In a fast-paced changing world, the role of public health is ever more critical. Join Tracy Mehan and Katrina Boylan, cohosts of the podcast Communications Breakdown, for a discussion on what’s trending in the public health communications world, like finding an authentic voice, reaching audiences, addressing mis- and disinformation, using AI ethically and effectively, and creating content that meets your audience’s needs.
Speakers:
Tracy Mehan is the director of Research Translation and Communication at the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and co-host of Communications Breakdown - a podcast that breaks down what works, and doesn’t, in health and science communication. With nearly 30 years of experience in health communication, she leads national efforts to advance health literacy, research dissemination, and engage the public in injury prevention. Tracy is a frequent media contributor and a recognized educator who teaches researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals how to communicate effectively. She is also a national voice in exploring the ethical and impactful use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to reduce injuries and improve community health. Tracy has a BA in psychology from Princeton University, a master's in communication from the Annenberg School of Communication at the University of Pennsylvania, and has completed coursework towards a PhD in health behavior, health promotion in the College of Public Health at The Ohio State University.
Katrina Boylan is a senior research writer at the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She develops messaging and outreach strategies for child injury prevention campaigns as well as education and training on public health and research communications. She loves to work with researchers, staff, students, and others to find the best way to reach their communication goals. As co-host and editor of the Communications Breakdown podcast, she brings warmth, humor, and a bit of perfectionist energy to every episode. Katrina has a BA in English from The Ohio State University and a juris doctor from Capital University and worked in state government, healthcare administration, and private law before coming to Nationwide Children's Hospital.