Writing public health for the public: Stories that change minds | Population Healthy Podcast

University of Michigan School of Public Health faculty, William Lopez and Paul Fleming, have a candid conversation about their recently published books and what it means to communicate public health in a moment of mistrust and misinformation. They explore how books can be a powerful way to share public health ideas beyond academia, offering space for storytelling, context, and connection. They also discuss the challenges of writing for public audiences, including ethical storytelling and translating evidence into clear language. Their conversation highlights lessons for students and practitioners, and why public health communication matters now more than ever. 00:41 - Intro: Meet This Episode's Hosts 01:31 - The Power of Books in Public Health 03:54 - Tackling Big Ideas and Reaching a Broader Audience 08:33 - The Challenges of Writing for a Public Audience 13:00 - The Importance of Public Health in Turbulent Times 19:31 - Overcoming Writing Challenges and Finding Your Voice 24:15 - Navigating Diverse Perspectives in Public Health 28:59 - The Future of Public Health and Its Students