Dr. Huntley sits down with Abby Tighe, a former CDC public health advisor and co-founder of the Fired by Fighting coalition. Together, they share an insider’s look at the nationwide impact of the 2025 mass firing of thousands of CDC and HHS professionals and the dangerous dismantling of America’s public health infrastructure. They also highlight how a grassroots movement is fighting back. Abby details her unexpected professional journey, her passion for equitable and rural health, and how losing...
Aug 12, 2025•38 min•Ep. 417
In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Huntley, shares her heartfelt journey one year after the tragic loss of her son, Nicholas, in a motorcycle accident. Dr. Huntley opens up about her struggle to channel her grief and frustration into meaningful action and advocacy, seeking the support, ideas, and expertise of the public health community and podcast listeners. The episode serves as a call to action for collaborative reflection—on how families, communities, and policymakers...
Aug 05, 2025•12 min•Ep. 416
In this special episode of the PHEC Podcast, Dr. Huntley shares her experience moderating the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) Policy Action Institute in Washington, DC, June 2025. She engaged with a multidisciplinary group of professionals including policymakers, legislators, lawyers, medical doctors, nonprofit leaders, and business owners, each contributing to a robust conversation at the intersection of public health and policy. Dr. Huntley’s reflections offer real-world perspectiv...
Jul 29, 2025•22 min•Ep. 415
In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Huntley shares her journey through personal and professional challenges. Drawing from her work facilitating leadership and resilience workshops for public health professionals, especially with the Tribal Epidemiology Centers, Dr. Huntley explores the vital principle that "you can't pour from an empty cup." She opens up about her own struggles with grief, professional uncertainty, and the realities of working in a strained public health environment. Through a story ...
Jul 22, 2025•20 min•Ep. 414
In this episode, Dr. Huntley offers a deep dive into the world of community health assessments. She explores the identity crisis surrounding these assessments, the interdisciplinary nature of public health, and the challenge of industry silos. Dr. Huntley breaks down the five most common types of community health assessments, discusses their critical functions, and highlights what sets her firm apart in delivering impactful, equity-driven health insights. Listeners will come away with a clearer ...
Jul 15, 2025•22 min•Ep. 413
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley and Dannette R. Smith discuss the evolution of behavioral health services in Colorado, reflecting on personal and professional transitions, the importance of gratitude, and the challenges faced in public health. They emphasize the need for collective action and vulnerability in leadership to effectively serve communities, especially in times of change and uncertainty. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes ▶️ DrCHHuntl...
Jul 08, 2025•41 min•Ep. 412
In this episode, Dr. Huntley sits down with Dr. Megan Weis, Director of Connecting Communities at the SC Center for Rural and Primary Health Care. Dr. Weis shares her journey into public health, the pivotal role of mentorship, and her passion for bridging academia, practice, and policy. The conversation dives into the unique challenges and opportunities in rural health, the importance of community-driven solutions, and innovative programs that connect resources to those who need them most. Liste...
Jul 01, 2025•32 min•Ep. 411
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley speaks with Allison Rapp, the president of the Florida Public Health Association. They discuss Allison's journey into public health, her personal experiences that shaped her career, and her passion for mental health and neurodiversity. The conversation also highlights the diverse challenges faced in Florida's public health landscape and the importance of collaboration across different sectors to address these issues effectively. Resources ▶️ Join the PH...
Jun 24, 2025•32 min•Ep. 410
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Scott JN McNabb as he takes us on a fascinating journey through his public health career — from the lab bench to leadership roles at the CDC and Emory University. Discover how mentorship fueled his passion for tackling some of the world’s toughest health challenges, including those in conflict zones. Dive deep into the cutting-edge world of public health surveillance and learn how innovative technologies like ethical AI are revolutionizing the way w...
Jun 17, 2025•24 min•Ep. 409
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley and Dr. Nicole D. Vick discuss the evolution of public health, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced within the healthcare system. Dr. Vick shares her personal journey, including her experiences with workforce development and psychological safety, as well as the support she received during her recovery from a serious injury. The discussion emphasizes the need for community, advocacy, and finding one's strength in the public health lands...
Jun 10, 2025•38 min•Ep. 408
In this conversation, Dr. Huntley and Dr. Dixon discuss the current state of community health, focusing on what is working and what is not in public health. They emphasize the importance of community engagement, resilience among public health professionals, and the challenges posed by recent cuts to public health programs. The discussion highlights the need for data transparency, emergency preparedness, and the integration of One Health principles to address the interconnectedness of human, anim...
Jun 03, 2025•34 min•Ep. 407
In this conversation, Dr. Huntley and Dr. Oscar Alleyne discuss the current state of public health in the United States, focusing on the challenges faced by professionals in the field and the importance of resilience and community engagement. They explore how individuals can take action at the local level, emphasizing the need for advocacy, networking, and maintaining a positive mental attitude amidst chaos. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of public health with various sectors a...
May 27, 2025•45 min•Ep. 406
In this episode, Dr. Huntley welcomes back Zoila Reyna, founder of Public Health Hired, to discuss the current state of public health careers amidst political changes and the pandemic's aftermath. Zoila shares her journey into public health, the inception of her career coaching platform, and the challenges faced by job seekers in the current market. They explore actionable steps for those affected by layoffs and the evolving landscape of public health job opportunities. Resources ▶️ Join the PHE...
May 20, 2025•41 min•Ep. 405
In this conversation, our guest, Dr. Michelle Taylor shares her journey into public health, highlighting the importance of mentorship, her transition from pediatrics to public health, and her passion for health equity. She discusses her experiences in medical training, the challenges of balancing motherhood and a medical career, and her commitment to educating her community about health disparities and the significance of health services. In this conversation, Dr. Michelle Taylor and Dr. Huntley...
May 13, 2025•46 min•Ep. 404
This conversation focuses on amplifying voices in public health, particularly during National Public Health Week. The panelists discuss their roles as public health entrepreneurs and the importance of community engagement, joy, and data representation in advocacy. They emphasize the need for resilience and collaboration in the face of challenges, highlighting the power of collective action and the importance of uplifting marginalized voices in the field. Resources ▶️ Join the PHEC Community ▶️ V...
May 06, 2025•31 min•Ep. 403
In this powerful episode, Dr. Charlotte Huntley unveils her groundbreaking initiative: IBET Community - a dedicated space for Black, Indigenous, and women of color to embrace their full potential and improve health outcomes in their communities. With passion and purpose, Dr. Huntley explains how this innovative platform celebrates the unique influence BIPOC women have as pillars of their families and communities, while creating safe spaces for authentic expression and growth. IBET Community is b...
Apr 29, 2025•9 min•Ep. 402
In this episode, Dr. Huntley interviews Brooke Keaton, who shares her personal journey with long COVID. Brooke discusses her background in education and social services, her experience contracting COVID-19, and the subsequent challenges she faced with long COVID symptoms. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness and support for those affected by long COVID, as well as the need for a compassionate healthcare approach. In this conversation, Brooke Keaton shares her personal journey ...
Apr 22, 2025•38 min•Ep. 401
In this celebratory episode, Dr. Huntley reflects on reaching the milestone of 400 episodes of her podcast. She expresses gratitude to listeners and guests, discusses the importance of community in public health, and shares insights into the journey of the podcast, including past milestones and future plans. The episode emphasizes the collective achievements of public health professionals and the significance of building a supportive community. Resources ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes: htt...
Apr 15, 2025•11 min•Ep. 400
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley interviews Dr. Deanna Wathington , a prominent public health practitioner and president of the American Public Health Association . They discuss Dr. Wathington's unique journey into public health, her focus on maternal and infant health, and her commitment to health equity. The conversation highlights the importance of community health workers, resilience in the public health sector, and the need for continued education and advocacy in the field. Dr. Wa...
Apr 08, 2025•37 min•Ep. 399
This conversation focuses on women's equality, highlighting the importance of community, mentorship, and personal actions to address systemic barriers. The panelists discuss their initiatives that are focused on serving women, and emphasize the need for empowerment and support. They also touch on the significance of international and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) women and the actions that can be taken to accelerate gender equality. Resources ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show Notes...
Apr 01, 2025•26 min•Ep. 398
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley and Dr. Bryan O. Buckley explore the intersections of public health, personal experiences, and community engagement. Dr. Buckley shares his unexpected journey into public health, the profound impact of fatherhood on his perspective, and the importance of building community connections. They discuss the challenges and responsibilities of public health professionals, the concept of 'good trouble,' and the significance of resilience in their work. The conv...
Mar 25, 2025•34 min•Ep. 397
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Raymona Lawrence joins Dr. Huntley and shares her journey from a young girl in the South to a prominent figure in public health. She discusses her unique perspective shaped by her experiences with sickle cell disease, her academic career, and her entrepreneurial ventures. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of community engagement, psychological safety in partnerships, and the need for individuals to challenge existing systems to advocate for social justice....
Mar 18, 2025•40 min•Ep. 396
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley and Jennie Wetter discuss the importance of sexual and reproductive health advocacy, the journey into public health, and the challenges faced in accessing reproductive health services. Jennie shares her personal experiences and insights from her work at the Population Institute and the Repros Fight Back Initiative, emphasizing the need for community engagement and self-care in advocacy work. The discussion also highlights the significance of the annual ...
Mar 11, 2025•36 min•Ep. 395
In this conversation, Dr. Huntley discusses the challenges faced by public health professionals during turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience. She shares personal experiences and coping strategies, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being to effectively serve their communities. The discussion highlights the need for emotional and mental rest, proactive leadership, and community support as essential components for navigating change and fostering hope f...
Mar 04, 2025•26 min•Ep. 394
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Chris Chanyasulkit shares her journey into public health, highlighting her advocacy for community health, the importance of local engagement, and the pressing issues of book banning and voting. She emphasizes the interconnectedness of public health services and the need for a collective effort to address health disparities. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Chanyasulkit and Dr. Huntley discuss the critical importance of local elections, community engagement in...
Feb 25, 2025•43 min•Ep. 393
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley speaks with Dr. C. Perry Brown. He shares his journey into public health, detailing his experiences from his early interest sparked during the Vietnam War to his current role as a professor at Florida A&M University. He also discusses the importance of teaching, the challenges and rewards of working in public health, particularly in infectious disease and health disparities, and emphasizes the significance of relationships and community engagement i...
Feb 18, 2025•35 min•Ep. 392
Dr. Huntley and Brad Krueger discuss the intersection of public health and artificial intelligence (AI). Brad shares his journey into public health, the importance of program evaluation, and how AI is transforming the field. They explore the challenges and opportunities that AI presents for public health professionals, emphasizing the need for understanding and responsible use of technology. Brad provides insights on AI tools, their applications, and the importance of integrating AI into organiz...
Feb 11, 2025•34 min•Ep. 391
In this engaging roundtable discussion, public health professionals share their insights and priorities for 2025, focusing on community engagement, health equity, and personal well-being. Each panelist reflects on their experiences and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of relationships, alignment, and self-care in their work. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration and preparation in the face of upcoming challenges in public health. Resources ▶️ Visit the PHEC Podcast Show N...
Feb 04, 2025•34 min•Ep. 390
In this episode, Dr. Huntley explores the concept of public health, particularly in relation to BIPOC communities. She discusses the challenges of explaining public health in layman's terms, shares insights from leading public health institutions, and provides practical conversation starters to help others understand the importance and scope of public health. The episode emphasizes the need for public health professionals to communicate effectively and engage with their communities to foster a b...
Jan 28, 2025•30 min•Ep. 389
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley talks with Jennier Mandelbaum who shares her journey from a public health scientist to a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives. She discusses her background in public health, her current role at Athena Health, and her advocacy work. The conversation delves into the importance of bipartisanship in politics, civic engagement, and how individuals can get involved in their communities. Dr. Huntley emphasizes the significance of rest and self-...
Jan 21, 2025•41 min•Ep. 388