Dr. Aisha Brooks, founder of VitalVoice Nursing and former U.S. Public Health Service chief nurse, shares how nurses can lead systemic change through equity-centered, compassionate leadership.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Vitor Oliveira, an acting instructor at the University of Washington School of Nursing and an exercise scientist dedicated to improving the physical function and quality of life of people living with HIV. Dr. Oliveira’s personal and professional journey is deeply intertwined, having discovered he was HIV-positive at just 21. This life-changing moment fueled his passion for research and advocacy, driving him to focus on the relationship between HIV and physical function, and how exercise interventions can improve health outcomes for others living with the virus, particularly marginalized populations who often lack access to quality healthcare and resources.

Dr. Oliveira completed his master’s and doctoral degrees in kinesiology in his native Brazil, and today he leads research efforts in the U.S., including the PROSPER-HIV and HEALTH studies.

Join us as Dr. Oliveira opens up about his personal journey with HIV, his dedication to research, and his mission to help others thrive. Plus, he shares how his love for volleyball, outdoor adventures, and travel keep him balanced beyond the lab.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Alexi Vasbinder, an assistant professor at the UW School of Nursing, who is on a mission to improve the lives of cancer survivors. She researches heart-related side effects of cancer and cancer treatments, developing smart ways to predict and reduce those risks. Dr. Vasbinder also shares her journey into nursing research, highlights the cutting-edge digital health intervention she presented at the 2024 Nursing Dawg Tank competition, and discusses how mentors have been key to her success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, innovation, and the power of mentorship!