Meet Rudolph Carn | Founder, President and Board Chair

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rudolph Carn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rudolph, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I started the health center because I was motivated by personal and professional factors. I was deeply passionate about addressing healthcare disparities, particularly among minority populations, and saw a clear need for improved access to quality healthcare services in our community. Additionally, I wanted to create a space where black men could receive culturally competent care tailored to their specific needs and identities. Establishing the health center allowed me the autonomy to develop innovative programs and services to address these issues directly while also allowing me to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of our community.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Certainly! My work is deeply rooted in my passion for serving and advocating for the health and well-being of the black gay community. What sets me apart is my dedication to addressing the unique healthcare needs of this community but also my holistic approach that integrates medical care with advocacy, education, and community outreach.

I am most proud of the health center I founded, which serves as a vital resource and safe space for black gay men to access comprehensive healthcare services, support, and education. It’s a beacon of hope and empowerment within our community, providing culturally competent care and fostering a sense of belonging and dignity.

My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. I’ve faced numerous challenges, from navigating systemic barriers and funding constraints to overcoming skepticism and stigma within the healthcare industry. However, I’ve learned to approach these challenges with resilience, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to our mission. Building solid partnerships, leveraging community support, and advocating for equitable resources have been critical strategies in overcoming these obstacles.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of collaboration and community engagement. By working together with stakeholders, advocates, and allies, we can effect meaningful change and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for black gay individuals.

At the core of my work is a belief in every individual’s inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their race, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. I want the world to know that our health center is not just a healthcare facility; it’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and empowerment. Our story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving those who, too often, face discrimination and neglect within the healthcare system. Through our work, we strive to create a world where all individuals have access to quality, affirming healthcare and are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While I may not be the most outgoing person, I still enjoy a few favorite spots and activities I would love to share with my best friend during their visit. Here’s a low-key itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1:

Lunch at a cozy local café known for its delicious comfort food.
Dinner at a casual neighborhood restaurant with a warm ambiance (French, Soul Food).
Day 2:

Visit a nearby museum or art gallery to explore some cultural exhibits.
Evening movie night at home with homemade popcorn and classic films.
Day 3:

Scenic drive around the old neighborhood in metro Atlanta.
Dinner at a nice restaurant.
Day 4:

Visit a nearby historical site or landmark.
Lunch at a quaint restaurant with outdoor seating.
An afternoon spent visiting local shops and boutiques for unique finds.
Day 5:

Day trip to a nearby civil rights area in South Georgia.
Dinner at a nice seafood restaurant.
Day 6:

Visit a nearby farmers’ market to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
In the afternoon, visit a local winery or brewery for tastings.
Day 7:

Brunch at a cozy brunch spot known for its hearty breakfast dishes.
Stroll through a nearby neighborhood or downtown area.
An afternoon spent relaxing at home or visiting a local spa for some pampering.
Farewell dinner at a favorite neighborhood restaurant, reminiscing about the week’s adventures.
Overall, the emphasis would be on enjoying each other’s company and experiencing life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s exploring nature, savoring good food, or spending quality time together at home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I am incredibly grateful to have had the guidance and support of two remarkable individuals who played instrumental roles in shaping my journey of starting the health center.

Firstly, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Bishop Carl Bean for his unwavering mentorship and invaluable wisdom. Bishop Bean’s guidance and encouragement have been a constant source of inspiration for me. His dedication to advocacy and empowerment within the black gay community has been transformative and profoundly influential in shaping my healthcare and community service approach. In honor of his memory, we changed the name of the health center in his honor. Carl Bean Men’s Health and Wellness Center.

Secondly, I owe a debt of gratitude to Dr. Jamal Clue for his instrumental support in helping to establish and launch the health center. Jamal was a mentee of mine early in his medical school days. Upon completing medical school, he returned to assist with opening the health center. Dr. Clue’s expertise and commitment to our shared vision were instrumental in navigating the complexities of healthcare administration and ensuring the successful establishment of our center. His guidance and unwavering support have been pivotal in overcoming challenges and achieving our goals.

In recognizing Bishop Carl Bean and Dr. Jamal Clue, I am reminded of the profound impact that mentorship and collaboration can have on shaping our paths and driving positive change. Their contributions have been immeasurable, and I am truly honored to have had the privilege of learning from and working alongside such extraordinary individuals.

Website: www.menshealthcenter.org

Instagram: @carlbeanmenshealthcenter

Facebook: Carl bean menshealthctr