Public Health Joy: Community Power, Health Equity, and Leadership in Action

Hosted by Dr. Joyee Washington

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Jun 2026

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Public Health Joy is a podcast for public health professionals, researchers, and community leaders who believe equity, justice, and healing belong at the center of public health work. Hosted by Dr. Joyee Washington, the show explores community-engaged research, health equity, leadership, policy, technology, entrepreneurship and sustainable public health careers, bridging strategy with soul to reimagine public health. This is a space where rest fuels resistance, community power drives change, and public health becomes a tool for collective healing and transformation.

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June 5, 2026Episode 924 min

S5 EP 9 - The National Black Researchers Week Returns: Carrying Forward Our Legacy

In this episode of The Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington shares the deeply personal story behind National Black Researchers Week — why it was created, what it has meant to the community, and why she is committed to carrying it forward this year. This episode is about more than an event. It's about honoring the vision of someone who poured everything into making space for Black researchers, and making sure that vision does not die. In a season where so much has been taken, we are choosing to build, to gather, and to show up for one another.Key Points From This Episode:The origin and significance of National Black Researchers Week [00:32 – 08:30]Leonora O'Quara's legacy and impact [03:45 – 15:20]Community support and collaboration among Black researchers [15:20 – 23:00]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: Click Here

May 15, 2026Episode 845 min

S5 EP 8 - The Intersection of Social Work and Public Health: Redefining Leadership, Strategy, and Impact

In this episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington and Nicole Clark sit down to discuss Nicole's powerful journey from social work to consulting, reflecting on how her experiences have shaped her approach to leadership, community impact, and personal growth. Through an honest and thoughtful conversation, Nicole explores the deep connections between public health and social work, reminding us that meaningful change starts with understanding people, systems, and the communities we serve.Nicole also speaks candidly about the importance of intentionality — choosing work, relationships, and opportunities that align with your values and purpose. From embracing professional evolution to navigating transitions with clarity and courage, this episode is a reminder that growth is rarely linear, but it can still be deeply fulfilling.At its core, this conversation is about impact: how we show up for communities, how we continue learning throughout our careers, and how staying grounded in service can create lasting change. If you’ve ever questioned your next step, redefined your purpose, or wanted to build a career rooted in both passion and impact, this episode will resonate with you.Key Points From This Episode:Intersection of social work and public health [00:00 – 12:45] Career evolution and entrepreneurship [12:46 – 35:05]The power of words and manifestation [26:29 – 28:30]Intentional leadership and community impact [28:30 – 43:25]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: Click Here

May 1, 2026Episode 747 min

S5 EP 7 - Discovering Community Engaged Research: A Public Health Journey Rooted in Trust and Purpose

In this episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington and Jesseca Chatman sit down to reflect on their introduction to community-engaged research and CBPR — and how those early experiences fundamentally changed everything they thought they knew about public health.Together, they dig into what it really means to build trust with communities, not just collect data from them. Dr. Joyee and Jesseca open up about the personal growth that comes from doing this work, the challenges of making community-based research sustainable, and why relationship-building is just as important as any finding you'll ever publish.From the intersections of public health and law to the everyday realities of showing up for communities, this episode is both a reflection and a reminder. One thing is clear: when your work is rooted in trust, accountability, and genuine partnership, the impact goes far beyond a research report.If you care about community voice, ethical research, and finding real joy in the work, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Key Points From This Episode:Community engagement is crucial for effective public health initiatives. [10:56–11:30]Building relationships with community members takes time and effort. [15:00–21:05]Sustainability should be a key consideration from the start of any project. [34:23–38:56]Flexibility and adaptability are essential in community-based research. [28:04–33:23]Personal experiences shape our professional journeys in significant ways. [00:32–10:00]Collaboration between community organizations and universities enhances research outcomes. [10:29–13:35]Understanding the social determinants of health is vital for addressing community needs. [40:10–42:00]Joy in work comes from knowing you are making a difference. [39:50–42:50]Theoretical knowledge must be complemented by practical experience. [13:35–15:00]Investing in community relationships leads to better health outcomes. [17:22–20:50]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: Click Here

April 17, 2026Episode 639 min

S5 EP 6- From Data to Impact: How Epidemiology and Project Management Power Community Health

In this episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, we sit down with Alexandra Piatkowski, founder and CEO of Piat Public Health, for a conversation that reframes how we think about structure, strategy, and community impact in public health.Together, we dig into what it really means to bring project management into public health spaces — not as a corporate add-on, but as a tool for health equity. Alexandra opens up about how she stumbled into project management through practice, what it looks like to manage complex community initiatives with limited resources, and why documentation and communication are the unsung heroes of any project done well.From the detective work of epidemiology to the big-picture thinking required to keep coalitions moving forward, this episode makes the case that public health professionals who understand project management bring something truly special to the table. And for those who feel stretched thin and under-resourced? Alexandra has practical, real-world advice for making it work anyway.One thing is clear: when project management is intentional, community-centered, and grounded in public health values, it becomes one of the most powerful tools we have for turning data into action — and plans into real change.If you care about health equity, community engagement, and building the kind of leadership skills that actually move the needle, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Key Points From This Episode:Project management and public health create a unique skill set. [19:21 – 23:08]Leadership in public health benefits from project management skills. [10:52 – 12:46]Combining different skill sets can lead to innovative solutions. [19:21 – 20:10]Epidemiology enhances project management in health initiatives. [19:21 – 20:10]Public health professionals should consider project management training. [31:30 – 32:50]Effective project management is crucial in public health projects. [20:10 – 23:08]The integration of skills leads to better health outcomes. [20:10 – 23:08]Leadership roles in public health require diverse expertise. [33:11 – 35:18]Project management can improve public health program efficiency. [26:05 – 28:39]There is a growing need for skilled leaders in public health. [33:11 – 35:45]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes,and more visit: ⁠Click Here⁠

April 3, 2026Episode 542 min

S5 EP5 - From Salary to Six Figures: Public Health Consulting as a Career Path for Leadership Impact

In this episode of the Public Health Joy podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington interviews Dr. Desiree Strickland, founder of the Public Health Club, about how consulting can be a tool for freedom rather than burnout. Dr. Strickland shares her journey into public health consulting and how professionals can leverage their expertise to increase both impact and income — without sacrificing their well-being. They explore the hustler mindset, effective communication, and the role of social media and AI in expanding opportunity. The conversation also touches on building values-driven businesses, reimagining public health education, and creating career paths that honor community while protecting your capacity. A must-listen for public health leaders ready to thrive as entrepreneurs and make a lasting difference.Key Points From This Episode:Helping public health professionals increase their impact and income. [00:32 – 02:00]The journey from a traditional public health job to consulting. [02:00 – 05:15]The importance of a hustler mindset in entrepreneurship. [07:08 – 11:32]Navigating non-federal consulting opportunities. [05:15 – 07:08]The significance of effective communication in public health. [29:53 – 31:19]Reimagining public health in a post-COVID world. [13:36 – 16:15]Building a sustainable career in public health. [16:45 – 19:42]The role of social media and AI in disseminating public health information. [32:11 – 35:30]The need for public health education to adapt to current realities. [28:30 – 29:53]Encouraging public health professionals to market their skills and services. [20:38 – 22:27]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: Click Here

March 20, 2026Episode 439 min

S5 EP 4 - Intersectionality and Health Equity: Why Justice Must Be at the Center of Public Health

In this new episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Lisa Bowleg, Founder and CEO of the Intersectionality Training Institute, for a conversation that challenges how we think about research, power, and purpose.Together, we dig into what it really means to do research in service of communities, not just for publications and career advancement. Dr. Bowleg opens up about the structural barriers inside academia, the courage it takes to unlearn what we've been taught, and why centering lived experience is essential to research that actually creates change.From the roots of intersectionality to the realities of doing justice work in today’s climate, this episode is both a wake-up call and an affirmation. One thing is clear: if your work is rooted in real values and real communities, you keep going — no matter what.If you care about health equity, community-led research, and staying grounded in your purpose, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Key Points From This Episode:Intersectionality is a critical framework for understanding health equity. [03:37 – 05:44]Everyone has multiple intersecting identities that relate to power dynamics. [05:44 – 07:46]Research should incorporate lived experiences and emotions. [10:23 – 13:44]Community engagement is essential for actionable research outcomes. [14:26 – 19:21]Unlearning traditional academic practices is crucial for effective research. [21:12 – 24:57]Intersectionality serves as a glue connecting various social justice issues. [17:15 – 19:21]Joy in social justice work can be a powerful motivator. [34:44 – 36:03]Democracy requires active participation and commitment. [33:11 – 34:17]The academic system has structural barriers to community-led research. [19:21 – 21:12]Building community connections enhances the impact of research. [36:13 – 38:39]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: Click Here

March 6, 2026Episode 343 min

S5 EP3 - Fighting Corporate Influence in Public Health: Building Community Power for Health Equity

In this powerful episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington sits down with Vinu Ilakkuvan, founder of POP Health and The Gaslit Project, for a bold conversation about power, policy, and people.Together, they unpack what community power really means in public health—and why it’s essential in a landscape where corporate interests often shape health policy behind the scenes. Vinu shares how communities can organize, build lasting connections, and take strategic action to challenge systems that put profit over people.From real-world stories of successful grassroots resistance to practical insights on sustaining activism, this episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap. At the heart of the conversation is a clear message: reclaiming health and well-being requires a shift in power—and collective action is how we get there.If you care about health equity, accountability, and building community-led change, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.Key Points From This Episode:Community power is essential for driving policy change. [04:40 – 05:28]Corporate influence often undermines public health efforts. [04:40 – 06:03]Building connections within communities is crucial for activism. [08:20 – 09:07]Collective action can lead to significant change. [07:38 – 08:10] Inconvenience in community building is worth the effort. [10:00 – 12:00]Success stories inspire further activism and engagement. [28:36 – 32:06]Gaslit aims to empower communities against corporate power. [04:40 – 05:28]Public health must focus on root causes of health disparities. [02:20 – 04:40]Individual actions are important, but collective efforts are more effective. [26:14 – 28:26]The act of caring for communities is under attack. [24:45 – 25:38]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes,and more visit: Click Here

February 20, 2026Episode 243 min

S5 EP 2- Using AI to Reimagine Public Health Training and Workforce Development

In this episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington sits down with Quisha Umemba—registered nurse, public health leader, and CEO of Umemba Health—to talk about what it really looks like to bring AI into public health work with clarity, integrity, and impact. Quisha shares her journey from initial resistance (“this is cheating!”) to becoming a certified AI consultant who now trains organizations to reduce busy work and increase people work. Dr. Together, Dr. Joyee and Dr. Umemba unpack what AI can do, what it shouldn’t do, and why public health is in an era of redesign that demands innovation without abandoning ethics, community wisdom, or human insight.Key Points From This Episode:Building Umemba Health at the intersection of public health expertise + learning innovation [1:45]Why “AI translator” is the perfect title for leaders helping teams cut through complexity [40:00]The mindset shift: AI doesn’t replace your expertise—it amplifies it [4:57]Why public health burnout makes AI’s time-saving potential especially relevant [7:34]The “AI iceberg”: why ChatGPT is only the tip, and what else exists beyond it [14:09]How AI can reduce curriculum development time from 20–40 hours down to 4–6 hours [22:40]Using AI for qualitative analysis, data storytelling, and leadership reporting—while keeping a human in the loop [23:27]Real concerns: ethics, privacy, intellectual property, environmental impacts, and “knowledge decay” [32:30]Planting seeds, building confidence, and helping people move from confusion to clarity [39:46]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes,and more visit: Click Here

February 6, 202629 min

S5 EP1 : The Bigger the Promise, The Bigger the Warfare: Preparing Public Health for Rebuilding

Season 5 of The Public Health Podcast opens with a powerful keynote from Dr. Joyee Washington, delivered at the 2026 Public Health Joy Summit.In Rest, Reimagine, Rebuild, Dr. Joyee invites the public health community into a deeply honest reflection on where we are, and where we must go next.This episode acknowledges the collective grief, exhaustion, and disillusionment many public health professionals are carrying. Rather than rushing past it, Dr. Joyee names it. Honors it. And reframes it as a necessary starting point for transformation.At the heart of this keynote is a radical but essential message: rest is not a reward, it is a strategic weapon. Dr. Joyee challenges listeners to move beyond survival mode and reclaim rest as a tool for sustainability, clarity, and power.From there, she calls on the community to reimagine public health through abundance, not scarcity, to dream bigger than burnout has allowed and to remember what drew us to this work in the first place. This vision is not meant to be carried alone. Dr. Joyee emphasizes the necessity of rebuilding together, through community, mutual support, and shared responsibility.This episode is both a grounding and a rallying cry. A moment to pause and a call to act.The promise of public health is not broken. It is not over. And it is not small.It is waiting to be rebuilt stronger, wiser, and more expansive than ever before.Key Points From This Episode:Reflect on what public health means to you. [1:55]Grief is a necessary part of the healing process. [3:15]The current state of public health is a war. [5:46]Rest is a strategic weapon, not a retreat. [12:45]Dreaming in abundance is essential for progress. [15:00]Community building is crucial for rebuilding efforts. [19:00]Sacrifice is often required in the fight for justice. [21:40]Each generation has its own assignment to fulfill. [23:00]We are in a war, and we will win. [25:45]If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes, and more, visit: Click Here

December 19, 2025Episode 2230 min

S4 E22: The Gift of Endurance-2025 Reflections in Public Health

In this powerful solo Season 4 finale of The Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington shares a deeply personal reflection on what 2025 demanded of her — and what it revealed about all of us in public health.After reaching a long-dreamed-of six-figure milestone, Dr. Joy entered 2025 expecting abundance. Instead, she encountered one of the most challenging years of her life — marked by financial strain, caregiving, spiritual warfare, and the continued dismantling of public health systems. In this episode, Dr. Joyee unpacks the truth many don’t talk about: abundance is not accessed without first confronting scarcity.This is a conversation about endurance — not as survival, but as preparation. About joy — not as softness, but as strategy. And about rebuilding public health not from institutions rooted in extraction, but from communities rooted in healing, power, and faith.Key Points From This Episode:Health professionals are burned out, underfunded, and under attack.[1:00]We need more than just another conference; we need restoration. [3:00]Joy is a strategic choice in public health. [5:00]You can't step into abundance until you face scarcity. [6:00]Scarcity mindset affects both mental and physical health. [7:00]Endurance is built through challenges, not ease. [17:00]Abundance and scarcity cannot coexist. [20:00]Choosing joy amidst adversity is an act of resistance. [21:00]Public health is at a reckoning, exposing old systems. [23:00]Community is essential for transformation and healing. [25:00}If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes,and more visit: https://joyeewashington.com/public-health-joy-season-4/