Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast

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Welcome to Public Health Spotlight. Hosted by Panoramic Associates' Mia Collett and Maisie Hockings, this series explores the pivotal role of leaders and experts shaping public health across the UK. Join us as we feature inspiring conversations with public health leaders and Consultants from England, Scotland, Wales, and the UK Crown Dependencies. Over the next few months, we'll spotlight Directors of Public Health from Birmingham, Sheffield, Swindon, Camden, East Sussex, and many more as we aim to inspire the next wave.

  1. 1D AGO

    Unpacking Public Health: Equity, Community, and Lasting Change

    Send us a text In this episode of the Public Health Spotlight podcast, host Callum sits down with Jason Strelitz, Corporate Director of Adults, Health and Communities for the London Borough of Newham. Jason shares his inspiring journey into public health, sparked by a passion for social justice, child health, and his pivotal work alongside Sir Michael Marmot on the Marmot Review. Jason reflects on the challenges and lessons from leading Newham’s COVID-19 response one of the hardest-hit areas in the UK explaining how public health became central to community life during the pandemic. He discusses emotional moments from the crisis, community resilience, and the importance of partnerships, particularly through innovative programmes such as the COVID Health Champions and the vitamin D campaign for older adults. The conversation also explores Jason’s leadership philosophy, his approach to collaboration across public health and adult social care, and the impactful initiatives developed in Newham to tackle inequalities and improve health outcomes. Jason offers advice for future public health leaders, emphasising vision, evidence-based practice, and the power of teamwork. As Jason prepares for his new role at the Health Foundation, he discusses his excitement about influencing national policy and driving forward the prevention agenda. Listeners will find this episode full of practical insights, moving stories, and inspiration for anyone interested in public health, community engagement, and leadership. Key topics covered: Jason’s early career and work with Sir Michael Marmot Leading Newham’s COVID-19 response and lessons learned Building partnerships and community-centred approaches Cross-sector collaboration between public health and social care Innovative initiatives to tackle health inequalities Advice for aspiring public health professionals Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    41 min

  2. OCT 21

    Innovating Public Health: Building Stronger Communities with Limited Resources

    Send us a text In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, River Simmons is joined by Katrina Stephens, Director of Public Health (DPH) for Westmorland and Furness. Katrina reflects on her distinctive career journey from studying social policy, through various roles in local authorities and the NHS, to her rapid progression from consultant to DPH. She shares how acting-up opportunities and strong professional networks supported her transition into leadership. Katrina offers valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities of building a public health team within the newly formed Westmorland and Furness Council following its split from Cumbria. She discusses how public health has been embedded across every area of the authority from housing to highways and highlights innovative collaborations, including designing bridges with suicide prevention in mind. The conversation explores key priorities for the region: supporting an ageing population, tackling deep-rooted health inequalities (particularly in Barrow), and addressing the unique demands of rural health delivery amid limited funding. Katrina also discusses recruitment in a sparsely populated area and the importance of ‘growing their own’ talent to create a sustainable workforce. A standout topic is Barrow’s role in the UK’s nuclear defence industry and how this influences local regeneration, employment, and public health. Katrina explains how joint programmes with government and industry partners are helping to ensure new investment translates into better health and wellbeing for local residents. She closes with practical advice for aspiring Directors of Public Health: seize every opportunity, build a broad range of experience, and stay open to unexpected career turns. Katrina ends on an optimistic note, celebrating the resilience, strengths, and community spirit that define Westmorland and Furness. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring exploration of public health leadership, community regeneration, and the realities of serving a diverse and evolving region. Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    20 min

  3. SEP 30

    From Yorkshire to Jersey: The Adventures of a Public Health Director

    Send us a text In this engaging episode of Public Health Spotlights, host Callum sits down with Peter Bradley, the Director of Public Health and Medical Officer of Health for the Government of Jersey. Peter shares his unique and varied career journey, which spans general practice and child health in Yorkshire, to leadership roles in England, Wales, Norway, and now Jersey. He discusses how his early experiences in medicine and a keen interest in healthcare ethics inspired him to shift toward public health, with a core focus on prevention and tackling the broader social determinants of health. Peter offers rare insights into the differences between public health systems in Norway, Wales, and England, highlighting the importance of adapting to local cultures, building relationships, and listening closely to communities. He delves into his time as Director of Health Intelligence for Public Health England, where he led groundbreaking advances in data science and health intelligence including the development of the highly influential COVID dashboard during the pandemic. The conversation explores the promise and challenges of AI in public health, emphasising the need for trust, data-driven decision-making, and ethical oversight. Peter reflects on his proudest achievements, including launching comprehensive public health services in Jersey, forging strong ties with diverse communities, and creating innovative system-wide approaches to health improvement. Callum and Peter also discuss the dual responsibilities of his current role in Jersey, balancing rapid, island-wide decision-making with strategic clinical oversight. He shares the main public health challenges facing Jersey, like an aging population and health inequalities, and how his team is tackling these issues head-on. Wrapping up, Peter offers thoughtful advice to aspiring directors of public health: be courageous, look after yourself, and approach your career as a long-term journey of learning. He encourages future public health leaders to embrace both challenge and adventure, reaffirming that, ultimately, public health is about helping people and making a real difference in their lives. If you’re interested in understanding how public health leadership adapts across different systems, the real-world impact of data innovation, and the mindset required to champion population health, this episode is a must-watch! Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    31 min

  4. SEP 9

    Building Healthier Communities: Stephen’s Vision for Stoke-on-Trent

    Send us a text In this insightful episode of Public Health Spotlights, host River Simmons sits down with Stephen Gunther, the Director of Public Health at Stoke-On-Trent. Stephen shares his fascinating career journey from his early interest in nutrition to holding leadership roles at local, regional, and European levels. He opens up about the personal experiences that acted as motivation in his journey into public health, including family tragedies and the loss of loved ones, and how those events inspired him to make a difference in the lives of others.  Stephen discusses his unique portfolio, which includes not just public health, but also leisure, wellbeing, trading standards, bereavement care, and community development. He explains the importance of diplomacy, community listening, and collaboration, both from his European Commission experience and his local government work.  The conversation dives into Stoke’s big challenges, like mental wellbeing, addiction, and high infant mortality rates, and shares how programs like Family Matters are making a measurable difference by prioritising listening to and connecting with local communities and putting the community at the forefront of everything they do. Stephen also talks about the recent recognition of his team’s work in increasing MMR vaccination rates and the strategies that led to their success. Wrapping up, he offers practical advice for aspiring public health directors: broaden your experience, stay adaptable, and always engage directly with the community. If you want to understand the evolving landscape of public health, the importance of listening to your communities, and what it takes to lead meaningful change at the local government level, this episode is a must-watch! Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    20 min

  5. AUG 12

    From Nepal to the NHS: Andrew Furber on Leading Public Health Change

    Send us a text In this episode, Director Callum Gardiner sits down with Andrew Furber to explore his inspiring journey into public health, from early experiences in Nepal to senior leadership roles across the UK.  Andrew shares the pivotal moments that sparked his passion for public health, especially witnessing preventable illness in remote communities. He discusses the challenges and rewards of public health training, the evolution of leadership roles, and the importance of building and leading effective teams. Andrew reflects on his proudest achievements, including successful tobacco control measures and improving breast screening rates, and provides actionable advice for early-career professionals considering public health leadership. They also touch on major public health priorities in the Northwest like tackling health inequalities, cardiovascular disease, and promoting prevention over reactive care. The conversation wraps up with Andrew’s personal reflections on confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and valuing teamwork in driving real, lasting change for communities. Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    27 min

  6. JUL 22

    Public Health Spotlights: Trafford's DPH Journey & Regional Collaboration

    Send us a text In this episode of Public Health Spotlights, host River Simmons welcomes Helen Gollins, Director of Public Health (DPH) at Trafford, for an insightful discussion about her pathway into public health leadership. Helen recounts her career journey, from early research roles in London and public health intelligence in Manchester, through the rigorous public health training scheme, and ultimately to leading Trafford’s public health response stepping into the DPH role during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation sheds light on the unique landscape of Trafford, a borough shaped by both affluence and areas of significant deprivation, plus a day-to-day population surge driven by world-class sporting venues and thriving business sectors. Helen highlights the ways in which her team adapts public health strategy across diverse neighbourhoods, tackling everything from dementia care to community vaccination rates, and leveraging strong voluntary sector partnerships. Helen also shares her pride in spearheading innovative local initiatives, including a successful antibiotic stewardship program that has dramatically reduced unnecessary prescribing, a Greater Manchester-wide project to regulate infant male circumcision and reduce hospital admissions, and Trafford’s award-winning efforts to promote active travel. The episode dives into the vital role of the Greater Manchester Public Health Network a collaborative, region-wide partnership of DPHs illustrating how collective leadership and shared learning are accelerating progress on challenges like smoking cessation and health inequalities across the area. For those aspiring to public health leadership, Helen offers practical advice: build broad experience, cultivate networks, be strategic about influence, and when ready embrace the challenge of advocacy and system-wide prevention. Whether you’re considering a career in public health or seeking perspective on regional collaboration and leadership, this episode delivers actionable insights and inspiring examples from the field. Download for more illuminating conversations, and visit our website for further resources and updates. Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    21 min

  7. APR 10

    Exploring the Role and Journey of a Public Health Director with Ruth Tennant

    Send us a text In this episode of Public Health Spotlights, host Maisie Hockings is joined by Ruth Tennant, Director of Public Health at Solihull Council. Ruth shares her distinctive journey into the field, which began in public policy and led to her current role via a public health training scheme. She underscores the importance of long-term, broad thinking in securing the greatest health benefits for local communities. The conversation explores the diverse challenges Ruth has encountered, from addressing health inequalities in Solihull—marked by a pronounced disparity in life expectancy  vto her previous work in Leicester, a vibrant, multicultural city. She reflects on particularly rewarding moments, such as launching a city-centre sexual health clinic, establishing new family hubs, and contributing to emergency planning during the Sudanese repatriation flights. Ruth encourages aspiring public health professionals to hone their influencing skills and stresses the value of collaboration across varied agencies. She also highlights the benefits of joining professional networks like the Association of Directors of Public Health, which provide invaluable peer support and opportunities for shared learning. Whether you're considering a career in public health or seeking insight into the varied responsibilities of a Director of Public Health, this episode offers practical advice and thoughtful reflections on bridging strategic leadership with meaningful action. Thank you for tuning into Public Health Spotlights. Subscribe for more engaging conversations on public health, and visit our website to explore additional resources. Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    15 min

  8. MAR 13

    Exploring Public Health: Director Sandra Husbands Discusses Strategies and Community Engagement

    Send us a text In this episode of Public Health Spotlights, host Maisie Hockings welcomes Dr. Sandra Husbands, Director of Public Health at the London Borough of Hackney and the City of London. Dr. Sandra Husbands shares her extensive career journey in public health, from her initial medical training to her current role, highlighting a pivotal moment during her experience in Brazil where she recognised the critical role of better living conditions in disease prevention. The conversation explores the various challenges and opportunities inherent in overseeing public health across two distinct local authorities. Dr. Husbands discusses her responsibilities, including overseeing a diverse team addressing issues from substance abuse to suicide prevention. She reflects on the importance of community engagement and the innovative use of technology and data, such as AI for report generation and interactive data presentation.  Additionally, Dr. Husbands shares insights on successful initiatives such as the City's collaborative suicide prevention efforts. She emphasise the significance of community participation, and the pilot of a community-led needs assessment to better align public health services with community needs. For public health professionals, students, or anyone interested in community health and leadership, this episode offers a deep dive into the multifaceted challenges and innovations in urban public health, highlighting the crucial balance between strategic oversight and community engagement.  Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

    37 min
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About

Welcome to Public Health Spotlight. Hosted by Panoramic Associates' Mia Collett and Maisie Hockings, this series explores the pivotal role of leaders and experts shaping public health across the UK. Join us as we feature inspiring conversations with public health leaders and Consultants from England, Scotland, Wales, and the UK Crown Dependencies. Over the next few months, we'll spotlight Directors of Public Health from Birmingham, Sheffield, Swindon, Camden, East Sussex, and many more as we aim to inspire the next wave.

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