Urban Family Focus Podcast

How do our social connections shape our health? In this episode of Urban Family Focus, we sit down with Shelly Kathryn Kinder, LCSW to explore The Social Side of Health. From relationships and community support to the power of human connection, Shelly shares how our social networks influence healing, resilience, and overall well-being. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on why community isn’t...

This episode of Urban Family Focus emphasizes why community comes first in the journey of caregiving and holistic health. Guest Michael Robinson shares how building strong support networks, improving access to community resources, and fostering connections can ease the burdens of caregiving while empowering families.  Filled with practical advice and real-life examples, this conversation highlight...

In this episode of Urban Family Focus, we explore how to maximize healthcare resources and make informed choices about wellness and caregiving. Kedarious Colbert, Land Use and Planning Director at Providence Health, shares insights on how healthcare systems, urban planning, and community development impact access to care.  Whether you’re a caregiver, patient, or advocate, this discussion provides...

Beginning a healthier lifestyle can feel overwhelming. With so much information available, many people struggle to know where to begin—or how to build habits they can actually sustain. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes Dr. Monisha "Mo" Garner, founder of Moya Body Care and wellness educator, for an encouraging conversation about creating a realistic path toward bet...

On this episode of Urban Family Focus, we sit down with Percell Keeling, founder of Simply Wholesome, to explore what it truly means to live a balanced, healthy, and intentional life. From nutrition and wellness practices to mindset and lifestyle choices, Percell shares practical tips and inspiration for anyone looking to simplify their path to health and well-being. Tune in for an enlightening co...

In this deeply needed and empowering episode of Urban Family Focus Podcast, we shine a light on Black mental health with two passionate advocates from NAMI Urban Los Angeles: 🧠 Harold Turner, Executive Director of NAMI Urban LA and longtime community leader, brings decades of experience—from serving on the LA County Mental Health Commission to transforming lives through NAMI since 2007. 🧠 Adrien...

On this BWAARP edition of Urban Family Focus Podcast—our Black Wealth Attainment & Retention Program—we’re diving deep into the world of estate planning with none other than Attorney Caprice L. Collins, a Harvard Law graduate and one of the nation’s top-rated experts in Living Trusts, Asset Protection, and Generational Wealth. With over 40 years of experience, Caprice has helped thousands of f...

In this thoughtful and informative episode of Urban Family Focus Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Brownell Payne, a seasoned anesthesiologist with over 30 years of experience, currently serving patients across Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area. With firsthand knowledge of hospital systems and a deep understanding of elder care, Dr. Payne unpacks the critical challenges families face when...

On this powerful BWAARP edition of Urban Family Focus—our Black Wealth Attainment & Retention Program—we're diving deep into a critical topic that too often gets overlooked: insurance. Our guest, Harold W. Dickens II, is the Owner of HWD Adjusting Company and a Public Insurance Adjuster with over 30 years of experience. Harold is a trusted advocate for homeowners and business owners, helping t...

What happens when someone reaches their turning point? In this powerful episode of Urban Family Focus, co-host LaRita Shelby sits down with Michelle Perkins, founder of Turning Point, for a deeply personal conversation about homelessness, mental health, addiction, incarceration, recovery, and the power of rebuilding one's life. Michelle's story is one of resilience and transformation. After an eig...

In this impactful episode of Urban Family Focus Podcast, we sit down with Dr. David Sato, President of Providence Specialty Medical Group and a leading expert in Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine, for a powerful conversation about heart health in our communities. From rising rates of heart disease to the role of stress, diet, and access to care, Dr. Sato offers deep insight into the cha...

Every first Saturday of the month on Urban Family Focus, we bring you BWAARP—our Black Wealth Attainment & Retention Program—where we tackle the pressing issues around financial literacy, wealth protection, and generational empowerment in Black communities. In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Steven Lott, Director of Design at RAW International and a thought leader who brings together...

In this eye-opening and impactful conversation, we sit down with Dr. Karen Rentas of Providence to tackle the urgent issue of behavioral health disparities. Together, we explore the deep-rooted gaps in mental health care access, the cultural stigmas that still linger, and the systemic changes needed to achieve true equity and healing in our communities. Dr. Rentas brings expertise, compassion, and...

In this inspiring episode, we explore the powerful intersection of art and youth wellness with the dynamic Wendy Raquel Robinson. From her unforgettable roles on The Steve Harvey Show and The Game to her unwavering commitment to empowering young people, Wendy shares her journey as both an artist and an advocate. We dive into her work with the Amazing Grace Conservatory, a creative haven she co-fou...

In this energizing episode, we’re diving into the heart of community engagement with two powerhouse voices who embody service and impact: Michael Robinson, Chief Community Health Officer for Providence South Division, shares his mission to advance health equity and access across California—transforming how communities receive care and support. James Smith, affectionately known as the “Postmaster t...

In this powerful and necessary conversation, we shine a light on health equity—not just as a goal, but as a heartfelt investment in our communities. Joining us are two distinguished physicians who live this mission every day: 👨🏽‍⚕️ Dr. Derek F. Williams, a board-certified family physician based in Hawthorne, CA, known for his holistic, prevention-focused approach to care for patients of all ages...