The Health Disparities Podcast

In this episode of The Health Disparities Podcast, host Ber‑Henda Williams sits down with Dexter Sullivan—global strategist, community builder, and CEO of the Black Legacy Advancement Coalition. Dexter opens up about his Detroit roots, the generational stories that shaped him, and the urgent work of preserving Black legacy as a pathway to better health and stronger communities. He reflects on the influence of his grandparents, the educators who nurtured his identity, and the cultural traditions that continue to guide his leadership. Dexter also discusses the emotional realities Black men face, the importance of remembrance in community healing, and how culturally aligned approaches can transform health outcomes. You’ll hear insights on: How legacy preservation strengthens community health The role of Detroit’s cultural lineage in shaping identity Why policy rollbacks threaten social determinants of health Supporting Black men through grief and emotional processing Culturally rooted “couture solutions” in health equity work The power of gathering, food, and the table as healing spaces This conversation is a must‑listen for anyone working in health equity, community leadership, Black mental health, public health, or culturally responsive care. It’s a grounding, heart‑centered reminder that love, memory, and community are essential parts of the health ecosystem.

In this episode of The Health Disparities Podcast, Dr. Mary O’Connor speaks with Stephanie A. Wynn—author, Crohn’s survivor, and founder of The Stephanie A. Wynn Foundation. Stephanie shares her powerful journey through years of misdiagnosis, medical dismissal, pregnancy loss, and a near‑death experience that ultimately shaped her mission to support underserved IBD patients. She breaks down the barriers many patients face when navigating Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and explains how her IBD Patient Navigator® Program helps individuals access specialists, understand their diagnosis, reduce ER visits, and overcome social determinants of health. You’ll hear insights on: • The impact of delayed diagnosis and clinical bias • The difference between IBS and IBD • Why community health workers are essential to IBD care • How journaling and documentation strengthen patient advocacy • Expanding navigator programs into rural and underserved communities This conversation is a must‑listen for anyone working in gastroenterology, community health, patient navigation, or health equity.