📢 Welcome to The Advocate Podcast! 🎙️ Hosted by Christian Mercer-Hall, The Advocate Podcast is a space for open, honest, and impactful conversations about HIV. Each month, Christian speaks with key figures from the HIV community, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders to break down stigma, share personal stories, and shine a spotlight on the realities of living with HIV today. Christian is the founder of Positive+1, a platform dedicated to supporting and connecting people within the HIV community. With a passion for advocacy and education, he’s on a mission to challenge outdated mindsets and amplify voices that deserve to be heard. 🔊 Episode 1: A Conversation with Raif Derrazi In this first episode, Christian sits down with Raif Derrazi, a HIV advocate and fitness enthusiast, to discuss his journey of living with HIV. Raif opens up about how his diagnosis reshaped his mindset, leading him toward self-empowerment, education, and advocacy. They talk about the role of fitness in personal growth, the ongoing fight against stigma, and the importance of collaboration between the HIV community and healthcare professionals. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Let’s keep the conversation going—drop your thoughts in the comments below. ⬇️ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:10 The Impact of HIV Diagnosis 08:00 The Role of Education and Advocacy 10:05 Journey to Self-Discovery and Fitness 16:10 "My HIV Diagnosis Was A Gift" 17:11 Raif's Mission 21:07 The Future of HIV Research and Treatment 28:55 Projects Raif Is Working On 32:00 Will There Ever Be A Cure? 36:13 Navigating Negativity and Stigma 40:00 Empowerment and Personal Growth