Real Talk Real Impact

Public Health Was Never Built for Indigenous Communities with Dr. Gabrielle S. Evans-Mitchell, PhD

• Marissa Robinson • Season 1 • Episode 4

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0:00 | 42:20

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In this episode of Real Talk, Real Impact, Dr. Marissa Robinson sits down with  Dr. Gabrielle S. Evans-Mitchell, PhD for a real conversation about how health, equity, and community show up in everyday life.

Why do so many Indigenous communities distrust public health systems?

In this episode, Dr. Marissa Robinson sits down with Dr. Gabrielle Evans-Mitchell, a first-generation Indigenous scholar, to explore Indigenous health, sexual health education, and community engagement in public health. This conversation unpacks the importance of culturally relevant research, building trust with tribal communities, and addressing health disparities in rural and Indigenous populations.

Dr. Evans-Mitchell shares her journey navigating academia while staying connected to her community and advocating for Indigenous and rural health equity. They also discuss why traditional public health approaches often fall short and how community-centered, strengths-based frameworks can lead to more effective and respectful care.

If you are interested in Indigenous health, public health careers, sexual health education, community-based research, or health equity, this episode offers valuable insights into how to better serve and support Indigenous communities.


Chapters
@0:00 Trailer
@2:16 How did you end up doing the work you do today?
@3:52 How has being from the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe shaped views on sexuality and wellness.
@7:26 What does it look like to shift from “what’s wrong” to “what’s already strong” in Indigenous sexual health and well-being?
@24:05 First-generation Indigenous scholar from a rural tribal community navigating academia.
@29:06 Why is translational science so important to you?
@36:28 What does reclaiming sexual health, bodily autonomy, and joy look like in this moment?
@39:17 Where does public health show up in your work, even behind the scenes?

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