In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis is joined by Sister Mary Haddad, President and CEO of the Catholic Health Association of the United States. Together, they get into the pressing issue of proposed Medicaid funding cuts and the far-reaching implications for millions of Americans, particularly those in underserved communities. Sr. Mary offers expert insight into what these changes could mean for access to care, the healthcare workforce, and the moral responsibility we share in supporting those who are vulnerable. This is a timely and vital conversation about healthcare, equity, and advocacy.📌 Show Notes:Introduction to Sister Mary Haddad and her role at CHA (00:33)Overview of Medicaid and why it's essential (02:48)Details on proposed funding cuts and their potential impact (04:50)The urgency of the moment and why it matters now (08:51)Who is most at risk from these changes (10:53)Consequences for emergency rooms and healthcare access (12:23)Discussion on work requirements and policy misconceptions (13:07)Effects on state governments and local economies (15:30)Broader societal impact beyond Medicaid recipients (16:30)Consequences for healthcare providers and Catholic health systems (19:13)CHA’s advocacy efforts and how citizens can get involved (23:44)A message of hope and community resilience (27:36)Where to learn more and take action (29:48)

In this episode of My City Talks, Corey sits down with Krisha Keeran, former intern, medical school hopeful, and co-founder of Club Kids for a Cause. After surviving a devastating accident, Krisha turned her recovery into a purpose, raising over $65,000 through tennis tournaments to support healthcare causes. This summer, her story comes full circle as she hosts a tournament in her honor to fund continuing education for nurses at UIHC. Listen as Krisha shares how Iowa City saved her life and why helmets, hope, and community still drive her mission.Show Notes:Guest: Krisha Keeran Host: Corey Dion LewisTopics Covered:Krisha’s start with My City My Health as its first internFounding Club Kids for a Cause after a family friend’s breast cancer diagnosisGrowing the nonprofit to raise over $65,000 through tennis events and merchandiseSurviving a near-fatal bike accident and the role UIHC played in her recoveryThe emotional and personal significance of this year’s tournament in West Des MoinesPromoting helmet safety and partnering with the Iowa Bike CoalitionCreating a scholarship fund for SnakeU nurses at the University of Iowa HealthcareHow to support: buying merch, attending the tournament, or donating via VenmoEvent Info: Club Kids for a Cause Summer Classic 📍 Valley Southwoods, West Des Moines 📅 July 11–13, 2025 Proceeds benefit a new fund for nurse education in Krisha’s honor.Support & Connect:Instagram: @clubkidsforacauseFacebook: Club Kids for a CauseMerch: Available through July 30Follow Krisha: @KrishaKeeranWant to be featured? Email: hello@mycity.health

What if the key to better health isn’t treatment—it’s prevention?In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, Corey Dion Lewis breaks down the true meaning of preventative health and why it matters. From early screenings to lifestyle changes, Corey explains how staying ahead of illness can save money, boost energy, and extend your life.We cover:What counts as preventative careHow early detection worksWhy prevention puts you in control of your healthSimple steps you can take todayThis isn’t about reacting. It’s about being ready.Subscribe, rate, and share with someone who needs a reminder to book that checkup.

In this episode, I’m joined by Emili Johnson, creator of the Black Girl Iowa podcast. Emili shares how starting a podcast became a powerful act of self-love and resistance. We talk about finding your voice when you’ve spent years feeling invisible, navigating mental health as a Black woman in Iowa, and the unexpected burnout that comes with podcasting solo.Emili opens up about her journey with anxiety, depression, and PMDD—and how therapy, journaling, and storytelling helped her reclaim her peace. If you’ve ever questioned your voice, felt unseen, or wondered if your story matters, this episode is for you.Topics covered: • Mental health and healing • Podcasting without a team • DEI rollbacks in Iowa • Black women’s voices and validation • Journaling as self-care • Building creative confidence👉 Stay connected and find mental health resources in the show notes.If You Need Immediate SupportText or Call: In the U.S., you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.Online Support: Many organizations offer chat support, such as the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741).Support the show - https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis

ITamar Blue, founder of Mental Happy, joins Corey Dion Lewis on The Healthy Project Podcast to explore how group therapy and community-based care are changing the future of mental health.In this episode, you’ll hear: • Why group support is often more effective than one-on-one therapy • How Mental Happy empowers both participants and providers • The cultural and structural gaps in mental health care • Why more therapists are shifting to cash-based models • How virtual communities are breaking down stigma in Black mental health spacesWhether you’re a provider, peer specialist, or just someone looking for emotional support, you’ll gain insights into what true community healing can look like.Guest:Tamar Blue Founder & CEO, Mental Happy Website: https://www.mentalhappy.comSocial Media Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarlucienblue/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mentalhappy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentalhappyhumans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livementalhappy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mentalhappyinc