In this episode, we talk to community members from culturally diverse backgrounds about their positive and negative experiences of living in Australia. We also talk to Andrea, an expert in  'unconscious bias'. Unconscious bias is the hidden thoughts that can lead to racial discrimination, often without us realising it. Can we unlearn the hidden bias we all have? Andrea shares solutions for individuals and workplaces to reduce bias and promote cultural understanding. Special thanks to community members: Jing Hua / Mo Lien Nguyen Tranh Pham Adila Zainal Luul Abdisamad  Sumaya Keyse Abdinoor    Unconscious Bias Training Facilitator: Andrea Gaddie (CEH: Centre for Culture, Ethnicity and Health) Useful links:  Harvard Implicit Association Test https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/research/ Unconscious Bias workshop enquiries: https://www.ceh.org.au/request-training/ This episode commemorates Cultural Diversity Week (March 18th-24th)  and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination March 21st).

Listen to Van's story about cooking,  growing up as a child in Vietnam, and overcoming challenges after coming to Australia to start a new chapter in her life.  She also reflects on how she built confidence and made new friends with other people who love to cook and share cuisine.    Van's story shows how cooking can help us connect with our heritage, cultivate our skills, and empower our lives.   Van is a cook at Cultural Catering, a social enterprise and a program of North Richmond Community Health. If you want to find out more or see what Van and the cooks have on the menu - visit https://www.culturalcatering.org.au/   Special thanks to Van Nguyen for sharing her story.

This episode, recorded during the 16 Days Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, explores how we can consider culture when addressing gender-based violence - featuring counselors Hamsa Johnston and Zahra Abdurrahman. They discuss the diverse manifestations of family violence, the cultural challenges in recognising abuse, and propose policy changes - particularly for temporary visa holders facing financial dependence and housing insecurity. This episode emphasises the importance of non-judgmental support, empowerment, and collaboration with social service providers who may not recognise signs of family violence.    Guests:  Hamsa Johnston, Counselling Case Worker at North Richmond Community Health Zahra Abdurrahman, Specialist Family Violence Case Worker at the Australian Muslim Women's Centre for Human Rights   Australian Muslim Women's Centre for Human Rights: https://amwchr.org.au/ North Richmond Community Health: https://nrch.com.au/

In this episode, we interview NRCH’s dedicated General Practitioners (GPs) who have been serving their communities for over 30 years. We'll learn about the strategies GPs use to provide culturally appropriate care and ensure a positive healthcare experience for all patients. We'll also hear from people who have used services at community health centres like NRCH and their stories show how important these services are for our community.   This episode was created in support of the Community Health First campaign, which aims to show the important role of community health services in our wider health system and to help them meet the needs of everyone. https://www.communityhealthfirst.org.au/ Guests: Dr Gloria Moscattini (NRCH GP)Dr David Isaac (NRCH GP)My (community member)Jing Yuan Zhan (community member) music: Theme music -  Tom Mitchell Foreign Land - Common Interest  Le Lac -  Sara Afonso

Content warning: This episode will discuss drug overdoses in detail, which may be disturbing to some listeners.  ------- You can learn to save a life in 5 minutes and be a lifeline for your loved ones or community members.   In this episode, Crios, Proactive Overdose Response Initiative (PORI) Coordinator at NRCH’s Medically Supervised Injecting Room (MSIR), sheds light on the opioid overdose landscape in Melbourne. Learn how prescription opioids contribute significantly to overdose statistics and how we can prevent overdose fatalities on a wider scale. We also talk to residents of the North Richmond community to understand the personal impact of naloxone training.   This episode was produced in commemoration of International Overdose Awareness Day.       Special thanks to: Crios O'Mahony, Proactive Overdose Response Initiative (PORI) Coordinator and local residents: Judy, Tanya and Elizabeth   Music: Ripples: Ketsa Le Lac: Sara Afonso NRCH intro theme: Tom Mitchell

In the episode, we join Khanh, who found freedom as a refugee in Australia as a small boy from Vietnam. He tells us how finding freedom in Australia transformed his family's life, enabling him to pursue his dreams and build a better future.     We also hear from guests at the Twilight Market event, held at the Factory in Richmond, to mark #RefugeeWeek. Refugees share with us their perception of freedom, including stories of resilience and overcoming difficulties during their transition to Australia.   This episode was recorded in commemoration of Refugee Week.   Guest: Khanh Lam - Help and Support Officer   Music: All Forgiven - Ketsa Theme song - Tom Mitchell

Today we walk with the NRCH Men's Walking Group, led by facilitator Wayne Russell, and learn how walking and companionship can make a significant difference to men's health.    Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, where we explore the impact that making small changes can have on our lives.   Recorded in commemoration of Men's Health Week.   Guests: Wayne Russell - Consumer and Community Liaison, NRCH Phil and Robbie - Men's Walking Group members   Music: Summer - Oak Studios Theme song - Tom Mitchell

In this episode, Achut Thuc discusses the unspoken battles and hidden stories surrounding mental health in Sudanese and Somali communities. How does your community respond when someone faces mental illness? This podcast will examine deep-rooted beliefs, and cultural norms that shape our response. We'll also explore the potential for compassion and understanding that lies within. This episode also discusses the art of empathetic conversation! Our guests provide practical insights and guidance on how to approach and support someone who might be experiencing mental health challenges in our communities. Tune in to be part of the conversation that aims to empower, educate, and break down barriers.   Presented by: Achut Thuc, Yarra Housing Estate Mental Health Project Coordinator   Guests:  Maryan Mohamed, Health and Wellbeing Officer Kuich Johnson, Health and Wellbeing Officer

In this episode, Kuich (NRCH Health and Wellbeing Officer ) leads the discussion with two other young people and a compassionate counsellor from Cancer Council Victoria, in an eye-opening discussion about vaping.    This episode was also filmed as a video podcast, which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/2ipN4ogDQ8c   What's fueling the surge in e-cigarette and vaping use, especially among young people?  We discuss the factors that have contributed to this phenomenon. We'll delve into the allure of enticing flavors, uncover sneaky marketing tactics used by influencers and social media platforms, and give practical tips on how you can reduce harm to yourself and help your friends who are trying to quit. Listen in and let's shed light on the dangers hidden behind the glossy filters and hashtags. Special thanks to Yarra Youth Services for hosting us, Cancer Council Victoria, and QUIT for your guidance and support.   Presented by: Kuich Johnson: Health and Wellbeing Officer at NRCH Guests:  Honey Henry Teresa Ponchard - Quitline counsellor

In this International Womens Day episode, Rida comments on religious stereotypes in the healthcare system. She also covers the impact of social media 'wellness influencers', and how we can build better communication, trust, and rapport between healthcare workers and Muslim women.   Guest:  Rida Aleem Khan Presenter: Mia Birrell   Music:  9 Days- Ketsa Podcast theme - Tom Mitchell

One of the myths about healthcare is that it is only about what happens in the hospital. Hoa's story highlights that you don't need to be a doctor to improve health outcomes - you just need to care. This episode follows, Hoa, a Health and Support officer in the Community Empowerment and Development (CED) team at NRCH.  We follow her as she co-designs health programs with her community, and collaborates with local organisations to achieve greater health outcomes for everyone.   Acknowledgments: Hoa Tran - Health and Support OfficerCommunity Empowerment and Development (CED) team at NRCHThe Salvation ArmyCarringbush Adult EducationThe CED team works with the Community Connectors program, which seeks to fund local engagement through the employment of local residents living in the Richmond housing estate. Music: Xlyo Ziko - Patina All Forgiven - Ketsa Theme song: Tom Mitchell

In this episode, our staff shares their personal experiences dealing with the stress and uncertainty of the past couple of years. We discuss the ways in which we have adapted to continue providing essential services to the community, including the changes in workplace infrastructure and the emotional toll the pandemic has had on staff.    This episode provides valuable insight into the challenges faced by workers during the pandemic but also serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and emotional well-being in the workplace.   Featuring:   Jess Murray - Harm Reduction Practitioner at MSIRImogen Jordan - Complex Vaccine Case ManagerAli Hassan Pervaiz - Security Manager at NRCHWayne Russell - Consumer and Community LiaisonDr Matt Penn -General PractitionerBrendan Coulton - Executive Manager Community Services and Consumer Empowerment Presented by: Mia Birrell Music: Glacier - SalmonLikeTheFish  Adventure, Darling - Gillicuddy   Theme song: Tom Mitchell

As a child, Nathan grew up seeing the stigma and devastation of HIV/AIDs as portrayed in the media.   One day Nathan was diagnosed as HIV positive. It was hard to see it at the time, but it was the catalyst he needed to live his best life - and now he is helping others to do the same. In this episode, Nathan talks about his experience with modern-day medical treatment, and how he uncovered his life purpose. He reveals the major difficulty he had with an HIV diagnosis was not physical stressors like fatigue or sickness, but something else entirely.   This episode was produced in commemoration of Human Rights Day.   Guests: Nathan Cairns Host: Mia Birrell Theme song - Tom Mitchell

The Hepatitis B Community Perspectives Project is a community co-designed project with people living with hepatitis B. The project aims to explore the diverse experiences of living with hepatitis B. We explore community needs and recommendations for healthcare workers to improve care for people with hepatitis B.   This project was developed by The Victorian Hepatitis B Alliance and funded by the Victorian Department of Health. We thank the project participants for their courage and generosity in sharing their journey to improve care for people living with hepatitis B.   For further information, you can contact the VHBA here: contactvhba@gmail.com   Or visit the VHBA website: https://www.doherty.edu.au/whoccvh/centre-activities/victorian-hepatitis-b-alliance   Advisory Group members: St Vincents MelbourneDoherty InstituteNorth Richmond Community HealthLiverWellother members of VHBA   project management: Nafisa YussfGabrielle Bennett   Acknowledgments: MeiIza Dela Vega

To respond to violence, we need to address the root causes. These include patriarchy, systems of oppression, systemic racism, and inequalities. We also need to think about how gender is viewed in society. Today's episode features Christina Hotka deconstructing the core themes of 16 Days of Activism.   Mx Christina Hotka (they/them) is a proud queer, non binary intersectional feminist, abolitionist, activist and community organiser. They have practiced alongside marginalised communities for 12 years in Meanjin and Naarm in the not-for-profit, government, and private sectors inclusive of key practice leadership roles in family/intimate partner violence. They enjoy being an overall ratbag and serenading their cat with Enya.    Christina can be contacted for media/general inquiries at mxhotka@gmail.com.       Take a look at the following links to learn more about the research mentioned in this episode:   Private Lives 3: https://tinyurl.com/yyx7dfhe   Writing Themselves In 4: https://tinyurl.com/rty834yu   Pride In Prevention: https://tinyurl.com/5xsm6u9m   Christina recommends these resources for further reading:   https://transfemme.com.au/    LGBTQI+ guidance for Family Violence services:  https://tinyurl.com/yt66s3ee   Presented by: Mia Birrell   Music:   Cinematic - Makaih Beats Theme song - Tom Mitchell

This episode celebrates Occupational Therapy Week. Speech pathologists Betty and Livia speak with Occupational Therapist (OT) Leo Gnavi, to discuss how OTs benefit the health and well-being of children. Later in the podcast, Betty and Livia talk about how you can prepare your child for their first week at school.   Presenters: Livia Li: Speech PathologistBetty La: Speech Pathologist with special guest: Leo Gnavi: Occupational Therapist Music: Upbeat Funk Pop - Scott Holmes Music Theme song - Tom Mitchel

Speech therapists from NRCH empower caregivers to support their children with speech and language development. In this episode with the Child Health and Development (CHAD) team, Speech Pathologists Livia and Betty chat about how to support children’s language development by using books at different ages and stages. Produced and presented by: Livia Li, Speech Pathologist Betty La, Speech Pathologist   Voice clip: North Richmond Community Health clients   Books used for demonstration: “The very hungry caterpillar” by Eric Carle, “Food” from Hinkler Books, Each Peach Pear Plum” by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, and “Baby Goz” by Steve Weatherill.   SPA book of the year link: https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/SPAweb/whats_on/Book_of_the_Year/SPAweb/What_s_On/Book_of_the_Year/Book_of_the_Year.aspx?hkey=6d7d21b1-0cd6-4b86-91e3-11884f031a02 Book of the Year - Speech Pathology Australia The winners in the five categories in Speech Pathology Australia 2021 Book of the Year Awards are: Birth to 3 years: Look, Baby! | Written by Janeen Brian and Illustrated by Renée Treml Three to 5 years: Boo Loves Books | Written by Kaye Baillie and Illustrated by Tracie Grimwood Five to 8 years: The Thing That Goes Ping! | Written by Mark Carthew and Illustrated by Shane McG www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au   Music credit: Upbeat Funk Pop - Scott Holmes Music Theme song - Tom Mitchell

As part of NRCH’s regular podcast, this episode explores how Hepatitis C is tackled and treated at NRCH’s MSIR. The national campaign to eradicate Hep C can only succeed if it reaches people who inject drugs. To that end, the MSIR has designed a service that is quick and easy to access, helping people who inject drugs to receive treatment they likely would not have been able to access in the past. As such, the MSIR will be critical if Victoria is to eradicate Hep C.   Guests: Jen Anderson - MSIR Registered NurseSione Crawford -  CEO, Harm Reduction VictoriaDr Jacinta Holmes - Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital Presented by: Dr Nico Clark Mia Birrell  Music:  Ripples - Ketsa Theme song - Tom Mitchell

This episode commemorates the last day of the High Risk Accommodation Response (HRAR) program and reflects on the achievements of our HRAR Superstars. Nuraini asks staff about their success with the community and their dreams moving forward.    Presented by Nuraini Mahamud   Music Talk2Me - Makaih Beats Theme song: Tom Mitchell

NRCH has officially launched The Meeting Place Café.  We unveiled the new alfresco area and the new neon sign at the front of the NRCH building. Listen in to be a part of the celebration, and hear our community members give their candid reviews of the new menu!   Music: Ikaso (la maison tremble) - Lessazo   Theme song: Tom Mitchell