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On this episode, Isaac interviews RaShad Eas, aka Dr. Easley as a hip-hop artist, about his latest project titled D.E.I. RaShad Eas talks about the themes behind each track on the album, and the roles of family, friends, and faith in his personal journey. Join us for a glimpse into the creative mind of our own Dr. Easley as he moves from the interviewer seat to the other side of the mic.

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On this episode, Dr. Easley, Bennett and Isaac are joined by a returning guest from season one, Dr. Darin Latimore, Deputy Dean of Diversity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer at Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Latimore discusses the continued need for diversity and inclusion in today’s climate, where the field needs to go in an environment that is becoming more hostile towards DEI, and the importance of mentorship and support structures for DEI practitioners.

Dr. Latimore speaks as an individual in this interview. His viewpoints and opinions are not meant to represent Yale.

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Esaac, Pwint, and Bennett, each with their unique perspectives, join Dr. Easley to discuss their experiences at Yale School of the Environment. Their roles as leaders on campus, promoting a just and equitable learning environment, are deeply influenced by their upbringing and background. These factors are intricately linked to their research areas of focus, such as food sovereignty and access to outdoor spaces for recreation. The episode offers insights into campus activism, little-known history about environmental conservation, and how these three individuals draw strength from each other to maintain their joy.

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Listen to Andie Creel, a Ph.D. student at Yale School of the Environment, and Dr. Easley discuss their roots in conservation and how they engage with the natural world. Andie Creel details her experience growing up in Big Sky Country and how that influenced her studies in Natural Resource Economics and co-founding the Backcountry Squatters club in 2015 with Kit Kocha. The episode will not only inform you about their journey but also provide practical advice on how to move with intention in both the professional and recreational spheres of your life.

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Samantha Armacost, Dr. Easley, and Bennett discuss their experiences and connections to being outdoors. In extension, Sam gives a masterclass related to inclusive practices in the workplace and how organizations can grow from incorporating these practices. Her experiences serve as a beacon of inspiration for those seeking adventure while ensuring the value of community members. Enjoy being swept away!

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In this episode, Gwen Trice and Dr. Easley explore their families’ extensive history with forestry in the United States. Ms. Trice, in particular, details the work she has done as the founder of the Maxville Project to daylight Black history in Wallowa County, Oregon. She recounts cherished memories of her time pursuing the project, as the community and family members shared stories about her family, loggers of color, and community resilience. Like Dr. Easley and Bennett, you will be drawn into the personal narratives and feel a sense of connection with the experiences shared in this episode.

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In this episode, Danna Smith, Dr. Easley, and Bennett Olupo delve into the crucial role of community involvement in protecting and restoring Southern forests. Danna Smith, the founder of The Dogwood Alliance, shares her inspiring journey and the mission to ensure everyone has access to a healthy environment. Her impactful work and the culture of care and determination will leave you feeling empowered to make a positive difference in your community.

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On this episode, Dr. Easley and Bennett Olupo speak with Reverend Robert Jemonde Taylor as he discusses the deep history of Environmental Justice and resilience surrounding Saint Ambrose Episcopal Church’s predominantly Black community in Raleigh, North Carolina. He also explains how he draws from a broad range of influences to steward the congregation and land to bring vitality to the community. This episode is rich with hope, history, spirituality, and scientific thought that will brighten up your day and professional practice.

The Yale Program for Medicine, Spirituality & Religion is founded upon the belief that healing concerns the wellness of both the body and the spirit. We seek to understand the implications of religious practice, communal support, and intrinsic belief for the health and wellness. We are scholarly in focus, seeking evidence to discern how the worlds of medicine and religion impact one another. We are collaborative in spirit, reaching across Yale University and other institutions to foster dialogue and research.
As scholars and practitioners, we recognize the deep influence that religious and spiritual commitments have in medicine and illness. Religious and spiritual beliefs inform ethical choices, attitudes concerning death and grieving, approaches to suffering and illness, and commitments to justice and fairness. We seek diverse perspectives through collaboration with colleagues from divinity, chaplaincy, public health, legal, and medical communities. This podcast is a collection of our public monthly seminar series. Enjoy!

For more information and to get on our mailing list, please check out our website: ypmsr.yale.edu