Let's be real, it's a struggle being a Black professional in the public health workforce, am I right? We've been resilient our whole lives, what we need is rest, periodt! It is no secret that historically marginalized Americans face obstacles in many areas of society, especially in the workforce. However, our experience, culture, and heritage as Black professionals continue to build strength and character by utilizing the lessons we have learned to share with others. We can channel difficult setbacks to assist us in not only making a mark for ourselves in the professional world, but also creating systems that will allow us to pause, breathe, and rest.  Joining us on the podcast today is Nicole D. Vick, a public health expert, educator, civic leader, and author who has spent over 20 years providing tools and strategies to improve health and prevent disease in some of Los Angeles County's most underserved communities. Nicole has authored two books and contributed chapters to two anthologies. She also hosts a weekly podcast that discusses critical issues in the Black community from a public health and social justice perspective. In today's episode of The Public Health Joy Podcast, Nicole shares her insights on the experience of being a Black professional in the public health workforce, why she didn’t do her doctorate in public health, and why you can bring the public health lens to any space and it proves relevant. We discuss the basic foundation on which public health was established, the impact of our lived experiences, and the importance of community. To hear more about operating in the disconnect and making success for yourself, be sure to start listening now! Enjoy.  Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to our guest on today’s episode. Nicole D. Vick; public health expert, educator, civic leader, and author. [0:01:00] Resonating and relating to the same struggles in the Black public health workforce. [0:02:00] Nicole gives us the tea about who she is, what she does, and what she’s got going on. [0:03:00] Why Nicole didn’t do her doctorate in public health. [0:04:20] Bringing the public health lens to any space, and making it relevant. [0:06:20] We delve into a discussion about the foundation of public health. [0:07:00] Bringing with you, your lived experiences. [0:11:50] Nicole unpacks how she became interested in the workforce. [0:17:20] The importance of community. [0:20:55] Operating in the disconnect. [0:22:10] Making success for yourself. [0:24:25] Theory versus practice: why a textbook won’t teach you everything you need to know. [0:28:30] Finding the joy in the trenches. [0:33:00] Where to find out more about Nicole D. Vick. [0:34:15] If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review! For more transcripts, show notes,and more visit: https://joyeewashington.com/public-health-joy-podcast-season-3/