Public Health On Call Podcast
Evidence and experts to help you understand today’s public health news—and what it means for tomorrow.
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About the Podcast
The Public Health On Call podcast makes important public health topics accessible to all through quick, informative conversations. Hosts tackle complex topics through engaging interviews and real-world perspectives.
Our ever-growing list of guests have included researchers, public health commissioners, elected leaders, patients, clergy, ethicists, front line clinicians, and even former health officials who were fired for doing their jobs.
Since launching in March 2020 with the purpose of sharing credible expertise and debunking misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic, Public Health On Call has covered a range of topics, including other viral outbreaks, reproductive health, gun violence prevention, international humanitarian crises, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, health equity, racial and environmental justice, the opioid crisis, and so much more. In 2023, the show's success was chronicled in The Journal of Health Security.
Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.
Meet the Hosts
Joshua Sharfstein, MD, vice dean for public health practice and community engagement, a faculty member in health policy, pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland’s Health Department.
Stephanie Desmon, director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communications Programs and a former journalist.
Lindsay Smith Rogers, director of content strategy for the School and producer of Public Health On Call.
Contact the Show
Email your questions and ideas to PublicHealthQuestion@jhu.edu, and follow @PublicHealthPod on Bluesky.
Special Series and Episodes
In addition to our regular episodes, Public Health On Call has published investigative deep dives and themed series on important issues.
Vaccines 101: From Molecular Science to Global Policy
A series from the Public Health On Call podcast explores the science, safety, and systems behind vaccines.
The Fight for a Swimmable Harbor in Baltimore City
A look at how a coalition of activists, organizations, agencies, scientists, and residents came together to start restoring Baltimore’s iconic waterway.
How Can We Solve the Black Maternal Health Crisis?
Change at every level—from federal policy to individual action—can support Black birthing people in the U.S.
The Problem with Pulse Oximeters: A Long History of Racial Bias
How did a racially biased medical device become the standard of care—and what’s being done to fix it?
Public Health On Call Special Series—The Consequences of Abortion Restriction
A two-part podcast series focused on the health consequences of severely restrictive abortion legislation.
Public Health On Call Series—Gun Violence Prevention
Gun violence is a preventable public health problem.
Awards
2024
- Anthem Award
- Gold, Podcast or Audio: Health
- Signal Award
- Bronze, Limited Series & Specials: Science & Education – The Consequences of Abortion Restriction: A Two Part Series
- Silver, Shows - Education
2023
- Anthem Award
- Silver, Podcast or Audio: Human & Civil Rights Causes – The Surge in Anti-Trans Bills and Attacks on LGBTQ+ Health
- Silver, Podcast or Audio: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – How Can We Solve the Black Maternal Health Crisis?
- Bronze, Podcast or Audio
- Signal Award
- Silver, Limited Series and Specials: Health and Wellness – How Can We Solve the Black Maternal Health Crisis?
2022
- Anthem Award
- Silver, Podcast or Audio: Health – Gun Violence Is a Preventable Public Health Issue
- Silver, Special Projects: Health
- CASE Circle of Excellence
- Silver, Communications - Podcast (Frequent)
- Signal Award
- Silver, Podcasts in Education