Storytelling in Public Health: Lessons from STI Prevention & Care

Effective public health communication depends not only on what we say, but how we share our message. In an upcoming webinar, join ASTHO as we explore how strong storytelling can transform complex or sensitive health topics into stories that engage diverse audiences, inspire action, and drive change. This webinar will equip participants with concrete storytelling strategies to create impactful messages that resonate. Learn how to identify the core narrative in your work, choose the right format for your story, and connect with audiences on topics that are often technical or stigmatized, using tools you can apply immediately, regardless of your role or resources.

This session will highlight how storytelling frameworks are being used in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) campaigns and will provide actionable insights to craft stronger messages for different audiences. In addition to learning practical guidance, attendees will hear effective real-world storytelling examples from California Department of Public Health’s “Real Talk” series, Texas Department of State Health Services’ “Exploring an Epidemic” podcast, and Jefferson County Public Health's work in Colorado.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Explore how storytelling can strengthen public health communication by making complex or stigmatized topics more relatable, engaging, and memorable.
• Learn how to identify and shape the core narrative of a public health message and select the most effective format based on your communication goals.
• Learn how other states have utilized storytelling in their jurisdiction’s communication, using the topic of STIs as an example.
• Gain practical, adaptable storytelling techniques that can be applied immediately across public health communications.

Featured Speakers:

• Jennifer Jean-Pierre, Senior Director, Content Development, ASTHO
• Tiffany Woods, State Transgender Health Manager, Capacity Building and Program Development Section, Prevention/Office of AIDS, California Department of Public Health
• Amy Carter, Public Health Follow Up Team Lead, HIV/STD Prevention Unit, Texas Department of State Health Services
• Sarah Story, PhD, MPP, MPH, Executive Director, Jefferson County Public Health
• Grace Lee, MPH, Senior Analyst, Infectious Disease Infrastructure and Policy, ASTHO