Welcome to the Public Health Joy Podcast. The safe space for real and honest conversation about what building a public health research career is really like. The challenges, the triumphs, and all the lessons we learn along the way. I'm your host, Dr. Joyee, a public health researcher, Ph.D. survivor, and entrepreneur.  In today's episode, we are talking with Brandon Johnson about building connections and saving lives as a tireless advocate for positive mental health and suicide prevention services. This is where research meets relationship. Together, we will find our public health joy.  Key Points From This Episode: Introducing today’s guest, Brandon J. Johnson, his work with SAMHSA, and his new role as Acting Branch Chief of the Suicide Prevention Branch. [0:00:50] Why any role can serve you and teach you important transferable skills. [0:04:43] Using passion to help you persevere through difficult challenges. [0:09:24] The adversity experienced by people of color, leading to higher rates of burnout. [0:10:50] What it means to understand your community and tap into what they need. [0:11:22] Shining a light on human connection and how it drives public health work. [0:13:19] Brandon’s thoughts on community engagement when dealing with sensitive topics like suicide, and violence, prevention. [0:16:09] Meeting people where they are and how vulnerability will help you in the long run. [0:21:28] What Brandon learned about human connection from being a research assistant. [0:23:24] An overview of what you learn as an MCHES, how it differs from being a CHES, and how MCHES training enables you to have a community perspective. [0:27:13] Occupying a leadership role and the opportunity to model behavior for others. [0:29:17] Why the real work happens after you take your MCHES exams. [0:30:49] Brandon shares what brings him the most joy in his work. [0:33:24] Find out how you can get in touch with Brandon online. [0:35:55] If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review!  For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: https://joyeewashington.com/podcast/