On the latest episode of 4UR HEALTH, host Dr. Ronda Marie Chakolis-Hassan, PharmD, MPH, welcomed two dynamic guests—Dr. Ida Tchuisseu Fonkoue, MD, PhD, and Sam Simmons—for a powerful conversation at the intersection of trauma, cardiovascular health, and community-based healing.
Dr. Ida Tchuisseu Fonkoue is the Director of the Neurobiology of Emotion, Sleep and Trauma (NEST) lab, where her research focuses on the biological pathways connecting psychological trauma to cardiovascular disease, particularly in young women. Her work examines how stress, trauma, and hormonal responses can shape long-term heart health outcomes. Equally committed to mentorship, Dr. Fonkoue is passionate about nurturing the next generation of Black women in medicine and research.
Joining the conversation is Sam Simmons, a leading voice in trauma-informed healing and author of Together: Black Men Healing. Simmons is a long-time advocate and consultant whose work through Simmons Consulting and the Black Men Healing project addresses intergenerational trauma, mental wellness, and the cultural stigmas that often prevent men—especially Black men—from seeking support.
Together, the trio dives deep into how unresolved trauma manifests physically and emotionally within Black communities, why culturally specific approaches to care matter, and how systemic inequities in medicine continue to influence health outcomes. From the lab to the barber shop, their discussion underscores the urgent need for holistic care, inclusive research, and accessible support systems.
4UR HEALTH is hosted by Dr. Chakolis-Hassan and explores health topics from a community-first, culturally informed perspective. Audio only episodes are available on all major podcast platforms.