Mayra Pacheco and Debbie Harpster are changing the world.

Pacheco, the program coordinator for Prevent Child Abuse Nevada at the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research and Policy, and Harpster, the chair for the Prevent Child Abuse Advisory Board, have worked locally to educate the community about child abuse. April is National Child Abuse Prevention month, and Pacheco and Harpster join Dean Gerstenberger as the first dual guests on the podcast to discuss the different types of child abuse, how adverse childhood experiences can lead to poorer health as an adult, and creating awareness about preventing abuse in our communities.

Louisa Messenger is changing the world.

Messenger, an Assistant Professor for the School of Public Health, joins Dean Gerstenberger for the first episode of Season 3 to talk about what a vector is, the most dangerous animal on the planet, and how she works to prevent insect-borne diseases across the globe and here in Las Vegas.

Jace Flatt is changing the world.

Flatt, an Associate Professor for the School of Public Health and the new director for the Center for Health Disparities Research, joins Dean Gerstenberger to talk about caring for vulnerable communities like veterans and the elderly, and the importance of involving the community in research.

Sarah Bussmann is changing the world.

Bussmann, chief administrative officer for P3 Health Partners and the School of Public Health's Alumna of the Year, joins Dean Gerstenberger to talk about health management, getting a master's in healthcare administration following her career as nurse, and the relationship-driven nature of healthcare.

Stephanie Cooper is changing the world.

Cooper, executive director for student support and advocacy in the UNLV Office of Student Affairs, joins Dean Gerstenberger to discuss what UNLV students need to be successful, why asking for help is a strength and not a weakness, and holding hands with people on difficult journeys.

Gabriela Buccini is changing the world.

Buccini, an assistant professor in the School of Public Health, speaks to Dean Gerstenberger about the health benefits of breastfeeding, milk banks and supporting new mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

Amanda Morgan is changing the world.

Morgan, a Professor-In-Residence for the School of Public Health, joins Dean Gerstenberger to talk about teaching human sexuality to nearly 5,000 students, interning at the Erotic Heritage Museum, and the power of an open mind and caring heart when it comes to educating people.

Erika Marquez is changing the world.

Marquez, an assistant professor in the School of Public Health, joins Dean Gerstenberger to discuss her path into public health, working to prevent childhood lead poisoning in Nevada, and the importance of community partnerships in improving health outcomes locally and globally.

Martha Thomas is changing the world.

Thomas, co-founder of The Defensive Line, joins Dean Gerstenberger to discuss how the nonprofit is tackling the epidemic of youth mental health issues by arming coaches, teachers, and adults with the tools to talk about suicide and the other things plaguing kids today.

Jodi Tyson is changing the world.

As Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for Three Square Food Bank, Tyson plays a critical part of public health in Southern Nevada, helping to feed populations typically not well-served. 

In this episode, Jodi talks about important programs she’s developed for Three Square, how her MPH degree has helped her with her role, and her advice for those wanting to enter the field of public health.