The GROklahoma Podcast Show

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | Resilience in Life & Research – The One with Dr. Amanda Janitz: Episode 6 (2024)

Welcome to another episode of the GROklahoma Podcast! In this edition, we are delighted to host Dr. Amanda Janitz, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the Hudson College of Public Health, OUHSC.
Dr. Janitz's journey into epidemiology and public health was profoundly shaped by personal experiences, including the loss of a family member to leukemia and her husband's battle with cancer. Her passion for pediatric oncology led her to pursue a master’s in public health focusing on childhood cancer, setting the stage for her impactful career in cancer research.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Janitz opens up about the highs and lows of her research, from understanding health disparities to tackling the challenges of COVID-19 testing access in Native American communities. Her dedication to partnering with tribes like the Choctaw and Cherokee Nation showcases the power of community engagement in driving impactful research.
But it's not all serious business – Dr. Janitz also shares the nitty-gritty of grant writing and the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Plus, she gives us a peek into her own balancing act of juggling family life with a thriving research career.
Join us for an episode filled with personal stories, practical advice, and a whole lot of inspiration as we dive into the world of public health and cancer research with Dr. Amanda Janitz. You won't want to miss this!

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | Inclusivity in Academia – The One with Dr. Natasha Mickel: Episode 5 (2024)

In this episode, we're honored to have Dr. Natasha Mickel, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family & Preventive Medicine, Assistant Director for Faculty Development, and the Director of the Oklahoma Center for Mentoring Excellence (OCME) at OUHSC, showcasing her adept collaboration skills within diverse learning communities. From a fortuitous encounter with Dr. Valerie Williams to a transformative seven-year mentorship that has defined her professional journey, Dr. Mickel shares insights on effective communication, relaxed events, and the vital sense of belonging in diverse academic environments.
Dr. Mickel provides valuable insights into DEI initiatives in Oklahoma, reflecting on programs like Affirmative Action and addressing cultural stress and codeswitching. Notably, this discussion predates Governor Kevin Stitt's signing of Executive Order 2023-31. Throughout our dialogue, Dr. Mickel emphasizes the essence of creating spaces that embrace diversity and foster the flourishing of all individuals - emphasizing the significance of representation and offering strategies for networking without awkwardness. She offers invaluable insights into navigating hurdles females and Black scholars face in academia, shedding light on the importance of representation and seamless networking.
As an intriguing twist, explore Dr. Mickel's true crime fascination, rooted in her Virginia upbringing—a testament to her multifaceted personality and interests. This episode invites you to immerse yourself in an enriching dialogue with Dr. Mickel, exploring the dynamic interplay of mentorship, diversity, and inclusion in shaping a more welcoming and productive academic environment.
Connect with Dr. Mickel via email Natasha-mickel@ouhsc.edu
Resource: https://facdev.ouhsc.edu/ 

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | Of Peptides and Persistence – The One with Dr. Kelly Standifer: Episode 4 (2023)

Dr. Kelly Standifer, a distinguished neuropharmacology professor at the University of Oklahoma, brings to light her groundbreaking research on neuropeptides, particularly opioid peptides, and their pivotal role in pain management and brain injury recovery. Her passion for this field was sparked by a deeply personal experience—a near tragedy in her family that ignited her path toward studying pain and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Dr. Standifer's focus lies in uncovering innovative approaches to modulate these peptides, aiming to alleviate trauma-induced symptoms and foster rehabilitation for brain injuries. Despite initial funding challenges, her unwavering dedication has led to significant strides in comprehending the impact of neuropeptides on traumatic stress, brain injuries, and pain management, securing over $7.5 million in grants.
 
This episode also explores her formative postdoctoral training at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in NYC under the esteemed guidance of Dr. Gavril Pasternak. Furthermore, the discussion delves into her involvement in WiSDMH, a pivotal group dedicated to empowering female faculty members at the university by addressing academic disparities through mentorship, CV reviews, and tailored developmental events. Encouraging women to embrace this supportive network, the conversation navigates through various challenges faced in academia, including handling grant rejections, managing the delicate balance between professional commitments and family life, exploring the integration of AI in education, and advocating for the amplification of diverse voices within academic circles.
 
Stay stubborn and curious and have a happy holiday!

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | From Lahore, Pakistan to Oklahoma – A Journey in Psychiatry and Public Health with Dr. Noeen Sarfraz: Episode 3 (2023)

In this episode, Dr. Noeen Sarfraz, a psychiatrist and public health professional, leads us through a captivating journey, embracing her cultural roots from Lahore, Pakistan. From her beginnings at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center to clinical practice across Springfield, IL, and Tulsa, OK, Dr. Noeen shares invaluable insights into her current role at the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, focusing on mental health at The Tulsa Center for Behavioral Health.
Throughout our conversation, she elegantly intertwines her cultural heritage with her public health and psychiatry expertise. Delving into the intricacies of new roles and cultural nuances, Dr. Noeen navigates the complexities of Serious Mental Illness (SMI) with a compassionate understanding shaped by her background. Her perspective offers nuanced insights into addressing mental health stigmas while balancing cultural considerations.
Seamlessly blending personal anecdotes, including endearing tales of hedgehogs as pets, she explores self-care, therapy, and the impact of chronic stress on mental well-being, drawing from her unique cultural upbringing.
Join us for a conversation that beautifully weaves personal stories, professional insights, and reflections on mental health, cultural harmony, and the convergence of psychiatry and public health, all rooted in Dr. Noeen's cultural experiences from Lahore, Pakistan.
 
If you'd like to feature on the podcast, send us an email on GROklahomapodcast@ouhsc.edu 
 

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | From Modest Beginnings to Scientific Excellence – The One with Dr. Tim VanWagoner: Episode 2 (2023)

This episode features our very own, Dr. Tim VanWagoner, the Associate Director of the Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Science Institute (OCTSI). Originating from the scenic landscapes of Montana, Dr. VanWagoner paints a vivid picture of his upbringing and how it laid the foundation for his remarkable career in research. His narrative showcases the profound impact of environment and passion in shaping a scientific career, highlighting his transition from modest beginnings to becoming a prominent scientist.
However, our exploration doesn't stop there. This episode delves into a multitude of captivating topics, from his research on Haemophilus influenzae to the intricacies of establishing robust research infrastructure. We gain insights into the National Institutes of Health IDEA program and its transformative influence, as well as the unique opportunities that emerged during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing the resilience of the scientific community.
We navigate the significance of a clinical coordinator training network and its pivotal role in advancing research. Dr. VanWagoner shares his wisdom on overcoming grant submission hurdles and strategies for career growth in the research field. We also explore the constraints faced in primary care settings and innovative solutions for efficient time management.
As our conversation unfolds, we delve into the profound impact of clinical research on Oklahoma's healthcare landscape. Moreover, we glimpse into the future, where Dr. VanWagoner sheds light on the potential of AI in biomedical research. He emphasizes AI's ability to sift through vast data sets, identifying previously unknown health patterns that could revolutionize healthcare outcomes, particularly in diagnosing and treating rare diseases. With an eye on responsible data handling and privacy protection, Dr. VanWagoner acknowledges the exciting possibilities AI brings while also voicing caution about the risks associated with biased or inaccurate data. This episode offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between AI and biomedical research, and the importance of meticulous data curation in this transformative field.
Join us in this enlightening conversation, which underscores the pivotal role of research in our community, and discover the remarkable journey of Dr. Tim VanWagoner as he continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in the heart of Oklahoma.

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | The Making of An Epidemiologist – Dr. Campbell’s Story: Episode 1(2023)

In this episode of the GROklahoma Podcast Show, we are honored to feature Dr. Janis Campbell, an esteemed professor of epidemiology renowned for her extensive contributions to research and evaluation. With a remarkable focus on cancer health disparities and collaborative efforts with American Indian tribes, Dr. Campbell's expertise shines brightly. Beyond her research endeavors, she has nurtured the growth of over 75 students, fostering their publication of research findings and presentations at prestigious gatherings. Notably, Dr. Campbell co-directs the tracking and evaluation core within the Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources.
Join us as we delve into her journey, discussing her childhood influences, ethical considerations in her work, substantial research insights, and her instrumental role in a CDC-funded program centered on Indian Country. Throughout the conversation, we gain insights into her passion for mentoring, the challenges of community engagement, the significance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and her reflections on emerging healthcare technologies. From discussing Oklahoma's unique challenges to pondering the fairness aspect within epidemiology, we unravel the rich tapestry of her experiences.
This episode is a poignant reminder of the importance of asking the right questions and recognizing the ripple effects of seemingly small decisions. Dr. Campbell's journey underscores how these elements play a vital role in shaping a meaningful career. Hosted by Dr. Ogunsanya, this episode unveils Dr. Campbell's multifaceted journey, encapsulating the essence of her impactful career in epidemiology.

The GROklahoma Podcast Show | Connecting the Dots – Exploring the Gateway to Research in Oklahoma: Episode 000 (2023)

In this inaugural episode, we dive into the world of clinical and translational research in Oklahoma. Hosted by Dr. Motolani Ogunsanya from The Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources (OSCTR), this podcast aims to connect researchers with the abundant resources and opportunities available in the state. Joined by special guests Dr. Janis Campbell and Ms. Nicole Holmes, also from the OSCTR, we explore the significance of research in Oklahoma, success stories, challenges faced by researchers, available resources and support, collaboration platforms, and more.
Thanks for tuning in to the inaugural episode. Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for future episodes where we continue to explore the world of clinical and translational research in Oklahoma. Until next time, sign up for our email newsletter at groklahomapodcast@ouhsc.edu to stay up to date.