In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Julie Chaya, Health Commissioner at Richland Public Health, who’s redefining what it means to care for a community. Under her leadership, Richland Public Health has launched creative programs like a wellness vending machine stocked with free health essentials, a Vitamin Angels partnership providing prenatal vitamins to local women, and even car-seat sensors that prevent hot car tragedies.

Julie shares how her path, from aspiring Nike designer to nationally recognized public health leader, shaped her belief that wellness begins with small, intentional choices: washing your hands, resting when you’re sick, showing up for your neighbors.

From rebuilding public trust after COVID to helping people find reliable health information in a noisy online world, Julie’s story is a reminder that public health isn’t just policy, it’s people, compassion, and the daily habits that help all of us thrive.