I've always been drawn to the issues of health, wellness, and how we heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. My father worked as a pharmacist and my first journalism job in America was working as a health reporter in a small rural town in Northern California. Today, I am keenly aware of how equity issues play out so starkly in our broken healthcare system and the need to tell these stories to inspire change.

In honor of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month, Imogen Arate brings us this mid-week podcast recommendation list about API contributions to diversity in the arts. During reflections about actions that we can all take to ensure that our future follows a positive trajectory, Imogen was inspired by her love of art and open and inclusive communication. Her list builds on these two themes.

Amy writes: Climate podcasts are my jam! For Earth Day, I like to listen to ones that take me back to the roots of the climate movement, which was inspired by the civil rights movement and rage at oil companies.

Since the term was first coined in the 1970s, 4/20 has become a global celebration of cannabis. And there is a lot to celebrate! Cannabis is legal for adult use in 18 states and for medical use in 38 states. To me, the most fascinating thing about cannabis is its growing impact on nearly every part of our culture, especially for women. This list gives you a taste of the many ways you might find yourself interacting with modern, legal cannabis today!

Matty writes about these podcast recommendations: I grew up in West Virginia and I believe that the best storytellers come from Appalachia. I love helping bring the voices from home to everyone.