Rooted in Wellness
The Effi Barry Training Institute is excited to announce the launch of “Rooted in Wellness,” a new podcast mini-series dedicated to exploring holistic approaches to health and well-being. Join us as we delve into topics such as trauma, HIV, mental wellness, and the social determinants of health, all with the goal of helping you cultivate a balanced and thriving life. Tune in to “Rooted in Wellness” and embark on a journey of personal growth.
Episode 1
Trauma at the Root of Health Outcome Disparities
This episode delves into the profound impact that trauma has on health outcomes across diverse populations. Listeners will explore the connection between trauma and health disparities, learning to identify common indicators of trauma and understanding how these indicators contribute to unequal health outcomes. The episode will also equip listeners with the knowledge and tools to address and mitigate the effects of trauma in their communities and professional practices.
Co-Host: Leisha McKinley-Beach, M.S.
Leisha McKinley-Beach author, thought leader, inspirational strategist, trainer, and community organizer. Mrs. McKinley-Beach is the founder and CEO of The Black Public Health Academy. Leisha also serves as a consultant who provides training on Black health issues including HIV, medical mistrust, racism in public health, cultural humility, and community engagement. She has been fortunate to participate in nationally recognized projects such as PrEP in Black America, Gilead Sciences Champions of Change: A Celebration of Black Women Changemakers in HIV, Viiv Risk to Reasons-national movement to retire the word “risk” associated with sexual health for women, the Florida Department of Health Sistas Organizing to Survive (SOS), a first-ever statewide campaign to address HIV among Black women, and initiatives to engage faith-based communities in the HIV response across the South. McKinley-Beach received her bachelor’s degree(Community health) from the University of Florida and her master’s degree in health science (Psycho-social health) from the University of West Florida. Leisha is a 2023 inductee into the University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance Hall of Fame.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Ashley Elliott, Psy.D.
Ashley Elliott, Psy.D. (also affectionately known as Dr. Vivid) is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology located in Washington, DC. She has a passion for serving those who identify as a Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Elliott works as a clinician in private practice, a writer, plant medicine educator and mental health/DEI consultant to create more culturally inclusive spaces. In effort to create more inclusive media spaces, Dr. Elliott collaborates with gamers, developers, social media users/influencers, and individuals in Web3 and the Metaverse to make sure platforms promote diversity and mental health awareness.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain trauma’s impact on health outcomes in diverse populations.
- Identify common indicators of trauma and how they contribute to health disparities.
- Explore the connection between trauma and inequitable health outcomes.
Episode 2
Roots of Resilience: HIV Prevention/Management Strategies for Black Women
This focuses on empowering Black women with regard to effective HIV prevention and management strategies. It will highlight innovative approaches, community-based solutions, and personal experiences that address the unique challenges faced by Black women in the realm of HIV. Listeners will learn about effective strategies and programs designed to meet Black women where they are, promoting better health outcomes and empowering them with the knowledge and resources necessary to take charge of their health.
Co-Host: Leisha McKinley-Beach, M.S.
Leisha McKinley-Beach author, thought leader, inspirational strategist, trainer, and community organizer. Mrs. McKinley-Beach is the founder and CEO of The Black Public Health Academy. Leisha also serves as a consultant who provides training on Black health issues including HIV, medical mistrust, racism in public health, cultural humility, and community engagement. She has been fortunate to participate in nationally recognized projects such as PrEP in Black America, Gilead Sciences Champions of Change: A Celebration of Black Women Changemakers in HIV, Viiv Risk to Reasons-national movement to retire the word “risk” associated with sexual health for women, the Florida Department of Health Sistas Organizing to Survive (SOS), a first-ever statewide campaign to address HIV among Black women, and initiatives to engage faith-based communities in the HIV response across the South. McKinley-Beach received her bachelor’s degree(Community health) from the University of Florida and her master’s degree in health science (Psycho-social health) from the University of West Florida. Leisha is a 2023 inductee into the University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance Hall of Fame.
Guest Speaker: Shawnte’ Spriggs
Shawntee Spriggs is a proud native of Washington D.C. who has returned to her roots in the DMV after spending several years in North Carolina. “D.C. raised me, but Carolina made me,” speaks to her deep appreciation for both places. With over 18 years of experience in banking, Shawnte’ recently earned her M.A. in Executive Leadership from Liberty University, where she also obtained her A.A. and B.A. in Psychology. Currently, she is pursuing her second Master’s degree in Marketing, demonstrating her commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Shawnte’ is an active member of the community, serving in various roles for local and national organizations. In December 2020, on World AIDS Day, she published her first book, Undetected More Than a Status, in which she shares her personal journey of living with HIV .Impel Coaching & Consulting LLC, founded by Shawnte’, provides leadership development, strategic planning, and capacity-building services to businesses and organizations. Shawnte’ also helps coaches and consultants launch their programs, services, and digital courses, enabling them to achieve scalable income and impact. Shawnte’s core values are her faith, her family and her future. Shawnte’ finds joy in her children, grandbabies, and shopping. Her dedication to transformational leadership and empowering women is admirable, and her transparency around her personal journey with HIV is both courageous and inspiring. She is truly an inspiration, using her passion and path to make a positive impact in the world.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the unique challenges faced by Black women in HIV prevention, including societal factors, cultural barriers, and access to healthcare resources.
- Identify successful community based initiatives that integrate syndemic approaches.
- Explore personal experiences and stories shared by Black women who have navigated the complexities of HIV prevention and management.
Episode 3
Roots of Stigma: Cultural Barriers in Mental Health
This podcast episode, “Roots of Stigma: Cultural Barriers in Mental Health,” will delve into the intricate cultural barriers that contribute to mental health stigma. Exploring how cultural beliefs, societal norms, and historical contexts shape perceptions and attitudes towards mental health within diverse communities. Our expert guests will share their insights and experiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues and the innovative strategies being implemented to break down these barriers.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Ashley Elliott
Ashley Elliott, Psy.D. (also affectionately known as Dr. Vivid) is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology located in Washington, DC. She has a passion for serving those who identify as a Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Elliott works as a clinician in private practice, a writer, plant medicine educator and mental health/DEI consultant to create more culturally inclusive spaces. In effort to create more inclusive media spaces, Dr. Elliott collaborates with gamers, developers, social media users/influencers, and individuals in Web3 and the Metaverse to make sure platforms promote diversity and mental health awareness.
Co-Host: Leisha McKinley-Beach
Leisha McKinley-Beach author, thought leader, inspirational strategist, trainer, and community organizer. Mrs. McKinley-Beach is the founder and CEO of The Black Public Health Academy. Leisha also serves as a consultant who provides training on Black health issues including HIV, medical mistrust, racism in public health, cultural humility, and community engagement. She has been fortunate to participate in nationally recognized projects such as PrEP in Black America, Gilead Sciences Champions of Change: A Celebration of Black Women Changemakers in HIV, Viiv Risk to Reasons-national movement to retire the word “risk” associated with sexual health for women, the Florida Department of Health Sistas Organizing to Survive (SOS), a first-ever statewide campaign to address HIV among Black women, and initiatives to engage faith-based communities in the HIV response across the South. McKinley-Beach received her bachelor’s degree(Community health) from the University of Florida and her master’s degree in health science (Psycho-social health) from the University of West Florida. Leisha is a 2023 inductee into the University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance Hall of Fame.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the cultural influences on mental health perceptions.
- Identify at least three (3) barriers to accessing mental health care.
- Explore strategies that improve mental health support for diverse populations.
