Lunch and Learn with Dr. Berry

So, let's talk about the story and experience Black fathers go through in raising autism-diagnosed kids…

While autism discussions and advocacy are slowly coming to the forefront, unfortunately, not enough attention is given to the experiences of fathers – especially Black fathers – just yet.

That's why we're back with another episode from this two-part series with Nick Richardson, an author, a loving husband, and a Black father to a son who has a dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD.

Going through the experience of having to unlearn and relearn everything for his son's development, he believes in the power and importance of having support groups and/or communities.

Regardless of whether you're a father who just got your kid's diagnosis or a spouse trying to understand what your husband is thinking, this two-part series will try to serve as a helping hand in this time of need.

In this episode, Nick emphasizes the importance of creating a household full of love as he stresses how crucial it is that as parents, we also find people we trust to rely on so we can find balance and take a break. Because as beautiful and loving as it is that our love drives us to work for the betterment of our kids, we also need to recharge and take a breath.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Understand the importance of parents having a trusted community to rely on for taking a break;
• Recognize the significance of creating and having a positive and loving household, regardless of whether your kids are atypical, neurotypical, or neurodivergent; and
• Learn how to find balance in life as a parent, especially if you have a child on the spectrum.

"I believe all households should be full of love. Every household is different, but when you're definitely talking about having a child on the spectrum, creating the most positive atmosphere you can will help better your child in the development with this diagnosis." – Nick Richardson

Notable Quotes:

"What I'm realizing is I know when I surround my son with the things he prefers, he has a better opportunity not only to learn academically but learn socially when there are positive environments around him." – Nick Richardson

"It all depends on what your priorities are. That's how you find out what you can handle and what gets done and what doesn't get done." – Nick Richardson

Mentions:

• (Part 1) The Unique Journey of Black Fathers Raising Autistic Kids with Nick Richardson
• AutisHim
• Breaking Barriers: An Introductory Look at African American Fathers and Autism Advocacy

Connect with Nick Richardson:

• Facebook
• YouTube

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In today's episode, we delve into an essential and timely topic—Men's Health Month. This observance is not just a calendar event; it's a crucial reminder of the importance of personal responsibility in health management for men.

We'll explore why Men's Health Month is celebrated, discuss the major diseases that disproportionately affect men, and provide actionable insights on how men can improve their health outcomes.

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Key Discussion Points:

• Significance of Men's Health Month: An overview of why this month is dedicated to men's health and what it aims to achieve in terms of awareness and action.
• Top 10 Diseases Affecting Men: We'll break down the most common health challenges faced by men today, from heart disease to mental health issues, and discuss the statistics and preventive measures.
• Improving Health Outcomes: Practical advice on how men can take charge of their health, including lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and being proactive about health screenings.

This episode is a call to action for all men to prioritize their health and for society to support and facilitate healthier lifestyles for men at every age.

Links:

Men's Health Month Official Website

So, let's talk about the story and experience Black fathers go through in raising autism-diagnosed kids…

Nick Richardson is an author, a loving husband, and a Black father to a son who has a dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Going through the experience of having to unlearn and relearn everything for the development of his son, he believes in the power and importance of having support groups and/or communities.

Just like what he said in this episode, more often than not, people – especially men – tend to forget that while they're going through the struggles, there are other people – or men – going through the same, too. Not to mention the lack of support for our brothers out there as well.

But while it is unfortunate that the stories of fathers – especially Black men – aren't being talked about enough these days, we cannot let our voices be silenced, for like our autistic loved ones, we also need all the support that we can receive.

And that's one of the reasons why he's here today – to send the message out there that this is happening and there are people whose story mirrors yours as well, and that we can be of help to one another as we journey this life and experience of having autistic kids.

So, join us, and let's talk about our story, because who knows? As Nick says, it can edify, help, or move somebody, and even teach people about autism and fatherhood as a parent whose child has special needs.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Discover the story of Black fathers who have a child on the spectrum (with special needs);
• Recognize the impact and importance of having a community or support group, especially within the African-American population; and
• Find out the internal letdowns usually experienced by fathers whose family member/s got diagnosed, and understand how and why fathers also need support

"I believe African-Americans are communal people. I think we need each other in order for our children to grow and develop to be the most productive citizens possible." – Nick Richardson

Notable Quotes:

"Everything that you knew about raising a child, nine times out of 10, came from you being that child being raised [by] your parents or grandparents or people who have poured into you. [But] none of that now matters. For the most part, you can't do and raise your child in the manner that you were raised. So, what you think you know, you now have to unlearn, and relearn what is necessary for your child's development." – Nick Richardson

"When you're going through all of this, the one thing you do not realize is that there are other men going through it, too." – Nick Richardson

"It's not just that brothers need brothers to understand that, but talking to other brothers helps you reflect on yourself. It kind of gives you a different perspective on what you can possibly do. In our support group, we don't tell anybody how to do anything. We give our stories, we give our experiences, we give the things that we've tried, and if it works for you, take it; if it doesn't work, see if another brother has a different experience that you can use to help you in your situation." – Nick Richardson

"We do a lot of sacrificing for our family because we care about them. We want our children to be the best versions of themselves as possible." – Nick Richardson

"The negative energy that I was giving, my son was just taking it and giving it back; it wasn't helping him. So, I could not discipline him the way I was disciplined. I had to find another way, which is where some of these trainings are coming in and talking to ABA therapists." – Nick Richardson

Mentions:

• My Autism In Black Conference Recap
• AutisHim
• DSM-5
• Autism in Black

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Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

In today's episode, we're addressing a controversial statement made by known anti-vaxxer Dr. Mary Bowden regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Dr. Bowden recently tweeted claims that insurance companies are financially incentivizing COVID-19 vaccinations for their own gain. This episode will dissect her statements, explore the actual incentives insurance companies might have, and discuss the established benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine.

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Key Discussion Points:

• Dr. Bowden's Controversial Tweet: A detailed look at her recent claims and the motivations behind such statements.
• Understanding Insurance Core Measures and Bonuses: We'll clarify what core measures are, how they relate to insurance practices, and whether there's any truth to the claim of financial incentives tied specifically to COVID-19 vaccines.
• The Proven Benefits of the COVID-19 Vaccine: Despite the controversy, we'll discuss the scientifically proven benefits of the vaccine, seen in reduced hospitalization and death rates among the vaccinated population.

This episode aims to provide a balanced view, separating fact from fiction in the ongoing debate about vaccine incentives and efficacy.

Links:

X.com (formerly Twitter): Dr. Bowden's Tweet

In today's episode, we delve into a pressing issue that has recently shaken the healthcare industry: the cyberattack on the Ascension Healthcare System. This significant breach has not only compromised data but also highlighted the vulnerability of healthcare systems to cyber threats, significantly impacting patient care as hospitals are forced to revert from electronic to paper charting.

Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​

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Key Discussion Points:

• Overview of the Ascension Cyberattack: We'll explore the details of the recent cyberattacks on Ascension Healthcare System, examining how and why the breach occurred.
• Cybersecurity Preparedness in Healthcare: Discussing the general readiness of healthcare systems to handle such cyber threats and what measures can be taken to enhance security.
• Impact on Patient Care: A critical look at how switching from electronic to paper charting affects patient care, the risks involved, and the broader implications for healthcare service delivery.

Links:

NPR: How the Ascension Cyberattack Is Disrupting Care at Hospitals

So, let's talk about taking care of our mental health as we observe the Mental Health Awareness Month…

The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and as Dr. Delphin-Rittmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says, it is a time to promote the importance of mental health and its impact on our well-being as humans.

A lot of times, we focus on ailments, like "I'm getting a lot of weight", "my back hurts", and "my blood pressure is too high", and push aside our mental health, not knowing it's highly correlated to every aspect of our life.

Data shows that nearly 1 in 4 adults reported mental illness, almost 20% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode, and one death by suicide happens every 11 minutes here in the United States.

This is an unparalleled mental health crisis we're going through right now, yet here we are, still asking and not understanding why people commit suicide.

But we don't want that to continue; we want to help keep your mental health in check and on the right track. Just like what the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) said, with the right care, anyone affected by or at risk for a mental health condition can thrive, achieve well-being, and lead meaningful lives.

Join me in this week's episode as we take a pause and realign our mental health to the path it needs to be at.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Recognize the importance of checking in on yourself, especially your mental health;
• Discover how your mental health correlates with other aspects of your life and your well-being as a whole; and
• Understand why there are people who choose mental clarity over things like promotion, job opportunities, etc.

"Mental health is so key, because even if all of these other [health] – spiritual, financial, even the medical – even if all those things are aligned, if your mental health is not together, it will typically suffer and bring the others down with it." – Dr. Berry Pierre

Notable Quotes:

"Regardless of what the resolution is, if mentally, we aren't there to make sure that they succeed, it's not going to succeed." – Dr. Berry Pierre

"Life is still happening around us. We just have to figure out 'How can I position myself so that life doesn't continue to beat me up from a mental standpoint, because if it continues to beat me up from a mental standpoint, everything else falls.'" – Dr. Berry Pierre

This episode is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration or SAMHSA.

To learn how to get support for mental health conditions, visit www.findsupport.gov.

If you're looking for treatment services in your community, visit www.findtreatment.gov.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or chat www.988lifeline.org for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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In today's Episode of Real Physician Reacts, we're tackling a hot topic (pun intended) today – the dangers of social media challenges gone wrong. Dr. Berry Pierre dives deep into the recent case of a teenager who tragically died after participating in the "one chip challenge."

Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​

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Key Discussion Points:

• The Deadly Side of Social Media Challenges: We'll discuss the recent tragedy involving the "one chip challenge" and the hidden dangers of these online trends.
• Spice Without Sacrifice: Can you enjoy the health benefits of spicy foods without risking your health? Let's explore safe ways to incorporate spice into your diet.
• Beyond the Challenge Hype: Uncover the motivations behind participating in social media challenges and how to make informed decisions about online trends.

Stay informed and avoid unnecessary risks. Tune in!

So, let's talk about viruses and learn about their good side with Dr. Richard White III…

After going through the doom and gloom that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought upon us, most of you guys probably don't see the good side of a virus.

I mean, that's understandable, given how millions of people have died worldwide and many have suffered from the fear of death. And unfortunately, it may not even end there, because there are a lot of different viral families out there that could cause the next pandemic.

This is why we mustn't sleep on these, but at the same time, educate ourselves about the different viruses' effects.

Because contrary to popular belief, there are actually a lot of positive attributes and applications that we can use viruses for.

We cannot deny that the "big C" has caused us severe suffering, fear, and pain, but in today's episode, we'll learn that NOT all viruses do harm and death. Some even do the work to protect us, our environment, and our planet!

So, sit back and relax as we blow your mind with amazing facts on viruses with Dr. Richard White III today.

Guest's bio:

Dr. Richard Allen White III is a computational molecular synthetic virologist whose interest, passion, and work revolve around understanding viruses. He is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, North Carolina, in the Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics.

Dr. White III is part of the CIPHER team, where he helps build infectious disease capabilities for both environmental and human health risks. Additionally, he has multiple projects in NASA, USCA, NIH, etc., and works at the North Carolina Research Campus, focusing on human nutrition and human health over the last four years.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Discover the good side of viruses;
• Understand that not all viruses are bad and harmful (there are those which protect us); and
• Recognize the need for taking action, especially in preserving our ecosystems which at present are in a state of degradation

"Nature has provided the blueprint on how we can deal with these problems; we just have to understand it. It's not all doom and gloom; we can change very subtle things in the way we understand and nurture the microbiome in our own body and how we nurture and feed our environment…By understanding the microbes, we can nurture and feed them, and then we'll have these lush, resurrected ecosystems that are [currently] in a state of degradation." – Dr. Richard White III

Notable Quotes:

"My conversation today [does] not reflect the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. It is my take on the current matters of science based on literature and the best of my knowledge." – Dr. Richard White III

"Not all viruses are bad. They do so much for our planet. Obviously, there are ones that cause diseases and pandemics…but there are so many that protect us. I mean, there are more viruses in your mouth right now than there are stars in the Milky Way galaxy that are protecting you from disease and infection." – Dr. Richard White III

"We drink trillions of them a day, we breathe them in, there's billions of them in the soil, [and] they're on your skin. They're everywhere and they protect you. They're more 'friend' than 'foe'." – Dr. Richard White III

"Our NASA work suggests that viruses are amplifiers of life." – Dr. Richard White III

"That's the mass of them. That's how small of a mass they are; yet, they provide life and nutrients to the whole ecosystem." – Dr. Richard White III

"We should remind people that there are ecosystems that are dying and we need to preserve them." – Dr. Richard White III

Connect with Dr. Richard White III:

• Website

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Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

So, let's talk about this year's Autism in Black Conference with my favorite special guest, Maria Davis-Pierre…

In last week's episode (I suggest that you watch it if you haven't), I gave my recap of the fourth annual Autism in Black Conference. From being an organizer, a speaker, and a community member, we talked about my experience, especially highlighting the emotionally enriching panel for fathers that we had this year.

It was such an awe-inspiring place to be in, but of course, the recap wouldn't be complete without hearing from the CEO and Founder of Autism in Black Inc. That's why in this week's podcast, I brought with me that very person, my favorite special guest, Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC.

Here, we'll talk about the conference from her experience, highlighting how without your support, all this wouldn't even be in existence.

So, join us and don't miss this week's episode as we all look back to what transpired during the fourth annual conference of the Autism in Black.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Get to know the experience and thoughts of the Autism in Black Inc.'s Founder and President throughout the fourth run of the conference;
• Recognize the importance of providing support and focus to autistic adults; and
• Find out what's in store for you on the fifth run of the Autism in Black Conference next year (2025)

"We appreciate all of the Autism in Black community, because without your support, [and] without our speakers' support, we wouldn't be able to do it. So, thank you, all, truly." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

Notable Quotes:

"Once the actual conference started, it was just like community and home, so all of the nerves went away and it was just, again, beautiful to be with our community for the weekend." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

"I think there's not a lot of focus on us as autistic adults. It's something that people have been asking for [and] it's something that I needed as an autistic adult – having that community. I think there is so much focus sometimes when organizations focus on the children and don't realize we turn into autistic adults and there's no support out there for us. So, it was very intentional this year to make sure that we really had a lot of content for autistic adults." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

"I tell everybody every year: just as you all are learning, I'm learning too." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

"Having a community of people who want to support you and support what you do because they think that it's important as well and they get something out of it just as much as you do is just a beautiful sight to see. I think a lot of people are thinking 'competition, competition, competition', but what we really focus on is collaboration and being there, supporting one another. Having that community and knowing that we are doing that for one another is a wonderful aspect." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

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Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

In today's episode, we explore a profound and impactful story from the music world—the recent passing of hip-hop pioneer DJ Mister Cee. Known for his influential role in the industry, his death highlights a critical health issue that affects millions worldwide: diabetes. We'll delve into how diabetes contributed to his complications, focusing on its effects on the heart and kidneys, and discuss the signs and symptoms everyone should be aware of.

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Key Discussion Points:

• The Passing of DJ Mister Cee: Reflecting on his legacy and the circumstances of his recent passing due to complications related to diabetes.
• Diabetes and Its Effects on the Body: Understanding how diabetes impacts vital organs, particularly the heart and kidneys, and what that means for overall health.
• Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes: A crucial discussion on how to identify diabetes early to manage and potentially mitigate its severe complications.

This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of health awareness and regular check-ups, especially for conditions like diabetes that can quietly affect major organs and lead to serious health issues.

Links:

• People Magazine: DJ Mister Cee's Cause of Death Revealed
• WHO: Facts About Diabetes