The Good Health Cafe

In this episode our guest is Nadia Mbonde. Nadia is a MotherScholar, Multimedia Artist, Mental Health Doula, a doctoral student . She came to the cafe to discuss the importance of mental health discussions in reproductive healthcare, and the broader societal impacts of racial and gender bias. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Mental health and reproduction should be viewed together, not separately, to help reduce maternal mortalityThere's often poor coordination between mental health providers and reproductive healthcareQuality mental health care is heavily segregated, with stark differences between private and public facilitiesBeing informed helps in advocating for oneself in healthcare settingsHaving support (like doulas) can improve healthcare experiencesIt's important to fact-check and seek multiple opinions when receiving medical adviceThere's misinformation about mental health medication during pregnancy and breastfeedingCheck out Nadia's work!About NadiaNadia is a MotherScholar, Multimedia Artist, Mental Health Doula, a doctoral student in Sociocultural Anthropology at New York University and a multi-media artist pursuing a certificate in Culture & Media, a nationally-respected program in media documentation. Her research and creative work is situated at the intersection of medical anthropology, disability studies, Mad studies, and Black feminist theory. As a National Science Foundation Research Fellow and a Birth Equity Scholar, her research addresses how perinatal mental health disparities contribute to the ongoing Black maternal mortality and morbidity crisis in the United States.Nadia's website: https://nadianmbonde.com/The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/The Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is A'magine. A'magine is an author, educator, speaker and filmmaker. She came to the cafe to discuss her documentary called At Your Cervix. A new film exposing the little-known unethical practice of conducting non-consensual pelvic exams on unconscious patients. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Consent is non-negotiable: Patients have the right to set clear boundaries and be fully informed about all medical procedures involving their bodies.Advocacy matters: Being proactive, asking questions, and educating oneself before medical appointments can help protect against unethical practices. Support is crucial: We must work together to enact legislation, address systemic issues, and provide resources to empower patients and hold institutions accountable.The lack of consent is a critical issue that affects patients and medical students alike. Gynecological teaching associates (GTAs) are an excellent way for medical students to learn how to do pelvic exams with feedback.Watch the film, At Your Cervix!About A'magineA'magine earned her Master's degree in Human Sexuality Education at New York University and has been teaching and speaking about feminism and sexuality for over two decades. Formerly known as Amy Jo Goddard, she is author of Woman on Fire: Nine Elements to Wake up Your Erotic Energy, Personal Power and Sexual Intelligence and co-author of the best-selling classic Lesbian Sex Secrets for Men, both published by Penguin Random House. A coastal transplant to New Mexico, she currently thrives in the desert of the southwest, residing with her wild feline friends, who, she claims are evolved teachers about empowered sexuality and healthy boundaries.A'magine was named one of Go Magazine's “100 Women We Love” and Kinkly's “100 Sex Blogging Superheroes.” She works with women and couples on their sexual and relationship lives and she is a corporate and media consultant. She helps companies, media outlets, health care institutions and universities improve workplaces and the lives of women and elevate media representations of women and LGBTQ people. A'magine's award winning documentary film, At Your Cervix, aims to improve pelvic exams for all patients and to end unethical medical practices that harm women and transgender people. A'magine has begun to advocate for state laws banning the use of anesthetized patients without consent. Check out her popular TEDx talk, presented in Napa, California, “Owning Your Sexual Power”.https://amaginenation.com/https://www.atyourcervixmovie.com/The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/The Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Ms. Eliane Dionne. Eliane is a practicing pediatric occupational therapist who works in the province of Quebec while concurrently completing her doctoral studies. She came to the cafe to discuss what occupational therapy is, how to choose the right occupational therapist, myths surrounding the profession and the impact her PhD research can have on practice. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Eliane explains the scope of occupational therapy, focusing on aiding children with motor coordination disorders, addressing misconceptions about the field, and the need for systemic changes to support children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD).Occupational therapists are rehabilitation professionals who help people that are having trouble with activities of daily livingThe conversation emphasizes the practical, real-life approach of occupational therapy and identifies the potential for OTs to help children make friends and improve social connections.It is a good idea to interview the OT to see if they are a good fit for your needsReferrals to OTs often come from teachers or doctorsShe outlines her dual career path as a clinician and a researcher, working with children with motor coordination disorders and exploring the academic implications of these conditions.About Eliane DionneEliane is a private self-employed Occupational Therapist working in the Gatineau and Montreal regions. She has been working with a pediatric clientele with various physical and mental health issues, primarily ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental coordination disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders. She is concurrently completing her doctoral studies at McGill University, where she studies the learning implications of motor disorders during childhood, particularly towards mathematics, to better support Occupational Therapists that are providing services to this clientele. The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Mr. Alexandre Chadi. Alexandre is a community pharmacist, a clinical instructor and diabetes specialist. He came to the cafe to share the many ways that pharmacists can help us, how to manage our medications, what to do if we want to stop a medication and so much more!. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:A pharmacist does so much more than simply dispense medicationWhen in doubt askKeep a list of your medicationsYou can make a plan to stop your medication safelyBuild a relationship with your pharmacistAbout Alexandre ChadiAlexandre Chadi is a community pharmacist, a clinical instructor at Montreal University and diabetes specialist. Through his work, he is passionate about helping his patients managing their medication through a humane approach. Alexandre recently completed a master's degree in pharmaceutical sciences and wrote a thesis on the vaccination of vulnerable populations in community pharmacies. He also participates in many interdisciplinary committees such as the Local Pharmacists Table of the Central-Western CIUSSS, the Montreal Regional Committee for Pharmaceutical Care and the professional committee of Diabetes Quebec. The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Ms. Liza Selvarajah. Liza is a speech therapist who works with neurodiverse children and their families. She came to the cafe to share the importance of understanding and embracing different communication methods for non-speaking children, the benefits of neurodiverse affirming therapy and tips for working with a speech therapist. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:A speech therapist cannot force a child to speak but they can help you understand how to improve communication with your childObservation is importantTeaching children how to interact with differently abled peers is importantShare stories about your day with your childrenProfessional reports do not need to be hurtful to be effectiveAbout Liza SelvarajahLiza Selvarajah is a Speech and Language Pathologist but she prefers “speech therapist” without the pathologizing aspect. She is a wife and mother and enjoys therapy (in both directions) offering and receiving, as well as music (singing, playing piano, performing). She owns a company called Montreal Speech therapy, co-hosts a podcast called “The Bold SLP”, and just finished offering a course with the Bold SLP called “Strategies to prevent harm in bilingual and multicultural evaluations”. She is fluent in English, French and American Sign Language. The Bold SLP - theboldslpcollectiveThe Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Ms. Eva Villalba. Eva is the Executive Director of the Quebec Cancer Coalition and a value based healthcare expert. She came to the cafe to discuss value based healthcare, precision medicine and various levels of patient advocacy. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Eva believes that value based healthcare is not just the future, it's the next step in the evolution of healthcare transformationPrecision medicine is transforming the way we approach healthcare. By targeting specific mutations, we can provide more effective and personalized treatments for patients.Patient partnership is key. Level one is being a partner in your own care, level two is giving back to the community, and level three is becoming a patient advocate to impact public policyThere are patient advocacy groups and government phone lines available to help you find the right healthcare professionals and resourcesAbout Eva VillalbaEva Villalba is the Executive Director of the Quebec Cancer Coalition, a non-profit patient advocacy group dedicated to improving the Quebec health-care system for people affected by cancer. Since 2008, she has been involved in health-care charities, advocacy groups and non-profits. She graduated from McGill University with a double major in Psychology and Applied Linguistics, then completed an MBA from HEC Montréal with the objective to apply best business practices to the non-profit sector. Eva is passionate about good governance, public policy, community impact, health-care reform and social innovation. She is a volunteer board member of the Artificial Intelligence Impact Alliance (AIIA) and sees great potential in applying AI and technological innovations to the health-care sector to prevent and improve health outcomes. Eva is the first Quebecker and Canadian to obtain a graduate degree in Value-Based Health Care (VBHC) with an MSc. in Health Care Transformation at the University of Texas at Austin with Professor Elizabeth Teisberg and other VBHC experts. Eva is a fierce patient advocate and believes strongly in the potential of the Quebec health-care system to be a world-class leader in Value-Based Care. Eva has an extensive international network of Value-Based Health Transformation Leaders, has a VBHC Green Belt Certification from VBHC Center Europe and is their official Canadian Ambassador. She is also the co-chair of the Resilient Healthcare Coalition (RHC), a diverse group of health system leaders across the public, private, and non-profit sectors committed to helping Canadian health care systems enhance patient care and improve health outcomes by becoming faster, nimbler, and better able to adapt to future shocks.https://coalitioncancer.com/The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Dr. Amanda Adkins. Dr. Amanda is a board certified internal medicine and lifestyle medicine physician. She is also a board certified health and wellness coach. Dr. Amanda came to the cafe to discuss chronic disease, nutrition and some of her health navigation recommendations. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Reversing an illness is easier if it is caught early and lifestyle changes are made.The standard American diet doesn't provide all necessary nutrients and changing one's diet can prevent, stall, or even reverse some chronic illnesses.nutrition can help reverse chronic low grade inflammation.Consider asking what else you can do besides more medicationIt is important to keep track of your health informationTo make the most out of a doctor's appointment, it's important to be prepared with questions and have someone with you if neededAn advocating family member can possibly save your lifeAbout Dr. Amanda AdkinsDr. Amanda Adkins, MD is a double board-certified Internal Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine Physician, health coach/owner of Enlightenment Health and Wealth. She has a deep passion for ensuring that everyone has a chance at a healthy and happy life. Her most recent focus has been to help women who are overweight prevent and possibly reverse chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Both through her medical and personal experience she knows how our lifestyle can lead to remarkable changes in our health and our ability to fulfill God's will for our lives. Board Certified Internal Medicine Physician since 2009 Certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies through eCornell since January 2022 Board Certified Lifestyle Medicine 2022. She enjoys sharing her wellness journey over the past few decades and how her spirituality and faith play a huge role in the work that she is doing to help others live a healthy and abundant life. She can also discuss chronic disease and how nutrition impacts our health.Facebook www.facebook.com/DrAmandaAdkinsInstagram www.instagram.com/DrAmandaAdkinsWebsite www.dramandamd.com The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing listThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our cafe guest is Tiffany Vassell. Tiffany is a labor and delivery nurse, author, and founder of Nurses for Black Maternal Health and Equity based in Boston, Massachusetts She came to the cafe to share her childbirth experience, how it motivated her to become a nurse and maternal health advocate and her recommendations for how expecting families can prepare for a hospital birth. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:The importance of extended postpartum care and support, including the need for comprehensive insurance coverage and workplace leave policies. the importance of education, advocacy, and communication in addressing disparities in maternal health. Communication is key. Birthing people have a right to bodily autonomy and choices about themselves and their babiesBlack maternal mortality rate is high due to systemic racism, discrimination, social and economic factors, and poor communication with the birthing team.It is crucial to have a healthcare proxy on file in case the mother cannot speak for herself during delivery.Patients can and should ask questions like who the people in the room are and whether they can decline some of them, or requesting a female provider if they are uncomfortable with a male one.A relaxing and calming atmosphere during labor can help ease stress and reduce pain. Strategies like aromatherapy, dimming lights, and calming music can help.About Tiffany Vassell, RNTiffany Vassell is a registered nurse who has worked as a labor and delivery nurse for several years. She has also served as a substance use nurse assisting patients with their recovery. She is a Black maternal health advocate who supports midwifery care, equity, justice, autonomy, and access to home births and birth centers.She is a board member of the Bay State Birth Coalition and advocates for An Act promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options and establishing the Neighborhood Birth Center in Boston. She is the founder of Nurses for Black Maternal Health and Equity Organization, which seeks to diversify the perinatal workforce. She also recently served as Chair at the 5th and 6th Annual Black Maternal Health Conference at Tuft's University, the country's largest Black maternal health conference.She is the co-author of the book 'Preparation for a Hospital Birth.' In the book, she seeks to demystify birthing in the hospital in ways only a nurse can explain. She aims to educate birthing people about the many available options during labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum periods to create a safer and more autonomous experience.She serves as a member of the steering committee for Mind the Gap, which advocates for the Massachusetts Moms Matter Act that would diversify the state's perinatal mental health workforce and invest in community-based organizations supporting perinatal people. She is a Harvard Catalyst Community Coalition for Equity in Research member, which gives high-quality input on research proposals and protocols. She has sat on several panels to discuss her work and advocacy in the maternal health space and has written several articles. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society for leadership. She is the awardee of the 2022 Image of the Professional Nurse awarded by the Massachusetts Nursing Association. She is also one of the 2022 Ten Outstanding Young Leaders awarded by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealthcafeSign up for our mailing listThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our cafe guest is Dr. Yinka Akin-Deko. Dr. Yinka is a family physician based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia with a special interest in dermatology and health equity. She came to the cafe to discuss the essential elements of a skincare routine and her tips on healthcare navigation and doctor-patient communication. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:The importance of sunscreenComponents of a good skincare routineMelanoma warning signsSay what you're concerned aboutICE - Ideas, concerns, expectationsAbout Dr. Yinka Akin-DekoDr Yinka Akin-Deko is a Family Physician practicing in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. She finished medical school in 2004 and has worked as a family physician since 2012. She completed her postgraduate training in London, England.Dr Akin-Deko moved to work in Dartmouth Nova Scotia in September 2019, a few days later she experienced her first hurricane!Her clinic incorporates all aspects of Family Medicine including prenatal care, child health, preventative care and end of life support.Her special interests are dermatology, especially skincare for black skin, and health equity. She is a member of various medical organisations and is a board member of the Health Association of African Canadians.As an advocate for health equity, Dr Akin-Deko has a special insight having lived and worked as an immigrant on two continents. As a woman of colour herself, she is acutely aware of the desperate need to advocate for herself when seeking healthcare, and also make sure her black patients are able to vocalise their health concerns and demand the best of the healthcare system.Dr Akin-Deko enjoys traveling and is passionate about reading black female authors. She enjoys running, reading and spending time with her husband and two sons.The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealth cafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our cafe guest is Ms Angela Frazier. Angela is a speaker and the author of A Kid's Book About Suicide. She came to the cafe to share her story of losing her mother to suicide, how her supportive family helped her through and some warning signs and risk factors for suicide. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Support is keyBenefits of group therapyWhy she shares her storyWarning signs and risk factorsAbout Angela FrazierAngela N. Frazier, MPH is a speaker, Founder of Sisters in Public Health, and author of A Kids Book About™ Suicide. Angela received her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and Communication from Portland State University. She also holds a Masters of Public Health in Community Health from UTHealth School of Public Health. She was honored to represent her graduating class as the 2018 Student Commencement Speaker. Since the loss of her mother to suicide in 2016 she has dedicated her time and efforts to sharing her story by bringing tough topics to the forefront of conversation. This began with the opening of a shelter for survivors of domestic violence in honor of her mother. The Tami Best Emergency Shelter was created for survivors of domestic violence fleeing abusive relationships. In 2020, Angela founded a nonprofit, Sisters in Public Health (SIPH) to connect all women in public health. SIPH now has chapters in nine different cities and has awarded over $5,000 in scholarships to masters and doctorate level public health students. Hearing her reflect on her journey towards service and healing gives those who hear her a renewed and inspired sense of purpose, grounded in her shared resilience.The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealth cafeSign up for our mailing list: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Episode 65: Weight Loss that sticksIn this episode our cafe guest is Dr. Charmaine Woode. Dr. Woode is a practicing weight loss physician and coach. She came to the cafe to share some challenges to consistent behavior change, how to not get discouraged on the weight loss journey, myths and misconceptions about weight loss and of course, because this is The Good Health Cafe, we also get her perspective on how to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Tips to losing weightKnow the aspects of self care. Some include: sleep, movement and nutritionYour doctor isn't a mind readerAbout Dr. Charmaine WoodeCharmaine Blake Woode, MD is a practicing weight loss physician and Coach. She graduated from Oakwood University in 1990 with a B.S. in biology, received her M.D. from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1995 and completed her residency in Pediatrics at Emory University in 1998. After years of practicing pediatrics in the private, public health and academic sectors in Birmingham, Dayton, and Memphis, she and her husband Dwain Woode, MD, moved to Huntsville in 2011 and opened their own practice, Diabetes and Endocrine Wellness Center. In 2018, they opened a second practice, The Lighter Weigh, which focuses on weight loss. Individuals who have worked with Dr. Woode have been able to change their relationship to food, relate to themselves in a more loving way, develop the habits that lead to permanent weight loss, and bring unbalanced areas of their lives into balance so they could be successful in losing weight. What she loves most about what she does is seeing the increased energy, confidence and joy that accompany her customers' weight loss journeys. When she's not working, she enjoys travelling, taking pictures of nature while walking, completing jigsaw puzzles, and watching superhero and star-wars themed entertainment with her son, Blake.The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealth cafeThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our cafe guest is Ms. Jessica Lorion. Jessica is an actress and host of the Mamas in Training podcast.  She came to the cafe to share how she received her psoriatic arthritis diagnosis and how she was able to successfully wean herself off her medications. We also learn her motivation for doing so and her recommendations for living with an autoimmune disease. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:Know your whyBe your own advocateKnow your bodyHaving supportive people in your corner is essentialSometimes it's better not to say anything Free medication tracker here About Jessica LorionJessica Lorion is an American TV, film, and theatre artist based in NYC. She's also the Host and Producer of the Podcast: Mamas in Training.Screen credits include Metro Park (Eros Now/Amazon Prime), Homicide City: Charlotte (Investigation Discovery) and a national commercial for King Clean. Her theatrical credits include the North American tour of Disney's Beauty and the Beast (Babette) and two productions of Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins).She has been a part of new readings with Broadway Licensing Worldwide and recorded new works with Theatrical Rights Worldwide. She also helped create Ghost: The Musical - Chamber Version in a world premiere production (co-produced by The Fulton Theatre and Maine State Music Theater).The creator, host, and producer of the podcast, Mamas in Training, Jessica is learning everything she can about motherhood before she is a mother. She created the podcast to give new moms guidance and community from moms who've been there. As she fights an auto-immune disease that delays her motherhood journey, she is learning right alongside you.Listen to the @MamasinTrainingPod HERE OR, on iTunes, Spotify and GooglePlay.The Good Health Cafewww.thegoodhealthcafe.comFacebook and Instagram: @thegoodhealth cafeSign up for our mailing list: Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our cafe guest is Ms. Sophie Blondin. Sophie is a certified coach who has worked in oncology for 14 years. She came to the cafe to discuss how to support someone with cancer, her favourite resources for reliable information, share some misconceptions that she has observed among caregivers and supporters of those with cancer and debunk some myths. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:What's not said is interpretedLife doesn't automatically go back to normal after the last treatmentYou have cancer, you are not a cancerJust listen, be there and don't forget yourself as a caregiverDon't be afraid to ask questionsFree medication tracker hereAbout Sophie BlondinSophie has been working in oncology for 14 years. She worked in different organizations (CCS, Hope & Cope, MUHC, BTFC and ROCO). Combining her first career in education and her training as a certified coach, she put in place many services and programs for patients and caregivers.Today while doing her research on coaching and After Cancer, she now works in HR in a hospital. Her work is to support the mental health of the hospital staff. 

In this episode our cafe guest is Dr. Dwain Woode. Dr. Woode is an endocrinologist and the owner and medical director of Diabetes and Endocrine Wellness Center and The Lighter Weigh in Huntsville, Alabama. He came to the cafe to discuss diabetes, its causes and its management and how to advocate for yourself in health care settings. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways:There are two forms of diabetes - type 1 and type 2Diabetes is not a sugar problemBlood sugar levels are affected by more than just food and exercise Sleep is importantFree medication tracker hereAbout Dwain WoodeDr. Dwain Woode is the owner and medical director of Diabetes and Endocrine Wellness Center and The Lighter Weigh in Huntsville, Alabama. He is a graduate of Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama where he obtained his undergraduate degrees. He completed his training in internal medicine and pediatrics at the Boonshoft School of Medicine at Wright State university in Dayton, Ohio. His fellowship training in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism was at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine. Dr. Woode is a speaker, life coach, youTuber, father and husband. His goal is to educate, empower, and encourage his listeners to take charge of their health and life, avoid complications and live the life they have always wanted. He lives in Huntsville, AL with his wife Dr. Charmaine Woode, a weight loss physician and their son Blake.

In this episode our cafe guest is Dr. Judy Brangman. Dr. Judy is a board certified Internal Medicine Physician and Plant Based Nutrition Expert. She came to cafe to explain what lifestyle medicine is, the benefits of a plant based diet and how to advocate for yourself in health care settings. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation! Some key takeaways:You don't need to be 100% plant based to reap the benefitsYou don't need dairy to get calciumYou can get adequate protein on a plant based dietFree medication tracker hereNeed help with health navigation? Learn more about The Good Health Cafe Lounge About Judy BrangmanDr. Judy Brangman, MD, is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician. Dr. Judy obtained her Doctor of Medicine degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine and completed her Internal Medicine residency at East Carolina University/Vidant Hospital. She is also certified in Lifestyle Medicine by the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine and holds a Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition from T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies. She has been plant based for over 7 years. Dr. Judy's passion is helping people transition to a healthy plant based diet so that they can thrive and live an abundant life. She does this via online programs, courses, public speaking, and her social media platforms (@theplantbasedmd). She believes that in order to fully live the life you were intended to live on this earth, you need to be in optimum health (physically, emotionally, and spiritually). Dr. Judy is originally from Bermuda. She currently also works as a Hospitalist in Raleigh, NC. Dr. Judy's website: https://theplantbasedmd.com 

In this episode our cafe guest is Dr. Quantrilla Ard. Dr. Ard is a passionate maternal health advocate. She came by the cafe to share her experiences of miscarriage and preeclampsia. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation! She offer her suggestions on:How to deal with griefHow to support othersHow to advocateNeed help with health navigation? Learn more about The Good Health Cafe LoungeAbout Quantrilla ArdQuantrilla Ard, PhD, is a recent transplant to the Atlanta area along with her husband and three littles. She is a literary agent, faith-based personal and spiritual development author and speaker who believes in the power of collective strength, community, and fellowship. She recently graduated from Walden University with a PhD in Health Psychology and is an advocate for social justice with a focus on Black maternal and infant health and mortality. You can find her sharing stories of triumph at www.thephdmamma.com.

In this episode our cafe guest is Ms. Amadea Kezar. Amadea is the owner and clinical director of ASK Physiothérapie, a pelvic health physiotherapy clinic in Montreal. She came by the cafe to give us an overview of what pelvic floor physiotherapy entails, who it is for and why pelvic health issues are too common to be taboo. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways included:Pelvic floor physiotherapy is for everyoneIt is much more than kegelsThere's value in looking beyond, Speak up There is hope! Need help with health navigation? Learn more about The Good Health Cafe LoungeFree medication tracker hereAbout Amadea KezarAmadea Kezar is the owner and clinical director of ASK Physiothérapie, a pelvic health physiotherapy clinic in Montreal. She holds a Masters degree in physiotherapy from McGill University and is an expert in pelvic floor physiotherapy for cis and trans men and women. In addition to treating urinary, ano-rectal and pre-postnatal dysfunction she has a particular interest in persistent pelvic and genital pain. Amadea is an international speaker and regularly presents for teaching hospitals in Montreal. In 2011 she created the “More Than Kegels” workshop which she hosts within the community to raise awareness about pelvic health and pelvic floor dysfunction. Her mission is to quicken access to pelvic health physiotherapy by addressing the taboo surrounding symptoms of pelvic health issues.  Website: https://askphysiomontreal.com

In this episode our cafe guest is Karla Mans Giroux. Karla is a holistic health coach, facilitator and speaker. We discuss the 10 healing factors outlined in Dr. Kelly Turner's book, Radical Hope: 10 Key Healing Factors from Exceptional Survivors of Cancer & Other Diseases, Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation! Some key takeaways included:Of the 10 factors 3 are physical and the remaining 7 are emotional/spiritual This list was generated based on the research of Dr. Kelly Turner who analyzed over 1500 casesThis research has now expanded to include other diseases Need help with health navigation? Learn more about The Good Health Cafe LoungeFree medication tracker hereAbout Karla Mans GirouxKarla Mans Giroux is a cancer thriver living with metastatic breast cancer. She knows how important change can be, and never more important than when faced with a life-threatening disease.​Karla was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 and underwent a mastectomy, chemo, and radiation. Eleven years later, in late 2014, a metastatic cancer challenge arose. With a goal to live to be 100,+ this did not align.Karla embarked on a healing and learning journey to help herself regain optimal health and longevity. She is blessed to report stable scans / “no evidence of disease” since 2016! Now she is helping others find healing and wholeness on their journey through cancer.​Karla received her certification as a holistic health coach through Wisdom of the Whole Coaching Academy, as well as the National Board of Health & Wellness Coaches (NBHWC). She is also a Certified Radical Remission™ Workshop Facilitator and Speaker, and is passionate about inspiring and teaching those on a cancer journey, as well as those seeking prevention, general health and longevity.​Karla has every intention of making it to 100 and with the strength of resilience and a positive spirit she is loving every moment on that journey! Join her in December 2065 for the party of the century!​Email: Karla@KMGCoach.comTel: 847-306-9599Virtual Workshop coupon code for $50 off: 50off Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com

In this episode our cafe guest is Marissa McKool. Marissa is a coach who helps professionals eliminate their burnout without quitting their job. We discuss the health effects of burnout, the power of choice, the importance of your beliefs and why quitting your job isn't necessarily the answer. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways included:Burnout isn't inevitable/there is an alternativeChanging your environment will not work if you don't change your beliefsRest is not a reward that needs to be earned  Need help with health navigation? Learn more about The Good Health Cafe LoungeFree medication tracker hereAbout Marissa McKoolMarissa McKool, MPH is a career and life coach who helps public health professionals eliminate their burnout without quitting their job. Marissa received her MPH from Emory University and served in several leadership roles in government and academia, leading sexual violence prevention and reproductive health programs, before finding herself burning out. Through coaching, she was able to eliminate her stress without anything outside of her changing. She has since started McKool Coaching, where she helps individuals reduce their workload, create more time, get more rest, and feel better without having to quit.  Website: https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/Free Burnout Recovery Course: https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/coursesPodcast (Will be Redefining Rest on April 11th): https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/publichealthcoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-mckool-a9701892/ Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com 

In this episode Kimani Daniel, a maternal and child health nurse and Assistant Professor in Nursing came by the cafe to share her recommendations on how to navigate the health system based on her years of bedside experience. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways included:Trust your instinctsAsk for what you needDon't go to appointments alone Free medication tracker hereThe Good Health Cafe Lounge hereAbout Kimani DanielKimani Daniel is an Assistant Professor at the Ingram School of Nursing. Before joining the School as full-time faculty, she was Conseillère-cadre (Clinical Nurse Specialist) in Maternal-Child Health at the CIUSSS de Centre-Ouest-de l'île-de-Montréal (Jewish General Hospital) and was involved in nurse orientation, educational initiatives, projects, and clinical policy development. Kimani holds a Bachelor of Science in Physiology and a Master of Science-Applied in Nursing from McGill University. She is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and holds Perinatal Nursing certification from the Canadian Nurses Association. Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com 

In this episode Tonya Nash, a public health consultant and mom to two sons with autism came by the cafe to share lessons she has learned as a mom to children with special needs. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Some key takeaways included:Thinking about out of the box solutions to get the services that you need Seeking the help of a respite care providerThere are tons of ways you can help families e.g. meal trains, gas cards, etc, but most importantly, ensure that you create an atmosphere in your group that is inclusive, that will allow all children to participate. Remember to show that you're here and that you care, but don't give any unsolicited advice! Free medication tracker here About Tonya NashTonya Nash, MPH, CHES® is a public health consultant in the Metro Atlanta area. Over the course of her career, Tonya has worked at nonprofit organizations, private sector businesses, a district health department, military bases and more! In these roles, she served a variety of populations, such as the poor and underserved, military families, senior citizens, the disability community and those with chronic health conditions.Tonya's passion for faith-based health promotion led to the formation of the award-winning Autism Faith Network, a nonprofit organization that equips churches to serve persons with autism and their families. Since 2016, the organization has served over 35 churches and educated thousands of persons about autism.  In August of 2020, Tonya started Spectrum Public Health Strategies, LLC after working as a subcontractor on several public health projects. This public health consulting company focuses on health communications, faith-based health promotion and social media strategy for businesses. Tonya has worked on a variety of topics through her consultancy, such as suicide and opioid misuse prevention, asthma, autism, epilepsy and COVID-19.Tonya is passionate about advocating for underserved communities and communicating health information in a way that people from all backgrounds can understand.  Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com

In this episode Stacie Lampkin, a pediatric pharmacist and certified aromatherapist came back to the cafe to discuss aromatherapy. We discuss its benefits, safety, how to use it and what to look for in an aromatherapist. Tune in for a great conversation!Free medication tracker hereAbout Stacie LampkinA pediatric pharmacist with a passion for education, Stacie has spent more than 10 years providing clinical pharmacy services and supports providers and families who care for medically complex kids and adolescents. Stacie also inspires and educates future healthcare professionals in both classroom and patient care settings.In 2019, after experiencing first-hand the difficulties of navigating a new health issue, Stacie started sharing her knowledge about pediatric medications on a larger scale. Through Stacie Lampkin LLC, she combines her expertise, experience as a patient and parent, and interest in aromatherapy and herbalism to create digital resources, online courses, and virtual presentations. Her interest in aromatherapy turned into her becoming a certified aromatherapist.  Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com

In this episode our guest is Dr. Mikhail DeSantos, a neurosurgeon based in the United Kingdom. We discussed strokes (and how to recognize them), head injuries, how to get your questions answered and how he puts his patients at ease. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Free medication tracker hereAbout Dr. Mikhail DeSantosMikhail DeSantos is a neurosurgeon whose journey is international. He is originally from a small community in the southern part of Georgetown, Guyana where his love for the outdoors, volunteering, and the close relationships formed, have shaped his personality and how he approaches his profession.He trained in medicine at the University of Guyana, where he received the prestigious Prime Minister's Award for the best graduating medical student. He underwent neurosurgical training in Jamaica, received distinctions in Anatomy and completed it in Bristol, UK. He is a passionate anatomy teacher and cares about passing on medical and neurosurgical knowledge to the next generation of students, surgeons and the larger community.In his spare time, he is a keen artist, tennis, and chess player.Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com

In this episode our guest is Alexandra Glezos, a registered nurse. She came by the cafe to share her nursing experiences with us and we also discussed palliative care and organ transplants. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Free medication tracker hereAbout Alexandra GlezosAlexandra Glezos RN, MSc.(A) is a registered nurse in transplant, hepatobiliary and ENT surgery at the McGill University Health Center in Montreal.She completed her Masters degree in Advanced Clinical Practice Nursing at McGill and has since started teaching Chronic Illness & Paliative Care at the undergraduate level. Alexandra brings empathy and humour into her practice at the bedside, connecting with patients and families to help them move towards an optimal level of health, wellbeing, and acceptance. According to Alexandra, there is no greater nor challenging profession than nursing.Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com

In this episode our guest is Khan Bouba-Dalambaye, a mental health counselor based in Montreal. Today in the cafe we discuss suicide, societal expectations, social connections, how to support those close to us and so much more. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Subscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.comFree medication tracker hereAbout Khan Bouba-DalambayeLeading expert in EDIA programs for companies, academic institutions, and other public and private organizations. Licensed counsellor providing individual therapy in-person or remotely with a focus on individuals and couples for personal therapy. Workshop, training, and curriculum designer in the areas of EDI and psychology. Psychology instructor at the college level.Specialized in multicultural counselling, stress management, anxiety & depression, and interpersonal relationships.Designed a programmatic approach for staff of community organizations, with ability to create tailored engagements for each groups' specific needs. Experienced in delivering on-site trauma debriefing for corporate clients. Created psycho-educational program for community organization, targeting school-aged children.Expert speaker and presenter for conferences, media, academic institutions and webinars focusing on issues of mental health (general, men, BIPOC community), diversity and inclusion. Advisor to media on mental health and DEI topics.Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question

In this episode our guest is Laura Ibragimova. She is a women's health coach who came to share her story of how she manages her endometriosis. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great conversation!Subscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.comFree medication tracker - hereAbout Laura IbragimovaLaura is a women's health coach specializing in reproductive health disorders. She helps her clients heal their bodies and boost their fertility using clinically-based non-toxic alternative therapies. She has a background in health and nutrition sciences, public health policy, and over 10 years of chronic illness management. She is also a certified yoga instructor and meditation coach. Laura's goal is to spread awareness and provide alternative options for women who no longer want to rely on toxic medication and painful surgeries to manage their symptoms. Laura is the founder of ILYNSI YOGA, a health and wellness company dedicated to spreading the transformative power of healthy living.  Interested in learning more? Connect with her: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-ibragimova/ Book a FREE Consultation: https://calendly.com/ilynsiyoga/wellnessconsultationInstagram: @ILYNSI_YOGAPodcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Mr. Chidiebere Ibe. Chidiebere is a Nigerian medical illustrator and medical student who created the now viral illustration of a black fetus in the womb. He came by the cafe to tell us all about how he got into medical illustration, what going viral has meant for his life, why this type of representation matters and what his hopes are for more diversity in medical illustration. Tune in for a great conversation!About Chidiebere IbeChidiebere Ibe, BSc is a medical student, a Nigerian Medical Illustrator and a professional among the few in Africa. He is the Creative Director at the Association of Future African Neurosurgeons (AFAN), Young Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Societies (YCAANS) and Creative Director and Chief Medical Illustrator of the Journal of Global Neurosurgery. He is also a Junior Committee Member-World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies - Global Neurosurgery. Chidiebere Ibe is passionate about contemporary illustrations of black patients and has been acclaimed globally for creating the black fetus illustration that went viral. He hopes to pursue a career in paediatric neurosurgery.He can be followed on instagram: @ebereillustrateSubscribe to The Good Health Cafe mailing list here: https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.comPodcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our host, Nikita Boston-Fisher, is interviewed by former guest Jeannette Valmont. This episode gives you a brief background into how The Good Health Cafe got started, who Nikita is, why she does it and what's next for the Cafe.For more info on the lounge please reach out to us by sending a message on our website-https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionAbout Nikita Boston-Fisher, MPHNikita is the founder of The Good Health Cafe (https://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/) podcast where she and her guests discuss health and healthcare in plain language. She is passionate about respectful and compassionate healthcare, public health and community engagement. By training she is a public health professional, Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) and certified project manager (PMP). She also created and runs a small scented soy candle business called The Good Health Candle Company (www.goodhealthcandle.com)Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Mr. Julien Brisson. Julien joined us in the cafe to explain some resources for patient assistance in Montreal. He explains to us the journey of a patient complaint and also lets us know about patient navigation assistance that his office can provide. Tune in for a great conversation!About Julien BrissonJulien is an anthropologist specialized in HIV and human sexuality. He is currently a PhD candidate in bioethics at the University of Montreal's School of Public Health. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research awarded him the Canadian Doctoral Award to Honour Nelson Mandela for his doctoral research on adolescents' autonomy to access sexual and reproductive health services in Colombia. Julien currently works as a delegate in the Office of the Service Quality and Complaints Commissioner for the CIUSSS West-Central of Montreal. Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Shop The Good Health Candle Holiday Sale!! - www.goodhealthcandle.comIn this episode our guest is Dr. Bernadette Paul. She came by to share how we can have a positive relationship with food. Lots of interesting topics are discussed in this episode such as the protein myth, what constitutes a balanced plate, why it's a bad idea to cut out carbs as a diabetic and much more. Tune in for a great conversation!About Bernadette Paul, PhDDr. Bernadette Paul is a Guyanese who currently resides in the USA. She is a Public Health and Nutrition consultant, health promotion and community specialist, a teacher, and an avid health and wellness advocate. Dr. Paul is the CEO and founder of Health Savvy Consulting LLC, and a teacher with more than 30 years of experience in the classroom and in the community. Dr. Paul holds a Ph.D. in Public Health specializing in Health Promotion and Community Health, and a BSc. and MSc. in Nutrition. Dr. Paul is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, a Senior lecturer at the University of Akron and an Adjunct Public Health faculty at Hawai'i Pacific University. She is also an academic success faculty at Fortis College, where she tutors and mentors nursing students. Dr. Paul is also an Independent Consultant Trainer with the Institute of Child Nutrition at the University of Mississippi.https://www.healthsavvyconsultingllc.comPodcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest is Judith Horn, a physical therapist. She came by to chat with us, not about physical therapy but about vision loss! Judith shares her experience with losing part of her vision to a rare condition called Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). We get to learn about her diagnosis, how she would have preferred to hear the news that her vision may not improve, what she knows now that she wishes she knew before, (hint: abnormal vision is never normal) and so much more. Tune in for a great conversation!About Judith Horn, PT DPT MS GCSJudith Horn is a licensed Physical Therapist. She earned her BSPT from Northeastern University (Boston), MS in Health Education from St Joseph's University (Philadelphia) and Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Drexel University (Philadelphia). Judith is a current American Board of PT Specialties Geriatric Clinical Specialist (GCS).Her professional career settings have included Acute Care, Wound Care, Outpatient Rehabilitation, Home Health and Academic appointments at Stockton University and Atlantic Cape Community College.As a Lifetime American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) member, Judith has published in peer reviewed journals and presented at APTA Combined Sections. She is a past recipient of the APTA NJ James Tucker Excellence in Clinical Teaching award and Drexel University's Leadership in PT Practice Award.Judith shares a love of golf with her husband Jeff and they try to spoil their six grandchildren whenever possible. Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode Stacie Lampkin, a pediatric pharmacist came by the cafe to discuss how to be an advocate for children in their healthcare. She shared a lot of great information such as the questions you should ask when prescribed medication, the right age to get children involved in their healthcare decisions and talking to children about their diagnosis. We even touch a bit on aromatherapy.  Tune in for a great conversation!About Stacie LampkinAfter graduating from pharmacy school in 2009, Stacie pursued a pediatric pharmacy residency and a career in academia. As an associate pharmacy professor, clinical pediatric pharmacist, and aromatherapist, she uses her knowledge to educate future healthcare professionals. In 2019, she became a board-certified patient advocate after experiencing first-hand the difficulties of navigating a new health issue. Armed with education and resources; Stacie teaches people how to be better advocates for pediatric patients and provides pediatric medication education. As a patient advocate, she teaches families and pediatric patients how to convey their health and care needs, navigate the healthcare system and wellness spaces, and make informed decisions with confidence.Stacie's website: https://stacielampkin.comPodcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode Dr. Ananya Banerjee came by the cafe to discuss the topic of COVID-19 Vaccine Equity. In rich countries, people who want to receive  the COVID vaccine have been able to receive it, the same is not true for people in less wealthy countries. Today we discuss the issue of vaccine equity and why it matters.  Tune in for a great conversation!About Ananya Banerjee, PhDDr. Ananya Tina Banerjee is Assistant Professor of South Asian descent at the Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupation Health, McGill University. Her interdisciplinary research embeds a strong emphasis on community-based participatory pedagogy and research, which is grounded in collaboration and partnership with her racialized students and their communities. She created and developed the first course on race and health in a school of public health in Canada. She is well known for her anti-racism and anti-oppression practice in the learning environment and providing critical mentorship for racialized students in public health programs. Dr. Banerjee has been prominent advocate in the media pushing for vaccine equity in Canada and globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

“Your health is your wealth” is a fairly common saying. In this episode we sit down with Dr. Zenobia Bryant of Black Health, Black Wealth to discuss health disparities, mental health, her tips and experiences navigating healthcare and why she founded her organization. Tune in for a great conversation!About Zenobia Bryant, PhD, Founder and CEODr. Bryant has 7 years of specific experience as a dedicated public health professional and epidemiologist, with a strong interest in mental health and adolescent health. She has significant quantitative research and statistical analysis experience, resulting in a number of publications. Dr. Bryant brings strong writing skills and editing experience to all of her work, and she serves as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences; The Journal of Nutrition; the Journal of Child and Adolescent Mental Health; and the American Journal of Public Health. She also is a member of the American Public Health Association (APHA) and serves as an abstract reviewer for the APHA Annual Meeting and Expo. Dr. Bryant strongly believes that good Black mental health, good Black physical health, and good Black financial health are wealth!To learn more check out: https://blackhealthblackwealth.org/ Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

WeCanVax is a community initiative to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by promoting COVID-19 vaccine confidence in diverse communities across Montreal. In this episode our guests are Tammy Bui and Nehal Islam, the founders of WeCanVax. We discuss the initiative, how it got started, the results, the community reaction and what's next for the duo and this dynamic initiative. Tune in for a great conversation!About Tammy and Nehal:Tammy Bui is a public health graduate. Being the daughter of two Vietnamese refugees, she was inspired to work with the broader multicultural community to promote public health. She co-created WeCanVax with the intention of empowering racialized communities in Quebec to get vaccinated.Nehal Islam is a MSc Epidemiology student at McGill passionate about supporting meaningful change for community health. Nehal's family immigrated from Bangladesh to Montreal, QC before later settling in Ottawa, ON. He also brings experience interpreting and leading drug safety & effectiveness studies. With WeCanVax, he aims to tie his research and community involvement to empower Canadian health.To learn more check out: https://www.wecanvax.ca/Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode Jeannette Valmont, a long time volunteer and recipient of a Governor General Caring Canadian Award came by the cafe to share her experiences. She describes herself as a full time plus volunteer but also states that she has a PhD in personal suffering. During her visit to The Good Health Cafe Jeanette shares the remarkable story of how she turned her various health challenges into a thriving volunteer career and the lessons she has learned in health care navigation that she thinks people should know. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!About JeannetteFor the past 38 years, Jeannette Valmont has volunteered for Hope & Cope for the past 38 years, a psycho- social support organization for cancer patients and their families based at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal. Despite suffering from debilitating chronic back pain from four failed back surgeries, thyroid cancer and an inflammatory disease, Jeannette has made it her life's mission to support patients through the trajectory of their cancer diagnoses.When Jeannette first became ill with her back, she created her own pain management strategy and re-invented the way that she works. Jeannette believes that because of her own pain and suffering, she is able to relate even more to the patients that she works with at Hope & Cope.As a volunteer, Jeannette has held multiple roles including: helping patients navigate their cancer diagnosis; scheduling out patient clinic volunteers; training new volunteers; leading Look Good Feel Better workshops that teach women how to manage the appearance-related impact of cancer; and even a term as Co-President. Hers is a true example of how to live a rich, rewarding, fulfilling and meaningful life with chronic illness.In recognition of this volunteer career, Jeannette was awarded a Governor General Caring Canadian Award in 2001 for outstanding and selfless contribution to the community, and a Hope & Cope Distinguished Service Award in 2015 for her exemplary service and leadership.Hope & CopeWebsite: https://hopeandcope.ca/en/Phone: 514-340-3616Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode our guest Karen Warner Schueler came by the cafe to share how she adapted when her life suddenly changed and she became a caregiver to her husband. She outlines some of the recommendations she has for resilient caregiving and shares how her experience led her to document a roadmap for others in her book, The Sudden Caregiver. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great episode!About Karen On the day Karen Warner Schueler became a sudden caregiver, she was a wife, a mom, a consultant and business owner, a coach, a runner, a friend, and a consumer of too much Starbucks coffee. She was not a caregiver. Until she was. On that day when her late husband was diagnosed, out of the blue, with stage IV cancer, Karen had no idea that she had instantly joined a silent army of informal, unpaid family caregivers around the world who had also been pressed into sudden service. She felt completely at sea with the realities of caregiving.In the US alone, an estimated 43.5 million caregivers have assumed the responsibilities of care for a parent, child, spouse, sibling, neighbor, or friend who suffers from chronic illness, disease or immobility. Even before the global pandemic, this number has been expanding daily, as 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 each day, and will do so until 2030.Like all caregivers who came before her — Karen made it up as she went along, even when the stakes were at their highest. All the while, she promised herself that when her caregiving journey ended, to honor Joel's legacy, she would try to create a roadmap for sudden caregivers. With it, she means to hold up a lantern for all caregivers following behind her. A caregivers journey takes grit, but it can also be a source of resilience, well-being, and grace.Connect with Karen Email - KWS@TheSuddenCaregiver.com Website for the book- TheSuddenCaregiver.com Other website- TangibleGroup.comPhone- +1(843)941-0384LinkedIn - in/KarenWarnerTangible  Facebook- SuddenCaregiverInstagram- @TheSuddenCaregiver  Skype - Karen_20516Podcast Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Have you heard of the term young caregiver? According to a study by V. Stamatopoulos there are over 1 million young caregivers in Canada. Today's guest Kabisha Velauthapillai came by to share her experience as a young caregiver and the types of supports she thinks young caregivers need from the system and those around them. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great episode!About Kabisha:Kabisha Velauthapillai comes from a family and communities that taught them fundamental lessons about resilience, resistance, and love. Having been a young caregiver from early on, they are working to undo the erasure of young caregivers in healthcare systems, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Currently, Kabisha is part of the Young Caregivers Working Group at Ami-Quebec in Tio'tia:ke (Montreal). They are also part of Healthcare Excellence Canada, working as a Lived Experience Advisor. Now in their second year of medical school at the University of Toronto, Kabisha started the Family Responsibilities Collective, a group that aims to support medical school applicants and current medical students. Wearing the hat of both caregiver and medical student, Kabisha is strongly committed to reshaping our healthcare systems into ones that prioritize patients and caregivers. They are always keen to connect. You can reach them through e-mail, kabisha.velauthapillai@mail.utoronto.ca, or follow their twitter, @Kabisha2.The Good Health Cafe Feedback Form & Subscribe to the mailing listhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and FacebookSponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and Facebook

Have you heard of the terms functional medicine, or integrative and holistic medicine? Today's guest Dr. Aaron Hartman is a specialist in those areas and he came by to explain to us what they are and how the adoption of his children led to the exploration of those fields. We even touch a bit on toxins and long COVID. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great episode!About Dr. Aaron HartmanDr. Hartman's journey with functional medicine started when he & his wife adopted their first daughter from foster care. She has cerebral palsy & countless dietary issues. They went from specialist to specialist and, even as a physician, he felt let down & confused. His daughter's health struggles forced him to confront an uncomfortable realization: Our current healthcare system doesn't have all the answers. His wife, however, refused to give up hope. She ultimately pointed him to functional medicine. His daughter & other two kids began to thrive. After years in family practice, he felt called to make a dramatic shift.He now helps patients identify leverage points in key areas of their lifestyle & health that harness their body's remarkable power to heal and begin living the vibrant life they deserve. He has become the ‘go to' doctor for difficult and hard cases in central Virginia.As a clinical researcher, Dr. Hartman has been involved with over 60 clinical studies, he is the founder of the Virginia Research Center, and currently is serving as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Family Medicine at the VCU School of Medicine.In 2016 he founded Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine.Dr. Hartman's social linkswww.RichmondFunctionalMedicine.com www.facebook.com/rvaintegrativewww.instagram.com/rvaintegrativehttps://twitter.com/aaronhartmanMDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hartmanhttps://www.youtube.com/c/AaronHartmanMDLink for Free Gift https://go.richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/brguide-podResilience has become the key concept in 2021 for health and wellness. In this free eBook, Dr. Hartman addresses the foundations of functional medicine and how they can change your health trajectory today.In this guide you'll learn:7 KEYS to the resilience of blue zones​Basic preventative health strategies of functional medicineLifestyle measures to boost your resilience and improve your immune system functionWays to improve your health if you or your loved one have acquired a chronic illness​A new trajectory for your health and wellness!Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

If you're a regular listener you know that we have had the term doula come up in at least two prior episodes, episode 21 with midwife Shani Robertson and episode 23 with Kimberly Seals Allers. On today's episode we had a doula visit The Good Health Cafe, Ms. Tamara Mason, to tell us all about what doulas are, what they do and why they are such a valuable part of a birth team. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a great episode!About Tamara MasonTamara Mason, MPH, CHES is a public health professional, consultant, and advocate who works to improve the health and well-being of marginalized communities. Tamara graduated from Brown University in 1998 with a B.A. degree in Health and Society, with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health. She earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, with a concentration in Behavioral Sciences and Health Education in August 2003 from the Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University. Tamara has held several research and program management positions within Emory University, including serving as the Director of a breast cancer education and outreach program for over a decade. Currently, Tamara works for the March of Dimes as the Director, Maternal and Child Health Collective Impact where is she leading the efforts in the Atlanta area to reduce inequities in preterm births and maternal mortality. Tamara is also a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and certified labor doula.Tamara's website - https://www.masonconsultinginc.com/Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Have you ever considered the connection between the arts and health? Today's guest spends a lot of time doing just that. Her name is Constanza Roeder and she is a professional vocalist and founder of a non profit which supports patients and caregivers through the arts. On this episode Constanza shares how her experience with adolescent leukemia led her to create Hearts need Art and the impact it's having on patients and caregivers.Hearts Need Art:https://heartsneedart.org/About Constanza RoederConstanza Roeder is the founder and CEO of Hearts Need Art: Creative Support for Patients and Caregivers and host of the podcast “Arts for the Health of It.” As a singer, adolescent leukemia survivor, speaker, and thought leader in the field of Arts in Health, Constanza is on a mission to humanize healthcare through the arts. She began singing for cancer patients in 2009 and founded Hearts Need Art in 2016. Ms. Roeder is the recipient of the 2018 Graceann Durr Humanitarian Award and was selected as one of the Top 100 Healthcare Visionaries by the International Forum on Advancements in Healthcare for 2021. Her work has been featured in various publications such as ThriveGlobal, Authority Magazine, Ticker News, National Association of Teachers of Singing, and the cover of MD News Magazine.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

How quickly can you plan a wedding? Today's guest organized hers within a matter of hours and the venue was her mother's hospital room! Kathleen Bilton came by the cafe to share her story of being a caregiver to her mother who had lung disease. In this episode we discuss what she learned about navigating the healthcare system, what she learned about life, her volunteer efforts and why she would do this all over again if she needed to.About Kathleen Bilton Kathleen Bilton is a Wife, Stepmom to 2 amazing teenagers, and member of a large, happy, extended family, as well as an Operations, Accounting, and Project Manager in the construction & Real Estate development realms professionally. She is also an entrepreneur and small business owner specializing in helping small & medium sized businesses understand and utilize systems and tools that are impactful & empowering so they have the best chance to thrive & focus on what they love. For fun, she is known to garden and you can catch her most Saturdays at the local Farmer's Market sharing her Mom's special pasta sauce recipe (made with love!), with the world.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Ms. Rosemary Graham. Can you imagine what it is like to live with chronic illness for 37 years? Well, Rosemary has, and today she shares with us what her experience has been: pneumonia, systemic lupus erythematosus, interstitial lung disease, a rare disorder called polymyositis and endometrial cancer. She has even participated in a clinical trial. Throughout this journey she had her low points but through participation in support groups and other activities Rosemary is able to look at the glass as half full. Grab your warm drink and tune in for a fascinating conversation.About Rosemary GrahamRosemary Graham is a native of South Bend, Indiana. She is the Director of Disability Ministries for the South Atlantic Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists. A graduate Of Oakwood University, Rosemary serves as a member of the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church Disability Advisory Committee and Coordinator for Southern Union Disability Ministry. She is a former Chair of the National Council of Churches in Christ Committee on Disabilities. She has also served as an active volunteer, board member, advocate, facilitator, and community coordinator with the Lupus Foundation of America, Inc., GA and has also served as Board member of the National Black Women's Health Initiative. Rosemary was a Committee member of the Black Women's Health Study (Boston & Howard Universities) and has received several awards, including the NAD Disabilities Ministries Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today we continue with Part 2 of our interview with Ms. Susan G. Schroeder. Susan is a wonderful woman with amazing depth, resiliency and resolve who has had a surprising number of health challenges, which she refers to as "glitches". In this second part of her two part episode, Susan continues to share her health journey, her recent colon cancer scare, her participation in a research study and the lessons she has learned from navigating these glitches. Tune in for a fascinating conversation.About Susan:Susan G Schroeder is a Creative Strategist, Marketing Advisor and Storyteller. Through her company, SGS Workshop, Susan helps entrepreneurs and creatives develop, launch, and amplify their work. While running a business and building a family, Susan has been hit with numerous personal health crises from brain surgery to breast cancer, to time in the cardiac ward, and another recent cancer scare. Susan shared, "I know what it's like when it feels like life is falling apart and what it's like to pick up the pieces and rebuild. I believe in humor, community, optimism, and equity in healthcare (which doesn't currently exist). Most people are shocked to hear her health history because she has a sunny disposition and doesn't believe she's 'strong' as many people often say. She believes we all do what we have to do. Susan is resilient, focused on wellness in ALL ways (physical, emotional, and spiritual), and believes that relationships are the most important thing in life." Susan lives in Northern California with her husband, two young adult daughters, and two giant dogs. You can learn more about her and connect with her at www.susangschroeder.com or via Instagram @susangschroeder.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Ms. Susan G. Schroeder. Susan is a wonderful woman with amazing depth, resiliency and resolve who has had a surprising number of health challenges, which she refers to as "glitches". Today, in the first of a two part episode, she came by the cafe to share her health journey with us and the lessons she has learned from navigating these glitches. Tune in for a fascinating conversation.About Susan:Susan G Schroeder is a Creative Strategist, Marketing Advisor and Storyteller. Through her company, SGS Workshop, Susan helps entrepreneurs and creatives develop, launch, and amplify their work. While running a business and building a family, Susan has been hit with numerous personal health crises from brain surgery to breast cancer, to time in the cardiac ward, and another recent cancer scare. Susan shared, "I know what it's like when it feels like life is falling apart and what it's like to pick up the pieces and rebuild. I believe in humor, community, optimism, and equity in healthcare (which doesn't currently exist). Most people are shocked to hear her health history because she has a sunny disposition and doesn't believe she's 'strong' as many people often say. She believes we all do what we have to do. Susan is resilient, focused on wellness in ALL ways (physical, emotional, and spiritual), and believes that relationships are the most important thing in life." Susan lives in Northern California with her husband, two young adult daughters, and two giant dogs. You can learn more about her and connect with her at www.susangschroeder.com or via Instagram @susangschroeder.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Have you ever struggled to make sense of the research process or how to decide which guidance to follow? Well struggle no more! Today's guest is Dr. Mohammed Ali. He came by the cafe to give an overview of the research process, explain why it takes a long time for research to move to practice and share his recommendations on how we can make sense of the information we receive.About Dr. Mohammed AliMohammed K. Ali MD, MSc, MBA is a practicing primary care physician, Vice Chair for Research in Family and Preventive Medicine, and a tenured professor of Global Health and Epidemiology at Emory University. He is a Rhodes Scholar with a productive academic record and has multi-disciplinary perspectives on health, wellbeing, and optimizing health services. He has led synthesis reports for the World Health Organization, World Bank, and the National Academy of Medicine. He co-directs a NIH-funded center for translation research and serves as a scientific advisor for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Dr. Stephanie Epps. She shares with us her passion for nursing, the importance of having an advanced care directive, what patients need to know in order to advocate for themselves, the value of patients speaking up when there's a problem and so much more. Tune in for an enlightening conversation.About Dr. Stephanie EppsDr. Stephanie Epps is an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Holistic Empowerment Mentor, and Burnout Expert. She has worked in healthcare for over 10 years. Dr. Epps is passionate about empowering her patients to be their own advocate and helping working women overcome burnout. Dr. Epps is the owner of Indigo Soul Yoga in Locust Grove, Georgia. She has taught yoga and meditation for 6 years. Dr. Epps incorporates holistic health practices with her patients and yoga students to improve wellness.Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Olivier MankondoToday's guest is our first from across the pond! We have Mr. Olivier Mankondo from the UK here to discuss why he decided to switch to a plant based diet and the results he achieved from making that switch. Tune in for an interesting conversation.About Olivier MankondoOlivier Mankondo is a speaker, author and weight loss and wellness coach with a passion for self help books. He empowers people with knowledge about plant-based nutrition and has been able to inspire many. He can speak 4 languages!Websitehttps://oliviermankondo.comYouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/OLIVIERMANKONDOPlant-based nutrition membership clubhttps://gum.co/JVUTIBook: ”The plant-based nutrition: how it's going to change your life”https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1687205345/Your 7 tips to lose weighthttps://oliviermankondo.ck.page/897bb1ee43Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companyhttps://goodhealthcandle.com/@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Ms. Leonore Okwara. Leonore has spent over a decade coordinating community based research projects and building trust between communities and researchers. Today in the cafe we discuss how she got started in research, how she builds trust in communities and some of the challenges of doing this type of work. Tune in for an interesting conversation.About LeonoreLeonore Okwara, MPH is from San Diego, CA and the Founder of Public Health Research Consulting (PHRC). PHRC provides community engagement and trust building strategies through online courses, the Research in Community of Color Summit, Research Roundtables, speaking engagements, workshops, and webinars. Leonore has managed community-engaged research initiatives, nationally, within the nonprofit, academic, and government sectors over the past 15 years.While working for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Leonore co-directed the Project Managers' Research Group (PMRG) that served as a professional resource for departmental program managers, research coordinators, and research assistants. Because of this experience, Leonore understands the importance of bringing researchers together to share best practices and strategies for conducting and managing successful research studies.Leonore has a BA in Sociology and received her Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She is a military wife and a mother of three.Connect with LeonoreLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonoreokwara/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publichealthculture/Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Ms. Pam Moore. Pam is a sickle cell disease advocate who lives in Maryland. Today in the cafe we discussed what it is like to live with Sickle Cell Disease, the transition from pediatric to adult care and how her pregnancy motivated her to start a YouTube channel. Tune in for an interesting conversation.About Pam:Pam is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and has been an advocate for Sickle Cell Disease since her teenage years. She was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease as a 9 month old baby and was the only one of her parents children to inherit the disease. Sickle Cell has caused Pam some health complications but she considers herself fortunate to still be able to live a life in where she is accomplishing personal milestones. Pam earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Bowie State University and works as a Grants Administrator. She has an 8 year old daughter and loves to travel and dibble and dabble in photography. Some of her work as a Sickle Cell advocate includes tasks such as spreading awareness and education through her Youtube channel, participating in legislative efforts to advance Sickle Cell Disease, attending monthly supply groups and speaking as a panelist at a number of educational events.Pam's YouTube Channel: Advocate 4 Sickle Cell Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companywww.goodhealthcandle.com@goodhealthcandle on Instagram and FacebookThe Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-question@thegoodhealthcafe on Instagram and Facebook

Today's guest is Ms. Karla Mans Giroux. Karla is a holistic cancer coach and cancer thriver based in Chicago, Illinois. Today in the cafe we discussed her cancer journey, the integrative medicine approach which stabilized her metastatic breast cancer, the radical remission methods she teaches her coaching clients and her plans to celebrate her 100th birthday! Tune in for an interesting conversation.About Karla:Karla Mans Giroux is a cancer thriver living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Karla was originally diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2003 and underwent a mastectomy, chemo, and radiation. Eleven years later, in late 2014, a metastatic cancer challenge arose. Karla embarked on a healing and learning journey to help herself regain optimal health and longevity. She is blessed to report stable scans / “no evidence of disease” since 2016! Karla became passionate about sharing what she learned so that everyone has a better chance of overcoming the odds. She received her training as a holistic health coach and is also a Certified Radical Remission Workshop Facilitator, and an inspirational speaker. Karla has every intention of making it to 100 and with the strength of resilience and a positive spirit she is loving every moment on that journey! Join her in December 2065 for the party of the century!Contact Karla:Phone: 847-306-9599 Email: Karla@KMGCoach.com Websites: www.KMGCoach.com www.HealthNavs.com Sponsor Info:The Good Health Candle Companyhttps://goodhealthcandle.com/The Good Health Cafe Feedback Formhttps://www.thegoodhealthcafe.com/submit-your-questionRegister for my webinar on Key Elements of the Patient Provider Relationshiphttps://my.demio.com/ref/rceah9MzOsFTHqYq