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Welcome to a compelling episode of Public Health Spotlights. In partnership with ADPH, we’re joined by Peter Roderick, Director of Public Health in York, for a candid and inspiring conversation about his unconventional journey into public health leadership.

Peter Roderick opens up about starting his career in music before pivoting into public health—a journey shaped by a lifelong fascination with the interplay of art and science. He discusses the motivations that led him to stay rooted in York, how his Christian faith and commitment to the local community have influenced his approach, and the philosophies guiding his work.

This episode explores key moments and projects from Peter Roderick’s career, including leading successful tobacco control initiatives, building frontline partnerships, and championing equity, justice, and hope in health service delivery. He delves into the influential literature—like the Marmot Report and Julian Tudor Hart’s research—that has informed his population-focused mindset, and shares candid reflections on leadership as an “introverted” director dedicated to team diversity, inclusion, and humility.

Tune in for honest insights on:

- Navigating a non-traditional path from music to public health leadership

- How art and science combine to tell powerful health stories and inform strategy

- The critical impact of the Marmot Report and Sick Individuals, Sick Populations

- Defining projects: tobacco control, founding local centers of excellence, and frontline engagement

- The importance of faith, community connection, and optimism in driving public health improvement

- National work with ADPH on addictions policy and commercial determinants of health

- Building and empowering diverse local teams in a changing city

Whether you’re curious about public health storytelling, leadership beyond the spotlight, practical approaches to equity and prevention, or how values and lived experience shape a director’s vision, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives, practical wisdom, and a deep passion for community health.

Highlights:

- Art, science, and narrative: the toolkit of an effective public health director

- Bridging local and national impact through service, policy, and advocacy

- Why justice, equity, and optimism matter in health leadership

- Practical lessons on developing inclusive, resilient teams

Don’t miss this honest and insightful look into local public health leadership and innovation. Subscribe to Public Health Spotlights for more explorations into the stories, strategies, and people driving change in our communities.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.