Public Health Educator · DrPH, MPH
A doctorate, a decade in the field, and zero patience for spin. I translate what's actually happening in public health into language that makes sense. My work spans infectious disease, health policy, and the science of how we communicate risk.
About
Hi, I'm Olivia! I hold a doctorate and a master's in public health, and I work at the intersection of infectious disease, health policy, and strategic communications. Boston born and raised, now based in Denver.
Most of what I do is translation — taking new studies, data, and public health findings and turning them into plain language that's actually useful. I'll walk you through what the evidence says, what it doesn't, and why it matters for your everyday life.
And when someone's playing fast and loose with the science behind your health, I'm not shy about saying so. Clear, honest, and always backed by the evidence.
This is my home base — for the podcast, for connecting on Threads, and for the interviews and commentary I've been part of along the way. Welcome in. And if you'd like to partner, get in touch.
The views I express online and in any published interviews or articles are my own and do not reflect those of my employer or any affiliated organizations.
The Podcast
The group chat you wish you were in — real talk about health, science, and the stories behind the headlines. New conversations, no jargon.
Latest episodes — updates automatically
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Let's connect
It's where I post daily, answer questions, and break down what's happening in public health in real time. Come say hi.
Follow along for plain-language takes on the headlines, behind-the-scenes from the podcast, and the occasional myth-bust.
As quoted in national media
“Dr. Anthony Fauci kept a lot of us going through this time and is a national hero. The behavior towards him throughout and since the pandemic is not only absolutely appalling but a sign of a bigger issue.”
— Olivia Zarella, in USA Today
In the Press
Podcast appearances, expert commentary I've provided to outlets like USA Today and The Scientist, and features on my work in public health.
Quoted as a public health expert on Dr. Anthony Fauci's Senate testimony and the standing of the public health workforce.
A guest conversation on the 2026 US measles resurgence — what the numbers mean and why it matters — plus a little RFK Jr. gossip.
A guest conversation on how public health intersects with culture, crisis response, and the work of shifting norms at scale.
Commentary on the reinstatement of the nation's only worker-safety agency — the relief, and the damage that will take time to repair.
Expert perspective on how mass federal layoffs disrupt infectious-disease surveillance and the public health systems that keep people informed and safe.
Profiled as the student coordinator mobilizing 165+ volunteers from the front lines of Colorado's early COVID-19 response.
On ColoradoSPH students volunteering with local organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Featured for co-building a contact-tracing program during the early pandemic response.
Research
Peer-reviewed research spanning infectious disease, the public health workforce, and global health.
Get in touch
For podcast guesting, interviews, speaking, or collaborations — drop me a note and I'll get back to you.
Prefer social? Message me on Threads