In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Jarry from the McGill Office for Science and Society. He talks to us about the charming but misleading tales surrounding Edward Jenner and the origins of the smallpox vaccine. Jarry, a seasoned science communicator and co-host of the podcast "Body of Evidence," unpacks the historical inaccuracies and sheds light on lesser-known figures who contributed to the development of vaccination.

Tune in as we explore how these myths formed and why they persist, offering a clearer, more nuanced view of medical history. Don't miss this myth-busting journey through the past of public health and vaccination!

Join René Najera, Director of Public Health and the History of Vaccines Project at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, as he welcomes Dr. Elise Mitchell, an expert in African American history and smallpox inoculation practices. In this episode, they delve into the historical practice of smallpox inoculation, tracing its roots from Asia to the Americas, and explore Dr. Mitchell's fascinating research. Discover the overlooked contributions of enslaved Africans to medical knowledge, particularly in smallpox management, which predates modern vaccination techniques. Dr. Mitchell also sheds light on the broader history of medical knowledge across various African cities and addresses the challenges in bringing non-Western medical histories into mainstream academic and public discourse. This enlightening conversation reveals critical insights into the intersection of race, history, and medicine.

In this episode, René Najera, Director of Public Health at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, hosts a thought-provoking discussion with public health consultants Leah Roman and Andrea Mantsios.

Leah and Andrea explore the versatile and dynamic role of public health consultants, clarifying the distinctions between independent consultants and in-house contractors, and describing how they solve complex health challenges across various sectors. They share personal stories about their unexpected paths into consulting, highlighting the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills in this field.

This conversation provides invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by public health consultants, making it a must-listen for anyone considering a similar career path.

Check out Public Health Innovation and Action at https://www.phiaconsulting.org and Roman Public Health Consulting at https://romanphconsulting.com.