The Ricochet Effect Podcast, created and co-hosted by Dr. Abeni El-Amin and Terry Dumphord, is a production of Project Ricochet, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing health equity, youth advocacy, and cultural empowerment. The show’s mission is to highlight community leaders, elevate community issues, and foster solutions that improve the social determinants of health (SDOH). These efforts align with the vision of the Central Kentucky Black Family Conference, which strengthens families and communities through equity, resilience, and empowerment. Learn more at projectricochet.org.
In West African culture, the talking drum is more than an instrument...it is a voice. With its ability to mimic human tones, it carried messages across villages, summoning communities and sustaining connection. It symbolizes rhythm, communication, and unity...the very heartbeat of a people.
That spirit shapes this new series, The Talking Drum, amplifying voices that carry messages of healing and hope. This season was recorded live at the inaugural 2025 Central Kentucky Black Family Conference, grounding the series in a space dedicated to family strength, cultural connection, and community resilience.
In this episode, we meet Gerri Botts Stuart, PACE Outreach Coordinator with Bluegrass Care Navigators. Gerri champions health through compassionate care, dedicating her work to ensuring dignity and hope for individuals and families navigating serious health challenges. Her reflections on mental health, personal connection, and community building echo Project Ricochet’s mission to create pathways of equity and healing, while reinforcing the Black Family Conference’s goal of uplifting families through culturally responsive, community-driven support.
This special crossover series of The Ricochet Effect Podcast and #IChampionHealth Chats is a collaboration between Project Ricochet @projectricochet2010, The Voyage Movement @voyage.movement, and Operation Making A Change @omacteam.
