Tribal Health the Podcast: Recent Episodes
Tribal Health
Tribal Health the Podcast explores the healthcare and cultural topics that shape modern Indigenous lives, such as culture-centric care, mental health, chronic conditions, women’s health, and care disparities in the United States.
Indigenous communities face significant environmental health disparities. In this episode, Afif Showkat, a Public Health Specialist at the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Epidemiology Center (GLITEC), discusses the unique health challenges faced by Tribal and Indigenous communities across the U.S.
Afif talked to us about his work on grants designed to improve health equity through the Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country program and Indian Health Service initiatives, and his emphasis on the dangers of PFAS chemicals and heavy metals in water sources.
He also recounted his journey into public health, including his experiences working with children with special needs and the need for a deeper understanding of harmful chemicals in everyday environments.
Environmental health affects all of us - tune in and learn about the impact on Indigenous health!
Chiropractic care is expanding in Native communities - and Ryan Kain, a chiropractic physician for the Marimn Health Tribal clinic, is at the center of that movement. In this episode, he highlighted his journey working with the Coeur d'Alene tribe to integrate chiropractic services into their healthcare systems.
Ryan shared the challenges he faces due to the stigma surrounding chiropractic care and the lack of resources in Tribal nations. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration and cultural humility in the patient experience, Ryan also highlighted the growing interest in non-opioid pain treatments and addressing autoimmune diseases through chiropractic care.Currently Ryan is working toward creating a national association and establishing internship programs for Native students. We loved talking to him - so tune in and learn how chiropractic care is becoming an essential part of healthcare in Tribal nations!
The stigma surrounding mental health is a major barrier for Native Americans seeking care.
In this episode, Shauna Humphreys, Behavioral Health Director for the Choctaw Nation, and Michelle Lemming, CEO & President of the Texoma Health Foundation, talk about the rich cultural heritage and challenges faced by the 574 tribal nations across the United States, focusing on the Choctaw Nation. Shauna and Michelle highlight the efforts to improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas, where resources are scarce and trust in the system is low. They both emphasize the importance of collaboration, cultural awareness, and resilience in addressing the unique needs of Native American communities. Throughout this interview, Shauna and Michelle discuss the severe gaps in behavioral health services, the importance of connecting patients with their culture, and the ongoing struggle to recruit healthcare professionals to these underserved regions. They also touch on the impact of historical trauma and the importance of focusing on equity in philanthropic efforts.
Tune in and learn how dedicated professionals are working to uplift tribal communities by bridging gaps in healthcare and fostering cultural resilience!
Ever wondered how text messaging can transform adolescent health in Native communities?
In this episode, we talk to Jane Manthei, communications specialist with the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and a key member of the We R Native team. Jane explains how cultural identity and effective communication can bridge gaps in healthcare. That includes using innovative text messaging services and social media outreach to support Native youth, their families, and their communities.
Thank you, Jane, for sharing your heartfelt stories about the ways Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board is working to empower Native communities!
In this episode, Anthony Guzman, the Chief Cultural Officer at the Native American Health Center, shares his rich tapestry of life experiences - from overcoming personal challenges to pursuing higher education to his lifelong commitment to social work and cultural preservation.
Especially interesting is his leadership in integrating traditional knowledge and wisdom within healthcare services. Anthony explains the importance of bringing one’s authentic self into one’s professional life, the unique challenges and rewards of working within Native communities, and the power of cultural diversity. He also offers invaluable advice for healthcare professionals stepping into Indigenous communities for the first time.
Listen to Anthony's incredible story and his insights into the intersection of culture, community, and health!
Arming people with knowledge of their rights and the law is enough to empower them to resolve issues on their own.
Saira Coye-Huhn and Ryan DuBois emphasize their team’s focus on protecting and promoting the rights of citizens in the linguistically diverse city. They also highlight the commission’s bystander intervention training as a way to combat bias incidents and hate crimes, fostering a safer environment for all.
Tune in to learn more about the commission's work and how you can contribute to creating a more inclusive and safe environment for Indigenous people in New York City!
Connecting with people through food is an overlooked aspect of nutrition.
In this episode, Tara Maudrie discusses various aspects of indigenous health and food sovereignty and shares insights into her research on urban native health, food security, and indigenous research methods. She emphasizes the importance of redefining nutrition from a compassionate, culturally relevant perspective, highlighting the significance of traditional foods and community gatherings around meals.
Tune in and learn how we can support healthier, more inclusive approaches to nutrition and wellness in tribal and indigenous communities.
Health insurance is critical to good health in the United States - but not everyone knows how to navigate complex insurance systems.
In the new episode of the Tribal Health Podcast, Travis Johnson explains how his team helps Native American communities navigate the federally facilitated marketplace - providing access to health insurance and care. His team is active in direct community outreach, provides in-person assistance, hosts informational events, and addresses the complexity of health insurance with navigators' aid.
We found our conversation with him full of enlightening surprises - so tune in and hear about how Travis is supporting Indigenous communities in accessing vital healthcare resources!
Cultural connection is key in Indigenous healthcare - and a big part of that is understanding historical context.
In this episode, Adriann Begay shares her remarkable journey in Indigenous healthcare. Adriann began her career as a nurse and later became a physician, while also holding the role of UCSF HEAL Initiative Navajo Nation Advisor - leveraging her extensive experience to advance health equity and cultural competency in healthcare delivery.
Adriann shares some of her efforts to bridge the gap between Western medicine and traditional healing practices, highlighting the significance of holistic approaches in Indigenous communities.
Tune in and gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous healthcare and the importance of cultural sensitivity in medical practice!
How do tribal health centers navigate the challenge of billing for ceremonial services, and what ethical considerations come into play when placing financial value on these services?
In this episode, Lorna Elliot-Egan, Director at Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, delves into the delicate balance of honoring ceremonial traditions in tribal health centers whilst addressing the financial realities of service billing—a topic that requires both sensitivity and innovation. She navigates the food deserts of rural tribal lands and understands the powerful movement towards food sovereignty, ensuring that essential cultural dietary preferences are met and respected.
Don't miss out on a crucial discussion about ongoing partnerships and innovative solutions like the Tribal Healthcare Workforce Summit, aimed at overcoming staffing challenges through collaboration.
Our healthcare providers need support - as Dr. Tina Shah explains in the new episode of the Tribal Health Podcast.
Dr. Shah talked to us about the unique challenges healthcare workers face in Tribal and rural communities, such as outdated technology and high administrative burden. She shares valuable strategies on enhancing clinician well-being, such as leveraging nutrition, stress management, and forging strong connections with peers to combat the intensities of their roles; she also explains how new AI tools can help reconnect providers to their purpose.
Tune in as Dr. Shah offers truly innovative approaches to supporting frontline workers.
Building relationships with Tribal leaders is crucial in addressing health disparities.
In this episode, Guthrie Capossela, a Native American Community Engagement Coordinator for the Mayo Clinic, explains his team’s role in improving healthcare outcomes for Native Americans. He highlights the interconnectedness between education and health and the importance of stresses cultural humility, urging providers to approach Native American communities with openness and respect.
Tune in and learn how you can contribute to fostering inclusion in Native health!
Embracing ancestral traditions can offer genuine healing and community support in our contemporary world.
In this episode, Kelly Vallo, the founder of Bah'Hane Consulting, explores the threads of Indigenous identity and the power of tradition in our modern world. Education and collective effort can nurture a true sense of belonging, she says - and her latest initiative, Medicine H.E.A.L.S., offers solace for young Indigenous professionals encumbered by a society still shadowed by colonialism.
Thank you, Kelly, for sharing your insights!
Meet Bryan Wempen, Chief Revenue Officer for Remble, a mental health services company. In our new episode of the Tribal Health Podcast, he talked to us about the challenges and opportunities in Indigenous health, especially in the context of digital health.
Family involvement, cultural understanding, and curiosity: Bryan explains why these are essential components in building meaningful cross-cultural connections. Bryan also highlights Remble's innovative approach to mental health support, incorporating both AI and peer support specialists to address those struggling with addiction and mental health in Tribal communities. Finally, he emphasizes the significance of making healthcare personal and being willing to make mistakes as a non-Native person working closely with indigenous communities.
Thank you, Bryan, for sharing your experiences in the evolving landscape of digital health in Tribal communities!
Meet Monique Castro, founder and CEO of Indigenous Circle of Wellness. In this episode, she talks to us about the importance of integrating cultural values into healthcare, especially in Tribal nations in the United States. Monique explores an interesting connection between ancient practices, like dancing and drumming, and modern therapies used to treat trauma, anxiety, and depression. She also explains how to individualize healing methods based on personal and cultural preferences, and why addressing disconnections and generational trauma is so critical vs. merely diagnosing a patient.
Prepare yourselves for a remarkable episode that bridges the gap between traditional therapy and cultural understanding.
Working toward Indigenous success always begins in the same place: making connections and building relationships.
In this podcast episode, Mario welcomes behavioral health expert Josh DeBartolo, who serves Tribal and Multicultural Liaison for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
Josh talked to us about the significance of understanding and respecting different Tribal cultures and the positive impact of collaborative efforts. He emphasizes the value of genuine relationships, cultural humility, and tailored holistic approaches in driving better care outcomes in working with diverse Tribal nations. He also shared insights into behavioral health challenges and rewards while advising clinicians to adopt these practices.
Tune in to learn how Josh's approach to fostering connections is building more culturally sensitive and equitable healthcare pathways!
Revitalizing traditional farming methods can be enormously empowering when it comes to nurturing cultural roots and fostering environmental resilience.
In this episode, Michael Kotutwa Johnson discusses his commitment to preserving Indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental conservation. He highlights the importance of a harmonious relationship with nature as he addresses challenges faced by Indigenous groups, emphasizing the connection between spirituality, agriculture, and holistic well-being within the Hopi community.
Tune into this conversation and learn more about about preserving cultural heritage through a healthy relationship with the environment!
What's it like to work closely with Indigenous communities during a pandemic - and an epidemic?
In this episode of the Tribal Health Podcast, Divya Nagpal shares her experience managing COVID and opioid response in a South Dakota Tribal community. Her work with the CDC Foundation provided her with a unique perspective - and in our conversation, she addresses COVID-19 challenges, emphasizes cultural respect, and highlights the value of listening and community support.
Uncover the power of humility and empathy in public health as Divya Nagpal discusses her life-changing work with tribal communities during a global pandemic.
Addressing climate change within Tribal communities is not an easy mission. But Nikki Cooley, co-manager of the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals’ Tribes and Climate Change Program, fights for climate justice every day. In our latest episode, she highlights resource disparities and cultural challenges on Indigenous lands - and the ways Tribal nations are dealing with a changing climate.
Find out how Nikki Cooley’s cultural responsibility fuels her commitment to protecting precious resources and combating climate injustice.
Preserving Indigenous culture amidst climate change is a challenge that Bazile Panek knows all too well. In our latest episode, Bazile talks about his passion for sharing Native American culture, language, and history, as well as the impact of climate change on indigenous communities. He discusses climate change adaptation, Indigenous knowledge promotion, mental health implications, cultural identity, land preservation, and healing practices.
Thank you, Bazile, for sharing Indigenous insights on climate change and identity!
The Psychedelic Renaissance brings forth the use of indigenous plant medicines, so it’s time to preserve tradition and balance it with modern science.
In this episode, Christine Diindisi McCleave discusses using traditional plant medicines in indigenous communities to address historical trauma and promote healing. She discusses colonization's impact, contrasts healing approaches, notes Psychedelic Renaissance, raises commodification concerns, advises serving indigenous communities, and cautions about psychedelic medicine risks.
Listen to learn about cultural preservation and a holistic approach to the role of plant medicines in indigenous!
The First Nations Development Institute empowers Californian Native-led initiatives and safeguards Indigenous heritage.
In this episode, Sabine Talaugon, program officer for California Tribal Fund’s First Nations Development Institute, discusses the fund's inception in 2020 to support California-based, Native-led nonprofits and Tribal programs focused on safeguarding food systems, water, languages, traditional knowledge, and land.
Sabine's journey has involved transitioning from public health and policy to her present role, which emphasizes holistic care, cultural revival, and addressing historical intergenerational trauma. She talks about how her experience at California State Parks involved integrating traditional ecological knowledge and collaborating with tribes for respectful land use and repatriation efforts. She also encourages non-Native individuals to approach serving Indigenous communities with humility and a willingness to learn, highlighting the ongoing process of cultural revitalization.
We were so inspired by Sabine’s work to empower holistic care for Indigenous communities with the California Tribal Fund - don't miss our conversation!
Telehealth transformed Indigenous healthcare in Alaskaby, breaking barriers and increasing access.
In this episode, Dr. Supriya Mathur discusses her Indigenous healthcare work in Alaska, connecting remote communities with geographical access barriers to good healthcare through telemedicine. She emphasizes the importance of cultural understanding alongside treatment to address unique health challenges and positively impact communities, Alaska Natives.
Listen to this episode to find out more about Dr. Supriya Mathur's work in Alaskan Indigenous healthcare!
Allyship and representation can bridge the gap between public health and politics.
In this episode, Christina Haswood shares her journey into politics, mainly focusing on her work on indigenous issues and public health from the Kansas House District 10. Christina is passionate about creating change, equity, and inclusion, and making a positive impact in her role as a state legislator, which is why she hopes to be her constituents’ best representation in local government.
Listen to learn about Christina’s commitment to advocacy and inclusion of indigenous voices in health politics!
Embracing cultural approaches to mental health treatment can make a real impact on communities.
In this episode, Constance Scharff discusses addiction, trauma recovery, and the importance of integrating Indigenous practices in mental health. She also highlights the connection between addiction treatment, cultural trauma, and the value of acceptance, therapy, and storytelling in mental well-being.
Listen to this episode and learn more about exploring the role of connection and cultural approaches to mental health!
Native self-actualization is a path for personal growth and community development.
In this episode, Sidney Brown shares insights into her journey and career, highlights the importance of embracing identity and purpose, and advocates for preserving indigenous culture and knowledge. She also discusses how her book "Transformation Beyond Greed" explores indigenous perspectives on self-actualization and criticizes Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Listen to this episode and learn from Dr. Brown’s inspiring journey to embrace native identity and purpose!
Cultural understanding works hand in hand with Tribal healthcare. In this week's episode, we talked to Dillon Shije about his work as a health advisor to Pueblo nations and his journey towards becoming a medical doctor. Dillion shared a look into how traditional care can incorporates ancestral knowledge from nature, movement, and prayer to foster community strength and wellness.
We loved our conversation with Dillion about his multifaceted approach to Tribal healthcare - thanks for joining us, Dillon!
Native youth are our future - but are they getting the information they need about their sexual and mental health?
In the new episode of the Tribal Health Podcast, Celena Ghost Dog talks about empowering Native youth by giving them inclusive care, education, and a platform to share their voice on mental and sexual health issues. She talked to us about her involvement in programs on LGBTQ+ issues and two-spirit individuals, as well as youth representation within the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board.
We loved our conversation with Celena - and we think you will too. Listen to the episode to learn the many ways Celena is working to support better mental and sexual health for Native youth!
This week the Tribal Health Podcast talks to Dr. Meghan O'Connell about her role in providing health services to underserved communities. How can we better use public health data to challenge systemic disparities? Dr. O'Connell explains her approach to community health and shares some of the challenges she encounters in trying to build health equity in disadvantaged areas.
Don't miss this episode on how Dr. O'Connell and other physicians are steering public health initiatives into stronger health for everyone.
There needs to be a system that fits people with varied healing backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs.
In this episode, Sierra Asamoa-Tutu, a generational healing therapist and clinical social worker, discusses her mental health work with the Gallup, New Mexico, Native community and the systemic challenges populations like them constantly face. Sierra explains why the current system can still be oppressive to minorities, who usually have to address their trauma independently.
On the latest episode of The Tribal Health Podcast, we're honored to introduce Brendan McKenna, Vice President of Tribal First, who talked to us about exercising Tribal sovereignty in healthcare. We had a fascinating discussion about delivering care based on each Tribe's needs and the importance of treating behavioral health and substance use disorders on Indigenous lands. Brendan emphasized the need to better listen to Native patients receiving care, as Western medicine tends to focus on cures - and a Native patient's idea of care can cover a broader spectrum.
Tune in to learn more about Brendan’s work with bringing Tribal sovereignty to Indigenous healthcare!
These midwives are Incorporating traditional birthing practices into indigenous communities once more.
This episode of Tribal Health, the podcast, features an inspiring Navajo nurse midwife, Executive director, and founder of the Changing Woman Initiative, Nicolle Gonzales, who talks about her nonprofit’s work with maternal health and indigenous midwifery, and discusses the policies around these subjects and the challenges they encounter day-to-day.
Tune in to learn how Nicolle and CWI are transforming indigenous communities in the way that they approach bringing people into this world!
Even if every tribe is different, they all deserve quality public health services.
In this episode, Chris Tall Bear discusses navigating public tribal health today and educating young generations about it with the Southern Plains Tribal Health Board’s different programs and conferences. He also talks about the positive changes happening in tribal care proactiveness, more education offerings, and higher community engagement.
Tune in to learn more about Chris's work for tribal public health and education around it!
Many indigenous communities need to rebalance their relationship with food.
In this episode, Denee Bex, a Navajo registered dietitian, founder, and owner of Tumbleweed Nutrition LLC, talks about helping indigenous communities understand and upgrade their relationship with food and subsequent nutrition. Denee also discusses how healthcare professionals should approach indigenous communities.
Tune in to learn about community nutrition for indigenous settings!
Why do health inequity issues exist in some communities? Sometimes process and policy plays a role.
In this episode, DeRonn Kidd, senior manager at Aetna, CVS Health, talks about his journey to increase health equity and question existing policies that affect it. He explains why working with these communities requires a different approach to establish self-sustaining processes - and why existing policies can be reformed to reduce structural inequities.
Learn more about DeRonn’s work to improve health equity for underserved communities!
This week we're honored to host two incredible guests from the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. As a nonprofit organization, NABS provides advocacy and healing to boarding school survivors in Indian Country. Creative Director Kenrick Escalanti and Director of Research and Education Deidre Whiteman explain how we are now reckoning with the true harm of boarding schools in Native communities - and how their work affects Tribal nations immersed in trauma.
Tune in to this incredible episode about policy work, justice, and education in Indian Country!
Jenny Slagle is helping the Spokane build a collective voice to get equity.
This episode of Tribal Health, the podcast, features the inspiring expert on tribal relations Jenny Slagle, about her work and activism for equitable representation in education and health for indigenous people. Jenny’s whole career really has been centered around working for and with tribes, educating people, indigenous and non-indigenous, on who native American people are. She is currently working with the Spokane community to take ownership of their own narrative. Jenny discusses how she’s actively working with organizations that are addressing these issues within their communities, focusing on tribal health and the importance of policy changes for it.
Tune in to this incredible conversation around bringing equity for indigenous communities in health and education!
Native Communities are a solution, not a problem to be fixed. That's the premise of today's episode, featuring the incredible Sasha Houston Brown. Sasha (Santee Sioux) is a Senior Communications and Advocacy Consultant for Blue Cross Blue Shield Center for Prevention in Minnesota. She shares some of her initiatives at Blue Cross Blue Shield, many of which center around diversity and inclusion of different Indian experiences. As a biracial woman, Sasha also shares her thoughts on racism, DEI initiatives, and increasing representation in the medical field.
Tune in to this sincere conversation about Sasha’s advocacy for Indigenous peoples.
This episode, we welcome Serene Thin Elk, Chief Behavioral Health Officer at South Dakota Urban Indian Health! Cultural Health is one of the main pillars of the SDUIH, whose mission is to integrate clinical care with Native traditions and knowledge. The cultural health department includes Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota lifeways and teachings, yet the space for spiritual and cultural sharing is open for other tribes and non-Indigenous people too. As a clinical therapist, Serene discusses her approach to therapy, mental, and behavioral health and how they build resiliency in her community.
Tune in to this interesting episode about how Serene helps others heal through connecting with their culture.
How can we increase the number of Native American physicians across the nation? That's the question answered by our guest today, Dr. Mary Owen (Tlingit), associate dean of Native American Health at the University of Minnesota’s Medical School. Dr. Owen is also the director of the Center of American Indian Minority Health.
Dr. Owen talks about the lack of Native nurses and physicians, her professional journey, and her advocacy on behalf of Native communities and practices in healthcare. She also shares her work in developing programs that support Native students through their K-12 education and into healthcare professions.
Don't miss our conversation with one of the most influential women in Native health today.
Please welcome this episode's guest, Heather Sauyaq Jean Gordon from the Iñupiat community in Alaska! As a research scientist, Heather plays a significant role in providing cold hard data to policy teams to drive meaningful change for Indigenous communities. She shared with us the impact on historical trauma on daily interactions in Native life, insights on the Alaskan healthcare system, and the protective role of culture in Tribal health and wellness. Thank you, Heather, for such an insightful conversation on Alaskan Native health.
What does it mean for Tribal nations when health meets philanthropy?
Edgar Villanueva, this episode's guest, is a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, a tribe that includes the descendants of the Trail of Tears survivors. Originally involved in health marketing, Edgar developed a passion for philanthropy and began creating programs to empower Native communities. Today Edgar has helped many communities increase their prosperity and health outcomes. Tune into this insightful episode about reclaiming power and wealth in Tribal nations!
There is a connection between education and the building part of serving a tribal community.
Today’s guest is a member of the Cherokee Nation that is now working at the University of North Carolina in Asheville. Trey Adcock came over to Tribal Health, the podcast, to tell us about his work with different students and how he started the American-Indian Indigenous program at UNC Asheville. When people feel represented and validated in academia, they will start to approach boldly to it. The more in tune that these students are with their cultural identity, the more successful they will be.
Tune in to this episode and learn how Trey is including more and more tribal students in UNC’s classrooms!
Mental health can still be a taboo topic in some Tribal nations. Today’s guest knows all about that from her work to destigmatize mental health issues: Dr. Billie Jo Kipp! She talked to us about her experiences in behavioral healthcare, explaining the role of historical trauma in addiction, violence, and mental illness. She also shared why a communal approach is more effective in behavioral care than an individual approach in Native communities, and offered the perspective of dealing with historical trauma from a growth point of view.
Thank you, Dr. Kipp, for such a beautiful episode about community, relationships, and growing from trauma.
Today we talk to Lt. Governor Monica Antone of the Gila River Indian Community. Known as The River People for their 2000 win of a settlement about water rights, the Gila River community is comprised of two tribes: the Akimel O'odham (Pima) and the Pee-Posh (Maricopa). Lt. Governor Antone shares her dreams for Gila River's 23,000 tribal members, the devastating impact of the pandemic, and they persisted through it with the resilience of their forefathers. She also shares her work as a mental health advocate and how she's implemented behavioral health training across different districts.
Tune in for an insightful look at Gila River Indian Community from the inside!
In this episode, Dr. John Molina and Dr. Stephanie Little Hawk-Big Crow talk about the need for the holistic delivery of allopathic and healthcare services in Indigenous communities and behavioral health. From their own experience with Indigenous identity in reservations and urban settings, Dr. Molina talks about the conflicts urban Indigenous populations face in social, cultural, and spiritual ways - and how those conflicts impact their healthcare relationships. Stephanie shares her journey with the importance of identity, cultural duality, and intergenerational traditional knowledge for the mind, soul, and holistic care of Native Americans.
Tune in for an insightful conversation with Dr. John Molina and Dr. Stephanie Little Hawk-Big Crow on the spirit of healing and care for Indigenous communities.
Welcome back to the second part of our interview with the amazing Madhuri Jha!
If you missed our previous episode, here’s a quick recap: Madhuri discussed how the lack of data translates to lack of visibility for vulnerable populations - specifically in the behavioral and mental health spaces. In this episode, she shares her experiences working with children and how new generations have more channels to validate and express their own feelings. She also reflects on how we can collaborate to increase resource access to enhance people’s mental and overall health. It's an incredible conversation that touches on housing, missing women and children, health equity, and other issues.
Tune in to this two-part special with Madhuri Jha, where she emphasizes that if there’s no evidence, people will not see the problem.
"If there's no data, there's no problem." When it comes to health equity, it can be tough to tackle physical conditions that often affect communities of color without adequate research - or without acknowledging mental health, environment, identity, and other factors integral to well-being.
In this episode, we talk to Madhuri Jha, director of the Kennedy-Satcher Center for Mental Health Equity, part of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine. She speaks about her work in advancing the visibility and equity of vulnerable populations, specifically in behavioral care and mental health spaces. Research and data collection play a critical role in working toward health equity for Indigenous communities - and can provide a roadmap toward culturally appropriate care. Madhuri also discusses the importance of allyship and community partnerships in creating stronger healthcare systems.
Please join us in Part I of this fascinating conversation!
Access to healthcare and being culturally responsive are two missions that today’s guest has been working on for quite some time.
We are happy to host Holly Figueroa, a Hopi/Ohkay Owingeh Tribe member, in this episode. Holly shares how she’s working with 17 different tribes across Arizona and how access and cultural responsiveness have challenged her to become a better health worker. Communities have several options from where to choose, but obstacles come in not knowing how to see a doctor, schedule an appointment, or simply understand the system. She also shares her thoughts on power, knowledge, and how to create culturally safe spaces for Tribal individuals to feel comfortable talking about their health.
Holly is constantly working to give everyone and anyone access to healthcare. Tune in to this episode to listen to her journey!
Physician recruitment can be tough in any area - but in Tribal communities, finding the right providers involves some complex challenges.
In this episode, Pamela Amiotte, physician recruiter, shares her experience growing up on a rural Native reservation and her work today in recruiting culturally-responsive physicians. She explains why a physician' mission must align with community values and reflects on the healthcare experience for people living on her reservation.
Tune in to listen to another member of Team Tribal!
In this episode, we feature Maria Dadgar, the Executive Director of the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona (ITCA).
Though originally from the East Coast, Maria has been working with ITCA for the past 8 years. She shares ITCA's focus on heath, research, and environmental quality for Tribal communities in the state of Arizona. Besides ITCA, Maria also works with the Inter Tribal Association of Arizona, a separate organization that helps give Tribal Nations a collective voice. There is a lot of work that happens behind the scenes, and we are proud to showcase Maria’s work on the podcast!
Meet Whittney LaCroix, Tribal Health's Chief Nursing Officer!
A proud Sicangu Lakota and part of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Whittney is a healthcare visionary noted for her clinical versatility and motivational leadership. Family is an important part of her culture, which has motivated much of Whittney's career. As a nursing leader, Whittney views her ability to build better health outcomes for Indigenous patients as part of her duty to the community.
Today she talks about her rich background in Indigenous health and her advice for other clinical practitioners who serve Native patients. Don't miss it!
Welcome to the first interview episode of Tribal Health, the Podcast!
Today we talk to Zepporah Fuller. The COVID-19 pandemic lit a fire in Zepporah, whose hands-on leadership has been helping Urban Indian communities recover from the pandemic's devastating impact. She shares the factors that motivated her healthcare career, her observations working in Tribal nations, and her vision for the future of Indigenous healthcare.
Tune in to find out how this healthcare leader's strategies are changing the face of Indigenous health.
Welcome to the first episode of Tribal Health, the podcast!
We wanted to take some time to introduce our hosts: Melody Lewis, Morgan Haynes, and Mario Trujillo; and to let you know what this show is all about! Tribal Health, the Podcast is deeply committed to giving more access to healthcare to the 574 Tribal and Indigenous communities that are recognized in the United States. Our show will feature the best voices out there in our industry that are working day by day to improve the conditions of many communities across the nation. Melody, Morgan, and Mario are extremely excited to start this new show. It’s important for us that you join the conversation!
Join us twice a month with new episodes!
Soon you can join our hosts, Morgan, Mario, and Melody, as they chat with influential figures in Indigenous healthcare regarding disparities among tribal communities in the United States.
Welcome to Tribal Health the Podcast!