NATAL passes the mic to Black families to hear all about their journey to parenthood in their own words. Our second season follows four parents in rural Mississippi, Iowa and Hawaii as they birth new lives and legacies exactly where they are. Interwoven by narrative interludes, this 10-part story album features the birthworkers, medical professionals and advocates caring for Black rural families at every stage of pregnancy and beyond.
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Join us as we dive deeper into the rising severe maternal morbidity and maternal mortality rates in the United States through a data-driven, quality improvement lens. Each episode will foster discussion with those committed to improving maternal health outcomes and saving lives.
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Podcast - Cocoa Pods Series: A feature of the Birth Center Foundation. We discuss all things' women, all things' pregnancy, all things' after. Reasons why women fall very sick ( morbidity) or die (mortality) before pregnancy (adolescent girls and young adults),during pregnancy and after are discussed in this maternal morbidity and mortality reduction academy; especially with an emphasis on minority women, all over the world; and ways for all involved in care to work together collaboratively ...
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This stimulating podcast series from the Annals of Epidemiology takes you behind the scenes of groundbreaking articles recently published in the journal. Join Editor-in-Chief, Patrick Sullivan, and journal authors for thought-provoking conversations on the latest findings and developments in epidemiologic and methodologic research.
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Understanding Organizational Context & Its Role in Implementation Science
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22:12Send us a text Dr. Larry Hearld illustrates multiple methods that implementation scientists can use to better inform adaptation and implementation of evidence-based interventions in complex organizational settings. “Integrating existing and novel methods to understand organizational context: A case study of an academic-public health department part…
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The Obesity Paradox: Childhood Body Size & Breast Cancer Risk
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22:36Send us a text Dr. Dorthe Pedersen unpacks the paradoxical relationship between childhood body size, breast density, and postmenopausal breast cancer risk among a large cohort of Danish women. Her article, “Associations of early life body size and pubertal timing with breast density and postmenopausal breast cancer risk: A mediation analysis,” can …
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Exploring the Link between Iron Deficiency Anemia & Severe Maternal Morbidity
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19:26Send us a text Dr. Nansi Boghossian deep dives into her research findings on the alarming connection between iron deficiency anemia and severe maternal morbidity risk among pregnant individuals. Her study, “Association between iron deficiency anemia and severe maternal morbidity: A retrospective cohort study,” can be found in the December 2024 (Vol…
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Maternity Deserts & Ice Skating Through a Broken System: Why Moms Are Still Dying in America
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22:08In this episode of CocoaPods, Dr. Bola Sogade hosts Dr. Julia Interrante from the University of Minnesota to discuss the alarming rise in maternal mortality in the U.S., particularly in rural communities. They examine the consequences of inadequate maternal healthcare access, the role of data in shaping policy, and how technology, such as telemedic…
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Re-creating Access to Maternal Health in Non-urban America
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26:00Can Rural Hospitals Survive the Storm of Obstetric Care Closures? Our latest episode features Dr. Julia Interante, who has collaborated extensively with Dr. Katy Backes Kozhimannil, Distinguished McKnight University Professor and Co-Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center. With Dr. Julia Interante from the University of…
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Lifestyle Habits for a Fulfilling Aging Journey
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23:26Support the showBy Birth Center for Natural Deliveries Foundation
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Parenthood and the Physical & Mental Health of SGM Parents
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27:11Send us a text Dr. Diana Tordoff shares insights on the health and well-being of LGBTQ parents, revealing the specific stressors and barriers they face while navigating parenthood. Her paper, “Parenthood and the physical and mental health of sexual and gender minority parents: A cross-sectional, observational analysis from The PRIDE Study” can be f…
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Tying It All Together: The Future of Safer Births and Healthier Outcomes
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46:21In this season finale of AIM for Safer Birth, Christie is joined again by Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell to reflect on key themes from the season, including rural maternity care, collaborative models, and the structural barriers impacting maternal health. They discuss the realities of hospital closures, the importance of integrating community birth ce…
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In our season finale, we pass the microphone to U.S. Congresswoman Cori Bush (D-MO) and reproductive justice activist, abortion storyteller and writer Renee Bracey-Sherman for a heartfelt discussion about the stories we tell, believe and redefine about our bodies and abortions. The two discuss their own abortion experiences, the moments in pop cult…
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We pass the microphone to Jenice Fountain, executive director of the Yellowhammer Fund, and midwife Tanya Smith-Johnnson, executive director of Birth Future Foundation. From mutual aid to midwifery, they discuss their organizing work, the power of relationship building, and why the Deep South is forever their North Star. For transcripts and more, v…
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The Secrets to Staying Vibrant as You Get Older : Science-Backed Tips
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28:54Unlock the secrets to empowering your elderly loved ones and fostering a nurturing environment of inclusion and respect. Join us as we explore the transformative power of decision-making freedom and active participation in family activities for older adults. By valuing their input and encouraging social engagement, we create a vibrant community tha…
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Substance Use Disorders and Patient Engagement
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41:19In this episode, Christie explores the intersection of substance use and maternal health with innovators Dr. Nichole Nidey and Michelle Kavouras, focusing on the power of lived expertise to shape equitable, evidence-based care. Dr. Nidey, a maternal and child health epidemiologist and founder of the Empower Project, discusses how her work collabora…
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From Equality to Equity: Increasing Equity-based Approaches in Epidemiology
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26:10Send us a text Dr. Carlos Rodriguez-Diaz joins EPITalk host and co-author, Dr. Patrick Sullivan, for an enlightening conversation about ways that epidemiologists can make important contributions in measuring and describing inequitable health outcomes. Their editorial, "From equality to equity: Increasing the use and reporting of equity-based approa…
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Season Three continues with new episodes next week. In the meantime, let us know what you think about Parts One and Two. Head to our IG @natalstories, or email us [email protected]. For transcripts and more, visit natalstories.com. Use code NATAL15 for 15% off at baby-yams.comBy Martina Abrahams Ilunga, Gabrielle Horton, Janelle B. Anderson
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Aging Tip 101:Ditch Connections That Do Not Bring You Joy or Relevance
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28:54Explore the keys to aging gracefully with Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu, a distinguished expert in aging from Abuja, Nigeria. Immerse yourself in the essentials of longevity, as Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu unveils the impact of a plant-based diet, restorative sleep, and meaningful social connections on our physical and mental well-being. This episode serves as your …
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Part Two: The Real on Pregnancy and Privacy
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41:11We pass the microphone to physician-activist Dr. Jamila Perritt and movement lawyer Yveka Pierre for a dialogue spanning the post-Dobbs criminalization of abortion patients and providers, period tracking apps and digital footprint protections and new imaginings of privacy and care. For transcripts and more, visit natalstories.com. Follow @natalstor…
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Part One: This Ain't No White Women's Movement
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35:00In our season premiere, we pass the microphone to two prolific reproductive justice organizers, Marie Leaner and Kwajelyn Jackson. With more than a combined 70+ years of fighting for abortion access, the pair sit down for lively conversation unpacking the rich legacy of Black women organizing for reproductive freedom before, during and beyond Roe. …
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NATAL returns Thursday, November 14.By Janelle B. Anderson, Gabrielle Horton, Martina Abrahams Ilunga
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Real Talk: Miscarriage, Abortion Explained & Other Issues in the 2024 Election
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30:12Can a single vote shape the future of a nation? We explore this compelling question as we dive into the diverse perspectives surrounding the 2024 US presidential elections. Our episode features voices from opposite ends of the political spectrum, with one participant passionately backing Donald Trump for his economic policies and perceived divine a…
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Keeping the Ground We Gain: Sustainability
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34:30Christie's talking with Audra Summers and Ashley Rainey about Indiana's innovative use of the AIM Patient Safety Bundles to drive sustainable change in maternal care. Audra and Ashley share their experiences implementing and maintaining quality improvements across Indiana's 75 delivery facilities. They discuss the importance of collaboration, the i…
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Women’s Health 2024: The Facts Behind the Vote
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1:02:39Unearth the complexities of women's healthcare policies in the 2024 election with Dr. Bola Sogade. Discover the contrasting approaches of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, where market-driven strategies clash with the expansion of federal measures. Learn about the implications of these policies on reproductive rights, healthcare affordability, and ac…
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The Role of Timing in Physical Activity & CVD Mortality Risk
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21:51Send us a text PhD student Sunwoo Emma Cho and Dr. Rahul Ghosal unpack their recent article, “Exploring the association between daily distributional patterns of physical activity and cardiovascular mortality risk among older adults in NHANES 2003-2006” published in the November 2024 (Vol. 99) issue of Annals of Epidemiology. In this study, the rese…
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A Resource for Every Facility: MEWS Implementation
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44:24In this episode, we talk with Dr. Carey Eppes and her colleague, CheyAnne Harris, to explore Texas's experience with implementing the Maternal Early Warning Signs (MEWS) in maternal health care. Dr. Eppes shares her background and journey into the world of maternal health, detailing the personal motivations that drive her passion for this work. She…
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Looking Back, Looking Forward: The History and Vision of AIM
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43:32In this episode, Christie talks with renowned maternal health expert Dr. Elliott Main. A pioneering figure in maternal mortality review and quality care initiatives, Dr. Main discusses the history and evolution of the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM). Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of addressing severe maternal m…
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Link between Childhood Sleep & Adolescent Substance Use?
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18:45Send us a text Medical student Akshay Krishnan and Dr. David Reichenberger explore the associations between childhood weeknight sleep and later alcohol and marijuana use. Their paper, “Childhood sleep is prospectively associated with adolescent alcohol and marijuana use,” can be found in the October 2024 (Vol. 98) issue of Annals of Epidemiology. R…
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You Can't Get There From Here: What Community Birth QI Can Teach Us
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41:20Christie is talking with Amy Romano, founder and CEO of Primary Maternity Care. Amy, a nurse midwife with an MBA, shares her experience blending clinical expertise with system-level healthcare leadership to revolutionize maternity care in rural communities. They discuss the critical role of freestanding birth centers, their capacity to offer low-ri…
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You Can't Get There From Here: How Regional Centers Elevate Rural Maternity Care
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46:31In this episode, Christie sits down with Dr. Andrea Greiner, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at the University of Iowa, to discuss the unique challenges of rural maternity care. Dr. Greiner shares her experiences working at a perinatal regional center, offering insight into how larger facilities can support rural hospitals and providers. Toget…
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Predicting Opioid Overdoses Post-Prison Release
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29:45Send us a text Dr. Prasad Patil joins us to discuss his article, “Using decision tree models and comprehensive statewide data to predict opioid overdoses following prison release” published in the June 2024 (Vol. 94) issue of Annals of Epidemiology. In this study, the researchers employed decision tree models to predict opioid overdose within 90 da…
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You Can't Get There From Here: Actionable Strategies for Rural Perinatal Health from IHS
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51:37In part two of our conversation with Dr. Tina Pattara-Lau, Maternal and Child Health Consultant at the Indian Health Service (IHS), Christie continues to explore the ongoing transformation of maternal health care within rural communities. Dr. Pattara-Lau delves deeper into the impact of culturally responsive care, the integration of traditional pra…
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You Can't Get There From Here: Rural Perinatal Health Through the IHS Lens
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32:21Christie is delving into the unique challenges and innovative solutions in rural and Indigenous maternal health care with Dr. Tina Pattara-Lau, Maternal and Child Health Consultant at the Indian Health Service (IHS). Dr. Pattara-Lau shares her experiences and insights on improving patient access to quality care through culturally safe practices, pa…
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Living Longer: Start Now, Learn from the Icarians
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13:49Can the idyllic life on a small Greek island hold the key to a longer, healthier life? Discover the hidden secrets of Icaria, where residents enjoy exceptional longevity and vibrant health. Together with Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogu from Abuja, Nigeria, we explore the unique climate, rich history, and fascinating cultural practices that contribute to the wel…
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You Can’t Get There from Here: Rural Maternity Care in the U.S.
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31:02Christie is joined by Dr. Kristen Dillon, Chief Medical Officer at the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). With an extensive background in rural healthcare, public health, and health policy, Dr. Dillon shares her journey from an urban upbringing in the San Francisco Bay Area to a dedi…
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Christie Allen, Senior Director of Quality Improvement and Programs at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell are back to explore the complexities of sustaining momentum in maternal health quality. After reflecting on last season, they discuss the concept of "health equity tourism" and the im…
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Get ready for AIM for Safer Birth: Season 2!
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2:25In the upcoming season, maternal health champions discuss quality improvement, sustainability, patient engagement, and more. Following the Season 2 kick-off episode, listen along to "You Can't Get There From Here," a four-part rural perinatal care miniseries – where our host Christie Allen and a variety of guests highlight the unique considerations…
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Racial, Rural, & Occupational Inequities during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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34:21Send us a text PhD candidate Hannah Zadeh and Dr. Martha Carvour tackle the methodological complexities of modeling racial, rural, and occupational disparities during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their paper, “Epidemiological approaches to multivariable models of health inequity: A study of race, rurality, and occupation during the COVI…
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The Healing Power of Nature:Stress,Sleep and Community
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12:21Can reducing screen time before bed really enhance your sleep quality? Learn from Dr. Jessica Patella as she shares transformative lifestyle tips that promote better mental and physical well-being for women in maternal health; and really for all.From the secrets of improved sleep hygiene through melatonin production to the importance of setting hea…
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Socioeconomic Disparities, Childhood Obesity, & Adolescents' Mental Health – Insights from the Netherlands
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28:51Send us a text PhD candidate Maria Gueltzow shares the compelling findings from her article, “Childhood obesity's influence on socioeconomic disparities in young adolescents’ mental health,” published in the June 2024 (Vol. 94) issue of Annals of Epidemiology. In this study, the researchers estimate the contribution of the mediating and moderating …
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Holistic Solutions & The Synergy of Natural and Conventional Medicine
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22:06Transform your health by tuning into our enlightening discussion with Dr. Jessica Patella, a leading naturopathic physician, as we uncover the simple yet profound benefits of naturopathic medicine. Discover how swapping sugary drinks for water can revolutionize your cellular health and learn about the integration of evidence-based practices within …
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Harnessing Nature's Power: Naturopathic Wisdom for Maternal Health and Healing
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18:05Discover the transformative power of naturopathic medicine in maternal health with our special guest, Dr. Jessica Patella. Learn the secrets behind managing morning sickness naturally with ginger and peppermint, and find out how Ipecac can be an effective remedy for persistent nausea. Dr. Patella shares how pulsatilla can help reposition a malposit…
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Maternal Prenatal Social Experiences & Offspring Epigenetic Aging
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29:28Send us a text Drs. Zachary Laubach and Wei Perng investigate associations between adverse maternal social experiences and offspring epigenetic aging among 205 mother-offspring pairs of minoritized racial and ethnic groups. "Maternal prenatal social experiences and offspring epigenetic age acceleration from birth to mid-childhood” is published in t…
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The Art of Naturopathy for Vibrant Health
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17:19Unlock the secrets of naturopathic medicine with Dr. Jessica Patella, whose expertise in homeopathy and exercise physiology shines a light on alternative approaches to health and wellness. Embark on a journey from her formative years at Florida State University to a pivotal meeting with a homeopathic doctor that forever changed her career path. Thi…
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Men Confronting Curses and Couples Cultivating Joy
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12:28As my best friend Charles and I sat down to unravel the intricate web of generational curses, we found ourselves immersed in a conversation that is often left unspoken among men. Our heart-to-heart reveals the transformative power of camaraderie and mentorship as vital tools to help men rise above deep-seated challenges. We're uncovering the raw tr…
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Championing Change in Maternal Health Legislation with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood and HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson
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20:56In this special episode during Black Maternal Health Week, we delve into some of the critical issues surrounding maternal health disparities in the U.S. and the ongoing initiatives to address them. Host Christie Allen welcomes two distinguished guests: Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, co-chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, and Carole Johnson,…
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Breaking the Bonds of Legacy: Healing Through Dialogue and Counseling in Marriage
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28:54When Charles sat down with us, his voice carried the weight of a journey through heartache and healing; he spoke of the struggle to break free from the chains of generational curses and the redemptive power of open, honest family dialogue. His narrative unfolds through missed connections with father figures and a tumultuous road through marriage di…
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Mending Bonds and Shattering Cycles: A Journey Beyond Infidelity and Generational Curses
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28:28Can a marriage withstand the turbulent waters of infidelity and the weight of generational curses? This is the profound question that Charles, alongside his wife Lillian's previous insights, attempts to answer in a heart-to-heart with Dr. Bola Sogade. Witness the raw unraveling of Charles' journey through love, betrayal, and the challenging road to…
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Cardiovascular Resilience among Black Americans – Do Positive Neighborhood Characteristics Play a Role?
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29:56Send us a text Drs. Islam, Kim, Lewis, and Taylor, authors of the Annals of Epidemiology 2023 Best Junior Investigator Paper Award winner: “Neighborhood characteristics and ideal cardiovascular health among Black adults: results from the Morehouse-Emory Cardiovascular (MECA) Center for Health Equity” explore the compelling association between desir…
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Confronting the Shadows of Intimacy and Renewal
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28:01When the bonds of matrimony are tested by the specter of infidelity, is forgiveness truly possible? Journey with us and our brave guest Lillian (a pseudonym) as she lays bare the soul-stirring odyssey of betrayal, forgiveness, and healing in the sacred covenant of marriage. Lillian's deeply personal account shines a light on the grueling yet transf…
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Rekindling Connections Amid Spiritual Battles and Heartache
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31:35When love morphs into a battlefield, where do we turn for reinforcements? Our latest conversation with Lillian plunges into the heart of marital strife, offering a lifeline of communication strategies and the healing balm of apologies. With empathy and wisdom, this episode peels back the curtain on the intimate dance of knowing your partner's inner…
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The Quest for Wholeness after Marital Treachery
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30:42When the vows of 'till death do us part' warp into a tale of betrayal and heartbreak, the journey to reclaiming one's joy can be arduous and transformative. Lillian's story, veiled under a pseudonym, is a gripping narrative that not only uncovers the raw pain of infidelity but also the empowering ascent towards healing. From the deceptive tranquili…
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Spatial Patterns in PrEP Accessibility and the Link between PrEP Access & SDOH
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29:06Send us a text Dr. Hui (Henry) Luan joins EPITalk host and co-author, Dr. Patrick Sullivan, for a jam-packed discussion about their recent study on PrEP accessibility measurement. “Spatial accessibility of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): different measure choices and the implications for detecting shortage areas and examining its association with …
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