful approaches addressing people experiencing homelessness at the local level.
[12:47] What is the role that race and equity play in homelessness?
[14:10] Dr. Mosites shares what she considers the biggest public health challenges ahead in working to address this issue.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn more about homelessness and health on CDC’s website
Tweetables:
“Even though #homelessness might be a national and regional issue, problem solving and #innovation really occur at the local level.” – Dr. Emily Mosites at @CDCgov in new @CDCFound Contagious Conversations #podcast episode
“Both racism and homelessness are a threat to #publichealth.” – Dr. Emily Mosites at @CDCgov in new @CDCFound Contagious Conversations #podcast episode
How does climate change affect health? What are some successful approaches from public health's past that we can use to tackle this challenge today? And most importantly: how can we all work together to combat this growing crisis?
In this episode of Contagious Conversations, Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, discusses these questions and more.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:56] Dr. Monroe shares how climate change is impacting health right now.
[3:00] Dr. Monroe explains the ways climate change is impacting global health.
[5:31] How can we all work to combat this crisis?
[7:06] Dr. Monroe explains the urgency around having a national conversation about health and climate change.
[8:43] Dr. Monroe discusses the successful approaches from the past that we should consider to protect public health today.
[9:48] Has the COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst to understand the importance of public health?
[11:49] Which populations are most vulnerable to climate change and why?
[13:06] Dr. Monroe talks about the role that partnerships play in bringing the message of health to the forefront of the climate change conversation.
[13:42] Dr. Monroe explains what the CDC Foundation is doing to advance this issue.
[17:11] Dr. Monroe speaks about the biggest challenges ahead with tackling this issue.
[17:53] How will the question of health equity inform the overall message of health as a cornerstone of climate change action?
[18:32] Dr. Monroe shares her thoughts about the future of public health.
Mentioned in This Episode:
“We can’t do the work alone. That is why it is important to have partnerships in our communities.”
Hear Dr. Mysheika Roberts discuss this idea and more, as she takes listeners through her own journey in community-centered public health. Plus: how critical relationships helped build trust and shape responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in Columbus, Ohio.
Dr. Roberts is the Health Commissioner for the City of Columbus, Ohio, leading a team of more than 500 public health professionals focused on neighborhood-based approaches that address the social determinants of health, from safe affordable housing and education to jobs and violent crime, to decrease health disparities.
Dr. Roberts has a 20-year public health background at local, state and national levels. She built a solid foundation in public health early in her career by investigating outbreaks in Ohio for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and leading an STD clinic and hepatitis prevention efforts at the Baltimore City Health Department.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:15] Dr. Roberts talks about her background and journey to becoming a Health Commissioner for Columbus, Ohio.
[3:01] Dr. Roberts shares her experiences with the EIS Program for CDC.
[4:03] Dr. Roberts speaks about her role as Health Commissioner in Columbus.
[6:15] How did Dr. Roberts and her team work to prevent inequities during COVID?
[9:31] What was it like for Dr. Roberts to be a Health Commissioner during COVID-19?
[11:25] Dr. Roberts explains what opportunity clinics are.
[12:55] Dr. Roberts talks about her experiences with community and multisector partnerships in Columbus.
[16:08] Dr. Roberts discusses the role of community engagement in Columbus in general.
[19:06] Why is it important to engage all parts of communities in public health work?
[20:38] How does Dr. Robert envision her work changing after COVID-19?
[22:39] Dr. Roberts shares the key takeaways from the most recent Lights, Camera, Action Summit that the public health community can take action on.
[25:35] What are some of the bright lights that give Dr. Roberts hope today?
Mentioned in This Episode:
What exactly is public health law? Drawing from disciplines like epidemiology, public policy and evaluation, it's a field that we may not often think about in our day-to-day lives. But it has a profound impact on our lifetime trajectory.
Sarah de Guia—chief executive officer of ChangeLab Solutions, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that uses the tools of law and policy to advance health equity—joins Contagious Conversations to discuss how to better engage communities to advance policy development, and how public health law can help facilitate true systemic change.
For more information and a full transcript of this episode, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:46] Sarah talks about her background, why health equity is important to her and the impact of laws and policies on communities.
[5:57] Sarah talks about her current role at ChangeLab Solutions and what its mission means to her.
[7:30] Sarah explains the five fundamental drivers of health equity.
[8:54] Sarah explains the direct link between public health and law.
[11:56] How can we better engage communities to advance in policy development in public health?
[14:05] Sarah talks about community trust, participatory budgeting and public deliberation for intentional change.
[16:57] Why do we need to strengthen public health law?
[21:32] Sarah talks about some of the public health law tools and resources that can help strengthen public health.
[23:53] Sarah shares her experience participating in the Lights, Camera, Action National Summit Series.
[24:44] How can public health law facilitate more systemic change within governmental public health policy to help address existent inequities?
[25:49] Sarah shares her thoughts on restoring the spirit and value of the common good.
[29:21] How do we balance individual liberties with the approach of public health and its mandate of securing the common good?
[30:52] Sarah talks about the biggest challenge from a legal and funding perspective to strengthen the relationship between public health and health equity.
[31:49] Sarah shares her thoughts on the future of health equity.
Mentioned in This Episode:
This is a special edition Contagious Conversations podcast in conjunction with Public Health On Call, a podcast from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
This special edition features a discussion between CDC Foundation President and CEO Judy Monroe, MD, and Joshua Sharfstein, MD, vice dean for public health practice and community engagement at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Dr. Sharfstein and Dr. Monroe discuss the importance of state public health and the future of public health in our nation.
For a full episode transcript, visit cdcfoundation.org/conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:10] Dr. Monroe provides information about her background.
[2:15] Dr. Monroe was asked by Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb to co-chair a commission looking at the public health system in the state of Indiana and making recommendations for future policies.
[4:46] Dr. Monroe discusses how this public health commission is structured in Indiana and what they are tasked with.
[7:00] Dr. Sharfstein asks about the state of the public health workforce in Indiana.
[9:48] Dr. Monroe explains that we need to get to people in ways that they will be receptive to information about public health.
[11:40] Dr. Sharfstein asks Dr. Monroe if anything has surprised her with this public health commission process.
[14:04] How do we assess the challenge of the future of public health in America?
[14:21] Dr. Monroe discusses the Lights, Camera, Action National Summit Series.
[18: 40] One challenge with public health is that it is often invisible.
[19:22] Dr. Monroe asks Dr. Sharfstein about the role of public health schools in this landscape.
[20:12] Dr. Monroe says it is incumbent on all of us to give our best in this moment and to work together.
Mentioned in This Episode:
In today's world, people are used to having immediate access to data directly from the phones in their pockets. But how do public health agencies ensure that their massive and complex sets of data are managed at both scale and speed?
Dr. Daniel Jernigan, who has led CDC's responses to dozens of disease outbreaks and flu pandemics in the United States and around the world, sits down with Claire Stinson to discuss all things data modernization in this episode of Contagious Conversations.
For a full episode transcript, visit cdcfoundation.org/conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:35] Dr. Jernigan shares why he was interested in becoming a disease detective.
[3:10] Dr Jernigan talks about his current role at CDC.
[4:30] Dr. Jernigan shares how his experience with the H1N1 response helped him prepare to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response.
[5:34] What have we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that is helping us improve the quality, sharing and use of data for preventing chronic and infectious diseases?
[7:58] Dr. Jernigan discusses the challenges that existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic that became obstacles to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
[10:33] The underinvestment in public health data capabilities is another challenge that we are facing.
[13:22] Dr. Jernigan explains why data is so important in public health.
[15:30] Dr. Jernigan explains how new technologies can get the public health ecosystem where it needs to be.
[18:55] Dr. Jernigan explains the data lags that occur with public health data.
[22:33] Dr. Jernigan talks about the different parts of the life cycle of data.
[23:50] What concrete actions would Dr. Jernigan prioritize during the next three years to help assure investments would translate in long lasting improvements in the health care data system?
[26:19] Data needs to be able to predict what is going to happen and we need to accelerate data into action in public health
[27:40] We need new policies to be able to implement new technologies.
[30:50] What are the challenges we face to achieving an equitable data infrastructure?
[34:43] Looking beyond COVID-19, how do we show value to the public about the importance of data?
Mentioned in This Episode:
In this episode of Contagious Conversations, Dr. Anand Parekh breaks down the critical population health and policy issues facing the United States now—plus what's needed in a public health workforce of the future.
Dr. Parekh is the chief medical advisor for the Bipartisan Policy Center. Prior to joining the BPC, he served for ten years at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, playing instrumental roles in the implementation of the Recovery Act’s Prevention and Wellness Fund, the Affordable Care Act, and HHS’ Multiple Chronic Conditions Initiative. Dr. Parekh is a board-certified internal medicine physician, a fellow of the American College of Physicians, and an adjunct assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University.
For a full episode transcript, visit cdcfoundation.org/conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:53] Dr. Parekh discusses his role at the Bipartisan Policy Center.
[3:52] What is Dr. Parekh’s focus area in health?
[5:05] Why is the Public Health Forward framework needed?
[7:12] Dr. Parekh explains how COVID-19 has served as a catalyst for other health issues.
[8:59] Dr. Parekh explains what he meant by his statement at the first Lights, Camera, Action National Summit, saying “If public health doesn’t do its work, we all suffer.”
[10:45] What is needed in the public health workforce that we do not have today?
[13:47] Dr. Parekh shares what surprised him during the first Summit.
[14:52] Dr. Parekh talks about his book titled Prevention First: Policymaking in America.
[20:06] Dr. Parekh shares how our country can better invest in public health.
[21:41] Did COVID-19 put a spotlight on the need for better investments in public health?
[24:00] How can we do better to reduce preventable deaths in America?
[25:22] What does Dr. Parekh see as our nation’s biggest challenges ahead as we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic?
[29:45] Dr. Parekh shares why he is hopeful about our nation’s capacity to tackle all of our health challenges, even in addition to COVID-19.
[30:55] Dr. Parekh shares his advice to those pursuing a career in public health.
Mentioned in This Episode:
In this episode of Contagious Conversations, Dr. Heidi Larson discusses the spread of vaccine rumors, how these rumors impact confidence in science, and how we can help put a stop to them.
Dr. Larson is the professor of anthropology, risk and decision science and the founding director of the Vaccine Confidence Project at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. She is also the author of a recent book, Stuck: How Vaccine Rumors Start - and Why They Don't Go Away.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
1:22] Professor Larson explains what it means to be called a vaccine anthropologist.
[3:53] Professor Larson talks about her research on vaccination rumors and how it relates to COVID-19.
[5:45] Professor Larson explains the role of the Vaccine Confidence Project.
[9:49] What has Professor Larson’s research shown about the main causes of rumors and misinformation around the COVID-19 vaccine?
[12:54] What has surprised Professor Larson about her research?
[14:13] Professor Larson shares the background about her book and the approach she proposes regarding rumors.
[18:30] How can we better understand misinformation around science?
[20:02] How can we strengthen the “trust chain” related to the COVID-19 vaccine?
[21:23] Professor Larson shares recent successes related to communications around vaccination efforts.
[24:38] What are the best opportunities to stop the spread of misinformation and restore broad trust in vaccines?
[27:06] There is a need for deep listening with patients and individuals who have questions about vaccinations.
[28:58] Professor Larson gives advice to public health workers who are dealing with the spread of misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines.
[30:35] What are Professor Larson’s thoughts about the future of public health?
Mentioned in This Episode:
In this episode of Contagious Conversations, Anna King and Elizabeth Rorick of the National PTA discuss the impact of COVID-19 on schools, children and parents—especially when it comes to mental health—and their advice for nurturing healthy minds.
Anna King has over 20 years of leadership experience at all levels of PTA and is a dedicated and passionate child advocate. Elizabeth Rorick has been with the National PTA for more than 12 years, representing PTA before Congress on a vast array of children's education K-12 issues, including special education, early childhood and children's behavioral health.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:50] Anna talks about the role of the National PTA.
[2:30] How has COVID-19 affected Anna’s role as National PTA President?
[3:40] Beth talks about her role at the National PTA.
[4:38] Beth speaks about the importance of mental health during this pandemic for parents and children.
[5:59] Anna shares how COVID-19 is affecting education.
[7:14] Anna gives advice to parents who are worried about their child’s health and safety in schools during this pandemic.
[8:38] Beth provides background on the National PTA’s focus on healthy minds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
[10:44] A discussion of how COVID is taking a toll on children but on parents as well.
[10:52] Three suggestions for parents to prioritize their own mental health.
[12:02] What can we do to reduce the stigma associated with mental health?
[13:08] Anna talks about how COVID-19 is affecting classrooms this academic year.
[15:52] The partnership between parents, teachers and administrators is more important now than it has ever been before.
[17:12] Elizabeth shares findings from listening sessions that presented parent perspectives and priorities for their children and education.
[22:00] How can we recognize the signs of a parent or a child who is struggling emotionally? What can we do to help them?
[24:31] How has the role of the NPTA evolved during the pandemic?
[28:40] How has the role of educators changed during COVID-19?
[32:01] Is there an opportunity for a larger focus on mental health for teachers, parents and students?
[32:51] Anna and Beth share advice for parents.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Dr. Judy Monroe hosts Dr. Atul Nakhasi and Dr. Elizabeth Homan Sandoval, frontline doctors working on the COVID-19 response, in a discussion about how vaccine hesitancy continues to be a challenge in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and the power of spreading culturally competent information using trusted voices in our communities.
Dr. Nakhasi serves as an advisor to the office of government affairs and policy for the LA County Department of Health Services and is the co-founder of ThisIsOurShot, the country’s leading vaccine trust movement by frontline healthcare workers. Dr. Homan Sandoval is a psychiatrist working with children and teens and also focuses on educating and empowering the Latinx community to get vaccinated and highlighting ways to combat healthcare disparities.
For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:54] Dr. Nakhasi shares how COVID-19 changed the work that he does as a doctor.
[3:37] Dr. Homan Sandoval talks about how her work with children and teens changed as a result of the emergence of COVID-19.
[7:30] Dr. Nakhasi talks about some of the reasons he is hearing from patients in regards to why they are hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
[9:15] Dr. Homan Sandoval shares how she has experienced vaccine hesitancy in her work.
[10:54] Dr. Nakhasi shares his memories of the early days of the pandemic.
[13:19] Dr. Homan Sandoval shares her personal experience navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and how the pandemic has impacted children and teens and their care.
[19:05] How can we help the unvaccinated populations?
[24:50] Dr. Nakhasi talks about the #ThisIsOurShot campaign.
[27:33] Dr. Homan Sandoval talks about the #VacunateYa campaign, which focuses on sharing important health information with the Latinx community.
[29:46] Dr. Nakhasi shares three key lessons to help other medical and public health leaders share trusted information, particularly about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Mentioned in This Episode:
In this special episode of Contagious Conversations, new CDC director Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky joins CDC Foundation President and CEO Dr. Judy Monroe to discuss CDC's latest work to combat COVID-19, how public health professionals can help prepare communities for a new normal, and her vision for the future of the agency that works 24/7 to protect America's health, safety and security.
Dr. Walensky is an influential scholar whose pioneering research has helped to advance the national and global response for HIV and AIDS. She has served as chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. Most recently, she served on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic and conducted research on vaccine delivery and strategies to reach underserved communities.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[2:12] Dr. Walensky shares how she decided to work in the field of public health.
[3:26] Dr. Walensky discusses the people and values that influenced her professionally and personally.
[5:07] Dr. Walensky reflects on global efforts to fight infectious diseases since the 90s.
[7:18] Dr. Walensky shares how she’s incorporating her experiences working on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic into her work leading CDC.
[9:19] How CDC is tackling the important challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
[11:45] Dr. Walensky shares how CDC works with public health partners to take on the current challenges, especially related to health equity.
[15:53] Dr. Walensky explains how she responds to questions about life returning to normal: ‘When are things going to get back to normal?’
[18:06] Dr. Walensky talks about rebuilding the agency’s infrastructure in public health, including increasing the workforce, updating systems for data modernization and investing in public health labs.
[20:07] A discussion on how society’s view of public health can be changed.
[22:04] Dr. Walensky reflects on the role of philanthropy in tackling health challenges.
[23:28] Dr. Walensky gives advice to future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
When Dr. Evelyn McKnight was battling breast cancer in 2002, the last thing on her mind was hepatitis C. So when she and her husband Thomas learned she had contracted the virus from unsafe injection practices during her treatment, they were shocked. Now she's sharing the story of how she turned this tragic event into an ongoing campaign for patient safety.
Dr. Evelyn McKnight, an audiologist and mother of three, is a nationally recognized patient safety advocate and survivor of one of the largest viral outbreaks in American healthcare history.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:16] What drew Dr. McKnight to her career as an audiologist.
[4:01] Dr. McKnight shares her journey battling a recurrence of breast cancer and learning she had been infected with hepatitis C while receiving treatment.
[6:03] Dr. McKnight talks about receiving the diagnosis of hepatitis C.
[7:33] Dr. McKnight describes the climate at the moment she and her husband, Thomas, formed the HONOReform Foundation.
[9:33] There are still unsafe injection practices out there in America.
[10:44] How would Dr. McKnight assess the evolution of patient advocacy, both in terms of awareness and resources for patients?
[12:39] Dr. McKnight’s story has helped provide many resources for many people.
[13:58] We still see lapses in infection control practices even today. How often do we see these lapses in the United States overall?
[16:41] Patients need to be empowered and need to be engaged as members of their healthcare team.
[17:01] Dr. McKnight talks about where these lapses might occur if someone is getting treatment like chemotherapy or maybe having surgery.
[17:57] Dr. McKnight shares her work in helping start the Safe Injection Practices Coalition with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the CDC Foundation, and she also talks about the impact it has had on patient safety.
[19:33] Who are some of the stakeholders that were engaged in the overall success of the coalition?
[21:49] Dr. McKnight talks about her new fund, the Evelyn and Thomas McKnight Family Fund for Patient Safety.
[22:27] Who is the first recipient of the McKnight Prize for Healthcare Outbreak Heroes?
[24:55] Dr. McKnight shares her thoughts about how far she’s come since 2002.
[26:03] As a patient, what can we do to protect ourselves when we are having medical treatment?
[28:16] Dr. McKnight gives her advice for the future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
After a career in pediatrics and both public and private health leadership, Dr. Lauren Smith is now stepping into the new position of chief health equity and strategy officer at the CDC Foundation. In this episode, she discusses the perspectives on health equity, systemic racism and community resiliency that she's bringing to the role.
Dr. Lauren Smith is the chief health equity and strategy officer for the CDC Foundation. In her new role for the foundation, Dr. Smith partners with senior leaders to develop and drive strategic efforts to embed health equity across COVID-19 response activities.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] Dr. Smith shares her motivation to work as a pediatrician and how that choice shaped her career.
[3:57] Dr. Smith talks about the impact of public health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
[7:08] Dr. Smith explains why trust and credibility are part of the core mission of public health.
[8:20] Dr. Smith talks about health equity and how it impacted her work.
[10:40] Is there a greater awareness about the role racism plays in public health than before the pandemic?
[12:40] COVID-19 has worked as a catalyst to bring racism and inequality to light.
[14:05] Dr. Smith shares the topics she wants to address in her new position at the CDC Foundation.
[17:10] Who are the key partners Dr. Smith is looking for?
[18:56] What are the main messages to get out to the public about ways in which they can engage in the mission of public health?
[21:00] Dr. Smith shares key tools to make sure important public health messages are communicated in accessible ways to communities.
[23:22] What are the greatest challenges and opportunities to serve populations at risk?
[26:25] What role should equity play in how the vaccine is rolled out?
[28:20] How can the concerns of populations at risk be alleviated?
[30:30] Dr. Smith talks about the different sectors of public health coming together to address the challenges presented by the current pandemic.
[32:50] Dr. Smith talks about the involvement of the private sector.
[34:08] What advice does Dr. Smith have for the future public health leaders of America?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Meet the man whose discovery has made it possible to save millions of lives. In this episode, Dr. Harvey Alter shares the story of his 50-plus year career and how his research led to the discovery of the hepatitis C virus.
Dr. Harvey J. Alter is a Senior Scholar at the National Institute for Health and was just named the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his work in discovering the hepatitis C Virus. Dr. Alter’s research focused on patients who developed chronic hepatitis from an unknown agent during blood transfusions. Dr. Alter was also the recipient of the 2015 CDC Foundation Fries Prize for Improving Health, which is an award that recognizes an individual who has made major contributions to improve health.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:35] Dr. Alter shares how he received the news about receiving the Nobel Prize in Medicine.
[2:47] What drew Dr. Alter to the field of health research?
[6:40] Dr. Alter talks about his career.
[10:51] Dr. Alter shares his Aha! moment.
[16:26] Dr. Alter talks about the moment when he realized he was on the cusp of something big.
[18:38] Dr. Alter shares the lessons he learned in times of COVID-19.
[22:45] Dr. Alter talks about the importance of organizations like NIH and CDC.
[25:27] Dr. Alter talks about the main challenges in developing a vaccine for hepatitis C.
[30:18] What is next in Dr. Alter’s career trying to eradicate hepatitis C?
[32:35] What advice does Dr. Alter have for the future public health leaders of America?
Mentioned in This Episode:
In Season 6 of Contagious Conversations, you'll hear what it was like to discover Hepatitis C from recent Nobel Prize winner Dr. Harvey Alter, learn about the latest strategies for tackling health equity and systemic racism during the COVID-19 pandemic from Dr. Lauren Smith, and find out how advocates like Dr. Evelyn McKnight are working to save lives by preventing unsafe injection practices.
Chief Lynn Malerba has served as a registered nurse, as director of Cardiology and Pulmonary Services at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital, as chairwoman of the Tribal Council and now as the first female Chief of the Mohegan Tribe. And she’s now drawing on this full history as the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps disproportionately through the Native American population.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
About Chief Malerba:
Chief Lynn Malerba the first female Chief in the modern history of the Mohegan Tribe, a sovereign, federally-recognized Indian tribe with a reservation in Southeastern Connecticut. Prior to becoming Chief, Malerba served as chairwoman of the Tribal Council and served in Tribal Government as executive director of Health and Human Services. Preceding her work for the Mohegan Tribe, Malerba had a lengthy career as a registered nurse and as the director of Cardiology and Pulmonary Services at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital. Malerba is chairwoman of the Tribal Self-Governance Advisory Committee of the Federal Indian Health Service, a member of the Justice Department’s Tribal Nations Leadership Council, a member of the Tribal Advisory Committee for the National Institute of Health and a member of the Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee.
Key Takeaways:
[1:55] What led Chief Malerba to the field of nursing earlier in her career? [4:12] Chief Malerba talks about how she became the Director of Cardiology and Pulmonary Services at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital. [5:19] Chief Malerba shares how she became Chief. [7:47] Chief Malerba talks about her main responsibilities as Chief. [10:24] You have to raise your voice for the ones you are advocating for. [11:13] Chief Malerba talks about the impact of COVID-19 on her community. [13:17] Chief Malerba shares the existing health challenges for Native Americans prior to the pandemic. [18:46] How has the budget process contributed to the health iniquities Native Americans face? [21:29] How did COVID-19 add to the already existing health challenges of Native Americans? [22:37] Do certain cultural traditions of tribes present potential challenges during this time of coronavirus? [25:29] Chief Malerba talks about ways that tribal nations have previously worked with the U.S. during public health emergencies. [27:59] Chief Malerba talks about tribal nations and their work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in providing preparedness and response resources for tribal leaders. [30:35] How has COVID-19 impacted Chief Malerba’s ability to do her work? [31:50] How are rural tribal communities overcoming challenges to ensure good information is shared with their citizens? [33:27] Chief Malerba talks about the best approaches for those in public health to reach tribal nations. [35:58] Chief Malerba shares the story she wants people to know about public health and tribal nations. [38:51] Chief Malerba gives her advice to the future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
How much do you really know about contact tracing? And would you have what it takes to be a successful contact tracer? Dr. Joshua Sharfstein of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health takes listeners through the essential ins and outs of contact tracing during a public health crisis like COVID-19.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
About Dr. Sharfstein:
Dr. Joshua Sharfstein is the vice dean for public health practice and community engagement, as well as professor of practice in health policy and management, at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Dr. Sharfstein is also director of the Bloomberg American Health Initiative. His previous roles have included secretary of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, principal deputy commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, commissioner of health for Baltimore City, and health policy advisor for Congressman Henry A. Waxman.
Key Takeaways:
[1:26] Dr. Sharfstein shares what motivated him to join the field of public health. [2:21] Dr. Sharfstein talks about his favorite aspect of being a pediatrician. [3:22] Dr. Sharfstein taught a course titled “Crisis and Response in Public Health Policy and Practice” and he shares the most common questions his students had as the pandemic unfolded. [6:14] Dr. Sharfstein’s steps to follow while in a health crisis: acknowledge there is a crisis; communicate consistently; have knowledgeable people as the lead communicators; and centralize a response process where everybody knows their role. [7:45] Dr. Sharfstein shares his perspective on how COVID-19 has influenced people to get a better understanding of the role of public health workers. [9:36] The core functions of a contact tracer. [11:38] What kind of infrastructure is needed to help contact tracers? [13:10] Dr. Sharfstein talks about the biggest misconceptions about contact tracers. [13:46] A contact tracer is someone from the health department who is reaching out to help you and the people around you to stay safe. [14:40] Where are contact tracers needed the most? [16:29] Key skills to be a successful contact tracer. [18:42] Dr. Sharfstein shares some of the successes seen in combating public health emergencies using contact tracing. [21:35] Public health is collaborative work. [22:33] Key leaders who need to be part of the collaborative work in public health. [23:26] Public Health On Call is a podcast produced by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. [26:24] Dr. Sharfstein’s advice to the future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Daniel E. Dawes is the director of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at the Morehouse School of Medicine, an institute laser-focused on advancement of health equity. Now Dawes sits down to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on communities of color and marginalized populations, and the importance of understanding political determinants of health in the context of American history.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
About Daniel Dawes:
Daniel Dawes is a widely respected leader and scholar in the health equity movement and has led numerous efforts to address health policy issues impacting vulnerable, under-resourced, and marginalized populations. Dawes has been instrumental in shaping major federal health policies including the Mental Health Parity Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, and the Affordable Care Act, where he led the largest network of leaders committed to prioritizing health equity and federal and state public policies. Dawes is the author of two books published by Johns Hopkins University Press: 150 Years of ObamaCare and The Political Determinants of Health.
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] Daniel Dawes talks about his background and early career. [7:52] Daniel Dawes defines health equity. [8:05] Health equity is not the same as health equality. [8:54] Dawes describes the landscape when he first began working in health equity. [12:42] COVID-19 is hitting communities of color disproportionately. [14:05] The biggest challenge is the political determinants of health. [14:50] People of color are disproportionately harmed by COVID-19. [18:25] Daniel Dawes shares the core themes of his book The Political Determinants of Health. [20:50] COVID-19 is not affecting all equally because our economic and social politics have not been benefiting all equally. [23:39] The pandemic has opened the eyes of many to the political determinants of health. [24:46] Dawes talks about the priorities of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine. [26:51] The new partnership between the CDC Foundation and the Satcher Health Leadership Institute. [28:17] A COVID-19 data consortium will be created that should ensure the standardization of COVID-19 data at federal, state and national levels. [30:33] The Satcher Health Leadership Institute received a $1 million grant from Google to study the disproportionate impact COVID-19 is having on communities of color. [32:36] Daniel Dawes talks about the successes that served as blueprints for more inclusive health policies to face pandemics, epidemics and social crises. [38:01] How are different sectors of public health coming together to face the challenges coming along with the pandemic? [38:54] Daniel Dawes gives his advice for the future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Visit CDC.gov for information about COVID-19
The Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine
In the fifth season of Contagious Conversations, each of our episodes takes a deep look at the COVID-19 pandemic from a different perspective. Our guest experts discuss health equity and COVID-19's disproportionate impact on people of color, the challenges and opportunities facing tribal nations in the time of coronavirus, what's really involved in contact tracing, and more.
Dr. Jim Curran has served as dean and professor of epidemiology at the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University since 1995, following 25 years of leadership at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Curran is co-director of the Emory Center for AIDS Research and he holds faculty appointments in the Emory School of Medicine and the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing.
In this episode, Dr. Curran discusses our nation’s need for the next generation of the public health workforce and how our universities, associations and employers are preparing individuals to meet those demands. Dr. Curran also discusses his work at CDC during the very early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, how far the world has come since that challenging time and the road to eliminate the disease.
Key Takeaways:
[1:21] Dr. Jim Curran shares what sparked his interest in public health
[2:23] How the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University has evolved to become the largest school of public health in the world.
[3:33] Dr. Curran talks about the most intriguing current research taking place at Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University.
[4:51] How deeply the public health workforce shortage in the USA should be addressed
[7:08] How is Emory University working to strengthen the workforce for the future?
[8:24] Dr. Curran shares his view related to the greatest human resource needs to tackle some of the current challenging health threats.
[9:13] Dr. Curran talks about the biggest challenges he faced while working in the field of HIV/AIDS at CDC 40 years ago.
[14:50] Dr. Curran explains how the discovery of retroviral therapy changed the life quality of patients with HIV/AIDS as well as it is proven to reduce the transmission of the virus to other people.
[17:25] The audiences that are harder to reach with HIV prevention messages
[19:18] Dr. Curran talks about the opportunities and challenges with the future of public health
[22:03] The challenges presented by an increasing aging population
[23:57] Dr. Curran extends his advice for those thinking of pursuing a career in public health
[24:59] Dr. Curran talks about how the role of collaboration can make a difference in improving the work of public health
Mentioned in This Episode:
Dr. Georges Benjamin is the executive director of the American Public Health Association, the nation’s oldest and largest organization of public health professionals. Dr. Benjamin also previously served as a secretary at the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. For the last 20 years he has been actively practicing public health at the local, state and national level with expertise in the areas of emergency preparedness, administration and infectious diseases.
In this episode, Dr. Benjamin discusses our nation’s health and how public health has changed over time, he also shares insights on how disparities impact health, how data informs decisions, and how we can bring many diverse fuse together to tackle the most pressing health challenges of our time.
Key Takeaways:
[1:19] Dr. Benjamin shares how he started his professional career in public health.
[2:31] The American Public Health Association and its role in public health and how public health has changed over time.
[5:15] APHA brings diverse voices together to advocate for health issues.
[5:51] APHA priorities: Access to care;health equity; and building public health infrastructure.
[6:56] Resources and timing are everything to improve the health of the public.
[7:23] 80% of what makes you healthy happens outside the doctors office.
[9:20] Dr. Benjamin shares an example of how APHA has elevated the importance of the social determinants of health.
[10:57] Dr. Benjamin talks about how data impacts the creation of a healthier population from a chronic and infectious disease perspective as well as how it helps addressemerging health threats.
[14:22] The greatest needs at local and state health levels, and how they need to be tackled.
[17:29] The significance of the government’s approval of funding for research on gun violence.
[20:36] What are the biggest needs in the public health profession from a human capital perspective?
[23:42] Public health is now popular as an undergraduate degree.
[25:05] Dr. Benjamin reflects on the opportunities to bring health and public health together in an effective way to improve health overall.
[28:15] Dr. Benjamin talks about how collaboration is making a difference in improving the field of public health and the health of people overall.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Dr. Rasha Khoury is a physician in the Bronx, New York, with a focus on global maternal health. Dr. Khoury has completed six Doctors Without Borders surgical missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone. She also serves on the organization's U.S. board of directors.
In this episode, Dr. Khoury shares her experiences with Doctors Without Borders, a humanitarian organization that provides medical aid where it's most needed. Doctors Without Borders is the recipient of the CDC Foundation's Fries Prize for Improving Health presented at the American Public Health Association annual meeting.
Key Takeaways:
[1:30] Dr. Khoury shares the principles of Doctors Without Borders. [3:02] Dr. Rasha Khoury talks about her motivation to join Doctors Without Borders even though this implies potentially putting herself at risk. [6:22] Dr. Khoury shares her experience during her first mission at Sierra Leone during the Ebola outbreak. [10:06] Challenges faced when delivering children and caring for pregnant women in Khost, Afghanistan. [13:30] Dr. Khoury shares a memorable story while working in Afghanistan. [16:33] Dr. Khory talks about how her perspective changed now that she is on the organization’s U.S. board of directors. [19:18] Dr. Khoury identifies herself as a field worker. [21:18] Two destinations where Dr. Khoury hopes to do more field work. [22:23] Dr. Khoury extends her advice to people with an interest in serving for Doctors Without Borders. [23:53] The importance of seeking opportunities to work out of your comfort zone. [24:56] The role of collaboration in improving the health of patients. [29:28] Maintaining institutional memory through collaborative work.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Contagious Conversations features compelling interviews with people who are making the world safer and healthier for us all. In season 4, our guest experts share their perspectives on some of the world's toughest health challenges, including global maternal health, the evolution of public health in America, and what it takes to be part of the next generation of the public health workforce.
For our tenth episode, we sit down with the CDC Foundation's own president and CEO, Dr. Judy Monroe. Dr. Monroe has also previously been deputy director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Indiana State Health Commissioner, and president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials.
In this episode, Dr. Monroe shares shares stories from her recent trip to West Africa: meeting Ebola survivors and the many individuals who are making an impact on global health, the progress made since the 2014-15 Ebola outbreak, and the ongoing challenges and needs in the region.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways: [1:20] Dr. Monroe talks about her recent trip to West Africa. [2:47] Stories from West Africa and the many individuals who are making an impact. [4:58] Why listening to the community is critical. [6:10] What is contact tracing? [7:31] Ebola survivor story. [9:24] Making connections in West Africa. [13:02] Dr. Monroe’s visit to Nigeria. [15:04] Infant and mother mortality in Nigeria. [17:10] The current situation with the Ebola outbreak. [18:15] What is Global Health Security? [19:14] Public health infrastructure is needed to identify emerging diseases. [20:05] Global Health Security agenda. [21:22] Other priorities in Global Health Security. [23:14] Working domestically vs. globally. [25:48] Dr. Monroe’s background as a family physician. [26:55] How the donations during the 2014-2015 Ebola epidemic are making a difference. [29:33] How vaccines make an impact in global health. [32:45] Parents today don’t see the diseases that have been prevented because of vaccines. [33:31] Longer and healthier lives thanks to vaccines. [34:07] Dr. Monroe shares her excitement about the future of global health. [35:08] The world needs creative minds.
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Global Health Security agenda
Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP)
Answer this episode’s question: Have you ever taken a trip that really impacted your life? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org and win some CDC Foundation Merchandise.
Dr Michael McGinnis is an epidemiologist, health policy expert and Leonard D. Schaeffer Executive Officer at the National Academy of Medicine. Dr. McGinnis is well regarded both for his program and policy leadership and his research and publications on population health and life expectancy. Dr. McGinnis was also the recipient of the 2018 Fries Prize for improving health.
In this episode, Dr. McGinnis discusses his role leading a team that worked on eradicating smallpox, his pivotal work related to causes of death in the United States, and how he created some of the world's most influential approaches for highlighting the importance of prevention efforts to address disease threats.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways: [1:30] Dr Michael McGinnis talks about his early career. [4:55] Research on population health and the root causes of mortality. [5:27] The essence of prevention. [8:16] Addressing the urgent and also what is preventable. [9:55] The causes of morbidity and mortality in 1990 vs. today. [13:11] Medical errors. [14:11] The decline of sexual behavior as a cause of mortality. [17:18] The impact of social determinants of health. [18:12] The main goals of the Healthy People process. [21:01] Celebrating the absence of disease. [22:08] Improving data systems. [23:25] Participating in the Smallpox eradication program in India. [26:45] Evolution of the practice of public health protection in the last four decades. [30:29] More work to be done. [31:39] Improving the human condition for both the population and for the individual. [32.18] What Dr. McGinnis is grateful for. [33:15] Make it easier for the right thing to happen. [33:48] Advice for future public health leaders of America.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question: What are you most proud of in your career? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org to win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha is a pediatrician and a public health advocate whose research helped expose the Flint water crisis. Dr. Mona is founder and director of the Michigan State University and the Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, an innovative and model public health program in Flint, Michigan.
In this episode, Dr. Mona shares how she became an advocate for the people of Flint during the water crisis, and discusses the community-centered work that is creating a better future for families and children in Flint today.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways: [1:12] Dr. Mona discusses her background and career path. [3:13] A pediatrician’s job is to be an advocate. [3:50] What Mona loves the most about being a pediatrician. [5:01] Becoming an advocate during the water crisis in Flint. [8:20] Why is lead so dangerous for children? [9:22] There is no safe level of lead. [11:22] Lead as an environmental injustice. [12:04] Alice Hamilton, a hero in the battle against industrial poisons. [13:40] Why the story of Hamilton resonated with Dr. Mona. [18:13] What the Eyes Don’t See, Dr. Mona’s book. [20:54] Dr. Mona talks about her work at Michigan State University. [21:28] The Flint water crisis: a crisis of trust. [25:11] The success of the nutrition prescription program. [26:25] All kids need great nutrition, early education resources and access to health. [27:03] How can we inspire people to play a larger role in improving the health of their community? [28:05] Community work in Flint and how this is making an impact. [30:15] How is the situation in Flint today? [32:15] Other health challenges Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha wants to tackle in the near future.
Mentioned in This Episode:
What the Eyes Don't See: A Story of Crisis, Resistance and Hope in an American City
Answer this episode’s question: How have you made an impact on your community? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org and win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Dr. Robert Redfield is the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and administrator of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Prior to becoming CDC’s Director, Dr. Redfield had a long and distinguished career in public health, including researching and contributing to the early scientific understanding of HIV, serving as the chief of infectious diseases and vice chair of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and serving on the president’s advisory council on HIV/AIDS from 2005 to 2009.
In this episode, Dr. Redfield shares his thoughts on eliminating HIV in the United States by 2030, why opioid disorder is the public health crisis of our time, and what it’s like to work with a team that puts science and data into action to improve the human condition.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:21] Dr. Redfield’s career path. [3:11] Dr. Redfield in his early years working with HIV. [6:45] Starting at CDC. [7:19] Three priority areas at CDC. [10:21] A plan to eliminate HIV in the USA by 2030. [11:10] Prevention strategies are critical to public health. [14:09] Progress made in opioid addiction. [15:05] Drug use disorder as a medical condition and not a moral failing. [15:51] The challenge with drug use disorder is confronting stigma. [16:13] Where we are doing to address opioid addiction. [19:18] Using data to address public health challenges. [22:47] Dr. Redfield’s ambitious goals during his term at CDC. [23:25] The most challenging part of being director of CDC. [24:28] The most rewarding part of being CDC’s director. [26:16] The biggest misconception about CDC’s work. [28:26] The impact of CDC’s work globally. [30:19] The importance of global health security. [32:33] Public-private partnerships accomplish key goals. [35:35] What Dr. Redfield has learned over the past year about CDC’s team. [36:34] CDC’s team and being on the frontlines of public service.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America
Answer this episode’s question: How has the work of CDC impacted your life? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org and win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Contagious Conversations features compelling interviews with people who are making the world safer and healthier for us all. The third season features experts who are sharing their perspectives on some of the world's toughest health challenges, including advocating for safe water for the children of Flint, tackling the Ebola crisis, ending the AIDS epidemic and developing policy that creates healthier lives.
Carol Pandak is the director of PolioPlus, Rotary International’s global effort to eradicate polio. Pandak has served in this role since 2000, where she leads day-to-day operations and oversees the program's administration, advocacy efforts, grants, finances and volunteer engagement. In this role she also works closely with global program partners such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
In this episode, Carol shares the progress we've made in polio eradication and how health workers are making an impact in their communities.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways: [1:20] What led Carol Pandak to this point in her career? [1:55] What drove Carol Pandak to work in polio eradication? [2:34] Why did Rotary International get involved in polio eradication? [4:16] Progress in polio eradication since 1988. [4:55] How are we going to eradicate polio? [6:17] The biggest challenge to eradication is building community trust. [7:06] The reality for the ones working in the field. [8:11] How do you become a community mobilizer? [9:45] What is the biggest danger for community mobilizers? [10:54] The psychology behind vaccine hesitancy. [11:53] How can we overcome vaccine hesitancy? [12:57] Powerful stories. [15:11] Women at the frontlines. [15:49] Carol Pandak's career advice for future public health leaders.
Mentioned in This Episode: CDC Foundation Answer this episode’s question: Do you know someone that has been impacted by polio? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org and participate to win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Dr. Rebekah Gee is the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health. Dr. Gee is an OB-GYN and brings a caregiver's perspective to the people she serves. She is also a trained policy expert who has served in numerous state and national policy roles, and in 2017, she was elected to the National Academy of Medicine. Prior to her role as secretary, Dr. Gee served as the director for the Birth Outcomes Initiative, where she led the charge to decrease infant mortality and prematurity statewide.
In this episode, Dr. Gee shares her inspiring path to becoming the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health, and how she is working to fight health challenges such as Hepatitis C in Louisiana.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:21] What inspired Dr. Gee to become a physician?
[2:50] The caregiver perspective.
[4:00] Nothing about me, without me.
[4:31] What led Dr. Gee to her current position at the Louisiana Department of Health.
[5:50] Prioritizing the safety of the public.
[7:25] Hepatitis C in Louisiana.
[10:05] Understanding and preventing Hepatitis C.
[13:25] Infant mortality and protecting babies and mothers.
[14:45] Maternal mortality and implicit bias.
[16:06] Medicaid expansion.
[18:22] The most complicated part of Dr. Gee’s role as Secretary of the Department of Health.
[20:23] The greatest public health challenges in Louisiana.
[21:23] Dr. Gee’s career advice for the future public health leaders of America.
[22:43] Delivery system and public health need to be married for optimal results.
[22:52] Advice for women who want to be public health leaders.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question: What is the best career advice you have ever received? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org and win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Dr. Richard Besser is the president and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, former acting director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and former chief health and medical editor at ABC News. At the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Dr. Besser leads the largest private Foundation in the country devoted solely to improving the nation’s health. The Foundation’s work is focused on building a comprehensive culture of health that provides everyone in America with a fair and just opportunity to live the healthiest life possible.
In this episode, Dr. Besser shares his career path, some takeaways from his CDC leadership experience, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s vision for building a culture of health.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:27] What led Dr. Richard Besser to this point of his career.
[2:16] Key influences in Dr. Besser’s career.
[5:40] Joining the Epidemic Intelligence Service.
[6:20] Dr. Besser’s favorite aspect of being a pediatrician.
[7:42] Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s approach to building a culture of health.
[9:26] Health equity.
[10:14] When parents know what their kids need but may not have access to a safe environment.
[11:47] Key takeaways from Dr. Besser’s leadership experience that shaped his views about health.
[14:05] The H1N1 response at CDC.
[14:28] Public health’s identity challenge.
[15:57] Defining moments of Dr. Besser’s tenure at CDC.
[18:05] The most interesting person Dr. Besser interviewed at ABC News: President Obama.
[20:15] 2014 Ebola epidemic in West Africa.
[21:20] Partnerships and philanthropy.
[23:45] Your zip code and your life expectancy are linked.
[24:55] 500 Cities Project.
[25:50] The one key initiative that Dr. Besser would like to accomplish at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
[27:19] Investing in leaders.
[28:32] Career advice for future public health leaders in America: Work to change the world.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question: What does public health mean to you? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org to win some CDC Foundation merchandise.
Contagious Conversations features compelling interviews with people who are making the world safer and healthier for us all. In season two, we'll discuss strategies for building a more equitable culture of health with Robert Wood Johnson Foundation CEO Dr. Richard Besser, the unique challenges of statewide healthcare with Louisiana’s secretary of health Dr. Rebekah Gee, and the road to global polio eradication with Carol Pandak of Rotary International.
Subscribe now and stay tuned!
Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann is a physician, scientist and philanthropist who has devoted her career to improving the human condition. Trained as an oncologist, she spent 14 years at biotech firm Genentech, where she led the development of Avastin and Herceptin, two of the first gene-targeted therapies for cancer. Today, as CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Dr. Desmond-Hellmann leads the organization's vision for a world where every person has the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life.
In this episode, Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann shares her work as a pioneer in healthcare for more than 30 years, including her efforts to drive major developments toward the eradication of disease, poverty and inequity.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:03] The biggest influencers in Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann´s career.
[2:50] How did Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann become the leader of one of the world largest health philanthropies?
[5:26] Investing in human capital can translate into economic success.
[6:23] The case of Ethiopia.
[7:06] The most important value in public-private partnerships.
[8:32] How a "volume guarantee" enhances philanthropy.
[10:02] Encouraging companies to pay attention to where their future customers are going to be.
[10:55] How does Dr. Desmond-Hellmann relax and recharge?
[12:03] The importance of taking thoughtful risks in philanthropy.
[13:11] Big bold collaborations can improve and save more lives.
[16:02] What areas of global health is Dr. Hellmann most optimistic about?
[16:50] HIV and malaria.
[18:47] Tuberculosis today is one of the hardest diseases to tackle.
[20:13] TB vaccine is closer than ever.
[20:28] Dr. Desmond-Hellmann shares her thoughts about a nationalistic perspective.
[22:30] What keeps her up at night? She worries about people getting the wrong information about vaccines.
[24:50] Dr. Desmond-Hellmann’s biggest challenge at the Gates Foundation.
[25:46] It is not easy to change systems.
[27:04] Ethiopia works to change its health delivery system.
[28:10] What's the biggest opportunity for the Gates Foundation?
[28:57] It is possible for anyone around the world to make a difference.
[29:20] Advice for women who want to become CEOs and innovators: Keep learning!
[30:40] Ask for help.
[31:23] Be willing to take risks.
[32:39] Defining point in Dr. Desmond-Hellmann’s career: cancer-fighting breakthrough drug Herceptin.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question What is your favorite thing to do to recharge after a busy day? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org to win some Contagious Conversations merchandise.
For more information about this episode go to Contagious Conversations.
Lex Frieden, MA, LLD, is a professor of biomedical informatics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and also directs the Independent Living Research Utilization program at TIRR Memorial Hermann. Best known for his contributions to the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Frieden suffered a spinal cord injury while in college and has used a wheelchair for more than 40 years. Frieden also received the 2017 Fries Prize for Improving Health for being an architect of the ADA and a catalyst in the worldwide disability rights and independent living movements.
In this episode Lex shares his personal story, his passion for independent living by people with disabilities and his memories about working closely with former president George H. W. Bush.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:16] Lex’s life story and how he became a champion for people living with disabilities.
[4:45] Finding out other people with disabilities were also affected in his community.
[5:08] Building the Americans with Disabilities Act.
[9:33] Lex’s connection to former U.S. President George H.W. Bush
[11:45] Challenges that existed for people with disabilities before 1988.
[14:15] Despite the progress made by the ADA, there is still a ways to go.
[17:16] How the ADA is changing the paradigm about disabilities.
[20:03] We need inclusive planning in the workplace, the community and the world.
[20:25] The role of public/private partnerships in improving the lives of people living with disabilities.
[21:40] Empowering individuals to get engaged is important.
[22:37] Today’s challenges for Americans with disabilities.
[23:30] Aging people naturally acquire disabilities.
[25:08] Advice for people living with disabilities and to the ones around them.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question: Do you have a story to share about how the ADA has benefited you or someone you know? Email your answer to info@cdcfoundation.org to win some Contagious Conversations merchandise.
Maryn McKenna is an independent journalist and author who specializes in public health, global health and food policy. She is a Senior Fellow at the Center for the Study of Human Health at Emory University, and the author of the 2017 bestseller BIG CHICKEN: The Incredible Story of How Antibiotics Created Modern Agriculture and Changed the Way the World Eats, as well as the award-winning books Superbug and Beating Back the Devil: On the Front Lines with the Disease Detectives of the Epidemic Intelligence Service.
In this episode Maryn shares her unique career journey, describes why storytelling matters, and tells us what it’s like to cover stories on the front lines of disease outbreaks.
For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations).
Key Takeaways:
[1:04] How Maryn became a journalist.
[2:27] Immersion in the public health field.
[4:01] Falling in love with investigative journalism.
[5:04] Realizing the need to become a storyteller.
[6:02] The unique challenges of public health storytelling.
[6:18] The role of journalism in increasing awareness.
[7:40] On the frontlines of a health response.
[10:32] Why did Maryn get interested in the area of antibiotics resistance?
[13:53] Seeing statistics about how we use antibiotics in livestock compared to medicine led to a new book.
[14:24] Why chickens?
[16:50] An experience in France that changed Maryn forever.
[19:33] Does Maryn still eat chicken?
[21:18] Disease X.
[23:15] Acute flaccid myelitis, new epidemic in the USA.
[24:10] Concerns about U.S. public health in response to epidemics.
[26:14] Antibiotics development is expensive and challenging .
[26:48] The role of public-private partnerships in public health.
[29:12] Maryn’s advice to young people pursuing journalism.
[31:05] Journalism’s openness to people from other fields today.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Answer this episode’s question:Have you ever had chicken or any food in another country that changed your life? Email info@cdcfoundation.org to win a signed copy of Big Chicken
Curious about the people who are making the world healthier and safer for us all, and what set them on that path?
Get inspired as the CDC Foundation interviews experts who share their unique perspectives on today’s toughest health challenges, such as antibiotic resistance, global disease outbreaks, health equality and more.
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