Global Health Pursuit

Ever thought about how a quick cataract surgery or a new pair of glasses might change not just someone's life, but an entire community's future? We're diving into that idea today, exploring how the economics of eye health can drive significant changes globally. Our guest, Jack Hennessey, brings over a decade of experience in health economics, tackling big challenges and shaping policies that impact eye health across various regions. He shares some eye-opening insights about how accessible eye care isn’t just about health—it’s a key driver of economic growth and personal independence. We’ll discuss real-world impacts, from how a simple eye exam can unlock opportunities to the broader economic benefits that come from improving vision health in communities.Check out the shownotes for now!Takeaways: Quick cataract surgery or new glasses can transform not just an individual’s life but the entire community's future. Improved vision can unlock opportunities for work, learning, and social connections, driving economic growth. Making eye care accessible is crucial for development and lifting communities out of hardship. Jack Hennessey's insights reveal how small health interventions in eye care yield significant societal benefits. Healthcare economics plays a vital role in ensuring that eye health services are accessible to all, regardless of income. Investing in eye health not only improves individual lives but also boosts national economies significantly.

How does an engineering student shift their career ambitions from big pharma to global health challenges?In this episode of the global health podcast, we learn from Lizzy Loughnane, an engineer who transitioned to humanitarian engineering after joining Villanova University's service learning program. Lizzy shares her journey working on water sanitation hygiene (WASH) projects in Nicaragua and Madagascar, emphasizing the impact of community service projects on clean water access and public health. Through partnerships with Aqua water services and various NGOs, Lizzy discusses the importance of cultural awareness, sustainable water solutions, and community outreach programs in engineering. The episode also features insights from Krista Seng, Aqua's Corporate Giving and Community Affairs Lead, about the essential role of water resource management and the broader implications of engineering for social impact and international development.Check out the shownotes for resources and more!Villanova VESL ProgramAQUA: aquawater.com-----Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com

Between 1999 and 2011, 17 Salvadoran women were sentenced to up to 40 years in prison after experiencing miscarriages, which were shockingly classified as aggravated homicide. This episode unpacks that outrageous reality, raising questions about how miscarriages (spontaneous abortions) can even be treated as crimes and why the government chose to prosecute rather than protect these women in a healthcare crisis. We speak with Lina Lopez, an abortion activist with Abortiondata.org and Viva Futura who shares her insights from her experiences as an abortion doula in Colombia, a country that has faced significant restrictions on abortion rights. The goal? To shed light on the stigma surrounding abortion and advocate for a narrative that places women's health and autonomy front and center.Check out the shownotes for resources and more!Takeaways: In El Salvador, the shocking reality is that women can face homicide charges for miscarriages, which raises serious questions about healthcare and justice. Abortion stigma is a global issue, deeply rooted in societal views of womanhood and autonomy over one's body, and it's time to challenge these norms. Data shows that legal restrictions on abortion do not prevent the procedure but rather lead to unsafe practices that endanger women's lives. Conversations about abortion should be grounded in empathy and respect for individual experiences, emphasizing that every story matters in this discourse. Links referenced in this episode:abortiondata.orgreproductiverights.orgpodcaston.orgplannedparenthood.orgThis episode is done in partnership with Podcasthon, a global charity movement focused on raising awareness for the charities and nonprofits that we love through the voices of podcasters all around the world. This week, and this week only from March 15 to 21st, over 1600 podcasters from around the world are dedicating one episode to a cause that they care deeply about. -----Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationJoin the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com

What if I told you that there are healthcare facilities that can inadvertently worsen your condition? I’m talking about the case of inpatient psychiatric care. In this episode, I feature a special guest, Dr. Morgan Shields, whose lived experiences might make you question the state of mental healthcare in the United States. From witnessing it from the sidelines as her father experienced bipolar disorder, to experiencing psychosis and manic episodes herself, she found herself asking time and time again for help only to walk away feeling disappointed, hurt, and abandoned of the system. Her journey is one that you’ll be thinking about weeks after hearing her story.Check out the shownotes for further resources and ways to connect.Takeaways: Inpatient psychiatric care can sometimes make mental health conditions worse instead of better, which is a shocking reality that many people don't realize. Patients in psychiatric facilities often lack agency and choice, which can lead to feelings of helplessness and contribute to a negative experience. High suicide rates shortly after discharge from psychiatric care raise questions about the effectiveness and safety of these facilities. Dehumanization is a major issue in inpatient psychiatric care, as patients are often treated like they don't deserve respect or dignity during their treatment. There's a significant gap in the quality of care provided in inpatient settings versus outpatient care, highlighting the need for reform in mental health treatment. Dr. Shields emphasizes the importance of understanding the lived experiences of those within the mental healthcare system in order to drive meaningful change. *The views expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not represent the views of Global Health Pursuit Podcast or the host. This discussion is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a generalization of inpatient psychiatric care. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, we encourage seeking support from a qualified professional.*____Listen to the Progressive Pockets Podcast here!-----Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com

*Disclaimer - this episode was produced prior to Trumps inauguration on January 20th, 2025*Asylum seekers and refugees at the U.S.-Mexico border face harrowing conditions, often forced to live in makeshift camps with inadequate access to basic necessities like clean water and sanitation. Erin Hughes, a licensed professional engineer and founder of Solidarity Engineering, shares her journey of being inspired to help these displaced populations after hearing about their struggles through a podcast. The episode delves into the impact of policies such as the Migrant Protection Protocols, which have left many asylum seekers stranded outside U.S. borders, and highlights the humanitarian crisis that unfolds as these individuals wait for their asylum applications to be processed. Hughes recounts her experiences at the border, the diverse demographics of people seeking refuge, and the challenges faced by grassroots organizations trying to provide essential services. With a blend of empathy and urgency, the conversation sheds light on the complex interplay of politics and humanitarian needs, urging listeners to recognize the human stories behind the statistics.Check out the show notes!Takeaways: Thousands of people risk their lives each year seeking safety and new beginnings in the U.S. Asylum seekers face a lengthy and challenging process, often waiting in dire conditions. Conditions at makeshift camps include poor sanitation, leading to health issues like diarrhea and skin infections. The U.S. asylum process requires credible fear documentation, complicating the entry for many refugees. Erin Hughes' organization, Solidarity Engineering, addresses humanitarian needs at the border with engineering solutions. Many asylum seekers come from diverse countries, facing unique challenges on their journey. ____Listen to the Progressive Pockets Podcast here!-----Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com

Menstrual health is not just a women’s issue; it’s a vital topic for everyone, and understanding it can significantly enhance gender equality and social justice. Danielle Keiser, a leading menstrual health educator, shares her journey and insights into how cultural shifts have influenced her mission. We discuss the importance of educating men about menstrual cycles and how this knowledge can foster empathy and support in relationships. With the launch of a new app aimed at helping dads and partners learn about menstrual health, Danielle emphasizes that this education can empower families and transform societal attitudes. Check out the show notes!Takeaways: Menstrual health is crucial for achieving gender equality and understanding societal dynamics. Educating men about menstrual health can foster empathy and improve relationships with women. Understanding the menstrual cycle can empower individuals to manage their health effectively and holistically. Periods and menstruation should be normalized as part of a broader human experience, not just a women's issue. Menstrual pain is often dismissed, yet it can indicate underlying health issues that require attention. Cultural perceptions of menstruation influence how individuals and families communicate about reproductive health. -----Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______ A huge thank you to Sparkle for sponsoring this episode! The mission at Sparkle is to offer healthy, sustainable, and innovative period products made from the highest-quality ingredients to care for you and the planet. To learn more about Sparkle, visit them on the web at getsparkle.life.______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<

Ayurveda, often dismissed as mere "woo woo," might just hold the key to understanding our health in a more holistic way. In this episode, Austin Vantastic shares his transformative journey from a high-pressure career in film to discovering the healing potential of ancient Indian medicine. Together, they explore how Ayurveda addresses chronic conditions that Western medicine often overlooks, highlighting the importance of balance among the body's three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Austin recounts his own health struggles, the stigma surrounding traditional practices, and how Ayurveda offers preventive solutions through diet, lifestyle changes, and meditation. This episode encourages listeners to rethink their approach to health and consider integrating Ayurvedic principles into their lives.Check out the shownotes to learn more!To get in contact with Austin and get your very own one on one Ayurvedic consultation, shoot him an email at austin@ayurvedafor.us or and tell him that the global health pursuit podcast sent ya! You can also learn more at ayurvedafor.usTakeaways: Ayurveda, a 5000-year-old medical system, emphasizes the importance of balance among the body’s doshas. Western medicine often provides quick fixes, but Ayurveda focuses on prevention through holistic lifestyle changes. The journey to understanding Ayurveda can be transformative, as it addresses mysterious health issues holistically. Ayurvedic practices, such as dietary adjustments and meditation, can significantly enhance overall well-being. Austin Fantastic's transition from film to Ayurveda showcases the diverse paths to healing. Ayurveda encourages fresh food consumption, avoiding leftovers to maintain optimal digestion and health. ______Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<

Did you know that only 3% of children in low income countries have access to surgery, while 85% of children in high income countries like the US have access? This means that easily treatable conditions like appendicitis or long bone fractures could result in death or lifelong disability for children in low and middle income countries. On the bright side, there are organizations like World Pediatric Project that are working to provide access to specialty medical care for children in Latin America and the Caribbean.The episode features an interview with Vafa Akhavan, the CEO of World Pediatric Project, a nonprofit organization that provides access to specialty medical care for children in Latin America and the Caribbean. The conversation covers Vafa's background and career path, as well as the mission and unique model of World Pediatric Project. Vafa emphasizes the importance of access to healthcare for children in low and middle income countries and discusses the extreme cases that World Pediatric Project focuses on. This organization has amazingly developed a network of pediatricians, hospitals, and donors over the past 20 years, which allows them to care for children around the world.Check out the shownotes to learn more!Takeaways: Access to surgery for children in low-income countries is critically low, at only 3%. The World Pediatric Project aims to provide specialized medical care for underserved children. Unique surgical cases require tailored approaches, as each child's needs significantly differ. Building partnerships with local healthcare providers enhances the capacity of pediatric care systems. Children represent 30% of the population and are essential for a better future. The ripple effects of surgery can transform not only a child's life but entire communities. ______Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<

What is the vaginal microbiome, and why is it crucial for women's health? How does bacterial vaginosis (BV) and its treatments impact women's lives? Dr. Craig Cohen, a leading expert in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at UCSF, explains the importance of the vaginal microbiome and its role in women's health. Drawing from years of experience and extensive research, including his work in Kenya, Dr. Cohen discusses the challenges of treating BV, the necessity of innovative treatments like live biotherapeutics, and the urgent need for better diagnostics and widespread education. He emphasizes the importance of advocacy for research and funding to improve women's reproductive health outcomes.Check out the shownotes to learn more!Takeaways: Understanding the vaginal microbiome is essential for women's reproductive and overall health. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition that many women may not be aware of. BV can increase the risk of preterm birth, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections. Proper education and awareness about BV can help women take proactive steps for their health. Routine testing for the vaginal microbiome is not standard but can be requested from healthcare providers. Advocacy for better diagnostics and treatments for BV is crucial to improve women's health outcomes. The vaginal microbiome plays a significant role in maintaining optimal health and preventing infections. ______Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<______ A huge thank you to Evvy for sponsoring this episode! Evvy is a women's health company that is unlocking precision healthcare for women & people with vaginas. Their mission is to close the gender health gap by discovering and leveraging overlooked female biomarkers — starting with the vaginal microbiome. Learn more about them at Evvy.com.A portion of today's...

How do forest fires link to climate change? Why does climate pose a national security threat? How can businesses mitigate their carbon footprints? Mike Smith, co-founder and CEO of Aclymate, joined me to discuss his journey from a Navy career to founding a company focused on helping small-to-medium sized businesses achieve carbon neutrality. The conversation delves into the personal experiences that influenced Mike's transition, the importance of reforestation and carbon markets, the concept of fatal heat, and how climate change acts as a non-traditional threat to national security. Mike also explains decarbonization, offers practical advice for individuals and companies to reduce their carbon footprints, and highlights Aclymate's mission to educate and empower businesses for a sustainable future.Check out the shownotes to learn more!If you liked this episode listen to these too:5. How Do Internally Displaced Persons Access Healthcare? w/ Elvis Ndansi27. Exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals w/Rachel Svetanoff57. The Life of a Refugee: Economic Integration and Forced Migration w/ Dr. Mitra Naseh______Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<

Should immigration be a political or humanitarian issue? How do policies hinder or help the lives of displaced individuals? What challenges do forcibly displaced people face? How can economic integration be measured? Why is getting a visa for highly educated individuals based on a lottery system? Dr. Mitra Naseh, an Assistant Professor and Co-Founder and Research Director of the Initiative on Social Work and Forced Migration at the Brown School, shares her personal journey from Iran to the U.S., highlighting her shift from computer engineering to working with Afghan refugees. The conversation covers the intersection of social work and refugee wellbeing, the challenges of economic integration, and the emotional resilience required in this demanding field. Dr. Naseh also discusses global migration policies, their impact on refugees, and the broader issues of forced migration in today's world.Check out the shownotes to learn more!How the US Immigration System Works______Support the Podcast: Click here to send in a one-time or monthly donationSubmit a Question: Click here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-listMake sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com______Thank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<

I want your no-nonsense, genuine, feedback on this podcast!Schedule some time to chat with me by clicking this link: Hetal's CalendarOR email me at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com to share your insights or schedule a time to grab coffee!Can't wait to chat!

Today, I'm setting aside the usual guest interview format to share my own experiences and insights as a global health podcaster. I announce a brief hiatus for my upcoming wedding (yay!) and tease the exciting lineup for the next season of the podcast! Reflecting on my travels and work in the medical device industry, I discuss the inequities in healthcare access and my drive to explore global health solutions. Through interviews with over 40 individuals, I've learned that passion and listening are key, not necessarily a health background. Stories of guests like Sean Kappauf and Brooke Sulahian highlight how small moments can inspire significant work in global health. Emphasizing the value of partnerships, I underscore the collaborative nature of the field. __________________Support the PodcastClick here to send in a one-time or monthly donationThank you to our partners at CHIMUK: A sustainable and ethical handmade fashion brand transforming women's lives through knitting. Purchase one of a kind, high quality baby alpaca, and cotton handmade scarves, hats, and more! Each product comes with a special QR code linking you to a photo/bio of the artisan who handmade your product! Click here to see the impact you can make by shopping with Chimuk. >>Use the code GHP10 for 10% off at checkout!<<Submit a QuestionClick here to send in a question!Join the Podcast Mailing list: https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/mailing-list Make sure to follow Hetal on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook!Email her at hetal@globalhealthpursuit.com.