Overview: We explore the challenges and deep rewards of providing care to newly arrived refugee and immigrant families, guided by the insights of Dr. Anisa Ibrahim, an experienced pediatrician and community advocate. We unpack the art of truly welcoming families, emphasizing the power of listening to migration histories, honoring cultural backgrounds, and recognizing that parents are the experts in their children’s lives. We delve into sensitive topics like nutrition, developmental delays, menta...
Jul 17, 2025•27 min
Overview: We explore the complexities of trust, cultural values, and intergenerational dynamics within the Filipino community, especially in accessing mental health and healthcare services. We discuss how deep-rooted traditions like family obligation, community support, and the stigma surrounding mental health influence care-seeking behaviors across generations. Through community-driven initiatives like Little Manila Rising, we highlight how culturally rooted, trauma-informed approaches—such as ...
Jun 26, 2025•28 min
Overview: We explore the powerful story of Little Manila Rising, an organization founded to preserve the Filipino American legacy in Stockton, California, and uplift the South Stockton community. We hear how founders rallied local residents to prevent the destruction of historic neighborhoods and created a movement rooted in ancestral legacy, heart-centered activism, and holistic care. We learn about programs tackling health inequities, environmental justice, mental health, and youth development...
Jun 12, 2025•31 min
Overview: We dive into the origins, structure, and impact of Islamic Trauma Healing—a community-driven, lay-led mental health intervention designed for Muslim communities, particularly Afghans and Somalis who have experienced significant trauma. Joining us are Mohammed Haroon , an Afghan mental health counselor and research coordinator, and Jake Bentley, a clinical psychologist from the University of Washington. We explore the barriers many Muslim refugees face with Western mental health service...
May 23, 2025•56 min
Overview: We explore the deep-rooted structural inequities that have shaped health outcomes for Pacific Islander communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we unpack how colonialism, racism, erasure, and the lack of culturally appropriate healthcare have contributed to disproportionate impacts, and we highlight the vital role of community-led solutions and culturally safe spaces in healing. We discuss the limitations of the cultural competency model, the importance of recogn...
May 01, 2025•40 min
We sit down with Julia Colson, the founder and executive director of the Seattle King County Clinic , to discuss the incredible journey of establishing a large-scale, volunteer-driven pop-up clinic providing free dental, vision, and medical services to thousands each year. She shares the clinic's origin story, spurred by a 60-minute episode that highlighted the healthcare struggles of everyday people and her realization of the parallels within her own life. Julia delves into the challenges of bu...
Apr 08, 2025•42 min
We explore the potential of centralized contact centers in healthcare with Patty Hayward, the general manager of healthcare and life sciences at Talkdesk . Drawing from her extensive experience and personal stories, such as her mother's medical journey, Patty illustrates the critical need for better communication and coordination within healthcare systems. We delve into how centralization, aided by AI and modern technology, could improve patient care by offering timely, personalized interactions...
Mar 17, 2025•35 min
We explore the complexities of Japanese food culture and its impact on health, addressing how American influences have altered traditional diets. Jeff discusses the importance of rice in Japanese meals and his personal transition to healthier rice options. We delve into portion control within Japanese dining customs and the concept of intuitive eating. The conversation shifts to Japanese cultural nuances, including language, religion, and familial expectations, emphasizing the importance of ackn...
Mar 04, 2025•28 min
We delve into the fascinating journey of Japanese Americans in Washington State, welcoming guest Jeff, who shares his personal and family history. We discuss the generational terms used within the Japanese American community and how historical events like the Meiji restoration influenced immigration to the United States. Particularly moving is the narrative of Japanese internment during World War II and its significant impact on Jeff's family, highlighting the broader implications of shame and r...
Feb 20, 2025•29 min
We welcome Samman, the community engagement coordinator at Sahiyo, to discuss the ongoing efforts to address and prevent female genital mutilation/cutting (FGMC) within the South Asian Bora community and beyond. She provides insight into the importance of using appropriate terminology like FGM/C to foster dialogue and reduce stigma. We explore the prevalence of FGM/C in the United States, countering the misconception that it's only practiced elsewhere. The conversation delves into understanding ...
Feb 04, 2025•32 min
We delve into the sensitive and impactful topic of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) in a compelling two-part series, highlighting its prevalence among over 230,000 women and girls in the US, particularly in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area. Host Dr. Raj Sundar shares a personal story about discovering a case of Type 3 FGM in a prenatal patient, underscoring the need for trauma-informed care. Our guest, Isatou Jallow, a Gambian FGM/C survivor, shares her harrowing experiences and advocac...
Jan 14, 2025•31 min
We welcome Bradd Williams, a seasoned healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience, who currently works at Homestyle Direct, a medically tailored meal provider. Exploring the intersection of food, health, and equity, we discuss how eliminating food deserts and delivering nutritious meals can improve chronic health conditions, particularly for underserved populations. Bradd shares insights into his company's mission to provide not just meals but dignity and love through diverse, cultu...
Jan 02, 2025•14 min
We delve into the critical topic of fax machines and their surprising impact on health equity with Bevey Miner, a seasoned expert in healthcare technology. Drawing from over two decades of experience, Bevey illuminates the complexities of healthcare data sharing and the disparities marginalized communities face due to outdated technologies like fax machines. We explore the challenges of interoperability, the necessity of structured data for meaningful analytics, and the importance of tech equity...
Dec 30, 2024•15 min
We welcome back Dr. Avantika Waring from 9 AM Health to discuss her vision for cardiometabolic care, emphasizing equity in treating diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension through innovative virtual models. Dr. Waring highlights the importance of a diverse workforce in delivering culturally relevant care and addressing structural inequities. We delve into the challenges of making medications like semaglutide accessible to all, the complex interplay of diet, environment, and genetics,...
Dec 26, 2024•14 min
We welcome Sven Gerlinger to discuss the importance of health equity in patient experience at Northwell Health. We explore how equitable care is deeply personal and why it's essential to segment data to ensure all voices, especially those from smaller communities, are heard. We delve into the need for diverse methods of gathering patient feedback, emphasizing the value of in-depth research and home visits. The conversation also touches on implicit biases within healthcare interactions and the si...
Dec 23, 2024•15 min
We dive into the significance of health equity and systemic ageism in healthcare with Dr. Maria Carney from Northwell Health , a leading geriatrician and palliative medicine physician. Dr. Carney shares her expertise on the challenges and solutions in caring for our aging population, highlighting the importance of social health and addressing multigenerational caregiving dynamics. We also discuss the groundbreaking changes needed in healthcare systems to better serve older adults, emphasizing th...
Dec 13, 2024•17 min
We delve into the "Food is Medicine" concept with Dr. Reshma Gupta, Chief of Population Health and Accountable Care at UC Davis Health, exploring how culturally appropriate food programs can enhance health outcomes and bolster local economies. Our discussion highlights the importance of cultural connections, integrating economic and environmental factors, and addressing food insecurity through innovative healthcare models. By sharing patient stories and program successes, we illuminate the trans...
Nov 26, 2024•36 min
Join us as we delve into the pressing issues of food sovereignty, nutrition, and cultural revitalization with our guests Romajean Thomas and Valerie Segrest from the Muckleshoot Tribe. We explore the challenges of accessibility and cost of fresh produce, the critical role of education in understanding cultural ecosystems and ethical harvesting practices, and the powerful impact of the Indigenous-led food movement. Learn about innovative initiatives like the Feed 7 Generations Poster, Native Grow...
Nov 04, 2024•47 min
Our episode "Final Feeding Feasible Feasts" explores vital issues surrounding food insecurity and dignity through an enlightening conversation with Angel Swanson, founder of Feeding Feasible Feasts. We uncover the importance of shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, the environmental benefits of food recovery programs, and the implementation of electric vehicles for CO2 reduction. Angel shares the significance of food sovereignty and nutritious food within the African American communi...
Oct 25, 2024•42 min
We delve into the multifaceted challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees, focusing on mental health, identity, and community resilience. Our guests, Olga and Tamara, discuss the emotional burdens of displacement and the efforts to foster hope and belonging through peer support and cultural activities. Addressing issues ranging from trauma and domestic violence to the stigma surrounding mental illness and disabilities, we emphasize the importance of post-traumatic growth and psychoeducation. By spot...
Oct 10, 2024•46 min
In part two of our four-part series on caring for Ukrainians, we explore the intricate relationship between the Ukrainian community's history and their health beliefs, focusing on the American healthcare system's impact. Hosts Dr. Raj Sundar and guest Tamara discuss the challenges of translating preventive care practices like vaccination and mammograms to a community with deep-rooted self-reliance and government mistrust. We delve into the significance of culturally sensitive language, the effec...
Sep 16, 2024•29 min
Discover 'Healthcare for Humans,' a podcast revolutionizing culturally competent and responsive care. Host Dr. Raj Sundar challenges healthcare norms, exploring how cultural understanding improves patient outcomes. From food practices to belief systems, each episode uncovers insights for healthcare professionals, patients, and anyone passionate about health equity. Biweekly episodes feature expert guests and real-life stories, equipping listeners to provide more inclusive care. Subscribe now to ...
Sep 16, 2024•2 min
Summary: We dive into Ukrainian immigrant's and refugees' experiences and historical context with our guest, Tamara Cunitz. She shares her family's journey from Ukraine to the US during World War 2 and how it has fueled her passion for nursing and community health. As the executive director of the NASHI Immigrants Health Board, Tamara illuminates the cultural diversity within Ukraine and explains the waves of immigration driven by political and social upheaval, from the forced famines under Stal...
Sep 03, 2024•30 min
Summary: We discuss the importance of understanding the diverse demographic makeup of patients and tailoring healthcare metrics like A1c and blood pressure to community needs. We explore the challenges of engaging immigrant communities, emphasizing trust and cultural inclusivity. We'll hear about successful community-driven initiatives, the shift from volume-based to value-based care, and the pitfalls of targeting system-level metrics over patient well-being. Hiroshi shares his personal journey ...
Aug 20, 2024•49 min
Summary: We explore the experiences of Korean immigrants with Cheryl Lee, the chief executive director of the Korean Women's Association. We discuss the historical waves of Korean immigration, the pivotal role of Korean churches in providing communal and cultural support, and the shift in church engagement among second-generation Korean Americans. We also examine the dietary practices and cultural beliefs that influence Korean American health behaviors and discuss strategies for healthcare provi...
Jul 30, 2024•50 min•Ep. 50
Summary: We continue our series Dr. Anne Marie Liebel, founder of Health Communication Partners. We delve into the pressures faced by clinicians to be perfect and resolve issues quickly, exploring how this impacts patient care. Dr. Anne Liebel discusses the cultural legacy of paternalistic medicine and the deficit perspective that assumes patients are lesser than clinicians. Dr. Raj Sundar suggests redefining terms like "vulnerable" to "historically exploited" to enable self-definition. Our conv...
Jul 08, 2024•32 min
Summary: We continue our language series with a conversation featuring Dr. Anne Marie Liebel, founder of Health Communication Partners. We explore her journey from education to healthcare, focusing on improving patient relationships and employee retention through equitable communication. We delve into reflective practice, practical strategies, and the power of viewing patients' strengths rather than deficits. Dr. Raj Sundar shares personal insights on the role of effective communication in tailo...
Jun 26, 2024•26 min
Summary: We delve into the power of language in healthcare, focusing on how language shapes patient experiences and trust. Reflecting on biases, especially in physician notes, we examine studies revealing how negative language disproportionately affects black and Latino patients, and the resulting implicit biases among medical students. We emphasize the significance of cultural humility and respectful language, including self-identification, and we advocate for systemic policy changes over indiv...
Jun 10, 2024•43 min
Summary: We explore the heart-wrenching yet inspiring journeys of Tom, Arnold, Cathy, and Brainze as they navigate the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ individuals in Africa. Despite facing severe rejection, discrimination, and legal persecution, they find hope and empowerment through Safe Place International's Dream Academy. Raj Sundar leads a conversation on the importance of leadership development, mental well-being, and community support in transforming lives. By sharing their personal stories, ...
May 22, 2024•38 min
Summary: We dive into the enduring impacts of historical events on healthcare perceptions and practices, particularly focusing on the Marshallese and Afghan communities affected by latent tuberculosis (TB). Host Raj Sundar and guests including Disney, Jasmine, Duncan Reid, and Franky explore themes such as cultural literacy in healthcare, the influence of past military activities and nuclear tests on community health, and the critical role of education in overcoming health-related stigmas. Toget...
May 01, 2024•31 min
