Philly Public Health Chats

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats, we talk with Valerie Hughes and Ellen Matzer, two nurses on the front lines during the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Valerie and Ellen discuss their backgrounds, their experiences during the early days of the epidemic, the societal challenges, and why they ultimately wrote the book ‘Nurses on the Inside.’ The episode highlights the personal and professional stru...

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats, Dr. Najera discusses the implications of former President Donald Trump’s return to office on public health policy, primarily focusing on vaccination, with expert guest Brian Dean Abramson. Abramson, a leading authority on vaccine law, elaborates on the president's potential influence and legal constraints relating to public health initiatives. They ex...

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats, we dive into the contentious topic of vaccines and autism with guest Kathleen Carmichael, a neuroscience PhD student at Brown University's NIH Graduate Partnerships Program. Kathleen shares her insights into the origins and persistence of the vaccine-autism controversy, debunking myths and explaining the science behind vaccines. We'll discuss the role...

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats, Dr. René Najera explores the life and groundbreaking achievements of Emil von Behring, the first Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine. Known for his revolutionary work on diphtheria serum therapy, Behring's contributions laid the foundation for modern immunology and saved countless lives. The episode explores his collaboration with Kitasato Shibas...

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats, Dr. René Najera hosts Dr. Carlene Robinson, a senior epidemiologist and director of data and evaluation at the Alabama Department of Rehab Services. The discussion focuses on Dr. Robinson’s career in public health, her specializations in rural health and social epidemiology, and the role mentorship has played in her professional journey. The conversat...

Our Guest: • Dr. Joseph Savino – A distinguished professor of anesthesiology and a trailblazer in cardiac care, Dr. Savino’s journey from a young immigrant in Philadelphia to a leading voice in his field is nothing short of inspiring. His expertise and passion for mentoring future generations of physicians make him an essential figure in the conversation about the future of medicine and medical ed...

In this episode, Dr. René Najera sits down with Ed Singer, former Health Officer for Carroll County, Maryland, and current manager of the Local Management Board. Ed shares his journey from the military to public health leadership, reflecting on his work addressing public health challenges, from environmental health to leading the county’s response during the opioid crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. Li...

In this episode of Philly Public Health Chats , Dr. René Najera welcomes licensed clinical social worker Megan Driesbach to discuss an important and sensitive topic in recognition of September as Suicide Awareness Month. With over 11 years of experience, Megan has a deep understanding of crisis intervention, suicide risk assessments, and therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CB...

Hey there, Philadelphia! Welcome to another quick update from Philly Public Health Chats . We're popping in with some exciting news and a heads-up for you all. Summer is upon us, and we're taking a short break to recharge and gear up for more amazing content. But don't worry, we'll be back in September with the second season of Philly Public Health Chats ! Our upcoming season will...

This week, we talk with Laura Vargas about the needs of friends and loved ones of people who die from a drug overdose. While we often focus on the prevention of such deaths, there are many gaps in the help and services needed by those left grieving for their loved ones. Ms. Vargas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Director of Outreach Programs at SADOD , where she has developed and expa...

This week, we talk to Willie Baronet and Leah den Bok . They are two artists who collaborated on an exhibit at the Mütter Museum within the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. Their art -- Willie's collection of signs and Leah's portrait photography -- was brought together with data and evidence of the impact of homelessness in Philadelphia. Also collaborating on the effort was Dr. Rosi...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Jarry from the McGill Office for Science and Society. He talks to us about the charming but misleading tales surrounding Edward Jenner and the origins of the smallpox vaccine. Jarry, a seasoned science communicator and co-host of the podcast " Body of Evidence ," unpacks the historical inaccuracies and sheds light on lesser-known figures who con...

Join René Najera, Director of Public Health and the History of Vaccines Project at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, as he welcomes Dr. Elise Mitchell, an expert in African American history and smallpox inoculation practices. In this episode, they delve into the historical practice of smallpox inoculation, tracing its roots from Asia to the Americas, and explore Dr. Mitchell's fascina...

In this episode, René Najera, Director of Public Health at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, hosts a thought-provoking discussion with public health consultants Leah Roman and Andrea Mantsios. Leah and Andrea explore the versatile and dynamic role of public health consultants, clarifying the distinctions between independent consultants and in-house contractors, and describing how they sol...

Dr. René Najera sits down for a conversation with Deanna Najera, PA-C. (Yes, they are related... They have been married since 2010.) Physician Assistants (also known as Physician Associates) have been involved in medicine for decades, forming an integral part of the healthcare team. Mrs. Najera explains how PAs are more involved in public health efforts in the United States, talking about her own...