Courageous Public Health

What changes when you realize you have agency over your own life?

Dr. Shreela Sharma understood very young what it felt like not to have much of it.

As an adult, she had to learn what it meant to claim that agency for herself.

That meant seeking help, changing careers after six years of clinical training, and eventually finding her way into public health.

Then she helped build Brighter Bites—without knowing how to start a nonprofit or where the work might lead.

So how do you move forward wh...

What does it mean to build a life that makes room for all of who you are?

Dr. Thelma Gamboa-Maldonado has been navigating that question for decades.

She started graduate school just weeks after getting married, interviewed for her doctoral program eight months pregnant, and later brought her newborn to class.

Then, during COVID, she saw a public health workforce stretched thin—and a group of students whose field experiences had suddenly disappeared.

What happened when she brought those two realities together?

And what does connection have to do wi...

What does it take to step into something when there isn't a roadmap?

Dr. Alexis Travis has done that more than once.

At 28, in her first directorship, she was asking hospital leaders across Massachusetts to change maternity-care practices.

Years later, she became the first person of color to lead Michigan's aging network.

And today, she's building a model for health and well-being at Michigan State University that didn't exist before she arrived.

But Dr. Travis isn't only interested in what it takes to go first.

She's also...

What does it mean to take up space?

For Marcella Juarez, that question is tied to land that has been in her family for more than 160 years—land she is now using to grow food for her community.

It's also tied to her own place in agriculture, where she is still learning to take up space as a Mexican-American woman.

But as our conversation continues, the question gets bigger.

Who gets to farm? Where does the food go? Who gets to stay on the land?

And what does any of...

In this solo episode, I reflect on what I've learned from 75 conversations—and why I'm getting more curious about what happens around the courage.

What shapes the way someone responds? What changes when the conditions change? And what can we learn when we stay with those questions a little longer?

I also share why I've stopped thinking of this as a podcast only for people who work in public health. Public health is the topic. It's not the target population.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Episode 75.

Co...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Renée Canady reflects on how our experiences shape what we notice, what we value, and how we respond.

From identity and leadership, to the changing language we use to talk about equity and difference, Dr. Canady explores what it means to stay grounded in what we know matters—even as the words, systems, and circumstances around us change.

This conversation is about courage, fairness, and what becomes possible when we respond intentionally to what we see.

Meet Dr. Renée Cana...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Tyra Gross reflects on what becomes possible when we give ourselves permission to follow an idea—even when we don't know exactly where it will lead.

From choosing to study public health in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina, to building a career in maternal and child health, to imagining new ways to give others the time and space to pursue their own ideas, Tyra shares how some of the most meaningful paths begin with a willingness to take a leap.

This conversation explores courage, curiosity, mentorship, an...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Le'Jon Godwin-Chumley, MPH, HTL (ASCP), reflects on what happens when we stop waiting to feel qualified enough and recognize that we already have something valuable to contribute.

From walking into a public health business summit where she didn't know anyone, to shifting from laboratory science into maternal and child health equity, to starting her own consulting business, Le'Jon shares how curiosity, authenticity, and a willingness to ask questions have helped her step into unfamiliar spaces.

This conversation explores what becomes possible when we recognize that we...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Danielle M. Campbell reflects on what it means to continue doing equity-centered work when the communities, language, and issues at the center of that work are increasingly under attack.

From challenging assumptions about Black communities and HIV research, to centering community power in science, to refusing to separate her identities as a Black woman, scientist, advocate, and leader, Dr. Campbell shares why she continues to push—even when that work is met with resistance.

This conversation explores courage, power, community, and what it means to re...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Angela N. Frazier reflects on what happens when we refuse to let difficult moments define what's possible next.

From losing her mother just before graduate school, to leaving the security of a full-time job to lead Sisters in Public Health, to building a national organization dedicated to connection, wellness, and professional growth, Angela shares why some of the most important decisions begin by simply taking the next step.

This conversation explores courage, sisterhood, leadership, and the power of creating spaces where people don't just succeed—they be...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Natrina Kennedy reflects on what happens when we stop defining ourselves by our titles and start leading from a deeper understanding of who we are.

From founding a nonprofit at 22, to recognizing when it was time to let it go, to helping students connect their own stories to the work of public health, Natrina shares how understanding her identity has shaped every chapter of her leadership journey.

This conversation explores how our lived experiences shape the questions we ask, the work we pursue, and the impact...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Chioma Nnaji reflects on what happens when we're clear about who we are, what we value, and why we do this work.

From choosing purpose over a higher salary early in her career, to reimagining what community-led public health can become, Chioma shares how moving with intention has shaped both her leadership and her vision for the future.

This conversation explores courage, purpose, authenticity, community, and what becomes possible when we stop reacting to the moment and start making decisions that are aligned with who we...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Wari Allison reflects on what it means to choose the road less traveled—even when the familiar path feels safer.

From changing medical specialties midway through her training, to becoming both a physician and scientist, to adopting her children as a single mother, Wari shares how some of life's most meaningful opportunities begin when we're willing to step into the unknown.

This conversation explores courage, integrity, purpose, leadership, and what becomes possible when we trust ourselves enough to take a path that others might never ch...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Carlene Valentine reflects on what it means to remain true to yourself while stepping into spaces where you aren't sure you belong.

From becoming the first in her family to attend college, to navigating the transition from community-based public health into corporate leadership, Dr. Valentine shares how she learned to find her voice without leaving her communities—or herself—behind.

This conversation explores courage, authenticity, representation, leadership, and what becomes possible when we recognize that who we are isn't something to overcome. It's often our grea...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Leonore Okwara, MPH, GFI, CES, reflects on how lived experience can transform the way we understand public health.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Leonore found herself navigating the healthcare system not only as a public health professional, but also as a patient. That experience reshaped how she thinks about research, community partnership, and the knowledge that comes from living through what we study.

This conversation explores courage, community, trust, lived experience, and what becomes possible when we recognize that the people closest to the experience...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, lori latham, MA, reflects on what it means to keep showing up—even when the outcome isn't certain.

From running for leadership knowing she would likely lose, to speaking more directly after years of softening her voice, to raising children she cannot protect from every challenge, lori shares what it looks like to act from your values even when you understand what it might cost.

This conversation explores courage, authenticity, political leadership, parenting, and what becomes possible when we stop letting anticipated outcomes determine whether we ac...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Malaika Simmons, MS, reflects on what it means to trust yourself, stay aligned with your values, and lead with intention—even within systems that can pressure you to disconnect from who you are.

From navigating experiences of bias and self-doubt to helping others make values-aligned leadership decisions, Dr. Simmons shares how awareness, empathy, and alignment have shaped her life and work.

This conversation explores courage, identity, empathy, wellness, and what becomes possible when we stop trying to control everything and start responding intentionally to the moment in...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Avalon Adams-Thames reflects on what it means to keep showing up—through grief, responsibility, leadership, and systems that do not always make space for your full voice.

From losing family members whose experiences shaped her path into public health, to navigating professional spaces where she was expected to shrink herself, stay silent, or make her expertise less visible , Dr. Adams-Thames shares the emotional weight so many women quietly carry while continuing to lead.

This conversation explores courage, grief, caregiving, visibility, and survival—and what it take...

Meet Jasmine Brett Stringer, MAPP ✨

Jasmine Brett Stringer is an expert on workplace well-being and emotional agility, helping individuals and organizations thrive through practical, research-backed strategies. A 2026 Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal Women in Business Honoree, she is a dynamic keynote speaker, award-winning author, television personality, and Founder & CEO of Carpe Diem with Jasmine. Known for her vibrant presence on stage and screen, Jasmine blends positive psychology, lived experience, and business insight to help people flourish at work and in life.

Her energizing keynotes inspire audiences to lead with authenticity, reconnect to purpose, and build su...

In this special bonus episode, Dr. Kristi McClamroch shares the story behind the paintings that now hang behind her and reflects on what they have taught her about courage, connection, and the power of witnessing. A personal reflection on grief, creativity, and why painting and podcasting are, in many ways, the same act of attention.

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Zoila Reyna, MPH, shares what it looked like to walk away from work she loved—without knowing exactly what would come next.

From quitting jobs without another offer lined up, to sleeping on a friend's couch so she could rebuild her life in Los Angeles, to eventually founding Public Health Hired, Zoila reflects on the risks, uncertainty, and persistence that have shaped her path.

This conversation explores courage, reinvention, and self-trust—and what happens when you stop settling for a life that no longer fits.

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In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Farah Mawani reflects on what it means to do public health work that is deeply personal—where lived experience, research, and advocacy cannot be separated.

From navigating the COVID-19 pandemic as both a social epidemiologist and a member of a community disproportionately impacted by the virus, to confronting systemic racism within academia and public health systems, Dr. Mawani shares what it means to keep speaking truth to power, even when the consequences are real.

This conversation explores courage, solidarity, and the power of lived experience—and...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Sharon Attipoe-Dorcoo reflects on what it means to lead with courage, clarity, and curiosity inside systems that were never designed with everyone in mind.

From navigating identity as a Black Ghanaian-American woman in public health spaces, to challenging dominant narratives around data, leadership, and belonging, Dr. Attipoe-Dorcoo shares a vision of public health rooted in dignity, care, and collective humanity.

This conversation explores curiosity as a form of resistance—and what becomes possible when we refuse to accept oppressive systems as the only way forward.

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Rebecca Désir shares what it looks like to take action before you feel ready—moving away from everything familiar, starting something from nothing, and building in real time.

From launching the Black Joy Festival during the pandemic with no funding and no clear path, to redefining her identity and leadership over time, she reflects on the courage it takes to trust yourself and keep going.

This conversation explores how courage builds—through action, through uncertainty, and through the decision to begin anyway.

Mee...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Shawnté Elbert shares what it looks like to choose alignment over comfort — even when that means walking away from roles, titles, and systems she worked years to build.

From navigating moments of forced transition to rebuilding her work without a platform, she reflects on the courage it takes to trust your own discernment when everything familiar falls away.

This is a conversation about courage, identity, and power — and what it means to lead without negotiating your value.

Meet Dr. Shawnté Elbert✨

Dr...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Khalilah LeGrand shares what it looks like to practice courage through restraint — especially in high-stakes public health moments where she holds information that could change how a story is perceived, but chooses not to share it.

As a spokesperson navigating crisis, scrutiny, and public pressure, she reflects on the discipline it takes to stay aligned with your values — even when you know more than you can say.

This is a conversation about courage, authenticity, and values — and how being intentional, measured, and fully yourself can be a p...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Aaliyah Belk shares what it looks like to find your way in public health — even when you don't fully understand the path ahead.

From navigating identity and learning how to take up space, to asking for help and building her career without a clear roadmap, Aaliyah reflects on the courage it takes to keep going when you feel uncertain.

This is a conversation about courage, identity, and growth — and what it means to stay the course in a field that doesn't always have clear answers.

Yo...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Corinna Kelley shares what it looks like to practice courage by staying in uncertainty — sitting in discomfort long enough to rediscover who you are becoming.

From leaving a full-time role to step into consulting without a clear plan, to sharing her story on stage, Corinna reflects on how growth happens not by avoiding discomfort, but by learning to stay with it.

This is a conversation about courage, identity, and transformation — and what it takes to lead from within.

Meet Corinna Kelley, MPH✨

...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Karina Barillas shares what it looks like to live courage not as a choice, but as a necessity — from speaking up as a child in the face of abuse to leading a movement rooted in dignity, belonging, and community.

She brings us into the reality of what it means to use your voice in spaces that don't welcome it — and the courage required to insist on humanity, visibility, and equity for immigrant and refugee communities.

This is a conversation about courage, voice, and belonging — and what it tak...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, LaTonya Bynum shares what it looks like when prevention stops being theoretical — and becomes a decision about your own body, your own life, and your own future.

After learning she carried a genetic risk for cancer, LaTonya was offered preventive surgery. Instead, she made a different choice — one that required her to confront stress, identity, and the conditions shaping her health.

This is a conversation about courage, prevention, and reinvention — and what happens when we apply public health not just to communities, but to ourselves.

You...

In this episode, Dr. McClamroch reflects on what 50 conversations have taught her about courage in public health — how it shows up, why it often goes unnoticed, and what changes when we begin to name it clearly. Because if there's one thing she sees now, it's this: courage is already happening — it's just not being recognized. And when it is, something shifts.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Episode 50.

Listen To This Episode of The Courageous Public Health Podcast

Conversation Highlights 🎙️

1. Courage is already happening — it's just not being named

Acros...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Daphne Robinson—attorney, former juvenile prosecutor, public health professional—reflects on what it means to tell the truth about a system she once served from the inside.

Through her book, she challenges colleagues, questions long-held assumptions, and names the ways Black children are treated differently in juvenile court.

We talk about why public health belongs in the courtroom, what justice requires beyond punishment, and why she believes even this difficult moment may one day lead to reconstruction.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podc...

In this episode, Dr. Nelva Lee shares what it looks like to act with courage by stepping into public leadership, trusting her voice, and refusing to shrink herself to fit expectations — even while running for statewide office.

This is a conversation about public leadership, authenticity, and the courage to run your own race — even when politics, expectations, and fear try to push you into a mold that doesn't fit.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Episode 48.

Meet Dr. Nelva Lee ✨

Dr. Nelva Lee is the Founder and CEO of...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Dr. Jovonni Spinner shares what it looks like to do it scared — betting on yourself, speaking honestly about equity, and leading with conviction even when the room gets uncomfortable.

This is a conversation about courage as a practice — about pivoting without calling it failure, leaving the "good government job" to build Beacon Public Health, leading with clarity, compassion, and conviction, and protecting your peace with boundaries, rest, and a full-body "no."

Meet Dr. Jovonni Spinner

Dr. Jovonni Spinner is an award-winning public heal...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Chevelle Davis shares what it looks like to tell the truth and stand ten toes down on it — in academia, in policy spaces, and in public health systems that often reward silence over honesty.

This is a conversation about courage, power, and accountability — about land and responsibility, professionalism and whiteness, data-to-action work, and what becomes possible when we stop window dressing equity and start living it.

Meet Chevelle Davis, MPH

Chevelle Davis was born and raised on O'ahu and calls the ahupua'a of H...

In this episode, Angela Bannerman Ankoma, MPH, MSW shares what it looks like to lead despite fear — in crisis, in community, and in systems that don't always expect public health to be at the table.

This is a conversation about courage under pressure, unapologetic advocacy, public health beyond the clinic walls, Black women's leadership, and what it means to build power in historically marginalized communities — even when the headwinds are strong.

Meet Angela Bannerman Ankoma, MPH, MSW

Angela Bannerman Ankoma, MPH, MSW, is a strategic leader, equity champion, and community builder whos...

In this episode, Syreeta Nolan shares what it looks like to claim your full identity and build systems that honor every body and mind — even when those systems were never designed for you.

This is a conversation about disability justice, prevention, and power — and what becomes possible when we stop asking people to fit broken systems and start redesigning systems to fit people.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Episode 44.

Meet Syreeta Nolan

Syreeta Nolan is a Black Disabled, bisexual, kink-friendly systems thinker and relentless advocate for equi...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Brittaney Jenkins, BS, CHES®, CPST—founder and CEO of Jenkins Public Health Consulting, course and program strategist, and public health entrepreneur—shares how courage looks in real life: moving away from home, building a business from her expertise, and learning to name her value without apology.

Brittaney also breaks down what it takes to protect your work in contract negotiations, treat confidence as a skill you can build, and lead with strong boundaries as a mother and a leader.

You're listening to the Courageous Public Health Podca...

In this episode, Dr. Zupenda Davis shares what it looks like to choose yourself — in your work, your relationships, and your health. From setting boundaries that protect her peace to speaking openly about women's health and menopause, Dr. Davis brings a vision of public health that centers the whole person.

This is a conversation about courage, freedom, and what becomes possible when women stop shrinking and start naming what they need.

Meet Dr. Zupenda Davis

Dr. Zupenda Davis is the Assistant Vice President of Student Health and Wellness at Stockton University, wh...

In this episode of the Courageous Public Health Podcast, Indya Hairston—Johns Hopkins DrPH student, founder of Community Speaks Consulting, and advocate for Black women's reproductive and maternal health—shares how courage defined her pivotal year of 2023. She talks about moving across the country for a fresh start, applying to only one doctoral program because it aligned with her purpose, quitting a stable nonprofit job to launch her consulting firm without guaranteed income, and choosing faith over fear at every step.

Indya reflects on taking up space as a Black woman in environments where her voice isn't alwa...