Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley (IHC) Podcast

In this episode of IHC Podcast | Culture Is Medicine, we explore migraine and headache disorders in Indigenous communities with Mary Herne, FNP-C, a Kanienkeha (Mohawk) and Wake'nehsi (Snipe Clan) healthcare provider and headache specialist, and Jenny Tillman, a Cherokee and Creek community member, U.S. Air Force veteran, former surgical nurse, and National Director of Development at Miles for Migraine.

Mary and Jenny share their professional expertise and personal experiences with migraine while discussing the unique challenges Indigenous people may face in receiving a diagnosis and accessing effective headache care. They talk about common misconceptions surrounding migraine, the importance of culturally responsive healthcare, barriers to treatment, and why elevating Indigenous voices is essential to advancing health equity.

The conversation also explores the work of the Indigenous Migraine and Headache Awareness Forum, the future of migraine advocacy in Indigenous communities, and how healthcare providers, community members, and organizations can help improve awareness, access, and care.

Whether you live with migraine, support someone who does, or work in healthcare, this episode offers valuable insight into recognizing migraine, advocating for better care, and bringing greater awareness to an often-overlooked health issue in Indigenous communities.

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Migraine Links mentioned in podcast

Association of Migraine Disorders | Research, Education & AwarenessFirst Contact: Headache in Primary Care | American Headache SocietyNational Headache FoundationMigraine and Kids Support for Children with Migraine | Migraine at School

In this episode of Culture Is Medicine, Claire Alford shares her inspiring journey toward medical school and her passion for improving healthcare in Native communities. From volunteering as a Patient Navigator with IHC’s Diabetes Program to earning her Master of Public Health, Claire discusses the experiences that shaped her path in healthcare.

Claire also talks about the importance of community outreach, her involvement with the Santa Clara Powwow, and the power of volunteering and giving back. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about culture, community, public health, and pursuing a career in healthcare.

Fact check: Daniela Arcienega at IHC is the Director of Population HealthIndian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley. Special thanks to her for proposing this interview.

🎙 IHC Podcast | Culture Is Medicine: Indigenous Voices in Medicine

Host Marissa Hemstreet talks with Buddy Seto Myers (Kanaka Maoli, Med Student, UW), George Nakahara (Native Hawaiian, Med Student, UCSF), and Nikki Apana (Native Hawaiian, Med Student, UCSF PRIME-US & MPP, Harvard) about their journeys in medicine and how their Native Hawaiian culture informs their approach to wellness and healthcare.

The episode explores health disparities in Indigenous communities, cultural and traditional healing, representation in medicine, and how storytelling can improve trust and outcomes. Guests share personal reflections on the meaning of “Culture is Medicine” and advice for future Indigenous medical students.

Tune in for inspiring stories and insights on blending culture, community, and care in healthcare.

In this special Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month episode, IHC Podcast host Marissa Hemstreet speaks with Dr. Lukejohn Day—UCSF Health System Chief Medical Officer, gastroenterologist, and member of the Oglala Lakota Nation.

Dr. Day shares insights on colorectal cancer disparities impacting Native communities, the importance of early screening, and increasing Native representation in medicine. As President of the Association of American Indian Physicians, he brings both clinical expertise and cultural perspective to the conversation.

🎧 Tune in for an important dialogue on prevention, equity, and Indigenous leadership in healthcare.

#CultureIsMedicine #ColorectalCancerAwareness #NativeHealth #AAIP #IHCSanJose

IHC Podcast | Culture is Medicine with Claire Alford

In this inspiring episode of the IHC Podcast’s Culture Is Medicine series, we sit down with Claire Alford (she/her), a proud descendant of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Claire is a public health and biology major at Santa Clara University, a passionate advocate for Native health, and a 2024 Udall Scholar.

Claire shares how her heritage influences her passion for public health, what led her to study both biology and public health, and how these fields connect to Native health priorities. As Senior Chair of the Santa Clara Powwow and President of the Native American Coalition for Change (NACC), she discusses the importance of leadership and advocacy in creating spaces for Native students and communities.

We dive into Claire’s work founding a free hygiene program for Native communities, her leadership in establishing Indigenous Peoples’ Day at SCU, and her volunteer work with IHC’s Diabetes Program. Claire also shares her insights on the biggest healthcare challenges facing Native communities, strategies for balance and motivation as a student leader, and powerful advice for Native youth aspiring to enter public health or community leadership roles.

Tune in for an episode full of passion, action, and inspiration!

#CultureIsMedicine #IHCPodcast #NativeHealth #PublicHealth #AbsenteeShawnee #SantaClaraUniversity #IndigenousExcellence

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brian Laban, founder of the Native American Fitness Council (NAFC), as he shares his journey in cultural education, movement, and community wellness. Brian discusses the importance of reclaiming traditional movement practices in Native communities and how fitness connects to mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Discover the story behind NAFC, the challenges of building a nonprofit, and the impact of their training programs. Plus, learn how you can get involved and support their mission!

🔗 Support NAFC: Donate here

🎧 Listen now:

Spotify - https://bit.ly/IHC-Podcast

YouTube - https://bit.ly/IHC-YouTubeLink

Apple - https://bit.ly/IHCpodcast_Apple

#IHCSanJose #CultureIsMedicine #NativeWellness #TraditionalMovement #NAFC #CommunityHealth

In this episode of the IHC Podcast | Culture is Medicine, we speak with Elena Dutra, M.A., Academic Counselor for EOPS & the AIAN Student Success Program at San Jose City College. A Sicangu Lakota and enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Elena has over 20 years of experience supporting American Indian/Alaskan Native and first-generation college students.

She shares insights on the Native American Student Success Center, its resources, and the importance of representation, cultural programming, and community support in higher education.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how this new center is making a difference!

#IHCsanjose #IHCPodcast #CultureIsMedicine #NativeStudentSuccess #HigherEd #SanJoseCityCollege #IndigenousEducation

Start the year off right with our latest episode, "New Year, New Mindset," featuring an empowering conversation with Brooke, a personal trainer at 24 Hour Fitness and a remarkable trans woman. 🌟 Brooke shares her incredible journey to becoming a fitness coach, including how she transformed her life and why she’s passionate about helping others on their wellness journeys.

In this episode, Brooke talks about the importance of empathy and humanity in fitness, how to build sustainable habits, and practical advice for beginners starting their health and wellness goals. Whether you're looking to make a fresh start or take your fitness to the next level, Brooke’s insights will inspire you to embrace a new mindset in 2025.

Tune in now to learn why wellness isn’t just about the body—it’s about the mind and soul, too. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe for more stories that inspire!

#IHCSanJose #CultureIsMedicine #NewYearNewMindset #FitnessJourney #TransVoices

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about suicide and mentions of abuse in Indian boarding schools.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Calvin Hedrick, Interim Director of the California Native Vote Project and a proud member of the Mountain Maidu community. Calvin discusses what drives his advocacy, the importance of civic engagement in Indigenous communities, and the work being done to reshape how California history is taught in schools.

Learn about the California Native Vote Project’s youth programs and Fellowship Program, designed to empower future Indigenous leaders, and discover how you can make a difference. We also highlight critical mental health resources, like the 988 Lifeline, for those in need of support.

Tune in now to explore why Culture is Medicine and don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe for more impactful stories!

Connect with the California Native Vote Project: canativevote.org

#IHCSanJose #CultureIsMedicine #IndigenousVoices #CivicEngagement #MentalHealthAwareness

In this episode, we chat with Paloma Mendoza, Medical Administrative Assistant at IHC Medical, about her journey adjusting to IHC and what sets it apart from other health centers. Paloma dives into how her role supports both the team and our patients, sharing unique insights into community-focused care.

We also explore:
🌟 How IHC integrates AI/AN cultural perspectives with Western medicine.
💉 Current vaccine recommendations and flu season updates.
🏥 How IHC ensures vaccines are accessible to the community.
✨ Paloma’s advice for anyone considering joining the IHC team.

IHC Podcast | Culture Is Medicine with Michael Andrews

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Andrews, Prevention Services Supervisor (Counseling Department - Prevention Services), enrolled with the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, also Kickapoo, Sac & Fox, and Ojibwe, to hear his story as an Urban Native and how he stays connected to his cultural roots through music and his work at the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley. Michael shares his journey, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of maintaining cultural ties while living in an urban environment. He also talks about the role his heritage plays in his career in prevention services and how it continues to shape his work in supporting the community.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about identity, resilience, and the importance of honoring one’s culture in every aspect of life.

Listen on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-Podcast⁠

Watch on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-YouTubeLink⁠

#IHCsanjose #CultureIsMedicine #IHCPodcast #UrbanNative #CulturalConnection #MichaelAndrews #PreventionServices

In this special episode of the IHC Podcast, we celebrate California Native American Day with Julie Dominguez, Tribal Ambassador and member of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe. Julie shares her journey of cultural advocacy, the historical significance of the Muwekma Ohlone people in the Bay Area, and the ongoing efforts to preserve their heritage and traditions. Tune in to hear her powerful reflections on what it means to be a Native Californian and how the community continues to thrive and inspire future generations.

Keywords: Muwekma Ohlone, California Native American Day, Indigenous Heritage, Native Voices, Cultural Preservation, Bay Area Tribes, IHC Podcast, Culture is Medicine.

Welcome to the August 2024 episode of the IHC Podcast, celebrating Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ Pride Month! This month, we are thrilled to be joined by Nicole Altamirano, the CEO of Silicon Valley Pride. A San Jose native with deep ties to the LGBTQ+ community in the South Bay, Nicole is passionate about advocating for the rights of the most marginalized. In addition to her role as CEO, she serves as Co-Chair for the Hey Girl collaborative sub-committee of Silicon Valley Pride.

As a Mexican and Native American woman, Nicole is committed to challenging historically "white spaces" and making her voice heard. In this episode, we discuss upcoming events, explore the founding of Silicon Valley Pride, and dive into Nicole's inspiring journey of coming out and rising to become the CEO of SV Pride.

She powerfully states, "If at the end of the day I have stood by the side of the most marginalized members of my community, then I will sleep peacefully, regardless of the repercussions."

Join host Marissa Hemstreet in this episode of the IHC Podcast, Culture is Medicine edition, as she interviews John Paul K. Amaral (He/Him), a descendant of Taos Pueblo and Jicarilla Nde (Apache). A San Jose local pursuing a BA in History with a Minor in Native American History at San Jose State University, John Paul is dedicated to teaching the Living Histories of American Indigenous peoples and transforming discussions about Indigenous cultures in museum spaces. He founded the beading circle at SJSU's Native American Indigenous Student Success Center and continues his family's legacy in traditional Native American Arts and Crafts, with his works displayed at New Museum Los Gatos and the Museum of Beadwork.

In this episode, John Paul shares his unique perspective as an American Indian person with a disability, offering insights into the experience of being differently abled within the American Indian community. His story highlights the resilience and creativity of Indigenous peoples and underscores the importance of inclusive narratives in history and art. Tune in to hear John Paul's inspiring journey and the invaluable contributions he's making to his community and the broader narrative of Indigenous history and art.

Welcome to our July 2024 episode of the IHC Podcast in honor of Disability Awareness Month! This month, we're joined by Dr. Judith Fitzpatrick, a passionate advocate for preventive health and empowerment for individuals living with disabilities.

Dr. Fitzpatrick, a graduate of the University of California, San Francisco, and recent resident of the Stanford-O'Connor Family Medicine Residency Program, shares her personal and professional journey. In this episode, she discusses the profound impact her differently-abled older brother has had on her life and career. Judy's experiences growing up with her brother have deeply influenced her approach to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of seeing and treating all individuals as whole persons.

Tune in to hear Judy's inspiring story and her insights on disability awareness and accessibility.

#IHCsanjose #IHCpodcast #Differentlyabled #DisabilityAwarenessMonth #Accessibility

Welcome to our June 2024 IHC Podcast | Men’s Health Awareness edition of Culture is Medicine with Rayne Liska

Immerse yourself in this unique episode as we engage in a conversation with Rayne Liska, an Indigenous Student Success Advocate from San Jose State University (SJSU) and a proud member of the Hopi Tribe. Rayne's narrative takes us from Cortez, Colorado, to the Bay Area, underscoring his profound connection to his Hopi heritage, his academic pursuits in social work and art, and his profession as a Behavioral Therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. He delves into the significance of men's health, the role of artistic expression in healing, and the distinct challenges men encounter in maintaining their physical and mental well-being.

Prepare to be captivated by this episode as we challenge stereotypes about masculinity, explore the concept of toxic masculinity, and examine the influence of cultural practices on well-being. Rayne provides personal insights and highlights inspiring figures who have shattered traditional male stereotypes, offering guidance for navigating identity and societal hurdles. This episode seamlessly weaves personal narrative with broader discussions on men’s health, masculinity, and cultural identity, making it a must-listen for all.

#IHCsanjose #CultureIsMedicine #IHCPodcast #MensHealth #Masculinity #ToxicMasculinity #MentalHealth #CulturalIdentity #IndigenousPride #HopiTribe #NativeAmerican #ArtTherapy #HealingThroughArt #SocialWork #ChildDevelopment #IHC #Podcast #RayneLiska

Tune in as we introduce Daniel Borrego(he/him), the Fitness Coordinator at the Community Wellness and Outreach department at IHC. In this episode, Daniel provides valuable insights about “Men’s Health Awareness Month.”

Danny Borrego, a Bay Area native, is the newly appointed Fitness Coordinator for the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley. With a background deeply rooted in sports, fitness, and education, his journey began in 2006 with martial arts, specifically Judo and Wrestling. He boasts impressive accolades including Judo National Champion and various wrestling titles. Continuing his passion for fitness, Danny pursued personal training in 2022, specializing in areas such as weight loss, strength and conditioning, senior fitness, injury rehabilitation, and cardio. His philosophy centers around promoting general health and wellness for all.

#IHCsanjose #IHCpodcast #MensHealth #MensHealthMonth #MensFitness #HealthyLiving #Mentalhealth #physicalhealth #goalsetting

Before we begin this program today, we do want to provide a trigger warning that some of the details discussed may be emotionally difficult or disturbing for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. If you are seeking help, please refer to the following resources for aid in the description of this program. Thank you so much for listening. Strong Hearts Native Helpline: 1-844-7NATIVEThe Mental Health Hotline of California: 866-903-3787National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

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Welcome to our May 2024 IHC Podcast | Culture Is Medicine with Vincent 'Hawk' Aamodt

In this impactful episode, we explore Youth Suicide Prevention with Vincent ‘Hawk’ Aamodt, our new Social Media Coordinator, funded by a YSP grant. Hawk discusses how cultural practices and traditional medicine play a vital role in healing and mental health support.

We delve into the ripple effects of suicide on families and communities and highlight the "Never A Bother" campaign, emphasizing that seeking help is always encouraged. Hawk also shares a powerful message on the importance of tears, viewing them as a prayer and encouraging young men to express their emotions without shame.

Tune in for valuable insights on how culture serves as a powerful tool in preventing youth suicide and promoting mental well-being.

Listen on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-Podcast⁠

View on Youtube: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-YouTubeLink⁠

#IHCsanjose #CultureIsMedicine #YouthSuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #TraditionalHealing #NeverABother #EmbraceEmotions #IndigenousWisdom #SupportOurYouth

#MentalHealthMatters #HealingThroughCulture

Before we begin this program today, we do want to provide a trigger warning that some of the details discussed may be emotionally difficult or disturbing for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. If you are seeking help, please refer to the following resources for aid in the description of this program. Thank you so much for listening.

Strong Hearts Native Helpline: 1-844-7NATIVE

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888, text "BeFree" (233733), or live chat at humantraffickinghotline.org.

The Mental Health Hotline of California: 866-903-3787

National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

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Dive into a compelling episode of the IHC Podcast as we sit down with Dr. Tamara Strong-Chavez, Psy.D., to explore the dynamic relationship between Mental Health Awareness Month and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP+) Awareness Month. Dr. Strong-Chavez brings her expertise and passion to the forefront, offering practical tips on accessing mental health services, breaking down stigmas, and embracing healing within Indigenous communities. Join us for an engaging discussion that sheds light on crucial issues while inspiring action and support during this poignant time of awareness and advocacy.

• Listen on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-Podcast⁠
• View on Youtube: ⁠https://bit.ly/IHC-YouTubeLink⁠

#IHCsanjose #MMIP #MMIW #NoMoreStolenSisters #May2024 #IHCPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Counseling #Therapy