What if the biggest influences on our health aren't found in a hospital?

Claudine Thornton yarns with proud Ngiyampaa Wongaibon man, Social Epidemiologist, Director of the Mayi kKuwayu  Study and her big brother Professor Ray Lovett,  to explore the cultural, social and systemic factors that shape Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

Together they unpack why following people over time through research matters, how culture, language and connection to Country contribute to better health and wellbeing, and why racism continues to have profound impacts on physical and mental health. Ray also shares how Indigenous Data Sovereignty is transforming research by returning control of data back to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

This conversation challenges deficit thinking and reminds us that when Mob lead the research, we create stronger evidence, better policy and healthier futures.

In this episode you'll hear about:

• The Mayi Kuwayu  Study and why longitudinal research matters
• How language, culture and connection to Country influence wellbeing
• The health impacts of racism and intergenerational trauma
• Cultural determinants of health alongside social determinants
• Indigenous Data Sovereignty and community ownership of data
• Why culturally safe research leads to better health outcomes

Acknowledgement of Country

Opening Acknowledgement of Country spoken in Ngiyampaa language by Jesse Hodgetts and used with permission.

Biggest Feeds is supported by the National Best Practice Unit and funded through the Australian Government's Tackling Indigenous Smoking Program.

Disclaimer

The views, opinions and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, producers, funding partners or affiliated organisations.

Whether you work in health, research, policy or community, this episode offers a powerful reminder that culture isn't separate from health, it's fundamental to it.