Welcome to the HOPE in Action podcast series by the National Collaborative for Health Equity (NCHE).

In the second half of our conversation on "Food Justice & Sovereignty," Treasure Sheppard and MB Mitcham dive deeper into community-led solutions and participatory research. They share how vital it is to value lived experience and cultural preferences when addressing food accessibility, rather than relying solely on top-down approaches. Tune in to hear how empowering communities to reclaim their own resources and holding onto hope are the ultimate keys to true health equity.

Featured Speakers:Treasure SheppardMB Mitcham

#NCHE #HopeInAction #HealthEquity #FoodJustice #FoodSovereignty #CommunityEmpowerment #PublicHealth

Welcome to the Hope in Action podcast by the National Collaborative for Health Equity (NCHE).

In this episode, "Food Justice & Sovereignty," we move beyond the concept of “food deserts” to discuss “food swamps” and the fight for true food sovereignty. Treasure Sheppard and MB Mitcham join us to explore how grassroots movements and community-led initiatives are reclaiming healthy food systems. Tune in to hear about the power of community gardens and how restoring dignity in food choices is essential for health equity.

Featured Speakers:

Treasure Sheppard

MB Mitcham

In our inaugural episode, we explore how artists use storytelling, music, and performance to advance healing and racial justice. Join us for a powerful conversation featuring interdisciplinary artists April Fitzpatrick and Mahoganee Amiger as they discuss the science behind art as medicine and the transformative power of creativity in our communities.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Science of Healing: Understanding how music and art affect the nervous system and aid in neuroplasticity.

• Community Healing: The story of "Pineapples with Purpose" and "Wellness on Wheels" in Ocala, FL.

• Water & Memory: A deep dive into the symbolism of the Mississippi River and Gullah Geechee coastal history.

Featured Guests:

• April Fitzpatrick: Founder of Pineapples with Purpose, a mobile arts and health initiative.

• Mahoganee Amiger: Founder of The Mahoganee Xperience and co-founder of Responsible Artistry.

Resources:

• Visit NCHE: nationalcollaborative.org

• Mahoganee's Work: TheMahoganeeXperience.com

• Pineapples with Purpose: pineappleswithpurpose.com