A new, independent film coming to Rhode Island this weekend. The Chaplain and the Doctor follows ICU physician, palliative care doctor, and filmmaker, Jessica Zitter, and her collaboration with a hospital chaplain named Betty Clark. The film explores how compassion, curiosity, and interdisciplinary collaboration can transform the care of patients and families during some of the hardest moments of their lives. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Zitter talks about her film, her experience, and a new kind of care - one that honors the diverse backgrounds of patients, and the most human needs we all share.

When Rhode Island voted to legalize cannabis use for adults in 2022, it signaled a shift in public attitudes toward the drug. But as cannabis becomes more widely used, health and safety risks like impaired driving can be a serious concern. Make no mistake – driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous no matter the substance. However, studies have shown that cannabis may not be perceived in the same light as alcohol or other drugs. In this episode, Mark Schieldrop, of AAA Northeast, talks about the data surrounding cannabis and driving, as well as a program that AAA has spearheaded to shift gears in the perception of risk among young people.

They're in our air, our water, and even our bodies! Microplastics are tiny - even microscopic - but their impact on our health and our environment is anything but. University of Rhode Island’s, Dr. Vinka Craver joins Public Health Out Loud for this season six premiere to share some horrifying truths about microplastics in our world.

Learn more about the Socio-ecological Impact of Microplastics in Coastal Ecosystems Project.