Lunch and Learn with Dr. Berry Dr. Berry: Physician, Health Educator, Blogger, Speaker, Best Selling Autho

So, let's talk about the story and experience Black fathers go through in raising autism-diagnosed kids…
While autism discussions and advocacy are slowly coming to the forefront, unfortunately, not enough attention is given to the experiences of fathers – especially Black fathers – just yet.
That’s why we’re back with another episode from this two-part series with Nick Richardson, an author, a loving husband, and a Black father to a son who has a dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD.
Going through the experience of having to unlearn and relearn everything for his son's development, he believes in the power and importance of having support groups and/or communities.
Regardless of whether you’re a father who just got your kid’s diagnosis or a spouse trying to understand what your husband is thinking, this two-part series will try to serve as a helping hand in this time of need.
In this episode, Nick emphasizes the importance of creating a household full of love as he stresses how crucial it is that as parents, we also find people we trust to rely on so we can find balance and take a break. Because as beautiful and loving as it is that our love drives us to work for the betterment of our kids, we also need to recharge and take a breath.
Why you need to check this episode:
Understand the importance of parents having a trusted community to rely on for taking a break; Recognize the significance of creating and having a positive and loving household, regardless of whether your kids are atypical, neurotypical, or neurodivergent; and Learn how to find balance in life as a parent, especially if you have a child on the spectrum. “I believe all households should be full of love. Every household is different, but when you’re definitely talking about having a child on the spectrum, creating the most positive atmosphere you can will help better your child in the development with this diagnosis.” – Nick Richardson
Notable Quotes:
“What I’m realizing is I know when I surround my son with the things he prefers, he has a better opportunity not only to learn academically but learn socially when there are positive environments around him.” – Nick Richardson
“It all depends on what your priorities are. That’s how you find out what you can handle and what gets done and what doesn’t get done.” – Nick Richardson
Mentions:
(Part 1) The Unique Journey of Black Fathers Raising Autistic Kids with Nick Richardson AutisHim Breaking Barriers: An Introductory Look at African American Fathers and Autism Advocacy Connect with Nick Richardson:
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In today's episode, we delve into an essential and timely topic—Men's Health Month. This observance is not just a calendar event; it's a crucial reminder of the importance of personal responsibility in health management for men.
We'll explore why Men’s Health Month is celebrated, discuss the major diseases that disproportionately affect men, and provide actionable insights on how men can improve their health outcomes.
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Key Discussion Points:
Significance of Men's Health Month: An overview of why this month is dedicated to men's health and what it aims to achieve in terms of awareness and action. Top 10 Diseases Affecting Men: We'll break down the most common health challenges faced by men today, from heart disease to mental health issues, and discuss the statistics and preventive measures. Improving Health Outcomes: Practical advice on how men can take charge of their health, including lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and being proactive about health screenings. This episode is a call to action for all men to prioritize their health and for society to support and facilitate healthier lifestyles for men at every age.
Links:
Men's Health Month Official Website

So, let's talk about the story and experience Black fathers go through in raising autism-diagnosed kids…
Nick Richardson is an author, a loving husband, and a Black father to a son who has a dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Going through the experience of having to unlearn and relearn everything for the development of his son, he believes in the power and importance of having support groups and/or communities.
Just like what he said in this episode, more often than not, people – especially men – tend to forget that while they’re going through the struggles, there are other people – or men – going through the same, too. Not to mention the lack of support for our brothers out there as well.
But while it is unfortunate that the stories of fathers – especially Black men – aren’t being talked about enough these days, we cannot let our voices be silenced, for like our autistic loved ones, we also need all the support that we can receive.
And that’s one of the reasons why he’s here today – to send the message out there that this is happening and there are people whose story mirrors yours as well, and that we can be of help to one another as we journey this life and experience of having autistic kids.
So, join us, and let’s talk about our story, because who knows? As Nick says, it can edify, help, or move somebody, and even teach people about autism and fatherhood as a parent whose child has special needs.
Why you need to check this episode:
Discover the story of Black fathers who have a child on the spectrum (with special needs); Recognize the impact and importance of having a community or support group, especially within the African-American population; and Find out the internal letdowns usually experienced by fathers whose family member/s got diagnosed, and understand how and why fathers also need support “I believe African-Americans are communal people. I think we need each other in order for our children to grow and develop to be the most productive citizens possible.” – Nick Richardson
Notable Quotes:
“Everything that you knew about raising a child, nine times out of 10, came from you being that child being raised [by] your parents or grandparents or people who have poured into you. [But] none of that now matters. For the most part, you can’t do and raise your child in the manner that you were raised. So, what you think you know, you now have to unlearn, and relearn what is necessary for your child’s development.” – Nick Richardson
“When you’re going through all of this, the one thing you do not realize is that there are other men going through it, too.” – Nick Richardson
“It’s not just that brothers need brothers to understand that, but talking to other brothers helps you reflect on yourself. It kind of gives you a different perspective on what you can possibly do. In our support group, we don’t tell anybody how to do anything. We give our stories, we give our experiences, we give the things that we’ve tried, and if it works for you, take it; if it doesn’t work, see if another brother has a different experience that you can use to help you in your situation.” – Nick Richardson
“We do a lot of sacrificing for our family because we care about them. We want our children to be the best versions of themselves as possible.” – Nick Richardson
“The negative energy that I was giving, my son was just taking it and giving it back; it wasn’t helping him. So, I could not discipline him the way I was disciplined. I had to find another way, which is where some of these trainings are coming in and talking to ABA therapists.” – Nick Richardson
Mentions:
My Autism In Black Conference Recap AutisHim DSM-5 Autism in Black Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member.
Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartR

In today’s episode, we’re addressing a controversial statement made by known anti-vaxxer Dr. Mary Bowden regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Dr. Bowden recently tweeted claims that insurance companies are financially incentivizing COVID-19 vaccinations for their own gain. This episode will dissect her statements, explore the actual incentives insurance companies might have, and discuss the established benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine.
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Key Discussion Points:
Dr. Bowden’s Controversial Tweet: A detailed look at her recent claims and the motivations behind such statements. Understanding Insurance Core Measures and Bonuses: We’ll clarify what core measures are, how they relate to insurance practices, and whether there’s any truth to the claim of financial incentives tied specifically to COVID-19 vaccines. The Proven Benefits of the COVID-19 Vaccine: Despite the controversy, we’ll discuss the scientifically proven benefits of the vaccine, seen in reduced hospitalization and death rates among the vaccinated population. This episode aims to provide a balanced view, separating fact from fiction in the ongoing debate about vaccine incentives and efficacy.
Links:
X.com (formerly Twitter): Dr. Bowden’s Tweet

In today's episode, we delve into a pressing issue that has recently shaken the healthcare industry: the cyberattack on the Ascension Healthcare System. This significant breach has not only compromised data but also highlighted the vulnerability of healthcare systems to cyber threats, significantly impacting patient care as hospitals are forced to revert from electronic to paper charting.
Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​
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Key Discussion Points:
Overview of the Ascension Cyberattack: We'll explore the details of the recent cyberattacks on Ascension Healthcare System, examining how and why the breach occurred. Cybersecurity Preparedness in Healthcare: Discussing the general readiness of healthcare systems to handle such cyber threats and what measures can be taken to enhance security. Impact on Patient Care: A critical look at how switching from electronic to paper charting affects patient care, the risks involved, and the broader implications for healthcare service delivery. Links:
NPR: How the Ascension Cyberattack Is Disrupting Care at Hospitals

So, let’s talk about taking care of our mental health as we observe the Mental Health Awareness Month…
The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and as Dr. Delphin-Rittmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says, it is a time to promote the importance of mental health and its impact on our well-being as humans.
A lot of times, we focus on ailments, like “I’m getting a lot of weight”, “my back hurts”, and “my blood pressure is too high”, and push aside our mental health, not knowing it’s highly correlated to every aspect of our life.
Data shows that nearly 1 in 4 adults reported mental illness, almost 20% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode, and one death by suicide happens every 11 minutes here in the United States.
This is an unparalleled mental health crisis we’re going through right now, yet here we are, still asking and not understanding why people commit suicide.
But we don’t want that to continue; we want to help keep your mental health in check and on the right track. Just like what the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) said, with the right care, anyone affected by or at risk for a mental health condition can thrive, achieve well-being, and lead meaningful lives.
Join me in this week’s episode as we take a pause and realign our mental health to the path it needs to be at.
Why you need to check this episode:
Recognize the importance of checking in on yourself, especially your mental health; Discover how your mental health correlates with other aspects of your life and your well-being as a whole; and Understand why there are people who choose mental clarity over things like promotion, job opportunities, etc. “Mental health is so key, because even if all of these other [health] – spiritual, financial, even the medical – even if all those things are aligned, if your mental health is not together, it will typically suffer and bring the others down with it.” – Dr. Berry Pierre
Notable Quotes:
“Regardless of what the resolution is, if mentally, we aren’t there to make sure that they succeed, it’s not going to succeed.” – Dr. Berry Pierre
“Life is still happening around us. We just have to figure out ‘How can I position myself so that life doesn’t continue to beat me up from a mental standpoint, because if it continues to beat me up from a mental standpoint, everything else falls.’” – Dr. Berry Pierre
This episode is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration or SAMHSA.
To learn how to get support for mental health conditions, visit www.findsupport.gov.
If you’re looking for treatment services in your community, visit www.findtreatment.gov.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or chat www.988lifeline.org for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member.
Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify