Making Public Health Personal

According to alarming statistics from the CDC, Black women in the US face a stark reality: they are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their White counterparts. In New York City, the situation is even more dire with the mortality risk rising to nine times more likely for Black women than for White women. But why? On this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, join host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon and guests Dr. Deborah Kaplan and Tonya Lewis Lee as they unpack the systemic factors contributing to these disparities and explore what can be done to address them. Dr. Deborah Kaplan brings to the discussion over four decades of expertise in public health, particularly focusing on maternal, infant, sexual, and reproductive health. As a fierce advocate for racial and gender equity in perinatal outcomes, Dr. Kaplan sheds light on the urgent need to dismantle structural barriers that perpetuate health inequities among communities of color. From her role as Assistant Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to her current endeavors at CUNY SPH, Dr. Kaplan is not just an ally but a fighter in the pursuit of reproductive justice. We discuss important issues ranging from bodily autonomy to the impact of global conflicts on women and children. Gain helpful insights on how to think globally and act locally in our pursuit of maternal health, reproductive rights, and justice. We are also joined by the multi-talented Tonya Lewis Lee, an award-winning filmmaker, author, and entrepreneur. Tonya shares insights from her groundbreaking documentary, AFTERSHOCK, which confronts the US maternal mortality crisis. Through powerful storytelling, this film underscores the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for systemic change. From discussing the history of reproductive justice to emphasizing the importance of recognizing pregnant people, not just women, Tonya inspires us to utilize our own unique talents to create change. Episode links: Find out more and connect with Deborah Levine on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-l-kaplan-19842b169/ Find out more and connect with Tonya Lewis Lee on Facebook and Instagram: @TonyaLewisLee Watch Aftershock (film) now on Hulu or visit https://www.aftershockdocumentary.com View the trailer for Aftershock here: https://youtu.be/k63RC0rJEd8 Sexual and Reproductive Justice hub at CUNY SPH: https://sph.cuny.edu/research/srj-hub/ Black mamas matter: https://blackmamasmatter.org/ Let’s talk about sex conference: https://www.letstalkaboutsexconference.com/ Sistersong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective: https://www.sistersong.net/ NYC Abortion Access hub: Call 877-NYC-AHUB (877-692-2482) https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/ms/abortion-hub-info.pdf Pregnancy Justice: https://www.pregnancyjusticeus.org/ National Postpartum Awareness Week Info: https://www.speakmovechange.net/ Info about voting for reproductive rights in NY (2024): https://ballotpedia.org/2023_and_2024_abortion-related_ballot_measures ARIAH foundation: https://www.theariahfoundation.org/ Our bodies ourselves (book): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Our_Bodies,_Ourselves Eyes on the prize (documentary film): https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/eyesontheprize/ Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cme6ukyyd1jre5e5ilwkp/Episode-25-transcript.docx?rlkey=isc6v3y18pd52hrkgplnbdzah&st=7pt32dq3&dl=0

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on marginalized communities facing public health challenges? This episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast delves into effective strategies for addressing health issues both locally and globally and explores the unexpected parallels that can drive meaningful change. Join host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon as she welcomes two distinguished guests: Dr. Philip Kreniske, assistant professor of Community Health and Social Sciences at CUNY SPH and adjunct assistant professor in the Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, and Dr. Nicholas Freudenberg, Distinguished Professor of Public Health at CUNY SPH and the faculty director of Healthy CUNY. Dr. Kreniske discusses his experience using implementation science to study adolescent health in the US and Sub-Saharan Africa. He highlights the research findings and policy implications designed to tackle socioeconomic and racial disparities, which are key contributors to the elevated rates of HIV and mental health symptoms among adolescents. Listeners will gain valuable insights into tailoring public health communication strategies for adolescent care, and discover innovative approaches and technology uses proven to prevent youth HIV and related issues. Next, Laura shifts the conversation and discusses local challenges and solutions with Dr. Freudenberg. Learn about the innovative CUNY CARES program, which offers vital services such as healthcare, mental health support, and essentials like food and housing to CUNY students. Dr. Freudenberg explores the evidence-based strategies that make CUNY CARES effective, ways you can support this significant effort, and how students in need can access these crucial resources. Listen in as the conversation navigates the complexities of health equity and discover actionable insights to make a meaningful difference in marginalized communities, both locally and globally. Episode Links: Find out more and contact Dr. Kreniske: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/philip-kreniske/ Find out more and contact Dr. Freudenberg: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/nicholas-freudenberg/ CUNY Cares: https://www.cuny.edu/about/administration/offices/transformation/cuny-cares/ Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/10xmd11nyzd2vt0vgm68i/Epiode-24-Transcript.docx?rlkey=k2bbvlx98uhv6hhz39ojs8b45&dl=0

This women’s history month special episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast breaks down the pressing issues surrounding maternal, child, reproductive, and sexual health in the United States. Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with three esteemed guests to delve into the unique curriculum offered at CUNY SPH that addresses these crucial areas in sexual and reproductive justice. Terry McGovern: Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs at CUNY SPH. Previously, the Harriet and Robert H. Heilbrunn Professor and chair of the Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. Sarah Pickering: Doctoral candidate in the Community Health and Health Policy (CHSS) program at CUNY SPH with a specialization in Maternal, Child, Reproductive and Sexual Health. Diana Romero: Director of the Maternal, Child, Reproductive and Sexual Health specialization and CHSS Professor. Together we’ll unveil the exciting new additions to our sexual and reproductive justice hub at CUNY SPH, including the prestigious Byllye Avery Endowed Professorship in Sexual and Reproductive Justice. Learn about the ongoing research aimed at safeguarding reproductive rights across the nation. Join us as we uncover ways that you can actively contribute to the preservation of reproductive rights and enact meaningful change. Episode links: Organizations to support reproductive justice: https://allaboveall.org/ https://urge.org/ https://www.sistersong.net/ https://abortionfunds.org/find-a-fund/ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/abortion-access Learn more and connect with today’s guests: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/terry-mcgovern/ https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/diana-romero/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-pickering-mph-1893a441 Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/hdfieu7lv4f1gw6m1w84z/Ep23-transcript.docx?rlkey=1oby681lro6c6jug92nmai390&dl=0

Unlocking opportunities to fund your public health degree and kickstart your career, with Andrea Isabel Lopez, MPH ‘20 Are you looking to pursue a career that supports a cause close to your heart but don’t know where to start? In the latest episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with Andrea Isabel Lopez about her inspiring journey to success after graduating with an MPH in community health from CUNY SPH. Andrea is currently project manager for the Latinx Arts Consortium of New York and Rita Allen Civic Science Fellow with Ciencia Puerto Rico. Listen in for valuable advice on building a lucrative career in public health, incorporating personal passion into your work, and unlocking opportunities for scholarships and fellowships to maximize your graduate school investment. Don't miss this inspiring episode that explores the intersection of personal commitment and professional achievement. Episode Links: Find Andrea and Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaisabellopez/ Ciencia Puerto Rico: https://www.cienciapr.org/ LxNY: https://www.lxnyarts.org/ Civic Science Fellows: https://civicsciencefellows.org/ Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jhytyx7ea5mhw7i7kx1vv/Episode-22-Transcript.docx?rlkey=guw3nz6lte0jn5n44jxuoza5b&dl=0

Unlocking opportunities to fund your public health degree and kickstart your career, with Andrea Isabel Lopez, MPH ‘20 Are you looking to pursue a career that supports a cause close to your heart but don’t know where to start? In the latest episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with Andrea Isabel Lopez about her inspiring journey to success after graduating with an MPH in community health from CUNY SPH. Andrea is currently project manager for the Latinx Arts Consortium of New York and Rita Allen Civic Science Fellow with Ciencia Puerto Rico. Listen in for valuable advice on building a lucrative career in public health, incorporating personal passion into your work, and unlocking opportunities for scholarships and fellowships to maximize your graduate school investment. Don't miss this inspiring episode that explores the intersection of personal commitment and professional achievement. Episode Links: Find Andrea and Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaisabellopez/ Ciencia Puerto Rico: https://www.cienciapr.org/ LxNY: https://www.lxnyarts.org/ Civic Science Fellows: https://civicsciencefellows.org/ Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jhytyx7ea5mhw7i7kx1vv/Episode-22-Transcript.docx?rlkey=guw3nz6lte0jn5n44jxuoza5b&dl=0

Embracing Future Tech and AI for Better Health with Dr. Bruce Y. Lee Have you ever wondered who has access to your data when you let your devices track your steps, food intake and heart rate (among other things)? Should we be afraid of artificial intelligence (AI) chat bots replacing doctors? On this episode of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with Bruce Y. Lee, MD, MBA, about the benefits and disadvantages of advanced technology and AI, and how to embrace technology for a better future. Dr. Lee provides invaluable insights for how to make sure you’re getting the most relevant and personalized diet and exercise recommendations from your apps. We discuss current trends and new innovations in advanced technology and communications, including precision nutrition, public health communications, AI in education, Virtual/Augmented Reality (VR/AR) and much more. Listen in as we embrace the transformative potential of technology in improving health outcomes and making a tangible impact on communities worldwide. Bruce Y. Lee, MD, MBA Dr. Lee is a Professor of Health Policy and Management at CUNY SPH where he is the Executive Director of the Center for Advanced Technology and Communication in Health (CATCH) and the Artificial Intelligence, Modeling, and Informatics for Nutrition Guidance and Systems (AIMINGS) Center which is supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and serves as the AI Center for the NIH’s Nutrition for Precision Health (NPH) Consortium. He is a systems modeler, professor, writer, journalist, an expert in computational and digital health and artificial intelligence who has authored over 255 scientific publications focused on developing and using new systems, computational, and AI/modeling methods. Dr. Lee writes extensively for the general media including the NY Times, HuffPost, Time and The Guardian, among many others. He is a senior contributor for Forbes, has a blog for Psychology today and his work and expertise has been featured on television, radio and other forms of media. Episode Links: Find out more and connect with Bruce Y. Lee: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/bruce-y-lee/ Read his articles on Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/?sh=2b62dbbd7068 Follow Dr. Lee on X: https://twitter.com/bruce_y_lee Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5wlrpx2y5yh0xwf5dg5ep/Ep21-transcript.docx?rlkey=qrmko3door1kf1rnwedv3tac7&dl=0

The most pressing global health threat you may not have heard about yet, with Jeffrey Lazarus (Episode 20) Join host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon on this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast with our esteemed guest Jeffrey Lazarus. He is a professor of global health in the Health Policy and Management Department at CUNY SPH, and a research professor at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) in Spain. His decade-long career as a health systems, HIV and viral hepatitis expert at The World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Europe was followed by three years at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. He currently serves as co-chair of the HIV Outcomes Beyond Viral Suppression coalition, a member of the board of directors of the SHARE Global Health Foundation and as a member of the Global NASH Council and the EASL Public Health and Policy Committee, where he leads the global Healthy Livers, Healthy Lives coalition. Professor Jeff is the author of more than 300 publications centered around liver health, viral hepatitis, HIV and COVID-19. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the most prevalent liver disease in human history, and why it is largely unknown to the general population. Formerly referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects an estimated 38% of the global adult population, and around 13% of children and adolescents. Professor Lazarus sheds light on the significance of assigning a new name and diagnostic criteria to this disease. Discover preventive measures, reversal strategies, and the need for integrative services to transform global liver health. Join us for an eye-opening conversation, and learn how we can combat this silent epidemic. Episode Links: Learn more and connect with Jeffrey V Lazarus: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/jeffrey-lazarus/ Professor Jeff’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jvlazarus?lang=en Professor Jeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-v-lazarus-42a86a/ American Liver Foundation Honors Professor Jeffrey V Lazarus, PhD with the Distinguished Scientific Achievement Award: https://liverfoundation.org/resource-center/blog/american-liver-foundation-honors-professor-jeffrey-v-lazarus-phd-with-the-distinguished-scientific-achievement-award/ Integrated management of HIV, diabetes, and hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa: a pragmatic cluster-randomized, controlled trial: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)01573-8/fulltext A multisociety Delphi consensus statement on new fatty liver disease nomenclature: https://www.journal-of-hepatology.eu/article/S0168-8278(23)00418-X/fulltext NAFLD — sounding the alarm on a silent epidemic: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41575-020-0315-7 It is time to expand the fatty liver disease community of practice: https://journals.lww.com/hep/fulltext/2023/11000/it_is_time_to_expand_the_fatty_liver_disease.2.aspx A global research priority agenda to advance public health responses to fatty liver disease: https://www.journal-of-hepatology.eu/article/S0168-8278(23)00323-9/fulltext Download a transcript of this episode for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/fd3rlkerereywwbhgu6am/Ep20-Transcript.docx?rlkey=f5ml0aoumgrt71piugp182kri&dl=0

Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with Mustafa Ali, MPH, CPH, Director of Risk and Analytics at NYC DOHMH Office of Emergency Preparedness & Response. Mustafa received his BA in environmental justice from the CUNY Baccalaureate program and a master of public health degree from Hunter College, which later became the CUNY School of Public Health. In this episode, Mustafa Ali shares his insights into the evolution of GIS, mapping and other data analysis technology since graduation, shedding light on how he has managed to stay at the forefront of these changes to advance his career. Mustafa presents a unique perspective on how his job transformed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and offers invaluable advice for individuals looking to embark on a fulfilling career in public health. Tune in to explore the dynamic intersection of technology, public health and personal growth with Mustafa Ali, and discover the keys to navigating this ever-evolving field. Subscribe now to Making Public Health Personal for more engaging discussions that bring public health closer to home. Episode links: Connect with Mustafa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mustafali Career Opportunities at NYC DOHMH Pipeline to Preparedness & Community Preparedness Fellowships: https://www.gc.cuny.edu/educational-opportunity-and-diversity/pipeline-program Community Preparedness Program: https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/emergency-preparedness/emergency-crpc.page Solomon Fellowship: https://www.nyc.gov/site/em/about/john-d-solomon-fellowship-public-service.page HRTP: A Public Health Internship Program at the NYC Health Department: https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/employment/hrtp-internship.page CDC Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) Cooperative Program: https://www.cdc.gov/orr/readiness/phep/index.htm Transcript: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bp2j01iv94swjg298gm4m/Ep19-Transcript.docx?rlkey=3kets2hc6bjzki4v2li4d2pkx&dl=0

Empowering communities to navigate health equity with alumna Shanaz Hosein-Chery | Making Public Health Personal Podcast Ep18 Join host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon on the Making Public Health Personal podcast as she speaks with CUNY SPH alumna Shanaz Hosein-Chery MS, CHES, a certified community health education specialist with nearly a decade of experience in public health. Shanaz's work focuses on health communication, social determinants of health, health disparities, health equity and social justice. As director of the Health Information Tool for Empowerment, operated by the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA), Shanaz and her team ensure equitable access to healthcare resources for communities. She describes the challenges of overcoming healthcare barriers after immigrating to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago at the age of eight, and how the experience influenced her commitment to public health equity. In this episode, Shanaz also offers expert advice on navigating the accuracy of public health content, empowering listeners to confidently assess information online. Whether you're a seasoned public health professional or aspiring to enter this field, our guests’ wisdom and experiences provide invaluable guidance and inspiration to make a difference. Episode Links: Learn more about the Health Information Tool for Empowerment: www.HITEsite.org View Shanaz’s Portfolio: https://hoseinshanaz.wixsite.com/portfolio Connect with Shanaz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanazhosein Download an episode transcript for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rwlkcftmr55e9h88yusbd/Ep18-transcript.docx?rlkey=bqejfw8zd7aatsnrs7mkeibdn&dl=0 Interested in finding out more about the CUNY SPH? Visit: SPH.cuny.edu

Welcome to a brand new season of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast, hosted by Laura Meoli-Ferrigon. Today’s guest is Christine Gargano, a Case Manager at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Learn how Christine's dedication and hard work is shaping a healthier future for New York City and beyond. As a recent recipient of the Neighborhood Rat Reduction Award and the Distinguished Service Award for her pivotal role in the COVID-19 pandemic response and the "Key to NYC" initiative, Christine brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table. She works tirelessly in the Bureau of Veterinary and Pest Control Services, where she confronts one of NYC's most common yet challenging health issues - rodents. In this episode, Christine shares invaluable advice for anyone seeking to change careers and make a meaningful impact in the field of public health. We'll delve into her transition from a career in finance to her true calling in public health. Discover how being authentic and genuine during her job interview landed her the dream role, and how her previous experience in finance became an unexpected asset in her current position. Also, she explains how she pursued her Master's in Public Health in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences from CUNY SPH while juggling a full-time job. Christine's expertise in identifying and analyzing environmental and occupational health threats, particularly rodents in our bustling city, will give you fascinating insights you never could have imagined. Episode Links: Connect with Christine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-gargano-714a3b181/ Find out more about career opportunities at NYC DOHMH: https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/employment/job-search.page Download an episode transcript for accessibility: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/fxhrvkbjthzx62we3a7hk/Episode-17-Transcript.docx?rlkey=x5ac604jwz5ptlh52bkac4yjl&dl=0 Interested in finding out more about the CUNY SPH? Visit: SPH.cuny.edu

In today’s episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with Danielle Greene, DrPH, MPH, MCHES, one of the authors of the groundbreaking study on medical cannabis and opioid prescriptions. The study, “Changes in Prescribed Opioid Dosages Among Patients Receiving Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain” found an association between receiving medical cannabis for chronic pain for a longer duration and a reduction in prescription opioid dosages. Dr. Greene brings over 30 years of public health leadership experience to the discussion and shares her insights on how medical cannabis can be used as another tool in response to the opioid epidemic. Listen and learn about the history of cannabis and opioids in the country, the evolution of pain management practices, and the future of medical and recreational cannabis as more states legalize it. Join the conversation on how legalization can be done safely and equitably. Episode Links: Find out more about this study Connect with Dr. Greene on LinkedIn Download a text transcript of this episode

In this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with CUNY SPH alumna Lauren Rauh. Since graduating in 2020 with her master of public health degree, Lauren is now program director of the New York Vaccine Literacy Campaign (VLC) at CUNY SPH. Lauren will share how her experience in the food industry prepared her for her current role, and the challenges and opportunities she faced when pivoting careers. We'll also be discussing the future of the VLC and how they are expanding their model to address systemic challenges around resources and information for preventative health care. Lauren will share tips on how to evolve professionally and find new opportunities in the quickly-changing world of public health. She will also advise how to tell if public health is the right career choice for you, without having to quit your day job. Join us to learn how to make a successful career pivot while making a positive impact on the health of your community. Episode Links: https://vaccineliteracycampaign.org/ Find out more and connect with Lauren Rauh Download a transcript of this episode

There are endless possibilities that a public health degree can open up for you. Whether you are looking to pursue a career in healthcare, government, research & academia, public service or if you want to start your own business, an MPH degree can put you on the path towards success. In this episode of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast, CUNY SPH graduate Pavan Lohia ‘20 explains how huge of a commitment it is to pursue your Medical Doctorate, with many sacrifices both socially and financially. He shares a roadmap of his pre-med journey and explains how the opportunities available at CUNY SPH opened up doors that he never would have expected. Learn how to gain leadership skills and experience while still in school, how to plan for your future goals and what you can do with your public health degree. Pavan Lohia graduated from CUNY SPH in 2020 with a Master of Public Health (MPH) concentrating in Population health and clinical sciences. He was awarded the Dean's Merit Award for Service as well as Honors from the Epsilon Chi Chapter of the Delta Omega Public Health Honorary Society, of which he is a Founding Member & President. Pavan also served as President of the Graduate Student Government Association at CUNY SPH. From being a leader at his school to being a leader in public health, Pavan is the founder of PavLyfe Group, a healthcare brand and investment firm that is redefining healthcare through knowledge, innovative technology, and capital investments. During his time as a Clinical Researcher at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, part of his fieldwork at CUNY SPH, he led major healthcare research projects related to Covid-19 and the long-term health impacts to 9/11 World Trade Center workers. While working at the National Science Foundation, in 2019 he was selected from the Presidential Pathways Program and he worked on international and national scale projects. This work led him to receive the 2021 Scientific Achievement of the Year Award from the NSF. Episode Links: Pavan Lohia can be reached via email at pavanlohia@pavlyfe.com or connect with him on these platforms: Website: www.pavlyfe.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lohiapavan Instagram/Twitter: @pavlyfe Download a transcript of this episode here

You may not be surprised, with the level of gun violence in this country, that the US has one of the highest rates of school violence in the world. But violence against children is perpetrated in homes and in schools, in many forms, and in families and countries rich and poor. As the future of our society, either we prevent violence against children while they are young, or we will have to take care of the consequences as they get older. Whether they are your children or someone else’s, children are the future of our society, making them everyone’s responsibility to keep safe. This includes preventing them from witnessing violence, which also has very serious long-lasting effects. Violence against children is one of the biggest public health problems of our time, and there are dedicated people working to end it on a global scale. But what can we do to help? In this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, we discuss evidence based strategies to prevent and end violence against children. Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with today’s guest Dr. Kathleen Cravero, Distinguished Lecturer in the Health Policy and Management Department here at CUNY SPH. Dr. Cravero is also the Co-Director of the Center for Immigrant, Refugee and Global Health. She spent 25 years working for the United Nations, including a key role at UNICEF, and dedicates her career to ending violence against women and children. Dr. Cravero will share findings from the CDC’s Violence Against Children and Youth Surveys that were collected over 10 years in 24 countries. This includes who is most affected, where they live and how government officials can decide which of the seven evidence based implementations to reduce violence against children should be implemented. No matter what your sphere of influence is, this episode will provide resources to become part of the solution. Episode links: Find out more and connect with Dr. Kathleen Cravero: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/kathleen-cravero/ Keep Kids Safe - Prevention. Healing. Justice: www.keep-kids-safe.org Keeping Children Safe - Let’s end child abuse in organisations: https://www.keepingchildrensafe.global/ End Violence: www.end-violence.org End Childhood Sexual Violence: https://www.bravemovement.org/ Download a transcript of this episode here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/56ppuv0kgivrbrc/Ep%2013%20Transcript.docx?dl=0

Today’s episode of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast looks at an oral history project at CUNY SPH called Public Health Education Now. This project asks students, faculty and staff at CUNY SPH how their lived experiences since 2020 have shaped their vision of what we want public education to be. Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with three members of the Public Health Education Now team about how they use the lessons they’ve learned from this project in their anti-racist classrooms today. We’ll discuss the oral history interviews that the team conducted, focusing on experiences of not only the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the increased visibility of racism and other oppressions, and movements for racial justice that are reverberating both in and out of the classroom. While working on this project, the team learned how to overcome major breakdowns in communication by using a method called restorative circles, and used the power of pause to get back on track. Learn how to create meaningful group assignments that allow for reflection and reinforce learning. One of these suggestions is actually to make public health personal! We discuss this and other important pedagogy tips which can promote a culture of acceptance, healing and respectful collaboration in the classroom and beyond. The Public Health Education Now project was co-lead by two CUNY SPH Associate Professors from the CUNY SPH department of Community Health and Social Sciences: Dr. Emma Tsui and Dr. Spring Cooper. Dr Emma Tsui’s work focuses on intersections of community health, occupational health and social sciences. Her research methods include some innovative methods such as peer interviewing, digital storytelling, and oral history, which is the format used for this particular project. Dr. Spring Cooper is a social researcher with experience in public health, health promotion and sexuality. Her academic background focuses on BioBehavioral health and prevention, as well as sexual health education and knowledge among young people. Ayah Elsayed helped to design this project, conducted interviews and worked to build and maintain the audio archive for the Public Health Education Now project. She graduated in 2022 from CUNY SPH with her MPH, and now teaches public health at Pace University. Episode Links: Anti-racist teaching collaborative: https://chass.commons.gc.cuny.edu/ Find out more and connect with Dr. Emma Tsui: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/emma-tsui/ Find out more and connect with Dr. Spring Cooper: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/spring-cooper/ Find out more and connect with Ayah Elsayed: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayah-elsayed-mph-a93697150/ Download a transcript of this episode here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/roeex1mgnysena3/Episode%2012%20transcript.docx?dl=0 #publichealth #podcast #education #teaching #highered #highereducation

Is the COVID-19 pandemic really over? How many vaccines and boosters we will need, and how often? Should we continue wearing masks? In this special episode of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast, host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks with three experts from CUNY SPH who are part of the global panel responsible for a new study synthesizing the best ideas on how we move forward from the pandemic. A consensus was reached among almost four hundred experts to provide specific recommendations to end COVID-19 as a public health threat, and published in Nature, the world’s leading multidisciplinary science journal. It features specific actions unanimously recommended by a panel of public health experts from 112 countries and territories. We’ll discuss the process for coordinating this type of study, the major areas it addresses, and the practical tips that you can take to protect yourself from COVID-19, no matter where you live in the world. This episode’s guest speakers include: Panel leader and CUNY SPH Senior Scholar, Jeffrey V. Lazarus. He is the head of the Health Systems Research Group and co-director of the Viral & Bacterial Infections Programme at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, and an Associate Professor at the University of Barcelona. His decade-long career as a health systems, HIV and viral hepatitis expert at WHO’s Regional Office for Europe was followed by three years at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria. He currently serves as co-chair of the HIV Outcomes Beyond Viral Suppression coalition, and as a member of several other public health committees worldwide. Dr. Ayman El-Mohandes is the Dean of CUNY SPH and co-chair of the panel. He is a pediatrician, public health academic and researcher with a commitment to public service and community engagement. He is Chairman of the board for the Association for Schools & Programs in Public Health (US), and Co-lead of the NYC pandemic response institute. Dr. El-Mohandes has been actively engaged in the response to Covid-19 here in NYC and around the world through an ongoing tracking survey monitoring the experiences and perspectives of NYC residents. He is also collaborating with an international consortium to assess and respond to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy worldwide. Diana Romero is the study methodologist & co-author. She is a Professor in the Department of Community Health & Social Sciences and she directs CUNY SPH's specialization on Maternal, Child, Reproductive and Sexual Health. Dr. Romero’s research has focused on reproductive and sexual health, social policies related to the health of poor and low-income populations, and health care access among underserved populations, employing mixed-method study designs. She recently led the COVID and Pregnancy (CAP) survey study examining the impact of the early period of the pandemic on women in NY. Episode Links: Find out more about the Delphi study and read it for yourself at cunysph.me/nature Contact & find out more about Jeffrey V. Lazarus Contact & find out more about Dr. Ayman El-Mohandes Contact & find out more about Dr. Diana Romero Download a transcript of this episode here

How can we transform public health into an innovative, forward-thinking community of change agents willing to act quickly to meet the challenges and public health crises in our world? The Health Policy and Management curriculum at CUNY SPH has been preparing public health professionals to become innovation-driven leaders willing to challenge the status quo. Today’s guest on the Making Public Health Personal Podcast is Dr. Terry Huang, Professor and Chair in the Department of Health Policy and Management at CUNY SPH. He is also Director of the Center for Systems and Community Design at CUNY SPH, and developed a public health entrepreneurship platform called Firefly Innovations. Dr. Huang speaks with host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon about how his interdisciplinary background inspired a hands-on curriculum which instills leadership skills onto our students so they can become innovative, forward-thinking leaders in public health. We’ll discuss why the entrepreneurial mindset is more important than ever, and how to use it to transform their organization, their community and society at large. Whether you’re interested in being an entrepreneur who starts their own business, or an intrapreneur who brings these important skills into their organization, the Health Policy and Management curriculum at CUNY SPH can give you the tools you need to become a leader in public health. Find out more about the degrees offered within the Health Policy and Management department at https://sph.cuny.edu/academics/departments/department-of-health-policy-and-management/ Episode Links: Contact & find out more about Dr. Terry Huang: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/terry-huang/ Firefly Innovations: https://firefly-innovations.com Summer accelerator: https://firefly-innovations.com/phia/ Want to be a guest on a future episode of this show? Contact our host: Laura.Ferrigon@sph.cuny.edu Interested in finding out more about CUNY SPH? Visit: SPH.cuny.edu Download a transcript of this episode: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4e1k7gji34dls3g8wkxjv/Episode-10-transcript.docx?dl=0&rlkey=e3rabqe0k37qq1bwul12gskkf

This episode of the Making Public Health Personal Podcast is about a hot topic you may have been hearing about lately, period poverty, otherwise known as menstrual product insecurity. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the inequity that women endure as a result of menstruation. Not only are these essential items (tampons, pads, etc.) taxed in a lot of US states, they are also not covered under public assistance or emergency response programs. These gendered (and sex-based) burdens have a negative impact on people’s physical and mental health, especially for the most vulnerable populations with lower incomes. Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon speaks about this important topic with Dr. Andrew Maroko, Associate Professor in the Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences department here at CUNY SPH. His research examines health disparities, inequities, exposures, accessibility, and environmental justice. Dr. Maroko recently collaborated with faculty at Columbia University and here at CUNY SPH on a US based study called “Menstrual Product Insecurity Resulting From COVID-19‒Related Income Loss”. In this episode, we will learn: ● who is most affected by the inability to afford menstrual products ● how this issue (like many other issues) was exacerbated due to the COVID-19 pandemic ● how the policies we have in place in the United States surprisingly do very little to combat this problem ● how his research is being used to influence lawmakers towards more equitable policies ● and what you can do to make a difference. Episode Links: Contact & find out more about Dr. Andrew Maroko: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/andrew-maroko/ Chasing COVID Study: https://cunyisph.org/chasing-covid/ Menstrual Product Insecurity Resulting From COVID-19‒Related Income Loss: https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/full/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306674. Ways to get involved and make a difference: www.period.org www.allianceforperiodsupplies.org www.periodlaw.org Queens Congresswoman Grace Meng: https://meng.house.gov Want to be a guest on a future episode of this show? Contact our host: Laura.Ferrigon@sph.cuny.edu Interested in finding out more about CUNY SPH? Visit: SPH.cuny.edu Download a transcript of this episode: https://www.dropbox.com/s/h23zvpran9oqnnb/Ep9%20transcript.txt?dl=0

If you think the healthcare system in the United States is over-complicated and inequitable, you might be surprised to learn about the corruption and lack of access and affordability to healthcare that most citizens of Puerto Rico face on their island. In this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, CUNY SPH doctoral student Sergio Rivera Rodriguez, MPH gives us context on the political history of Puerto Rico and how their healthcare system became what it is today. Host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon inquires about Sergio’s current research project which aims to expand health care coverage to every citizen on the island. Based on his data collection and analysis, he describes the differences in access, utilization, and cost of health care services by health insurance status, including the elderly and people living in poverty. This data is severely lacking in Puerto Rico, where there is not even an accurate count of how many people are uninsured. In order to create efficient policy reforms, hold private health insurance companies accountable for their spending, and adequately fund public programs (such as medicare and medicaid), this data is essential. What is the solution to Puerto Rico’s healthcare woes? How can we use this research into Puerto Rico’s system to create better healthcare access, affordability and satisfaction here in the United States? Are the other healthcare systems that other countries have in place working more effectively? The answers may surprise you. Episode Links: Contact & find out more about Sergio Rivera Rodriguez’s project: https://twitter.com/Sergio_RiveraR https://www.instagram.com/sergio.rivera.rodriguez Want to be a guest on a future episode of this show? Contact our host: Laura.Ferrigon@sph.cuny.edu Interested in finding out more about CUNY SPH? Visit: SPH.cuny.edu Download a transcript of this episode: https://www.dropbox.com/s/hhogowfthch2wpr/Episode%208%20Transcript%20MPHP.docx?dl=0

Community organizing goes beyond protesting and posting on social media. It’s finding a cause you’re passionate about, joining with other people, and using your collective voices to make a difference. In this episode of the Making Public Health Personal podcast, we share tips for being an ally for social justice, even if you aren’t part of the community most impacted by injustice. Our guest in this episode is the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Alumni Relations, who also teaches in the department of Community Health and Social Sciences at SPH, Dr. Lynn Roberts. She speaks with podcast host Laura Meoli-Ferrigon about the collective efforts to advance sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice, providing strategies on how to get involved with strategies to raise awareness- including storytelling and coalition building. We also discuss how advocates and community organizers in the digital age use strategies informed by the leaders of our past, to empower collective movements. Dr. Roberts is an emeritus board member of the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. As the co-editor and contributing author of an acclaimed anthology titled “Radical Reproductive Justice: Foundations, Theory, Practice, Critique”, Dr. Roberts shares her personal commitment to radical reproductive justice in this episode. She explains how women of color, Indigenous people, the LGBTQIA+ community and many others face historic and contemporary challenges to human rights and health equity, stemming from years of systemic oppression. This is important to her research, which focuses on the intersections of race, class and gender in adolescent dating relationships, juvenile justice and reproductive health policies and practice. Episode links: Radical Reproductive Justice: https://www.feministpress.org/books-n-z/radical-reproductive-justice SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective: https://www.sistersong.net/ Contact & find out more about Dr. Lynn Roberts: https://sph.cuny.edu/about/people/faculty/lynn-roberts/ Download a transcript of this episode: https://www.dropbox.com/s/wk71pztceb9abvm/Episode%207%20transcript.txt?dl=0