Buffalo HealthCast

Local successes and global challenges in Hepatitis C elimination

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0500

This two-part episode of Buffalo HealthCast explores Hepatitis C treatment in Buffalo and in global contexts. In part one, family nurse practitioner and recent MPH graduate Sean Owen talks with guest host Jennifer Foster of the Office of Global Health Initiatives about hepatitis c: what it is, how it’s treated, barriers to care, and global efforts to eliminate the virus. Owen talks about his long-running work in Rochester specializing in drug user health, harm reduction, and treatment and prevention of hepatitis C and HIV, along with his recent MPH field training experiences addressing hepatitis C under the supervision of Dr. Anthony Martinez at his clinic La Bodega at the Erie County Medical Center.

In part two of this episode, Sean Owen talks to Scott Springer, a physician assistant at La Bodega. Owen and Springer discuss La Bodega’s unique model of treatment and holistic care, which has contributed to great success in treating and curing hepatitis C among western New York patients. They also explore reasons why hepatitis C elimination efforts are unique in different parts of the country and different parts of the world.

Read (and watch) more about the work at La Bodega:

https://medicine.buffalo.edu/news_and_events/news/2020/04/martinez-bodega-hepatology-clinic-10699.html

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/elminate-hepatitis-c-clinic-treatment/

"Tools of the Trade: Diagnostics and Surveillance in Environmental Health"

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 23:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions 🎙️

In this episode of Buffalo HealthCast, podcast producer and MPH student Vennela Damarla speaks with Dr. Kelly Baker, Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Climate Change and Health Equity at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Baker discusses the powerful role of diagnostic and surveillance tools in environmental health, especially in the context of diarrheal disease, climate change, and One Health—a framework that links the health of people, animals, and the environment.

From high-throughput pathogen detection technologies to locally producible rapid diagnostics, Dr. Baker explores how these tools are being developed and adapted for use in low-resource settings. She shares insights from global studies, including the use of geo-trackers to trace transmission pathways, and explains how simple, affordable diagnostic tools can help address health inequities and inform targeted public health interventions.

Tune in to learn how cutting-edge tools are shaping global strategies for water sanitation, infectious disease prevention, and health equity.

Journey into Environmental Economics and Sustainability

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions 🎙️
In this episode of Buffalo HealthCast, Dr. Michael Shelly delves into the intricate relationship between environmental sustainability, economics, and public health. He explores how environmental policies and sustainable practices can influence economic systems while addressing pressing global health challenges. Dr. Shelly emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with ecological responsibility, illustrating how investing in sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy can yield long-term public health benefits. He also discusses the role of environmental justice, highlighting how marginalized communities disproportionately bear the burden of environmental degradation and advocating for equitable policy interventions.

Furthermore, Dr. Shelly sheds light on the economic aspects of sustainability, explaining the financial implications of pollution, resource depletion, and climate change. He underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between policymakers, economists, and public health experts to create a future that prioritizes both economic stability and environmental well-being. The episode serves as a compelling call to action, urging listeners to consider how individual and systemic efforts can drive meaningful change in public health, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Dietary exposure on toxicants: Health impacts on vulnerable groups, especially on infants and children

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions 🎙️

In this episode of Buffalo HealthCast, Dr. Gauri Desai, an expert in environmental epidemiology, explores the impact of environmental toxins on children's health and development. She delves into how diet can both mitigate and sometimes contribute to toxic exposures, shedding light on the surprising role dietary components play in our well-being.

With a focus on children's health, Dr. Desai discusses how what we eat can protect or expose us to harmful substances, offering valuable insights on the benefits and risks of diet in reducing toxic exposure. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!

4o mini

PFAS: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and AMR: Antimicrobial Resistance

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions 🎙️

In this episode of Buffalo HealthCast, we sit down with Dr. Diana Aga, SUNY Distinguished Professor and Henry M. Woodburn Professor of Chemistry at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Aga, an internationally recognized environmental chemist, shares her groundbreaking research on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often called "forever chemicals," and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We explore the sources and health impacts of PFAS, the challenges in detecting and removing them, and their intersection with AMR.

Dr. Aga also highlights innovative technologies, the role of policy and public awareness, and actionable steps we can take to combat these pressing environmental health challenges. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about the intersection of science, policy, and public health!

The Hidden Dangers of Air Quality- Emphysema in a changing climate

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions 🎙️

In this insightful episode of Buffalo HealthCast, we sit down with Dr. Meng Wang, an environmental health scientist, to explore the hidden dangers lurking in the air we breathe and their impact on lung health. Dr. Wang reveals how baseline levels of pollutants like PM 2.5, ozone, nitrous oxide, and black carbon contribute to the progression of emphysema. As climate change fuels air pollution especially from sources like wildfire smoke.

Dr. Wang emphasizes the critical need for targeted policies to protect vulnerable populations. He also discusses accessible solutions, including DIY air purifiers, and highlights the importance of public education and awareness about air quality in our changing climate. Don't miss this vital discussion on the intersection of air pollution, health, and climate.

The Intersection of Environmental health, Child health, Pregnancy

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Buffalo HealthCast, the official podcast of the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions! 🎙️

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Yohane Phiri, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, about his groundbreaking research on how environmental factors shape early childhood development. Dr. Phiri discusses the profound impact of chemical exposures, pollutants, and psychosocial stressors on pregnancy and preterm births.

Tune in to discover how these critical environmental influences can affect the earliest stages of life and the potential long-term outcomes for both mothers and their children.

Critical Aspects of Long COVID

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Buffalo HealthCast, we dive into the world of long COVID with two distinguished experts, Dr. Sanjay Sethi and Dr. Jennifer Abeles.

Join us as we discuss the challenges faced by patients and healthcare providers and uncover the importance of research and studies being conducted at the University at Buffalo. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a patient, or simply interested in learning more about long Covid, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that sheds light on the critical aspects of long Covid and the efforts being made to advance our knowledge.

Intersectionality w Akua Gyamerah, DrPH, MPH

Wed, 22 May 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Dr. Akua Gyamerah and Nada Fox discuss the importance of considering intersectionality in understanding health disparities. Dr. Gyamerah emphasized the need to examine how different social determinants intersect to produce unique health outcomes, while Nada Fox inquired about the challenges of studying these complex issues. Both speakers highlighted the importance of measuring intersectionality to better understand these interconnected factors. Later, they discussed the intersections of gender-based violence, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches that address these interconnected issues.

Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY- Family Perspective

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Three local athletes, Steve Spitz, Emily Keicher and Adam Page return. Emily is accompanied by her parents Chris and Liz. Adam is accompanied by his father, Norm. We discuss family and sports. The topics range from parents (Steve, Chris, Liz and Norm) supporting and coaching their children in sports, camaraderie with other parents through adaptive sports, and sports/recreation that they enjoy as a family. Athletes and parents emphasize the benefits that adaptive/inclusive sports have had for their family. Host: Jeanne Langan, Department of Rehabilitation Science, UB.

The Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY podcast was created to share experiences and expertise of athletes, their families and community organizations on adaptive sports and recreation in WNY. Episodes will highlight different perspectives on adaptive and inclusive sports and recreation in WNY. This podcast is a collaboration between Greater Buffalo Adaptive sports and the Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University at Buffalo.

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/cruen/camping

License code: 4C3XJTSV6ED1TLBX

Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY- Talking to Athletes

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Four Western New York athletes, Steve Spitz, Emily Keicher, Kate Hahn and Adam Page, discuss their pathway to adaptive/inclusive sports, the multiple sports they enjoy and what keeps them in adaptive sports. Host: Jeanne Langan, Department of Rehabilitation Science, UB.

The Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY podcast was created to share experiences and expertise of athletes, their families and community organizations on adaptive sports and recreation in WNY. Episodes will highlight different perspectives on adaptive and inclusive sports and recreation in WNY. This podcast is a collaboration between Greater Buffalo Adaptive sports and the Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University at Buffalo.

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/cruen/camping

License code: 4C3XJTSV6ED1TLBX

Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY- Sports Equipment

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Four local athletes, Steve Spitz, Emily Keicher, Kate Hahn and Adam Page return to discuss adaptive equipment in adaptive/inclusive sports. The discussion includes progression of sports equipment and accessing equipment. The discussion flows into related topics of travel for sporting events and accessibility of hotels as well as fitting equipment to preserve skin integrity. Host: Jeanne Langan, Department of Rehabilitation Science, UB.

The Adaptive Sports and Recreation in WNY podcast was created to share experiences and expertise of athletes, their families and community organizations on adaptive sports and recreation in WNY. Episodes will highlight different perspectives on adaptive and inclusive sports and recreation in WNY. This podcast is a collaboration between Greater Buffalo Adaptive sports and the Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University at Buffalo.

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/cruen/camping

License code: 4C3XJTSV6ED1TLBX

National Public Health Week Civic Engagement Episode

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0400

In honor of National Public Health Week, Buffalo HealthCast proudly presents a special episode focused on the vital role of civic engagement in promoting community health and well-being. Join us as we sit down with Rachel DiDomizio, a passionate advocate and community organizer, from University at Buffalo, to explore the power of grassroots activism and civic participation and how to get involved.

The Importance of CASACs with Mark Bonacci, PhD

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode we sit down with Mark Bonacci, PhD, to explore the essential role of CASACs (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors) in addressing substance use disorder. We delve into the nuanced aspects of treatment, counseling methodologies, and the impact CASACs make in our community. Mark Bonacci's insights highlight the imperative of addressing substance use disorder as a public health crisis that demands our collective attention and empathy.

Recovery Capital with Elizabeth Bowen PhD

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Elizabeth Bowen, PhD, an expert in addiction recovery and recovery capital. Listen as we discuss the invisible population of persons experiencing homelessness and the unique issues this community faces, trauma informed care, and the need for supportive housing.

Elizabeth Bowen PhD is a community-based urban researcher and educator, Associate Professor Elizabeth Bowen joined the School of Social Work in 2014. Bowen’s research centers on the health and resilience of people experiencing homelessness. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, Bowen’s work examines the pathways that link homelessness and health conditions. A subset of her research focuses on the developmental and place-based experiences of youth and young adults who are homeless and navigating service systems.

Resources:
Multidimensional Inventory of Recovery Capital

Credits:
Hosts/Writer: Nada Fox, B.S.
Guest: Elizabeth Bowen, AM, PhD
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Nada Fox, B.S.
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Maternal Health, with Vanessa Guzman

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Join us as Ebehitale Imobhio interviews the brilliant Vanessa Guzman, founder of SmartRise Health. Learn about maternal health care, barriers to postpartum care, and the experiences of LGBTQ+ people as they navigate parenthood and motherhood.

Award-winning healthcare leader and author Vanessa Guzman MS, ME founded SmartRise Health to help healthcare organizations assess complex operational problems and devise strategic, quality improvement, and training initiatives to optimize outcomes and satisfaction among employees, partners, and patients.
Vanessa graduated from Columbia University’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science with a BS and MS in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Diagnostic Imaging. She is also certified in Quality Engineering and Quality Management and Organizational Excellence by the American Society for Quality. For her outstanding contributions, she has been awarded the 2018 Becker’s Hospital Review “Rising Stars Under 40” and 2017 Modern Healthcare’s “Up and Comers” Awards.

Resources:

SmartRise Health

Prevention Science, with Jessica Braymiller Knapp

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jessica Braymiller Knapp, PhD, an expert in prevention science and a dedicated tobacco researcher. Dive into the core of addiction, prevention science, and more.

Jessica L. Braymiller (she/her) is a clinical assistant professor and public health researcher focused on understanding nicotine and cannabis use among adolescents and young adults. Her current work centers on e-cigarette use/vaping and associated health outcomes, other emerging modes of tobacco and cannabis delivery, and device characteristics that facilitate initiation and continued use of both substances. Prior to joining the faculty in Community Health and Health Behavior, Dr. Braymiller was a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Southern California in the Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science. Dr. Braymiller completed her PhD in Biobehavioral Health and her MS in Biobehavioral Health at The Pennsylvania State University. She received her BA in Psychology from Mercyhurst University.

Credits:
Hosts/Writer: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Guest: Jessica Braymiller Knapp, MS, PhD
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Harm Reduction in Cannabis Use, with Nicholas Felicione and Jessica Kruger

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, guests Dr. Jessica Kruger and Dr. Nicholas Felicione, discuss the complex topic of cannabis use harm reduction. They explore the challenges and complexities of harm reduction in the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization, highlighting the need for more research and evidence-based strategies to educate consumers and reduce potential risks associated with cannabis use. The conversation touches on various aspects of cannabis, from product testing and labeling to the possible substitution of cannabis for other, more harmful substances, all within the context of promoting health equity and responsible consumption.

Guests:
Jessica Kruger, PhD, MCHES
Director, Teaching Innovation and Excellence | School of Public Health and Health Professions
Clinical Associate Professor | Department of Community Health and Health Behavior

Nicholas Felicione, PhD
Assistant Professor | Department of Community Health and Health Behavior

Credits:
Hosts/Writers: Jessica Kruger, PhD, MCHES | Nicholas Felicione, PhD
Guest: Jessica Kruger, PhD, MCHES | Nicholas Felicione, PhD
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Reframing Substance Use Disorder, with Cheryll Moore

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Cheryll Moore has extensive grant administration and project management experience with the Erie County, New York, Department of Health and has directly administered and implemented numerous grant projects over the past 20 years. She has been a leader in addressing the opioid epidemic in Erie County, providing naloxone trainings to first responders and community members and integrating data to focus her efforts. She also manages the nationally recognized community-engaged intervention known as the Erie County Opioid Epidemic Task Force to reduce opioid-related overdose deaths.

Resources:

Carry Narcan, and know how and when to use it. Text (716) 225-5473 to have Narcan mailed to you for free.
Seek treatment. Local hospital emergency departments can connect patients to immediate medication assisted treatment, a long-term care provider and a peer who can help with every stage of recovery. Ask for NY MATTERS.
Seek support. The Buffalo & Erie County Addictions Hotline is available 24/7 with referrals for individuals and their families. Call (716) 831-7007.
Never use alone. Have Narcan and a friend with you who is not using drugs, or contact a service like Never Use Alone (neverusealone.com)
Test your drugs for fentanyl and xylazine even if you think it is cocaine or another substance that is not an opioid. Free test strips available from the Erie County Department of Health. Call (716) 858-7695.
Bars, restaurants and other public establishments can order free materials from ECDOH, as available. Visit bit.ly/ECDOHNarcan for order form or call (716) 858-7695.
Words Matter - Terms to Use and Avoid When Talking About Addiction

Credits:
Credits:
Host/Writer: Sarah Robinson, MPH | Kara Kane, MA
Guest: Cheryll Moore, Director, Erie County Opiate Epidemic Task Force; Medical Care Administrator, Erie County Department of Health
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Accessible Type 2 Diabetes Interventions, with Sarah LaPointe and Dr. Michael Merrill

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Join Sarah Robinson as she interviews Dr. Sarah LaPointe and Dr. Michael Merrill about type 2 diabetes, health equity, and more. We discuss the importance of bridging the gap in diabetes care, making interventions inclusive for all communities. Our expert guests share valuable insights on empowering the health care system and promoting health equity in diabetes management.

Dr. Sarah LaPointe is a Researcher at Brook Health and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Epidemiology at Emory University. She received her Master's in Public Health and PhD in Epidemiology from the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Broadly, her research interests lie at the intersection of social and environmental determinants of health with a particular passion for improving the health and well-being of marginalized communities. In her free time, Sarah enjoys being outdoors with her dogs, tennis or pickleball, and exploring her new surroundings in Atlanta, GA.

Dr. Mike Merrill is chief medical officer for Brook Health, headquartered in Seattle. Prior to Brook Health, he served as chief medical officer at United Memorial Medical Center, Rochester Regional Health, and as a medical director for Independent Health.

Resources:

Brook website: https://www.brook.health/ (We are hiring!)
Weight loss in Brook's digital diabetes prevention program

Credits:
Host/Writer: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Guests: Sarah LaPointe, MPH, PhD | Michael Merrill, MD, MS, MS, MBA
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Intensive Agriculture and Human Health, with Marion Werner and Patrick Lango

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Join UB graduate students Lianne Novak (public health) and Logan (international development and global health) as they interview Dr. Marion Werner, and local farmer Patrick Lango about intensive agricultural practices and the effects on human health.

Dr. Marion Werner is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at the University at Buffalo, SUNY. Her research is located at the nexus of critical development studies, feminist theory, and political economy with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean.

Patrick Lango is a local farmer, maker of artisanal dairy products, and enthusiastic food radical. He owns White Cow Dairy, located in Buffalo's Elmwood Village, where he sells his artfully-crafted yogurts, custards and dairy drinks to the public. Lango's farming techniques haven't changed with the emergence of intensive agriculture, and his business is prime example of how to sustainably farm.

Credits:
Host/Writers: Lianne Novak, MPH | N. Logan | Keerthana Maddirala, MS
Guests: Dr. Marion Werner, PhD | Patrick Lango
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH | Omar Brown
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Pride Month Episode: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Health Care, with Dr. Grant Parrelli

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Happy Pride Month! Join Miranda Bosse, MPH, MSW as she interviews CEO and Founder of Professionally Proud, and recent medical school graduate Dr. Grant Parrelli, MD.
The main inspiration for Professionally Proud and its products are rooted in patient advocacy and Dr. Parrelli's personal experience as a patient, client and working professional in the healthcare setting. There is a lack of explicit acknowledgement of support or belonging that can be addressed through visual aids. While some already exist, few are concrete in their delivery. Professionally Proud strives to make allyship and representation visible for the LGBTQ+ community in the health care setting.

To purchase your own Professionally Proud merchandise, visit: https://www.professionallyproud.com

Follow Professionally Proud on Instagram @professionallyproud
Follow Dr. Parrelli on Instagram @grantp845

Credits:
Host/Writers: Miranda Bosse, MPH, MSW | Sarah Robinson, MPH
Guests: Dr. Grant Parrelli, MD
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson, MPH
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Food Sovereignty and Refugee Health, with Alex Judelsohn and Dao Kamara

Thu, 04 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Join UB graduate students Elisabeth Stowell and Veronika Semenova as they speak to local experts, Alex Judelsohn and Dao Kamara about food sovereignty and the health of refugees in the Buffalo community.

Alexandra Judelsohn is a PhD candidate in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Michigan and will start as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University at Buffalo in Fall 2023. Her scholarship explores the role of local governments in the U.S. refugee resettlement program and, broadly, her interests include how the built environment impacts health, particularly for immigrant and refugee populations. Judelsohn holds a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University at Buffalo.

Dao Kamara is the Community Engagement Coordinator at Providence Farm Collective (PFC), where he shares his love and knowledge of traditional foods and farming with the diverse communities and youth who farm at PFC and visitors and volunteers from across the region. He believes that food is medicine, teaching others the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables to support good health and the community and family connections that grow from sharing cultural traditions across generations.

Resources:

Credits:
Host/Writers: Elisabeth Stowell, Veronika Semenova, Syed Rahman
Guests: Alexandra Judelsohn, MUP | Dao Kamara, MSW
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

National Public Health Week: Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0400

It's National Public Health Week, and this month's episode features seven amazing guest speakers who talk about the daily themes of this year's NPHW. The overarching theme for NPHW this year is Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health. Keep reading to learn more about the UB students, faculty, and community members that made this episode so engaging.

Themes:
Community - Annamarie Malik
Anna is a current Master of Public Health student, studying in the Department of Community Health and Health Behavior at UB. She is currently working in the Dean's Office of SPHHP, assisting with outreach, recruitment, and communications. Anna is passionate about health communications, nutrition, and food insecurity, and she hopes to find a job in the public health field when she graduates with her MPH this May.

Violence Prevention - Dr. Akua Gyamerah, DrPH, MPH

Reproductive and Sexual Health - Danise Wilson, MPH
Danise has served as the Executive Director for Erie Niagara Area Health Education Center (ENAHEC) since 2016 where she works to create and train a diverse health workforce through career exposure programs, mentorship, and increasing understanding of cultural competency. She acts as a change agent for those within her community by addressing social determinants, educational opportunities, and practicing career exploration activities.

Mental Health - Dr. Christine Linkie, MS, PhD

Rural Health - Dr. Frank Cerny, PhD, MD

Accessibility - Dr. Albina Minlikeeva, PhD

Food and Nutrition - Dr. Jennifer Temple, PhD

Resources:
National Public Health Week Website

Credits:
Host/Writers: Sarah Robinson
Guests: Annamarie Malik, Dr. Akua Gyamerah, Danise Wilson, Dr. Christine Linkie, Dr. Frank Cerny, Dr. Albina Minlikeeva, Dr. Jennifer Temple
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson
Theme Music: Dr. Sungmin Shin, DMA

Food and Water Insecurity, with Nadia Koyratty

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Join UB master's degree students Nicholas Levano (public health), Danielle Nerber (public health and medicine), and Nikitha Cothari (biomedical informatics) as they interview epidemiologist and global health researcher Dr. Nadia Koyratty, PhD, MS about food and water insecurity in low-, middle-, and high-income countries.
Dr. Koyratty is a University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions alumna, receiving her PhD in Epidemiology and Environmental Health in 2021. She has over 10 years of health and nutrition research experience, both in academia and in industry, specifically focusing on low-, middle-, and high-income countries. Her primary interests lie in the global public health field, with a focus on food security, water security, and non-communicable diseases.

Resources:

Papers Authored by Dr. Koyratty:

Credits:
Host/Writers: Nicholas Levano, Danielle Nerber, Nikitha Cothari
Guests: Dr. Nadia Koyratty, PhD, MS
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA

Urban Agriculture, Food Contamination, and Food Insecurity

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Join Master of Public Health students, Sarah Robinson and Leah Bargnesi, as they interview Dr. Prathima Nalam, Dr. Anna Paltseva, and Jeanette Koncikowski on their joint project tackling lead contamination in urban soil. These three experts are working together to use natural resources like mycelium, the root-like structure of a fungus, to absorb lead contamination and make urban gardening and farming safe in the Buffalo community.

Dr. Prathima Nalam, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Design and Innovation in University at Buffalo's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Her research focuses on tribology, soft mechanics, surface and interfacial forces, and atomic force microscopy.
Dr. Anna Paltseva, PhD, is an urban soil scientist who has researched urban soil contamination and remediation for over 8 years. She is currently a member of the faculty team at the School of Geosciences at the University of Lousiana at LaFayette. Her mission is to educate communities about the critical importance of soil health for growing nutritious food and medicine, for supporting healthy ecosystems, and for helping to sequester harmful greenhouse gases.
Jeanette Koncikowski joined Grassroots Gardens of Western New York as their Executive Director in May 2018. She is a long-time community educator and activist, bringing almost 20 years of experience with nonprofit organizations in human services. Jeanette believes it is essential that all neighborhoods and families in Western New York benefit from our region’s revitalization and that everyone has a right to healthy, affordable and accessible food. Community gardens should be the cornerstones of such efforts as they provide nourishment for our bodies and spirits.

Resources:
Can a fungus help to clean up lead-contaminated soil: https://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2022/01/019.html
Send soil samples to Dr. Paltseva's lab: https://geos.louisiana.edu/soils-lab
Grassroots Gardens of Western New York: https://www.grassrootsgardens.org/

Credits:
Host/Writers: Sibaridibo Banuna, Leah Bargnesi, Sarah Robinson
Guests: Jeanette Koncikowski, Dr. Prathima Nalam, PhD, Dr. Anna Paltseva, PhD
Production Assistant/Audio Editor: Sarah Robinson
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA

This episode was produced as a final project in Dr. Katarzyna Kordas' Global Health class, a graduate-level course offered at the University at Buffalo.

Inclusive Nutrition, with Catherine Brown

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500

After becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Katie Brown worked in both hospital and nursing home settings providing medical nutrition therapy for several years, where she gained experience working with patients with mental illness and prior psychiatric hospitalizations. Throughout her career and personal experience, Katie has found that healthcare can be very uncomfortable and alienating for people, especially those who are mentally and/or physically disabled. Katie works to mitigate the discomfort felt by those seeking healthcare in her inclusive nutrition practice.

Learn more about Katie's practice here.

Credits:
Host/Writer: Nicole Klem, MS, RD
Guest: Catherine Brown, MS, RDN, CDN
Production Assistant: Sarah Robinson
Video/Audio Editor: Omar Brown
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA
Faculty Consultant: Nicole Klem, MS, RD

Improving Nutrition in Spanish-Speaking Communities, with Maria Aguero de Manunta

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Maria Aguero de Manunta is a local dietitian from Paraguay who previously worked for Neighborhood Health Center in Buffalo, New York. As a Spanish-speaking dietitian, she is making significant progress in reaching our predominantly Spanish-speaking population in Buffalo related to nutrition care, specifically diabetes, weight management and heart disease. Maria is currently serving as the Clinical Director for University at Buffalo's Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences.

Resources: Maria LifeStyle Nutrition

Credits:
Host/Writer: Nicole Klem, MS, RD
Guest: Maria Aguero de Manunta, MS
Production Assistant: Sarah Robinson
Video/Audio Editor: Omar Brown
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA
Faculty Consultant: Nicole Klem, MS, RD

HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity, with Jacob Bleasdale

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Jacob Bleasdale, MS is a fourth-year Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Community Health and Health Behavior at the School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo. His program of research seeks to understand the multi-level determinants of HIV prevention and treatment among communities most impacted by the HIV epidemic. Specifically, his dissertation work explores the complex relationships between food insecurity and engagement in the HIV care continuum.

Read Jake's most recent publication discussed in the podcast here:
Socio-Structural Factors and HIV Care Engagement among People Living with HIV during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study in the United States

Credits:
Host/Writer: Sarahmona Przybyla, PhD, MPH
Guest: Jacob Bleasdale, PhD(c), MS
Production Assistant: Sarah Robinson
Video/Audio Editor: Omar Brown
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA
Faculty Consultant: Nicole Klem, MS, RD

Tanzania's Cash Plus Nutrition Program, with Jennifer Matafu of UNICEF

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Last spring, our cohost, Dr. Tia Palermo, had the opportunity to travel to Tanzania and speak with Jennifer Matafu of UNICEF about a social protection intervention aimed to improve children's nutrition. In this episode, we dive deep into the value of programs such as UNICEF's Productive Social Safety Net (PSSN) and learn why models such as these could be critical in eradicating poverty.

Jennifer Matafu has extensive experience working in the social-economic development sector. At UNICEF Tanzania, where she has worked for 5 years, she is leading the policy dialogue, advocacy and programming related to social protection. Prior to that, she worked with the Embassy of Sweden/Swedish International Development Agency Sida in Tanzania for 20 years, where she managed programs in the areas of social protection, local governance, democratic governance, public sector reform programs, and land governance tenure and natural resource management. She has led and coordinated policy dialogue both at national and community levels.

Resources:
Tanzania: Joint Programme to Support Tanzania’s Productive Social Safety Net

Credits:
Host/Writer: Tia Palermo, PhD
Guest: Jennifer Matafu, MA
Production Assistant: Sarah Robinson
Video/Audio Editor: Omar Brown
Theme Music: Sungmin Shin, DMA
Faculty Consultant: Nicole Klem, MS, RD

Climate Health, with Derek Nichols

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0400

The winning team for the Office of Global Health Initiatives Climate-Health Innovation Sprint (Dr. Saad Alasil, Tiffany Mai, Kayla Giglia) interviews Derek Nichols about the connection between climate change and health.
Derek Nichols is the Associate Director of Sustainability at the University at Buffalo where he works to change the culture and operations of campus to become better for the people and environment of our region. He is also an adjunct professor in the School of Architecture and Urban Planning where he teaches the Food Systems Planning class for graduate students. Prior to his time at UB, Derek spent four years working at Grassroots Gardens WNY helping communities steward vacant and underutilized spaces into community gardens. He is a Buffalo transplant from Vestal, NY, and loves every block of this city.

Resources:

Credits:
Host/Writer: Saad Alasil, PhD, MS, MPH | Tiffany Mai, MPH | Kayla Giglia
Guest: Derek Nichols, MA
Production Assistant: Sarah Robinson
Video/Audio Editor: Omar Brown

Tobacco-Related Health Disparities, with Monica Webb-Hooper

Thu, 19 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Tobacco-related health disparities are a pressing issue in the area of tobacco prevention and cessation. Schuyler Lawson sits down with Dr. Monica Webb-Hooper of the NIMHD to discuss the implications of tobacco on communities of color, and why these disparities exist in the first place.
Dr. Monica Webb Hooper is Deputy Director of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD). She is an internationally recognized translational behavioral scientist and clinical health psychologist. She has dedicated her career to the scientific study of minority health and racial/ethnic disparities, focusing on chronic illness prevention and health behavior change. Her program of community engaged research focuses on understanding multilevel factors and biopsychosocial mechanisms underlying modifiable risk factors, such as tobacco use and stress processes, and the development of community responsive and culturally specific interventions. Her goal is to contribute to the body of scientific knowledge and disseminate findings into communities with high need.

Teaching Notes

Resources:

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Schuyler Lawson, MA
Guest - Dr. Monica Webb-Hooper, PhD
Audio Editor - Omar Brown
Production Assistant - Sarah Robinson

Recreational Cannabis Legalization in New York State, with R. Lorraine Collins

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Recreational cannabis legalization in New York State comes with many questions. This conversation between our cohost Schuyler Lawson and renowned researcher Dr. R. Lorraine Collins answers all of them. Listen to learn more about the legalization process, regulatory issues, and social justice around cannabis legalization on this 4/20.
R. Lorraine Collins is a psychologist who has conducted NIH-funded addictions research for decades. The focus of her research has included: 1) emerging and young adults substance (alcohol, marijuana) use; 2) cognitive and behavioral approaches to the conceptualization, prevention, and treatment of addictive behaviors; 3) psycho-social issues (e.g., gender, ethnicity, socio-economic status) related to substance use and misuse; 4) research methods that use technology (e.g., ecological momentary assessment, smart phone apps) for assessment and intervention; 5) high-risk behaviors (e.g., intimate partner aggression, condom use) related to substance use.

Teaching Notes

Resources:
https://cannabis.ny.gov/adult-use

https://cannabis.ny.gov/medical-cannabis

https://publichealth.buffalo.edu/community-health-and-health-behavior/faculty-and-staff/faculty-directory/lcollins.html

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Schuyler Lawson, MA
Guest - Dr. R. Lorraine Collins, PhD
Audio Editor - Omar Brown
Production Assistant - Sarah Robinson

Attitudes Around Disability, with Sue Mann Dolce

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Buffalo HealthCast co-host, Dr. Jessica Kruger, speaks with Dr. Sue Mann Dolce, who currently serves as the Associate Director of Accessibility Resources at the University at Buffalo. In this conversation, we learn about the constantly evolving attitudes around disability, and what needs to change to ensure equitable treatment for all, regardless of ability. Sue’s areas of interest and research include participation, disability studies and collaborative programming, as well as universal design and programming. She enjoys working with all members of the UB community to learn about, design and implement education and participation opportunities for everyone. Sue is also a Registered Yoga Teacher.

Teaching Notes

Resources:
1. Ableism by Michelle R. Nario-Redmond (Includes poem entitled "Ableism" by Maria Palacios, 2017)
2. Disability Visibility Book and Podcast by Alice Wong
3. Disability Justice Concepts (various online resources) by Mia Mingus, Patty Berne, and the late Stacey Milburn (Mia and Stacey have both presented at UB
4. Crip Camp Documentary
5. Being Heumann memoir by Judy Heumann (who is also in Crip Camp as a teenager)
6.

Transgender Health, with Landon McNee

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Buffalo HealthCast guest host and MS student, Kellen Montanye, speaks with Life and Transition Coach, LGBTQ Activist, and Motivational Speaker Landon McNee about transgender health services in the United States, and the barriers trans individuals often face when receiving healthcare.

Teaching Notes

Resources:
LKM Coaching
WNY Resources
Local Healthcare

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Kellen Montanye, MS Student
Guest - Landon McNee
Audio Editor - Omar Brown
Production Assistant - Sarah Robinson

Incarceration and Health, with Cindi McEachon of Peaceprints of WNY

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0500

Buffalo HealthCast co-host, Dr. Jessica Kruger, speaks with the CEO of Peaceprints of WNY, Cindi McEachon about incarceration and its effect on the health of those who were recently released from a justice setting, and what Peaceprints of WNY is doing to bridge the gap in disparities.

Teaching Notes

More information on Peaceprints of WNY

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Jessica Kruger, PhD, MCHES
Guest - Cindi McEachon, MBA
Audio Editor - Omar Brown
Production Assistant - Sarah Robinson

Gender Based Violence in Adolescents, with Kate Rogers of Crisis Services

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Buffalo HealthCast co-host and MPH student Rachel Wenner speaks with University at Buffalo PhD candidate Kate Rogers about gender-based violence among adolescents and the work that Crisis Services of Buffalo and Erie County is doing to combat this problem throughout Western New York.

More information on Crisis Services can be found here.

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Rachel Wenner
Guest - Kate Rogers, MPH
Audio Editor - Omar Brown
Production Assistant - Sarah Robinson

Abortion Access, with Debora McDell-Hernandez & Prof. Lucinda Finley

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Debora McDell-Hernandez of Planned Parenthood & Prof. Lucinda Finley of University at Buffalo's School of Law discuss with host, Tia Palermo, abortion access, cases pending in front of the Supreme Court & implications of abortion restrictions for poor individuals and pregnant people of color.

Debora McDell-Hernandez is the Senior Director of Public and Community Affairs at Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York.

Lucinda Finley is the Frank Raichle Professor of Law at the University at Buffalo. Her areas of expertise include reproductive rights and justice, gender and the law, tort law, and first amendment free speech. She is the author of several books and many articles in leading law journals. She has also argued a major case concerning the clash between the right to safely access abortion services and the right to protest before the US Supreme Court. She has also handled numerous cases in the federal courts of appeals.

Breast Cancer Disparities, with The Witness Project

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Co-host Natasha Allard interviews First Lady Charmaine Geeter and First Lady Narseary Harris from the National Witness Project, along with Dr. Ermelinda Bonaccio from Roswell Park, on their efforts to overcome breast cancer screening disparities among African American women in Western New York and on racial discrimination in healthcare setting.

Ermelinda Bonaccio, MD

Dr. Bonaccio serves as the Chair of Diagnostic Radiology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and has been a breast imager for 24 years.

First Lady Charmaine Geeter and First Lady Narseary Harris

As first ladies of their church, First Lady Geeter and First Lady Harris are passionate about their advocacy work with The National Witness Project. The goal of the National Witness Project program is to increase cancer awareness and cancer screening uptake in the African American community.

Refugee Health in Buffalo, with Dr. Myron Glick of Jericho Road

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Co-host Tia Palermo interviews Dr. Myron Glick, Founder and CEO of Jericho Road, a community health center in Buffalo, on their work attending to the healthcare needs of refugee populations, including coordinated efforts of Jericho Road with Buffalo's refugee resettlement agencies to assist Afghan evacuees. To donate to their efforts, visit https://www.wnyrac.org/

The Pathways Academy, with Adam Graczyk and Sidney McFoy

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Co-Host Jessica Kruger of the University at Buffalo School of Health Public Health and Health Professions speaks with Adam Graczyk and Sidney McFoy about the Pathways Academy in Buffalo. This program introduces underrepresented minoritized high school students from Buffalo to Public Health through hands-on experiences, campus tours and more.

African Heritage Food Co-Op in Buffalo, NY, with Alexander Wright

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Alexander J. Wright, JD is a University at Buffalo School of Law alum. He is the current President and founder of the African Heritage Food Co-Op, a non-profit organization created to address food insecurity in the city of Buffalo caused by systemic racism.

The Deficit Mindset, with Terri Watson

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this month’s podcast we have a conversation with Dr. Terri Watson about the importance of diversity and representation in academia.

COVID-19 Health Disparities in Buffalo, with Stan Martin & Ebony White

Thu, 20 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

PhD Candidate Schuyler Lawson interviews Stan Martin of Cicatelli Associates, Inc., and Ebony White with the African-American Health Equity Task Force about health inequities in Buffalo's Black/African American communities in the COVID-19 era.

Resources:
GetMyFluShot.org

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Schuyler Lawson, PhD Candidate
Guests - Stan Martin, Ebony White
Audio Editor - Omar Brown

Diversity and Inclusion in Faculty Hiring, with Adia Harvey Wingfield

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Adia Harvey Wingfield is the Mary Tileston Hemenway Professor of Arts & Sciences and Associate Dean for Faculty Development at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research examines how and why racial and gender inequality persists in professional occupations. Dr. Wingfield has lectured internationally on her research in this area, and her work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals including Social Problems, Gender & Society, and American Sociological Review. She is a former President of Sociologists for Women in Society (SWS) and the current President of the Southern Sociological Society (SSS), the largest regional professional sociological association in the US. In addition to her academic scholarship, Professor Wingfield has written for mainstream outlets including Slate, The Atlantic, Vox, and Harvard Business Review, and is the recipient of the 2018 Public Understanding of Sociology Award from the American Sociological Association. Her most recent book, Flatlining: Race, Work, and Health Care in the New Economy, won the 2019 C. Wright Mills Award.

Resources:
We Built a Diverse Academic Department in 5 Years. Here's How.
Getting In, Getting Hired, Getting Sideways Looks: Organizational Hierarchy and Perceptions of Racial Discrimination

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher -Tia Palermo, PhD
Guest - Adia Harvey Wingfield, PhD
Audio Editor - Omar Brown

Balancing School, Work, and Activism, with Temara Cross

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Temara Cross was born and raised on the east side of Buffalo, New York. She is currently a senior/first-year graduate student at the University at Buffalo, majoring in African-American Studies and pursuing a BS/MPH in Public Health, concentrating in Community Health and Health Behavior. She is involved with organizations such as Say Yes Buffalo and Open Buffalo, actively working to achieve educational, socioeconomic, and racial equality. Since her grandmother’s passing of preventative diseases and observing mistrust felt toward the medical industry in her community, she knew she needed to serve others by working in the health field. Following medical school, her career goal is to gain experience as a family physician, then launch a health facility in her hometown. Ultimately, she aspires to mitigate African-American health disparities and minimize the mistrust felt by African-Americans toward the health industry. In her “free” time, she enjoys going to church, giving back to her community, singing with the gospel choir at her school, and playing basketball.

Resources:
REACH Buffalo

Contact Information:
Email: temaracr@buffalo.edu
Facebook

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Jessica Kruger, PhD, MCHES
Guest - Temara Cross, MPH Student
Audio Editor - Omar Brown

Social Determinants of Health in Buffalo, with Reverend George Nicholas

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Reverend George Nicholas is the pastor of Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church in Buffalo, an active member of the Concerned Clergy Coalition of WNY, and co-convener of the African-American Health Equity Task Force. Listen and learn about public health community engagement from both of these organizations, as well as how public health and COVID-19 have interacted with our Buffalo community.

Resources:
Buffalo Center for Health Equity
Pride in Place Buffalo

Credits:
Host/Writer/Researcher - Schuyler Lawson, PhD Candidate
Guest - Reverend George Nicholas
Audio Editor - Omar Brown