Today, we're honored to host not one, but two powerhouse leaders in health promotion and cancer research: Dr. Darla Kendzor and Dr. Michael Businelle, the dynamic duo behind the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC) at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Not only are they co-directors dedicated to advancing research and reducing health disparities, but they’re also partners in life, bringing a unique synergy to their groundbreaking work.

In this episode, Darla and Michael open up about their journey to Oklahoma, initially drawn by the opportunity to build something big. They reveal how they were “blown away” by the resources available in Oklahoma—a rare chance to make a transformative impact. From expanding their research focus beyond tobacco to addressing issues like obesity, rural health disparities, and cancer prevention, the couple has cultivated substantial growth in HPRC's influence and reach.

Listen in as they discuss the challenges they’ve faced, such as adapting their work for rural communities and overcoming barriers in research funding, and the resilience that’s driven them to continue growing. Darla shares personal insights from her smoking cessation journey and her drive to empower those facing similar struggles. Michael talks about his path, from nursing and engineering to psychology and mobile health, showing how adaptability has been essential in his career.

Their story goes beyond professional highlights—they share how collaboration in research and marriage has shaped their lives, offering a rare glimpse into the balance of personal and professional partnership. For anyone passionate about health promotion, research, or simply finding inspiration to drive change in underserved communities, this episode is a must-listen!