In part two of this deeply moving conversation, we turn our focus to the mental health toll of genocide, especially on children—the most vulnerable victims of conflict— even once it ends. Dr. B Fran and Dr. Sawsan Abdulrahim discuss the psychological scars that last long after the violence ends, exploring the immense impact of trauma, loss, and displacement on young minds. Children, often witnessing the brutality of genocide, carry the weight of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and a profound sense of loss. Without access to mental health care, their future is shaped by unresolved trauma that can affect their physical health, cognitive development, and emotional well-being for years to come.

We also examine how public health professionals can stand in solidarity with these children and their families, emphasizing the need for international advocacy, resources, and psychosocial support. What role does public health play in fostering a system that prioritizes healing and recovery for young survivors?

This episode is a call to action: children are not just the future—they are the present, and they need immediate, long-term support to recover from the psychological devastation of genocide.

Join us for an urgent discussion on how the international community can address the mental health crisis facing children in conflict zones, ensuring that the invisible scars of trauma don’t define their futures.

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In this powerful episode of Higher Education of Dr. B Fran, we explore the far-reaching public health consequences of genocide, viewed through the lens of the structural determinants of health framework. Our guest is Dr. Sawsan Abdulrahim, a professor at the American University of Beirut and the granddaughter of Palestinian refugees displaced during the 1948 Nakba. Dr. Abdulrahim brings a personal, academic, and historical perspective as she examines the ongoing health impacts of displacement on Palestinian communities—focusing on women and children who bear the brunt of both physical and psychological trauma.

Through candid discussion, we explore how the legacy of the Nakba and contemporary instances of genocide continues to shape the health outcomes of Palestinian families today. From malnutrition and inadequate healthcare to trauma and chronic stress, the episode delves into how these health burdens transcend generations, affecting entire communities.

As families continue to be displaced and migrate throughout the region, what are the long-term implications for public health? How do migration patterns, forced displacement, and violence intersect with issues of access to care, mental health, and community well-being? 

Join us as we unpack the intersection of genocide, displacement, and public health—and why the health of a people is intrinsically linked to the social and political structures that shape their world.

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The maternal mortality crisis is about more than just healthcare—it’s a reflection of deep social, economic, and structural inequities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities around the world. In this episode of Higher Education with Dr. Fran, Dr. B Fran examines the complex web of factors contributing to maternal death and morbidity, from systemic discrimination in healthcare settings to lack of infrastructure like sidewalks that prevent pregnant people from taking part in simple recommendations like walking. The episode also explores the devastating role of gender-based violence, which is emerging as a leading cause of maternal death, especially in the wake of changes to reproductive rights in the United States.

From healthcare settings that perpetuate discrimination to the social and environmental conditions that shape the lived experiences of pregnant people, this episode shows that the maternal health crisis is far more than a problem of access or quality of care—it’s a call for comprehensive, cross-sectoral solutions to protect the lives of mothers across the lifecourse.This episode is a call for a reimagined approach—one that addresses the root causes of maternal mortality by centering equity, justice, and systemic change. How do we build a world where every person, regardless of race, class, or gender, has access to the care, protection, and opportunities they need to thrive throughout pregnancy and beyond? We explore what policies, practices, and societal shifts are needed to create a truly equitable maternal health system.

Join us as we rethink the crisis—and the solutions—in a way that makes equity not just an aspiration, but a foundational principle for global maternal health.

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Ever wondered what really shapes our health beyond doctor visits and diet charts? Tune in to this new episode in this podclass where Dr. B Fran dives into the fascinating world of Social Determinants of Health (SDoH)—the often-overlooked yet critical factors that influence health outcomes and drive health inequities. Spoiler alert: it’s way bigger than you think! Dr. B Fran breaks down the five key domains of SDoH—economic stability, educational access and quality, social and community context, health care access and quality, and neighborhood and built environment. But here’s the twist: these aren’t just isolated factors. They’re a tightly interconnected web that profoundly impacts every aspect of our health. And not everyone experiences them equally. Marginalization and oppression ensure that some communities bear the brunt of health disparities, globally and right here in the U.S.

This episode doesn’t just highlight the problems—it’s a call to action. Dr. B Fran explores how our healthcare systems often fall into the trap of blaming individuals for their health challenges without recognizing the larger, systemic forces at work. If you’re a public health pro, medical practitioner, or just someone passionate about health justice, you’ll leave with the tools and insights to start questioning: What role do you play in addressing these inequities? And what can we all do to push for real systems-level change?

Tune in for an engaging, eyes, ears, nose, knees and toe, a whole body-opening discussion that challenges the way we think about health, responsibility, and equity. It’s time to shift the focus from individual blame to systemic solutions. Let’s rethink health together!

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Get ready for a timely and thought-provoking episode that tackles the complex relationship between politics and public health in the wake of the 2024 U.S. presidential election! Dr. B Fran dives headfirst into the dynamic changes shaping public health funding, research priorities, and global health initiatives—and how these shifts could ripple across the nation and beyond.

Public health might seem like a nonpartisan issue, but the reality is far messier. From heated debates about healthcare and COVID-19 to pressing issues of health equity and emerging crises, Dr. B Fran unpacks how election outcomes could redefine the future of public health. And she doesn’t shy away from controversy. What about the critics of public health institutions? Could some of their grievances be valid? She explores how missteps in addressing public concerns have fueled growing distrust—and what it will take to rebuild confidence.

This isn’t just a policy chat; it’s a candid, engaging exploration of what it means to be a public health scientist in a divided world. How do we navigate a landscape where science is often viewed through a partisan lens? Join us for an honest, insightful discussion about trust, accountability, and the urgent reforms needed to move toward a healthier, more united future. Whether you’re a public health pro, a policy junkie, or just someone who cares about where we’re headed, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and join the conversation!

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Get ready for a powerful eye and ear-opening episode! Dr. BFran welcomes Dr. Monik Botero from the Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health to dive into a topic that doesn’t often get enough attention: the deep links between mass incarceration and health outcomes. But this isn’t your typical academic chat—both Dr. BFran and Dr. Botero bring a unique, deeply personal perspective to the conversation. As children of formerly incarcerated parents, they share their lived experiences, weaving personal stories with expert insights to paint a vivid picture of how policies and systemic issues impact families and communities.

Join them for an unfiltered, engaging discussion that goes beyond stats and studies. Together, they break down how structural determinants of health create barriers not just for those incarcerated but for their loved ones, affecting everything from health and family dynamics to opportunities for a thriving future. You’ll hear heart-wrenching stories, thoughtful analysis, and a hopeful vision for change that makes this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about social justice, public health, and real-world solutions.

Tune in for an episode that’s both inspiring and enlightening—a conversation that just might change the way you see the ripple effects of mass incarceration on health and well-being.

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Act II will begin right where we left off, realizing the impact of segregation is real life and not a conspiracy theory, and asking the question so what can we actually do about this and what is public health’s role? Join us as we continue to interrogate the status quo and unravel how these systemic barriers are not just cultural but critical drivers of health disparities for marginalized communities. This isn’t just a conversation about music—it’s about the deep, ongoing connections between exclusion and health across the world.

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Why isn’t Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” considered country music? And what could that have to do with COVID-19, the opioid crisis, and redlining? In this BUCKIIN’ episode, Dr. B Fran is joined by Dr. Tori Cowger from the FXB Center for Health and Human Rights at Harvard University to uncover the hidden threads and global connections between music, segregation, and health inequality. Part I takes a deep dive into the roots of segregation in United States, exploring how it continues to shape our lives in surprising and often invisible ways. Through the lens of Beyoncé’s exclusion from the country music genre, we examine how segregation—whether residential, racial, or occupational—creates unequal access to health services, education, safe neighborhoods, and even jobs.

Join us as we ring the alarm on the status quo and unravel how these systemic barriers are not just cultural but critical drivers of health disparities for marginalized communities. This isn’t just a conversation about music—it’s about the deep, ongoing connections between exclusion and health across the world.

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How do global racialization, colonialism, and xenophobia intersect with public health? As migration reshapes societies worldwide, it’s more important than ever to understand how race operates across different geographical contexts and how we can craft meaningful solutions for the communities we serve.

In this episode, Dr. B Fran is joined by special guest Dr. Tanisha Spratt from King’s College London for an engaging discussion on the complex realities of experiencing race and culture across the US, UK, South Africa, and beyond. Through the case study of Tyla, we explore transnational Black solidarity, the nuances of race, and how these factors influence both our physical and mental well-being. Together, we’ll challenge the notion of viewing racial groups as monolithic and discuss what it takes to truly be culturally competent when delivering interventions, developing policy, and building genuine human connections.

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Ready to dive into Higher Education and make a real difference? In our debut episode, Dr. B Fran is pulling back the curtain on the who, what, when, where, and why it matters now more than ever! ….Join us as we create a safe, inclusive space to spark conversations about health equity for marginalized communities. Whether you're an educator, student, or simply passionate about making a change, this episode is your seat in the classroom to learn how we can shape a better, more equitable future together. Tune in, get inspired, and let's start the conversation!

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