The Queer Public Health Podcast

In this episode of the Queer Public Health Podcast, I interview Elizabeth Yonko, a PhD student in Epidemiology at UCLA, focusing on LGBTQ issues. We discuss the pressing policy changes facing the LGBTQ community like the overturn of Roe v. Wade, the importance of gender-affirming care, and the intersection of religious freedom and civil rights.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Dylan Richard, a queer mental health professional known as the “punk psychologist.” We talk about how punk culture shapes their approach to therapy, blending nonconformity with mental health practices. Dr. Richard shares their journey to becoming a psychologist, their work with queer and trans veterans, and the layered experiences of gender identity and transitioning. We also discuss unconventional methods for healing trauma, the role of kink in empowerment, and their path to becoming a certified sex coach. At its heart, this conversation is about the power of authenticity and community in building mental health resilience.

In this episode, Bismarck Bisonó Garcia and I talk about how LGBTQ+ rights connect with public health. We dive into the challenges LGBTQ+ people face when accessing healthcare, the harm caused by misinformation, and why advocacy is so important in public health. Bismarck shares his experience working in infectious diseases, highlighting the need for education, understanding, and support for marginalized groups. Together, we discuss how public health can address these issues and why funding and resources are key to making healthcare accessible for everyone.

In this episode of the Queer Public Health Podcast, Ambassador Wally Brewster discusses his experiences as an openly gay ambassador, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in politics and business, and the current challenges facing LGBTQ+ rights in the United States. He emphasizes the need for education, advocacy, and voting to support LGBTQ+ rights, while also addressing the role of corporate involvement in promoting these rights. Brewster shares his personal journey and the significance of representation in fostering acceptance and understanding within society.

In this episode of the Queer Public Health Podcast, Richard De Los Santos and Eva Izquierdo engage with Danielle Winston, co-founder of Seed Scout, a known donor matchmaking service aimed at making sperm donation more ethical and inclusive. Danielle shares her journey from law to launching Seed Scout, highlighting the ethical dilemmas in traditional sperm donation practices, particularly the lack of inclusivity for LGBTQ individuals. The conversation explores the need for a more personal and ethical approach to donor selection, the challenges faced in building the company, and the positive impact Seed Scout has on families seeking to expand their households. The episode concludes with a discussion on future aspirations and the importance of community engagement in reproductive health.

In this episode of the Public Health Podcast, host Richard De Los Santos Abreu and co-host Josh Klett engage with Dr. Max Brito, an infectious disease specialist, to discuss the evolution of HIV prevention strategies, the impact of stigma on public health, and the importance of innovative approaches to reach vulnerable populations. The conversation covers the effectiveness of circumcision, the introduction of PrEP, and the ongoing challenges in reducing HIV incidence, particularly among marginalized communities. Dr. Brito emphasizes the need for visibility and community engagement to combat stigma and improve healthcare access for those at risk.

In this first episode of the Queer Public Health Podcast, hosts Richard, Calix, and Eva come together for an open and heartfelt conversation on mental health in the LGBTQ+ community. They explore the unique challenges queer individuals face, from navigating barriers to mental health care to addressing alarming rates of homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. With warmth and compassion, the hosts highlight the importance of family—both chosen and biological—and the power of acceptance in supporting mental well-being. The episode invites listeners into a safe space to reflect on the vital role of communication, love, and resources in overcoming these challenges. Whether you're seeking support or simply curious, this episode is a powerful reminder that mental health matters and no one should face it alone.