Reproductive health isn’t just a one-time conversation, it’s a lifelong journey. In this episode of It’s Giving Health, Donnae Ward sits down with Shalanda Vann, NP, Nurse Practitioner at  Advance Community Health, to discuss how we can better navigate reproductive and developmental health conversations at every stage of life.

About It's Giving Health: Advance Community Health presents 'It's Giving Health,' a monthly podcast hosted by Donnae Ward. We're building a space where your health matters. Every third Thursday, we'll explore vital health topics relevant to our community. 'Where health gets real' – join the conversation.

0:00 – Introduction

0:39 – Today’s Topic: Reproductive Health

1:09 – Meet the Guest: Shalanda Vann, NP

2:08 – Shalanda's Background & Passion for Reproductive Health

3:26 – What is Reproductive Health Across Generations?

4:26 – Parents: Talking to Kids About Puberty

6:11 – Signs & Symptoms: First Period and Menopause

8:05 – Menopause: What to Expect

8:17 – Cultural Taboos & Barriers in Reproductive Health

10:00 – Breaking Generational Silence

10:59 – Creating Safe Spaces for Questions

11:56 – Supporting Patients Through Menopause

13:44 – Building Trust with Your Healthcare Provider

16:56 – How to Connect with ACH

17:04 – Where to Find the Podcast

In this episode, Donnae Ward sits down with Elizabeth Johnson, DO, FAAP, Pediatric Provider, to discuss one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious illness and to strengthen the health of an entire community. In our conversation, she shares insights on how vaccines support long-term health, why parents shouldn’t be afraid of immunizations, and what every family should know heading into the summer.

About It's Giving Health:

Advance Community Health presents 'It's Giving Health,' a monthly podcast hosted by Donnae Ward. We're building a space where your health matters. Every third Thursday, we'll explore vital health topics relevant to our community. 'Where health gets real' – join the conversation.

In this episode, Donnae Ward sits down with Kerry Macky, PA-C, Primary Care Provider, to unpack how patriarchal norms and rigid definitions of masculinity impact men’s physical and mental health. From emotional suppression to delayed doctor visits and other sexual health concerns, we explore the silent burdens men carry and what it means to redefine strength. Together, we dive into how the healthcare system can better support men’s overall well-being and what conversations need to happen in clinics, homes, and communities to foster change.

About It's Giving Health:

Advance Community Health presents 'It's Giving Health,' a monthly podcast hosted by Donnae Ward. We're building a space where your health matters. Every third Thursday, we'll explore vital health topics relevant to our community. 'Where health gets real' – join the conversation.

In this episode, Donnae Ward speaks with LaDonn Woodson, LCSWA, MSW, Behavioral Health Professional at Advance Community Health, to discuss anxiety. Listen to learn more about the signs and symptoms of anxiety, coping strategies and resources available to manage anxiety, and how we can break the stigma!

About It's Giving Health:

Advance Community Health presents 'It's Giving Health,' a monthly podcast hosted by Donnae Ward. We're building a space where your health matters. Every third Thursday, we'll explore vital health topics relevant to our community. 'Where health gets real' – join the conversation.

In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week 2025 (BMHW25), this episode Donnae Ward speaks with Brenda Gartrell, FNP-C, women’s health provider at Advance Community Health, to discuss the challenges Black mothers face, the significance of this year’s Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) theme, and how Advance's new centering pregnancy program is changing the way we navigate maternal health in our community.

About It's Giving Health:

Advance Community Health presents 'It's Giving Health,' a monthly podcast hosted by Donnae Ward. We're building a space where your health matters. Every third Thursday, we'll explore vital health topics relevant to our community. 'Where health gets real' – join the conversation.