Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw https://inspiringwomen.show en 2025 Laurie McGraw. All rights reserved. Advancing women to healthcare leadership–and keeping them there. Women comprise 70% of the healthcare workforce. They hold just 20% of the C-suite. Each week, host Laurie McGraw bridges that gap through conversations with the women rewriting healthcare’s leadership playbook. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/12325a02-f7fb-11ec-a33e-eb24deb6b6ff/image/8ca44c9b61353ea8f1eff71da0c2743c.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw https://inspiringwomen.show no episodic Short-form interviews every week from Inspiring Women who are at the pinnacle of their careers and Inspired Women who are just starting out. Laurie McGraw Advancing women to healthcare leadership–and keeping them there. Women comprise 70% of the healthcare workforce. They hold just 20% of the C-suite. Each week, host Laurie McGraw bridges that gap through conversations with the women rewriting healthcare’s leadership playbook. Advancing women to healthcare leadership–
and keeping them there.


Women comprise 70% of the healthcare workforce. They hold just 20% of the C-suite.


Each week, host Laurie McGraw bridges that gap through conversations with the women rewriting healthcare’s leadership playbook.

]]> Laurie McGraw inspiringwomen@missionbasedmedia.com The Game No One Teaches Women in Male-Dominated Industries | Julie Zuraw Recorded live at the WBL Summit — part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series. A real estate executive in New York spent years as the only woman at the table in a male-dominated industry, learning the rules of a game no one had taught her. Her husband, watching her navigate corporate rooms full of men, kept asking pointed questions. Why did you say it that way? Don't you see how that lands? That was the moment Julie Zuraw started writing down what she was learning. Years later, Lead Like a Woman is a program she has delivered to female executives around the world, and Julie is now President & CEO of Invest Ahead, the national forum formerly known as the Thirty Percent Coalition, representing over 90 institutional investors, pension funds, asset managers, and private equity firms with more than $8 trillion in assets under management. But the path there was anything but linear. Julie started her career running the branding division at what is now Publicis, left with a few women to build a consulting practice, then went in-house with a real estate client and ran that company for ten years before running a second New York real estate firm as COO. Large, male-dominated, high-stakes. She figured the game out the hard way, and built the program she wished she'd had. Today Julie is leading the organization that pioneered the 30% goal for women on public company boards back in 2011, when only about 12% of US corporate board seats were held by women. The moral argument was obvious. The business case was obvious. But the progress was slow, and in the current climate some of it is actively being rolled back. In this episode of Inspiring Women, recorded at the WBL Summit, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Julie Zuraw, President & CEO of Invest Ahead, to talk about what it actually takes to move the needle on boardroom diversity, and what she tells executive women about building real power in rooms that weren't designed for them. They discuss: ▪ How Julie's years running male-dominated real estate companies in New York taught her there was a game being played, and why her husband's feedback became the founding insight for Lead Like a Woman ▪ Why the fundamental rule of finance — diversify or your risk goes up — has always been the business case for diverse boards, and why the opposition has always been social rather than economic ▪ How Invest Ahead's members engage with the companies they invest in as shareholders, why those conversations can take years to land, and why they still work ▪ The private equity program that pulls curated candidate profiles from pipeline organizations like LCDA, LEAP Pinnacle, ELC, and 50/50 Women on Boards, so deal teams have a broader bench before the next board seat opens ▪ Why "I can't find the talent" is a ridiculous argument, and what's actually happening when boards default to the same small network every time ▪ The California SB 826 story — seven years of fighting to pass it, Judicial Watch's lawsuit, the ruling still in the courts — and why hundreds of women got onto boards through Invest Ahead regardless of whether the law survives ▪ Why the advice to "just be more confident" is terrible advice, and where real personal power actually comes from ▪ The difference between female and male communication rituals, why the compliment game doesn't land in male-dominated hierarchies, and why that's not a reason to stop being who you are ▪ Julie's single piece of advice to the several hundred executive women in the room at WBL: you are the only one who decides you are worthy, and you are the only one who can decide you are not Julie Zuraw has spent her career inside rooms that weren't built for her, and she walked out of every one of them having figured out how they actually work. Now she is running the organization that gets other women into those rooms — and teaching them the game before they walk in. This episode is part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series, recorded on-site at the WBL Summit. WBL (Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation) brings together senior women leaders across healthcare to connect, learn, and lead. Learn more about WBL at wbl.org. #InspiringWomen #WBL #WBLSummit #WomenInLeadership #BoardDiversity #InvestAhead #LeadLikeAWoman — Inspiring Women is hosted by Laurie McGraw. Subscribe for more conversations with the women shaping healthcare, finance, and business at the highest levels. Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:16:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Recorded live at the WBL Summit — part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series. A real estate executive in New York spent years as the only woman at the table in a male-dominated industry, learning the rules of a game no one had taught her. Her husband, watching her navigate corporate rooms full of men, kept asking pointed questions. Why did you say it that way? Don't you see how that lands? That was the moment Julie Zuraw started writing down what she was learning. Years later, Lead Like a Woman is a program she has delivered to female executives around the world, and Julie is now President & CEO of Invest Ahead, the national forum formerly known as the Thirty Percent Coalition, representing over 90 institutional investors, pension funds, asset managers, and private equity firms with more than $8 trillion in assets under management. But the path there was anything but linear. Julie started her career running the branding division at what is now Publicis, left with a few women to build a consulting practice, then went in-house with a real estate client and ran that company for ten years before running a second New York real estate firm as COO. Large, male-dominated, high-stakes. She figured the game out the hard way, and built the program she wished she'd had. Today Julie is leading the organization that pioneered the 30% goal for women on public company boards back in 2011, when only about 12% of US corporate board seats were held by women. The moral argument was obvious. The business case was obvious. But the progress was slow, and in the current climate some of it is actively being rolled back. In this episode of Inspiring Women, recorded at the WBL Summit, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Julie Zuraw, President & CEO of Invest Ahead, to talk about what it actually takes to move the needle on boardroom diversity, and what she tells executive women about building real power in rooms that weren't designed for them. They discuss: ▪ How Julie's years running male-dominated real estate companies in New York taught her there was a game being played, and why her husband's feedback became the founding insight for Lead Like a Woman ▪ Why the fundamental rule of finance — diversify or your risk goes up — has always been the business case for diverse boards, and why the opposition has always been social rather than economic ▪ How Invest Ahead's members engage with the companies they invest in as shareholders, why those conversations can take years to land, and why they still work ▪ The private equity program that pulls curated candidate profiles from pipeline organizations like LCDA, LEAP Pinnacle, ELC, and 50/50 Women on Boards, so deal teams have a broader bench before the next board seat opens ▪ Why "I can't find the talent" is a ridiculous argument, and what's actually happening when boards default to the same small network every time ▪ The California SB 826 story — seven years of fighting to pass it, Judicial Watch's lawsuit, the ruling still in the courts — and why hundreds of women got onto boards through Invest Ahead regardless of whether the law survives ▪ Why the advice to "just be more confident" is terrible advice, and where real personal power actually comes from ▪ The difference between female and male communication rituals, why the compliment game doesn't land in male-dominated hierarchies, and why that's not a reason to stop being who you are ▪ Julie's single piece of advice to the several hundred executive women in the room at WBL: you are the only one who decides you are worthy, and you are the only one who can decide you are not Julie Zuraw has spent her career inside rooms that weren't built for her, and she walked out of every one of them having figured out how they actually work. Now she is running the organization that gets other women into those rooms — and teaching them the game before they walk in. This episode is part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series, recorded on-site at the WBL Summit. WBL (Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation) brings together senior women leaders across healthcare to connect, learn, and lead. Learn more about WBL at wbl.org. #InspiringWomen #WBL #WBLSummit #WomenInLeadership #BoardDiversity #InvestAhead #LeadLikeAWoman — Inspiring Women is hosted by Laurie McGraw. Subscribe for more conversations with the women shaping healthcare, finance, and business at the highest levels. Recorded live at the WBL Summit — part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series.


A real estate executive in New York spent years as the only woman at the table in a male-dominated industry, learning the rules of a game no one had taught her. Her husband, watching her navigate corporate rooms full of men, kept asking pointed questions. Why did you say it that way? Don't you see how that lands? That was the moment Julie Zuraw started writing down what she was learning.


Years later, Lead Like a Woman is a program she has delivered to female executives around the world, and Julie is now President & CEO of Invest Ahead, the national forum formerly known as the Thirty Percent Coalition, representing over 90 institutional investors, pension funds, asset managers, and private equity firms with more than $8 trillion in assets under management.


But the path there was anything but linear. Julie started her career running the branding division at what is now Publicis, left with a few women to build a consulting practice, then went in-house with a real estate client and ran that company for ten years before running a second New York real estate firm as COO. Large, male-dominated, high-stakes. She figured the game out the hard way, and built the program she wished she'd had.


Today Julie is leading the organization that pioneered the 30% goal for women on public company boards back in 2011, when only about 12% of US corporate board seats were held by women. The moral argument was obvious. The business case was obvious. But the progress was slow, and in the current climate some of it is actively being rolled back.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, recorded at the WBL Summit, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Julie Zuraw, President & CEO of Invest Ahead, to talk about what it actually takes to move the needle on boardroom diversity, and what she tells executive women about building real power in rooms that weren't designed for them.


They discuss:


▪ How Julie's years running male-dominated real estate companies in New York taught her there was a game being played, and why her husband's feedback became the founding insight for Lead Like a Woman


▪ Why the fundamental rule of finance — diversify or your risk goes up — has always been the business case for diverse boards, and why the opposition has always been social rather than economic


▪ How Invest Ahead's members engage with the companies they invest in as shareholders, why those conversations can take years to land, and why they still work


▪ The private equity program that pulls curated candidate profiles from pipeline organizations like LCDA, LEAP Pinnacle, ELC, and 50/50 Women on Boards, so deal teams have a broader bench before the next board seat opens


▪ Why "I can't find the talent" is a ridiculous argument, and what's actually happening when boards default to the same small network every time


▪ The California SB 826 story — seven years of fighting to pass it, Judicial Watch's lawsuit, the ruling still in the courts — and why hundreds of women got onto boards through Invest Ahead regardless of whether the law survives


▪ Why the advice to "just be more confident" is terrible advice, and where real personal power actually comes from


▪ The difference between female and male communication rituals, why the compliment game doesn't land in male-dominated hierarchies, and why that's not a reason to stop being who you are


▪ Julie's single piece of advice to the several hundred executive women in the room at WBL: you are the only one who decides you are worthy, and you are the only one who can decide you are not


Julie Zuraw has spent her career inside rooms that weren't built for her, and she walked out of every one of them having figured out how they actually work. Now she is running the organization that gets other women into those rooms — and teaching them the game before they walk in.


This episode is part of the Inspiring Women WBL Series, recorded on-site at the WBL Summit. WBL (Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation) brings together senior women leaders across healthcare to connect, learn, and lead. Learn more about WBL at wbl.org.


#InspiringWomen #WBL #WBLSummit #WomenInLeadership #BoardDiversity #InvestAhead #LeadLikeAWoman


—


Inspiring Women is hosted by Laurie McGraw. Subscribe for more conversations with the women shaping healthcare, finance, and business at the highest levels.

]]> 1714 Curiosity Expert: What We Completely GET WRONG about Curiosity! Dr. Debra Clary started her career at 4 AM, driving a Frito-Lay route truck in Detroit as a Teamster. Three decades later, she had held senior leadership roles across four Fortune 50 brands (Frito-Lay, Coca-Cola, Jack Daniel's, and Humana), spent nearly 17 years building Humana's Leadership Institute, performed a one-woman off-Broadway show, and written The Curiosity Curve, a research-backed leadership book published by Fast Company Press in October 2025. In this episode of Inspiring Women, she sits down with Laurie McGraw to unpack what tied all of it together: curiosity. It started with a single question. During a Humana board meeting, then-CEO Bruce Broussard leaned over and quietly asked her, "Do you think curiosity can be learned, or is it innate?" Debra promised she'd find out. What followed was a trip to Italy where she noticed Europeans had fundamentally different conversations than Americans, a Gallup engagement report showing the lowest numbers in the firm's history, and ultimately a multi-year research project (commissioned with researchers out of MIT) that produced something no one had measured before: a direct correlation between a leader's level of curiosity and the performance of their team. In this conversation, Debra explains: Why curiosity is a state and not a trait (which means it can be built) The four-factor framework behind The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas The Coca-Cola moment that nearly cost her a job, until a former chief of staff told her, "Unless Tom asks for something three times, take no action" She also opens up about leaving Humana to write the book, getting talked into an off-Broadway debut by her mastermind group, and what she learned about borrowing other people's belief in you until you can own it yourself. The episode closes on what may be the most important leadership skill of the AI era. As Debra puts it, AI levels the playing field because anyone with a phone can now get the answer. The edge belongs to the leaders who ask the boldest questions: What are we not asking? What signals are we missing? And for women specifically, her research surfaced a striking finding. Men and women score equally on curiosity, but women don't show up as curious in the room. Her closing message is a challenge to change that. Topics Covered From a Frito-Lay route truck to the Humana boardroom, and why starting at the bottom built her credibility The boardroom moment with Bruce Broussard that sparked a multi-year research project on curiosity An Italian train ride, an American joke, and the conversational habit it exposed Why Gallup's worst-ever engagement report pointed to a missing ingredient in leadership Commissioning MIT researchers and the direct correlation they found between curiosity and team performance The four factors of The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas A Coca-Cola chief of staff lesson on knowing how your boss processes information Building Humana's Leadership Institute through the company's shift from insurance company to health company Leaving Humana to write the book, and getting talked into A Curious Woman off-Broadway by her mastermind group Why AI raises the floor for everyone and makes question quality the real differentiator Her message to women: ask more questions in the room, and say your point of view out loud Closing Thought Debra's career arc, route driver to Fortune 50 executive to author to performer, is itself an argument for the thesis of her book. Curiosity is what makes the pivots possible. And in a moment when answers are cheap and questions are scarce, the leaders who keep asking what are we missing? will be the ones who actually move things forward. Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:37:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Dr. Debra Clary started her career at 4 AM, driving a Frito-Lay route truck in Detroit as a Teamster. Three decades later, she had held senior leadership roles across four Fortune 50 brands (Frito-Lay, Coca-Cola, Jack Daniel's, and Humana), spent nearly 17 years building Humana's Leadership Institute, performed a one-woman off-Broadway show, and written The Curiosity Curve, a research-backed leadership book published by Fast Company Press in October 2025. In this episode of Inspiring Women, she sits down with Laurie McGraw to unpack what tied all of it together: curiosity. It started with a single question. During a Humana board meeting, then-CEO Bruce Broussard leaned over and quietly asked her, "Do you think curiosity can be learned, or is it innate?" Debra promised she'd find out. What followed was a trip to Italy where she noticed Europeans had fundamentally different conversations than Americans, a Gallup engagement report showing the lowest numbers in the firm's history, and ultimately a multi-year research project (commissioned with researchers out of MIT) that produced something no one had measured before: a direct correlation between a leader's level of curiosity and the performance of their team. In this conversation, Debra explains: Why curiosity is a state and not a trait (which means it can be built) The four-factor framework behind The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas The Coca-Cola moment that nearly cost her a job, until a former chief of staff told her, "Unless Tom asks for something three times, take no action" She also opens up about leaving Humana to write the book, getting talked into an off-Broadway debut by her mastermind group, and what she learned about borrowing other people's belief in you until you can own it yourself. The episode closes on what may be the most important leadership skill of the AI era. As Debra puts it, AI levels the playing field because anyone with a phone can now get the answer. The edge belongs to the leaders who ask the boldest questions: What are we not asking? What signals are we missing? And for women specifically, her research surfaced a striking finding. Men and women score equally on curiosity, but women don't show up as curious in the room. Her closing message is a challenge to change that. Topics Covered From a Frito-Lay route truck to the Humana boardroom, and why starting at the bottom built her credibility The boardroom moment with Bruce Broussard that sparked a multi-year research project on curiosity An Italian train ride, an American joke, and the conversational habit it exposed Why Gallup's worst-ever engagement report pointed to a missing ingredient in leadership Commissioning MIT researchers and the direct correlation they found between curiosity and team performance The four factors of The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas A Coca-Cola chief of staff lesson on knowing how your boss processes information Building Humana's Leadership Institute through the company's shift from insurance company to health company Leaving Humana to write the book, and getting talked into A Curious Woman off-Broadway by her mastermind group Why AI raises the floor for everyone and makes question quality the real differentiator Her message to women: ask more questions in the room, and say your point of view out loud Closing Thought Debra's career arc, route driver to Fortune 50 executive to author to performer, is itself an argument for the thesis of her book. Curiosity is what makes the pivots possible. And in a moment when answers are cheap and questions are scarce, the leaders who keep asking what are we missing? will be the ones who actually move things forward. Dr. Debra Clary started her career at 4 AM, driving a Frito-Lay route truck in Detroit as a Teamster.


Three decades later, she had held senior leadership roles across four Fortune 50 brands (Frito-Lay, Coca-Cola, Jack Daniel's, and Humana), spent nearly 17 years building Humana's Leadership Institute, performed a one-woman off-Broadway show, and written The Curiosity Curve, a research-backed leadership book published by Fast Company Press in October 2025.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, she sits down with Laurie McGraw to unpack what tied all of it together: curiosity.


It started with a single question.


During a Humana board meeting, then-CEO Bruce Broussard leaned over and quietly asked her, "Do you think curiosity can be learned, or is it innate?" Debra promised she'd find out.


What followed was a trip to Italy where she noticed Europeans had fundamentally different conversations than Americans, a Gallup engagement report showing the lowest numbers in the firm's history, and ultimately a multi-year research project (commissioned with researchers out of MIT) that produced something no one had measured before: a direct correlation between a leader's level of curiosity and the performance of their team.


In this conversation, Debra explains:

  • Why curiosity is a state and not a trait (which means it can be built)
  • The four-factor framework behind The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas
  • The Coca-Cola moment that nearly cost her a job, until a former chief of staff told her, "Unless Tom asks for something three times, take no action"

She also opens up about leaving Humana to write the book, getting talked into an off-Broadway debut by her mastermind group, and what she learned about borrowing other people's belief in you until you can own it yourself.


The episode closes on what may be the most important leadership skill of the AI era.


As Debra puts it, AI levels the playing field because anyone with a phone can now get the answer. The edge belongs to the leaders who ask the boldest questions: What are we not asking? What signals are we missing?


And for women specifically, her research surfaced a striking finding. Men and women score equally on curiosity, but women don't show up as curious in the room. Her closing message is a challenge to change that.


Topics Covered

  • From a Frito-Lay route truck to the Humana boardroom, and why starting at the bottom built her credibility
  • The boardroom moment with Bruce Broussard that sparked a multi-year research project on curiosity
  • An Italian train ride, an American joke, and the conversational habit it exposed
  • Why Gallup's worst-ever engagement report pointed to a missing ingredient in leadership
  • Commissioning MIT researchers and the direct correlation they found between curiosity and team performance
  • The four factors of The Curiosity Curve: exploration, inspirational creativity, focused engagement, and openness to new ideas
  • A Coca-Cola chief of staff lesson on knowing how your boss processes information
  • Building Humana's Leadership Institute through the company's shift from insurance company to health company
  • Leaving Humana to write the book, and getting talked into A Curious Woman off-Broadway by her mastermind group
  • Why AI raises the floor for everyone and makes question quality the real differentiator
  • Her message to women: ask more questions in the room, and say your point of view out loud


Closing Thought

Debra's career arc, route driver to Fortune 50 executive to author to performer, is itself an argument for the thesis of her book.


Curiosity is what makes the pivots possible.

And in a moment when answers are cheap and questions are scarce, the leaders who keep asking what are we missing? will be the ones who actually move things forward.


]]> 1411 From Journalist To Billion-Dollar CEO: How Kate Ryder Built The World's Largest Virtual Clinic For Women A venture capitalist in London watched her closest friend disappear into postpartum depression. Texts, calls, visits, the slow realization that the transition into motherhood had no real support system around it. That was the moment Kate Ryder stopped writing about problems and started building for them. Twelve years later, Maven Clinic is the largest virtual care clinic for women's and family health in the world, working with thousands of employers across hundreds of countries, and Kate is one of the rare female founders to have taken a company to unicorn status. But the path there was anything but smooth. Her Series A was the worst fundraise of her life. Male tech investors didn't understand healthcare. They didn't understand women's health. They certainly didn't understand fertility, miscarriage, or postpartum depression as a market. Kate quickly figured out she was wasting her time on anyone who needed to be educated before they could be excited. The round was eventually led by Lauren Brueggen, a woman who happened to be pregnant with her third child and instantly understood the opportunity. Today Kate is taking Maven back to its roots with a direct-to-consumer platform launching nationwide, built on a decade of clinical rigor inside the enterprise system and powered by integrations with companies like Oura that give providers a complete real-time picture of the patient. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Kate Ryder, founder and CEO of Maven Clinic, to talk about what it actually takes to build a category-defining company in a space the industry kept calling niche. They discuss: Why Kate's first close encounter with postpartum depression became the founding insight for Maven, and how her years as a journalist trained her to spot the untold stories inside women's healthcare The brutal reality of raising a Series A as a female founder in 2014, and why Kate's advice to founders today is to stop wasting time on investors who need to be educated before they get excited The single anchor client moment that made or broke Maven in the early years, and why she tells founders to know exactly what they need to prove and how long it will take How Maven's value system (patient first, then client, then Maven, then your team, then yourself) drives every product decision the company makes Why the new direct-to-consumer launch is a bet on a fundamentally different consumer than the one that existed when Maven started, post-Covid, post-GLP-1, post-AI front door The Oura partnership and what it means to actually have providers looking at wearable data in real time as they care for patients Why fragmentation in women's health is the problem Maven is now built to solve, and why one monopolistic front door to healthcare would be bad for innovation What the next decade of truly personalized, proactive women's health looks like when data finally flows freely between systems Why this is the steepest learning year of Kate's twelve years running Maven, and what every CEO is currently trying to figure out about AI Kate Ryder built Maven by ignoring the rooms that told her women's health was niche and finding the rooms where the problem was obvious. Twelve years in, she is still following the patient. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:29:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw A venture capitalist in London watched her closest friend disappear into postpartum depression. Texts, calls, visits, the slow realization that the transition into motherhood had no real support system around it. That was the moment Kate Ryder stopped writing about problems and started building for them. Twelve years later, Maven Clinic is the largest virtual care clinic for women's and family health in the world, working with thousands of employers across hundreds of countries, and Kate is one of the rare female founders to have taken a company to unicorn status. But the path there was anything but smooth. Her Series A was the worst fundraise of her life. Male tech investors didn't understand healthcare. They didn't understand women's health. They certainly didn't understand fertility, miscarriage, or postpartum depression as a market. Kate quickly figured out she was wasting her time on anyone who needed to be educated before they could be excited. The round was eventually led by Lauren Brueggen, a woman who happened to be pregnant with her third child and instantly understood the opportunity. Today Kate is taking Maven back to its roots with a direct-to-consumer platform launching nationwide, built on a decade of clinical rigor inside the enterprise system and powered by integrations with companies like Oura that give providers a complete real-time picture of the patient. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Kate Ryder, founder and CEO of Maven Clinic, to talk about what it actually takes to build a category-defining company in a space the industry kept calling niche. They discuss: Why Kate's first close encounter with postpartum depression became the founding insight for Maven, and how her years as a journalist trained her to spot the untold stories inside women's healthcare The brutal reality of raising a Series A as a female founder in 2014, and why Kate's advice to founders today is to stop wasting time on investors who need to be educated before they get excited The single anchor client moment that made or broke Maven in the early years, and why she tells founders to know exactly what they need to prove and how long it will take How Maven's value system (patient first, then client, then Maven, then your team, then yourself) drives every product decision the company makes Why the new direct-to-consumer launch is a bet on a fundamentally different consumer than the one that existed when Maven started, post-Covid, post-GLP-1, post-AI front door The Oura partnership and what it means to actually have providers looking at wearable data in real time as they care for patients Why fragmentation in women's health is the problem Maven is now built to solve, and why one monopolistic front door to healthcare would be bad for innovation What the next decade of truly personalized, proactive women's health looks like when data finally flows freely between systems Why this is the steepest learning year of Kate's twelve years running Maven, and what every CEO is currently trying to figure out about AI Kate Ryder built Maven by ignoring the rooms that told her women's health was niche and finding the rooms where the problem was obvious. Twelve years in, she is still following the patient. A venture capitalist in London watched her closest friend disappear into postpartum depression. Texts, calls, visits, the slow realization that the transition into motherhood had no real support system around it.

That was the moment Kate Ryder stopped writing about problems and started building for them.

Twelve years later, Maven Clinic is the largest virtual care clinic for women's and family health in the world, working with thousands of employers across hundreds of countries, and Kate is one of the rare female founders to have taken a company to unicorn status.

But the path there was anything but smooth. Her Series A was the worst fundraise of her life. Male tech investors didn't understand healthcare. They didn't understand women's health. They certainly didn't understand fertility, miscarriage, or postpartum depression as a market. Kate quickly figured out she was wasting her time on anyone who needed to be educated before they could be excited.

The round was eventually led by Lauren Brueggen, a woman who happened to be pregnant with her third child and instantly understood the opportunity.

Today Kate is taking Maven back to its roots with a direct-to-consumer platform launching nationwide, built on a decade of clinical rigor inside the enterprise system and powered by integrations with companies like Oura that give providers a complete real-time picture of the patient.

In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Kate Ryder, founder and CEO of Maven Clinic, to talk about what it actually takes to build a category-defining company in a space the industry kept calling niche.

They discuss:

  • Why Kate's first close encounter with postpartum depression became the founding insight for Maven, and how her years as a journalist trained her to spot the untold stories inside women's healthcare
  • The brutal reality of raising a Series A as a female founder in 2014, and why Kate's advice to founders today is to stop wasting time on investors who need to be educated before they get excited
  • The single anchor client moment that made or broke Maven in the early years, and why she tells founders to know exactly what they need to prove and how long it will take
  • How Maven's value system (patient first, then client, then Maven, then your team, then yourself) drives every product decision the company makes
  • Why the new direct-to-consumer launch is a bet on a fundamentally different consumer than the one that existed when Maven started, post-Covid, post-GLP-1, post-AI front door
  • The Oura partnership and what it means to actually have providers looking at wearable data in real time as they care for patients
  • Why fragmentation in women's health is the problem Maven is now built to solve, and why one monopolistic front door to healthcare would be bad for innovation
  • What the next decade of truly personalized, proactive women's health looks like when data finally flows freely between systems
  • Why this is the steepest learning year of Kate's twelve years running Maven, and what every CEO is currently trying to figure out about AI

Kate Ryder built Maven by ignoring the rooms that told her women's health was niche and finding the rooms where the problem was obvious. Twelve years in, she is still following the patient.

]]> 1656 Heart Disease Kills More Women Than All Cancers Combined! The Truth About Women's Hearts Nobody Is Talking About || Sarah Lux, Sandy Goldstein A nurse in neurotrauma and cardiac services, someone who had spent her entire adult life inside the healthcare system, was sent home from the ER repeatedly, told it was probably a migraine, given pain medication, and dismissed. It took losing her vision before anyone took her seriously. Sandy Goldstein had a congenital heart defect she didn't know about until her 20s. A hole in her heart was routing unoxygenated blood in the wrong direction, collapsing a vessel in her brain and preventing the release of cerebrospinal fluid. What followed was weeks of misdiagnosis, brain angioplasty, a two-year insurance battle, and finally open heart surgery in August 2010. Around one year later, she had her daughter. Today, the American Heart Association recognizes Sandy as a Woman of Impact in Colorado. She is in the final weeks of a nine-week statewide campaign: working with school districts, deploying hands-only CPR training, earning a gubernatorial proclamation, and closing in on the record for top Woman of Impact in Colorado history. Sarah Lux manages the educational community at The Pause Life, the platform built by Dr. Mary Claire Haver, the physician who has become the most recognized voice on perimenopause and menopause science. The community is free, serves millions of women, and exists to give women the resources and vocabulary to understand what is happening inside their bodies at midlife — because, as Sarah points out, most of their doctors were never taught any of it either. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux to make the case that women's heart health is not just underserved — it is the single largest cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. They discuss: Why cardiovascular disease kills more women than all cancers combined — and why most women have no idea How Sandy was dismissed and misdiagnosed for weeks inside the very system she worked in as a nurse, and what it took for one doctor to refuse to give up The direct connection between perimenopause, shifting hormones, and exponentially rising cardiovascular risk that almost no physician is trained to address Why the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy was removed, and what was fundamentally flawed about the original study population How women's cardiac symptoms , GI distress, jaw pain, vision loss — look nothing like the clutching-the-chest picture everyone recognizes, and why that gap costs lives Why women remain underrepresented in the clinical research that sets treatment protocols, and what Sandy's AHA campaign is doing to change the funding behind that What The Pause Life community offers women who have been dismissed, unheard, or simply never given the right vocabulary for what they're experiencing Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux are proof that changing the narrative on women's health requires the people who lived it — and the communities built around them — to be louder than the systems that stayed silent. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:15:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw A nurse in neurotrauma and cardiac services, someone who had spent her entire adult life inside the healthcare system, was sent home from the ER repeatedly, told it was probably a migraine, given pain medication, and dismissed. It took losing her vision before anyone took her seriously. Sandy Goldstein had a congenital heart defect she didn't know about until her 20s. A hole in her heart was routing unoxygenated blood in the wrong direction, collapsing a vessel in her brain and preventing the release of cerebrospinal fluid. What followed was weeks of misdiagnosis, brain angioplasty, a two-year insurance battle, and finally open heart surgery in August 2010. Around one year later, she had her daughter. Today, the American Heart Association recognizes Sandy as a Woman of Impact in Colorado. She is in the final weeks of a nine-week statewide campaign: working with school districts, deploying hands-only CPR training, earning a gubernatorial proclamation, and closing in on the record for top Woman of Impact in Colorado history. Sarah Lux manages the educational community at The Pause Life, the platform built by Dr. Mary Claire Haver, the physician who has become the most recognized voice on perimenopause and menopause science. The community is free, serves millions of women, and exists to give women the resources and vocabulary to understand what is happening inside their bodies at midlife — because, as Sarah points out, most of their doctors were never taught any of it either. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux to make the case that women's heart health is not just underserved — it is the single largest cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. They discuss: Why cardiovascular disease kills more women than all cancers combined — and why most women have no idea How Sandy was dismissed and misdiagnosed for weeks inside the very system she worked in as a nurse, and what it took for one doctor to refuse to give up The direct connection between perimenopause, shifting hormones, and exponentially rising cardiovascular risk that almost no physician is trained to address Why the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy was removed, and what was fundamentally flawed about the original study population How women's cardiac symptoms , GI distress, jaw pain, vision loss — look nothing like the clutching-the-chest picture everyone recognizes, and why that gap costs lives Why women remain underrepresented in the clinical research that sets treatment protocols, and what Sandy's AHA campaign is doing to change the funding behind that What The Pause Life community offers women who have been dismissed, unheard, or simply never given the right vocabulary for what they're experiencing Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux are proof that changing the narrative on women's health requires the people who lived it — and the communities built around them — to be louder than the systems that stayed silent.

A nurse in neurotrauma and cardiac services, someone who had spent her entire adult life inside the healthcare system, was sent home from the ER repeatedly, told it was probably a migraine, given pain medication, and dismissed.


It took losing her vision before anyone took her seriously.


Sandy Goldstein had a congenital heart defect she didn't know about until her 20s. A hole in her heart was routing unoxygenated blood in the wrong direction, collapsing a vessel in her brain and preventing the release of cerebrospinal fluid.


What followed was weeks of misdiagnosis, brain angioplasty, a two-year insurance battle, and finally open heart surgery in August 2010.


Around one year later, she had her daughter.


Today, the American Heart Association recognizes Sandy as a Woman of Impact in Colorado.

She is in the final weeks of a nine-week statewide campaign: working with school districts, deploying hands-only CPR training, earning a gubernatorial proclamation, and closing in on the record for top Woman of Impact in Colorado history.


Sarah Lux manages the educational community at The Pause Life, the platform built by Dr. Mary Claire Haver, the physician who has become the most recognized voice on perimenopause and menopause science.


The community is free, serves millions of women, and exists to give women the resources and vocabulary to understand what is happening inside their bodies at midlife — because, as Sarah points out, most of their doctors were never taught any of it either.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux to make the case that women's heart health is not just underserved — it is the single largest cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined.


They discuss:

  • Why cardiovascular disease kills more women than all cancers combined — and why most women have no idea
  • How Sandy was dismissed and misdiagnosed for weeks inside the very system she worked in as a nurse, and what it took for one doctor to refuse to give up
  • The direct connection between perimenopause, shifting hormones, and exponentially rising cardiovascular risk that almost no physician is trained to address
  • Why the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy was removed, and what was fundamentally flawed about the original study population
  • How women's cardiac symptoms , GI distress, jaw pain, vision loss — look nothing like the clutching-the-chest picture everyone recognizes, and why that gap costs lives
  • Why women remain underrepresented in the clinical research that sets treatment protocols, and what Sandy's AHA campaign is doing to change the funding behind that
  • What The Pause Life community offers women who have been dismissed, unheard, or simply never given the right vocabulary for what they're experiencing

Sandy Goldstein and Sarah Lux are proof that changing the narrative on women's health requires the people who lived it — and the communities built around them — to be louder than the systems that stayed silent.


]]> 1530 She Advised The U.S. Secretary Of Health. Then Became CPO Of A Multi Billion Dollar Health Plan. Raised in the high Himalayas, educated across 22 homes in multiple countries, and fluent in five languages , Simmi Singh was never going to follow a conventional path. She started out wanting to be a UN translator. A mentor stopped her and said: you have a voice of your own. That single conversation redirected her toward management consulting at Booz Allen and Ernst and Young, then entrepreneurship, then scaling the health vertical at Cognizant from a $10M fledgling unit into one of the company's most significant growth stories, then 15 years as a partner and global practice leader at Egon Zehnder placing boards and entire management teams for some of the most transformational companies in the world, then a secondment as Senior Advisor on Health Innovation to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, and most recently joining Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts as Chief People Officer and Executive Vice President. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Simmi Singh to trace the through line of a brilliantly discontinuous career and pull out the lessons that only come from decades of doing it at the highest levels. They discuss: Growing up in the Himalayas surrounded by brilliant women with broken dreams, and how that shaped her hunger for agency at a time when no recipe existed for women like her Being one of 12 women in a college of 3,000 men and becoming the first female valedictorian in the institution's 100 year history What she learned scaling Cognizant's health vertical by giving away power before she had any, and why that was the most strategic move she made How she decoded great leadership by surrounding herself with human textbooks, including mentors under 30, even at 62 Why she believes women need sponsors far more than mentors, and what it actually means to be worthy of one The mistake she sees leaders making in healthcare AI right now, and the more audacious problems she believes women should be solving Simmi Singh is proof that intellectual homelessness, the restless feeling of living on the bridges between worlds, is not a liability. It is the rarest kind of preparation. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:19:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Raised in the high Himalayas, educated across 22 homes in multiple countries, and fluent in five languages , Simmi Singh was never going to follow a conventional path. She started out wanting to be a UN translator. A mentor stopped her and said: you have a voice of your own. That single conversation redirected her toward management consulting at Booz Allen and Ernst and Young, then entrepreneurship, then scaling the health vertical at Cognizant from a $10M fledgling unit into one of the company's most significant growth stories, then 15 years as a partner and global practice leader at Egon Zehnder placing boards and entire management teams for some of the most transformational companies in the world, then a secondment as Senior Advisor on Health Innovation to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, and most recently joining Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts as Chief People Officer and Executive Vice President. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Simmi Singh to trace the through line of a brilliantly discontinuous career and pull out the lessons that only come from decades of doing it at the highest levels. They discuss: Growing up in the Himalayas surrounded by brilliant women with broken dreams, and how that shaped her hunger for agency at a time when no recipe existed for women like her Being one of 12 women in a college of 3,000 men and becoming the first female valedictorian in the institution's 100 year history What she learned scaling Cognizant's health vertical by giving away power before she had any, and why that was the most strategic move she made How she decoded great leadership by surrounding herself with human textbooks, including mentors under 30, even at 62 Why she believes women need sponsors far more than mentors, and what it actually means to be worthy of one The mistake she sees leaders making in healthcare AI right now, and the more audacious problems she believes women should be solving Simmi Singh is proof that intellectual homelessness, the restless feeling of living on the bridges between worlds, is not a liability. It is the rarest kind of preparation. Raised in the high Himalayas, educated across 22 homes in multiple countries, and fluent in five languages , Simmi Singh was never going to follow a conventional path.


She started out wanting to be a UN translator. A mentor stopped her and said: you have a voice of your own.


That single conversation redirected her toward management consulting at Booz Allen and Ernst and Young, then entrepreneurship, then scaling the health vertical at Cognizant from a $10M fledgling unit into one of the company's most significant growth stories,

then 15 years as a partner and global practice leader at Egon Zehnder placing boards and entire management teams for some of the most transformational companies in the world,

then a secondment as Senior Advisor on Health Innovation to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, and most recently joining Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts as Chief People Officer and Executive Vice President.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Simmi Singh to trace the through line of a brilliantly discontinuous career and pull out the lessons that only come from decades of doing it at the highest levels.


They discuss:

  • Growing up in the Himalayas surrounded by brilliant women with broken dreams, and how that shaped her hunger for agency at a time when no recipe existed for women like her

  • Being one of 12 women in a college of 3,000 men and becoming the first female valedictorian in the institution's 100 year history

  • What she learned scaling Cognizant's health vertical by giving away power before she had any, and why that was the most strategic move she made

  • How she decoded great leadership by surrounding herself with human textbooks, including mentors under 30, even at 62

  • Why she believes women need sponsors far more than mentors, and what it actually means to be worthy of one

  • The mistake she sees leaders making in healthcare AI right now, and the more audacious problems she believes women should be solving

Simmi Singh is proof that intellectual homelessness, the restless feeling of living on the bridges between worlds, is not a liability. It is the rarest kind of preparation.

]]> 1789 no 5 Years Of Inspiring Women: The Leadership Lessons That Changed Everything Five years ago, Laurie McGraw launched Inspiring Women on International Women's Day — her own birthday — with a simple belief: when women lead, we build a more just and equitable society. What followed was hundreds of conversations with some of the most remarkable women in leadership, healthcare, tech, business, and beyond. This episode is different. There's no single guest. Instead, Laurie steps back and reflects on the conversations that have shaped her most — and the lessons that have stayed with her long after the recording stopped. From Chelsea Clinton's conviction that those with power and voice have a responsibility to remove bias for those without it, to Kara Swisher's unshakeable self-belief in the face of being told she was "too confident." From Carla Harris drawing a sharp line between mentors and sponsors — and why the difference could define your career — to Dr. Jenny Schneider rejecting work-life balance entirely in favour of ruthless prioritization. From Missy Krasner reframing failure as the fuel that drives the next big thing, to four-time Olympian Joetta Clark Diggs picking up her cleats again at 62 and breaking national records, living proof that your why will always outlast your how. This is five years of hard-won wisdom distilled into one conversation. And it is for every woman — and every person — who has ever wondered what it really takes to lead. Topics Covered: Chelsea Clinton on using platform and power to remove bias for others How Chelsea manages an extraordinary portfolio of work Kara Swisher's early mentor and the generosity of sharing the room Why the best leaders never stop being students Kara Swisher being told she was "too confident" — and her response Carla Harris on the critical difference between mentors and sponsors Why imposter syndrome is just a distraction — and how to set it aside Carla Harris on senior women's responsibility to build the bench Missy Krasner on AI as healthcare's third watershed moment Why once you nail the fundamentals, nobody cares that you're a woman Dr. Jenny Schneider on ruthless prioritization over work-life balance The power of an intentional pause before the next big thing Why great leaders actively seek out dissenting voices Joetta Clark Diggs on leadership as a "we, not a me" Breaking national records at 62 — and why staying power has no expiration date Cara Munnis on what happens when strategy meets obsessive detail The hardest leadership skill — learning to delegate what you do best Five years of Inspiring Women and what comes next Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:55:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Five years ago, Laurie McGraw launched Inspiring Women on International Women's Day — her own birthday — with a simple belief: when women lead, we build a more just and equitable society. What followed was hundreds of conversations with some of the most remarkable women in leadership, healthcare, tech, business, and beyond. This episode is different. There's no single guest. Instead, Laurie steps back and reflects on the conversations that have shaped her most — and the lessons that have stayed with her long after the recording stopped. From Chelsea Clinton's conviction that those with power and voice have a responsibility to remove bias for those without it, to Kara Swisher's unshakeable self-belief in the face of being told she was "too confident." From Carla Harris drawing a sharp line between mentors and sponsors — and why the difference could define your career — to Dr. Jenny Schneider rejecting work-life balance entirely in favour of ruthless prioritization. From Missy Krasner reframing failure as the fuel that drives the next big thing, to four-time Olympian Joetta Clark Diggs picking up her cleats again at 62 and breaking national records, living proof that your why will always outlast your how. This is five years of hard-won wisdom distilled into one conversation. And it is for every woman — and every person — who has ever wondered what it really takes to lead. Topics Covered: Chelsea Clinton on using platform and power to remove bias for others How Chelsea manages an extraordinary portfolio of work Kara Swisher's early mentor and the generosity of sharing the room Why the best leaders never stop being students Kara Swisher being told she was "too confident" — and her response Carla Harris on the critical difference between mentors and sponsors Why imposter syndrome is just a distraction — and how to set it aside Carla Harris on senior women's responsibility to build the bench Missy Krasner on AI as healthcare's third watershed moment Why once you nail the fundamentals, nobody cares that you're a woman Dr. Jenny Schneider on ruthless prioritization over work-life balance The power of an intentional pause before the next big thing Why great leaders actively seek out dissenting voices Joetta Clark Diggs on leadership as a "we, not a me" Breaking national records at 62 — and why staying power has no expiration date Cara Munnis on what happens when strategy meets obsessive detail The hardest leadership skill — learning to delegate what you do best Five years of Inspiring Women and what comes next Five years ago, Laurie McGraw launched Inspiring Women on International Women's Day — her own birthday — with a simple belief: when women lead, we build a more just and equitable society. What followed was hundreds of conversations with some of the most remarkable women in leadership, healthcare, tech, business, and beyond.


This episode is different. There's no single guest. Instead, Laurie steps back and reflects on the conversations that have shaped her most — and the lessons that have stayed with her long after the recording stopped.


From Chelsea Clinton's conviction that those with power and voice have a responsibility to remove bias for those without it, to Kara Swisher's unshakeable self-belief in the face of being told she was "too confident." From Carla Harris drawing a sharp line between mentors and sponsors — and why the difference could define your career — to Dr. Jenny Schneider rejecting work-life balance entirely in favour of ruthless prioritization. From Missy Krasner reframing failure as the fuel that drives the next big thing, to four-time Olympian Joetta Clark Diggs picking up her cleats again at 62 and breaking national records, living proof that your why will always outlast your how.


This is five years of hard-won wisdom distilled into one conversation. And it is for every woman — and every person — who has ever wondered what it really takes to lead.


Topics Covered:

  • Chelsea Clinton on using platform and power to remove bias for others
  • How Chelsea manages an extraordinary portfolio of work
  • Kara Swisher's early mentor and the generosity of sharing the room
  • Why the best leaders never stop being students
  • Kara Swisher being told she was "too confident" — and her response
  • Carla Harris on the critical difference between mentors and sponsors
  • Why imposter syndrome is just a distraction — and how to set it aside
  • Carla Harris on senior women's responsibility to build the bench
  • Missy Krasner on AI as healthcare's third watershed moment
  • Why once you nail the fundamentals, nobody cares that you're a woman
  • Dr. Jenny Schneider on ruthless prioritization over work-life balance
  • The power of an intentional pause before the next big thing
  • Why great leaders actively seek out dissenting voices
  • Joetta Clark Diggs on leadership as a "we, not a me"
  • Breaking national records at 62 — and why staying power has no expiration date
  • Cara Munnis on what happens when strategy meets obsessive detail
  • The hardest leadership skill — learning to delegate what you do best
  • Five years of Inspiring Women and what comes next


]]> 1708 From Quitting Nursing 2 Semesters Before Graduating to Managing Benefits for 50,000 People | Jessica Palacios Jessica Palacios was two semesters away from her nursing degree when she walked into a patient's room mid-clinical and found an elderly woman alone in the dark, covered in bed sores, on the wrong mattress, with photos of her family taped to her IV pump. When Jessica raised the alarm, her professor told her to worry about it when she was a real nurse. She sat in her driveway and cried for 30 minutes that evening. That one moment sent her on a decade-long journey through accounting, psychology, sociology, and business before a faculty advisor finally looked at her history and said, you should be in HR. What followed was a 20+ year career at the Texas A&M University System, where Jessica now serves as Associate Director of System Benefits Administration, overseeing healthcare and benefits for over 50,000 covered lives across one of the largest university systems in the United States. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Jessica to unpack the full journey, the pivots, the promotions, the hard feedback, and the leadership lessons that only come from doing it the hard way. They discuss: The clinical experience that forced Jessica to walk away from nursing and what it still teaches her about advocacy today How she accidentally stumbled into benefits while working at Webb County before she even had her degree What it was like to be thrust into management early with no guidance and be told her tone was a problem The HR director who sat her down with emotional intelligence books and met with her every week until something shifted Why she believes benefits is the single greatest place in any organisation to change an employee's life outside of their paycheck How she now intentionally invests in her team's growth, certifications, master's degrees, vendor relationships and beyond Jessica Palacios is proof that the career you planned and the career you're meant for are rarely the same thing, and that a life spent in service to people can take more shapes than you ever expected. Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Jessica Palacios was two semesters away from her nursing degree when she walked into a patient's room mid-clinical and found an elderly woman alone in the dark, covered in bed sores, on the wrong mattress, with photos of her family taped to her IV pump. When Jessica raised the alarm, her professor told her to worry about it when she was a real nurse. She sat in her driveway and cried for 30 minutes that evening. That one moment sent her on a decade-long journey through accounting, psychology, sociology, and business before a faculty advisor finally looked at her history and said, you should be in HR. What followed was a 20+ year career at the Texas A&M University System, where Jessica now serves as Associate Director of System Benefits Administration, overseeing healthcare and benefits for over 50,000 covered lives across one of the largest university systems in the United States. In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Jessica to unpack the full journey, the pivots, the promotions, the hard feedback, and the leadership lessons that only come from doing it the hard way. They discuss: The clinical experience that forced Jessica to walk away from nursing and what it still teaches her about advocacy today How she accidentally stumbled into benefits while working at Webb County before she even had her degree What it was like to be thrust into management early with no guidance and be told her tone was a problem The HR director who sat her down with emotional intelligence books and met with her every week until something shifted Why she believes benefits is the single greatest place in any organisation to change an employee's life outside of their paycheck How she now intentionally invests in her team's growth, certifications, master's degrees, vendor relationships and beyond Jessica Palacios is proof that the career you planned and the career you're meant for are rarely the same thing, and that a life spent in service to people can take more shapes than you ever expected. Jessica Palacios was two semesters away from her nursing degree when she walked into a patient's room mid-clinical and found an elderly woman alone in the dark, covered in bed sores, on the wrong mattress, with photos of her family taped to her IV pump.

When Jessica raised the alarm, her professor told her to worry about it when she was a real nurse. She sat in her driveway and cried for 30 minutes that evening.

That one moment sent her on a decade-long journey through accounting, psychology, sociology, and business before a faculty advisor finally looked at her history and said, you should be in HR.

What followed was a 20+ year career at the Texas A&M University System, where Jessica now serves as Associate Director of System Benefits Administration, overseeing healthcare and benefits for over 50,000 covered lives across one of the largest university systems in the United States.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw sits down with Jessica to unpack the full journey, the pivots, the promotions, the hard feedback, and the leadership lessons that only come from doing it the hard way.


They discuss:

  • The clinical experience that forced Jessica to walk away from nursing and what it still teaches her about advocacy today
  • How she accidentally stumbled into benefits while working at Webb County before she even had her degree
  • What it was like to be thrust into management early with no guidance and be told her tone was a problem
  • The HR director who sat her down with emotional intelligence books and met with her every week until something shifted
  • Why she believes benefits is the single greatest place in any organisation to change an employee's life outside of their paycheck
  • How she now intentionally invests in her team's growth, certifications, master's degrees, vendor relationships and beyond

Jessica Palacios is proof that the career you planned and the career you're meant for are rarely the same thing, and that a life spent in service to people can take more shapes than you ever expected.

]]> 1656 Managing Healthcare Benefits For 215,000 People, What The Job Actually Looks Like | Laura Tauber What happens when a Wall Street bond analyst, urban planner, freelance filmmaker, and investment banker all become the same person, and that person ends up running healthcare benefits for 215,000 people at the University of California? Laura Tauber didn't follow the rulebook. She followed curiosity. Laura Tauber is the Executive Director of Self-Funded Health Plans at the University of California, Office of the President. She oversees PPO plans, HMO plans, and benefit partnerships with Anthem and Blue Shield for a workforce that spans everything from Nobel laureates to gardeners — active employees, early retirees, and families spread across California and beyond. 60% of that workforce is unionized. 5 of her campuses have no medical center. And 50-60% of total plan spend runs through UC's own health system, meaning she's constantly negotiating with the very hospitals she depends on. It started not in healthcare — but in natural resources. Laura studied environmental policy, nearly became a forester, spent a summer in rural Montana, and realized that wasn't the life for her. She pivoted to urban planning, moved to San Francisco in 1982 in the middle of a recession, couldn't find work, and called a friend in New York who happened to be hiring at a bond insurance company. That one phone call put her in healthcare. She became a healthcare bond analyst — spending years doing deep financial analysis for hospitals, understanding how CFOs and CEOs think, what keeps them up at night, what their numbers actually mean. Then she moved to Blue Shield of California. Then Accenture as a healthcare strategy consultant. Then a stint in investment banking — where her biggest revelation wasn't finance, it was that she hated banking but loved strategy. Then Scan Health Plan. Then Kaiser. And somewhere in the middle of all of it, she took what she calls "a long sabbatical or a midlife crisis" — left healthcare entirely, got a BFA in cinematography, worked freelance for the BBC, worked on a travel show, and worked on a Spike Lee film. Then she came back. And everything clicked. In this conversation, Laura breaks down what it actually takes to make high-stakes benefit decisions across a system this complex — balancing member needs, budget constraints, union contracts, provider negotiations, pharmacy costs, and the constant pressure of doing right by people whose lives depend on the decisions you make. We go deep on: How her background across hospitals, health plans, investment banking, and consulting gives her a different lens when she looks at data — and why that multi-perspective thinking shapes every decision she makes The GLP-1 decision that consumed 18 months of her life — every study, every doctor conversation, every ethical consideration — and the hard call she ultimately made The $2 million hemophilia cure problem and the question underneath it: if a drug pays for itself over time and it's the right thing to do for the member, can you afford not to cover it? Why she still pulls up the raw spreadsheet herself instead of reading the summary — and why that habit has repeatedly led her to insights her own team missed What "making room at the table" actually looks like in practice — and how her first boss at UC gave her the opportunities that shaped everything that followed How she thinks about developing the next generation of leaders: understanding where people want to go, clearing the path for them, and supporting them even when that means helping them leave Why healthcare is fundamentally different from every other corporate environment — and why that emotional dimension is exactly what draws her to it Every detour Laura took — the bond analysis, the urban planning, the film set — gave her a way of thinking about problems that a straight-line career never could have built. This conversation is about what that actually looks like in practice. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:51:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw What happens when a Wall Street bond analyst, urban planner, freelance filmmaker, and investment banker all become the same person, and that person ends up running healthcare benefits for 215,000 people at the University of California? Laura Tauber didn't follow the rulebook. She followed curiosity. Laura Tauber is the Executive Director of Self-Funded Health Plans at the University of California, Office of the President. She oversees PPO plans, HMO plans, and benefit partnerships with Anthem and Blue Shield for a workforce that spans everything from Nobel laureates to gardeners — active employees, early retirees, and families spread across California and beyond. 60% of that workforce is unionized. 5 of her campuses have no medical center. And 50-60% of total plan spend runs through UC's own health system, meaning she's constantly negotiating with the very hospitals she depends on. It started not in healthcare — but in natural resources. Laura studied environmental policy, nearly became a forester, spent a summer in rural Montana, and realized that wasn't the life for her. She pivoted to urban planning, moved to San Francisco in 1982 in the middle of a recession, couldn't find work, and called a friend in New York who happened to be hiring at a bond insurance company. That one phone call put her in healthcare. She became a healthcare bond analyst — spending years doing deep financial analysis for hospitals, understanding how CFOs and CEOs think, what keeps them up at night, what their numbers actually mean. Then she moved to Blue Shield of California. Then Accenture as a healthcare strategy consultant. Then a stint in investment banking — where her biggest revelation wasn't finance, it was that she hated banking but loved strategy. Then Scan Health Plan. Then Kaiser. And somewhere in the middle of all of it, she took what she calls "a long sabbatical or a midlife crisis" — left healthcare entirely, got a BFA in cinematography, worked freelance for the BBC, worked on a travel show, and worked on a Spike Lee film. Then she came back. And everything clicked. In this conversation, Laura breaks down what it actually takes to make high-stakes benefit decisions across a system this complex — balancing member needs, budget constraints, union contracts, provider negotiations, pharmacy costs, and the constant pressure of doing right by people whose lives depend on the decisions you make. We go deep on: How her background across hospitals, health plans, investment banking, and consulting gives her a different lens when she looks at data — and why that multi-perspective thinking shapes every decision she makes The GLP-1 decision that consumed 18 months of her life — every study, every doctor conversation, every ethical consideration — and the hard call she ultimately made The $2 million hemophilia cure problem and the question underneath it: if a drug pays for itself over time and it's the right thing to do for the member, can you afford not to cover it? Why she still pulls up the raw spreadsheet herself instead of reading the summary — and why that habit has repeatedly led her to insights her own team missed What "making room at the table" actually looks like in practice — and how her first boss at UC gave her the opportunities that shaped everything that followed How she thinks about developing the next generation of leaders: understanding where people want to go, clearing the path for them, and supporting them even when that means helping them leave Why healthcare is fundamentally different from every other corporate environment — and why that emotional dimension is exactly what draws her to it Every detour Laura took — the bond analysis, the urban planning, the film set — gave her a way of thinking about problems that a straight-line career never could have built. This conversation is about what that actually looks like in practice. What happens when a Wall Street bond analyst, urban planner, freelance filmmaker, and investment banker all become the same person, and that person ends up running healthcare benefits for 215,000 people at the University of California?

Laura Tauber didn't follow the rulebook. She followed curiosity.

Laura Tauber is the Executive Director of Self-Funded Health Plans at the University of California, Office of the President. She oversees PPO plans, HMO plans, and benefit partnerships with Anthem and Blue Shield for a workforce that spans everything from Nobel laureates to gardeners — active employees, early retirees, and families spread across California and beyond.


60% of that workforce is unionized.

5 of her campuses have no medical center.

And 50-60% of total plan spend runs through UC's own health system, meaning she's constantly negotiating with the very hospitals she depends on.

It started not in healthcare — but in natural resources. Laura studied environmental policy, nearly became a forester, spent a summer in rural Montana, and realized that wasn't the life for her. She pivoted to urban planning, moved to San Francisco in 1982 in the middle of a recession, couldn't find work, and called a friend in New York who happened to be hiring at a bond insurance company. That one phone call put her in healthcare.

She became a healthcare bond analyst — spending years doing deep financial analysis for hospitals, understanding how CFOs and CEOs think, what keeps them up at night, what their numbers actually mean. Then she moved to Blue Shield of California. Then Accenture as a healthcare strategy consultant. Then a stint in investment banking — where her biggest revelation wasn't finance, it was that she hated banking but loved strategy. Then Scan Health Plan. Then Kaiser. And somewhere in the middle of all of it, she took what she calls "a long sabbatical or a midlife crisis" — left healthcare entirely, got a BFA in cinematography, worked freelance for the BBC, worked on a travel show, and worked on a Spike Lee film.

Then she came back. And everything clicked.

In this conversation, Laura breaks down what it actually takes to make high-stakes benefit decisions across a system this complex — balancing member needs, budget constraints, union contracts, provider negotiations, pharmacy costs, and the constant pressure of doing right by people whose lives depend on the decisions you make.

We go deep on:

  • How her background across hospitals, health plans, investment banking, and consulting gives her a different lens when she looks at data — and why that multi-perspective thinking shapes every decision she makes
  • The GLP-1 decision that consumed 18 months of her life — every study, every doctor conversation, every ethical consideration — and the hard call she ultimately made
  • The $2 million hemophilia cure problem and the question underneath it: if a drug pays for itself over time and it's the right thing to do for the member, can you afford not to cover it?
  • Why she still pulls up the raw spreadsheet herself instead of reading the summary — and why that habit has repeatedly led her to insights her own team missed
  • What "making room at the table" actually looks like in practice — and how her first boss at UC gave her the opportunities that shaped everything that followed
  • How she thinks about developing the next generation of leaders: understanding where people want to go, clearing the path for them, and supporting them even when that means helping them leave
  • Why healthcare is fundamentally different from every other corporate environment — and why that emotional dimension is exactly what draws her to it

Every detour Laura took — the bond analysis, the urban planning, the film set — gave her a way of thinking about problems that a straight-line career never could have built. This conversation is about what that actually looks like in practice.

]]> 1947 Leading 60,000 people: A Blueprint For Female Leadership In Global Business || Kristy Whitehurst "When you do your homework... when you can speak to the facts... they stop and they listen." In this episode of Inspiring Women, Laurie McGraw sits down with Kristy Whitehurst, the powerhouse behind the employee benefits strategy at Genuine Parts Company (GPC). Managing the well-being of over 60,000 members across a global landscape is no small feat, yet Kristy has navigated this complex "puzzle" for over two decades. Kristy opens up about her unconventional start—from a degree in dietetics to becoming a leading voice in HR. She shares the raw reality of rising through the ranks in a male-dominated industry, the nerve-wracking moment of her first executive presentation, and why "owning your mistakes" is the ultimate catalyst for growth. Whether you are looking to scale the corporate ladder, master the art of data-driven persuasion, or find the balance between professional passion and personal life, Kristy’s "Maiden Voyage" into the podcast world provides a blueprint for sustainable, high-impact leadership. In this episode, we discuss: The strategy of managing benefits for a global workforce of 60,000+. How to command respect and "stop the room" in male-dominated boardrooms. The "Puzzle of Benefits": Balancing rising costs with employee retention. Why asking the "simple" questions is a leader's greatest superpower. Navigating corporate evolution, M&A, and the future of AI in healthcare. The importance of mentorship and watching how the "greats" prepare for the big moments. Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:24:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw "When you do your homework... when you can speak to the facts... they stop and they listen." In this episode of Inspiring Women, Laurie McGraw sits down with Kristy Whitehurst, the powerhouse behind the employee benefits strategy at Genuine Parts Company (GPC). Managing the well-being of over 60,000 members across a global landscape is no small feat, yet Kristy has navigated this complex "puzzle" for over two decades. Kristy opens up about her unconventional start—from a degree in dietetics to becoming a leading voice in HR. She shares the raw reality of rising through the ranks in a male-dominated industry, the nerve-wracking moment of her first executive presentation, and why "owning your mistakes" is the ultimate catalyst for growth. Whether you are looking to scale the corporate ladder, master the art of data-driven persuasion, or find the balance between professional passion and personal life, Kristy’s "Maiden Voyage" into the podcast world provides a blueprint for sustainable, high-impact leadership. In this episode, we discuss: The strategy of managing benefits for a global workforce of 60,000+. How to command respect and "stop the room" in male-dominated boardrooms. The "Puzzle of Benefits": Balancing rising costs with employee retention. Why asking the "simple" questions is a leader's greatest superpower. Navigating corporate evolution, M&A, and the future of AI in healthcare. The importance of mentorship and watching how the "greats" prepare for the big moments. "When you do your homework... when you can speak to the facts... they stop and they listen."


In this episode of Inspiring Women, Laurie McGraw sits down with Kristy Whitehurst, the powerhouse behind the employee benefits strategy at Genuine Parts Company (GPC). Managing the well-being of over 60,000 members across a global landscape is no small feat, yet Kristy has navigated this complex "puzzle" for over two decades.

Kristy opens up about her unconventional start—from a degree in dietetics to becoming a leading voice in HR. She shares the raw reality of rising through the ranks in a male-dominated industry, the nerve-wracking moment of her first executive presentation, and why "owning your mistakes" is the ultimate catalyst for growth.

Whether you are looking to scale the corporate ladder, master the art of data-driven persuasion, or find the balance between professional passion and personal life, Kristy’s "Maiden Voyage" into the podcast world provides a blueprint for sustainable, high-impact leadership.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The strategy of managing benefits for a global workforce of 60,000+.

  • How to command respect and "stop the room" in male-dominated boardrooms.

  • The "Puzzle of Benefits": Balancing rising costs with employee retention.

  • Why asking the "simple" questions is a leader's greatest superpower.

  • Navigating corporate evolution, M&A, and the future of AI in healthcare.

  • The importance of mentorship and watching how the "greats" prepare for the big moments.


]]> 1275 The Toxic Truth About 'Healthy' Eating: A Dietitian’s Confession - Caroline Susie || Ep. 234 "We’ve been conditioned to fear our food, but the 'health halo' is the biggest deception of all." Caroline Susie is not your average dietitian. From the Today Show to the boardrooms of the world’s largest corporations, she has become one of the most influential voices in nutrition. But her message is often met with shock: she believes "all foods fit" and that much of what we’ve been told about "fake food" and organic labels is marketing, not science. In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Caroline sits down with Laurie McGraw to dismantle the myths that keep us stressed at the grocery store. She addresses why "conventionally grown" produce is safer than you think and why the "health halo" around organic products might be emptying your wallet without improving your health. Beyond the plate, Caroline reveals the high-stakes world of corporate health consulting at Mercer. She breaks down the "miracle" GLP-1 weight-loss drugs—balancing the clinical life-changing benefits with the cold, hard economics of a $1,000-a-month habit that most people are destined to fail. We discuss: The Strawberry Myth: Why you could eat 650 servings and still be safe. The "Fake Food" Trap: Why she chooses real butter and real cheese over "healthy" alternatives. The GLP-1 Crisis: Why the weight comes back faster—and worse—once you stop. Doing Nothing is Disruption: The bold leadership move required to save the healthcare system. Leaving a Toxic Boss: How a "hard pass" turned into a decade-long career transformation. This is a masterclass in nutrition, corporate strategy, and the courage to speak the truth in an industry built on confusion. Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:24:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw "We’ve been conditioned to fear our food, but the 'health halo' is the biggest deception of all." Caroline Susie is not your average dietitian. From the Today Show to the boardrooms of the world’s largest corporations, she has become one of the most influential voices in nutrition. But her message is often met with shock: she believes "all foods fit" and that much of what we’ve been told about "fake food" and organic labels is marketing, not science. In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Caroline sits down with Laurie McGraw to dismantle the myths that keep us stressed at the grocery store. She addresses why "conventionally grown" produce is safer than you think and why the "health halo" around organic products might be emptying your wallet without improving your health. Beyond the plate, Caroline reveals the high-stakes world of corporate health consulting at Mercer. She breaks down the "miracle" GLP-1 weight-loss drugs—balancing the clinical life-changing benefits with the cold, hard economics of a $1,000-a-month habit that most people are destined to fail. We discuss: The Strawberry Myth: Why you could eat 650 servings and still be safe. The "Fake Food" Trap: Why she chooses real butter and real cheese over "healthy" alternatives. The GLP-1 Crisis: Why the weight comes back faster—and worse—once you stop. Doing Nothing is Disruption: The bold leadership move required to save the healthcare system. Leaving a Toxic Boss: How a "hard pass" turned into a decade-long career transformation. This is a masterclass in nutrition, corporate strategy, and the courage to speak the truth in an industry built on confusion. "We’ve been conditioned to fear our food, but the 'health halo' is the biggest deception of all."


Caroline Susie is not your average dietitian.


From the Today Show to the boardrooms of the world’s largest corporations, she has become one of the most influential voices in nutrition. But her message is often met with shock: she believes "all foods fit" and that much of what we’ve been told about "fake food" and organic labels is marketing, not science.


In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Caroline sits down with Laurie McGraw to dismantle the myths that keep us stressed at the grocery store.

She addresses why "conventionally grown" produce is safer than you think and why the "health halo" around organic products might be emptying your wallet without improving your health.


Beyond the plate, Caroline reveals the high-stakes world of corporate health consulting at Mercer. She breaks down the "miracle" GLP-1 weight-loss drugs—balancing the clinical life-changing benefits with the cold, hard economics of a $1,000-a-month habit that most people are destined to fail.


We discuss:

  • The Strawberry Myth: Why you could eat 650 servings and still be safe.

  • The "Fake Food" Trap: Why she chooses real butter and real cheese over "healthy" alternatives.

  • The GLP-1 Crisis: Why the weight comes back faster—and worse—once you stop.

  • Doing Nothing is Disruption: The bold leadership move required to save the healthcare system.

  • Leaving a Toxic Boss: How a "hard pass" turned into a decade-long career transformation.

This is a masterclass in nutrition, corporate strategy, and the courage to speak the truth in an industry built on confusion.

]]> 1480 no Healthcare Executive's 2026 message to all Women! EP. 233 My Roadmap for Leadership in 2026 Host: Laurie McGraw Welcome to our very first episode of 2026! As I step into this new year, both in my role at Transcarent and as the host of this podcast, I’ve been thinking deeply about one word: Momentum. After more than 100s of conversations with incredible trailblazers, I’m dedicated to exploring how more inspiring women shape the world, and their businesses! I’m so glad you’re here with me. We will be dropping episodes every Tuesday with a new guest. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 13:53:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw My Roadmap for Leadership in 2026 Host: Laurie McGraw Welcome to our very first episode of 2026! As I step into this new year, both in my role at Transcarent and as the host of this podcast, I’ve been thinking deeply about one word: Momentum. After more than 100s of conversations with incredible trailblazers, I’m dedicated to exploring how more inspiring women shape the world, and their businesses! I’m so glad you’re here with me. We will be dropping episodes every Tuesday with a new guest. My Roadmap for Leadership in 2026 Host: Laurie McGraw


Welcome to our very first episode of 2026! As I step into this new year, both in my role at Transcarent and as the host of this podcast, I’ve been thinking deeply about one word: Momentum. After more than 100s of conversations with incredible trailblazers, I’m dedicated to exploring how more inspiring women shape the world, and their businesses!


I’m so glad you’re here with me.


We will be dropping episodes every Tuesday with a new guest.

]]> 146 no Reinventing Success as a Product Leader and Mom || EP.232 Cara Munnis was wearing an N95 mask while taking care of her daughter with norovirus all night because she had a critical meeting the next day and "I cannot get this thing." She showed up, ran the meeting, and afterward couldn't tell if anyone noticed she was operating on "one brain cell processing everything." Welcome to being a Chief Product Officer and a mom. Here's what most people don't know about the CPO role: it has the shortest tenure of any C-suite position—less than half that of other executives. You're supposed to be "Switzerland," the neutral party among competing stakeholders. But you're constantly telling your C-suite peers—very kindly—why their ideas are going to sink or swim. The real transformation wasn't navigating those politics. It was what happened when Cara's daughter was born seven years ago. "For someone who's led massive technology transformations multiple times, it's very ironic how hard this transition was for me." The evening checkboxes—that sacred 5-8pm window where she prepared for the next day—vanished instantly. It took five years to build a new operating system where she hired without compromise and delegated with her eyes closed. In this conversation, Cara explains why she's "obsessed" with finding the economic denominator, why Conway's Law means your product will mirror your org structure, and why staying close to technology was the best career advice she ever got. After describing her relentless discipline and surgical precision, she deadpans: "I haven't been fired yet, so I dunno, I guess it's okay." This is a masterclass in product leadership that scales, parenting that doesn't apologize, and ruthless prioritization when you're scraping for minutes in your day. Key Takeaways: How to choose the right ladder to climb—make career decisions based on intentionality, not just opportunity or speed How to turn constraints into leadership advantages—use the pressure of working parenthood to force yourself to hire without compromise and delegate with confidence How to stay close to technology in any role—even as a non-technical leader, understanding architecture helps you defend budgets, win deals, and articulate competitive advantages How to shift your communication style as you move into executive roles—listen more, ask questions even when you know the answer, and bring others along instead of leading with your opinion How to design org structures that create better products—use Conway's Law (products mirror internal communication structures) to intentionally build teams that will produce the outcomes you want About the Guest: Cara Munnis is Chief Product Officer at Care Lumen and Operating Partner at Newfire Global Partners, bringing over 15 years of healthcare technology product leadership to organizations navigating the intersection of clinical outcomes and business results. She spent six years at Amwell advancing from Senior Director to VP of Product Management, previously served as Head of Product for Digital Health at Blue Shield of California, and held leadership roles at Iora Health and Best Doctors. With a pre-med degree from College of the Holy Cross and an MBA from Bentley University, Cara is Pragmatic Marketing Certified – Level III and known for her ability to balance strategic product vision with rigorous execution while fostering collaborative team environments. Chapters [Placeholder for Chapters] Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Cara Munnis on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:08:00 -0000 Reinventing Success as a Product Leader and Mom full 232 Laurie McGraw Cara Munnis was wearing an N95 mask while taking care of her daughter with norovirus all night because she had a critical meeting the next day and "I cannot get this thing." She showed up, ran the meeting, and afterward couldn't tell if anyone noticed she was operating on "one brain cell processing everything." Welcome to being a Chief Product Officer and a mom. Here's what most people don't know about the CPO role: it has the shortest tenure of any C-suite position—less than half that of other executives. You're supposed to be "Switzerland," the neutral party among competing stakeholders. But you're constantly telling your C-suite peers—very kindly—why their ideas are going to sink or swim. The real transformation wasn't navigating those politics. It was what happened when Cara's daughter was born seven years ago. "For someone who's led massive technology transformations multiple times, it's very ironic how hard this transition was for me." The evening checkboxes—that sacred 5-8pm window where she prepared for the next day—vanished instantly. It took five years to build a new operating system where she hired without compromise and delegated with her eyes closed. In this conversation, Cara explains why she's "obsessed" with finding the economic denominator, why Conway's Law means your product will mirror your org structure, and why staying close to technology was the best career advice she ever got. After describing her relentless discipline and surgical precision, she deadpans: "I haven't been fired yet, so I dunno, I guess it's okay." This is a masterclass in product leadership that scales, parenting that doesn't apologize, and ruthless prioritization when you're scraping for minutes in your day. Key Takeaways: How to choose the right ladder to climb—make career decisions based on intentionality, not just opportunity or speed How to turn constraints into leadership advantages—use the pressure of working parenthood to force yourself to hire without compromise and delegate with confidence How to stay close to technology in any role—even as a non-technical leader, understanding architecture helps you defend budgets, win deals, and articulate competitive advantages How to shift your communication style as you move into executive roles—listen more, ask questions even when you know the answer, and bring others along instead of leading with your opinion How to design org structures that create better products—use Conway's Law (products mirror internal communication structures) to intentionally build teams that will produce the outcomes you want About the Guest: Cara Munnis is Chief Product Officer at Care Lumen and Operating Partner at Newfire Global Partners, bringing over 15 years of healthcare technology product leadership to organizations navigating the intersection of clinical outcomes and business results. She spent six years at Amwell advancing from Senior Director to VP of Product Management, previously served as Head of Product for Digital Health at Blue Shield of California, and held leadership roles at Iora Health and Best Doctors. With a pre-med degree from College of the Holy Cross and an MBA from Bentley University, Cara is Pragmatic Marketing Certified – Level III and known for her ability to balance strategic product vision with rigorous execution while fostering collaborative team environments. Chapters [Placeholder for Chapters] Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Cara Munnis on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Cara Munnis was wearing an N95 mask while taking care of her daughter with norovirus all night because she had a critical meeting the next day and "I cannot get this thing." She showed up, ran the meeting, and afterward couldn't tell if anyone noticed she was operating on "one brain cell processing everything." Welcome to being a Chief Product Officer and a mom.

Here's what most people don't know about the CPO role: it has the shortest tenure of any C-suite position—less than half that of other executives. You're supposed to be "Switzerland," the neutral party among competing stakeholders. But you're constantly telling your C-suite peers—very kindly—why their ideas are going to sink or swim. The real transformation wasn't navigating those politics. It was what happened when Cara's daughter was born seven years ago. "For someone who's led massive technology transformations multiple times, it's very ironic how hard this transition was for me." The evening checkboxes—that sacred 5-8pm window where she prepared for the next day—vanished instantly. It took five years to build a new operating system where she hired without compromise and delegated with her eyes closed.

In this conversation, Cara explains why she's "obsessed" with finding the economic denominator, why Conway's Law means your product will mirror your org structure, and why staying close to technology was the best career advice she ever got. After describing her relentless discipline and surgical precision, she deadpans: "I haven't been fired yet, so I dunno, I guess it's okay." This is a masterclass in product leadership that scales, parenting that doesn't apologize, and ruthless prioritization when you're scraping for minutes in your day.

Key Takeaways:

  • How to choose the right ladder to climb—make career decisions based on intentionality, not just opportunity or speed
  • How to turn constraints into leadership advantages—use the pressure of working parenthood to force yourself to hire without compromise and delegate with confidence
  • How to stay close to technology in any role—even as a non-technical leader, understanding architecture helps you defend budgets, win deals, and articulate competitive advantages
  • How to shift your communication style as you move into executive roles—listen more, ask questions even when you know the answer, and bring others along instead of leading with your opinion
  • How to design org structures that create better products—use Conway's Law (products mirror internal communication structures) to intentionally build teams that will produce the outcomes you want

About the Guest:

Cara Munnis is Chief Product Officer at Care Lumen and Operating Partner at Newfire Global Partners, bringing over 15 years of healthcare technology product leadership to organizations navigating the intersection of clinical outcomes and business results. She spent six years at Amwell advancing from Senior Director to VP of Product Management, previously served as Head of Product for Digital Health at Blue Shield of California, and held leadership roles at Iora Health and Best Doctors. With a pre-med degree from College of the Holy Cross and an MBA from Bentley University, Cara is Pragmatic Marketing Certified – Level III and known for her ability to balance strategic product vision with rigorous execution while fostering collaborative team environments.

Chapters

[Placeholder for Chapters]

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1685 no CVS’ Chief Medical Officer on Simplifying Healthcare for 9,000 Communities || EP.231 Women comprise 75% of the healthcare workforce and make the majority of family healthcare decisions—yet hold only 20% of senior leadership positions. Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, sees this gap as more than unfair. At CVS Health, Dr. Amy oversees clinical strategy for 9,000 community access points with a clear mission: simplify healthcare and make the right thing the easy thing. "We've put things like electronic medical records, narrow insurance networks, and administrative rigmarole between patients and people who can help them," she explains. "How can we start taking layers out?" But she didn't reach this role by following the traditional playbook. She turned down her dream job because the timing wasn't right for her family. She went part-time during peak career years, trading off with her husband as their priorities shifted. And she's consistently been tapped on the shoulder for opportunities rather than raising her hand, which taught her that doing your current job exceptionally well matters more than constantly positioning for the next one. In this conversation, Dr. Amy explains why healthcare needs women's voices at the executive table for design thinking that actually works, how she and her husband negotiated dual careers through different life stages, why "performance gets you the podium" but authenticity and strategic thinking get you the C-suite, and what it takes to be heard when you're the only woman in leadership rooms. Whether you're balancing clinical practice with administrative responsibilities, navigating when to say yes and no to opportunities, or building toward senior healthcare leadership, this is uncommon honesty about the trade-offs and strategies that actually matter. Key Takeaways: Do your current job exceptionally well—performance gets you noticed before you ever raise your hand Design healthcare systems with women's voices at the table; they're both the workforce majority and primary family decision-makers Negotiate career trade-offs with your partner over time; one person doesn't have to sacrifice permanently Saying no to your dream job might be the smartest move you make—if they value you, they'll come back Taking layers out of complexity requires intentional design thinking, not just adding more solutions Figure out what's working and what's not, then adjust your strategy—sometimes you need to literally or metaphorically elevate yourself to be heard About the Guest: Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips is Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, where she leads clinical strategy across 9,000 community locations. She previously served as President and Chief Clinical Officer at Providence, a $25 billion health system with 52 hospitals and 120,000 caregivers, where she led the response to the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the United States. Earlier, she spent 22 years at Kaiser Permanente, rising from front-line internist to Chief Quality Officer. A CNN Medical Analyst and keynote speaker, she has served on boards including HIMSS, the Institute for Systems Biology, and Wellcare. She holds her bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University and her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Holiday Health Tips 02:38 - Simplifying Health at CVS 05:31 - The Voice of the Customer: Women in Leadership 08:42 - Career Progression: Being Tapped on the Shoulder 10:11 - Saying No to the Dream Job 12:39 - Making Choices: Work-Life Integration 15:05 - Going Part-Time and Life Partner Negotiation 17:55 - Pull Out the Platform Shoes: Getting Heard as a Leader Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 20 Jan 2026 09:08:00 -0000 CVS’ Chief Medical Officer on Simplifying Healthcare for 9,000 Communities full 231 Laurie McGraw Women comprise 75% of the healthcare workforce and make the majority of family healthcare decisions—yet hold only 20% of senior leadership positions. Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, sees this gap as more than unfair. At CVS Health, Dr. Amy oversees clinical strategy for 9,000 community access points with a clear mission: simplify healthcare and make the right thing the easy thing. "We've put things like electronic medical records, narrow insurance networks, and administrative rigmarole between patients and people who can help them," she explains. "How can we start taking layers out?" But she didn't reach this role by following the traditional playbook. She turned down her dream job because the timing wasn't right for her family. She went part-time during peak career years, trading off with her husband as their priorities shifted. And she's consistently been tapped on the shoulder for opportunities rather than raising her hand, which taught her that doing your current job exceptionally well matters more than constantly positioning for the next one. In this conversation, Dr. Amy explains why healthcare needs women's voices at the executive table for design thinking that actually works, how she and her husband negotiated dual careers through different life stages, why "performance gets you the podium" but authenticity and strategic thinking get you the C-suite, and what it takes to be heard when you're the only woman in leadership rooms. Whether you're balancing clinical practice with administrative responsibilities, navigating when to say yes and no to opportunities, or building toward senior healthcare leadership, this is uncommon honesty about the trade-offs and strategies that actually matter. Key Takeaways: Do your current job exceptionally well—performance gets you noticed before you ever raise your hand Design healthcare systems with women's voices at the table; they're both the workforce majority and primary family decision-makers Negotiate career trade-offs with your partner over time; one person doesn't have to sacrifice permanently Saying no to your dream job might be the smartest move you make—if they value you, they'll come back Taking layers out of complexity requires intentional design thinking, not just adding more solutions Figure out what's working and what's not, then adjust your strategy—sometimes you need to literally or metaphorically elevate yourself to be heard About the Guest: Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips is Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, where she leads clinical strategy across 9,000 community locations. She previously served as President and Chief Clinical Officer at Providence, a $25 billion health system with 52 hospitals and 120,000 caregivers, where she led the response to the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the United States. Earlier, she spent 22 years at Kaiser Permanente, rising from front-line internist to Chief Quality Officer. A CNN Medical Analyst and keynote speaker, she has served on boards including HIMSS, the Institute for Systems Biology, and Wellcare. She holds her bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University and her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Holiday Health Tips 02:38 - Simplifying Health at CVS 05:31 - The Voice of the Customer: Women in Leadership 08:42 - Career Progression: Being Tapped on the Shoulder 10:11 - Saying No to the Dream Job 12:39 - Making Choices: Work-Life Integration 15:05 - Going Part-Time and Life Partner Negotiation 17:55 - Pull Out the Platform Shoes: Getting Heard as a Leader Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Women comprise 75% of the healthcare workforce and make the majority of family healthcare decisions—yet hold only 20% of senior leadership positions. Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, sees this gap as more than unfair.

At CVS Health, Dr. Amy oversees clinical strategy for 9,000 community access points with a clear mission: simplify healthcare and make the right thing the easy thing. "We've put things like electronic medical records, narrow insurance networks, and administrative rigmarole between patients and people who can help them," she explains. "How can we start taking layers out?"

But she didn't reach this role by following the traditional playbook. She turned down her dream job because the timing wasn't right for her family. She went part-time during peak career years, trading off with her husband as their priorities shifted. And she's consistently been tapped on the shoulder for opportunities rather than raising her hand, which taught her that doing your current job exceptionally well matters more than constantly positioning for the next one.

In this conversation, Dr. Amy explains why healthcare needs women's voices at the executive table for design thinking that actually works, how she and her husband negotiated dual careers through different life stages, why "performance gets you the podium" but authenticity and strategic thinking get you the C-suite, and what it takes to be heard when you're the only woman in leadership rooms. Whether you're balancing clinical practice with administrative responsibilities, navigating when to say yes and no to opportunities, or building toward senior healthcare leadership, this is uncommon honesty about the trade-offs and strategies that actually matter.

Key Takeaways:

  • Do your current job exceptionally well—performance gets you noticed before you ever raise your hand
  • Design healthcare systems with women's voices at the table; they're both the workforce majority and primary family decision-makers
  • Negotiate career trade-offs with your partner over time; one person doesn't have to sacrifice permanently
  • Saying no to your dream job might be the smartest move you make—if they value you, they'll come back
  • Taking layers out of complexity requires intentional design thinking, not just adding more solutions
  • Figure out what's working and what's not, then adjust your strategy—sometimes you need to literally or metaphorically elevate yourself to be heard

About the Guest: Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips is Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health, where she leads clinical strategy across 9,000 community locations. She previously served as President and Chief Clinical Officer at Providence, a $25 billion health system with 52 hospitals and 120,000 caregivers, where she led the response to the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the United States. Earlier, she spent 22 years at Kaiser Permanente, rising from front-line internist to Chief Quality Officer. A CNN Medical Analyst and keynote speaker, she has served on boards including HIMSS, the Institute for Systems Biology, and Wellcare. She holds her bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University and her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Health Podcast Network

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Holiday Health Tips 02:38 - Simplifying Health at CVS 05:31 - The Voice of the Customer: Women in Leadership 08:42 - Career Progression: Being Tapped on the Shoulder 10:11 - Saying No to the Dream Job 12:39 - Making Choices: Work-Life Integration 15:05 - Going Part-Time and Life Partner Negotiation 17:55 - Pull Out the Platform Shoes: Getting Heard as a Leader

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1240 no From Physical Therapist to COO: Beth Ratliff on Systems, Survival, and Strategic Vulnerability || EP.230 "I thought I understood healthcare—until I had cancer." Beth Ratliff had spent her entire career in healthcare operations. She'd built multi-site clinical systems, led digital transformations, and risen from physical therapist to C-suite executive. But when she was diagnosed with colon cancer, she discovered something that would fundamentally change how she leads. And it had nothing to do with clinical protocols or operational efficiency. Today, as Chief Operating Officer of Premise Health, Beth has built a reputation in Nashville's male-dominated healthcare executive world for an approach that shouldn't work, but does. She talks openly about being in recovery for 30 years. She shares her cancer journey in board meetings. And somehow, this vulnerability hasn't weakened her position; it's made her one of the most influential operators in the industry. There's something Beth figured out early in her career that most leaders miss: the moment when you realize you're not the best clinician in the room is exactly when you're ready to lead. What she learned on a Toyota manufacturing floor as a young physical therapist became the foundation for a leadership philosophy that combines systems thinking with something that can't be taught in business school but can be learned through lived experience. In this conversation, Beth reveals how she's navigated being consistently underestimated, why she applied for jobs she wasn't qualified for, and what changed in those terrifying moments coordinating her own cancer care that transformed her entire approach to building healthcare organizations. This isn't inspiration about overcoming adversity. It's a masterclass in strategic authenticity from someone who's figured out how to use her platform without making it about herself. Key Takeaways: How to turn being underestimated into your competitive advantage in male-dominated executive spaces The career strategy Beth used to land leadership roles she wasn't "technically qualified" for—and why more women need to do the same What Beth learned on Toyota's factory floor that transformed how she thinks about healthcare leadership Beth's framework for sharing deeply personal experiences without making it about yourself—and why this matters for organizational impact Why patient care technology keeps failing—and the missing ingredient that actually changes outcomes The unconventional way Beth built her advisory board using both real executives and AI-powered mentors How Beth gets her entire organization aligned when everyone claims competing priorities are equally important The critical difference between mentors and sponsors—and how to cultivate both strategically About the Guest: Beth Ratliff is Chief Operating Officer at Premise Health, where she oversees clinical operations, technology integration, and business processes for a nationwide healthcare organization serving employer clients. She started her career as a physical therapist on Toyota's manufacturing floor, where she learned the process improvement discipline that would eventually take her to the C-suite. Beth is a Nashville Health Care Council Fellow, a colon cancer survivor, and has been openly in recovery for 30 years—leading Premise Health to become certified as a recovery-friendly workplace where personal challenges become professional superpowers. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Nashville 01:43 - Succeeding as the Only Woman in the Room 04:09 - From Physical Therapist to Power Broker 07:17 - Learning from Cancer: The Patient Experience 10:30 - Recovery Friendly Workplace and Personal Journey 16:10 - The Growing Onsite Clinic Movement 18:32 - Ruthless Prioritization as a Leader 22:08 - Building Your Personal Board of Advisors Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Beth Ratliff on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:08:00 -0000 From Physical Therapist to COO: Beth Ratliff on Systems, Survival, and Strategic Vulnerability full 230 Laurie McGraw "I thought I understood healthcare—until I had cancer." Beth Ratliff had spent her entire career in healthcare operations. She'd built multi-site clinical systems, led digital transformations, and risen from physical therapist to C-suite executive. But when she was diagnosed with colon cancer, she discovered something that would fundamentally change how she leads. And it had nothing to do with clinical protocols or operational efficiency. Today, as Chief Operating Officer of Premise Health, Beth has built a reputation in Nashville's male-dominated healthcare executive world for an approach that shouldn't work, but does. She talks openly about being in recovery for 30 years. She shares her cancer journey in board meetings. And somehow, this vulnerability hasn't weakened her position; it's made her one of the most influential operators in the industry. There's something Beth figured out early in her career that most leaders miss: the moment when you realize you're not the best clinician in the room is exactly when you're ready to lead. What she learned on a Toyota manufacturing floor as a young physical therapist became the foundation for a leadership philosophy that combines systems thinking with something that can't be taught in business school but can be learned through lived experience. In this conversation, Beth reveals how she's navigated being consistently underestimated, why she applied for jobs she wasn't qualified for, and what changed in those terrifying moments coordinating her own cancer care that transformed her entire approach to building healthcare organizations. This isn't inspiration about overcoming adversity. It's a masterclass in strategic authenticity from someone who's figured out how to use her platform without making it about herself. Key Takeaways: How to turn being underestimated into your competitive advantage in male-dominated executive spaces The career strategy Beth used to land leadership roles she wasn't "technically qualified" for—and why more women need to do the same What Beth learned on Toyota's factory floor that transformed how she thinks about healthcare leadership Beth's framework for sharing deeply personal experiences without making it about yourself—and why this matters for organizational impact Why patient care technology keeps failing—and the missing ingredient that actually changes outcomes The unconventional way Beth built her advisory board using both real executives and AI-powered mentors How Beth gets her entire organization aligned when everyone claims competing priorities are equally important The critical difference between mentors and sponsors—and how to cultivate both strategically About the Guest: Beth Ratliff is Chief Operating Officer at Premise Health, where she oversees clinical operations, technology integration, and business processes for a nationwide healthcare organization serving employer clients. She started her career as a physical therapist on Toyota's manufacturing floor, where she learned the process improvement discipline that would eventually take her to the C-suite. Beth is a Nashville Health Care Council Fellow, a colon cancer survivor, and has been openly in recovery for 30 years—leading Premise Health to become certified as a recovery-friendly workplace where personal challenges become professional superpowers. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Nashville 01:43 - Succeeding as the Only Woman in the Room 04:09 - From Physical Therapist to Power Broker 07:17 - Learning from Cancer: The Patient Experience 10:30 - Recovery Friendly Workplace and Personal Journey 16:10 - The Growing Onsite Clinic Movement 18:32 - Ruthless Prioritization as a Leader 22:08 - Building Your Personal Board of Advisors Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Beth Ratliff on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I thought I understood healthcare—until I had cancer."

Beth Ratliff had spent her entire career in healthcare operations. She'd built multi-site clinical systems, led digital transformations, and risen from physical therapist to C-suite executive. But when she was diagnosed with colon cancer, she discovered something that would fundamentally change how she leads. And it had nothing to do with clinical protocols or operational efficiency.

Today, as Chief Operating Officer of Premise Health, Beth has built a reputation in Nashville's male-dominated healthcare executive world for an approach that shouldn't work, but does. She talks openly about being in recovery for 30 years. She shares her cancer journey in board meetings. And somehow, this vulnerability hasn't weakened her position; it's made her one of the most influential operators in the industry.

There's something Beth figured out early in her career that most leaders miss: the moment when you realize you're not the best clinician in the room is exactly when you're ready to lead. What she learned on a Toyota manufacturing floor as a young physical therapist became the foundation for a leadership philosophy that combines systems thinking with something that can't be taught in business school but can be learned through lived experience.

In this conversation, Beth reveals how she's navigated being consistently underestimated, why she applied for jobs she wasn't qualified for, and what changed in those terrifying moments coordinating her own cancer care that transformed her entire approach to building healthcare organizations. This isn't inspiration about overcoming adversity. It's a masterclass in strategic authenticity from someone who's figured out how to use her platform without making it about herself.

Key Takeaways:

  • How to turn being underestimated into your competitive advantage in male-dominated executive spaces
  • The career strategy Beth used to land leadership roles she wasn't "technically qualified" for—and why more women need to do the same
  • What Beth learned on Toyota's factory floor that transformed how she thinks about healthcare leadership
  • Beth's framework for sharing deeply personal experiences without making it about yourself—and why this matters for organizational impact
  • Why patient care technology keeps failing—and the missing ingredient that actually changes outcomes
  • The unconventional way Beth built her advisory board using both real executives and AI-powered mentors
  • How Beth gets her entire organization aligned when everyone claims competing priorities are equally important
  • The critical difference between mentors and sponsors—and how to cultivate both strategically

About the Guest:

Beth Ratliff is Chief Operating Officer at Premise Health, where she oversees clinical operations, technology integration, and business processes for a nationwide healthcare organization serving employer clients. She started her career as a physical therapist on Toyota's manufacturing floor, where she learned the process improvement discipline that would eventually take her to the C-suite. Beth is a Nashville Health Care Council Fellow, a colon cancer survivor, and has been openly in recovery for 30 years—leading Premise Health to become certified as a recovery-friendly workplace where personal challenges become professional superpowers.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction at Nashville 01:43 - Succeeding as the Only Woman in the Room 04:09 - From Physical Therapist to Power Broker 07:17 - Learning from Cancer: The Patient Experience 10:30 - Recovery Friendly Workplace and Personal Journey 16:10 - The Growing Onsite Clinic Movement 18:32 - Ruthless Prioritization as a Leader 22:08 - Building Your Personal Board of Advisors

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1546 no From Bedside to Boardroom: Kristi Henderson on Building Healthcare's Future || EP.229 Kristi Henderson invented telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center decades before anyone thought healthcare needed it. While her colleagues were optimizing traditional clinic workflows, Kristi was asking a different question: What if geography didn't dictate healthcare access? By the time the pandemic forced everyone else to figure out virtual care overnight, she'd already spent two decades perfecting it. What makes her approach distinctive isn't just her track record at Amazon, Ascension, and Optum. It's that she worked every level of the healthcare system for 24 years before reaching the C-suite. She understands frontline friction because she lived it. At Amazon, Kristi discovered a framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors. Some decisions are irreversible and demand precision. Others are experiments where failure means pivoting fast. That distinction became her playbook for tackling problems most leaders won't touch. But her most counterintuitive move? When she became CEO of Confluent Health, her first hire wasn't a CFO or COO. It was a leader for internal communications. Because brilliant transformation plans fail without deliberate stakeholder engagement. Change happens at the speed of trust. Now Kristi is betting on something that sounds almost naively optimistic: that AI will finally give clinicians their time back by eliminating friction, not replacing human connection. She uses AI daily as her "sidekick" and is building an organization where technology supercharges what only humans can do. Key Takeaways: Why Kristi kept raising her hand for jobs no one else wanted and how taking the hardest assignments became her competitive advantage The Amazon framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors, and how to know which type of decision you're making What "change happens at the speed of trust" actually means in practice when you're transforming organizations Kristi's "reverse innovation" approach: why bottoms-up transformation consistently outperforms top-down mandates The counterintuitive first hire Kristi made as CEO, and why communication infrastructure matters more than most leaders realize How to handle naysayers strategically instead of avoiding them or trying to convince them Why Kristi believes the workforce crisis isn't permanent if leaders focus on the right problem The specific ways Kristi uses AI daily as a CEO, and why she sees it as the key to bringing joy back to clinical practice About the Guest Kristi Henderson, DNP, is CEO of Confluent Health, a family of physical therapy and occupational therapy companies. She spent the first 24 years of her career as a practicing nurse practitioner before pioneering telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, long before the pandemic made it mainstream. Kristi has since led digital transformation at Ascension Health, built clinical operations for Amazon Care, and served as CEO of Optum Everycare. She's Board Chair of the American Telemedicine Association and affiliate faculty at Dell Medical School and the University of Washington School of Nursing. Her career has been defined by raising her hand for challenges others declined and building tech-enabled care models that improve outcomes while reducing clinician burden. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Confluent Health 01:57 - From Bedside to Boardroom: The Leadership Journey 06:10 - Amazon Care Lessons: One-Way vs Two-Way Doors 11:07 - Change Happens at the Speed of Trust 14:11 - Overcoming Naysayers: The Early Days of Telehealth 19:11 - Bringing Joy Back to Medicine 22:56 - AI Hacks and Daily Innovation Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Kristi Henderson on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:08:00 -0000 From Bedside to Boardroom: Kristi Henderson on Building Healthcare's Future full 229 Laurie McGraw Kristi Henderson invented telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center decades before anyone thought healthcare needed it. While her colleagues were optimizing traditional clinic workflows, Kristi was asking a different question: What if geography didn't dictate healthcare access? By the time the pandemic forced everyone else to figure out virtual care overnight, she'd already spent two decades perfecting it. What makes her approach distinctive isn't just her track record at Amazon, Ascension, and Optum. It's that she worked every level of the healthcare system for 24 years before reaching the C-suite. She understands frontline friction because she lived it. At Amazon, Kristi discovered a framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors. Some decisions are irreversible and demand precision. Others are experiments where failure means pivoting fast. That distinction became her playbook for tackling problems most leaders won't touch. But her most counterintuitive move? When she became CEO of Confluent Health, her first hire wasn't a CFO or COO. It was a leader for internal communications. Because brilliant transformation plans fail without deliberate stakeholder engagement. Change happens at the speed of trust. Now Kristi is betting on something that sounds almost naively optimistic: that AI will finally give clinicians their time back by eliminating friction, not replacing human connection. She uses AI daily as her "sidekick" and is building an organization where technology supercharges what only humans can do. Key Takeaways: Why Kristi kept raising her hand for jobs no one else wanted and how taking the hardest assignments became her competitive advantage The Amazon framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors, and how to know which type of decision you're making What "change happens at the speed of trust" actually means in practice when you're transforming organizations Kristi's "reverse innovation" approach: why bottoms-up transformation consistently outperforms top-down mandates The counterintuitive first hire Kristi made as CEO, and why communication infrastructure matters more than most leaders realize How to handle naysayers strategically instead of avoiding them or trying to convince them Why Kristi believes the workforce crisis isn't permanent if leaders focus on the right problem The specific ways Kristi uses AI daily as a CEO, and why she sees it as the key to bringing joy back to clinical practice About the Guest Kristi Henderson, DNP, is CEO of Confluent Health, a family of physical therapy and occupational therapy companies. She spent the first 24 years of her career as a practicing nurse practitioner before pioneering telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, long before the pandemic made it mainstream. Kristi has since led digital transformation at Ascension Health, built clinical operations for Amazon Care, and served as CEO of Optum Everycare. She's Board Chair of the American Telemedicine Association and affiliate faculty at Dell Medical School and the University of Washington School of Nursing. Her career has been defined by raising her hand for challenges others declined and building tech-enabled care models that improve outcomes while reducing clinician burden. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Confluent Health 01:57 - From Bedside to Boardroom: The Leadership Journey 06:10 - Amazon Care Lessons: One-Way vs Two-Way Doors 11:07 - Change Happens at the Speed of Trust 14:11 - Overcoming Naysayers: The Early Days of Telehealth 19:11 - Bringing Joy Back to Medicine 22:56 - AI Hacks and Daily Innovation Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Kristi Henderson on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Kristi Henderson invented telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center decades before anyone thought healthcare needed it.

While her colleagues were optimizing traditional clinic workflows, Kristi was asking a different question: What if geography didn't dictate healthcare access? By the time the pandemic forced everyone else to figure out virtual care overnight, she'd already spent two decades perfecting it. What makes her approach distinctive isn't just her track record at Amazon, Ascension, and Optum. It's that she worked every level of the healthcare system for 24 years before reaching the C-suite. She understands frontline friction because she lived it.

At Amazon, Kristi discovered a framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors. Some decisions are irreversible and demand precision. Others are experiments where failure means pivoting fast. That distinction became her playbook for tackling problems most leaders won't touch. But her most counterintuitive move? When she became CEO of Confluent Health, her first hire wasn't a CFO or COO. It was a leader for internal communications. Because brilliant transformation plans fail without deliberate stakeholder engagement. Change happens at the speed of trust.

Now Kristi is betting on something that sounds almost naively optimistic: that AI will finally give clinicians their time back by eliminating friction, not replacing human connection. She uses AI daily as her "sidekick" and is building an organization where technology supercharges what only humans can do.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why Kristi kept raising her hand for jobs no one else wanted and how taking the hardest assignments became her competitive advantage
  • The Amazon framework that changed everything: one-way doors versus two-way doors, and how to know which type of decision you're making
  • What "change happens at the speed of trust" actually means in practice when you're transforming organizations
  • Kristi's "reverse innovation" approach: why bottoms-up transformation consistently outperforms top-down mandates
  • The counterintuitive first hire Kristi made as CEO, and why communication infrastructure matters more than most leaders realize
  • How to handle naysayers strategically instead of avoiding them or trying to convince them
  • Why Kristi believes the workforce crisis isn't permanent if leaders focus on the right problem
  • The specific ways Kristi uses AI daily as a CEO, and why she sees it as the key to bringing joy back to clinical practice

About the Guest

Kristi Henderson, DNP, is CEO of Confluent Health, a family of physical therapy and occupational therapy companies. She spent the first 24 years of her career as a practicing nurse practitioner before pioneering telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, long before the pandemic made it mainstream. Kristi has since led digital transformation at Ascension Health, built clinical operations for Amazon Care, and served as CEO of Optum Everycare. She's Board Chair of the American Telemedicine Association and affiliate faculty at Dell Medical School and the University of Washington School of Nursing. Her career has been defined by raising her hand for challenges others declined and building tech-enabled care models that improve outcomes while reducing clinician burden.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction at Confluent Health 01:57 - From Bedside to Boardroom: The Leadership Journey 06:10 - Amazon Care Lessons: One-Way vs Two-Way Doors 11:07 - Change Happens at the Speed of Trust 14:11 - Overcoming Naysayers: The Early Days of Telehealth 19:11 - Bringing Joy Back to Medicine 22:56 - AI Hacks and Daily Innovation

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Kristi Henderson on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1506 no How to turn your "failed" projects into your biggest career advantage || EP.228 What if your biggest career advantage didn't come from your wins, but from the projects that didn't go as planned? Missy Krasner's career includes some of the boldest bets in healthcare: Google Health, Amazon Care, Box's healthcare vision. None went the way she originally envisioned. And she wouldn't change any of it. Because what she extracted from those experiences—being inside big tech's most ambitious healthcare ventures—gave her something more valuable than a conventional win: a clear understanding of what it actually takes to make change stick in the most regulated, fragmented industry in America. Now, as co-founder of Penguin AI, Missy is applying those hard-won insights to tackle the trillion-dollar administrative burden crushing healthcare. But this isn't another AI hype story. Missy has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation for over 20 years. She was building Google Health before meaningful use existed. She was evangelizing platform thinking when electronic health records were still competing with manila folders. She's witnessed three watershed moments transform the industry: meaningful use driving EHR adoption, COVID accelerating telehealth adoption, and now AI. And she believes this moment is fundamentally different. Why Missy's experiences at Google, Amazon, and Box taught her more about healthcare transformation than conventional success ever could What's really happening with the trillion-dollar administrative burden and how AI can finally address it at scale Why the current political and economic disruption will accelerate consumer-driven healthcare innovation Missy's candid assessment of the headwinds facing women leaders right now and what it means for advancement Why "nobody's coming to save us" and what that means for how women need to show up in leadership What fuels Missy after decades of innovation and her advice for anyone trying to push through when it's hard About the Guest: Missy Krasner brings 35+ years of healthcare experience spanning big tech (Amazon, Google, Box), government (helped launch the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT), venture capital (Canvas Ventures, Redesign Health), and now as co-founder of Penguin AI, which recently closed a $30 million Series A. She serves on multiple digital health boards including Uplift, Overalls, and Syntax, and holds degrees from Stanford (M.A.) and UCLA (B.A.). Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 01:14 - Journey Through Google, Box, and Amazon 02:53 - Three Watershed Moments in Healthcare 06:59 - Penguin AI and the Trillion-Dollar Administrative Burden 10:34 - Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress Reflection 14:15 - Finding Innovation Opportunities in Chaos 16:45 - Advancing Women in Leadership 22:13 - Learning from Failure and What Drives Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Missy Krasner on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:08:00 -0000 Three Big Failures, $30M Series A, and Why Chapter One Doesn't Define You full 228 Laurie McGraw What if your biggest career advantage didn't come from your wins, but from the projects that didn't go as planned? Missy Krasner's career includes some of the boldest bets in healthcare: Google Health, Amazon Care, Box's healthcare vision. None went the way she originally envisioned. And she wouldn't change any of it. Because what she extracted from those experiences—being inside big tech's most ambitious healthcare ventures—gave her something more valuable than a conventional win: a clear understanding of what it actually takes to make change stick in the most regulated, fragmented industry in America. Now, as co-founder of Penguin AI, Missy is applying those hard-won insights to tackle the trillion-dollar administrative burden crushing healthcare. But this isn't another AI hype story. Missy has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation for over 20 years. She was building Google Health before meaningful use existed. She was evangelizing platform thinking when electronic health records were still competing with manila folders. She's witnessed three watershed moments transform the industry: meaningful use driving EHR adoption, COVID accelerating telehealth adoption, and now AI. And she believes this moment is fundamentally different. Why Missy's experiences at Google, Amazon, and Box taught her more about healthcare transformation than conventional success ever could What's really happening with the trillion-dollar administrative burden and how AI can finally address it at scale Why the current political and economic disruption will accelerate consumer-driven healthcare innovation Missy's candid assessment of the headwinds facing women leaders right now and what it means for advancement Why "nobody's coming to save us" and what that means for how women need to show up in leadership What fuels Missy after decades of innovation and her advice for anyone trying to push through when it's hard About the Guest: Missy Krasner brings 35+ years of healthcare experience spanning big tech (Amazon, Google, Box), government (helped launch the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT), venture capital (Canvas Ventures, Redesign Health), and now as co-founder of Penguin AI, which recently closed a $30 million Series A. She serves on multiple digital health boards including Uplift, Overalls, and Syntax, and holds degrees from Stanford (M.A.) and UCLA (B.A.). Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 01:14 - Journey Through Google, Box, and Amazon 02:53 - Three Watershed Moments in Healthcare 06:59 - Penguin AI and the Trillion-Dollar Administrative Burden 10:34 - Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress Reflection 14:15 - Finding Innovation Opportunities in Chaos 16:45 - Advancing Women in Leadership 22:13 - Learning from Failure and What Drives Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Missy Krasner on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify What if your biggest career advantage didn't come from your wins, but from the projects that didn't go as planned?

Missy Krasner's career includes some of the boldest bets in healthcare: Google Health, Amazon Care, Box's healthcare vision. None went the way she originally envisioned. And she wouldn't change any of it. Because what she extracted from those experiences—being inside big tech's most ambitious healthcare ventures—gave her something more valuable than a conventional win: a clear understanding of what it actually takes to make change stick in the most regulated, fragmented industry in America.

Now, as co-founder of Penguin AI, Missy is applying those hard-won insights to tackle the trillion-dollar administrative burden crushing healthcare. But this isn't another AI hype story. Missy has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation for over 20 years. She was building Google Health before meaningful use existed. She was evangelizing platform thinking when electronic health records were still competing with manila folders. She's witnessed three watershed moments transform the industry: meaningful use driving EHR adoption, COVID accelerating telehealth adoption, and now AI. And she believes this moment is fundamentally different.

  • Why Missy's experiences at Google, Amazon, and Box taught her more about healthcare transformation than conventional success ever could
  • What's really happening with the trillion-dollar administrative burden and how AI can finally address it at scale
  • Why the current political and economic disruption will accelerate consumer-driven healthcare innovation
  • Missy's candid assessment of the headwinds facing women leaders right now and what it means for advancement
  • Why "nobody's coming to save us" and what that means for how women need to show up in leadership
  • What fuels Missy after decades of innovation and her advice for anyone trying to push through when it's hard

About the Guest: Missy Krasner brings 35+ years of healthcare experience spanning big tech (Amazon, Google, Box), government (helped launch the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT), venture capital (Canvas Ventures, Redesign Health), and now as co-founder of Penguin AI, which recently closed a $30 million Series A. She serves on multiple digital health boards including Uplift, Overalls, and Syntax, and holds degrees from Stanford (M.A.) and UCLA (B.A.).

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference

01:14 - Journey Through Google, Box, and Amazon

02:53 - Three Watershed Moments in Healthcare

06:59 - Penguin AI and the Trillion-Dollar Administrative Burden

10:34 - Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress Reflection

14:15 - Finding Innovation Opportunities in Chaos

16:45 - Advancing Women in Leadership

22:13 - Learning from Failure and What Drives Success

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1496 no From Caregiver to CEO: Building Bold Solutions for Aging || EP.227 Medicare spends as much on falls as it does on cancer—but 30-50% of those fall-related costs are preventable. Amanda Rees watched her grandmother develop a "goose egg" from a fall while gardening, then watched the shame make her stop gardening altogether, spiraling into depression and isolation. A decade of caregiving radicalized how this Princeton-trained engineer thought about aging. So she built Bold, a company now serving 10 million older adults—with a leadership team and cap table that's "very, very female" in a notoriously male-dominated space. But first, she had to stop making herself small. "You're really good at making yourself seem small," someone told Amanda early in her fundraising journey. The irony wasn't lost—she was downplaying a Princeton engineering degree, $100M in energy investment experience, and a decade caring for her grandmother while running a company literally called Bold. She only needed to hear that feedback once. What followed was a masterclass in building with intention. Amanda raised funding from Rethink Impact, the largest fund dedicated to investing in women, and assembled a predominantly female leadership team—not through quotas, but through mission alignment. "Women tend to be the frontline caregivers for a lot of families, and they see it. They understand that's a very real problem," she explains. In this conversation, Amanda dismantles the preparation myth holding women founders back: "If you have the itch and you wanna do it, do it. Don't go get an extra degree or do this thing before I'm ready." She explains why your first pitch will be terrible, why pitch five is the hardest, and how objection handling refines not just your deck but your entire business model. She also shares why she only hires people who'll stay "when things are tough, when the challenges ahead look really big and scary"—because fair-weather teams crumble, and resilience must be embedded from day one. Key Takeaways: Stop waiting to be "ready"—the best data comes from actually doing it, not preparing endlessly Making yourself small doesn't help anyone, especially not you—authenticity beats false modesty Build your team and investor base with people who deeply connect to your mission, not just the opportunity Your first pitch will suck; by pitch fifty you'll be excellent—you just have to survive pitch five The DNA of the people you hire becomes the DNA of your company—choose accordingly When older adults lose independence, it's the shame and isolation that does the damage, not just the physical limitation About the Guest: Amanda Rees is the CEO and Co-founder of Bold, a pro-aging health company serving over 10 million older adults through Medicare partnerships with organizations like UnitedHealth Group. Bold's platform has demonstrated a 46% reduction in falls and 182% increase in weekly physical activity in peer-reviewed research. A Princeton graduate with a degree in biological and chemical engineering, Amanda previously managed a $100M renewable energy portfolio at The Schmidt Family Foundation and has been selected for The Aspen Institute's 2025 class of Finance Leaders Fellows. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 00:55 - From Caregiver to Founder: The Bold Origin Story 03:35 - Keeping Humanity in Fall Prevention 08:12 - Building a Female-Led Company and Cap Table 10:08 - Fundraising Advice: Just Start Pitching 13:41 - The Feedback That Changed Everything: Stop Making Yourself Small 15:21 - AI and the Future of Aging 16:52 - Building Your Team: The DNA of Your Company Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Amanda Rees on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:08:00 -0000 From Caregiver to CEO: Building Bold Solutions for Aging full 227 Laurie McGraw Medicare spends as much on falls as it does on cancer—but 30-50% of those fall-related costs are preventable. Amanda Rees watched her grandmother develop a "goose egg" from a fall while gardening, then watched the shame make her stop gardening altogether, spiraling into depression and isolation. A decade of caregiving radicalized how this Princeton-trained engineer thought about aging. So she built Bold, a company now serving 10 million older adults—with a leadership team and cap table that's "very, very female" in a notoriously male-dominated space. But first, she had to stop making herself small. "You're really good at making yourself seem small," someone told Amanda early in her fundraising journey. The irony wasn't lost—she was downplaying a Princeton engineering degree, $100M in energy investment experience, and a decade caring for her grandmother while running a company literally called Bold. She only needed to hear that feedback once. What followed was a masterclass in building with intention. Amanda raised funding from Rethink Impact, the largest fund dedicated to investing in women, and assembled a predominantly female leadership team—not through quotas, but through mission alignment. "Women tend to be the frontline caregivers for a lot of families, and they see it. They understand that's a very real problem," she explains. In this conversation, Amanda dismantles the preparation myth holding women founders back: "If you have the itch and you wanna do it, do it. Don't go get an extra degree or do this thing before I'm ready." She explains why your first pitch will be terrible, why pitch five is the hardest, and how objection handling refines not just your deck but your entire business model. She also shares why she only hires people who'll stay "when things are tough, when the challenges ahead look really big and scary"—because fair-weather teams crumble, and resilience must be embedded from day one. Key Takeaways: Stop waiting to be "ready"—the best data comes from actually doing it, not preparing endlessly Making yourself small doesn't help anyone, especially not you—authenticity beats false modesty Build your team and investor base with people who deeply connect to your mission, not just the opportunity Your first pitch will suck; by pitch fifty you'll be excellent—you just have to survive pitch five The DNA of the people you hire becomes the DNA of your company—choose accordingly When older adults lose independence, it's the shame and isolation that does the damage, not just the physical limitation About the Guest: Amanda Rees is the CEO and Co-founder of Bold, a pro-aging health company serving over 10 million older adults through Medicare partnerships with organizations like UnitedHealth Group. Bold's platform has demonstrated a 46% reduction in falls and 182% increase in weekly physical activity in peer-reviewed research. A Princeton graduate with a degree in biological and chemical engineering, Amanda previously managed a $100M renewable energy portfolio at The Schmidt Family Foundation and has been selected for The Aspen Institute's 2025 class of Finance Leaders Fellows. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 00:55 - From Caregiver to Founder: The Bold Origin Story 03:35 - Keeping Humanity in Fall Prevention 08:12 - Building a Female-Led Company and Cap Table 10:08 - Fundraising Advice: Just Start Pitching 13:41 - The Feedback That Changed Everything: Stop Making Yourself Small 15:21 - AI and the Future of Aging 16:52 - Building Your Team: The DNA of Your Company Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Amanda Rees on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Medicare spends as much on falls as it does on cancer—but 30-50% of those fall-related costs are preventable. Amanda Rees watched her grandmother develop a "goose egg" from a fall while gardening, then watched the shame make her stop gardening altogether, spiraling into depression and isolation. A decade of caregiving radicalized how this Princeton-trained engineer thought about aging. So she built Bold, a company now serving 10 million older adults—with a leadership team and cap table that's "very, very female" in a notoriously male-dominated space. But first, she had to stop making herself small.

"You're really good at making yourself seem small," someone told Amanda early in her fundraising journey. The irony wasn't lost—she was downplaying a Princeton engineering degree, $100M in energy investment experience, and a decade caring for her grandmother while running a company literally called Bold. She only needed to hear that feedback once.

What followed was a masterclass in building with intention. Amanda raised funding from Rethink Impact, the largest fund dedicated to investing in women, and assembled a predominantly female leadership team—not through quotas, but through mission alignment. "Women tend to be the frontline caregivers for a lot of families, and they see it. They understand that's a very real problem," she explains.

In this conversation, Amanda dismantles the preparation myth holding women founders back: "If you have the itch and you wanna do it, do it. Don't go get an extra degree or do this thing before I'm ready." She explains why your first pitch will be terrible, why pitch five is the hardest, and how objection handling refines not just your deck but your entire business model. She also shares why she only hires people who'll stay "when things are tough, when the challenges ahead look really big and scary"—because fair-weather teams crumble, and resilience must be embedded from day one.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stop waiting to be "ready"—the best data comes from actually doing it, not preparing endlessly
  • Making yourself small doesn't help anyone, especially not you—authenticity beats false modesty
  • Build your team and investor base with people who deeply connect to your mission, not just the opportunity
  • Your first pitch will suck; by pitch fifty you'll be excellent—you just have to survive pitch five
  • The DNA of the people you hire becomes the DNA of your company—choose accordingly
  • When older adults lose independence, it's the shame and isolation that does the damage, not just the physical limitation

About the Guest: Amanda Rees is the CEO and Co-founder of Bold, a pro-aging health company serving over 10 million older adults through Medicare partnerships with organizations like UnitedHealth Group. Bold's platform has demonstrated a 46% reduction in falls and 182% increase in weekly physical activity in peer-reviewed research. A Princeton graduate with a degree in biological and chemical engineering, Amanda previously managed a $100M renewable energy portfolio at The Schmidt Family Foundation and has been selected for The Aspen Institute's 2025 class of Finance Leaders Fellows.

Health Podcast Network

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference

00:55 - From Caregiver to Founder: The Bold Origin Story

03:35 - Keeping Humanity in Fall Prevention

08:12 - Building a Female-Led Company and Cap Table

10:08 - Fundraising Advice: Just Start Pitching

13:41 - The Feedback That Changed Everything: Stop Making Yourself Small

15:21 - AI and the Future of Aging

16:52 - Building Your Team: The DNA of Your Company

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1164 no Lifting As You Climb: Ambassador Shefali Razdan-Duggal on Service, Sacrifice, and Success || EP.226 At nine years old watching a presidential debate, Shefali Razdan Duggal realized something: in America, a peanut farmer and the son of divorced parents could become president. Her mother was cutting vegetables at night, working as a seamstress by day. Politics became the path to help people like her mother. Decades later, she became the first person of color to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands, where the Dutch named a fuchsia-pink tulip after her, the first ambassador from any country ever honored this way. But the journey between that childhood revelation and diplomatic triumph involved a different calculation entirely. "Women of color have to work four times as hard," Shefali states. Her response wasn't resentment—it was a choice. She calls it "weed whacking" for the people behind her. While serving 90-hour weeks, she operated from what she calls "complete and utter equality" with her entire embassy staff. The result? Her Marines ranked as one of the best detachments in Europe. Her embassy became one of the best-run on the continent. And when women of color visited the ambassador wall and saw her photo next to John Adams, they would start crying. In this conversation, Shefali explains why ego kills opportunities faster than anything else, how she managed crushing stress without punishing anyone around her, and what happens when you choose to "do something" instead of "be someone." She also reveals why your work may not benefit you immediately—but that's actually the point. Key Takeaways: Why working harder (when you shouldn't have to) clears the path for everyone behind you How to build relationships before you need them What "lift as you climb" actually looks like in practice Why starting at the base level with zero ego changes everything How to manage stress without taking it out on your team When your work benefits someone else instead of you—and why that matters About the Guest: The Honorable Shefali Razdan Duggal served as U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 2022-2025, becoming the first person of color in this role. Born in India and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio by a single mother working multiple minimum-wage jobs, she began her political career volunteering on Senator Ted Kennedy's campaign. The Dutch honored her by naming a tulip "Tulipa Shefali"—the first ambassador from any country to receive this tribute. Her book about her journey from immigrant daughter to diplomat releases summer 2026. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 02:17 - From Humble Beginnings to Public Service 05:08 - Starting at the Bottom: Early Campaign Work 07:39 - Working Four Times as Hard: Breaking Barriers 09:51 - Lifting as You Climb: Human Rights Commitment 15:15 - Learning Diplomacy: The Path to Ambassador 19:06 - EQ and IQ: Leading with Humanity Under Pressure 26:48 - Advice for Women and What's Next Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Former Ambassador Shefali Razdan-Duggal on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:08:00 -0000 Lifting As You Climb: Ambassador Shefali Razdan-Duggal on Service, Sacrifice, and Success full 226 Laurie McGraw At nine years old watching a presidential debate, Shefali Razdan Duggal realized something: in America, a peanut farmer and the son of divorced parents could become president. Her mother was cutting vegetables at night, working as a seamstress by day. Politics became the path to help people like her mother. Decades later, she became the first person of color to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands, where the Dutch named a fuchsia-pink tulip after her, the first ambassador from any country ever honored this way. But the journey between that childhood revelation and diplomatic triumph involved a different calculation entirely. "Women of color have to work four times as hard," Shefali states. Her response wasn't resentment—it was a choice. She calls it "weed whacking" for the people behind her. While serving 90-hour weeks, she operated from what she calls "complete and utter equality" with her entire embassy staff. The result? Her Marines ranked as one of the best detachments in Europe. Her embassy became one of the best-run on the continent. And when women of color visited the ambassador wall and saw her photo next to John Adams, they would start crying. In this conversation, Shefali explains why ego kills opportunities faster than anything else, how she managed crushing stress without punishing anyone around her, and what happens when you choose to "do something" instead of "be someone." She also reveals why your work may not benefit you immediately—but that's actually the point. Key Takeaways: Why working harder (when you shouldn't have to) clears the path for everyone behind you How to build relationships before you need them What "lift as you climb" actually looks like in practice Why starting at the base level with zero ego changes everything How to manage stress without taking it out on your team When your work benefits someone else instead of you—and why that matters About the Guest: The Honorable Shefali Razdan Duggal served as U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 2022-2025, becoming the first person of color in this role. Born in India and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio by a single mother working multiple minimum-wage jobs, she began her political career volunteering on Senator Ted Kennedy's campaign. The Dutch honored her by naming a tulip "Tulipa Shefali"—the first ambassador from any country to receive this tribute. Her book about her journey from immigrant daughter to diplomat releases summer 2026. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference 02:17 - From Humble Beginnings to Public Service 05:08 - Starting at the Bottom: Early Campaign Work 07:39 - Working Four Times as Hard: Breaking Barriers 09:51 - Lifting as You Climb: Human Rights Commitment 15:15 - Learning Diplomacy: The Path to Ambassador 19:06 - EQ and IQ: Leading with Humanity Under Pressure 26:48 - Advice for Women and What's Next Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Former Ambassador Shefali Razdan-Duggal on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify At nine years old watching a presidential debate, Shefali Razdan Duggal realized something: in America, a peanut farmer and the son of divorced parents could become president. Her mother was cutting vegetables at night, working as a seamstress by day. Politics became the path to help people like her mother.

Decades later, she became the first person of color to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands, where the Dutch named a fuchsia-pink tulip after her, the first ambassador from any country ever honored this way. But the journey between that childhood revelation and diplomatic triumph involved a different calculation entirely.

"Women of color have to work four times as hard," Shefali states. Her response wasn't resentment—it was a choice. She calls it "weed whacking" for the people behind her.

While serving 90-hour weeks, she operated from what she calls "complete and utter equality" with her entire embassy staff. The result? Her Marines ranked as one of the best detachments in Europe. Her embassy became one of the best-run on the continent. And when women of color visited the ambassador wall and saw her photo next to John Adams, they would start crying.

In this conversation, Shefali explains why ego kills opportunities faster than anything else, how she managed crushing stress without punishing anyone around her, and what happens when you choose to "do something" instead of "be someone." She also reveals why your work may not benefit you immediately—but that's actually the point.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why working harder (when you shouldn't have to) clears the path for everyone behind you
  • How to build relationships before you need them
  • What "lift as you climb" actually looks like in practice
  • Why starting at the base level with zero ego changes everything
  • How to manage stress without taking it out on your team
  • When your work benefits someone else instead of you—and why that matters

About the Guest: The Honorable Shefali Razdan Duggal served as U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 2022-2025, becoming the first person of color in this role. Born in India and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio by a single mother working multiple minimum-wage jobs, she began her political career volunteering on Senator Ted Kennedy's campaign. The Dutch honored her by naming a tulip "Tulipa Shefali"—the first ambassador from any country to receive this tribute. Her book about her journey from immigrant daughter to diplomat releases summer 2026.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction at Health Conference

02:17 - From Humble Beginnings to Public Service

05:08 - Starting at the Bottom: Early Campaign Work

07:39 - Working Four Times as Hard: Breaking Barriers

09:51 - Lifting as You Climb: Human Rights Commitment

15:15 - Learning Diplomacy: The Path to Ambassador

19:06 - EQ and IQ: Leading with Humanity Under Pressure

26:48 - Advice for Women and What's Next

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Former Ambassador Shefali Razdan-Duggal on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1890 no How a Physician CMO Transformed Her Leadership by Unlearning Medicine's Biggest Lie || EP.225 "As a physician in training, we have been trained to believe that we are the leaders of every team. That we should know more than anyone in the room, or we must not be a good doctor. Throw that out." Dr. Saria Saccocio spent months during COVID not sleeping, trying to solve every problem herself while managing care for 1.3 million people. She was drowning under the weight of leadership until she had an epiphany that would fundamentally change how she leads: "Maybe I don't have to have all the answers myself. Perhaps I'm not the only one who comes up with solutions." That realization—that her medical training had actually taught her the wrong leadership model—became the foundation of her approach as Chief Medical Officer of Essence Healthcare. Five years later, she describes watching her team shift "from a brain drain to a recharge," becoming one of the most creative and innovative teams she's ever led. Dr. Saccocio's leadership philosophy centers on what she calls "let go and lead"—a mantra she returns to whenever anxiety creeps in. "Leading is not always directing," she explains. "Leading is inspiring, empowering and enabling everyone to sit at the table, speak up, show up, and do things. Build everyone else's confidence." After a year with Essence, she's most proud not of her own decisions but of "the work that they do, the creativity that they have now that they're working across swim lanes and doing things together." This approach hasn't just prevented burnout—it's unlocked innovation. From eliminating prior authorizations through physician collaboration to providing Oura rings to Medicare Advantage seniors, Essence Healthcare's solutions emerge from empowered teams, not top-down mandates. What makes Dr. Saccocio's perspective particularly powerful is her refusal to abandon clinical practice. After two decades as a family physician, she still sees patients at a free clinic, maintaining what she calls "a sacred relationship" that keeps her grounded in the vulnerability patients experience. Her closing advice to women leaders is deceptively simple but hard-won: "Don't forget to be you. Let's stop trying to be someone else. You are at that table because you are you. Bring your whole self to work. Bring your whole self wherever you go." Key Insights: Why physician training teaches the wrong leadership model—and how to unlearn it How "let go and lead" prevents burnout while unlocking team creativity Why continuing clinical practice makes you a better executive leader The shift from brain drain to recharge: building teams that energize each other How to lead without directing: inspiring, empowering, and enabling others Why bringing your whole self to work is the most revolutionary leadership act The connection between seeing whole people as patients and leading whole people as teams About the Guest: Dr. Saria Saccocio is Chief Medical Officer at Essence Healthcare, a 21-year-old regional Medicare Advantage plan with consistently high star ratings. A practicing family physician for over two decades, she previously held leadership roles at CareMore Health, Elance Health, Securas, Carilion Health, and LifePoint Hospitals. She continues seeing patients at Greenville Free Medical Clinic. Recorded live at Nashville Sessions conference. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Redefining Physician Leadership 01:11 - Why ESSENCE Healthcare 04:04 - Navigating Medicare Advantage Disruption 12:35 - Why She Still Practices Medicine 18:33 - OURA Rings and Digital Health Literacy 24:28 - Leadership Evolution: The COVID Moment 29:33 - Bring Your Whole Self to Work Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Saria Saccocio on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:08:00 -0000 How a Physician CMO Transformed Her Leadership by Unlearning Medicine's Biggest Lie full 225 Laurie McGraw "As a physician in training, we have been trained to believe that we are the leaders of every team. That we should know more than anyone in the room, or we must not be a good doctor. Throw that out." Dr. Saria Saccocio spent months during COVID not sleeping, trying to solve every problem herself while managing care for 1.3 million people. She was drowning under the weight of leadership until she had an epiphany that would fundamentally change how she leads: "Maybe I don't have to have all the answers myself. Perhaps I'm not the only one who comes up with solutions." That realization—that her medical training had actually taught her the wrong leadership model—became the foundation of her approach as Chief Medical Officer of Essence Healthcare. Five years later, she describes watching her team shift "from a brain drain to a recharge," becoming one of the most creative and innovative teams she's ever led. Dr. Saccocio's leadership philosophy centers on what she calls "let go and lead"—a mantra she returns to whenever anxiety creeps in. "Leading is not always directing," she explains. "Leading is inspiring, empowering and enabling everyone to sit at the table, speak up, show up, and do things. Build everyone else's confidence." After a year with Essence, she's most proud not of her own decisions but of "the work that they do, the creativity that they have now that they're working across swim lanes and doing things together." This approach hasn't just prevented burnout—it's unlocked innovation. From eliminating prior authorizations through physician collaboration to providing Oura rings to Medicare Advantage seniors, Essence Healthcare's solutions emerge from empowered teams, not top-down mandates. What makes Dr. Saccocio's perspective particularly powerful is her refusal to abandon clinical practice. After two decades as a family physician, she still sees patients at a free clinic, maintaining what she calls "a sacred relationship" that keeps her grounded in the vulnerability patients experience. Her closing advice to women leaders is deceptively simple but hard-won: "Don't forget to be you. Let's stop trying to be someone else. You are at that table because you are you. Bring your whole self to work. Bring your whole self wherever you go." Key Insights: Why physician training teaches the wrong leadership model—and how to unlearn it How "let go and lead" prevents burnout while unlocking team creativity Why continuing clinical practice makes you a better executive leader The shift from brain drain to recharge: building teams that energize each other How to lead without directing: inspiring, empowering, and enabling others Why bringing your whole self to work is the most revolutionary leadership act The connection between seeing whole people as patients and leading whole people as teams About the Guest: Dr. Saria Saccocio is Chief Medical Officer at Essence Healthcare, a 21-year-old regional Medicare Advantage plan with consistently high star ratings. A practicing family physician for over two decades, she previously held leadership roles at CareMore Health, Elance Health, Securas, Carilion Health, and LifePoint Hospitals. She continues seeing patients at Greenville Free Medical Clinic. Recorded live at Nashville Sessions conference. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 - Redefining Physician Leadership 01:11 - Why ESSENCE Healthcare 04:04 - Navigating Medicare Advantage Disruption 12:35 - Why She Still Practices Medicine 18:33 - OURA Rings and Digital Health Literacy 24:28 - Leadership Evolution: The COVID Moment 29:33 - Bring Your Whole Self to Work Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Saria Saccocio on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "As a physician in training, we have been trained to believe that we are the leaders of every team. That we should know more than anyone in the room, or we must not be a good doctor. Throw that out."

Dr. Saria Saccocio spent months during COVID not sleeping, trying to solve every problem herself while managing care for 1.3 million people. She was drowning under the weight of leadership until she had an epiphany that would fundamentally change how she leads: "Maybe I don't have to have all the answers myself. Perhaps I'm not the only one who comes up with solutions." That realization—that her medical training had actually taught her the wrong leadership model—became the foundation of her approach as Chief Medical Officer of Essence Healthcare. Five years later, she describes watching her team shift "from a brain drain to a recharge," becoming one of the most creative and innovative teams she's ever led.

Dr. Saccocio's leadership philosophy centers on what she calls "let go and lead"—a mantra she returns to whenever anxiety creeps in. "Leading is not always directing," she explains. "Leading is inspiring, empowering and enabling everyone to sit at the table, speak up, show up, and do things. Build everyone else's confidence." After a year with Essence, she's most proud not of her own decisions but of "the work that they do, the creativity that they have now that they're working across swim lanes and doing things together." This approach hasn't just prevented burnout—it's unlocked innovation. From eliminating prior authorizations through physician collaboration to providing Oura rings to Medicare Advantage seniors, Essence Healthcare's solutions emerge from empowered teams, not top-down mandates.

What makes Dr. Saccocio's perspective particularly powerful is her refusal to abandon clinical practice. After two decades as a family physician, she still sees patients at a free clinic, maintaining what she calls "a sacred relationship" that keeps her grounded in the vulnerability patients experience. Her closing advice to women leaders is deceptively simple but hard-won: "Don't forget to be you. Let's stop trying to be someone else. You are at that table because you are you. Bring your whole self to work. Bring your whole self wherever you go."

Key Insights:

  • Why physician training teaches the wrong leadership model—and how to unlearn it
  • How "let go and lead" prevents burnout while unlocking team creativity
  • Why continuing clinical practice makes you a better executive leader
  • The shift from brain drain to recharge: building teams that energize each other
  • How to lead without directing: inspiring, empowering, and enabling others
  • Why bringing your whole self to work is the most revolutionary leadership act
  • The connection between seeing whole people as patients and leading whole people as teams

About the Guest: Dr. Saria Saccocio is Chief Medical Officer at Essence Healthcare, a 21-year-old regional Medicare Advantage plan with consistently high star ratings. A practicing family physician for over two decades, she previously held leadership roles at CareMore Health, Elance Health, Securas, Carilion Health, and LifePoint Hospitals. She continues seeing patients at Greenville Free Medical Clinic. Recorded live at Nashville Sessions conference.

Health Podcast Network


Chapters

00:00 - Redefining Physician Leadership

01:11 - Why ESSENCE Healthcare

04:04 - Navigating Medicare Advantage Disruption

12:35 - Why She Still Practices Medicine

18:33 - OURA Rings and Digital Health Literacy

24:28 - Leadership Evolution: The COVID Moment

29:33 - Bring Your Whole Self to Work


Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Saria Saccocio on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1889 no The CFO Who Turned 'Dictator' Into Strategic Visionary || EP.224 "Get us re-listed. You have 12 months." When Crissy Carlisle walked into HealthSouth in 2005, the FBI had already raided the building. The company held the distinction of being one of the largest frauds in American history. She filed six years' worth of 10-Ks in 12 months, deploying such autocratic leadership that she earned the label "dictator." Then she did something remarkable: she spent the next two years consciously rebranding herself. This is the story of a leader who refuses to be defined by crisis or constrained by labels. From PricewaterhouseCoopers to Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle has built a career on walking into impossible situations and transforming them through strategic vision and radical self-awareness. Her secret? Understanding that even when you deploy the right leadership style, there are consequences. And having the courage to evolve anyway. "I went from chicken little to now people say, 'How do you stay so calm in these situations?' My response is generally: years of practice." Today, as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle brings decades of high-stakes experience to behavioral health's most pressing challenges. But her most powerful lesson came from managing an accounts payable team who taught her that while some people are motivated by promotions, others just want to wear jeans. The revelation changed everything about how she builds and leads teams. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why removing "I don't have time" from your vocabulary might be the most important leadership decision you make. From being the only woman at investor conferences to consciously surrounding herself with people who think nothing like her, Carlisle reveals how strategic leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about asking better questions. For Crissy Carlisle, leadership isn't about getting rich and famous. It's about serving patients well and knowing everything else will follow. In a healthcare system desperate for strategic financial leadership, she's proof that the best CFOs don't just manage costs. They reimagine what's possible. Key Insights: Why deploying autocratic leadership successfully still required two years of rebranding How managing accounts payable taught her more about leadership than managing MBAs The mental shift from "I don't have time" to "That's not a priority today" Why finding common ground through Alabama football changed everything How to build teams with people who think nothing like you About the Guest: Crissy Carlisle serves as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, bringing 30+ years of experience from PricewaterhouseCoopers, HealthSouth (now Encompass Health), and taking companies public. She navigated one of the largest corporate frauds in American history, transforming from "dictator" to strategic visionary through conscious leadership evolution. Her personal mission: walk by faith, give with a generous heart, and make a difference in the lives of others. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 Introduction  3:06 From Auditor to Healthcare CFO  5:44 Leadership Lessons from HealthSouth  6:54 Rebranding After 'Dictator' Label  10:08 Choosing to Change Your Leadership  14:00 Building Diverse-Thinking Teams  15:51 Being the Only Woman in the Room  19:53 Priorities Over Excuses  21:49 Career Advice: Assess, Learn, Build Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Crissy Carlisle on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:08:00 -0000 The CFO Who Turned 'Dictator' Into Strategic Visionary full 224 Laurie McGraw "Get us re-listed. You have 12 months." When Crissy Carlisle walked into HealthSouth in 2005, the FBI had already raided the building. The company held the distinction of being one of the largest frauds in American history. She filed six years' worth of 10-Ks in 12 months, deploying such autocratic leadership that she earned the label "dictator." Then she did something remarkable: she spent the next two years consciously rebranding herself. This is the story of a leader who refuses to be defined by crisis or constrained by labels. From PricewaterhouseCoopers to Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle has built a career on walking into impossible situations and transforming them through strategic vision and radical self-awareness. Her secret? Understanding that even when you deploy the right leadership style, there are consequences. And having the courage to evolve anyway. "I went from chicken little to now people say, 'How do you stay so calm in these situations?' My response is generally: years of practice." Today, as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle brings decades of high-stakes experience to behavioral health's most pressing challenges. But her most powerful lesson came from managing an accounts payable team who taught her that while some people are motivated by promotions, others just want to wear jeans. The revelation changed everything about how she builds and leads teams. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why removing "I don't have time" from your vocabulary might be the most important leadership decision you make. From being the only woman at investor conferences to consciously surrounding herself with people who think nothing like her, Carlisle reveals how strategic leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about asking better questions. For Crissy Carlisle, leadership isn't about getting rich and famous. It's about serving patients well and knowing everything else will follow. In a healthcare system desperate for strategic financial leadership, she's proof that the best CFOs don't just manage costs. They reimagine what's possible. Key Insights: Why deploying autocratic leadership successfully still required two years of rebranding How managing accounts payable taught her more about leadership than managing MBAs The mental shift from "I don't have time" to "That's not a priority today" Why finding common ground through Alabama football changed everything How to build teams with people who think nothing like you About the Guest: Crissy Carlisle serves as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, bringing 30+ years of experience from PricewaterhouseCoopers, HealthSouth (now Encompass Health), and taking companies public. She navigated one of the largest corporate frauds in American history, transforming from "dictator" to strategic visionary through conscious leadership evolution. Her personal mission: walk by faith, give with a generous heart, and make a difference in the lives of others. Health Podcast Network Chapters 00:00 Introduction  3:06 From Auditor to Healthcare CFO  5:44 Leadership Lessons from HealthSouth  6:54 Rebranding After 'Dictator' Label  10:08 Choosing to Change Your Leadership  14:00 Building Diverse-Thinking Teams  15:51 Being the Only Woman in the Room  19:53 Priorities Over Excuses  21:49 Career Advice: Assess, Learn, Build Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Crissy Carlisle on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "Get us re-listed. You have 12 months."

When Crissy Carlisle walked into HealthSouth in 2005, the FBI had already raided the building. The company held the distinction of being one of the largest frauds in American history. She filed six years' worth of 10-Ks in 12 months, deploying such autocratic leadership that she earned the label "dictator." Then she did something remarkable: she spent the next two years consciously rebranding herself.

This is the story of a leader who refuses to be defined by crisis or constrained by labels. From PricewaterhouseCoopers to Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle has built a career on walking into impossible situations and transforming them through strategic vision and radical self-awareness. Her secret? Understanding that even when you deploy the right leadership style, there are consequences. And having the courage to evolve anyway.

"I went from chicken little to now people say, 'How do you stay so calm in these situations?' My response is generally: years of practice."

Today, as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, Carlisle brings decades of high-stakes experience to behavioral health's most pressing challenges. But her most powerful lesson came from managing an accounts payable team who taught her that while some people are motivated by promotions, others just want to wear jeans. The revelation changed everything about how she builds and leads teams.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why removing "I don't have time" from your vocabulary might be the most important leadership decision you make. From being the only woman at investor conferences to consciously surrounding herself with people who think nothing like her, Carlisle reveals how strategic leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about asking better questions.

For Crissy Carlisle, leadership isn't about getting rich and famous. It's about serving patients well and knowing everything else will follow. In a healthcare system desperate for strategic financial leadership, she's proof that the best CFOs don't just manage costs. They reimagine what's possible.

Key Insights:

  • Why deploying autocratic leadership successfully still required two years of rebranding
  • How managing accounts payable taught her more about leadership than managing MBAs
  • The mental shift from "I don't have time" to "That's not a priority today"
  • Why finding common ground through Alabama football changed everything
  • How to build teams with people who think nothing like you

About the Guest: Crissy Carlisle serves as CFO of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, bringing 30+ years of experience from PricewaterhouseCoopers, HealthSouth (now Encompass Health), and taking companies public. She navigated one of the largest corporate frauds in American history, transforming from "dictator" to strategic visionary through conscious leadership evolution. Her personal mission: walk by faith, give with a generous heart, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Health Podcast Network


Chapters

00:00 Introduction 

3:06 From Auditor to Healthcare CFO 

5:44 Leadership Lessons from HealthSouth 

6:54 Rebranding After 'Dictator' Label 

10:08 Choosing to Change Your Leadership 

14:00 Building Diverse-Thinking Teams 

15:51 Being the Only Woman in the Room 

19:53 Priorities Over Excuses 

21:49 Career Advice: Assess, Learn, Build


Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Crissy Carlisle on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1418 no The Disney Benefits Leader Who Calibrates Before She Acts || EP.223 "What's the problem we're trying to solve? Because oddly enough, sometimes that's not really understood." Before Mercedes Ikard solves a problem, she asks a question most leaders skip: Are we even solving the right problem? In a world demanding immediate action, she's built her leadership on something more powerful: the discipline to pause, listen, understand, and ensure everyone's calibrated on what actually matters before moving forward. As Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, Mercedes leads benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex workforces—six generations, cast members in theme parks and executives in boardrooms, each with different needs. For Mercedes, this complexity requires constant calibration. "Empathy I think is important. And I think it's important to be a decent human. If we start out to be a decent human, that really is a good barometer and we really make decisions a lot easier." This is where calibration begins. Not with spreadsheets or plan designs, but with a fundamental check: Are we being decent humans? When issues explode in the cultural ethos, Mercedes does a gut check: Is this really an issue within this organization? She's learned to calibrate signal from noise, solving problems that actually impact her workforce rather than chasing topics du jour. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why constant calibration might be leadership's most powerful skill. Not as hesitation, but as disciplined checking that everything stays aligned with what actually matters. From bifurcating work and home with precision to extending grace in postmortems, Mercedes has built her career on understanding before acting, clarity before speed, grace before perfection. Her superpower isn't speed. It's the wisdom to calibrate constantly on the right problems, with empathy, and with grace. Key Insights: Why "what's the problem we're trying to solve?" eliminates most organizational chaos How listening to understand rather than respond creates scalable solutions The discipline required to separate workforce-relevant issues from topics du jour Why plain language and "side streets" serve six generations better than complex plan details How bifurcating your day prevents the exhaustion of never decompressing Why showing yourself grace isn't optional for sustainable leadership About the Guest: Mercedes Ikard serves as Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, leading benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex and diverse workforces. Her leadership philosophy centers on calibration: constantly checking that she's solving the right problems, leading with empathy, and extending grace to herself and others navigating the high-pressure demands of corporate leadership. Health Podcast Network Chapters 0:00 Intro 2:05 Why Benefits Leadership Matters 4:03 Finding Her Passion in Healthcare and Retirement Benefits 6:59 Managing Disney's Multigenerational Workforce 10:42 Problem-Solving Framework for Complex Workforce Challenges 13:26 Leadership Skills That Matter: Empathy and Listening 15:03 The Power of Processing: Resisting the Urge to Act Immediately 18:29 Work-Life Balance and Decompression Strategies 21:11 Career Advice: Be Yourself and Show Grace Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mercedes Ikard on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:08:00 -0000 The Disney Benefits Leader Who Calibrates Before She Acts full 223 Laurie McGraw "What's the problem we're trying to solve? Because oddly enough, sometimes that's not really understood." Before Mercedes Ikard solves a problem, she asks a question most leaders skip: Are we even solving the right problem? In a world demanding immediate action, she's built her leadership on something more powerful: the discipline to pause, listen, understand, and ensure everyone's calibrated on what actually matters before moving forward. As Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, Mercedes leads benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex workforces—six generations, cast members in theme parks and executives in boardrooms, each with different needs. For Mercedes, this complexity requires constant calibration. "Empathy I think is important. And I think it's important to be a decent human. If we start out to be a decent human, that really is a good barometer and we really make decisions a lot easier." This is where calibration begins. Not with spreadsheets or plan designs, but with a fundamental check: Are we being decent humans? When issues explode in the cultural ethos, Mercedes does a gut check: Is this really an issue within this organization? She's learned to calibrate signal from noise, solving problems that actually impact her workforce rather than chasing topics du jour. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why constant calibration might be leadership's most powerful skill. Not as hesitation, but as disciplined checking that everything stays aligned with what actually matters. From bifurcating work and home with precision to extending grace in postmortems, Mercedes has built her career on understanding before acting, clarity before speed, grace before perfection. Her superpower isn't speed. It's the wisdom to calibrate constantly on the right problems, with empathy, and with grace. Key Insights: Why "what's the problem we're trying to solve?" eliminates most organizational chaos How listening to understand rather than respond creates scalable solutions The discipline required to separate workforce-relevant issues from topics du jour Why plain language and "side streets" serve six generations better than complex plan details How bifurcating your day prevents the exhaustion of never decompressing Why showing yourself grace isn't optional for sustainable leadership About the Guest: Mercedes Ikard serves as Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, leading benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex and diverse workforces. Her leadership philosophy centers on calibration: constantly checking that she's solving the right problems, leading with empathy, and extending grace to herself and others navigating the high-pressure demands of corporate leadership. Health Podcast Network Chapters 0:00 Intro 2:05 Why Benefits Leadership Matters 4:03 Finding Her Passion in Healthcare and Retirement Benefits 6:59 Managing Disney's Multigenerational Workforce 10:42 Problem-Solving Framework for Complex Workforce Challenges 13:26 Leadership Skills That Matter: Empathy and Listening 15:03 The Power of Processing: Resisting the Urge to Act Immediately 18:29 Work-Life Balance and Decompression Strategies 21:11 Career Advice: Be Yourself and Show Grace Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mercedes Ikard on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "What's the problem we're trying to solve? Because oddly enough, sometimes that's not really understood."

Before Mercedes Ikard solves a problem, she asks a question most leaders skip: Are we even solving the right problem? In a world demanding immediate action, she's built her leadership on something more powerful: the discipline to pause, listen, understand, and ensure everyone's calibrated on what actually matters before moving forward. As Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, Mercedes leads benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex workforces—six generations, cast members in theme parks and executives in boardrooms, each with different needs. For Mercedes, this complexity requires constant calibration.

"Empathy I think is important. And I think it's important to be a decent human. If we start out to be a decent human, that really is a good barometer and we really make decisions a lot easier." This is where calibration begins. Not with spreadsheets or plan designs, but with a fundamental check: Are we being decent humans? When issues explode in the cultural ethos, Mercedes does a gut check: Is this really an issue within this organization? She's learned to calibrate signal from noise, solving problems that actually impact her workforce rather than chasing topics du jour.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover why constant calibration might be leadership's most powerful skill. Not as hesitation, but as disciplined checking that everything stays aligned with what actually matters. From bifurcating work and home with precision to extending grace in postmortems, Mercedes has built her career on understanding before acting, clarity before speed, grace before perfection. Her superpower isn't speed. It's the wisdom to calibrate constantly on the right problems, with empathy, and with grace.

Key Insights:

  • Why "what's the problem we're trying to solve?" eliminates most organizational chaos
  • How listening to understand rather than respond creates scalable solutions
  • The discipline required to separate workforce-relevant issues from topics du jour
  • Why plain language and "side streets" serve six generations better than complex plan details
  • How bifurcating your day prevents the exhaustion of never decompressing
  • Why showing yourself grace isn't optional for sustainable leadership

About the Guest: Mercedes Ikard serves as Senior Director of US Benefits Operations at The Walt Disney Company, leading benefits strategy for one of the world's most complex and diverse workforces. Her leadership philosophy centers on calibration: constantly checking that she's solving the right problems, leading with empathy, and extending grace to herself and others navigating the high-pressure demands of corporate leadership.

Health Podcast Network

Chapters

0:00 Intro 2:05 Why Benefits Leadership Matters

4:03 Finding Her Passion in Healthcare and Retirement Benefits

6:59 Managing Disney's Multigenerational Workforce

10:42 Problem-Solving Framework for Complex Workforce Challenges

13:26 Leadership Skills That Matter: Empathy and Listening

15:03 The Power of Processing: Resisting the Urge to Act Immediately

18:29 Work-Life Balance and Decompression Strategies

21:11 Career Advice: Be Yourself and Show Grace

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Mercedes Ikard on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1444 no The Founder Who Ignored Imposter Syndrome and Built a Global Fertility Empire || EP.222 "I had no idea. I didn't know what an HSA was, all the acronyms—HRA, HSA, HDHP, ERISA. I really had to learn all of that." When Tammy Sun pitched her fertility startup a decade ago, the category she was building didn't exist. Investors dismissed it as a lifestyle business, a niche play unworthy of venture capital. After 99 rejections, she raised her first million. Today, Carrot Fertility operates in 170 countries, serving millions in a market that didn't even have a name when she started. This conversation arrives at an inflection point. Women over 40 represent the only demographic having more babies, while one in six couples confronts infertility—a number experts believe vastly undercounts reality since you're only counted if you can afford to seek care. Sun saw these contradictions not as obstacles but as opportunities. Without a male co-founder, without prior startup experience, without even knowing basic healthcare acronyms, she built one of the most valuable fertility companies in the world. Her secret wasn't expertise. It was embracing what she didn't know. "Having a beginner's mind and coming in with curiosity and excitement and imagination around the art of what is possible—I can't think of an area of the world that needs it more now than healthcare", Sun explains. From that first million that was "the hardest million dollars I ever raised" to expanding beyond fertility into what she calls "post reproductive fertility care" with their menopause product—which became their fastest growing product ever—Sun has earned the right to her radical advice about imposter syndrome: "You can totally ignore it. You can pretend like it doesn't exist, and you can just act the way that you feel like you should act." In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how a non-professional founder transformed a personal fertility crisis into a global healthcare platform. From recognizing that "half of all infertility is related to male factor" to launching Sprints at the nexus of metabolic and fertility care, Sun reveals why the future of women's health isn't about incremental improvements to a broken system. It's about having the audacity to imagine something entirely new. For Tammy Sun, building in the space between naivete and expertise isn't a disadvantage. It's the only way to create categories that don't yet exist. In a world where knowing too much can blind you to what's possible, she's proof that sometimes the best qualification for changing healthcare is not knowing why it can't be changed. Key Insights: Why the fastest-growing fertility demographic reveals everything about modern family planning How embracing ignorance became a competitive advantage in healthcare innovation The hidden truth about male factor infertility that affects half of all cases Why imposter syndrome is a luxury founders can't afford How moving from California to Arkansas changed everything What GLP-1s mean for the future of fertility and healthcare About the Guest: Tammy Sun is the Founder and CEO of Carrot Fertility, now operating in almost 170 countries after starting with 12. Without prior founder experience or healthcare expertise, she transformed a personal fertility journey into a category-defining company. She built Carrot into one of the most valuable fertility platforms globally, expanding from fertility into menopause and metabolic fertility care. Chapters 2:03 The State of Women's Health and Political Landscape 4:51 Origin Story: Building a Category from Scratch 8:01 Fertility Trends and the Education Gap 11:41 Raising the First Million: The Founding Journey 15:11 Embracing the Beginner's Mind in Healthcare 16:41 The Future: From Fertility to Lifelong Care 22:38 Advice for Women Founders: Throwing Away Imposter Syndrome Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Tammy Sun on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:08:00 -0000 The Founder Who Ignored Imposter Syndrome and Built a Global Fertility Empire full 222 Laurie McGraw "I had no idea. I didn't know what an HSA was, all the acronyms—HRA, HSA, HDHP, ERISA. I really had to learn all of that." When Tammy Sun pitched her fertility startup a decade ago, the category she was building didn't exist. Investors dismissed it as a lifestyle business, a niche play unworthy of venture capital. After 99 rejections, she raised her first million. Today, Carrot Fertility operates in 170 countries, serving millions in a market that didn't even have a name when she started. This conversation arrives at an inflection point. Women over 40 represent the only demographic having more babies, while one in six couples confronts infertility—a number experts believe vastly undercounts reality since you're only counted if you can afford to seek care. Sun saw these contradictions not as obstacles but as opportunities. Without a male co-founder, without prior startup experience, without even knowing basic healthcare acronyms, she built one of the most valuable fertility companies in the world. Her secret wasn't expertise. It was embracing what she didn't know. "Having a beginner's mind and coming in with curiosity and excitement and imagination around the art of what is possible—I can't think of an area of the world that needs it more now than healthcare", Sun explains. From that first million that was "the hardest million dollars I ever raised" to expanding beyond fertility into what she calls "post reproductive fertility care" with their menopause product—which became their fastest growing product ever—Sun has earned the right to her radical advice about imposter syndrome: "You can totally ignore it. You can pretend like it doesn't exist, and you can just act the way that you feel like you should act." In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how a non-professional founder transformed a personal fertility crisis into a global healthcare platform. From recognizing that "half of all infertility is related to male factor" to launching Sprints at the nexus of metabolic and fertility care, Sun reveals why the future of women's health isn't about incremental improvements to a broken system. It's about having the audacity to imagine something entirely new. For Tammy Sun, building in the space between naivete and expertise isn't a disadvantage. It's the only way to create categories that don't yet exist. In a world where knowing too much can blind you to what's possible, she's proof that sometimes the best qualification for changing healthcare is not knowing why it can't be changed. Key Insights: Why the fastest-growing fertility demographic reveals everything about modern family planning How embracing ignorance became a competitive advantage in healthcare innovation The hidden truth about male factor infertility that affects half of all cases Why imposter syndrome is a luxury founders can't afford How moving from California to Arkansas changed everything What GLP-1s mean for the future of fertility and healthcare About the Guest: Tammy Sun is the Founder and CEO of Carrot Fertility, now operating in almost 170 countries after starting with 12. Without prior founder experience or healthcare expertise, she transformed a personal fertility journey into a category-defining company. She built Carrot into one of the most valuable fertility platforms globally, expanding from fertility into menopause and metabolic fertility care. Chapters 2:03 The State of Women's Health and Political Landscape 4:51 Origin Story: Building a Category from Scratch 8:01 Fertility Trends and the Education Gap 11:41 Raising the First Million: The Founding Journey 15:11 Embracing the Beginner's Mind in Healthcare 16:41 The Future: From Fertility to Lifelong Care 22:38 Advice for Women Founders: Throwing Away Imposter Syndrome Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Tammy Sun on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I had no idea. I didn't know what an HSA was, all the acronyms—HRA, HSA, HDHP, ERISA. I really had to learn all of that."

When Tammy Sun pitched her fertility startup a decade ago, the category she was building didn't exist. Investors dismissed it as a lifestyle business, a niche play unworthy of venture capital. After 99 rejections, she raised her first million. Today, Carrot Fertility operates in 170 countries, serving millions in a market that didn't even have a name when she started.

This conversation arrives at an inflection point. Women over 40 represent the only demographic having more babies, while one in six couples confronts infertility—a number experts believe vastly undercounts reality since you're only counted if you can afford to seek care.

Sun saw these contradictions not as obstacles but as opportunities. Without a male co-founder, without prior startup experience, without even knowing basic healthcare acronyms, she built one of the most valuable fertility companies in the world. Her secret wasn't expertise. It was embracing what she didn't know.

"Having a beginner's mind and coming in with curiosity and excitement and imagination around the art of what is possible—I can't think of an area of the world that needs it more now than healthcare", Sun explains.

From that first million that was "the hardest million dollars I ever raised" to expanding beyond fertility into what she calls "post reproductive fertility care" with their menopause product—which became their fastest growing product ever—Sun has earned the right to her radical advice about imposter syndrome: "You can totally ignore it. You can pretend like it doesn't exist, and you can just act the way that you feel like you should act."

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how a non-professional founder transformed a personal fertility crisis into a global healthcare platform. From recognizing that "half of all infertility is related to male factor" to launching Sprints at the nexus of metabolic and fertility care, Sun reveals why the future of women's health isn't about incremental improvements to a broken system. It's about having the audacity to imagine something entirely new.

For Tammy Sun, building in the space between naivete and expertise isn't a disadvantage. It's the only way to create categories that don't yet exist. In a world where knowing too much can blind you to what's possible, she's proof that sometimes the best qualification for changing healthcare is not knowing why it can't be changed.

Key Insights:

  • Why the fastest-growing fertility demographic reveals everything about modern family planning
  • How embracing ignorance became a competitive advantage in healthcare innovation
  • The hidden truth about male factor infertility that affects half of all cases
  • Why imposter syndrome is a luxury founders can't afford
  • How moving from California to Arkansas changed everything
  • What GLP-1s mean for the future of fertility and healthcare

About the Guest: Tammy Sun is the Founder and CEO of Carrot Fertility, now operating in almost 170 countries after starting with 12. Without prior founder experience or healthcare expertise, she transformed a personal fertility journey into a category-defining company. She built Carrot into one of the most valuable fertility platforms globally, expanding from fertility into menopause and metabolic fertility care.

Chapters

2:03 The State of Women's Health and Political Landscape 4:51 Origin Story: Building a Category from Scratch 8:01 Fertility Trends and the Education Gap 11:41 Raising the First Million: The Founding Journey 15:11 Embracing the Beginner's Mind in Healthcare 16:41 The Future: From Fertility to Lifelong Care 22:38 Advice for Women Founders: Throwing Away Imposter Syndrome

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1559 no More Older Adults Than Children by 2035: This Foundation CEO is Racing Against Time || EP.221 "By 2030, 2035, they're saying we're gonna have more older adults than children in this country. And if Medicaid cuts happen, where are people gonna get care? Their first resort is gonna be going to the emergency department." Dr. Sarita Mohanty knows exactly what's coming—she sees it every shift in urgent care. As President and CEO of The SCAN Foundation, she's racing to transform how America ages while still practicing medicine because, as she puts it, "clinical work gives me an opportunity to really engage on the ground versus being at the 50,000 foot level." Her non-linear journey from LA County General Hospital—where patients waited for days with lines wrapping around the building—through health plan leadership at LA Care and Kaiser Permanente, to now running a major philanthropy, taught her one crucial lesson: the system wasn't built for the people who need it most. Now, with potential Medicaid cuts threatening services like adult day health centers and in-home support, she's watching decades of progress hang in the balance. "When everything costs money, many people just avoid going to see a doctor if they can," shares one older adult through The SCAN Foundation's "People Say" platform—a stark reminder of what's at stake. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Mohanty reveals: Why she still practices urgent care despite running a major foundation ("I get to see how patients come in, what their challenges are") The coming demographic crisis that will reshape America's healthcare system How COVID proved what's possible when stakeholders drop their silos and move fast Why she went back to business school with three small kids to transform her leadership The power of elevating older adults' voices directly to policymakers How impact investing can catalyze innovation when traditional approaches fail after 30 years Her philosophy: "Leadership isn't about having all the answers, but by listening and collaborating" "Medicine teaches you to avoid mistakes. But leadership requires you to take risks and sometimes fail forward," Dr. Mohanty reflects on her transformation from exam room to boardroom. From treating uninsured patients at LA County to leading a foundation that's reimagining aging in America, Dr. Sarita Mohanty embodies the physician-leader who refuses to choose between ground-level care and systems change. At The SCAN Foundation, she's not just preparing for the silver tsunami—she's ensuring that when it arrives, America's older adults can age with the dignity, purpose, and support they deserve. Her mission isn't just professional—it's personal. With three kids and an aging mother, she's fighting for the healthcare system she wants them to inherit. One where aging isn't a crisis, but a universal reality we're prepared to honor. Chapters 03:35 - Still Practicing Medicine While Running a Foundation 05:33 - The Non-Linear Path from Physician to CEO 08:28 - America's Aging Crisis: More Seniors Than Children by 2035 10:05 - When Medicaid Cuts Hit: Real Impact on Real People 12:20 - Influencing Policy in Today's Political Environment 16:35 - Leading Differently: Doubling Down in Challenging Times 19:31 - Finding Energy When Optimism Seems Impossible 23:32 - Paying It Forward: Advice for Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sarita Mohanty, MD, MPH, MBA on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:08:00 -0000 More Older Adults Than Children by 2035: This Foundation CEO is Racing Against Time full 221 Laurie McGraw "By 2030, 2035, they're saying we're gonna have more older adults than children in this country. And if Medicaid cuts happen, where are people gonna get care? Their first resort is gonna be going to the emergency department." Dr. Sarita Mohanty knows exactly what's coming—she sees it every shift in urgent care. As President and CEO of The SCAN Foundation, she's racing to transform how America ages while still practicing medicine because, as she puts it, "clinical work gives me an opportunity to really engage on the ground versus being at the 50,000 foot level." Her non-linear journey from LA County General Hospital—where patients waited for days with lines wrapping around the building—through health plan leadership at LA Care and Kaiser Permanente, to now running a major philanthropy, taught her one crucial lesson: the system wasn't built for the people who need it most. Now, with potential Medicaid cuts threatening services like adult day health centers and in-home support, she's watching decades of progress hang in the balance. "When everything costs money, many people just avoid going to see a doctor if they can," shares one older adult through The SCAN Foundation's "People Say" platform—a stark reminder of what's at stake. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Mohanty reveals: Why she still practices urgent care despite running a major foundation ("I get to see how patients come in, what their challenges are") The coming demographic crisis that will reshape America's healthcare system How COVID proved what's possible when stakeholders drop their silos and move fast Why she went back to business school with three small kids to transform her leadership The power of elevating older adults' voices directly to policymakers How impact investing can catalyze innovation when traditional approaches fail after 30 years Her philosophy: "Leadership isn't about having all the answers, but by listening and collaborating" "Medicine teaches you to avoid mistakes. But leadership requires you to take risks and sometimes fail forward," Dr. Mohanty reflects on her transformation from exam room to boardroom. From treating uninsured patients at LA County to leading a foundation that's reimagining aging in America, Dr. Sarita Mohanty embodies the physician-leader who refuses to choose between ground-level care and systems change. At The SCAN Foundation, she's not just preparing for the silver tsunami—she's ensuring that when it arrives, America's older adults can age with the dignity, purpose, and support they deserve. Her mission isn't just professional—it's personal. With three kids and an aging mother, she's fighting for the healthcare system she wants them to inherit. One where aging isn't a crisis, but a universal reality we're prepared to honor. Chapters 03:35 - Still Practicing Medicine While Running a Foundation 05:33 - The Non-Linear Path from Physician to CEO 08:28 - America's Aging Crisis: More Seniors Than Children by 2035 10:05 - When Medicaid Cuts Hit: Real Impact on Real People 12:20 - Influencing Policy in Today's Political Environment 16:35 - Leading Differently: Doubling Down in Challenging Times 19:31 - Finding Energy When Optimism Seems Impossible 23:32 - Paying It Forward: Advice for Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sarita Mohanty, MD, MPH, MBA on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "By 2030, 2035, they're saying we're gonna have more older adults than children in this country. And if Medicaid cuts happen, where are people gonna get care? Their first resort is gonna be going to the emergency department."

Dr. Sarita Mohanty knows exactly what's coming—she sees it every shift in urgent care. As President and CEO of The SCAN Foundation, she's racing to transform how America ages while still practicing medicine because, as she puts it, "clinical work gives me an opportunity to really engage on the ground versus being at the 50,000 foot level."

Her non-linear journey from LA County General Hospital—where patients waited for days with lines wrapping around the building—through health plan leadership at LA Care and Kaiser Permanente, to now running a major philanthropy, taught her one crucial lesson: the system wasn't built for the people who need it most. Now, with potential Medicaid cuts threatening services like adult day health centers and in-home support, she's watching decades of progress hang in the balance.

"When everything costs money, many people just avoid going to see a doctor if they can," shares one older adult through The SCAN Foundation's "People Say" platform—a stark reminder of what's at stake.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Mohanty reveals:

  • Why she still practices urgent care despite running a major foundation ("I get to see how patients come in, what their challenges are")
  • The coming demographic crisis that will reshape America's healthcare system
  • How COVID proved what's possible when stakeholders drop their silos and move fast
  • Why she went back to business school with three small kids to transform her leadership
  • The power of elevating older adults' voices directly to policymakers
  • How impact investing can catalyze innovation when traditional approaches fail after 30 years
  • Her philosophy: "Leadership isn't about having all the answers, but by listening and collaborating"

"Medicine teaches you to avoid mistakes. But leadership requires you to take risks and sometimes fail forward," Dr. Mohanty reflects on her transformation from exam room to boardroom.

From treating uninsured patients at LA County to leading a foundation that's reimagining aging in America, Dr. Sarita Mohanty embodies the physician-leader who refuses to choose between ground-level care and systems change. At The SCAN Foundation, she's not just preparing for the silver tsunami—she's ensuring that when it arrives, America's older adults can age with the dignity, purpose, and support they deserve.

Her mission isn't just professional—it's personal. With three kids and an aging mother, she's fighting for the healthcare system she wants them to inherit. One where aging isn't a crisis, but a universal reality we're prepared to honor.

Chapters

03:35 - Still Practicing Medicine While Running a Foundation

05:33 - The Non-Linear Path from Physician to CEO

08:28 - America's Aging Crisis: More Seniors Than Children by 2035

10:05 - When Medicaid Cuts Hit: Real Impact on Real People

12:20 - Influencing Policy in Today's Political Environment

16:35 - Leading Differently: Doubling Down in Challenging Times

19:31 - Finding Energy When Optimism Seems Impossible

23:32 - Paying It Forward: Advice for Women Leaders

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Sarita Mohanty, MD, MPH, MBA on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1627 no The Cancer Survivor Revolutionizing Cancer Care with AI and Human Touch || Ep.220 Approximately one in four people will face a cancer diagnosis. For most, the hardest part won't be the treatment itself but the waiting, the 3 AM questions, the logistical maze of care coordination that can mean the difference between hope and despair. Ann Stadjuhar knows this truth from both sides of the stethoscope. When Ann navigated her own cancer diagnosis, she had every advantage: 20 years of healthcare expertise, knowledge of case volumes, connections to top surgeons at Optum. Yet even she found the system overwhelming. Her uncle in rural New Mexico wasn't as fortunate; by the time he reached MD Anderson, inadequate local care had sealed his fate. These parallel experiences crystallized Ann's mission at Reimagine Care: ensuring no one faces cancer alone, regardless of their zip code or insider knowledge. This conversation comes at a critical moment. As cancer increasingly strikes younger populations, with many cancers now appearing in people's 20s and 30s rather than their 50s, we need innovators who understand that technology without empathy is just expensive machinery. Ann represents a new breed of healthcare leaders who see AI not as a replacement for human connection, but as a way to multiply it. "The worst part of cancer is the wait," Ann explains. "We can be there 24/7 to understand whether there may be social determinants of health needs. I need a ride to treatment. I need someone to watch my dog. I have issues paying my electric bill. Sometimes people are honestly more comfortable telling the bot they're having these challenges." After two decades revolutionizing digital health from women's health to pandemic response centers, Ann calls cancer care her "capstone." She's witnessed how the 18-month health system adoption cycle literally costs lives. Now, armed with Meta glasses and AI tools that multiply her capabilities "times four," she's racing against a broken system where your uncle's zip code shouldn't determine whether his cancer stays operable. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how one woman's journey through cancer transformed into a mission to democratize access to the kind of insider knowledge that can save lives. From the Cancer X Accelerator to Reimagine Care's AI companion REMI, Ann reveals why the future of cancer care isn't about choosing between humans and machines. It's about creating technology sophisticated enough to know that sometimes, the most advanced intervention is simply helping someone find a dog sitter so they don't miss chemotherapy. For Ann Stadjuhar, reimagining cancer care isn't about replacing human connection. It's about multiplying it. In a healthcare system where staying curious might be the difference between innovation and stagnation, between treatment and tragedy, she's proof that the most powerful technology is the kind that remembers to be human. Key Insights: Why patients confess more to AI than to their doctors, and what that means for care How social determinants of health become matters of life and death in cancer treatment The hidden complexities even healthcare insiders struggle to navigate Why the next generation needs emotional intelligence more than technical skills How one woman's cancer diagnosis became a blueprint for system-wide change About the Guest:  Ann Stadjuhar brings 20+ years of digital health innovation to her role as Chief Growth Officer at Reimagine Care. From launching pharmaceuticals to scaling population health tools, she's run what she calls "the gauntlet" of healthcare transformation. Her personal cancer journey while at Optum revealed the gaps even insiders face, inspiring her mission to ensure 24/7 companionship for every cancer patient through AI-powered human care. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Ann Stadjuhar on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:31:00 -0000 The Cancer Survivor Revolutionizing Cancer Care with AI and Human Touch full 220 Laurie McGraw Approximately one in four people will face a cancer diagnosis. For most, the hardest part won't be the treatment itself but the waiting, the 3 AM questions, the logistical maze of care coordination that can mean the difference between hope and despair. Ann Stadjuhar knows this truth from both sides of the stethoscope. When Ann navigated her own cancer diagnosis, she had every advantage: 20 years of healthcare expertise, knowledge of case volumes, connections to top surgeons at Optum. Yet even she found the system overwhelming. Her uncle in rural New Mexico wasn't as fortunate; by the time he reached MD Anderson, inadequate local care had sealed his fate. These parallel experiences crystallized Ann's mission at Reimagine Care: ensuring no one faces cancer alone, regardless of their zip code or insider knowledge. This conversation comes at a critical moment. As cancer increasingly strikes younger populations, with many cancers now appearing in people's 20s and 30s rather than their 50s, we need innovators who understand that technology without empathy is just expensive machinery. Ann represents a new breed of healthcare leaders who see AI not as a replacement for human connection, but as a way to multiply it. "The worst part of cancer is the wait," Ann explains. "We can be there 24/7 to understand whether there may be social determinants of health needs. I need a ride to treatment. I need someone to watch my dog. I have issues paying my electric bill. Sometimes people are honestly more comfortable telling the bot they're having these challenges." After two decades revolutionizing digital health from women's health to pandemic response centers, Ann calls cancer care her "capstone." She's witnessed how the 18-month health system adoption cycle literally costs lives. Now, armed with Meta glasses and AI tools that multiply her capabilities "times four," she's racing against a broken system where your uncle's zip code shouldn't determine whether his cancer stays operable. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how one woman's journey through cancer transformed into a mission to democratize access to the kind of insider knowledge that can save lives. From the Cancer X Accelerator to Reimagine Care's AI companion REMI, Ann reveals why the future of cancer care isn't about choosing between humans and machines. It's about creating technology sophisticated enough to know that sometimes, the most advanced intervention is simply helping someone find a dog sitter so they don't miss chemotherapy. For Ann Stadjuhar, reimagining cancer care isn't about replacing human connection. It's about multiplying it. In a healthcare system where staying curious might be the difference between innovation and stagnation, between treatment and tragedy, she's proof that the most powerful technology is the kind that remembers to be human. Key Insights: Why patients confess more to AI than to their doctors, and what that means for care How social determinants of health become matters of life and death in cancer treatment The hidden complexities even healthcare insiders struggle to navigate Why the next generation needs emotional intelligence more than technical skills How one woman's cancer diagnosis became a blueprint for system-wide change About the Guest:  Ann Stadjuhar brings 20+ years of digital health innovation to her role as Chief Growth Officer at Reimagine Care. From launching pharmaceuticals to scaling population health tools, she's run what she calls "the gauntlet" of healthcare transformation. Her personal cancer journey while at Optum revealed the gaps even insiders face, inspiring her mission to ensure 24/7 companionship for every cancer patient through AI-powered human care. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Ann Stadjuhar on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Approximately one in four people will face a cancer diagnosis. For most, the hardest part won't be the treatment itself but the waiting, the 3 AM questions, the logistical maze of care coordination that can mean the difference between hope and despair. Ann Stadjuhar knows this truth from both sides of the stethoscope.

When Ann navigated her own cancer diagnosis, she had every advantage: 20 years of healthcare expertise, knowledge of case volumes, connections to top surgeons at Optum. Yet even she found the system overwhelming. Her uncle in rural New Mexico wasn't as fortunate; by the time he reached MD Anderson, inadequate local care had sealed his fate. These parallel experiences crystallized Ann's mission at Reimagine Care: ensuring no one faces cancer alone, regardless of their zip code or insider knowledge.

This conversation comes at a critical moment. As cancer increasingly strikes younger populations, with many cancers now appearing in people's 20s and 30s rather than their 50s, we need innovators who understand that technology without empathy is just expensive machinery. Ann represents a new breed of healthcare leaders who see AI not as a replacement for human connection, but as a way to multiply it.

"The worst part of cancer is the wait," Ann explains. "We can be there 24/7 to understand whether there may be social determinants of health needs. I need a ride to treatment. I need someone to watch my dog. I have issues paying my electric bill. Sometimes people are honestly more comfortable telling the bot they're having these challenges."

After two decades revolutionizing digital health from women's health to pandemic response centers, Ann calls cancer care her "capstone." She's witnessed how the 18-month health system adoption cycle literally costs lives. Now, armed with Meta glasses and AI tools that multiply her capabilities "times four," she's racing against a broken system where your uncle's zip code shouldn't determine whether his cancer stays operable.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, discover how one woman's journey through cancer transformed into a mission to democratize access to the kind of insider knowledge that can save lives. From the Cancer X Accelerator to Reimagine Care's AI companion REMI, Ann reveals why the future of cancer care isn't about choosing between humans and machines. It's about creating technology sophisticated enough to know that sometimes, the most advanced intervention is simply helping someone find a dog sitter so they don't miss chemotherapy.

For Ann Stadjuhar, reimagining cancer care isn't about replacing human connection. It's about multiplying it. In a healthcare system where staying curious might be the difference between innovation and stagnation, between treatment and tragedy, she's proof that the most powerful technology is the kind that remembers to be human.

Key Insights:

  • Why patients confess more to AI than to their doctors, and what that means for care

  • How social determinants of health become matters of life and death in cancer treatment

  • The hidden complexities even healthcare insiders struggle to navigate

  • Why the next generation needs emotional intelligence more than technical skills

  • How one woman's cancer diagnosis became a blueprint for system-wide change

About the Guest: 

Ann Stadjuhar brings 20+ years of digital health innovation to her role as Chief Growth Officer at Reimagine Care. From launching pharmaceuticals to scaling population health tools, she's run what she calls "the gauntlet" of healthcare transformation. Her personal cancer journey while at Optum revealed the gaps even insiders face, inspiring her mission to ensure 24/7 companionship for every cancer patient through AI-powered human care.


Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1429 no Creating Your Own Roadmap When You're Always the First with Dr. Mitzi Krockover || EP.219 Dr. Mitzi Krockover has been the first in every leadership role she's taken—from founding UCLA's Women's Health Center to becoming Humana's first Vice President of Women's Health to now investing in women-led healthcare companies. In this powerful conversation with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Krockover reveals why she's optimistic about women's health innovation despite recent funding challenges, sharing how the "train has left the station" on progress that can't be reversed. Dr. Krockover breaks down the expansive definition of women's health beyond reproductive care—from the fact that 66% of Alzheimer's patients are women to how female inflammatory responses differ fundamentally from men's. She connects the dots between women's health investment and economic returns, citing studies showing a potential $14 billion ROI from modest research increases. Key Takeaways: Why women's health encompasses far more than reproductive health—and the three critical buckets every leader should understand How the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act changed everything, yet we're still recovering from decades of exclusion The economic case for women's health: from workforce retention during menopause to trillion-dollar market opportunities Why Dr. Krockover sees women as investors, not just philanthropists, in health innovation The career advice that shaped her path: "If it's not challenging you and scaring you a little, it's probably not worth doing" From navigating being "the first" in multiple sectors to building Arizona's women's health innovation ecosystem, Dr. Krockover demonstrates how connecting the dots between health, economics, and leadership creates unstoppable momentum for change. Chapters 00:00 - Intro 03:50 - Being the First: Navigating Uncharted Leadership Territory 05:44 - Beyond Reproductive Health: Redefining Women's Health 08:21 - From NIH Mandate to Investment Boom: 30 Years of Progress 11:22 - The Perfect Storm: Why Women's Health Finally Took Off 13:37 - Arizona's Women's Health Innovation Ecosystem 15:05 - From Treating Patients to Investing in Solutions 18:09 - Finding Optimism Despite Political Headwinds 23:09 - Say Yes First, Figure It Out Later: Advice for Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mitzi Krockover, MD on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Creating Your Own Roadmap When You're Always the First with Dr. Mitzi Krockover full 219 Laurie McGraw Dr. Mitzi Krockover has been the first in every leadership role she's taken—from founding UCLA's Women's Health Center to becoming Humana's first Vice President of Women's Health to now investing in women-led healthcare companies. In this powerful conversation with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Krockover reveals why she's optimistic about women's health innovation despite recent funding challenges, sharing how the "train has left the station" on progress that can't be reversed. Dr. Krockover breaks down the expansive definition of women's health beyond reproductive care—from the fact that 66% of Alzheimer's patients are women to how female inflammatory responses differ fundamentally from men's. She connects the dots between women's health investment and economic returns, citing studies showing a potential $14 billion ROI from modest research increases. Key Takeaways: Why women's health encompasses far more than reproductive health—and the three critical buckets every leader should understand How the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act changed everything, yet we're still recovering from decades of exclusion The economic case for women's health: from workforce retention during menopause to trillion-dollar market opportunities Why Dr. Krockover sees women as investors, not just philanthropists, in health innovation The career advice that shaped her path: "If it's not challenging you and scaring you a little, it's probably not worth doing" From navigating being "the first" in multiple sectors to building Arizona's women's health innovation ecosystem, Dr. Krockover demonstrates how connecting the dots between health, economics, and leadership creates unstoppable momentum for change. Chapters 00:00 - Intro 03:50 - Being the First: Navigating Uncharted Leadership Territory 05:44 - Beyond Reproductive Health: Redefining Women's Health 08:21 - From NIH Mandate to Investment Boom: 30 Years of Progress 11:22 - The Perfect Storm: Why Women's Health Finally Took Off 13:37 - Arizona's Women's Health Innovation Ecosystem 15:05 - From Treating Patients to Investing in Solutions 18:09 - Finding Optimism Despite Political Headwinds 23:09 - Say Yes First, Figure It Out Later: Advice for Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mitzi Krockover, MD on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Dr. Mitzi Krockover has been the first in every leadership role she's taken—from founding UCLA's Women's Health Center to becoming Humana's first Vice President of Women's Health to now investing in women-led healthcare companies. In this powerful conversation with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Krockover reveals why she's optimistic about women's health innovation despite recent funding challenges, sharing how the "train has left the station" on progress that can't be reversed.

Dr. Krockover breaks down the expansive definition of women's health beyond reproductive care—from the fact that 66% of Alzheimer's patients are women to how female inflammatory responses differ fundamentally from men's. She connects the dots between women's health investment and economic returns, citing studies showing a potential $14 billion ROI from modest research increases.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why women's health encompasses far more than reproductive health—and the three critical buckets every leader should understand
  • How the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act changed everything, yet we're still recovering from decades of exclusion
  • The economic case for women's health: from workforce retention during menopause to trillion-dollar market opportunities
  • Why Dr. Krockover sees women as investors, not just philanthropists, in health innovation
  • The career advice that shaped her path: "If it's not challenging you and scaring you a little, it's probably not worth doing"

From navigating being "the first" in multiple sectors to building Arizona's women's health innovation ecosystem, Dr. Krockover demonstrates how connecting the dots between health, economics, and leadership creates unstoppable momentum for change.

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

03:50 - Being the First: Navigating Uncharted Leadership Territory

05:44 - Beyond Reproductive Health: Redefining Women's Health

08:21 - From NIH Mandate to Investment Boom: 30 Years of Progress

11:22 - The Perfect Storm: Why Women's Health Finally Took Off

13:37 - Arizona's Women's Health Innovation Ecosystem

15:05 - From Treating Patients to Investing in Solutions

18:09 - Finding Optimism Despite Political Headwinds

23:09 - Say Yes First, Figure It Out Later: Advice for Women Leaders

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Mitzi Krockover, MD on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1543 no Breaking the Mold When Women Lead with Julia Boorstin || EP.218 Emmy-nominated journalist Julia Boorstin spent years interviewing thousands of executives before discovering something unexpected: the most successful women leaders had no playbook. After 25 years covering business transformation at Fortune and CNBC, Julia set out to understand why women receive only 2% of venture capital despite outperforming their counterparts—and what she found changed everything she thought about leadership. In this conversation with Laurie McGraw, Julia reveals insights from her book "When Women Lead" and the 60 extraordinary women who defied impossible odds. From wearing fake glasses to be taken seriously to discovering that gratitude correlates with long-term decision making, Julia unpacks why there's no single formula for female leadership success—and why that's exactly the point. Key Takeaways: Why vulnerability and transparency matter more than performed strength in uncertain times The surprising link between gratitude and strategic long-term thinking How "turning down your confidence" to gather information leads to better decisions Why the data proves female-led companies outperform—returning profits a year earlier on average The "water supply problem" approach that transforms how you solve any challenge Why communal leadership isn't weakness—it's a statistical predictor of success From the CNBC Changemakers list to her new podcast launching September 30th, Julia continues amplifying voices of women who are rewriting the rules of business. Her message is clear: authenticity isn't about fitting a mold—it's about understanding your unique strengths and leading from that truth. Chapter Markers 03:31 - Why Business Journalism Reveals Social Change 05:58 - The Myth of One Female Leadership Playbook 09:32 - Gratitude as a Strategic Leadership Skill 11:55 - Why Purpose-Driven Companies Outperform 14:12 - Leading Through Crisis with Data, Not Emotion 18:23 - Building the CNBC Changemakers Movement 22:08 - Finding the Water Supply Problem 25:29 - The Arbitrage Opportunity in Female Leadership Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Julia Boorstin on LinkedIn Check out Julia's new podcast, CNBC Changemakers & Power Players: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cnbc-changemakers-power-players/id1840209228 Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:08:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Emmy-nominated journalist Julia Boorstin spent years interviewing thousands of executives before discovering something unexpected: the most successful women leaders had no playbook. After 25 years covering business transformation at Fortune and CNBC, Julia set out to understand why women receive only 2% of venture capital despite outperforming their counterparts—and what she found changed everything she thought about leadership. In this conversation with Laurie McGraw, Julia reveals insights from her book "When Women Lead" and the 60 extraordinary women who defied impossible odds. From wearing fake glasses to be taken seriously to discovering that gratitude correlates with long-term decision making, Julia unpacks why there's no single formula for female leadership success—and why that's exactly the point. Key Takeaways: Why vulnerability and transparency matter more than performed strength in uncertain times The surprising link between gratitude and strategic long-term thinking How "turning down your confidence" to gather information leads to better decisions Why the data proves female-led companies outperform—returning profits a year earlier on average The "water supply problem" approach that transforms how you solve any challenge Why communal leadership isn't weakness—it's a statistical predictor of success From the CNBC Changemakers list to her new podcast launching September 30th, Julia continues amplifying voices of women who are rewriting the rules of business. Her message is clear: authenticity isn't about fitting a mold—it's about understanding your unique strengths and leading from that truth. Chapter Markers 03:31 - Why Business Journalism Reveals Social Change 05:58 - The Myth of One Female Leadership Playbook 09:32 - Gratitude as a Strategic Leadership Skill 11:55 - Why Purpose-Driven Companies Outperform 14:12 - Leading Through Crisis with Data, Not Emotion 18:23 - Building the CNBC Changemakers Movement 22:08 - Finding the Water Supply Problem 25:29 - The Arbitrage Opportunity in Female Leadership Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Julia Boorstin on LinkedIn Check out Julia's new podcast, CNBC Changemakers & Power Players: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cnbc-changemakers-power-players/id1840209228 Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Emmy-nominated journalist Julia Boorstin spent years interviewing thousands of executives before discovering something unexpected: the most successful women leaders had no playbook.

After 25 years covering business transformation at Fortune and CNBC, Julia set out to understand why women receive only 2% of venture capital despite outperforming their counterparts—and what she found changed everything she thought about leadership.

In this conversation with Laurie McGraw, Julia reveals insights from her book "When Women Lead" and the 60 extraordinary women who defied impossible odds. From wearing fake glasses to be taken seriously to discovering that gratitude correlates with long-term decision making, Julia unpacks why there's no single formula for female leadership success—and why that's exactly the point.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why vulnerability and transparency matter more than performed strength in uncertain times
  • The surprising link between gratitude and strategic long-term thinking
  • How "turning down your confidence" to gather information leads to better decisions
  • Why the data proves female-led companies outperform—returning profits a year earlier on average
  • The "water supply problem" approach that transforms how you solve any challenge
  • Why communal leadership isn't weakness—it's a statistical predictor of success

From the CNBC Changemakers list to her new podcast launching September 30th, Julia continues amplifying voices of women who are rewriting the rules of business.

Her message is clear: authenticity isn't about fitting a mold—it's about understanding your unique strengths and leading from that truth.

Chapter Markers

03:31 - Why Business Journalism Reveals Social Change

05:58 - The Myth of One Female Leadership Playbook

09:32 - Gratitude as a Strategic Leadership Skill

11:55 - Why Purpose-Driven Companies Outperform

14:12 - Leading Through Crisis with Data, Not Emotion

18:23 - Building the CNBC Changemakers Movement

22:08 - Finding the Water Supply Problem

25:29 - The Arbitrage Opportunity in Female Leadership

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Julia Boorstin on LinkedIn
  • Check out Julia's new podcast, CNBC Changemakers & Power Players: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cnbc-changemakers-power-players/id1840209228

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1701 no From Counting Clicks to Shaping AI Policy: Inside Healthcare's Policy Powerhouses || EP.217 "I bleed purple at work. I don't bleed Republican red or Democrat blue—I bleed purple, the color of my company." When two of healthcare technology's most influential policy voices join forces, you get the unvarnished truth about how healthcare transformation really happens in Washington and beyond. Leigh Burchell (VP Policy and Public Affairs at Altera Digital Health) and Leslie Krigstein (VP Communication & Government Affairs at Transcarent) have spent decades translating between Silicon Valley innovation and Capitol Hill regulation. Their combined influence has shaped everything from meaningful use to digital health adoption. In this revealing episode, Leigh and Leslie discuss: Why they're still counting clicks in 2025 Humanizing corporate interests while maintaining credibility The delicate dance between innovation and regulation in the age of AI Why "pledges" are back under Trump 2.0 How consumerization is revolutionizing healthcare Being "the sharpest person in the room" while staying honest "Every policy maker wants to talk about digital health," Leigh notes. "It's massively exploding at the state level too." With AI "bullet training down the tracks," both women navigate the balance between enabling innovation and avoiding regulation that could "cut us off at the knees." Their secret to influence? Collaboration and genuine relationships. "We all want the same thing. People can sense that, so we hold hands and run in the same direction," says Leigh. Leslie adds: "There are lasting relationships with folks on Capitol Hill that started with simple coffee." Both have stood up to CEOs, defended patient interests over profits, and maintained integrity when commercial pressures mounted. For aspiring policy influencers: Be an advocate in all facets of life. Find your passion. Build trust through honesty. Chapters 03:45 - From Hill to Healthcare Tech: Finding Your Policy Passion 06:29 - Making Complex Policy Personal for Lawmakers 10:06 - Bleeding Purple: Navigating Bipartisan Corporate Advocacy 13:16 - The Deregulation Cycle and State-Level Explosion 15:00 - AI and the Consumerization Revolution in Healthcare 21:44 - Building Collaborative Networks for Policy Impact 24:42 - The Power of Being the Trusted Expert in the Room 29:20 - Finding Passion in Policy: Career Advice for Advocates Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Leigh Burchell on LinkedIn Connect with Leslie Krigstein on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:08:00 -0000 From Counting Clicks to Shaping AI Policy: Inside Healthcare's Policy Powerhouses full 217 Laurie McGraw "I bleed purple at work. I don't bleed Republican red or Democrat blue—I bleed purple, the color of my company." When two of healthcare technology's most influential policy voices join forces, you get the unvarnished truth about how healthcare transformation really happens in Washington and beyond. Leigh Burchell (VP Policy and Public Affairs at Altera Digital Health) and Leslie Krigstein (VP Communication & Government Affairs at Transcarent) have spent decades translating between Silicon Valley innovation and Capitol Hill regulation. Their combined influence has shaped everything from meaningful use to digital health adoption. In this revealing episode, Leigh and Leslie discuss: Why they're still counting clicks in 2025 Humanizing corporate interests while maintaining credibility The delicate dance between innovation and regulation in the age of AI Why "pledges" are back under Trump 2.0 How consumerization is revolutionizing healthcare Being "the sharpest person in the room" while staying honest "Every policy maker wants to talk about digital health," Leigh notes. "It's massively exploding at the state level too." With AI "bullet training down the tracks," both women navigate the balance between enabling innovation and avoiding regulation that could "cut us off at the knees." Their secret to influence? Collaboration and genuine relationships. "We all want the same thing. People can sense that, so we hold hands and run in the same direction," says Leigh. Leslie adds: "There are lasting relationships with folks on Capitol Hill that started with simple coffee." Both have stood up to CEOs, defended patient interests over profits, and maintained integrity when commercial pressures mounted. For aspiring policy influencers: Be an advocate in all facets of life. Find your passion. Build trust through honesty. Chapters 03:45 - From Hill to Healthcare Tech: Finding Your Policy Passion 06:29 - Making Complex Policy Personal for Lawmakers 10:06 - Bleeding Purple: Navigating Bipartisan Corporate Advocacy 13:16 - The Deregulation Cycle and State-Level Explosion 15:00 - AI and the Consumerization Revolution in Healthcare 21:44 - Building Collaborative Networks for Policy Impact 24:42 - The Power of Being the Trusted Expert in the Room 29:20 - Finding Passion in Policy: Career Advice for Advocates Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Leigh Burchell on LinkedIn Connect with Leslie Krigstein on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I bleed purple at work. I don't bleed Republican red or Democrat blue—I bleed purple, the color of my company."

When two of healthcare technology's most influential policy voices join forces, you get the unvarnished truth about how healthcare transformation really happens in Washington and beyond.

Leigh Burchell (VP Policy and Public Affairs at Altera Digital Health) and Leslie Krigstein (VP Communication & Government Affairs at Transcarent) have spent decades translating between Silicon Valley innovation and Capitol Hill regulation. Their combined influence has shaped everything from meaningful use to digital health adoption.

In this revealing episode, Leigh and Leslie discuss:

  • Why they're still counting clicks in 2025
  • Humanizing corporate interests while maintaining credibility
  • The delicate dance between innovation and regulation in the age of AI
  • Why "pledges" are back under Trump 2.0
  • How consumerization is revolutionizing healthcare
  • Being "the sharpest person in the room" while staying honest

"Every policy maker wants to talk about digital health," Leigh notes. "It's massively exploding at the state level too."

With AI "bullet training down the tracks," both women navigate the balance between enabling innovation and avoiding regulation that could "cut us off at the knees."

Their secret to influence? Collaboration and genuine relationships.

"We all want the same thing. People can sense that, so we hold hands and run in the same direction," says Leigh.

Leslie adds: "There are lasting relationships with folks on Capitol Hill that started with simple coffee."

Both have stood up to CEOs, defended patient interests over profits, and maintained integrity when commercial pressures mounted.

For aspiring policy influencers: Be an advocate in all facets of life. Find your passion. Build trust through honesty.

Chapters

03:45 - From Hill to Healthcare Tech: Finding Your Policy Passion

06:29 - Making Complex Policy Personal for Lawmakers

10:06 - Bleeding Purple: Navigating Bipartisan Corporate Advocacy

13:16 - The Deregulation Cycle and State-Level Explosion

15:00 - AI and the Consumerization Revolution in Healthcare

21:44 - Building Collaborative Networks for Policy Impact

24:42 - The Power of Being the Trusted Expert in the Room

29:20 - Finding Passion in Policy: Career Advice for Advocates

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Leigh Burchell on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Leslie Krigstein on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1835 Working Mom Secret: Why Some Weeks Work Wins and That's Okay || EP.216 Emily Shields dropped her kids off at school this morning—an eighth grader, a fifth grader, and a toddler—before stepping into her role as Chief Strategy Officer at OSF HealthCare. It's a balance she's perfected through years of strategic career moves and honest self-assessment about what matters most each week. Starting as a physician recruiter at OSF, Emily built relationships across the entire health system that would prove invaluable. "I worked with leadership, hospital presidents, regional leadership in all of those markets. It uniquely positioned me to build trust and confidence across the system," she reflects. The pivotal moment came when an executive sent her a simple note: "This person is retiring. You should think about this." That nudge toward the Vice President of Business Development role changed everything. "It was like something exploded in my office," Emily recalls. She seized the opportunity, moving from recruitment into mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures—territory she'd never navigated before. "I'm definitely not afraid to say when I don't know something and to pull in a team to surround me to help," Emily shares. Under the mentorship of Michelle Conger (OSF's incoming CEO), she learned to distinguish between skills that can be taught and the innate hunger to learn that makes leaders successful. In this candid episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Emily also reveals: Why "mission and culture always win"—even when walking away from lucrative deals How OSF's innovation committee fast-tracks partnerships and pilots The power of being "at the right place at the right time" AND seizing the opportunity Why asking for help isn't weakness—it's strategic leadership How to think in "week chunks" when balancing career and family The critical importance of always signaling you're ready for more "You have to demonstrate you can do more than what you're currently doing. That does mean taking on projects outside your official job duties—that's how other people know you're capable," Emily advises. Now overseeing marketing, planning, and business development as Chief Strategy Officer, Emily is bringing previously siloed functions together to drive strategic outcomes. Her latest achievement? A 100-bed behavioral health joint venture opening next spring, addressing a critical gap where 2,000 patients were leaving the service area for psychiatric care. For women navigating their own career trajectories while raising families, Emily's message is clear: "Give yourself grace. Work hard and seize those opportunities when they're in front of you. Recognize that the path you set out for yourself in your head is not the one you're gonna take." From recruiter to C-suite in one organization, while raising three children and driving multi-million dollar deals—Emily Shields proves that with the right support, strategic thinking, and self-compassion, you can build an exceptional career without trying to be perfect at everything, every week. "There are weeks where work wins, and there are weeks where being a mom wins. And that's okay." Chapters 03:23 - Asking for Help as a Strength 05:26 - From Physician Recruiter to System Leader 07:39 - Always Signal You're Ready for More 09:33 - The Power of Right Place, Right Time 12:38 - Building Strategic Partnerships in Behavioral Health 16:37 - When Mission and Culture Trump Growth 18:55 - Breaking Down Silos Through Collaboration 20:58 - Give Yourself Grace and Seize Opportunities Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Working Mom Secret: Why Some Weeks Work Wins and That's Okay full 216 Laurie McGraw Emily Shields dropped her kids off at school this morning—an eighth grader, a fifth grader, and a toddler—before stepping into her role as Chief Strategy Officer at OSF HealthCare. It's a balance she's perfected through years of strategic career moves and honest self-assessment about what matters most each week. Starting as a physician recruiter at OSF, Emily built relationships across the entire health system that would prove invaluable. "I worked with leadership, hospital presidents, regional leadership in all of those markets. It uniquely positioned me to build trust and confidence across the system," she reflects. The pivotal moment came when an executive sent her a simple note: "This person is retiring. You should think about this." That nudge toward the Vice President of Business Development role changed everything. "It was like something exploded in my office," Emily recalls. She seized the opportunity, moving from recruitment into mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures—territory she'd never navigated before. "I'm definitely not afraid to say when I don't know something and to pull in a team to surround me to help," Emily shares. Under the mentorship of Michelle Conger (OSF's incoming CEO), she learned to distinguish between skills that can be taught and the innate hunger to learn that makes leaders successful. In this candid episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Emily also reveals: Why "mission and culture always win"—even when walking away from lucrative deals How OSF's innovation committee fast-tracks partnerships and pilots The power of being "at the right place at the right time" AND seizing the opportunity Why asking for help isn't weakness—it's strategic leadership How to think in "week chunks" when balancing career and family The critical importance of always signaling you're ready for more "You have to demonstrate you can do more than what you're currently doing. That does mean taking on projects outside your official job duties—that's how other people know you're capable," Emily advises. Now overseeing marketing, planning, and business development as Chief Strategy Officer, Emily is bringing previously siloed functions together to drive strategic outcomes. Her latest achievement? A 100-bed behavioral health joint venture opening next spring, addressing a critical gap where 2,000 patients were leaving the service area for psychiatric care. For women navigating their own career trajectories while raising families, Emily's message is clear: "Give yourself grace. Work hard and seize those opportunities when they're in front of you. Recognize that the path you set out for yourself in your head is not the one you're gonna take." From recruiter to C-suite in one organization, while raising three children and driving multi-million dollar deals—Emily Shields proves that with the right support, strategic thinking, and self-compassion, you can build an exceptional career without trying to be perfect at everything, every week. "There are weeks where work wins, and there are weeks where being a mom wins. And that's okay." Chapters 03:23 - Asking for Help as a Strength 05:26 - From Physician Recruiter to System Leader 07:39 - Always Signal You're Ready for More 09:33 - The Power of Right Place, Right Time 12:38 - Building Strategic Partnerships in Behavioral Health 16:37 - When Mission and Culture Trump Growth 18:55 - Breaking Down Silos Through Collaboration 20:58 - Give Yourself Grace and Seize Opportunities Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Emily Shields dropped her kids off at school this morning—an eighth grader, a fifth grader, and a toddler—before stepping into her role as Chief Strategy Officer at OSF HealthCare. It's a balance she's perfected through years of strategic career moves and honest self-assessment about what matters most each week.

Starting as a physician recruiter at OSF, Emily built relationships across the entire health system that would prove invaluable. "I worked with leadership, hospital presidents, regional leadership in all of those markets. It uniquely positioned me to build trust and confidence across the system," she reflects.

The pivotal moment came when an executive sent her a simple note: "This person is retiring. You should think about this." That nudge toward the Vice President of Business Development role changed everything. "It was like something exploded in my office," Emily recalls. She seized the opportunity, moving from recruitment into mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures—territory she'd never navigated before.

"I'm definitely not afraid to say when I don't know something and to pull in a team to surround me to help," Emily shares. Under the mentorship of Michelle Conger (OSF's incoming CEO), she learned to distinguish between skills that can be taught and the innate hunger to learn that makes leaders successful.

In this candid episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Emily also reveals:

  • Why "mission and culture always win"—even when walking away from lucrative deals
  • How OSF's innovation committee fast-tracks partnerships and pilots
  • The power of being "at the right place at the right time" AND seizing the opportunity
  • Why asking for help isn't weakness—it's strategic leadership
  • How to think in "week chunks" when balancing career and family
  • The critical importance of always signaling you're ready for more

"You have to demonstrate you can do more than what you're currently doing. That does mean taking on projects outside your official job duties—that's how other people know you're capable," Emily advises.

Now overseeing marketing, planning, and business development as Chief Strategy Officer, Emily is bringing previously siloed functions together to drive strategic outcomes. Her latest achievement? A 100-bed behavioral health joint venture opening next spring, addressing a critical gap where 2,000 patients were leaving the service area for psychiatric care.

For women navigating their own career trajectories while raising families, Emily's message is clear: "Give yourself grace. Work hard and seize those opportunities when they're in front of you. Recognize that the path you set out for yourself in your head is not the one you're gonna take."

From recruiter to C-suite in one organization, while raising three children and driving multi-million dollar deals—Emily Shields proves that with the right support, strategic thinking, and self-compassion, you can build an exceptional career without trying to be perfect at everything, every week.

"There are weeks where work wins, and there are weeks where being a mom wins. And that's okay."

Chapters


03:23 - Asking for Help as a Strength

05:26 - From Physician Recruiter to System Leader

07:39 - Always Signal You're Ready for More

09:33 - The Power of Right Place, Right Time

12:38 - Building Strategic Partnerships in Behavioral Health

16:37 - When Mission and Culture Trump Growth

18:55 - Breaking Down Silos Through Collaboration

20:58 - Give Yourself Grace and Seize Opportunities

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1315 no Building Your Own Table: A Latinx CEO Transforms Healthcare Access || EP.215 "This transition was about more than just a business model. It was about trust for the community." When Deborah Visconi took the helm at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, she wasn't just changing a hospital's tax status—she was rebuilding an institution's soul. Tasked with transforming a for-profit hospital into a true safety net for New Jersey's most vulnerable communities, Deborah brought something unique to the challenge: she'd lived it. "Growing up in a Latinx household in an underserved community, I understood what it meant to navigate barriers and be overlooked," Deborah shares. That lived experience became her North Star as she rebuilt Bergen New Bridge from the ground up, ensuring no one would be turned away based on ability to pay, language, immigration status, or circumstance. Seven and a half years later, the transformation is remarkable. Under Deborah's leadership, the hospital now accepts every type of insurance available in New Jersey. They've opened a Depression Center of Excellence, launched comprehensive addiction treatment programs, and created specialized care for eating disorders—all while operating as a non-profit in challenging economic times. "We don't innovate here with glitzy towers and glass buildings. We innovate around people," Deborah explains. During COVID-19, while the world was falling apart and people were dying at their doorsteps, her team remained that "beacon of health, hope, and healing" their community desperately needed. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Deborah also reveals: How "Chief Engagement Officer" became her real title—and why her phone is always on Why technology will never replace compassion in healthcare The three pillars of transformation: partnerships, training, and redefining success beyond financials How holistic care transforms outcomes for addiction and mental health Why building your own table beats waiting for a seat at someone else's The invisible barriers women still face in healthcare leadership Her bold vision for the next generation of women leaders "Equity isn't an initiative—it's embedded in everything we do," Deborah states firmly. Even as DEI becomes a polarizing term, she refuses to waver: "Being able to provide equitable care equals excellence and quality care delivery." For women aspiring to leadership, her advice is direct: "It takes courage to take those steps and not be afraid to use your voice. If you're not given a seat at the table, bring your own seat—or better yet, build your own table." From frontline phlebotomist to transformational CEO, Deborah's grassroots journey proves that the most powerful healthcare innovations come not from technology or buildings, but from leaders who understand their communities' struggles firsthand. "I want future leaders to see they belong at the helm of major institutions, particularly women and Latinx women," she reflects. "I want my legacy to be one of inclusion, respect, and extraordinary relationships." At a time when healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, Deborah Visconi is showing what's possible when hospitals truly serve as safety nets—catching everyone who falls, regardless of who they are or where they come from. Chapters 01:40 - Leading a Hospital Transformation 03:52 - Personal Background Shaping Leadership 05:58 - Building Innovation Through Community Focus 08:24 - Trust Through Engagement and Action 12:33 - Transformational Programs and Patient-Centered Care 18:30 - Breaking Barriers for Women Leaders 24:33 - Legacy of Inclusion and Lifting Others Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Deborah Visconi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Building Your Own Table: A Latinx CEO Transforms Healthcare Access full 215 Laurie McGraw "This transition was about more than just a business model. It was about trust for the community." When Deborah Visconi took the helm at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, she wasn't just changing a hospital's tax status—she was rebuilding an institution's soul. Tasked with transforming a for-profit hospital into a true safety net for New Jersey's most vulnerable communities, Deborah brought something unique to the challenge: she'd lived it. "Growing up in a Latinx household in an underserved community, I understood what it meant to navigate barriers and be overlooked," Deborah shares. That lived experience became her North Star as she rebuilt Bergen New Bridge from the ground up, ensuring no one would be turned away based on ability to pay, language, immigration status, or circumstance. Seven and a half years later, the transformation is remarkable. Under Deborah's leadership, the hospital now accepts every type of insurance available in New Jersey. They've opened a Depression Center of Excellence, launched comprehensive addiction treatment programs, and created specialized care for eating disorders—all while operating as a non-profit in challenging economic times. "We don't innovate here with glitzy towers and glass buildings. We innovate around people," Deborah explains. During COVID-19, while the world was falling apart and people were dying at their doorsteps, her team remained that "beacon of health, hope, and healing" their community desperately needed. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Deborah also reveals: How "Chief Engagement Officer" became her real title—and why her phone is always on Why technology will never replace compassion in healthcare The three pillars of transformation: partnerships, training, and redefining success beyond financials How holistic care transforms outcomes for addiction and mental health Why building your own table beats waiting for a seat at someone else's The invisible barriers women still face in healthcare leadership Her bold vision for the next generation of women leaders "Equity isn't an initiative—it's embedded in everything we do," Deborah states firmly. Even as DEI becomes a polarizing term, she refuses to waver: "Being able to provide equitable care equals excellence and quality care delivery." For women aspiring to leadership, her advice is direct: "It takes courage to take those steps and not be afraid to use your voice. If you're not given a seat at the table, bring your own seat—or better yet, build your own table." From frontline phlebotomist to transformational CEO, Deborah's grassroots journey proves that the most powerful healthcare innovations come not from technology or buildings, but from leaders who understand their communities' struggles firsthand. "I want future leaders to see they belong at the helm of major institutions, particularly women and Latinx women," she reflects. "I want my legacy to be one of inclusion, respect, and extraordinary relationships." At a time when healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, Deborah Visconi is showing what's possible when hospitals truly serve as safety nets—catching everyone who falls, regardless of who they are or where they come from. Chapters 01:40 - Leading a Hospital Transformation 03:52 - Personal Background Shaping Leadership 05:58 - Building Innovation Through Community Focus 08:24 - Trust Through Engagement and Action 12:33 - Transformational Programs and Patient-Centered Care 18:30 - Breaking Barriers for Women Leaders 24:33 - Legacy of Inclusion and Lifting Others Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Deborah Visconi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "This transition was about more than just a business model. It was about trust for the community."

When Deborah Visconi took the helm at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, she wasn't just changing a hospital's tax status—she was rebuilding an institution's soul. Tasked with transforming a for-profit hospital into a true safety net for New Jersey's most vulnerable communities, Deborah brought something unique to the challenge: she'd lived it.

"Growing up in a Latinx household in an underserved community, I understood what it meant to navigate barriers and be overlooked," Deborah shares. That lived experience became her North Star as she rebuilt Bergen New Bridge from the ground up, ensuring no one would be turned away based on ability to pay, language, immigration status, or circumstance.

Seven and a half years later, the transformation is remarkable. Under Deborah's leadership, the hospital now accepts every type of insurance available in New Jersey. They've opened a Depression Center of Excellence, launched comprehensive addiction treatment programs, and created specialized care for eating disorders—all while operating as a non-profit in challenging economic times.

"We don't innovate here with glitzy towers and glass buildings. We innovate around people," Deborah explains. During COVID-19, while the world was falling apart and people were dying at their doorsteps, her team remained that "beacon of health, hope, and healing" their community desperately needed.

In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Deborah also reveals:

  • How "Chief Engagement Officer" became her real title—and why her phone is always on
  • Why technology will never replace compassion in healthcare
  • The three pillars of transformation: partnerships, training, and redefining success beyond financials
  • How holistic care transforms outcomes for addiction and mental health
  • Why building your own table beats waiting for a seat at someone else's
  • The invisible barriers women still face in healthcare leadership
  • Her bold vision for the next generation of women leaders

"Equity isn't an initiative—it's embedded in everything we do," Deborah states firmly. Even as DEI becomes a polarizing term, she refuses to waver: "Being able to provide equitable care equals excellence and quality care delivery."

For women aspiring to leadership, her advice is direct: "It takes courage to take those steps and not be afraid to use your voice. If you're not given a seat at the table, bring your own seat—or better yet, build your own table."

From frontline phlebotomist to transformational CEO, Deborah's grassroots journey proves that the most powerful healthcare innovations come not from technology or buildings, but from leaders who understand their communities' struggles firsthand.

"I want future leaders to see they belong at the helm of major institutions, particularly women and Latinx women," she reflects. "I want my legacy to be one of inclusion, respect, and extraordinary relationships."

At a time when healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, Deborah Visconi is showing what's possible when hospitals truly serve as safety nets—catching everyone who falls, regardless of who they are or where they come from.

Chapters

01:40 - Leading a Hospital Transformation

03:52 - Personal Background Shaping Leadership

05:58 - Building Innovation Through Community Focus

08:24 - Trust Through Engagement and Action

12:33 - Transformational Programs and Patient-Centered Care

18:30 - Breaking Barriers for Women Leaders

24:33 - Legacy of Inclusion and Lifting Others

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Deborah Visconi on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1556 no Why This CEO Says Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone || EP.214 "I believe when you put yourself in uncomfortable situations is when you grow the most. Living in a rural village, no running water, no electricity, and essentially being a doula in a middle Atlas Mountain Village for two and a half years, different language, different religion, you know, you just learn a lot about people." From Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco to CEO of Oxeon—the executive search firm reimagining healthcare leadership—Sonia Millsom has spent 30 years proving that the most uncomfortable paths lead to the greatest transformations. Her journey through healthcare's biggest successes (including helping scale Maven to unicorn status and Iora Health to a billion-dollar exit) taught her one critical truth: companies don't fail because of bad CEOs—they fail because the wrong people are at the wrong tables. Now at Oxeon, Sonia is fixing that problem by placing leaders at ALL the tables that matter: executive teams, boardrooms, and cap tables. Because after 13 years of data, she knows exactly what makes leaders successful—and it's not what most people think. "High performing teams have high degrees of psychological safety," she explains. But in today's world of AI disruption, multi-generational workforces, and constant pivots, that safety is harder to build than ever. Her solution? Stop looking for the CEO with three unicorn exits. Start looking for leaders who can "think again" like scientists, not preachers or prosecutors. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sonia also reveals: The 5 key attributes that predict leadership success (hint: clock speed matters more than credentials) Why women will control $34 trillion by 2030—and how that changes everything about healthcare What Peace Corps taught her about patient care that Harvard Business School never could The real reason companies pivot faster now (and why your old playbook won't save you) How ambient listening cameras preventing patient falls signals healthcare's AI future Why "life begins at the end of your comfort zone"—advice she's passing to her daughters The pattern recognition trap that causes investors to miss breakthrough leaders "Nothing is up and to the right all the time," Sonia admits. "When those times of when things go down is actually where you learn the most." From serving as a doula in rural Morocco to orchestrating billion-dollar healthcare transformations, Sonia Millsom proves that understanding people—whether patients in villages or executives in boardrooms—is the key to driving real change. At Oxeon, she's not just filling leadership positions; she's architecting the future of healthcare by ensuring the right leaders are at every table where decisions get made. Her motto? "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Her mission? Making sure healthcare's next generation of leaders—including her own daughters—are ready to be uncomfortable, curious, and kind enough to transform an industry that touches us all. Chapters 01:30 - Why Leadership Diversity Drives Healthcare Success 03:45 - Five Key Attributes of Successful Leaders 07:20 - Psychological Safety in Uncertain Times 10:15 - From Peace Corps to Healthcare CEO 13:00 - Pivoting in Healthcare: Lessons from Iora and Maven 16:30 - AI and the Multi-Generational Workforce 19:45 - Women's $34 Trillion Financial Future 23:00 - Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sonia Millsom on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Why This CEO Says Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone full 214 Laurie McGraw "I believe when you put yourself in uncomfortable situations is when you grow the most. Living in a rural village, no running water, no electricity, and essentially being a doula in a middle Atlas Mountain Village for two and a half years, different language, different religion, you know, you just learn a lot about people." From Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco to CEO of Oxeon—the executive search firm reimagining healthcare leadership—Sonia Millsom has spent 30 years proving that the most uncomfortable paths lead to the greatest transformations. Her journey through healthcare's biggest successes (including helping scale Maven to unicorn status and Iora Health to a billion-dollar exit) taught her one critical truth: companies don't fail because of bad CEOs—they fail because the wrong people are at the wrong tables. Now at Oxeon, Sonia is fixing that problem by placing leaders at ALL the tables that matter: executive teams, boardrooms, and cap tables. Because after 13 years of data, she knows exactly what makes leaders successful—and it's not what most people think. "High performing teams have high degrees of psychological safety," she explains. But in today's world of AI disruption, multi-generational workforces, and constant pivots, that safety is harder to build than ever. Her solution? Stop looking for the CEO with three unicorn exits. Start looking for leaders who can "think again" like scientists, not preachers or prosecutors. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sonia also reveals: The 5 key attributes that predict leadership success (hint: clock speed matters more than credentials) Why women will control $34 trillion by 2030—and how that changes everything about healthcare What Peace Corps taught her about patient care that Harvard Business School never could The real reason companies pivot faster now (and why your old playbook won't save you) How ambient listening cameras preventing patient falls signals healthcare's AI future Why "life begins at the end of your comfort zone"—advice she's passing to her daughters The pattern recognition trap that causes investors to miss breakthrough leaders "Nothing is up and to the right all the time," Sonia admits. "When those times of when things go down is actually where you learn the most." From serving as a doula in rural Morocco to orchestrating billion-dollar healthcare transformations, Sonia Millsom proves that understanding people—whether patients in villages or executives in boardrooms—is the key to driving real change. At Oxeon, she's not just filling leadership positions; she's architecting the future of healthcare by ensuring the right leaders are at every table where decisions get made. Her motto? "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Her mission? Making sure healthcare's next generation of leaders—including her own daughters—are ready to be uncomfortable, curious, and kind enough to transform an industry that touches us all. Chapters 01:30 - Why Leadership Diversity Drives Healthcare Success 03:45 - Five Key Attributes of Successful Leaders 07:20 - Psychological Safety in Uncertain Times 10:15 - From Peace Corps to Healthcare CEO 13:00 - Pivoting in Healthcare: Lessons from Iora and Maven 16:30 - AI and the Multi-Generational Workforce 19:45 - Women's $34 Trillion Financial Future 23:00 - Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sonia Millsom on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I believe when you put yourself in uncomfortable situations is when you grow the most. Living in a rural village, no running water, no electricity, and essentially being a doula in a middle Atlas Mountain Village for two and a half years, different language, different religion, you know, you just learn a lot about people."

From Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco to CEO of Oxeon—the executive search firm reimagining healthcare leadership—Sonia Millsom has spent 30 years proving that the most uncomfortable paths lead to the greatest transformations. Her journey through healthcare's biggest successes (including helping scale Maven to unicorn status and Iora Health to a billion-dollar exit) taught her one critical truth: companies don't fail because of bad CEOs—they fail because the wrong people are at the wrong tables.

Now at Oxeon, Sonia is fixing that problem by placing leaders at ALL the tables that matter: executive teams, boardrooms, and cap tables. Because after 13 years of data, she knows exactly what makes leaders successful—and it's not what most people think.

"High performing teams have high degrees of psychological safety," she explains. But in today's world of AI disruption, multi-generational workforces, and constant pivots, that safety is harder to build than ever. Her solution? Stop looking for the CEO with three unicorn exits. Start looking for leaders who can "think again" like scientists, not preachers or prosecutors.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sonia also reveals:

  • The 5 key attributes that predict leadership success (hint: clock speed matters more than credentials)
  • Why women will control $34 trillion by 2030—and how that changes everything about healthcare
  • What Peace Corps taught her about patient care that Harvard Business School never could
  • The real reason companies pivot faster now (and why your old playbook won't save you)
  • How ambient listening cameras preventing patient falls signals healthcare's AI future
  • Why "life begins at the end of your comfort zone"—advice she's passing to her daughters
  • The pattern recognition trap that causes investors to miss breakthrough leaders

"Nothing is up and to the right all the time," Sonia admits. "When those times of when things go down is actually where you learn the most."

From serving as a doula in rural Morocco to orchestrating billion-dollar healthcare transformations, Sonia Millsom proves that understanding people—whether patients in villages or executives in boardrooms—is the key to driving real change. At Oxeon, she's not just filling leadership positions; she's architecting the future of healthcare by ensuring the right leaders are at every table where decisions get made.

Her motto? "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Her mission? Making sure healthcare's next generation of leaders—including her own daughters—are ready to be uncomfortable, curious, and kind enough to transform an industry that touches us all.

Chapters

01:30 - Why Leadership Diversity Drives Healthcare Success

03:45 - Five Key Attributes of Successful Leaders

07:20 - Psychological Safety in Uncertain Times

10:15 - From Peace Corps to Healthcare CEO

13:00 - Pivoting in Healthcare: Lessons from Iora and Maven

16:30 - AI and the Multi-Generational Workforce

19:45 - Women's $34 Trillion Financial Future

23:00 - Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1439 no The Question Successful Women Never Stop Asking: "What's Next?" || EP.213 "I was reading this report and it was the same old women who are making steady progress in leadership, but we're not making it fast enough. After all these years of being a leader, of being a mentor, of being a coach, of helping other women. I was just frustrated. How can this be?" After 30 years in healthcare technology leadership and reading yet another McKinsey report showing glacial progress for women, Laurie McGraw had enough. That frustration became fuel—launching the Inspiring Women podcast over four years ago to amplify the voices and stories of accomplished women leaders. Now, after 200+ conversations with extraordinary women across healthcare, technology, and business, Laurie shares what she's learned about accelerating women's advancement into leadership. The patterns are clear: every successful woman has moments of doubt before breakthrough, no one is "done learning," and the most accomplished leaders are often the most driven to contribute more. "The moments in these conversations that I love the most—every accomplished woman when you see them speaking so impactfully and powerfully, it seems easy," Laurie reveals. "But I like to draw out those moments in time when that same person wasn't all that they are. How did they make that leap?" In Part 2 of this special Q&A episode, Laurie discusses: The McKinsey report that sparked her frustration—and action—to create Inspiring Women Why she chose podcasting as the platform to accelerate women's leadership advancement The surprising patterns discovered across 200+ conversations with accomplished women How even the most powerful women still have "next levels" they're trying to reach Why men listening to the podcast has become an unexpected catalyst for change What listeners tell her about those breakthrough "nugget" moments that change careers Her ultimate vision: more women in leadership creates a more just and equitable society "I get as many comments from men who listen to Inspiring Women as I do from women, because it helps them understand what people are dealing with and how they can be supportive," Laurie shares, highlighting how allies are crucial to systemic change. With women's funding still at a paltry 2% and progress remaining frustratingly incremental, Laurie's message is clear: "Why is having women in leadership important? When we have more women in leadership, we have a more just and equitable society. Full stop. That is why I am doing this." Four years, 200+ episodes, and countless transformed careers later, the Inspiring Women podcast continues its mission—one conversation, one story, one breakthrough moment at a time. Chapters 00:30 - Why I Started the Inspiring Women Podcast 02:45 - The Simple Concept Behind the Show 03:50 - Patterns from 200+ Conversations 05:30 - Even Accomplished Women Keep Growing 06:15 - Vision for the Inspiring Women Community 07:45 - Dream Dinner Guest: Katie Couric 08:30 - Be a Voracious Learner 09:15 - How Can We Be Bolder? Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 26 Aug 2025 08:08:00 -0000 The Question Successful Women Never Stop Asking: "What's Next?" full 213 Laurie McGraw "I was reading this report and it was the same old women who are making steady progress in leadership, but we're not making it fast enough. After all these years of being a leader, of being a mentor, of being a coach, of helping other women. I was just frustrated. How can this be?" After 30 years in healthcare technology leadership and reading yet another McKinsey report showing glacial progress for women, Laurie McGraw had enough. That frustration became fuel—launching the Inspiring Women podcast over four years ago to amplify the voices and stories of accomplished women leaders. Now, after 200+ conversations with extraordinary women across healthcare, technology, and business, Laurie shares what she's learned about accelerating women's advancement into leadership. The patterns are clear: every successful woman has moments of doubt before breakthrough, no one is "done learning," and the most accomplished leaders are often the most driven to contribute more. "The moments in these conversations that I love the most—every accomplished woman when you see them speaking so impactfully and powerfully, it seems easy," Laurie reveals. "But I like to draw out those moments in time when that same person wasn't all that they are. How did they make that leap?" In Part 2 of this special Q&A episode, Laurie discusses: The McKinsey report that sparked her frustration—and action—to create Inspiring Women Why she chose podcasting as the platform to accelerate women's leadership advancement The surprising patterns discovered across 200+ conversations with accomplished women How even the most powerful women still have "next levels" they're trying to reach Why men listening to the podcast has become an unexpected catalyst for change What listeners tell her about those breakthrough "nugget" moments that change careers Her ultimate vision: more women in leadership creates a more just and equitable society "I get as many comments from men who listen to Inspiring Women as I do from women, because it helps them understand what people are dealing with and how they can be supportive," Laurie shares, highlighting how allies are crucial to systemic change. With women's funding still at a paltry 2% and progress remaining frustratingly incremental, Laurie's message is clear: "Why is having women in leadership important? When we have more women in leadership, we have a more just and equitable society. Full stop. That is why I am doing this." Four years, 200+ episodes, and countless transformed careers later, the Inspiring Women podcast continues its mission—one conversation, one story, one breakthrough moment at a time. Chapters 00:30 - Why I Started the Inspiring Women Podcast 02:45 - The Simple Concept Behind the Show 03:50 - Patterns from 200+ Conversations 05:30 - Even Accomplished Women Keep Growing 06:15 - Vision for the Inspiring Women Community 07:45 - Dream Dinner Guest: Katie Couric 08:30 - Be a Voracious Learner 09:15 - How Can We Be Bolder? Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I was reading this report and it was the same old women who are making steady progress in leadership, but we're not making it fast enough. After all these years of being a leader, of being a mentor, of being a coach, of helping other women. I was just frustrated. How can this be?"

After 30 years in healthcare technology leadership and reading yet another McKinsey report showing glacial progress for women, Laurie McGraw had enough. That frustration became fuel—launching the Inspiring Women podcast over four years ago to amplify the voices and stories of accomplished women leaders.

Now, after 200+ conversations with extraordinary women across healthcare, technology, and business, Laurie shares what she's learned about accelerating women's advancement into leadership. The patterns are clear: every successful woman has moments of doubt before breakthrough, no one is "done learning," and the most accomplished leaders are often the most driven to contribute more.

"The moments in these conversations that I love the most—every accomplished woman when you see them speaking so impactfully and powerfully, it seems easy," Laurie reveals. "But I like to draw out those moments in time when that same person wasn't all that they are. How did they make that leap?"

In Part 2 of this special Q&A episode, Laurie discusses:

  • The McKinsey report that sparked her frustration—and action—to create Inspiring Women
  • Why she chose podcasting as the platform to accelerate women's leadership advancement
  • The surprising patterns discovered across 200+ conversations with accomplished women
  • How even the most powerful women still have "next levels" they're trying to reach
  • Why men listening to the podcast has become an unexpected catalyst for change
  • What listeners tell her about those breakthrough "nugget" moments that change careers
  • Her ultimate vision: more women in leadership creates a more just and equitable society

"I get as many comments from men who listen to Inspiring Women as I do from women, because it helps them understand what people are dealing with and how they can be supportive," Laurie shares, highlighting how allies are crucial to systemic change.

With women's funding still at a paltry 2% and progress remaining frustratingly incremental, Laurie's message is clear: "Why is having women in leadership important? When we have more women in leadership, we have a more just and equitable society. Full stop. That is why I am doing this."

Four years, 200+ episodes, and countless transformed careers later, the Inspiring Women podcast continues its mission—one conversation, one story, one breakthrough moment at a time.

Chapters

00:30 - Why I Started the Inspiring Women Podcast

02:45 - The Simple Concept Behind the Show

03:50 - Patterns from 200+ Conversations

05:30 - Even Accomplished Women Keep Growing

06:15 - Vision for the Inspiring Women Community

07:45 - Dream Dinner Guest: Katie Couric

08:30 - Be a Voracious Learner

09:15 - How Can We Be Bolder?

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 556 no The Math That Changed Everything: Why This Physician Left Practice for Maximum Impact || EP.212 "I think my media roles have resulted in trust, but that's not why I got into it. I got into it because what an incredible platform to have... to educate the public. On average, about 80,000 people at a time." When Dr. Archelle Georgiou was in clinical practice, she did the math: 15 patients a day for 30 years. The number didn't feel impactful enough. So this Johns Hopkins-trained physician made an unorthodox choice—leaving patient care to join the very managed care industry that frustrated her, determined to fix the system from within. From associate medical director at Cigna to leadership at UnitedHealth Group, Dr. Georgiou discovered that sometimes the best way to heal healthcare is to understand how it's financed and delivered. But her most powerful platform came through an unexpected channel: television. For over 16 years and 2,000 segments, she's been translating complex medical information for millions, becoming a trusted voice in America's living rooms. When COVID-19 struck and the world watched Johns Hopkins count cases and deaths, Dr. Georgiou saw what was missing: real-time hospital data. In one weekend, she and a colleague built what the entire healthcare system hadn't—a national hospital tracking dashboard that informed policymakers, appeared in major publications, and generated 12 peer-reviewed studies. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Georgiou reveals: Why America's "paternalistic culture" makes us listen to doctors—and why we need to listen more critically How she went from treating 15 patients daily to educating 80,000 people at a time The weekend project that solved COVID's biggest data gap when no one else would Why managed care's influence on healthcare delivery shocked even an industry insider How creating annual strategic business plans for yourself can drive reinvention What really determines impact: degrees and titles, or understanding your core talents Why solving patient care problems remains her "true north" across every role From humble beginnings with parents who didn't finish elementary school to becoming a national medical correspondent, board member, and strategic advisor, Dr. Georgiou proves that maximizing your impact sometimes means leaving the traditional path behind. "Every single year I work with myself to create a strategic business plan," she shares. "A $10 million business has a business plan every single year. So why don't you?" A calculated risk-taker who's never afraid to walk through doors that inch open, Dr. Archelle Georgiou continues to reinvent what it means to be a physician leader—one who measures success not in patients seen, but in lives transformed through education, advocacy, and evidence-based truth. Chapters 2:15 - From Physician to Managed Care Leader 5:40 - Why Healthcare is So Hard to Navigate 9:30 - The Power of Media: Reaching 80,000 People at Once 13:45 - COVID Crisis Response: Building the Hospital Data Dashboard 18:20 - Leadership Across Five Tracks 20:50 - Annual Personal Strategic Planning 23:30 - Finding Your Core Talents Beyond Your Degree 26:00 - The Storyteller-Healthcare-Data Formula Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Archelle Georgiou, MD on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 19 Aug 2025 08:08:00 -0000 The Math That Changed Everything: Why This Physician Left Practice for Maximum Impact full 212 Laurie McGraw "I think my media roles have resulted in trust, but that's not why I got into it. I got into it because what an incredible platform to have... to educate the public. On average, about 80,000 people at a time." When Dr. Archelle Georgiou was in clinical practice, she did the math: 15 patients a day for 30 years. The number didn't feel impactful enough. So this Johns Hopkins-trained physician made an unorthodox choice—leaving patient care to join the very managed care industry that frustrated her, determined to fix the system from within. From associate medical director at Cigna to leadership at UnitedHealth Group, Dr. Georgiou discovered that sometimes the best way to heal healthcare is to understand how it's financed and delivered. But her most powerful platform came through an unexpected channel: television. For over 16 years and 2,000 segments, she's been translating complex medical information for millions, becoming a trusted voice in America's living rooms. When COVID-19 struck and the world watched Johns Hopkins count cases and deaths, Dr. Georgiou saw what was missing: real-time hospital data. In one weekend, she and a colleague built what the entire healthcare system hadn't—a national hospital tracking dashboard that informed policymakers, appeared in major publications, and generated 12 peer-reviewed studies. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Georgiou reveals: Why America's "paternalistic culture" makes us listen to doctors—and why we need to listen more critically How she went from treating 15 patients daily to educating 80,000 people at a time The weekend project that solved COVID's biggest data gap when no one else would Why managed care's influence on healthcare delivery shocked even an industry insider How creating annual strategic business plans for yourself can drive reinvention What really determines impact: degrees and titles, or understanding your core talents Why solving patient care problems remains her "true north" across every role From humble beginnings with parents who didn't finish elementary school to becoming a national medical correspondent, board member, and strategic advisor, Dr. Georgiou proves that maximizing your impact sometimes means leaving the traditional path behind. "Every single year I work with myself to create a strategic business plan," she shares. "A $10 million business has a business plan every single year. So why don't you?" A calculated risk-taker who's never afraid to walk through doors that inch open, Dr. Archelle Georgiou continues to reinvent what it means to be a physician leader—one who measures success not in patients seen, but in lives transformed through education, advocacy, and evidence-based truth. Chapters 2:15 - From Physician to Managed Care Leader 5:40 - Why Healthcare is So Hard to Navigate 9:30 - The Power of Media: Reaching 80,000 People at Once 13:45 - COVID Crisis Response: Building the Hospital Data Dashboard 18:20 - Leadership Across Five Tracks 20:50 - Annual Personal Strategic Planning 23:30 - Finding Your Core Talents Beyond Your Degree 26:00 - The Storyteller-Healthcare-Data Formula Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Archelle Georgiou, MD on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "I think my media roles have resulted in trust, but that's not why I got into it. I got into it because what an incredible platform to have... to educate the public. On average, about 80,000 people at a time."

When Dr. Archelle Georgiou was in clinical practice, she did the math: 15 patients a day for 30 years. The number didn't feel impactful enough. So this Johns Hopkins-trained physician made an unorthodox choice—leaving patient care to join the very managed care industry that frustrated her, determined to fix the system from within.

From associate medical director at Cigna to leadership at UnitedHealth Group, Dr. Georgiou discovered that sometimes the best way to heal healthcare is to understand how it's financed and delivered. But her most powerful platform came through an unexpected channel: television. For over 16 years and 2,000 segments, she's been translating complex medical information for millions, becoming a trusted voice in America's living rooms.

When COVID-19 struck and the world watched Johns Hopkins count cases and deaths, Dr. Georgiou saw what was missing: real-time hospital data. In one weekend, she and a colleague built what the entire healthcare system hadn't—a national hospital tracking dashboard that informed policymakers, appeared in major publications, and generated 12 peer-reviewed studies.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Georgiou reveals:

  • Why America's "paternalistic culture" makes us listen to doctors—and why we need to listen more critically
  • How she went from treating 15 patients daily to educating 80,000 people at a time
  • The weekend project that solved COVID's biggest data gap when no one else would
  • Why managed care's influence on healthcare delivery shocked even an industry insider
  • How creating annual strategic business plans for yourself can drive reinvention
  • What really determines impact: degrees and titles, or understanding your core talents
  • Why solving patient care problems remains her "true north" across every role

From humble beginnings with parents who didn't finish elementary school to becoming a national medical correspondent, board member, and strategic advisor, Dr. Georgiou proves that maximizing your impact sometimes means leaving the traditional path behind.

"Every single year I work with myself to create a strategic business plan," she shares. "A $10 million business has a business plan every single year. So why don't you?"

A calculated risk-taker who's never afraid to walk through doors that inch open, Dr. Archelle Georgiou continues to reinvent what it means to be a physician leader—one who measures success not in patients seen, but in lives transformed through education, advocacy, and evidence-based truth.

Chapters


2:15 - From Physician to Managed Care Leader

5:40 - Why Healthcare is So Hard to Navigate

9:30 - The Power of Media: Reaching 80,000 People at Once

13:45 - COVID Crisis Response: Building the Hospital Data Dashboard

18:20 - Leadership Across Five Tracks

20:50 - Annual Personal Strategic Planning

23:30 - Finding Your Core Talents Beyond Your Degree

26:00 - The Storyteller-Healthcare-Data Formula

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Archelle Georgiou, MD on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1512 no From Olympian to CEO to Record-Breaker at 62: Joetta on Endless Reinvention || EP.211 From four-time Olympian to Fortune 500 advisor to record-breaking masters athlete at 62, Joetta proves that reinvention has no expiration date. After hanging up her spikes in 2000 following 28 straight seasons of middle-distance running, Joetta built a thriving business helping corporations apply athletic principles to achieve excellence. Then, 25 years later, her daughter's simple request—"Mommy, I want to see you run"—sparked an extraordinary comeback. "There's a difference between being healthy for someone in their sixties and competing at a level again," Joetta reflects. But compete she does, crushing records in the 100 and 200 meters, winning national championships, and showing the masters circuit what excellence looks like when you refuse to slow down. The daughter of the late Dr. Joe Clark (immortalized in the film "Lean On Me"), Joetta learned early that "anything associated with the Clarks has to be excellent." This mantra has driven her from Olympic tracks to corporate boardrooms, where her signature "Joetta Effect" transforms organizations through what she calls the three S's: understanding skill sets, developing strategy, and building staying power. "I'm a four-time Olympian, but I tried out six times," she shares. "I had to have staying power those other two times to get to the third time, which was my first time making the Olympic team." Now, as CEO of JoTyme Fitness and a sought-after speaker, Joetta doesn't just preach wellness—she embodies it. Her mission extends beyond personal achievement to lifting entire communities, especially youth who need to understand that success in sports extends far beyond going pro. In this powerhouse episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Joetta also reveals: The "reverse role play" technique that transforms toxic workplace dynamics Why your "why" must outweigh your "how" to achieve any goal The direct connection between physical wellness and professional productivity How to build a personal brand that stands alone (think Madonna, Oprah, Socrates... and Joetta) The critical difference between being a leader and "merely taking a walk" Her "Garden for Success" framework featuring rows of peas, squash, lettuce, and turnips From urban to suburban to rural communities, Joetta's message resonates: "It's not about being an Olympic champion. I don't have a gold medal from the Olympics, but I got the Gold Medal of life." Her approach to continuous reinvention challenges conventional wisdom about aging, retirement, and what's possible when you know your purpose. "When you wrap yourself around yourself, that's a small package," Joetta explains. "But when you wrap yourself around more people, that's a big package, and that's the gift I want to give." Whether she's breaking masters records, advising Fortune 500 companies, or mentoring youth about the billion-dollar sports industry beyond playing professionally, Joetta Clark Diggs exemplifies what happens when you plant good seeds and refuse to stop growing. At an age when many are slowing down, she's just getting started—again. Chapters 00:22 - Mission to Advance Women Leaders 02:14 - From Olympic Track to Breaking Records Again 06:41 - Reinventing Yourself at Any Age 08:46 - The Joetta Effect in Corporate Leadership 13:19 - Why Youth Development Matters 18:22 - Finding Your Why to Fuel Motivation 20:45 - Building and Protecting Your Personal Brand 23:32 - The Garden for Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Joetta on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:08:00 -0000 From Olympian to CEO to Record-Breaker at 62: Joetta on Endless Reinvention full 211 Laurie McGraw From four-time Olympian to Fortune 500 advisor to record-breaking masters athlete at 62, Joetta proves that reinvention has no expiration date. After hanging up her spikes in 2000 following 28 straight seasons of middle-distance running, Joetta built a thriving business helping corporations apply athletic principles to achieve excellence. Then, 25 years later, her daughter's simple request—"Mommy, I want to see you run"—sparked an extraordinary comeback. "There's a difference between being healthy for someone in their sixties and competing at a level again," Joetta reflects. But compete she does, crushing records in the 100 and 200 meters, winning national championships, and showing the masters circuit what excellence looks like when you refuse to slow down. The daughter of the late Dr. Joe Clark (immortalized in the film "Lean On Me"), Joetta learned early that "anything associated with the Clarks has to be excellent." This mantra has driven her from Olympic tracks to corporate boardrooms, where her signature "Joetta Effect" transforms organizations through what she calls the three S's: understanding skill sets, developing strategy, and building staying power. "I'm a four-time Olympian, but I tried out six times," she shares. "I had to have staying power those other two times to get to the third time, which was my first time making the Olympic team." Now, as CEO of JoTyme Fitness and a sought-after speaker, Joetta doesn't just preach wellness—she embodies it. Her mission extends beyond personal achievement to lifting entire communities, especially youth who need to understand that success in sports extends far beyond going pro. In this powerhouse episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Joetta also reveals: The "reverse role play" technique that transforms toxic workplace dynamics Why your "why" must outweigh your "how" to achieve any goal The direct connection between physical wellness and professional productivity How to build a personal brand that stands alone (think Madonna, Oprah, Socrates... and Joetta) The critical difference between being a leader and "merely taking a walk" Her "Garden for Success" framework featuring rows of peas, squash, lettuce, and turnips From urban to suburban to rural communities, Joetta's message resonates: "It's not about being an Olympic champion. I don't have a gold medal from the Olympics, but I got the Gold Medal of life." Her approach to continuous reinvention challenges conventional wisdom about aging, retirement, and what's possible when you know your purpose. "When you wrap yourself around yourself, that's a small package," Joetta explains. "But when you wrap yourself around more people, that's a big package, and that's the gift I want to give." Whether she's breaking masters records, advising Fortune 500 companies, or mentoring youth about the billion-dollar sports industry beyond playing professionally, Joetta Clark Diggs exemplifies what happens when you plant good seeds and refuse to stop growing. At an age when many are slowing down, she's just getting started—again. Chapters 00:22 - Mission to Advance Women Leaders 02:14 - From Olympic Track to Breaking Records Again 06:41 - Reinventing Yourself at Any Age 08:46 - The Joetta Effect in Corporate Leadership 13:19 - Why Youth Development Matters 18:22 - Finding Your Why to Fuel Motivation 20:45 - Building and Protecting Your Personal Brand 23:32 - The Garden for Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Joetta on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify From four-time Olympian to Fortune 500 advisor to record-breaking masters athlete at 62, Joetta proves that reinvention has no expiration date. After hanging up her spikes in 2000 following 28 straight seasons of middle-distance running, Joetta built a thriving business helping corporations apply athletic principles to achieve excellence. Then, 25 years later, her daughter's simple request—"Mommy, I want to see you run"—sparked an extraordinary comeback.

"There's a difference between being healthy for someone in their sixties and competing at a level again," Joetta reflects. But compete she does, crushing records in the 100 and 200 meters, winning national championships, and showing the masters circuit what excellence looks like when you refuse to slow down.

The daughter of the late Dr. Joe Clark (immortalized in the film "Lean On Me"), Joetta learned early that "anything associated with the Clarks has to be excellent." This mantra has driven her from Olympic tracks to corporate boardrooms, where her signature "Joetta Effect" transforms organizations through what she calls the three S's: understanding skill sets, developing strategy, and building staying power.

"I'm a four-time Olympian, but I tried out six times," she shares. "I had to have staying power those other two times to get to the third time, which was my first time making the Olympic team."

Now, as CEO of JoTyme Fitness and a sought-after speaker, Joetta doesn't just preach wellness—she embodies it. Her mission extends beyond personal achievement to lifting entire communities, especially youth who need to understand that success in sports extends far beyond going pro.

In this powerhouse episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Joetta also reveals:

  • The "reverse role play" technique that transforms toxic workplace dynamics
  • Why your "why" must outweigh your "how" to achieve any goal
  • The direct connection between physical wellness and professional productivity
  • How to build a personal brand that stands alone (think Madonna, Oprah, Socrates... and Joetta)
  • The critical difference between being a leader and "merely taking a walk"
  • Her "Garden for Success" framework featuring rows of peas, squash, lettuce, and turnips

From urban to suburban to rural communities, Joetta's message resonates: "It's not about being an Olympic champion. I don't have a gold medal from the Olympics, but I got the Gold Medal of life." Her approach to continuous reinvention challenges conventional wisdom about aging, retirement, and what's possible when you know your purpose.

"When you wrap yourself around yourself, that's a small package," Joetta explains. "But when you wrap yourself around more people, that's a big package, and that's the gift I want to give."

Whether she's breaking masters records, advising Fortune 500 companies, or mentoring youth about the billion-dollar sports industry beyond playing professionally, Joetta Clark Diggs exemplifies what happens when you plant good seeds and refuse to stop growing. At an age when many are slowing down, she's just getting started—again.

Chapters

00:22 - Mission to Advance Women Leaders

02:14 - From Olympic Track to Breaking Records Again

06:41 - Reinventing Yourself at Any Age

08:46 - The Joetta Effect in Corporate Leadership

13:19 - Why Youth Development Matters

18:22 - Finding Your Why to Fuel Motivation

20:45 - Building and Protecting Your Personal Brand

23:32 - The Garden for Success


Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1496 no Your Confidence Problem is Actually an Experience Problem - This Is How to Fix It || EP.210 "You have to show up and do the work. There is nothing more satisfying than getting good work done." From helping scale Allscripts when less than 5% of physicians used technology to now serving as Chief Commercial Officer at Transcarent, Laurie McGraw has spent decades transforming healthcare through technology. Her journey spans from being the sole woman in countless boardrooms to becoming a fierce advocate for pulling other women up the leadership ladder. "Early on it was so notable to me in a way that was just frustrating," Laurie recalls about being the only woman in the room. But that frustration transformed into fuel. Today, she's not just occupying C-suite positions—she's using her hard-won confidence to push other women to level-jump, not just climb. The turning point? A mentor who challenged her to take an "undesirable" implementation and support role instead of staying comfortable in product development. "What are you gonna be? Is this your vision for yourself?" her mentor asked. That lateral move became the stepping stone to becoming president of the company. Now at Transcarent, Laurie is focused on making healthcare accessible and affordable—but her mission extends beyond business metrics. With women still representing only 20% of top healthcare leadership positions, she's done being polite about the pace of change. "I'm more aggressive now. It's less about coaching. I'm like, come on, we have to get going on this. Push for that C-suite position. You earned it, you deserve it, you're more than capable." In this special episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw turns the mic on herself and reveals: Why the end of DEI initiatives means women must work harder to pull each other forward The cold truth about confidence: "I can trust in myself to get the job done" What she really thinks about women who reach the top and pull the ladder up behind them Why bold leadership—not incremental moves—is what women need in 2025 How to build your "tribe" of truth-tellers, not just cheerleaders The surprising power of taking jobs you don't initially want "We are in a time where bold leadership is required of us. And as women, we are uniquely equipped—empathetic leadership, inclusivity, hearing all the voices in the room. Women are particularly good at this." But Laurie doesn't sugarcoat the challenge. With DEI becoming "a trigger word" and supportive laws being repealed, she's clear about what's needed: "It's up to us. We have to do more to pull the next generations of extraordinarily capable women forward into leadership." For women struggling with confidence, her advice is direct: "Develop your tribe of people who will help you. Not just friends who say 'great job,' but coaches and mentors who can reflect back the cold, hard truth." From a development team leader to healthcare transformation executive, Laurie McGraw's journey proves that showing up and doing hard work isn't enough—women need to claim their space, demand their worth, and most importantly, bring others with them. "We shouldn't be shooting for the next career move. We should be level jumping—two above." Chapters 00:43 - Core Leadership Principles: Show Up and Do the Work 02:46 - Evolution of Leadership Style Through Experience 04:19 - Challenges as a Woman in Health Tech Leadership 06:20 - Accelerating Progress Toward C-Suite Representation 08:11 - Women Supporting Women vs. Competition 09:47 - The Mentor Who Changed My Career Path 11:52 - Why Women Need Bold Leadership Now 14:11 - Building Your Tribe for Confidence and Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Your Confidence Problem is Actually an Experience Problem - This Is How to Fix It full 210 Laurie McGraw "You have to show up and do the work. There is nothing more satisfying than getting good work done." From helping scale Allscripts when less than 5% of physicians used technology to now serving as Chief Commercial Officer at Transcarent, Laurie McGraw has spent decades transforming healthcare through technology. Her journey spans from being the sole woman in countless boardrooms to becoming a fierce advocate for pulling other women up the leadership ladder. "Early on it was so notable to me in a way that was just frustrating," Laurie recalls about being the only woman in the room. But that frustration transformed into fuel. Today, she's not just occupying C-suite positions—she's using her hard-won confidence to push other women to level-jump, not just climb. The turning point? A mentor who challenged her to take an "undesirable" implementation and support role instead of staying comfortable in product development. "What are you gonna be? Is this your vision for yourself?" her mentor asked. That lateral move became the stepping stone to becoming president of the company. Now at Transcarent, Laurie is focused on making healthcare accessible and affordable—but her mission extends beyond business metrics. With women still representing only 20% of top healthcare leadership positions, she's done being polite about the pace of change. "I'm more aggressive now. It's less about coaching. I'm like, come on, we have to get going on this. Push for that C-suite position. You earned it, you deserve it, you're more than capable." In this special episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw turns the mic on herself and reveals: Why the end of DEI initiatives means women must work harder to pull each other forward The cold truth about confidence: "I can trust in myself to get the job done" What she really thinks about women who reach the top and pull the ladder up behind them Why bold leadership—not incremental moves—is what women need in 2025 How to build your "tribe" of truth-tellers, not just cheerleaders The surprising power of taking jobs you don't initially want "We are in a time where bold leadership is required of us. And as women, we are uniquely equipped—empathetic leadership, inclusivity, hearing all the voices in the room. Women are particularly good at this." But Laurie doesn't sugarcoat the challenge. With DEI becoming "a trigger word" and supportive laws being repealed, she's clear about what's needed: "It's up to us. We have to do more to pull the next generations of extraordinarily capable women forward into leadership." For women struggling with confidence, her advice is direct: "Develop your tribe of people who will help you. Not just friends who say 'great job,' but coaches and mentors who can reflect back the cold, hard truth." From a development team leader to healthcare transformation executive, Laurie McGraw's journey proves that showing up and doing hard work isn't enough—women need to claim their space, demand their worth, and most importantly, bring others with them. "We shouldn't be shooting for the next career move. We should be level jumping—two above." Chapters 00:43 - Core Leadership Principles: Show Up and Do the Work 02:46 - Evolution of Leadership Style Through Experience 04:19 - Challenges as a Woman in Health Tech Leadership 06:20 - Accelerating Progress Toward C-Suite Representation 08:11 - Women Supporting Women vs. Competition 09:47 - The Mentor Who Changed My Career Path 11:52 - Why Women Need Bold Leadership Now 14:11 - Building Your Tribe for Confidence and Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "You have to show up and do the work. There is nothing more satisfying than getting good work done."

From helping scale Allscripts when less than 5% of physicians used technology to now serving as Chief Commercial Officer at Transcarent, Laurie McGraw has spent decades transforming healthcare through technology. Her journey spans from being the sole woman in countless boardrooms to becoming a fierce advocate for pulling other women up the leadership ladder.

"Early on it was so notable to me in a way that was just frustrating," Laurie recalls about being the only woman in the room. But that frustration transformed into fuel. Today, she's not just occupying C-suite positions—she's using her hard-won confidence to push other women to level-jump, not just climb.

The turning point? A mentor who challenged her to take an "undesirable" implementation and support role instead of staying comfortable in product development. "What are you gonna be? Is this your vision for yourself?" her mentor asked. That lateral move became the stepping stone to becoming president of the company.

Now at Transcarent, Laurie is focused on making healthcare accessible and affordable—but her mission extends beyond business metrics. With women still representing only 20% of top healthcare leadership positions, she's done being polite about the pace of change.

"I'm more aggressive now. It's less about coaching. I'm like, come on, we have to get going on this. Push for that C-suite position. You earned it, you deserve it, you're more than capable."

In this special episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw turns the mic on herself and reveals:

  • Why the end of DEI initiatives means women must work harder to pull each other forward
  • The cold truth about confidence: "I can trust in myself to get the job done"
  • What she really thinks about women who reach the top and pull the ladder up behind them
  • Why bold leadership—not incremental moves—is what women need in 2025
  • How to build your "tribe" of truth-tellers, not just cheerleaders
  • The surprising power of taking jobs you don't initially want

"We are in a time where bold leadership is required of us. And as women, we are uniquely equipped—empathetic leadership, inclusivity, hearing all the voices in the room. Women are particularly good at this."

But Laurie doesn't sugarcoat the challenge. With DEI becoming "a trigger word" and supportive laws being repealed, she's clear about what's needed: "It's up to us. We have to do more to pull the next generations of extraordinarily capable women forward into leadership."

For women struggling with confidence, her advice is direct: "Develop your tribe of people who will help you. Not just friends who say 'great job,' but coaches and mentors who can reflect back the cold, hard truth."

From a development team leader to healthcare transformation executive, Laurie McGraw's journey proves that showing up and doing hard work isn't enough—women need to claim their space, demand their worth, and most importantly, bring others with them.

"We shouldn't be shooting for the next career move. We should be level jumping—two above."


Chapters

00:43 - Core Leadership Principles: Show Up and Do the Work

02:46 - Evolution of Leadership Style Through Experience

04:19 - Challenges as a Woman in Health Tech Leadership

06:20 - Accelerating Progress Toward C-Suite Representation

08:11 - Women Supporting Women vs. Competition

09:47 - The Mentor Who Changed My Career Path

11:52 - Why Women Need Bold Leadership Now

14:11 - Building Your Tribe for Confidence and Success

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1009 no Why Gen Z Is Choosing Influencer Careers Over Healthcare—And What It Means for Your Health || EP.209 "Women are 80% of the healthcare workforce in the US, up to 70% globally. So I always say if women aren't healthy, the entire world is at risk of not being healthy." Mary Stutts has spent decades dismantling barriers for women in healthcare—first as a senior executive at Stanford Healthcare and multiple biopharma companies, now as CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA). But what she's seeing today has her more concerned than ever: for the first time in 20 years, the number of women in C-suite roles is declining. "The challenge isn't just getting women into leadership," Mary explains. "It's helping them stay in leadership and thrive there." The culprit? A perfect storm of broken systems: the "broken rung" that blocks women's first promotion to manager, the "concrete ceiling" at director level, and a generation gap that's creating chaos in the workplace. Mary reveals a startling insight about today's young professionals: "They're digitally native but corporately naive. We give them managerial responsibility for a head count, but we haven't trained them how to manage. They take a punitive approach—'You don't do it the way I do it, so you're doing it wrong.' Then everyone gets frustrated and leaves." The stakes couldn't be higher. With a $1 trillion economic gap between women's and men's health, and young women increasingly choosing social media influencer careers over healthcare professions, the industry faces a crisis that threatens everyone's wellbeing. In this essential episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Mary also shares: Why less than 20% of professionals have a development plan—and how this simple tool can transform your career trajectory The 15-minute mentoring rule that changed everything for busy executives Why there's no such thing as a "perfect mentor" and what you need instead The five critical experiences women aren't getting access to that block their path to leadership How to bridge the five (soon to be six) generations currently in the workforce Why "meritocracy is a three-way street"—and what that means for companies trying to retain talent Mary also reveals the innovative work of her nonprofit, The Center for Excellence in Life (T-CEL), which created virtual internships during COVID for students who never thought they'd attend college—many of whom are graduating now. "Keep focusing on describing the very needed work we are doing," Mary urges. "We still need leadership acceleration. We still need talent development. We still need workforces that are representative of the patients and communities we serve. At the end of the day, people most trust people who look like them. That's not bias—that's human nature." From writing "The Missing Mentor: Women Advising Women on Power, Progress and Priorities" to leading HBA's mission to achieve gender equity in healthcare leadership, Mary Stutts is the powerhouse executive rewriting the rules for women's advancement. Her message is clear: Don't lose focus. The work is more critical than ever. "Your development plan is yours alone," Mary insists. "If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you've arrived?" Chapters 02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mary Stutts on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 29 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Why Gen Z Is Choosing Influencer Careers Over Healthcare—And What It Means for Your Health full 209 Laurie McGraw "Women are 80% of the healthcare workforce in the US, up to 70% globally. So I always say if women aren't healthy, the entire world is at risk of not being healthy." Mary Stutts has spent decades dismantling barriers for women in healthcare—first as a senior executive at Stanford Healthcare and multiple biopharma companies, now as CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA). But what she's seeing today has her more concerned than ever: for the first time in 20 years, the number of women in C-suite roles is declining. "The challenge isn't just getting women into leadership," Mary explains. "It's helping them stay in leadership and thrive there." The culprit? A perfect storm of broken systems: the "broken rung" that blocks women's first promotion to manager, the "concrete ceiling" at director level, and a generation gap that's creating chaos in the workplace. Mary reveals a startling insight about today's young professionals: "They're digitally native but corporately naive. We give them managerial responsibility for a head count, but we haven't trained them how to manage. They take a punitive approach—'You don't do it the way I do it, so you're doing it wrong.' Then everyone gets frustrated and leaves." The stakes couldn't be higher. With a $1 trillion economic gap between women's and men's health, and young women increasingly choosing social media influencer careers over healthcare professions, the industry faces a crisis that threatens everyone's wellbeing. In this essential episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Mary also shares: Why less than 20% of professionals have a development plan—and how this simple tool can transform your career trajectory The 15-minute mentoring rule that changed everything for busy executives Why there's no such thing as a "perfect mentor" and what you need instead The five critical experiences women aren't getting access to that block their path to leadership How to bridge the five (soon to be six) generations currently in the workforce Why "meritocracy is a three-way street"—and what that means for companies trying to retain talent Mary also reveals the innovative work of her nonprofit, The Center for Excellence in Life (T-CEL), which created virtual internships during COVID for students who never thought they'd attend college—many of whom are graduating now. "Keep focusing on describing the very needed work we are doing," Mary urges. "We still need leadership acceleration. We still need talent development. We still need workforces that are representative of the patients and communities we serve. At the end of the day, people most trust people who look like them. That's not bias—that's human nature." From writing "The Missing Mentor: Women Advising Women on Power, Progress and Priorities" to leading HBA's mission to achieve gender equity in healthcare leadership, Mary Stutts is the powerhouse executive rewriting the rules for women's advancement. Her message is clear: Don't lose focus. The work is more critical than ever. "Your development plan is yours alone," Mary insists. "If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you've arrived?" Chapters 02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mary Stutts on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "Women are 80% of the healthcare workforce in the US, up to 70% globally. So I always say if women aren't healthy, the entire world is at risk of not being healthy."

Mary Stutts has spent decades dismantling barriers for women in healthcare—first as a senior executive at Stanford Healthcare and multiple biopharma companies, now as CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA). But what she's seeing today has her more concerned than ever: for the first time in 20 years, the number of women in C-suite roles is declining.

"The challenge isn't just getting women into leadership," Mary explains. "It's helping them stay in leadership and thrive there." The culprit? A perfect storm of broken systems: the "broken rung" that blocks women's first promotion to manager, the "concrete ceiling" at director level, and a generation gap that's creating chaos in the workplace.

Mary reveals a startling insight about today's young professionals: "They're digitally native but corporately naive. We give them managerial responsibility for a head count, but we haven't trained them how to manage. They take a punitive approach—'You don't do it the way I do it, so you're doing it wrong.' Then everyone gets frustrated and leaves."

The stakes couldn't be higher. With a $1 trillion economic gap between women's and men's health, and young women increasingly choosing social media influencer careers over healthcare professions, the industry faces a crisis that threatens everyone's wellbeing.

In this essential episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Mary also shares:

  • Why less than 20% of professionals have a development plan—and how this simple tool can transform your career trajectory
  • The 15-minute mentoring rule that changed everything for busy executives
  • Why there's no such thing as a "perfect mentor" and what you need instead
  • The five critical experiences women aren't getting access to that block their path to leadership
  • How to bridge the five (soon to be six) generations currently in the workforce
  • Why "meritocracy is a three-way street"—and what that means for companies trying to retain talent

Mary also reveals the innovative work of her nonprofit, The Center for Excellence in Life (T-CEL), which created virtual internships during COVID for students who never thought they'd attend college—many of whom are graduating now.

"Keep focusing on describing the very needed work we are doing," Mary urges. "We still need leadership acceleration. We still need talent development. We still need workforces that are representative of the patients and communities we serve. At the end of the day, people most trust people who look like them. That's not bias—that's human nature."

From writing "The Missing Mentor: Women Advising Women on Power, Progress and Priorities" to leading HBA's mission to achieve gender equity in healthcare leadership, Mary Stutts is the powerhouse executive rewriting the rules for women's advancement. Her message is clear: Don't lose focus. The work is more critical than ever.

"Your development plan is yours alone," Mary insists. "If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you've arrived?"

Chapters

02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership

05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution

09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection

13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech

16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO

20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1722 no Catching Cancer Early: Susan Tousi's Quest to Save Lives with a Simple Blood Test || EP.208 "I come from a long line of medical doctors... but I myself was driven by things that move fast in terms of technology." From a family of physicians, Susan Tousi chose a different path—one that would eventually revolutionize how we detect cancer. After decades building multi-hundred million dollar businesses at HP and Kodak, digitizing how the world captures and shares memories, she made a leap that surprised many: trading the consumer tech world for the promise of genomic medicine. "Healthcare was moving fairly slowly in terms of technology adoption," Susan recalls. But when Illumina came calling, she saw her chance to change that. As Chief Product Development Officer and later Chief Commercial Officer, she helped drive the cost of human genome sequencing from over $100,000 down to just $100—making the technology accessible in 155 countries worldwide. Now, as CEO of DELFI Diagnostics, Susan is tackling one of healthcare's deadliest challenges: lung cancer kills more people annually than breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers combined—yet 94% of those who should be screened never get tested. Her solution? A simple blood draw that can detect cancer at stage one, powered by AI and whole genome sequencing, at a cost of just a few hundred dollars. "If you can get blood drawn, you can get our test," Susan explains. "These tests should be in the few hundreds of dollars, easily covered by the healthcare system, available to patients without copay. Everyone's cancer should be caught early. It should be an annual process." In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Susan also reveals: What happens when you reduce genome sequencing costs from $100,000 to $100 and why it matters for every patient Why blood-based testing will make cancer detection as routine as annual physicals—no radiation, no invasive procedures The surprising ways AI and machine learning are uncovering cancer signals in blood How to build diverse leadership teams naturally What really changes (and doesn't) when you become a biotech CEO Why the hardest CEO decisions are about people and focus, not technology From engineering at HP to revolutionizing digital photography at Kodak to detecting cancer at its earliest stages, Susan's journey proves that the fastest-moving technology innovations can transform the slowest-moving healthcare challenges—when you're willing to take the leap. "There's no greater mission than advancing the improvement of people's healthy lifespan," Susan reflects. "We need women at the table. These are long-term investments. We need to make sure that the diverse population of patients and clinicians who are going to use our tests are represented in the people who develop the tests. That diversity makes us better." A member of the National Academy of Engineering, Susan Tousi is reshaping how we think about cancer detection—making it accessible, affordable, and available anywhere you can have blood drawn. This is the future of healthcare, and it's happening now. Chapters 00:02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 00:05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 00:09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 00:13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 00:16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 00:20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Susan Tousi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Catching Cancer Early: Susan Tousi's Quest to Save Lives with a Simple Blood Test full 208 Laurie McGraw "I come from a long line of medical doctors... but I myself was driven by things that move fast in terms of technology." From a family of physicians, Susan Tousi chose a different path—one that would eventually revolutionize how we detect cancer. After decades building multi-hundred million dollar businesses at HP and Kodak, digitizing how the world captures and shares memories, she made a leap that surprised many: trading the consumer tech world for the promise of genomic medicine. "Healthcare was moving fairly slowly in terms of technology adoption," Susan recalls. But when Illumina came calling, she saw her chance to change that. As Chief Product Development Officer and later Chief Commercial Officer, she helped drive the cost of human genome sequencing from over $100,000 down to just $100—making the technology accessible in 155 countries worldwide. Now, as CEO of DELFI Diagnostics, Susan is tackling one of healthcare's deadliest challenges: lung cancer kills more people annually than breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers combined—yet 94% of those who should be screened never get tested. Her solution? A simple blood draw that can detect cancer at stage one, powered by AI and whole genome sequencing, at a cost of just a few hundred dollars. "If you can get blood drawn, you can get our test," Susan explains. "These tests should be in the few hundreds of dollars, easily covered by the healthcare system, available to patients without copay. Everyone's cancer should be caught early. It should be an annual process." In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Susan also reveals: What happens when you reduce genome sequencing costs from $100,000 to $100 and why it matters for every patient Why blood-based testing will make cancer detection as routine as annual physicals—no radiation, no invasive procedures The surprising ways AI and machine learning are uncovering cancer signals in blood How to build diverse leadership teams naturally What really changes (and doesn't) when you become a biotech CEO Why the hardest CEO decisions are about people and focus, not technology From engineering at HP to revolutionizing digital photography at Kodak to detecting cancer at its earliest stages, Susan's journey proves that the fastest-moving technology innovations can transform the slowest-moving healthcare challenges—when you're willing to take the leap. "There's no greater mission than advancing the improvement of people's healthy lifespan," Susan reflects. "We need women at the table. These are long-term investments. We need to make sure that the diverse population of patients and clinicians who are going to use our tests are represented in the people who develop the tests. That diversity makes us better." A member of the National Academy of Engineering, Susan Tousi is reshaping how we think about cancer detection—making it accessible, affordable, and available anywhere you can have blood drawn. This is the future of healthcare, and it's happening now. Chapters 00:02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 00:05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 00:09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 00:13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 00:16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 00:20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Susan Tousi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  "I come from a long line of medical doctors... but I myself was driven by things that move fast in terms of technology."

From a family of physicians, Susan Tousi chose a different path—one that would eventually revolutionize how we detect cancer. After decades building multi-hundred million dollar businesses at HP and Kodak, digitizing how the world captures and shares memories, she made a leap that surprised many: trading the consumer tech world for the promise of genomic medicine.

"Healthcare was moving fairly slowly in terms of technology adoption," Susan recalls. But when Illumina came calling, she saw her chance to change that. As Chief Product Development Officer and later Chief Commercial Officer, she helped drive the cost of human genome sequencing from over $100,000 down to just $100—making the technology accessible in 155 countries worldwide.

Now, as CEO of DELFI Diagnostics, Susan is tackling one of healthcare's deadliest challenges: lung cancer kills more people annually than breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers combined—yet 94% of those who should be screened never get tested. Her solution? A simple blood draw that can detect cancer at stage one, powered by AI and whole genome sequencing, at a cost of just a few hundred dollars.

"If you can get blood drawn, you can get our test," Susan explains. "These tests should be in the few hundreds of dollars, easily covered by the healthcare system, available to patients without copay. Everyone's cancer should be caught early. It should be an annual process."

In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Susan also reveals:

  • What happens when you reduce genome sequencing costs from $100,000 to $100 and why it matters for every patient
  • Why blood-based testing will make cancer detection as routine as annual physicals—no radiation, no invasive procedures
  • The surprising ways AI and machine learning are uncovering cancer signals in blood
  • How to build diverse leadership teams naturally
  • What really changes (and doesn't) when you become a biotech CEO
  • Why the hardest CEO decisions are about people and focus, not technology

From engineering at HP to revolutionizing digital photography at Kodak to detecting cancer at its earliest stages, Susan's journey proves that the fastest-moving technology innovations can transform the slowest-moving healthcare challenges—when you're willing to take the leap.

"There's no greater mission than advancing the improvement of people's healthy lifespan," Susan reflects. "We need women at the table. These are long-term investments. We need to make sure that the diverse population of patients and clinicians who are going to use our tests are represented in the people who develop the tests. That diversity makes us better."

A member of the National Academy of Engineering, Susan Tousi is reshaping how we think about cancer detection—making it accessible, affordable, and available anywhere you can have blood drawn. This is the future of healthcare, and it's happening now.

Chapters

00:02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership

00:05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution

00:09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection

00:13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech

00:16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO

00:20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

]]> 1335 no Why Do 80% of People Choose to Work Through Cancer? With Gina Jacobson || EP.207 "You might not have been born for this, but you almost died for it." When Gina Jacobson's husband spoke those words, he captured the profound transformation that turned a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis into a mission. Given just one to two years to live, Gina didn't just survive—she discovered why work matters so deeply when everything else falls apart. Now, as Program Director for Working with Cancer, she's tackling an uncomfortable truth: there's a massive gap between what well-meaning colleagues want to do and what actually helps. When people don't copy you on emails to "spare" you, when they assume you can't handle meetings, when they reduce you to your diagnosis—the isolation can be as devastating as the disease itself. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Gina also speaks about: Why "Can I work?" is the second question cancer patients ask after "Will I live?" How manager training can build organizational empathy that extends far beyond cancer it means when 80% of Americans choose to work through cancer treatment Why creating confidence before diagnosis changes everything How simple accommodations can preserve identity during treatment What happens when your biggest pitch becomes helping others through their darkest hour Chapters 02:14 - From Potato Cravings to Stage 4 Diagnosis  03:43 - The Gap Between Intentions and Impact  05:20 - What Organizations Really Need to Do  07:39 - The Workforce Cancer Crisis  08:59 - "You Almost Died for This"  10:37 - Creating Confidence Before Crisis Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Gina Jacobson on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Why Do 80% of People Choose to Work Through Cancer? With Gina Jacobson full 207 Laurie McGraw "You might not have been born for this, but you almost died for it." When Gina Jacobson's husband spoke those words, he captured the profound transformation that turned a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis into a mission. Given just one to two years to live, Gina didn't just survive—she discovered why work matters so deeply when everything else falls apart. Now, as Program Director for Working with Cancer, she's tackling an uncomfortable truth: there's a massive gap between what well-meaning colleagues want to do and what actually helps. When people don't copy you on emails to "spare" you, when they assume you can't handle meetings, when they reduce you to your diagnosis—the isolation can be as devastating as the disease itself. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Gina also speaks about: Why "Can I work?" is the second question cancer patients ask after "Will I live?" How manager training can build organizational empathy that extends far beyond cancer it means when 80% of Americans choose to work through cancer treatment Why creating confidence before diagnosis changes everything How simple accommodations can preserve identity during treatment What happens when your biggest pitch becomes helping others through their darkest hour Chapters 02:14 - From Potato Cravings to Stage 4 Diagnosis  03:43 - The Gap Between Intentions and Impact  05:20 - What Organizations Really Need to Do  07:39 - The Workforce Cancer Crisis  08:59 - "You Almost Died for This"  10:37 - Creating Confidence Before Crisis Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Gina Jacobson on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify "You might not have been born for this, but you almost died for it."

When Gina Jacobson's husband spoke those words, he captured the profound transformation that turned a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis into a mission. Given just one to two years to live, Gina didn't just survive—she discovered why work matters so deeply when everything else falls apart.

Now, as Program Director for Working with Cancer, she's tackling an uncomfortable truth: there's a massive gap between what well-meaning colleagues want to do and what actually helps. When people don't copy you on emails to "spare" you, when they assume you can't handle meetings, when they reduce you to your diagnosis—the isolation can be as devastating as the disease itself.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Gina also speaks about:

  • Why "Can I work?" is the second question cancer patients ask after "Will I live?"
  • How manager training can build organizational empathy that extends far beyond cancer
  • it means when 80% of Americans choose to work through cancer treatment
  • Why creating confidence before diagnosis changes everything
  • How simple accommodations can preserve identity during treatment
  • What happens when your biggest pitch becomes helping others through their darkest hour

Chapters

02:14 - From Potato Cravings to Stage 4 Diagnosis 

03:43 - The Gap Between Intentions and Impact 

05:20 - What Organizations Really Need to Do 

07:39 - The Workforce Cancer Crisis 

08:59 - "You Almost Died for This" 

10:37 - Creating Confidence Before Crisis

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 744 no What Happens When a Cancer Diagnosis at 17 Shapes Your Entire Career? With Rae McMahan || EP.206 Standing at a hospital desk at 17, facing a Hodgkin's disease diagnosis, Rae McMahan heard words that would reshape her entire life: "We don't have your prior authorization on file." That broken moment in a broken system launched a career dedicated to fixing what fails patients every day. Now, as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive, Rae is revolutionizing how 260 million Americans access medications—because no one should discover what their life-saving prescription costs only when they reach the pharmacy counter. But her journey wasn't straightforward. Expected to "get married, have kids and stay home," Rae chose a different path—one that led from nearly becoming a physician to mastering the business of healthcare transformation. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rae also speaks about: Why pharmacy benefits are the number one utilized benefit and first indicator of health problems How text message prescriptions are disrupting decades of pharmacy confusion What happens when technology costs go down everywhere except healthcare Why connecting lab tests, AI, and genetics could eliminate medication guesswork How to choose your own journey when it doesn't match family expectations What it means to say "no" in a culture that expects women to say "yes" Chapters 04:02 - A Teenager's Cancer Diagnosis Meets a Broken System  06:33 - From Patient to Healthcare Revolutionary  08:22 - The Reverse Technology Paradigm in Healthcare  10:57 - The Magic Wand: Personalized Medicine Without the Guesswork  13:35 - Choosing Your Journey Over Others' Expectations  15:55 - Finding Your Village and Your Voice Guest & Host Links Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Rae McMahan on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000 What Happens When a Cancer Diagnosis at 17 Shapes Your Entire Career? With Rae McMahan full 206 Laurie McGraw Standing at a hospital desk at 17, facing a Hodgkin's disease diagnosis, Rae McMahan heard words that would reshape her entire life: "We don't have your prior authorization on file." That broken moment in a broken system launched a career dedicated to fixing what fails patients every day. Now, as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive, Rae is revolutionizing how 260 million Americans access medications—because no one should discover what their life-saving prescription costs only when they reach the pharmacy counter. But her journey wasn't straightforward. Expected to "get married, have kids and stay home," Rae chose a different path—one that led from nearly becoming a physician to mastering the business of healthcare transformation. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rae also speaks about: Why pharmacy benefits are the number one utilized benefit and first indicator of health problems How text message prescriptions are disrupting decades of pharmacy confusion What happens when technology costs go down everywhere except healthcare Why connecting lab tests, AI, and genetics could eliminate medication guesswork How to choose your own journey when it doesn't match family expectations What it means to say "no" in a culture that expects women to say "yes" Chapters 04:02 - A Teenager's Cancer Diagnosis Meets a Broken System  06:33 - From Patient to Healthcare Revolutionary  08:22 - The Reverse Technology Paradigm in Healthcare  10:57 - The Magic Wand: Personalized Medicine Without the Guesswork  13:35 - Choosing Your Journey Over Others' Expectations  15:55 - Finding Your Village and Your Voice Guest & Host Links Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Rae McMahan on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Standing at a hospital desk at 17, facing a Hodgkin's disease diagnosis, Rae McMahan heard words that would reshape her entire life: "We don't have your prior authorization on file."

That broken moment in a broken system launched a career dedicated to fixing what fails patients every day. Now, as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive, Rae is revolutionizing how 260 million Americans access medications—because no one should discover what their life-saving prescription costs only when they reach the pharmacy counter.

But her journey wasn't straightforward. Expected to "get married, have kids and stay home," Rae chose a different path—one that led from nearly becoming a physician to mastering the business of healthcare transformation.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rae also speaks about:

  • Why pharmacy benefits are the number one utilized benefit and first indicator of health problems
  • How text message prescriptions are disrupting decades of pharmacy confusion
  • What happens when technology costs go down everywhere except healthcare
  • Why connecting lab tests, AI, and genetics could eliminate medication guesswork
  • How to choose your own journey when it doesn't match family expectations
  • What it means to say "no" in a culture that expects women to say "yes"

Chapters

04:02 - A Teenager's Cancer Diagnosis Meets a Broken System 

06:33 - From Patient to Healthcare Revolutionary 

08:22 - The Reverse Technology Paradigm in Healthcare 

10:57 - The Magic Wand: Personalized Medicine Without the Guesswork 

13:35 - Choosing Your Journey Over Others' Expectations 

15:55 - Finding Your Village and Your Voice

Guest & Host Links


Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1016 no How One Labor Leader Transformed 30,000 Lives Through the Power of Empowerment, with Brenda Munoz || EP.205 What happens when you realize you've stopped caring about the very people you're meant to serve? For Brenda Munoz, that moment came when a laborer asked her to leave and find someone else to help him. "You're very nice," he said, "but I can tell you're trying to rush this." That wake-up call transformed not just Brenda's career, but how she thinks about leadership itself. Today, as Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers' Fund of Northern California, she oversees benefits for 30,000 workers who build America's infrastructure—and she's reimagining what it means to serve a workforce that's largely male, Hispanic, and often working far from home. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Brenda also speaks about: Why language barriers and literacy challenges make benefits accessibility a social justice issue How empowering 53 employees (mostly women) creates ripple effects for thousands of families What it means to lead for both the laborers AND the women who serve them Why self-reliance and having a voice are the foundations of workplace empowerment How Hispanic women can transform from "doing the paperwork" to leading the organization What changes when you shift from "What do I want?" to "What will help us become better?" Chapter Markers 02:05 - An Accidental Benefits Career  04:09 - The Counter Call That Changed Everything  05:36 - Choosing Impact Over Comfort  07:21 - Understanding the Laborers: Who Builds America  10:59 - The Stress of Benefits Work  12:31 - Leading for Two Communities  14:19 - From Siloed to United: Creating Vision Together  19:21 - The Power Within: A Message to Hispanic Women Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Brenda Munoz on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000 How One Labor Leader Transformed 30,000 Lives Through the Power of Empowerment, with Brenda Munoz full 205 Laurie McGraw What happens when you realize you've stopped caring about the very people you're meant to serve? For Brenda Munoz, that moment came when a laborer asked her to leave and find someone else to help him. "You're very nice," he said, "but I can tell you're trying to rush this." That wake-up call transformed not just Brenda's career, but how she thinks about leadership itself. Today, as Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers' Fund of Northern California, she oversees benefits for 30,000 workers who build America's infrastructure—and she's reimagining what it means to serve a workforce that's largely male, Hispanic, and often working far from home. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Brenda also speaks about: Why language barriers and literacy challenges make benefits accessibility a social justice issue How empowering 53 employees (mostly women) creates ripple effects for thousands of families What it means to lead for both the laborers AND the women who serve them Why self-reliance and having a voice are the foundations of workplace empowerment How Hispanic women can transform from "doing the paperwork" to leading the organization What changes when you shift from "What do I want?" to "What will help us become better?" Chapter Markers 02:05 - An Accidental Benefits Career  04:09 - The Counter Call That Changed Everything  05:36 - Choosing Impact Over Comfort  07:21 - Understanding the Laborers: Who Builds America  10:59 - The Stress of Benefits Work  12:31 - Leading for Two Communities  14:19 - From Siloed to United: Creating Vision Together  19:21 - The Power Within: A Message to Hispanic Women Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Brenda Munoz on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  What happens when you realize you've stopped caring about the very people you're meant to serve? For Brenda Munoz, that moment came when a laborer asked her to leave and find someone else to help him. "You're very nice," he said, "but I can tell you're trying to rush this."

That wake-up call transformed not just Brenda's career, but how she thinks about leadership itself. Today, as Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers' Fund of Northern California, she oversees benefits for 30,000 workers who build America's infrastructure—and she's reimagining what it means to serve a workforce that's largely male, Hispanic, and often working far from home.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Brenda also speaks about:

  • Why language barriers and literacy challenges make benefits accessibility a social justice issue
  • How empowering 53 employees (mostly women) creates ripple effects for thousands of families
  • What it means to lead for both the laborers AND the women who serve them
  • Why self-reliance and having a voice are the foundations of workplace empowerment
  • How Hispanic women can transform from "doing the paperwork" to leading the organization
  • What changes when you shift from "What do I want?" to "What will help us become better?"

Chapter Markers

02:05 - An Accidental Benefits Career 

04:09 - The Counter Call That Changed Everything 

05:36 - Choosing Impact Over Comfort 

07:21 - Understanding the Laborers: Who Builds America 

10:59 - The Stress of Benefits Work 

12:31 - Leading for Two Communities 

14:19 - From Siloed to United: Creating Vision Together 

19:21 - The Power Within: A Message to Hispanic Women

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

]]> 1224 no Two Kenyans Unite to Bridge Medicine's Most Dangerous Gap With Amee Devani || EP.204 When Amee Devani watched her mother battle colorectal cancer in Kenya, she witnessed firsthand the stark reality of healthcare inequity. That experience would reshape her entire career trajectory—from investment banking at UBS to founding a digital health startup that's revolutionizing how hospitals manage post-acute care. "I faint when they take my blood," Amee admits with characteristic candor. Yet today, as CEO and Co-founder of WellBeam, she's tackling one of healthcare's most persistent problems: the black box of care that swallows patients after hospital discharge. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw reveals how a chance meeting on a Stanford cycling training ride led to a partnership that's now bridging the dangerous gap between acute and post-acute care. Amee and her co-founder Pascal—both Kenyans who met thousands of miles from home—shared more than a homeland. They shared mothers fighting cancer and a determination to fix a broken system. What started as rejected startup ideas in Stanford surgeons' offices evolved into WellBeam after one crucial conversation with pancreatic surgeon Dr. Brendan Visser. His frustration was clear: exceptional inpatient care followed by total blindness once patients left the hospital. Fax machines. Phone tag. Patients bouncing back to the ER before anyone knew there was a problem. Now, WellBeam serves as the critical infrastructure connecting hospital EMRs with home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facilities. The result? A 20-30% reduction in readmissions and millions in recovered revenue for physicians doing work they couldn't previously bill. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Amee also discusses: The unexpected value of "having too much fun" at Cambridge and how it shaped her leadership approach Why she left the prestige of investment banking and consulting to work out of a shoebox office in London How catching the "startup bug" at Pavegen prepared her for the healthcare innovation journey The importance of building a village of mentors, especially as a female founder in healthcare Why healthcare's biggest problems aren't glamorous—and why that's exactly where innovation is needed Navigating slow healthcare sales cycles while maintaining startup momentum Leading as a new mother and CEO: ruthless prioritization and trusting your team Chapter Markers 00:54 - Introduction & Background 04:17 - The Stanford Connection & Finding a Co-founder 07:13 - WellBeam's Origin & Solution 11:28 - Business Model & Market Approach 14:06 - Leadership as a Female CEO & New Mother 21:39 - Advice for Aspiring Female Founders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Amee Devani on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Two Kenyans Unite to Bridge Medicine's Most Dangerous Gap With Amee Devani full 204 Laurie McGraw When Amee Devani watched her mother battle colorectal cancer in Kenya, she witnessed firsthand the stark reality of healthcare inequity. That experience would reshape her entire career trajectory—from investment banking at UBS to founding a digital health startup that's revolutionizing how hospitals manage post-acute care. "I faint when they take my blood," Amee admits with characteristic candor. Yet today, as CEO and Co-founder of WellBeam, she's tackling one of healthcare's most persistent problems: the black box of care that swallows patients after hospital discharge. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw reveals how a chance meeting on a Stanford cycling training ride led to a partnership that's now bridging the dangerous gap between acute and post-acute care. Amee and her co-founder Pascal—both Kenyans who met thousands of miles from home—shared more than a homeland. They shared mothers fighting cancer and a determination to fix a broken system. What started as rejected startup ideas in Stanford surgeons' offices evolved into WellBeam after one crucial conversation with pancreatic surgeon Dr. Brendan Visser. His frustration was clear: exceptional inpatient care followed by total blindness once patients left the hospital. Fax machines. Phone tag. Patients bouncing back to the ER before anyone knew there was a problem. Now, WellBeam serves as the critical infrastructure connecting hospital EMRs with home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facilities. The result? A 20-30% reduction in readmissions and millions in recovered revenue for physicians doing work they couldn't previously bill. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Amee also discusses: The unexpected value of "having too much fun" at Cambridge and how it shaped her leadership approach Why she left the prestige of investment banking and consulting to work out of a shoebox office in London How catching the "startup bug" at Pavegen prepared her for the healthcare innovation journey The importance of building a village of mentors, especially as a female founder in healthcare Why healthcare's biggest problems aren't glamorous—and why that's exactly where innovation is needed Navigating slow healthcare sales cycles while maintaining startup momentum Leading as a new mother and CEO: ruthless prioritization and trusting your team Chapter Markers 00:54 - Introduction & Background 04:17 - The Stanford Connection & Finding a Co-founder 07:13 - WellBeam's Origin & Solution 11:28 - Business Model & Market Approach 14:06 - Leadership as a Female CEO & New Mother 21:39 - Advice for Aspiring Female Founders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Amee Devani on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify  When Amee Devani watched her mother battle colorectal cancer in Kenya, she witnessed firsthand the stark reality of healthcare inequity. That experience would reshape her entire career trajectory—from investment banking at UBS to founding a digital health startup that's revolutionizing how hospitals manage post-acute care.

"I faint when they take my blood," Amee admits with characteristic candor. Yet today, as CEO and Co-founder of WellBeam, she's tackling one of healthcare's most persistent problems: the black box of care that swallows patients after hospital discharge.

This conversation with host Laurie McGraw reveals how a chance meeting on a Stanford cycling training ride led to a partnership that's now bridging the dangerous gap between acute and post-acute care. Amee and her co-founder Pascal—both Kenyans who met thousands of miles from home—shared more than a homeland. They shared mothers fighting cancer and a determination to fix a broken system.

What started as rejected startup ideas in Stanford surgeons' offices evolved into WellBeam after one crucial conversation with pancreatic surgeon Dr. Brendan Visser. His frustration was clear: exceptional inpatient care followed by total blindness once patients left the hospital. Fax machines. Phone tag. Patients bouncing back to the ER before anyone knew there was a problem.

Now, WellBeam serves as the critical infrastructure connecting hospital EMRs with home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facilities. The result? A 20-30% reduction in readmissions and millions in recovered revenue for physicians doing work they couldn't previously bill.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Amee also discusses:

  • The unexpected value of "having too much fun" at Cambridge and how it shaped her leadership approach
  • Why she left the prestige of investment banking and consulting to work out of a shoebox office in London
  • How catching the "startup bug" at Pavegen prepared her for the healthcare innovation journey
  • The importance of building a village of mentors, especially as a female founder in healthcare
  • Why healthcare's biggest problems aren't glamorous—and why that's exactly where innovation is needed
  • Navigating slow healthcare sales cycles while maintaining startup momentum
  • Leading as a new mother and CEO: ruthless prioritization and trusting your team

Chapter Markers

00:54 - Introduction & Background

04:17 - The Stanford Connection & Finding a Co-founder

07:13 - WellBeam's Origin & Solution

11:28 - Business Model & Market Approach

14:06 - Leadership as a Female CEO & New Mother

21:39 - Advice for Aspiring Female Founders

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

]]> 1451 From Polarization to Grievance: Why Trust in Healthcare Is At a Breaking Point - Courtney Gray Haupt || EP.203 What makes this conversation urgent is what's at stake. When people with lower trust in healthcare turn to friends and family instead of medical professionals, when young adults say they'd leave their doctor over political beliefs, when misinformation spreads faster than facts—we're not just facing a communications challenge. We're facing a health crisis. But Courtney, who's spent 15 years bridging policy, advocacy, and communications, sees opportunity in the challenge. Organizations that share accurate information, take visible action on problems, and paint an optimistic future can still build trust. The question is: will they act fast enough? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Courtney also speaks about: Why your employer might be your most trusted source of health information (especially if you're a woman) How political polarization is breaking the doctor-patient relationship What the shift from polarization to "grievance" means for healthcare Why women care about healthcare affordability 20 points more than men How to communicate health information when no one trusts the media What leaders must do now to rebuild trust before it's too late Chapter Markers 04:05 - From Policy to Trust: A Career Arc 05:32 - The Misinformation Crisis 08:18 - High Trust vs. Low Trust 10:30 - From Polarization to Grievance 12:11 - Building Trust in a Zero-Sum World 14:27 - Women, Employers, and the Trust Gap 16:12 - A Path Forward for Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Gray Haupt on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:08:00 -0000 From Polarization to Grievance: Why Trust in Healthcare Is At a Breaking Point - Courtney Gray Haupt full 203 Laurie McGraw What makes this conversation urgent is what's at stake. When people with lower trust in healthcare turn to friends and family instead of medical professionals, when young adults say they'd leave their doctor over political beliefs, when misinformation spreads faster than facts—we're not just facing a communications challenge. We're facing a health crisis. But Courtney, who's spent 15 years bridging policy, advocacy, and communications, sees opportunity in the challenge. Organizations that share accurate information, take visible action on problems, and paint an optimistic future can still build trust. The question is: will they act fast enough? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Courtney also speaks about: Why your employer might be your most trusted source of health information (especially if you're a woman) How political polarization is breaking the doctor-patient relationship What the shift from polarization to "grievance" means for healthcare Why women care about healthcare affordability 20 points more than men How to communicate health information when no one trusts the media What leaders must do now to rebuild trust before it's too late Chapter Markers 04:05 - From Policy to Trust: A Career Arc 05:32 - The Misinformation Crisis 08:18 - High Trust vs. Low Trust 10:30 - From Polarization to Grievance 12:11 - Building Trust in a Zero-Sum World 14:27 - Women, Employers, and the Trust Gap 16:12 - A Path Forward for Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Gray Haupt on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify What makes this conversation urgent is what's at stake. When people with lower trust in healthcare turn to friends and family instead of medical professionals, when young adults say they'd leave their doctor over political beliefs, when misinformation spreads faster than facts—we're not just facing a communications challenge. We're facing a health crisis.

But Courtney, who's spent 15 years bridging policy, advocacy, and communications, sees opportunity in the challenge. Organizations that share accurate information, take visible action on problems, and paint an optimistic future can still build trust. The question is: will they act fast enough?

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Courtney also speaks about:

  • Why your employer might be your most trusted source of health information (especially if you're a woman)
  • How political polarization is breaking the doctor-patient relationship
  • What the shift from polarization to "grievance" means for healthcare
  • Why women care about healthcare affordability 20 points more than men
  • How to communicate health information when no one trusts the media
  • What leaders must do now to rebuild trust before it's too late

Chapter Markers

04:05 - From Policy to Trust: A Career Arc

05:32 - The Misinformation Crisis

08:18 - High Trust vs. Low Trust

10:30 - From Polarization to Grievance

12:11 - Building Trust in a Zero-Sum World

14:27 - Women, Employers, and the Trust Gap

16:12 - A Path Forward for Leaders

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Courtney Gray Haupt on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1073 no Why Your Biggest "Failure" Might Be Your Greatest Career Catalyst with Colleen Bowman || EP.202 When Colleen Bowman didn't get into her dietetics internship—twice—she thought her career was over before it began. Instead, that rejection became the catalyst that launched her into becoming a transformative HR leader at one of the most unique companies in America. "I had a little too much fun in college," Colleen admits with a laugh. But that social experience—building networks, connecting with people—turned out to be the foundation of everything that followed. Today, as VP of Human Resources at IAC, she oversees benefits for a portfolio of brands you know and use every day: Angie's List, People Magazine, Food & Wine, and dozens more. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about how the detours define us. For Colleen, those detours included a boss who told her she wasn't ready for a promotion (spoiler: she was), mentors who took chances on her, and the realization that sometimes you have to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them. What makes Colleen's leadership philosophy unique? "Empathetic with expectations." She leads with understanding but refuses to treat her team "too preciously." She believes in them too much for that. She sets high standards because she knows they can meet them. Now, as healthcare costs explode and benefits become the single largest line item on corporate balance sheets, Colleen is tackling one of business's biggest challenges: How do you get employees to care about their health before it's a crisis? How do you communicate complex benefits to diverse populations—from magazine editors to home repair professionals? And how do you treat a benefits program like the multi-million dollar business it actually is? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Colleen also speaks about:  Why saying "yes" to everything early in your career is essential—and when you need to start saying "no" How to build trust and partnerships that actually move the needle in organizations  What happens when benefits become too big for leadership to ignore  Why HR's "seat at the table" debate misses the real point How to navigate the coming healthcare crisis with transparency and trust  What "fake it till you make it" really means for women leaders Chapter Markers 03:37 From Nutrition Dreams to Benefits Reality  08:17 When Your Boss Says You're Not Ready  10:51 Building Relationships as a Leadership Superpower  14:49 Raising Your Hand vs. Reaching for Opportunities  16:24 Empathetic with Expectations: A New Leadership Model  19:38 The Business of Benefits in Divisive Times Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Colleen Bowman on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Why Your Biggest "Failure" Might Be Your Greatest Career Catalyst with Colleen Bowman full 202 Laurie McGraw When Colleen Bowman didn't get into her dietetics internship—twice—she thought her career was over before it began. Instead, that rejection became the catalyst that launched her into becoming a transformative HR leader at one of the most unique companies in America. "I had a little too much fun in college," Colleen admits with a laugh. But that social experience—building networks, connecting with people—turned out to be the foundation of everything that followed. Today, as VP of Human Resources at IAC, she oversees benefits for a portfolio of brands you know and use every day: Angie's List, People Magazine, Food & Wine, and dozens more. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about how the detours define us. For Colleen, those detours included a boss who told her she wasn't ready for a promotion (spoiler: she was), mentors who took chances on her, and the realization that sometimes you have to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them. What makes Colleen's leadership philosophy unique? "Empathetic with expectations." She leads with understanding but refuses to treat her team "too preciously." She believes in them too much for that. She sets high standards because she knows they can meet them. Now, as healthcare costs explode and benefits become the single largest line item on corporate balance sheets, Colleen is tackling one of business's biggest challenges: How do you get employees to care about their health before it's a crisis? How do you communicate complex benefits to diverse populations—from magazine editors to home repair professionals? And how do you treat a benefits program like the multi-million dollar business it actually is? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Colleen also speaks about:  Why saying "yes" to everything early in your career is essential—and when you need to start saying "no" How to build trust and partnerships that actually move the needle in organizations  What happens when benefits become too big for leadership to ignore  Why HR's "seat at the table" debate misses the real point How to navigate the coming healthcare crisis with transparency and trust  What "fake it till you make it" really means for women leaders Chapter Markers 03:37 From Nutrition Dreams to Benefits Reality  08:17 When Your Boss Says You're Not Ready  10:51 Building Relationships as a Leadership Superpower  14:49 Raising Your Hand vs. Reaching for Opportunities  16:24 Empathetic with Expectations: A New Leadership Model  19:38 The Business of Benefits in Divisive Times Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Colleen Bowman on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify When Colleen Bowman didn't get into her dietetics internship—twice—she thought her career was over before it began. Instead, that rejection became the catalyst that launched her into becoming a transformative HR leader at one of the most unique companies in America.

"I had a little too much fun in college," Colleen admits with a laugh. But that social experience—building networks, connecting with people—turned out to be the foundation of everything that followed. Today, as VP of Human Resources at IAC, she oversees benefits for a portfolio of brands you know and use every day: Angie's List, People Magazine, Food & Wine, and dozens more.

This conversation with host Laurie McGraw isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about how the detours define us. For Colleen, those detours included a boss who told her she wasn't ready for a promotion (spoiler: she was), mentors who took chances on her, and the realization that sometimes you have to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them.

What makes Colleen's leadership philosophy unique? "Empathetic with expectations." She leads with understanding but refuses to treat her team "too preciously." She believes in them too much for that. She sets high standards because she knows they can meet them.

Now, as healthcare costs explode and benefits become the single largest line item on corporate balance sheets, Colleen is tackling one of business's biggest challenges: How do you get employees to care about their health before it's a crisis? How do you communicate complex benefits to diverse populations—from magazine editors to home repair professionals? And how do you treat a benefits program like the multi-million dollar business it actually is?

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Colleen also speaks about: 

  • Why saying "yes" to everything early in your career is essential—and when you need to start saying "no"
  • How to build trust and partnerships that actually move the needle in organizations 
  • What happens when benefits become too big for leadership to ignore 
  • Why HR's "seat at the table" debate misses the real point
  • How to navigate the coming healthcare crisis with transparency and trust 
  • What "fake it till you make it" really means for women leaders

Chapter Markers

03:37 From Nutrition Dreams to Benefits Reality 

08:17 When Your Boss Says You're Not Ready 

10:51 Building Relationships as a Leadership Superpower 

14:49 Raising Your Hand vs. Reaching for Opportunities 

16:24 Empathetic with Expectations: A New Leadership Model 

19:38 The Business of Benefits in Divisive Times

Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn

  • Connect with Colleen Bowman on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1357 no How Does Personal Tragedy Shape One Of The Most Powerful Women In Healthcare? w/Karen Lynch || EP. 201 When Karen Lynch became CEO of CVS Health, it was more than a milestone, it was a signal. Millions were watching. She led through the pandemic. She raised wages. She centered the patient. She broke glass ceilings again and again. “I remember the day Karen became CEO,” says host Laurie McGraw. “I think the world stood still for a minute. I smiled. I took notice. And so did everyone else.” The accolades poured in: Forbes Most Powerful Women, Fortune’s Most Admired. But the impact went far beyond headlines. This conversation isn’t just about what Karen accomplished at the top—it’s about the experiences that shaped her long before she got there, and the values driving how she leads today. Like many leaders, Karen’s path was forged in her beginnings. For her, those beginnings were marked by unimaginable loss: losing her mother to suicide at age 12, and just a decade later, losing the aunt who raised her. That grief left an indelible mark—a sense of urgency to fix a healthcare system she had experienced not as a leader, but as someone failed by it. That lived experience has been her North Star. From her early days in finance to leading one of the largest healthcare organizations in the world, Karen has consistently asked: What does the patient need? And how can we make it simpler?  As a leader, she learned that courage isn’t a talking point, it’s a practice. And sometimes, it means making a hard decision that costs you. When her tenure at CVS ended, it wasn’t scandal. It wasn't a failure. It was a choice, grounded in accountability. Because real leadership isn’t just about celebrating the wins—it’s about owning the moments that hurt. Now in a chapter of reinvention, Karen is clear: she’s not stepping back, she’s stepping into purpose. From helping future CEOs find their voice, to launching a women’s leadership institute, to urging healthcare leaders to rebuild public trust before it's too late, she is focused on impact over position. The title may be different. The mission is not. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Karen also speaks about: What would healthcare look like if we designed it around the patient? Can simplicity heal what complexity has broken? How do we rebuild public trust in healthcare—and what happens if we don’t? How can we better prepare the next generation of women leaders? Is technology the single most powerful lever for healthcare transformation? What does it take to navigate reinvention with optimism, purpose, and grace? Thank you Karen Lynch. You are an Inspiring Woman. Chapters 03:11 - From Tragedy to Healthcare Leadership 05:42 - Patient-Centered Philosophy 08:46 - Pandemic Response and Transformational Change 10:02 - Mentorship and Women's Leadership 14:57 - Accountability and Resilience in Leadership 22:53 - Technology Revolution and Giving Back Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn About Karen Lynch Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:08:00 -0000 How Does Personal Tragedy Shape One Of The Most Powerful Women In Healthcare? w/Karen Lynch full 201 Laurie McGraw When Karen Lynch became CEO of CVS Health, it was more than a milestone, it was a signal. Millions were watching. She led through the pandemic. She raised wages. She centered the patient. She broke glass ceilings again and again. “I remember the day Karen became CEO,” says host Laurie McGraw. “I think the world stood still for a minute. I smiled. I took notice. And so did everyone else.” The accolades poured in: Forbes Most Powerful Women, Fortune’s Most Admired. But the impact went far beyond headlines. This conversation isn’t just about what Karen accomplished at the top—it’s about the experiences that shaped her long before she got there, and the values driving how she leads today. Like many leaders, Karen’s path was forged in her beginnings. For her, those beginnings were marked by unimaginable loss: losing her mother to suicide at age 12, and just a decade later, losing the aunt who raised her. That grief left an indelible mark—a sense of urgency to fix a healthcare system she had experienced not as a leader, but as someone failed by it. That lived experience has been her North Star. From her early days in finance to leading one of the largest healthcare organizations in the world, Karen has consistently asked: What does the patient need? And how can we make it simpler?  As a leader, she learned that courage isn’t a talking point, it’s a practice. And sometimes, it means making a hard decision that costs you. When her tenure at CVS ended, it wasn’t scandal. It wasn't a failure. It was a choice, grounded in accountability. Because real leadership isn’t just about celebrating the wins—it’s about owning the moments that hurt. Now in a chapter of reinvention, Karen is clear: she’s not stepping back, she’s stepping into purpose. From helping future CEOs find their voice, to launching a women’s leadership institute, to urging healthcare leaders to rebuild public trust before it's too late, she is focused on impact over position. The title may be different. The mission is not. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Karen also speaks about: What would healthcare look like if we designed it around the patient? Can simplicity heal what complexity has broken? How do we rebuild public trust in healthcare—and what happens if we don’t? How can we better prepare the next generation of women leaders? Is technology the single most powerful lever for healthcare transformation? What does it take to navigate reinvention with optimism, purpose, and grace? Thank you Karen Lynch. You are an Inspiring Woman. Chapters 03:11 - From Tragedy to Healthcare Leadership 05:42 - Patient-Centered Philosophy 08:46 - Pandemic Response and Transformational Change 10:02 - Mentorship and Women's Leadership 14:57 - Accountability and Resilience in Leadership 22:53 - Technology Revolution and Giving Back Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn About Karen Lynch Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. When Karen Lynch became CEO of CVS Health, it was more than a milestone, it was a signal. Millions were watching. She led through the pandemic. She raised wages. She centered the patient. She broke glass ceilings again and again.

“I remember the day Karen became CEO,” says host Laurie McGraw. “I think the world stood still for a minute. I smiled. I took notice. And so did everyone else.” The accolades poured in: Forbes Most Powerful Women, Fortune’s Most Admired. But the impact went far beyond headlines.

This conversation isn’t just about what Karen accomplished at the top—it’s about the experiences that shaped her long before she got there, and the values driving how she leads today. Like many leaders, Karen’s path was forged in her beginnings. For her, those beginnings were marked by unimaginable loss: losing her mother to suicide at age 12, and just a decade later, losing the aunt who raised her. That grief left an indelible mark—a sense of urgency to fix a healthcare system she had experienced not as a leader, but as someone failed by it.

That lived experience has been her North Star. From her early days in finance to leading one of the largest healthcare organizations in the world, Karen has consistently asked: What does the patient need? And how can we make it simpler? 

As a leader, she learned that courage isn’t a talking point, it’s a practice. And sometimes, it means making a hard decision that costs you. When her tenure at CVS ended, it wasn’t scandal. It wasn't a failure. It was a choice, grounded in accountability. Because real leadership isn’t just about celebrating the wins—it’s about owning the moments that hurt.

Now in a chapter of reinvention, Karen is clear: she’s not stepping back, she’s stepping into purpose. From helping future CEOs find their voice, to launching a women’s leadership institute, to urging healthcare leaders to rebuild public trust before it's too late, she is focused on impact over position. The title may be different. The mission is not.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Karen also speaks about:

  • What would healthcare look like if we designed it around the patient?

  • Can simplicity heal what complexity has broken?

  • How do we rebuild public trust in healthcare—and what happens if we don’t?

  • How can we better prepare the next generation of women leaders?

  • Is technology the single most powerful lever for healthcare transformation?

  • What does it take to navigate reinvention with optimism, purpose, and grace?

Thank you Karen Lynch. You are an Inspiring Woman.

Chapters

03:11 - From Tragedy to Healthcare Leadership

05:42 - Patient-Centered Philosophy

08:46 - Pandemic Response and Transformational Change

10:02 - Mentorship and Women's Leadership

14:57 - Accountability and Resilience in Leadership

22:53 - Technology Revolution and Giving Back

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1867 no What Happens When Women Stop Waiting for a Seat—and Build the Whole Table? || EP. 200 "Who mentors the mentors?" "There's no such thing as a cold call in WBL." "How can I help you?" These powerful mantras echo through the halls of Women Business Leaders (WBL), the longest-standing executive forum for women in healthcare leadership. And for our landmark 200th episode of Inspiring Women, we're going back to where it all began. Twenty-five years ago, Lynn Shapiro Snyder found herself one too many times as the only woman at the decision-making table. Instead of accepting this reality, she picked up the phone and made 60 cold calls to the most influential women in healthcare. One by one, they answered with a resounding "yes." And WBL was born. Join us for an intimate conversation with the visionaries who started it all: Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Jeannine Rivet, Carrie Valiant, and Marcia Nusgart. With candor, wisdom, and plenty of laughter, these pioneers share how their initial gathering evolved from a one-time retreat into a powerful network that has elevated thousands of women into leadership positions. When women lead, we create a more just and equitable society—full stop. And today, WBL's mission remains as vital as ever. This 200th episode isn't just a milestone; it's a love song to trailblazing women everywhere—those who stand tall, who lift their voices, and who use their power to push, guide, and pull us all forward. Join us for this celebration of legacy, leadership, and the sisterhood that continues to transform healthcare and beyond. Chapter Markers 01:09 How WBL Was Born from One Cold Call 04:01 Planning the First Retreat—and Why It Almost Didn’t Happen 10:32 Saying Yes to Something Bigger Than Yourself 17:56 The First Summit: Envelopes, Oprah Moments, and Self-Promotion 29:33 Why WBL Matters Now More Than Ever 34:52 What WBL Has Meant to Us—Founders Reflect Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Lynn Shapiro Snyder on LinkedIn Connect with Carrie Valiant on LinkedIn Connect with Marcia Nusgart on LinkedIn Learn more about Jeannine Rivet, RN, MPH, FAAN  Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.  WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 27 May 2025 08:08:00 -0000 What Happens When Women Stop Waiting for a Seat—and Build the Whole Table? full 200 Laurie McGraw "Who mentors the mentors?" "There's no such thing as a cold call in WBL." "How can I help you?" These powerful mantras echo through the halls of Women Business Leaders (WBL), the longest-standing executive forum for women in healthcare leadership. And for our landmark 200th episode of Inspiring Women, we're going back to where it all began. Twenty-five years ago, Lynn Shapiro Snyder found herself one too many times as the only woman at the decision-making table. Instead of accepting this reality, she picked up the phone and made 60 cold calls to the most influential women in healthcare. One by one, they answered with a resounding "yes." And WBL was born. Join us for an intimate conversation with the visionaries who started it all: Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Jeannine Rivet, Carrie Valiant, and Marcia Nusgart. With candor, wisdom, and plenty of laughter, these pioneers share how their initial gathering evolved from a one-time retreat into a powerful network that has elevated thousands of women into leadership positions. When women lead, we create a more just and equitable society—full stop. And today, WBL's mission remains as vital as ever. This 200th episode isn't just a milestone; it's a love song to trailblazing women everywhere—those who stand tall, who lift their voices, and who use their power to push, guide, and pull us all forward. Join us for this celebration of legacy, leadership, and the sisterhood that continues to transform healthcare and beyond. Chapter Markers 01:09 How WBL Was Born from One Cold Call 04:01 Planning the First Retreat—and Why It Almost Didn’t Happen 10:32 Saying Yes to Something Bigger Than Yourself 17:56 The First Summit: Envelopes, Oprah Moments, and Self-Promotion 29:33 Why WBL Matters Now More Than Ever 34:52 What WBL Has Meant to Us—Founders Reflect Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Lynn Shapiro Snyder on LinkedIn Connect with Carrie Valiant on LinkedIn Connect with Marcia Nusgart on LinkedIn Learn more about Jeannine Rivet, RN, MPH, FAAN  Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.  WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. "Who mentors the mentors?"

"There's no such thing as a cold call in WBL."

"How can I help you?"

These powerful mantras echo through the halls of Women Business Leaders (WBL), the longest-standing executive forum for women in healthcare leadership. And for our landmark 200th episode of Inspiring Women, we're going back to where it all began.

Twenty-five years ago, Lynn Shapiro Snyder found herself one too many times as the only woman at the decision-making table. Instead of accepting this reality, she picked up the phone and made 60 cold calls to the most influential women in healthcare. One by one, they answered with a resounding "yes." And WBL was born.

Join us for an intimate conversation with the visionaries who started it all: Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Jeannine Rivet, Carrie Valiant, and Marcia Nusgart. With candor, wisdom, and plenty of laughter, these pioneers share how their initial gathering evolved from a one-time retreat into a powerful network that has elevated thousands of women into leadership positions.

When women lead, we create a more just and equitable society—full stop. And today, WBL's mission remains as vital as ever.

This 200th episode isn't just a milestone; it's a love song to trailblazing women everywhere—those who stand tall, who lift their voices, and who use their power to push, guide, and pull us all forward.

Join us for this celebration of legacy, leadership, and the sisterhood that continues to transform healthcare and beyond.

Chapter Markers

01:09 How WBL Was Born from One Cold Call

04:01 Planning the First Retreat—and Why It Almost Didn’t Happen

10:32 Saying Yes to Something Bigger Than Yourself

17:56 The First Summit: Envelopes, Oprah Moments, and Self-Promotion

29:33 Why WBL Matters Now More Than Ever

34:52 What WBL Has Meant to Us—Founders Reflect

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. 

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.


]]> 3150 no What Happens When Behavioral Science Meets a Mother on a Mission? With Kathleen Ellmore || EP. 199 What if the same data that helps sell cereal could also save a life? Kathleen Ellmore asked that question long before most people thought to—and long before healthcare caught up. With roots in consumer marketing, she was using behavioral science to influence buying habits when the term “micro-segmentation” barely existed. But when she stepped into healthcare in the early 2000s, everything changed. As the mother of a daughter with cerebral palsy, Kathleen knew what it felt like to navigate a system that didn’t see her, didn’t remember her, and didn’t connect the dots. Kathleen’s daughter needs a wheelchair. She recalls all too well the months of time it took to get the right approvals for the appropriate wheelchair her daughter needed. Until something happened, a changed job, a new insurance plan, and then being told she would need to start the many month process ALL OVER again. It is hard to hear this story without feeling the agony of this mother for her child.   This proverbial straw led to this realization: data wasn’t the problem; disconnection was. That moment became the heartbeat of Kathleen’s work. She began applying the tools of influence not to sell more products, but to build trust. Her early experiments, like discovering that a male voice on a robocall led to an 86% increase in screenings among Hispanic populations, proved that small shifts, driven by empathy and insight, could drive massive impact. It wasn’t about big data; it was about meaningful data. Today, as cofounder of Engagys, Kathleen is leading a new era of engagement—layering AI on top of decades of behavioral science to ensure health plans don’t just reach people, but truly connect with them. For her, AI is not a shortcut; it’s a tool to scale human-centered care. And while others chase automation, she remains laser-focused on trust. You’ll also hear from Kathleen on: Why most health plans already have the data they need, but fail to use it meaningfully How behavioral science can transform call center scripts into trust-building tools What it really took to launch a profitable consultancy—no funding, no incubator, just mission and grit How Kathleen balances technical innovation with ethical guardrails in a system under pressure This conversation isn’t just about data. It’s about care, courage, and what happens when you decide to build something better because the system failed you. Chapters 01:52 Applying Consumer Marketing to Healthcare 03:04 Building Engagys from the Ground Up 06:32 Trust, Data, and Personal Motivation 11:00 A Mother's Experience with a Broken System 13:10 AI, Behavioral Science, and Human-Centered Care 20:00 Leadership, LinkedIn, and Advice for Founders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Kathleen Ellmore on LinkedIn About Engagys Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.  WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 13 May 2025 08:08:00 -0000 What Happens When Behavioral Science Meets a Mother on a Mission? With Kathleen Ellmore full 199 Laurie McGraw What if the same data that helps sell cereal could also save a life? Kathleen Ellmore asked that question long before most people thought to—and long before healthcare caught up. With roots in consumer marketing, she was using behavioral science to influence buying habits when the term “micro-segmentation” barely existed. But when she stepped into healthcare in the early 2000s, everything changed. As the mother of a daughter with cerebral palsy, Kathleen knew what it felt like to navigate a system that didn’t see her, didn’t remember her, and didn’t connect the dots. Kathleen’s daughter needs a wheelchair. She recalls all too well the months of time it took to get the right approvals for the appropriate wheelchair her daughter needed. Until something happened, a changed job, a new insurance plan, and then being told she would need to start the many month process ALL OVER again. It is hard to hear this story without feeling the agony of this mother for her child.   This proverbial straw led to this realization: data wasn’t the problem; disconnection was. That moment became the heartbeat of Kathleen’s work. She began applying the tools of influence not to sell more products, but to build trust. Her early experiments, like discovering that a male voice on a robocall led to an 86% increase in screenings among Hispanic populations, proved that small shifts, driven by empathy and insight, could drive massive impact. It wasn’t about big data; it was about meaningful data. Today, as cofounder of Engagys, Kathleen is leading a new era of engagement—layering AI on top of decades of behavioral science to ensure health plans don’t just reach people, but truly connect with them. For her, AI is not a shortcut; it’s a tool to scale human-centered care. And while others chase automation, she remains laser-focused on trust. You’ll also hear from Kathleen on: Why most health plans already have the data they need, but fail to use it meaningfully How behavioral science can transform call center scripts into trust-building tools What it really took to launch a profitable consultancy—no funding, no incubator, just mission and grit How Kathleen balances technical innovation with ethical guardrails in a system under pressure This conversation isn’t just about data. It’s about care, courage, and what happens when you decide to build something better because the system failed you. Chapters 01:52 Applying Consumer Marketing to Healthcare 03:04 Building Engagys from the Ground Up 06:32 Trust, Data, and Personal Motivation 11:00 A Mother's Experience with a Broken System 13:10 AI, Behavioral Science, and Human-Centered Care 20:00 Leadership, LinkedIn, and Advice for Founders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Kathleen Ellmore on LinkedIn About Engagys Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.  WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. What if the same data that helps sell cereal could also save a life? Kathleen Ellmore asked that question long before most people thought to—and long before healthcare caught up. With roots in consumer marketing, she was using behavioral science to influence buying habits when the term “micro-segmentation” barely existed. But when she stepped into healthcare in the early 2000s, everything changed.

As the mother of a daughter with cerebral palsy, Kathleen knew what it felt like to navigate a system that didn’t see her, didn’t remember her, and didn’t connect the dots. Kathleen’s daughter needs a wheelchair. She recalls all too well the months of time it took to get the right approvals for the appropriate wheelchair her daughter needed. Until something happened, a changed job, a new insurance plan, and then being told she would need to start the many month process ALL OVER again. It is hard to hear this story without feeling the agony of this mother for her child.  

This proverbial straw led to this realization: data wasn’t the problem; disconnection was. That moment became the heartbeat of Kathleen’s work.

She began applying the tools of influence not to sell more products, but to build trust. Her early experiments, like discovering that a male voice on a robocall led to an 86% increase in screenings among Hispanic populations, proved that small shifts, driven by empathy and insight, could drive massive impact. It wasn’t about big data; it was about meaningful data.

Today, as cofounder of Engagys, Kathleen is leading a new era of engagement—layering AI on top of decades of behavioral science to ensure health plans don’t just reach people, but truly connect with them. For her, AI is not a shortcut; it’s a tool to scale human-centered care. And while others chase automation, she remains laser-focused on trust.

You’ll also hear from Kathleen on:

  • Why most health plans already have the data they need, but fail to use it meaningfully

  • How behavioral science can transform call center scripts into trust-building tools

  • What it really took to launch a profitable consultancy—no funding, no incubator, just mission and grit

  • How Kathleen balances technical innovation with ethical guardrails in a system under pressure

This conversation isn’t just about data. It’s about care, courage, and what happens when you decide to build something better because the system failed you.

Chapters

01:52 Applying Consumer Marketing to Healthcare

03:04 Building Engagys from the Ground Up

06:32 Trust, Data, and Personal Motivation

11:00 A Mother's Experience with a Broken System

13:10 AI, Behavioral Science, and Human-Centered Care

20:00 Leadership, LinkedIn, and Advice for Founders

Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. 

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1313 no How Far Would You Go to Prevent Another Loss? Carissa Rollins Went All In || EP. 198 After losing both her sister and a close friend to cancer in the same year, Carissa Rollins knew she couldn’t stay where she was. As CIO of UnitedHealthcare, she had scale and power, but not proximity to the technology that might have changed those outcomes. So when the call came from Illumina, a company pioneering genomic sequencing, she listened. And then she leapt. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Carissa shares how grief reshaped her career and how purpose—not title—has always been her compass. She talks candidly about what it means to walk away from the “biggest job of your life” to chase deeper impact, and how she’s now using her insider knowledge of the payer system to open doors for patients who would otherwise be left out of the genomic revolution. Carissa also reflects on the turning points that built her leadership style—from writing a three-page letter to fight for a promotion, to insisting on coaching even when her boss said she didn’t need it. She’s quick to credit the mentors who pulled her forward—but equally passionate about pulling others up behind her. “Why are you sitting in the back?” she recalls asking one young woman. “Your voice is important.” Now at Illumina, she’s helping her teams think critically about how AI can reduce burnout—not by cutting jobs, but by removing outdated, burdensome processes and freeing people to do more meaningful work. It’s a nuanced, systems-based view that resists the hype and centers on impact. You’ll also hear Carissa speak on: Why she sees restlessness as a sign it’s time to grow The alarming drop in women in tech—and what we can do about it How the Grand Canyon Conservancy helps her stay grounded (and where she thinks tech could help the parks) What it really takes to make space at the table—and why women can’t afford to close the door behind them This conversation is full of hard-earned wisdom, honest reflections, and a fierce belief in using every ounce of power to move others forward. Chapters 03:52 Overcoming Restlessness & Seeking New Challenges 10:05 Impact, Market Access & Personal Fulfillment 14:59 AI’s Role in Operations & Efficiency 15:53 Inspiring Young Women in Technology 17:38 Challenges & Setbacks for Women in Tech 19:52 Empowering Advice for Future Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Carissa Rollins on LinkedIn About Illumina Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 06 May 2025 08:08:00 -0000 How Far Would You Go to Prevent Another Loss? Carissa Rollins Went All In full 198 Laurie McGraw After losing both her sister and a close friend to cancer in the same year, Carissa Rollins knew she couldn’t stay where she was. As CIO of UnitedHealthcare, she had scale and power, but not proximity to the technology that might have changed those outcomes. So when the call came from Illumina, a company pioneering genomic sequencing, she listened. And then she leapt. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Carissa shares how grief reshaped her career and how purpose—not title—has always been her compass. She talks candidly about what it means to walk away from the “biggest job of your life” to chase deeper impact, and how she’s now using her insider knowledge of the payer system to open doors for patients who would otherwise be left out of the genomic revolution. Carissa also reflects on the turning points that built her leadership style—from writing a three-page letter to fight for a promotion, to insisting on coaching even when her boss said she didn’t need it. She’s quick to credit the mentors who pulled her forward—but equally passionate about pulling others up behind her. “Why are you sitting in the back?” she recalls asking one young woman. “Your voice is important.” Now at Illumina, she’s helping her teams think critically about how AI can reduce burnout—not by cutting jobs, but by removing outdated, burdensome processes and freeing people to do more meaningful work. It’s a nuanced, systems-based view that resists the hype and centers on impact. You’ll also hear Carissa speak on: Why she sees restlessness as a sign it’s time to grow The alarming drop in women in tech—and what we can do about it How the Grand Canyon Conservancy helps her stay grounded (and where she thinks tech could help the parks) What it really takes to make space at the table—and why women can’t afford to close the door behind them This conversation is full of hard-earned wisdom, honest reflections, and a fierce belief in using every ounce of power to move others forward. Chapters 03:52 Overcoming Restlessness & Seeking New Challenges 10:05 Impact, Market Access & Personal Fulfillment 14:59 AI’s Role in Operations & Efficiency 15:53 Inspiring Young Women in Technology 17:38 Challenges & Setbacks for Women in Tech 19:52 Empowering Advice for Future Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Carissa Rollins on LinkedIn About Illumina Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. After losing both her sister and a close friend to cancer in the same year, Carissa Rollins knew she couldn’t stay where she was. As CIO of UnitedHealthcare, she had scale and power, but not proximity to the technology that might have changed those outcomes. So when the call came from Illumina, a company pioneering genomic sequencing, she listened. And then she leapt.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Carissa shares how grief reshaped her career and how purpose—not title—has always been her compass. She talks candidly about what it means to walk away from the “biggest job of your life” to chase deeper impact, and how she’s now using her insider knowledge of the payer system to open doors for patients who would otherwise be left out of the genomic revolution.

Carissa also reflects on the turning points that built her leadership style—from writing a three-page letter to fight for a promotion, to insisting on coaching even when her boss said she didn’t need it. She’s quick to credit the mentors who pulled her forward—but equally passionate about pulling others up behind her. “Why are you sitting in the back?” she recalls asking one young woman. “Your voice is important.”

Now at Illumina, she’s helping her teams think critically about how AI can reduce burnout—not by cutting jobs, but by removing outdated, burdensome processes and freeing people to do more meaningful work. It’s a nuanced, systems-based view that resists the hype and centers on impact.

You’ll also hear Carissa speak on:

  • Why she sees restlessness as a sign it’s time to grow

  • The alarming drop in women in tech—and what we can do about it

  • How the Grand Canyon Conservancy helps her stay grounded (and where she thinks tech could help the parks)

  • What it really takes to make space at the table—and why women can’t afford to close the door behind them

This conversation is full of hard-earned wisdom, honest reflections, and a fierce belief in using every ounce of power to move others forward.


Chapters

03:52 Overcoming Restlessness & Seeking New Challenges

10:05 Impact, Market Access & Personal Fulfillment

14:59 AI’s Role in Operations & Efficiency

15:53 Inspiring Young Women in Technology

17:38 Challenges & Setbacks for Women in Tech

19:52 Empowering Advice for Future Leaders


Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1536 no How Adaptability Can Be Your Greatest Leadership Strength || EP. 197 Sophia Kim has spent her career breaking molds, and building better models for leadership and care delivery. From her early start navigating journalism and consulting to leading high-growth teams in healthcare, Sophia’s path has been shaped by adaptability, ambition, and a commitment to creating change that matters. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sophia shares her journey from balancing a demanding consulting career with raising two young children to finding her footing in healthcare leadership - without a clinical background, but with a deep understanding of people, systems, and what real innovation requires. She talks about: How she’s helping rethink access to heart care through virtual-first models — and why bold ideas are needed to meet today’s healthcare challenges. The leadership lessons she’s carried from consulting rooms to executive suites — including why being able to “be like water” has been essential to growth. How women leaders can create space not just for themselves, but for the next generation. Why technology must always serve people first — and how to balance innovation with the human experience. Sophia’s story is about more than business growth. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and the power of leading with both strategy and heart. Chapters 00:01:27 Sophia’s Immigrant Story & Early Career Background 00:08:32 Leading Through the Pandemic 00:11:28 Complexity of Cardiovascular Health 00:12:39 Cardiologist Shortage & Access Issues 00:15:06 Role of AI in Cardiology & Patient Engagement 00:19:54 Sophia’s Leadership Style Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sophia Kim on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:08:00 -0000 How Adaptability Can Be Your Greatest Leadership Strength full 197 Laurie McGraw Sophia Kim has spent her career breaking molds, and building better models for leadership and care delivery. From her early start navigating journalism and consulting to leading high-growth teams in healthcare, Sophia’s path has been shaped by adaptability, ambition, and a commitment to creating change that matters. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sophia shares her journey from balancing a demanding consulting career with raising two young children to finding her footing in healthcare leadership - without a clinical background, but with a deep understanding of people, systems, and what real innovation requires. She talks about: How she’s helping rethink access to heart care through virtual-first models — and why bold ideas are needed to meet today’s healthcare challenges. The leadership lessons she’s carried from consulting rooms to executive suites — including why being able to “be like water” has been essential to growth. How women leaders can create space not just for themselves, but for the next generation. Why technology must always serve people first — and how to balance innovation with the human experience. Sophia’s story is about more than business growth. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and the power of leading with both strategy and heart. Chapters 00:01:27 Sophia’s Immigrant Story & Early Career Background 00:08:32 Leading Through the Pandemic 00:11:28 Complexity of Cardiovascular Health 00:12:39 Cardiologist Shortage & Access Issues 00:15:06 Role of AI in Cardiology & Patient Engagement 00:19:54 Sophia’s Leadership Style Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sophia Kim on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Sophia Kim has spent her career breaking molds, and building better models for leadership and care delivery.

From her early start navigating journalism and consulting to leading high-growth teams in healthcare, Sophia’s path has been shaped by adaptability, ambition, and a commitment to creating change that matters.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sophia shares her journey from balancing a demanding consulting career with raising two young children to finding her footing in healthcare leadership - without a clinical background, but with a deep understanding of people, systems, and what real innovation requires.

She talks about:

  • How she’s helping rethink access to heart care through virtual-first models — and why bold ideas are needed to meet today’s healthcare challenges.

  • The leadership lessons she’s carried from consulting rooms to executive suites — including why being able to “be like water” has been essential to growth.

  • How women leaders can create space not just for themselves, but for the next generation.

  • Why technology must always serve people first — and how to balance innovation with the human experience.

Sophia’s story is about more than business growth. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and the power of leading with both strategy and heart.

Chapters

00:01:27 Sophia’s Immigrant Story & Early Career Background

00:08:32 Leading Through the Pandemic

00:11:28 Complexity of Cardiovascular Health

00:12:39 Cardiologist Shortage & Access Issues

00:15:06 Role of AI in Cardiology & Patient Engagement

00:19:54 Sophia’s Leadership Style


Guest & Host Links

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1427 no Speak Louder or Shut Up? Rita Johnson-Mills on What Happens When DEI Becomes Too Controversial || EP. 196 What happens when the system meant to care for everyone, doesn’t? Healthcare equity isn’t theoretical. It’s about who lives, who dies, and who gets a chance. For Rita Johnson-Mills, this isn’t abstract. It’s the work of a lifetime. As a former Medicaid executive, CEO, and now board leader, she has spent decades fighting to ensure Black and Brown communities receive the care, dignity, and leadership they deserve. Rita’s not just breaking glass ceilings. She’s questioning who built the ceiling in the first place. Her leadership spans public health, corporate boardrooms, and the lives of the women she’s mentored into executive roles. Her impact is structural. Her mission is urgent. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about: In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about: What happens when DEI becomes too controversial to talk about in healthcare? What does it take to succeed when the systems were never designed for you? How can we protect the lives of Black mothers and babies when health equity is under threat? How can leaders build a legacy by mentoring the next generation of women executives? Why does boardroom diversity matter, and how do we make sure it’s more than lip service? Rita’s leadership isn’t just impressive. It’s necessary. She’s not just creating space—she’s changing the system itself. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Rita Johnson-Mills on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Speak Louder or Shut Up? Rita Johnson-Mills on What Happens When DEI Becomes Too Controversial full 196 Laurie McGraw What happens when the system meant to care for everyone, doesn’t? Healthcare equity isn’t theoretical. It’s about who lives, who dies, and who gets a chance. For Rita Johnson-Mills, this isn’t abstract. It’s the work of a lifetime. As a former Medicaid executive, CEO, and now board leader, she has spent decades fighting to ensure Black and Brown communities receive the care, dignity, and leadership they deserve. Rita’s not just breaking glass ceilings. She’s questioning who built the ceiling in the first place. Her leadership spans public health, corporate boardrooms, and the lives of the women she’s mentored into executive roles. Her impact is structural. Her mission is urgent. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about: In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about: What happens when DEI becomes too controversial to talk about in healthcare? What does it take to succeed when the systems were never designed for you? How can we protect the lives of Black mothers and babies when health equity is under threat? How can leaders build a legacy by mentoring the next generation of women executives? Why does boardroom diversity matter, and how do we make sure it’s more than lip service? Rita’s leadership isn’t just impressive. It’s necessary. She’s not just creating space—she’s changing the system itself. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Rita Johnson-Mills on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. What happens when the system meant to care for everyone, doesn’t?


Healthcare equity isn’t theoretical. It’s about who lives, who dies, and who gets a chance. For Rita Johnson-Mills, this isn’t abstract. It’s the work of a lifetime.

As a former Medicaid executive, CEO, and now board leader, she has spent decades fighting to ensure Black and Brown communities receive the care, dignity, and leadership they deserve.


Rita’s not just breaking glass ceilings. She’s questioning who built the ceiling in the first place. Her leadership spans public health, corporate boardrooms, and the lives of the women she’s mentored into executive roles. Her impact is structural. Her mission is urgent.

In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about:


In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rita speaks about:


  • What happens when DEI becomes too controversial to talk about in healthcare?
  • What does it take to succeed when the systems were never designed for you?
  • How can we protect the lives of Black mothers and babies when health equity is under threat?
  • How can leaders build a legacy by mentoring the next generation of women executives?
  • Why does boardroom diversity matter, and how do we make sure it’s more than lip service?


Rita’s leadership isn’t just impressive. It’s necessary. She’s not just creating space—she’s changing the system itself.


Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Rita Johnson-Mills on LinkedIn

Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify


This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1887 no Tia Newcomer on turning caregiver overwhelm into community action || EP. 195 When a diagnosis is shared, the questions come fast: What happened? How can I help? For families in crisis, support is critical—but often chaotic. Without a structure to manage communication or coordinate care, caregivers are left to navigate emotional overwhelm and logistical complexity at the same time. That’s where CaringBridge steps in. In this episode of Inspiring Women, CEO Tia Newcomer joins Laurie McGraw to talk about what it takes to bring real support into the healthcare experience—not as a nice-to-have, but as essential infrastructure. Under her leadership, CaringBridge is expanding its reach, embedding into points of diagnosis and discharge, and protecting trust in a space where many would trade it for scale. With two decades of executive leadership across Fortune 100, VC, and private equity–backed health tech and consumer brands, Tia brings a sharp operational lens to deeply human problems and a clear vision for what care can look like when support is treated as essential, not optional. Key themes explored: How can caregiver support become a standard part of the care journey? What does it take to grow a mission without compromising its core? Why is trust a strategic choice and how do you protect it? What can cross-sector leadership unlock in healthcare innovation? Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Tia Newcomer on LinkedIn About CaringBridge  Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Tia Newcomer on turning caregiver overwhelm into community action full 195 Laurie McGraw When a diagnosis is shared, the questions come fast: What happened? How can I help? For families in crisis, support is critical—but often chaotic. Without a structure to manage communication or coordinate care, caregivers are left to navigate emotional overwhelm and logistical complexity at the same time. That’s where CaringBridge steps in. In this episode of Inspiring Women, CEO Tia Newcomer joins Laurie McGraw to talk about what it takes to bring real support into the healthcare experience—not as a nice-to-have, but as essential infrastructure. Under her leadership, CaringBridge is expanding its reach, embedding into points of diagnosis and discharge, and protecting trust in a space where many would trade it for scale. With two decades of executive leadership across Fortune 100, VC, and private equity–backed health tech and consumer brands, Tia brings a sharp operational lens to deeply human problems and a clear vision for what care can look like when support is treated as essential, not optional. Key themes explored: How can caregiver support become a standard part of the care journey? What does it take to grow a mission without compromising its core? Why is trust a strategic choice and how do you protect it? What can cross-sector leadership unlock in healthcare innovation? Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Tia Newcomer on LinkedIn About CaringBridge  Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. When a diagnosis is shared, the questions come fast: What happened? How can I help?


For families in crisis, support is critical—but often chaotic. Without a structure to manage communication or coordinate care, caregivers are left to navigate emotional overwhelm and logistical complexity at the same time.


That’s where CaringBridge steps in.


In this episode of Inspiring Women, CEO Tia Newcomer joins Laurie McGraw to talk about what it takes to bring real support into the healthcare experience—not as a nice-to-have, but as essential infrastructure. Under her leadership, CaringBridge is expanding its reach, embedding into points of diagnosis and discharge, and protecting trust in a space where many would trade it for scale.


With two decades of executive leadership across Fortune 100, VC, and private equity–backed health tech and consumer brands, Tia brings a sharp operational lens to deeply human problems and a clear vision for what care can look like when support is treated as essential, not optional.


Key themes explored:

  • How can caregiver support become a standard part of the care journey?
  • What does it take to grow a mission without compromising its core?
  • Why is trust a strategic choice and how do you protect it?
  • What can cross-sector leadership unlock in healthcare innovation?


Guest & Host Links



Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify


This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.

WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

]]> 1814 no Remembering Your Why: Dr. Rice’s Guide to Purposeful Leadership || EP. 194 Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, the sixth president of Morehouse School of Medicine and first woman to lead as president and CEO, cuts through the noise with her refreshingly direct approach to diversifying healthcare. "If Morehouse School of Medicine is not part of the DEI story, I don't know what the DEI story is," Dr. Rice says, refusing to back down from her mission despite today's challenging climate. She brings receipts too—showing exactly how diversity in medicine delivers measurable benefits in economic impact, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes. Dr. Rice shares her practical wisdom for staying focused when leadership gets tough: "Sometimes you have to put on blinders so you don't become distracted and put earplugs in and only turn up the volume for things that are gonna keep you moving forward." She emphasizes the importance of regular connection with those she serves, keeping her calendar open on Friday afternoons for 15-minute conversations with anyone who needs to speak with her. Her journey from rural Georgia to the pinnacle of medical leadership is remarkable—transitioning from a degree in chemical engineering to attending Harvard Medical School after realizing she needed to follow her own path rather than others' expectations. This willingness to pivot and trust herself has defined her leadership style, as she's moved through numerous academic and clinical roles to her current position. Dr. Rice discusses the critical importance of trust in medicine and how physician diversity directly improves health outcomes: "The foundation of any relationship is trust." She explains how physicians who understand their patients' backgrounds can "meet them where they are" to create more effective care plans. From tackling physician representation to building patient trust through cultural concordance, Dr. Rice offers a masterclass in purposeful leadership. She reminds us why this work matters now more than ever, summing up her philosophy with the powerful question she asks herself daily: "What would you do if you could not fail?" This conversation isn't just about healthcare—it's about leading with conviction when the path gets rocky and remembering your "why" when challenges mount. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Dr Valerie Montgomery Rice on LinkedIn Learn more about Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG About Morehouse School of Medicine Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:08:00 -0000 Remembering Your Why: Dr. Rice’s Guide to Purposeful Leadership full 194 Laurie McGraw Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, the sixth president of Morehouse School of Medicine and first woman to lead as president and CEO, cuts through the noise with her refreshingly direct approach to diversifying healthcare. "If Morehouse School of Medicine is not part of the DEI story, I don't know what the DEI story is," Dr. Rice says, refusing to back down from her mission despite today's challenging climate. She brings receipts too—showing exactly how diversity in medicine delivers measurable benefits in economic impact, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes. Dr. Rice shares her practical wisdom for staying focused when leadership gets tough: "Sometimes you have to put on blinders so you don't become distracted and put earplugs in and only turn up the volume for things that are gonna keep you moving forward." She emphasizes the importance of regular connection with those she serves, keeping her calendar open on Friday afternoons for 15-minute conversations with anyone who needs to speak with her. Her journey from rural Georgia to the pinnacle of medical leadership is remarkable—transitioning from a degree in chemical engineering to attending Harvard Medical School after realizing she needed to follow her own path rather than others' expectations. This willingness to pivot and trust herself has defined her leadership style, as she's moved through numerous academic and clinical roles to her current position. Dr. Rice discusses the critical importance of trust in medicine and how physician diversity directly improves health outcomes: "The foundation of any relationship is trust." She explains how physicians who understand their patients' backgrounds can "meet them where they are" to create more effective care plans. From tackling physician representation to building patient trust through cultural concordance, Dr. Rice offers a masterclass in purposeful leadership. She reminds us why this work matters now more than ever, summing up her philosophy with the powerful question she asks herself daily: "What would you do if you could not fail?" This conversation isn't just about healthcare—it's about leading with conviction when the path gets rocky and remembering your "why" when challenges mount. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Dr Valerie Montgomery Rice on LinkedIn Learn more about Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG About Morehouse School of Medicine Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry. Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, the sixth president of Morehouse School of Medicine and first woman to lead as president and CEO, cuts through the noise with her refreshingly direct approach to diversifying healthcare.


"If Morehouse School of Medicine is not part of the DEI story, I don't know what the DEI story is," Dr. Rice says, refusing to back down from her mission despite today's challenging climate. She brings receipts too—showing exactly how diversity in medicine delivers measurable benefits in economic impact, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes.


Dr. Rice shares her practical wisdom for staying focused when leadership gets tough: "Sometimes you have to put on blinders so you don't become distracted and put earplugs in and only turn up the volume for things that are gonna keep you moving forward." She emphasizes the importance of regular connection with those she serves, keeping her calendar open on Friday afternoons for 15-minute conversations with anyone who needs to speak with her.


Her journey from rural Georgia to the pinnacle of medical leadership is remarkable—transitioning from a degree in chemical engineering to attending Harvard Medical School after realizing she needed to follow her own path rather than others' expectations. This willingness to pivot and trust herself has defined her leadership style, as she's moved through numerous academic and clinical roles to her current position.


Dr. Rice discusses the critical importance of trust in medicine and how physician diversity directly improves health outcomes: "The foundation of any relationship is trust." She explains how physicians who understand their patients' backgrounds can "meet them where they are" to create more effective care plans.


From tackling physician representation to building patient trust through cultural concordance, Dr. Rice offers a masterclass in purposeful leadership. She reminds us why this work matters now more than ever, summing up her philosophy with the powerful question she asks herself daily: "What would you do if you could not fail?"


This conversation isn't just about healthcare—it's about leading with conviction when the path gets rocky and remembering your "why" when challenges mount.


Guest & Host Links


Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify



This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring.


WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL’s mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.


]]> 1594 no Drop the ‘empowerment’, get rid of bureaucracy instead: Jessica Neal, former Netflix talent officer, on getting back to work || EP. 193 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/04/01/drop-the-empowerment-get-rid-of-bureaucracy-instead-jessica-neal-former-netflix-talent-officer-on-getting-back-to-work-ep-193/ Art school isn’t the typical starting point for a tech industry leader, but for Jessica Neal, former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, it was the first step in an extraordinary career. In this episode, Jessica shares how she transitioned from an aspiring artist to headhunter to leading Netflix’s talent strategy during its explosive growth. Jessica emphasizes the critical importance of providing clear direction and context when it comes to leadership. “If you don’t give the right context and your team isn’t doing well, guess whose fault it is? Yours.” Jessica doesn’t sugar coat the reality of what it takes to lead well and effectively today. Empower your teams? What does empower mean? How about let people do their work and get rid of bureaucracy? Jessica provides a masterclass in adaptability and strategic thinking. She reveals how Netflix’s unique culture of “freedom and responsibility” shaped its success and how she implemented the “context, not control” philosophy to empower teams. As a current venture partner at TCV, board member for cutting-edge companies, and co-host of the TruthWorks podcast, Jessica offers invaluable insights on: Identifying and nurturing top talent in high-growth environments Creating a culture of clarity and context to drive business success Evolving HR practices to meet the demands of modern, global workforces Navigating the complexities of DEI initiatives in today's political climate The future of work and how leaders can prepare for ongoing changes Guest Resources: TCV TruthWorks Podcast LinkedIn Instagram About Jessica: Jessica Neal is a seasoned talent and human resources executive who has made significant contributions to some of the most innovative companies in the tech industry. Currently serving as a Venture Partner at TCV (Technology Crossover Ventures), a leading growth equity firm, Jessica brings her extensive experience in talent management and organizational culture to help scale high-growth companies. Jessica’s career journey is as unconventional as it is impressive. She began her professional life as an artist, earning a BFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Her path took an unexpected turn when she discovered her talent for identifying and nurturing top- tier talent in the tech industry. Jessica is perhaps best known for her transformative work at Netflix, where she spent over 11 years across two tenures. As Chief Talent Officer (CHRO), she played a pivotal role in shaping Netflix’s renowned culture during its explosive growth from a DVD-by-mail service to the world’s leading streaming entertainment company. Under her leadership, Netflix’s workforce expanded from 250 to over 10,000 employees globally. Between her stints at Netflix, Jessica held key leadership positions at other innovative companies. She served as Chief People Officer at Scopely, a mobile gaming company, and as Vice President of Talent at Coursera, an online education platform. These experiences further honed her skills in building and scaling teams in fast-paced, high-growth environments. Today, Jessica leverages her expertise as a board member for several companies, including JFrog, a DevOps platform, and Public.com, a social investing platform. Her board service allows her to share her insights on talent strategy, organizational culture, and scaling operations with the next generation of tech leaders. Jessica is also passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences with a broader audience. She co-hosts the “TruthWorks” podcast with Patty McCord, where they explore pressing issues affecting the modern workplace, from AI and mental health to layoffs and toxic cultures. Known for her candid approach and deep understanding of what makes great companies tick, Jessica Neal continues to be a influential voice in reshaping how we think about work, talent, and organizational culture in the 21st century. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:49 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Art school isn’t the typical starting point for a tech industry leader, but for Jessica Neal, former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, it was the first step in an extraordinary career. In this episode, Jessica shares how she transitioned from an aspirin... Art school isn’t the typical starting point for a tech industry leader, but for Jessica Neal, former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, it was the first step in an extraordinary career. In this episode, Jessica shares how she transitioned from an aspiring artist to headhunter to leading Netflix’s talent strategy during its explosive growth. Jessica emphasizes the critical importance of providing clear direction and context when it comes to leadership. “If you don’t give the right context and your team isn’t doing well, guess whose fault it is? Yours.” Jessica doesn’t sugar coat the reality of what it takes to lead well and effectively today. Empower your teams? What does empower mean? How about let people do their work and get rid of bureaucracy? Jessica provides a masterclass in adaptability and strategic thinking. She reveals how Netflix’s unique culture of “freedom and responsibility” shaped its success and how she implemented the “context, not control” philosophy to empower teams. As a current venture partner at TCV, board member for cutting-edge companies, and co-host of the TruthWorks podcast, Jessica offers invaluable insights on: Identifying and nurturing top talent in high-growth environments Creating a culture of clarity and context to drive business success Evolving HR practices to meet the demands of modern, global workforces Navigating the complexities of DEI initiatives in today's political climate The future of work and how leaders can prepare for ongoing changes Guest Resources: TCV TruthWorks Podcast LinkedIn Instagram About Jessica: Jessica Neal is a seasoned talent and human resources executive who has made significant contributions to some of the most innovative companies in the tech industry. Currently serving as a Venture Partner at TCV (Technology Crossover Ventures), a leading growth equity firm, Jessica brings her extensive experience in talent management and organizational culture to help scale high-growth companies. Jessica’s career journey is as unconventional as it is impressive. She began her professional life as an artist, earning a BFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Her path took an unexpected turn when she discovered her talent for identifying and nurturing top- tier talent in the tech industry. Jessica is perhaps best known for her transformative work at Netflix, where she spent over 11 years across two tenures. As Chief Talent Officer (CHRO), she played a pivotal role in shaping Netflix’s renowned culture during its explosive growth from a DVD-by-mail service to the world’s leading streaming entertainment company. Under her leadership, Netflix’s workforce expanded from 250 to over 10,000 employees globally. Between her stints at Netflix, Jessica held key leadership positions at other innovative companies. She served as Chief People Officer at Scopely, a mobile gaming company, and as Vice President of Talent at Coursera, an online education platform. These experiences further honed her skills in building and scaling teams in fast-paced, high-growth environments. Today, Jessica leverages her expertise as a board member for several companies, including JFrog, a DevOps platform, and Public.com, a social investing platform. Her board service allows her to share her insights on talent strategy, organizational culture, and scaling operations with the next generation of tech leaders. Jessica is also passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences with a broader audience. She co-hosts the “TruthWorks” podcast with Patty McCord, where they explore pressing issues affecting the modern workplace, from AI and mental health to layoffs and toxic cultures. Known for her candid approach and deep understanding of what makes great companies tick, Jessica Neal continues to be a influential voice in reshaping how we think about work, talent, and organizational culture in the 21st century. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

Art school isn’t the typical starting point for a tech industry leader, but for Jessica Neal, former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, it was the first step in an extraordinary career. In this episode, Jessica shares how she transitioned from an aspiring artist to headhunter to leading Netflix’s talent strategy during its explosive growth.

Jessica emphasizes the critical importance of providing clear direction and context when it comes to leadership. “If you don’t give the right context and your team isn’t doing well, guess whose fault it is? Yours.” Jessica doesn’t sugar coat the reality of what it takes to lead well and effectively today.

Empower your teams? What does empower mean? How about let people do their work and get rid of bureaucracy? Jessica provides a masterclass in adaptability and strategic thinking. She reveals how Netflix’s unique culture of “freedom and responsibility” shaped its success and how she implemented the “context, not control” philosophy to empower teams.

As a current venture partner at TCV, board member for cutting-edge companies, and co-host of the TruthWorks podcast, Jessica offers invaluable insights on:

  • Identifying and nurturing top talent in high-growth environments
  • Creating a culture of clarity and context to drive business success
  • Evolving HR practices to meet the demands of modern, global workforces
  • Navigating the complexities of DEI initiatives in today's political climate
  • The future of work and how leaders can prepare for ongoing changes

Guest Resources:

About Jessica:

Jessica Neal is a seasoned talent and human resources executive who has made significant contributions to some of the most innovative companies in the tech industry. Currently serving as a Venture Partner at TCV (Technology Crossover Ventures), a leading growth equity firm, Jessica brings her extensive experience in talent management and organizational culture to help scale high-growth companies.

Jessica’s career journey is as unconventional as it is impressive. She began her professional life as an artist, earning a BFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Her path took an unexpected turn when she discovered her talent for identifying and nurturing top- tier talent in the tech industry.

Jessica is perhaps best known for her transformative work at Netflix, where she spent over 11 years across two tenures. As Chief Talent Officer (CHRO), she played a pivotal role in shaping Netflix’s renowned culture during its explosive growth from a DVD-by-mail service to the world’s leading streaming entertainment company. Under her leadership, Netflix’s workforce expanded from 250 to over 10,000 employees globally.

Between her stints at Netflix, Jessica held key leadership positions at other innovative companies. She served as Chief People Officer at Scopely, a mobile gaming company, and as Vice President of Talent at Coursera, an online education platform. These experiences further honed her skills in building and scaling teams in fast-paced, high-growth environments.

Today, Jessica leverages her expertise as a board member for several companies, including JFrog, a DevOps platform, and Public.com, a social investing platform. Her board service allows her to share her insights on talent strategy, organizational culture, and scaling operations with the next generation of tech leaders.

Jessica is also passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences with a broader audience. She co-hosts the “TruthWorks” podcast with Patty McCord, where they explore pressing issues affecting the modern workplace, from AI and mental health to layoffs and toxic cultures.

Known for her candid approach and deep understanding of what makes great companies tick, Jessica Neal continues to be a influential voice in reshaping how we think about work, talent, and organizational culture in the 21st century.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 2637 no The Work Isn’t Done: Margaret ‘Peggy’ O’Kane on Quality, Data, and Driving Change || EP. 192 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/03/25/the-work-isnt-done-margaret-peggy-okane-on-quality-data-and-driving-change-ep-192/ “We need to be more ambitious….” Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane transformed healthcare quality measurement in America when she created NCQA 35 years ago. As she reflects on what it has meant to create the foundations for quality measurement, she is also clear that the complex state of healthcare requires leaders across payers, health systems, employers, and providers to do more. Disruption is required. In this revealing conversation with Laurie McGraw, O’Kane reflects on her journey from respiratory therapist to healthcare quality pioneer, the development of HEDIS® as the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool, and her passionate advocacy for addressing racial disparities in healthcare outcomes. As she prepares to retire at the end of 2025, O’Kane shares candid insights on the challenges facing healthcare quality improvement and her vision for the industry’s future. Discover why this legendary leader believes that despite progress, “so much work that’s undone” in creating a trusted, quality healthcare system. O’Kane’s unwavering commitment to health equity shines through when she addresses recent pushback on measuring disparities: “There are undeniable differences in health outcomes among different population groups… I think people need to be determined to push through, to learn about how to approach this.” Her call for persistence resonates powerfully as she urges healthcare leaders to “follow the data, avoid the noise… and stay ambitious and courageous” in addressing healthcare disparities. Key Takeaways: 1. Quality Measurement Evolution: O’Kane’s journey with NCQA began by addressing the disorganized state of healthcare, evolving from basic preventive measures to comprehensive digital quality metrics that can transform population health management. 2. Digital Transformation: The future of healthcare quality lies in digital reporting and enablement, moving beyond traditional HEDIS® measures toward more ambitious, customized approaches that can better serve diverse patient populations. 3. Health Equity Imperative: Despite political pushbacks, O’Kane emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to measure and address healthcare disparities through data-driven approaches, including innovative methods like using zip codes when direct demographic data collection faces challenges. 4. System Transformation Challenges: O’Kane acknowledges that transforming healthcare requires changing deeply ingrained practices, noting that “everybody’s been trained to work in the current model” and meaningful change requires persistence, curiosity, and willingness to adapt when approaches aren’t working. Guest Resources: National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) LinkedIn About Margaret (Peggy) O’Kane: Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane is the founder and president of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), an organization she established in 1990 to transform healthcare quality measurement and improvement in America. After recognizing the disorganized state of healthcare during her early career as a respiratory therapist, O’Kane pursued a master’s degree in public health and health policy from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, which equipped her with the knowledge to revolutionize healthcare quality standards. Under her visionary leadership spanning 35 years, NCQA developed the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®), now the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool. Today, more than 216 million people—approximately 65% of the U.S. population—are enrolled in NCQA-Accredited plans that use HEDIS to assess and benchmark care quality. O’Kane has been a passionate advocate for addressing racial inequities in healthcare outcomes, emphasizing the importance of data collection and measurement to identify and reduce disparities. Her pioneering work has established NCQA as the foremost authority in healthcare quality assessment, with more than 10,000 entities—including health plans, health systems, primary care practices, and technology vendors—accredited or recognized through NCQA’s evaluation programs. After more than three decades of dedicated service, O’Kane has announced her retirement at the end of 2025, which coincides with NCQA’s 35th anniversary. As she prepares for this transition, she remains committed to advancing digital quality measurement and expanding NCQA’s focus to more ambitious goals in population health management and health equity. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:00:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw “We need to be more ambitious….” Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane transformed healthcare quality measurement in America when she created NCQA 35 years ago. As she reflects on what it has meant to create the foundations for quality measurement, “We need to be more ambitious….” Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane transformed healthcare quality measurement in America when she created NCQA 35 years ago. As she reflects on what it has meant to create the foundations for quality measurement, she is also clear that the complex state of healthcare requires leaders across payers, health systems, employers, and providers to do more. Disruption is required. In this revealing conversation with Laurie McGraw, O’Kane reflects on her journey from respiratory therapist to healthcare quality pioneer, the development of HEDIS® as the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool, and her passionate advocacy for addressing racial disparities in healthcare outcomes. As she prepares to retire at the end of 2025, O’Kane shares candid insights on the challenges facing healthcare quality improvement and her vision for the industry’s future. Discover why this legendary leader believes that despite progress, “so much work that’s undone” in creating a trusted, quality healthcare system. O’Kane’s unwavering commitment to health equity shines through when she addresses recent pushback on measuring disparities: “There are undeniable differences in health outcomes among different population groups… I think people need to be determined to push through, to learn about how to approach this.” Her call for persistence resonates powerfully as she urges healthcare leaders to “follow the data, avoid the noise… and stay ambitious and courageous” in addressing healthcare disparities. Key Takeaways: 1. Quality Measurement Evolution: O’Kane’s journey with NCQA began by addressing the disorganized state of healthcare, evolving from basic preventive measures to comprehensive digital quality metrics that can transform population health management. 2. Digital Transformation: The future of healthcare quality lies in digital reporting and enablement, moving beyond traditional HEDIS® measures toward more ambitious, customized approaches that can better serve diverse patient populations. 3. Health Equity Imperative: Despite political pushbacks, O’Kane emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to measure and address healthcare disparities through data-driven approaches, including innovative methods like using zip codes when direct demographic data collection faces challenges. 4. System Transformation Challenges: O’Kane acknowledges that transforming healthcare requires changing deeply ingrained practices, noting that “everybody’s been trained to work in the current model” and meaningful change requires persistence, curiosity, and willingness to adapt when approaches aren’t working. Guest Resources: National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) LinkedIn About Margaret (Peggy) O’Kane: Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane is the founder and president of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), an organization she established in 1990 to transform healthcare quality measurement and improvement in America. After recognizing the disorganized state of healthcare during her early career as a respiratory therapist, O’Kane pursued a master’s degree in public health and health policy from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, which equipped her with the knowledge to revolutionize healthcare quality standards. Under her visionary leadership spanning 35 years, NCQA developed the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®), now the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool. Today, more than 216 million people—approximately 65% of the U.S. population—are enrolled in NCQA-Accredited plans that use HEDIS to assess and benchmark care quality. O’Kane has been a passionate advocate for addressing racial inequities in healthcare outcomes, emphasizing the importance of data collection and measurement to identify and reduce disparities. Her pioneering work has established NCQA as the foremost authority in healthcare quality assessment, with more than 10,000 entities—including health plans, health systems, primary care practices, and technology vendors—accredited or recognized through NCQA’s evaluation programs. After more than three decades of dedicated service, O’Kane has announced her retirement at the end of 2025, which coincides with NCQA’s 35th anniversary. As she prepares for this transition, she remains committed to advancing digital quality measurement and expanding NCQA’s focus to more ambitious goals in population health management and health equity. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

“We need to be more ambitious….”

Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane transformed healthcare quality measurement in America when she created NCQA 35 years ago. As she reflects on what it has meant to create the foundations for quality measurement, she is also clear that the complex state of healthcare requires leaders across payers, health systems, employers, and providers to do more. Disruption is required.

In this revealing conversation with Laurie McGraw, O’Kane reflects on her journey from respiratory therapist to healthcare quality pioneer, the development of HEDIS® as the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool, and her passionate advocacy for addressing racial disparities in healthcare outcomes. As she prepares to retire at the end of 2025, O’Kane shares candid insights on the challenges facing healthcare quality improvement and her vision for the industry’s future. Discover why this legendary leader believes that despite progress, “so much work that’s undone” in creating a trusted, quality healthcare system.

O’Kane’s unwavering commitment to health equity shines through when she addresses recent pushback on measuring disparities: “There are undeniable differences in health outcomes among different population groups… I think people need to be determined to push through, to learn about how to approach this.” Her call for persistence resonates powerfully as she urges healthcare leaders to “follow the data, avoid the noise… and stay ambitious and courageous” in addressing healthcare disparities.

Key Takeaways:

1. Quality Measurement Evolution: O’Kane’s journey with NCQA began by addressing the disorganized state of healthcare, evolving from basic preventive measures to comprehensive digital quality metrics that can transform population health management.

2. Digital Transformation: The future of healthcare quality lies in digital reporting and enablement, moving beyond traditional HEDIS® measures toward more ambitious, customized approaches that can better serve diverse patient populations.

3. Health Equity Imperative: Despite political pushbacks, O’Kane emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to measure and address healthcare disparities through data-driven approaches, including innovative methods like using zip codes when direct demographic data collection faces challenges.

4. System Transformation Challenges: O’Kane acknowledges that transforming healthcare requires changing deeply ingrained practices, noting that “everybody’s been trained to work in the current model” and meaningful change requires persistence, curiosity, and willingness to adapt when approaches aren’t working.

Guest Resources:

About Margaret (Peggy) O’Kane:

Margaret “Peggy” O’Kane is the founder and president of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), an organization she established in 1990 to transform healthcare quality measurement and improvement in America. After recognizing the disorganized state of healthcare during her early career as a respiratory therapist, O’Kane pursued a master’s degree in public health and health policy from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, which equipped her with the knowledge to revolutionize healthcare quality standards.

Under her visionary leadership spanning 35 years, NCQA developed the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®), now the nation’s most widely used quality measurement tool. Today, more than 216 million people—approximately 65% of the U.S. population—are enrolled in NCQA-Accredited plans that use HEDIS to assess and benchmark care quality.

O’Kane has been a passionate advocate for addressing racial inequities in healthcare outcomes, emphasizing the importance of data collection and measurement to identify and reduce disparities. Her pioneering work has established NCQA as the foremost authority in healthcare quality assessment, with more than 10,000 entities—including health plans, health systems, primary care practices, and technology vendors—accredited or recognized through NCQA’s evaluation programs.

After more than three decades of dedicated service, O’Kane has announced her retirement at the end of 2025, which coincides with NCQA’s 35th anniversary. As she prepares for this transition, she remains committed to advancing digital quality measurement and expanding NCQA’s focus to more ambitious goals in population health management and health equity.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 1664 no This nutritionist is now leading monster teams as an HR Leader. Colleen Bowman shares her unconventional journey to the top. || EP. 191 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/03/18/iacs-colleen-bowman-empathetic-hr-faking-it-ep-191/ Human Resources is NOT the next obvious step if you began your career as a nutritionist. Yet for Colleen Bowman, VP of HR at IAC, her unconventional path took her exactly there. And when you hear Colleen’s story, it really does all make sense. Colleen started as an athlete. So being competitive and working as a team came naturally. She always had high expectations – of herself and of others. Key skills needed for leadership – building trust, having empathy, having confidence in yourself – these are core to who Colleen is. Nutrition is where she started but then she loved the complexity of what she started learning in the world of Human Resources. Complex benefits design, needing to work across functions like finance and legal and senior management. Colleen also goes back to those first times when she was making the big leap to a management role. Even for her, confidence was not as strong as she wanted. So “Faking it” until she made it became her mantra, and for Colleen, it worked. Colleen has a lot of responsibility in her leadership role today, but it’s really quite likely that she has only just begun!!! Key Leadership Takeaways from Colleen Bowman: Lead with Empathy: Understand your team’s perspective while setting clear expectations. Build Relationships: Foster strong partnerships to navigate complex challenges and gain support. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay curious, seek knowledge, and adapt to evolving industry trends. Fake It Til You Make It: Project confidence, even when nervous, to build self-assurance and inspire trust. Proactively Seek Opportunities: Advocate for your needs and take initiative to advance your career. Guest Resources: LinkedIn IAC Related Companies About Colleen: Colleen Bowman is the Vice President of Human Resources at IAC, a diverse holding company with brands spanning media, publishing, and technology. In this role, she partners with IAC’s portfolio of companies to provide HR, benefits, and talent acquisition support, with a particular focus on navigating the complexities of healthcare benefits and ensuring employee well-being. Colleen is dedicated to simplifying complex information, fostering employee engagement, and optimizing HR practices to drive business success. Prior to joining IAC in July of 2024, Colleen served as Vice President of Human Resources at Related Companies, a leading real estate and lifestyle company, where she oversaw total rewards, HR technology, and HR operations. Her extensive career also includes leadership roles at Revlon and Tiffany & Co., where she honed her expertise in benefits and wellness. Colleen’s career began in the nutrition and corporate wellness space, reflecting her long- standing commitment to promoting health and well-being. Colleen holds a Masters of Public Health in Public Health Nutrition from the City University of New York-Hunter College and a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Boston University. Her unique background and diverse experience have shaped her empathetic and strategic approach to HR leadership. Colleen is passionate about building trust, fostering transparency, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders in the HR field. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin x6bOYM781yPqQ56CPN5A Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Human Resources is NOT the next obvious step if you began your career as a nutritionist. Yet for Colleen Bowman, VP of HR at IAC, her unconventional path took her exactly there. And when you hear Colleen’s story, it really does all make sense. Human Resources is NOT the next obvious step if you began your career as a nutritionist. Yet for Colleen Bowman, VP of HR at IAC, her unconventional path took her exactly there. And when you hear Colleen’s story, it really does all make sense. Colleen started as an athlete. So being competitive and working as a team came naturally. She always had high expectations – of herself and of others. Key skills needed for leadership – building trust, having empathy, having confidence in yourself – these are core to who Colleen is. Nutrition is where she started but then she loved the complexity of what she started learning in the world of Human Resources. Complex benefits design, needing to work across functions like finance and legal and senior management. Colleen also goes back to those first times when she was making the big leap to a management role. Even for her, confidence was not as strong as she wanted. So “Faking it” until she made it became her mantra, and for Colleen, it worked. Colleen has a lot of responsibility in her leadership role today, but it’s really quite likely that she has only just begun!!! Key Leadership Takeaways from Colleen Bowman: Lead with Empathy: Understand your team’s perspective while setting clear expectations. Build Relationships: Foster strong partnerships to navigate complex challenges and gain support. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay curious, seek knowledge, and adapt to evolving industry trends. Fake It Til You Make It: Project confidence, even when nervous, to build self-assurance and inspire trust. Proactively Seek Opportunities: Advocate for your needs and take initiative to advance your career. Guest Resources: LinkedIn IAC Related Companies About Colleen: Colleen Bowman is the Vice President of Human Resources at IAC, a diverse holding company with brands spanning media, publishing, and technology. In this role, she partners with IAC’s portfolio of companies to provide HR, benefits, and talent acquisition support, with a particular focus on navigating the complexities of healthcare benefits and ensuring employee well-being. Colleen is dedicated to simplifying complex information, fostering employee engagement, and optimizing HR practices to drive business success. Prior to joining IAC in July of 2024, Colleen served as Vice President of Human Resources at Related Companies, a leading real estate and lifestyle company, where she oversaw total rewards, HR technology, and HR operations. Her extensive career also includes leadership roles at Revlon and Tiffany & Co., where she honed her expertise in benefits and wellness. Colleen’s career began in the nutrition and corporate wellness space, reflecting her long- standing commitment to promoting health and well-being. Colleen holds a Masters of Public Health in Public Health Nutrition from the City University of New York-Hunter College and a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Boston University. Her unique background and diverse experience have shaped her empathetic and strategic approach to HR leadership. Colleen is passionate about building trust, fostering transparency, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders in the HR field. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin x6bOYM781yPqQ56CPN5A

Human Resources is NOT the next obvious step if you began your career as a nutritionist. Yet for Colleen Bowman, VP of HR at IAC, her unconventional path took her exactly there. And when you hear Colleen’s story, it really does all make sense.

Colleen started as an athlete. So being competitive and working as a team came naturally. She always had high expectations – of herself and of others. Key skills needed for leadership – building trust, having empathy, having confidence in yourself – these are core to who Colleen is. Nutrition is where she started but then she loved the complexity of what she started learning in the world of Human Resources. Complex benefits design, needing to work across functions like finance and legal and senior management.

Colleen also goes back to those first times when she was making the big leap to a management role. Even for her, confidence was not as strong as she wanted. So “Faking it” until she made it became her mantra, and for Colleen, it worked. Colleen has a lot of responsibility in her leadership role today, but it’s really quite likely that she has only just begun!!!

Key Leadership Takeaways from Colleen Bowman:

  • Lead with Empathy: Understand your team’s perspective while setting clear expectations.
  • Build Relationships: Foster strong partnerships to navigate complex challenges and gain support.
  • Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay curious, seek knowledge, and adapt to evolving industry trends.
  • Fake It Til You Make It: Project confidence, even when nervous, to build self-assurance and inspire trust.
  • Proactively Seek Opportunities: Advocate for your needs and take initiative to advance your career.

Guest Resources:

About Colleen:

Colleen Bowman is the Vice President of Human Resources at IAC, a diverse holding company with brands spanning media, publishing, and technology. In this role, she partners with IAC’s portfolio of companies to provide HR, benefits, and talent acquisition support, with a particular focus on navigating the complexities of healthcare benefits and ensuring employee well-being. Colleen is dedicated to simplifying complex information, fostering employee engagement, and optimizing HR practices to drive business success.

Prior to joining IAC in July of 2024, Colleen served as Vice President of Human Resources at Related Companies, a leading real estate and lifestyle company, where she oversaw total rewards, HR technology, and HR operations. Her extensive career also includes leadership roles at Revlon and Tiffany & Co., where she honed her expertise in benefits and wellness.

Colleen’s career began in the nutrition and corporate wellness space, reflecting her long- standing commitment to promoting health and well-being. Colleen holds a Masters of Public Health in Public Health Nutrition from the City University of New York-Hunter College and a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Boston University. Her unique background and diverse experience have shaped her empathetic and strategic approach to HR leadership. Colleen is passionate about building trust, fostering transparency, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders in the HR field.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:


x6bOYM781yPqQ56CPN5A

]]> 1262 no Women, Healthcare & Affordability: Courtney Gray Haupt on Trust in a Divisive World & the Employer’s Role || EP. 190 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/03/11/women-healthcare-affordability-courtney-gray-haupt-on-trust-in-a-divisive-world-the-employers-role-ep-190/ Spoiler alert: trust is declining – in government, established institutions, and in media. For 25 years Edelman has been studying trust given its importance as the ultimate currency of a business with its stakeholders. In this Inspiring Women episode, Laurie is speaking with Courtney Gray Haupt, the Global Health Chair and US Co-Chair of Health from Edelman. In discussing the Edelman Trust Barometer, Courtney underscores several key issues impacting women. Key among them are heightened concerns about healthcare affordability (20 points higher than men) which makes sense when you consider the critical role women play in family health decisions (80% made by women). The polarized world we live in also described as a growing “crisis of grievance” can be exhausting. Yet, Courtney offers solutions. Learn how employers can better support women’s healthcare needs, and how women leaders in particular can foster trust with their stakeholders. Share this episode to elevate the conversation! Key Takeaways: Women are significantly more concerned about healthcare affordability than men. Employers are trusted sources of health information, especially for women. A “crisis of grievance” is impacting trust in institutions, leading to a “zero-sum” mentality. Building trust requires understanding audience needs, acting collaboratively, and recognizing the special role women play in healthcare decisions. #InspiringWomen #HealthcareAffordability #WomenInHealthcare #Leadership #EdelmanTrustBarometer Guest Resources: LinkedIn Edelman Trust Barometer Edelman Health About Courtney Gray Haupt: Courtney Gray Haupt is a dynamic leader at Edelman, where she serves as the Global Health Co-Chair and US Chair, Health. In this role, she leads Edelman’s US Health team, specializing in corporate positioning, thought leadership, public affairs, and reputation campaigns. Courtney brings deep expertise in biomedical innovation, health policy, and consumer health and wellness to her work, guiding organizations through the complex and ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Courtney oversees a team of over 400 health specialists, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and solutions-focused thinking. Her passion extends to mentoring and growth opportunities for her team, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare sector. Her dedication to cultivating talent and driving innovation has made her a respected figure in the industry. Throughout her career, Courtney has partnered with a diverse range of organizations, including global biopharmaceutical companies, trade associations, schools of public health, foundations, and advocacy groups. She has spearheaded highly successful campaigns that bridge the public and private sectors, engaging policymakers, healthcare professionals, patients, and other key audiences. Her work has driven action and informed stakeholders on critical health issues such as vaccine policy, drug pricing, and mental health. Courtney’s extensive experience includes supporting prominent organizations across the health community, such as Johnson & Johnson, Amgen, Merck, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. With specialties in biopharma innovation, public affairs, health coalition building, and corporate storytelling, Courtney Gray Haupt is a driving force in shaping the future of healthcare communications and advocacy. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 11 Mar 2025 11:00:38 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Spoiler alert: trust is declining – in government, established institutions, and in media. For 25 years Edelman has been studying trust given its importance as the ultimate currency of a business with its stakeholders. In this Inspiring Women episode, Spoiler alert: trust is declining – in government, established institutions, and in media. For 25 years Edelman has been studying trust given its importance as the ultimate currency of a business with its stakeholders. In this Inspiring Women episode, Laurie is speaking with Courtney Gray Haupt, the Global Health Chair and US Co-Chair of Health from Edelman. In discussing the Edelman Trust Barometer, Courtney underscores several key issues impacting women. Key among them are heightened concerns about healthcare affordability (20 points higher than men) which makes sense when you consider the critical role women play in family health decisions (80% made by women). The polarized world we live in also described as a growing “crisis of grievance” can be exhausting. Yet, Courtney offers solutions. Learn how employers can better support women’s healthcare needs, and how women leaders in particular can foster trust with their stakeholders. Share this episode to elevate the conversation! Key Takeaways: Women are significantly more concerned about healthcare affordability than men. Employers are trusted sources of health information, especially for women. A “crisis of grievance” is impacting trust in institutions, leading to a “zero-sum” mentality. Building trust requires understanding audience needs, acting collaboratively, and recognizing the special role women play in healthcare decisions. #InspiringWomen #HealthcareAffordability #WomenInHealthcare #Leadership #EdelmanTrustBarometer Guest Resources: LinkedIn Edelman Trust Barometer Edelman Health About Courtney Gray Haupt: Courtney Gray Haupt is a dynamic leader at Edelman, where she serves as the Global Health Co-Chair and US Chair, Health. In this role, she leads Edelman’s US Health team, specializing in corporate positioning, thought leadership, public affairs, and reputation campaigns. Courtney brings deep expertise in biomedical innovation, health policy, and consumer health and wellness to her work, guiding organizations through the complex and ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Courtney oversees a team of over 400 health specialists, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and solutions-focused thinking. Her passion extends to mentoring and growth opportunities for her team, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare sector. Her dedication to cultivating talent and driving innovation has made her a respected figure in the industry. Throughout her career, Courtney has partnered with a diverse range of organizations, including global biopharmaceutical companies, trade associations, schools of public health, foundations, and advocacy groups. She has spearheaded highly successful campaigns that bridge the public and private sectors, engaging policymakers, healthcare professionals, patients, and other key audiences. Her work has driven action and informed stakeholders on critical health issues such as vaccine policy, drug pricing, and mental health. Courtney’s extensive experience includes supporting prominent organizations across the health community, such as Johnson & Johnson, Amgen, Merck, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. With specialties in biopharma innovation, public affairs, health coalition building, and corporate storytelling, Courtney Gray Haupt is a driving force in shaping the future of healthcare communications and advocacy. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

Spoiler alert: trust is declining – in government, established institutions, and in media. For 25 years Edelman has been studying trust given its importance as the ultimate currency of a business with its stakeholders. In this Inspiring Women episode, Laurie is speaking with Courtney Gray Haupt, the Global Health Chair and US Co-Chair of Health from Edelman.

In discussing the Edelman Trust Barometer, Courtney underscores several key issues impacting women. Key among them are heightened concerns about healthcare affordability (20 points higher than men) which makes sense when you consider the critical role women play in family health decisions (80% made by women). The polarized world we live in also described as a growing “crisis of grievance” can be exhausting. Yet, Courtney offers solutions.

Learn how employers can better support women’s healthcare needs, and how women leaders in particular can foster trust with their stakeholders. Share this episode to elevate the conversation!

Key Takeaways:

  • Women are significantly more concerned about healthcare affordability than men.
  • Employers are trusted sources of health information, especially for women.
  • A “crisis of grievance” is impacting trust in institutions, leading to a “zero-sum” mentality.
  • Building trust requires understanding audience needs, acting collaboratively, and recognizing the special role women play in healthcare decisions.

#InspiringWomen #HealthcareAffordability #WomenInHealthcare #Leadership #EdelmanTrustBarometer

Guest Resources:

About Courtney Gray Haupt:

Courtney Gray Haupt is a dynamic leader at Edelman, where she serves as the Global Health Co-Chair and US Chair, Health. In this role, she leads Edelman’s US Health team, specializing in corporate positioning, thought leadership, public affairs, and reputation campaigns. Courtney brings deep expertise in biomedical innovation, health policy, and consumer health and wellness to her work, guiding organizations through the complex and ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Courtney oversees a team of over 400 health specialists, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and solutions-focused thinking. Her passion extends to mentoring and growth opportunities for her team, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare sector. Her dedication to cultivating talent and driving innovation has made her a respected figure in the industry.

Throughout her career, Courtney has partnered with a diverse range of organizations, including global biopharmaceutical companies, trade associations, schools of public health, foundations, and advocacy groups. She has spearheaded highly successful campaigns that bridge the public and private sectors, engaging policymakers, healthcare professionals, patients, and other key audiences. Her work has driven action and informed stakeholders on critical health issues such as vaccine policy, drug pricing, and mental health.

Courtney’s extensive experience includes supporting prominent organizations across the health community, such as Johnson & Johnson, Amgen, Merck, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. With specialties in biopharma innovation, public affairs, health coalition building, and corporate storytelling, Courtney Gray Haupt is a driving force in shaping the future of healthcare communications and advocacy.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 1242 no Rooted in Heritage, Driven to Lead, Serving Her Community: Brenda Munoz is an Inspiring Woman || EP. 189 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/03/04/rooted-in-heritage-driven-to-lead-serving-her-community-brenda-munoz-is-an-inspiring-woman-ep-189/ She is a Latina. She is a leader. She is a visible member of her community. She is a daughter. She is a servant leader. And Brenda Munoz is also, so much more than all of that. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Laurie McGraw speaks with Brenda Munoz, Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. From a temporary administrative analyst to a key leadership role, Brenda’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Brenda’s story reminds us of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve gender equity in leadership. The weight of her position, representing her family, her community, and the hopes of future Latina leaders, fuels her dedication to serving the laborers and transforming the lives of her team. Did you know that while women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, Latina women hold only about 2% of management or executive positions? This stark reality underscores the weight Brenda feels to lead and represent her community. Brenda shares the pivotal “wake-up call” that shifted her focus to servant leadership and her deep connection to her Hispanic heritage, which fuels her passion for empowering women and ensuring access to vital benefits. Brenda’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, but about impact. She reveals how she fosters self-reliance within her team, champions open communication and strives to create a better experience for both employees and the union members they serve. Discover how Brenda’s vision is shaping the future of benefits administration and empowering the next generation of leaders. Key Takeaways: The power of a personal “wake-up call” to redefine your purpose. How servant leadership can transform organizations. The importance of empowering women and fostering self-reliance. Creating a vision for improved member and employee experiences. Believing in your own power and potential to lead. Guest Resources: Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. LinkedIn About Brenda:  Brenda Munoz serves as the Associate Benefits Director at the Labor's Fund of Northern California, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the benefits administration for approximately 30,000 laborers. With over a decade of experience in the organization, Brenda’s journey began as a temporary administrative analyst, where her dedication and passion for service quickly set her apart. Her rise through the ranks exemplifies her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of workers and their families. Brenda is a firm believer in the principles of servant leadership, which guide her approach to management and team development. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and empowers her team by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Her focus on creating a supportive environment fosters not only individual growth but also enhances the overall member experience. A proud daughter of immigrant parents, Brenda is deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage, which inspires her advocacy for equitable access to benefits and resources. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art/Art Studies from Colgate University, blending creativity with analytical skills to drive innovative solutions in benefits administration. Through her work, Brenda continues to inspire others, championing women in leadership and striving to create positive change within her community. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:00:21 -0000 full Laurie McGraw She is a Latina. She is a leader. She is a visible member of her community. She is a daughter. She is a servant leader. And Brenda Munoz is also, so much more than all of that. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, She is a Latina. She is a leader. She is a visible member of her community. She is a daughter. She is a servant leader. And Brenda Munoz is also, so much more than all of that. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Laurie McGraw speaks with Brenda Munoz, Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. From a temporary administrative analyst to a key leadership role, Brenda’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Brenda’s story reminds us of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve gender equity in leadership. The weight of her position, representing her family, her community, and the hopes of future Latina leaders, fuels her dedication to serving the laborers and transforming the lives of her team. Did you know that while women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, Latina women hold only about 2% of management or executive positions? This stark reality underscores the weight Brenda feels to lead and represent her community. Brenda shares the pivotal “wake-up call” that shifted her focus to servant leadership and her deep connection to her Hispanic heritage, which fuels her passion for empowering women and ensuring access to vital benefits. Brenda’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, but about impact. She reveals how she fosters self-reliance within her team, champions open communication and strives to create a better experience for both employees and the union members they serve. Discover how Brenda’s vision is shaping the future of benefits administration and empowering the next generation of leaders. Key Takeaways: The power of a personal “wake-up call” to redefine your purpose. How servant leadership can transform organizations. The importance of empowering women and fostering self-reliance. Creating a vision for improved member and employee experiences. Believing in your own power and potential to lead. Guest Resources: Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. LinkedIn About Brenda:  Brenda Munoz serves as the Associate Benefits Director at the Labor's Fund of Northern California, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the benefits administration for approximately 30,000 laborers. With over a decade of experience in the organization, Brenda’s journey began as a temporary administrative analyst, where her dedication and passion for service quickly set her apart. Her rise through the ranks exemplifies her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of workers and their families. Brenda is a firm believer in the principles of servant leadership, which guide her approach to management and team development. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and empowers her team by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Her focus on creating a supportive environment fosters not only individual growth but also enhances the overall member experience. A proud daughter of immigrant parents, Brenda is deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage, which inspires her advocacy for equitable access to benefits and resources. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art/Art Studies from Colgate University, blending creativity with analytical skills to drive innovative solutions in benefits administration. Through her work, Brenda continues to inspire others, championing women in leadership and striving to create positive change within her community. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

She is a Latina. She is a leader. She is a visible member of her community. She is a daughter. She is a servant leader. And Brenda Munoz is also, so much more than all of that.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Laurie McGraw speaks with Brenda Munoz, Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. From a temporary administrative analyst to a key leadership role, Brenda’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Brenda’s story reminds us of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve gender equity in leadership. The weight of her position, representing her family, her community, and the hopes of future Latina leaders, fuels her dedication to serving the laborers and transforming the lives of her team.

Did you know that while women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, Latina women hold only about 2% of management or executive positions? This stark reality underscores the weight Brenda feels to lead and represent her community. Brenda shares the pivotal “wake-up call” that shifted her focus to servant leadership and her deep connection to her Hispanic heritage, which fuels her passion for empowering women and ensuring access to vital benefits. Brenda’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, but about impact.

She reveals how she fosters self-reliance within her team, champions open communication and strives to create a better experience for both employees and the union members they serve. Discover how Brenda’s vision is shaping the future of benefits administration and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Key Takeaways:

  • The power of a personal “wake-up call” to redefine your purpose.
  • How servant leadership can transform organizations.
  • The importance of empowering women and fostering self-reliance.
  • Creating a vision for improved member and employee experiences.
  • Believing in your own power and potential to lead.

Guest Resources:

About Brenda: 

Brenda Munoz serves as the Associate Benefits Director at the Labor's Fund of Northern California, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the benefits administration for approximately 30,000 laborers. With over a decade of experience in the organization, Brenda’s journey began as a temporary administrative analyst, where her dedication and passion for service quickly set her apart. Her rise through the ranks exemplifies her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of workers and their families.

Brenda is a firm believer in the principles of servant leadership, which guide her approach to management and team development. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and empowers her team by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Her focus on creating a supportive environment fosters not only individual growth but also enhances the overall member experience.

A proud daughter of immigrant parents, Brenda is deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage, which inspires her advocacy for equitable access to benefits and resources. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art/Art Studies from Colgate University, blending creativity with analytical skills to drive innovative solutions in benefits administration. Through her work, Brenda continues to inspire others, championing women in leadership and striving to create positive change within her community.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 1406 no Rae McMahan on Choosing a Different Path || EP. 188 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/02/18/rae-mcmahan-on-choosing-a-different-path-ep-188/ Growing up, Rae McMahan’s parents had plans for their daughter on what it meant to be a good girl. But then, life took a different turn. Facing a life-threatening illness, receiving great care, and even then realizing that not everyone had the same access that she did, Rae decided she wanted a different path. She changed the definition of what it meant to be a good girl. Rae McMahan, a senior executive at Prescryptive, shares her inspiring journey, from battling Hodgkin’s disease as a teen to revolutionizing medication access. She describes how Prescryptive empowers patients with transparent, individualized prescription information. What can women learn from Rae’s career path? Key Takeaways: How Rae’s health challenges fueled her passion for accessible healthcare. Why transparent medication pricing empowers patients. The future of personalized medicine: connecting diagnostics with prescriptions. Rae’s advice for women navigating leadership and prioritizing self-care. Guest Resources: Transcarent Partnership with Prescryptive LinkedIn Prescryptive About Rae: Rae McMahan is a strategic and accomplished executive in the healthcare industry, currently serving as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive. Driven by a deep commitment to improving patient access and affordability, Rae is a recognized leader in developing and implementing innovative solutions that address the complexities of the pharmacy benefits landscape. Rae’s extensive experience spans pharmacy, PBM, health plan, health system, and pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. She is adept at starting up and turning around organizations, integrating acquisitions, and positioning businesses for growth. Known for her collaborative approach, Rae effectively partners across companies and business units to implement cost-effective solutions that meet critical business challenges. Throughout her career, Rae has consistently demonstrated a talent for generating and executing innovative programs that reduce costs, expand market share, extend lines of business, and drive revenue. She excels at commercializing medical and pharmacy management products and is skilled at reorganizing and reinvigorating underperforming units, leveraging technology, and creating efficiencies to achieve significant savings and revenue growth. As a transformational leader, Rae oversees both small and large teams, from strategic and operational roles to customer service and executive leadership. She is committed to building and leading diverse teams, fostering a culture of openness and transparency through clear and consistent communication. As a valued member of any senior team, Rae is known for her direct, open, and collaborative style. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 18 Feb 2025 12:00:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Growing up, Rae McMahan’s parents had plans for their daughter on what it meant to be a good girl. But then, life took a different turn. Facing a life-threatening illness, receiving great care, and even then realizing that not everyone had the same acc... Growing up, Rae McMahan’s parents had plans for their daughter on what it meant to be a good girl. But then, life took a different turn. Facing a life-threatening illness, receiving great care, and even then realizing that not everyone had the same access that she did, Rae decided she wanted a different path. She changed the definition of what it meant to be a good girl. Rae McMahan, a senior executive at Prescryptive, shares her inspiring journey, from battling Hodgkin’s disease as a teen to revolutionizing medication access. She describes how Prescryptive empowers patients with transparent, individualized prescription information. What can women learn from Rae’s career path? Key Takeaways: How Rae’s health challenges fueled her passion for accessible healthcare. Why transparent medication pricing empowers patients. The future of personalized medicine: connecting diagnostics with prescriptions. Rae’s advice for women navigating leadership and prioritizing self-care. Guest Resources: Transcarent Partnership with Prescryptive LinkedIn Prescryptive About Rae: Rae McMahan is a strategic and accomplished executive in the healthcare industry, currently serving as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive. Driven by a deep commitment to improving patient access and affordability, Rae is a recognized leader in developing and implementing innovative solutions that address the complexities of the pharmacy benefits landscape. Rae’s extensive experience spans pharmacy, PBM, health plan, health system, and pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. She is adept at starting up and turning around organizations, integrating acquisitions, and positioning businesses for growth. Known for her collaborative approach, Rae effectively partners across companies and business units to implement cost-effective solutions that meet critical business challenges. Throughout her career, Rae has consistently demonstrated a talent for generating and executing innovative programs that reduce costs, expand market share, extend lines of business, and drive revenue. She excels at commercializing medical and pharmacy management products and is skilled at reorganizing and reinvigorating underperforming units, leveraging technology, and creating efficiencies to achieve significant savings and revenue growth. As a transformational leader, Rae oversees both small and large teams, from strategic and operational roles to customer service and executive leadership. She is committed to building and leading diverse teams, fostering a culture of openness and transparency through clear and consistent communication. As a valued member of any senior team, Rae is known for her direct, open, and collaborative style. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

Growing up, Rae McMahan’s parents had plans for their daughter on what it meant to be a good girl. But then, life took a different turn. Facing a life-threatening illness, receiving great care, and even then realizing that not everyone had the same access that she did, Rae decided she wanted a different path. She changed the definition of what it meant to be a good girl.

Rae McMahan, a senior executive at Prescryptive, shares her inspiring journey, from battling Hodgkin’s disease as a teen to revolutionizing medication access. She describes how Prescryptive empowers patients with transparent, individualized prescription information. What can women learn from Rae’s career path?

Key Takeaways:

  • How Rae’s health challenges fueled her passion for accessible healthcare.
  • Why transparent medication pricing empowers patients.
  • The future of personalized medicine: connecting diagnostics with prescriptions.
  • Rae’s advice for women navigating leadership and prioritizing self-care.

Guest Resources:

About Rae:

Rae McMahan is a strategic and accomplished executive in the healthcare industry, currently serving as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive. Driven by a deep commitment to improving patient access and affordability, Rae is a recognized leader in developing and implementing innovative solutions that address the complexities of the pharmacy benefits landscape.

Rae’s extensive experience spans pharmacy, PBM, health plan, health system, and pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. She is adept at starting up and turning around organizations, integrating acquisitions, and positioning businesses for growth. Known for her collaborative approach, Rae effectively partners across companies and business units to implement cost-effective solutions that meet critical business challenges.

Throughout her career, Rae has consistently demonstrated a talent for generating and executing innovative programs that reduce costs, expand market share, extend lines of business, and drive revenue. She excels at commercializing medical and pharmacy management products and is skilled at reorganizing and reinvigorating underperforming units, leveraging technology, and creating efficiencies to achieve significant savings and revenue growth.

As a transformational leader, Rae oversees both small and large teams, from strategic and operational roles to customer service and executive leadership. She is committed to building and leading diverse teams, fostering a culture of openness and transparency through clear and consistent communication. As a valued member of any senior team, Rae is known for her direct, open, and collaborative style.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 1091 no Breaking Cancer Stigma at Work: Gina Jacobson’s Inspiring Journey and Mission || EP. 187 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/02/11/breaking-cancer-stigma-at-work-gina-jacobsons-inspiring-journey-and-mission-ep-187/   Discover how Gina Jacobson, a stage 4 cancer survivor, is revolutionizing workplace support for cancer patients. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women, Gina shares her personal battle with colon cancer while managing a high-stakes career. Learn about the Working With Cancer initiative and how its breaking down stigmas, fostering organizational empathy, and creating supportive work environments. Gain valuable insights on: Navigating a cancer diagnosis in a professional setting The surprising desire of many cancer patients to continue working Practical steps for companies to support employees with cancer Building organizational empathy that extends beyond cancer support Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, or business leader, this episode offers essential perspectives on transforming workplace culture. Join host Laurie McGraw for an inspiring conversation that will change how you think about cancer in the workplace. Consider signing up for, sharing or making your workplace a part of the Working With Cancer Pledge. The Working With Cancer initiative is transforming company cultures, creating safe spaces for difficult conversations, and positively impacting health outcomes for employees facing cancer. Learn how you can join this global movement and make a difference in your workplace. Resources: Gina on Instagram Linkedin Gina on Substack Working With Cancer Pledge About Gina:  As one of the founding forces behind Publicis Groupe’s Working with Cancer initiative, Gina creates and oversees the programs associated with delivering against the WWC Pledge internally. She’s committed to creating a multi-faceted, best-in-class example of supporting employees impacted by cancer—whether directly or as caregivers—through individual and group coaching, training, and community engagement. Using this foundation, she also recruits and guides other companies to take and activate the pledge. Gina’s previous title at Starcom was Chief Growth Officer, but she always preferred to think of herself as more of a “Chief Potential Officer.” In that role, she oversaw both new business and organic growth, uncovering new opportunities and inspiring companies and colleagues to pursue what’s possible—an experience that prepared her perfectly for her current role. Over the past (nearly) three decades, Gina has thrived in a broad range of roles within Publicis Group—including overseeing media at Starcom and creative development at Leo Burnett. She is known for her critical strategic thinking, digging into her clients’ business, and having a passion for building and nurturing teams who deliver engaging, strategic work. During her tenure, she has led results-driving and award-winning work across categories as diverse as hospitality, insurance, CPG, tech, toys, retail, and mobile—and across clients including Four Seasons, Beam Suntory, Esurance, Kraft Heinz, Kellogg, and Nintendo—among many others. In the Fall of 2018, Gina was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. She’s outlived her initial prognosis by several years and intends to keep living a joyful and purposeful life, while helping others recognize and realize their full potential. You can read about what she’s learning from the best-worst thing that ever happened to her through her blog, weareallmadeofstars.net, and via her Strive for Five Substack, a look back at her 4+ year journey as she approaches the 5-year survival milestone. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:00:59 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Discover how Gina Jacobson, a stage 4 cancer survivor, is revolutionizing workplace support for cancer patients. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women, Gina shares her personal battle with colon cancer while managing a high-stakes career.   Discover how Gina Jacobson, a stage 4 cancer survivor, is revolutionizing workplace support for cancer patients. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women, Gina shares her personal battle with colon cancer while managing a high-stakes career. Learn about the Working With Cancer initiative and how its breaking down stigmas, fostering organizational empathy, and creating supportive work environments. Gain valuable insights on: Navigating a cancer diagnosis in a professional setting The surprising desire of many cancer patients to continue working Practical steps for companies to support employees with cancer Building organizational empathy that extends beyond cancer support Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, or business leader, this episode offers essential perspectives on transforming workplace culture. Join host Laurie McGraw for an inspiring conversation that will change how you think about cancer in the workplace. Consider signing up for, sharing or making your workplace a part of the Working With Cancer Pledge. The Working With Cancer initiative is transforming company cultures, creating safe spaces for difficult conversations, and positively impacting health outcomes for employees facing cancer. Learn how you can join this global movement and make a difference in your workplace. Resources: Gina on Instagram Linkedin Gina on Substack Working With Cancer Pledge About Gina:  As one of the founding forces behind Publicis Groupe’s Working with Cancer initiative, Gina creates and oversees the programs associated with delivering against the WWC Pledge internally. She’s committed to creating a multi-faceted, best-in-class example of supporting employees impacted by cancer—whether directly or as caregivers—through individual and group coaching, training, and community engagement. Using this foundation, she also recruits and guides other companies to take and activate the pledge. Gina’s previous title at Starcom was Chief Growth Officer, but she always preferred to think of herself as more of a “Chief Potential Officer.” In that role, she oversaw both new business and organic growth, uncovering new opportunities and inspiring companies and colleagues to pursue what’s possible—an experience that prepared her perfectly for her current role. Over the past (nearly) three decades, Gina has thrived in a broad range of roles within Publicis Group—including overseeing media at Starcom and creative development at Leo Burnett. She is known for her critical strategic thinking, digging into her clients’ business, and having a passion for building and nurturing teams who deliver engaging, strategic work. During her tenure, she has led results-driving and award-winning work across categories as diverse as hospitality, insurance, CPG, tech, toys, retail, and mobile—and across clients including Four Seasons, Beam Suntory, Esurance, Kraft Heinz, Kellogg, and Nintendo—among many others. In the Fall of 2018, Gina was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. She’s outlived her initial prognosis by several years and intends to keep living a joyful and purposeful life, while helping others recognize and realize their full potential. You can read about what she’s learning from the best-worst thing that ever happened to her through her blog, weareallmadeofstars.net, and via her Strive for Five Substack, a look back at her 4+ year journey as she approaches the 5-year survival milestone. Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women: Podcast YouTube Instagram Linkedin

 

Discover how Gina Jacobson, a stage 4 cancer survivor, is revolutionizing workplace support for cancer patients. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women, Gina shares her personal battle with colon cancer while managing a high-stakes career. Learn about the Working With Cancer initiative and how its breaking down stigmas, fostering organizational empathy, and creating supportive work environments.

Gain valuable insights on:

  • Navigating a cancer diagnosis in a professional setting
  • The surprising desire of many cancer patients to continue working
  • Practical steps for companies to support employees with cancer
  • Building organizational empathy that extends beyond cancer support

Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, or business leader, this episode offers essential perspectives on transforming workplace culture. Join host Laurie McGraw for an inspiring conversation that will change how you think about cancer in the workplace. Consider signing up for, sharing or making your workplace a part of the Working With Cancer Pledge. The Working With Cancer initiative is transforming company cultures, creating safe spaces for difficult conversations, and positively impacting health outcomes for employees facing cancer. Learn how you can join this global movement and make a difference in your workplace.

Resources:

About Gina: 

As one of the founding forces behind Publicis Groupe’s Working with Cancer initiative, Gina creates and oversees the programs associated with delivering against the WWC Pledge internally. She’s committed to creating a multi-faceted, best-in-class example of supporting employees impacted by cancer—whether directly or as caregivers—through individual and group coaching, training, and community engagement. Using this foundation, she also recruits and guides other companies to take and activate the pledge.

Gina’s previous title at Starcom was Chief Growth Officer, but she always preferred to think of herself as more of a “Chief Potential Officer.” In that role, she oversaw both new business and organic growth, uncovering new opportunities and inspiring companies and colleagues to pursue what’s possible—an experience that prepared her perfectly for her current role.

Over the past (nearly) three decades, Gina has thrived in a broad range of roles within Publicis Group—including overseeing media at Starcom and creative development at Leo Burnett. She is known for her critical strategic thinking, digging into her clients’ business, and having a passion for building and nurturing teams who deliver engaging, strategic work.

During her tenure, she has led results-driving and award-winning work across categories as diverse as hospitality, insurance, CPG, tech, toys, retail, and mobile—and across clients including Four Seasons, Beam Suntory, Esurance, Kraft Heinz, Kellogg, and Nintendo—among many others.

In the Fall of 2018, Gina was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. She’s outlived her initial prognosis by several years and intends to keep living a joyful and purposeful life, while helping others recognize and realize their full potential.

You can read about what she’s learning from the best-worst thing that ever happened to her through her blog, weareallmadeofstars.net, and via her Strive for Five Substack, a look back at her 4+ year journey as she approaches the 5-year survival milestone.

Connect with Laurie McGraw – Inspiring Women:

]]> 833 no Revolutionizing Mental Health: Obi Felten’s Mission to Empower a Million Peer Supporters || EP. 186 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/02/04/revolutionizing-mental-health-obi-feltons-mission-to-empower-a-million-peer-supporters-inspiring-women-ep-186/ Can a million peer supporters transform mental health care for children and adolescents in America? Obi Felten, CEO and founder of Flourish Labs, believes it’s possible. In this eye-opening episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw delves into Felton’s groundbreaking approach to solving the mental health crisis for youth. Felten, a former Google X executive, shares her journey from developing moonshot technologies to tackling one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges. Learn how Flourish Labs is revolutionizing mental health support by training young adults with lived experiences to become peer supporters, creating a more diverse and relatable workforce. Key takeaways: The staggering gap in mental health care: 20 million teens and young adults with mental health issues, but only half receive care How Flourish Labs is breaking barriers by securing contracts with Medicaid plans The power of peer support in addressing critical issues like post-ER care for suicidal youth Felten’s vision for scaling peer support to help millions of underserved individuals Discover how Felten’s unique blend of tech innovation, healthcare expertise, and peer support culture is reshaping the future of mental health care. This episode is a must- listen for anyone interested in mental health, healthcare innovation, or inspiring entrepreneurial journeys. Visit Obi Felten’s website Learn more about Flourish Labs Visit Peers.net About Obi: Obi Felten is the founder and CEO of Flourish Labs, a healthcare company on a mission to scale professional peer support with telehealth and AI to address the mental health crisis. Flourish Labs provides telehealth peer support for teenagers and young adults at Peers.net and expands the mental health workforce with accredited peer supporter training. Obi serves on the board of Springer Nature, a global academic publisher, and is an advisor on youth mental health for the Chelsea & Westminster NHS trust. She previously served on the board of Marathon Health, a primary and behavioral health provider group, and various mental health nonprofits. Before founding Flourish Labs, Obi led technology moonshot projects at Google X, was Director of Consumer marketing for Google in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and set up ecommerce businesses. Obi grew up in Berlin, has a BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Oxford University and lives in California with her family. Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:00:24 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Can a million peer supporters transform mental health care for children and adolescents in America? Obi Felten, CEO and founder of Flourish Labs, believes it’s possible. In this eye-opening episode of Inspiring Women, Can a million peer supporters transform mental health care for children and adolescents in America? Obi Felten, CEO and founder of Flourish Labs, believes it’s possible. In this eye-opening episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw delves into Felton’s groundbreaking approach to solving the mental health crisis for youth. Felten, a former Google X executive, shares her journey from developing moonshot technologies to tackling one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges. Learn how Flourish Labs is revolutionizing mental health support by training young adults with lived experiences to become peer supporters, creating a more diverse and relatable workforce. Key takeaways: The staggering gap in mental health care: 20 million teens and young adults with mental health issues, but only half receive care How Flourish Labs is breaking barriers by securing contracts with Medicaid plans The power of peer support in addressing critical issues like post-ER care for suicidal youth Felten’s vision for scaling peer support to help millions of underserved individuals Discover how Felten’s unique blend of tech innovation, healthcare expertise, and peer support culture is reshaping the future of mental health care. This episode is a must- listen for anyone interested in mental health, healthcare innovation, or inspiring entrepreneurial journeys. Visit Obi Felten’s website Learn more about Flourish Labs Visit Peers.net About Obi: Obi Felten is the founder and CEO of Flourish Labs, a healthcare company on a mission to scale professional peer support with telehealth and AI to address the mental health crisis. Flourish Labs provides telehealth peer support for teenagers and young adults at Peers.net and expands the mental health workforce with accredited peer supporter training. Obi serves on the board of Springer Nature, a global academic publisher, and is an advisor on youth mental health for the Chelsea & Westminster NHS trust. She previously served on the board of Marathon Health, a primary and behavioral health provider group, and various mental health nonprofits. Before founding Flourish Labs, Obi led technology moonshot projects at Google X, was Director of Consumer marketing for Google in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and set up ecommerce businesses. Obi grew up in Berlin, has a BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Oxford University and lives in California with her family.

Can a million peer supporters transform mental health care for children and adolescents in America?

Obi Felten, CEO and founder of Flourish Labs, believes it’s possible. In this eye-opening episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw delves into Felton’s groundbreaking approach to solving the mental health crisis for youth.

Felten, a former Google X executive, shares her journey from developing moonshot technologies to tackling one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges. Learn how Flourish Labs is revolutionizing mental health support by training young adults with lived experiences to become peer supporters, creating a more diverse and relatable workforce.

Key takeaways:

  • The staggering gap in mental health care: 20 million teens and young adults with mental health issues, but only half receive care
  • How Flourish Labs is breaking barriers by securing contracts with Medicaid plans
  • The power of peer support in addressing critical issues like post-ER care for suicidal youth
  • Felten’s vision for scaling peer support to help millions of underserved individuals

Discover how Felten’s unique blend of tech innovation, healthcare expertise, and peer support culture is reshaping the future of mental health care. This episode is a must- listen for anyone interested in mental health, healthcare innovation, or inspiring entrepreneurial journeys.

Visit Obi Felten’s website
Learn more about Flourish Labs
Visit Peers.net

About Obi:

Obi Felten is the founder and CEO of Flourish Labs, a healthcare company on a mission to scale professional peer support with telehealth and AI to address the mental health crisis. Flourish Labs provides telehealth peer support for teenagers and young adults at Peers.net and expands the mental health workforce with accredited peer supporter training.

Obi serves on the board of Springer Nature, a global academic publisher, and is an advisor on youth mental health for the Chelsea & Westminster NHS trust. She previously served on the board of Marathon Health, a primary and behavioral health provider group, and various mental health nonprofits.

Before founding Flourish Labs, Obi led technology moonshot projects at Google X, was Director of Consumer marketing for Google in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and set up ecommerce businesses. Obi grew up in Berlin, has a BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Oxford University and lives in California with her family.

]]> 1479 no Engineering Healthcare’s Future: Bree Bush on AI-Powered Command Centers || EP. 185 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/01/28/engineering-healthcares-future-bree-bush-on-ai-powered-command-centers-ep-185/ Discover how AI is revolutionizing hospital operations with Bree Bush, GM of Command Center at GE HealthCare. In this eye-opening episode, Bree shares her journey from mechanical engineer to healthcare innovator, revealing how GE HealthCare’s AI-driven command centers are transforming patient care and hospital efficiency. Key takeaways: Learn about GE HealthCare’s groundbreaking command center technology and its impact on healthcare operations Understand how AI is being used to optimize resource allocation and improve patient experiences Gain insights into the challenges of managing complex hospital systems and the role of data-driven decision making Hear about Bree’s career path and her advice for aspiring healthcare leaders From reducing wait times to predicting bottlenecks, Bree Bush explains how GE HealthCare’s command centers are tackling healthcare’s most pressing operational challenges. Don’t miss this fascinating look into the future of hospital management and the power of AI to transform healthcare delivery. About Bree: Bree Bush is a founding member of the GE HealthCare Command Center Platform and is now the General Manager. Bree and the Command Center team help top-performing healthcare organizations level up their operations by streamlining patient flow, optimizing capacity, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving access to care. Bree is also General Manager of GE HealthCare’s Digital Pharma Solutions business where she leads a team specifically focused on partnerships with Life Sciences companies around the development and deployment of digital solutions to improve precision health. Since 2006, Bree has led healthcare organizations through operational transformation initiatives with GE HealthCare. Whether her efforts were focused on improving the OR block schedule or reducing LOS for inpatient or streamlined OP clinic scheduling, she has leveraged simulation modeling and systems engineering methodology to drive measurable results and create a culture of continuous improvement. Bree earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. She joined GE HealthCare through the Edison Engineering Development Program, a highly selective program designed to grow future engineering leaders. Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:46:13 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Discover how AI is revolutionizing hospital operations with Bree Bush, GM of Command Center at GE HealthCare. In this eye-opening episode, Bree shares her journey from mechanical engineer to healthcare innovator, Discover how AI is revolutionizing hospital operations with Bree Bush, GM of Command Center at GE HealthCare. In this eye-opening episode, Bree shares her journey from mechanical engineer to healthcare innovator, revealing how GE HealthCare’s AI-driven command centers are transforming patient care and hospital efficiency. Key takeaways: Learn about GE HealthCare’s groundbreaking command center technology and its impact on healthcare operations Understand how AI is being used to optimize resource allocation and improve patient experiences Gain insights into the challenges of managing complex hospital systems and the role of data-driven decision making Hear about Bree’s career path and her advice for aspiring healthcare leaders From reducing wait times to predicting bottlenecks, Bree Bush explains how GE HealthCare’s command centers are tackling healthcare’s most pressing operational challenges. Don’t miss this fascinating look into the future of hospital management and the power of AI to transform healthcare delivery. About Bree: Bree Bush is a founding member of the GE HealthCare Command Center Platform and is now the General Manager. Bree and the Command Center team help top-performing healthcare organizations level up their operations by streamlining patient flow, optimizing capacity, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving access to care. Bree is also General Manager of GE HealthCare’s Digital Pharma Solutions business where she leads a team specifically focused on partnerships with Life Sciences companies around the development and deployment of digital solutions to improve precision health. Since 2006, Bree has led healthcare organizations through operational transformation initiatives with GE HealthCare. Whether her efforts were focused on improving the OR block schedule or reducing LOS for inpatient or streamlined OP clinic scheduling, she has leveraged simulation modeling and systems engineering methodology to drive measurable results and create a culture of continuous improvement. Bree earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. She joined GE HealthCare through the Edison Engineering Development Program, a highly selective program designed to grow future engineering leaders.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing hospital operations with Bree Bush, GM of Command Center at GE HealthCare. In this eye-opening episode, Bree shares her journey from mechanical engineer to healthcare innovator, revealing how GE HealthCare’s AI-driven command centers are transforming patient care and hospital efficiency.

Key takeaways:

  • Learn about GE HealthCare’s groundbreaking command center technology and its impact on healthcare operations
  • Understand how AI is being used to optimize resource allocation and improve patient experiences
  • Gain insights into the challenges of managing complex hospital systems and the role of data-driven decision making
  • Hear about Bree’s career path and her advice for aspiring healthcare leaders

From reducing wait times to predicting bottlenecks, Bree Bush explains how GE HealthCare’s command centers are tackling healthcare’s most pressing operational challenges. Don’t miss this fascinating look into the future of hospital management and the power of AI to transform healthcare delivery.

About Bree:

Bree Bush is a founding member of the GE HealthCare Command Center Platform and is now the General Manager. Bree and the Command Center team help top-performing healthcare organizations level up their operations by streamlining patient flow, optimizing capacity, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving access to care.

Bree is also General Manager of GE HealthCare’s Digital Pharma Solutions business where she leads a team specifically focused on partnerships with Life Sciences companies around the development and deployment of digital solutions to improve precision health.

Since 2006, Bree has led healthcare organizations through operational transformation initiatives with GE HealthCare. Whether her efforts were focused on improving the OR block schedule or reducing LOS for inpatient or streamlined OP clinic scheduling, she has leveraged simulation modeling and systems engineering methodology to drive measurable results and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Bree earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. She joined GE HealthCare through the Edison Engineering Development Program, a highly selective program designed to grow future engineering leaders.

]]> 1412 no Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress Standing Tall || EP. 184 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/01/21/women-healthcare-leaders-for-progress-standing-tall-ep-184/   No issue unified women across the U.S. more than what was at stake in the 2024 election – that is, whether the freedom to manage our own bodies and health continue to be stripped away. Women were on the ballot and women healthcare executives aimed to do something about it. In the fall of 2024, during a heated presidential election cycle… Six women healthcare leaders came together around three key issues. The preservation of reproductive freedom, Medicare & Medicaid preservation, and having affordable health insurance. From there another 550 women executives signed their names openly to support the protection of these issues. Many of these leaders have worked across the aisle on deep healthcare issues and many are either currently or have in the past worked in the political sphere at the state and federal level. And now it is 2025 with a new administration in the White House. Hear from the Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress (WHLP) founding members to understand the issues and why they remain important to Women and to Americans. Our hearts may be broken, but our resolve is not. As we celebrate Martin Luther King Day on the same day of the Inauguration, we wish to thank our departing President and Vice President for their service. A great way to honor the legacy of Dr. King is to also wish for our incoming President great success in building a better country and a better world. That world includes the enduring support and preservation of the WHLP issues we care most about. Founding Members of Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress:  Miriam Paramore, Founder & CEO, RXUtility & Health Tech Investor  Missy Krasner, Digital Health Investor, Former Amazon, Google, Box & Senior Advisor ONC/HHS, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS)  Molly Coye, MD, Former Board Member, Aetna, AHA, Former Chief Innovation Officer, UCLA Health, Commissioner of Health NJ & CA State Department of Health Services  Audrey Mann Cronin, Advisor & Communications Expert to CEOs, Creator of Voice-Driven App, LikeSo: Your Personal Speech Coach  Laurie McGraw, EVP, Transcarent, Founder & Host Inspiring Women Pod, Former American Medical Association, Allscripts & IDX  Lori Evans Bernstein, 3X, VC-backed Founder in Women’s Health & Tech, Former Aetna Exec, Deputy Commissioner NYS Dept of Health & Senior Advisor, U.S. DHHS Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:19:26 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   No issue unified women across the U.S. more than what was at stake in the 2024 election – that is, whether the freedom to manage our own bodies and health continue to be stripped away. Women were on the ballot and women healthcare executives aimed to...   No issue unified women across the U.S. more than what was at stake in the 2024 election – that is, whether the freedom to manage our own bodies and health continue to be stripped away. Women were on the ballot and women healthcare executives aimed to do something about it. In the fall of 2024, during a heated presidential election cycle… Six women healthcare leaders came together around three key issues. The preservation of reproductive freedom, Medicare & Medicaid preservation, and having affordable health insurance. From there another 550 women executives signed their names openly to support the protection of these issues. Many of these leaders have worked across the aisle on deep healthcare issues and many are either currently or have in the past worked in the political sphere at the state and federal level. And now it is 2025 with a new administration in the White House. Hear from the Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress (WHLP) founding members to understand the issues and why they remain important to Women and to Americans. Our hearts may be broken, but our resolve is not. As we celebrate Martin Luther King Day on the same day of the Inauguration, we wish to thank our departing President and Vice President for their service. A great way to honor the legacy of Dr. King is to also wish for our incoming President great success in building a better country and a better world. That world includes the enduring support and preservation of the WHLP issues we care most about. Founding Members of Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress:  Miriam Paramore, Founder & CEO, RXUtility & Health Tech Investor  Missy Krasner, Digital Health Investor, Former Amazon, Google, Box & Senior Advisor ONC/HHS, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS)  Molly Coye, MD, Former Board Member, Aetna, AHA, Former Chief Innovation Officer, UCLA Health, Commissioner of Health NJ & CA State Department of Health Services  Audrey Mann Cronin, Advisor & Communications Expert to CEOs, Creator of Voice-Driven App, LikeSo: Your Personal Speech Coach  Laurie McGraw, EVP, Transcarent, Founder & Host Inspiring Women Pod, Former American Medical Association, Allscripts & IDX  Lori Evans Bernstein, 3X, VC-backed Founder in Women’s Health & Tech, Former Aetna Exec, Deputy Commissioner NYS Dept of Health & Senior Advisor, U.S. DHHS

 

No issue unified women across the U.S. more than what was at stake in the 2024 election – that is, whether the freedom to manage our own bodies and health continue to be stripped away. Women were on the ballot and women healthcare executives aimed to do something about it.

In the fall of 2024, during a heated presidential election cycle… Six women healthcare leaders came together around three key issues. The preservation of reproductive freedom, Medicare & Medicaid preservation, and having affordable health insurance. From there another 550 women executives signed their names openly to support the protection of these issues. Many of these leaders have worked across the aisle on deep healthcare issues and many are either currently or have in the past worked in the political sphere at the state and federal level.

And now it is 2025 with a new administration in the White House. Hear from the Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress (WHLP) founding members to understand the issues and why they remain important to Women and to Americans. Our hearts may be broken, but our resolve is not. As we celebrate Martin Luther King Day on the same day of the Inauguration, we wish to thank our departing President and Vice President for their service.

A great way to honor the legacy of Dr. King is to also wish for our incoming President great success in building a better country and a better world. That world includes the enduring support and preservation of the WHLP issues we care most about.

Founding Members of Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress:
 Miriam Paramore, Founder & CEO, RXUtility & Health Tech Investor
 Missy Krasner, Digital Health Investor, Former Amazon, Google, Box & Senior Advisor ONC/HHS, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS)
 Molly Coye, MD, Former Board Member, Aetna, AHA, Former Chief Innovation Officer, UCLA Health, Commissioner of Health NJ & CA State Department of Health Services
 Audrey Mann Cronin, Advisor & Communications Expert to CEOs, Creator of Voice-Driven App, LikeSo: Your Personal Speech Coach
 Laurie McGraw, EVP, Transcarent, Founder & Host Inspiring Women Pod, Former American Medical Association, Allscripts & IDX
 Lori Evans Bernstein, 3X, VC-backed Founder in Women’s Health & Tech, Former Aetna Exec, Deputy Commissioner NYS Dept of Health & Senior Advisor, U.S. DHHS


]]> 973 no 75M kids in the country deserve healthcare. Ellen DaSilva and Summer Health are providing just that || EP. 183 https://inspiringwomen.show/2025/01/07/75m-kids-in-the-country-deserve-healthcare-ellen-dasilva-and-summer-health-are-providing-just-that-ep-183/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ellen DaSilva, CEO and Founder of Summer Health which aims to increase the supply of pediatric care to care for the 75M children in the United States who need healthcare. Laurie and Ellen spoke at the HLTH 2024 conference. Ellen lives, eats and breathes Summer Health ever since she, someone with access and means – was UNABLE to get the care she needed for her child. Ellen quickly understood the magnitude of the problem – a decreasing supply of pediatricians to support the 75M kids in this country. A third of children who live in places without any access to a pediatrician. Nearly 40% of children who have chronic conditions. And then there’s the wait….days, weeks, months to get care for your child to a pediatrician. It may be a classic supply and demand conundrum, but Ellen was clear – there must be a better way. And so…Summer Health. On demand, asynchronous, text first, and always on, always open. Ellen is rapidly growing the company with many lessons learned from her work at other large enterprises. And, it may be hard to build a company, but Ellen is no stranger to this hard work. What’s new with this time around of Summer Health? The market is moving fast, perhaps faster than ever. She is also impressed with the caliber of talent she is able to bring to Summer Health – based on their mission and innovative approach to the problem. Ellen closes this conversation with advice for other women entrepreneurs and CEOs which is doubling down on your conviction that the hard problems are worth solving. And while it may not feel like it today – the hard journey of innovation, leadership, and vision…. well, it is indeed worth it. About Ellen: Ellen is the Founder and CEO of Summer Health, a company with a mission to raise the healthiest generation of children. Summer Health offers message-based pediatric services within 15 minutes. Learn more at www.summerhealth.com. Previously, Ellen served as the Head of Business Development at hims&hers, where she focused on strategic partnerships and business growth. She's also an active angel investor, serving as a Sequoia Scout for Seed and Series A consumer tech companies. Ellen earned her MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School. While at HBS, she was a Partner at Rough Draft Ventures, General Catalyst’s pre-seed fund. Before business school, she managed a unit of the Business Operations team at Twitter, and prior to that, she worked at Barclays Capital. Ellen co-authored "Pitching & Closing: Everything You Need To Know About Business Development, Partnerships, and Making Deals that Matter"—a guidebook for business development and revenue-generating partnerships at tech startups. Tue, 07 Jan 2025 14:34:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ellen DaSilva, CEO and Founder of Summer Health which aims to increase the supply of pediatric care to care for the 75M children in the United States who need healthcare. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ellen DaSilva, CEO and Founder of Summer Health which aims to increase the supply of pediatric care to care for the 75M children in the United States who need healthcare. Laurie and Ellen spoke at the HLTH 2024 conference. Ellen lives, eats and breathes Summer Health ever since she, someone with access and means – was UNABLE to get the care she needed for her child. Ellen quickly understood the magnitude of the problem – a decreasing supply of pediatricians to support the 75M kids in this country. A third of children who live in places without any access to a pediatrician. Nearly 40% of children who have chronic conditions. And then there’s the wait….days, weeks, months to get care for your child to a pediatrician. It may be a classic supply and demand conundrum, but Ellen was clear – there must be a better way. And so…Summer Health. On demand, asynchronous, text first, and always on, always open. Ellen is rapidly growing the company with many lessons learned from her work at other large enterprises. And, it may be hard to build a company, but Ellen is no stranger to this hard work. What’s new with this time around of Summer Health? The market is moving fast, perhaps faster than ever. She is also impressed with the caliber of talent she is able to bring to Summer Health – based on their mission and innovative approach to the problem. Ellen closes this conversation with advice for other women entrepreneurs and CEOs which is doubling down on your conviction that the hard problems are worth solving. And while it may not feel like it today – the hard journey of innovation, leadership, and vision…. well, it is indeed worth it. About Ellen: Ellen is the Founder and CEO of Summer Health, a company with a mission to raise the healthiest generation of children. Summer Health offers message-based pediatric services within 15 minutes. Learn more at www.summerhealth.com. Previously, Ellen served as the Head of Business Development at hims&hers, where she focused on strategic partnerships and business growth. She's also an active angel investor, serving as a Sequoia Scout for Seed and Series A consumer tech companies. Ellen earned her MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School. While at HBS, she was a Partner at Rough Draft Ventures, General Catalyst’s pre-seed fund. Before business school, she managed a unit of the Business Operations team at Twitter, and prior to that, she worked at Barclays Capital. Ellen co-authored "Pitching & Closing: Everything You Need To Know About Business Development, Partnerships, and Making Deals that Matter"—a guidebook for business development and revenue-generating partnerships at tech startups. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ellen DaSilva, CEO and Founder of Summer Health which aims to increase the supply of pediatric care to care for the 75M children in the United States who need healthcare. Laurie and Ellen spoke at the HLTH 2024 conference.

Ellen lives, eats and breathes Summer Health ever since she, someone with access and means – was UNABLE to get the care she needed for her child. Ellen quickly understood the magnitude of the problem – a decreasing supply of pediatricians to support the 75M kids in this country. A third of children who live in places without any access to a pediatrician. Nearly 40% of children who have chronic conditions. And then there’s the wait….days, weeks, months to get care for your child to a pediatrician.

It may be a classic supply and demand conundrum, but Ellen was clear – there must be a better way. And so…Summer Health. On demand, asynchronous, text first, and always on, always open.

Ellen is rapidly growing the company with many lessons learned from her work at other large enterprises. And, it may be hard to build a company, but Ellen is no stranger to this hard work. What’s new with this time around of Summer Health? The market is moving fast, perhaps faster than ever. She is also impressed with the caliber of talent she is able to bring to Summer Health – based on their mission and innovative approach to the problem.

Ellen closes this conversation with advice for other women entrepreneurs and CEOs which is doubling down on your conviction that the hard problems are worth solving. And while it may not feel like it today – the hard journey of innovation, leadership, and vision…. well, it is indeed worth it.

About Ellen:

Ellen is the Founder and CEO of Summer Health, a company with a mission to raise the healthiest generation of children. Summer Health offers message-based pediatric services within 15 minutes. Learn more at www.summerhealth.com.

Previously, Ellen served as the Head of Business Development at hims&hers, where she focused on strategic partnerships and business growth. She's also an active angel investor, serving as a Sequoia Scout for Seed and Series A consumer tech companies.

Ellen earned her MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School. While at HBS, she was a Partner at Rough Draft Ventures, General Catalyst’s pre-seed fund. Before business school, she managed a unit of the Business Operations team at Twitter, and prior to that, she worked at Barclays Capital.

Ellen co-authored "Pitching & Closing: Everything You Need To Know About Business Development, Partnerships, and Making Deals that Matter"—a guidebook for business development and revenue-generating partnerships at tech startups.

]]> 931 no Go Faster…You Can Always Slow Down Later. Lessons from the Home[ward] Grown Mentorship Program || EP. 182 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/12/17/go-fasteryou-can-always-slow-down-later-lessons-from-the-homeward-grown-mentorship-program-ep-182/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider and her Home[ward] Grown mentee, Nathalie Gouailhardou, co-founder of Neurode — a wearable headband that can track and treat ADHD symptoms. This episode rounds out a full year of the Home[ward] Grown Mentorship series where every quarter, Dr. Jenny Schneider selects a CEO/Founder into this mentorship program. Now if you are in healthcare, and as long as you haven’t been living under a rock, then you know Jenny – mom, physician, athlete, and accomplished serial entrepreneur and leader. And busy!!! So very busy. AND STILL, Jenny created Home[ward] Grown to support women CEOs, mentoring someone new every quarter. Because that job is hard. And Jenny knows a thing or two. So she makes the time. Its just that important. Key Takeaways: 1. Neurode’s Mission: Nathalie, a neuroscientist with ADHD, founded Neurode to provide a drug-free, side-effect- free solution for ADHD. The device combines non-invasive brain stimulation and brain activity tracking to improve focus and executive function. 2. ADHD Awareness: ADHD affects both children and adults, especially women, yet existing treatments were developed primarily for young boys. Neurode fills a critical gap in personalized ADHD treatment. 3. The Mentorship Experience: Nathalie shared how Dr. Schneider’s guidance during critical stages of Neurode’s beta launch provided actionable insights, including strategies for user acquisition, team leadership, and scaling the business. 4. Home[ward] Grown Program Impact: Dr. Schneider emphasized the importance of mentorship as a tool to help women advance faster and tackle challenges in leadership roles. There is no problem that Nathalie could not figure out on her own, providing mentorship coupled with experience can lead to solving things faster. And speed matters. 5. Nathalie’s Key Take Aways: The value of storytelling in engaging investors, users, and team members; Leaning into speed and progress, even when the pace feels daunting. (“There will be time to slow down later”) 2025 Home[ward] Grown Applications: Applications for the 2025 Home[ward] Grown mentorship program are STILL open. Details here → https://lnkd.in/g2KGf6Er About Nathalie: Nathalie is the CEO and co-founder of Neurode, a company pioneering a wearable headband that treats and tracks ADHD. As a neuroscientist with ADHD herself, she combined her expertise in brain-machine interfaces with personal insights to create a user-friendly and innovative device. Neurode was born from firsthand experience with the side effects of medication feeling her determination to build an alternative that doesn’t have these same downsides. With her co-founder Damian and the Neurode team, they have validated Neurode’s technology through clinical trials. Now, Nathalie is focused on expanding Neurode’s private beta, giving people the chance to experience a new way to improve focus and memory. Learn more at neurodelabs.com About Dr. Jenny Schneider: I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance. Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:22 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider and her Home[ward] Grown mentee, Nathalie Gouailhardou, co-founder of Neurode — a wearable headband that can track and treat ADHD symptoms. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider and her Home[ward] Grown mentee, Nathalie Gouailhardou, co-founder of Neurode — a wearable headband that can track and treat ADHD symptoms. This episode rounds out a full year of the Home[ward] Grown Mentorship series where every quarter, Dr. Jenny Schneider selects a CEO/Founder into this mentorship program. Now if you are in healthcare, and as long as you haven’t been living under a rock, then you know Jenny – mom, physician, athlete, and accomplished serial entrepreneur and leader. And busy!!! So very busy. AND STILL, Jenny created Home[ward] Grown to support women CEOs, mentoring someone new every quarter. Because that job is hard. And Jenny knows a thing or two. So she makes the time. Its just that important. Key Takeaways: 1. Neurode’s Mission: Nathalie, a neuroscientist with ADHD, founded Neurode to provide a drug-free, side-effect- free solution for ADHD. The device combines non-invasive brain stimulation and brain activity tracking to improve focus and executive function. 2. ADHD Awareness: ADHD affects both children and adults, especially women, yet existing treatments were developed primarily for young boys. Neurode fills a critical gap in personalized ADHD treatment. 3. The Mentorship Experience: Nathalie shared how Dr. Schneider’s guidance during critical stages of Neurode’s beta launch provided actionable insights, including strategies for user acquisition, team leadership, and scaling the business. 4. Home[ward] Grown Program Impact: Dr. Schneider emphasized the importance of mentorship as a tool to help women advance faster and tackle challenges in leadership roles. There is no problem that Nathalie could not figure out on her own, providing mentorship coupled with experience can lead to solving things faster. And speed matters. 5. Nathalie’s Key Take Aways: The value of storytelling in engaging investors, users, and team members; Leaning into speed and progress, even when the pace feels daunting. (“There will be time to slow down later”) 2025 Home[ward] Grown Applications: Applications for the 2025 Home[ward] Grown mentorship program are STILL open. Details here → https://lnkd.in/g2KGf6Er About Nathalie: Nathalie is the CEO and co-founder of Neurode, a company pioneering a wearable headband that treats and tracks ADHD. As a neuroscientist with ADHD herself, she combined her expertise in brain-machine interfaces with personal insights to create a user-friendly and innovative device. Neurode was born from firsthand experience with the side effects of medication feeling her determination to build an alternative that doesn’t have these same downsides. With her co-founder Damian and the Neurode team, they have validated Neurode’s technology through clinical trials. Now, Nathalie is focused on expanding Neurode’s private beta, giving people the chance to experience a new way to improve focus and memory. Learn more at neurodelabs.com About Dr. Jenny Schneider: I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider and her Home[ward] Grown mentee, Nathalie Gouailhardou, co-founder of Neurode — a wearable headband that can track and treat ADHD symptoms.

This episode rounds out a full year of the Home[ward] Grown Mentorship series where every quarter, Dr. Jenny Schneider selects a CEO/Founder into this mentorship program. Now if you are in healthcare, and as long as you haven’t been living under a rock, then you know Jenny – mom, physician, athlete, and accomplished serial entrepreneur and leader. And busy!!! So very busy. AND STILL, Jenny created Home[ward] Grown to support women CEOs, mentoring someone new every quarter. Because that job is hard. And Jenny knows a thing or two. So she makes the time. Its just that important.

Key Takeaways:
1. Neurode’s Mission: Nathalie, a neuroscientist with ADHD, founded Neurode to provide a drug-free, side-effect- free solution for ADHD. The device combines non-invasive brain stimulation and brain activity tracking to improve focus and executive function.
2. ADHD Awareness: ADHD affects both children and adults, especially women, yet existing treatments were developed primarily for young boys. Neurode fills a critical gap in personalized ADHD treatment.
3. The Mentorship Experience: Nathalie shared how Dr. Schneider’s guidance during critical stages of Neurode’s beta launch provided actionable insights, including strategies for user acquisition, team leadership, and scaling the business.
4. Home[ward] Grown Program Impact: Dr. Schneider emphasized the importance of mentorship as a tool to help women advance faster and tackle challenges in leadership roles. There is no problem that Nathalie could not figure out on her own, providing mentorship coupled with experience can lead to solving things faster. And speed matters.
5. Nathalie’s Key Take Aways: The value of storytelling in engaging investors, users, and team members; Leaning into speed and progress, even when the pace feels daunting. (“There will be time to slow down later”)

2025 Home[ward] Grown Applications:
Applications for the 2025 Home[ward] Grown mentorship program are STILL open. Details here →
https://lnkd.in/g2KGf6Er

About Nathalie:
Nathalie is the CEO and co-founder of Neurode, a company pioneering a wearable headband that treats and tracks ADHD. As a neuroscientist with ADHD herself, she combined her expertise in brain-machine interfaces with personal insights to create a user-friendly and innovative device. Neurode was born from firsthand experience with the side effects of medication feeling her determination to build an alternative that doesn’t have these same downsides. With her co-founder Damian and the Neurode team, they have validated Neurode’s technology through clinical trials. Now, Nathalie is focused on expanding Neurode’s private beta, giving people the chance to experience a new way to improve focus and memory.

Learn more at neurodelabs.com

About Dr. Jenny Schneider:
I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America.

Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance.

]]> 1633 no From Yes to Heck Yes with Leslie Snavely || EP. 181 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/12/10/from-yes-to-heck-yes-with-leslie-snavely-ep-181/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leslie Snavely, CEO of CHG Healthcare, the largest physician and clinician staffing organization in the U.S. Leslie shares her journey of rising through the ranks over 14 years at CHG, transitioning from roles in marketing and sales to leadership and eventually CEO. She credits her success to continuous learning, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to take risks when opportunities arose, such as stepping into a leadership role in technology despite it being outside her comfort zone. Key Insights: 1. Career Growth: Leslie emphasizes the importance of finding the right company, working hard, staying curious, and being willing to take leaps into new challenges. She highlights how the pandemic served as a pivotal moment, building her confidence and purpose for assuming the CEO role. 2. Leadership Philosophy: Leslie encourages women to reflect on their “why” to move from uncertainty to a confident “heck yes” when pursuing leadership opportunities. She advocates for authenticity and surrounding oneself with mentors and colleagues who enable you to be your true self. 3. CHG Healthcare’s Mission: Leslie provides an overview of CHG’s work, particularly its focus on placing locum tenens (temporary) physicians in areas of need. The organization plays a vital role in addressing the national clinician shortage and ensuring access to quality care, especially in rural and underserved communities. 4. Challenges in Healthcare Staffing: Leslie discusses the burnout crisis among healthcare workers and the challenges of recruiting in a constrained talent pipeline. CHG’s approach involves supporting physicians with career planning, credentialing, and licensure to let them focus on patient care. 5. Building a Strong Workplace Culture: Under Leslie’s leadership, CHG has implemented inclusive policies like gender pay equity, flexible work arrangements, and expanded parental leave. These initiatives have driven business success, including higher retention rates for postpartum employees, saving millions in recruitment and training costs. Leslie closes by advising young professionals to focus on finding environments where they can be their authentic selves and invest their energy into the work, rather than projecting an image that doesn’t align with who they are. About Leslie: CHG Healthcare has announced the promotion of Leslie Snavely to president, taking on more responsibility in the leadership of CHG, the nation’s largest physician staffing company. Snavely currently serves as chief sales officer, a role that will now be filled by Bill Heller. They will assume their new roles effective July 1. “Since joining CHG, Leslie has continued to bring a deeper significance to each position she has held,” said Scott Beck, CEO. “I have every confidence that her extensive sales and marketing knowledge and commitment to our people and our culture will further strengthen our company as she takes on the role of president.” Snavely joined CHG in 2010 as vice president of marketing and communications. She has held a wide range of positions within the company, including senior vice president of marketing and business development and chief strategy and digital officer. As a member of CHG’s executive leadership team, Snavely led the development of CHG’s strategic plan and the acquisition of two tech companies,  Modio Health  and  Locumsmart. Prior to being named president, she served as chief sales officer. Snavely is also an executive sponsor of CHG’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.   “Putting people first is a huge part of who we are at CHG Healthcare. I’m so appreciative of the role this company has played in my life and the role our people have played in the healthcare community,” Snavely said. “I look forward to continuing to drive our business, grow our people, and strengthen our culture as president of CHG Healthcare.” Snavely made Utah Business Magazine’s “40 Under 40” in 2014 and was named CXO of the Year in 2021. She is passionate about elevating the status of women’s leadership and previously served as the vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Institute of Utah. She has also volunteered with the Park City Community Foundation. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Miami University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting. Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:00:56 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leslie Snavely, CEO of CHG Healthcare, the largest physician and clinician staffing organization in the U.S. Leslie shares her journey of rising through the ranks over 14 years at CHG, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leslie Snavely, CEO of CHG Healthcare, the largest physician and clinician staffing organization in the U.S. Leslie shares her journey of rising through the ranks over 14 years at CHG, transitioning from roles in marketing and sales to leadership and eventually CEO. She credits her success to continuous learning, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to take risks when opportunities arose, such as stepping into a leadership role in technology despite it being outside her comfort zone. Key Insights: 1. Career Growth: Leslie emphasizes the importance of finding the right company, working hard, staying curious, and being willing to take leaps into new challenges. She highlights how the pandemic served as a pivotal moment, building her confidence and purpose for assuming the CEO role. 2. Leadership Philosophy: Leslie encourages women to reflect on their “why” to move from uncertainty to a confident “heck yes” when pursuing leadership opportunities. She advocates for authenticity and surrounding oneself with mentors and colleagues who enable you to be your true self. 3. CHG Healthcare’s Mission: Leslie provides an overview of CHG’s work, particularly its focus on placing locum tenens (temporary) physicians in areas of need. The organization plays a vital role in addressing the national clinician shortage and ensuring access to quality care, especially in rural and underserved communities. 4. Challenges in Healthcare Staffing: Leslie discusses the burnout crisis among healthcare workers and the challenges of recruiting in a constrained talent pipeline. CHG’s approach involves supporting physicians with career planning, credentialing, and licensure to let them focus on patient care. 5. Building a Strong Workplace Culture: Under Leslie’s leadership, CHG has implemented inclusive policies like gender pay equity, flexible work arrangements, and expanded parental leave. These initiatives have driven business success, including higher retention rates for postpartum employees, saving millions in recruitment and training costs. Leslie closes by advising young professionals to focus on finding environments where they can be their authentic selves and invest their energy into the work, rather than projecting an image that doesn’t align with who they are. About Leslie: CHG Healthcare has announced the promotion of Leslie Snavely to president, taking on more responsibility in the leadership of CHG, the nation’s largest physician staffing company. Snavely currently serves as chief sales officer, a role that will now be filled by Bill Heller. They will assume their new roles effective July 1. “Since joining CHG, Leslie has continued to bring a deeper significance to each position she has held,” said Scott Beck, CEO. “I have every confidence that her extensive sales and marketing knowledge and commitment to our people and our culture will further strengthen our company as she takes on the role of president.” Snavely joined CHG in 2010 as vice president of marketing and communications. She has held a wide range of positions within the company, including senior vice president of marketing and business development and chief strategy and digital officer. As a member of CHG’s executive leadership team, Snavely led the development of CHG’s strategic plan and the acquisition of two tech companies,  Modio Health  and  Locumsmart. Prior to being named president, she served as chief sales officer. Snavely is also an executive sponsor of CHG’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.   “Putting people first is a huge part of who we are at CHG Healthcare. I’m so appreciative of the role this company has played in my life and the role our people have played in the healthcare community,” Snavely said. “I look forward to continuing to drive our business, grow our people, and strengthen our culture as president of CHG Healthcare.” Snavely made Utah Business Magazine’s “40 Under 40” in 2014 and was named CXO of the Year in 2021. She is passionate about elevating the status of women’s leadership and previously served as the vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Institute of Utah. She has also volunteered with the Park City Community Foundation. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Miami University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leslie Snavely, CEO of CHG Healthcare, the largest physician and clinician staffing organization in the U.S. Leslie shares her journey of rising through the ranks over 14 years at CHG, transitioning from roles in marketing and sales to leadership and eventually CEO. She credits her success to continuous learning, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to take risks when opportunities arose, such as stepping into a leadership role in technology despite it being outside her comfort zone.

Key Insights:

1. Career Growth: Leslie emphasizes the importance of finding the right company, working hard, staying curious, and being willing to take leaps into new challenges. She highlights how the pandemic served as a pivotal moment, building her confidence and purpose for assuming the CEO role.

2. Leadership Philosophy: Leslie encourages women to reflect on their “why” to move from uncertainty to a confident “heck yes” when pursuing leadership opportunities. She advocates for authenticity and surrounding oneself with mentors and colleagues who enable you to be your true self.

3. CHG Healthcare’s Mission: Leslie provides an overview of CHG’s work, particularly its focus on placing locum tenens (temporary) physicians in areas of need. The organization plays a vital role in addressing the national clinician shortage and ensuring access to quality care, especially in rural and underserved communities.

4. Challenges in Healthcare Staffing: Leslie discusses the burnout crisis among healthcare workers and the challenges of recruiting in a constrained talent pipeline. CHG’s approach involves supporting physicians with career planning, credentialing, and licensure to let them focus on patient care.

5. Building a Strong Workplace Culture: Under Leslie’s leadership, CHG has implemented inclusive policies like gender pay equity, flexible work arrangements, and expanded parental leave. These initiatives have driven business success, including higher retention rates for postpartum employees, saving millions in recruitment and training costs.

Leslie closes by advising young professionals to focus on finding environments where they can be their authentic selves and invest their energy into the work, rather than projecting an image that doesn’t align with who they are.

About Leslie:

CHG Healthcare has announced the promotion of Leslie Snavely to president, taking on more responsibility in the leadership of CHG, the nation’s largest physician staffing company. Snavely currently serves as chief sales officer, a role that will now be filled by Bill Heller. They will assume their new roles effective July 1.

“Since joining CHG, Leslie has continued to bring a deeper significance to each position she has held,” said Scott Beck, CEO. “I have every confidence that her extensive sales and marketing knowledge and commitment to our people and our culture will further strengthen our company as she takes on the role of president.”

Snavely joined CHG in 2010 as vice president of marketing and communications. She has held a wide range of positions within the company, including senior vice president of marketing and business development and chief strategy and digital officer. As a member of CHG’s executive leadership team, Snavely led the development of CHG’s strategic plan and the acquisition of two tech companies,  Modio Health  and  Locumsmart. Prior to being named president, she served as chief sales officer.

Snavely is also an executive sponsor of CHG’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.   “Putting people first is a huge part of who we are at CHG Healthcare. I’m so appreciative of the role this company has played in my life and the role our people have played in the healthcare community,” Snavely said. “I look forward to continuing to drive our business, grow our people, and strengthen our culture as president of CHG Healthcare.”

Snavely made Utah Business Magazine’s “40 Under 40” in 2014 and was named CXO of the Year in 2021. She is passionate about elevating the status of women’s leadership and previously served as the vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Institute of Utah. She has also volunteered with the Park City Community Foundation. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Miami University with a
Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting.

]]> 1695 no Deborah Di Sanzo decided early that she wanted to change the world. Innovation means making a difference || EP. 180 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/11/26/deborah-di-sanzo-decided-early-that-she-wanted-to-change-the-world-innovation-means-making-a-difference-ep-181/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deborah Di Sanzo, President of Best Buy Health. Deborah grew up in technology. Decades of technology, healthcare, business, executive leadership. She understood the potential of technology when she watched her systems at work in the surgery theater. She is a professor who teaches AI at Harvard. She knows how complicated all of the connected systems can be. What excites Deborah? Taking all of the complex and making it easy and simple. Bringing technology to the home, connected to other systems, bringing the human back to care. Deborah describes the great progress at Best Buy Health which is only the beginning. In this Inspiring Women episode, we talk about the future of care delivery at home – except that future is today. And then we delve into aging. Deborah has so many ideas for how AI – which never gets tired and is empathetic – can be that helpful bot for the aging. As she looks to the future, Deborah sees great promise. What is required? Spoiler alert: Being Bold. Being very, very bold. About Deborah Di Sanzo: Deborah Di Sanzo is president of Best Buy Health for Best Buy Co. Inc. She is responsible for the company’s health technology business. Best Buy Health enables care at home for everyone across the continuum of care based on Best Buy’s core competencies. Integrated technology, personalized caring centers and technical services, logistics, supply chain, and omnichannel experiences create the plumbing which enable consumers to develop meaningful connections with their caregivers, insurers, and clinicians. Her business includes Lively!, the brand of connected health and personal emergency response services to the aging population, which Best Buy acquired in 2018 as well as Current Health, a leading care at home technology platform which Best Buy acquired in 2021. Deborah is an innovative leader with more than 30 years' experience at the intersection of health care and technology. Prior to Best Buy, Deborah was the General Manager of IBM Watson Health, ad prior to IBM, she was the CEO of Philips Healthcare. She teaches AI in Health and Managing Information in Health Care at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health. Deborah holds a bachelor of science degree from Merrimack College and an MBA from Babson College. She is a Harvard University Advanced Leadership Initiative Fellow and serves on the board of AstraZeneca. Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:00:47 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deborah Di Sanzo, President of Best Buy Health. Deborah grew up in technology. Decades of technology, healthcare, business, executive leadership. She understood the potential of technology when she watched... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deborah Di Sanzo, President of Best Buy Health. Deborah grew up in technology. Decades of technology, healthcare, business, executive leadership. She understood the potential of technology when she watched her systems at work in the surgery theater. She is a professor who teaches AI at Harvard. She knows how complicated all of the connected systems can be. What excites Deborah? Taking all of the complex and making it easy and simple. Bringing technology to the home, connected to other systems, bringing the human back to care. Deborah describes the great progress at Best Buy Health which is only the beginning. In this Inspiring Women episode, we talk about the future of care delivery at home – except that future is today. And then we delve into aging. Deborah has so many ideas for how AI – which never gets tired and is empathetic – can be that helpful bot for the aging. As she looks to the future, Deborah sees great promise. What is required? Spoiler alert: Being Bold. Being very, very bold. About Deborah Di Sanzo: Deborah Di Sanzo is president of Best Buy Health for Best Buy Co. Inc. She is responsible for the company’s health technology business. Best Buy Health enables care at home for everyone across the continuum of care based on Best Buy’s core competencies. Integrated technology, personalized caring centers and technical services, logistics, supply chain, and omnichannel experiences create the plumbing which enable consumers to develop meaningful connections with their caregivers, insurers, and clinicians. Her business includes Lively!, the brand of connected health and personal emergency response services to the aging population, which Best Buy acquired in 2018 as well as Current Health, a leading care at home technology platform which Best Buy acquired in 2021. Deborah is an innovative leader with more than 30 years' experience at the intersection of health care and technology. Prior to Best Buy, Deborah was the General Manager of IBM Watson Health, ad prior to IBM, she was the CEO of Philips Healthcare. She teaches AI in Health and Managing Information in Health Care at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health. Deborah holds a bachelor of science degree from Merrimack College and an MBA from Babson College. She is a Harvard University Advanced Leadership Initiative Fellow and serves on the board of AstraZeneca. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deborah Di Sanzo, President of Best Buy Health.

Deborah grew up in technology. Decades of technology, healthcare, business, executive leadership. She understood the potential of technology when she watched her systems at work in the surgery theater. She is a professor who teaches AI at Harvard. She knows how complicated all of the connected systems can be. What excites Deborah? Taking all of the complex and making it easy and simple. Bringing technology to the home, connected to other systems, bringing the human back to care. Deborah describes the great progress at Best Buy Health which is only the beginning.

In this Inspiring Women episode, we talk about the future of care delivery at home – except that future is today. And then we delve into aging. Deborah has so many ideas for how AI – which never gets tired and is empathetic – can be that helpful bot for the aging.

As she looks to the future, Deborah sees great promise. What is required? Spoiler alert: Being Bold. Being very, very bold.

About Deborah Di Sanzo:

Deborah Di Sanzo is president of Best Buy Health for Best Buy Co. Inc. She is responsible for the company’s health technology business.

Best Buy Health enables care at home for everyone across the continuum of care based on Best Buy’s core competencies. Integrated technology, personalized caring centers and technical services, logistics, supply chain, and omnichannel experiences create the plumbing which enable consumers to develop meaningful connections with their caregivers, insurers, and clinicians. Her business includes Lively!, the brand of connected health and personal emergency response services to the aging population, which Best Buy acquired in 2018 as well as Current Health, a leading care at home technology platform which Best Buy acquired in 2021.

Deborah is an innovative leader with more than 30 years' experience at the intersection of health care and technology. Prior to Best Buy, Deborah was the General Manager of IBM Watson Health, ad prior to IBM, she was the CEO of Philips Healthcare.

She teaches AI in Health and Managing Information in Health Care at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health. Deborah holds a bachelor of science degree from Merrimack College and an MBA from Babson College. She is a Harvard University Advanced Leadership Initiative Fellow and serves on the board of AstraZeneca.

]]> 1605 no The Many Detours of the Yellow Brick Road with Dr. Abbey Vandersall || EP. 179 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/11/19/the-many-detours-of-the-yellow-brick-road-with-dr-abbey-vandersall-ep-179/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Abbey Vandersall, VP of Quality and Clinical Services at AMSURG. The path to medicine and quality began in …. the hospitality business. The “how did I get here” story for Dr. Vandersall is not your typical path. An early degree in nutrition is what turned her onto medicine. Seeing the graph of outcomes and the ties to nutrition was a light bulb moment. Management consulting at Bain was something she absolutely loved – using data, optimizing, business implications, and actually impacting outcomes. But her love for healthcare and innovation drew her back to medicine. Abbey describes the road to becoming a physician as The Yellow Brick Road – you know the path to get there. But her interests in operations and outcomes – were steps off that road. And while the path is not clear, the journey has been amazing! At AMSURG the largest network of ambulatory surgery centers, Abbey talks about the hard problems she faces every day. Improving clinical metrics and quality metrics across a multitude of factors is the focus every single day. She shines light on innovation and Patient Experience as critical to what she is driving in her work at AMSURG. What is Abbey’s True North? Being a supportive daughter, friend, family member. What does the future look like? The focus is innovation……and perhaps a few more detours off of the Yellow Brick Road. This Inspiring Women episode was recorded at the 2024 Nashville Sessions at the Country Music Hall of Fame. About Dr. Vandersall: Abbey Vandersall, M.D., M.S., is the Vice President, Quality and Clinical Services for AMSURG, one of the nation’s largest ambulatory surgery center operations in the delivery of essential, high-quality care to patients. Dr. Vandersall joined AMSURG from the Envision Medical Group team of Envision Healthcare, where she served as Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Medical Officer before being appointed as Vice President of Clinical Strategy and Head of Envision’s Clinician Value Institute. In her role as VP, Clinical Strategy, Dr. Vandersall defined the organization’s near and long-term clinical strategies, translating them into tactical annual priorities, including designing and scaling innovative value-based care pilots, while simultaneously supporting ~25,000 clinicians in her role as Head of Clinician Value. Prior to her time at Envision, Dr. Vandersall worked at Bain & Company as a consultant where she supported business strategy for companies across multiple industries including healthcare, software and aerospace. Dr. Vandersall earned a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Biology and a Master of Science in Nutritional Biochemistry from Columbia University as well as a Doctor of Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:00:08 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Abbey Vandersall, VP of Quality and Clinical Services at AMSURG. The path to medicine and quality began in …. the hospitality business. The “how did I get here” story for Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Abbey Vandersall, VP of Quality and Clinical Services at AMSURG. The path to medicine and quality began in …. the hospitality business. The “how did I get here” story for Dr. Vandersall is not your typical path. An early degree in nutrition is what turned her onto medicine. Seeing the graph of outcomes and the ties to nutrition was a light bulb moment. Management consulting at Bain was something she absolutely loved – using data, optimizing, business implications, and actually impacting outcomes. But her love for healthcare and innovation drew her back to medicine. Abbey describes the road to becoming a physician as The Yellow Brick Road – you know the path to get there. But her interests in operations and outcomes – were steps off that road. And while the path is not clear, the journey has been amazing! At AMSURG the largest network of ambulatory surgery centers, Abbey talks about the hard problems she faces every day. Improving clinical metrics and quality metrics across a multitude of factors is the focus every single day. She shines light on innovation and Patient Experience as critical to what she is driving in her work at AMSURG. What is Abbey’s True North? Being a supportive daughter, friend, family member. What does the future look like? The focus is innovation……and perhaps a few more detours off of the Yellow Brick Road. This Inspiring Women episode was recorded at the 2024 Nashville Sessions at the Country Music Hall of Fame. About Dr. Vandersall: Abbey Vandersall, M.D., M.S., is the Vice President, Quality and Clinical Services for AMSURG, one of the nation’s largest ambulatory surgery center operations in the delivery of essential, high-quality care to patients. Dr. Vandersall joined AMSURG from the Envision Medical Group team of Envision Healthcare, where she served as Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Medical Officer before being appointed as Vice President of Clinical Strategy and Head of Envision’s Clinician Value Institute. In her role as VP, Clinical Strategy, Dr. Vandersall defined the organization’s near and long-term clinical strategies, translating them into tactical annual priorities, including designing and scaling innovative value-based care pilots, while simultaneously supporting ~25,000 clinicians in her role as Head of Clinician Value. Prior to her time at Envision, Dr. Vandersall worked at Bain & Company as a consultant where she supported business strategy for companies across multiple industries including healthcare, software and aerospace. Dr. Vandersall earned a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Biology and a Master of Science in Nutritional Biochemistry from Columbia University as well as a Doctor of Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Abbey Vandersall, VP of Quality and Clinical Services at AMSURG. The path to medicine and quality began in …. the hospitality business. The “how did I get here” story for Dr. Vandersall is not your typical path. An early degree in nutrition is what turned her onto medicine. Seeing the graph of outcomes and the ties to nutrition was a light bulb moment. Management consulting at Bain was something she absolutely loved – using data, optimizing, business implications, and actually impacting outcomes. But her love for healthcare and innovation drew her back to medicine. Abbey describes the road to becoming a physician as The Yellow Brick Road – you know the path to get there. But her interests in operations and outcomes – were steps off that road. And while the path is not clear, the journey has been amazing! At AMSURG the largest network of ambulatory surgery centers, Abbey talks about the hard problems she faces every day. Improving clinical metrics and quality metrics across a multitude of factors is the focus every single day. She shines light on innovation and Patient Experience as critical to what she is driving in her work at AMSURG. What is Abbey’s True North? Being a supportive daughter, friend, family member. What does the future look like? The focus is innovation……and perhaps a few more detours off of the Yellow Brick Road. This Inspiring Women episode was recorded at the 2024 Nashville Sessions at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

About Dr. Vandersall:

Abbey Vandersall, M.D., M.S., is the Vice President, Quality and Clinical Services for AMSURG, one of the nation’s largest ambulatory surgery center operations in the delivery of essential, high-quality care to patients. Dr. Vandersall joined AMSURG from the Envision Medical Group team of Envision Healthcare, where she served as Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Medical Officer before being appointed as Vice President of Clinical Strategy and Head of Envision’s Clinician Value Institute. In her role as VP, Clinical Strategy, Dr. Vandersall defined the organization’s near and long-term clinical strategies, translating them into tactical annual priorities, including designing and scaling innovative value-based care pilots, while simultaneously supporting ~25,000 clinicians in her role as Head of Clinician Value. Prior to her time at Envision, Dr. Vandersall worked at Bain & Company as a consultant where she supported business strategy for companies across multiple industries including healthcare, software and aerospace. Dr. Vandersall earned a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Biology and a Master of Science in Nutritional Biochemistry from Columbia University as well as a Doctor of Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Medicine.

]]> 2051 no The Inspiring Women of Public Radio || EP. 178 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/11/14/the-inspiring-women-of-public-radio-ep-178/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women pioneers of public radio Breeze Richardson and Marty Durlin. These special interviews were aired on KGNU’s It’s the Economy and highlight the importance of public radio. Both Marty and Breeze provide their reasons for coming into public radio – the true town square, the opportunity for storytelling and creative expression and the ability for anyone and any walk of life to tell their stories that are relevant and speak to the concerns and triumphs of people in the community. The world of social media, podcasting, and digital media has long changed the game of where and how people get their information. And yet, people still listen and tune into community radio. Marty and Breeze know why and share how providing authentic and relevant voices and great story telling stands the test of time. About Marty:  A pioneer in community radio, Marty Durlin came to KZYX after serving as manager of KZMU in Moab UT. Her longest tenure was at KGNU in Boulder CO, where she helmed the station for more than 20 years, cofounded the Grassroots Radio Conference and served as chair of the National Federation of Community Broadcasters, the Pacifica National Board, and the Rocky Mountain Community Radio Coalition. Also a print and radio journalist and a musical playwright, Durlin has spent her career in community media and community theatre. About Breeze:  Breeze joined the Aspen Public Radio team in June 2021. Highly-respected in public media for her strategic planning and communications background, she has a passion for telling stories and producing community-focused programming. Since arriving in the Roaring Fork Valley, Breeze has been on stage exploring disability and inclusion with 1A’s Jenn White, discussing the importance of local journalism for Aspen Institute’s Society of Fellows, and in conversation with  Tockukwu Okafor , Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, and 2023 Aspen Words Literary Prize winner Jamil Jan Kochai for Aspen Words. In February 2023, she took the stage at the Wheeler Opera House with NPR's Ailsa Chang to lead a conversation about making big career changes, representation in media, and the impact of investigative journalism. Breeze currently serves as President of the Rocky Mountain Community Radio coalition, and is an elected member of the Western States Public Radio Board of Directors. In 2024, she completed the Public Media Diversity Leaders Initiative (PMDLI) hosted by the Riley Institute at Furman University, and is a proud alumni of the Aspen Institute Hurst Leaders Forum. Before returning to public radio, Breeze worked as director of marketing and communications at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, Missouri, and from 2013-2017 she worked for the Kansas Board of Regents, gaining extensive experience in state government communications and higher education while serving as the agency’s public information officer. Thu, 14 Nov 2024 21:15:56 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women pioneers of public radio Breeze Richardson and Marty Durlin. These special interviews were aired on KGNU’s It’s the Economy and highlight the importance of public radio. Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women pioneers of public radio Breeze Richardson and Marty Durlin. These special interviews were aired on KGNU’s It’s the Economy and highlight the importance of public radio. Both Marty and Breeze provide their reasons for coming into public radio – the true town square, the opportunity for storytelling and creative expression and the ability for anyone and any walk of life to tell their stories that are relevant and speak to the concerns and triumphs of people in the community. The world of social media, podcasting, and digital media has long changed the game of where and how people get their information. And yet, people still listen and tune into community radio. Marty and Breeze know why and share how providing authentic and relevant voices and great story telling stands the test of time. About Marty:  A pioneer in community radio, Marty Durlin came to KZYX after serving as manager of KZMU in Moab UT. Her longest tenure was at KGNU in Boulder CO, where she helmed the station for more than 20 years, cofounded the Grassroots Radio Conference and served as chair of the National Federation of Community Broadcasters, the Pacifica National Board, and the Rocky Mountain Community Radio Coalition. Also a print and radio journalist and a musical playwright, Durlin has spent her career in community media and community theatre. About Breeze:  Breeze joined the Aspen Public Radio team in June 2021. Highly-respected in public media for her strategic planning and communications background, she has a passion for telling stories and producing community-focused programming. Since arriving in the Roaring Fork Valley, Breeze has been on stage exploring disability and inclusion with 1A’s Jenn White, discussing the importance of local journalism for Aspen Institute’s Society of Fellows, and in conversation with  Tockukwu Okafor , Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, and 2023 Aspen Words Literary Prize winner Jamil Jan Kochai for Aspen Words. In February 2023, she took the stage at the Wheeler Opera House with NPR's Ailsa Chang to lead a conversation about making big career changes, representation in media, and the impact of investigative journalism. Breeze currently serves as President of the Rocky Mountain Community Radio coalition, and is an elected member of the Western States Public Radio Board of Directors. In 2024, she completed the Public Media Diversity Leaders Initiative (PMDLI) hosted by the Riley Institute at Furman University, and is a proud alumni of the Aspen Institute Hurst Leaders Forum. Before returning to public radio, Breeze worked as director of marketing and communications at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, Missouri, and from 2013-2017 she worked for the Kansas Board of Regents, gaining extensive experience in state government communications and higher education while serving as the agency’s public information officer. Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women pioneers of public radio Breeze Richardson and Marty Durlin. These special interviews were aired on KGNU’s It’s the Economy and highlight the importance of public radio. Both Marty and Breeze provide their reasons for coming into public radio – the true town square, the opportunity for storytelling and creative expression and the ability for anyone and any walk of life to tell their stories that are relevant and speak to the concerns and triumphs of people in the community.

The world of social media, podcasting, and digital media has long changed the game of where and how people get their information. And yet, people still listen and tune into community radio. Marty and Breeze know why and share how providing authentic and relevant voices and great story telling stands the test of time.

About Marty: 

A pioneer in community radio, Marty Durlin came to KZYX after serving as manager of KZMU in Moab UT. Her longest tenure was at KGNU in Boulder CO, where she helmed the station for more than 20 years, cofounded the Grassroots Radio Conference and served as chair of the National Federation of Community Broadcasters, the Pacifica National Board, and the Rocky Mountain Community Radio Coalition. Also a print and radio journalist and a musical playwright, Durlin has spent her career in community media and community theatre.

About Breeze: 

Breeze joined the Aspen Public Radio team in June 2021. Highly-respected in public media for her strategic planning and communications background, she has a passion for telling stories and producing community-focused programming. Since arriving in the Roaring Fork Valley, Breeze has been on stage exploring disability and inclusion with 1A’s Jenn White, discussing the importance of local journalism for Aspen Institute’s Society of Fellows, and in conversation with  Tockukwu Okafor , Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, and 2023 Aspen Words Literary Prize winner Jamil Jan Kochai for Aspen Words. In February 2023, she took the stage at the Wheeler Opera House with NPR's Ailsa Chang to lead a conversation about making big career changes, representation in media, and the impact of investigative journalism.

Breeze currently serves as President of the Rocky Mountain Community Radio coalition, and is an elected member of the Western States Public Radio Board of Directors. In 2024, she completed the Public Media Diversity Leaders Initiative (PMDLI) hosted by the Riley Institute at Furman University, and is a proud alumni of the Aspen Institute Hurst Leaders Forum.

Before returning to public radio, Breeze worked as director of marketing and communications at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, Missouri, and from 2013-2017 she worked for the Kansas Board of Regents, gaining extensive experience in state government communications and higher education while serving as the agency’s public information officer.

]]> 1643 no Chapter Next with Miriam Paramore || EP. 177 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/11/04/chapter-next-with-miriam-paramore-ep-177/ Speaking with Miriam Paramore, a Nashville executive powerhouse, Founder and CEO of RxUtility – a new company that aims to cut through the confusing medication costs and bring LOWEST cost medicine to you! Miriam’s smarts, energy, and passion suggests she can do it!!  She also is the Founding OG of Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress.  Now 500 plus women executives strong… WHLP supports PUBLICLY Kamala Harris for the White House.  Why?  Reproductive rights!!! Protecting Medicare And Medicaid.  AND the Affordable Care Act… Healthcare is on the ballot. Women are on the ballot. Miriam is all about rolling up her sleeves and digging in!! Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:00:11 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Speaking with Miriam Paramore, a Nashville executive powerhouse, Founder and CEO of RxUtility – a new company that aims to cut through the confusing medication costs and bring LOWEST cost medicine to you! Miriam’s smarts, energy, Speaking with Miriam Paramore, a Nashville executive powerhouse, Founder and CEO of RxUtility – a new company that aims to cut through the confusing medication costs and bring LOWEST cost medicine to you! Miriam’s smarts, energy, and passion suggests she can do it!!  She also is the Founding OG of Women Healthcare Leaders for Progress.  Now 500 plus women executives strong… WHLP supports PUBLICLY Kamala Harris for the White House.  Why?  Reproductive rights!!! Protecting Medicare And Medicaid.  AND the Affordable Care Act… Healthcare is on the ballot. Women are on the ballot. Miriam is all about rolling up her sleeves and digging in!! 2250 no US Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark: Women are on the Ballot and Your Voice Matters || EP. 176 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/10/29/us-congresswoman-and-democratic-whip-katherine-clark-women-are-on-the-ballot-and-your-voice-matters-ep-176/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman US Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. Whip Clark is one of the 28% of women to hold office in the United States Congress, she is the second woman to ever hold the position of Whip (second only to Nancy Pelosi), she is a key member of the leadership of the House and she wants you to know: Women on are on the ballot. And your voice matters. Reproductive freedom is at stake, more so than ever. Women’s rights are at stake, Healthcare is at stake. And your voice has never been more important. Thank you for your leadership Congresswoman Clark. Tue, 29 Oct 2024 19:49:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman US Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. Whip Clark is one of the 28% of women to hold office in the United States Congress, she is the second woman to ever hold the position of Whip (second o... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman US Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. Whip Clark is one of the 28% of women to hold office in the United States Congress, she is the second woman to ever hold the position of Whip (second only to Nancy Pelosi), she is a key member of the leadership of the House and she wants you to know: Women on are on the ballot. And your voice matters. Reproductive freedom is at stake, more so than ever. Women’s rights are at stake, Healthcare is at stake. And your voice has never been more important. Thank you for your leadership Congresswoman Clark. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman US Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. Whip Clark is one of the 28% of women to hold office in the United States Congress, she is the second woman to ever hold the position of Whip (second only to Nancy Pelosi), she is a key member of the leadership of the House and she wants you to know: Women on are on the ballot. And your voice matters. Reproductive freedom is at stake, more so than ever. Women’s rights are at stake, Healthcare is at stake. And your voice has never been more important. Thank you for your leadership Congresswoman Clark.

]]> 1302 no Treating misinformation with Dr. Geeta Nayyar, author of Dead Wrong at HLTH 2024 || EP. 175 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/10/22/treating-misinformation-with-dr-geeta-nayyar-author-of-dead-wrong-at-hlth-2024-ep-175/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Geeta Nayyar, nationally recognized chief medical officer and author of Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness. We are dropping this episode at HLTH2024 where Dr. Nayyar provides both the diagnosis and the treatment for misinformation illness and how this can impact the entire system and ultimately the patients being served. About Dr. Nayyar: Geeta Nayyar, MD, MBA, is a globally recognized chief medical officer, technologist, and bestselling author who helps leaders leverage a human approach to innovation, including rapid advances in AI, to achieve better health and business outcomes. A widely sought- after speaker and author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller “Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness,” Dr. G has appeared on CNBC, CNN, FOX, CBS, and other prominent media outlets. She has served as chief medical officer for Salesforce and AT&T, among other executive roles. She currently serves on the board of the American Telemedicine\ Association and as an advisor to the American Medical Association. Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:17:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Geeta Nayyar, nationally recognized chief medical officer and author of Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness. We are dropping this episode at HLTH2024 where Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Geeta Nayyar, nationally recognized chief medical officer and author of Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness. We are dropping this episode at HLTH2024 where Dr. Nayyar provides both the diagnosis and the treatment for misinformation illness and how this can impact the entire system and ultimately the patients being served. About Dr. Nayyar: Geeta Nayyar, MD, MBA, is a globally recognized chief medical officer, technologist, and bestselling author who helps leaders leverage a human approach to innovation, including rapid advances in AI, to achieve better health and business outcomes. A widely sought- after speaker and author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller “Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness,” Dr. G has appeared on CNBC, CNN, FOX, CBS, and other prominent media outlets. She has served as chief medical officer for Salesforce and AT&T, among other executive roles. She currently serves on the board of the American Telemedicine\ Association and as an advisor to the American Medical Association. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Geeta Nayyar, nationally recognized chief medical officer and author of Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness. We are dropping this episode at HLTH2024 where Dr. Nayyar provides both the diagnosis and the treatment for misinformation illness and how this can impact the entire system and ultimately the patients being served.

About Dr. Nayyar:

Geeta Nayyar, MD, MBA, is a globally recognized chief medical officer, technologist, and bestselling author who helps leaders leverage a human approach to innovation, including rapid advances in AI, to achieve better health and business outcomes. A widely sought- after speaker and author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller “Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness,” Dr. G has appeared on CNBC, CNN, FOX, CBS, and other prominent media outlets. She has served as chief medical officer for Salesforce and AT&T, among other executive roles. She currently serves on the board of the American Telemedicine\ Association and as an advisor to the American Medical Association.

]]> 1863 no Domestic Violence and Breaking the Cycle with Rebecca Darr || EP. 174 Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Darr, CEO of Wings, the largest organization in Illinois focused on breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Wings provides housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence with tremendous success when people seek help. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. The definition of domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. And you may be surprised to know how prevalent it is. Every minute 24 people are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. That’s over 12 million people every year. In Chicago alone, the police receive 500 calls per day regarding domestic violence. Further, over 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and 1 in 4 men (28.5%) in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Domestic violence does not discriminate and begins with a power imbalance. Rebecca discusses the stark reality of what it means to get out of an abusive situation and then how Wings can help. Rebecca has been doing this work for decades and became CEO of Wings in 2014. When people come to Wings for help – they receive it. Housing, counseling, and more. This Inspiring Woman discussion with Rebecca is filled with hard to hear statistics, very real human stories and an inspiring message of hope. Breaking the domestic violence cycle is the objective and after all of these years, Rebecca remains committed to expanding the programs and impact at Wings. About Rebecca: Rebecca Darr is a tireless advocate for families confronting domestic violence. Darr was named CEO of WINGS in 2014, after serving as the agency’s executive director for 15 years. Under Darr’s leadership, WINGS has dramatically increased its ability to serve the needs of families in crisis because of domestic violence. The agency has tripled in size and secured new funding sources, including three resale stores that generate revenue to support WINGS’ programs. Darr led the WINGS team in building the first domestic violence shelter in Chicago’s northwest suburbs in 2005. This shelter has since helped thousands of women and children move from abuse to freedom. She also played a key role in the 2016 opening of the WINGS Metro shelter on Chicago’s southwest side. Darr is closely involved with numerous organizations and task forces committed to leading the fight to enact stronger legislation and to secure increased resources to combat domestic violence. These include the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues, the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and the Northwest Suburban Alliance on Domestic Violence. Darr is a sought-after speaker and expert on domestic violence issues and on programs that can break the cycle in families. To inquire about speaking engagements for Rebecca Darr, please call 847-519-7820. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Rebecca Darr on LinkedIn Learn more Wings and breaking the cycle of domestic violence Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:40:00 -0000 Domestic Violence and Breaking the Cycle with Rebecca Darr full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Darr, CEO of Wings, the largest organization in Illinois focused on breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Wings provides housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence with tremendous success when people seek help. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. The definition of domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. And you may be surprised to know how prevalent it is. Every minute 24 people are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. That’s over 12 million people every year. In Chicago alone, the police receive 500 calls per day regarding domestic violence. Further, over 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and 1 in 4 men (28.5%) in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Domestic violence does not discriminate and begins with a power imbalance. Rebecca discusses the stark reality of what it means to get out of an abusive situation and then how Wings can help. Rebecca has been doing this work for decades and became CEO of Wings in 2014. When people come to Wings for help – they receive it. Housing, counseling, and more. This Inspiring Woman discussion with Rebecca is filled with hard to hear statistics, very real human stories and an inspiring message of hope. Breaking the domestic violence cycle is the objective and after all of these years, Rebecca remains committed to expanding the programs and impact at Wings. About Rebecca: Rebecca Darr is a tireless advocate for families confronting domestic violence. Darr was named CEO of WINGS in 2014, after serving as the agency’s executive director for 15 years. Under Darr’s leadership, WINGS has dramatically increased its ability to serve the needs of families in crisis because of domestic violence. The agency has tripled in size and secured new funding sources, including three resale stores that generate revenue to support WINGS’ programs. Darr led the WINGS team in building the first domestic violence shelter in Chicago’s northwest suburbs in 2005. This shelter has since helped thousands of women and children move from abuse to freedom. She also played a key role in the 2016 opening of the WINGS Metro shelter on Chicago’s southwest side. Darr is closely involved with numerous organizations and task forces committed to leading the fight to enact stronger legislation and to secure increased resources to combat domestic violence. These include the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues, the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and the Northwest Suburban Alliance on Domestic Violence. Darr is a sought-after speaker and expert on domestic violence issues and on programs that can break the cycle in families. To inquire about speaking engagements for Rebecca Darr, please call 847-519-7820. Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Rebecca Darr on LinkedIn Learn more Wings and breaking the cycle of domestic violence Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Darr, CEO of Wings, the largest organization in Illinois focused on breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Wings provides housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence with tremendous success when people seek help.


October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. The definition of domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. And you may be surprised to know how prevalent it is.


Every minute 24 people are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. That’s over 12 million people every year. In Chicago alone, the police receive 500 calls per day regarding domestic violence. Further, over 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and 1 in 4 men (28.5%) in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.


Domestic violence does not discriminate and begins with a power imbalance. Rebecca discusses the stark reality of what it means to get out of an abusive situation and then how Wings can help. Rebecca has been doing this work for decades and became CEO of Wings in 2014. When people come to Wings for help – they receive it. Housing, counseling, and more.

This Inspiring Woman discussion with Rebecca is filled with hard to hear statistics, very real human stories and an inspiring message of hope. Breaking the domestic violence cycle is the objective and after all of these years, Rebecca remains committed to expanding the programs and impact at Wings.


About Rebecca:

Rebecca Darr is a tireless advocate for families confronting domestic violence. Darr was named CEO of WINGS in 2014, after serving as the agency’s executive director for 15 years. Under Darr’s leadership, WINGS has dramatically increased its ability to serve the needs of families in crisis because of domestic violence. The agency has tripled in size and secured new funding sources, including three resale stores that generate revenue to support WINGS’ programs. Darr led the WINGS team in building the first domestic violence shelter in Chicago’s northwest suburbs in 2005. This shelter has since helped thousands of women and children move from abuse to freedom.


She also played a key role in the 2016 opening of the WINGS Metro shelter on Chicago’s southwest side. Darr is closely involved with numerous organizations and task forces committed to leading the fight to enact stronger legislation and to secure increased resources to combat domestic violence. These include the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues, the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and the Northwest Suburban Alliance on Domestic Violence. Darr is a sought-after speaker and expert on domestic violence issues and on programs that can break the cycle in families. To inquire about speaking engagements for Rebecca Darr, please call 847-519-7820.


Guest & Host Links

  • Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Rebecca Darr on LinkedIn
  • Learn more Wings and breaking the cycle of domestic violence


Connect with Inspiring Women

Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

]]> 1504 no Leading the American Cancer Society and Transforming Cancer Care with Dr. Karen Knudsen || EP. 173 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/10/10/leading-the-american-cancer-society-and-transforming-cancer-care-with-dr-karen-knudsen-ep-173/ Join Inspiring Women Host Laurie McGraw as she sits down with Dr. Karen Knudsen, the groundbreaking first female CEO of the American Cancer Society. In this episode, Karen shares her journey from oncology researcher to leading one of the most influential organizations in cancer care. She sheds light on the staggering statistics that show one in two men and one in three women will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, and discusses the ACS’s mission to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families. Karen reflects on her transformative leadership at the ACS, moving the organization from a federated model to a unified strategy focused on health equity and patient support. With personal stories and insights, she emphasizes the importance of access to care and innovative programs that assist patients during treatment. Addressing the gender gap in healthcare leadership, Karen talks about the mentors who guided her and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. As she looks to the future, she shares her vision for a “golden age of oncology,” highlighting the potential for early detection and technology to revolutionize cancer care. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a hopeful outlook on the future of cancer treatment. Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:08:03 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Join Inspiring Women Host Laurie McGraw as she sits down with Dr. Karen Knudsen, the groundbreaking first female CEO of the American Cancer Society. In this episode, Karen shares her journey from oncology researcher to leading one of the most influenti... Join Inspiring Women Host Laurie McGraw as she sits down with Dr. Karen Knudsen, the groundbreaking first female CEO of the American Cancer Society. In this episode, Karen shares her journey from oncology researcher to leading one of the most influential organizations in cancer care. She sheds light on the staggering statistics that show one in two men and one in three women will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, and discusses the ACS’s mission to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families. Karen reflects on her transformative leadership at the ACS, moving the organization from a federated model to a unified strategy focused on health equity and patient support. With personal stories and insights, she emphasizes the importance of access to care and innovative programs that assist patients during treatment. Addressing the gender gap in healthcare leadership, Karen talks about the mentors who guided her and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. As she looks to the future, she shares her vision for a “golden age of oncology,” highlighting the potential for early detection and technology to revolutionize cancer care. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a hopeful outlook on the future of cancer treatment. Join Inspiring Women Host Laurie McGraw as she sits down with Dr. Karen Knudsen, the groundbreaking first female CEO of the American Cancer Society. In this episode, Karen shares her journey from oncology researcher to leading one of the most influential organizations in cancer care. She sheds light on the staggering statistics that show one in two men and one in three women will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, and discusses the ACS’s mission to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families.

Karen reflects on her transformative leadership at the ACS, moving the organization from a federated model to a unified strategy focused on health equity and patient support. With personal stories and insights, she emphasizes the importance of access to care and innovative programs that assist patients during treatment.

Addressing the gender gap in healthcare leadership, Karen talks about the mentors who guided her and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. As she looks to the future, she shares her vision for a “golden age of oncology,” highlighting the potential for early detection and technology to revolutionize cancer care.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a hopeful outlook on the future of cancer treatment.

]]> 1574 no Navigating End-of-Life Care with Jessica McClory, CEO & Founder of Guaranteed || EP. 172 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/09/10/navigating-end-of-life-care-with-jessica-mcclory-ceo-founder-of-guaranteed-ep-172/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jessica McGlory, CEO and Founder at Guaranteed, a care company that focuses on end of life care. And we start by talking about death. Jessica shares her deeply personal journey that led to the creation of Guaranteed, when she was suddenly and unexpectedly thrown into becoming the primary caregiver for her father during a very emotional and confusing time as he needed to go into hospice. Losing a loved one is difficult. Couple this with needing to make important decisions at a time when people are likely feeling overwhelmed or at their most vulnerable…Jessica changed her professional focus to make this a more dignified process. Guaranteed aims to revolutionize the experience by using technology and personalized care to improve patient and family outcomes. Jessica believes she can provide and change the experience to provide equitable and incredible end of life care. By using technology and human-centered care Guaranteed aims to better equip caregivers and healthcare providers to support patients and to create a seamless end-of-life experience. Jessica also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, offering advice for future founders and sharing the importance of trusting your instincts and constantly learning. About Jessica: Jessica McGlory is the Founder and CEO of Guaranteed, a hybrid healthcare company modernizing of end-of-life care. Under Jessica’s leadership, Guaranteed has raised $9MM to date and its backers include BrandProject, Cake Ventures, Lakehouse Ventures, Precursor Ventures, and Springbank Ventures. Previously, Jessica was an early stage operator working in growth for some of the fastest growing startups in the US. Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:00:42 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jessica McGlory, CEO and Founder at Guaranteed, a care company that focuses on end of life care. And we start by talking about death. Jessica shares her deeply personal journey that led to the creation of ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jessica McGlory, CEO and Founder at Guaranteed, a care company that focuses on end of life care. And we start by talking about death. Jessica shares her deeply personal journey that led to the creation of Guaranteed, when she was suddenly and unexpectedly thrown into becoming the primary caregiver for her father during a very emotional and confusing time as he needed to go into hospice. Losing a loved one is difficult. Couple this with needing to make important decisions at a time when people are likely feeling overwhelmed or at their most vulnerable…Jessica changed her professional focus to make this a more dignified process. Guaranteed aims to revolutionize the experience by using technology and personalized care to improve patient and family outcomes. Jessica believes she can provide and change the experience to provide equitable and incredible end of life care. By using technology and human-centered care Guaranteed aims to better equip caregivers and healthcare providers to support patients and to create a seamless end-of-life experience. Jessica also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, offering advice for future founders and sharing the importance of trusting your instincts and constantly learning. About Jessica: Jessica McGlory is the Founder and CEO of Guaranteed, a hybrid healthcare company modernizing of end-of-life care. Under Jessica’s leadership, Guaranteed has raised $9MM to date and its backers include BrandProject, Cake Ventures, Lakehouse Ventures, Precursor Ventures, and Springbank Ventures. Previously, Jessica was an early stage operator working in growth for some of the fastest growing startups in the US.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jessica McGlory, CEO and Founder at Guaranteed, a care company that focuses on end of life care.

And we start by talking about death. Jessica shares her deeply personal journey that led to the creation of Guaranteed, when she was suddenly and unexpectedly thrown into becoming the primary caregiver for her father during a very emotional and confusing time as he needed to go into hospice. Losing a loved one is difficult. Couple this with needing to make important decisions at a time when people are likely feeling overwhelmed or at their most vulnerable…Jessica changed her professional focus to make this a more dignified process. Guaranteed aims to revolutionize the experience by using technology and personalized care to improve patient and family outcomes. Jessica believes she can provide and change the experience to provide equitable and incredible end of life care. By using technology and human-centered care Guaranteed aims to better equip caregivers and healthcare providers to support patients and to create a seamless end-of-life experience.

Jessica also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, offering advice for future founders and sharing the importance of trusting your instincts and constantly learning.

About Jessica: Jessica McGlory is the Founder and CEO of Guaranteed, a hybrid healthcare company modernizing of end-of-life care. Under Jessica’s leadership, Guaranteed has raised $9MM to date and its backers include BrandProject, Cake Ventures, Lakehouse Ventures, Precursor Ventures, and Springbank Ventures. Previously, Jessica was an early stage operator working in growth for some of the fastest growing startups in the US.

]]> 1466 no Healthcare Innovation: A Conversation with Rebekah Swain || EP. 171 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/08/07/healthcare-innovation-a-conversation-with-rebekah-swain-ep-171/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebekah Swain, Vice President of Managed Health Strategy, Planning, and Membership Performance at Advocate Health. Rebekah began her career in healthcare early, an original candy striper volunteer as a teenager and progressing through various roles in healthcare management. Her passion for healthcare stems from witnessing firsthand the impact hospitals have on their communities. Today Rebekah oversees a complex portfolio involving over 600 managed care contracts across six states and a vast network of care delivery sites. Her role focuses on optimizing payer contracts and enhancing membership engagement strategies. She discusses Advocate Health’s initiatives in virtual primary care, hospital-at-home programs, and leveraging AI to improve decision-making and patient outcomes. Rebekah also shares insights on the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the need for simplicity amidst complexity. She highlights the role of innovation, digital health solutions, and AI in driving better patient engagement and care delivery. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering women in healthcare leadership roles and advocating for diverse perspectives in decision-making. Advice for others? Continuous learning, embracing challenges, seeking mentorship, and advocating for diversity in shaping a successful career in healthcare management. Rebekah’s insights serve as a guide for aspiring healthcare professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the industry. Wed, 07 Aug 2024 11:00:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebekah Swain, Vice President of Managed Health Strategy, Planning, and Membership Performance at Advocate Health. Rebekah began her career in healthcare early, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebekah Swain, Vice President of Managed Health Strategy, Planning, and Membership Performance at Advocate Health. Rebekah began her career in healthcare early, an original candy striper volunteer as a teenager and progressing through various roles in healthcare management. Her passion for healthcare stems from witnessing firsthand the impact hospitals have on their communities. Today Rebekah oversees a complex portfolio involving over 600 managed care contracts across six states and a vast network of care delivery sites. Her role focuses on optimizing payer contracts and enhancing membership engagement strategies. She discusses Advocate Health’s initiatives in virtual primary care, hospital-at-home programs, and leveraging AI to improve decision-making and patient outcomes. Rebekah also shares insights on the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the need for simplicity amidst complexity. She highlights the role of innovation, digital health solutions, and AI in driving better patient engagement and care delivery. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering women in healthcare leadership roles and advocating for diverse perspectives in decision-making. Advice for others? Continuous learning, embracing challenges, seeking mentorship, and advocating for diversity in shaping a successful career in healthcare management. Rebekah’s insights serve as a guide for aspiring healthcare professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the industry. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebekah Swain, Vice President of Managed Health Strategy, Planning, and Membership Performance at Advocate Health.

Rebekah began her career in healthcare early, an original candy striper volunteer as a teenager and progressing through various roles in healthcare management. Her passion for healthcare stems from witnessing firsthand the impact hospitals have on their communities.

Today Rebekah oversees a complex portfolio involving over 600 managed care contracts across six states and a vast network of care delivery sites. Her role focuses on optimizing payer contracts and enhancing membership engagement strategies. She discusses Advocate Health’s initiatives in virtual primary care, hospital-at-home programs, and leveraging AI to improve decision-making and patient outcomes.

Rebekah also shares insights on the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the need for simplicity amidst complexity. She highlights the role of innovation, digital health solutions, and AI in driving better patient engagement and care delivery. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering women in healthcare leadership roles and advocating for diverse perspectives in decision-making.

Advice for others? Continuous learning, embracing challenges, seeking mentorship, and advocating for diversity in shaping a successful career in healthcare management. Rebekah’s insights serve as a guide for aspiring healthcare professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the industry.

]]> 1337 no Leading with Purpose: Insights from Michelle Fitz-Henley || EP. 170 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/08/05/leading-with-purpose-insights-from-michelle-fitz-henley-ep-170/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Fitz-Henley, Group Human Resources Manager at Jamaica Broilers Group. Michelle shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to impactful HR leader. Despite initially aiming for a legal career, Michelle found her calling in HR at Jamaica Broilers, where she manages human resources across diverse locations and oversees the company’s commitment to employee well- being and development. Michelle discusses her role in fostering a culture of civility and inclusion within the organization, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with kindness and respect. She details initiatives such as strategic retreats and employee assistance programs that promote engagement and support among team members. Reflecting on her leadership approach, Michelle advocates for authenticity and trustworthiness, encouraging aspiring leaders to be passionate about their work and uphold their commitments. Her story highlights the power of adapting career paths to align with personal values and making a meaningful impact in the workplace. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:00:46 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Fitz-Henley, Group Human Resources Manager at Jamaica Broilers Group. Michelle shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to impactful HR leader. Despite initially aiming for a legal career, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Fitz-Henley, Group Human Resources Manager at Jamaica Broilers Group. Michelle shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to impactful HR leader. Despite initially aiming for a legal career, Michelle found her calling in HR at Jamaica Broilers, where she manages human resources across diverse locations and oversees the company’s commitment to employee well- being and development. Michelle discusses her role in fostering a culture of civility and inclusion within the organization, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with kindness and respect. She details initiatives such as strategic retreats and employee assistance programs that promote engagement and support among team members. Reflecting on her leadership approach, Michelle advocates for authenticity and trustworthiness, encouraging aspiring leaders to be passionate about their work and uphold their commitments. Her story highlights the power of adapting career paths to align with personal values and making a meaningful impact in the workplace. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Fitz-Henley, Group Human Resources Manager at Jamaica Broilers Group.

Michelle shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to impactful HR leader. Despite initially aiming for a legal career, Michelle found her calling in HR at Jamaica Broilers, where she manages human resources across diverse locations and oversees the company’s commitment to employee well- being and development.

Michelle discusses her role in fostering a culture of civility and inclusion within the organization, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with kindness and respect. She details initiatives such as strategic retreats and employee assistance programs that promote engagement and support among team members.

Reflecting on her leadership approach, Michelle advocates for authenticity and trustworthiness, encouraging aspiring leaders to be passionate about their work and uphold their commitments. Her story highlights the power of adapting career paths to align with personal values and making a meaningful impact in the workplace.

This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care.

]]> 1568 no Camille Wright on Being a Servant Leader || EP. 169 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/07/31/camille-wright-on-being-a-servant-leader-ep-169/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Camille Wright, Director of Human Resources at American Health Marketplace. Camille oversees HR for a health insurance marketplace firm which spans 28 states. She shares her path from early days when she wanted to be a university dean to finding her calling in HR through unexpected opportunities. Joining American Health Marketplace when it lacked a formal HR department, Camille took charge and built it from the ground up as the company grew 5x in just a few short years. Her proactive approach and commitment to personal and professional development not only transformed the company but also empowered her team, fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity. Camille’s leadership journey is underscored by her commitment to being a servant leader, a quality that shines through in her approach to HR and organizational development. By placing a strong emphasis on supporting her team members and fostering their growth, Camille not only cultivates a positive work environment but also ensures that her colleagues feel valued and empowered. Her insights highlight the critical role of HR in navigating challenges like mental health, remote work dynamics, and evolving workforce needs. Camille's journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast dedication to empowering others, making her a beacon for aspiring leaders in healthcare and beyond. As she continues to shape the future of HR at American Health Marketplace, her story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of seizing opportunities and embracing growth. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:00:08 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Camille Wright, Director of Human Resources at American Health Marketplace. Camille oversees HR for a health insurance marketplace firm which spans 28 states. She shares her path from early days when she w... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Camille Wright, Director of Human Resources at American Health Marketplace. Camille oversees HR for a health insurance marketplace firm which spans 28 states. She shares her path from early days when she wanted to be a university dean to finding her calling in HR through unexpected opportunities. Joining American Health Marketplace when it lacked a formal HR department, Camille took charge and built it from the ground up as the company grew 5x in just a few short years. Her proactive approach and commitment to personal and professional development not only transformed the company but also empowered her team, fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity. Camille’s leadership journey is underscored by her commitment to being a servant leader, a quality that shines through in her approach to HR and organizational development. By placing a strong emphasis on supporting her team members and fostering their growth, Camille not only cultivates a positive work environment but also ensures that her colleagues feel valued and empowered. Her insights highlight the critical role of HR in navigating challenges like mental health, remote work dynamics, and evolving workforce needs. Camille's journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast dedication to empowering others, making her a beacon for aspiring leaders in healthcare and beyond. As she continues to shape the future of HR at American Health Marketplace, her story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of seizing opportunities and embracing growth. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Camille Wright, Director of Human Resources at American Health Marketplace.

Camille oversees HR for a health insurance marketplace firm which spans 28 states. She shares her path from early days when she wanted to be a university dean to finding her calling in HR through unexpected opportunities.

Joining American Health Marketplace when it lacked a formal HR department, Camille took charge and built it from the ground up as the company grew 5x in just a few short years. Her proactive approach and commitment to personal and professional development not only transformed the company but also empowered her team, fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity.

Camille’s leadership journey is underscored by her commitment to being a servant leader, a quality that shines through in her approach to HR and organizational development. By placing a strong emphasis on supporting her team members and fostering their growth, Camille not only cultivates a positive work environment but also ensures that her colleagues feel valued and empowered.

Her insights highlight the critical role of HR in navigating challenges like mental health, remote work dynamics, and evolving workforce needs. Camille's journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast dedication to empowering others, making her a beacon for aspiring leaders in healthcare and beyond. As she continues to shape the future of HR at American Health Marketplace, her story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of seizing opportunities and embracing growth.

This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care.

]]> 1308 no Tiffany Gamblin on Bridging AI with Human Interaction || EP. 168 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/07/29/tiffany-gamblin-on-bridging-ai-with-human-interaction-ep-168/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tiffany Gamblin, Director of HR Business Services at Paycom. Tiffany shares her journey into HR, initially considering a career in veterinary medicine but pivoting into HR under the guidance of her mother-in-law. She describes her role at Paycom overseeing HR business partners, employee relations, compliance, and more. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of a culture of support and development, aiming to create a workplace where employees thrive. Regarding leadership, Tiffany reflects on her transition from benefits into management, driven by her passion for developing people and fostering a positive work environment. She credits her mentorship under Paycom’s Chief HR Officer, Jennifer Kaszewski, for shaping her leadership style and aspirations within the organization. Looking ahead, Tiffany discusses the future of work, particularly the integration of AI in HR practices and the importance of balancing technological advancements with human interaction. “AI plus HI equals ROI” (the HI being human intelligence). She advocates for understanding employees’ diverse needs across different generations and maintaining clarity in organizational values, especially concerning remote work policies. Throughout the interview, Tiffany emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and adaptability in leadership, encouraging HR professionals to ground themselves in their core values and build supportive networks within their organizations. Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:00:52 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tiffany Gamblin, Director of HR Business Services at Paycom. Tiffany shares her journey into HR, initially considering a career in veterinary medicine but pivoting into HR under the guidance of her mother-... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tiffany Gamblin, Director of HR Business Services at Paycom. Tiffany shares her journey into HR, initially considering a career in veterinary medicine but pivoting into HR under the guidance of her mother-in-law. She describes her role at Paycom overseeing HR business partners, employee relations, compliance, and more. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of a culture of support and development, aiming to create a workplace where employees thrive. Regarding leadership, Tiffany reflects on her transition from benefits into management, driven by her passion for developing people and fostering a positive work environment. She credits her mentorship under Paycom’s Chief HR Officer, Jennifer Kaszewski, for shaping her leadership style and aspirations within the organization. Looking ahead, Tiffany discusses the future of work, particularly the integration of AI in HR practices and the importance of balancing technological advancements with human interaction. “AI plus HI equals ROI” (the HI being human intelligence). She advocates for understanding employees’ diverse needs across different generations and maintaining clarity in organizational values, especially concerning remote work policies. Throughout the interview, Tiffany emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and adaptability in leadership, encouraging HR professionals to ground themselves in their core values and build supportive networks within their organizations. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tiffany Gamblin, Director of HR Business Services at Paycom.

Tiffany shares her journey into HR, initially considering a career in veterinary medicine but pivoting into HR under the guidance of her mother-in-law. She describes her role at Paycom overseeing HR business partners, employee relations, compliance, and more. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of a culture of support and development, aiming to create a workplace where employees thrive.

Regarding leadership, Tiffany reflects on her transition from benefits into management, driven by her passion for developing people and fostering a positive work environment. She credits her mentorship under Paycom’s Chief HR Officer, Jennifer Kaszewski, for shaping her leadership style and aspirations within the organization.

Looking ahead, Tiffany discusses the future of work, particularly the integration of AI in HR practices and the importance of balancing technological advancements with human interaction. “AI plus HI equals ROI” (the HI being human intelligence). She advocates for understanding employees’ diverse needs across different generations and maintaining clarity in organizational values, especially concerning remote work policies.

Throughout the interview, Tiffany emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and adaptability in leadership, encouraging HR professionals to ground themselves in their core values and build supportive networks within their organizations.

]]> 1517 no From Title IX to Behind the HR Desk: Dr. Kayla Randolph’s Leadership Insights || EP. 167 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/07/24/from-title-ix-to-behind-the-hr-desk-dr-kayla-randolphs-leadership-insights-ep-167/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kayla Randolph. Managing Director of Human Resources at IDEA Public Schools, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw. Kayla oversees HR for 11,000 employees across multiple states, emphasizing values like respect, dignity, and integrity. Kayla discussed challenges in education, such as teacher retention, and highlighted IDEA’s focus on comprehensive employee benefits to support their workforce. Starting in HR unexpectedly, Kayla’s career evolved through roles like recruitment and Title IX coordination, advocating for employee rights. Title IX is often only thought about as it relates only to athletics. Kayla emphasized its broader scope in addressing issues like sexual harassment, assault, and gender discrimination within educational settings. At the SHRM conference, she explored HR’s future, emphasizing transparency and the role of AI. Drawing from her Title IX coordinator role, Kayla underscores the importance of advocating for equity and respect in the workplace and educational environments. She believes in creating inclusive cultures where all individuals feel valued and supported. Finally, Kayla emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and advancements. Attending conferences and networking with peers are crucial for personal and professional development. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:00:29 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kayla Randolph. Managing Director of Human Resources at IDEA Public Schools, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast wi... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kayla Randolph. Managing Director of Human Resources at IDEA Public Schools, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw. Kayla oversees HR for 11,000 employees across multiple states, emphasizing values like respect, dignity, and integrity. Kayla discussed challenges in education, such as teacher retention, and highlighted IDEA’s focus on comprehensive employee benefits to support their workforce. Starting in HR unexpectedly, Kayla’s career evolved through roles like recruitment and Title IX coordination, advocating for employee rights. Title IX is often only thought about as it relates only to athletics. Kayla emphasized its broader scope in addressing issues like sexual harassment, assault, and gender discrimination within educational settings. At the SHRM conference, she explored HR’s future, emphasizing transparency and the role of AI. Drawing from her Title IX coordinator role, Kayla underscores the importance of advocating for equity and respect in the workplace and educational environments. She believes in creating inclusive cultures where all individuals feel valued and supported. Finally, Kayla emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and advancements. Attending conferences and networking with peers are crucial for personal and professional development. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kayla Randolph. Managing Director of Human Resources at IDEA Public Schools, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw.

Kayla oversees HR for 11,000 employees across multiple states, emphasizing values like respect, dignity, and integrity. Kayla discussed challenges in education, such as teacher retention, and highlighted IDEA’s focus on comprehensive employee benefits to support their workforce.

Starting in HR unexpectedly, Kayla’s career evolved through roles like recruitment and Title IX coordination, advocating for employee rights. Title IX is often only thought about as it relates only to athletics. Kayla emphasized its broader scope in addressing issues like sexual harassment, assault, and gender discrimination within educational settings. At the SHRM conference, she explored HR’s future, emphasizing transparency and the role of AI.

Drawing from her Title IX coordinator role, Kayla underscores the importance of advocating for equity and respect in the workplace and educational environments. She believes in creating inclusive cultures where all individuals feel valued and supported. Finally, Kayla emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and advancements. Attending conferences and networking with peers are crucial for personal and professional development.

This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care.

]]> 1498 no Creativity, Impact, and Empowering Human Resources Leaders with Lana Krasnyansky || EP. 166 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/07/22/creativity-impact-and-empowering-human-resources-leaders-with-lana-krasnyansky-ep-166/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lana Krasnyansky, Senior Manager of HR Transition at TriNet, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw Lana shares her journey and insights into leadership. Her diverse career path started with a passion for creativity and the arts. From launching a dance studio in her kitchen at 13 to managing HR at a prominent PEO, Lana emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and resilience in achieving professional success. Throughout the discussion, Lana highlights the critical role of empathy and authentic leadership in her approach. She discusses the challenges and complexities of HR management, especially in navigating evolving regulations and supporting diverse organizations. Lana’s leadership style focuses on empowering her team and fostering a supportive work environment where individuals can thrive. As an advocate for women in leadership, Lana encourages listeners, particularly women, to embrace career pivots and pursue their passions without giving up. She underscores the value of balance between personal and professional life, sharing practical advice on achieving fulfillment in both realms. Lana’s dedication to making a meaningful impact on her team and clients exemplifies her commitment to driving positive change in the workplace. Overall, Lana’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how creativity, resilience, and empathetic leadership can shape a successful career journey in HR and beyond. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. About Lana: Skilled human resources professional & people leader who has structured HR departments and supported companies in successfully implementing benefits, policies and organizational structure that focuses on strategic HR business solutions that drive growth, change, and instill a culture of excellence. Throughout Lana’s successful 25-year career trajectory, she gained expertise within employee relations, recruitment, compensation, benefits design/administration, HRIS implementation, pension and retirement planning, policy and procedure creation, orientation and training, performance management, and talent retention. For the past 10 years, Lana has been guiding companies and built an internal team that provides consultative HR guidance to TriNet’s onboarding new larger customers by trouble shooting and leading clients through employment laws, principals and “best practices” gained through diversified experience at mid-size to large private, public, and non-profit corporations, including start-ups.  Lana managed the implementation of Human Resources Informational Systems, policies, procedures, company-wide strategic programs and initiatives. Lana created streamlined HR departments, that were controlled in expenditure and focused on goals of internal and external stakeholders. Lana continues her successful track record of building high performing teams. Ms. Krasnyansky holds a BA from the University of Akron, is an active member of SHRM, HRNY, as well as various Chambers of Commerce. Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:00:51 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lana Krasnyansky, Senior Manager of HR Transition at TriNet, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw Lan... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lana Krasnyansky, Senior Manager of HR Transition at TriNet, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw Lana shares her journey and insights into leadership. Her diverse career path started with a passion for creativity and the arts. From launching a dance studio in her kitchen at 13 to managing HR at a prominent PEO, Lana emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and resilience in achieving professional success. Throughout the discussion, Lana highlights the critical role of empathy and authentic leadership in her approach. She discusses the challenges and complexities of HR management, especially in navigating evolving regulations and supporting diverse organizations. Lana’s leadership style focuses on empowering her team and fostering a supportive work environment where individuals can thrive. As an advocate for women in leadership, Lana encourages listeners, particularly women, to embrace career pivots and pursue their passions without giving up. She underscores the value of balance between personal and professional life, sharing practical advice on achieving fulfillment in both realms. Lana’s dedication to making a meaningful impact on her team and clients exemplifies her commitment to driving positive change in the workplace. Overall, Lana’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how creativity, resilience, and empathetic leadership can shape a successful career journey in HR and beyond. This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care. About Lana: Skilled human resources professional & people leader who has structured HR departments and supported companies in successfully implementing benefits, policies and organizational structure that focuses on strategic HR business solutions that drive growth, change, and instill a culture of excellence. Throughout Lana’s successful 25-year career trajectory, she gained expertise within employee relations, recruitment, compensation, benefits design/administration, HRIS implementation, pension and retirement planning, policy and procedure creation, orientation and training, performance management, and talent retention. For the past 10 years, Lana has been guiding companies and built an internal team that provides consultative HR guidance to TriNet’s onboarding new larger customers by trouble shooting and leading clients through employment laws, principals and “best practices” gained through diversified experience at mid-size to large private, public, and non-profit corporations, including start-ups.  Lana managed the implementation of Human Resources Informational Systems, policies, procedures, company-wide strategic programs and initiatives. Lana created streamlined HR departments, that were controlled in expenditure and focused on goals of internal and external stakeholders. Lana continues her successful track record of building high performing teams. Ms. Krasnyansky holds a BA from the University of Akron, is an active member of SHRM, HRNY, as well as various Chambers of Commerce.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lana Krasnyansky, Senior Manager of HR Transition at TriNet, as part of the Women Who Inspire: HR Leaders Series – A collaboration between Transcarent and the Inspiring Women Podcast with Laurie McGraw

Lana shares her journey and insights into leadership. Her diverse career path started with a passion for creativity and the arts. From launching a dance studio in her kitchen at 13 to managing HR at a prominent PEO, Lana emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and resilience in achieving professional success.

Throughout the discussion, Lana highlights the critical role of empathy and authentic leadership in her approach. She discusses the challenges and complexities of HR management, especially in navigating evolving regulations and supporting diverse organizations. Lana’s leadership style focuses on empowering her team and fostering a supportive work environment where individuals can thrive.

As an advocate for women in leadership, Lana encourages listeners, particularly women, to embrace career pivots and pursue their passions without giving up. She underscores the value of balance between personal and professional life, sharing practical advice on achieving fulfillment in both realms. Lana’s dedication to making a meaningful impact on her team and clients exemplifies her commitment to driving positive change in the workplace.

Overall, Lana’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how creativity, resilience, and empathetic leadership can shape a successful career journey in HR and beyond.

This series of Human Resources Leaders and the future of work is sponsored by Transcarent, a One Place for Health and Care.

About Lana: Skilled human resources professional & people leader who has structured HR departments and supported companies in successfully implementing benefits, policies and organizational structure that focuses on strategic HR business solutions that drive growth, change, and instill a culture of excellence. Throughout Lana’s successful 25-year career trajectory, she gained expertise within employee relations, recruitment, compensation, benefits design/administration, HRIS implementation, pension and retirement planning, policy and procedure creation, orientation and training, performance management, and talent retention. For the past 10 years, Lana has been guiding companies and built an internal team that provides consultative HR guidance to TriNet’s onboarding new larger customers by trouble shooting and leading clients through employment laws, principals and “best practices” gained through diversified experience at mid-size to large private, public, and non-profit corporations, including start-ups.  Lana managed the implementation of Human Resources Informational Systems, policies, procedures, company-wide strategic programs and initiatives. Lana created streamlined HR departments, that were controlled in expenditure and focused on goals of internal and external stakeholders. Lana continues her successful track record of building high performing teams. Ms. Krasnyansky holds a BA from the University of Akron, is an active member of SHRM, HRNY, as well as various Chambers of Commerce.

]]> 1046 no Trailblazers Drs. Marjorie Rallins and Holly Miller leading the way to interoperability || EP. 165 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/07/09/trailblazers-drs-marjorie-rallins-and-holly-miller-leading-the-way-to-interoperability-ep-165/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Marjorie Rallins and Holly Miller who are experts in the space of data standards setting and the landscape of interoperability.   Both Marjorie and Holly have devoted their expertise and careers towards building the infrastructure and plumbing that fuels the clinical data information highway so that clinical data is trustworthy, useful and actionable.  They share the progress made over the past few decades and the opportunity in front of us with the adoption of TEFCA (Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement). They emphasize the complexities of standards and terminologies governing health information flow and highlight interoperability’s critical role in improving healthcare quality, safety, efficiency, and patient engagement. Dr. Miller notes that while health data exchange is widespread, data often lacks reliability and usability for seamless integration into patient care. Dr. Rallins reflects on improvements since the inception of interoperability initiatives, citing advances in electronic health records (EHRs) but noting persistent challenges like semantic interoperability with standardized terminologies.  She also notes that this may be technical, but is also not that hard.  The “Internet of Interoperability,” prioritizing data accessibility alongside security and privacy protections is the aim. They also discuss challenges such as data blocking and regulatory efforts to promote patient access and adherence to interoperability standards like USCDI. Overall, they express cautious optimism about interoperability’s progress amid ongoing issues of data usability, trustworthiness, and regulatory compliance, with an eye toward evolving technologies like AI for future improvements Both Marjorie and Holly recognize that there are fewer women who, like them, have pursued a field of data standards and interoperability.  Yet, they are NOT alone and with appreciation for those who work alongside them, they encourage others to choose this deeply technical path. We close with giving both doctors a magic wand to advance the healthcare landscape.  Holly officially wants to “ax the fax” and get to standardized data.  Marjorie also looks to standardized terminologies but asks for national health equity as the most important path for us to pursue. **************************************** Dr. Holly Miller Chief Medical Officer, MedAllies Dr. Miller is an internist who has practiced medicine using several EHR systems and has well over two decades of healthcare IT experience. Since 2009, Dr. Miller has been the Chief Medical Officer of MedAllies a company that operates multiple networks in support of interoperability.  At MedAllies, Dr. Miller provides operational, tactical, and strategic collaborative leadership.  Dr. Miller is currently a Chair, Co-Chair, or member of many Health Information Technology (HIT) Interoperability related committees and workgroups engaged in enhancing healthcare value.  These include committees within the following organizations: Carequality; Sequoia; DaVinci; CMS: PACIO; ONC: 360X; IHE; NCQA; HIMSS; Moving Forward and KLAS.  She continues to be a frequent speaker at national conferences. Dr. Miller was formerly a VP and the CMIO of University Hospitals and Health Systems (UH), a community-based system with more than 150 locations, seven wholly owned and four affiliated hospitals throughout Northern Ohio.  Prior to joining UH, she worked as an HIT Managing Director for the Cleveland Clinic where she also maintained a clinical practice in General Internal Medicine.  She has been active in healthcare informatics research and has been a co-investigator on multiple grants.  As a member of HIMSS since 1999, Dr. Miller is a past Vice Chair of the HIMSS Board and a past inaugural member of the HIMSS World-Wide Board. Her past roles within HIMSS also included being a physician leader of the HIMSS/AMDIS Physician Community and serving as the Board Liaison to HIMSS Europe for four years. She was also active in a variety of previous S&I ONC committees and other state and government HIT committees. Dr. Miller earned her MBA at Hautes Etudes Commerciale in Paris and her Doctor of Medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. **************************************** Dr. Marjorie Rallins Executive Director of Health Data Standards, LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute Marjorie Rallins, DPM, MS, is a nationally recognized leader in health data standards and informatics. She began her duties with LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute January 11, 2021. She previously served as vice president and chief scientific officer of the PCPI® Foundation in Chicago as well as director of clinical informatics for the American Medical Association. Her proven experience in a unique combination of clinical research, business development and thought leadership positions Regenstrief Health Data Standards to continue facilitating healthcare interoperability at a crucial time for public health. Dr. Rallins received her podiatric medical degree from the William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago and completed her master of science degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. She was chief resident at Southwest Detroit Hospital and practiced as a podiatrist before working as the director of clinical editors for the College of American Pathologists, where she led international clinical teams in SNOMED CT® development. Dr. Rallins received her undergraduate degree from Towson University in Towson, Maryland. Tue, 09 Jul 2024 18:15:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Marjorie Rallins and Holly Miller who are experts in the space of data standards setting and the landscape of interoperability.   Both Marjorie and Holly have devoted their expertise and careers towar... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Marjorie Rallins and Holly Miller who are experts in the space of data standards setting and the landscape of interoperability.   Both Marjorie and Holly have devoted their expertise and careers towards building the infrastructure and plumbing that fuels the clinical data information highway so that clinical data is trustworthy, useful and actionable.  They share the progress made over the past few decades and the opportunity in front of us with the adoption of TEFCA (Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement). They emphasize the complexities of standards and terminologies governing health information flow and highlight interoperability’s critical role in improving healthcare quality, safety, efficiency, and patient engagement. Dr. Miller notes that while health data exchange is widespread, data often lacks reliability and usability for seamless integration into patient care. Dr. Rallins reflects on improvements since the inception of interoperability initiatives, citing advances in electronic health records (EHRs) but noting persistent challenges like semantic interoperability with standardized terminologies.  She also notes that this may be technical, but is also not that hard.  The “Internet of Interoperability,” prioritizing data accessibility alongside security and privacy protections is the aim. They also discuss challenges such as data blocking and regulatory efforts to promote patient access and adherence to interoperability standards like USCDI. Overall, they express cautious optimism about interoperability’s progress amid ongoing issues of data usability, trustworthiness, and regulatory compliance, with an eye toward evolving technologies like AI for future improvements Both Marjorie and Holly recognize that there are fewer women who, like them, have pursued a field of data standards and interoperability.  Yet, they are NOT alone and with appreciation for those who work alongside them, they encourage others to choose this deeply technical path. We close with giving both doctors a magic wand to advance the healthcare landscape.  Holly officially wants to “ax the fax” and get to standardized data.  Marjorie also looks to standardized terminologies but asks for national health equity as the most important path for us to pursue. **************************************** Dr. Holly Miller Chief Medical Officer, MedAllies Dr. Miller is an internist who has practiced medicine using several EHR systems and has well over two decades of healthcare IT experience. Since 2009, Dr. Miller has been the Chief Medical Officer of MedAllies a company that operates multiple networks in support of interoperability.  At MedAllies, Dr. Miller provides operational, tactical, and strategic collaborative leadership.  Dr. Miller is currently a Chair, Co-Chair, or member of many Health Information Technology (HIT) Interoperability related committees and workgroups engaged in enhancing healthcare value.  These include committees within the following organizations: Carequality; Sequoia; DaVinci; CMS: PACIO; ONC: 360X; IHE; NCQA; HIMSS; Moving Forward and KLAS.  She continues to be a frequent speaker at national conferences. Dr. Miller was formerly a VP and the CMIO of University Hospitals and Health Systems (UH), a community-based system with more than 150 locations, seven wholly owned and four affiliated hospitals throughout Northern Ohio.  Prior to joining UH, she worked as an HIT Managing Director for the Cleveland Clinic where she also maintained a clinical practice in General Internal Medicine.  She has been active in healthcare informatics research and has been a co-investigator on multiple grants.  As a member of HIMSS since 1999, Dr. Miller is a past Vice Chair of the HIMSS Board and a past inaugural member of the HIMSS World-Wide Board. Her past roles within HIMSS also included being a physician leader of the HIMSS/AMDIS Physician Community and serving as the Board Liaison to HIMSS Europe for four years. She was also active in a variety of previous S&I ONC committees and other state and government HIT committees. Dr. Miller earned her MBA at Hautes Etudes Commerciale in Paris and her Doctor of Medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. **************************************** Dr. Marjorie Rallins Executive Director of Health Data Standards, LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute Marjorie Rallins, DPM, MS, is a nationally recognized leader in health data standards and informatics. She began her duties with LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute January 11, 2021. She previously served as vice president and chief scientific officer of the PCPI® Foundation in Chicago as well as director of clinical informatics for the American Medical Association. Her proven experience in a unique combination of clinical research, business development and thought leadership positions Regenstrief Health Data Standards to continue facilitating healthcare interoperability at a crucial time for public health. Dr. Rallins received her podiatric medical degree from the William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago and completed her master of science degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. She was chief resident at Southwest Detroit Hospital and practiced as a podiatrist before working as the director of clinical editors for the College of American Pathologists, where she led international clinical teams in SNOMED CT® development. Dr. Rallins received her undergraduate degree from Towson University in Towson, Maryland. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Marjorie Rallins and Holly Miller who are experts in the space of data standards setting and the landscape of interoperability.  

Both Marjorie and Holly have devoted their expertise and careers towards building the infrastructure and plumbing that fuels the clinical data information highway so that clinical data is trustworthy, useful and actionable.  They share the progress made over the past few decades and the opportunity in front of us with the adoption of TEFCA (Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement). They emphasize the complexities of standards and terminologies governing health information flow and highlight interoperability’s critical role in improving healthcare quality, safety, efficiency, and patient engagement.

Dr. Miller notes that while health data exchange is widespread, data often lacks reliability and usability for seamless integration into patient care. Dr. Rallins reflects on improvements since the inception of interoperability initiatives, citing advances in electronic health records (EHRs) but noting persistent challenges like semantic interoperability with standardized terminologies.  She also notes that this may be technical, but is also not that hard.  The “Internet of Interoperability,” prioritizing data accessibility alongside security and privacy protections is the aim.

They also discuss challenges such as data blocking and regulatory efforts to promote patient access and adherence to interoperability standards like USCDI. Overall, they express cautious optimism about interoperability’s progress amid ongoing issues of data usability, trustworthiness, and regulatory compliance, with an eye toward evolving technologies like AI for future improvements

Both Marjorie and Holly recognize that there are fewer women who, like them, have pursued a field of data standards and interoperability.  Yet, they are NOT alone and with appreciation for those who work alongside them, they encourage others to choose this deeply technical path.

We close with giving both doctors a magic wand to advance the healthcare landscape.  Holly officially wants to “ax the fax” and get to standardized data.  Marjorie also looks to standardized terminologies but asks for national health equity as the most important path for us to pursue.

****************************************

Dr. Holly Miller

Chief Medical Officer, MedAllies

Dr. Miller is an internist who has practiced medicine using several EHR systems and has well over two decades of healthcare IT experience.

Since 2009, Dr. Miller has been the Chief Medical Officer of MedAllies a company that operates multiple networks in support of interoperability.  At MedAllies, Dr. Miller provides operational, tactical, and strategic collaborative leadership. 

Dr. Miller is currently a Chair, Co-Chair, or member of many Health Information Technology (HIT) Interoperability related committees and workgroups engaged in enhancing healthcare value.  These include committees within the following organizations: Carequality; Sequoia; DaVinci; CMS: PACIO; ONC: 360X; IHE; NCQA; HIMSS; Moving Forward and KLAS.  She continues to be a frequent speaker at national conferences.

Dr. Miller was formerly a VP and the CMIO of University Hospitals and Health Systems (UH), a community-based system with more than 150 locations, seven wholly owned and four affiliated hospitals throughout Northern Ohio.  Prior to joining UH, she worked as an HIT Managing Director for the Cleveland Clinic where she also maintained a clinical practice in General Internal Medicine.  She has been active in healthcare informatics research and has been a co-investigator on multiple grants. 

As a member of HIMSS since 1999, Dr. Miller is a past Vice Chair of the HIMSS Board and a past inaugural member of the HIMSS World-Wide Board. Her past roles within HIMSS also included being a physician leader of the HIMSS/AMDIS Physician Community and serving as the Board Liaison to HIMSS Europe for four years. She was also active in a variety of previous S&I ONC committees and other state and government HIT committees. Dr. Miller earned her MBA at Hautes Etudes Commerciale in Paris and her Doctor of Medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City.

****************************************

Dr. Marjorie Rallins

Executive Director of Health Data Standards, LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute

Marjorie Rallins, DPM, MS, is a nationally recognized leader in health data standards and informatics. She began her duties with LOINC® at Regenstrief Institute January 11, 2021. She previously served as vice president and chief scientific officer of the PCPI® Foundation in Chicago as well as director of clinical informatics for the American Medical Association. Her proven experience in a unique combination of clinical research, business development and thought leadership positions Regenstrief Health Data Standards to continue facilitating healthcare interoperability at a crucial time for public health.

Dr. Rallins received her podiatric medical degree from the William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago and completed her master of science degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. She was chief resident at Southwest Detroit Hospital and practiced as a podiatrist before working as the director of clinical editors for the College of American Pathologists, where she led international clinical teams in SNOMED CT® development. Dr. Rallins received her undergraduate degree from Towson University in Towson, Maryland.

]]> 2954 no Celebrating Pride with Melissa Bell || EP. 164 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/06/26/celebrating-pride-with-melissa-bell-ep-164/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Melissa Bell, long time health tech executive ad CCO of Enliven Health. For Melissa, working hard was obvious and natural. She was always one to raise her hand for the next challenging assignment which gave her the reputation of being the company’s go to person for the most visible difficult projects. One of Melissa’s “fun facts” includes a lot of prison time…. having led a multiyear implementation at the nation’s largest correctional corporation. Another major project meant leaving her Midwest roots and relocating to California. This is home today having met her now wife there and where they have their family. The arc of Melissa’s career moves from leading important projects to being an executive leader at growth companies focused on patient outcomes. She is very intentional about how she shows up as a leader, her brand, and her style of leadership. Diverse teams and inclusivity mean a lot to Melissa. “Showing up as your authentic self” is more than a catch phrase. In those early years Melissa kept a sharp line between her professional self and her “weekend” self. Times have changed and those divides no longer exist for Melissa. She recognizes that depending on who you are, where you live, or the environment you are in, this may not be the case for everyone. Which is why it is so important to Melissa to be known for being inclusive, to gain trust of others, and to earn credibility as a leader. Melissa leaves us with a message of celebration, celebrating Pride and inclusivity. Melissa encourages us to stay true to being our authentic selves. And she invites us all to demonstrate and go the distance as allies to the LGBTQ community. It matters. Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:47:12 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Melissa Bell, long time health tech executive ad CCO of Enliven Health. For Melissa, working hard was obvious and natural. She was always one to raise her hand for the next challenging assignment which gav... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Melissa Bell, long time health tech executive ad CCO of Enliven Health. For Melissa, working hard was obvious and natural. She was always one to raise her hand for the next challenging assignment which gave her the reputation of being the company’s go to person for the most visible difficult projects. One of Melissa’s “fun facts” includes a lot of prison time…. having led a multiyear implementation at the nation’s largest correctional corporation. Another major project meant leaving her Midwest roots and relocating to California. This is home today having met her now wife there and where they have their family. The arc of Melissa’s career moves from leading important projects to being an executive leader at growth companies focused on patient outcomes. She is very intentional about how she shows up as a leader, her brand, and her style of leadership. Diverse teams and inclusivity mean a lot to Melissa. “Showing up as your authentic self” is more than a catch phrase. In those early years Melissa kept a sharp line between her professional self and her “weekend” self. Times have changed and those divides no longer exist for Melissa. She recognizes that depending on who you are, where you live, or the environment you are in, this may not be the case for everyone. Which is why it is so important to Melissa to be known for being inclusive, to gain trust of others, and to earn credibility as a leader. Melissa leaves us with a message of celebration, celebrating Pride and inclusivity. Melissa encourages us to stay true to being our authentic selves. And she invites us all to demonstrate and go the distance as allies to the LGBTQ community. It matters. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Melissa Bell, long time health tech executive ad CCO of Enliven Health. For Melissa, working hard was obvious and natural. She was always one to raise her hand for the next challenging assignment which gave her the reputation of being the company’s go to person for the most visible difficult projects. One of Melissa’s “fun facts” includes a lot of prison time…. having led a multiyear implementation at the nation’s largest correctional corporation. Another major project meant leaving her Midwest roots and relocating to California. This is home today having met her now wife there and where they have their family. The arc of Melissa’s career moves from leading important projects to being an executive leader at growth companies focused on patient outcomes. She is very intentional about how she shows up as a leader, her brand, and her style of leadership. Diverse teams and inclusivity mean a lot to Melissa. “Showing up as your authentic self” is more than a catch phrase. In those early years Melissa kept a sharp line between her professional self and her “weekend” self. Times have changed and those divides no longer exist for Melissa. She recognizes that depending on who you are, where you live, or the environment you are in, this may not be the case for everyone. Which is why it is so important to Melissa to be known for being inclusive, to gain trust of others, and to earn credibility as a leader. Melissa leaves us with a message of celebration, celebrating Pride and inclusivity. Melissa encourages us to stay true to being our authentic selves. And she invites us all to demonstrate and go the distance as allies to the LGBTQ community. It matters.

]]> 2010 no We Don’t Need to Pathologize Messiness. Drs. Sipra Laddha and Jenny Schneider on the Home[ward] Grown Mentorship Series || EP. 163 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/06/11/we-dont-need-to-pathologize-messiness-drs-sipra-laddha-and-jenny-schneider-on-the-homeward-grown-mentorship-series-ep-163/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year. Dr. Sipra Laddha, CoFounder and CEO of Luna Joy discusses her experience with the program. Jenny is very vested in female founders and believes that the worn battle scars are useful to others. She has particular affinity to founders who are also physicians. And with Sipra, not only are they both doctors, but being Mom first is key to them both. You have to do it all and if there ever was a superpower for knowing that trying and not doing it all right all the time – being a mom is IT. Sipra began LunaJoy because she saw women’s health issues and mental health issues up close and personal in the early days of her practice. When she became pregnant with twins while practicing and trying to do it all, she found the needed resources to support women at every stage of the reproductive journey were either subpar or not available. LunaJoy aims to solve that with women’s mental health reimagined. Reproductive psychiatry begins from the moment that that person is thinking about conceiving or getting pregnant through fertility (or a fertility journey). LunaJoy aims to prepare women to have the best possible outcome. As to the mentorship program, for Sipra this was intensely different. Every discussion with Jenny led to actions she could immediately take within LunaJoy. Sipra would bring the TL;DR approach to her team even though she would be taking copious notes in every discussion. Jenny also talks about how with most people who are involved in a company, as the CEO, you are always trying to impress them. Some of the magic of the mentee/mentor discussions is that nothing is off limits. “Things are crazy….3 people quit today…..how do I even deal…..”. Sipra emphasizes that we really don’t need to pathologize messiness, that is exactly what entrepreneurship is. Like Jenny, Sipra is also committed to paying it forward. And no matter how busy you are – if it is important to you to bring more female founders forward, to advance more women into leadership – you have the time. Small comments and actions matter. Showing up matters. Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program. **************************************** Guest Bios: Dr. Sipra Laddha, CEO and CoFounder, LunaJoy Throughout my education and career, I have been dedicated to improving the lives of others. My background in psychiatry and deep interest and experience in women’s mental health has allowed me to support women through various life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum. I gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges women face in accessing affordable and convenient mental health care. I co-founded LunaJoy with these challenges in mind. A unique platform that improves access to high-quality therapy, medication, and mind body interventions. With our telemedicine platform, you spend less time commuting and waiting and more time engaged. And our ability to work with most insurance companies reduces the financial burden for patients who have previously seen cost as a barrier. Every woman should have access to the care she needs. We aim to make this possible. From adolescence through menopause, we support women through their emotional challenges, allowing you to engage in other parts of your life with more joy and efficiency. It is time to live fully, unburdened, and authentically. For personalized psychotherapy and women’s mental health reimagined, send a message or visit us https://hellolunajoy.com Dr. Jenny Schneider, CEO and Founder, Homeward I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance. Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:00:50 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year. Dr. Sipra Laddha, CoFounder and CEO of Luna Joy discusses her experience with t... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year. Dr. Sipra Laddha, CoFounder and CEO of Luna Joy discusses her experience with the program. Jenny is very vested in female founders and believes that the worn battle scars are useful to others. She has particular affinity to founders who are also physicians. And with Sipra, not only are they both doctors, but being Mom first is key to them both. You have to do it all and if there ever was a superpower for knowing that trying and not doing it all right all the time – being a mom is IT. Sipra began LunaJoy because she saw women’s health issues and mental health issues up close and personal in the early days of her practice. When she became pregnant with twins while practicing and trying to do it all, she found the needed resources to support women at every stage of the reproductive journey were either subpar or not available. LunaJoy aims to solve that with women’s mental health reimagined. Reproductive psychiatry begins from the moment that that person is thinking about conceiving or getting pregnant through fertility (or a fertility journey). LunaJoy aims to prepare women to have the best possible outcome. As to the mentorship program, for Sipra this was intensely different. Every discussion with Jenny led to actions she could immediately take within LunaJoy. Sipra would bring the TL;DR approach to her team even though she would be taking copious notes in every discussion. Jenny also talks about how with most people who are involved in a company, as the CEO, you are always trying to impress them. Some of the magic of the mentee/mentor discussions is that nothing is off limits. “Things are crazy….3 people quit today…..how do I even deal…..”. Sipra emphasizes that we really don’t need to pathologize messiness, that is exactly what entrepreneurship is. Like Jenny, Sipra is also committed to paying it forward. And no matter how busy you are – if it is important to you to bring more female founders forward, to advance more women into leadership – you have the time. Small comments and actions matter. Showing up matters. Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program. **************************************** Guest Bios: Dr. Sipra Laddha, CEO and CoFounder, LunaJoy Throughout my education and career, I have been dedicated to improving the lives of others. My background in psychiatry and deep interest and experience in women’s mental health has allowed me to support women through various life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum. I gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges women face in accessing affordable and convenient mental health care. I co-founded LunaJoy with these challenges in mind. A unique platform that improves access to high-quality therapy, medication, and mind body interventions. With our telemedicine platform, you spend less time commuting and waiting and more time engaged. And our ability to work with most insurance companies reduces the financial burden for patients who have previously seen cost as a barrier. Every woman should have access to the care she needs. We aim to make this possible. From adolescence through menopause, we support women through their emotional challenges, allowing you to engage in other parts of your life with more joy and efficiency. It is time to live fully, unburdened, and authentically. For personalized psychotherapy and women’s mental health reimagined, send a message or visit us https://hellolunajoy.com Dr. Jenny Schneider, CEO and Founder, Homeward I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year. Dr. Sipra Laddha, CoFounder and CEO of Luna Joy discusses her experience with the program. Jenny is very vested in female founders and believes that the worn battle scars are useful to others. She has particular affinity to founders who are also physicians. And with Sipra, not only are they both doctors, but being Mom first is key to them both. You have to do it all and if there ever was a superpower for knowing that trying and not doing it all right all the time – being a mom is IT. Sipra began LunaJoy because she saw women’s health issues and mental health issues up close and personal in the early days of her practice. When she became pregnant with twins while practicing and trying to do it all, she found the needed resources to support women at every stage of the reproductive journey were either subpar or not available. LunaJoy aims to solve that with women’s mental health reimagined. Reproductive psychiatry begins from the moment that that person is thinking about conceiving or getting pregnant through fertility (or a fertility journey). LunaJoy aims to prepare women to have the best possible outcome.

As to the mentorship program, for Sipra this was intensely different. Every discussion with Jenny led to actions she could immediately take within LunaJoy. Sipra would bring the TL;DR approach to her team even though she would be taking copious notes in every discussion. Jenny also talks about how with most people who are involved in a company, as the CEO, you are always trying to impress them. Some of the magic of the mentee/mentor discussions is that nothing is off limits. “Things are crazy….3 people quit today…..how do I even deal…..”. Sipra emphasizes that we really don’t need to pathologize messiness, that is exactly what entrepreneurship is. Like Jenny, Sipra is also committed to paying it forward. And no matter how busy you are – if it is important to you to bring more female founders forward, to advance more women into leadership – you have the time. Small comments and actions matter. Showing up matters. Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program.

****************************************

Guest Bios:

Dr. Sipra Laddha, CEO and CoFounder, LunaJoy

Throughout my education and career, I have been dedicated to improving the lives of others. My background in psychiatry and deep interest and experience in women’s mental health has allowed me to support women through various life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum.

I gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges women face in accessing affordable and convenient mental health care. I co-founded LunaJoy with these challenges in mind. A unique platform that improves access to high-quality therapy, medication, and mind body interventions.

With our telemedicine platform, you spend less time commuting and waiting and more time engaged. And our ability to work with most insurance companies reduces the financial burden for patients who have previously seen cost as a barrier. Every woman should have access to the care she needs. We aim to make this possible.

From adolescence through menopause, we support women through their emotional challenges, allowing you to engage in other parts of your life with more joy and efficiency. It is time to live fully, unburdened, and authentically. For personalized psychotherapy and women’s mental health reimagined, send a message or visit us https://hellolunajoy.com

Dr. Jenny Schneider, CEO and Founder, Homeward

I am CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America.

Previously, I served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo. At Livongo, I was responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and our growth strategy. In my final year at Livongo, we led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. I was honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for our work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

In October of 2020, I joined the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) with Hemant Taneja, Glen Tullman, Dr. Stephen Klasko, Quentin Clark, and Anita V. Pramoda. Our mission is to partner with leading health and care businesses leveraging technology. We aim to support their efforts to become iconic category winners that accelerate the digital transformation of existing healthcare into a new system of health assurance.

]]> 1777 no Jami Youmans on the importance of a strong network. || EP. 162 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/06/04/jami-youmans-on-the-importance-of-a-strong-network-ep-162/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jami Youmans, President and CEO of HealthEco. Jami is an athlete and expected to be seven feet tall when she grew up and likely playing professional basketball.  It was her sincere curiosity that led her to healthcare and building her company HealthEco. In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series finale, Jami talks about her early stage career as a healthcare administrator which gave her tremendous experience understanding the front lines of healthcare while also needing to be operationally efficient.  Her curiosity and love for innovation led her to a background in venture which then further led her to forming HealthEco. There, Jami and her team partner with health systems to find new and alternative revenue streams.  She describes one of the solutions where she is building a national network of hospital based clinical labs to buy and sell their capacity.  Today, those labs are managed only by the hospital schedule.  However, they may have more or less capacity to serve those immediate needs.  By creating a larger scale network, this in turn can bring new revenue to the health system or allow them to support higher demands when needed. Jami also finds that building out her own professional network is critical to being a successful CEO with a growth mindset.  And who doesn’t want to be around women leaders?  With WBL, Jami has found not only a professional network, but also trusted advisors to help her expand her thinking or solve tough problems.  For Jami, collaboration, trusted relationships, and staying curious are key to building out her business today and for the future. About Jami: Jami Youmans President and CEO, HealthEco Jami is a healthcare executive and entrepreneur, serving as the President and CEO of HealthEco where she strategically collaborates with healthcare organizations to foster and scale pioneering innovations throughout the industry. Her foundational experiences at Trinity Health and BJC Healthcare laid the groundwork for her leadership, enabling her to spearhead the expansion of HealthEco’s robust healthcare provider network, venture studio, commercialization accelerator, and investment platform magnifying its influence across both established providers and emerging startups. Beyond this, Jami’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her establishment of two niche healthcare consultancies focused on advancing innovation across the healthcare ecosystem and Vantedge Ventures, a venture fund aligned closely with U.S. health systems. Jami received a Master of Health Administration from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry from Missouri State University. Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:31 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jami Youmans, President and CEO of HealthEco. Jami is an athlete and expected to be seven feet tall when she grew up and likely playing professional basketball. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jami Youmans, President and CEO of HealthEco. Jami is an athlete and expected to be seven feet tall when she grew up and likely playing professional basketball.  It was her sincere curiosity that led her to healthcare and building her company HealthEco. In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series finale, Jami talks about her early stage career as a healthcare administrator which gave her tremendous experience understanding the front lines of healthcare while also needing to be operationally efficient.  Her curiosity and love for innovation led her to a background in venture which then further led her to forming HealthEco. There, Jami and her team partner with health systems to find new and alternative revenue streams.  She describes one of the solutions where she is building a national network of hospital based clinical labs to buy and sell their capacity.  Today, those labs are managed only by the hospital schedule.  However, they may have more or less capacity to serve those immediate needs.  By creating a larger scale network, this in turn can bring new revenue to the health system or allow them to support higher demands when needed. Jami also finds that building out her own professional network is critical to being a successful CEO with a growth mindset.  And who doesn’t want to be around women leaders?  With WBL, Jami has found not only a professional network, but also trusted advisors to help her expand her thinking or solve tough problems.  For Jami, collaboration, trusted relationships, and staying curious are key to building out her business today and for the future. About Jami: Jami Youmans President and CEO, HealthEco Jami is a healthcare executive and entrepreneur, serving as the President and CEO of HealthEco where she strategically collaborates with healthcare organizations to foster and scale pioneering innovations throughout the industry. Her foundational experiences at Trinity Health and BJC Healthcare laid the groundwork for her leadership, enabling her to spearhead the expansion of HealthEco’s robust healthcare provider network, venture studio, commercialization accelerator, and investment platform magnifying its influence across both established providers and emerging startups. Beyond this, Jami’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her establishment of two niche healthcare consultancies focused on advancing innovation across the healthcare ecosystem and Vantedge Ventures, a venture fund aligned closely with U.S. health systems. Jami received a Master of Health Administration from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry from Missouri State University.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jami Youmans, President and CEO of HealthEco.

Jami is an athlete and expected to be seven feet tall when she grew up and likely playing professional basketball.  It was her sincere curiosity that led her to healthcare and building her company HealthEco.

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series finale, Jami talks about her early stage career as a healthcare administrator which gave her tremendous experience understanding the front lines of healthcare while also needing to be operationally efficient.  Her curiosity and love for innovation led her to a background in venture which then further led her to forming HealthEco.

There, Jami and her team partner with health systems to find new and alternative revenue streams.  She describes one of the solutions where she is building a national network of hospital based clinical labs to buy and sell their capacity.  Today, those labs are managed only by the hospital schedule.  However, they may have more or less capacity to serve those immediate needs.  By creating a larger scale network, this in turn can bring new revenue to the health system or allow them to support higher demands when needed.

Jami also finds that building out her own professional network is critical to being a successful CEO with a growth mindset.  And who doesn’t want to be around women leaders?  With WBL, Jami has found not only a professional network, but also trusted advisors to help her expand her thinking or solve tough problems.  For Jami, collaboration, trusted relationships, and staying curious are key to building out her business today and for the future.

About Jami:

Jami Youmans

President and CEO, HealthEco

Jami is a healthcare executive and entrepreneur, serving as the President and CEO of HealthEco where she strategically collaborates with healthcare organizations to foster and scale pioneering innovations throughout the industry. Her foundational experiences at Trinity Health and BJC Healthcare laid the groundwork for her leadership, enabling her to spearhead the expansion of HealthEco’s robust healthcare provider network, venture studio, commercialization accelerator, and investment platform magnifying its influence across both established providers and emerging startups. Beyond this, Jami’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her establishment of two niche healthcare consultancies focused on advancing innovation across the healthcare ecosystem and Vantedge Ventures, a venture fund aligned closely with U.S. health systems. Jami received a Master of Health Administration from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry from Missouri State University.

]]> 935 no “It has to be us.” Denielle DeWynter on making time for the next generation of women leaders. || EP. 161 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/05/29/it-has-to-be-us-denielle-dewynter-on-making-time-for-the-next-generation-of-women-leaders-ep-161/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denielle deWynter, CFO and SVP of Hearst Health.  Denielle has spent twenty years in finance and half of them in various Hearst businesses.  It’s the mission driven focus that Denielle finds so meaningful, making this her best position so far.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Denielle describes her natural curiosity growing up in rural Canada which led her to travel the world.  She credits her ability to think broadly and strategically from having worked in five different countries where she needed to learn and work effectively across many different cultures.   We also discuss her efforts to create WE@HH – an inclusive community for learning and mentoring of the next generation of company leaders.  Started as a monthly zoomcast during the pandemic, they are forty sessions in and going strong.  As the senior most female leader at Hearst Health, Denielle’s view was, if I am not going to do it, who is?  This including her efforts with Hearst Labs which funds female led startups are very rewarding and Denielle’s way to give back.   Denielle is a strong advocate for networks like WBL where she has realized that she does not need to solve all the hard problems alone. Her strong advice for others is to stay curious, have a growth mind set, learn to manage up well and most importantly, be a strong advocate for yourself.   Guest Bio: Denielle deWynter CFO and SVP, Hearst Health   A highly accomplished professional with 20+ years of global finance experience in finance, accounting, tax, audit and operations. Roles have included financial & operational transformation & financial planning & performance improvement with increasing components of behavioral change and relationship building to create buy-in cross functionally and cross company. Diverse & international work assignments have enhanced strategic thinking & analytical expertise to deliver global growth & performance across rapidly expanding businesses. Specialties: Finance Transformation, Change Agent, Spin-off Transaction, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Due Diligence, Acquisition Integration, Enterprise Risk Management, ERP and System Implementation, Accounting Policy, Budgeting and Forecasting, Accounting Operations, Control, Financial Reporting, Financial Shared Services and Internal Control Environment.   Wed, 29 May 2024 22:14:10 -0000 “It has to be us.” Denielle DeWynter on making time for the next generation of women leaders. full 161 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denielle deWynter, CFO and SVP of Hearst Health.  Denielle has spent twenty years in finance and half of them in various Hearst businesses.  It’s the mission driven focus that Denielle finds so meaningful,... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denielle deWynter, CFO and SVP of Hearst Health.  Denielle has spent twenty years in finance and half of them in various Hearst businesses.  It’s the mission driven focus that Denielle finds so meaningful, making this her best position so far.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Denielle describes her natural curiosity growing up in rural Canada which led her to travel the world.  She credits her ability to think broadly and strategically from having worked in five different countries where she needed to learn and work effectively across many different cultures.   We also discuss her efforts to create WE@HH – an inclusive community for learning and mentoring of the next generation of company leaders.  Started as a monthly zoomcast during the pandemic, they are forty sessions in and going strong.  As the senior most female leader at Hearst Health, Denielle’s view was, if I am not going to do it, who is?  This including her efforts with Hearst Labs which funds female led startups are very rewarding and Denielle’s way to give back.   Denielle is a strong advocate for networks like WBL where she has realized that she does not need to solve all the hard problems alone. Her strong advice for others is to stay curious, have a growth mind set, learn to manage up well and most importantly, be a strong advocate for yourself.   Guest Bio: Denielle deWynter CFO and SVP, Hearst Health   A highly accomplished professional with 20+ years of global finance experience in finance, accounting, tax, audit and operations. Roles have included financial & operational transformation & financial planning & performance improvement with increasing components of behavioral change and relationship building to create buy-in cross functionally and cross company. Diverse & international work assignments have enhanced strategic thinking & analytical expertise to deliver global growth & performance across rapidly expanding businesses. Specialties: Finance Transformation, Change Agent, Spin-off Transaction, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Due Diligence, Acquisition Integration, Enterprise Risk Management, ERP and System Implementation, Accounting Policy, Budgeting and Forecasting, Accounting Operations, Control, Financial Reporting, Financial Shared Services and Internal Control Environment.  

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denielle deWynter, CFO and SVP of Hearst Health.  Denielle has spent twenty years in finance and half of them in various Hearst businesses.  It’s the mission driven focus that Denielle finds so meaningful, making this her best position so far.

 

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Denielle describes her natural curiosity growing up in rural Canada which led her to travel the world.  She credits her ability to think broadly and strategically from having worked in five different countries where she needed to learn and work effectively across many different cultures.

 

We also discuss her efforts to create WE@HH – an inclusive community for learning and mentoring of the next generation of company leaders.  Started as a monthly zoomcast during the pandemic, they are forty sessions in and going strong.  As the senior most female leader at Hearst Health, Denielle’s view was, if I am not going to do it, who is?  This including her efforts with Hearst Labs which funds female led startups are very rewarding and Denielle’s way to give back.

 

Denielle is a strong advocate for networks like WBL where she has realized that she does not need to solve all the hard problems alone. Her strong advice for others is to stay curious, have a growth mind set, learn to manage up well and most importantly, be a strong advocate for yourself.

 

Guest Bio:

Denielle deWynter

CFO and SVP, Hearst Health

 

A highly accomplished professional with 20+ years of global finance experience in finance, accounting, tax, audit and operations. Roles have included financial & operational transformation & financial planning & performance improvement with increasing components of behavioral change and relationship building to create buy-in cross functionally and cross company. Diverse & international work assignments have enhanced strategic thinking & analytical expertise to deliver global growth & performance across rapidly expanding businesses.

Specialties: Finance Transformation, Change Agent, Spin-off Transaction, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Due Diligence, Acquisition Integration, Enterprise Risk Management, ERP and System Implementation, Accounting Policy, Budgeting and Forecasting, Accounting Operations, Control, Financial Reporting, Financial Shared Services and Internal Control Environment.

 

]]> 955 no Kristin Rodriguez on Guiding the Hero’s Journey || EP. 160 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/05/21/kristin-rodriguez-on-guiding-the-heros-journey-ep-160/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristin Rodriguez.  Kristin is many things, and one of those things is that Kristin is funny.  Don’t confuse her quick wit and humorous approach to career trajectory (a winding path indeed!) with anything less than her seriousness in how she expects to help Heroes.  Who are the Heroes?  The people who are trying to improve their health while often taking on more financial risk, navigating new places to receive care, and sorting through a complicated system. In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Kristin gives us a view to her original career plans.  Plan A:  Run a Coffee Shop.  Plan B:  Go the Naval Academy and then into military service.  Seven colleges later along with a “bohemian walk about” led her to fall into healthcare sideways.  This is where she fell in love.  Love of serving customers and meeting their needs.  Her career throughline appears to be that of service and continuous exploration of new possibilities. As Kristin works to support heroes in their healthcare journeys, she considers these key trends: Shifting risk to the healthcare consumer. A worry as it is just too complex for people. This type of risk is as complex as the tax code and Kristin feels it is important to bridge that gap. The important race to new sites of care delivery – telehealth; more care at home; remote monitoring; more virtual care. Kristin believes we should lean in more here. And social determinants of health. Where healthcare payers are being asked to influence and quantify nonclinical interventions.  It remains important to have focus where well-being meets care. As Kristin discusses some great choices she has made along the way, these include getting her advanced degree, even while working full time and with young children.  She also believes the network she has found professionally with WBL is second to none. Best professional habits for staying sharp?  Kristin is a huge believer in the power of sleep.  As a recovering over achiever, she has learned to put her energy on the right things which does not mean all things. She finds that she has to continuously work on protecting her time for “deep” work.  Her best advice for others is making sure just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should which has been key to her own growth as a leader.   Guest Bio: Kristin B. Rodriguez Chief Product Officer, Vitality Group Kristin Rodriguez is a mission-driven healthcare executive with a 16-yr track record of launching successful products and transforming organizations to solve problems, bring people together, and create lasting value.  She has a passion for collaborating in pursuit of high-quality outcomes for health care consumers. Kristin has deep experience in change management and has led teams through the disruption of leadership changes and the uncertainty of operationalizing strategic plans and mission-derived aspirations. She also has extensive experience in systems thinking, continuous improvement, as well as product design and strategy. Kristin maintains the strategic direction of Vitality Group’s product portfolio and customer success. She supports health plans and employers across the country get the engagement they want and the health results they need from their employees and healthcare beneficiaries by helping them lead engagement where wellbeing meets care, leveraging the world’s largest behavioral engagement platform and digital health solution. Prior to joining Vitality Group’s executive leadership team, Kristin was Chief Operating Officer of the Health Plan Alliance, a for-profit venture designed to be a vehicle for collaborative innovation among provider-sponsored, regional, and independent health plans across the United States. She was responsible for value portfolio implementation and designed specific programming goals and strategies to achieve organizational objectives. She led the teams responsible for programming execution, member engagement and insights, communication, and knowledge management.  Prior to joining Health Plan Alliance, Kristin was recruited to GHG Advisors, a leading consulting and software solutions firm specializing in government-sponsored healthcare programs, where she led the creation and launch of GHG Advisor’s subscription-based content aggregation service. Kristin served as the firm’s director of marketing and corporate communications and her team executed on overall market engagement and branding, product management of the online knowledge center, and the regular introduction of GHG Advisors’ sister companies into the marketplace. Prior to joining GHG Advisors, Kristin served as the founder and executive director of RISE, Financial Research Associates’ flagship healthcare networking association. Kristin holds a BA from the University of California at Berkeley and a Master of Science in Health Care Informatics from the University of San Diego. Kristin is a member of Women Business Leaders and sits on WBL’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee. Kristin is a sitting director for CIMRO, a URAC accredited independent peer review organization serving the public and private healthcare sectors since 1972. She also sits on the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors’ National DPP Medicaid Expert Panel. Kristin presents on issues related to leading change, has led multiple workshops on incubating innovation and is often asked to educate industry executives and governing boards on managed care industry trends.   StrengthsFinders® Signature Themes STRATEGIC: I see patterns where others simply see complexity, play out alternative scenarios, and develop sound strategies grounded in the organization’s “Why” ACHIEVER: An internal fire pushes me to excellence and my unwavering commitment is one of the ways I inspire others LEARNER: I am energized by the steady and deliberate journey of continuous improvement COMPETITION: I set ambitious goals with clear measurements of success RESPONSIBILITY: My impeccable ethics and psychological ownership of commitments make me utterly dependable Tue, 21 May 2024 17:08:51 -0000 Kristin Rodriquez on Guiding the Hero’s Journey full 165 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristin Rodriguez.  Kristin is many things, and one of those things is that Kristin is funny.  Don’t confuse her quick wit and humorous approach to career trajectory (a winding path indeed! Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristin Rodriguez.  Kristin is many things, and one of those things is that Kristin is funny.  Don’t confuse her quick wit and humorous approach to career trajectory (a winding path indeed!) with anything less than her seriousness in how she expects to help Heroes.  Who are the Heroes?  The people who are trying to improve their health while often taking on more financial risk, navigating new places to receive care, and sorting through a complicated system. In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Kristin gives us a view to her original career plans.  Plan A:  Run a Coffee Shop.  Plan B:  Go the Naval Academy and then into military service.  Seven colleges later along with a “bohemian walk about” led her to fall into healthcare sideways.  This is where she fell in love.  Love of serving customers and meeting their needs.  Her career throughline appears to be that of service and continuous exploration of new possibilities. As Kristin works to support heroes in their healthcare journeys, she considers these key trends: Shifting risk to the healthcare consumer. A worry as it is just too complex for people. This type of risk is as complex as the tax code and Kristin feels it is important to bridge that gap. The important race to new sites of care delivery – telehealth; more care at home; remote monitoring; more virtual care. Kristin believes we should lean in more here. And social determinants of health. Where healthcare payers are being asked to influence and quantify nonclinical interventions.  It remains important to have focus where well-being meets care. As Kristin discusses some great choices she has made along the way, these include getting her advanced degree, even while working full time and with young children.  She also believes the network she has found professionally with WBL is second to none. Best professional habits for staying sharp?  Kristin is a huge believer in the power of sleep.  As a recovering over achiever, she has learned to put her energy on the right things which does not mean all things. She finds that she has to continuously work on protecting her time for “deep” work.  Her best advice for others is making sure just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should which has been key to her own growth as a leader.   Guest Bio: Kristin B. Rodriguez Chief Product Officer, Vitality Group Kristin Rodriguez is a mission-driven healthcare executive with a 16-yr track record of launching successful products and transforming organizations to solve problems, bring people together, and create lasting value.  She has a passion for collaborating in pursuit of high-quality outcomes for health care consumers. Kristin has deep experience in change management and has led teams through the disruption of leadership changes and the uncertainty of operationalizing strategic plans and mission-derived aspirations. She also has extensive experience in systems thinking, continuous improvement, as well as product design and strategy. Kristin maintains the strategic direction of Vitality Group’s product portfolio and customer success. She supports health plans and employers across the country get the engagement they want and the health results they need from their employees and healthcare beneficiaries by helping them lead engagement where wellbeing meets care, leveraging the world’s largest behavioral engagement platform and digital health solution. Prior to joining Vitality Group’s executive leadership team, Kristin was Chief Operating Officer of the Health Plan Alliance, a for-profit venture designed to be a vehicle for collaborative innovation among provider-sponsored, regional, and independent health plans across the United States. She was responsible for value portfolio implementation and designed specific programming goals and strategies to achieve organizational objectives. She led the teams responsible for programming execution, member engagement and insights, communication, and knowledge management.  Prior to joining Health Plan Alliance, Kristin was recruited to GHG Advisors, a leading consulting and software solutions firm specializing in government-sponsored healthcare programs, where she led the creation and launch of GHG Advisor’s subscription-based content aggregation service. Kristin served as the firm’s director of marketing and corporate communications and her team executed on overall market engagement and branding, product management of the online knowledge center, and the regular introduction of GHG Advisors’ sister companies into the marketplace. Prior to joining GHG Advisors, Kristin served as the founder and executive director of RISE, Financial Research Associates’ flagship healthcare networking association. Kristin holds a BA from the University of California at Berkeley and a Master of Science in Health Care Informatics from the University of San Diego. Kristin is a member of Women Business Leaders and sits on WBL’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee. Kristin is a sitting director for CIMRO, a URAC accredited independent peer review organization serving the public and private healthcare sectors since 1972. She also sits on the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors’ National DPP Medicaid Expert Panel. Kristin presents on issues related to leading change, has led multiple workshops on incubating innovation and is often asked to educate industry executives and governing boards on managed care industry trends.   StrengthsFinders® Signature Themes STRATEGIC: I see patterns where others simply see complexity, play out alternative scenarios, and develop sound strategies grounded in the organization’s “Why” ACHIEVER: An internal fire pushes me to excellence and my unwavering commitment is one of the ways I inspire others LEARNER: I am energized by the steady and deliberate journey of continuous improvement COMPETITION: I set ambitious goals with clear measurements of success RESPONSIBILITY: My impeccable ethics and psychological ownership of commitments make me utterly dependable

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristin Rodriguez.  Kristin is many things, and one of those things is that Kristin is funny.  Don’t confuse her quick wit and humorous approach to career trajectory (a winding path indeed!) with anything less than her seriousness in how she expects to help Heroes.  Who are the Heroes?  The people who are trying to improve their health while often taking on more financial risk, navigating new places to receive care, and sorting through a complicated system.

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Kristin gives us a view to her original career plans.  Plan A:  Run a Coffee Shop.  Plan B:  Go the Naval Academy and then into military service.  Seven colleges later along with a “bohemian walk about” led her to fall into healthcare sideways.  This is where she fell in love.  Love of serving customers and meeting their needs.  Her career throughline appears to be that of service and continuous exploration of new possibilities.

As Kristin works to support heroes in their healthcare journeys, she considers these key trends:

  1. Shifting risk to the healthcare consumer. A worry as it is just too complex for people. This type of risk is as complex as the tax code and Kristin feels it is important to bridge that gap.
  2. The important race to new sites of care delivery – telehealth; more care at home; remote monitoring; more virtual care. Kristin believes we should lean in more here.
  3. And social determinants of health. Where healthcare payers are being asked to influence and quantify nonclinical interventions.  It remains important to have focus where well-being meets care.

As Kristin discusses some great choices she has made along the way, these include getting her advanced degree, even while working full time and with young children.  She also believes the network she has found professionally with WBL is second to none.

Best professional habits for staying sharp?  Kristin is a huge believer in the power of sleep.  As a recovering over achiever, she has learned to put her energy on the right things which does not mean all things. She finds that she has to continuously work on protecting her time for “deep” work.  Her best advice for others is making sure just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should which has been key to her own growth as a leader.

 

Guest Bio:

Kristin B. Rodriguez

Chief Product Officer, Vitality Group

Kristin Rodriguez is a mission-driven healthcare executive with a 16-yr track record of launching successful products and transforming organizations to solve problems, bring people together,

and create lasting value.  She has a passion for collaborating in pursuit of high-quality outcomes for health care consumers. Kristin has deep experience in change management and has led teams through the disruption of leadership changes and the uncertainty of operationalizing strategic plans and mission-derived aspirations. She also has extensive experience in systems thinking, continuous improvement, as well as product design and strategy. Kristin maintains the strategic direction of Vitality Group’s product portfolio and customer success. She supports health plans and employers across the country get the engagement they want and the health results they need from their employees and healthcare beneficiaries by helping them lead engagement where wellbeing meets care, leveraging the world’s largest behavioral engagement platform and digital health solution.

Prior to joining Vitality Group’s executive leadership team, Kristin was Chief Operating Officer of the Health Plan Alliance, a for-profit venture designed to be a vehicle for collaborative innovation among provider-sponsored, regional, and independent health plans across the United States. She was responsible for value portfolio implementation and designed specific programming goals and strategies to achieve organizational objectives. She led the teams responsible for programming execution, member engagement and insights, communication, and knowledge management.  Prior to joining Health Plan Alliance, Kristin was recruited to GHG Advisors, a leading consulting and software solutions firm specializing in government-sponsored healthcare programs, where she led the creation and launch of GHG Advisor’s subscription-based content aggregation service. Kristin served as the firm’s director of marketing and corporate communications and her team executed on overall market engagement and branding, product management of the online knowledge center, and the regular introduction of GHG Advisors’ sister companies into the marketplace. Prior to joining GHG Advisors, Kristin served as the founder and executive director of RISE, Financial Research Associates’ flagship healthcare networking association.

Kristin holds a BA from the University of California at Berkeley and a Master of Science in Health Care Informatics from the University of San Diego. Kristin is a member of Women Business Leaders and sits on WBL’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee. Kristin is a sitting director for CIMRO, a URAC accredited independent peer review organization serving the public and private healthcare sectors since 1972. She also sits on the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors’ National DPP Medicaid Expert Panel. Kristin presents on issues related to leading change, has led multiple workshops on incubating innovation and is often asked to educate industry executives and governing boards on managed care industry trends.

 

StrengthsFinders® Signature Themes

STRATEGIC: I see patterns where others simply see complexity, play out alternative scenarios, and develop sound strategies grounded in the organization’s “Why”

ACHIEVER: An internal fire pushes me to excellence and my unwavering commitment is one of the ways I inspire others

LEARNER: I am energized by the steady and deliberate journey of continuous improvement

COMPETITION: I set ambitious goals with clear measurements of success

RESPONSIBILITY: My impeccable ethics and psychological ownership of commitments make me utterly dependable

]]> 2021 no Innovation Leader. Mid-Careerist. Happy Mother’s Day Emily Fry!! || EP. 159 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/05/14/innovation-leader-mid-careerist-happy-mothers-day-emily-fry-ep-159/ In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Emily talks about her leadership journey from the point of view of a “mid careerist”.  Today she is leading innovation operations at Geisinger.  Her path to leadership was not a clear straight journey and she credits her prior diverse experience to giving her the confidence to lead innovation where she doesn’t need to be the subject matter expert in everything.   We go back to the time when Emily was first becoming a manager.  She is quick to thank her mentors who she looked to for advice at that key time in her career (Maureen Jones, Karen Murphy, Sajeev Thomas).  Their advice was meaningful and helped her shape her leadership style.  Establishing trust and learning from her team members and their experience is important to Emily.  Being kind first and smart second is part of her personal mantra.   As a “Mid-careerist” Emily also shares how she approaches wanting to be excellent professionally while also doing her “best job” of being a mom.  Easy?  No.  A juggle?  Sure.  She gets help. She doesn’t expect perfection from herself in everything.  And just because there isn’t a balance – she still finds peace and excitement in all of it!   Emily also talks about her excitement in joining WBL and attending her first conference.  Finding women at similar stages in their career journeys.  Expanding her network and investing in herself is a priority for Emily so that she too can do her best work.   Guest Bio: Emily Fry – Vice President, Innovation Operations at Geisinger Strategic Healthcare Innovation Leader | Value Based Care & Automation Enthusiast I am dedicated to driving transformative change, fostering innovation, and elevating consumer experiences. My journey has been marked by a pursuit of operational excellence and a passion for enhancing healthcare quality. With a background in developing strategic directions and crafting innovative solutions, I have championed cross-functional collaboration to propel organizations towards their goals. I firmly believe that a positive outlook paves the way for positive outcomes. My personal mission is to drive positive change in both my own life and the lives of others. For me, there’s no greater way to make a meaningful impact on the world than by working in an industry dedicated to creating healthier communities. Let’s connect and collaborate towards a healthier, brighter future! Tue, 14 May 2024 23:07:58 -0000 Innovation Leader. Mid-Careerist. Happy Mother’s Day Emily Fry!! full 159 Laurie McGraw In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Emily talks about her leadership journey from the point of view of a “mid careerist”.  Today she is leading innovation operations at Geisinger.  Her path to leadership was not a clear straight journey a... In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Emily talks about her leadership journey from the point of view of a “mid careerist”.  Today she is leading innovation operations at Geisinger.  Her path to leadership was not a clear straight journey and she credits her prior diverse experience to giving her the confidence to lead innovation where she doesn’t need to be the subject matter expert in everything.   We go back to the time when Emily was first becoming a manager.  She is quick to thank her mentors who she looked to for advice at that key time in her career (Maureen Jones, Karen Murphy, Sajeev Thomas).  Their advice was meaningful and helped her shape her leadership style.  Establishing trust and learning from her team members and their experience is important to Emily.  Being kind first and smart second is part of her personal mantra.   As a “Mid-careerist” Emily also shares how she approaches wanting to be excellent professionally while also doing her “best job” of being a mom.  Easy?  No.  A juggle?  Sure.  She gets help. She doesn’t expect perfection from herself in everything.  And just because there isn’t a balance – she still finds peace and excitement in all of it!   Emily also talks about her excitement in joining WBL and attending her first conference.  Finding women at similar stages in their career journeys.  Expanding her network and investing in herself is a priority for Emily so that she too can do her best work.   Guest Bio: Emily Fry – Vice President, Innovation Operations at Geisinger Strategic Healthcare Innovation Leader | Value Based Care & Automation Enthusiast I am dedicated to driving transformative change, fostering innovation, and elevating consumer experiences. My journey has been marked by a pursuit of operational excellence and a passion for enhancing healthcare quality. With a background in developing strategic directions and crafting innovative solutions, I have championed cross-functional collaboration to propel organizations towards their goals. I firmly believe that a positive outlook paves the way for positive outcomes. My personal mission is to drive positive change in both my own life and the lives of others. For me, there’s no greater way to make a meaningful impact on the world than by working in an industry dedicated to creating healthier communities. Let’s connect and collaborate towards a healthier, brighter future!

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Emily talks about her leadership journey from the point of view of a “mid careerist”.  Today she is leading innovation operations at Geisinger.  Her path to leadership was not a clear straight journey and she credits her prior diverse experience to giving her the confidence to lead innovation where she doesn’t need to be the subject matter expert in everything.

 

We go back to the time when Emily was first becoming a manager.  She is quick to thank her mentors who she looked to for advice at that key time in her career (Maureen Jones, Karen Murphy, Sajeev Thomas).  Their advice was meaningful and helped her shape her leadership style.  Establishing trust and learning from her team members and their experience is important to Emily.  Being kind first and smart second is part of her personal mantra.

 

As a “Mid-careerist” Emily also shares how she approaches wanting to be excellent professionally while also doing her “best job” of being a mom.  Easy?  No.  A juggle?  Sure.  She gets help. She doesn’t expect perfection from herself in everything.  And just because there isn’t a balance – she still finds peace and excitement in all of it!

 

Emily also talks about her excitement in joining WBL and attending her first conference.  Finding women at similar stages in their career journeys.  Expanding her network and investing in herself is a priority for Emily so that she too can do her best work.

 

Guest Bio:

Emily Fry – Vice President, Innovation Operations at Geisinger

Strategic Healthcare Innovation Leader | Value Based Care & Automation Enthusiast

I am dedicated to driving transformative change, fostering innovation, and elevating consumer experiences. My journey has been marked by a pursuit of operational excellence and a passion for enhancing healthcare quality. With a background in developing strategic directions and crafting innovative solutions, I have championed cross-functional collaboration to propel organizations towards their goals.

I firmly believe that a positive outlook paves the way for positive outcomes. My personal mission is to drive positive change in both my own life and the lives of others. For me, there’s no greater way to make a meaningful impact on the world than by working in an industry dedicated to creating healthier communities. Let’s connect and collaborate towards a healthier, brighter future!

]]> 1060 no Michelle Wright: Payer executive. Mom, first and foremost. || EP. 158 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/05/07/michelle-wright-payer-executive-mom-first-and-foremost-ep-158/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Wright.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Michelle begins our conversation talking about what it means to play the long game.  She has always been in Maryland and for nearly thirty of those years she was a senior executive at Carefirst BlueCross BlueShield.  To play the long game, it must be interesting.   Michelle started off in finance and then moved into HR.  Michelle is quick to point out that the HR field has evolved significantly over the past two decades.  But at the time, she was concerned about being pigeonholed.  With curiosity and purpose, she earned her MBA, learned the business of BCBS, and took on responsibility for several of their product lines.  Today she uses that experience to consult with others who are entering the payer space.  The lines are blurred today with provider organizations and growth companies taking on risk.   Michelle also opened up as to what drives her strong advocacy regarding access, opportunity for best health, and why innovation is so important.  Her adult son is very affected by autism.  Less than 5% of mental health professionals will see those with severe issues.  Many years of multiple powerful medications.  Five years of worsening symptoms, declining health, and limited remaining options that might provide benefit.  So Michelle went back to school to gain her PharmD.  She began exploring emerging therapies such as medical cannabis.  And this began to work.  After two years, her son is now off his previous six different medications.  And while this is not a cure for her son’s autism, it has been an enormous step forward.  For everything Michelle has accomplished professionally, she is very clear as to her why.  She is a Mom.  “This is why we do what we do.”   Closing out the conversation, Michelle provides her WBL story.  She has established a strong network and was connected to her most recent Board appointment through WBL.  “This sisterhood is powerful.”  And if you want to get connected, be connected, all you have to do is ask.   Guest Bio: Board director, strategic advisor, business and community leader, with a unique mix of value-based health care, integration and human capital management experience; including finance, strategy and planning, M&A, product management, and governance; all resulting in alignment across operations, organization and services. – A proven record of managing boards, distributed organizations, and executive teams through transformation and integration. – Experience in health care payor, provider and health IT, value-based care, behavioral health, wellness, disease & care management. – Board, corporate, integration, quality and system governance. – Executive Compensation, Leadership & Succession, Diversity & Inclusion, Business Continuity. Tue, 07 May 2024 22:56:46 -0000 Michelle Wright: Payer executive. Mom, first and foremost. full 158 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Wright.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Michelle begins our conversation talking about what it means to play the long game.  She has always been in Maryland and for nearly thir... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Wright.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Michelle begins our conversation talking about what it means to play the long game.  She has always been in Maryland and for nearly thirty of those years she was a senior executive at Carefirst BlueCross BlueShield.  To play the long game, it must be interesting.   Michelle started off in finance and then moved into HR.  Michelle is quick to point out that the HR field has evolved significantly over the past two decades.  But at the time, she was concerned about being pigeonholed.  With curiosity and purpose, she earned her MBA, learned the business of BCBS, and took on responsibility for several of their product lines.  Today she uses that experience to consult with others who are entering the payer space.  The lines are blurred today with provider organizations and growth companies taking on risk.   Michelle also opened up as to what drives her strong advocacy regarding access, opportunity for best health, and why innovation is so important.  Her adult son is very affected by autism.  Less than 5% of mental health professionals will see those with severe issues.  Many years of multiple powerful medications.  Five years of worsening symptoms, declining health, and limited remaining options that might provide benefit.  So Michelle went back to school to gain her PharmD.  She began exploring emerging therapies such as medical cannabis.  And this began to work.  After two years, her son is now off his previous six different medications.  And while this is not a cure for her son’s autism, it has been an enormous step forward.  For everything Michelle has accomplished professionally, she is very clear as to her why.  She is a Mom.  “This is why we do what we do.”   Closing out the conversation, Michelle provides her WBL story.  She has established a strong network and was connected to her most recent Board appointment through WBL.  “This sisterhood is powerful.”  And if you want to get connected, be connected, all you have to do is ask.   Guest Bio: Board director, strategic advisor, business and community leader, with a unique mix of value-based health care, integration and human capital management experience; including finance, strategy and planning, M&A, product management, and governance; all resulting in alignment across operations, organization and services. – A proven record of managing boards, distributed organizations, and executive teams through transformation and integration. – Experience in health care payor, provider and health IT, value-based care, behavioral health, wellness, disease & care management. – Board, corporate, integration, quality and system governance. – Executive Compensation, Leadership & Succession, Diversity & Inclusion, Business Continuity.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michelle Wright.

 

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Michelle begins our conversation talking about what it means to play the long game.  She has always been in Maryland and for nearly thirty of those years she was a senior executive at Carefirst BlueCross BlueShield.  To play the long game, it must be interesting.

 

Michelle started off in finance and then moved into HR.  Michelle is quick to point out that the HR field has evolved significantly over the past two decades.  But at the time, she was concerned about being pigeonholed.  With curiosity and purpose, she earned her MBA, learned the business of BCBS, and took on responsibility for several of their product lines.  Today she uses that experience to consult with others who are entering the payer space.  The lines are blurred today with provider organizations and growth companies taking on risk.

 

Michelle also opened up as to what drives her strong advocacy regarding access, opportunity for best health, and why innovation is so important.  Her adult son is very affected by autism.  Less than 5% of mental health professionals will see those with severe issues.  Many years of multiple powerful medications.  Five years of worsening symptoms, declining health, and limited remaining options that might provide benefit.  So Michelle went back to school to gain her PharmD.  She began exploring emerging therapies such as medical cannabis.  And this began to work.  After two years, her son is now off his previous six different medications.  And while this is not a cure for her son’s autism, it has been an enormous step forward.  For everything Michelle has accomplished professionally, she is very clear as to her why.  She is a Mom.  “This is why we do what we do.”

 

Closing out the conversation, Michelle provides her WBL story.  She has established a strong network and was connected to her most recent Board appointment through WBL.  “This sisterhood is powerful.”  And if you want to get connected, be connected, all you have to do is ask.

 

Guest Bio:

Board director, strategic advisor, business and community leader, with a unique mix of value-based health care, integration and human capital management experience; including finance, strategy and planning, M&A, product management, and governance; all resulting in alignment across operations, organization and services.

– A proven record of managing boards, distributed organizations, and executive teams through transformation and integration.
– Experience in health care payor, provider and health IT, value-based care, behavioral health, wellness, disease & care management.
– Board, corporate, integration, quality and system governance.
– Executive Compensation, Leadership & Succession, Diversity & Inclusion, Business Continuity.

]]> 1145 no Staying sharp with Nadine Hauf || EP. 157 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/04/30/staying-sharp-with-nadine-hauf-ep-157/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nadine Hauf.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Nadine begins our conversation with a view into how she developed an innovative technology hub for health plan members.  A place where people can come into the care system and understand what is available to them.  She built this hub at a time when there was no playbook to look to, so innovation began with an idea and a blank piece of paper.  This is where working collaboratively with her team was imperative.   Over the years Nadine has pushed herself into areas where she had both energy and opportunity to move up the ladder.  Relationships are important to her as is building her tribe.  When she wants to pursue something, she relies on them for advice and encouragement.  Even when she is headed into an important meeting or presentation, a quick call or check in from the network can give her that extra boost.  WBL has become a very important part of that tribe for Nadine.   On staying sharp, Nadine relies on nutrition and fitness as key parts of her daily routine.  And she is always cultivating her mentor and mentee relationships.  These have been critical to her own success, and she is now very committed to paying it forward.     Guest Bio: Nadine Hauf, leads an integrated and synchronized concierge experience dedicated, personalized and focused only for National Account clients. Nadine supports our underlying deliverable focus on trend management each day and is accountable for commitments made to National Account Clients. Primary Responsibilities: – Serves as an operational leader for advocacy and clinical teams supporting National Account Clients with overall accountability to include the staffing, coordination, and leadership of the integrated call, clinical, and behavioral health teams of top talent. – Leads a team of Lead Operations Directors supporting the front line advocates and clinicians providing concierge service to the Premier members in a solution that removes the heavy lifting from the member, while focusing on overall medical trend reduction and increasing member satisfaction. – Partners with the account management teams to ideate and disseminate new solutions and best practices from across the enterprise, using a sound working knowledge of multiple functions (e.g. clinical, network, member incentive structures, provider strategies, fraud/abuse, contractual issues) – Analyzes and interprets client data and reports, health assessment data, and other relevant population statistics in order to make recommendations for client strategy, programmatic interventions, benefit design, or to communicate the performance of clinical and other client programs. Tue, 30 Apr 2024 23:13:12 -0000 Staying sharp with Nadine Hauf full 158 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nadine Hauf.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Nadine begins our conversation with a view into how she developed an innovative technology hub for health plan members. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nadine Hauf.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Nadine begins our conversation with a view into how she developed an innovative technology hub for health plan members.  A place where people can come into the care system and understand what is available to them.  She built this hub at a time when there was no playbook to look to, so innovation began with an idea and a blank piece of paper.  This is where working collaboratively with her team was imperative.   Over the years Nadine has pushed herself into areas where she had both energy and opportunity to move up the ladder.  Relationships are important to her as is building her tribe.  When she wants to pursue something, she relies on them for advice and encouragement.  Even when she is headed into an important meeting or presentation, a quick call or check in from the network can give her that extra boost.  WBL has become a very important part of that tribe for Nadine.   On staying sharp, Nadine relies on nutrition and fitness as key parts of her daily routine.  And she is always cultivating her mentor and mentee relationships.  These have been critical to her own success, and she is now very committed to paying it forward.     Guest Bio: Nadine Hauf, leads an integrated and synchronized concierge experience dedicated, personalized and focused only for National Account clients. Nadine supports our underlying deliverable focus on trend management each day and is accountable for commitments made to National Account Clients. Primary Responsibilities: – Serves as an operational leader for advocacy and clinical teams supporting National Account Clients with overall accountability to include the staffing, coordination, and leadership of the integrated call, clinical, and behavioral health teams of top talent. – Leads a team of Lead Operations Directors supporting the front line advocates and clinicians providing concierge service to the Premier members in a solution that removes the heavy lifting from the member, while focusing on overall medical trend reduction and increasing member satisfaction. – Partners with the account management teams to ideate and disseminate new solutions and best practices from across the enterprise, using a sound working knowledge of multiple functions (e.g. clinical, network, member incentive structures, provider strategies, fraud/abuse, contractual issues) – Analyzes and interprets client data and reports, health assessment data, and other relevant population statistics in order to make recommendations for client strategy, programmatic interventions, benefit design, or to communicate the performance of clinical and other client programs.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nadine Hauf.

 

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Nadine begins our conversation with a view into how she developed an innovative technology hub for health plan members.  A place where people can come into the care system and understand what is available to them.  She built this hub at a time when there was no playbook to look to, so innovation began with an idea and a blank piece of paper.  This is where working collaboratively with her team was imperative.

 

Over the years Nadine has pushed herself into areas where she had both energy and opportunity to move up the ladder.  Relationships are important to her as is building her tribe.  When she wants to pursue something, she relies on them for advice and encouragement.  Even when she is headed into an important meeting or presentation, a quick call or check in from the network can give her that extra boost.  WBL has become a very important part of that tribe for Nadine.

 

On staying sharp, Nadine relies on nutrition and fitness as key parts of her daily routine.  And she is always cultivating her mentor and mentee relationships.  These have been critical to her own success, and she is now very committed to paying it forward.

 

 

Guest Bio:

Nadine Hauf, leads an integrated and synchronized concierge experience dedicated, personalized and focused only for National Account clients. Nadine supports our underlying deliverable focus on trend management each day and is accountable for commitments made to National Account Clients.

Primary Responsibilities:
– Serves as an operational leader for advocacy and clinical teams supporting National Account Clients with overall accountability to include the staffing, coordination, and leadership of the integrated call, clinical, and behavioral health teams of top talent.
– Leads a team of Lead Operations Directors supporting the front line advocates and clinicians providing concierge service to the Premier members in a solution that removes the heavy lifting from the member, while focusing on overall medical trend reduction and increasing member satisfaction.
– Partners with the account management teams to ideate and disseminate new solutions and best practices from across the enterprise, using a sound working knowledge of multiple functions (e.g. clinical, network, member incentive structures, provider strategies, fraud/abuse, contractual issues)
– Analyzes and interprets client data and reports, health assessment data, and other relevant population statistics in order to make recommendations for client strategy, programmatic interventions, benefit design, or to communicate the performance of clinical and other client programs.

]]> 1126 no On Being ReWired… with Karen Walker Johnson || EP. 156 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/04/23/on-being-rewired-with-karen-walker-johnson-ep-156/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Karen Walker Johnson.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Karen begins our conversation talking about her path to sorting out retirement.  What I learned from Karen is that she is exceptional at just about everything she has ever set her mind to with the minor exception of retirement.   Welcome to Karen Walker Johnson’s world of “reWIREment”.  I am here for all of it.   Karen is a nurse… and she is a lawyer… and then decided she wanted to run a health plan.  So she did that.  She wasn’t lucky.  She was clear and determined.  She had a mentor who believed in her.  He gave her opportunities.  She took every one of them.   In this Inspiring Women conversation you are going to hear about an exceptional woman who has a strong interest in making a difference. In doing great work that serves vulnerable underserved populations.  Someone who is grounded in family (Karen points to her 88 yo father as her greatest cheerleader and champion) and is committed to bringing the next generation along with her.   In talking about the trends to pay attention to, Karen points out that value based care is here and ensuring there is demonstrable focus on health equity is coming along with it.   Aiming to find a way to deal with the aftermath of George Floyd, Karen put her energy towards action and leadership. Karen turned her attention to Board Service where she is a Director at a number of organizations which she does today.   We also spent time laughing about Karen’s desire to retire…which led her to her current role as CEO of another health plan .  For Karen, retirement really just means reWIREment.   As we are speaking at the WBL Summit, Karen also talked about the importance of finding an active network of senior executive women committed to supporting each other just as she did at WBL.     Guest Bio: A change catalyst and innovative problem solver, with a 35-year track record of driving organizational transformation in the healthcare industry. Having worked with Fortune 50 companies, experience encompasses P&L management, market share growth, product development, hospital administration, health plan operations, and sales serving Medicare, Medicaid, Long Term Care, and Commercial populations. As an established strategic leader, pursues her passion for leadership development and positively impacting and improving the health status of vulnerable populations. Has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive innovation, market share growth (double-digit year over year), and superior quality outcomes as evidenced by achieving the coveted Medicare 5-star rating. Previously responsible for developing innovative clinical care models and end-of-life programs. Currently serves on public and private boards. Tue, 23 Apr 2024 19:40:47 -0000 On Being ReWired… with Karen Walker Johnson full 156 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Karen Walker Johnson.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Karen begins our conversation talking about her path to sorting out retirement.  What I learned from Karen is that she is exception... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Karen Walker Johnson.   In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Karen begins our conversation talking about her path to sorting out retirement.  What I learned from Karen is that she is exceptional at just about everything she has ever set her mind to with the minor exception of retirement.   Welcome to Karen Walker Johnson’s world of “reWIREment”.  I am here for all of it.   Karen is a nurse… and she is a lawyer… and then decided she wanted to run a health plan.  So she did that.  She wasn’t lucky.  She was clear and determined.  She had a mentor who believed in her.  He gave her opportunities.  She took every one of them.   In this Inspiring Women conversation you are going to hear about an exceptional woman who has a strong interest in making a difference. In doing great work that serves vulnerable underserved populations.  Someone who is grounded in family (Karen points to her 88 yo father as her greatest cheerleader and champion) and is committed to bringing the next generation along with her.   In talking about the trends to pay attention to, Karen points out that value based care is here and ensuring there is demonstrable focus on health equity is coming along with it.   Aiming to find a way to deal with the aftermath of George Floyd, Karen put her energy towards action and leadership. Karen turned her attention to Board Service where she is a Director at a number of organizations which she does today.   We also spent time laughing about Karen’s desire to retire…which led her to her current role as CEO of another health plan .  For Karen, retirement really just means reWIREment.   As we are speaking at the WBL Summit, Karen also talked about the importance of finding an active network of senior executive women committed to supporting each other just as she did at WBL.     Guest Bio: A change catalyst and innovative problem solver, with a 35-year track record of driving organizational transformation in the healthcare industry. Having worked with Fortune 50 companies, experience encompasses P&L management, market share growth, product development, hospital administration, health plan operations, and sales serving Medicare, Medicaid, Long Term Care, and Commercial populations. As an established strategic leader, pursues her passion for leadership development and positively impacting and improving the health status of vulnerable populations. Has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive innovation, market share growth (double-digit year over year), and superior quality outcomes as evidenced by achieving the coveted Medicare 5-star rating. Previously responsible for developing innovative clinical care models and end-of-life programs. Currently serves on public and private boards.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Karen Walker Johnson.

 

In this 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series, Karen begins our conversation talking about her path to sorting out retirement.  What I learned from Karen is that she is exceptional at just about everything she has ever set her mind to with the minor exception of retirement.

 

Welcome to Karen Walker Johnson’s world of “reWIREment”.  I am here for all of it.

 

Karen is a nurse… and she is a lawyer… and then decided she wanted to run a health plan.  So she did that.  She wasn’t lucky.  She was clear and determined.  She had a mentor who believed in her.  He gave her opportunities.  She took every one of them.

 

In this Inspiring Women conversation you are going to hear about an exceptional woman who has a strong interest in making a difference. In doing great work that serves vulnerable underserved populations.  Someone who is grounded in family (Karen points to her 88 yo father as her greatest cheerleader and champion) and is committed to bringing the next generation along with her.

 

In talking about the trends to pay attention to, Karen points out that value based care is here and ensuring there is demonstrable focus on health equity is coming along with it.

 

Aiming to find a way to deal with the aftermath of George Floyd, Karen put her energy towards action and leadership. Karen turned her attention to Board Service where she is a Director at a number of organizations which she does today.   We also spent time laughing about Karen’s desire to retire…which led her to her current role as CEO of another health plan .  For Karen, retirement really just means reWIREment.

 

As we are speaking at the WBL Summit, Karen also talked about the importance of finding an active network of senior executive women committed to supporting each other just as she did at WBL.

 

 

Guest Bio:

A change catalyst and innovative problem solver, with a 35-year track record of driving organizational transformation in the healthcare industry. Having worked with Fortune 50 companies, experience encompasses P&L management, market share growth, product development, hospital administration, health plan operations, and sales serving Medicare, Medicaid, Long Term Care, and Commercial populations.

As an established strategic leader, pursues her passion for leadership development and positively impacting and improving the health status of vulnerable populations. Has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive innovation, market share growth (double-digit year over year), and superior quality outcomes as evidenced by achieving the coveted Medicare 5-star rating. Previously responsible for developing innovative clinical care models and end-of-life programs.

Currently serves on public and private boards.

]]> 1277 no Carla Harris and Calling a Thing a Thing || EP. 155 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/04/09/carla-harris-and-calling-a-thing-a-thing-ep-155/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Harris.  THE Carla Harris…the renowned international public speaker, top 40 female speakers in the world who is sharing her “Carla’s Pearls” on career success.   This is the first of the 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series where Laurie and Carla are speaking to a live audience of senior executive women in healthcare.  “There is NO question where I will not have a prescriptive answer” and Carla most certainly lived up to that promise.   In this powerful conversation, we touched on many of “Carla’s Pearls” including the different types of currency you build, and bank, over the course of a career.  Performance currency is what you are building over the course of a career.  But as you get more senior, performance currency has diminishing returns.  What becomes more valuable is relationship currency.  Herein lies power.  What will people say about you behind closed doors?  In those conversations when decisions are being made for senior leaders, these conversations do not include numbers, it is about what people know about you.  “Danguole is our most creative person.  If she can’t do it, it can’t be done.”   Those conversations do not happen if you have not taken the time to build that relationship currency.   Another Pearl from this conversation is busting the myth of the imposter syndrome including a bit of exhaustion of still talking about it after decades.  Carla reminds us that in today’s world to get into the chair (whatever chair that is), you are being vetted by 8…12…more people.  They are wrong about you?  Not possible.  Own your truth.   One more favorite Pearl is the strong push to support others.  “You cannot be in that room and not support another.”  Carla is clear that no one would support someone if that was not deserved.  At the same time, the idea that you wouldn’t bring along others, like you, diverse from you, when you have the opportunity to use your currency……. Carla’s Pearl:  When you have relationship currency you USE it.  That’s power.     Guest Bios: Carla Harris is a renowned international public speaker and is also a Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She was most recently the Vice Chairman responsible for increasing client connectivity and penetration to enhance revenue generation across the firm. In her 30+ year career as an investment banker, Ms. Harris has had extensive industry experiences in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors. She is highly regarded as a motivator, executor and leader. In August 2013, Carla Harris was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council. Named as one of the Top 40 Female Speakers in the World in 2020, Carla engages audiences around the world with her popular “Carla’s Pearls” where she shares with both leaders and emerging leaders how to maximize their career success across all industries using the “hard earned and hard learned” lessons that she acquired during her Wall Street Career. Her most recent book, Lead To Win, shares her pearls of Intentional Leadership to help professionals become powerful, impactful, influential leaders into today’s challenging professional context. Carla has been named to Fortune Magazine’s list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America”, Fortune’s Most Influential List, U. S. Bankers Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance(2009, 2010, 2011), Black Enterprise’s Top 75 Most Powerful Women in Business (2017), and “Top 75 African Americans on Wall Street”, and to Essence Magazine’s list of “The 50 Women Who are Shaping the World”, Ebony’s list of the Power 100 and many more. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, Fast Money, Barrons and many other publications. In her other life, Carla is a singer who has sold out concerts at Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre, and released 4 Gospel CDs: “O This is Christmas” (2021) “Unceasing Praise” (2011), “Joy Is Waiting”(2005), and her first CD entitled, “Carla’s First Christmas”(2000), was a bestseller on Amazon.com in New York and was featured on the CBS Evening News with Dan Rather in his “American Dream” segment. Tue, 09 Apr 2024 21:43:16 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Harris.  THE Carla Harris…the renowned international public speaker, top 40 female speakers in the world who is sharing her “Carla’s Pearls” on career success. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Harris.  THE Carla Harris…the renowned international public speaker, top 40 female speakers in the world who is sharing her “Carla’s Pearls” on career success.   This is the first of the 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series where Laurie and Carla are speaking to a live audience of senior executive women in healthcare.  “There is NO question where I will not have a prescriptive answer” and Carla most certainly lived up to that promise.   In this powerful conversation, we touched on many of “Carla’s Pearls” including the different types of currency you build, and bank, over the course of a career.  Performance currency is what you are building over the course of a career.  But as you get more senior, performance currency has diminishing returns.  What becomes more valuable is relationship currency.  Herein lies power.  What will people say about you behind closed doors?  In those conversations when decisions are being made for senior leaders, these conversations do not include numbers, it is about what people know about you.  “Danguole is our most creative person.  If she can’t do it, it can’t be done.”   Those conversations do not happen if you have not taken the time to build that relationship currency.   Another Pearl from this conversation is busting the myth of the imposter syndrome including a bit of exhaustion of still talking about it after decades.  Carla reminds us that in today’s world to get into the chair (whatever chair that is), you are being vetted by 8…12…more people.  They are wrong about you?  Not possible.  Own your truth.   One more favorite Pearl is the strong push to support others.  “You cannot be in that room and not support another.”  Carla is clear that no one would support someone if that was not deserved.  At the same time, the idea that you wouldn’t bring along others, like you, diverse from you, when you have the opportunity to use your currency……. Carla’s Pearl:  When you have relationship currency you USE it.  That’s power.     Guest Bios: Carla Harris is a renowned international public speaker and is also a Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She was most recently the Vice Chairman responsible for increasing client connectivity and penetration to enhance revenue generation across the firm. In her 30+ year career as an investment banker, Ms. Harris has had extensive industry experiences in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors. She is highly regarded as a motivator, executor and leader. In August 2013, Carla Harris was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council. Named as one of the Top 40 Female Speakers in the World in 2020, Carla engages audiences around the world with her popular “Carla’s Pearls” where she shares with both leaders and emerging leaders how to maximize their career success across all industries using the “hard earned and hard learned” lessons that she acquired during her Wall Street Career. Her most recent book, Lead To Win, shares her pearls of Intentional Leadership to help professionals become powerful, impactful, influential leaders into today’s challenging professional context. Carla has been named to Fortune Magazine’s list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America”, Fortune’s Most Influential List, U. S. Bankers Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance(2009, 2010, 2011), Black Enterprise’s Top 75 Most Powerful Women in Business (2017), and “Top 75 African Americans on Wall Street”, and to Essence Magazine’s list of “The 50 Women Who are Shaping the World”, Ebony’s list of the Power 100 and many more. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, Fast Money, Barrons and many other publications. In her other life, Carla is a singer who has sold out concerts at Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre, and released 4 Gospel CDs: “O This is Christmas” (2021) “Unceasing Praise” (2011), “Joy Is Waiting”(2005), and her first CD entitled, “Carla’s First Christmas”(2000), was a bestseller on Amazon.com in New York and was featured on the CBS Evening News with Dan Rather in his “American Dream” segment.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Harris.  THE Carla Harris…the renowned international public speaker, top 40 female speakers in the world who is sharing her “Carla’s Pearls” on career success.

 

This is the first of the 2024 WBL (Women Business Leaders) Series where Laurie and Carla are speaking to a live audience of senior executive women in healthcare.  “There is NO question where I will not have a prescriptive answer” and Carla most certainly lived up to that promise.

 

In this powerful conversation, we touched on many of “Carla’s Pearls” including the different types of currency you build, and bank, over the course of a career.  Performance currency is what you are building over the course of a career.  But as you get more senior, performance currency has diminishing returns.  What becomes more valuable is relationship currency.  Herein lies power.  What will people say about you behind closed doors?  In those conversations when decisions are being made for senior leaders, these conversations do not include numbers, it is about what people know about you.  “Danguole is our most creative person.  If she can’t do it, it can’t be done.”   Those conversations do not happen if you have not taken the time to build that relationship currency.

 

Another Pearl from this conversation is busting the myth of the imposter syndrome including a bit of exhaustion of still talking about it after decades.  Carla reminds us that in today’s world to get into the chair (whatever chair that is), you are being vetted by 8…12…more people.  They are wrong about you?  Not possible.  Own your truth.

 

One more favorite Pearl is the strong push to support others.  “You cannot be in that room and not support another.”  Carla is clear that no one would support someone if that was not deserved.  At the same time, the idea that you wouldn’t bring along others, like you, diverse from you, when you have the opportunity to use your currency……. Carla’s Pearl:  When you have relationship currency you USE it.  That’s power.

 

 

Guest Bios:

Carla Harris is a renowned international public speaker and is also a Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She was most recently the Vice Chairman responsible for increasing client connectivity and penetration to enhance revenue generation across the firm. In her 30+ year career as an investment banker, Ms. Harris has had extensive industry experiences in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors. She is highly regarded as a motivator, executor and leader. In August 2013, Carla Harris was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council.

Named as one of the Top 40 Female Speakers in the World in 2020, Carla engages audiences around the world with her popular “Carla’s Pearls” where she shares with both leaders and emerging leaders how to maximize their career success across all industries using the “hard earned and hard learned” lessons

that she acquired during her Wall Street Career. Her most recent book, Lead To Win, shares her pearls of Intentional Leadership to help professionals become powerful, impactful, influential leaders into today’s challenging professional context.

Carla has been named to Fortune Magazine’s list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America”, Fortune’s Most Influential List, U. S. Bankers Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance(2009, 2010, 2011), Black Enterprise’s Top 75 Most Powerful Women in Business (2017), and “Top 75 African Americans on Wall Street”, and to Essence Magazine’s list of “The 50 Women Who are Shaping the World”, Ebony’s list of the Power 100 and many more. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, Fast Money, Barrons and many other publications.

In her other life, Carla is a singer who has sold out concerts at Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre, and released 4 Gospel CDs: “O This is Christmas” (2021) “Unceasing Praise” (2011), “Joy Is Waiting”(2005), and her first CD entitled, “Carla’s First Christmas”(2000), was a bestseller on Amazon.com in New York and was featured on the CBS Evening News with Dan Rather in his “American Dream” segment.

]]> 1520 no Change Can be Overwhelming. Judy Goldberg on bringing the Wonder into a Major Shift || EP. 154 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/04/02/change-can-be-overwhelming-judy-goldberg-on-bringing-the-wonder-into-a-major-shift-ep-154/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Judy Goldberg about her book WonderSHIFT , a guide and program for results driven transformation This Inspiring Women conversation was recorded in the New York office of Redesign Health and followed by a WonderSHIFT workshop. Judy’s life’s work is centered around education and teaching. This started in her basement at 8 years old where she would “teach classes”. Fast forward to years of teaching in schools and abroad and then focusing her studies and work on what happens when change, or shifts, happen. Shifts can come in the form of natural shifts (getting older), imposed shifts (things thrown at us – natural disasters, health issues), and initiated shifts (starting a business, making a career change). Judy had been developing her SHIFT methodology (Shape; Harmonize; Imagine; Focus; Team) for a few years when an imposed shift of a breast cancer diagnosis occurred. What she thought would be six weeks became a significant care journey. Judy brings us into her life (and health!!) and how this experience, amazingly, fueled her work of Wondershift. She also describes the power of Wondershift for more than just those imposed shifts but also those that are initiated. And how to bring methods and tools into your professional life for more purposeful results driven transformation. Closing out the conversation, Judy provides her best advice for other aspiring women. Show Up even on the darkest, hardest of days, as that is where growth and change happen. And Be as intentional about the recovery, as you are about the grind. Guest Bio: Wondershift can transform your leadership, your team and through world class design can ensure positive, long lasting results. Whether you have a new team, an established team, or a group who don’t yet work together or are located around the globe, Wondershift will find the right approach to achieve the results you need to navigate tough targets and unique challenges. Those who succeed develop skills and awareness to appreciate individuals, engage in healthy debates, recognize valuable ideas, and ultimately enable the organization to thrive. Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:09:36 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Judy Goldberg about her book WonderSHIFT , a guide and program for results driven transformation This Inspiring Women conversation was recorded in the New York office of Redesign Health and followed by a W... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Judy Goldberg about her book WonderSHIFT , a guide and program for results driven transformation This Inspiring Women conversation was recorded in the New York office of Redesign Health and followed by a WonderSHIFT workshop. Judy’s life’s work is centered around education and teaching. This started in her basement at 8 years old where she would “teach classes”. Fast forward to years of teaching in schools and abroad and then focusing her studies and work on what happens when change, or shifts, happen. Shifts can come in the form of natural shifts (getting older), imposed shifts (things thrown at us – natural disasters, health issues), and initiated shifts (starting a business, making a career change). Judy had been developing her SHIFT methodology (Shape; Harmonize; Imagine; Focus; Team) for a few years when an imposed shift of a breast cancer diagnosis occurred. What she thought would be six weeks became a significant care journey. Judy brings us into her life (and health!!) and how this experience, amazingly, fueled her work of Wondershift. She also describes the power of Wondershift for more than just those imposed shifts but also those that are initiated. And how to bring methods and tools into your professional life for more purposeful results driven transformation. Closing out the conversation, Judy provides her best advice for other aspiring women. Show Up even on the darkest, hardest of days, as that is where growth and change happen. And Be as intentional about the recovery, as you are about the grind. Guest Bio: Wondershift can transform your leadership, your team and through world class design can ensure positive, long lasting results. Whether you have a new team, an established team, or a group who don’t yet work together or are located around the globe, Wondershift will find the right approach to achieve the results you need to navigate tough targets and unique challenges. Those who succeed develop skills and awareness to appreciate individuals, engage in healthy debates, recognize valuable ideas, and ultimately enable the organization to thrive.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Judy Goldberg about her book WonderSHIFT , a guide and program for results driven transformation

This Inspiring Women conversation was recorded in the New York office of Redesign Health and followed by a WonderSHIFT workshop.

Judy’s life’s work is centered around education and teaching. This started in her basement at 8 years old where she would “teach classes”. Fast forward to years of teaching in schools and abroad and then focusing her studies and work on what happens when change, or shifts, happen. Shifts can come in the form of natural shifts (getting older), imposed shifts (things thrown at us – natural disasters, health issues), and initiated shifts (starting a business, making a career change).

Judy had been developing her SHIFT methodology (Shape; Harmonize; Imagine; Focus; Team) for a few years when an imposed shift of a breast cancer diagnosis occurred. What she thought would be six weeks became a significant care journey. Judy brings us into her life (and health!!) and how this experience, amazingly, fueled her work of Wondershift. She also describes the power of Wondershift for more than just those imposed shifts but also those that are initiated. And how to bring methods and tools into your professional life for more purposeful results driven transformation.

Closing out the conversation, Judy provides her best advice for other aspiring women. Show Up even on the darkest, hardest of days, as that is where growth and change happen.

And Be as intentional about the recovery, as you are about the grind.

Guest Bio:
Wondershift can transform your leadership, your team and through world class design can ensure positive, long lasting results. Whether you have a new team, an established team, or a group who don’t yet work together or are located around the globe, Wondershift will find the right approach to achieve the results you need to navigate tough targets and unique challenges.

Those who succeed develop skills and awareness to appreciate individuals, engage in healthy debates, recognize valuable ideas, and ultimately enable the organization to thrive.

]]> 1189 no Making mentorship, menteeship, and sponsorship really work. Dr. Jenny Schneider with Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim|| EP. 153 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/03/27/making-mentorship-menteeship-and-sponsorship-really-work-dr-jenny-schneider-with-nikita-singareddy-and-cydney-kim-ep-153/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year.  Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim, co-founders of Fortuna Health, are the first mentee graduates of Home[ward] Grown and join this Inspiring Women conversation. Home[ward] Grown has both an external and internal focus to strengthen and support women in their leadership journeys.      Jenny shared Home[ward] Grown was launched because empowering women is more than just a matter of equitable representation – It’s a business imperative.            Jenny believes in order to achieve the ultimate promise of healthcare’s triple aim of improved patient experience, outcomes and cost requires us to elevate the vital perspective of healthcare’s leading consumers: women. In this discussion, Jenny, Nikita and Cydney discuss how this program went and how they all benefitted.  Mentorship and mentEEship is fluid.  Setting up regular calls with open ended agendas put responsibility on the shoulders of Nikita and Cydney.  One of their important conversations was about simply discussing all of the hard business problems they were facing at the company today.  How should they approach a current business decision, and could they go through how it might impact their trajectory in the future?  For Nikita and Cydney, they were able to take these discussions and use them in their reality of building Fortuna Health.  For Jenny, while she has significantly more experience in building and scaling companies, she too learned new approaches to business problems – or certain areas of healthcare where she wasn’t as familiar.  From this conversation you can also hear the energy that Jenny, Nikita, and Cydney drew from this opportunity to work together in a concentrated way during the course of the program.  Energy from solving big problems.  Energy from getting to know other passionate builders who also dream of solving big problems and aim to have a large impact. The Home[ward] Grown model for mentorship is a new time based and concentrated approach to mentorships which is so important for leadership success.  As the first “graduates’ of this quarterly program, both Nikita and Cydney were effusive regarding the opportunity and how they felt it was helpful to them and their company.  For other leaders who want to give of their time and experience to other founders/leaders, this approach to mentorship may be appealing and may also align with otherwise busy calendars. Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program.   Guest Bios: Nikita Singareddyis the co-founder and CEO of Fortuna Health, a multi-lingual platform to easily check eligibility, enroll, and recertify on Medicaid (backed by Andreessen Horowitz). Nikita has worked as a healthcare investor and served in strategy and operations roles at Oscar Health and Truepill. She is a former Medicaid beneficiary. Cydney Kimis the co-founder and COO of Fortuna Health, a Medicaid navigation platform. Prior to Fortuna, Cydney served as VP of Strategy & Operations and GM for a Series C health tech company (HALO Dx) where 30% of the patients were Medicaid beneficiaries. Cydney has worked in a number of commercial and operator roles spanning healthcare and tech/media. Dr. Jenny Schneider is the CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, she served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and growth strategy. In her final year at Livongo, they led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Wed, 27 Mar 2024 17:13:16 -0000 Making mentorship, menteeship, and sponsorship really work. Dr. Jenny Schneider with Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim full 153 Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year.  Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim, co-founders of Fortuna Health, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year.  Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim, co-founders of Fortuna Health, are the first mentee graduates of Home[ward] Grown and join this Inspiring Women conversation. Home[ward] Grown has both an external and internal focus to strengthen and support women in their leadership journeys.      Jenny shared Home[ward] Grown was launched because empowering women is more than just a matter of equitable representation – It’s a business imperative.            Jenny believes in order to achieve the ultimate promise of healthcare’s triple aim of improved patient experience, outcomes and cost requires us to elevate the vital perspective of healthcare’s leading consumers: women. In this discussion, Jenny, Nikita and Cydney discuss how this program went and how they all benefitted.  Mentorship and mentEEship is fluid.  Setting up regular calls with open ended agendas put responsibility on the shoulders of Nikita and Cydney.  One of their important conversations was about simply discussing all of the hard business problems they were facing at the company today.  How should they approach a current business decision, and could they go through how it might impact their trajectory in the future?  For Nikita and Cydney, they were able to take these discussions and use them in their reality of building Fortuna Health.  For Jenny, while she has significantly more experience in building and scaling companies, she too learned new approaches to business problems – or certain areas of healthcare where she wasn’t as familiar.  From this conversation you can also hear the energy that Jenny, Nikita, and Cydney drew from this opportunity to work together in a concentrated way during the course of the program.  Energy from solving big problems.  Energy from getting to know other passionate builders who also dream of solving big problems and aim to have a large impact. The Home[ward] Grown model for mentorship is a new time based and concentrated approach to mentorships which is so important for leadership success.  As the first “graduates’ of this quarterly program, both Nikita and Cydney were effusive regarding the opportunity and how they felt it was helpful to them and their company.  For other leaders who want to give of their time and experience to other founders/leaders, this approach to mentorship may be appealing and may also align with otherwise busy calendars. Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program.   Guest Bios: Nikita Singareddyis the co-founder and CEO of Fortuna Health, a multi-lingual platform to easily check eligibility, enroll, and recertify on Medicaid (backed by Andreessen Horowitz). Nikita has worked as a healthcare investor and served in strategy and operations roles at Oscar Health and Truepill. She is a former Medicaid beneficiary. Cydney Kimis the co-founder and COO of Fortuna Health, a Medicaid navigation platform. Prior to Fortuna, Cydney served as VP of Strategy & Operations and GM for a Series C health tech company (HALO Dx) where 30% of the patients were Medicaid beneficiaries. Cydney has worked in a number of commercial and operator roles spanning healthcare and tech/media. Dr. Jenny Schneider is the CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, she served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and growth strategy. In her final year at Livongo, they led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jenny Schneider about the new Home[ward] Grown program to elevate women founders and leaders that was launched last year.  Nikita Singareddy and Cydney Kim, co-founders of Fortuna Health, are the first mentee graduates of Home[ward] Grown and join this Inspiring Women conversation.

Home[ward] Grown has both an external and internal focus to strengthen and support women in their leadership journeys.      Jenny shared Home[ward] Grown was launched because empowering women is more than just a matter of equitable representation – It’s a business imperative.            Jenny believes in order to achieve the ultimate promise of healthcare’s triple aim of improved patient experience, outcomes and cost requires us to elevate the vital perspective of healthcare’s leading consumers: women.

In this discussion, Jenny, Nikita and Cydney discuss how this program went and how they all benefitted.  Mentorship and mentEEship is fluid.  Setting up regular calls with open ended agendas put responsibility on the shoulders of Nikita and Cydney.  One of their important conversations was about simply discussing all of the hard business problems they were facing at the company today.  How should they approach a current business decision, and could they go through how it might impact their trajectory in the future?  For Nikita and Cydney, they were able to take these discussions and use them in their reality of building Fortuna Health.  For Jenny, while she has significantly more experience in building and scaling companies, she too learned new approaches to business problems – or certain areas of healthcare where she wasn’t as familiar.  From this conversation you can also hear the energy that Jenny, Nikita, and Cydney drew from this opportunity to work together in a concentrated way during the course of the program.  Energy from solving big problems.  Energy from getting to know other passionate builders who also dream of solving big problems and aim to have a large impact.

The Home[ward] Grown model for mentorship is a new time based and concentrated approach to mentorships which is so important for leadership success.  As the first “graduates’ of this quarterly program, both Nikita and Cydney were effusive regarding the opportunity and how they felt it was helpful to them and their company.  For other leaders who want to give of their time and experience to other founders/leaders, this approach to mentorship may be appealing and may also align with otherwise busy calendars.

Inspiring Women looks forward to showcasing future conversations with women in the Home[ward] Grown mentorship program.

 

Guest Bios:

  • Nikita Singareddyis the co-founder and CEO of Fortuna Health, a multi-lingual platform to easily check eligibility, enroll, and recertify on Medicaid (backed by Andreessen Horowitz). Nikita has worked as a healthcare investor and served in strategy and operations roles at Oscar Health and Truepill. She is a former Medicaid beneficiary.
  • Cydney Kimis the co-founder and COO of Fortuna Health, a Medicaid navigation platform. Prior to Fortuna, Cydney served as VP of Strategy & Operations and GM for a Series C health tech company (HALO Dx) where 30% of the patients were Medicaid beneficiaries. Cydney has worked in a number of commercial and operator roles spanning healthcare and tech/media.
  • Dr. Jenny Schneider is the CEO of Homeward, a technology-enabled healthcare provider delivering care to those who don’t have it, starting in rural America. Previously, she served 5 years as the Chief Medical Officer and President of Livongo responsible for product, data science, engineering, marketing, clinical operations, and growth strategy. In her final year at Livongo, they led the company through the largest consumer digital health Initial Public Offering in history, a secondary offering, a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, and the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and by Fierce Healthcare as Woman of Influence for work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
]]> 2126 no Placing her bet. Cheryl Capps on inventing Supply Chain and what this means for innovation today. || EP. 152 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/03/18/placing-her-bet-cheryl-capps-on-inventing-supply-chain-and-what-this-means-for-innovation-today-ep-152/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cheryl Capps, a trail blazing leader and maverick in the world of supply chain. Supply chain came to be in the late ‘90s, early 2000 time period.  Cheryl viewed the discipline of attacking problems from many different angles as simply, interesting.  She did not view it as a disadvantage to be one of HARDLY ANY women in the field at the time (less than 11% of senior executives in the discipline of supply chain are women), rather an advantage to provide an important point of view. Certainly, she led by example, but more important was attacking the problem at hand.  The core to supply chain was understanding People, Process, and Technology.  Cheryl had a 24/7 vision for supply chain that was based on this three-legged stool and international operations.  And this was all PRE-pandemic.  You cannot underscore the importance of the innovation approach that Cheryl led in defining a discipline that led to ALL plants and ALL operations open for business across the globe in multibillion $$ conglomerates during a pandemic….WELL BEFORE everyone knew how stressed these systems would become in the pandemic era. For Cheryl, it was not about being the first woman to break these barriers, it was about methodical planning, thinking, and viewing innovation as a process.  Cheryl comments on how this structured thinking should be applied to innovation today (think AI/ML) – break down the process, there are always people in that process, and technology – and all need to work in harmony. Further, Cheryl suggests and advises that we must not be afraid to innovate.  Shots on goal is the name of the game.  We must try.  Thoughtfully and in earnest.  But try and continue to try.  And that is where the magic happens. Guest Bio: Cheryl Capps is a technology-focused board director who has built, transformed, and run manufacturing, engineering, supply chain and business operations at multiple global businesses at Corning Incorporated, Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) and GE.  Cheryl is an innovative leader who has consistently delivered fast, flexible, low-cost solutions that increased competitiveness and enabled growth. She is an expert in enterprise risk management and sustainability and is highly qualified to advise CEOs and boards seeking to scale their businesses while growing bottom line profits and increasing free cash flow. Cheryl currently sits on the Integer Holdings Board of Directors (NYSE: ITGR) and has experience on Audit, Corporate Governance & Nominating, Compensation & Organization and Technology Strategy Board Committees. She also serves on the executive advisory board for Elementum, ketteQ, and o9 Solutions and is serving as a C-Suite advisor for World50. As Chief Supply Chain Officer at Corning, Cheryl was part of Corning’s Senior Leadership team and was a management representative at general board meetings and for the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Committee.  Cheryl built, developed and transformed the Global Supply Chain function, delivering more than $1.3B in year-over-year savings to the P&L. She also led the development and implementation of multiple business transformation initiatives including capital excellence, realizing over $800M in capital efficiency. Under Cheryl’s leadership, Corning developed a digitalized global risk detection and mitigation system which was recognized by the National Association of Manufactures as the ‘best of the best’. It kept all 80 factories operating and customers served throughout and after the pandemic.  Cheryl was an early adopter of digitalization in supply chain sustainability and social responsibility, and the program she deployed quickly set new standards for the industry. Previously, Cheryl led the Global Manufacturing, Distribution and Customer Service Network at ConvaTec as it transitioned from a Medical Device division of BMS to a PE stand-alone owned by Nordic Capital and Avista Capital Partners. In this role, she became a limited-partner and participated in all board meetings. She led the integration of the Unimedical acquisition and exceeded all PE financial improvement milestones including gross margin (7 points) and FCF (25%).   Previously, Cheryl led a Supply Chain Transformation for the Pharmaceutical Business at BMS, materially reducing operating costs, while simultaneously reducing inventory and improving customer service.    Cheryl joined BMS at Zimmer Orthopedics where she delivered fundamental changes in material cost structure, inventory/cash flow and customer service through a business process transformation. At GE, Cheryl was a part of the Aircraft Engine, Aerospace, Medical Systems and Industrial Motors businesses.  In Industrial Motors, Cheryl developed and executed a strategy to restructure the manufacturing network, enabling a gross margin improvement of 4 points, before assuming responsibility for the private label business -doubling sales and increasing operating margin by 16 points in two years.  Previously, Cheryl ran the Technology, Test and Deep Space Power Operations for the Astro-space Division, developing the new capabilities and scale needed for a four-fold increase in scheduled launches.  In Aircraft Engine, she was a part of a greenfield start up team and built a new product development operation to support the development and flight testing for the first digital engine controls.   Cheryl joined GE on the Manufacturing Management Program. Cheryl has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a BA in Psychology from Rice University and an MS in Engineering from Purdue University. Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:42:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cheryl Capps, a trail blazing leader and maverick in the world of supply chain. Supply chain came to be in the late ‘90s, early 2000 time period.  Cheryl viewed the discipline of attacking problems from ma... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cheryl Capps, a trail blazing leader and maverick in the world of supply chain. Supply chain came to be in the late ‘90s, early 2000 time period.  Cheryl viewed the discipline of attacking problems from many different angles as simply, interesting.  She did not view it as a disadvantage to be one of HARDLY ANY women in the field at the time (less than 11% of senior executives in the discipline of supply chain are women), rather an advantage to provide an important point of view. Certainly, she led by example, but more important was attacking the problem at hand.  The core to supply chain was understanding People, Process, and Technology.  Cheryl had a 24/7 vision for supply chain that was based on this three-legged stool and international operations.  And this was all PRE-pandemic.  You cannot underscore the importance of the innovation approach that Cheryl led in defining a discipline that led to ALL plants and ALL operations open for business across the globe in multibillion $$ conglomerates during a pandemic….WELL BEFORE everyone knew how stressed these systems would become in the pandemic era. For Cheryl, it was not about being the first woman to break these barriers, it was about methodical planning, thinking, and viewing innovation as a process.  Cheryl comments on how this structured thinking should be applied to innovation today (think AI/ML) – break down the process, there are always people in that process, and technology – and all need to work in harmony. Further, Cheryl suggests and advises that we must not be afraid to innovate.  Shots on goal is the name of the game.  We must try.  Thoughtfully and in earnest.  But try and continue to try.  And that is where the magic happens. Guest Bio: Cheryl Capps is a technology-focused board director who has built, transformed, and run manufacturing, engineering, supply chain and business operations at multiple global businesses at Corning Incorporated, Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) and GE.  Cheryl is an innovative leader who has consistently delivered fast, flexible, low-cost solutions that increased competitiveness and enabled growth. She is an expert in enterprise risk management and sustainability and is highly qualified to advise CEOs and boards seeking to scale their businesses while growing bottom line profits and increasing free cash flow. Cheryl currently sits on the Integer Holdings Board of Directors (NYSE: ITGR) and has experience on Audit, Corporate Governance & Nominating, Compensation & Organization and Technology Strategy Board Committees. She also serves on the executive advisory board for Elementum, ketteQ, and o9 Solutions and is serving as a C-Suite advisor for World50. As Chief Supply Chain Officer at Corning, Cheryl was part of Corning’s Senior Leadership team and was a management representative at general board meetings and for the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Committee.  Cheryl built, developed and transformed the Global Supply Chain function, delivering more than $1.3B in year-over-year savings to the P&L. She also led the development and implementation of multiple business transformation initiatives including capital excellence, realizing over $800M in capital efficiency. Under Cheryl’s leadership, Corning developed a digitalized global risk detection and mitigation system which was recognized by the National Association of Manufactures as the ‘best of the best’. It kept all 80 factories operating and customers served throughout and after the pandemic.  Cheryl was an early adopter of digitalization in supply chain sustainability and social responsibility, and the program she deployed quickly set new standards for the industry. Previously, Cheryl led the Global Manufacturing, Distribution and Customer Service Network at ConvaTec as it transitioned from a Medical Device division of BMS to a PE stand-alone owned by Nordic Capital and Avista Capital Partners. In this role, she became a limited-partner and participated in all board meetings. She led the integration of the Unimedical acquisition and exceeded all PE financial improvement milestones including gross margin (7 points) and FCF (25%).   Previously, Cheryl led a Supply Chain Transformation for the Pharmaceutical Business at BMS, materially reducing operating costs, while simultaneously reducing inventory and improving customer service.    Cheryl joined BMS at Zimmer Orthopedics where she delivered fundamental changes in material cost structure, inventory/cash flow and customer service through a business process transformation. At GE, Cheryl was a part of the Aircraft Engine, Aerospace, Medical Systems and Industrial Motors businesses.  In Industrial Motors, Cheryl developed and executed a strategy to restructure the manufacturing network, enabling a gross margin improvement of 4 points, before assuming responsibility for the private label business -doubling sales and increasing operating margin by 16 points in two years.  Previously, Cheryl ran the Technology, Test and Deep Space Power Operations for the Astro-space Division, developing the new capabilities and scale needed for a four-fold increase in scheduled launches.  In Aircraft Engine, she was a part of a greenfield start up team and built a new product development operation to support the development and flight testing for the first digital engine controls.   Cheryl joined GE on the Manufacturing Management Program. Cheryl has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a BA in Psychology from Rice University and an MS in Engineering from Purdue University.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cheryl Capps, a trail blazing leader and maverick in the world of supply chain.

Supply chain came to be in the late ‘90s, early 2000 time period.  Cheryl viewed the discipline of attacking problems from many different angles as simply, interesting.  She did not view it as a disadvantage to be one of HARDLY ANY women in the field at the time (less than 11% of senior executives in the discipline of supply chain are women), rather an advantage to provide an important point of view.

Certainly, she led by example, but more important was attacking the problem at hand.  The core to supply chain was understanding People, Process, and Technology.  Cheryl had a 24/7 vision for supply chain that was based on this three-legged stool and international operations.  And this was all PRE-pandemic.  You cannot underscore the importance of the innovation approach that Cheryl led in defining a discipline that led to ALL plants and ALL operations open for business across the globe in multibillion $$ conglomerates during a pandemic….WELL BEFORE everyone knew how stressed these systems would become in the pandemic era.

For Cheryl, it was not about being the first woman to break these barriers, it was about methodical planning, thinking, and viewing innovation as a process.  Cheryl comments on how this structured thinking should be applied to innovation today (think AI/ML) – break down the process, there are always people in that process, and technology – and all need to work in harmony.

Further, Cheryl suggests and advises that we must not be afraid to innovate.  Shots on goal is the name of the game.  We must try.  Thoughtfully and in earnest.  But try and continue to try.  And that is where the magic happens.

Guest Bio:

Cheryl Capps is a technology-focused board director who has built, transformed, and run manufacturing, engineering, supply chain and business operations at multiple global businesses at Corning Incorporated, Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) and GE.  Cheryl is an innovative leader who has consistently delivered fast, flexible, low-cost solutions that increased competitiveness and enabled growth. She is an expert in enterprise risk management and sustainability and is highly qualified to advise CEOs and boards seeking to scale their businesses while growing bottom line profits and increasing free cash flow.

Cheryl currently sits on the Integer Holdings Board of Directors (NYSE: ITGR) and has experience on Audit, Corporate Governance & Nominating, Compensation & Organization and Technology Strategy Board Committees. She also serves on the executive advisory board for Elementum, ketteQ, and o9 Solutions and is serving as a C-Suite advisor for World50.

As Chief Supply Chain Officer at Corning, Cheryl was part of Corning’s Senior Leadership team and was a management representative at general board meetings and for the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Committee.  Cheryl built, developed and transformed the Global Supply Chain function, delivering more than $1.3B in year-over-year savings to the P&L. She also led the development and implementation of multiple business transformation initiatives including capital excellence, realizing over $800M in capital efficiency. Under Cheryl’s leadership, Corning developed a digitalized global risk detection and mitigation system which was recognized by the National Association of Manufactures as the ‘best of the best’. It kept all 80 factories operating and customers served throughout and after the pandemic.  Cheryl was an early adopter of digitalization in supply chain sustainability and social responsibility, and the program she deployed quickly set new standards for the industry.

Previously, Cheryl led the Global Manufacturing, Distribution and Customer Service Network at ConvaTec as it transitioned from a Medical Device division of BMS to a PE stand-alone owned by Nordic Capital and Avista Capital Partners. In this role, she became a limited-partner and participated in all board meetings. She led the integration of the Unimedical acquisition and exceeded all PE financial improvement milestones including gross margin (7 points) and FCF (25%).   Previously, Cheryl led a Supply Chain Transformation for the Pharmaceutical Business at BMS, materially reducing operating costs, while simultaneously reducing inventory and improving customer service.    Cheryl joined BMS at Zimmer Orthopedics where she delivered fundamental changes in material cost structure, inventory/cash flow and customer service through a business process transformation.

At GE, Cheryl was a part of the Aircraft Engine, Aerospace, Medical Systems and Industrial Motors businesses.  In Industrial Motors, Cheryl developed and executed a strategy to restructure the manufacturing network, enabling a gross margin improvement of 4 points, before assuming responsibility for the private label business -doubling sales and increasing operating margin by 16 points in two years.  Previously, Cheryl ran the Technology, Test and Deep Space Power Operations for the Astro-space Division, developing the new capabilities and scale needed for a four-fold increase in scheduled launches.  In Aircraft Engine, she was a part of a greenfield start up team and built a new product development operation to support the development and flight testing for the first digital engine controls.   Cheryl joined GE on the Manufacturing Management Program.

Cheryl has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a BA in Psychology from Rice University and an MS in Engineering from Purdue University.

]]> 1394 no Care, Cost, and Cliff. Stephanie Mercado on the state of quality in healthcare. || EP. 151 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/03/12/care-cost-and-cliff-stephanie-mercado-on-the-state-of-quality-in-healthcare-ep-151/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stephanie Mercado of the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). Stephanie was recently named as a Top Most Influential person in healthcare which is representative of her work and the work of NAHQ.  NAHQ, aims to provide solutions for the most pressing issues in healthcare which today vast.   “…..but I think could be summarized in three words.  Care, cost and cliff. We want to stay ahead of where health care delivery is going. We want to make sure that from a cost perspective that we are helping to make health care sustainable.  And that we are readying ourselves for the workforce cliff.  Because we know workforce shortages are going to get much worse over the next 15 years and we really see quality and safety, equity and value as huge drivers and business strategies to advancing all of that.”   In talking about quality, Stephanie provides historical context as to how that has evolved over the years since Medicare was signed into law in the ‘60s to today where there are not shared definitions or common language across all of the people whose job in one way or another does bear responsibility for quality and safety.  NAHQ defines the profession of quality and safety with detailed competencies for the entire workforce.   “We tell people what to do in healthcare all the time. Make it safer, make it more affordable.  But we are not really good at telling people, the workforce, the leaders, how to achieve it. And that is really where we need to focus. It’s as much on the how as it is on the what.”   As to advice for other emerging leaders….. Being prepared, doing your homework, and walking the talk matters.  As a leader, Stephanie also consumes a lot of information, yet she is very pressed for time (work, travel, speaking engagements, two boys in travel hockey. The list goes on!).  Her new favorite time hack is listening to summarized books while on the treadmill or out walking the dog.   And she needs that time.  Owning the issue of the profession of healthcare quality, the discipline of healthcare quality and the competency standards for that profession are big and important jobs for NAHQ.  Yet, with tremendous potential to impact, as Stephanie would say, cost, care and cliff.   Guest Bio: Stephanie Mercado is the chief executive officer/executive director of the National Association for Healthcare Quality® (NAHQ), the leader in the development of industry-standard healthcare quality and safety competencies, training and certification in healthcare quality. The Chicago-based association serves healthcare professionals across the country and internationally. Mercado brings more than 20 years of healthcare industry experience to her lead role at NAHQ. Since joining NAHQ in 2013, she has implemented innovations and introduced methodologies to research and define standardized competencies for the healthcare quality profession. This has resulted in advancement of quality professionals and increased visibility and credibility of the quality workforce within healthcare. Under Mercado’s visionary leadership, the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality® (CPHQ) certification has doubled from approximately 7,000 CPHQs to more than 14,000. Over the same time period, NAHQ membership has grown from about 4,500 members to nearly 9,000. In partnership with NAHQ’s board of directors, staff and volunteers, Mercado led the development of industry-elevating initiatives, such as the twice-validated Healthcare Quality Competency Framework, and the profession’s first workforce study, offering critical insights to workforce development opportunities for healthcare quality and safety professionals. She also orchestrated the development of the first and only database that articulates the work of those working in healthcare quality. A builder by nature, Mercado, with the partnership of NAHQ leaders, then conceptualized and deployed Workforce Accelerator®, a scalable organizational solution to assess, organize and leverage the quality workforce. She is committed to educating leaders on the impact that a coordinated, competent workforce can make in advancing healthcare. To that end, Mercado is a highly sought-after speaker and author on workforce development and system sustainability and speaks nationally about strategies to drive quality in healthcare and improve healthcare outcomes. She is an innovative thought-leader and influencer who contributes insights on the critical need to reduce variability in healthcare quality competencies and the training needs that are vital with the decreasing shelf-life of skills in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment. Mercado currently participates on: The Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s National Steering Committee for Patient Safety The Association Forum Healthcare Collaborative steering committee The Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Management Education as a board member The Patient Safety Movement Foundation as an advisory member Patients for Patient Safety US (United States) as an organizational partner working to achieve the World Health Organization Global Patient Safety Action Plan’s strategic objective of health worker education, skills, and safety Prior to joining NAHQ, Mercado served in an executive position with the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and supported the American Orthopaedic Association. Throughout her career, she has been focused on advancing workforce and professional competencies and skills in practical and actionable application for various professions. Mercado holds the CPHQ credential and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). In 2018, she was recognized by .orgCommunity with the Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Award. In 2022, she was included on the prestigious national list of nominees for Modern Healthcare magazine’s “300 Most Influential People in Healthcare” ranking. In 2023, Modern Healthcare recognized Mercado as one of the Top 25 Women Leaders. Mercado is also a proud “hockey mom” to her two sons, Sam and Ben. She and her husband, Bryan, enjoy spending weekends at their many hockey tournaments. Tue, 12 Mar 2024 22:20:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stephanie Mercado of the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). Stephanie was recently named as a Top Most Influential person in healthcare which is representative of her work and the work of ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stephanie Mercado of the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). Stephanie was recently named as a Top Most Influential person in healthcare which is representative of her work and the work of NAHQ.  NAHQ, aims to provide solutions for the most pressing issues in healthcare which today vast.   “…..but I think could be summarized in three words.  Care, cost and cliff. We want to stay ahead of where health care delivery is going. We want to make sure that from a cost perspective that we are helping to make health care sustainable.  And that we are readying ourselves for the workforce cliff.  Because we know workforce shortages are going to get much worse over the next 15 years and we really see quality and safety, equity and value as huge drivers and business strategies to advancing all of that.”   In talking about quality, Stephanie provides historical context as to how that has evolved over the years since Medicare was signed into law in the ‘60s to today where there are not shared definitions or common language across all of the people whose job in one way or another does bear responsibility for quality and safety.  NAHQ defines the profession of quality and safety with detailed competencies for the entire workforce.   “We tell people what to do in healthcare all the time. Make it safer, make it more affordable.  But we are not really good at telling people, the workforce, the leaders, how to achieve it. And that is really where we need to focus. It’s as much on the how as it is on the what.”   As to advice for other emerging leaders….. Being prepared, doing your homework, and walking the talk matters.  As a leader, Stephanie also consumes a lot of information, yet she is very pressed for time (work, travel, speaking engagements, two boys in travel hockey. The list goes on!).  Her new favorite time hack is listening to summarized books while on the treadmill or out walking the dog.   And she needs that time.  Owning the issue of the profession of healthcare quality, the discipline of healthcare quality and the competency standards for that profession are big and important jobs for NAHQ.  Yet, with tremendous potential to impact, as Stephanie would say, cost, care and cliff.   Guest Bio: Stephanie Mercado is the chief executive officer/executive director of the National Association for Healthcare Quality® (NAHQ), the leader in the development of industry-standard healthcare quality and safety competencies, training and certification in healthcare quality. The Chicago-based association serves healthcare professionals across the country and internationally. Mercado brings more than 20 years of healthcare industry experience to her lead role at NAHQ. Since joining NAHQ in 2013, she has implemented innovations and introduced methodologies to research and define standardized competencies for the healthcare quality profession. This has resulted in advancement of quality professionals and increased visibility and credibility of the quality workforce within healthcare. Under Mercado’s visionary leadership, the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality® (CPHQ) certification has doubled from approximately 7,000 CPHQs to more than 14,000. Over the same time period, NAHQ membership has grown from about 4,500 members to nearly 9,000. In partnership with NAHQ’s board of directors, staff and volunteers, Mercado led the development of industry-elevating initiatives, such as the twice-validated Healthcare Quality Competency Framework, and the profession’s first workforce study, offering critical insights to workforce development opportunities for healthcare quality and safety professionals. She also orchestrated the development of the first and only database that articulates the work of those working in healthcare quality. A builder by nature, Mercado, with the partnership of NAHQ leaders, then conceptualized and deployed Workforce Accelerator®, a scalable organizational solution to assess, organize and leverage the quality workforce. She is committed to educating leaders on the impact that a coordinated, competent workforce can make in advancing healthcare. To that end, Mercado is a highly sought-after speaker and author on workforce development and system sustainability and speaks nationally about strategies to drive quality in healthcare and improve healthcare outcomes. She is an innovative thought-leader and influencer who contributes insights on the critical need to reduce variability in healthcare quality competencies and the training needs that are vital with the decreasing shelf-life of skills in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment. Mercado currently participates on: The Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s National Steering Committee for Patient Safety The Association Forum Healthcare Collaborative steering committee The Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Management Education as a board member The Patient Safety Movement Foundation as an advisory member Patients for Patient Safety US (United States) as an organizational partner working to achieve the World Health Organization Global Patient Safety Action Plan’s strategic objective of health worker education, skills, and safety Prior to joining NAHQ, Mercado served in an executive position with the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and supported the American Orthopaedic Association. Throughout her career, she has been focused on advancing workforce and professional competencies and skills in practical and actionable application for various professions. Mercado holds the CPHQ credential and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). In 2018, she was recognized by .orgCommunity with the Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Award. In 2022, she was included on the prestigious national list of nominees for Modern Healthcare magazine’s “300 Most Influential People in Healthcare” ranking. In 2023, Modern Healthcare recognized Mercado as one of the Top 25 Women Leaders. Mercado is also a proud “hockey mom” to her two sons, Sam and Ben. She and her husband, Bryan, enjoy spending weekends at their many hockey tournaments.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stephanie Mercado of the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ).

Stephanie was recently named as a Top Most Influential person in healthcare which is representative of her work and the work of NAHQ.  NAHQ, aims to provide solutions for the most pressing issues in healthcare which today vast.

 

“…..but I think could be summarized in three words.  Care, cost and cliff. We want to stay ahead of where health care delivery is going. We want to make sure that from a cost perspective that we are helping to make health care sustainable.  And that we are readying ourselves for the workforce cliff.  Because we know workforce shortages are going to get much worse over the next 15 years and we really see quality and safety, equity and value as huge drivers and business strategies to advancing all of that.”

 

In talking about quality, Stephanie provides historical context as to how that has evolved over the years since Medicare was signed into law in the ‘60s to today where there are not shared definitions or common language across all of the people whose job in one way or another does bear responsibility for quality and safety.  NAHQ defines the profession of quality and safety with detailed competencies for the entire workforce.

 

“We tell people what to do in healthcare all the time. Make it safer, make it more affordable.  But we are not really good at telling people, the workforce, the leaders, how to achieve it. And that is really where we need to focus. It’s as much on the how as it is on the what.”

 

As to advice for other emerging leaders….. Being prepared, doing your homework, and walking the talk matters.  As a leader, Stephanie also consumes a lot of information, yet she is very pressed for time (work, travel, speaking engagements, two boys in travel hockey. The list goes on!).  Her new favorite time hack is listening to summarized books while on the treadmill or out walking the dog.

 

And she needs that time.  Owning the issue of the profession of healthcare quality, the discipline of healthcare quality and the competency standards for that profession are big and important jobs for NAHQ.  Yet, with tremendous potential to impact, as Stephanie would say, cost, care and cliff.

 

Guest Bio:

Stephanie Mercado is the chief executive officer/executive director of the National Association for Healthcare Quality® (NAHQ), the leader in the development of industry-standard healthcare quality and safety competencies, training and certification in healthcare quality. The Chicago-based association serves healthcare professionals across the country and internationally.

Mercado brings more than 20 years of healthcare industry experience to her lead role at NAHQ. Since joining NAHQ in 2013, she has implemented innovations and introduced methodologies to research and define standardized competencies for the healthcare quality profession. This has resulted in advancement of quality professionals and increased visibility and credibility of the quality workforce within healthcare.

Under Mercado’s visionary leadership, the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality® (CPHQ) certification has doubled from approximately 7,000 CPHQs to more than 14,000. Over the same time period, NAHQ membership has grown from about 4,500 members to nearly 9,000.

In partnership with NAHQ’s board of directors, staff and volunteers, Mercado led the development of industry-elevating initiatives, such as the twice-validated Healthcare Quality Competency Framework, and the profession’s first workforce study, offering critical insights to workforce development opportunities for healthcare quality and safety professionals. She also orchestrated the development of the first and only database that articulates the work of those working in healthcare quality. A builder by nature, Mercado, with the partnership of NAHQ leaders, then conceptualized and deployed Workforce Accelerator®, a scalable organizational solution to assess, organize and leverage the quality workforce.

She is committed to educating leaders on the impact that a coordinated, competent workforce can make in advancing healthcare. To that end, Mercado is a highly sought-after speaker and author on workforce development and system sustainability and speaks nationally about strategies to drive quality in healthcare and improve healthcare outcomes. She is an innovative thought-leader and influencer who contributes insights on the critical need to reduce variability in healthcare quality competencies and the training needs that are vital with the decreasing shelf-life of skills in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment. Mercado currently participates on:

  • The Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s National Steering Committee for Patient Safety
  • The Association Forum Healthcare Collaborative steering committee
  • The Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Management Education as a board member
  • The Patient Safety Movement Foundation as an advisory member
  • Patients for Patient Safety US (United States) as an organizational partner working to achieve the World Health Organization Global Patient Safety Action Plan’s strategic objective of health worker education, skills, and safety

Prior to joining NAHQ, Mercado served in an executive position with the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and supported the American Orthopaedic Association. Throughout her career, she has been focused on advancing workforce and professional competencies and skills in practical and actionable application for various professions.

Mercado holds the CPHQ credential and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). In 2018, she was recognized by .orgCommunity with the Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Award. In 2022, she was included on the prestigious national list of nominees for Modern Healthcare magazine’s “300 Most Influential People in Healthcare” ranking. In 2023, Modern Healthcare recognized Mercado as one of the Top 25 Women Leaders.

Mercado is also a proud “hockey mom” to her two sons, Sam and Ben. She and her husband, Bryan, enjoy spending weekends at their many hockey tournaments.

]]> 1756 no Black History is American History. Measuring investment success by societal progress. Oh, and tennis…with Candace Richardson. || EP. 150 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/02/27/black-history-is-american-history-measuring-investment-success-by-societal-progress-oh-and-tenniswith-candace-richardson-ep-150/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Candace Richardson of General Catalyst. Candance talks about her investing philosophy, why measuring portfolio success based on societal impact is important, what Black History Month means to her, and then we also talk some girl math – as in when closing the gender health gap has a $1T global impact ….WHY is it that we saw investment in women’s health companies cut in half in the last two years??.  Spoiler alert – the answer is complicated… Well, actually, it is NOT that complicated.  One of the solutions to squaring that circle includes having more women on the funder side of the table. But first, let’s start at the end and let’s talk tennis!! Why tennis?  Because Candace loves tennis.  Not just a fan, but a previously competitive player, now turned teacher and coach.  For the past seven years, Candace has been teaching tennis at the Kings County Tennis League, an organization that uses tennis and education to spark the potential in kids living in Brooklyn public housing.  And when Candace talks about what it means to her to be teaching tennis to young kids (4-8 yo), she describes it as “one of the most fulfilling things she has ever been a part of.” This level of personal commitment speaks to the underpinning of her investment philosophy.  We can bend the cost curve in healthcare, if we direct care to those who need it most.  We can improve outcomes and have financial returns when we focus on historically underserved populations (ie Cityblock Health).  We can hold ourselves accountable for societal impact (Homeward Health’s recent B Corp designation). And as someone who grew up as someone very interested in history and current events…..expecting to be a journalist…..demanding her parents take her to CNN headquarters just because….Candace also talks about what Black History Month means to her. “It’s American history and it serves all of us if we have kind of a clearer picture of kind of what got us to where we are today, so we can make sure the future is brighter. And I think that future gets so much better, much brighter, when we have more people, more women, more black women, more people around important tables making big decisions.” Guest Bio: Candace Richardson Principal, General Catalyst I grew up in Asheville, North Carolina watching the news every night believing I would become a journalist, keen to have a grasp on what was happening around the world and why. After moving to NYC for college I continued on this pursuit academically, studying economics, philosophy and history but my career aspirations evolved, and like many at that age I entered an exploratory phase professionally. After discovering that my mother had been a political activist in Ethiopia before she emigrated, I traveled there with her to create an oral history project on the role of secondary students in the Ethiopian Revolution, and that got me thinking about a career in academia. I also spent time at a think tank to explore economic policy at the federal and state level. In the end, I received and followed wise advice that a career in finance would keep me connected to current events, and the integral role capital markets play in shaping them, while affording me the opportunity to make a difference in the world. Beginning my career at Goldman Sachs, I got a fast, immersive education in healthcare finance across the capital structure. I furthered my interest at Town Hall Ventures, where I was able to work closely with companies that serve medically vulnerable and historically underserved patient populations. And because the firm was relatively small, I was able to contribute across a range of essential activities, from raising a fund and portfolio management to observing boards. General Catalyst has a tremendous opportunity and influence in healthcare, including how care is delivered and paid for successfully, and equitably, for all stakeholders. The firm also has deep technology and consumer experience that is essential to the transformation of healthcare from a “sick care” system to a more proactive and resilient Health Assurance system designed to make quality care more affordable and accessible to help people stay well. It’s probably no surprise that I enjoy tackling big problems that require extensive collaboration to dissolve barriers and create new solutions. I think of it as a combination of lofty and grounded, creative and practical. It’s the same in my personal life, where you can find me painting one day and teaching tennis to kids the next. Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:59:27 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Candace Richardson of General Catalyst. Candance talks about her investing philosophy, why measuring portfolio success based on societal impact is important, what Black History Month means to her, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Candace Richardson of General Catalyst. Candance talks about her investing philosophy, why measuring portfolio success based on societal impact is important, what Black History Month means to her, and then we also talk some girl math – as in when closing the gender health gap has a $1T global impact ….WHY is it that we saw investment in women’s health companies cut in half in the last two years??.  Spoiler alert – the answer is complicated… Well, actually, it is NOT that complicated.  One of the solutions to squaring that circle includes having more women on the funder side of the table. But first, let’s start at the end and let’s talk tennis!! Why tennis?  Because Candace loves tennis.  Not just a fan, but a previously competitive player, now turned teacher and coach.  For the past seven years, Candace has been teaching tennis at the Kings County Tennis League, an organization that uses tennis and education to spark the potential in kids living in Brooklyn public housing.  And when Candace talks about what it means to her to be teaching tennis to young kids (4-8 yo), she describes it as “one of the most fulfilling things she has ever been a part of.” This level of personal commitment speaks to the underpinning of her investment philosophy.  We can bend the cost curve in healthcare, if we direct care to those who need it most.  We can improve outcomes and have financial returns when we focus on historically underserved populations (ie Cityblock Health).  We can hold ourselves accountable for societal impact (Homeward Health’s recent B Corp designation). And as someone who grew up as someone very interested in history and current events…..expecting to be a journalist…..demanding her parents take her to CNN headquarters just because….Candace also talks about what Black History Month means to her. “It’s American history and it serves all of us if we have kind of a clearer picture of kind of what got us to where we are today, so we can make sure the future is brighter. And I think that future gets so much better, much brighter, when we have more people, more women, more black women, more people around important tables making big decisions.” Guest Bio: Candace Richardson Principal, General Catalyst I grew up in Asheville, North Carolina watching the news every night believing I would become a journalist, keen to have a grasp on what was happening around the world and why. After moving to NYC for college I continued on this pursuit academically, studying economics, philosophy and history but my career aspirations evolved, and like many at that age I entered an exploratory phase professionally. After discovering that my mother had been a political activist in Ethiopia before she emigrated, I traveled there with her to create an oral history project on the role of secondary students in the Ethiopian Revolution, and that got me thinking about a career in academia. I also spent time at a think tank to explore economic policy at the federal and state level. In the end, I received and followed wise advice that a career in finance would keep me connected to current events, and the integral role capital markets play in shaping them, while affording me the opportunity to make a difference in the world. Beginning my career at Goldman Sachs, I got a fast, immersive education in healthcare finance across the capital structure. I furthered my interest at Town Hall Ventures, where I was able to work closely with companies that serve medically vulnerable and historically underserved patient populations. And because the firm was relatively small, I was able to contribute across a range of essential activities, from raising a fund and portfolio management to observing boards. General Catalyst has a tremendous opportunity and influence in healthcare, including how care is delivered and paid for successfully, and equitably, for all stakeholders. The firm also has deep technology and consumer experience that is essential to the transformation of healthcare from a “sick care” system to a more proactive and resilient Health Assurance system designed to make quality care more affordable and accessible to help people stay well. It’s probably no surprise that I enjoy tackling big problems that require extensive collaboration to dissolve barriers and create new solutions. I think of it as a combination of lofty and grounded, creative and practical. It’s the same in my personal life, where you can find me painting one day and teaching tennis to kids the next.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Candace Richardson of General Catalyst.

Candance talks about her investing philosophy, why measuring portfolio success based on societal impact is important, what Black History Month means to her, and then we also talk some girl math – as in when closing the gender health gap has a $1T global impact ….WHY is it that we saw investment in women’s health companies cut in half in the last two years??.  Spoiler alert – the answer is complicated… Well, actually, it is NOT that complicated.  One of the solutions to squaring that circle includes having more women on the funder side of the table.

But first, let’s start at the end and let’s talk tennis!!
Why tennis?  Because Candace loves tennis.  Not just a fan, but a previously competitive player, now turned teacher and coach.  For the past seven years, Candace has been teaching tennis at the Kings County Tennis League, an organization that uses tennis and education to spark the potential in kids living in Brooklyn public housing.  And when Candace talks about what it means to her to be teaching tennis to young kids (4-8 yo), she describes it as “one of the most fulfilling things she has ever been a part of.”

This level of personal commitment speaks to the underpinning of her investment philosophy.  We can bend the cost curve in healthcare, if we direct care to those who need it most.  We can improve outcomes and have financial returns when we focus on historically underserved populations (ie Cityblock Health).  We can hold ourselves accountable for societal impact (Homeward Health’s recent B Corp designation).

And as someone who grew up as someone very interested in history and current events…..expecting to be a journalist…..demanding her parents take her to CNN headquarters just because….Candace also talks about what Black History Month means to her.

“It’s American history and it serves all of us if we have kind of a clearer picture of kind of what got us to where we are today, so we can make sure the future is brighter.
And I think that future gets so much better, much brighter, when we have more people, more women, more black women, more people around important tables making big decisions.”

Guest Bio:

Candace Richardson
Principal, General Catalyst

I grew up in Asheville, North Carolina watching the news every night believing I would become a journalist, keen to have a grasp on what was happening around the world and why. After moving to NYC for college I continued on this pursuit academically, studying economics, philosophy and history but my career aspirations evolved, and like many at that age I entered an exploratory phase professionally. After discovering that my mother had been a political activist in Ethiopia before she emigrated, I traveled there with her to create an oral history project on the role of secondary students in the Ethiopian Revolution, and that got me thinking about a career in academia. I also spent time at a think tank to explore economic policy at the federal and state level. In the end, I received and followed wise advice that a career in finance would keep me connected to current events, and the integral role capital markets play in shaping them, while affording me the opportunity to make a difference in the world.

Beginning my career at Goldman Sachs, I got a fast, immersive education in healthcare finance across the capital structure. I furthered my interest at Town Hall Ventures, where I was able to work closely with companies that serve medically vulnerable and historically underserved patient populations. And because the firm was relatively small, I was able to contribute across a range of essential activities, from raising a fund and portfolio management to observing boards.

General Catalyst has a tremendous opportunity and influence in healthcare, including how care is delivered and paid for successfully, and equitably, for all stakeholders. The firm also has deep technology and consumer experience that is essential to the transformation of healthcare from a “sick care” system to a more proactive and resilient Health Assurance system designed to make quality care more affordable and accessible to help people stay well.

It’s probably no surprise that I enjoy tackling big problems that require extensive collaboration to dissolve barriers and create new solutions. I think of it as a combination of lofty and grounded, creative and practical. It’s the same in my personal life, where you can find me painting one day and teaching tennis to kids the next.

]]> 1820 no Dr. BCW discusses bias in healthcare. || EP. 149 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/02/21/dr-bcw-discusses-bias-in-healthcare-ep-149/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, known to many as just Dr. BCW.  She is the creator of Beyond Clinical Walls, a popular video series where Dr. BCW discusses a wide variety of health topics.   Her intention is to create awareness and advocate for patients while also infusing health equity into the series.  Advocacy and standing up for people has been important to Dr. BCW since she was a little girl.  Her why comes from her father who would bring her to rallies and have her hold signs.  She may not have understood the issues at the time, but she learned that it was important to speak out. Today, Dr. BCW is sharing medical information in helpful and disarming ways to help build trust which is often lacking.  Topics range from complex diagnoses, uncomfortable medical terms, and consistently, teaching patients how to advocate for themselves.  Bias is pervasive in healthcare.  Breaking through those barriers includes telling real patient stories to get beyond the statistics.  This includes sharing her own story of nearly losing her life after the birth of her second child.   Knowing something was wrong, asking for help, and not being heard. We have a long way to go to break through bias in healthcare.  Dr. BCW aims to educate, to share medical information, and to tell real patient stories.  And if she can reach one patient, break down one barrier, that is what she is after.  Her purpose is to save lives.   Dr. Curry-Winchell  (Dr. BCW):  A Medical Contributor Going Beyond Clinical Walls TEDx Speaker Founder of Beyond Clinical Walls Medical Contributor Columnist Board Certified Family Medicine Physician Urgent Care Medical Director Wed, 21 Feb 2024 23:48:17 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, known to many as just Dr. BCW.  She is the creator of Beyond Clinical Walls, a popular video series where Dr. BCW discusses a wide variety of health topics. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, known to many as just Dr. BCW.  She is the creator of Beyond Clinical Walls, a popular video series where Dr. BCW discusses a wide variety of health topics.   Her intention is to create awareness and advocate for patients while also infusing health equity into the series.  Advocacy and standing up for people has been important to Dr. BCW since she was a little girl.  Her why comes from her father who would bring her to rallies and have her hold signs.  She may not have understood the issues at the time, but she learned that it was important to speak out. Today, Dr. BCW is sharing medical information in helpful and disarming ways to help build trust which is often lacking.  Topics range from complex diagnoses, uncomfortable medical terms, and consistently, teaching patients how to advocate for themselves.  Bias is pervasive in healthcare.  Breaking through those barriers includes telling real patient stories to get beyond the statistics.  This includes sharing her own story of nearly losing her life after the birth of her second child.   Knowing something was wrong, asking for help, and not being heard. We have a long way to go to break through bias in healthcare.  Dr. BCW aims to educate, to share medical information, and to tell real patient stories.  And if she can reach one patient, break down one barrier, that is what she is after.  Her purpose is to save lives.   Dr. Curry-Winchell  (Dr. BCW):  A Medical Contributor Going Beyond Clinical Walls TEDx Speaker Founder of Beyond Clinical Walls Medical Contributor Columnist Board Certified Family Medicine Physician Urgent Care Medical Director

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, known to many as just Dr. BCW.  She is the creator of Beyond Clinical Walls, a popular video series where Dr. BCW discusses a wide variety of health topics.   Her intention is to create awareness and advocate for patients while also infusing health equity into the series.  Advocacy and standing up for people has been important to Dr. BCW since she was a little girl.  Her why comes from her father who would bring her to rallies and have her hold signs.  She may not have understood the issues at the time, but she learned that it was important to speak out.

Today, Dr. BCW is sharing medical information in helpful and disarming ways to help build trust which is often lacking.  Topics range from complex diagnoses, uncomfortable medical terms, and consistently, teaching patients how to advocate for themselves.  Bias is pervasive in healthcare.  Breaking through those barriers includes telling real patient stories to get beyond the statistics.  This includes sharing her own story of nearly losing her life after the birth of her second child.   Knowing something was wrong, asking for help, and not being heard.

We have a long way to go to break through bias in healthcare.  Dr. BCW aims to educate, to share medical information, and to tell real patient stories.  And if she can reach one patient, break down one barrier, that is what she is after.  Her purpose is to save lives.

 

Dr. Curry-Winchell  (Dr. BCW):  A Medical Contributor Going Beyond Clinical Walls

  • TEDx Speaker
  • Founder of Beyond Clinical Walls
  • Medical Contributor
  • Columnist
  • Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
  • Urgent Care Medical Director
]]> 1642 no Dr. Nishi Rawat on the opioid crisis: Let’s just do what works. || EP. 148 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/02/13/dr-nishi-rawat-on-the-opioid-crisis-lets-just-do-what-works-ep-147/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nishi Rawat, Bamboo Health’s Chief Clinical Officer.  In medical school, like most physicians, Dr. Rawat had little to no training on mental health or substance use disorder.  And yet, day in and day out, as a critical care physician this is what she was seeing.  Dealing with these medical issues, the overdoses, over and over without having the right tools at her fingertips, led Dr. Rawat to want to do more than just putting a band aid on this this public health emergency.   The reality is not pretty.  Over 110,000 deaths last year. Fentanyl on the rise.  Complex drivers of mental pain, physical pain, economic pain – all moving in the wrong direction.  Dr. Rawat discusses the role of stigma and bias, fundamentally at the root of payment parity issues (substance use disorder is not paid at par as physical disorders).  And while what works has been well known for forty years, a patient that presents to an ED with overdose will be connected to life saving evidence-based care only 10% of the time.   Dr. Rawat points to recent efforts of Medicaid incentives, providing community based localized care, the post pandemic stickiness of virtual care for behavioral health where people may want to remain anonymous, as the beginning of change.  But so much more is needed.  While the holy grail may be hyper localized virtual scalable care, Dr. Rawat emphasizes the importance of the low hanging fruit, let’s just do what works.   What keeps her going?  Working on one of the most intractable problems of our generation.  Knowing that she is working in an area where people are really suffering, and doing something about it.   And when asked about her best advice for other younger women, Dr. Rawat invokes Barbie.  How it is hard to succeed as a woman and consistently tie yourself in knots trying. Her advice?  Don’t tie yourself up in knots.  And practice.  Practice untying a knot.   Guest Bio: Nishi Rawat, MD, MBA, is a critical care physician and health leader working at the intersection of medicine, public health and technology. She has dedicated her career to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all with a focus on behavioral health within the lens of whole person care. As Chief Clinical Officer at Bamboo Health, Rawat’s focus is on developing innovative solutions and products that improve whole person care by bridging healthcare silos and reducing fragmentation across the healthcare industry that will improve patient outcomes and reduce costs across the healthcare industry. Rawat began her healthcare career as an emergency medicine and critical care physician at Johns Hopkins. As a healthcare faculty member and researcher, she led quality measure development and implementation at Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality. Clinically, she experienced the frustration of locating definitive care for patients with behavioral health conditions, which led to the development in 2015 of OpenBeds, a software platform to expedite access to care. In 2018, Bamboo Health acquired OpenBeds. The OpenBeds system now serves 15 states to improve access to behavioral health and crisis care. The OpenBeds platform was recognized as a “Best Behavioral Health Company” finalist for the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2019. The platform’s Crisis Management System module was named a Best-in-Class finalist for the “Mental and Behavioral Health Category” of the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2022. Through her work, Rawat is intimately familiar with the challenges faced by various stakeholders, including the public, hospitals, health systems, health plans, treatment providers and county and state governments. She uses her current role to look for ways technology can help overcome those challenges, not by replacing providers, but by amplifying hands-on care. As a member of Bamboo Health’s executive leadership team, Rawat uses her clinical expertise and experience building and innovating IT solutions as a thought leader. A sought-after speaker and contributor to external media, some notable contributions include being named to Becker’s “Women Power Players in Health IT” and “Women in Health IT to Watch in 2022 and 2023,” lists and serving as a keynote speaker for NCQA’s Quality Talks in 2022. Rawat completed her residency and fellowships at Johns Hopkins and Harvard, M.D at Queen’s, B.Sc. from McGill and MBA from Georgetown. Wed, 14 Feb 2024 01:30:49 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nishi Rawat, Bamboo Health’s Chief Clinical Officer.  In medical school, like most physicians, Dr. Rawat had little to no training on mental health or substance use disorder.  And yet, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nishi Rawat, Bamboo Health’s Chief Clinical Officer.  In medical school, like most physicians, Dr. Rawat had little to no training on mental health or substance use disorder.  And yet, day in and day out, as a critical care physician this is what she was seeing.  Dealing with these medical issues, the overdoses, over and over without having the right tools at her fingertips, led Dr. Rawat to want to do more than just putting a band aid on this this public health emergency.   The reality is not pretty.  Over 110,000 deaths last year. Fentanyl on the rise.  Complex drivers of mental pain, physical pain, economic pain – all moving in the wrong direction.  Dr. Rawat discusses the role of stigma and bias, fundamentally at the root of payment parity issues (substance use disorder is not paid at par as physical disorders).  And while what works has been well known for forty years, a patient that presents to an ED with overdose will be connected to life saving evidence-based care only 10% of the time.   Dr. Rawat points to recent efforts of Medicaid incentives, providing community based localized care, the post pandemic stickiness of virtual care for behavioral health where people may want to remain anonymous, as the beginning of change.  But so much more is needed.  While the holy grail may be hyper localized virtual scalable care, Dr. Rawat emphasizes the importance of the low hanging fruit, let’s just do what works.   What keeps her going?  Working on one of the most intractable problems of our generation.  Knowing that she is working in an area where people are really suffering, and doing something about it.   And when asked about her best advice for other younger women, Dr. Rawat invokes Barbie.  How it is hard to succeed as a woman and consistently tie yourself in knots trying. Her advice?  Don’t tie yourself up in knots.  And practice.  Practice untying a knot.   Guest Bio: Nishi Rawat, MD, MBA, is a critical care physician and health leader working at the intersection of medicine, public health and technology. She has dedicated her career to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all with a focus on behavioral health within the lens of whole person care. As Chief Clinical Officer at Bamboo Health, Rawat’s focus is on developing innovative solutions and products that improve whole person care by bridging healthcare silos and reducing fragmentation across the healthcare industry that will improve patient outcomes and reduce costs across the healthcare industry. Rawat began her healthcare career as an emergency medicine and critical care physician at Johns Hopkins. As a healthcare faculty member and researcher, she led quality measure development and implementation at Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality. Clinically, she experienced the frustration of locating definitive care for patients with behavioral health conditions, which led to the development in 2015 of OpenBeds, a software platform to expedite access to care. In 2018, Bamboo Health acquired OpenBeds. The OpenBeds system now serves 15 states to improve access to behavioral health and crisis care. The OpenBeds platform was recognized as a “Best Behavioral Health Company” finalist for the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2019. The platform’s Crisis Management System module was named a Best-in-Class finalist for the “Mental and Behavioral Health Category” of the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2022. Through her work, Rawat is intimately familiar with the challenges faced by various stakeholders, including the public, hospitals, health systems, health plans, treatment providers and county and state governments. She uses her current role to look for ways technology can help overcome those challenges, not by replacing providers, but by amplifying hands-on care. As a member of Bamboo Health’s executive leadership team, Rawat uses her clinical expertise and experience building and innovating IT solutions as a thought leader. A sought-after speaker and contributor to external media, some notable contributions include being named to Becker’s “Women Power Players in Health IT” and “Women in Health IT to Watch in 2022 and 2023,” lists and serving as a keynote speaker for NCQA’s Quality Talks in 2022. Rawat completed her residency and fellowships at Johns Hopkins and Harvard, M.D at Queen’s, B.Sc. from McGill and MBA from Georgetown.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nishi Rawat, Bamboo Health’s Chief Clinical Officer.  In medical school, like most physicians, Dr. Rawat had little to no training on mental health or substance use disorder.  And yet, day in and day out, as a critical care physician this is what she was seeing.  Dealing with these medical issues, the overdoses, over and over without having the right tools at her fingertips, led Dr. Rawat to want to do more than just putting a band aid on this this public health emergency.

 

The reality is not pretty.  Over 110,000 deaths last year. Fentanyl on the rise.  Complex drivers of mental pain, physical pain, economic pain – all moving in the wrong direction.  Dr. Rawat discusses the role of stigma and bias, fundamentally at the root of payment parity issues (substance use disorder is not paid at par as physical disorders).  And while what works has been well known for forty years, a patient that presents to an ED with overdose will be connected to life saving evidence-based care only 10% of the time.

 

Dr. Rawat points to recent efforts of Medicaid incentives, providing community based localized care, the post pandemic stickiness of virtual care for behavioral health where people may want to remain anonymous, as the beginning of change.  But so much more is needed.  While the holy grail may be hyper localized virtual scalable care, Dr. Rawat emphasizes the importance of the low hanging fruit, let’s just do what works.

 

What keeps her going?  Working on one of the most intractable problems of our generation.  Knowing that she is working in an area where people are really suffering, and doing something about it.

 

And when asked about her best advice for other younger women, Dr. Rawat invokes Barbie.  How it is hard to succeed as a woman and consistently tie yourself in knots trying.
Her advice?  Don’t tie yourself up in knots.  And practice.  Practice untying a knot.

 

Guest Bio:

Nishi Rawat, MD, MBA, is a critical care physician and health leader working at the intersection of medicine, public health and technology. She has dedicated her career to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all with a focus on behavioral health within the lens of whole person care.

As Chief Clinical Officer at Bamboo Health, Rawat’s focus is on developing innovative solutions and products that improve whole person care by bridging healthcare silos and reducing fragmentation across the healthcare industry that will improve patient outcomes and reduce costs across the healthcare industry.

Rawat began her healthcare career as an emergency medicine and critical care physician at Johns Hopkins. As a healthcare faculty member and researcher, she led quality measure development and implementation at Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality. Clinically, she experienced the frustration of locating definitive care for patients with behavioral health conditions, which led to the development in 2015 of OpenBeds, a software platform to expedite access to care. In 2018, Bamboo Health acquired OpenBeds. The OpenBeds system now serves 15 states to improve access to behavioral health and crisis care. The OpenBeds platform was recognized as a “Best Behavioral Health Company” finalist for the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2019. The platform’s Crisis Management System module was named a Best-in-Class finalist for the “Mental and Behavioral Health Category” of the UCSF Digital Health Awards in 2022.

Through her work, Rawat is intimately familiar with the challenges faced by various stakeholders, including the public, hospitals, health systems, health plans, treatment providers and county and state governments. She uses her current role to look for ways technology can help overcome those challenges, not by replacing providers, but by amplifying hands-on care.

As a member of Bamboo Health’s executive leadership team, Rawat uses her clinical expertise and experience building and innovating IT solutions as a thought leader. A sought-after speaker and contributor to external media, some notable contributions include being named to Becker’s “Women Power Players in Health IT” and “Women in Health IT to Watch in 2022 and 2023,” lists and serving as a keynote speaker for NCQA’s Quality Talks in 2022.

Rawat completed her residency and fellowships at Johns Hopkins and Harvard, M.D at Queen’s, B.Sc. from McGill and MBA from Georgetown.

]]> 1818 no Giving Voice to the Voiceless. Nicquel Terry Ellis has found her calling. || EP. 147 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/02/01/giving-voice-to-the-voiceless-nicquel-terry-ellis-has-found-her-calling-ep-147/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN’s Race and Equality Senior Writer and an award-winning journalist. Nicquel’s love for journalism started early as a staff writer for the high school newspaper where she covered protests on school dress code policy. Being extremely curious about what is happening in the world around her led to covering all the newsroom beats over the years.  The coverage that matters the most to her, as a black woman living in America, is zeroing in on the issues of race and inequality.  Today, Nicquel is the face and the voice for CNN’s race coverage.  She gives voice to the voiceless. Journalism may have become harder, but it is also clear that this is an important time.  Nicquel’s drive has only become stronger in today’s culture war climate where issues like DEI are being unfairly weaponized.  If people are going to take a position or have an opinion, she wants them to be grounded in facts. As a black woman she is often reporting through that lens.  Her reporting on the “glass cliff” talks about seeing many women being put into what might be seemingly exciting new DEI leadership positions, yet then not given the resources, the funding, or the support.  Cleaning up a mess in a time of chaos leads to stress and burn out.  Nicquel also discusses the intersectionality of being black and being a woman in the workplace where it is a real thing to have to work harder to earn your keep or prove your worth. Doing this hard work requires energy and stamina.  What keeps her going? Finding out the truth and telling the truth. Knowing people count on her for that.  And for Nicquel, the best things in life do not come by staying in a comfort zone. Guest Bio: Nicquel Terry Ellis is an award-winning journalist who serves as the senior writer for CNN’s Race & Equality team. She joined CNN in November 2020 and much of her work focuses on the intersection of race and politics, health equity and the advancement of women of color. Prior to joining the network, Ellis served as a national correspondent for USA TODAY covering race, inequality and activism. She led much of the newspaper’s coverage of the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks, and the Black Lives Matter protests that erupted across America. In 2020, she did a one-on-one interview with the mother of Tamir Rice ahead of what would have been his 18th birthday. Ellis also spent six years working in local news at The Detroit News and the Asbury Park Press. In 2018, she wrote an award-winning story about life for residents in one of Detroit’s most dangerous zip codes. For CNN, Ellis led coverage of the fall of Roe v. Wade in 2022 and its impact on Black and brown women. Her stories have also shed light on missing people of color and the fight to get more attention on their cases. As the nation slowly reopened following the Covid-19 pandemic, Ellis covered the disparities in healthcare access that were laid bare. And in the summer of 2022, Ellis traveled to Jackson, MS where she covered the historic water crisis that left the majority-Black city without clean drinking water. In addition to writing for CNN Digital, Ellis has made appearances on various shows including CNN New Day, CNN Newsroom and Early Start. She has also hosted podcast episodes for the CNN Political Briefing and Coronavirus: Fact vs. Fiction. Ellis is a five-time winner of the NABJ Salute to Excellence awards including an honor in 2022 for an interactive project on the maternal health crisis facing Black women. Ellis has been awarded twice by the New Jersey Press Association. Ellis holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University. She lives in Atlanta with her husband Andre, daughter Harper and dog Chase. Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:00:54 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN’s Race and Equality Senior Writer and an award-winning journalist. Nicquel’s love for journalism started early as a staff writer for the high school newspaper where she covered pro... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN’s Race and Equality Senior Writer and an award-winning journalist. Nicquel’s love for journalism started early as a staff writer for the high school newspaper where she covered protests on school dress code policy. Being extremely curious about what is happening in the world around her led to covering all the newsroom beats over the years.  The coverage that matters the most to her, as a black woman living in America, is zeroing in on the issues of race and inequality.  Today, Nicquel is the face and the voice for CNN’s race coverage.  She gives voice to the voiceless. Journalism may have become harder, but it is also clear that this is an important time.  Nicquel’s drive has only become stronger in today’s culture war climate where issues like DEI are being unfairly weaponized.  If people are going to take a position or have an opinion, she wants them to be grounded in facts. As a black woman she is often reporting through that lens.  Her reporting on the “glass cliff” talks about seeing many women being put into what might be seemingly exciting new DEI leadership positions, yet then not given the resources, the funding, or the support.  Cleaning up a mess in a time of chaos leads to stress and burn out.  Nicquel also discusses the intersectionality of being black and being a woman in the workplace where it is a real thing to have to work harder to earn your keep or prove your worth. Doing this hard work requires energy and stamina.  What keeps her going? Finding out the truth and telling the truth. Knowing people count on her for that.  And for Nicquel, the best things in life do not come by staying in a comfort zone. Guest Bio: Nicquel Terry Ellis is an award-winning journalist who serves as the senior writer for CNN’s Race & Equality team. She joined CNN in November 2020 and much of her work focuses on the intersection of race and politics, health equity and the advancement of women of color. Prior to joining the network, Ellis served as a national correspondent for USA TODAY covering race, inequality and activism. She led much of the newspaper’s coverage of the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks, and the Black Lives Matter protests that erupted across America. In 2020, she did a one-on-one interview with the mother of Tamir Rice ahead of what would have been his 18th birthday. Ellis also spent six years working in local news at The Detroit News and the Asbury Park Press. In 2018, she wrote an award-winning story about life for residents in one of Detroit’s most dangerous zip codes. For CNN, Ellis led coverage of the fall of Roe v. Wade in 2022 and its impact on Black and brown women. Her stories have also shed light on missing people of color and the fight to get more attention on their cases. As the nation slowly reopened following the Covid-19 pandemic, Ellis covered the disparities in healthcare access that were laid bare. And in the summer of 2022, Ellis traveled to Jackson, MS where she covered the historic water crisis that left the majority-Black city without clean drinking water. In addition to writing for CNN Digital, Ellis has made appearances on various shows including CNN New Day, CNN Newsroom and Early Start. She has also hosted podcast episodes for the CNN Political Briefing and Coronavirus: Fact vs. Fiction. Ellis is a five-time winner of the NABJ Salute to Excellence awards including an honor in 2022 for an interactive project on the maternal health crisis facing Black women. Ellis has been awarded twice by the New Jersey Press Association. Ellis holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University. She lives in Atlanta with her husband Andre, daughter Harper and dog Chase.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN’s Race and Equality Senior Writer and an award-winning journalist.

Nicquel’s love for journalism started early as a staff writer for the high school newspaper where she covered protests on school dress code policy. Being extremely curious about what is happening in the world around her led to covering all the newsroom beats over the years.  The coverage that matters the most to her, as a black woman living in America, is zeroing in on the issues of race and inequality.  Today, Nicquel is the face and the voice for CNN’s race coverage.  She gives voice to the voiceless.

Journalism may have become harder, but it is also clear that this is an important time.  Nicquel’s drive has only become stronger in today’s culture war climate where issues like DEI are being unfairly weaponized.  If people are going to take a position or have an opinion, she wants them to be grounded in facts.

As a black woman she is often reporting through that lens.  Her reporting on the “glass cliff” talks about seeing many women being put into what might be seemingly exciting new DEI leadership positions, yet then not given the resources, the funding, or the support.  Cleaning up a mess in a time of chaos leads to stress and burn out.  Nicquel also discusses the intersectionality of being black and being a woman in the workplace where it is a real thing to have to work harder to earn your keep or prove your worth.

Doing this hard work requires energy and stamina.  What keeps her going? Finding out the truth and telling the truth. Knowing people count on her for that.  And for Nicquel, the best things in life do not come by staying in a comfort zone.

Guest Bio:

Nicquel Terry Ellis is an award-winning journalist who serves as the senior writer for CNN’s Race & Equality team. She joined CNN in November 2020 and much of her work focuses on the intersection of race and politics, health equity and the advancement of women of color.

Prior to joining the network, Ellis served as a national correspondent for USA TODAY covering race, inequality and activism. She led much of the newspaper’s coverage of the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks, and the Black Lives Matter protests that erupted across America. In 2020, she did a one-on-one interview with the mother of Tamir Rice ahead of what would have been his 18th birthday. Ellis also spent six years working in local news at The Detroit News and the Asbury Park Press. In 2018, she wrote an award-winning story about life for residents in one of Detroit’s most dangerous zip codes.

For CNN, Ellis led coverage of the fall of Roe v. Wade in 2022 and its impact on Black and brown women. Her stories have also shed light on missing people of color and the fight to get more attention on their cases. As the nation slowly reopened following the Covid-19 pandemic, Ellis covered the disparities in healthcare access that were laid bare. And in the summer of 2022, Ellis traveled to Jackson, MS where she covered the historic water crisis that left the majority-Black city without clean drinking water.

In addition to writing for CNN Digital, Ellis has made appearances on various shows including CNN New Day, CNN Newsroom and Early Start. She has also hosted podcast episodes for the CNN Political Briefing and Coronavirus: Fact vs. Fiction. Ellis is a five-time winner of the NABJ Salute to Excellence awards including an honor in 2022 for an interactive project on the maternal health crisis facing Black women. Ellis has been awarded twice by the New Jersey Press Association.

Ellis holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University. She lives in Atlanta with her husband Andre, daughter Harper and dog Chase.

]]> 1644 no Telling the category story. Naomi Allen on building Brightline || EP. 146 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/01/23/telling-the-category-story-naomi-allen-on-building-brightline-ep-146/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Naomi Allen, CoFounder and CEO of Brightline.  This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Naomi is no stranger to building and scaling companies and her experience includes near seven years working in the area mental health on the adult side.  IT was when her son had a mental health crisis, that her passion turned to pediatrics.  Recognizing there was a market gap, she launched Brightline.  Initial feedback was that no one really cared.  But that was then and in just four years, a LOT has changed. Brightline today is a notable category leader providing pediatric mental health services across the nation. Hear Naomi talk about: Today it would be hard to find someone who does not see the need for pediatric mental health services given significant attention to this crisis issue. Naomi is very optimistic about where we are headed. A silver lining of all the reporting has resulted in stigma reduction.  She also notes how resilient kids are where serious issues can manifest as early as fourteen, and if detection, treatment, interventions can be provided at the right time, they are often very successful.  Meeting the need, focusing on the care delivery model and working on the important change component of payment is where she is focused. Meeting demand when mental health professionals are scarce. Three key areas – measuring progress against evidence-based treatment plans (noting that <20% of professionals are using these guidelines); providing innovation around the care delivery model like a library of online resources, screening tools, and coaching which can meet many initial needs; and very importantly, focus on payment reform so that families do not need to wait. Being a woman founder and CEO – the landscape is changing with more women serial entrepreneurs who have a track record. Also, an ecosystem of women investors who are writing bigger checks….this can’t be done with small $$. Advice for other women founders includes how to tell the category story, not just the company story. Noting that some investors (7Wire noted as a leader here) are very focused on founder market fit.  If you are trying to break into a new area, that larger vision of the category and how as a founder you relate to it is what will resonate. Naomi closes this conversation with a reflection about how being an entrepreneur is a selfish act.  She is lucky to have a support system where her schedule can come first.  When things get very hard, this is where she goes to reset, “I chose this.”  Finding small moments of connection with her kids, even staying hydrated, are today’s focus to provide balance in an otherwise very busy life of this CEO.   Guest Bio: Currently Co-Founder and CEO at Brightline. Brightline is building the world’s first technology-enabled Behavioral Health Home for children and their families. Entrepreneur with 20 years of hands-on experience developing high growth health tech companies. Advisor to startups, world traveler, mom to 3 amazing kids. Board member: Bright Health. Frequent speaker on healthtech, behavioral health, and entrepreneurship. Former Chief Growth Officer @ Livongo, co-founder @ Castlight Health, leader @ McKinsey, Microsoft, Deloitte, Stanford GSB. Tue, 23 Jan 2024 17:30:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Naomi Allen, CoFounder and CEO of Brightline.  This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Naomi Allen, CoFounder and CEO of Brightline.  This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Naomi is no stranger to building and scaling companies and her experience includes near seven years working in the area mental health on the adult side.  IT was when her son had a mental health crisis, that her passion turned to pediatrics.  Recognizing there was a market gap, she launched Brightline.  Initial feedback was that no one really cared.  But that was then and in just four years, a LOT has changed. Brightline today is a notable category leader providing pediatric mental health services across the nation. Hear Naomi talk about: Today it would be hard to find someone who does not see the need for pediatric mental health services given significant attention to this crisis issue. Naomi is very optimistic about where we are headed. A silver lining of all the reporting has resulted in stigma reduction.  She also notes how resilient kids are where serious issues can manifest as early as fourteen, and if detection, treatment, interventions can be provided at the right time, they are often very successful.  Meeting the need, focusing on the care delivery model and working on the important change component of payment is where she is focused. Meeting demand when mental health professionals are scarce. Three key areas – measuring progress against evidence-based treatment plans (noting that <20% of professionals are using these guidelines); providing innovation around the care delivery model like a library of online resources, screening tools, and coaching which can meet many initial needs; and very importantly, focus on payment reform so that families do not need to wait. Being a woman founder and CEO – the landscape is changing with more women serial entrepreneurs who have a track record. Also, an ecosystem of women investors who are writing bigger checks….this can’t be done with small $$. Advice for other women founders includes how to tell the category story, not just the company story. Noting that some investors (7Wire noted as a leader here) are very focused on founder market fit.  If you are trying to break into a new area, that larger vision of the category and how as a founder you relate to it is what will resonate. Naomi closes this conversation with a reflection about how being an entrepreneur is a selfish act.  She is lucky to have a support system where her schedule can come first.  When things get very hard, this is where she goes to reset, “I chose this.”  Finding small moments of connection with her kids, even staying hydrated, are today’s focus to provide balance in an otherwise very busy life of this CEO.   Guest Bio: Currently Co-Founder and CEO at Brightline. Brightline is building the world’s first technology-enabled Behavioral Health Home for children and their families. Entrepreneur with 20 years of hands-on experience developing high growth health tech companies. Advisor to startups, world traveler, mom to 3 amazing kids. Board member: Bright Health. Frequent speaker on healthtech, behavioral health, and entrepreneurship. Former Chief Growth Officer @ Livongo, co-founder @ Castlight Health, leader @ McKinsey, Microsoft, Deloitte, Stanford GSB.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Naomi Allen, CoFounder and CEO of Brightline.  This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family.

Naomi is no stranger to building and scaling companies and her experience includes near seven years working in the area mental health on the adult side.  IT was when her son had a mental health crisis, that her passion turned to pediatrics.  Recognizing there was a market gap, she launched Brightline.  Initial feedback was that no one really cared.  But that was then and in just four years, a LOT has changed. Brightline today is a notable category leader providing pediatric mental health services across the nation.

Hear Naomi talk about:

  • Today it would be hard to find someone who does not see the need for pediatric mental health services given significant attention to this crisis issue. Naomi is very optimistic about where we are headed. A silver lining of all the reporting has resulted in stigma reduction.  She also notes how resilient kids are where serious issues can manifest as early as fourteen, and if detection, treatment, interventions can be provided at the right time, they are often very successful.  Meeting the need, focusing on the care delivery model and working on the important change component of payment is where she is focused.
  • Meeting demand when mental health professionals are scarce. Three key areas – measuring progress against evidence-based treatment plans (noting that <20% of professionals are using these guidelines); providing innovation around the care delivery model like a library of online resources, screening tools, and coaching which can meet many initial needs; and very importantly, focus on payment reform so that families do not need to wait.
  • Being a woman founder and CEO – the landscape is changing with more women serial entrepreneurs who have a track record. Also, an ecosystem of women investors who are writing bigger checks….this can’t be done with small $$.
  • Advice for other women founders includes how to tell the category story, not just the company story. Noting that some investors (7Wire noted as a leader here) are very focused on founder market fit.  If you are trying to break into a new area, that larger vision of the category and how as a founder you relate to it is what will resonate.

Naomi closes this conversation with a reflection about how being an entrepreneur is a selfish act.  She is lucky to have a support system where her schedule can come first.  When things get very hard, this is where she goes to reset, “I chose this.”  Finding small moments of connection with her kids, even staying hydrated, are today’s focus to provide balance in an otherwise very busy life of this CEO.

 

Guest Bio:

Currently Co-Founder and CEO at Brightline. Brightline is building the world’s first technology-enabled Behavioral Health Home for children and their families.

Entrepreneur with 20 years of hands-on experience developing high growth health tech companies. Advisor to startups, world traveler, mom to 3 amazing kids. Board member: Bright Health. Frequent speaker on healthtech, behavioral health, and entrepreneurship.

Former Chief Growth Officer @ Livongo, co-founder @ Castlight Health, leader @ McKinsey, Microsoft, Deloitte, Stanford GSB.

]]> 1712 no Food isn’t LIKE medicine. It IS medicine… Dr. Robin Berzin talks root cause medicine. || EP. 145 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/01/16/food-isnt-like-medicine-it-is-medicine-dr-robin-berzin-talks-root-cause-medicine-ep-145/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Robin Berzin, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health.  This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. A third of this country, ~100M Americans, have two or more chronic conditions which also equates to about seventy percent of the cost of care in this country.  Robin quickly draws our attention to the fact that the majority of these conditions are risk-adjustable – which means, that people can get better.  But today’s healthcare system is optimized to triage, refer, refill … handling symptoms but not optimized to make patients well. So in 2016, Robin tried a new approach and began the pioneering journey of Parsley Health focusing on root cause medicine. This includes a very deep dive clinical history (any first visit is an hour), smart diagnostics and a deep review of social determinants of health including understanding stress levels, what are you eating, how are you moving. Several years later of connecting the dots using the body as the ecosystem, and evidence to back it up….. a lot of improved outcomes and lower total cost.  I admit to asking Robin A LOT of questions about Parsley, because well, the approach was just different.  And so promising! As Robin discussed building the company, she also didn’t sugar coat her reality.  The experience of a previous start up did not make it that much easier.  Back in the day, it seemed like everyone was raising $100M on just ideas (Not her!).  Two years in, not taking a salary, being the Chief of Everything Officer (IT/Ops/Billing/Doctor..) was hard.  What kept her going was taking her passion and pouring it into a proof of concept.  That gave her the confidence and needed resilience to weather what was ahead. Her advice to other passionate entrepreneurs is to disregard the noise, the press, the comparisons and focus on YOU and YOUR metrics.  Because that is what matters most.   Guest Bio: Dr. Robin Berzin is the Founder and CEO of Parsley Health, America’s leading holistic medical practice designed to help people overcome chronic conditions. She founded Parsley to address the rising tide of chronic disease in America through personalized holistic medicine that puts food, lifestyle, and proactive diagnostic testing on the prescription pad next to medications. Since founding Parsley in 2016, Dr. Berzin has seen 80% of patients improve or resolve their chronic conditions within their first year of care, demonstrating the life-changing value of making modern holistic medicine accessible to everyone, anywhere. Parsley is available online nationwide. Dr. Berzin attended medical school at Columbia University and trained in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Her book, Prescription for Happiness: How to Eat, Move, and Supplement for Peak Mental Health, was published by Simon Element in January 2022. Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:50:46 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Robin Berzin, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health.  This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Robin Berzin, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health.  This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. A third of this country, ~100M Americans, have two or more chronic conditions which also equates to about seventy percent of the cost of care in this country.  Robin quickly draws our attention to the fact that the majority of these conditions are risk-adjustable – which means, that people can get better.  But today’s healthcare system is optimized to triage, refer, refill … handling symptoms but not optimized to make patients well. So in 2016, Robin tried a new approach and began the pioneering journey of Parsley Health focusing on root cause medicine. This includes a very deep dive clinical history (any first visit is an hour), smart diagnostics and a deep review of social determinants of health including understanding stress levels, what are you eating, how are you moving. Several years later of connecting the dots using the body as the ecosystem, and evidence to back it up….. a lot of improved outcomes and lower total cost.  I admit to asking Robin A LOT of questions about Parsley, because well, the approach was just different.  And so promising! As Robin discussed building the company, she also didn’t sugar coat her reality.  The experience of a previous start up did not make it that much easier.  Back in the day, it seemed like everyone was raising $100M on just ideas (Not her!).  Two years in, not taking a salary, being the Chief of Everything Officer (IT/Ops/Billing/Doctor..) was hard.  What kept her going was taking her passion and pouring it into a proof of concept.  That gave her the confidence and needed resilience to weather what was ahead. Her advice to other passionate entrepreneurs is to disregard the noise, the press, the comparisons and focus on YOU and YOUR metrics.  Because that is what matters most.   Guest Bio: Dr. Robin Berzin is the Founder and CEO of Parsley Health, America’s leading holistic medical practice designed to help people overcome chronic conditions. She founded Parsley to address the rising tide of chronic disease in America through personalized holistic medicine that puts food, lifestyle, and proactive diagnostic testing on the prescription pad next to medications. Since founding Parsley in 2016, Dr. Berzin has seen 80% of patients improve or resolve their chronic conditions within their first year of care, demonstrating the life-changing value of making modern holistic medicine accessible to everyone, anywhere. Parsley is available online nationwide. Dr. Berzin attended medical school at Columbia University and trained in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Her book, Prescription for Happiness: How to Eat, Move, and Supplement for Peak Mental Health, was published by Simon Element in January 2022.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Robin Berzin, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health.  This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family.

A third of this country, ~100M Americans, have two or more chronic conditions which also equates to about seventy percent of the cost of care in this country.  Robin quickly draws our attention to the fact that the majority of these conditions are risk-adjustable – which means, that people can get better.  But today’s healthcare system is optimized to triage, refer, refill … handling symptoms but not optimized to make patients well.

So in 2016, Robin tried a new approach and began the pioneering journey of Parsley Health focusing on root cause medicine. This includes a very deep dive clinical history (any first visit is an hour), smart diagnostics and a deep review of social determinants of health including understanding stress levels, what are you eating, how are you moving.

Several years later of connecting the dots using the body as the ecosystem, and evidence to back it up….. a lot of improved outcomes and lower total cost.  I admit to asking Robin A LOT of questions about Parsley, because well, the approach was just different.  And so promising!

As Robin discussed building the company, she also didn’t sugar coat her reality.  The experience of a previous start up did not make it that much easier.  Back in the day, it seemed like everyone was raising $100M on just ideas (Not her!).  Two years in, not taking a salary, being the Chief of Everything Officer (IT/Ops/Billing/Doctor..) was hard.  What kept her going was taking her passion and pouring it into a proof of concept.  That gave her the confidence and needed resilience to weather what was ahead.

Her advice to other passionate entrepreneurs is to disregard the noise, the press, the comparisons and focus on YOU and YOUR metrics.  Because that is what matters most.

 

Guest Bio:

Dr. Robin Berzin is the Founder and CEO of Parsley Health, America’s leading holistic medical practice designed to help people overcome chronic conditions. She founded Parsley to address the rising tide of chronic disease in America through personalized holistic medicine that puts food, lifestyle, and proactive diagnostic testing on the prescription pad next to medications. Since founding Parsley in 2016, Dr. Berzin has seen 80% of patients improve or resolve their chronic conditions within their first year of care, demonstrating the life-changing value of making modern holistic medicine accessible to everyone, anywhere. Parsley is available online nationwide. Dr. Berzin attended medical school at Columbia University and trained in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Her book, Prescription for Happiness: How to Eat, Move, and Supplement for Peak Mental Health, was published by Simon Element in January 2022.

]]> 1282 no Relief in store for those suffering from chronic pain. Jennie Shulkin on why she created Override. || EP. 144 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/01/08/relief-in-store-for-those-suffering-from-chronic-pain-jennie-shulkin-on-why-she-created-override-ep-144/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jennie Shulkin, Founder and CEO of Override Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Jennie joined forces with her father, Dr. David Shulkin, former US Secretary of the VA to address to create Override and to address chronic pain.  Why?  Two traumatic brain injuries left her with complex chronic pain and seeking treatment was not just hard, it was near impossible.  Today, one in five people live with some sort of pain and solutions do exist for more simplistic targeted pain issues. But chronic pain requires a team-based approach and a more wholistic solution, queue up Override! Hear Jennie talk about: Her journey from competitive athlete to criminal law to health entrepreneur. Growing up with her father, she wanted to avoid being in healthcare.  Her frustrating lived experience with chronic pain pushed her to find solutions and not just for herself. How Override works: Pain physicians, coaches, physical therapists working as a team with a virtual platform to give everything a patient needs in one place.  Functional, cognitive, and physical progress does take time and commitment.  Override patients need to opt into the program. Those that do have excellent satisfaction.  Jennie speaks with pride about patients who have now been discharged from the program or the woman who was bedridden for months, finally able to fulfill a dream goal of getting to the beach. The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Jennie talks about building a company and what it means to have high standards of excellence (not a surprise when you consider her athletic career and Harvard Law training) coupled with the balance needed to build teams and deliver results. Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs? Do not seek to make yourself in the mold of others, being yourself matters! Jennie Shulkin, JD Co-Founder & CEO CEO and Co-Founder Jennie Shulkin was a nationally ranked tennis and squash player and a student at the University of Pennsylvania when she suffered two head injuries within a year-and-a-half of each other. Soon after, she developed a complex chronic pain syndrome affecting multiple parts of her body. As best she could, Jennie continued living her life – pushing through Harvard Law School and building a career in law. All the while, she carried the burden of the agonizing, time-consuming, expensive, and both physically and emotionally painful journey of seeking pain relief. When each medication, intervention, and various other treatments failed, the treating providers shrugged, sent her away, and often told her she was “out of options.” Adding to the frustration, many of the doctors, physical therapists, and psychologists Jennie consulted treated her chronic pain no differently from acute pain and were therefore ineffective. Additionally, most had little interest in or time to communicate with other providers working with Jennie. The result was fragmented care, inconsistent messaging, and contradicting plans of action. ‍Jennie wanted a better way. Joining forces with her father, she began creating a solution that she and others in pain needed but did not exist elsewhere: a comprehensive, team-based approach to care that is implemented by providers who really understand chronic pain. Jennie lives with pain every day. But she has learned to stop cure-seeking – to stop putting life on hold until a pill, procedure, or doctor brings about the magic fix – and has found more effective ways to interact with the pain and build a fulfilling life. Mon, 08 Jan 2024 23:32:30 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jennie Shulkin, Founder and CEO of Override Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jennie Shulkin, Founder and CEO of Override Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family. Jennie joined forces with her father, Dr. David Shulkin, former US Secretary of the VA to address to create Override and to address chronic pain.  Why?  Two traumatic brain injuries left her with complex chronic pain and seeking treatment was not just hard, it was near impossible.  Today, one in five people live with some sort of pain and solutions do exist for more simplistic targeted pain issues. But chronic pain requires a team-based approach and a more wholistic solution, queue up Override! Hear Jennie talk about: Her journey from competitive athlete to criminal law to health entrepreneur. Growing up with her father, she wanted to avoid being in healthcare.  Her frustrating lived experience with chronic pain pushed her to find solutions and not just for herself. How Override works: Pain physicians, coaches, physical therapists working as a team with a virtual platform to give everything a patient needs in one place.  Functional, cognitive, and physical progress does take time and commitment.  Override patients need to opt into the program. Those that do have excellent satisfaction.  Jennie speaks with pride about patients who have now been discharged from the program or the woman who was bedridden for months, finally able to fulfill a dream goal of getting to the beach. The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Jennie talks about building a company and what it means to have high standards of excellence (not a surprise when you consider her athletic career and Harvard Law training) coupled with the balance needed to build teams and deliver results. Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs? Do not seek to make yourself in the mold of others, being yourself matters! Jennie Shulkin, JD Co-Founder & CEO CEO and Co-Founder Jennie Shulkin was a nationally ranked tennis and squash player and a student at the University of Pennsylvania when she suffered two head injuries within a year-and-a-half of each other. Soon after, she developed a complex chronic pain syndrome affecting multiple parts of her body. As best she could, Jennie continued living her life – pushing through Harvard Law School and building a career in law. All the while, she carried the burden of the agonizing, time-consuming, expensive, and both physically and emotionally painful journey of seeking pain relief. When each medication, intervention, and various other treatments failed, the treating providers shrugged, sent her away, and often told her she was “out of options.” Adding to the frustration, many of the doctors, physical therapists, and psychologists Jennie consulted treated her chronic pain no differently from acute pain and were therefore ineffective. Additionally, most had little interest in or time to communicate with other providers working with Jennie. The result was fragmented care, inconsistent messaging, and contradicting plans of action. ‍Jennie wanted a better way. Joining forces with her father, she began creating a solution that she and others in pain needed but did not exist elsewhere: a comprehensive, team-based approach to care that is implemented by providers who really understand chronic pain. Jennie lives with pain every day. But she has learned to stop cure-seeking – to stop putting life on hold until a pill, procedure, or doctor brings about the magic fix – and has found more effective ways to interact with the pain and build a fulfilling life.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Jennie Shulkin, Founder and CEO of Override Health at HLTH 2023.

This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire family.

Jennie joined forces with her father, Dr. David Shulkin, former US Secretary of the VA to address to create Override and to address chronic pain.  Why?  Two traumatic brain injuries left her with complex chronic pain and seeking treatment was not just hard, it was near impossible.  Today, one in five people live with some sort of pain and solutions do exist for more simplistic targeted pain issues. But chronic pain requires a team-based approach and a more wholistic solution, queue up Override!

Hear Jennie talk about:

  • Her journey from competitive athlete to criminal law to health entrepreneur. Growing up with her father, she wanted to avoid being in healthcare.  Her frustrating lived experience with chronic pain pushed her to find solutions and not just for herself.
  • How Override works: Pain physicians, coaches, physical therapists working as a team with a virtual platform to give everything a patient needs in one place.  Functional, cognitive, and physical progress does take time and commitment.  Override patients need to opt into the program. Those that do have excellent satisfaction.  Jennie speaks with pride about patients who have now been discharged from the program or the woman who was bedridden for months, finally able to fulfill a dream goal of getting to the beach.
  • The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Jennie talks about building a company and what it means to have high standards of excellence (not a surprise when you consider her athletic career and Harvard Law training) coupled with the balance needed to build teams and deliver results.
  • Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs? Do not seek to make yourself in the mold of others, being yourself matters!

Jennie Shulkin, JD

Co-Founder & CEO

CEO and Co-Founder Jennie Shulkin was a nationally ranked tennis and squash player and a student at the University of Pennsylvania when she suffered two head injuries within a year-and-a-half of each other. Soon after, she developed a complex chronic pain syndrome affecting multiple parts of her body. As best she could, Jennie continued living her life – pushing through Harvard Law School and building a career in law. All the while, she carried the burden of the agonizing, time-consuming, expensive, and both physically and emotionally painful journey of seeking pain relief. When each medication, intervention, and various other treatments failed, the treating providers shrugged, sent her away, and often told her she was “out of options.” Adding to the frustration, many of the doctors, physical therapists, and psychologists Jennie consulted treated her chronic pain no differently from acute pain and were therefore ineffective. Additionally, most had little interest in or time to communicate with other providers working with Jennie. The result was fragmented care, inconsistent messaging, and contradicting plans of action.

‍Jennie wanted a better way. Joining forces with her father, she began creating a solution that she and others in pain needed but did not exist elsewhere: a comprehensive, team-based approach to care that is implemented by providers who really understand chronic pain. Jennie lives with pain every day. But she has learned to stop cure-seeking – to stop putting life on hold until a pill, procedure, or doctor brings about the magic fix – and has found more effective ways to interact with the pain and build a fulfilling life.

]]> 1118 no Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lori Evans Bernstein, CEO and Co-Founder of Caraway Health at HLTH 2023. || EP. 143 https://inspiringwomen.show/2024/01/04/laurie-mcgraw-is-speaking-with-inspiring-woman-lori-evans-bernstein-ceo-and-co-founder-of-caraway-health-at-hlth-2023-ep-143/ Kicking off this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire Ventures family. As a seasoned healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and previous government servant, Lori is familiar with the need to address healthcare problems at scale.  Given the tsunami of need, Lori created Caraway to redefine healthcare for an entire generation, the GenZ population.  Caraway is focused on healthcare delivery of this population with an approach that makes sense for this first generation of digital natives. Bringing together a virtual approach of on-demand care where “no question is too small”, Caraway is bringing evidenced based solutions to this population. Hear Lori talk about: Why Gen Z? Not just the first fully digital population, but also the one that is the largest, most diverse, as well as socially minded group.  In 2030, GenZ will make up 30% of our workforce. Reproductive rights and now uncertainty. This is also the population that has fewer reproductive rights than their mothers.  When discussing the devastating Dobbs decision, Lori is quick to point out the impact to individuals in all A tsunami of need. A generation that should be at its healthiest and happiest simply is not.  Mental health issues have become front and center as GenZ lives have been radically disrupted due to the pandemic. The importance of being bold: Addressing large scale issues and populations requires bold actions and a very aspirational vision.  Lori suggests to all women entrepreneurs to not forget that reality. Guest Bio: Seasoned healthcare executive with 25+ years of experience in healthcare and health tech as an entrepreneur, operator and government leader. Lori is the CEO and co-founder of Caraway, a women’s+ digital healthcare company taking on the societal and medical imperative of caring for college students by providing integrated mental, reproductive and physical healthcare. Previously, she was co-founder and president of HealthReveal, a clinical artificial intelligence (AI) company dedicated to combating chronic disease, which was recently acquired by Accolade (NASDAQ: ACCD), a personalized healthcare and benefits company providing millions of people and their families with exceptional healthcare. Previously Lori held a series of leadership positions with growing health tech firms: (President, GSI Health acquired by Medecision)(CEO, ActiveHealth Management, Provider Solutions acquired by Aetna/CVS Health)(Director, CareScience, previously NASDAQ: CARE now part of Premier healthcare informatics (https://www.premierinc.com/transforming-healthcare/healthcare-performance-improvement/). Additionally, Lori is known for bringing her entrepreneurial spirit and deep industry expertise to the government realm as senior advisor to nation’s first health IT Czar and New York state’s first deputy commissioner of health IT transformation, NYS Department of Health. Lori currently serves on the board of Sanctuary for Families, a human rights organization dedicated to addressing domestic violence, sex trafficking and other forms of gender violence. Thu, 04 Jan 2024 22:40:45 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Kicking off this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire Ventures family. As a seasoned healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and previous government servant, Kicking off this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire Ventures family. As a seasoned healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and previous government servant, Lori is familiar with the need to address healthcare problems at scale.  Given the tsunami of need, Lori created Caraway to redefine healthcare for an entire generation, the GenZ population.  Caraway is focused on healthcare delivery of this population with an approach that makes sense for this first generation of digital natives. Bringing together a virtual approach of on-demand care where “no question is too small”, Caraway is bringing evidenced based solutions to this population. Hear Lori talk about: Why Gen Z? Not just the first fully digital population, but also the one that is the largest, most diverse, as well as socially minded group.  In 2030, GenZ will make up 30% of our workforce. Reproductive rights and now uncertainty. This is also the population that has fewer reproductive rights than their mothers.  When discussing the devastating Dobbs decision, Lori is quick to point out the impact to individuals in all A tsunami of need. A generation that should be at its healthiest and happiest simply is not.  Mental health issues have become front and center as GenZ lives have been radically disrupted due to the pandemic. The importance of being bold: Addressing large scale issues and populations requires bold actions and a very aspirational vision.  Lori suggests to all women entrepreneurs to not forget that reality. Guest Bio: Seasoned healthcare executive with 25+ years of experience in healthcare and health tech as an entrepreneur, operator and government leader. Lori is the CEO and co-founder of Caraway, a women’s+ digital healthcare company taking on the societal and medical imperative of caring for college students by providing integrated mental, reproductive and physical healthcare. Previously, she was co-founder and president of HealthReveal, a clinical artificial intelligence (AI) company dedicated to combating chronic disease, which was recently acquired by Accolade (NASDAQ: ACCD), a personalized healthcare and benefits company providing millions of people and their families with exceptional healthcare. Previously Lori held a series of leadership positions with growing health tech firms: (President, GSI Health acquired by Medecision)(CEO, ActiveHealth Management, Provider Solutions acquired by Aetna/CVS Health)(Director, CareScience, previously NASDAQ: CARE now part of Premier healthcare informatics (https://www.premierinc.com/transforming-healthcare/healthcare-performance-improvement/). Additionally, Lori is known for bringing her entrepreneurial spirit and deep industry expertise to the government realm as senior advisor to nation’s first health IT Czar and New York state’s first deputy commissioner of health IT transformation, NYS Department of Health. Lori currently serves on the board of Sanctuary for Families, a human rights organization dedicated to addressing domestic violence, sex trafficking and other forms of gender violence.

Kicking off this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the 7Wire Ventures family.

As a seasoned healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and previous government servant, Lori is familiar with the need to address healthcare problems at scale.  Given the tsunami of need, Lori created Caraway to redefine healthcare for an entire generation, the GenZ population.  Caraway is focused on healthcare delivery of this population with an approach that makes sense for this first generation of digital natives. Bringing together a virtual approach of on-demand care where “no question is too small”, Caraway is bringing evidenced based solutions to this population.

Hear Lori talk about:

  • Why Gen Z? Not just the first fully digital population, but also the one that is the largest, most diverse, as well as socially minded group.  In 2030, GenZ will make up 30% of our workforce.
  • Reproductive rights and now uncertainty. This is also the population that has fewer reproductive rights than their mothers.  When discussing the devastating Dobbs decision, Lori is quick to point out the impact to individuals in all
  • A tsunami of need. A generation that should be at its healthiest and happiest simply is not.  Mental health issues have become front and center as GenZ lives have been radically disrupted due to the pandemic.
  • The importance of being bold: Addressing large scale issues and populations requires bold actions and a very aspirational vision.  Lori suggests to all women entrepreneurs to not forget that reality.

Guest Bio:

Seasoned healthcare executive with 25+ years of experience in healthcare and health tech as an entrepreneur, operator and government leader.

Lori is the CEO and co-founder of Caraway, a women’s+ digital healthcare company taking on the societal and medical imperative of caring for college students by providing integrated mental, reproductive and physical healthcare. Previously, she was co-founder and president of HealthReveal, a clinical artificial intelligence (AI) company dedicated to combating chronic disease, which was recently acquired by Accolade (NASDAQ: ACCD), a personalized healthcare and benefits company providing millions of people and their families with exceptional healthcare.

Previously Lori held a series of leadership positions with growing health tech firms:
(President, GSI Health acquired by Medecision)(CEO, ActiveHealth Management, Provider Solutions acquired by Aetna/CVS Health)(Director, CareScience, previously NASDAQ: CARE now part of Premier healthcare informatics (https://www.premierinc.com/transforming-healthcare/healthcare-performance-improvement/).

Additionally, Lori is known for bringing her entrepreneurial spirit and deep industry expertise to the government realm as senior advisor to nation’s first health IT Czar and New York state’s first deputy commissioner of health IT transformation, NYS Department of Health.

Lori currently serves on the board of Sanctuary for Families, a human rights organization dedicated to addressing domestic violence, sex trafficking and other forms of gender violence.

]]> 1171 no Raising the Bar for Women’s Healthcare: The Badass Women of Iron Health || EP. 142 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/12/19/raising-the-bar-for-womens-healthcare-the-badass-women-of-iron-health-ep-142/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women co-founders of Iron Health at HLTH 2023: Stephanie Winans, CEO, Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer, and Susanna Wiborg, Chief of Staff. This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family. Each of these founders came to Iron Health to improve equity, access, and outcomes across women’s health.  And to raise the bar. In the US, women have worse outcomes than in any other developed country.  Primary care is part of the issue.  Only half of US-based women see a primary care physician regularly.  Growing mental health issues also play a factor as are the severe shortage of healthcare professionals in these areas. The bright spot (and opportunity) is that most women see their OBGYN for an annual checkup.  These specialists are now becoming the go to resource for women to handle their broader primary care needs.  Additionally, they are handling mental health issues.  84% of OBGYNs are now prescribing psychiatric medications. Enter Iron Health, the virtual practice extension of an OBGYN.  This company came out of stealth in March of 2023 and in just six months is working with over 50 OBGYNs across four states.  Early feedback is positive for both patients and providers. Stephanie, Kristina, and Susanna also talk about what it means to build a purposeful leadership team, mostly women, who have not worked together before.  Energy; excitement; leading by example; not having to compete for the one available seat at the table were some of the comments from this “Badass” team. Their closing advice? Ask for the informational interview.  Surround yourself with allies. And this call to action:  If we are going to close the gender gap in leadership, Stephanie asks all women leaders to find a woman and mentor her.   Guest Bios: Stephanie Winans, CEO Stephanie Winans is a seasoned healthcare entrepreneur passionate about applying creative problem solving to deliver better outcomes for patients and providers. She possesses diverse experience spanning both B2C and enterprise healthcare, media, and technology. Prior to Iron Health, Stephanie was the Chief Growth Officer at BioDigital, and led two successful healthcare exits at The Wellness Network (acquired by WebMD) and Bundoo, a maternal and infant health startup (acquired by Wafra Partners). Stephanie received her MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and holds a B.S. in Marketing and Psychology from Spring Hill College.   Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer Kristina Furlan is a driven business leader with over 16 years of experience developing and commercializing digital health solutions. Prior to Iron Health, Kristina led two successful internal startups at Philips and held product leadership roles at Stryker and St. Jude Medical. Kristina has a Masters in Science and Bachelors in Science from Texas A&M University.   Susanna Wiborg, RN, MBA, Chief of Staff Susanna Wiborg is an innovative leader with a diverse background having worked as a nurse, hospital administrator, consultant, and in data/tech. Prior experience includes leadership positions at Penn Medicine, Lumere, Sg2, and Northwestern Medicine. Susanna received her MBA from Kellogg School of Management and holds a BSN and BSE from the University of Pennsylvania. Tue, 19 Dec 2023 23:45:28 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women co-founders of Iron Health at HLTH 2023: Stephanie Winans, CEO, Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer, and Susanna Wiborg, Chief of Staff. This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaborat... Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women co-founders of Iron Health at HLTH 2023: Stephanie Winans, CEO, Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer, and Susanna Wiborg, Chief of Staff. This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family. Each of these founders came to Iron Health to improve equity, access, and outcomes across women’s health.  And to raise the bar. In the US, women have worse outcomes than in any other developed country.  Primary care is part of the issue.  Only half of US-based women see a primary care physician regularly.  Growing mental health issues also play a factor as are the severe shortage of healthcare professionals in these areas. The bright spot (and opportunity) is that most women see their OBGYN for an annual checkup.  These specialists are now becoming the go to resource for women to handle their broader primary care needs.  Additionally, they are handling mental health issues.  84% of OBGYNs are now prescribing psychiatric medications. Enter Iron Health, the virtual practice extension of an OBGYN.  This company came out of stealth in March of 2023 and in just six months is working with over 50 OBGYNs across four states.  Early feedback is positive for both patients and providers. Stephanie, Kristina, and Susanna also talk about what it means to build a purposeful leadership team, mostly women, who have not worked together before.  Energy; excitement; leading by example; not having to compete for the one available seat at the table were some of the comments from this “Badass” team. Their closing advice? Ask for the informational interview.  Surround yourself with allies. And this call to action:  If we are going to close the gender gap in leadership, Stephanie asks all women leaders to find a woman and mentor her.   Guest Bios: Stephanie Winans, CEO Stephanie Winans is a seasoned healthcare entrepreneur passionate about applying creative problem solving to deliver better outcomes for patients and providers. She possesses diverse experience spanning both B2C and enterprise healthcare, media, and technology. Prior to Iron Health, Stephanie was the Chief Growth Officer at BioDigital, and led two successful healthcare exits at The Wellness Network (acquired by WebMD) and Bundoo, a maternal and infant health startup (acquired by Wafra Partners). Stephanie received her MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and holds a B.S. in Marketing and Psychology from Spring Hill College.   Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer Kristina Furlan is a driven business leader with over 16 years of experience developing and commercializing digital health solutions. Prior to Iron Health, Kristina led two successful internal startups at Philips and held product leadership roles at Stryker and St. Jude Medical. Kristina has a Masters in Science and Bachelors in Science from Texas A&M University.   Susanna Wiborg, RN, MBA, Chief of Staff Susanna Wiborg is an innovative leader with a diverse background having worked as a nurse, hospital administrator, consultant, and in data/tech. Prior experience includes leadership positions at Penn Medicine, Lumere, Sg2, and Northwestern Medicine. Susanna received her MBA from Kellogg School of Management and holds a BSN and BSE from the University of Pennsylvania.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with the Inspiring Women co-founders of Iron Health at HLTH 2023: Stephanie Winans, CEO, Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer, and Susanna Wiborg, Chief of Staff.

This is the finale episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.

Each of these founders came to Iron Health to improve equity, access, and outcomes across women’s health.  And to raise the bar. In the US, women have worse outcomes than in any other developed country.  Primary care is part of the issue.  Only half of US-based women see a primary care physician regularly.  Growing mental health issues also play a factor as are the severe shortage of healthcare professionals in these areas.

The bright spot (and opportunity) is that most women see their OBGYN for an annual checkup.  These specialists are now becoming the go to resource for women to handle their broader primary care needs.  Additionally, they are handling mental health issues.  84% of OBGYNs are now prescribing psychiatric medications.

Enter Iron Health, the virtual practice extension of an OBGYN.  This company came out of stealth in March of 2023 and in just six months is working with over 50 OBGYNs across four states.  Early feedback is positive for both patients and providers.

Stephanie, Kristina, and Susanna also talk about what it means to build a purposeful leadership team, mostly women, who have not worked together before.  Energy; excitement; leading by example; not having to compete for the one available seat at the table were some of the comments from this “Badass” team.

Their closing advice? Ask for the informational interview.  Surround yourself with allies. And this call to action:  If we are going to close the gender gap in leadership, Stephanie asks all women leaders to find a woman and mentor her.

 

Guest Bios:

Stephanie Winans, CEO

Stephanie Winans is a seasoned healthcare entrepreneur passionate about applying creative problem solving to deliver better outcomes for patients and providers. She possesses diverse experience spanning both B2C and enterprise healthcare, media, and technology. Prior to Iron Health, Stephanie was the Chief Growth Officer at BioDigital, and led two successful healthcare exits at The Wellness Network (acquired by WebMD) and Bundoo, a maternal and infant health startup (acquired by Wafra Partners). Stephanie received her MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and holds a B.S. in Marketing and Psychology from Spring Hill College.

 

Kristina Furlan, Chief Product Officer

Kristina Furlan is a driven business leader with over 16 years of experience developing and commercializing digital health solutions. Prior to Iron Health, Kristina led two successful internal startups at Philips and held product leadership roles at Stryker and St. Jude Medical. Kristina has a Masters in Science and Bachelors in Science from Texas A&M University.

 

Susanna Wiborg, RN, MBA, Chief of Staff

Susanna Wiborg is an innovative leader with a diverse background having worked as a nurse, hospital administrator, consultant, and in data/tech. Prior experience includes leadership positions at Penn Medicine, Lumere, Sg2, and Northwestern Medicine. Susanna received her MBA from Kellogg School of Management and holds a BSN and BSE from the University of Pennsylvania.

]]> 1372 no Kathy Kaluhiokalani on innovation and impact (the equation of high growth companies that deliver within larger health systems is where the magic happens) || EP. 141 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/12/07/kathy-kaluhiokalani-on-innovation-and-impact-the-equation-of-high-growth-companies-that-deliver-within-larger-health-systems-is-where-the-magic-happens-ep-141/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Kaluhiokalani, Founder and CEO of Pip Care at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Pip Care was launched out of the Redesign process to address support for patients before, during and after surgery.  Kathy has such a clear vision and leads with purpose and intensity, coupled with perspective and a sense of calm that she attributes to this NOT being her first rodeo as the Chief. Hear Kathy talk about: Career inflection points. Kathy has led at very large healthcare organizations and she has done innovation.  Her view is that the highest impact for innovation is with startups that can then implement in health systems.  A pandemic inflection point led her to think seriously about startups again. How can we improve the surgical process? And it has nothing to do with the clinical aspect of surgery – it’s all those important surround things – did I follow the diet and exercise instructions correctly?  Where do I park?  Is my insurance covering all the folks involved in my surgery?  Kathy describes the purpose of Pip Care to provide a patient partner as an extension of the surgery team. Why is she excited about the company? The data – reducing length of stay, or post-op ER visits and readmissions – backs up that the solutions are working.  Kathy was also excited to talk about new clients like UChicago which she was announcing at HLTH. Bringing along the next generation of women leaders. Kathy expects of herself and other women executives to make room for others and to bring women with her.  And for Kathy, this “responsibility” is not only important, well, it is also quite fun. Guest Bio: Kathleen Kaluhiokalani has been characterized as a leader with “flawless execution, innovation, and grit, who approaches obstacles with a vision of sustainable, long-term success in mind.” Her distinguished career is in steering healthcare business organizations to their next level of success. This is accomplished through explosive growth, performance turnarounds, business and culture transformations, corporate rebranding, and restructuring organizational matrix. Her expertise is in vision and execution, being able to see the big picture and immediately identifying the path to reach the objective, while building and empowering top-talent to partner and capitalize on the opportunities presented. She develops strategies that drive revenue and fuel profit growth, navigating complex business challenges and delivering effective solutions, and leveraging people, process, and technology to achieve key business outcomes. Thu, 07 Dec 2023 18:40:26 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Kaluhiokalani, Founder and CEO of Pip Care at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Kaluhiokalani, Founder and CEO of Pip Care at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Pip Care was launched out of the Redesign process to address support for patients before, during and after surgery.  Kathy has such a clear vision and leads with purpose and intensity, coupled with perspective and a sense of calm that she attributes to this NOT being her first rodeo as the Chief. Hear Kathy talk about: Career inflection points. Kathy has led at very large healthcare organizations and she has done innovation.  Her view is that the highest impact for innovation is with startups that can then implement in health systems.  A pandemic inflection point led her to think seriously about startups again. How can we improve the surgical process? And it has nothing to do with the clinical aspect of surgery – it’s all those important surround things – did I follow the diet and exercise instructions correctly?  Where do I park?  Is my insurance covering all the folks involved in my surgery?  Kathy describes the purpose of Pip Care to provide a patient partner as an extension of the surgery team. Why is she excited about the company? The data – reducing length of stay, or post-op ER visits and readmissions – backs up that the solutions are working.  Kathy was also excited to talk about new clients like UChicago which she was announcing at HLTH. Bringing along the next generation of women leaders. Kathy expects of herself and other women executives to make room for others and to bring women with her.  And for Kathy, this “responsibility” is not only important, well, it is also quite fun. Guest Bio: Kathleen Kaluhiokalani has been characterized as a leader with “flawless execution, innovation, and grit, who approaches obstacles with a vision of sustainable, long-term success in mind.” Her distinguished career is in steering healthcare business organizations to their next level of success. This is accomplished through explosive growth, performance turnarounds, business and culture transformations, corporate rebranding, and restructuring organizational matrix. Her expertise is in vision and execution, being able to see the big picture and immediately identifying the path to reach the objective, while building and empowering top-talent to partner and capitalize on the opportunities presented. She develops strategies that drive revenue and fuel profit growth, navigating complex business challenges and delivering effective solutions, and leveraging people, process, and technology to achieve key business outcomes.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Kaluhiokalani, Founder and CEO of Pip Care at HLTH 2023.

This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Pip Care was launched out of the Redesign process to address support for patients before, during and after surgery.  Kathy has such a clear vision and leads with purpose and intensity, coupled with perspective and a sense of calm that she attributes to this NOT being her first rodeo as the Chief.

Hear Kathy talk about:

  • Career inflection points. Kathy has led at very large healthcare organizations and she has done innovation.  Her view is that the highest impact for innovation is with startups that can then implement in health systems.  A pandemic inflection point led her to think seriously about startups again.
  • How can we improve the surgical process? And it has nothing to do with the clinical aspect of surgery – it’s all those important surround things – did I follow the diet and exercise instructions correctly?  Where do I park?  Is my insurance covering all the folks involved in my surgery?  Kathy describes the purpose of Pip Care to provide a patient partner as an extension of the surgery team.
  • Why is she excited about the company? The data – reducing length of stay, or post-op ER visits and readmissions – backs up that the solutions are working.  Kathy was also excited to talk about new clients like UChicago which she was announcing at HLTH.
  • Bringing along the next generation of women leaders. Kathy expects of herself and other women executives to make room for others and to bring women with her.  And for Kathy, this “responsibility” is not only important, well, it is also quite fun.

Guest Bio:

Kathleen Kaluhiokalani has been characterized as a leader with “flawless execution, innovation, and grit, who approaches obstacles with a vision of sustainable, long-term success in mind.” Her distinguished career is in steering healthcare business organizations to their next level of success. This is accomplished through explosive growth, performance turnarounds, business and culture transformations, corporate rebranding, and restructuring organizational matrix. Her expertise is in vision and execution, being able to see the big picture and immediately identifying the path to reach the objective, while building and empowering top-talent to partner and capitalize on the opportunities presented. She develops strategies that drive revenue and fuel profit growth, navigating complex business challenges and delivering effective solutions, and leveraging people, process, and technology to achieve key business outcomes.

]]> 1076 no Rachael Jones on the Calling of Leadership. And it starts with Grit and Grace || EP. 140 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/11/30/rachael-jones-on-the-calling-of-leadership-and-it-starts-with-grit-and-grace-ep-140/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachael Jones, Founder and CEO of Syntax Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Syntax Health was launched out of the Redesign process and Rachael could not be more excited to talk about the company, how data and analytics support the industry’s move to Value Based Care.  And then of course, what it really means to be part of the 1% club…. meaning, the few African American women who are also CEOs. In this episode you will hear Rachael talk about the move to Value Based Care, true value based care.  The importance of understanding all of this data means the opportunity to determine, up front, best fit delivery models to achieve best clinical outcomes. It takes all of seconds to hear Rachael’s depth of expertise and excitement about data analytics, understanding how to use data to reduce time to provider contracting and to provide a much better understanding of how the finances will work in VBC. Today, the move to VBC (imperative in her view) is that it is too complicated.  She doesn’t have simple answers. but she does have the tooling and understanding to do dynamic negotiation of contracts at the most effective stage – the beginning. When talking about her own ascent to leadership, Rachael took the step to CEO with a clear vision of her why.  Wanting autonomy to scale her grand vision, building her own team, and leaning into a clear strength of hers – having significant impact and leaving a legacy.  There is no better space for this than in healthcare. When Rachael shares her leadership journey, it has the appearance of a smooth trajectory to the top (haha).  She shares a bit of behind the scenes of what it took to get here.  This includes a strong core of support.  For her, it’s family first that provides grounding and an escape when needed.  Professional groups are valuable, supportive, help expand perspectives.  But there is nothing more valuable than the lived experience of very tough moments.  The times when the heads-down, just work “twice as hard” approach was a miss in terms of reading the room when leadership changed (and so did support for her project).  And with great challenge, Rachael also knows this is the calling of leadership.  She calls it the need for Grit and Grace.  She adds (importantly), and a little bit of “SuckItUpNess”. Best advice for other women leaders?  Claim credit.  And if that does not feel natural (and very often, it does not), write it down in your own personal Win log.   Guest Bio: Rachael Jones is the Co-founder and CEO of Syntax. Syntax is a SaaS-based enterprise tool that helps payors and providers model out their value-based care contracts. Rachael is an award-winning healthcare executive, bringing over 20 years of experience transforming healthcare through strategic leadership, operational oversight, product strategy, P&L management, and data-driven analytics. Rachel joins Syntax after serving as SVP of Performance Analytics & Quality at Cotiviti where she led a team that updated, refreshed, and delivered industry-leading, flagship healthcare analytics tools and AI solutions. She also held several leadership positions at Anthem, HealthFirst and the TriZetto Group. Rachael is passionate about paving the way for a smoother journey to value-based care by allowing health plans to transition from simply reporting quality measures to driving the purchase, delivery, and utilization of higher-value healthcare. Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:14:16 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachael Jones, Founder and CEO of Syntax Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachael Jones, Founder and CEO of Syntax Health at HLTH 2023. This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Syntax Health was launched out of the Redesign process and Rachael could not be more excited to talk about the company, how data and analytics support the industry’s move to Value Based Care.  And then of course, what it really means to be part of the 1% club…. meaning, the few African American women who are also CEOs. In this episode you will hear Rachael talk about the move to Value Based Care, true value based care.  The importance of understanding all of this data means the opportunity to determine, up front, best fit delivery models to achieve best clinical outcomes. It takes all of seconds to hear Rachael’s depth of expertise and excitement about data analytics, understanding how to use data to reduce time to provider contracting and to provide a much better understanding of how the finances will work in VBC. Today, the move to VBC (imperative in her view) is that it is too complicated.  She doesn’t have simple answers. but she does have the tooling and understanding to do dynamic negotiation of contracts at the most effective stage – the beginning. When talking about her own ascent to leadership, Rachael took the step to CEO with a clear vision of her why.  Wanting autonomy to scale her grand vision, building her own team, and leaning into a clear strength of hers – having significant impact and leaving a legacy.  There is no better space for this than in healthcare. When Rachael shares her leadership journey, it has the appearance of a smooth trajectory to the top (haha).  She shares a bit of behind the scenes of what it took to get here.  This includes a strong core of support.  For her, it’s family first that provides grounding and an escape when needed.  Professional groups are valuable, supportive, help expand perspectives.  But there is nothing more valuable than the lived experience of very tough moments.  The times when the heads-down, just work “twice as hard” approach was a miss in terms of reading the room when leadership changed (and so did support for her project).  And with great challenge, Rachael also knows this is the calling of leadership.  She calls it the need for Grit and Grace.  She adds (importantly), and a little bit of “SuckItUpNess”. Best advice for other women leaders?  Claim credit.  And if that does not feel natural (and very often, it does not), write it down in your own personal Win log.   Guest Bio: Rachael Jones is the Co-founder and CEO of Syntax. Syntax is a SaaS-based enterprise tool that helps payors and providers model out their value-based care contracts. Rachael is an award-winning healthcare executive, bringing over 20 years of experience transforming healthcare through strategic leadership, operational oversight, product strategy, P&L management, and data-driven analytics. Rachel joins Syntax after serving as SVP of Performance Analytics & Quality at Cotiviti where she led a team that updated, refreshed, and delivered industry-leading, flagship healthcare analytics tools and AI solutions. She also held several leadership positions at Anthem, HealthFirst and the TriZetto Group. Rachael is passionate about paving the way for a smoother journey to value-based care by allowing health plans to transition from simply reporting quality measures to driving the purchase, delivery, and utilization of higher-value healthcare.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachael Jones, Founder and CEO of Syntax Health at HLTH 2023.

This is the next episode of this Inspiring Women collaboration highlighting several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  Syntax Health was launched out of the Redesign process and Rachael could not be more excited to talk about the company, how data and analytics support the industry’s move to Value Based Care.  And then of course, what it really means to be part of the 1% club…. meaning, the few African American women who are also CEOs.

In this episode you will hear Rachael talk about the move to Value Based Care, true value based care.  The importance of understanding all of this data means the opportunity to determine, up front, best fit delivery models to achieve best clinical outcomes. It takes all of seconds to hear Rachael’s depth of expertise and excitement about data analytics, understanding how to use data to reduce time to provider contracting and to provide a much better understanding of how the finances will work in VBC. Today, the move to VBC (imperative in her view) is that it is too complicated.  She doesn’t have simple answers. but she does have the tooling and understanding to do dynamic negotiation of contracts at the most effective stage – the beginning.

When talking about her own ascent to leadership, Rachael took the step to CEO with a clear vision of her why.  Wanting autonomy to scale her grand vision, building her own team, and leaning into a clear strength of hers – having significant impact and leaving a legacy.  There is no better space for this than in healthcare.

When Rachael shares her leadership journey, it has the appearance of a smooth trajectory to the top (haha).  She shares a bit of behind the scenes of what it took to get here.  This includes a strong core of support.  For her, it’s family first that provides grounding and an escape when needed.  Professional groups are valuable, supportive, help expand perspectives.  But there is nothing more valuable than the lived experience of very tough moments.  The times when the heads-down, just work “twice as hard” approach was a miss in terms of reading the room when leadership changed (and so did support for her project).  And with great challenge, Rachael also knows this is the calling of leadership.  She calls it the need for Grit and Grace.  She adds (importantly), and a little bit of “SuckItUpNess”.

Best advice for other women leaders?  Claim credit.  And if that does not feel natural (and very often, it does not), write it down in your own personal Win log.

 

Guest Bio:

Rachael Jones is the Co-founder and CEO of Syntax. Syntax is a SaaS-based enterprise tool that helps payors and providers model out their value-based care contracts. Rachael is an award-winning healthcare executive, bringing over 20 years of experience transforming healthcare through strategic leadership, operational oversight, product strategy, P&L management, and data-driven analytics.

Rachel joins Syntax after serving as SVP of Performance Analytics & Quality at Cotiviti where she led a team that updated, refreshed, and delivered industry-leading, flagship healthcare analytics tools and AI solutions. She also held several leadership positions at Anthem, HealthFirst and the TriZetto Group. Rachael is passionate about paving the way for a smoother journey to value-based care by allowing health plans to transition from simply reporting quality measures to driving the purchase, delivery, and utilization of higher-value healthcare.

]]> 1524 no Brenda Schmidt discusses the spectrum of healthcare innovation and creating value at every stage. || EP. 139 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/11/14/brenda-schmidt-discusses-the-spectrum-of-healthcare-innovation-and-creating-value-at-every-stage-ep-139/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth at Redesign Health at HLTH 2023. In collaboration with Redesign Health, Laurie is speaking with several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  This first collab conversation is with Brenda Schmidt.  Brenda joined Redesign after a substantive career in healthcare as an executive, builder of companies, venture studio chief, board member….the list goes ON.  She self describes as an “INTRApreneur”, a hand raiser when it came to opportunities along the way that allowed her to learn.  The consistent career thread is curiosity.  And with all that learning, comes the desire to give back, share with others and work with companies to accelerate their opportunities for growth and impact. Hear Brenda talk about: What’s a venture studio? If you have seen one, you’ve seen one.  And Brenda has seen    She believes that Redesign Health has “the model right for what young entrepreneurs really need to build successful companies.” A different approach at Redesign starts with internal ideation with smart teams who understand healthcare business models and then (and only then) they look to build the founding team. RH provides initial valuable capital and supporting resources to aid the company more like a slingshot and not a crutch. Brenda also announced how RH is newly providing this model to other companies. Innovation is a spectrum. Value can be created at every stage. The core is business process improvement…help me do my job better.  The Adjacent is looking at different markets to drive revenue growth.  And the Disruptive is entirely new ideas but this is really only about 10% of innovation.  At the same time, ensuring that innovation is focused on the largest problems in healthcare is imperative, and that starts at the beginning. The best CEOs know how to sell. This means listening intently to what the potential customer is saying.  Brenda’s rule of thumb is talking more than 30 or 40% of the time is TOO MUCH.  She also invests time helping CEOs bolster those skills with workshops and role-playing scenarios. A look into the future means expecting many more partnerships, public/private, government funded and other interesting models. Brenda’s closing advice for aspirational women is to surround yourself with those folks who can help you, forget about the imposter syndrome, and become resilient to hearing no…no is just a pathway to yes! Guest Bio: Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth, Redesign Health Brenda is a proven innovation leader focused on go-to-market speed and growth of healthcare technology and technology-enabled services startups. Brenda founded Viridian Health and Solera Health to create new models for whole-person care. She also led Coplex, a venture studio partnering with health systems to validate, design and launch new healthcare companies.  Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:50:46 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth at Redesign Health at HLTH 2023. In collaboration with Redesign Health, Laurie is speaking with several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth at Redesign Health at HLTH 2023. In collaboration with Redesign Health, Laurie is speaking with several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  This first collab conversation is with Brenda Schmidt.  Brenda joined Redesign after a substantive career in healthcare as an executive, builder of companies, venture studio chief, board member….the list goes ON.  She self describes as an “INTRApreneur”, a hand raiser when it came to opportunities along the way that allowed her to learn.  The consistent career thread is curiosity.  And with all that learning, comes the desire to give back, share with others and work with companies to accelerate their opportunities for growth and impact. Hear Brenda talk about: What’s a venture studio? If you have seen one, you’ve seen one.  And Brenda has seen    She believes that Redesign Health has “the model right for what young entrepreneurs really need to build successful companies.” A different approach at Redesign starts with internal ideation with smart teams who understand healthcare business models and then (and only then) they look to build the founding team. RH provides initial valuable capital and supporting resources to aid the company more like a slingshot and not a crutch. Brenda also announced how RH is newly providing this model to other companies. Innovation is a spectrum. Value can be created at every stage. The core is business process improvement…help me do my job better.  The Adjacent is looking at different markets to drive revenue growth.  And the Disruptive is entirely new ideas but this is really only about 10% of innovation.  At the same time, ensuring that innovation is focused on the largest problems in healthcare is imperative, and that starts at the beginning. The best CEOs know how to sell. This means listening intently to what the potential customer is saying.  Brenda’s rule of thumb is talking more than 30 or 40% of the time is TOO MUCH.  She also invests time helping CEOs bolster those skills with workshops and role-playing scenarios. A look into the future means expecting many more partnerships, public/private, government funded and other interesting models. Brenda’s closing advice for aspirational women is to surround yourself with those folks who can help you, forget about the imposter syndrome, and become resilient to hearing no…no is just a pathway to yes! Guest Bio: Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth, Redesign Health Brenda is a proven innovation leader focused on go-to-market speed and growth of healthcare technology and technology-enabled services startups. Brenda founded Viridian Health and Solera Health to create new models for whole-person care. She also led Coplex, a venture studio partnering with health systems to validate, design and launch new healthcare companies. 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth at Redesign Health at HLTH 2023.

In collaboration with Redesign Health, Laurie is speaking with several of the extraordinary women leaders in the Redesign family.  This first collab conversation is with Brenda Schmidt.  Brenda joined Redesign after a substantive career in healthcare as an executive, builder of companies, venture studio chief, board member….the list goes ON.  She self describes as an “INTRApreneur”, a hand raiser when it came to opportunities along the way that allowed her to learn.  The consistent career thread is curiosity.  And with all that learning, comes the desire to give back, share with others and work with companies to accelerate their opportunities for growth and impact.

Hear Brenda talk about:

  • What’s a venture studio?
    If you have seen one, you’ve seen one.  And Brenda has seen    She believes that Redesign Health has “the model right for what young entrepreneurs really need to build successful companies.”
  • A different approach at Redesign starts with internal ideation with smart teams who understand healthcare business models and then (and only then) they look to build the founding team. RH provides initial valuable capital and supporting resources to aid the company more like a slingshot and not a crutch. Brenda also announced how RH is newly providing this model to other companies.
  • Innovation is a spectrum. Value can be created at every stage.
    The core is business process improvement…help me do my job better.  The Adjacent is looking at different markets to drive revenue growth.  And the Disruptive is entirely new ideas but this is really only about 10% of innovation.  At the same time, ensuring that innovation is focused on the largest problems in healthcare is imperative, and that starts at the beginning.
  • The best CEOs know how to sell. This means listening intently to what the potential customer is saying.  Brenda’s rule of thumb is talking more than 30 or 40% of the time is TOO MUCH.  She also invests time helping CEOs bolster those skills with workshops and role-playing scenarios.
  • A look into the future means expecting many more partnerships, public/private, government funded and other interesting models.

Brenda’s closing advice for aspirational women is to surround yourself with those folks who can help you, forget about the imposter syndrome, and become resilient to hearing no…no is just a pathway to yes!

Guest Bio:

Brenda Schmidt, Head of Enterprise Growth, Redesign Health

Brenda is a proven innovation leader focused on go-to-market speed and growth of healthcare technology and technology-enabled services startups. Brenda founded Viridian Health and Solera Health to create new models for whole-person care. She also led Coplex, a venture studio partnering with health systems to validate, design and launch new healthcare companies. 

]]> 1049 no Chelsea Clinton IS an Inspiring Woman || EP. 138 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/10/30/chelsea-clinton-is-an-inspiring-woman-ep-138/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Clinton. What an honor to speak with Chelsea Clinton at the HLTH 2023 conference in Vegas. Despite thumping music and flashing lights, Chelsea didn’t miss a beat to focus on the important space of healthcare and use her platform to address inequities. Hear Chelsea talk about: Maximizing time requires an amazing team + a robust calendar To be the professional that she wants to be, focus, being regimented, accountable, and surrounding herself with a strong team are the keys to maximizing impact. And do not underestimate the power of partnerships. Metrodora Ventures Her early-stage health and learning investment fund backs founders from places of lived experience with deep empathy for those they intend to serve. When we talk about innovation, many gravitate to the “bright, shiny object” types of opportunities.  Yet, durable solutions (and perhaps the most impactful) are often those “unsexy challenges” addressing the complex connective tissue areas in healthcare. The less than 2% of funding being awarded to female founders It’s a thing and are we really surprised when less than 2% of venture funds are led by women? When pressed on “what should women founders do?”, Chelsea was UNYIELDING in her response.  It is unacceptable to expect those on the other side of inequity to bear the responsibility of convincing others to acknowledge and address their bias.  It is the responsibility of those with power, with platforms, and with voice to lead the change. Her aspirational vision for healthcare (next 5 years?) Where everyone has the opportunity to receive a high standard of care; where dignity and respect is afforded always; where we are not timid and lean into the major societal issues of guns and substance abuse; where we spend time holding ourselves accountable for decarbonization; and more broadly, where we spend more and do more for kids. On being a mom If nothing else, this has only made her more intense in her approach to work. Looking at issues through the lens of our youngest. And a few other fun facts…. like the color blue…like a love for the Barbie movie (parents, bring your sons too!). ….and one last special shout out to my very own daughter Chelsea. To Chelsea Clinton, thank you for this conversation. Tue, 31 Oct 2023 02:57:34 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Clinton. What an honor to speak with Chelsea Clinton at the HLTH 2023 conference in Vegas. Despite thumping music and flashing lights, Chelsea didn’t miss a beat to focus on the important space of ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Clinton. What an honor to speak with Chelsea Clinton at the HLTH 2023 conference in Vegas. Despite thumping music and flashing lights, Chelsea didn’t miss a beat to focus on the important space of healthcare and use her platform to address inequities. Hear Chelsea talk about: Maximizing time requires an amazing team + a robust calendar To be the professional that she wants to be, focus, being regimented, accountable, and surrounding herself with a strong team are the keys to maximizing impact. And do not underestimate the power of partnerships. Metrodora Ventures Her early-stage health and learning investment fund backs founders from places of lived experience with deep empathy for those they intend to serve. When we talk about innovation, many gravitate to the “bright, shiny object” types of opportunities.  Yet, durable solutions (and perhaps the most impactful) are often those “unsexy challenges” addressing the complex connective tissue areas in healthcare. The less than 2% of funding being awarded to female founders It’s a thing and are we really surprised when less than 2% of venture funds are led by women? When pressed on “what should women founders do?”, Chelsea was UNYIELDING in her response.  It is unacceptable to expect those on the other side of inequity to bear the responsibility of convincing others to acknowledge and address their bias.  It is the responsibility of those with power, with platforms, and with voice to lead the change. Her aspirational vision for healthcare (next 5 years?) Where everyone has the opportunity to receive a high standard of care; where dignity and respect is afforded always; where we are not timid and lean into the major societal issues of guns and substance abuse; where we spend time holding ourselves accountable for decarbonization; and more broadly, where we spend more and do more for kids. On being a mom If nothing else, this has only made her more intense in her approach to work. Looking at issues through the lens of our youngest. And a few other fun facts…. like the color blue…like a love for the Barbie movie (parents, bring your sons too!). ….and one last special shout out to my very own daughter Chelsea. To Chelsea Clinton, thank you for this conversation.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Clinton.

What an honor to speak with Chelsea Clinton at the HLTH 2023 conference in Vegas. Despite thumping music and flashing lights, Chelsea didn’t miss a beat to focus on the important space of healthcare and use her platform to address inequities.

Hear Chelsea talk about:

  • Maximizing time requires an amazing team + a robust calendar
    To be the professional that she wants to be, focus, being regimented, accountable, and surrounding herself with a strong team are the keys to maximizing impact. And do not underestimate the power of partnerships.
  • Metrodora Ventures
    Her early-stage health and learning investment fund backs founders from places of lived experience with deep empathy for those they intend to serve. When we talk about innovation, many gravitate to the “bright, shiny object” types of opportunities.  Yet, durable solutions (and perhaps the most impactful) are often those “unsexy challenges” addressing the complex connective tissue areas in healthcare.
  • The less than 2% of funding being awarded to female founders
    It’s a thing and are we really surprised when less than 2% of venture funds are led by women? When pressed on “what should women founders do?”, Chelsea was UNYIELDING in her response.  It is unacceptable to expect those on the other side of inequity to bear the responsibility of convincing others to acknowledge and address their bias.  It is the responsibility of those with power, with platforms, and with voice to lead the change.
  • Her aspirational vision for healthcare (next 5 years?)
    Where everyone has the opportunity to receive a high standard of care; where dignity and respect is afforded always; where we are not timid and lean into the major societal issues of guns and substance abuse; where we spend time holding ourselves accountable for decarbonization; and more broadly, where we spend more and do more for kids.
  • On being a mom
    If nothing else, this has only made her more intense in her approach to work. Looking at issues through the lens of our youngest.
  • And a few other fun facts…. like the color blue…like a love for the Barbie movie (parents, bring your sons too!).

….and one last special shout out to my very own daughter Chelsea.

To Chelsea Clinton, thank you for this conversation.

]]> 1914 no Kicking off HLTH 2023 with Lisa Suennen’s Hot Takes || EP. 137 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/10/23/kicking-off-hlth-2023-with-lisa-suennens-hot-takes-ep-137/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Suennen, veteran healthcare leader and commentator.  Also, founder of CSweetner, now a part of HLTH supporting the advancement of women in healthcare. Kicking off HLTH 2023, Lisa provides her views on 5 key topic areas at the conference – what’s exciting and where we might be a bit more skeptical. Hear Lisa’s Hot Takes on: Stand-alone technology is useless Pay attention to the important convergence of technology with services or medical devices. Today, addressing important areas (workforce burnout; administrative overhead).  Still key to making it all work:  Interoperability and workflows. AI, the 60 y.o. overnight sensation, needs to stay in its lane (today that is) AI in practice is limited but still promising. Reducing burdensome admin overhead on very busy clinicians; detecting fraud; streamlining scheduling – start there.  HOLD UP on clinical applications until we gain confidence in what is more “sketchy” data today.  That said, in 25 years, expect AI to be ubiquitous and not a stand-alone thing. Mental Health – the new thing that’s not at all new Lisa sees promise in solutions targeted to specialized or unique populations. Opioid addiction is very different than teen depression or loneliness. She is quick to point out that a more holistic approach is still needed v point solutions.. Big Tech and Healthcare ….and Impacting the Quadruple Aim Quadruple aim is just not the business model of Big Tech v quarterly earnings. Lisa sees Microsoft as ahead of the pack today, yet she remains skeptical that the impact will match the marketing.  That doesn’t mean she is not hopeful that it will! Weight Loss and Food as Medicine A very promising area with misaligned incentives today. A multidimensional approach is needed, and we simply MUST do something about our food… Of course, we had to close out on the state of play for women in healthcare.  I forced Lisa to choose something positive to highlight.  Harder than it should have been!  The pockets of progress are there , but she was quick to point out that women have still lost more of the jobs of late and recent reports on the state of funding which show further declines in progress.  Sticking with the positive though, Lisa highlights the new focus and investment in Women’s Health.  Promising indeed!! Thank you Lisa for sharing these views and pointing out some of the key topic areas for HLTH 2023. Guest bio: 30+ Years of Healthcare and Team Leadership – living in the center of the Venn diagram between healthcare, entrepreneurship, and technology. Very comfortable coloring outside the lines. I love to lead and work alongside creative, exceptional talent to build high value healthcare enterprises that thrive in a transforming world. I have worked in and/or with all sides of the healthcare continuum (digital health/health IT/payer/provider/ health services /medical device/pharma); I have also worked on multiple sides of the business equation (executive/operations leadership, venture investor, strategy consultant, board member). As such, I think of myself as having a sort of Rubik’s Cube of healthcare knowledge that I can apply to new situations in a highly flexible way. From a practical standpoint, it means that I have an unusually broad perspective on the interplay among the different healthcare disciplines, the economics that drive them and the incentives that make buyers/decision-makers pay attention. I combine that knowledge with a broad skill set in executive and operational leadership, strategy/BD, sales & marketing, partnering, and fund-raising to deliver results, whether it’s launching a new company or product, developing new go-to-market and partnering strategies, building a team and ensuring esprit de corps, accelerating growth in existing and/or new markets or raising capital. I’m keenly aware of the need for balancing strategy with the pragmatic realities of money and markets – a need that applies across early stage, growth and established companies. I draw energy from things that are new, different, transformative but also actionable. What I’ve Done: Executive/Operating Leadership, Venture Capital Partnership (Corporate Venture and Independent Funds), Strategy Consultant, Board Member, Advisor to companies large and small Other Activities: Advisor to Startup Companies, Venture Valkyrie blog (http://venturevalkyrie.com), Faculty at UC Berkeley/Haas, Frequent public speaker. Founder, CSweetener.org Mon, 23 Oct 2023 23:19:54 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Suennen, veteran healthcare leader and commentator.  Also, founder of CSweetner, now a part of HLTH supporting the advancement of women in healthcare. Kicking off HLTH 2023, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Suennen, veteran healthcare leader and commentator.  Also, founder of CSweetner, now a part of HLTH supporting the advancement of women in healthcare. Kicking off HLTH 2023, Lisa provides her views on 5 key topic areas at the conference – what’s exciting and where we might be a bit more skeptical. Hear Lisa’s Hot Takes on: Stand-alone technology is useless Pay attention to the important convergence of technology with services or medical devices. Today, addressing important areas (workforce burnout; administrative overhead).  Still key to making it all work:  Interoperability and workflows. AI, the 60 y.o. overnight sensation, needs to stay in its lane (today that is) AI in practice is limited but still promising. Reducing burdensome admin overhead on very busy clinicians; detecting fraud; streamlining scheduling – start there.  HOLD UP on clinical applications until we gain confidence in what is more “sketchy” data today.  That said, in 25 years, expect AI to be ubiquitous and not a stand-alone thing. Mental Health – the new thing that’s not at all new Lisa sees promise in solutions targeted to specialized or unique populations. Opioid addiction is very different than teen depression or loneliness. She is quick to point out that a more holistic approach is still needed v point solutions.. Big Tech and Healthcare ….and Impacting the Quadruple Aim Quadruple aim is just not the business model of Big Tech v quarterly earnings. Lisa sees Microsoft as ahead of the pack today, yet she remains skeptical that the impact will match the marketing.  That doesn’t mean she is not hopeful that it will! Weight Loss and Food as Medicine A very promising area with misaligned incentives today. A multidimensional approach is needed, and we simply MUST do something about our food… Of course, we had to close out on the state of play for women in healthcare.  I forced Lisa to choose something positive to highlight.  Harder than it should have been!  The pockets of progress are there , but she was quick to point out that women have still lost more of the jobs of late and recent reports on the state of funding which show further declines in progress.  Sticking with the positive though, Lisa highlights the new focus and investment in Women’s Health.  Promising indeed!! Thank you Lisa for sharing these views and pointing out some of the key topic areas for HLTH 2023. Guest bio: 30+ Years of Healthcare and Team Leadership – living in the center of the Venn diagram between healthcare, entrepreneurship, and technology. Very comfortable coloring outside the lines. I love to lead and work alongside creative, exceptional talent to build high value healthcare enterprises that thrive in a transforming world. I have worked in and/or with all sides of the healthcare continuum (digital health/health IT/payer/provider/ health services /medical device/pharma); I have also worked on multiple sides of the business equation (executive/operations leadership, venture investor, strategy consultant, board member). As such, I think of myself as having a sort of Rubik’s Cube of healthcare knowledge that I can apply to new situations in a highly flexible way. From a practical standpoint, it means that I have an unusually broad perspective on the interplay among the different healthcare disciplines, the economics that drive them and the incentives that make buyers/decision-makers pay attention. I combine that knowledge with a broad skill set in executive and operational leadership, strategy/BD, sales & marketing, partnering, and fund-raising to deliver results, whether it’s launching a new company or product, developing new go-to-market and partnering strategies, building a team and ensuring esprit de corps, accelerating growth in existing and/or new markets or raising capital. I’m keenly aware of the need for balancing strategy with the pragmatic realities of money and markets – a need that applies across early stage, growth and established companies. I draw energy from things that are new, different, transformative but also actionable. What I’ve Done: Executive/Operating Leadership, Venture Capital Partnership (Corporate Venture and Independent Funds), Strategy Consultant, Board Member, Advisor to companies large and small Other Activities: Advisor to Startup Companies, Venture Valkyrie blog (http://venturevalkyrie.com), Faculty at UC Berkeley/Haas, Frequent public speaker. Founder, CSweetener.org Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Suennen, veteran healthcare leader and commentator.  Also, founder of CSweetner, now a part of HLTH supporting the advancement of women in healthcare.

Kicking off HLTH 2023, Lisa provides her views on 5 key topic areas at the conference – what’s exciting and where we might be a bit more skeptical. Hear Lisa’s Hot Takes on:

  1. Stand-alone technology is useless
    Pay attention to the important convergence of technology with services or medical devices. Today, addressing important areas (workforce burnout; administrative overhead).  Still key to making it all work:  Interoperability and workflows.
  2. AI, the 60 y.o. overnight sensation, needs to stay in its lane (today that is)
    AI in practice is limited but still promising. Reducing burdensome admin overhead on very busy clinicians; detecting fraud; streamlining scheduling – start there.  HOLD UP on clinical applications until we gain confidence in what is more “sketchy” data today.  That said, in 25 years, expect AI to be ubiquitous and not a stand-alone thing.
  3. Mental Health – the new thing that’s not at all new
    Lisa sees promise in solutions targeted to specialized or unique populations. Opioid addiction is very different than teen depression or loneliness. She is quick to point out that a more holistic approach is still needed v point solutions..
  4. Big Tech and Healthcare ….and Impacting the Quadruple Aim
    Quadruple aim is just not the business model of Big Tech v quarterly earnings. Lisa sees Microsoft as ahead of the pack today, yet she remains skeptical that the impact will match the marketing.  That doesn’t mean she is not hopeful that it will!
  5. Weight Loss and Food as Medicine
    A very promising area with misaligned incentives today. A multidimensional approach is needed, and we simply MUST do something about our food…

Of course, we had to close out on the state of play for women in healthcare.  I forced Lisa to choose something positive to highlight.  Harder than it should have been!  The pockets of progress are there , but she was quick to point out that women have still lost more of the jobs of late and recent reports on the state of funding which show further declines in progress.  Sticking with the positive though, Lisa highlights the new focus and investment in Women’s Health.  Promising indeed!!

Thank you Lisa for sharing these views and pointing out some of the key topic areas for HLTH 2023.

Guest bio:

30+ Years of Healthcare and Team Leadership – living in the center of the Venn diagram between healthcare, entrepreneurship, and technology. Very comfortable coloring outside the lines.

I love to lead and work alongside creative, exceptional talent to build high value healthcare enterprises that thrive in a transforming world.

I have worked in and/or with all sides of the healthcare continuum (digital health/health IT/payer/provider/ health services /medical device/pharma); I have also worked on multiple sides of the business equation (executive/operations leadership, venture investor, strategy consultant, board member). As such, I think of myself as having a sort of Rubik’s Cube of healthcare knowledge that I can apply to new situations in a highly flexible way. From a practical standpoint, it means that I have an unusually broad perspective on the interplay among the different healthcare disciplines, the economics that drive them and the incentives that make buyers/decision-makers pay attention.

I combine that knowledge with a broad skill set in executive and operational leadership, strategy/BD, sales & marketing, partnering, and fund-raising to deliver results, whether it’s launching a new company or product, developing new go-to-market and partnering strategies, building a team and ensuring esprit de corps, accelerating growth in existing and/or new markets or raising capital. I’m keenly aware of the need for balancing strategy with the pragmatic realities of money and markets – a need that applies across early stage, growth and established companies. I draw energy from things that are new, different, transformative but also actionable.

What I’ve Done: Executive/Operating Leadership, Venture Capital Partnership (Corporate Venture and Independent Funds), Strategy Consultant, Board Member, Advisor to companies large and small

Other Activities: Advisor to Startup Companies, Venture Valkyrie blog (http://venturevalkyrie.com), Faculty at UC Berkeley/Haas, Frequent public speaker. Founder, CSweetener.org

]]> 737 no Headwinds and opportunities. 2023 State of play for women in leadership with Elisabetta Bartoloni || EP. 136 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/10/13/headwinds-and-opportunities-2023-state-of-play-for-women-in-leadership-with-elisabetta-bartoloni-ep-136/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elisabetta Bartoloni, a Heidrick & Struggles Partner and leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. In our post-pandemic workplaces where opportunities to advance to leadership have changed,  who better to speak with than Elisabetta Bartoloni from Heidrick & Struggles to understand the 2023 state of play for women in the workplace and the opportunities (and headwinds that remain) for advancing to leadership. Leadership opportunities for women align with the key skills for today’s most successful leaders – empathy and inclusivity.  These styles tend to be more female forward and are harder to learn.  There has been a lot of investment in unconscious bias training and focus on honing these skills – but it simply has not worked. Research also indicates that CULTURE has moved to the top slot for the drivers of performance (above strategy, operating model, and talent).  Also (and perhaps not surprising), companies with the highest scores on culture (where employees feel a sense of belonging….ability to show up as their authentic selves…), these companies financially outperform other by 2x. Elisabetta points out that there has been progress of women advancing in leadership.  The missing link remains in advancement to positions that own P&L’s.  Her advice to others is to jump at those opportunities to have responsibility for the financial performance of a business, project, or unit. Elisabetta also walks the walk with her efforts on the internal company Women Inspired Network and other external organizations that support girls seeing a path for themselves into leadership.  We continue to have a LOT of work to do to address gender parity in the workplace. Starting early with girls, providing a company culture of support, community and advocacy, and leading by example  – all so very important.  Thank you Elisabetta!! Guest bio:  Elisabetta Bartoloni is a partner in Heidrick & Struggles’ New York office and sector leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. She also co-chairs the firm’s Americas Women Inclusion Network (WIN). Previously, she led the Americas Investment & Corporate Banking Practice. She has more than 20 years of experience in executive search. Elisabetta’s executive search and advisory practice spans from managing directors to functional roles, including CEO and board positions, across investment banking, global and capital markets, and asset management. In addition to working with global financial institutions, Elisabetta has worked extensively with boutique and middle market investment banks and other investment management and fintech companies. Before joining Heidrick & Struggles, Elisabetta was a managing director at Westwood Partners focusing on investment banking and asset management in the Americas and responsible for the firm’s Latin America executive search practice. Prior to joining Westwood, Elisabetta was a director at J.H. McCann & Company, a boutique executive search firm exclusively serving the financial services industry and a senior associate in the global financial services practice of another global executive search firm. Elisabetta began her career in the financial services industry, having worked as a data research analyst in investment banking at Goldman Sachs. Fri, 13 Oct 2023 21:23:43 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elisabetta Bartoloni, a Heidrick & Struggles Partner and leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. In our post-pandemic workplaces where opportunities to advance to leadership have changed, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elisabetta Bartoloni, a Heidrick & Struggles Partner and leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. In our post-pandemic workplaces where opportunities to advance to leadership have changed,  who better to speak with than Elisabetta Bartoloni from Heidrick & Struggles to understand the 2023 state of play for women in the workplace and the opportunities (and headwinds that remain) for advancing to leadership. Leadership opportunities for women align with the key skills for today’s most successful leaders – empathy and inclusivity.  These styles tend to be more female forward and are harder to learn.  There has been a lot of investment in unconscious bias training and focus on honing these skills – but it simply has not worked. Research also indicates that CULTURE has moved to the top slot for the drivers of performance (above strategy, operating model, and talent).  Also (and perhaps not surprising), companies with the highest scores on culture (where employees feel a sense of belonging….ability to show up as their authentic selves…), these companies financially outperform other by 2x. Elisabetta points out that there has been progress of women advancing in leadership.  The missing link remains in advancement to positions that own P&L’s.  Her advice to others is to jump at those opportunities to have responsibility for the financial performance of a business, project, or unit. Elisabetta also walks the walk with her efforts on the internal company Women Inspired Network and other external organizations that support girls seeing a path for themselves into leadership.  We continue to have a LOT of work to do to address gender parity in the workplace. Starting early with girls, providing a company culture of support, community and advocacy, and leading by example  – all so very important.  Thank you Elisabetta!! Guest bio:  Elisabetta Bartoloni is a partner in Heidrick & Struggles’ New York office and sector leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. She also co-chairs the firm’s Americas Women Inclusion Network (WIN). Previously, she led the Americas Investment & Corporate Banking Practice. She has more than 20 years of experience in executive search. Elisabetta’s executive search and advisory practice spans from managing directors to functional roles, including CEO and board positions, across investment banking, global and capital markets, and asset management. In addition to working with global financial institutions, Elisabetta has worked extensively with boutique and middle market investment banks and other investment management and fintech companies. Before joining Heidrick & Struggles, Elisabetta was a managing director at Westwood Partners focusing on investment banking and asset management in the Americas and responsible for the firm’s Latin America executive search practice. Prior to joining Westwood, Elisabetta was a director at J.H. McCann & Company, a boutique executive search firm exclusively serving the financial services industry and a senior associate in the global financial services practice of another global executive search firm. Elisabetta began her career in the financial services industry, having worked as a data research analyst in investment banking at Goldman Sachs.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elisabetta Bartoloni, a Heidrick & Struggles Partner and leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice.

In our post-pandemic workplaces where opportunities to advance to leadership have changed,  who better to speak with than Elisabetta Bartoloni from Heidrick & Struggles to understand the 2023 state of play for women in the workplace and the opportunities (and headwinds that remain) for advancing to leadership.

Leadership opportunities for women align with the key skills for today’s most successful leaders – empathy and inclusivity.  These styles tend to be more female forward and are harder to learn.  There has been a lot of investment in unconscious bias training and focus on honing these skills – but it simply has not worked.

Research also indicates that CULTURE has moved to the top slot for the drivers of performance (above strategy, operating model, and talent).  Also (and perhaps not surprising), companies with the highest scores on culture (where employees feel a sense of belonging….ability to show up as their authentic selves…), these companies financially outperform other by 2x.

Elisabetta points out that there has been progress of women advancing in leadership.  The missing link remains in advancement to positions that own P&L’s.  Her advice to others is to jump at those opportunities to have responsibility for the financial performance of a business, project, or unit.

Elisabetta also walks the walk with her efforts on the internal company Women Inspired Network and other external organizations that support girls seeing a path for themselves into leadership.  We continue to have a LOT of work to do to address gender parity in the workplace.

Starting early with girls, providing a company culture of support, community and advocacy, and leading by example  – all so very important.  Thank you Elisabetta!!

Guest bio:

 Elisabetta Bartoloni is a partner in Heidrick & Struggles’ New York office and sector leader of the Americas Global Markets Practice. She also co-chairs the firm’s Americas Women Inclusion Network (WIN). Previously, she led the Americas Investment & Corporate Banking Practice. She has more than 20 years of experience in executive search.

Elisabetta’s executive search and advisory practice spans from managing directors to functional roles, including CEO and board positions, across investment banking, global and capital markets, and asset management. In addition to working with global financial institutions, Elisabetta has worked extensively with boutique and middle market investment banks and other investment management and fintech companies.

Before joining Heidrick & Struggles, Elisabetta was a managing director at Westwood Partners focusing on investment banking and asset management in the Americas and responsible for the firm’s Latin America executive search practice. Prior to joining Westwood, Elisabetta was a director at J.H. McCann & Company, a boutique executive search firm exclusively serving the financial services industry and a senior associate in the global financial services practice of another global executive search firm. Elisabetta began her career in the financial services industry, having worked as a data research analyst in investment banking at Goldman Sachs.

]]> 1707 no Magic and possibilities. Deepthi Bathina on the launch of RhythmX AI || EP. 135 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/10/06/magic-and-possibilities-deepthi-bathina-on-the-launch-of-rhythmx-ai-ep-135/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deepthi Bathina, CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup. Deepthi’s interest in healthcare is personal.  She lost her grandmother early due to complications from diabetes.  What Deepthi remembers was the lack of understanding of how diabetes could be controlled.  And the suffering, not only in her family but across many other parts of the world.  And she wants to do something about it. As a teen, she discovered coding – simply magic!! Which is how she feels today about AI and the endless possibilities.  She has recently launched her new company, RhythmX AI. A generative AI-native health company driving a paradigm shift in hyper-personalized care.  Deepthi talks about what it means to provide whole person care.  Using enormous amounts of data to fill in gaps and then provide information within the workflows of clinicians.  Importantly and using her background as the chief product person at a large payor, a key aspect of the platform will be to understand the benefits or gaps in benefits of the patient to address the access and affordability of healthcare. As we talked about her leadership journey, Deepthi reflects on working with iconic leaders like Jack Welch early in her career and today, Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, founder and CEO of SAIGroup and recently honored on the inaugural TIME100 AI list.  From Jack Welch, she has embraced extreme candor and transparency.  And from Dr. Wadhwani, knowing that the journey of 1000 miles begins with incredibly important first steps.  Also, she knows the problems they intend to solve at RhythmX AI are extremely complex, so the advice to get to the 4mm level of the problem is key.  But advice on networking (pick up golf!!!!), raising a family (take them on the road with you!!), that didn’t work for her, so she did it her own way…. which has seemed to work out just fine. Deepthi closes our conversation with advice for leaders, and for women leaders in particular.  Simply put, take risks.  Push yourself and aim high. Deepthi Bathina | CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup  Deepthi Bathina is founder and CEO of RhythmX AI, a new health AI company driving a paradigm shift in whole-person primary care. The innovative Rhythm AI-powered platform is helping physicians pioneer a new era of hyper-personalized patient care. RhythmX AI is owned by the private equity firm SAIGroup (Symphony AI and Concert AI), one of the largest and fastest-growing Silicon Valley firms focused on enterprise AI.  Bathina is chair of the board of the Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Babson College. She is the former chief product officer at Humana, a Fortune 50 healthcare firm, where she led product development and management of all healthcare solutions for the entire company and led customer success functions across Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial segments. Before Humana, Bathina was general manager of operations for the $1 billion Healthcare Technology Division of Nuance Communications. She is the former head of global operations for the clinical decision support division (UpToDate) at Wolters Kluwer, leading global customer operations in 170 countries. Fri, 06 Oct 2023 21:16:05 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deepthi Bathina, CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup. Deepthi’s interest in healthcare is personal.  She lost her grandmother early due to complications from diabetes. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deepthi Bathina, CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup. Deepthi’s interest in healthcare is personal.  She lost her grandmother early due to complications from diabetes.  What Deepthi remembers was the lack of understanding of how diabetes could be controlled.  And the suffering, not only in her family but across many other parts of the world.  And she wants to do something about it. As a teen, she discovered coding – simply magic!! Which is how she feels today about AI and the endless possibilities.  She has recently launched her new company, RhythmX AI. A generative AI-native health company driving a paradigm shift in hyper-personalized care.  Deepthi talks about what it means to provide whole person care.  Using enormous amounts of data to fill in gaps and then provide information within the workflows of clinicians.  Importantly and using her background as the chief product person at a large payor, a key aspect of the platform will be to understand the benefits or gaps in benefits of the patient to address the access and affordability of healthcare. As we talked about her leadership journey, Deepthi reflects on working with iconic leaders like Jack Welch early in her career and today, Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, founder and CEO of SAIGroup and recently honored on the inaugural TIME100 AI list.  From Jack Welch, she has embraced extreme candor and transparency.  And from Dr. Wadhwani, knowing that the journey of 1000 miles begins with incredibly important first steps.  Also, she knows the problems they intend to solve at RhythmX AI are extremely complex, so the advice to get to the 4mm level of the problem is key.  But advice on networking (pick up golf!!!!), raising a family (take them on the road with you!!), that didn’t work for her, so she did it her own way…. which has seemed to work out just fine. Deepthi closes our conversation with advice for leaders, and for women leaders in particular.  Simply put, take risks.  Push yourself and aim high. Deepthi Bathina | CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup  Deepthi Bathina is founder and CEO of RhythmX AI, a new health AI company driving a paradigm shift in whole-person primary care. The innovative Rhythm AI-powered platform is helping physicians pioneer a new era of hyper-personalized patient care. RhythmX AI is owned by the private equity firm SAIGroup (Symphony AI and Concert AI), one of the largest and fastest-growing Silicon Valley firms focused on enterprise AI.  Bathina is chair of the board of the Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Babson College. She is the former chief product officer at Humana, a Fortune 50 healthcare firm, where she led product development and management of all healthcare solutions for the entire company and led customer success functions across Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial segments. Before Humana, Bathina was general manager of operations for the $1 billion Healthcare Technology Division of Nuance Communications. She is the former head of global operations for the clinical decision support division (UpToDate) at Wolters Kluwer, leading global customer operations in 170 countries.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deepthi Bathina, CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup.

Deepthi’s interest in healthcare is personal.  She lost her grandmother early due to complications from diabetes.  What Deepthi remembers was the lack of understanding of how diabetes could be controlled.  And the suffering, not only in her family but across many other parts of the world.  And she wants to do something about it.

As a teen, she discovered coding – simply magic!! Which is how she feels today about AI and the endless possibilities.  She has recently launched her new company, RhythmX AI. A generative AI-native health company driving a paradigm shift in hyper-personalized care.  Deepthi talks about what it means to provide whole person care.  Using enormous amounts of data to fill in gaps and then provide information within the workflows of clinicians.  Importantly and using her background as the chief product person at a large payor, a key aspect of the platform will be to understand the benefits or gaps in benefits of the patient to address the access and affordability of healthcare.

As we talked about her leadership journey, Deepthi reflects on working with iconic leaders like Jack Welch early in her career and today, Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, founder and CEO of SAIGroup and recently honored on the inaugural TIME100 AI list.  From Jack Welch, she has embraced extreme candor and transparency.  And from Dr. Wadhwani, knowing that the journey of 1000 miles begins with incredibly important first steps.  Also, she knows the problems they intend to solve at RhythmX AI are extremely complex, so the advice to get to the 4mm level of the problem is key.  But advice on networking (pick up golf!!!!), raising a family (take them on the road with you!!), that didn’t work for her, so she did it her own way…. which has seemed to work out just fine.

Deepthi closes our conversation with advice for leaders, and for women leaders in particular.  Simply put, take risks.  Push yourself and aim high.

Deepthi Bathina | CEO and founder of RhythmX AI and Healthcare Partner at SAIGroup 

Deepthi Bathina is founder and CEO of RhythmX AI, a new health AI company driving a paradigm shift in whole-person primary care. The innovative Rhythm AI-powered platform is helping physicians pioneer a new era of hyper-personalized patient care. RhythmX AI is owned by the private equity firm SAIGroup (Symphony AI and Concert AI), one of the largest and fastest-growing Silicon Valley firms focused on enterprise AI. 

Bathina is chair of the board of the Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Babson College. She is the former chief product officer at Humana, a Fortune 50 healthcare firm, where she led product development and management of all healthcare solutions for the entire company and led customer success functions across Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial segments. Before Humana, Bathina was general manager of operations for the $1 billion Healthcare Technology Division of Nuance Communications. She is the former head of global operations for the clinical decision support division (UpToDate) at Wolters Kluwer, leading global customer operations in 170 countries.

]]> 1764 no #Road to HLTH 2023 with Joy Rios of HIT Like a Girl || EP. 134 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/09/29/road-to-hlth-2023-with-joy-rios-of-hit-like-a-girl-ep-134/ Inspiring Women and Boulder, Colorado is stop # 9 on the HIT Like a Girl Pod Road to HLTH 2023.  It was planes, trains, and automobiles for founder Joy Rios who journeyed across the country, visiting innovative health tech hubs and speaking with women about some of the most pressing problems in healthcare today.  Along the #RoadtoHLTH23, the ideas flowed freely, as did the laughs, networking and idea sharing. In Boulder, Colorado, our day began with an early morning and very gorgeous hike, some stretching, and then a joint podcast with Inspiring Women and HIT Like a Girl.  In this special episode, hear Laurie McGraw and Joy Rios talk about: The magic that happens when women can be in nature and let their guards down. A seemingly new and exciting trend with women leaders who are actively bringing others with them and making more room at the leadership table. There’s power in a pack! Ways to combat the imposter syndrome or other struggles with confidence. Joy provides some PRO Tips on ways to use AI to serve as a sounding board or coach. Some of the healthcare trendlines heard along the Road to HLTH such as houselessness, mental health issues and how these are impacting all communities but in different ways. Innovation in healthcare, all of which is exciting, but pressing on how these potentially innovative solutions can actually impact severe trendlines of cost, access, or outcomes. May this lively conversation lead to many others on the Road to HLTH!!!!! Fri, 29 Sep 2023 17:21:27 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Inspiring Women and Boulder, Colorado is stop # 9 on the HIT Like a Girl Pod Road to HLTH 2023.  It was planes, trains, and automobiles for founder Joy Rios who journeyed across the country, visiting innovative health tech hubs and speaking with women ... Inspiring Women and Boulder, Colorado is stop # 9 on the HIT Like a Girl Pod Road to HLTH 2023.  It was planes, trains, and automobiles for founder Joy Rios who journeyed across the country, visiting innovative health tech hubs and speaking with women about some of the most pressing problems in healthcare today.  Along the #RoadtoHLTH23, the ideas flowed freely, as did the laughs, networking and idea sharing. In Boulder, Colorado, our day began with an early morning and very gorgeous hike, some stretching, and then a joint podcast with Inspiring Women and HIT Like a Girl.  In this special episode, hear Laurie McGraw and Joy Rios talk about: The magic that happens when women can be in nature and let their guards down. A seemingly new and exciting trend with women leaders who are actively bringing others with them and making more room at the leadership table. There’s power in a pack! Ways to combat the imposter syndrome or other struggles with confidence. Joy provides some PRO Tips on ways to use AI to serve as a sounding board or coach. Some of the healthcare trendlines heard along the Road to HLTH such as houselessness, mental health issues and how these are impacting all communities but in different ways. Innovation in healthcare, all of which is exciting, but pressing on how these potentially innovative solutions can actually impact severe trendlines of cost, access, or outcomes. May this lively conversation lead to many others on the Road to HLTH!!!!!

Inspiring Women and Boulder, Colorado is stop # 9 on the HIT Like a Girl Pod Road to HLTH 2023.  It was planes, trains, and automobiles for founder Joy Rios who journeyed across the country, visiting innovative health tech hubs and speaking with women about some of the most pressing problems in healthcare today.  Along the #RoadtoHLTH23, the ideas flowed freely, as did the laughs, networking and idea sharing.

In Boulder, Colorado, our day began with an early morning and very gorgeous hike, some stretching, and then a joint podcast with Inspiring Women and HIT Like a Girl.  In this special episode, hear Laurie McGraw and Joy Rios talk about:

  • The magic that happens when women can be in nature and let their guards down.
  • A seemingly new and exciting trend with women leaders who are actively bringing others with them and making more room at the leadership table. There’s power in a pack!
  • Ways to combat the imposter syndrome or other struggles with confidence. Joy provides some PRO Tips on ways to use AI to serve as a sounding board or coach.
  • Some of the healthcare trendlines heard along the Road to HLTH such as houselessness, mental health issues and how these are impacting all communities but in different ways.
  • Innovation in healthcare, all of which is exciting, but pressing on how these potentially innovative solutions can actually impact severe trendlines of cost, access, or outcomes.

May this lively conversation lead to many others on the Road to HLTH!!!!!

]]> 1856 no Marta Ronquillo Newhart on the Power of Story Telling (and it’s all in the family) || EP. 133 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/09/07/marta-ronquillo-newhart-on-the-power-of-story-telling-and-its-all-in-the-family-ep-133/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marta Ronquillo Newhart, longtime Chief Communications and Brand officer to Fortune 100 companies. When Marta tells her “how did you get here?” story, it begins and then comes back to her roots, her family.  Marta comes from the family Ronquillo.  She talks about her renowned grandfather Rosalio Ronquillo married to her grandmother Virginia (pronounced viahinya) Bermudez Ronquillo. Her grandfather was a storyteller.  A businessman. An entrepreneur.  And a caring community and government leader.  The influence and connections of storytelling to business, innovation and leadership have become core to Marta’s own success. At age 13, Marta’s mother delivered some sobering news.  You are different.  You will need to work twice as hard and then they will see you only as half as good.  Was it because of being a woman?  A Latina?  Marta was never concerned about that.  Rather, she took it as her reality and set her expectations.  It meant working harder to get that recognition, but it never took away any of her ambition. Today, Marta is focused on her work in the boardroom.  She discusses the transition from operator to Director.  How she had to learn to be “Nose In, Hands Out” and the importance of managing risk in the boardroom.  Also, how diversity in the boardroom leads to better decision making. All of this and a whole lot more in this excellent Inspiring Women episode! ……………………………..   About Marta Ronquillo Newhart C-Level/Former Westinghouse CCO & Brand Officer Boulder, Colorado A Chief Communications and Brand Officer to Fortune 100 companies with the business acumen to drive value creation and bottom-line results. Deep domain expertise in crisis and risk management, corporate strategy and reputation, digital transformation, and brand equity. Experience leading through high profile industry-changing mergers, acquisitions, major crises, ESG, and brand evolutions for one Dow Component, three Nasdaq companies, and one startup company. Considered one of the foremost communications thought leaders in corporate America today. Recognized for creating impact-driven communication strategies that transform brands while increasing investment and driving revenue, employee engagement, and industry influence. Builds purpose within companies and demonstrates how it lives at the intersection of company strategy, values, and mission. Approaches CCO role as Chief Counselor to CEO, Board, and Leadership Team. Marta was a 50/50 Women on Boards 50 Women to Watch for Boards finalist. 50/50 Women on Boards (50/50WOB) is the leading global nonprofit education and advocacy campaign driving the movement toward gender balance and diversity on corporate boards. Since 2010 the campaign has published its 50/50 Women on Boards Gender Diversity Index directory and research reports to track the gender and racial diversity of Russell 3000 company board directors. Educational programs and advocacy efforts produced by 50/50WOB include its annual Global Conversation on Board Diversity, year-round board training programs for individuals and corporate groups, and the Networking Hub for alumni to connect to experts and corporate directors in support of their board journey. For more information visit, www.5050wob.com. Thu, 07 Sep 2023 05:18:30 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marta Ronquillo Newhart, longtime Chief Communications and Brand officer to Fortune 100 companies. When Marta tells her “how did you get here?” story, it begins and then comes back to her roots, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marta Ronquillo Newhart, longtime Chief Communications and Brand officer to Fortune 100 companies. When Marta tells her “how did you get here?” story, it begins and then comes back to her roots, her family.  Marta comes from the family Ronquillo.  She talks about her renowned grandfather Rosalio Ronquillo married to her grandmother Virginia (pronounced viahinya) Bermudez Ronquillo. Her grandfather was a storyteller.  A businessman. An entrepreneur.  And a caring community and government leader.  The influence and connections of storytelling to business, innovation and leadership have become core to Marta’s own success. At age 13, Marta’s mother delivered some sobering news.  You are different.  You will need to work twice as hard and then they will see you only as half as good.  Was it because of being a woman?  A Latina?  Marta was never concerned about that.  Rather, she took it as her reality and set her expectations.  It meant working harder to get that recognition, but it never took away any of her ambition. Today, Marta is focused on her work in the boardroom.  She discusses the transition from operator to Director.  How she had to learn to be “Nose In, Hands Out” and the importance of managing risk in the boardroom.  Also, how diversity in the boardroom leads to better decision making. All of this and a whole lot more in this excellent Inspiring Women episode! ……………………………..   About Marta Ronquillo Newhart C-Level/Former Westinghouse CCO & Brand Officer Boulder, Colorado A Chief Communications and Brand Officer to Fortune 100 companies with the business acumen to drive value creation and bottom-line results. Deep domain expertise in crisis and risk management, corporate strategy and reputation, digital transformation, and brand equity. Experience leading through high profile industry-changing mergers, acquisitions, major crises, ESG, and brand evolutions for one Dow Component, three Nasdaq companies, and one startup company. Considered one of the foremost communications thought leaders in corporate America today. Recognized for creating impact-driven communication strategies that transform brands while increasing investment and driving revenue, employee engagement, and industry influence. Builds purpose within companies and demonstrates how it lives at the intersection of company strategy, values, and mission. Approaches CCO role as Chief Counselor to CEO, Board, and Leadership Team. Marta was a 50/50 Women on Boards 50 Women to Watch for Boards finalist. 50/50 Women on Boards (50/50WOB) is the leading global nonprofit education and advocacy campaign driving the movement toward gender balance and diversity on corporate boards. Since 2010 the campaign has published its 50/50 Women on Boards Gender Diversity Index directory and research reports to track the gender and racial diversity of Russell 3000 company board directors. Educational programs and advocacy efforts produced by 50/50WOB include its annual Global Conversation on Board Diversity, year-round board training programs for individuals and corporate groups, and the Networking Hub for alumni to connect to experts and corporate directors in support of their board journey. For more information visit, www.5050wob.com.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marta Ronquillo Newhart, longtime Chief Communications and Brand officer to Fortune 100 companies.

When Marta tells her “how did you get here?” story, it begins and then comes back to her roots, her family.  Marta comes from the family Ronquillo.  She talks about her renowned grandfather Rosalio Ronquillo married to her grandmother Virginia (pronounced viahinya) Bermudez Ronquillo. Her grandfather was a storyteller.  A businessman. An entrepreneur.  And a caring community and government leader.  The influence and connections of storytelling to business, innovation and leadership have become core to Marta’s own success.

At age 13, Marta’s mother delivered some sobering news.  You are different.  You will need to work twice as hard and then they will see you only as half as good.  Was it because of being a woman?  A Latina?  Marta was never concerned about that.  Rather, she took it as her reality and set her expectations.  It meant working harder to get that recognition, but it never took away any of her ambition.

Today, Marta is focused on her work in the boardroom.  She discusses the transition from operator to Director.  How she had to learn to be “Nose In, Hands Out” and the importance of managing risk in the boardroom.  Also, how diversity in the boardroom leads to better decision making.

All of this and a whole lot more in this excellent Inspiring Women episode!

……………………………..

 

About Marta Ronquillo Newhart

C-Level/Former Westinghouse CCO & Brand Officer

Boulder, Colorado

A Chief Communications and Brand Officer to Fortune 100 companies with the business acumen to drive value creation and bottom-line results. Deep domain expertise in crisis and risk management, corporate strategy and reputation, digital transformation, and brand equity. Experience leading through high profile industry-changing mergers, acquisitions, major crises, ESG, and brand evolutions for one Dow Component, three Nasdaq companies, and one startup company.

Considered one of the foremost communications thought leaders in corporate America today. Recognized for creating impact-driven communication strategies that transform brands while increasing investment and driving revenue, employee engagement, and industry influence.

Builds purpose within companies and demonstrates how it lives at the intersection of company strategy, values, and mission. Approaches CCO role as Chief Counselor to CEO, Board, and Leadership Team.

Marta was a 50/50 Women on Boards 50 Women to Watch for Boards finalist. 50/50 Women on Boards (50/50WOB) is the leading global nonprofit education and advocacy campaign driving the movement toward gender balance and diversity on corporate boards. Since 2010 the campaign has published its 50/50 Women on Boards Gender Diversity Index directory and research reports to track the gender and racial diversity of Russell 3000 company board directors. Educational programs and advocacy efforts produced by 50/50WOB include its annual Global Conversation on Board Diversity, year-round board training programs for individuals and corporate groups, and the Networking Hub for alumni to connect to experts and corporate directors in support of their board journey. For more information visit, www.5050wob.com.

]]> 2005 no Congresswoman Diana DeGette discusses public service, signature healthcare legislation, AI, and a whole lot more || EP. 132 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/08/17/congresswoman-diana-degette-discusses-public-service-signature-healthcare-legislation-ai-and-a-whole-lot-more-ep-132/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with the very inspiring Congresswoman Diana DeGette, now in her fourteenth Congressional term representing Colorado and the nation. Congresswoman DeGette reflects on her life of public service as well as some of her signature legislation over her near 25 years in Congress. When she started in Congress, a mere 12% of the US Representatives were women.  Today, that number has more than doubled but remains under 30%.  She is quick to point out the many leadership positions women hold in the House and how diverse perspectives impact legislation. Congresswoman DeGette was hard pressed to pick a favorite of her many legislative wins but given that she is a leading voice on healthcare issues, we focused there.  She offered thoughts on drug pricing (as well as making insulin, in particular, affordable for all), the disastrous Dobbs decision and the path needed to turn back the clock on fundamental rights (it will require a national law), mental health issues affecting young people (we are not going to legislate our way out of this), and the opportunity with AI (the potential exists to get to cures fast, with great attention needed to patient privacy and ethics). And if public service does not sound like the opportunity for you, Congresswoman DeGette provides some advice that may in fact change your mind! …………………………….. About  Congresswoman Diana DeGette Rep. Diana DeGette is a fourth-generation Coloradoan who has dedicated her life to serving the people of Colorado’s First Congressional District. Now in her fourteenth term, DeGette is recognized as a leading voice in the nation’s health care debate. As a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, DeGette has played a leading role in overseeing the nation’s health care agencies and the nation’s overall response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s also led numerous efforts to ensure the nation’s environmental laws are being properly enforced, lower the cost of insulin for millions of Americans and take on the climate crisis. As the top Democrat on the committee’s Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee, DeGette is responsible for helping shape the nation’s energy policies. She has led numerous efforts to hold the nation’s oil and gas producers accountable, reduce America’s overall emissions and expedite our transition to cleaner forms of renewable energy. In fact, one of the first bills President Biden signed into law after taking office was legislation DeGette authored to drastically reduce methane emissions from drilling sites across – a move climate scientists praised as critical to combatting the climate crisis. Thu, 17 Aug 2023 17:29:15 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with the very inspiring Congresswoman Diana DeGette, now in her fourteenth Congressional term representing Colorado and the nation. Congresswoman DeGette reflects on her life of public service as well as some of her signature ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with the very inspiring Congresswoman Diana DeGette, now in her fourteenth Congressional term representing Colorado and the nation. Congresswoman DeGette reflects on her life of public service as well as some of her signature legislation over her near 25 years in Congress. When she started in Congress, a mere 12% of the US Representatives were women.  Today, that number has more than doubled but remains under 30%.  She is quick to point out the many leadership positions women hold in the House and how diverse perspectives impact legislation. Congresswoman DeGette was hard pressed to pick a favorite of her many legislative wins but given that she is a leading voice on healthcare issues, we focused there.  She offered thoughts on drug pricing (as well as making insulin, in particular, affordable for all), the disastrous Dobbs decision and the path needed to turn back the clock on fundamental rights (it will require a national law), mental health issues affecting young people (we are not going to legislate our way out of this), and the opportunity with AI (the potential exists to get to cures fast, with great attention needed to patient privacy and ethics). And if public service does not sound like the opportunity for you, Congresswoman DeGette provides some advice that may in fact change your mind! …………………………….. About  Congresswoman Diana DeGette Rep. Diana DeGette is a fourth-generation Coloradoan who has dedicated her life to serving the people of Colorado’s First Congressional District. Now in her fourteenth term, DeGette is recognized as a leading voice in the nation’s health care debate. As a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, DeGette has played a leading role in overseeing the nation’s health care agencies and the nation’s overall response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s also led numerous efforts to ensure the nation’s environmental laws are being properly enforced, lower the cost of insulin for millions of Americans and take on the climate crisis. As the top Democrat on the committee’s Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee, DeGette is responsible for helping shape the nation’s energy policies. She has led numerous efforts to hold the nation’s oil and gas producers accountable, reduce America’s overall emissions and expedite our transition to cleaner forms of renewable energy. In fact, one of the first bills President Biden signed into law after taking office was legislation DeGette authored to drastically reduce methane emissions from drilling sites across – a move climate scientists praised as critical to combatting the climate crisis.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with the very inspiring Congresswoman Diana DeGette, now in her fourteenth Congressional term representing Colorado and the nation.

Congresswoman DeGette reflects on her life of public service as well as some of her signature legislation over her near 25 years in Congress.

When she started in Congress, a mere 12% of the US Representatives were women.  Today, that number has more than doubled but remains under 30%.  She is quick to point out the many leadership positions women hold in the House and how diverse perspectives impact legislation.

Congresswoman DeGette was hard pressed to pick a favorite of her many legislative wins but given that she is a leading voice on healthcare issues, we focused there.  She offered thoughts on drug pricing (as well as making insulin, in particular, affordable for all), the disastrous Dobbs decision and the path needed to turn back the clock on fundamental rights (it will require a national law), mental health issues affecting young people (we are not going to legislate our way out of this), and the opportunity with AI (the potential exists to get to cures fast, with great attention needed to patient privacy and ethics).

And if public service does not sound like the opportunity for you, Congresswoman DeGette provides some advice that may in fact change your mind!

……………………………..

About  Congresswoman Diana DeGette

Rep. Diana DeGette is a fourth-generation Coloradoan who has dedicated her life to serving the people of Colorado’s First Congressional District.

Now in her fourteenth term, DeGette is recognized as a leading voice in the nation’s health care debate. As a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, DeGette has played a leading role in overseeing the nation’s health care agencies and the nation’s overall response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s also led numerous efforts to ensure the nation’s environmental laws are being properly enforced, lower the cost of insulin for millions of Americans and take on the climate crisis.

As the top Democrat on the committee’s Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee, DeGette is responsible for helping shape the nation’s energy policies. She has led numerous efforts to hold the nation’s oil and gas producers accountable, reduce America’s overall emissions and expedite our transition to cleaner forms of renewable energy. In fact, one of the first bills President Biden signed into law after taking office was legislation DeGette authored to drastically reduce methane emissions from drilling sites across – a move climate scientists praised as critical to combatting the climate crisis.

]]> 1454 no Pro tips for navigating hybrid work and other sound advice from Morgan Diaz || EP. 131 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/08/01/pro-tips-for-navigating-hybrid-work-and-other-sound-advice-from-morgan-diaz-ep-131/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Morgan Diaz, VP of Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth. In her day job, Morgan has responsibility for the largest, most connected marketplace in healthcare with over 400 partners connecting data to the core athena EHR system.  Morgan talks about the data flywheel this creates with interoperability at the core.  And the innovation is impressive.  No one company can do it all.  Physician practices today are  looking for specialty specific product extensions or ways to meet the ever-increasing expectations of their patients. Morgan began her career in retail operations but had a career inflection point with the birth of her first child. Her pivot to healthcare began at CVS where she caught “the bug”.  Morgan is motivated by purpose and operates best when she is pushing her comfort zone.  Along the way, female mentors have been a consistent thread in her own success.  Because of this, supporting other women and emerging leaders is something deeply personal and important. She also provides practical advice for professionals to keep them calibrated to their team and their customers in a world of hybrid work. Morgan’s Pro Tips: Make sure you are heard so that when you are not in the room, others know your value. Be consistent in checking in with your leader so they also see the small work being done. Document your journey along the way. Be brave and curious and a source of inspiration for others. And be proud to stand out! …………………………….. About  Morgan Diaz VP, Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth  An entrepreneurial-minded, charismatic and top-performing executive skilled in business planning, product strategy, development and execution. Demonstrated experience building entirely new health verticals, working collaboratively across matrixed organizations to create differentiating patient experiences that deliver brand loyalty and sustainable revenue growth. Tue, 01 Aug 2023 14:26:33 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Morgan Diaz, VP of Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth. In her day job, Morgan has responsibility for the largest, most connected marketplace in healthcare with over 400 partners connecti... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Morgan Diaz, VP of Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth. In her day job, Morgan has responsibility for the largest, most connected marketplace in healthcare with over 400 partners connecting data to the core athena EHR system.  Morgan talks about the data flywheel this creates with interoperability at the core.  And the innovation is impressive.  No one company can do it all.  Physician practices today are  looking for specialty specific product extensions or ways to meet the ever-increasing expectations of their patients. Morgan began her career in retail operations but had a career inflection point with the birth of her first child. Her pivot to healthcare began at CVS where she caught “the bug”.  Morgan is motivated by purpose and operates best when she is pushing her comfort zone.  Along the way, female mentors have been a consistent thread in her own success.  Because of this, supporting other women and emerging leaders is something deeply personal and important. She also provides practical advice for professionals to keep them calibrated to their team and their customers in a world of hybrid work. Morgan’s Pro Tips: Make sure you are heard so that when you are not in the room, others know your value. Be consistent in checking in with your leader so they also see the small work being done. Document your journey along the way. Be brave and curious and a source of inspiration for others. And be proud to stand out! …………………………….. About  Morgan Diaz VP, Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth  An entrepreneurial-minded, charismatic and top-performing executive skilled in business planning, product strategy, development and execution. Demonstrated experience building entirely new health verticals, working collaboratively across matrixed organizations to create differentiating patient experiences that deliver brand loyalty and sustainable revenue growth.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Morgan Diaz, VP of Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth.

In her day job, Morgan has responsibility for the largest, most connected marketplace in healthcare with over 400 partners connecting data to the core athena EHR system.  Morgan talks about the data flywheel this creates with interoperability at the core.  And the innovation is impressive.  No one company can do it all.  Physician practices today are  looking for specialty specific product extensions or ways to meet the ever-increasing expectations of their patients.

Morgan began her career in retail operations but had a career inflection point with the birth of her first child. Her pivot to healthcare began at CVS where she caught “the bug”.  Morgan is motivated by purpose and operates best when she is pushing her comfort zone.  Along the way, female mentors have been a consistent thread in her own success.  Because of this, supporting other women and emerging leaders is something deeply personal and important.

She also provides practical advice for professionals to keep them calibrated to their team and their customers in a world of hybrid work.

Morgan’s Pro Tips:

  • Make sure you are heard so that when you are not in the room, others know your value.
  • Be consistent in checking in with your leader so they also see the small work being done.
  • Document your journey along the way.
  • Be brave and curious and a source of inspiration for others.
  • And be proud to stand out!

……………………………..

About  Morgan Diaz

VP, Strategy, Operations and Partnerships at athenahealth

 An entrepreneurial-minded, charismatic and top-performing executive skilled in business planning, product strategy, development and execution. Demonstrated experience building entirely new health verticals, working collaboratively across matrixed organizations to create differentiating patient experiences that deliver brand loyalty and sustainable revenue growth.

]]> 1299 no Results built her career. Being vulnerable and establishing trust made her CEO. || EP. 130 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/07/24/results-built-her-career-being-vulnerable-and-establishing-trust-made-her-ceo-ep-130/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Carolyn Starrett, CEO of Flatiron Health. Carolyn Starrett grew up wanting to be a judge. Over time and through early jobs, she found a love of technology and a strong desire to work on important problems with a great team.  Today, she has found that at Flatiron.  She loves the cancer care focused mission but it’s the innovation that is coming that excites her. Day to day, Carolyn focuses on four key pillars that you might expect from a CEO.  Vision and strategy, people, systems and processes, and then the intangibles of culture.  Her biggest learning thus far as CEO is no surprise…. it’s lonely at the top.  Having mentors helps. Carolyn also dives into the complexity of cancer care.  She doesn’t see any single silver bullet, rather, involving a broad array of stakeholders is required to move faster and do more.  The rally cry of the Cancer Moonshot is very exciting to her.   Carolyn also discusses areas of innovation such as moving from retrospective real-world data to being able to generate evidence with improved clinical trials.  Her strategic approach includes international expansion and making clinical trials more accessible and representative – moving them from academic medical centers to out in communities. As she reflects on her leadership trajectory, Carolyn emphasizes that being focused on and known for results was absolutely critical.  However, it was when she allowed herself to be more vulnerable that she was able to establish and build those critical trusted relationships that led her to CEO.   About  Carolyn Starrett CEO of Flatiron Health Carolyn oversees Flatiron Health’s community oncology and research businesses and all corporate functions.  She previously led Flatiron’s community oncology business, and succeeded Co-Founder Nat Turner as CEO on April 16, 2021. Prior to joining Flatiron in 2016, Carolyn spent 10 years in senior strategy, product and operations roles at data and technology companies, and five years consulting with healthcare and technology companies at Boston Consulting Group. Carolyn holds a BA in economics and literature from Brown University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management. Mon, 24 Jul 2023 16:33:02 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Carolyn Starrett, CEO of Flatiron Health. Carolyn Starrett grew up wanting to be a judge. Over time and through early jobs, she found a love of technology and a strong desire to work on important problems ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Carolyn Starrett, CEO of Flatiron Health. Carolyn Starrett grew up wanting to be a judge. Over time and through early jobs, she found a love of technology and a strong desire to work on important problems with a great team.  Today, she has found that at Flatiron.  She loves the cancer care focused mission but it’s the innovation that is coming that excites her. Day to day, Carolyn focuses on four key pillars that you might expect from a CEO.  Vision and strategy, people, systems and processes, and then the intangibles of culture.  Her biggest learning thus far as CEO is no surprise…. it’s lonely at the top.  Having mentors helps. Carolyn also dives into the complexity of cancer care.  She doesn’t see any single silver bullet, rather, involving a broad array of stakeholders is required to move faster and do more.  The rally cry of the Cancer Moonshot is very exciting to her.   Carolyn also discusses areas of innovation such as moving from retrospective real-world data to being able to generate evidence with improved clinical trials.  Her strategic approach includes international expansion and making clinical trials more accessible and representative – moving them from academic medical centers to out in communities. As she reflects on her leadership trajectory, Carolyn emphasizes that being focused on and known for results was absolutely critical.  However, it was when she allowed herself to be more vulnerable that she was able to establish and build those critical trusted relationships that led her to CEO.   About  Carolyn Starrett CEO of Flatiron Health Carolyn oversees Flatiron Health’s community oncology and research businesses and all corporate functions.  She previously led Flatiron’s community oncology business, and succeeded Co-Founder Nat Turner as CEO on April 16, 2021. Prior to joining Flatiron in 2016, Carolyn spent 10 years in senior strategy, product and operations roles at data and technology companies, and five years consulting with healthcare and technology companies at Boston Consulting Group. Carolyn holds a BA in economics and literature from Brown University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Carolyn Starrett, CEO of Flatiron Health.

Carolyn Starrett grew up wanting to be a judge. Over time and through early jobs, she found a love of technology and a strong desire to work on important problems with a great team.  Today, she has found that at Flatiron.  She loves the cancer care focused mission but it’s the innovation that is coming that excites her.

Day to day, Carolyn focuses on four key pillars that you might expect from a CEO.  Vision and strategy, people, systems and processes, and then the intangibles of culture.  Her biggest learning thus far as CEO is no surprise…. it’s lonely at the top.  Having mentors helps.

Carolyn also dives into the complexity of cancer care.  She doesn’t see any single silver bullet, rather, involving a broad array of stakeholders is required to move faster and do more.  The rally cry of the Cancer Moonshot is very exciting to her.   Carolyn also discusses areas of innovation such as moving from retrospective real-world data to being able to generate evidence with improved clinical trials.  Her strategic approach includes international expansion and making clinical trials more accessible and representative – moving them from academic medical centers to out in communities.

As she reflects on her leadership trajectory, Carolyn emphasizes that being focused on and known for results was absolutely critical.  However, it was when she allowed herself to be more vulnerable that she was able to establish and build those critical trusted relationships that led her to CEO.

 

About  Carolyn Starrett

CEO of Flatiron Health

Carolyn oversees Flatiron Health’s community oncology and research businesses and all corporate functions.  She previously led Flatiron’s community oncology business, and succeeded Co-Founder Nat Turner as CEO on April 16, 2021.

Prior to joining Flatiron in 2016, Carolyn spent 10 years in senior strategy, product and operations roles at data and technology companies, and five years consulting with healthcare and technology companies at Boston Consulting Group.

Carolyn holds a BA in economics and literature from Brown University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management.

]]> 1511 no WBL Series with Priya Bathija, Jhaymee Tynan, & Phoebe Yang: Diversity is Core to Business Excellence || EP. 129 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/07/13/wbl-series-with-priya-bathija-jhaymee-tynan-phoebe-yang-diversity-is-core-to-business-excellence-ep-129/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Priya Bathija, Jhaymee Tynan, and Phoebe Yang at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A consultant and two lawyers walk into a room.  What happens? They leave as friends with a renewed commitment to DEI. This conversation centers DEI discussions with a focus on business excellence. It must start there.  This powerhouse trio is not interested in simple, cursory discussions or performative company efforts regarding DEI.  Rather, they discuss how diversity around the leadership table can impact the speed to attain and impact of results.  They provide practical approaches for how to address those leaders may nod their heads in agreement to DEI objectives, yet sabotage in sometimes subtle and sometimes not so subtle ways. In making the case for diversity in leadership, you will also learn from Priya, Jhaymee and Phoebe, the importance of friendship. Having your “tribe” along with you when you do hard things, take risks, put yourself out there, and oh yes… succeed.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About  Priya Bathija Founder/CEO Nyoo Health Priya Bathija, is a nationally-recognized healthcare leader, attorney, and policy expert. With 20 years of experience working for, in, and with hospitals, she has led the design, implementation and growth of initiatives that make the health system work better for everyone. Previously, she was at the American Hospital Association where she led policy efforts and strategic initiatives on value, health equity and maternal health. She started her career as a health care attorney and served as in-house counsel and a member of the leadership teams at ProMedica and MedStar Health.   About  Jhaymee Tynan Principal, Healthcare Services Korn Ferry Founder 100×2030 Author Inclusive Sponsorship, A Bold Vision to Advance Women of Color in the Workplace Jhaymee Tynan provides executive search and leadership advisory services for senior executives of healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences organizations. Previously, Jhaymee was Enterprise Assistant Vice President, Integration at Atrium Health (now Advocate Health), an academic healthcare system where she led multi-billion-dollar post-merger integrations for health system mergers and acquisitions (M&A) across the Southeast. She was also a Manager at Deloitte Consulting, focused on business model transformation in healthcare and a Consultant at Egon Zehnder.   About  Phoebe Yang Fortune 2 Executive (Amazon) Board Director (GE Healthcare, Doximity, CommonSpirit) Phoebe L. Yang is a trusted C-suite executive, board director, and advisor across digital media, healthcare, technology, and consumer industries with some of the world’s most valued and admired companies. She is inspired and driven by the mission of enabling access, affordability, convenience, and excellence through digital transformation. Recognized as a digital transformation and global expansion operator, thought leader, and investor. Having served in two Presidential Administrations in technology and international diplomacy, she is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Thu, 13 Jul 2023 18:20:45 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Priya Bathija, Jhaymee Tynan, and Phoebe Yang at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A consultant and two lawyers walk into a room.  What happens? Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Priya Bathija, Jhaymee Tynan, and Phoebe Yang at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A consultant and two lawyers walk into a room.  What happens? They leave as friends with a renewed commitment to DEI. This conversation centers DEI discussions with a focus on business excellence. It must start there.  This powerhouse trio is not interested in simple, cursory discussions or performative company efforts regarding DEI.  Rather, they discuss how diversity around the leadership table can impact the speed to attain and impact of results.  They provide practical approaches for how to address those leaders may nod their heads in agreement to DEI objectives, yet sabotage in sometimes subtle and sometimes not so subtle ways. In making the case for diversity in leadership, you will also learn from Priya, Jhaymee and Phoebe, the importance of friendship. Having your “tribe” along with you when you do hard things, take risks, put yourself out there, and oh yes… succeed.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About  Priya Bathija Founder/CEO Nyoo Health Priya Bathija, is a nationally-recognized healthcare leader, attorney, and policy expert. With 20 years of experience working for, in, and with hospitals, she has led the design, implementation and growth of initiatives that make the health system work better for everyone. Previously, she was at the American Hospital Association where she led policy efforts and strategic initiatives on value, health equity and maternal health. She started her career as a health care attorney and served as in-house counsel and a member of the leadership teams at ProMedica and MedStar Health.   About  Jhaymee Tynan Principal, Healthcare Services Korn Ferry Founder 100×2030 Author Inclusive Sponsorship, A Bold Vision to Advance Women of Color in the Workplace Jhaymee Tynan provides executive search and leadership advisory services for senior executives of healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences organizations. Previously, Jhaymee was Enterprise Assistant Vice President, Integration at Atrium Health (now Advocate Health), an academic healthcare system where she led multi-billion-dollar post-merger integrations for health system mergers and acquisitions (M&A) across the Southeast. She was also a Manager at Deloitte Consulting, focused on business model transformation in healthcare and a Consultant at Egon Zehnder.   About  Phoebe Yang Fortune 2 Executive (Amazon) Board Director (GE Healthcare, Doximity, CommonSpirit) Phoebe L. Yang is a trusted C-suite executive, board director, and advisor across digital media, healthcare, technology, and consumer industries with some of the world’s most valued and admired companies. She is inspired and driven by the mission of enabling access, affordability, convenience, and excellence through digital transformation. Recognized as a digital transformation and global expansion operator, thought leader, and investor. Having served in two Presidential Administrations in technology and international diplomacy, she is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Priya Bathija, Jhaymee Tynan, and Phoebe Yang at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

A consultant and two lawyers walk into a room.  What happens?

They leave as friends with a renewed commitment to DEI.

This conversation centers DEI discussions with a focus on business excellence. It must start there.  This powerhouse trio is not interested in simple, cursory discussions or performative company efforts regarding DEI.  Rather, they discuss how diversity around the leadership table can impact the speed to attain and impact of results.  They provide practical approaches for how to address those leaders may nod their heads in agreement to DEI objectives, yet sabotage in sometimes subtle and sometimes not so subtle ways.

In making the case for diversity in leadership, you will also learn from Priya, Jhaymee and Phoebe, the importance of friendship. Having your “tribe” along with you when you do hard things, take risks, put yourself out there, and oh yes… succeed.

 

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.

 

About  Priya Bathija

Founder/CEO Nyoo Health

Priya Bathija, is a nationally-recognized healthcare leader, attorney, and policy expert.

With 20 years of experience working for, in, and with hospitals, she has led the design, implementation and growth of initiatives that make the health system work better for everyone.

Previously, she was at the American Hospital Association where she led policy efforts and strategic initiatives on value, health equity and maternal health. She started her career as a health care attorney and served as in-house counsel and a member of the leadership teams at ProMedica and MedStar Health.

 

About  Jhaymee Tynan

Principal, Healthcare Services Korn Ferry

Founder 100×2030

Author Inclusive Sponsorship, A Bold Vision to Advance Women of Color in the Workplace

Jhaymee Tynan provides executive search and leadership advisory services for senior
executives of healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences organizations. Previously, Jhaymee
was Enterprise Assistant Vice President, Integration at Atrium Health (now Advocate Health), an
academic healthcare system where she led multi-billion-dollar post-merger integrations for health
system mergers and acquisitions (M&A) across the Southeast. She was also a Manager at Deloitte
Consulting, focused on business model transformation in healthcare and a Consultant at Egon Zehnder.

 

About  Phoebe Yang

Fortune 2 Executive (Amazon)

Board Director (GE Healthcare, Doximity, CommonSpirit)

Phoebe L. Yang is a trusted C-suite executive, board director, and advisor across digital media, healthcare, technology, and consumer industries with some of the world’s most valued and admired companies. She is inspired and driven by the mission of enabling access, affordability, convenience, and excellence through digital transformation.
Recognized as a digital transformation and global expansion operator, thought leader, and investor. Having served in two Presidential Administrations in technology and international diplomacy, she is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

]]> 2302 no WBL Series with Tuyet DesJean: On Being More Than || EP. 128 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/07/07/wbl-series-with-tuyet-desjean-on-being-more-than-ep-128/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tuyet DesJean at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A daughter of immigrants, an infant refugee whose parents went from the boat to the camp in pursuit of something better.  Every day Tuyet looks at that family picture by her desk, herself as an infant, her young parents (17 and 21 at the time) and she is reminded.  And she is grateful.  And what she knows today and knows deeply, is that she is more than….  What her parents dreamed for and then also, so much more. Humble beginnings served as the fuel to her desire for making an impact and for creating change.  Becoming a lawyer may have been a surprise to her parents, but being excellent was never a doubt.  Ask for the tough projects, gain experience, become more efficient along the way.  Tuyet proudly discusses her work at the AMA, its impact on making healthcare better, her love for the profession and her expertise in intellectual property. Today, Tuyet has a growing young family.  On being a “Power Mom”?  “Having children has made me a better lawyer.”  Efficiency and effectiveness are the priorities so that she can be present with her family.  Her advice?  It’s OK to ask for help, to delegate, and to not be trapped by artificial guilt for not doing it all. She expects more.  She is grateful for more.  Tuyet DesJean is more. ***************************** About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About Tuyet DesJean Associate General Counsel, American Medical Association Solution-oriented and experienced attorney with sophisticated experience and in-depth knowledge of the AMA’s existing goals and emerging opportunities in health care, with focused attention on legal and regulatory matters concerning intellectual property, medical terminologies, content licensing, and advances in technology with potential to disrupt the practice of medicine. Tuyet is a well-respected member of the Office of General Counsel team with more than ten years of legal experience at the AMA. As the lead attorney for the Coding Solutions and Transactions practice area, Tuyet currently focuses on legal issues related to the maintenance and licensing of the CPT code set and initiatives to further CPT as the uniform terminology to describe medical procedures and services. Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:57:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tuyet DesJean at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A daughter of immigrants, an infant refugee whose parents went from the boat to the camp in purs... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tuyet DesJean at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. A daughter of immigrants, an infant refugee whose parents went from the boat to the camp in pursuit of something better.  Every day Tuyet looks at that family picture by her desk, herself as an infant, her young parents (17 and 21 at the time) and she is reminded.  And she is grateful.  And what she knows today and knows deeply, is that she is more than….  What her parents dreamed for and then also, so much more. Humble beginnings served as the fuel to her desire for making an impact and for creating change.  Becoming a lawyer may have been a surprise to her parents, but being excellent was never a doubt.  Ask for the tough projects, gain experience, become more efficient along the way.  Tuyet proudly discusses her work at the AMA, its impact on making healthcare better, her love for the profession and her expertise in intellectual property. Today, Tuyet has a growing young family.  On being a “Power Mom”?  “Having children has made me a better lawyer.”  Efficiency and effectiveness are the priorities so that she can be present with her family.  Her advice?  It’s OK to ask for help, to delegate, and to not be trapped by artificial guilt for not doing it all. She expects more.  She is grateful for more.  Tuyet DesJean is more. ***************************** About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About Tuyet DesJean Associate General Counsel, American Medical Association Solution-oriented and experienced attorney with sophisticated experience and in-depth knowledge of the AMA’s existing goals and emerging opportunities in health care, with focused attention on legal and regulatory matters concerning intellectual property, medical terminologies, content licensing, and advances in technology with potential to disrupt the practice of medicine. Tuyet is a well-respected member of the Office of General Counsel team with more than ten years of legal experience at the AMA. As the lead attorney for the Coding Solutions and Transactions practice area, Tuyet currently focuses on legal issues related to the maintenance and licensing of the CPT code set and initiatives to further CPT as the uniform terminology to describe medical procedures and services.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tuyet DesJean at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

A daughter of immigrants, an infant refugee whose parents went from the boat to the camp in pursuit of something better.  Every day Tuyet looks at that family picture by her desk, herself as an infant, her young parents (17 and 21 at the time) and she is reminded.  And she is grateful.  And what she knows today and knows deeply, is that she is more than….  What her parents dreamed for and then also, so much more.

Humble beginnings served as the fuel to her desire for making an impact and for creating change.  Becoming a lawyer may have been a surprise to her parents, but being excellent was never a doubt.  Ask for the tough projects, gain experience, become more efficient along the way.  Tuyet proudly discusses her work at the AMA, its impact on making healthcare better, her love for the profession and her expertise in intellectual property.

Today, Tuyet has a growing young family.  On being a “Power Mom”?  “Having children has made me a better lawyer.”  Efficiency and effectiveness are the priorities so that she can be present with her family.  Her advice?  It’s OK to ask for help, to delegate, and to not be trapped by artificial guilt for not doing it all.

She expects more.  She is grateful for more.  Tuyet DesJean is more.

*****************************

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.

 

About Tuyet DesJean

Associate General Counsel, American Medical Association

Solution-oriented and experienced attorney with sophisticated experience and in-depth knowledge of the AMA’s existing goals and emerging opportunities in health care, with focused attention on legal and regulatory matters concerning intellectual property, medical terminologies, content licensing, and advances in technology with potential to disrupt the practice of medicine. Tuyet is a well-respected member of the Office of General Counsel team with more than ten years of legal experience at the AMA.

As the lead attorney for the Coding Solutions and Transactions practice area, Tuyet currently focuses on legal issues related to the maintenance and licensing of the CPT code set and initiatives to further CPT as the uniform terminology to describe medical procedures and services.

]]> 1125 no WBL Series with Dr. Katherine Saunders: The Complex Reality of Obesity Medicine || EP. 127 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/06/29/wbl-series-with-dr-katherine-saunders-the-complex-reality-of-obesity-medicine-ep-127/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Katherine Saunders at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Dr. Saunders is an obesity medicine specialist and recent entrepreneur, cofounding Intellihealth with the physician who inspired her to pursue this specialty.  Ten years ago, obesity was recognized as a chronic condition.  Yet only 2% of the staggering 74% of overweight or obese Americans seek treatment.  Katherine provides a brief pathophysiology lesson to dispel the all-too-common myth that obesity is just a lifestyle problem.  Treatments do exist and Katherine is focused on democratizing care.  She is excited about the new, safe, effective drugs that are receiving a lot of press recently but recognizes these simply cost too much for most.  She looks forward to the many new medication options that are in the pipeline. As WBL members, we know to always ask “How can I help you?”.  So, I did!!  To this, Katherine responded: Help combat the bias surrounding obesity. Know that it is a complex, chronic condition with effective treatments. And she would love to speak with interested investors as well as employer groups. About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.    About   Dr. Katherine Saunders EVP/CoFounder Intellihealth Dr. Katherine H. Saunders is a physician entrepreneur and a leading expert in Obesity Medicine. She is on the cutting edge of effective and compassionate obesity treatment. Dr. Saunders is on faculty at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she teaches and precepts. Dr. Saunders received her undergraduate degree Phi Beta Kappa/Summa Cum Laude from Dartmouth College and her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, where she became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her internship and residency training in Internal Medicine (Primary Care) at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as ambulatory chief resident. Dr. Saunders was the first clinical fellow in Obesity Medicine at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Saunders is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She hosts the Weight Matters podcast with Dr. Louis Aronne, she regularly speaks at international conferences, and she publishes extensively on Obesity Medicine and weight management. She has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. Additionally, she has been featured in multiple national media outlets, including Women’s Health, USA Today, Medical News Today, and NY Post. Dr. Saunders also makes frequent guest appearances on a variety of podcasts and radio shows. Dr. Saunders’ recent awards and recognition include the Women at Weill Investment Competition, Brown Brothers Harriman 22 Women to Watch in 2022 and Medika Life Top 30 Influencers Transforming Wellness in 2023. Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:07:24 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Katherine Saunders at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Dr. Saunders is an obesity medicine specialist and recent entrepreneur, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Katherine Saunders at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Dr. Saunders is an obesity medicine specialist and recent entrepreneur, cofounding Intellihealth with the physician who inspired her to pursue this specialty.  Ten years ago, obesity was recognized as a chronic condition.  Yet only 2% of the staggering 74% of overweight or obese Americans seek treatment.  Katherine provides a brief pathophysiology lesson to dispel the all-too-common myth that obesity is just a lifestyle problem.  Treatments do exist and Katherine is focused on democratizing care.  She is excited about the new, safe, effective drugs that are receiving a lot of press recently but recognizes these simply cost too much for most.  She looks forward to the many new medication options that are in the pipeline. As WBL members, we know to always ask “How can I help you?”.  So, I did!!  To this, Katherine responded: Help combat the bias surrounding obesity. Know that it is a complex, chronic condition with effective treatments. And she would love to speak with interested investors as well as employer groups. About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.    About   Dr. Katherine Saunders EVP/CoFounder Intellihealth Dr. Katherine H. Saunders is a physician entrepreneur and a leading expert in Obesity Medicine. She is on the cutting edge of effective and compassionate obesity treatment. Dr. Saunders is on faculty at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she teaches and precepts. Dr. Saunders received her undergraduate degree Phi Beta Kappa/Summa Cum Laude from Dartmouth College and her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, where she became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her internship and residency training in Internal Medicine (Primary Care) at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as ambulatory chief resident. Dr. Saunders was the first clinical fellow in Obesity Medicine at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Saunders is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She hosts the Weight Matters podcast with Dr. Louis Aronne, she regularly speaks at international conferences, and she publishes extensively on Obesity Medicine and weight management. She has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. Additionally, she has been featured in multiple national media outlets, including Women’s Health, USA Today, Medical News Today, and NY Post. Dr. Saunders also makes frequent guest appearances on a variety of podcasts and radio shows. Dr. Saunders’ recent awards and recognition include the Women at Weill Investment Competition, Brown Brothers Harriman 22 Women to Watch in 2022 and Medika Life Top 30 Influencers Transforming Wellness in 2023.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Katherine Saunders at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

Dr. Saunders is an obesity medicine specialist and recent entrepreneur, cofounding Intellihealth with the physician who inspired her to pursue this specialty.  Ten years ago, obesity was recognized as a chronic condition.  Yet only 2% of the staggering 74% of overweight or obese Americans seek treatment.  Katherine provides a brief pathophysiology lesson to dispel the all-too-common myth that obesity is just a lifestyle problem.  Treatments do exist and Katherine is focused on democratizing care.  She is excited about the new, safe, effective drugs that are receiving a lot of press recently but recognizes these simply cost too much for most.  She looks forward to the many new medication options that are in the pipeline.

As WBL members, we know to always ask “How can I help you?”.  So, I did!!  To this, Katherine responded:

  • Help combat the bias surrounding obesity. Know that it is a complex, chronic condition with effective treatments.
  • And she would love to speak with interested investors as well as employer groups.

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another. 

 

About   Dr. Katherine Saunders

EVP/CoFounder Intellihealth

Dr. Katherine H. Saunders is a physician entrepreneur and a leading expert in Obesity Medicine. She is on the cutting edge of effective and compassionate obesity treatment. Dr. Saunders is on faculty at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she teaches and precepts.

Dr. Saunders received her undergraduate degree Phi Beta Kappa/Summa Cum Laude from Dartmouth College and her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, where she became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her internship and residency training in Internal Medicine (Primary Care) at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as ambulatory chief resident. Dr. Saunders was the first clinical fellow in Obesity Medicine at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Dr. Saunders is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She hosts the Weight Matters podcast with Dr. Louis Aronne, she regularly speaks at international conferences, and she publishes extensively on Obesity Medicine and weight management. She has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. Additionally, she has been featured in multiple national media outlets, including Women’s Health, USA Today, Medical News Today, and NY Post. Dr. Saunders also makes frequent guest appearances on a variety of podcasts and radio shows.

Dr. Saunders’ recent awards and recognition include the Women at Weill Investment Competition, Brown Brothers Harriman 22 Women to Watch in 2022 and Medika Life Top 30 Influencers Transforming Wellness in 2023.

]]> 1220 no WBL Series with Mary Flipse: The Next Generation of Women Leaders Can Be Found Here || EP. 126 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/06/21/wbl-series-with-mary-flipse-the-next-generation-of-women-leaders-can-be-found-here-ep-126/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Mary Flipse at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Mary gives us a view into the life of a start up after spending the first part of her career in large companies.  As Chief Legal Officer and a stint with five CEOs in five years, board activists and more, it was time for a career break.  Through the power of relationships, this led to PreferCare.  We all know the startup drill – high energy, hard work, major highs often coupled with major lows.  Mary has found that her years of executive experience has served her well while in startup mode.  She knows how to find the right answers when she needs them.  Her biggest surprise?  The tremendous generosity of people willing to help. In this episode we also discuss some of the signature programs of WBL.  Mary has been involved with the Board Program since the beginning.  The best part?  The accountability.  And a support network that will find and make the connections you want.  That is how she found the CEO of her current startup!  Mary also discusses the new WBL Boundless Campaign where WBL aims to support the next generation of women leaders.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.    About Mary Flipse President, CoFounder PreferCare PreferCare is a healthcare startup that aims to build clinical partnerships in America’s smaller cities with independent primary care practices. PreferCare equips partners with the tools, expertise, and on-the-ground extended care teams for successful value-based contracting in Medicare. She served at publicly traded Tivity Health and its predecessor Healthways in various roles over nearly a decade, most recently as chief legal and administrative officer and corp secretary. Earlier in her career, she served as assistant general counsel and vice president at Pfizer and practiced international law in Asia. She received her bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University and her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center. She is an active member of Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation and the Council Fellows Alumni Association. Mary serves on the boards of Renewal House and Alive Hospice and on the advisory board for SerenityDTx, a startup using digital therapeutics delivered through virtual reality and binaural beats to address dementia in seniors.   Mary is the Co-Chair of the WBL Boundless Campaign. Wed, 21 Jun 2023 22:25:43 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Mary Flipse at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Mary gives us a view into the life of a start up after spending the first part of her career in la... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Mary Flipse at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. Mary gives us a view into the life of a start up after spending the first part of her career in large companies.  As Chief Legal Officer and a stint with five CEOs in five years, board activists and more, it was time for a career break.  Through the power of relationships, this led to PreferCare.  We all know the startup drill – high energy, hard work, major highs often coupled with major lows.  Mary has found that her years of executive experience has served her well while in startup mode.  She knows how to find the right answers when she needs them.  Her biggest surprise?  The tremendous generosity of people willing to help. In this episode we also discuss some of the signature programs of WBL.  Mary has been involved with the Board Program since the beginning.  The best part?  The accountability.  And a support network that will find and make the connections you want.  That is how she found the CEO of her current startup!  Mary also discusses the new WBL Boundless Campaign where WBL aims to support the next generation of women leaders.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.    About Mary Flipse President, CoFounder PreferCare PreferCare is a healthcare startup that aims to build clinical partnerships in America’s smaller cities with independent primary care practices. PreferCare equips partners with the tools, expertise, and on-the-ground extended care teams for successful value-based contracting in Medicare. She served at publicly traded Tivity Health and its predecessor Healthways in various roles over nearly a decade, most recently as chief legal and administrative officer and corp secretary. Earlier in her career, she served as assistant general counsel and vice president at Pfizer and practiced international law in Asia. She received her bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University and her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center. She is an active member of Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation and the Council Fellows Alumni Association. Mary serves on the boards of Renewal House and Alive Hospice and on the advisory board for SerenityDTx, a startup using digital therapeutics delivered through virtual reality and binaural beats to address dementia in seniors.   Mary is the Co-Chair of the WBL Boundless Campaign.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Mary Flipse at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

Mary gives us a view into the life of a start up after spending the first part of her career in large companies.  As Chief Legal Officer and a stint with five CEOs in five years, board activists and more, it was time for a career break.  Through the power of relationships, this led to PreferCare.  We all know the startup drill – high energy, hard work, major highs often coupled with major lows.  Mary has found that her years of executive experience has served her well while in startup mode.  She knows how to find the right answers when she needs them.  Her biggest surprise?  The tremendous generosity of people willing to help.

In this episode we also discuss some of the signature programs of WBL.  Mary has been involved with the Board Program since the beginning.  The best part?  The accountability.  And a support network that will find and make the connections you want.  That is how she found the CEO of her current startup!  Mary also discusses the new WBL Boundless Campaign where WBL aims to support the next generation of women leaders.

 

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another. 

 

About Mary Flipse

President, CoFounder PreferCare

PreferCare is a healthcare startup that aims to build clinical partnerships in America’s smaller cities with independent primary care practices. PreferCare equips partners with the tools, expertise, and on-the-ground extended care teams for successful value-based contracting in Medicare.

She served at publicly traded Tivity Health and its predecessor Healthways in various roles over nearly a decade, most recently as chief legal and administrative officer and corp secretary. Earlier in her career, she served as assistant general counsel and vice president at Pfizer and practiced international law in Asia.

She received her bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University and her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center. She is an active member of Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation and the Council Fellows Alumni Association. Mary serves on the boards of Renewal House and Alive Hospice and on the advisory board for SerenityDTx, a startup using digital therapeutics delivered through virtual reality and binaural beats to address dementia in seniors.

 

Mary is the Co-Chair of the WBL Boundless Campaign.

]]> 1094 no WBL Series with Tesha Montgomery: Learning is Self-Care || EP. 125 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/06/13/wbl-series-with-tesha-montgomery-learning-is-self-care-ep-125/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tesha Montgomery at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. As a registered nurse, Tesha spent years delivering patient care.  That experience has served her well.  Today, as a senior executive at a large health system, she sees how easy it is to become disconnected.  Her direct clinical experience has always kept “why we do what we do” front and center.  Her job today requires transforming a large health system to make it easy for the patient.  I think we all know that is easier said than done.  Tesha is excited about her organization’s different approach to innovation – the senior executives responsible are also operators who need to implement the ideas.  This breaks down barriers and increases adoption speed. As Tesha has moved up in her career, she is quick to share some things she has learned – like running her own race and not having to take on everyone else’s priority as her own. Tesha has been a WBL member since 2014 and from the beginning she has considered this an investment in herself.  Being a lifelong learner is self-care and for Tesha, WBL is an important part of that.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About   Tesha Montgomery LeTesha Montgomery, RN, MHA, FACHE Senior Vice President, System Patient Access, Houston Methodist In her new role as senior vice president of patient access, Tesha is responsible for creating a seamless experience for patients and consumers who need to access care across the 300 different hospital and clinic locations throughout Houston Methodist. Tesha relies on digital technology, innovation and a broad understanding of core operations to drive needed changes and improvements. She also has direct oversight of referral management, access optimization and scheduling teams, and is a member of the Houston Methodist Center for Innovation, an interdisciplinary team leading organizational transformation through technology enablement. Prior to transitioning into this role, Tesha was the vice president of operations and access for the Houston Methodist Physician Organization, which has more than 1,000 employed physicians and 1.8 million patient visits annually.  In this role, Tesha played a critical part in the organization’s pandemic efforts, leading the system’s roll out of virtual care and its operation of eight system-wide vaccine clinics, making Houston Methodist one of the nation’s top provider of the vaccine.  Her team leveraged technology to auto-schedule boosters, outreach via text, create seamless online scheduling and transformed operations to accommodate patient needs. Before Houston Methodist, Tesha served four years as the vice president and chief operations officer for the Memorial Hermann Physician Network and Accountable Care Organization, where she was responsible for one of the largest clinically integrated physician associations of 4,000 members. Prior to that, she spent 11 years as an operations leader at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.  She is board-certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow and is a licensed Registered Nurse.  In her spare time, Tesha enjoys spending time traveling with her husband, Ted, and their two daughters, Charity and Faith. Tue, 13 Jun 2023 19:32:35 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tesha Montgomery at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. As a registered nurse, Tesha spent years delivering patient care. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tesha Montgomery at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. As a registered nurse, Tesha spent years delivering patient care.  That experience has served her well.  Today, as a senior executive at a large health system, she sees how easy it is to become disconnected.  Her direct clinical experience has always kept “why we do what we do” front and center.  Her job today requires transforming a large health system to make it easy for the patient.  I think we all know that is easier said than done.  Tesha is excited about her organization’s different approach to innovation – the senior executives responsible are also operators who need to implement the ideas.  This breaks down barriers and increases adoption speed. As Tesha has moved up in her career, she is quick to share some things she has learned – like running her own race and not having to take on everyone else’s priority as her own. Tesha has been a WBL member since 2014 and from the beginning she has considered this an investment in herself.  Being a lifelong learner is self-care and for Tesha, WBL is an important part of that.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.   About   Tesha Montgomery LeTesha Montgomery, RN, MHA, FACHE Senior Vice President, System Patient Access, Houston Methodist In her new role as senior vice president of patient access, Tesha is responsible for creating a seamless experience for patients and consumers who need to access care across the 300 different hospital and clinic locations throughout Houston Methodist. Tesha relies on digital technology, innovation and a broad understanding of core operations to drive needed changes and improvements. She also has direct oversight of referral management, access optimization and scheduling teams, and is a member of the Houston Methodist Center for Innovation, an interdisciplinary team leading organizational transformation through technology enablement. Prior to transitioning into this role, Tesha was the vice president of operations and access for the Houston Methodist Physician Organization, which has more than 1,000 employed physicians and 1.8 million patient visits annually.  In this role, Tesha played a critical part in the organization’s pandemic efforts, leading the system’s roll out of virtual care and its operation of eight system-wide vaccine clinics, making Houston Methodist one of the nation’s top provider of the vaccine.  Her team leveraged technology to auto-schedule boosters, outreach via text, create seamless online scheduling and transformed operations to accommodate patient needs. Before Houston Methodist, Tesha served four years as the vice president and chief operations officer for the Memorial Hermann Physician Network and Accountable Care Organization, where she was responsible for one of the largest clinically integrated physician associations of 4,000 members. Prior to that, she spent 11 years as an operations leader at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.  She is board-certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow and is a licensed Registered Nurse.  In her spare time, Tesha enjoys spending time traveling with her husband, Ted, and their two daughters, Charity and Faith.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Tesha Montgomery at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

As a registered nurse, Tesha spent years delivering patient care.  That experience has served her well.  Today, as a senior executive at a large health system, she sees how easy it is to become disconnected.  Her direct clinical experience has always kept “why we do what we do” front and center.  Her job today requires transforming a large health system to make it easy for the patient.  I think we all know that is easier said than done.  Tesha is excited about her organization’s different approach to innovation – the senior executives responsible are also operators who need to implement the ideas.  This breaks down barriers and increases adoption speed.

As Tesha has moved up in her career, she is quick to share some things she has learned – like running her own race and not having to take on everyone else’s priority as her own.

Tesha has been a WBL member since 2014 and from the beginning she has considered this an investment in herself.  Being a lifelong learner is self-care and for Tesha, WBL is an important part of that.

 

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.

 

About   Tesha Montgomery

LeTesha Montgomery, RN, MHA, FACHE

Senior Vice President, System Patient Access, Houston Methodist

In her new role as senior vice president of patient access, Tesha is responsible for creating a seamless experience for patients and consumers who need to access care across the 300 different hospital and clinic locations throughout Houston Methodist. Tesha relies on digital technology, innovation and a broad understanding of core operations to drive needed changes and improvements. She also has direct oversight of referral management, access optimization and scheduling teams, and is a member of the Houston Methodist Center for Innovation, an interdisciplinary team leading organizational transformation through technology enablement.

Prior to transitioning into this role, Tesha was the vice president of operations and access for the Houston Methodist Physician Organization, which has more than 1,000 employed physicians and 1.8 million patient visits annually.  In this role, Tesha played a critical part in the organization’s pandemic efforts, leading the system’s roll out of virtual care and its operation of eight system-wide vaccine clinics, making Houston Methodist one of the nation’s top provider of the vaccine.  Her team leveraged technology to auto-schedule boosters, outreach via text, create seamless online scheduling and transformed operations to accommodate patient needs.

Before Houston Methodist, Tesha served four years as the vice president and chief operations officer for the Memorial Hermann Physician Network and Accountable Care Organization, where she was responsible for one of the largest clinically integrated physician associations of 4,000 members. Prior to that, she spent 11 years as an operations leader at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.  She is board-certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow and is a licensed Registered Nurse.  In her spare time, Tesha enjoys spending time traveling with her husband, Ted, and their two daughters, Charity and Faith.

]]> 1366 no WBL Series with Sara Ratner and Sarah Richardson: Leaders with Purpose || EP. 124 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/06/06/wbl-series-with-sara-ratner-and-sarah-richardson-leaders-with-purpose-ep-124/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Ratner and Sarah Richardson at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. These senior executives give us a window into how they build their network.  And it’s not that complicated at the WBL Summit when you start with things you have in common.   Professional objectives to serve vulnerable populations at scale; thoughtful career choices to work on only what is relevant; shared beliefs that leadership means responsibility and paying it forward. In this episode Sara and Sarah discuss career journeys that include major pivots – from hospitality to healthcare, from legal to operator – and how both feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to make thoughtful choices along the way.  Like most female executives, they have had their share of challenges along the way – from being criticized for clothing choices (you can NOT be serious!!! And yet, this is a true story…) to losing your identity when a job ends up not working out.  These challenges become defining career moments and lead to finding a new level of confidence and redefining identity around career with personal purpose. Sara and Sarah close out our discussion with advice that has served both well along the way.  Being the leader that others want to emulate; planning for your own succession; and staying true to being nice and being kind.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.  More information on the partnership here: www.wbl.org/inspiring-women-podcast-with-wbl   About Sara Ratner President, Government Programs at Nomi Health An innovative leader, entrepreneur, and corporate board director in the healthcare industry, Sara is known for creating innovative strategies, services, and products amidst government scrutiny and regulation, understanding its’ viability, scalability, and sustainability to ensure health equity. Sara is the Founder of Proximal Health, a new supplemental digital health insurance company that drives high-quality hospital-based care. Previously the CEO of HealthEHR where she helped venture-backed organizations develop Medicare and Medicaid new program strategies for program development, performance, and expansion as well as other executive positions – SVP at RedBrick Health, President at NeoPath Health, and General Counsel at CVS Caremark (MinuteClinic division). Sara is an advocate and champion for changing the mental health paradigm with a resolve and commitment to treating mental health akin to physical health. In her spare time and to foster her competitive spirit, Sara actively trains and competes as a triathlete, racing in international distance triathlons to Ironmans.   About Sarah Richardson SVP, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Tivity Health Richardson is a transformative, innovative, and results-driven healthcare and technology executive with experience in large-scale healthcare environments.  Through comprehensive, human centered design, she enables digital and organizational transformation of multiple organizational domains utilizing proven methods of engagement resulting in improved experiences across the continuum. Prior to joining Tivity Health, Richardson served as Vice President of IT Change Leadership for OptumCare. Richardson also has significant health system experience, serving as CIO of NCH Healthcare System in Naples, FL and as a Division CIO with HCA Healthcare. Richardson is an active member of CHIME as a Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO), board and faculty member, and fellow. She regularly publishes industry relevant content on her website at www.conciergeleadership.com. She is an Associate Certified Coach with the ICF and Distinguished Toastmaster, as well as the chair for members in transition for the SoCal Chapter of the Society for Information Management (SCSIM). Richardson holds a BS from the University of Nevada -Las Vegas, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Tue, 06 Jun 2023 23:13:25 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Ratner and Sarah Richardson at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. These senior executives give us a window into how they build their network. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Ratner and Sarah Richardson at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit. These senior executives give us a window into how they build their network.  And it’s not that complicated at the WBL Summit when you start with things you have in common.   Professional objectives to serve vulnerable populations at scale; thoughtful career choices to work on only what is relevant; shared beliefs that leadership means responsibility and paying it forward. In this episode Sara and Sarah discuss career journeys that include major pivots – from hospitality to healthcare, from legal to operator – and how both feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to make thoughtful choices along the way.  Like most female executives, they have had their share of challenges along the way – from being criticized for clothing choices (you can NOT be serious!!! And yet, this is a true story…) to losing your identity when a job ends up not working out.  These challenges become defining career moments and lead to finding a new level of confidence and redefining identity around career with personal purpose. Sara and Sarah close out our discussion with advice that has served both well along the way.  Being the leader that others want to emulate; planning for your own succession; and staying true to being nice and being kind.   About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.  More information on the partnership here: www.wbl.org/inspiring-women-podcast-with-wbl   About Sara Ratner President, Government Programs at Nomi Health An innovative leader, entrepreneur, and corporate board director in the healthcare industry, Sara is known for creating innovative strategies, services, and products amidst government scrutiny and regulation, understanding its’ viability, scalability, and sustainability to ensure health equity. Sara is the Founder of Proximal Health, a new supplemental digital health insurance company that drives high-quality hospital-based care. Previously the CEO of HealthEHR where she helped venture-backed organizations develop Medicare and Medicaid new program strategies for program development, performance, and expansion as well as other executive positions – SVP at RedBrick Health, President at NeoPath Health, and General Counsel at CVS Caremark (MinuteClinic division). Sara is an advocate and champion for changing the mental health paradigm with a resolve and commitment to treating mental health akin to physical health. In her spare time and to foster her competitive spirit, Sara actively trains and competes as a triathlete, racing in international distance triathlons to Ironmans.   About Sarah Richardson SVP, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Tivity Health Richardson is a transformative, innovative, and results-driven healthcare and technology executive with experience in large-scale healthcare environments.  Through comprehensive, human centered design, she enables digital and organizational transformation of multiple organizational domains utilizing proven methods of engagement resulting in improved experiences across the continuum. Prior to joining Tivity Health, Richardson served as Vice President of IT Change Leadership for OptumCare. Richardson also has significant health system experience, serving as CIO of NCH Healthcare System in Naples, FL and as a Division CIO with HCA Healthcare. Richardson is an active member of CHIME as a Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO), board and faculty member, and fellow. She regularly publishes industry relevant content on her website at www.conciergeleadership.com. She is an Associate Certified Coach with the ICF and Distinguished Toastmaster, as well as the chair for members in transition for the SoCal Chapter of the Society for Information Management (SCSIM). Richardson holds a BS from the University of Nevada -Las Vegas, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Ratner and Sarah Richardson at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.

These senior executives give us a window into how they build their network.  And it’s not that complicated at the WBL Summit when you start with things you have in common.   Professional objectives to serve vulnerable populations at scale; thoughtful career choices to work on only what is relevant; shared beliefs that leadership means responsibility and paying it forward.

In this episode Sara and Sarah discuss career journeys that include major pivots – from hospitality to healthcare, from legal to operator – and how both feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to make thoughtful choices along the way.  Like most female executives, they have had their share of challenges along the way – from being criticized for clothing choices (you can NOT be serious!!! And yet, this is a true story…) to losing your identity when a job ends up not working out.  These challenges become defining career moments and lead to finding a new level of confidence and redefining identity around career with personal purpose.

Sara and Sarah close out our discussion with advice that has served both well along the way.  Being the leader that others want to emulate; planning for your own succession; and staying true to being nice and being kind.

 

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another. 

More information on the partnership here: www.wbl.org/inspiring-women-podcast-with-wbl

 

About Sara Ratner

President, Government Programs at Nomi Health

An innovative leader, entrepreneur, and corporate board director in the healthcare industry, Sara is known for creating innovative strategies, services, and products amidst government scrutiny and regulation, understanding its’ viability, scalability, and sustainability to ensure health equity.

Sara is the Founder of Proximal Health, a new supplemental digital health insurance company that drives high-quality hospital-based care. Previously the CEO of HealthEHR where she helped venture-backed organizations develop Medicare and Medicaid new program strategies for program development, performance, and expansion as well as other executive positions – SVP at RedBrick Health, President at NeoPath Health, and General Counsel at CVS Caremark (MinuteClinic division).

Sara is an advocate and champion for changing the mental health paradigm with a resolve and commitment to treating mental health akin to physical health. In her spare time and to foster her competitive spirit, Sara actively trains and competes as a triathlete, racing in international distance triathlons to Ironmans.

 

About Sarah Richardson

SVP, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Tivity Health

Richardson is a transformative, innovative, and results-driven healthcare and technology executive with experience in large-scale healthcare environments.  Through comprehensive, human centered design, she enables digital and organizational transformation of multiple organizational domains utilizing proven methods of engagement resulting in improved experiences across the continuum.

Prior to joining Tivity Health, Richardson served as Vice President of IT Change Leadership for OptumCare. Richardson also has significant health system experience, serving as CIO of NCH Healthcare System in Naples, FL and as a Division CIO with HCA Healthcare.

Richardson is an active member of CHIME as a Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO), board and faculty member, and fellow. She regularly publishes industry relevant content on her website at www.conciergeleadership.com. She is an Associate Certified Coach with the ICF and Distinguished Toastmaster, as well as the chair for members in transition for the SoCal Chapter of the Society for Information Management (SCSIM). Richardson holds a BS from the University of Nevada -Las Vegas, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

]]> 1930 no WBL Series with Ulya Khan: Playing It Safe Won’t Lead You to the C Suite || EP. 123 https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/06/01/wbl-series-with-ulya-khan-playing-it-safe-wont-lead-you-to-the-c-suite-ep-123/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ulya Khan at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.  Ulya found her tribe when she attended her first Summit in 2016 and has been an active WBL member ever since.  Describing WBL as the best kept secret where her sense of belonging comes from being with women who are at her level (Ulya has been a C suite executive at global organizations for 25+ years and is now an investor). In this episode, Ulya talks about how she reached the C suite in record time.  This meant not playing it safe and taking smart risks.  And how, when she wanted to make the career switch to healthcare, her advisors originally laughed at her.  For Ulya this simply meant she needed new advisors and then a plan to make her intentions known.  It all paid off. In addition to career stories, Ulya shares excellent advice for women seeking investments.  In short, stop underselling.  Captivating the imagination of an investor means telling a bigger story and setting loftier goals.  And oh yes, please do be your authentic self, not just a shinier version of someone else. About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another. About Ulya Khan Operating Partner, Virgo Investment Group + Angel Investor, Golden Seeds Ulya Khan is a dynamic leader who mixes the sharpest business skills with a great sense of vision to help organizations and individuals reach their goals. Her experience comes from 25+ years in major corporations covering many roles across the globe, with a focus on healthcare over the last 10 years. Presently, she is an Operating Partner at Virgo Investment Group and also an active Angel Investor, via GoldenSeeds, in a personal capacity. She has been a member in WBL since 2016. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 17:36:49 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ulya Khan at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.  Ulya found her tribe when she attended her first Summit in 2016 and has been an active WBL member e... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ulya Khan at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.  Ulya found her tribe when she attended her first Summit in 2016 and has been an active WBL member ever since.  Describing WBL as the best kept secret where her sense of belonging comes from being with women who are at her level (Ulya has been a C suite executive at global organizations for 25+ years and is now an investor). In this episode, Ulya talks about how she reached the C suite in record time.  This meant not playing it safe and taking smart risks.  And how, when she wanted to make the career switch to healthcare, her advisors originally laughed at her.  For Ulya this simply meant she needed new advisors and then a plan to make her intentions known.  It all paid off. In addition to career stories, Ulya shares excellent advice for women seeking investments.  In short, stop underselling.  Captivating the imagination of an investor means telling a bigger story and setting loftier goals.  And oh yes, please do be your authentic self, not just a shinier version of someone else. About WBL WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another. About Ulya Khan Operating Partner, Virgo Investment Group + Angel Investor, Golden Seeds Ulya Khan is a dynamic leader who mixes the sharpest business skills with a great sense of vision to help organizations and individuals reach their goals. Her experience comes from 25+ years in major corporations covering many roles across the globe, with a focus on healthcare over the last 10 years. Presently, she is an Operating Partner at Virgo Investment Group and also an active Angel Investor, via GoldenSeeds, in a personal capacity. She has been a member in WBL since 2016.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ulya Khan at the WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) Annual Summit.  Ulya found her tribe when she attended her first Summit in 2016 and has been an active WBL member ever since.  Describing WBL as the best kept secret where her sense of belonging comes from being with women who are at her level (Ulya has been a C suite executive at global organizations for 25+ years and is now an investor).

In this episode, Ulya talks about how she reached the C suite in record time.  This meant not playing it safe and taking smart risks.  And how, when she wanted to make the career switch to healthcare, her advisors originally laughed at her.  For Ulya this simply meant she needed new advisors and then a plan to make her intentions known.  It all paid off.

In addition to career stories, Ulya shares excellent advice for women seeking investments.  In short, stop underselling.  Captivating the imagination of an investor means telling a bigger story and setting loftier goals.  And oh yes, please do be your authentic self, not just a shinier version of someone else.

About WBL

WBL (Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation) is a nonprofit organization housing the premier network of women executives across the healthcare industry. With 1200+ active members, WBL offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional development, and executive education while fostering a welcoming community of peers committed to supporting and advancing one another.

About Ulya Khan

Operating Partner, Virgo Investment Group + Angel Investor, Golden Seeds

Ulya Khan is a dynamic leader who mixes the sharpest business skills with a great sense of vision to help organizations and individuals reach their goals. Her experience comes from 25+ years in major corporations covering many roles across the globe, with a focus on healthcare over the last 10 years. Presently, she is an Operating Partner at Virgo Investment Group and also an active Angel Investor, via GoldenSeeds, in a personal capacity.

She has been a member in WBL since 2016.

]]> 1407 no EP. 122 When Truth Speaks to Power. Dr. Jen Peña on Integrity, Fierce Femininity, and Healthcare in Puerto Rico https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/05/15/ep-122-when-truth-speaks-to-power-dr-jen-pen%cc%83a-on-integrity-fierce-femininity-and-healthcare-in-puerto-rico/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jen Peña. It has been a few years since she left the White House.  So many firsts…..the first Latina physician in this office …the first from Puerto Rico.  Two administrations (Obama and Trump) and physician to the Vice President.  A deep honor.  A tremendous privilege.  And your sworn duty.  One that tested the very core of what you signed up for when you took the Hippocratic Oath.  Personal beliefs sometimes severely tested and kept to oneself.   At the end of the day, you are just the help.  And then it ends. Her work was not done.  She was wronged (publicly) on the way out.  The scars linger.  But today, a brighter, stronger light shines on her enormous pride for a job well done.  For staying true to ethical and moral principles.  And in the words of her mentor – she showed them “how the skirt fit on the way out.”   Fierce. Today and recently, Dr. Peña has moved home to San Juan.  She is on a mission to address the healthcare gaps and access issues that exist in Puerto Rico.  Over 10,000 physicians left the island in recent years, making challenging issues only worse.  Innovation with digital platforms and tools are keys to a better future, but this requires an understanding of culture to make them really work. Dr. Peña is bringing her disciplined army background with boots on the ground to deliver what matters most – quality outcomes. ***************************** BIO  Dr. Jen Peña served as White House physician under both the Obama and Trump administrations, and Physician to the Vice President of the United States.  A former US Army combat veteran of 15 years, she is a digital and telehealth expert, clinical leader, board-certified internal medicine physician and directs the Vidalús free clinic of the Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico.  Chief Medical Officer of Medaica, a digital diagnostics platform company.  A fellow of the American College of Physicians (ACP) and member of the American Telemedicine Association’s Advisory Group to Eliminate Healthcare Disparities and Inequalities.  BS-Yale University.  MD-University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.  Residency-Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Featured speaker and medical contributor for several TV and radio networks, and at various national, international, and virtual conferences on digital and telehealth, COVID-19 and Veterans affairs. Mon, 15 May 2023 23:58:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jen Peña. It has been a few years since she left the White House.  So many firsts…..the first Latina physician in this office …the first from Puerto Rico. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jen Peña. It has been a few years since she left the White House.  So many firsts…..the first Latina physician in this office …the first from Puerto Rico.  Two administrations (Obama and Trump) and physician to the Vice President.  A deep honor.  A tremendous privilege.  And your sworn duty.  One that tested the very core of what you signed up for when you took the Hippocratic Oath.  Personal beliefs sometimes severely tested and kept to oneself.   At the end of the day, you are just the help.  And then it ends. Her work was not done.  She was wronged (publicly) on the way out.  The scars linger.  But today, a brighter, stronger light shines on her enormous pride for a job well done.  For staying true to ethical and moral principles.  And in the words of her mentor – she showed them “how the skirt fit on the way out.”   Fierce. Today and recently, Dr. Peña has moved home to San Juan.  She is on a mission to address the healthcare gaps and access issues that exist in Puerto Rico.  Over 10,000 physicians left the island in recent years, making challenging issues only worse.  Innovation with digital platforms and tools are keys to a better future, but this requires an understanding of culture to make them really work. Dr. Peña is bringing her disciplined army background with boots on the ground to deliver what matters most – quality outcomes. ***************************** BIO  Dr. Jen Peña served as White House physician under both the Obama and Trump administrations, and Physician to the Vice President of the United States.  A former US Army combat veteran of 15 years, she is a digital and telehealth expert, clinical leader, board-certified internal medicine physician and directs the Vidalús free clinic of the Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico.  Chief Medical Officer of Medaica, a digital diagnostics platform company.  A fellow of the American College of Physicians (ACP) and member of the American Telemedicine Association’s Advisory Group to Eliminate Healthcare Disparities and Inequalities.  BS-Yale University.  MD-University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.  Residency-Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Featured speaker and medical contributor for several TV and radio networks, and at various national, international, and virtual conferences on digital and telehealth, COVID-19 and Veterans affairs.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jen Peña.

It has been a few years since she left the White House.  So many firsts…..the first Latina physician in this office …the first from Puerto Rico.  Two administrations (Obama and Trump) and physician to the Vice President.  A deep honor.  A tremendous privilege.  And your sworn duty.  One that tested the very core of what you signed up for when you took the Hippocratic Oath.  Personal beliefs sometimes severely tested and kept to oneself.   At the end of the day, you are just the help.  And then it ends.

Her work was not done.  She was wronged (publicly) on the way out.  The scars linger.  But today, a brighter, stronger light shines on her enormous pride for a job well done.  For staying true to ethical and moral principles.  And in the words of her mentor – she showed them “how the skirt fit on the way out.”   Fierce.

Today and recently, Dr. Peña has moved home to San Juan.  She is on a mission to address the healthcare gaps and access issues that exist in Puerto Rico.  Over 10,000 physicians left the island in recent years, making challenging issues only worse.  Innovation with digital platforms and tools are keys to a better future, but this requires an understanding of culture to make them really work.

Dr. Peña is bringing her disciplined army background with boots on the ground to deliver what matters most – quality outcomes.

*****************************

BIO 

Dr. Jen Peña served as White House physician under both the Obama and Trump administrations, and Physician to the Vice President of the United States.  A former US Army combat veteran of 15 years, she is a digital and telehealth expert, clinical leader, board-certified internal medicine physician and directs the Vidalús free clinic of the Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico.  Chief Medical Officer of Medaica, a digital diagnostics platform company.  A fellow of the American College of Physicians (ACP) and member of the American Telemedicine Association’s Advisory Group to Eliminate Healthcare Disparities and Inequalities.  BS-Yale University.  MD-University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.  Residency-Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Featured speaker and medical contributor for several TV and radio networks, and at various national, international, and virtual conferences on digital and telehealth, COVID-19 and Veterans affairs.

]]> 2011 no EP. 121 Inna Plumb on Being Fearless. Calculated, Cautious Risk Taking. https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/05/11/ep-121-inna-plumb-on-being-fearless-calculated-cautious-risk-taking/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Inna Plumb, CoFounder and COO of MedArrive, a company bringing healthcare to the home through both and EMT workforce and a connected platform.  Inna conceived of this company when she was one of the original team members of ReDesign Health.  Building out a de novo company idea like this may seem obvious today in a post pandemic world, but at the time, we were well before digital health tools were at the level of adoption they enjoy today.  Making the leap to launching this company was a risk.  Just as the leap from her “cushy” but comfortable job in finance before she made the leap to a different start up (Blue Apron). For Inna, risk taking is a familiar friend.  She came to the United States at age seven and often reflects on what it means to not have a safety net and starting from scratch.  But she was brought up in a family where her greatest inspiration was her grandfather.  He was said doing well at something was simply not enough.  It was important to actually do more, be better, be different.  That meant taking risks and ensuring you had an impact.  For Inna it also means being cautious and calculated in that risk taking. Inna brings that mindset to MedArrive.  She considers delivering care to be a privilege and a serious responsibility.  The company started with straight forward use cases, vaccinations, and then added episodic wellness visits.  With their latest funding, significant growth is on the horizon.  This includes adding new services such as delivering maternal care through their partnership with Ouma Health. In 2023 as Inna works towards these large objectives ahead, she is also trying to be gentler with herself if everything is not perfect.  Her advice to younger women is to go for it….you are indeed enough and there are many people here to support you. ***************************** BIO Inna Plumb, co-founder and COO of MedArrive, an end-to-end platform that connects health plans, healthcare providers, Field Providers, and patients to bring hands-on care to the home. Before MedArrive, Inna was a founding partner at Redesign Health, where she helped to build a variety of companies across the healthcare industry and led the Venture Building team. Prior to that she held leadership roles on the Supply Chain team at Blue Apron, where she was responsible for national procurement and sourcing. She started her career in finance, first as an M&A banker at Evercore, and subsequently as an associate in the private equity group at Soros Fund Management. She’s always had a strong desire to build things from scratch – she’s happiest when she can have a direct impact and create something new. She was working on a variety of ideas in early 2020 and the more she dug into the opportunity to help humanize healthcare, the more it struck her. She was overwhelmed by the unfolding global health crisis and deeply worried about its impact on her family, in particular her aging grandparents. The more she learned about the EMS space and saw an opportunity to tap into this underutilized labor force and enable them to treat patients safely in the home, the more it felt like absolutely the right thing to be doing. Not only was this a great idea pandemic or not, but it could have a powerful impact on the lives of people like her grandparents and help them feel safer and live healthier lives. She dove in with all of her energy, and she says it’s been an incredible journey ever since. Thu, 11 May 2023 19:18:40 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Inna Plumb, CoFounder and COO of MedArrive, a company bringing healthcare to the home through both and EMT workforce and a connected platform.  Inna conceived of this company when she was one of the origin... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Inna Plumb, CoFounder and COO of MedArrive, a company bringing healthcare to the home through both and EMT workforce and a connected platform.  Inna conceived of this company when she was one of the original team members of ReDesign Health.  Building out a de novo company idea like this may seem obvious today in a post pandemic world, but at the time, we were well before digital health tools were at the level of adoption they enjoy today.  Making the leap to launching this company was a risk.  Just as the leap from her “cushy” but comfortable job in finance before she made the leap to a different start up (Blue Apron). For Inna, risk taking is a familiar friend.  She came to the United States at age seven and often reflects on what it means to not have a safety net and starting from scratch.  But she was brought up in a family where her greatest inspiration was her grandfather.  He was said doing well at something was simply not enough.  It was important to actually do more, be better, be different.  That meant taking risks and ensuring you had an impact.  For Inna it also means being cautious and calculated in that risk taking. Inna brings that mindset to MedArrive.  She considers delivering care to be a privilege and a serious responsibility.  The company started with straight forward use cases, vaccinations, and then added episodic wellness visits.  With their latest funding, significant growth is on the horizon.  This includes adding new services such as delivering maternal care through their partnership with Ouma Health. In 2023 as Inna works towards these large objectives ahead, she is also trying to be gentler with herself if everything is not perfect.  Her advice to younger women is to go for it….you are indeed enough and there are many people here to support you. ***************************** BIO Inna Plumb, co-founder and COO of MedArrive, an end-to-end platform that connects health plans, healthcare providers, Field Providers, and patients to bring hands-on care to the home. Before MedArrive, Inna was a founding partner at Redesign Health, where she helped to build a variety of companies across the healthcare industry and led the Venture Building team. Prior to that she held leadership roles on the Supply Chain team at Blue Apron, where she was responsible for national procurement and sourcing. She started her career in finance, first as an M&A banker at Evercore, and subsequently as an associate in the private equity group at Soros Fund Management. She’s always had a strong desire to build things from scratch – she’s happiest when she can have a direct impact and create something new. She was working on a variety of ideas in early 2020 and the more she dug into the opportunity to help humanize healthcare, the more it struck her. She was overwhelmed by the unfolding global health crisis and deeply worried about its impact on her family, in particular her aging grandparents. The more she learned about the EMS space and saw an opportunity to tap into this underutilized labor force and enable them to treat patients safely in the home, the more it felt like absolutely the right thing to be doing. Not only was this a great idea pandemic or not, but it could have a powerful impact on the lives of people like her grandparents and help them feel safer and live healthier lives. She dove in with all of her energy, and she says it’s been an incredible journey ever since.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Inna Plumb, CoFounder and COO of MedArrive, a company bringing healthcare to the home through both and EMT workforce and a connected platform.  Inna conceived of this company when she was one of the original team members of ReDesign Health.  Building out a de novo company idea like this may seem obvious today in a post pandemic world, but at the time, we were well before digital health tools were at the level of adoption they enjoy today.  Making the leap to launching this company was a risk.  Just as the leap from her “cushy” but comfortable job in finance before she made the leap to a different start up (Blue Apron).

For Inna, risk taking is a familiar friend.  She came to the United States at age seven and often reflects on what it means to not have a safety net and starting from scratch.  But she was brought up in a family where her greatest inspiration was her grandfather.  He was said doing well at something was simply not enough.  It was important to actually do more, be better, be different.  That meant taking risks and ensuring you had an impact.  For Inna it also means being cautious and calculated in that risk taking.

Inna brings that mindset to MedArrive.  She considers delivering care to be a privilege and a serious responsibility.  The company started with straight forward use cases, vaccinations, and then added episodic wellness visits.  With their latest funding, significant growth is on the horizon.  This includes adding new services such as delivering maternal care through their partnership with Ouma Health.

In 2023 as Inna works towards these large objectives ahead, she is also trying to be gentler with herself if everything is not perfect.  Her advice to younger women is to go for it….you are indeed enough and there are many people here to support you.

*****************************

BIO

Inna Plumb, co-founder and COO of MedArrive, an end-to-end platform that connects health plans, healthcare providers, Field Providers, and patients to bring hands-on care to the home.

Before MedArrive, Inna was a founding partner at Redesign Health, where she helped to build a variety of companies across the healthcare industry and led the Venture Building team. Prior to that she held leadership roles on the Supply Chain team at Blue Apron, where she was responsible for national procurement and sourcing. She started her career in finance, first as an M&A banker at Evercore, and subsequently as an associate in the private equity group at Soros Fund Management.

She’s always had a strong desire to build things from scratch – she’s happiest when she can have a direct impact and create something new. She was working on a variety of ideas in early 2020 and the more she dug into the opportunity to help humanize healthcare, the more it struck her. She was overwhelmed by the unfolding global health crisis and deeply worried about its impact on her family, in particular her aging grandparents. The more she learned about the EMS space and saw an opportunity to tap into this underutilized labor force and enable them to treat patients safely in the home, the more it felt like absolutely the right thing to be doing. Not only was this a great idea pandemic or not, but it could have a powerful impact on the lives of people like her grandparents and help them feel safer and live healthier lives. She dove in with all of her energy, and she says it’s been an incredible journey ever since.

]]> 1369 no EP. 120 EQUANIMITY: How these 3 CEO/Founders put on the calm, no matter what comes crashing at them. https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/04/25/ep-120-equanimity-how-these-3-ceo-founders-put-on-the-calm-no-matter-what-comes-crashing-at-them/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with three Inspiring Women CEOs and Founders coming out of Hashed Health.  Molly Moore, (Bramble Health), Leigh McCormack (Platypus), and Raelyn Wilson (Peer Supply). At the Vive 2023 conference I had the opportunity to speak with three CEOs and Founders who have all participated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Their companies have all been incubated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Even though they were on day two of pitching, pitching, pitching…they had the energy (maybe some exhaustion?) to sit down with me and discuss what they are finding in their current CEO roles. Is funding really that hard?  (spoiler alert….it’s hard).  What are the hard things about hard things?  Even if you are expert, confidence can still be a thing.  And yes, it IS lonely at the top. But they also surprise themselves.  Areas where they might have agonized over a NO, today serves as just useful information as they move onto whatever is next. These incredible women are NOT particularly excited about being in a smallISH club.  They aim to plow through the current numbers (ONLY 2.4% of available funding is going to women CEOs and Founders).  The sooner this is yesterday, the better. They will also ask you to come along on this journey with them.  Get out of your own head!!  Just do it, please do it!!  And recognize the resources and comradery (like they have with each other) is available. And through it all – the hard work, the chaos, the balance of trying to have it all… comes EQUANIMITY.  Putting on the calm, no matter what comes crashing at you. You will enjoy this energetic, fun, and very informative episode!!! ***************************** BIOs Raelyn Wilson is the CEO and Founder of Peer Supply which is on a mission to transform the healthcare supply chain by unlocking the value of data and collaboration. Leigh McCormack is the CEO and Founder of Platypus which leverages the collective power of data and knowledge to democratize healthcare analytics. Molly Moore is the CEO and Founder of Bramble Health which provides a transparent provider marketplace. And allows you to configure and create networks instantly. Tue, 25 Apr 2023 22:35:45 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with three Inspiring Women CEOs and Founders coming out of Hashed Health.  Molly Moore, (Bramble Health), Leigh McCormack (Platypus), and Raelyn Wilson (Peer Supply). At the Vive 2023 conference I had the opportunity to speak ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with three Inspiring Women CEOs and Founders coming out of Hashed Health.  Molly Moore, (Bramble Health), Leigh McCormack (Platypus), and Raelyn Wilson (Peer Supply). At the Vive 2023 conference I had the opportunity to speak with three CEOs and Founders who have all participated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Their companies have all been incubated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Even though they were on day two of pitching, pitching, pitching…they had the energy (maybe some exhaustion?) to sit down with me and discuss what they are finding in their current CEO roles. Is funding really that hard?  (spoiler alert….it’s hard).  What are the hard things about hard things?  Even if you are expert, confidence can still be a thing.  And yes, it IS lonely at the top. But they also surprise themselves.  Areas where they might have agonized over a NO, today serves as just useful information as they move onto whatever is next. These incredible women are NOT particularly excited about being in a smallISH club.  They aim to plow through the current numbers (ONLY 2.4% of available funding is going to women CEOs and Founders).  The sooner this is yesterday, the better. They will also ask you to come along on this journey with them.  Get out of your own head!!  Just do it, please do it!!  And recognize the resources and comradery (like they have with each other) is available. And through it all – the hard work, the chaos, the balance of trying to have it all… comes EQUANIMITY.  Putting on the calm, no matter what comes crashing at you. You will enjoy this energetic, fun, and very informative episode!!! ***************************** BIOs Raelyn Wilson is the CEO and Founder of Peer Supply which is on a mission to transform the healthcare supply chain by unlocking the value of data and collaboration. Leigh McCormack is the CEO and Founder of Platypus which leverages the collective power of data and knowledge to democratize healthcare analytics. Molly Moore is the CEO and Founder of Bramble Health which provides a transparent provider marketplace. And allows you to configure and create networks instantly.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with three Inspiring Women CEOs and Founders coming out of Hashed Health.  Molly Moore, (Bramble Health), Leigh McCormack (Platypus), and Raelyn Wilson (Peer Supply).

At the Vive 2023 conference I had the opportunity to speak with three CEOs and Founders who have all participated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Their companies have all been incubated in the Hashed Health venture studio.  Even though they were on day two of pitching, pitching, pitching…they had the energy (maybe some exhaustion?) to sit down with me and discuss what they are finding in their current CEO roles.

Is funding really that hard?  (spoiler alert….it’s hard).  What are the hard things about hard things?  Even if you are expert, confidence can still be a thing.  And yes, it IS lonely at the top.

But they also surprise themselves.  Areas where they might have agonized over a NO, today serves as just useful information as they move onto whatever is next.

These incredible women are NOT particularly excited about being in a smallISH club.  They aim to plow through the current numbers (ONLY 2.4% of available funding is going to women CEOs and Founders).  The sooner this is yesterday, the better.

They will also ask you to come along on this journey with them.  Get out of your own head!!  Just do it, please do it!!  And recognize the resources and comradery (like they have with each other) is available.

And through it all – the hard work, the chaos, the balance of trying to have it all… comes EQUANIMITY.  Putting on the calm, no matter what comes crashing at you.

You will enjoy this energetic, fun, and very informative episode!!!

*****************************

BIOs

Raelyn Wilson is the CEO and Founder of Peer Supply which is on a mission to transform the healthcare supply chain by unlocking the value of data and collaboration.

Leigh McCormack is the CEO and Founder of Platypus which leverages the collective power of data and knowledge to democratize healthcare analytics.

Molly Moore is the CEO and Founder of Bramble Health which provides a transparent provider marketplace. And allows you to configure and create networks instantly.

]]> 2075 no EP. 119 Sometimes you need to leave basecamp to find the trail…. Leanna Clark and the Girl Scouts’ DreamLab https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/04/13/ep-119-sometimes-you-need-to-leave-basecamp-to-find-the-trail-leanna-clark-and-the-girl-scouts-dreamlab/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leanna Clark, CEO of Girl Scouts Colorado who paved the way for the first ever Girl Scouts DreamLab. When you think about the Girl Scouts, what do you think about?  Maybe your favorite cookie?  (Thin Mints anyone?). But then in February of 2023, the CDC published a devastating report on US Teen Girls with 3 of 5 experiencing sadness or hopelessness.  And then in March, the Girl Scouts, the oldest and largest girls’ organization in the US did something remarkable.  They opened the Girl Scouts DreamLab.  A first of its kind physical space built for girls, designed by girls where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout. What does it mean to be a Girl Scout?  It means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.  This space is meant to build the leaders of tomorrow. We need solutions for the health and well-being of girls.  And we need more Girl Scouts and more DreamLabs.  And don’t forget to get your Thin Mints. Hear Leanna talk about:     Her Career Journey Like a Girl Scout actually –many instances of really stretching for that next objective while armed with skills, confidence, and a sisterhood of support. Not your typical CEO background – POWERFUL but often under-appreciated skills of relationships that build partnerships and effective communication are foundational for a CEO    Girl Scouts:  More than just Cookies….. …and campfires and crafts. It’s a premiere leadership organization. To be a Girl Scout means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.   DreamLab Ribbon cutting March 2023 in Denver. The First but not the last. A space where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout. A place for Girl Scouts to meet and troops to gather. Also open to the public.   It’s hard to be a girl:  3 of 5 teen girls feel sad or hopeless (CDC) Girl Scouts can be one of the solutions and for the different stages a girl may be in. Recognizing a “rainbow of feelings”; what do healthy relationships look like; focusing on positive body image and providing the support of a community that is bigger than yourself.  Her absolute favorite thing: Spending time with any one of 1 million Girl Scouts in the US or 2 million across the globe   ***************************** BIO  Leanna Clark is CEO of Girl Scouts of Colorado, the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. GSCO is a statewide nonprofit with 125 full-time employees, more than 22,000 members and 10,000 adults dedicated to building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. As CEO, Clark sets organizational vision and strategy, oversees all operations, and works to expand visibility and create opportunities for strategic partnerships. Leanna has more than 25 years of business experience, including 12 years as a small business owner of one of Denver’s largest marketing and public relations firms, as well as roles in Denver’s corporate, foundation and nonprofit communities. Most recently, Leanna served as Vice Chancellor of University Communications for the University of Colorado Denver. In this role, she served on the senior leadership team of an institution with more than 7,000 employees and 17,000 students, directing strategy and overseeing a team all internal and external communications and marketing as well as spearheading development of key community and business partnerships that advanced the university’s mission. Before joining CU in 2010, Leanna founded and led PhilanthroTravel, a major division of the international nonprofit Project C.U.R.E. that works in more than 120 countries nationwide. In this capacity, she drove fundraising and designed and led nearly 20 trips to Cuba, Panama, Mexico, and Belize with U.S. business and community leaders, designed to help them experience travel to developing nations in a way that helps them give back. She also directed communications and led the foundation for IMA Financial Group, one of the nation’s leading risk management companies. Previously, as principal and co-owner of marketing PR firm Schenkein, she ran one of the largest agencies in the Rocky Mountain Region, helping client organizations elevate their brands and protect their reputations, on a local, national, and international scale. She began her career as a Denver radio reporter and a TV reporter and anchor for an ABC affiliate in Nebraska. Leanna currently serves on the boards of directors for the Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Forum of Colorado, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, and the RISE Society. She has served on a variety of other boards, including the Red Cross, Colorado Public Radio, and Public Education and Business Coalition. Leanna has been recognized One of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Colorado by the Colorado Women’s Chamber and has been named a Woman of Distinction by the Girls Scouts of Colorado. She’s also been honored twice by the Denver Business Journal as a “PowerBook” award recipient and one of the “Forty Under 40” top young business leaders. She’s received national recognition from the Universal Press Syndicate as part of its “Workwise” Awards, honoring innovation and creativity among workplace leaders. In addition, she was named a ‘Woman of Achievement’ by the Association for Women in Communications. A Colorado native, she holds a degree in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:54:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leanna Clark, CEO of Girl Scouts Colorado who paved the way for the first ever Girl Scouts DreamLab. When you think about the Girl Scouts, what do you think about?  Maybe your favorite cookie? Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leanna Clark, CEO of Girl Scouts Colorado who paved the way for the first ever Girl Scouts DreamLab. When you think about the Girl Scouts, what do you think about?  Maybe your favorite cookie?  (Thin Mints anyone?). But then in February of 2023, the CDC published a devastating report on US Teen Girls with 3 of 5 experiencing sadness or hopelessness.  And then in March, the Girl Scouts, the oldest and largest girls’ organization in the US did something remarkable.  They opened the Girl Scouts DreamLab.  A first of its kind physical space built for girls, designed by girls where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout. What does it mean to be a Girl Scout?  It means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.  This space is meant to build the leaders of tomorrow. We need solutions for the health and well-being of girls.  And we need more Girl Scouts and more DreamLabs.  And don’t forget to get your Thin Mints. Hear Leanna talk about:     Her Career Journey Like a Girl Scout actually –many instances of really stretching for that next objective while armed with skills, confidence, and a sisterhood of support. Not your typical CEO background – POWERFUL but often under-appreciated skills of relationships that build partnerships and effective communication are foundational for a CEO    Girl Scouts:  More than just Cookies….. …and campfires and crafts. It’s a premiere leadership organization. To be a Girl Scout means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.   DreamLab Ribbon cutting March 2023 in Denver. The First but not the last. A space where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout. A place for Girl Scouts to meet and troops to gather. Also open to the public.   It’s hard to be a girl:  3 of 5 teen girls feel sad or hopeless (CDC) Girl Scouts can be one of the solutions and for the different stages a girl may be in. Recognizing a “rainbow of feelings”; what do healthy relationships look like; focusing on positive body image and providing the support of a community that is bigger than yourself.  Her absolute favorite thing: Spending time with any one of 1 million Girl Scouts in the US or 2 million across the globe   ***************************** BIO  Leanna Clark is CEO of Girl Scouts of Colorado, the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. GSCO is a statewide nonprofit with 125 full-time employees, more than 22,000 members and 10,000 adults dedicated to building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. As CEO, Clark sets organizational vision and strategy, oversees all operations, and works to expand visibility and create opportunities for strategic partnerships. Leanna has more than 25 years of business experience, including 12 years as a small business owner of one of Denver’s largest marketing and public relations firms, as well as roles in Denver’s corporate, foundation and nonprofit communities. Most recently, Leanna served as Vice Chancellor of University Communications for the University of Colorado Denver. In this role, she served on the senior leadership team of an institution with more than 7,000 employees and 17,000 students, directing strategy and overseeing a team all internal and external communications and marketing as well as spearheading development of key community and business partnerships that advanced the university’s mission. Before joining CU in 2010, Leanna founded and led PhilanthroTravel, a major division of the international nonprofit Project C.U.R.E. that works in more than 120 countries nationwide. In this capacity, she drove fundraising and designed and led nearly 20 trips to Cuba, Panama, Mexico, and Belize with U.S. business and community leaders, designed to help them experience travel to developing nations in a way that helps them give back. She also directed communications and led the foundation for IMA Financial Group, one of the nation’s leading risk management companies. Previously, as principal and co-owner of marketing PR firm Schenkein, she ran one of the largest agencies in the Rocky Mountain Region, helping client organizations elevate their brands and protect their reputations, on a local, national, and international scale. She began her career as a Denver radio reporter and a TV reporter and anchor for an ABC affiliate in Nebraska. Leanna currently serves on the boards of directors for the Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Forum of Colorado, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, and the RISE Society. She has served on a variety of other boards, including the Red Cross, Colorado Public Radio, and Public Education and Business Coalition. Leanna has been recognized One of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Colorado by the Colorado Women’s Chamber and has been named a Woman of Distinction by the Girls Scouts of Colorado. She’s also been honored twice by the Denver Business Journal as a “PowerBook” award recipient and one of the “Forty Under 40” top young business leaders. She’s received national recognition from the Universal Press Syndicate as part of its “Workwise” Awards, honoring innovation and creativity among workplace leaders. In addition, she was named a ‘Woman of Achievement’ by the Association for Women in Communications. A Colorado native, she holds a degree in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Leanna Clark, CEO of Girl Scouts Colorado who paved the way for the first ever Girl Scouts DreamLab.

When you think about the Girl Scouts, what do you think about?  Maybe your favorite cookie?  (Thin Mints anyone?). But then in February of 2023, the CDC published a devastating report on US Teen Girls with 3 of 5 experiencing sadness or hopelessness.  And then in March, the Girl Scouts, the oldest and largest girls’ organization in the US did something remarkable.  They opened the Girl Scouts DreamLab.  A first of its kind physical space built for girls, designed by girls where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout.

What does it mean to be a Girl Scout?  It means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.  This space is meant to build the leaders of tomorrow.

We need solutions for the health and well-being of girls.  And we need more Girl Scouts and more DreamLabs.  And don’t forget to get your Thin Mints.

Hear Leanna talk about:

    Her Career Journey

  • Like a Girl Scout actually –many instances of really stretching for that next objective while armed with skills, confidence, and a sisterhood of support.
  • Not your typical CEO background – POWERFUL but often under-appreciated skills of relationships that build partnerships and effective communication are foundational for a CEO

   Girl Scouts:  More than just Cookies…..

  • …and campfires and crafts. It’s a premiere leadership organization.
  • To be a Girl Scout means pushing limits, building resiliency and confidence, learning skills in key areas like STEM, in a supported and supportive environment.

  DreamLab

  • Ribbon cutting March 2023 in Denver. The First but not the last.
  • A space where you can experience everything it means to be a Girl Scout.
  • A place for Girl Scouts to meet and troops to gather. Also open to the public.

  It’s hard to be a girl:  3 of 5 teen girls feel sad or hopeless (CDC)

  • Girl Scouts can be one of the solutions and for the different stages a girl may be in.
  • Recognizing a “rainbow of feelings”; what do healthy relationships look like; focusing on positive body image and providing the support of a community that is bigger than yourself.

 Her absolute favorite thing:

  • Spending time with any one of 1 million Girl Scouts in the US or 2 million across the globe

 

*****************************

BIO 

Leanna Clark is CEO of Girl Scouts of Colorado, the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. GSCO is a statewide nonprofit with 125 full-time employees, more than 22,000 members and 10,000 adults dedicated to building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. As CEO, Clark sets organizational vision and strategy, oversees all operations, and works to expand visibility and create opportunities for strategic partnerships.

Leanna has more than 25 years of business experience, including 12 years as a small business owner of one of Denver’s largest marketing and public relations firms, as well as roles in Denver’s corporate, foundation and nonprofit communities.

Most recently, Leanna served as Vice Chancellor of University Communications for the University of Colorado Denver. In this role, she served on the senior leadership team of an institution with more than 7,000 employees and 17,000 students, directing strategy and overseeing a team all internal and external communications and marketing as well as spearheading development of key community and business partnerships that advanced the university’s mission.

Before joining CU in 2010, Leanna founded and led PhilanthroTravel, a major division of the international nonprofit Project C.U.R.E. that works in more than 120 countries nationwide. In this capacity, she drove fundraising and designed and led nearly 20 trips to Cuba, Panama, Mexico, and Belize with U.S. business and community leaders, designed to help them experience travel to developing nations in a way that helps them give back.

She also directed communications and led the foundation for IMA Financial Group, one of the nation’s leading risk management companies. Previously, as principal and co-owner of marketing PR firm Schenkein, she ran one of the largest agencies in the Rocky Mountain Region, helping client organizations elevate their brands and protect their reputations, on a local, national, and international scale. She began her career as a Denver radio reporter and a TV reporter and anchor for an ABC affiliate in Nebraska.

Leanna currently serves on the boards of directors for the Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Forum of Colorado, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, and the RISE Society. She has served on a variety of other boards, including the Red Cross, Colorado Public Radio, and Public Education and Business Coalition.

Leanna has been recognized One of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Colorado by the Colorado Women’s Chamber and has been named a Woman of Distinction by the Girls Scouts of Colorado. She’s also been honored twice by the Denver Business Journal as a “PowerBook” award recipient and one of the “Forty Under 40” top young business leaders. She’s received national recognition from the Universal Press Syndicate as part of its “Workwise” Awards, honoring innovation and creativity among workplace leaders. In addition, she was named a ‘Woman of Achievement’ by the Association for Women in Communications.

A Colorado native, she holds a degree in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

]]> 1736 no EP. 118 The Grit and Growth Mindset that led to Making Work Work: Insights from HR Leader Deb Bubb https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/04/06/ep-118-the-grit-and-growth-mindset-that-led-to-making-work-work-insights-from-hr-leader-deb-bubb/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deb Bubb, a strategic HR leader who spent decades leading the talent function at large, high growth, technology companies.  Her interest in human transformation began where she started, growing up in a single parent household where her mom was consistently making moves or taking jobs to gain a slightly better advantage for her and her brother – being closer to their school, a little more pay…. This upfront and personal view into “a grit and growth mindset” showed her what it looks like when you are out there competing with others who have different backgrounds, advantages, and privileges.  Given adversity, why do some people thrive, while others do not?   This central question led to her commitment to making work work better for people. Hear Deb talk about:     The jobs landscape Tech talent scarcity still exists despite recent big tech layoffs. Employees: Look at the congruence of what your organization is saying v doing   Is loyalty dead?  “Loyalty is EARNED”. Talent strategies for companies need to include: Empathetic leaders Inclusive behaviors Investing in career growth for people Allowing people to do their best work still means: investing in leadership, culture, and providing the context for diverse, inclusive and equitable conditions   Remote Work The enormous experiment was successful. And now, we need to make thoughtful choices. Remote Employees: Intentional connection needs to be a priority (for promotion seekers). . Career advice: Being talked over: Physically stand up and take the floor (among other strategies). $$: 1).  Educate yourself. 2) Set/align expectations with your manager (and more!) Mid-career women professionals:  The road ahead is long.  Stay in it.  Make your impact. ***************************** BIO  Deb Bubb is a deeply experienced, human-centered executive HR leader. Today, she is advising SucceedSmart, a talent platform company disrupting traditional executive search, and the Neuroleadership Institute, as well as functioning as the associate editor of HR People + Strategy. Previously, she was the chief people officer of Optum, where she led all aspects of human capital, including talent management, leadership and employee growth and development, rewards and recognition and organization development. She also served as chief talent officer for UnitedHealth Group, where she was responsible for developing and driving end-to-end talent strategy and ensuring the readiness of talent pipelines to support the growth of the business. Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Bubb was vice president of leadership, learning and inclusion at IBM. She also served 16 years at Intel where she held strategic business partnership roles and led organizational and leadership development, as well as learning and HR operations. Bubb holds a Bachelor of Psychology from Stanford University and a Master of Social Work from Smith College. She is married to Howard Bubb, and parent to 14 year old twins. Thu, 06 Apr 2023 19:15:43 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deb Bubb, a strategic HR leader who spent decades leading the talent function at large, high growth, technology companies.  Her interest in human transformation began where she started, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deb Bubb, a strategic HR leader who spent decades leading the talent function at large, high growth, technology companies.  Her interest in human transformation began where she started, growing up in a single parent household where her mom was consistently making moves or taking jobs to gain a slightly better advantage for her and her brother – being closer to their school, a little more pay…. This upfront and personal view into “a grit and growth mindset” showed her what it looks like when you are out there competing with others who have different backgrounds, advantages, and privileges.  Given adversity, why do some people thrive, while others do not?   This central question led to her commitment to making work work better for people. Hear Deb talk about:     The jobs landscape Tech talent scarcity still exists despite recent big tech layoffs. Employees: Look at the congruence of what your organization is saying v doing   Is loyalty dead?  “Loyalty is EARNED”. Talent strategies for companies need to include: Empathetic leaders Inclusive behaviors Investing in career growth for people Allowing people to do their best work still means: investing in leadership, culture, and providing the context for diverse, inclusive and equitable conditions   Remote Work The enormous experiment was successful. And now, we need to make thoughtful choices. Remote Employees: Intentional connection needs to be a priority (for promotion seekers). . Career advice: Being talked over: Physically stand up and take the floor (among other strategies). $$: 1).  Educate yourself. 2) Set/align expectations with your manager (and more!) Mid-career women professionals:  The road ahead is long.  Stay in it.  Make your impact. ***************************** BIO  Deb Bubb is a deeply experienced, human-centered executive HR leader. Today, she is advising SucceedSmart, a talent platform company disrupting traditional executive search, and the Neuroleadership Institute, as well as functioning as the associate editor of HR People + Strategy. Previously, she was the chief people officer of Optum, where she led all aspects of human capital, including talent management, leadership and employee growth and development, rewards and recognition and organization development. She also served as chief talent officer for UnitedHealth Group, where she was responsible for developing and driving end-to-end talent strategy and ensuring the readiness of talent pipelines to support the growth of the business. Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Bubb was vice president of leadership, learning and inclusion at IBM. She also served 16 years at Intel where she held strategic business partnership roles and led organizational and leadership development, as well as learning and HR operations. Bubb holds a Bachelor of Psychology from Stanford University and a Master of Social Work from Smith College. She is married to Howard Bubb, and parent to 14 year old twins.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Deb Bubb, a strategic HR leader who spent decades leading the talent function at large, high growth, technology companies.  Her interest in human transformation began where she started, growing up in a single parent household where her mom was consistently making moves or taking jobs to gain a slightly better advantage for her and her brother – being closer to their school, a little more pay….

This upfront and personal view into “a grit and growth mindset” showed her what it looks like when you are out there competing with others who have different backgrounds, advantages, and privileges.  Given adversity, why do some people thrive, while others do not?   This central question led to her commitment to making work work better for people.

Hear Deb talk about:

    The jobs landscape

  • Tech talent scarcity still exists despite recent big tech layoffs.
  • Employees: Look at the congruence of what your organization is saying v doing

  Is loyalty dead?  “Loyalty is EARNED”.

  • Talent strategies for companies need to include:
    • Empathetic leaders
    • Inclusive behaviors
    • Investing in career growth for people
  • Allowing people to do their best work still means: investing in leadership, culture, and providing the context for diverse, inclusive and equitable conditions

  Remote Work

  • The enormous experiment was successful. And now, we need to make thoughtful choices.
  • Remote Employees: Intentional connection needs to be a priority (for promotion seekers).

. Career advice:

  • Being talked over: Physically stand up and take the floor (among other strategies).
  • $$: 1).  Educate yourself. 2) Set/align expectations with your manager (and more!)

Mid-career women professionals:  The road ahead is long.  Stay in it.  Make your impact.

*****************************

BIO 

Deb Bubb is a deeply experienced, human-centered executive HR leader. Today, she is advising SucceedSmart, a talent platform company disrupting traditional executive search, and the Neuroleadership Institute, as well as functioning as the associate editor of HR People + Strategy.

Previously, she was the chief people officer of Optum, where she led all aspects of human capital, including talent management, leadership and employee growth and development, rewards and recognition and organization development. She also served as chief talent officer for UnitedHealth Group, where she was responsible for developing and driving end-to-end talent strategy and ensuring the readiness of talent pipelines to support the growth of the business.

Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Bubb was vice president of leadership, learning and inclusion at IBM. She also served 16 years at Intel where she held strategic business partnership roles and led organizational and leadership development, as well as learning and HR operations.

Bubb holds a Bachelor of Psychology from Stanford University and a Master of Social Work from Smith College. She is married to Howard Bubb, and parent to 14 year old twins.

]]> 1881 no EP. 117 Everything, Everywhere, but NOT All at Once https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/03/30/ep-117-everything-everywhere-but-not-all-at-once/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Andrea Belk Olson, a Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert and Change Enabler.  Prolific writer and author of three books, the most recent one, of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You which aims to discover those unmet customer needs and turn them into innovations.  Andrea discusses why and how it is possible for her to be holding down and succeeding at a dozen different ventures at any one time.  She provides some previews from her book(s) as to how to use client insights to build better products and businesses.  She also shares perspectives on emerging technology and how that will and will NOT change the industry. Hear Andrea talk about:     Is there anything new REALLY when it comes to marketing? Let’s start with NOT being so obsessed with ourselves and our best previous ideas Understanding client context, critical, means shifting your mindset ‍    Standing out in a very crowded digital market Differentiation (Spoiler alert: Spray and pray is NOT a winning strategy) (Your voice needs to have true value to your audience) Reaching them where they are. (Requires a detailed view of micro communities). 𝌡   Technology change (AI specifically) There will be casualties, sure. But where and to what extent? Unique voices and perspectives will always continue to stand out and break through   Career choices – Everything, Everywhere, but NOT All At Once: Secret #1: SLEEP Secret #2: Pacing Secret #3: Satisfaction means variety.  Oh, and with a heavy dose of high-risk tolerance. Advice to her younger self: Chill out!! And have a lot more patience, the road ahead is long Being a better leader, ***************************** Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert & Change Enabler Trained as a behavioral scientist, differentiation strategist and customer-centricity expert, she teaches executives the art and science of strategic differentiation through understanding customer behavior and serves as a fractional CMO for select multi-billion dollar companies. Andrea is the author of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You and an ongoing contributor to multiple major publications including Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur Magazine, Chief Executive Magazine, and Rotman Business Magazine (University of Toronto). She is also literally a world traveler, having worked in over 12 different countries throughout her early career. Andrea also serves as an instructor for the University of Iowa Venture School, and Business Coach for the Tippie College of Business Startup Incubator. Thu, 30 Mar 2023 20:17:01 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Andrea Belk Olson, a Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert and Change Enabler.  Prolific writer and author of three books, the most recent one, of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Te... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Andrea Belk Olson, a Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert and Change Enabler.  Prolific writer and author of three books, the most recent one, of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You which aims to discover those unmet customer needs and turn them into innovations.  Andrea discusses why and how it is possible for her to be holding down and succeeding at a dozen different ventures at any one time.  She provides some previews from her book(s) as to how to use client insights to build better products and businesses.  She also shares perspectives on emerging technology and how that will and will NOT change the industry. Hear Andrea talk about:     Is there anything new REALLY when it comes to marketing? Let’s start with NOT being so obsessed with ourselves and our best previous ideas Understanding client context, critical, means shifting your mindset ‍    Standing out in a very crowded digital market Differentiation (Spoiler alert: Spray and pray is NOT a winning strategy) (Your voice needs to have true value to your audience) Reaching them where they are. (Requires a detailed view of micro communities). 𝌡   Technology change (AI specifically) There will be casualties, sure. But where and to what extent? Unique voices and perspectives will always continue to stand out and break through   Career choices – Everything, Everywhere, but NOT All At Once: Secret #1: SLEEP Secret #2: Pacing Secret #3: Satisfaction means variety.  Oh, and with a heavy dose of high-risk tolerance. Advice to her younger self: Chill out!! And have a lot more patience, the road ahead is long Being a better leader, ***************************** Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert & Change Enabler Trained as a behavioral scientist, differentiation strategist and customer-centricity expert, she teaches executives the art and science of strategic differentiation through understanding customer behavior and serves as a fractional CMO for select multi-billion dollar companies. Andrea is the author of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You and an ongoing contributor to multiple major publications including Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur Magazine, Chief Executive Magazine, and Rotman Business Magazine (University of Toronto). She is also literally a world traveler, having worked in over 12 different countries throughout her early career. Andrea also serves as an instructor for the University of Iowa Venture School, and Business Coach for the Tippie College of Business Startup Incubator.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Andrea Belk Olson, a Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert and Change Enabler.  Prolific writer and author of three books, the most recent one, of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You which aims to discover those unmet customer needs and turn them into innovations.  Andrea discusses why and how it is possible for her to be holding down and succeeding at a dozen different ventures at any one time.  She provides some previews from her book(s) as to how to use client insights to build better products and businesses.  She also shares perspectives on emerging technology and how that will and will NOT change the industry.

Hear Andrea talk about:

    Is there anything new REALLY when it comes to marketing?

  • Let’s start with NOT being so obsessed with ourselves and our best previous ideas
  • Understanding client context, critical, means shifting your mindset

‍    Standing out in a very crowded digital market

  • Differentiation (Spoiler alert: Spray and pray is NOT a winning strategy)
  • (Your voice needs to have true value to your audience)
  • Reaching them where they are. (Requires a detailed view of micro communities).

𝌡   Technology change (AI specifically)

  • There will be casualties, sure. But where and to what extent?
  • Unique voices and perspectives will always continue to stand out and break through

  Career choices – Everything, Everywhere, but NOT All At Once:

  • Secret #1: SLEEP
  • Secret #2: Pacing
  • Secret #3: Satisfaction means variety.  Oh, and with a heavy dose of high-risk tolerance.

Advice to her younger self:

  • Chill out!! And have a lot more patience, the road ahead is long
  • Being a better leader,

*****************************

Behavioral Scientist, Customer Expert & Change Enabler

Trained as a behavioral scientist, differentiation strategist and customer-centricity expert, she teaches executives the art and science of strategic differentiation through understanding customer behavior and serves as a fractional CMO for select multi-billion dollar companies.

Andrea is the author of What to Ask: How to Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You and an ongoing contributor to multiple major publications including Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur Magazine, Chief Executive Magazine, and Rotman Business Magazine (University of Toronto). She is also literally a world traveler, having worked in over 12 different countries throughout her early career. Andrea also serves as an instructor for the University of Iowa Venture School, and Business Coach for the Tippie College of Business Startup Incubator.

]]> 1849 no EP.116 State of play of AI/ML in healthcare. A discussion with Dr. Suchi Saria. https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/03/15/ep-116-state-of-play-of-ai-ml-in-healthcare-a-discussion-with-dr-suchi-saria/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suchi Saria, Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health and prominent AI/ML healthcare expert.  With the tremendous excitement surrounding AI/ML, Suchi describes how to look behind the curtain to separate real solutions from just marketing.  Her road to healthcare came after years of solving hard complex problems.  After proving she could do hard, she wanted to move to something important and very impactful.  Healthcare is it.  With AI/ML, in just a few years she believes we should see measurable clinical impact in time to diagnose and treat, fewer diagnostic errors, more time back to clinicians all of which will remove a lot of waste in healthcare. As Suchi continues to break new ground in healthcare, let’s all hope that she is right. Hear Suchi talk about:     Why Bayesian Health? Smart humans make decisions based on new incoming data and historical knowledge. In healthcare, with vast data available in just the last several years, Bayesian aims to operationalize that decision making by surfacing data in an easy and usable way to augment clinicians who are doing more with less, treating sicker patients, and often feeling burnt out.     State of play of AI/ML in healthcare: Digital tools adoption and ChatGPT has led to a lot of excitement but also hype. Behind the curtain (and the marketing) of AI/ML solutions: Look for teams that have deep expertise in both the technology and the domain. Expect reproducible results – clinically validated; financially validated; and stakeholder approved. This is really hard. Progress will not happen overnight. But the opportunity is real.  This means putting one foot in front of the other every day.   Finding her compass – healthcare: Meant moving from doing what was very hard to doing what was very important and meaningful. It’s personal. Losing her nephew to sepsis fueled the urgency and her focus “to solve this”.   Professional growth and where she spends her time: Every moment of growth has come from a moment of crisis. She may have a brutal schedule, but work is play and play is work. Early mornings start with just thinking and often end watching comedy.  Living in NYC, every day can be an adventure. Future opportunity with AI/ML in healthcare: Expect an explosion of diagnostic software tools that can aid clinicians in real time with patient specific risk assessments. Expect to see measurable clinical impact in the areas of: Early detection Timely improvement in outcomes Reduction in diagnostic errors Time savings for clinicians Overall reduction in healthcare waste ***************************** BIO Suchi Saria is the Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health, the John C. Malone Associate Professor of computer science, statistics, and health policy, and the Director of the Machine Learning and Healthcare Lab at Johns Hopkins University. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles with over 3000 citations and was recently described as “the future of 21st century medicine” by The Sloan Foundation. Her research has pioneered the development of next-generation diagnostic and treatment planning tools that use statistical machine learning methods to individualize care. At Bayesian Health, Dr. Saria is leading the charge to unleash the full power of data to improve healthcare, unburdening caregivers and empowering them to save lives. Backed by 21 patents and peer-reviewed publications in leading technical and clinical journals, Bayesian leverages best-in-class machine learning and behavior change management expertise to help health organizations unlock improved patient care outcomes at scale by providing real-time precise, patient-specific, and actionable insights in the EMR. Dr. Saria’s work has received recognition in numerous forms including best paper awards at machine learning, informatics, and medical venues, a Rambus Fellowship (2004-2010), an NSF Computing Innovation Fellowship (2011), selection by IEEE Intelligent Systems to Artificial Intelligence’s “10 to Watch” (2015), the DARPA Young Faculty Award (2016), MIT Technology Review’s ‘35 Innovators under 35’ (2017), the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowship (2018), and the World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2018). In sepsis, a life-threatening condition, her work first demonstrated the use of machine learning to integrate diverse signals to make early detection possible (Science Trans. Med. 2015). In Parkinson’s, her work showed a first demonstration of using readily-available sensors to easily track and measure symptom severity at home, which can serve to optimize treatment management (JAMA Neurology 2018). Dr. Saria has traveled worldwide to conduct lectures and keynotes and most recently was an invited speaker at TEDMED 2020. In the past, she has given invited keynotes at several prestigious meetings including at The Royal Society, TEDxBoston,  the International Conference in Health Policy and Statistics (ICHPS), the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) Annual Meeting, the Montreal AI Symposium, the Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence (UAI) meeting, the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML), International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR), and the Oxford Statistics Distinguished Seminar Series, to name a few. Dr. Saria earned her M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Stanford University working with Professor Daphne Koller. She visited Harvard University as an NSF Computing Innovation Fellow and joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2012. Currently, Dr. Saria is serving as an advisor to the FDA on AI/machine learning. Wed, 15 Mar 2023 18:44:28 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suchi Saria, Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health and prominent AI/ML healthcare expert.  With the tremendous excitement surrounding AI/ML, Suchi describes how to look behind the curtain to separate real... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suchi Saria, Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health and prominent AI/ML healthcare expert.  With the tremendous excitement surrounding AI/ML, Suchi describes how to look behind the curtain to separate real solutions from just marketing.  Her road to healthcare came after years of solving hard complex problems.  After proving she could do hard, she wanted to move to something important and very impactful.  Healthcare is it.  With AI/ML, in just a few years she believes we should see measurable clinical impact in time to diagnose and treat, fewer diagnostic errors, more time back to clinicians all of which will remove a lot of waste in healthcare. As Suchi continues to break new ground in healthcare, let’s all hope that she is right. Hear Suchi talk about:     Why Bayesian Health? Smart humans make decisions based on new incoming data and historical knowledge. In healthcare, with vast data available in just the last several years, Bayesian aims to operationalize that decision making by surfacing data in an easy and usable way to augment clinicians who are doing more with less, treating sicker patients, and often feeling burnt out.     State of play of AI/ML in healthcare: Digital tools adoption and ChatGPT has led to a lot of excitement but also hype. Behind the curtain (and the marketing) of AI/ML solutions: Look for teams that have deep expertise in both the technology and the domain. Expect reproducible results – clinically validated; financially validated; and stakeholder approved. This is really hard. Progress will not happen overnight. But the opportunity is real.  This means putting one foot in front of the other every day.   Finding her compass – healthcare: Meant moving from doing what was very hard to doing what was very important and meaningful. It’s personal. Losing her nephew to sepsis fueled the urgency and her focus “to solve this”.   Professional growth and where she spends her time: Every moment of growth has come from a moment of crisis. She may have a brutal schedule, but work is play and play is work. Early mornings start with just thinking and often end watching comedy.  Living in NYC, every day can be an adventure. Future opportunity with AI/ML in healthcare: Expect an explosion of diagnostic software tools that can aid clinicians in real time with patient specific risk assessments. Expect to see measurable clinical impact in the areas of: Early detection Timely improvement in outcomes Reduction in diagnostic errors Time savings for clinicians Overall reduction in healthcare waste ***************************** BIO Suchi Saria is the Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health, the John C. Malone Associate Professor of computer science, statistics, and health policy, and the Director of the Machine Learning and Healthcare Lab at Johns Hopkins University. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles with over 3000 citations and was recently described as “the future of 21st century medicine” by The Sloan Foundation. Her research has pioneered the development of next-generation diagnostic and treatment planning tools that use statistical machine learning methods to individualize care. At Bayesian Health, Dr. Saria is leading the charge to unleash the full power of data to improve healthcare, unburdening caregivers and empowering them to save lives. Backed by 21 patents and peer-reviewed publications in leading technical and clinical journals, Bayesian leverages best-in-class machine learning and behavior change management expertise to help health organizations unlock improved patient care outcomes at scale by providing real-time precise, patient-specific, and actionable insights in the EMR. Dr. Saria’s work has received recognition in numerous forms including best paper awards at machine learning, informatics, and medical venues, a Rambus Fellowship (2004-2010), an NSF Computing Innovation Fellowship (2011), selection by IEEE Intelligent Systems to Artificial Intelligence’s “10 to Watch” (2015), the DARPA Young Faculty Award (2016), MIT Technology Review’s ‘35 Innovators under 35’ (2017), the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowship (2018), and the World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2018). In sepsis, a life-threatening condition, her work first demonstrated the use of machine learning to integrate diverse signals to make early detection possible (Science Trans. Med. 2015). In Parkinson’s, her work showed a first demonstration of using readily-available sensors to easily track and measure symptom severity at home, which can serve to optimize treatment management (JAMA Neurology 2018). Dr. Saria has traveled worldwide to conduct lectures and keynotes and most recently was an invited speaker at TEDMED 2020. In the past, she has given invited keynotes at several prestigious meetings including at The Royal Society, TEDxBoston,  the International Conference in Health Policy and Statistics (ICHPS), the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) Annual Meeting, the Montreal AI Symposium, the Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence (UAI) meeting, the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML), International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR), and the Oxford Statistics Distinguished Seminar Series, to name a few. Dr. Saria earned her M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Stanford University working with Professor Daphne Koller. She visited Harvard University as an NSF Computing Innovation Fellow and joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2012. Currently, Dr. Saria is serving as an advisor to the FDA on AI/machine learning.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suchi Saria, Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health and prominent AI/ML healthcare expert.  With the tremendous excitement surrounding AI/ML, Suchi describes how to look behind the curtain to separate real solutions from just marketing.  Her road to healthcare came after years of solving hard complex problems.  After proving she could do hard, she wanted to move to something important and very impactful.  Healthcare is it.  With AI/ML, in just a few years she believes we should see measurable clinical impact in time to diagnose and treat, fewer diagnostic errors, more time back to clinicians all of which will remove a lot of waste in healthcare.

As Suchi continues to break new ground in healthcare, let’s all hope that she is right.

Hear Suchi talk about:

    Why Bayesian Health?

  • Smart humans make decisions based on new incoming data and historical knowledge.
  • In healthcare, with vast data available in just the last several years, Bayesian aims to operationalize that decision making by surfacing data in an easy and usable way to augment clinicians who are doing more with less, treating sicker patients, and often feeling burnt out.

    State of play of AI/ML in healthcare:

  • Digital tools adoption and ChatGPT has led to a lot of excitement but also hype.
  • Behind the curtain (and the marketing) of AI/ML solutions:
    • Look for teams that have deep expertise in both the technology and the domain.
    • Expect reproducible results – clinically validated; financially validated; and stakeholder approved.
  • This is really hard. Progress will not happen overnight. But the opportunity is real.  This means putting one foot in front of the other every day.

  Finding her compass – healthcare:

  • Meant moving from doing what was very hard to doing what was very important and meaningful.
  • It’s personal. Losing her nephew to sepsis fueled the urgency and her focus “to solve this”.

  Professional growth and where she spends her time:

  • Every moment of growth has come from a moment of crisis.
  • She may have a brutal schedule, but work is play and play is work. Early mornings start with just thinking and often end watching comedy.  Living in NYC, every day can be an adventure.

Future opportunity with AI/ML in healthcare:

  • Expect an explosion of diagnostic software tools that can aid clinicians in real time with patient specific risk assessments.
  • Expect to see measurable clinical impact in the areas of:
    • Early detection
    • Timely improvement in outcomes
    • Reduction in diagnostic errors
    • Time savings for clinicians
    • Overall reduction in healthcare waste

*****************************

BIO

Suchi Saria is the Founder and CEO of Bayesian Health, the John C. Malone Associate Professor of computer science, statistics, and health policy, and the Director of the Machine Learning and Healthcare Lab at Johns Hopkins University. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles with over 3000 citations and was recently described as “the future of 21st century medicine” by The Sloan Foundation. Her research has pioneered the development of next-generation diagnostic and treatment planning tools that use statistical machine learning methods to individualize care.

At Bayesian Health, Dr. Saria is leading the charge to unleash the full power of data to improve healthcare, unburdening caregivers and empowering them to save lives. Backed by 21 patents and peer-reviewed publications in leading technical and clinical journals, Bayesian leverages best-in-class machine learning and behavior change management expertise to help health organizations unlock improved patient care outcomes at scale by providing real-time precise, patient-specific, and actionable insights in the EMR.

Dr. Saria’s work has received recognition in numerous forms including best paper awards at machine learning, informatics, and medical venues, a Rambus Fellowship (2004-2010), an NSF Computing Innovation Fellowship (2011), selection by IEEE Intelligent Systems to Artificial Intelligence’s “10 to Watch” (2015), the DARPA Young Faculty Award (2016), MIT Technology Review’s ‘35 Innovators under 35’ (2017), the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowship (2018), and the World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2018). In sepsis, a life-threatening condition, her work first demonstrated the use of machine learning to integrate diverse signals to make early detection possible (Science Trans. Med. 2015). In Parkinson’s, her work showed a first demonstration of using readily-available sensors to easily track and measure symptom severity at home, which can serve to optimize treatment management (JAMA Neurology 2018).

Dr. Saria has traveled worldwide to conduct lectures and keynotes and most recently was an invited speaker at TEDMED 2020. In the past, she has given invited keynotes at several prestigious meetings including at The Royal Society, TEDxBoston,  the International Conference in Health Policy and Statistics (ICHPS), the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) Annual Meeting, the Montreal AI Symposium, the Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence (UAI) meeting, the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML), International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR), and the Oxford Statistics Distinguished Seminar Series, to name a few.

Dr. Saria earned her M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Stanford University working with Professor Daphne Koller. She visited Harvard University as an NSF Computing Innovation Fellow and joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2012. Currently, Dr. Saria is serving as an advisor to the FDA on AI/machine learning.

]]> 1913 no EP. 115 | Joanne Mizell left retirement to tackle healthcare complexity with a new care delivery model https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/03/08/ep-115-joanne-mizell-left-retirement-to-tackle-healthcare-complexity-with-a-new-care-delivery-model/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Mizell, Chief Operating Officer of the Phoenix based Banner-Aetna Payvider joint venture. Decades as a healthcare executive still did not prepare Joanne to navigate the system when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.  Thankfully, his health has improved but care delivery remains complex.  When presented with the opportunity to lead a new model of care delivery, Joanne leapt at the chance, leaving retirement behind. Hear Joanne talk about: Banner|Aetna: A joint venture where the payer and health system align with shared goals and interests. Changing from an adversarial approach to collaborative teamwork required significant investment in culture change.     Eliminating a pain point – simplified billing: Why is billing so complicated anyway? Reducing the middleman means fewer touchpoints and a better experience for patients.   Her career journey to healthcare: Strong role models gave her opportunities by empowering her. You can learn a lot from leaders that you do not want to emulate.   Who inspires her today: Those who challenge or expand her thinking when seeing things in a very different way.   Closing Advice: Watch and emulate those that you respect and admire, but be genuine. ***************************** BIO Joanne Mizell joined Banner|Aetna as Chief Operating Officer in February 2018, with over 20 years Aetna experience and nearly 30 years in the Employee Benefits industry. In this role, and as a member of the executive leadership team, Mizell will oversee operations of the organization and support the execution of the strategic goals set by Banner|Aetna’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. Mizell is a proven leader who has consistently delivered growth to various organizations and market segments by developing strong teams, crafting creative strategies and fostering deep community and client relationships. As Chief Operating Officer of Banner|Aetna, Mizell leverages her experience and well-established network in Arizona to execute the organization’s mission of helping employers improve the health and well-being of their workforce, while simplifying the coverage-to-care-to-payment of health care for its members. Mizell started her career in Orange County and Los Angeles, California before relocating to Arizona in 1998. Mizell’s previous roles at Aetna Included building sales and service teams for large employers, managing the growth, client satisfaction, and profit & loss for a four state market that included Arizona. Mizell also led the creation and build of a new product portfolio for Aetna’s National Accounts segment, simplifying the selection, purchasing and administration of voluntary products for Aetna’s largest clients. Outside of Aetna, Mizell was a broker/advisor at an international insurance brokerage firm, where she served as lead health care and benefits design strategist for larger, complex clients. Mizell has also worked in both paid and volunteer leadership roles for several humanitarian and animal protection organizations. She continues to be actively involved in formal local and state advocacy aimed at improving lives through proposed legislative and policy changes in Arizona and in the United States. Prior to beginning her career at Aetna, Mizell studied Business Administration at California State University at Fullerton, while working full-time in the employee benefits department of Hughes Aircraft Company. Making lives better by delivering best-in-class employee benefits has been her career journey ever since. Mizell’s role at Banner|Aetna takes that experience and passion to the next level. Wed, 08 Mar 2023 15:43:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Mizell, Chief Operating Officer of the Phoenix based Banner-Aetna Payvider joint venture. Decades as a healthcare executive still did not prepare Joanne to navigate the system when her husband was d... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Mizell, Chief Operating Officer of the Phoenix based Banner-Aetna Payvider joint venture. Decades as a healthcare executive still did not prepare Joanne to navigate the system when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.  Thankfully, his health has improved but care delivery remains complex.  When presented with the opportunity to lead a new model of care delivery, Joanne leapt at the chance, leaving retirement behind. Hear Joanne talk about: Banner|Aetna: A joint venture where the payer and health system align with shared goals and interests. Changing from an adversarial approach to collaborative teamwork required significant investment in culture change.     Eliminating a pain point – simplified billing: Why is billing so complicated anyway? Reducing the middleman means fewer touchpoints and a better experience for patients.   Her career journey to healthcare: Strong role models gave her opportunities by empowering her. You can learn a lot from leaders that you do not want to emulate.   Who inspires her today: Those who challenge or expand her thinking when seeing things in a very different way.   Closing Advice: Watch and emulate those that you respect and admire, but be genuine. ***************************** BIO Joanne Mizell joined Banner|Aetna as Chief Operating Officer in February 2018, with over 20 years Aetna experience and nearly 30 years in the Employee Benefits industry. In this role, and as a member of the executive leadership team, Mizell will oversee operations of the organization and support the execution of the strategic goals set by Banner|Aetna’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. Mizell is a proven leader who has consistently delivered growth to various organizations and market segments by developing strong teams, crafting creative strategies and fostering deep community and client relationships. As Chief Operating Officer of Banner|Aetna, Mizell leverages her experience and well-established network in Arizona to execute the organization’s mission of helping employers improve the health and well-being of their workforce, while simplifying the coverage-to-care-to-payment of health care for its members. Mizell started her career in Orange County and Los Angeles, California before relocating to Arizona in 1998. Mizell’s previous roles at Aetna Included building sales and service teams for large employers, managing the growth, client satisfaction, and profit & loss for a four state market that included Arizona. Mizell also led the creation and build of a new product portfolio for Aetna’s National Accounts segment, simplifying the selection, purchasing and administration of voluntary products for Aetna’s largest clients. Outside of Aetna, Mizell was a broker/advisor at an international insurance brokerage firm, where she served as lead health care and benefits design strategist for larger, complex clients. Mizell has also worked in both paid and volunteer leadership roles for several humanitarian and animal protection organizations. She continues to be actively involved in formal local and state advocacy aimed at improving lives through proposed legislative and policy changes in Arizona and in the United States. Prior to beginning her career at Aetna, Mizell studied Business Administration at California State University at Fullerton, while working full-time in the employee benefits department of Hughes Aircraft Company. Making lives better by delivering best-in-class employee benefits has been her career journey ever since. Mizell’s role at Banner|Aetna takes that experience and passion to the next level.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Mizell, Chief Operating Officer of the Phoenix based Banner-Aetna Payvider joint venture. Decades as a healthcare executive still did not prepare Joanne to navigate the system when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.  Thankfully, his health has improved but care delivery remains complex.  When presented with the opportunity to lead a new model of care delivery, Joanne leapt at the chance, leaving retirement behind.

Hear Joanne talk about:

Banner|Aetna:

  • A joint venture where the payer and health system align with shared goals and interests.
  • Changing from an adversarial approach to collaborative teamwork required significant investment in culture change.

    Eliminating a pain point – simplified billing:

  • Why is billing so complicated anyway?
  • Reducing the middleman means fewer touchpoints and a better experience for patients.

  Her career journey to healthcare:

  • Strong role models gave her opportunities by empowering her.
  • You can learn a lot from leaders that you do not want to emulate.

  Who inspires her today:

  • Those who challenge or expand her thinking when seeing things in a very different way.

  Closing Advice:

  • Watch and emulate those that you respect and admire, but be genuine.

*****************************

BIO

Joanne Mizell joined Banner|Aetna as Chief Operating Officer in February 2018, with over 20 years Aetna experience and nearly 30 years in the Employee Benefits industry. In this role, and as a member of the executive leadership team, Mizell will oversee operations of the organization and support the execution of the strategic goals set by Banner|Aetna’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer.

Mizell is a proven leader who has consistently delivered growth to various organizations and market segments by developing strong teams, crafting creative strategies and fostering deep community and client relationships. As Chief Operating Officer of Banner|Aetna, Mizell leverages her experience and well-established network in Arizona to execute the organization’s mission of helping employers improve the health and well-being of their workforce, while simplifying the coverage-to-care-to-payment of health care for its members.

Mizell started her career in Orange County and Los Angeles, California before relocating to Arizona in 1998. Mizell’s previous roles at Aetna Included building sales and service teams for large employers, managing the growth, client satisfaction, and profit & loss for a four state market that included Arizona. Mizell also led the creation and build of a new product portfolio for Aetna’s National Accounts segment, simplifying the selection, purchasing and administration of voluntary products for Aetna’s largest clients. Outside of Aetna, Mizell was a broker/advisor at an international insurance brokerage firm, where she served as lead health care and benefits design strategist for larger, complex clients.

Mizell has also worked in both paid and volunteer leadership roles for several humanitarian and animal protection organizations. She continues to be actively involved in formal local and state advocacy aimed at improving lives through proposed legislative and policy changes in Arizona and in the United States.

Prior to beginning her career at Aetna, Mizell studied Business Administration at California State University at Fullerton, while working full-time in the employee benefits department of Hughes Aircraft Company. Making lives better by delivering best-in-class employee benefits has been her career journey ever since. Mizell’s role at Banner|Aetna takes that experience and passion to the next level.

]]> 1658 no EP. 114 From New York to Montana: Gen Z / Millennial Perspectives on Choosing Non-Profit Work Post-COVID https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/02/28/ep-114-from-new-york-to-montana-gen-z-millennial-perspectives-on-choosing-non-profit-work-post-covid/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Kiernan McCarthy and Natalie Studt, who both came to Montana from New York seeking an outdoor way of life and professionally, a focus on service.  Today, they are staff at Wellness in Action (WIA), a non-profit organization providing mental and behavioral health resources for local residents.  Big Sky Montana is a beautiful a tourist destination for many, but for full time residents, accessible and affordable resources can be challenging.  Also, representing the “younger generation”, Kiernan and Natalie acknowledge that they think about work differently, but please do not misunderstand – their work is very important to them!! Hear Kiernan and Natalie talk about: Wellness in Action (WIA): Big Sky, MT based non-profit that provides mental and behavioral health resources for residents. Scholarships and a sliding fee scale increase access and affordability.   COVID changed everything: As a recent college grad, Kiernan found herself needing to move back in with her parents.  Grateful, absolutely.  Also, um…. stifling.  Montana, here I come! Natalie was “an essential worker” which made her rethink her life and focus. Gaining new skills, thinking longer term, and pursuing alternatives became her priority.   Gen Z / Millennials think about work differently than their parents. Older generations always misunderstand younger generations’ approach to work. 60-80 hr work weeks….when your life is your work… mental health strain… No thank you! INSTEAD – Wanting to live their WHOLE life now. Which includes being engaged at work.   Quiet Quitting (Give me a break!!) Don’t confuse work life balance with NOT being serious about work.   Closing Advice: Kiernan: Keep trying new things and take risks. Natalie: Trust your gut ***************************** BIOs Kiernan McCarthy Mental & Behavioral Programs Manager Kiernan moved to Big Sky in November of 2021 to enjoy the slopes of Lone Peak. She holds a BA in Psychology and a minor in Spanish, from Geneseo. During college, she worked at DOROT, a non-profit in New York City that aided socially isolated older adults. As a community services intern, she would help social workers with local outreach events, meet with clients during home visits, and assist them with daily tasks such as grocery shopping or getting to appointments. After working seasonal jobs post-college, she has first-hand experience with the workforce and the needs of that population. She is deeply interested in contributing to the community and building connections to further local access to resources. In her free time, she can be found hiking, camping, or skiing   Natalie Studt Operations Manager Natalie Studt is the Operations Manager for WIA. She moved to Big Sky from NYC in May of 2019 and fell in love with Montana. After graduating from The City College of New York with a B.A. in Economics and a B.A. in Philosophy, she worked in the New York City service industry for a couple of years before moving west. Natalie worked at Big Sky Resort for her first summer in Big Sky, followed by the Hungry Moose Market & Deli. Natalie has a long held passion for community welfare and public service. Her desire to help the people of Big Sky led her to WIA, where she can implement her varied skills and training for a cause she wholeheartedly believes in. Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:18:03 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Kiernan McCarthy and Natalie Studt, who both came to Montana from New York seeking an outdoor way of life and professionally, a focus on service.  Today, they are staff at Wellness in Action (WIA), Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Kiernan McCarthy and Natalie Studt, who both came to Montana from New York seeking an outdoor way of life and professionally, a focus on service.  Today, they are staff at Wellness in Action (WIA), a non-profit organization providing mental and behavioral health resources for local residents.  Big Sky Montana is a beautiful a tourist destination for many, but for full time residents, accessible and affordable resources can be challenging.  Also, representing the “younger generation”, Kiernan and Natalie acknowledge that they think about work differently, but please do not misunderstand – their work is very important to them!! Hear Kiernan and Natalie talk about: Wellness in Action (WIA): Big Sky, MT based non-profit that provides mental and behavioral health resources for residents. Scholarships and a sliding fee scale increase access and affordability.   COVID changed everything: As a recent college grad, Kiernan found herself needing to move back in with her parents.  Grateful, absolutely.  Also, um…. stifling.  Montana, here I come! Natalie was “an essential worker” which made her rethink her life and focus. Gaining new skills, thinking longer term, and pursuing alternatives became her priority.   Gen Z / Millennials think about work differently than their parents. Older generations always misunderstand younger generations’ approach to work. 60-80 hr work weeks….when your life is your work… mental health strain… No thank you! INSTEAD – Wanting to live their WHOLE life now. Which includes being engaged at work.   Quiet Quitting (Give me a break!!) Don’t confuse work life balance with NOT being serious about work.   Closing Advice: Kiernan: Keep trying new things and take risks. Natalie: Trust your gut ***************************** BIOs Kiernan McCarthy Mental & Behavioral Programs Manager Kiernan moved to Big Sky in November of 2021 to enjoy the slopes of Lone Peak. She holds a BA in Psychology and a minor in Spanish, from Geneseo. During college, she worked at DOROT, a non-profit in New York City that aided socially isolated older adults. As a community services intern, she would help social workers with local outreach events, meet with clients during home visits, and assist them with daily tasks such as grocery shopping or getting to appointments. After working seasonal jobs post-college, she has first-hand experience with the workforce and the needs of that population. She is deeply interested in contributing to the community and building connections to further local access to resources. In her free time, she can be found hiking, camping, or skiing   Natalie Studt Operations Manager Natalie Studt is the Operations Manager for WIA. She moved to Big Sky from NYC in May of 2019 and fell in love with Montana. After graduating from The City College of New York with a B.A. in Economics and a B.A. in Philosophy, she worked in the New York City service industry for a couple of years before moving west. Natalie worked at Big Sky Resort for her first summer in Big Sky, followed by the Hungry Moose Market & Deli. Natalie has a long held passion for community welfare and public service. Her desire to help the people of Big Sky led her to WIA, where she can implement her varied skills and training for a cause she wholeheartedly believes in.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Kiernan McCarthy and Natalie Studt, who both came to Montana from New York seeking an outdoor way of life and professionally, a focus on service.  Today, they are staff at Wellness in Action (WIA), a non-profit organization providing mental and behavioral health resources for local residents.  Big Sky Montana is a beautiful a tourist destination for many, but for full time residents, accessible and affordable resources can be challenging.  Also, representing the “younger generation”, Kiernan and Natalie acknowledge that they think about work differently, but please do not misunderstand – their work is very important to them!!

Hear Kiernan and Natalie talk about:

Wellness in Action (WIA):

    • Big Sky, MT based non-profit that provides mental and behavioral health resources for residents.
    • Scholarships and a sliding fee scale increase access and affordability.

  COVID changed everything:

    • As a recent college grad, Kiernan found herself needing to move back in with her parents.  Grateful, absolutely.  Also, um…. stifling.  Montana, here I come!
    • Natalie was “an essential worker” which made her rethink her life and focus. Gaining new skills, thinking longer term, and pursuing alternatives became her priority.

  Gen Z / Millennials think about work differently than their parents.

    • Older generations always misunderstand younger generations’ approach to work.
    • 60-80 hr work weeks….when your life is your work… mental health strain… No thank you!
    • INSTEAD – Wanting to live their WHOLE life now. Which includes being engaged at work.

  Quiet Quitting (Give me a break!!)

    • Don’t confuse work life balance with NOT being serious about work.

  Closing Advice:

    • Kiernan: Keep trying new things and take risks.
    • Natalie: Trust your gut

*****************************

BIOs

Kiernan McCarthy
Mental & Behavioral Programs Manager

Kiernan moved to Big Sky in November of 2021 to enjoy the slopes of Lone Peak. She holds a BA in Psychology and a minor in Spanish, from Geneseo. During college, she worked at DOROT, a non-profit in New York City that aided socially isolated older adults. As a community services intern, she would help social workers with local outreach events, meet with clients during home visits, and assist them with daily tasks such as grocery shopping or getting to appointments. After working seasonal jobs post-college, she has first-hand experience with the workforce and the needs of that population. She is deeply interested in contributing to the community and building connections to further local access to resources. In her free time, she can be found hiking, camping, or skiing

 

Natalie Studt
Operations Manager

Natalie Studt is the Operations Manager for WIA. She moved to Big Sky from NYC in May of 2019 and fell in love with Montana. After graduating from The City College of New York with a B.A. in Economics and a B.A. in Philosophy, she worked in the New York City service industry for a couple of years before moving west. Natalie worked at Big Sky Resort for her first summer in Big Sky, followed by the Hungry Moose Market & Deli. Natalie has a long held passion for community welfare and public service. Her desire to help the people of Big Sky led her to WIA, where she can implement her varied skills and training for a cause she wholeheartedly believes in.

]]> 1975 no EP. 113 From Congress to the Private Sector: Lessons Learned from Rachel Snyder Good https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/02/22/ep-113-from-congress-to-the-private-sector-lessons-learned-from-rachel-snyder-good/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachel Snyder Good, who finished her time as a Senior Policy Advisor in the Leadership Office of the 117th United States Congress at the end of 2022.  Rachel began her work in Congress, she expected to be there just two to four years.  This grew to over nine after receiving multiple opportunities.  Rachel began 2023 facing the work of finding a new job which included spending a lot of time networking and learning to take her own advice that she freely gives to others – creating the muscle memory of ASKING. Hear Rachel talk about:   Congress taught her many things: The difference between policy and politics. Politics helped her to get things done. How to deal with power and powerful people, even when you are naturally confident. And importantly, governing is   Deciding when it’s time to leave: Deciding how much is enough. And the importance of making a clean break.   Advice she gives to friends (that she is learning to take herself): It is hard to ask….AND ….you need to ask.   What she has learned while networking:  People who want to help you will surprise you. Rachel’s closing advice to other women is what she advises to her friends – when looking for a new job – show up as your authentic self.  Culture fit is important and, for Rachel, a key criteria for where she intends to be next! ***************************** BIO Rachel Snyder Good most recently served as Senior Policy Advisor in the Office of the House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer.  Over her nine year tenure with Congressman Hoyer, she was responsible for legislation across many policy areas, including health care.  Previously Rachel worked as a Legislative Aide for then Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD).  She is a graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law and The University of Michigan. She currently lives in Baltimore with her husband, Jordan. Wed, 22 Feb 2023 02:13:30 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachel Snyder Good, who finished her time as a Senior Policy Advisor in the Leadership Office of the 117th United States Congress at the end of 2022.  Rachel began her work in Congress, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachel Snyder Good, who finished her time as a Senior Policy Advisor in the Leadership Office of the 117th United States Congress at the end of 2022.  Rachel began her work in Congress, she expected to be there just two to four years.  This grew to over nine after receiving multiple opportunities.  Rachel began 2023 facing the work of finding a new job which included spending a lot of time networking and learning to take her own advice that she freely gives to others – creating the muscle memory of ASKING. Hear Rachel talk about:   Congress taught her many things: The difference between policy and politics. Politics helped her to get things done. How to deal with power and powerful people, even when you are naturally confident. And importantly, governing is   Deciding when it’s time to leave: Deciding how much is enough. And the importance of making a clean break.   Advice she gives to friends (that she is learning to take herself): It is hard to ask….AND ….you need to ask.   What she has learned while networking:  People who want to help you will surprise you. Rachel’s closing advice to other women is what she advises to her friends – when looking for a new job – show up as your authentic self.  Culture fit is important and, for Rachel, a key criteria for where she intends to be next! ***************************** BIO Rachel Snyder Good most recently served as Senior Policy Advisor in the Office of the House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer.  Over her nine year tenure with Congressman Hoyer, she was responsible for legislation across many policy areas, including health care.  Previously Rachel worked as a Legislative Aide for then Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD).  She is a graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law and The University of Michigan. She currently lives in Baltimore with her husband, Jordan.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rachel Snyder Good, who finished her time as a Senior Policy Advisor in the Leadership Office of the 117th United States Congress at the end of 2022.  Rachel began her work in Congress, she expected to be there just two to four years.  This grew to over nine after receiving multiple opportunities.  Rachel began 2023 facing the work of finding a new job which included spending a lot of time networking and learning to take her own advice that she freely gives to others – creating the muscle memory of ASKING.

Hear Rachel talk about:

  Congress taught her many things:

  • The difference between policy and politics. Politics helped her to get things done.
  • How to deal with power and powerful people, even when you are naturally confident.
  • And importantly, governing is

  Deciding when it’s time to leave:

  • Deciding how much is enough.
  • And the importance of making a clean break.

  Advice she gives to friends (that she is learning to take herself):

  • It is hard to ask….AND ….you need to ask.

  What she has learned while networking: 

  • People who want to help you will surprise you.

Rachel’s closing advice to other women is what she advises to her friends – when looking for a new job – show up as your authentic self.  Culture fit is important and, for Rachel, a key criteria for where she intends to be next!

*****************************

BIO

Rachel Snyder Good most recently served as Senior Policy Advisor in the Office of the House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer.  Over her nine year tenure with Congressman Hoyer, she was responsible for legislation across many policy areas, including health care.  Previously Rachel worked as a Legislative Aide for then Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD).  She is a graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law and The University of Michigan. She currently lives in Baltimore with her husband, Jordan.

]]> 1822 no EP. 112 Innovating in Medicaid to provide health for all. https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/02/14/ep-112-innovating-in-medicaid-to-provide-health-for-all/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Adimika Arthur, the Founding Executive Director of HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M).  As a social entrepreneur, a relentless and passionate advocate, and an epidemiologist, Adimika is committed to making meaningful and measurable progress.  Don’t confuse her “toxic optimism” with her dogged resolve to make this world a better place.  HT4M is now into its fifth year with big plans to DISRUPT.  This includes determinants, designing with dignity and ensuring that there are dollars behind the needed innovations to support quality, equity and access to all Americans on Medicaid.   Hear Adimika talk about: Medicaid Primer:  57 years old and serving the needs of 80 million, or one out of five, Americans.  Medicaid is the largest insured population, provided in 56 different ways based on the State Ceiling and Federal Floor funding dynamic.  Also, the first radical act of access to care. Proudest accomplishments to date for HT4M:   Humanizing Medicaid through storytelling, myth busting and showing the faces of Medicaid. Sea Change of interest due to the pandemic, the racial reckoning in the US and new regulations. Where she finds inspiration:  from all kinds of people that she meets anywhere, e.g. in the Starbucks line …. or at the food pantry where she volunteers.  But also reading.  Recent finds include the polymer composition of cement (you read that correctly!) and the economic levers for ESG programs.   Mantras she lives by:  Faith, family, and waking up every day knowing that she intends and expects to leave this world a better place. For herself, her family, and for her ancestors who helped build this country. ***************************** BIO Founding Exec Director:  HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M) Healthcare executive with significant leadership commitment to serving vulnerable populations. I am a visionary and strategic business thinker who partners with colleagues, teams and businesses to create and drive value, optimize performance and inspire high-growth companies to serve those most in need. Trained as a clinical epidemiologist, turned successful health care administrator with a proven record of developing innovative strategies to improve the delivery and quality of health services, increase access to care, and stabilize struggling organizations. Dynamic thought leader with progressive experience providing insight in the fields of public health care. Adept at analyzing existing health care operations and implementing necessary strategies and formal business practices to strengthen the safety-net. Board member, advocate for women’s leadership and clearinghouse for connecting people and process. Affectionately known as “Madame Medicaid” for being able to turn any conversation into one about the health program that serves more than 79 Million people nationwide. Specialties include healthcare cost containment, revenue cycle enhancement, budget and leadership development. Particular expertise in outpatient services, patient and employee satisfaction. Tue, 14 Feb 2023 00:28:12 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Adimika Arthur, the Founding Executive Director of HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M).  As a social entrepreneur, a relentless and passionate advocate, and an epidemiologist, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Adimika Arthur, the Founding Executive Director of HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M).  As a social entrepreneur, a relentless and passionate advocate, and an epidemiologist, Adimika is committed to making meaningful and measurable progress.  Don’t confuse her “toxic optimism” with her dogged resolve to make this world a better place.  HT4M is now into its fifth year with big plans to DISRUPT.  This includes determinants, designing with dignity and ensuring that there are dollars behind the needed innovations to support quality, equity and access to all Americans on Medicaid.   Hear Adimika talk about: Medicaid Primer:  57 years old and serving the needs of 80 million, or one out of five, Americans.  Medicaid is the largest insured population, provided in 56 different ways based on the State Ceiling and Federal Floor funding dynamic.  Also, the first radical act of access to care. Proudest accomplishments to date for HT4M:   Humanizing Medicaid through storytelling, myth busting and showing the faces of Medicaid. Sea Change of interest due to the pandemic, the racial reckoning in the US and new regulations. Where she finds inspiration:  from all kinds of people that she meets anywhere, e.g. in the Starbucks line …. or at the food pantry where she volunteers.  But also reading.  Recent finds include the polymer composition of cement (you read that correctly!) and the economic levers for ESG programs.   Mantras she lives by:  Faith, family, and waking up every day knowing that she intends and expects to leave this world a better place. For herself, her family, and for her ancestors who helped build this country. ***************************** BIO Founding Exec Director:  HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M) Healthcare executive with significant leadership commitment to serving vulnerable populations. I am a visionary and strategic business thinker who partners with colleagues, teams and businesses to create and drive value, optimize performance and inspire high-growth companies to serve those most in need. Trained as a clinical epidemiologist, turned successful health care administrator with a proven record of developing innovative strategies to improve the delivery and quality of health services, increase access to care, and stabilize struggling organizations. Dynamic thought leader with progressive experience providing insight in the fields of public health care. Adept at analyzing existing health care operations and implementing necessary strategies and formal business practices to strengthen the safety-net. Board member, advocate for women’s leadership and clearinghouse for connecting people and process. Affectionately known as “Madame Medicaid” for being able to turn any conversation into one about the health program that serves more than 79 Million people nationwide. Specialties include healthcare cost containment, revenue cycle enhancement, budget and leadership development. Particular expertise in outpatient services, patient and employee satisfaction.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Adimika Arthur, the Founding Executive Director of HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M).  As a social entrepreneur, a relentless and passionate advocate, and an epidemiologist, Adimika is committed to making meaningful and measurable progress.  Don’t confuse her “toxic optimism” with her dogged resolve to make this world a better place.  HT4M is now into its fifth year with big plans to DISRUPT.  This includes determinants, designing with dignity and ensuring that there are dollars behind the needed innovations to support quality, equity and access to all Americans on Medicaid.

 

Hear Adimika talk about:

Medicaid Primer:  57 years old and serving the needs of 80 million, or one out of five, Americans.  Medicaid is the largest insured population, provided in 56 different ways based on the State Ceiling and Federal Floor funding dynamic.  Also, the first radical act of access to care.

Proudest accomplishments to date for HT4M:  

Humanizing Medicaid through storytelling, myth busting and showing the faces of Medicaid.

Sea Change of interest due to the pandemic, the racial reckoning in the US and new regulations.

Where she finds inspiration:  from all kinds of people that she meets anywhere, e.g. in the Starbucks line …. or at the food pantry where she volunteers.  But also reading.  Recent finds include the polymer composition of cement (you read that correctly!) and the economic levers for ESG programs.

  Mantras she lives by:  Faith, family, and waking up every day knowing that she intends and expects to leave this world a better place.

For herself, her family, and for her ancestors who helped build this country.

*****************************

BIO

Founding Exec Director:  HealthTech for Medicaid (HT4M)

Healthcare executive with significant leadership commitment to serving vulnerable populations. I am a visionary and strategic business thinker who partners with colleagues, teams and businesses to create and drive value, optimize performance and inspire high-growth companies to serve those most in need.

Trained as a clinical epidemiologist, turned successful health care administrator with a proven record of developing innovative strategies to improve the delivery and quality of health services, increase access to care, and stabilize struggling organizations. Dynamic thought leader with progressive experience providing insight in the fields of public health care.

Adept at analyzing existing health care operations and implementing necessary strategies and formal business practices to strengthen the safety-net.

Board member, advocate for women’s leadership and clearinghouse for connecting people and process. Affectionately known as “Madame Medicaid” for being able to turn any conversation into one about the health program that serves more than 79 Million people nationwide.

Specialties include healthcare cost containment, revenue cycle enhancement, budget and leadership development. Particular expertise in outpatient services, patient and employee satisfaction.

]]> 1719 no EP. 111 An optimistic new year begins with a new vision for healthcare https://inspiringwomen.show/2023/01/23/ep-111-an-optimistic-new-year-begins-with-a-new-vision-for-healthcare/ Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw is now available on YouTube!  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Carladenise Edwards.  Known for her thought leadership stemming from a thirty+ year executive career which has included three tours of duty as a chief strategy officer at various prominent health systems.  In 2023, Carladenise kicks off this year with an optimistic outlook.  “We need to claim joy” and “use this year to inspire our best selves.”  What this means for Carladenise is prolifically writing.  As a surviving sibling, she is putting words to page to capture the story of her brother.  And as a healthcare professional, she is also writing a manifesto, or rather, a vision for a new system of healthcare that is sustainable, effective and efficient and can serve the needs of all – those with means and with privilege and even those without.  Some of her ideas hark back to the first hospital ever formed in the 1400s in Barcelona. Hear Dr. Edwards talk about: Confidence came early (thanks Dad): As the daughter of a US Marine, an Integration Officer whose job moved from place to place and was to be the only African American at differe Be courageous, be fearless, own your space Manifesto Health Equity Career knock downs and recovery Most recent learning   BIO Dr. Carladenise Armbrister Edwards has thirty years of professional experience ranging from Assistant Dean at University of Pennsylvania to government official at the state and federal level. She is an accomplished healthcare executive, most recently served as Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer for Henry Ford Health, a $6.8B integrated health care delivery system headquartered in Detroit, MI where she was responsible for M&A, innovation, government relations, planning, technology transfer, and system transformation. Prior to that she led strategy for Providence St. Joseph Health, a $24B health care company headquartered in Seattle, Washington where she also served as Chief Contracting Officer and Chief Administrative Officer for Population Health. Dr. Edwards has proven success achieving revenue growth exceeding $3.4B and helping health care companies achieve operational efficiency on the provider and plan sides of the business, not to mention her successful career as a fundraiser. Her academic background, and professional experience in the fields of medical sociology, epidemiology, marketing & business development, health information technology, and healthcare financing make her a highly sought-after advisor, speaker, and director. In 2022, she was recognized by Modern Healthcare and Becker’s as one of the top Women Leaders in Healthcare and she was named one of the 50 Women of Excellence by the Michigan Chronicle and elected President of the cohort by her peers. She most recently joined the board of Clover Health [NASDAQ: CLOV] where she serves on the Compensation and Governance Committees. She is also a strategic advisor to Parsley Health, 4L Data Intelligence, and the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics. Dr. Edwards and her husband, Herman Edwards have started two endowed scholarships, one at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing and the other at Johnson C. Smith University in support of African-American students seeking higher education. She is most proud of her service to the community including serving on Heluna Health’s Board of Directors, where she serves on the Finance Committee and Chaired the Advancement Committee. She also is a board director for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) serving on the finance committee and a board director for Rand Health, as well as Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Dr. Edwards received her BA and MS.Ed from University of Pennsylvania and her Ph.D. from the University of Florida. She is enrolled in Harvard University’s Adaptive Leadership Initiative as a fellow. Dr. Edwards is currently devoting her time to community and corporate board service. When she is not working, you can find her reading and spending time with family. Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:10:54 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw is now available on YouTube!  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Carladenise Edwards.  Known for her thought leadership stemming from a thirty+ year executive career which has included three tours of d... Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw is now available on YouTube!  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Carladenise Edwards.  Known for her thought leadership stemming from a thirty+ year executive career which has included three tours of duty as a chief strategy officer at various prominent health systems.  In 2023, Carladenise kicks off this year with an optimistic outlook.  “We need to claim joy” and “use this year to inspire our best selves.”  What this means for Carladenise is prolifically writing.  As a surviving sibling, she is putting words to page to capture the story of her brother.  And as a healthcare professional, she is also writing a manifesto, or rather, a vision for a new system of healthcare that is sustainable, effective and efficient and can serve the needs of all – those with means and with privilege and even those without.  Some of her ideas hark back to the first hospital ever formed in the 1400s in Barcelona. Hear Dr. Edwards talk about: Confidence came early (thanks Dad): As the daughter of a US Marine, an Integration Officer whose job moved from place to place and was to be the only African American at differe Be courageous, be fearless, own your space Manifesto Health Equity Career knock downs and recovery Most recent learning   BIO Dr. Carladenise Armbrister Edwards has thirty years of professional experience ranging from Assistant Dean at University of Pennsylvania to government official at the state and federal level. She is an accomplished healthcare executive, most recently served as Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer for Henry Ford Health, a $6.8B integrated health care delivery system headquartered in Detroit, MI where she was responsible for M&A, innovation, government relations, planning, technology transfer, and system transformation. Prior to that she led strategy for Providence St. Joseph Health, a $24B health care company headquartered in Seattle, Washington where she also served as Chief Contracting Officer and Chief Administrative Officer for Population Health. Dr. Edwards has proven success achieving revenue growth exceeding $3.4B and helping health care companies achieve operational efficiency on the provider and plan sides of the business, not to mention her successful career as a fundraiser. Her academic background, and professional experience in the fields of medical sociology, epidemiology, marketing & business development, health information technology, and healthcare financing make her a highly sought-after advisor, speaker, and director. In 2022, she was recognized by Modern Healthcare and Becker’s as one of the top Women Leaders in Healthcare and she was named one of the 50 Women of Excellence by the Michigan Chronicle and elected President of the cohort by her peers. She most recently joined the board of Clover Health [NASDAQ: CLOV] where she serves on the Compensation and Governance Committees. She is also a strategic advisor to Parsley Health, 4L Data Intelligence, and the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics. Dr. Edwards and her husband, Herman Edwards have started two endowed scholarships, one at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing and the other at Johnson C. Smith University in support of African-American students seeking higher education. She is most proud of her service to the community including serving on Heluna Health’s Board of Directors, where she serves on the Finance Committee and Chaired the Advancement Committee. She also is a board director for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) serving on the finance committee and a board director for Rand Health, as well as Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Dr. Edwards received her BA and MS.Ed from University of Pennsylvania and her Ph.D. from the University of Florida. She is enrolled in Harvard University’s Adaptive Leadership Initiative as a fellow. Dr. Edwards is currently devoting her time to community and corporate board service. When she is not working, you can find her reading and spending time with family. Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw is now available on YouTube! 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Carladenise Edwards.  Known for her thought leadership stemming from a thirty+ year executive career which has included three tours of duty as a chief strategy officer at various prominent health systems.  In 2023, Carladenise kicks off this year with an optimistic outlook.  “We need to claim joy” and “use this year to inspire our best selves.”  What this means for Carladenise is prolifically writing.  As a surviving sibling, she is putting words to page to capture the story of her brother.  And as a healthcare professional, she is also writing a manifesto, or rather, a vision for a new system of healthcare that is sustainable, effective and efficient and can serve the needs of all – those with means and with privilege and even those without.  Some of her ideas hark back to the first hospital ever formed in the 1400s in Barcelona.

Hear Dr. Edwards talk about:

  1. Confidence came early (thanks Dad):
    • As the daughter of a US Marine, an Integration Officer whose job moved from place to place and was to be the only African American at differe
    • Be courageous, be fearless, own your space
  2. Manifesto
  3. Health Equity
  4. Career knock downs and recovery
  5. Most recent learning

 

BIO

Dr. Carladenise Armbrister Edwards has thirty years of professional experience ranging from Assistant Dean at University of Pennsylvania to government official at the state and federal level. She is an accomplished healthcare executive, most recently served as Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer for Henry Ford Health, a $6.8B integrated health care delivery system headquartered in Detroit, MI where she was responsible for M&A, innovation, government relations, planning, technology transfer, and system transformation. Prior to that she led strategy for Providence St. Joseph Health, a $24B health care company headquartered in Seattle, Washington where she also served as Chief Contracting Officer and Chief Administrative Officer for Population Health.

Dr. Edwards has proven success achieving revenue growth exceeding $3.4B and helping health care companies achieve operational efficiency on the provider and plan sides of the business, not to mention her successful career as a fundraiser. Her academic background, and professional experience in the fields of medical sociology, epidemiology, marketing & business development, health information technology, and healthcare financing make her a highly sought-after advisor, speaker, and director.

In 2022, she was recognized by Modern Healthcare and Becker’s as one of the top Women Leaders in Healthcare and she was named one of the 50 Women of Excellence by the Michigan Chronicle and elected President of the cohort by her peers. She most recently joined the board of Clover Health [NASDAQ: CLOV] where she serves on the Compensation and Governance Committees. She is also a strategic advisor to Parsley Health, 4L Data Intelligence, and the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics.

Dr. Edwards and her husband, Herman Edwards have started two endowed scholarships, one at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing and the other at Johnson C. Smith University in support of African-American students seeking higher education. She is most proud of her service to the community including serving on Heluna Health’s Board of Directors, where she serves on the Finance Committee and Chaired the Advancement Committee. She also is a board director for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) serving on the finance committee and a board director for Rand Health, as well as Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA).

Dr. Edwards received her BA and MS.Ed from University of Pennsylvania and her Ph.D. from the University of Florida. She is enrolled in Harvard University’s Adaptive Leadership Initiative as a fellow. Dr. Edwards is currently devoting her time to community and corporate board service. When she is not working, you can find her reading and spending time with family.

]]> 1546 no EP. 110 You are not alone. Embrace your community. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/12/14/ep-110-you-are-not-alone-embrace-your-community/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alyssa Jaffee, Partner at 7wireVentures.  When you listen to this episode, you will hear clearly that Alyssa is passionate about her work, which she finds addicting.  Healthcare has become her calling.  Every single day she believes she has the opportunity, and responsibility, to change healthcare for the better. And that is a long game.  She feels the gravity of this while also being energized. Her commitment to making a difference with her work does not get in the way of being very committed to her family – in her perfectly imbalanced life.  Alyssa is a strong advocate for other women leaders.  Her best advice….. Remember that you are not alone, your community is here, so reach out and use it.  A rising tide lifts us all. Hear Alyssa talk about: Success requirements in Venture: Pickers v Makers: At 7wire, the team is made up of operators.  Alyssa spends half her time working with her portfolio companies.  This means more than just making introductions – it’s getting on planes, being in the meetings and helping to close deals.  7wire companies often sell to the same organizations, so continuing to build those relationships is key. Vision and conviction: Alyssa believes that the job also requires being a thought leader.  She spends considerable time in the industry and sharing her observations externally. Consumer Directed Healthcare: it is the vision and the current 7wire companies focus on the informed connected health consumer.   Alyssa also talks about the cycles in venture and areas they are currently revisiting such as cardiac health or personalized medicine. #1 Strength: WOO.  Winning Others Over.  Insatiable curiosity ….love for learning. That’s Alyssa.  She loves convincing others to be as excited about something as she is, which means a lot of WOO! Managing Balance: There is no such thing as balance for women at work, in fact, the act of being unbalanced IS balance!! Alyssa penned THIS article for Fortune,– please stop asking us about balance!  We don’t have it!! ***************************** BIO Alyssa Jaffee is a Partner at 7wireVentures where she focuses on investments in digital healthcare and technology-enabled services that empower consumers to be better stewards of their health in today’s changing healthcare ecosystem. Alyssa sits on the board of Ayogo Health and is a board observer with MedArrive, Brightline, Zerigo Health, NOCD, and Jasper Health. Alyssa’s prior experience in venture capital includes her time as an investor at Pritzker Group Venture Capital where she led investments in Bright.md and Tovala as well as worked closely with Apervita, Mingle Health, and AiCure. Additionally, she worked at Hyde Park Angels (HPA), one of the Midwest’s largest angel organizations and Healthbox, an early-stage healthcare innovation firm, supporting their accelerator program called the Studio. Alyssa is also a Co-Founder of TransparentCareer, a 2016 NVC winning company focused on helping people make more data-driven career decisions. Prior to business school, Alyssa worked as the Senior Director of Performance Technologies for the Advisory Board Company. There, Alyssa was charged with expanding new business through the sales of technology platforms. With an extensive travel regimen, Alyssa met with hundreds of hospital executive teams to understand their strategic needs and recommend various solutions. She has copious amounts of experience in launching new products and thinking about go-to-market strategies. Alyssa holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago – Booth School of Business.   You can follow Alyssa on LinkedIn. Wed, 14 Dec 2022 18:03:23 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alyssa Jaffee, Partner at 7wireVentures.  When you listen to this episode, you will hear clearly that Alyssa is passionate about her work, which she finds addicting.  Healthcare has become her calling. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alyssa Jaffee, Partner at 7wireVentures.  When you listen to this episode, you will hear clearly that Alyssa is passionate about her work, which she finds addicting.  Healthcare has become her calling.  Every single day she believes she has the opportunity, and responsibility, to change healthcare for the better. And that is a long game.  She feels the gravity of this while also being energized. Her commitment to making a difference with her work does not get in the way of being very committed to her family – in her perfectly imbalanced life.  Alyssa is a strong advocate for other women leaders.  Her best advice….. Remember that you are not alone, your community is here, so reach out and use it.  A rising tide lifts us all. Hear Alyssa talk about: Success requirements in Venture: Pickers v Makers: At 7wire, the team is made up of operators.  Alyssa spends half her time working with her portfolio companies.  This means more than just making introductions – it’s getting on planes, being in the meetings and helping to close deals.  7wire companies often sell to the same organizations, so continuing to build those relationships is key. Vision and conviction: Alyssa believes that the job also requires being a thought leader.  She spends considerable time in the industry and sharing her observations externally. Consumer Directed Healthcare: it is the vision and the current 7wire companies focus on the informed connected health consumer.   Alyssa also talks about the cycles in venture and areas they are currently revisiting such as cardiac health or personalized medicine. #1 Strength: WOO.  Winning Others Over.  Insatiable curiosity ….love for learning. That’s Alyssa.  She loves convincing others to be as excited about something as she is, which means a lot of WOO! Managing Balance: There is no such thing as balance for women at work, in fact, the act of being unbalanced IS balance!! Alyssa penned THIS article for Fortune,– please stop asking us about balance!  We don’t have it!! ***************************** BIO Alyssa Jaffee is a Partner at 7wireVentures where she focuses on investments in digital healthcare and technology-enabled services that empower consumers to be better stewards of their health in today’s changing healthcare ecosystem. Alyssa sits on the board of Ayogo Health and is a board observer with MedArrive, Brightline, Zerigo Health, NOCD, and Jasper Health. Alyssa’s prior experience in venture capital includes her time as an investor at Pritzker Group Venture Capital where she led investments in Bright.md and Tovala as well as worked closely with Apervita, Mingle Health, and AiCure. Additionally, she worked at Hyde Park Angels (HPA), one of the Midwest’s largest angel organizations and Healthbox, an early-stage healthcare innovation firm, supporting their accelerator program called the Studio. Alyssa is also a Co-Founder of TransparentCareer, a 2016 NVC winning company focused on helping people make more data-driven career decisions. Prior to business school, Alyssa worked as the Senior Director of Performance Technologies for the Advisory Board Company. There, Alyssa was charged with expanding new business through the sales of technology platforms. With an extensive travel regimen, Alyssa met with hundreds of hospital executive teams to understand their strategic needs and recommend various solutions. She has copious amounts of experience in launching new products and thinking about go-to-market strategies. Alyssa holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago – Booth School of Business.   You can follow Alyssa on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alyssa Jaffee, Partner at 7wireVentures.  When you listen to this episode, you will hear clearly that Alyssa is passionate about her work, which she finds addicting.  Healthcare has become her calling.  Every single day she believes she has the opportunity, and responsibility, to change healthcare for the better. And that is a long game.  She feels the gravity of this while also being energized.

Her commitment to making a difference with her work does not get in the way of being very committed to her family – in her perfectly imbalanced life.  Alyssa is a strong advocate for other women leaders.  Her best advice….. Remember that you are not alone, your community is here, so reach out and use it.  A rising tide lifts us all.

Hear Alyssa talk about:

  • Success requirements in Venture:
    • Pickers v Makers: At 7wire, the team is made up of operators.  Alyssa spends half her time working with her portfolio companies.  This means more than just making introductions – it’s getting on planes, being in the meetings and helping to close deals.  7wire companies often sell to the same organizations, so continuing to build those relationships is key.
    • Vision and conviction: Alyssa believes that the job also requires being a thought leader.  She spends considerable time in the industry and sharing her observations externally.
  • Consumer Directed Healthcare: it is the vision and the current 7wire companies focus on the informed connected health consumer.   Alyssa also talks about the cycles in venture and areas they are currently revisiting such as cardiac health or personalized medicine.
  • #1 Strength: WOO.  Winning Others Over.  Insatiable curiosity ….love for learning. That’s Alyssa.  She loves convincing others to be as excited about something as she is, which means a lot of WOO!
  • Managing Balance: There is no such thing as balance for women at work, in fact, the act of being unbalanced IS balance!! Alyssa penned THIS article for Fortune,– please stop asking us about balance!  We don’t have it!!

*****************************

BIO

Alyssa Jaffee is a Partner at 7wireVentures where she focuses on investments in digital healthcare and technology-enabled services that empower consumers to be better stewards of their health in today’s changing healthcare ecosystem. Alyssa sits on the board of Ayogo Health and is a board observer with MedArrive, Brightline, Zerigo Health, NOCD, and Jasper Health.

Alyssa’s prior experience in venture capital includes her time as an investor at Pritzker Group Venture Capital where she led investments in Bright.md and Tovala as well as worked closely with Apervita, Mingle Health, and AiCure. Additionally, she worked at Hyde Park Angels (HPA), one of the Midwest’s largest angel organizations and Healthbox, an early-stage healthcare innovation firm, supporting their accelerator program called the Studio. Alyssa is also a Co-Founder of TransparentCareer, a 2016 NVC winning company focused on helping people make more data-driven career decisions.

Prior to business school, Alyssa worked as the Senior Director of Performance Technologies for the Advisory Board Company. There, Alyssa was charged with expanding new business through the sales of technology platforms. With an extensive travel regimen, Alyssa met with hundreds of hospital executive teams to understand their strategic needs and recommend various solutions. She has copious amounts of experience in launching new products and thinking about go-to-market strategies.

Alyssa holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago – Booth School of Business.

 

You can follow Alyssa on LinkedIn.

]]> 1201 no EP. 109 Never be afraid of being fired. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/11/28/ep-109-never-be-afraid-of-being-fired/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Vaezy, EVP and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer of Providence Health. Sara believes that healthcare is a human right.  Her career journey has always been directly in or adjacent to healthcare and her expertise is the digital space is widely recognized.  While digital strategies for large scale health systems are both imperative and obvious today, they were less so pre-pandemic.  Having been in the Chief Digital Strategy role for several years now, she may have been more prepared than others.  However in today’s environment with fast moving macro changes, it is a work in progress!  Sara is both excited and skeptical at times of the digital solutions available today.  Importantly, she remains focused on how we are generating value with digital – both improving the patient experience and addressing affordability.  This means working on solves for disconnected solutions, changing the value/profit distribution and addressing key issues with digital solutions.   Today that means less about the technology itself and more focus on people, process and payment issues. Hear Sara talk about: Digital as a transitional phase: We do not currently have a fully digital native population, but someday we will and we should plan for that. Her seat at the table: early on she was asked to “jump in with both feet” at Providence.  Her mentor (also sponsor) brought her to the decision tables where risk-based trade offs were made.  She knew this was an opportunity and made sure to leverage it. Side hustle: Sara is certainly an accomplished healthcare executive, but still finds that her family craft hot sauce business sustains her “whole being”.  Spending times at farmer’s markets, being part of the maker community keeps her fresh and energized in different and important ways.   Inspiring Women Listeners Want to Know: Pants or pajamas? (what do you wear when you work at home): Sweatpants, always sweatpants. First promo – did you ask for it? I did ask for it!!! Saw a need, gathered data, made a proposal. Do you still seek new mentors today? Yes, different people for different reasons. And some best advice…never be afraid of being fired. In 3-5 years, if you are not doing what you are doing now, what are you doing? Either an Entrepreneur or Public service ***************************** BIO Sara Vaezy is Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer for Providence where she is responsible for system strategy and digital innovation for the integrated delivery network (IDN) which includes 52 hospitals and 1,085 clinics and serves over 5 million unique patients. Sara brings deep experience to the organization in both digital and enterprise strategy development and leads system strategy, the ongoing development and evolution of Providence’s integrated strategic and financial plan and cross-collaboration of the Providence councils as Providence continues to advance toward and design the system of the future. Sara is the architect of the Providence digital innovation model upon with the Digital Innovation Group (DIG) was founded, resulting in company partnerships and incubation of technologies that deliver value for Providence as well as other health systems. The model has resulted in the commercialization of three incubated technologies into independent companies from within DIG—all of which are supporting Providence in delivering on its mission and vision of health for a better world. Her framework for building and maintaining deep organizational relationships with stakeholders across the industry has resulted in partnerships with over 150 health system digital and innovation teams, venture capital organizations, industry analysts and influencers, and digital health organizations. Before Providence, she was at The Chartis Group, a health care management consulting firm, where she advised clients on enterprise strategic planning, payer-provider partnership, and the development of population health companies. Earlier in her career she worked at the intersection of health services research and health policy with the Office of Financial Management, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, and the Health Care Authority in Washington State. Sara is active in the broader healthcare industry serving as an NCQA Board Director, as a member of inaugural class of the Frist Cressey Ventures Collective, a Harvard Executive Education Faculty Member,  a Health Evolution Forum Fellow, World 50 Digital 50 member, a Forbes Business Council Member, and a board observer for DexCare. She has won numerous awards and has been recognized as a Business Insider 30 under 40 Transforming the Future of Healthcare (2019), Catholic Health Association Tomorrow’s Leader (2019), a Becker’s Rising Star in Health IT (2020), and a Becker’s Women to Watch in Health IT (2020 & 2022). She holds an MHA and an MPH in Health Policy from the University of Washington School of Public Health and BAs in Physics and Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley. Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:59:11 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Vaezy, EVP and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer of Providence Health. Sara believes that healthcare is a human right.  Her career journey has always been directly in or adjacent to healthcare and he... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Vaezy, EVP and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer of Providence Health. Sara believes that healthcare is a human right.  Her career journey has always been directly in or adjacent to healthcare and her expertise is the digital space is widely recognized.  While digital strategies for large scale health systems are both imperative and obvious today, they were less so pre-pandemic.  Having been in the Chief Digital Strategy role for several years now, she may have been more prepared than others.  However in today’s environment with fast moving macro changes, it is a work in progress!  Sara is both excited and skeptical at times of the digital solutions available today.  Importantly, she remains focused on how we are generating value with digital – both improving the patient experience and addressing affordability.  This means working on solves for disconnected solutions, changing the value/profit distribution and addressing key issues with digital solutions.   Today that means less about the technology itself and more focus on people, process and payment issues. Hear Sara talk about: Digital as a transitional phase: We do not currently have a fully digital native population, but someday we will and we should plan for that. Her seat at the table: early on she was asked to “jump in with both feet” at Providence.  Her mentor (also sponsor) brought her to the decision tables where risk-based trade offs were made.  She knew this was an opportunity and made sure to leverage it. Side hustle: Sara is certainly an accomplished healthcare executive, but still finds that her family craft hot sauce business sustains her “whole being”.  Spending times at farmer’s markets, being part of the maker community keeps her fresh and energized in different and important ways.   Inspiring Women Listeners Want to Know: Pants or pajamas? (what do you wear when you work at home): Sweatpants, always sweatpants. First promo – did you ask for it? I did ask for it!!! Saw a need, gathered data, made a proposal. Do you still seek new mentors today? Yes, different people for different reasons. And some best advice…never be afraid of being fired. In 3-5 years, if you are not doing what you are doing now, what are you doing? Either an Entrepreneur or Public service ***************************** BIO Sara Vaezy is Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer for Providence where she is responsible for system strategy and digital innovation for the integrated delivery network (IDN) which includes 52 hospitals and 1,085 clinics and serves over 5 million unique patients. Sara brings deep experience to the organization in both digital and enterprise strategy development and leads system strategy, the ongoing development and evolution of Providence’s integrated strategic and financial plan and cross-collaboration of the Providence councils as Providence continues to advance toward and design the system of the future. Sara is the architect of the Providence digital innovation model upon with the Digital Innovation Group (DIG) was founded, resulting in company partnerships and incubation of technologies that deliver value for Providence as well as other health systems. The model has resulted in the commercialization of three incubated technologies into independent companies from within DIG—all of which are supporting Providence in delivering on its mission and vision of health for a better world. Her framework for building and maintaining deep organizational relationships with stakeholders across the industry has resulted in partnerships with over 150 health system digital and innovation teams, venture capital organizations, industry analysts and influencers, and digital health organizations. Before Providence, she was at The Chartis Group, a health care management consulting firm, where she advised clients on enterprise strategic planning, payer-provider partnership, and the development of population health companies. Earlier in her career she worked at the intersection of health services research and health policy with the Office of Financial Management, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, and the Health Care Authority in Washington State. Sara is active in the broader healthcare industry serving as an NCQA Board Director, as a member of inaugural class of the Frist Cressey Ventures Collective, a Harvard Executive Education Faculty Member,  a Health Evolution Forum Fellow, World 50 Digital 50 member, a Forbes Business Council Member, and a board observer for DexCare. She has won numerous awards and has been recognized as a Business Insider 30 under 40 Transforming the Future of Healthcare (2019), Catholic Health Association Tomorrow’s Leader (2019), a Becker’s Rising Star in Health IT (2020), and a Becker’s Women to Watch in Health IT (2020 & 2022). She holds an MHA and an MPH in Health Policy from the University of Washington School of Public Health and BAs in Physics and Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Sara Vaezy, EVP and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer of Providence Health.

Sara believes that healthcare is a human right.  Her career journey has always been directly in or adjacent to healthcare and her expertise is the digital space is widely recognized.  While digital strategies for large scale health systems are both imperative and obvious today, they were less so pre-pandemic.  Having been in the Chief Digital Strategy role for several years now, she may have been more prepared than others.  However in today’s environment with fast moving macro changes, it is a work in progress!  Sara is both excited and skeptical at times of the digital solutions available today.  Importantly, she remains focused on how we are generating value with digital – both improving the patient experience and addressing affordability.  This means working on solves for disconnected solutions, changing the value/profit distribution and addressing key issues with digital solutions.   Today that means less about the technology itself and more focus on people, process and payment issues.

Hear Sara talk about:

  • Digital as a transitional phase: We do not currently have a fully digital native population, but someday we will and we should plan for that.
  • Her seat at the table: early on she was asked to “jump in with both feet” at Providence.  Her mentor (also sponsor) brought her to the decision tables where risk-based trade offs were made.  She knew this was an opportunity and made sure to leverage it.
  • Side hustle: Sara is certainly an accomplished healthcare executive, but still finds that her family craft hot sauce business sustains her “whole being”.  Spending times at farmer’s markets, being part of the maker community keeps her fresh and energized in different and important ways.

 

Inspiring Women Listeners Want to Know:

  • Pants or pajamas? (what do you wear when you work at home):
    Sweatpants, always sweatpants.
  • First promo – did you ask for it?
    I did ask for it!!! Saw a need, gathered data, made a proposal.
  • Do you still seek new mentors today?
    Yes, different people for different reasons. And some best advice…never be afraid of being fired.
  • In 3-5 years, if you are not doing what you are doing now, what are you doing?
    Either an Entrepreneur or Public service

*****************************

BIO

Sara Vaezy is Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer for Providence where she is responsible for system strategy and digital innovation for the integrated delivery network (IDN) which includes 52 hospitals and 1,085 clinics and serves over 5 million unique patients.

Sara brings deep experience to the organization in both digital and enterprise strategy development and leads system strategy, the ongoing development and evolution of Providence’s integrated strategic and financial plan and cross-collaboration of the Providence councils as Providence continues to advance toward and design the system of the future.

Sara is the architect of the Providence digital innovation model upon with the Digital Innovation Group (DIG) was founded, resulting in company partnerships and incubation of technologies that deliver value for Providence as well as other health systems. The model has resulted in the commercialization of three incubated technologies into independent companies from within DIG—all of which are supporting Providence in delivering on its mission and vision of health for a better world. Her framework for building and maintaining deep organizational relationships with stakeholders across the industry has resulted in partnerships with over 150 health system digital and innovation teams, venture capital organizations, industry analysts and influencers, and digital health organizations.

Before Providence, she was at The Chartis Group, a health care management consulting firm, where she advised clients on enterprise strategic planning, payer-provider partnership, and the development of population health companies. Earlier in her career she worked at the intersection of health services research and health policy with the Office of Financial Management, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, and the Health Care Authority in Washington State.

Sara is active in the broader healthcare industry serving as an NCQA Board Director, as a member of inaugural class of the Frist Cressey Ventures Collective, a Harvard Executive Education Faculty Member,  a Health Evolution Forum Fellow, World 50 Digital 50 member, a Forbes Business Council Member, and a board observer for DexCare. She has won numerous awards and has been recognized as a Business Insider 30 under 40 Transforming the Future of Healthcare (2019), Catholic Health Association Tomorrow’s Leader (2019), a Becker’s Rising Star in Health IT (2020), and a Becker’s Women to Watch in Health IT (2020 & 2022).

She holds an MHA and an MPH in Health Policy from the University of Washington School of Public Health and BAs in Physics and Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley.

]]> 1480 no EP. 108 Doctor. Mom. Now Researcher and Entrepreneur. A race against time and all odds for Lucy. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/11/22/ep-108-doctor-mom-now-researcher-and-entrepreneur-a-race-against-time-and-all-odds-for-lucy/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Dr. Geri Landman.  She filled her lifelong dream when she became a pediatrician.  And then, life changed when Lucy, her third child, was diagnosed with a rare gene disorder.  A missing PGAP3 gene.  How rare?  50 other children worldwide.  With a prognosis of severe disability and seizures and without a cure, therapies, or treatment, Dr. Landman took on new roles.  Researcher. Entrepreneur (Moonshots for Unicorns). Fundraiser. Advocate.  Mom first. “They teach you in medical school, when you hear hoofbeats, think horses not zebras”. Persistent parental questions led to – first – a feeling that she was overreacting as a parent.  Fortunately, there was a neuro geneticist on the team.  After many tests and exams – it was that call of “let’s talk in an hour” that changed the course of their lives forever.  Geri and her husband had never heard of the PGAP3 gene, let alone what it meant to be missing that gene, as is the case with their young daughter Lucy.  The prognosis included no cures, no therapies, and a difficult future of severe disability and seizures.  The missing PGAP3 gene – a rare gene disorder – affects 50 other children worldwide.  They gave themselves a week to absorb, to think.  Deciding they couldn’t cry forever, knowing they were in the Bay Area – a valley of science and world class medical centers – Dr. Landman and family began the daunting journey of finding a cure in the promising world of genetic science.   Hear Dr. Landman talk about: The promise and reality of genetic science: three scientific approaches for rare gene disorders.  1) the supplement route; 2) drug repurposing and 3) gene therapy – both the most expensive but the most promising Needed: Pharma Business models:  Pharma wants to help but needs 1000, maybe just 500 patients, to build a business model worth pursuing.  Only 50 children have been diagnosed worldwide with a missing PGAP3 gene.  Yet 1% of the worldwide population suffers from a single missing gene – over 10,000 of them. Addressing single gene disorders. With $3-7M of research needed for every missing gene, patient advocacy groups are needed.  Which is why Dr. Landman created Moonshots for Unicorns.  This patient advocacy nonprofit has been working with Nationwide Children’s in Ohio to begin the gene therapy work.  They also have been testing for drug repurposing with potentially promising results. Keeping it all together. Landman describes being tired and energized all at the same time.  As this evolves, her happiest days can be her lowest days.  Yet they proceed. What listeners should know: As moms, when you know something is off, advocate persistently for your child.  And if the diagnosis is the difficult single gene disorder, patient advocacy groups are key today.  Access and affordability are important missions of Moonshots for Unicorns.   How to get involved:  Moonshots for Unicorns.   ***************************** BIO Dr. Geri O. Landman is a pediatrician in Berkeley, California and is affiliated with Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. She received her medical degree from University of California (San Francisco) School of Medicine and has been in practice between 11-20 years. Tue, 22 Nov 2022 17:15:37 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Dr. Geri Landman.  She filled her lifelong dream when she became a pediatrician.  And then, life changed when Lucy, her third child, was diagnosed with a rare gene disorder.  A missing PGAP3 gene. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Dr. Geri Landman.  She filled her lifelong dream when she became a pediatrician.  And then, life changed when Lucy, her third child, was diagnosed with a rare gene disorder.  A missing PGAP3 gene.  How rare?  50 other children worldwide.  With a prognosis of severe disability and seizures and without a cure, therapies, or treatment, Dr. Landman took on new roles.  Researcher. Entrepreneur (Moonshots for Unicorns). Fundraiser. Advocate.  Mom first. “They teach you in medical school, when you hear hoofbeats, think horses not zebras”. Persistent parental questions led to – first – a feeling that she was overreacting as a parent.  Fortunately, there was a neuro geneticist on the team.  After many tests and exams – it was that call of “let’s talk in an hour” that changed the course of their lives forever.  Geri and her husband had never heard of the PGAP3 gene, let alone what it meant to be missing that gene, as is the case with their young daughter Lucy.  The prognosis included no cures, no therapies, and a difficult future of severe disability and seizures.  The missing PGAP3 gene – a rare gene disorder – affects 50 other children worldwide.  They gave themselves a week to absorb, to think.  Deciding they couldn’t cry forever, knowing they were in the Bay Area – a valley of science and world class medical centers – Dr. Landman and family began the daunting journey of finding a cure in the promising world of genetic science.   Hear Dr. Landman talk about: The promise and reality of genetic science: three scientific approaches for rare gene disorders.  1) the supplement route; 2) drug repurposing and 3) gene therapy – both the most expensive but the most promising Needed: Pharma Business models:  Pharma wants to help but needs 1000, maybe just 500 patients, to build a business model worth pursuing.  Only 50 children have been diagnosed worldwide with a missing PGAP3 gene.  Yet 1% of the worldwide population suffers from a single missing gene – over 10,000 of them. Addressing single gene disorders. With $3-7M of research needed for every missing gene, patient advocacy groups are needed.  Which is why Dr. Landman created Moonshots for Unicorns.  This patient advocacy nonprofit has been working with Nationwide Children’s in Ohio to begin the gene therapy work.  They also have been testing for drug repurposing with potentially promising results. Keeping it all together. Landman describes being tired and energized all at the same time.  As this evolves, her happiest days can be her lowest days.  Yet they proceed. What listeners should know: As moms, when you know something is off, advocate persistently for your child.  And if the diagnosis is the difficult single gene disorder, patient advocacy groups are key today.  Access and affordability are important missions of Moonshots for Unicorns.   How to get involved:  Moonshots for Unicorns.   ***************************** BIO Dr. Geri O. Landman is a pediatrician in Berkeley, California and is affiliated with Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. She received her medical degree from University of California (San Francisco) School of Medicine and has been in practice between 11-20 years.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Dr. Geri Landman.  She filled her lifelong dream when she became a pediatrician.  And then, life changed when Lucy, her third child, was diagnosed with a rare gene disorder.  A missing PGAP3 gene.  How rare?  50 other children worldwide.  With a prognosis of severe disability and seizures and without a cure, therapies, or treatment, Dr. Landman took on new roles.  Researcher. Entrepreneur (Moonshots for Unicorns). Fundraiser. Advocate.  Mom first.

“They teach you in medical school, when you hear hoofbeats, think horses not zebras”.

Persistent parental questions led to – first – a feeling that she was overreacting as a parent.  Fortunately, there was a neuro geneticist on the team.  After many tests and exams – it was that call of “let’s talk in an hour” that changed the course of their lives forever.  Geri and her husband had never heard of the PGAP3 gene, let alone what it meant to be missing that gene, as is the case with their young daughter Lucy.  The prognosis included no cures, no therapies, and a difficult future of severe disability and seizures.  The missing PGAP3 gene – a rare gene disorder – affects 50 other children worldwide.  They gave themselves a week to absorb, to think.  Deciding they couldn’t cry forever, knowing they were in the Bay Area – a valley of science and world class medical centers – Dr. Landman and family began the daunting journey of finding a cure in the promising world of genetic science.

 

Hear Dr. Landman talk about:

  • The promise and reality of genetic science: three scientific approaches for rare gene disorders.  1) the supplement route; 2) drug repurposing and 3) gene therapy – both the most expensive but the most promising
  • Needed: Pharma Business models:  Pharma wants to help but needs 1000, maybe just 500 patients, to build a business model worth pursuing.  Only 50 children have been diagnosed worldwide with a missing PGAP3 gene.  Yet 1% of the worldwide population suffers from a single missing gene – over 10,000 of them.
  • Addressing single gene disorders. With $3-7M of research needed for every missing gene, patient advocacy groups are needed.  Which is why Dr. Landman created Moonshots for Unicorns.  This patient advocacy nonprofit has been working with Nationwide Children’s in Ohio to begin the gene therapy work.  They also have been testing for drug repurposing with potentially promising results.
  • Keeping it all together. Landman describes being tired and energized all at the same time.  As this evolves, her happiest days can be her lowest days.  Yet they proceed.
  • What listeners should know: As moms, when you know something is off, advocate persistently for your child.  And if the diagnosis is the difficult single gene disorder, patient advocacy groups are key today.  Access and affordability are important missions of Moonshots for Unicorns.

 

How to get involved:  Moonshots for Unicorns.

 

*****************************

BIO

Dr. Geri O. Landman is a pediatrician in Berkeley, California and is affiliated with Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. She received her medical degree from University of California (San Francisco) School of Medicine and has been in practice between 11-20 years.

]]> 1587 no EP. 107 Thank you for your service. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/11/11/ep-107-thank-you-for-your-service/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara, a mother/daughter duo who have just published their memoir:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Hear Lita and Jean talk about: Lita: Breaking new ground: a divorced woman in the 1970s was not allowed to join the military nut Lita found a way to provide stability for her young daughters.  Many firsts including becoming a mechanic and being in one of the first gender integrated units. Jean: Service was always a calling:  joining the Army National Guard as a medic felt important and the learning about various health conditions was a dream.  A devastating injury ended her military career early though. The road to recovery is long and requires advocacy: Jean has been in a long recovery and is still in it.  But the care she needed was not readily available.  Lita became Jean’s strongest and most vocal advocate.  Today on their podcast, PodcastDX, Lita and Jean talk about how to advocate for yourself/a loved one when receiving treatment. Why the Lita and Jean Memoir? finding so many similarities between their service stories first led Lita and Jean down the path to a memoir.  But the memories of how hard it was to get the care for Jean and other incidents were very painful and raw for both.  They share this to heal but also to advocate loudly for change. Harassment: Lita and Jean close out this conversation with strong advice on harassment.  Seeing it, you need to speak up.  Experiencing it, you need to speak up (and keep records).  Harassment of any kind is unacceptable. Recommending military service:  Both Lita and Jean are strong advocates for military service while at the same time being very open regarding its flaws.  They strongly believe that service to others is a lifelong journey.  Whether that means the military or just finding ways to help others does not matter.  But service does. ***************************** Lita Tomas: Lita Tomas is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. An Army tank mechanic turned global logistics manager, Major Lita Tomas enlisted as an E-1 with the U.S. Army in 1977, the first-year women were integrated into regular units. With a master’s degree in recreational therapy, five years in the Air Force, and a lifetime of fighting injustice, taking on everyone from the Catholic church to Congress, she’s whom you want on your team. When not feeding the ducks, chickens, dogs, and cats on her youngest daughter’s farm or cheering on her grandchildren, you can find her working on her informational patient advocacy podcast: PodcastDX. Lita currently resides in Downers Grove, Illinois, with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her two rescue dogs, and her one remaining undonated kidney.   Jean Marie McNamara: Jean Marie McNamara is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Like her mother, she has a passion to help others and enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard as an E-1. She has worked as a medic, NBCR Officer, and as the Deputy Director of her local ESDA. After an injury, Jean retired as a 1LT and explored the challenges of recovery and endurance, working to claim new pathways of service and meaning. As a co-host for the Award-winning PodcastDX, she loves to research diagnoses to feature. Her wry sense of humor has been bolstered by bureaucracy.   Their book:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women from Masterwings Publishing can be found HERE. Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:51:42 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara, a mother/daughter duo who have just published their memoir:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Hear Lita and Jean talk about: Lita: Breaking new... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara, a mother/daughter duo who have just published their memoir:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Hear Lita and Jean talk about: Lita: Breaking new ground: a divorced woman in the 1970s was not allowed to join the military nut Lita found a way to provide stability for her young daughters.  Many firsts including becoming a mechanic and being in one of the first gender integrated units. Jean: Service was always a calling:  joining the Army National Guard as a medic felt important and the learning about various health conditions was a dream.  A devastating injury ended her military career early though. The road to recovery is long and requires advocacy: Jean has been in a long recovery and is still in it.  But the care she needed was not readily available.  Lita became Jean’s strongest and most vocal advocate.  Today on their podcast, PodcastDX, Lita and Jean talk about how to advocate for yourself/a loved one when receiving treatment. Why the Lita and Jean Memoir? finding so many similarities between their service stories first led Lita and Jean down the path to a memoir.  But the memories of how hard it was to get the care for Jean and other incidents were very painful and raw for both.  They share this to heal but also to advocate loudly for change. Harassment: Lita and Jean close out this conversation with strong advice on harassment.  Seeing it, you need to speak up.  Experiencing it, you need to speak up (and keep records).  Harassment of any kind is unacceptable. Recommending military service:  Both Lita and Jean are strong advocates for military service while at the same time being very open regarding its flaws.  They strongly believe that service to others is a lifelong journey.  Whether that means the military or just finding ways to help others does not matter.  But service does. ***************************** Lita Tomas: Lita Tomas is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. An Army tank mechanic turned global logistics manager, Major Lita Tomas enlisted as an E-1 with the U.S. Army in 1977, the first-year women were integrated into regular units. With a master’s degree in recreational therapy, five years in the Air Force, and a lifetime of fighting injustice, taking on everyone from the Catholic church to Congress, she’s whom you want on your team. When not feeding the ducks, chickens, dogs, and cats on her youngest daughter’s farm or cheering on her grandchildren, you can find her working on her informational patient advocacy podcast: PodcastDX. Lita currently resides in Downers Grove, Illinois, with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her two rescue dogs, and her one remaining undonated kidney.   Jean Marie McNamara: Jean Marie McNamara is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Like her mother, she has a passion to help others and enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard as an E-1. She has worked as a medic, NBCR Officer, and as the Deputy Director of her local ESDA. After an injury, Jean retired as a 1LT and explored the challenges of recovery and endurance, working to claim new pathways of service and meaning. As a co-host for the Award-winning PodcastDX, she loves to research diagnoses to feature. Her wry sense of humor has been bolstered by bureaucracy.   Their book:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women from Masterwings Publishing can be found HERE.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara, a mother/daughter duo who have just published their memoir:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women.

Hear Lita and Jean talk about:

  • Lita: Breaking new ground: a divorced woman in the 1970s was not allowed to join the military nut Lita found a way to provide stability for her young daughters.  Many firsts including becoming a mechanic and being in one of the first gender integrated units.
  • Jean: Service was always a calling:  joining the Army National Guard as a medic felt important and the learning about various health conditions was a dream.  A devastating injury ended her military career early though.
  • The road to recovery is long and requires advocacy: Jean has been in a long recovery and is still in it.  But the care she needed was not readily available.  Lita became Jean’s strongest and most vocal advocate.  Today on their podcast, PodcastDX, Lita and Jean talk about how to advocate for yourself/a loved one when receiving treatment.
  • Why the Lita and Jean Memoir? finding so many similarities between their service stories first led Lita and Jean down the path to a memoir.  But the memories of how hard it was to get the care for Jean and other incidents were very painful and raw for both.  They share this to heal but also to advocate loudly for change.
  • Harassment: Lita and Jean close out this conversation with strong advice on harassment.  Seeing it, you need to speak up.  Experiencing it, you need to speak up (and keep records).  Harassment of any kind is unacceptable.

Recommending military service:  Both Lita and Jean are strong advocates for military service while at the same time being very open regarding its flaws.  They strongly believe that service to others is a lifelong journey.  Whether that means the military or just finding ways to help others does not matter.  But service does.

*****************************

Lita Tomas:

Lita Tomas is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. An Army tank mechanic turned global logistics manager, Major Lita Tomas enlisted as an E-1 with the U.S. Army in 1977, the first-year women were integrated into regular units. With a master’s degree in recreational therapy, five years in the Air Force, and a lifetime of fighting injustice, taking on everyone from the Catholic church to Congress, she’s whom you want on your team. When not feeding the ducks, chickens, dogs, and cats on her youngest daughter’s farm or cheering on her grandchildren, you can find her working on her informational patient advocacy podcast: PodcastDX. Lita currently resides in Downers Grove, Illinois, with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her two rescue dogs, and her one remaining undonated kidney.

 

Jean Marie McNamara:

Jean Marie McNamara is the co-author of Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women. Like her mother, she has a passion to help others and enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard as an E-1. She has worked as a medic, NBCR Officer, and as the Deputy Director of her local ESDA. After an injury, Jean retired as a 1LT and explored the challenges of recovery and endurance, working to claim new pathways of service and meaning. As a co-host for the Award-winning PodcastDX, she loves to research diagnoses to feature. Her wry sense of humor has been bolstered by bureaucracy.

 

Their book:  Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women from Masterwings Publishing can be found HERE.

]]> 2796 no EP. 106 Flipping the script in maternity care. The ultimate population health. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/11/07/ep-106-flipping-the-script-in-maternity-care-the-ultimate-population-health/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kim McKay, practicing physician, chief medical officer of PeriGen and clinical vice president of the OB/GYN service line at Avera Health in South Dakota.  Dr. McKay’s life work has been focused on improving the health of moms and babies, as a practicing physician in a rural area, a health system leader and now, a leader at an innovative technology solutions company. Maternal health outcomes in the U.S. are extremely poor when compared to other industrialized nations.  Dr. McKay speaks to the why – wide ranging issues such as gaps in care and coverage; access to early pre-natal care; biases in medicine (a mother experiencing tachycardia may be told they are “just being anxious” when there can often be an underlying medical condition); disparities in treatment. Solutions for improving outcomes with maternal health that show promise today include reaching into and really understanding the needs at a community level – e.g. providing community health workers, providing wrap around services like transportation and family care but also having those services speak to each other.  She also points to technology improvements and finding the levers in the workflows – making it easier for providers to use technology as having great potential. But make no mistake – larger policy issues and payment reforms are needed.  Dr. McKay views maternal health as the ultimate population health and she never wants to hear again that maternity care is a lost leader. Hear Dr. McKay talk about: Love of science which began when she won the state science fair in 8th grade (ask her about chickens!!). Winding journey to medicine. Thinking pediatrics would be her calling but kids don’t talk and parents can be…well…intense.  She credits an important mentor, Dr. Burnett, who gave her the confidence to change course by pulling her aside and telling her that she had “good hands”.  There were not many women in surgical subspecialties then and his words at that point in time made a major impression on her. Physician burn out: COVID was rough and having to fight for PPE was a moral injury.  She has put great focus on what gives her energy which includes:  helping solve problems for physicians; mentoring other women or physicians moving into leadership positions; and her family.  She had to learn to put FOMO (the fear of missing out) aside to ensure she was making time for them. Dr. McKay’s closing advice to younger women is to just say yes.  Some of her greatest professional opportunities have come from going to those meetings that she otherwise thought twice about attending.  Treating them as opportunities has been important for her career growth and impact. ***************************** Dr. Kimberlee McKay,  PeriGen Chief Medical Officer An innovative specialist in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. McKay brings over 20 years of experience to the PeriGen team. In addition to her role at PeriGen, Dr. McKay currently serves as the Clinical Vice President OB/GYN Service Line at Avera Health and has held an adjunct position at the University of South Dakota, where she also earned her degree. Dr. McKay adds to the PeriGen team a hands-on experience that support the initiatives of PeriGen as an organization. Her extensive expertise in patient safety and quality, healthcare equity, rural maternity care, and remote patient monitoring are critical to the continued innovation of PeriGen solutions. She is a long time advocate and user of PeriGen solutions and her position is critical to PeriGen’s continued commitment to remote patient monitoring, physician engagement, and emerging primary care opportunities. You can follow Dr. McKay on LinkedIn. Mon, 07 Nov 2022 16:42:17 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kim McKay, practicing physician, chief medical officer of PeriGen and clinical vice president of the OB/GYN service line at Avera Health in South Dakota.  Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kim McKay, practicing physician, chief medical officer of PeriGen and clinical vice president of the OB/GYN service line at Avera Health in South Dakota.  Dr. McKay’s life work has been focused on improving the health of moms and babies, as a practicing physician in a rural area, a health system leader and now, a leader at an innovative technology solutions company. Maternal health outcomes in the U.S. are extremely poor when compared to other industrialized nations.  Dr. McKay speaks to the why – wide ranging issues such as gaps in care and coverage; access to early pre-natal care; biases in medicine (a mother experiencing tachycardia may be told they are “just being anxious” when there can often be an underlying medical condition); disparities in treatment. Solutions for improving outcomes with maternal health that show promise today include reaching into and really understanding the needs at a community level – e.g. providing community health workers, providing wrap around services like transportation and family care but also having those services speak to each other.  She also points to technology improvements and finding the levers in the workflows – making it easier for providers to use technology as having great potential. But make no mistake – larger policy issues and payment reforms are needed.  Dr. McKay views maternal health as the ultimate population health and she never wants to hear again that maternity care is a lost leader. Hear Dr. McKay talk about: Love of science which began when she won the state science fair in 8th grade (ask her about chickens!!). Winding journey to medicine. Thinking pediatrics would be her calling but kids don’t talk and parents can be…well…intense.  She credits an important mentor, Dr. Burnett, who gave her the confidence to change course by pulling her aside and telling her that she had “good hands”.  There were not many women in surgical subspecialties then and his words at that point in time made a major impression on her. Physician burn out: COVID was rough and having to fight for PPE was a moral injury.  She has put great focus on what gives her energy which includes:  helping solve problems for physicians; mentoring other women or physicians moving into leadership positions; and her family.  She had to learn to put FOMO (the fear of missing out) aside to ensure she was making time for them. Dr. McKay’s closing advice to younger women is to just say yes.  Some of her greatest professional opportunities have come from going to those meetings that she otherwise thought twice about attending.  Treating them as opportunities has been important for her career growth and impact. ***************************** Dr. Kimberlee McKay,  PeriGen Chief Medical Officer An innovative specialist in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. McKay brings over 20 years of experience to the PeriGen team. In addition to her role at PeriGen, Dr. McKay currently serves as the Clinical Vice President OB/GYN Service Line at Avera Health and has held an adjunct position at the University of South Dakota, where she also earned her degree. Dr. McKay adds to the PeriGen team a hands-on experience that support the initiatives of PeriGen as an organization. Her extensive expertise in patient safety and quality, healthcare equity, rural maternity care, and remote patient monitoring are critical to the continued innovation of PeriGen solutions. She is a long time advocate and user of PeriGen solutions and her position is critical to PeriGen’s continued commitment to remote patient monitoring, physician engagement, and emerging primary care opportunities. You can follow Dr. McKay on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Kim McKay, practicing physician, chief medical officer of PeriGen and clinical vice president of the OB/GYN service line at Avera Health in South Dakota.  Dr. McKay’s life work has been focused on improving the health of moms and babies, as a practicing physician in a rural area, a health system leader and now, a leader at an innovative technology solutions company.

Maternal health outcomes in the U.S. are extremely poor when compared to other industrialized nations.  Dr. McKay speaks to the why – wide ranging issues such as gaps in care and coverage; access to early pre-natal care; biases in medicine (a mother experiencing tachycardia may be told they are “just being anxious” when there can often be an underlying medical condition); disparities in treatment.

Solutions for improving outcomes with maternal health that show promise today include reaching into and really understanding the needs at a community level – e.g. providing community health workers, providing wrap around services like transportation and family care but also having those services speak to each other.  She also points to technology improvements and finding the levers in the workflows – making it easier for providers to use technology as having great potential.

But make no mistake – larger policy issues and payment reforms are needed.  Dr. McKay views maternal health as the ultimate population health and she never wants to hear again that maternity care is a lost leader.

Hear Dr. McKay talk about:

  • Love of science which began when she won the state science fair in 8th grade (ask her about chickens!!).
  • Winding journey to medicine. Thinking pediatrics would be her calling but kids don’t talk and parents can be…well…intense.  She credits an important mentor, Dr. Burnett, who gave her the confidence to change course by pulling her aside and telling her that she had “good hands”.  There were not many women in surgical subspecialties then and his words at that point in time made a major impression on her.
  • Physician burn out: COVID was rough and having to fight for PPE was a moral injury.  She has put great focus on what gives her energy which includes:  helping solve problems for physicians; mentoring other women or physicians moving into leadership positions; and her family.  She had to learn to put FOMO (the fear of missing out) aside to ensure she was making time for them.

Dr. McKay’s closing advice to younger women is to just say yes.  Some of her greatest professional opportunities have come from going to those meetings that she otherwise thought twice about attending.  Treating them as opportunities has been important for her career growth and impact.

*****************************

Dr. Kimberlee McKay,  PeriGen Chief Medical Officer

An innovative specialist in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. McKay brings over 20 years of experience to the PeriGen team. In addition to her role at PeriGen, Dr. McKay currently serves as the Clinical Vice President OB/GYN Service Line at Avera Health and has held an adjunct position at the University of South Dakota, where she also earned her degree. Dr. McKay adds to the PeriGen team a hands-on experience that support the initiatives of PeriGen as an organization. Her extensive expertise in patient safety and quality, healthcare equity, rural maternity care, and remote patient monitoring are critical to the continued innovation of PeriGen solutions. She is a long time advocate and user of PeriGen solutions and her position is critical to PeriGen’s continued commitment to remote patient monitoring, physician engagement, and emerging primary care opportunities.

You can follow Dr. McKay on LinkedIn.

]]> 1706 no EP. 105 Needed: More innovation, more disruption….with evidence please…. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/10/28/ep-105-needed-more-innovation-more-disruption-with-evidence-please/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Ford, chief product and strategy officer at Project Ronin, a company founded in 2018 by Larry Ellison and Dr. David Agus with a moonshot objective to transform cancer care.  It has been a “short thirty years” in healthcare and Kathy has been focused on launching healthcare solutions globally.  She describes being raised by big companies – first falling into it, then falling in love with it, and today, being absolutely driven to have a large impact on the clinical outcomes in healthcare.  While Kathy has spent her career bringing health tech solutions to market, she describes her work at Ronin as perhaps the most impactful.  And this excites her. Did you know that 50% of cancers are preventable?  I didn’t. As her PSA, Kathy also implores all listeners who may today or someday face a cancer diagnosis – get a second opinion on that pathology report.  From her work she states this particular area is still equal parts art and science in medicine – and while AI may change that in the future – today the second opinion could be life altering. Hear Kathy talk about: How she has chosen when to move to a next career opportunity (spoiler alert, the answer comes down to learning and also thinking about opportunity for impact). What has changed over the years with technology. The advancement of the data science toolsets today is phenomenal.   The question remains as to how this can shorten innovation adoption cycles. Her optimism in how data tooling and patient focused solutions can actually impact patients – better patient communication, real time communication with physicians. And with the potential to both prevent adverse events today – with promise to move to prevention. You can follow Kathy on LinkedIn. ***************************** Ford is responsible for the ideation, development and commercialization of Ronin, a provider of cutting-edge clinical intelligence software and AI services that helps clinicians understand the context between data points for patients undergoing oncology treatment. Ford has a long history in leading and bringing innovative technology to market at Rhinogram, GE Healthcare, Siemens Medical, McKesson and NantHealth. Fri, 28 Oct 2022 14:57:29 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Ford, chief product and strategy officer at Project Ronin, a company founded in 2018 by Larry Ellison and Dr. David Agus with a moonshot objective to transform cancer care. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Ford, chief product and strategy officer at Project Ronin, a company founded in 2018 by Larry Ellison and Dr. David Agus with a moonshot objective to transform cancer care.  It has been a “short thirty years” in healthcare and Kathy has been focused on launching healthcare solutions globally.  She describes being raised by big companies – first falling into it, then falling in love with it, and today, being absolutely driven to have a large impact on the clinical outcomes in healthcare.  While Kathy has spent her career bringing health tech solutions to market, she describes her work at Ronin as perhaps the most impactful.  And this excites her. Did you know that 50% of cancers are preventable?  I didn’t. As her PSA, Kathy also implores all listeners who may today or someday face a cancer diagnosis – get a second opinion on that pathology report.  From her work she states this particular area is still equal parts art and science in medicine – and while AI may change that in the future – today the second opinion could be life altering. Hear Kathy talk about: How she has chosen when to move to a next career opportunity (spoiler alert, the answer comes down to learning and also thinking about opportunity for impact). What has changed over the years with technology. The advancement of the data science toolsets today is phenomenal.   The question remains as to how this can shorten innovation adoption cycles. Her optimism in how data tooling and patient focused solutions can actually impact patients – better patient communication, real time communication with physicians. And with the potential to both prevent adverse events today – with promise to move to prevention. You can follow Kathy on LinkedIn. ***************************** Ford is responsible for the ideation, development and commercialization of Ronin, a provider of cutting-edge clinical intelligence software and AI services that helps clinicians understand the context between data points for patients undergoing oncology treatment. Ford has a long history in leading and bringing innovative technology to market at Rhinogram, GE Healthcare, Siemens Medical, McKesson and NantHealth.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kathy Ford, chief product and strategy officer at Project Ronin, a company founded in 2018 by Larry Ellison and Dr. David Agus with a moonshot objective to transform cancer care.  It has been a “short thirty years” in healthcare and Kathy has been focused on launching healthcare solutions globally.  She describes being raised by big companies – first falling into it, then falling in love with it, and today, being absolutely driven to have a large impact on the clinical outcomes in healthcare.  While Kathy has spent her career bringing health tech solutions to market, she describes her work at Ronin as perhaps the most impactful.  And this excites her.

Did you know that 50% of cancers are preventable?  I didn’t. As her PSA, Kathy also implores all listeners who may today or someday face a cancer diagnosis – get a second opinion on that pathology report.  From her work she states this particular area is still equal parts art and science in medicine – and while AI may change that in the future – today the second opinion could be life altering.

Hear Kathy talk about:

  • How she has chosen when to move to a next career opportunity (spoiler alert, the answer comes down to learning and also thinking about opportunity for impact).
  • What has changed over the years with technology. The advancement of the data science toolsets today is phenomenal.   The question remains as to how this can shorten innovation adoption cycles.
  • Her optimism in how data tooling and patient focused solutions can actually impact patients – better patient communication, real time communication with physicians. And with the potential to both prevent adverse events today – with promise to move to prevention.

You can follow Kathy on LinkedIn.

*****************************

Ford is responsible for the ideation, development and commercialization of Ronin, a provider of cutting-edge clinical intelligence software and AI services that helps clinicians understand the context between data points for patients undergoing oncology treatment. Ford has a long history in leading and bringing innovative technology to market at Rhinogram, GE Healthcare, Siemens Medical, McKesson and NantHealth.

]]> 1693 no EP. 104 Enough advice already!! We need checks!! Brittany Barreto on the state of play in FemTech https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/10/21/ep-104-enough-advice-already-we-need-checks-brittany-barreto-on-the-state-of-play-in-femtech/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brittany Barreto, PhD, a geneticist who has focused her career on FemTech (that’s not fintech, it’s femtech, which should just be called healthtech, but for now, let’s stay focused..).  Her company FemTech Focus aims to raise awareness on this $1.1T industry and to support the community of over 1000 founders in this space..  This is done through her podcast, virtual communities with >2000 members; events to support growth in this field and then very importantly, through ground breaking market research.  Brittany’s extroverted and passionate energy come through in this terrific Inspiring Women episode! Hear Brittany talk about: How she found her home not in the science lab but when finding a group of entrepreneurs drinking beer, eating pizza and wearing jeans. How women have been excluded from science, research, value hypotheses for every dimension of health care/device/science and delivery. It is changing now, but slowly. The gap in funding for femtech companies – which is not at Series A but rather at the seed stage. Perhaps due to a lack of caring from people these issues do not impact. Her best advice is actually a grand audience question – when you walk around the world, just ask yourself if sex was considered in making this? More often than not the answer will be NO. But asking the question and seeing the opportunity to create a world where it is normalized is very exciting to Brittany. What will we see in the years ahead for FemTech? Answer:  “So many exits…so many new leaders…” and very hopefully, many more men participating in the innovation and launch process. You can follow Brittany on LinkedIn. ***************************** Brittany Cliffnotes: I am a geneticist who launched the world’s first DNA-based dating app (Pheramor). The company ultimately closed but I sure did learn a lot! Then I launched in a career in venture. I was Senior Venture Associate at Capital Factory, the most active venture fund in Texas. I was tasked with opening their Houston branch and had a blast doing it. In 2019 I discovered an industry called FemTech and I learned about the grave inequalities in women’s health. In March 2020, during the covid-19 lockdown, I started a FemTech podcast and gained international traction overnight. Now I talk about vulvas full time via my 501c3 non-profit, FemTech Focus! I co-founded a FemTech venture fund, Coyote Ventures, and consult companies on female-centered healthcare. — I got my footing as a CEO while finishing my PhD in genetics, that’s when I co-founded Pheramor, the nation’s first DNA-based dating app and also launched a secondary product called WeHaveChemistry for couples. We successfully raised over $1.3M and won dozens of awards. Although Pheramor and WeHaveChemistry did not become the unicorn I hoped for, I earned my entrepreneurial stripes and pivoted to become a Venture Capitalist. My role at Capital Factory as a Houston-based Senior Venture Associate was to evaluate startups, mentor founders, and assist in deal flow and review for the Fund. As the first associate to be based in Houston, my role was to establish the Houston branch through outreach, growth, and forming partnerships. Under my leadership, our Houston accelerator portfolio has grown by 205%. I am frequently requested to consult startups, as well as deliver keynotes and workshops that highlight my areas of expertise which are: FemTech, going from science to entrepreneurship, and fundraising. Now I’m on a mission to advance the women’s health and wellness community through my latest world-changing venture – FemTech Focus. I am host of the FemTech Focus podcast which has over 150 episodes, 40K downloads, and subscribers in 107 countries. FemTech Focus has assisted hundreds of femtech founders to build, launch, and succeed through their events, resources, and market research reports. Additionally, I am the co-founding partner of Coyote Ventures, an early-stage femtech investment firm and femtech special advisor to Goddess Gaia Ventures, a growth-stage women’s health fund in the UK. Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:17:10 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brittany Barreto, PhD, a geneticist who has focused her career on FemTech (that’s not fintech, it’s femtech, which should just be called healthtech, but for now, let’s stay focused..). Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brittany Barreto, PhD, a geneticist who has focused her career on FemTech (that’s not fintech, it’s femtech, which should just be called healthtech, but for now, let’s stay focused..).  Her company FemTech Focus aims to raise awareness on this $1.1T industry and to support the community of over 1000 founders in this space..  This is done through her podcast, virtual communities with >2000 members; events to support growth in this field and then very importantly, through ground breaking market research.  Brittany’s extroverted and passionate energy come through in this terrific Inspiring Women episode! Hear Brittany talk about: How she found her home not in the science lab but when finding a group of entrepreneurs drinking beer, eating pizza and wearing jeans. How women have been excluded from science, research, value hypotheses for every dimension of health care/device/science and delivery. It is changing now, but slowly. The gap in funding for femtech companies – which is not at Series A but rather at the seed stage. Perhaps due to a lack of caring from people these issues do not impact. Her best advice is actually a grand audience question – when you walk around the world, just ask yourself if sex was considered in making this? More often than not the answer will be NO. But asking the question and seeing the opportunity to create a world where it is normalized is very exciting to Brittany. What will we see in the years ahead for FemTech? Answer:  “So many exits…so many new leaders…” and very hopefully, many more men participating in the innovation and launch process. You can follow Brittany on LinkedIn. ***************************** Brittany Cliffnotes: I am a geneticist who launched the world’s first DNA-based dating app (Pheramor). The company ultimately closed but I sure did learn a lot! Then I launched in a career in venture. I was Senior Venture Associate at Capital Factory, the most active venture fund in Texas. I was tasked with opening their Houston branch and had a blast doing it. In 2019 I discovered an industry called FemTech and I learned about the grave inequalities in women’s health. In March 2020, during the covid-19 lockdown, I started a FemTech podcast and gained international traction overnight. Now I talk about vulvas full time via my 501c3 non-profit, FemTech Focus! I co-founded a FemTech venture fund, Coyote Ventures, and consult companies on female-centered healthcare. — I got my footing as a CEO while finishing my PhD in genetics, that’s when I co-founded Pheramor, the nation’s first DNA-based dating app and also launched a secondary product called WeHaveChemistry for couples. We successfully raised over $1.3M and won dozens of awards. Although Pheramor and WeHaveChemistry did not become the unicorn I hoped for, I earned my entrepreneurial stripes and pivoted to become a Venture Capitalist. My role at Capital Factory as a Houston-based Senior Venture Associate was to evaluate startups, mentor founders, and assist in deal flow and review for the Fund. As the first associate to be based in Houston, my role was to establish the Houston branch through outreach, growth, and forming partnerships. Under my leadership, our Houston accelerator portfolio has grown by 205%. I am frequently requested to consult startups, as well as deliver keynotes and workshops that highlight my areas of expertise which are: FemTech, going from science to entrepreneurship, and fundraising. Now I’m on a mission to advance the women’s health and wellness community through my latest world-changing venture – FemTech Focus. I am host of the FemTech Focus podcast which has over 150 episodes, 40K downloads, and subscribers in 107 countries. FemTech Focus has assisted hundreds of femtech founders to build, launch, and succeed through their events, resources, and market research reports. Additionally, I am the co-founding partner of Coyote Ventures, an early-stage femtech investment firm and femtech special advisor to Goddess Gaia Ventures, a growth-stage women’s health fund in the UK.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brittany Barreto, PhD, a geneticist who has focused her career on FemTech (that’s not fintech, it’s femtech, which should just be called healthtech, but for now, let’s stay focused..).  Her company FemTech Focus aims to raise awareness on this $1.1T industry and to support the community of over 1000 founders in this space..  This is done through her podcast, virtual communities with >2000 members; events to support growth in this field and then very importantly, through ground breaking market research.  Brittany’s extroverted and passionate energy come through in this terrific Inspiring Women episode!

Hear Brittany talk about:

  • How she found her home not in the science lab but when finding a group of entrepreneurs drinking beer, eating pizza and wearing jeans.
  • How women have been excluded from science, research, value hypotheses for every dimension of health care/device/science and delivery. It is changing now, but slowly.
  • The gap in funding for femtech companies – which is not at Series A but rather at the seed stage. Perhaps due to a lack of caring from people these issues do not impact.
  • Her best advice is actually a grand audience question – when you walk around the world, just ask yourself if sex was considered in making this? More often than not the answer will be NO. But asking the question and seeing the opportunity to create a world where it is normalized is very exciting to Brittany.
  • What will we see in the years ahead for FemTech? Answer:  “So many exits…so many new leaders…” and very hopefully, many more men participating in the innovation and launch process.

You can follow Brittany on LinkedIn.

*****************************

Brittany Cliffnotes: I am a geneticist who launched the world’s first DNA-based dating app (Pheramor). The company ultimately closed but I sure did learn a lot! Then I launched in a career in venture. I was Senior Venture Associate at Capital Factory, the most active venture fund in Texas. I was tasked with opening their Houston branch and had a blast doing it. In 2019 I discovered an industry called FemTech and I learned about the grave inequalities in women’s health. In March 2020, during the covid-19 lockdown, I started a FemTech podcast and gained international traction overnight. Now I talk about vulvas full time via my 501c3 non-profit, FemTech Focus! I co-founded a FemTech venture fund, Coyote Ventures, and consult companies on female-centered healthcare.
—
I got my footing as a CEO while finishing my PhD in genetics, that’s when I co-founded Pheramor, the nation’s first DNA-based dating app and also launched a secondary product called WeHaveChemistry for couples. We successfully raised over $1.3M and won dozens of awards. Although Pheramor and WeHaveChemistry did not become the unicorn I hoped for, I earned my entrepreneurial stripes and pivoted to become a Venture Capitalist.

My role at Capital Factory as a Houston-based Senior Venture Associate was to evaluate startups, mentor founders, and assist in deal flow and review for the Fund. As the first associate to be based in Houston, my role was to establish the Houston branch through outreach, growth, and forming partnerships. Under my leadership, our Houston accelerator portfolio has grown by 205%.

I am frequently requested to consult startups, as well as deliver keynotes and workshops that highlight my areas of expertise which are: FemTech, going from science to entrepreneurship, and fundraising.

Now I’m on a mission to advance the women’s health and wellness community through my latest world-changing venture – FemTech Focus. I am host of the FemTech Focus podcast which has over 150 episodes, 40K downloads, and subscribers in 107 countries. FemTech Focus has assisted hundreds of femtech founders to build, launch, and succeed through their events, resources, and market research reports. Additionally, I am the co-founding partner of Coyote Ventures, an early-stage femtech investment firm and femtech special advisor to Goddess Gaia Ventures, a growth-stage women’s health fund in the UK.

]]> 1359 no EP. 103 Life inflection points and making an impact https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/10/13/ep-103-life-inflection-points-and-making-an-impact/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elizabeth Kirk, a senior vice president at Strata Decision Technology.  Liz has spent her career at the intersection of healthcare process automation and optimization to deliver significant financial returns.  Working across teams on complex issues remains a passion.  Personal tragedy, a health diagnosis, and major job changes – Liz has had to face several incredible inflection points.  These all shaped her outlook on work and have led to strengthened resolve and commitment to making a difference. What you will hear in this episode: The sudden death of Liz’s fiancé was life altering. Throwing herself into work was Liz’s coping mechanism. In a job she loved, Liz had an unexpected meeting with GE’s CEO Jeff Immelt. That gave her critical information as to what she thought might be possible with her division.  She learned it was time to make a move. Meeting other incredible life moments. Like being fired for being pregnant.  Hard to imagine that this can happen (it’s illegal BTW…) but it happened to Liz. And dealing with her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Healthy today, Liz is thankful for some early time with her daughter.  As challenging as this may be, Liz believes this has led to an even deeper connection and commitment to the impact of her work on healthcare organizations. It is very important to Liz to get up every day to a job she loves. And what she loves most?  Seeing and then fixing problems and doing this by working cross-functionally.   You can follow Liz on LinkedIn.   ***************************** Liz Kirk is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Services at Strata Decision Technology. With over 15 years of experience working with healthcare providers, both as a hospital administrator and a consultant, Liz’s role includes leadership of Strata’s Client Services team, as well as work in product and strategy for the company. Liz’s work in developing the Continuous Improvement application at Strata was recognized with the prestigious Chicago Innovation Award in 2014 and has recently been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare as one of the top “Female Health IT Leaders to Know” and one of the top “Female Vendor Financial Management Leaders to Know” in 2018. Prior to joining Strata, Liz was responsible for cost reduction and revenue improvement at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL where she successfully led an enterprise-wide project to reduce $220 million of operating expense while improving clinical performance.  Liz was instrumental in developing revenue cycle consulting and technology services at Accretive Health and in starting the Revenue Cycle and Financial Improvement practice at GE Healthcare Performance Solutions. She began her career at Deloitte Consulting working with both payers and providers. Liz is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Master Change Agent. She earned a MBA and MHA at the University of Minnesota and a BS in Finance at Trinity University in Texas. Thu, 13 Oct 2022 14:19:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elizabeth Kirk, a senior vice president at Strata Decision Technology.  Liz has spent her career at the intersection of healthcare process automation and optimization to deliver significant financial ret...   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elizabeth Kirk, a senior vice president at Strata Decision Technology.  Liz has spent her career at the intersection of healthcare process automation and optimization to deliver significant financial returns.  Working across teams on complex issues remains a passion.  Personal tragedy, a health diagnosis, and major job changes – Liz has had to face several incredible inflection points.  These all shaped her outlook on work and have led to strengthened resolve and commitment to making a difference. What you will hear in this episode: The sudden death of Liz’s fiancé was life altering. Throwing herself into work was Liz’s coping mechanism. In a job she loved, Liz had an unexpected meeting with GE’s CEO Jeff Immelt. That gave her critical information as to what she thought might be possible with her division.  She learned it was time to make a move. Meeting other incredible life moments. Like being fired for being pregnant.  Hard to imagine that this can happen (it’s illegal BTW…) but it happened to Liz. And dealing with her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Healthy today, Liz is thankful for some early time with her daughter.  As challenging as this may be, Liz believes this has led to an even deeper connection and commitment to the impact of her work on healthcare organizations. It is very important to Liz to get up every day to a job she loves. And what she loves most?  Seeing and then fixing problems and doing this by working cross-functionally.   You can follow Liz on LinkedIn.   ***************************** Liz Kirk is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Services at Strata Decision Technology. With over 15 years of experience working with healthcare providers, both as a hospital administrator and a consultant, Liz’s role includes leadership of Strata’s Client Services team, as well as work in product and strategy for the company. Liz’s work in developing the Continuous Improvement application at Strata was recognized with the prestigious Chicago Innovation Award in 2014 and has recently been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare as one of the top “Female Health IT Leaders to Know” and one of the top “Female Vendor Financial Management Leaders to Know” in 2018. Prior to joining Strata, Liz was responsible for cost reduction and revenue improvement at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL where she successfully led an enterprise-wide project to reduce $220 million of operating expense while improving clinical performance.  Liz was instrumental in developing revenue cycle consulting and technology services at Accretive Health and in starting the Revenue Cycle and Financial Improvement practice at GE Healthcare Performance Solutions. She began her career at Deloitte Consulting working with both payers and providers. Liz is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Master Change Agent. She earned a MBA and MHA at the University of Minnesota and a BS in Finance at Trinity University in Texas.  


Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Elizabeth Kirk, a senior vice president at Strata Decision Technology.  Liz has spent her career at the intersection of healthcare process automation and optimization to deliver significant financial returns.  Working across teams on complex issues remains a passion.  Personal tragedy, a health diagnosis, and major job changes – Liz has had to face several incredible inflection points.  These all shaped her outlook on work and have led to strengthened resolve and commitment to making a difference.

What you will hear in this episode:

  • The sudden death of Liz’s fiancé was life altering. Throwing herself into work was Liz’s coping mechanism.
  • In a job she loved, Liz had an unexpected meeting with GE’s CEO Jeff Immelt. That gave her critical information as to what she thought might be possible with her division.  She learned it was time to make a move.
  • Meeting other incredible life moments. Like being fired for being pregnant.  Hard to imagine that this can happen (it’s illegal BTW…) but it happened to Liz.
  • And dealing with her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Healthy today, Liz is thankful for some early time with her daughter.  As challenging as this may be, Liz believes this has led to an even deeper connection and commitment to the impact of her work on healthcare organizations.
  • It is very important to Liz to get up every day to a job she loves. And what she loves most?  Seeing and then fixing problems and doing this by working cross-functionally.

 

You can follow Liz on LinkedIn.

 

*****************************

Liz Kirk is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Services at Strata Decision Technology. With over 15 years of experience working with healthcare providers, both as a hospital administrator and a consultant, Liz’s role includes leadership of Strata’s Client Services team, as well as work in product and strategy for the company. Liz’s work in developing the Continuous Improvement application at Strata was recognized with the prestigious Chicago Innovation Award in 2014 and has recently been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare as one of the top “Female Health IT Leaders to Know” and one of the top “Female Vendor Financial Management Leaders to Know” in 2018.

Prior to joining Strata, Liz was responsible for cost reduction and revenue improvement at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL where she successfully led an enterprise-wide project to reduce $220 million of operating expense while improving clinical performance.  Liz was instrumental in developing revenue cycle consulting and technology services at Accretive Health and in starting the Revenue Cycle and Financial Improvement practice at GE Healthcare Performance Solutions. She began her career at Deloitte Consulting working with both payers and providers.

Liz is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Master Change Agent. She earned a MBA and MHA at the University of Minnesota and a BS in Finance at Trinity University in Texas.

]]> 1816 no EP. 102 Julia Chang does not believe in gender limitations. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/10/06/ep-102-julia-chang-does-not-believe-in-limitations/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julia Chang who lives in Taiwan and is a Senior Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions.  Julia became interested in technology at a very early age, encouraged by her father and inspired by science fiction superheroes that could fight aliens and solve problems with science!  With a background in engineering, she found that she loved the sales process, which includes a deep technical understanding but also psychology, working with people to find win-win solutions while also closing deals.  Julia never felt gender differences in her career pursuits even though she saw that there were fewer women in the areas she studied or where she worked. Involvement in the semi-conductor industry and its global supply chain, being in Taiwan, and recent US legislation with the CHIPS and Science Act all impact Julia’s life.  Geo-political tensions have been a constant as long as Julia can remember and that is true now, but the impact she feels is probably less so than the news from abroad may make it appear.   Of the various pivotal points in her successful career, Julia gives tremendous credit to her husband.  His support of her, encouraging her to pursue her current career at SkyWorks, as well as their support for each other with their family, Julia views him as an invaluable partner.  Today, Julia suggests to all women that they do not accept gender limitations but rather, do your best work to reach your human potential. ***************************** Julia Chang Sr. Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions in Taiwan Country Manager/Regional Sales Director 思佳訊思佳訊.  In Charge of Taiwan ODM/OBM and WLAN customers Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:49:16 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julia Chang who lives in Taiwan and is a Senior Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions.  Julia became interested in technology at a very early age, encouraged by her father and inspired by science fiction ...   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julia Chang who lives in Taiwan and is a Senior Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions.  Julia became interested in technology at a very early age, encouraged by her father and inspired by science fiction superheroes that could fight aliens and solve problems with science!  With a background in engineering, she found that she loved the sales process, which includes a deep technical understanding but also psychology, working with people to find win-win solutions while also closing deals.  Julia never felt gender differences in her career pursuits even though she saw that there were fewer women in the areas she studied or where she worked. Involvement in the semi-conductor industry and its global supply chain, being in Taiwan, and recent US legislation with the CHIPS and Science Act all impact Julia’s life.  Geo-political tensions have been a constant as long as Julia can remember and that is true now, but the impact she feels is probably less so than the news from abroad may make it appear.   Of the various pivotal points in her successful career, Julia gives tremendous credit to her husband.  His support of her, encouraging her to pursue her current career at SkyWorks, as well as their support for each other with their family, Julia views him as an invaluable partner.  Today, Julia suggests to all women that they do not accept gender limitations but rather, do your best work to reach your human potential. ***************************** Julia Chang Sr. Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions in Taiwan Country Manager/Regional Sales Director 思佳訊思佳訊.  In Charge of Taiwan ODM/OBM and WLAN customers  


Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julia Chang who lives in Taiwan and is a Senior Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions.  Julia became interested in technology at a very early age, encouraged by her father and inspired by science fiction superheroes that could fight aliens and solve problems with science!  With a background in engineering, she found that she loved the sales process, which includes a deep technical understanding but also psychology, working with people to find win-win solutions while also closing deals.  Julia never felt gender differences in her career pursuits even though she saw that there were fewer women in the areas she studied or where she worked.

Involvement in the semi-conductor industry and its global supply chain, being in Taiwan, and recent US legislation with the CHIPS and Science Act all impact Julia’s life.  Geo-political tensions have been a constant as long as Julia can remember and that is true now, but the impact she feels is probably less so than the news from abroad may make it appear.  

Of the various pivotal points in her successful career, Julia gives tremendous credit to her husband.  His support of her, encouraging her to pursue her current career at SkyWorks, as well as their support for each other with their family, Julia views him as an invaluable partner.  Today, Julia suggests to all women that they do not accept gender limitations but rather, do your best work to reach your human potential.

*****************************

Julia Chang

Sr. Sales Director at Skyworks Solutions in Taiwan

Country Manager/Regional Sales Director

思佳訊思佳訊.  In Charge of Taiwan ODM/OBM and WLAN customers

]]> 1418 no EP. 101 There is no health without health equity https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/09/27/ep-101-there-is-no-health-without-health-equity/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ivor Horn, health equity expert and Chief Health Equity Officer at Google.   For Dr. Horn, her journey to being impactful in medicine began with her father’s care where she saw what it looked like to not be respected.  Early on, having impact led her to academics with an intent to educate physicians on how to deliver culturally competent care.  Dr. Horn noted seeing technology integrated into patients’ lives but NOT integrated into the health journey of a patient.  Understanding the opportunity for change and impact, this galvanized her into the tech space.   In this episode you will hear: Early on, how far did we have to go with health equity? A LONG WAY as Silicon Valley did have an understanding of health disparities across communities and there was low appreciation for any financial value in addressing inequities Fast forward to today, where there has been quite a bit of progress. Use of technology is the norm to support someone’s health journey just as technology is integrated into all of our lives. Discerning hype around health equity from meaningful work comes down to views on the long game versus looking for a PR moment. Health equity work means sustained changes in infrastructure, process and accountability to weather ebbs and flows of support or resource commitment. The importance of the bottom-line impacts of health equity which are key to sustained support beyond health equity focus due to its moral imperative. Cautious optimism about the future for health equity!! Dr. Horn is seeing organizations building more educated teams, that appreciate nuance. We MAY be seeing a next wave of resources in the world of health equity.  Also key for the long-time experts to avoid burn out given the magnitude of the work. What is possible five years out? Global companies that have health equity built into their plans in the same way that sustainability is embedded in board conversations today.  There is no health without health equity.   Dr. Horn also provides some words of advice regarding finding balance in her busy life.  Family, friends and exercise!!! She also highly recommends a good therapist to remind you that what you are thinking is real and a coach to help you to then navigate!   Dr. Ivor Horn Chief Health Equity Officer Google   Dr. Ivor Braden Horn has over 20+ years of experience as an executive in health systems, academic, and venture-backed entrepreneurial environments. She is a sought-after advisor for health technology companies and has served on advisory committees and boards for several academic, philanthropic, government and for-profit organizations. As a strategic leader, Ivor has demonstrated expertise in driving organizational change within technology and product innovation and implementing efforts to drive quality improvement and stakeholder engagement. Ivor has a track record of implementing programs to improve health outcomes, reduce regulatory compliance risk and establish partnerships with community-based organizations to better serve at-risk populations. You can follow Dr. Horn on LinkedIn or her WEBSITE Tue, 27 Sep 2022 17:30:56 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ivor Horn, health equity expert and Chief Health Equity Officer at Google.   For Dr. Horn, her journey to being impactful in medicine began with her father’s care where she saw what it looked like to n... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ivor Horn, health equity expert and Chief Health Equity Officer at Google.   For Dr. Horn, her journey to being impactful in medicine began with her father’s care where she saw what it looked like to not be respected.  Early on, having impact led her to academics with an intent to educate physicians on how to deliver culturally competent care.  Dr. Horn noted seeing technology integrated into patients’ lives but NOT integrated into the health journey of a patient.  Understanding the opportunity for change and impact, this galvanized her into the tech space.   In this episode you will hear: Early on, how far did we have to go with health equity? A LONG WAY as Silicon Valley did have an understanding of health disparities across communities and there was low appreciation for any financial value in addressing inequities Fast forward to today, where there has been quite a bit of progress. Use of technology is the norm to support someone’s health journey just as technology is integrated into all of our lives. Discerning hype around health equity from meaningful work comes down to views on the long game versus looking for a PR moment. Health equity work means sustained changes in infrastructure, process and accountability to weather ebbs and flows of support or resource commitment. The importance of the bottom-line impacts of health equity which are key to sustained support beyond health equity focus due to its moral imperative. Cautious optimism about the future for health equity!! Dr. Horn is seeing organizations building more educated teams, that appreciate nuance. We MAY be seeing a next wave of resources in the world of health equity.  Also key for the long-time experts to avoid burn out given the magnitude of the work. What is possible five years out? Global companies that have health equity built into their plans in the same way that sustainability is embedded in board conversations today.  There is no health without health equity.   Dr. Horn also provides some words of advice regarding finding balance in her busy life.  Family, friends and exercise!!! She also highly recommends a good therapist to remind you that what you are thinking is real and a coach to help you to then navigate!   Dr. Ivor Horn Chief Health Equity Officer Google   Dr. Ivor Braden Horn has over 20+ years of experience as an executive in health systems, academic, and venture-backed entrepreneurial environments. She is a sought-after advisor for health technology companies and has served on advisory committees and boards for several academic, philanthropic, government and for-profit organizations. As a strategic leader, Ivor has demonstrated expertise in driving organizational change within technology and product innovation and implementing efforts to drive quality improvement and stakeholder engagement. Ivor has a track record of implementing programs to improve health outcomes, reduce regulatory compliance risk and establish partnerships with community-based organizations to better serve at-risk populations. You can follow Dr. Horn on LinkedIn or her WEBSITE

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ivor Horn, health equity expert and Chief Health Equity Officer at Google.   For Dr. Horn, her journey to being impactful in medicine began with her father’s care where she saw what it looked like to not be respected.  Early on, having impact led her to academics with an intent to educate physicians on how to deliver culturally competent care.  Dr. Horn noted seeing technology integrated into patients’ lives but NOT integrated into the health journey of a patient.  Understanding the opportunity for change and impact, this galvanized her into the tech space.

 

In this episode you will hear:

  • Early on, how far did we have to go with health equity? A LONG WAY as Silicon Valley did have an understanding of health disparities across communities and there was low appreciation for any financial value in addressing inequities
  • Fast forward to today, where there has been quite a bit of progress. Use of technology is the norm to support someone’s health journey just as technology is integrated into all of our lives.
  • Discerning hype around health equity from meaningful work comes down to views on the long game versus looking for a PR moment. Health equity work means sustained changes in infrastructure, process and accountability to weather ebbs and flows of support or resource commitment.
  • The importance of the bottom-line impacts of health equity which are key to sustained support beyond health equity focus due to its moral imperative.
  • Cautious optimism about the future for health equity!! Dr. Horn is seeing organizations building more educated teams, that appreciate nuance. We MAY be seeing a next wave of resources in the world of health equity.  Also key for the long-time experts to avoid burn out given the magnitude of the work.
  • What is possible five years out? Global companies that have health equity built into their plans in the same way that sustainability is embedded in board conversations today.  There is no health without health equity.

 

Dr. Horn also provides some words of advice regarding finding balance in her busy life.  Family, friends and exercise!!! She also highly recommends a good therapist to remind you that what you are thinking is real and a coach to help you to then navigate!

 

Dr. Ivor Horn

Chief Health Equity Officer

Google

 

Dr. Ivor Braden Horn has over 20+ years of experience as an executive in health systems, academic, and venture-backed entrepreneurial environments.

She is a sought-after advisor for health technology companies and has served on advisory committees and boards for several academic, philanthropic, government and for-profit organizations.

As a strategic leader, Ivor has demonstrated expertise in driving organizational change within technology and product innovation and implementing efforts to drive quality improvement and stakeholder engagement. Ivor has a track record of implementing programs to improve health outcomes, reduce regulatory compliance risk and establish partnerships with community-based organizations to better serve at-risk populations.

You can follow Dr. Horn on LinkedIn or her WEBSITE

]]> 1423 no EP. 100 MENTORING SERIES: Mom, our first mentor. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/09/21/ep-100-mentoring-series-mom-our-first-mentor/ In this episode you will hear: That point in time when this mother/daughter changed their relationship to mentoring and the focus on professional advice v. just parental advice Why a healthy respect for boundaries for Jolene has been important to her in her support for Kate’s growing career. Kate’s reaction to unsolicited advice (not good) and how Jolene practices restraint in giving it! For Jolene, she began an entrepreneurial career later in life and how she looks to her daughter for both support and advice. Not only is it helpful, for Jolene, this is a source of pride and joy in her daughter. What advice do they have for each other as both mom and daughter forge their career trajectories? Jolene has strong belief that Kate will be a woman of impact but also is supportive and excited about the ride ahead even if it remains unclear.  She wants to ensure that if Kate needs something, that she is not afraid to ask for it. Kate can’t help but show tremendous pride in her mom for exploring new challenges and having the courage to build this new business of life coaching.  Go for it Mom!!! What will you hear in this episode?  Love.  Support.  Pride.   Jolene Atkinson Jolene Atkinson is licensed in Iowa and Illinois as a Clinical Social Worker in private practice at Psychology Health Group in Davenport, Iowa. She is a Certified Life Coach and owner of Lifewell Coaching. As a graduate of the University of Iowa with a master’s degree in social work, Jolene trained as a therapist and an advocate for others. She is a certified life coach, CEO and entrepreneur. Whether through therapy or life coaching, Jolene specializes in supporting individuals to live their best lives.  Early in her career, Jolene worked with nonprofit agencies serving children and parents in the foster care system, provided advocacy and therapy to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, was a residential counselor in a group home for teen moms, and a therapist in a mental health clinic. With over 20 years’ experience in her private practice, Jolene has helped individuals and families with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and trauma. She has supported couples with marriage, divorce, and custody issues. She has provided individuals with life skills, career exploration, identity awareness and parenting strategies. Jolene has specialized in utilizing play therapy to work with children and teens. Jolene’s coaching practice prioritizes goal setting, personal growth, and emotional wellness. She is passionate about helping people realize their highest potential.   Kate Kruse VP, Executive Podcast Solutions and Producer, Inspiring Women Kate is a Class of 2020 graduate from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in Enterprise Leadership. Kate joined Executive Podcast Solutions in October of 2019 and has loved helping several clients develop and produce their shows. Outside of podcasting, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and reading.   Wed, 21 Sep 2022 18:25:05 -0000 full Laurie McGraw In this episode you will hear: That point in time when this mother/daughter changed their relationship to mentoring and the focus on professional advice v. just parental advice Why a healthy respect for boundaries for Jolene has been important to her i... In this episode you will hear: That point in time when this mother/daughter changed their relationship to mentoring and the focus on professional advice v. just parental advice Why a healthy respect for boundaries for Jolene has been important to her in her support for Kate’s growing career. Kate’s reaction to unsolicited advice (not good) and how Jolene practices restraint in giving it! For Jolene, she began an entrepreneurial career later in life and how she looks to her daughter for both support and advice. Not only is it helpful, for Jolene, this is a source of pride and joy in her daughter. What advice do they have for each other as both mom and daughter forge their career trajectories? Jolene has strong belief that Kate will be a woman of impact but also is supportive and excited about the ride ahead even if it remains unclear.  She wants to ensure that if Kate needs something, that she is not afraid to ask for it. Kate can’t help but show tremendous pride in her mom for exploring new challenges and having the courage to build this new business of life coaching.  Go for it Mom!!! What will you hear in this episode?  Love.  Support.  Pride.   Jolene Atkinson Jolene Atkinson is licensed in Iowa and Illinois as a Clinical Social Worker in private practice at Psychology Health Group in Davenport, Iowa. She is a Certified Life Coach and owner of Lifewell Coaching. As a graduate of the University of Iowa with a master’s degree in social work, Jolene trained as a therapist and an advocate for others. She is a certified life coach, CEO and entrepreneur. Whether through therapy or life coaching, Jolene specializes in supporting individuals to live their best lives.  Early in her career, Jolene worked with nonprofit agencies serving children and parents in the foster care system, provided advocacy and therapy to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, was a residential counselor in a group home for teen moms, and a therapist in a mental health clinic. With over 20 years’ experience in her private practice, Jolene has helped individuals and families with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and trauma. She has supported couples with marriage, divorce, and custody issues. She has provided individuals with life skills, career exploration, identity awareness and parenting strategies. Jolene has specialized in utilizing play therapy to work with children and teens. Jolene’s coaching practice prioritizes goal setting, personal growth, and emotional wellness. She is passionate about helping people realize their highest potential.   Kate Kruse VP, Executive Podcast Solutions and Producer, Inspiring Women Kate is a Class of 2020 graduate from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in Enterprise Leadership. Kate joined Executive Podcast Solutions in October of 2019 and has loved helping several clients develop and produce their shows. Outside of podcasting, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and reading.  

In this episode you will hear:

  • That point in time when this mother/daughter changed their relationship to mentoring and the focus on professional advice v. just parental advice
  • Why a healthy respect for boundaries for Jolene has been important to her in her support for Kate’s growing career.
  • Kate’s reaction to unsolicited advice (not good) and how Jolene practices restraint in giving it!
  • For Jolene, she began an entrepreneurial career later in life and how she looks to her daughter for both support and advice. Not only is it helpful, for Jolene, this is a source of pride and joy in her daughter.

What advice do they have for each other as both mom and daughter forge their career trajectories?

Jolene has strong belief that Kate will be a woman of impact but also is supportive and excited about the ride ahead even if it remains unclear.  She wants to ensure that if Kate needs something, that she is not afraid to ask for it.

Kate can’t help but show tremendous pride in her mom for exploring new challenges and having the courage to build this new business of life coaching.  Go for it Mom!!!

What will you hear in this episode?  Love.  Support.  Pride.

 

Jolene Atkinson

Jolene Atkinson is licensed in Iowa and Illinois as a Clinical Social Worker in private practice at Psychology Health Group in Davenport, Iowa. She is a Certified Life Coach and owner of Lifewell Coaching. As a graduate of the University of Iowa with a master’s degree in social work, Jolene trained as a therapist and an advocate for others. She is a certified life coach, CEO and entrepreneur. Whether through therapy or life coaching, Jolene specializes in supporting individuals to live their best lives.  Early in her career, Jolene worked with nonprofit agencies serving children and parents in the foster care system, provided advocacy and therapy to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, was a residential counselor in a group home for teen moms, and a therapist in a mental health clinic.

With over 20 years’ experience in her private practice, Jolene has helped individuals and families with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and trauma. She has supported couples with marriage, divorce, and custody issues. She has provided individuals with life skills, career exploration, identity awareness and parenting strategies. Jolene has specialized in utilizing play therapy to work with children and teens. Jolene’s coaching practice prioritizes goal setting, personal growth, and emotional wellness. She is passionate about helping people realize their highest potential.

 

Kate Kruse

VP, Executive Podcast Solutions and Producer, Inspiring Women

Kate is a Class of 2020 graduate from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in Enterprise Leadership. Kate joined Executive Podcast Solutions in October of 2019 and has loved helping several clients develop and produce their shows. Outside of podcasting, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and reading.

 

]]> 1936 no EP. 99 Inclusive cultures start with making people feel like they belong https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/09/06/ep-99-inclusive-cultures-start-with-making-people-feel-like-they-belong/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Anita Lynch about changing company cultures and having that sense of belonging even when you are one of few, or only, in leadership. Anita’s love for data, technology, and leadership started early.  She demonstrated executive presence “on the playground” and learned to code at age ten when her father brought home a TRS-80.  Beyond her parents, she had other early role models.  The first black person CEO she ever knew was in fact her Aunt Caroline. Over the years while assuming greater and greater leadership responsibilities, she did not ignore the reality that she was one of few, or often times only in these positions as a data/technology executive.  She had learned to transcend by finding ways to connect with others as peers.  If you are at the table, you are peers, so Anita advises to be aware and not try to fight the differences but to seek opportunities to connect with your peer colleagues. Learning how to drive culture change in large scale organizations also comes through learned experience from launching significant digital and data initiatives at Yahoo, Amazon and Disney.  Leading company tectonic shifts of collecting, aggregating and then activating data also afforded her the opportunity to work with and learn from other inspiring executives. Anita advises that inclusive cultures start by making people feel like they belong.  This means recognizing and celebrating differences and starts with ensuring employees feel safe and cherished.  You cannot feel cherished without feeling safe. Anita describes tactics for how to allow for those differences, whether it is age, gender, race or other. Anita’s closing advice to women is that we are a community and need to be supportive of each other.  Significant career decisions can be broken into a series of smaller decisions so that in fact women optimize their careers over time and in fact have it all!   Anita Lynch is dedicated to making life better and business more resilient through technology and data. Her expertise includes implementing digital transformation, finding positive solutions that benefit all stakeholders to mitigate risk, and increases shareholder value. A technophile at heart with an intuitive sense of systems and processes, she has an innate ability to bridge technology and business with diverse perspectives. She identifies smart investments that protect and leverage data to maximize profitability, and ultimately adds value to corporations at all stages. Ms. Lynch most recently served as Chief Data Officer at New Relic (NASDAQ: NEWR), a provider of data-driven enterprise software. She is among the first African American women to serve in the c-suite in this role for a public company. Beyond the c-suite, Ms. Lynch plays a leadership role in vital community programs and has served on non-profit boards supporting education initiatives for urban youth with Chicago Youth Centers and Silicon Valley Talent Partnership in the San Francisco Bay area. Ms. Lynch also volunteers with Harvard Business School Admissions, Harvard Business School Alumni Board and Harvard Alumni Association. Anita Lynch has been recognized for trailblazing and leadership. In 2022, she received a Culture Shift Award for Technology, Innovation and Social Impact in Silicon Valley. In 2020, she was named in the San Francisco Business Times ‘Top 100 Most Influential Women in Business’ and a featured keynote speaker in Snowflake’s 2020 Data Cloud Summit. Ms. Lynch has been recognized as an innovator and technology inventor with patents for her work on trading systems at the Chicago Board of Trade in 2004. A native of Chicago, Ms. Lynch now resides in Oakland, CA. Tue, 06 Sep 2022 14:45:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Anita Lynch about changing company cultures and having that sense of belonging even when you are one of few, or only, in leadership. Anita’s love for data, technology, and leadership started early. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Anita Lynch about changing company cultures and having that sense of belonging even when you are one of few, or only, in leadership. Anita’s love for data, technology, and leadership started early.  She demonstrated executive presence “on the playground” and learned to code at age ten when her father brought home a TRS-80.  Beyond her parents, she had other early role models.  The first black person CEO she ever knew was in fact her Aunt Caroline. Over the years while assuming greater and greater leadership responsibilities, she did not ignore the reality that she was one of few, or often times only in these positions as a data/technology executive.  She had learned to transcend by finding ways to connect with others as peers.  If you are at the table, you are peers, so Anita advises to be aware and not try to fight the differences but to seek opportunities to connect with your peer colleagues. Learning how to drive culture change in large scale organizations also comes through learned experience from launching significant digital and data initiatives at Yahoo, Amazon and Disney.  Leading company tectonic shifts of collecting, aggregating and then activating data also afforded her the opportunity to work with and learn from other inspiring executives. Anita advises that inclusive cultures start by making people feel like they belong.  This means recognizing and celebrating differences and starts with ensuring employees feel safe and cherished.  You cannot feel cherished without feeling safe. Anita describes tactics for how to allow for those differences, whether it is age, gender, race or other. Anita’s closing advice to women is that we are a community and need to be supportive of each other.  Significant career decisions can be broken into a series of smaller decisions so that in fact women optimize their careers over time and in fact have it all!   Anita Lynch is dedicated to making life better and business more resilient through technology and data. Her expertise includes implementing digital transformation, finding positive solutions that benefit all stakeholders to mitigate risk, and increases shareholder value. A technophile at heart with an intuitive sense of systems and processes, she has an innate ability to bridge technology and business with diverse perspectives. She identifies smart investments that protect and leverage data to maximize profitability, and ultimately adds value to corporations at all stages. Ms. Lynch most recently served as Chief Data Officer at New Relic (NASDAQ: NEWR), a provider of data-driven enterprise software. She is among the first African American women to serve in the c-suite in this role for a public company. Beyond the c-suite, Ms. Lynch plays a leadership role in vital community programs and has served on non-profit boards supporting education initiatives for urban youth with Chicago Youth Centers and Silicon Valley Talent Partnership in the San Francisco Bay area. Ms. Lynch also volunteers with Harvard Business School Admissions, Harvard Business School Alumni Board and Harvard Alumni Association. Anita Lynch has been recognized for trailblazing and leadership. In 2022, she received a Culture Shift Award for Technology, Innovation and Social Impact in Silicon Valley. In 2020, she was named in the San Francisco Business Times ‘Top 100 Most Influential Women in Business’ and a featured keynote speaker in Snowflake’s 2020 Data Cloud Summit. Ms. Lynch has been recognized as an innovator and technology inventor with patents for her work on trading systems at the Chicago Board of Trade in 2004. A native of Chicago, Ms. Lynch now resides in Oakland, CA.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Anita Lynch about changing company cultures and having that sense of belonging even when you are one of few, or only, in leadership.

Anita’s love for data, technology, and leadership started early.  She demonstrated executive presence “on the playground” and learned to code at age ten when her father brought home a TRS-80.  Beyond her parents, she had other early role models.  The first black person CEO she ever knew was in fact her Aunt Caroline.

Over the years while assuming greater and greater leadership responsibilities, she did not ignore the reality that she was one of few, or often times only in these positions as a data/technology executive.  She had learned to transcend by finding ways to connect with others as peers.  If you are at the table, you are peers, so Anita advises to be aware and not try to fight the differences but to seek opportunities to connect with your peer colleagues.

Learning how to drive culture change in large scale organizations also comes through learned experience from launching significant digital and data initiatives at Yahoo, Amazon and Disney.  Leading company tectonic shifts of collecting, aggregating and then activating data also afforded her the opportunity to work with and learn from other inspiring executives.

Anita advises that inclusive cultures start by making people feel like they belong.  This means recognizing and celebrating differences and starts with ensuring employees feel safe and cherished.  You cannot feel cherished without feeling safe. Anita describes tactics for how to allow for those differences, whether it is age, gender, race or other.

Anita’s closing advice to women is that we are a community and need to be supportive of each other.  Significant career decisions can be broken into a series of smaller decisions so that in fact women optimize their careers over time and in fact have it all!

 

Anita Lynch is dedicated to making life better and business more resilient through technology and data. Her expertise includes implementing digital transformation, finding positive solutions that benefit all stakeholders to mitigate risk, and increases shareholder value. A technophile at heart with an intuitive sense of systems and processes, she has an innate ability to bridge technology and business with diverse perspectives. She identifies smart investments that protect and leverage data to maximize profitability, and ultimately adds value to corporations at all stages.

Ms. Lynch most recently served as Chief Data Officer at New Relic (NASDAQ: NEWR), a provider of data-driven enterprise software. She is among the first African American women to serve in the c-suite in this role for a public company.

Beyond the c-suite, Ms. Lynch plays a leadership role in vital community programs and has served on non-profit boards supporting education initiatives for urban youth with Chicago Youth Centers and Silicon Valley Talent Partnership in the San Francisco Bay area. Ms. Lynch also volunteers with Harvard Business School Admissions, Harvard Business School Alumni Board and Harvard Alumni Association.

Anita Lynch has been recognized for trailblazing and leadership. In 2022, she received a Culture Shift Award for Technology, Innovation and Social Impact in Silicon Valley. In 2020, she was named in the San Francisco Business Times ‘Top 100 Most Influential Women in Business’ and a featured keynote speaker in Snowflake’s 2020 Data Cloud Summit. Ms. Lynch has been recognized as an innovator and technology inventor with patents for her work on trading systems at the Chicago Board of Trade in 2004.

A native of Chicago, Ms. Lynch now resides in Oakland, CA.

]]> 2041 no EP. 98 MENTORING SERIES: Drs. Paneez Khoury and Parker Ruhl Structures need to change for women in medicine to have a fair shot https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/08/29/ep-98-mentoring-series-drs-paneez-khoury-and-parker-ruhl-structures-need-to-change-for-women-in-medicine-to-have-a-fair-shot/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Paneez Khoury and Parker Ruhl, physicians, researchers, public servants who work at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.  They are also friends and peer mentors which they view as a professional must have given the dearth of women leaders. In this episode, we discussed the “leaky pipeline” issue given that women medical students have eclipsed the 50% mark several years ago.  Paneez and Parker are clear – the system is not set up so that women have a fair shot ascend to leadership.  While there are things women can do to bridge the gender gap in medicine through self-advocacy, taking leadership training opportunities and cultivating mentorship relationships, until the structures are changed.  The fertility window directly overlaps with the time periods needed to secure funding, when you are first becoming scientifically independent.  If those who set up these structures had to think about their fertility window – it just wouldn’t be set up this way.   Changing the process should NOT mean lowering the requirements, just adjusting not having to do these all at the same time during that important fertility window which creates sometimes impossible choices. Paneez and Parker also discuss how they have partnered aiming to impact culture change, a long slog without a clear path.  Finding ways to level the playing field for women in medicine, being heard, having representation on editorial boards, hiring and promotion committees, and looking forward to that day when a woman physician can say she is pregnant and not have to hear…Oh, I’m sorry….. are just some of the things that they are pushing for.  They have an action oriented approach and rely on the support of each other to “be the change”.   Dr. Paneez Khoury BIO: Paneez Khoury, M.D. is an associate research physician at NIAID. She has been involved in translational research in eosinophilic disorders since joining the Human Eosinophil Section in 2012. She received her M.D. from University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She completed an internal medicine residency at the Ohio State University followed by a fellowship in allergy and clinical immunology at NIH. She also holds a master’s of health sciences from Duke University. She is board certified in internal medicine and allergy/immunology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI). At NIH, she serves as the chair of the Scientific Review Committee of the Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases. She sits on the graduate medical education (GME) committee, including the policy subcommittee, and is a member of the staff clinician council. Her external committee activities include involvement in the food allergy and eosinophilic disorders committee, the program directors assembly, and the leadership institute of AAAAI . She serves on the board of the International Eosinophil Society (IES) and is the social media chair for the society. Dr. Parker Ruhl BIO: Dr. Parker Ruhl is an Associate Research Physician in the Physiology Unit of the Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research (LMVR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a joint appointment in the Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Dr. Ruhl serves on the NIH Pulmonary Consult Service and routinely sees patients in the NIH Sickle Cell Program. In the Physiology Unit, LMVR, Dr. Ruhl leads clinical research efforts within a translational research group focused on the impact of genetic variants of globin proteins, affecting both alpha and beta globin, on vascular function in human physiology and in disease states such sickle cell disease and malaria. Dr. Ruhl is active in the professional community. She serves as Chair of the NIH Staff Clinician Council and Chair of the Staff Clinician Professional Development Committee, which serve to support physician professional development within the NIH Intramural Research Program. She serves as Vice President and an executive board member of the Metropolitan DC Thoracic Society. Dr. Ruhl joined the Office of Intramural Research (OIR) as a Senior Advisor to Dr. Michael Gottesman, Deputy Director of Intramural Research (DDIR) in 2022 and is currently working on several matters related to the NIH Staff Clinician community. Dr. Ruhl supports Dr. Janice Lee, Deputy Director of Clinical Research (DDICR) in performing the Staff Clinician title designation review process. Dr. Ruhl has worked closely Dr. Carl Hashimoto, Director of Faculty Development, OIR, to broaden access for Staff Clinicians to professional development opportunities across all ICs within the NIH Intramural Research Program. Dr. Ruhl attended the University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed internal medicine training in the Osler Medical Residency at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed a combined fellowship in critical care medicine at the NIH Clinical Center and pulmonary medicine at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and received a Master’s of Health Sciences from the Duke University School of Medicine. Mon, 29 Aug 2022 15:39:29 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Paneez Khoury and Parker Ruhl, physicians, researchers, public servants who work at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.  They are also friends and peer mentors which they view a... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Paneez Khoury and Parker Ruhl, physicians, researchers, public servants who work at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.  They are also friends and peer mentors which they view as a professional must have given the dearth of women leaders. In this episode, we discussed the “leaky pipeline” issue given that women medical students have eclipsed the 50% mark several years ago.  Paneez and Parker are clear – the system is not set up so that women have a fair shot ascend to leadership.  While there are things women can do to bridge the gender gap in medicine through self-advocacy, taking leadership training opportunities and cultivating mentorship relationships, until the structures are changed.  The fertility window directly overlaps with the time periods needed to secure funding, when you are first becoming scientifically independent.  If those who set up these structures had to think about their fertility window – it just wouldn’t be set up this way.   Changing the process should NOT mean lowering the requirements, just adjusting not having to do these all at the same time during that important fertility window which creates sometimes impossible choices. Paneez and Parker also discuss how they have partnered aiming to impact culture change, a long slog without a clear path.  Finding ways to level the playing field for women in medicine, being heard, having representation on editorial boards, hiring and promotion committees, and looking forward to that day when a woman physician can say she is pregnant and not have to hear…Oh, I’m sorry….. are just some of the things that they are pushing for.  They have an action oriented approach and rely on the support of each other to “be the change”.   Dr. Paneez Khoury BIO: Paneez Khoury, M.D. is an associate research physician at NIAID. She has been involved in translational research in eosinophilic disorders since joining the Human Eosinophil Section in 2012. She received her M.D. from University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She completed an internal medicine residency at the Ohio State University followed by a fellowship in allergy and clinical immunology at NIH. She also holds a master’s of health sciences from Duke University. She is board certified in internal medicine and allergy/immunology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI). At NIH, she serves as the chair of the Scientific Review Committee of the Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases. She sits on the graduate medical education (GME) committee, including the policy subcommittee, and is a member of the staff clinician council. Her external committee activities include involvement in the food allergy and eosinophilic disorders committee, the program directors assembly, and the leadership institute of AAAAI . She serves on the board of the International Eosinophil Society (IES) and is the social media chair for the society. Dr. Parker Ruhl BIO: Dr. Parker Ruhl is an Associate Research Physician in the Physiology Unit of the Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research (LMVR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a joint appointment in the Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Dr. Ruhl serves on the NIH Pulmonary Consult Service and routinely sees patients in the NIH Sickle Cell Program. In the Physiology Unit, LMVR, Dr. Ruhl leads clinical research efforts within a translational research group focused on the impact of genetic variants of globin proteins, affecting both alpha and beta globin, on vascular function in human physiology and in disease states such sickle cell disease and malaria. Dr. Ruhl is active in the professional community. She serves as Chair of the NIH Staff Clinician Council and Chair of the Staff Clinician Professional Development Committee, which serve to support physician professional development within the NIH Intramural Research Program. She serves as Vice President and an executive board member of the Metropolitan DC Thoracic Society. Dr. Ruhl joined the Office of Intramural Research (OIR) as a Senior Advisor to Dr. Michael Gottesman, Deputy Director of Intramural Research (DDIR) in 2022 and is currently working on several matters related to the NIH Staff Clinician community. Dr. Ruhl supports Dr. Janice Lee, Deputy Director of Clinical Research (DDICR) in performing the Staff Clinician title designation review process. Dr. Ruhl has worked closely Dr. Carl Hashimoto, Director of Faculty Development, OIR, to broaden access for Staff Clinicians to professional development opportunities across all ICs within the NIH Intramural Research Program. Dr. Ruhl attended the University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed internal medicine training in the Osler Medical Residency at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed a combined fellowship in critical care medicine at the NIH Clinical Center and pulmonary medicine at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and received a Master’s of Health Sciences from the Duke University School of Medicine.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Drs. Paneez Khoury and Parker Ruhl, physicians, researchers, public servants who work at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.  They are also friends and peer mentors which they view as a professional must have given the dearth of women leaders.

In this episode, we discussed the “leaky pipeline” issue given that women medical students have eclipsed the 50% mark several years ago.  Paneez and Parker are clear – the system is not set up so that women have a fair shot ascend to leadership.  While there are things women can do to bridge the gender gap in medicine through self-advocacy, taking leadership training opportunities and cultivating mentorship relationships, until the structures are changed.  The fertility window directly overlaps with the time periods needed to secure funding, when you are first becoming scientifically independent.  If those who set up these structures had to think about their fertility window – it just wouldn’t be set up this way.   Changing the process should NOT mean lowering the requirements, just adjusting not having to do these all at the same time during that important fertility window which creates sometimes impossible choices.

Paneez and Parker also discuss how they have partnered aiming to impact culture change, a long slog without a clear path.  Finding ways to level the playing field for women in medicine, being heard, having representation on editorial boards, hiring and promotion committees, and looking forward to that day when a woman physician can say she is pregnant and not have to hear…Oh, I’m sorry….. are just some of the things that they are pushing for.  They have an action oriented approach and rely on the support of each other to “be the change”.

 

Dr. Paneez Khoury BIO:

Paneez Khoury, M.D. is an associate research physician at NIAID. She has been involved in translational research in eosinophilic disorders since joining the Human Eosinophil Section in 2012.

She received her M.D. from University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She completed an internal medicine residency at the Ohio State University followed by a fellowship in allergy and clinical immunology at NIH. She also holds a master’s of health sciences from Duke University. She is board certified in internal medicine and allergy/immunology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).

At NIH, she serves as the chair of the Scientific Review Committee of the Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases. She sits on the graduate medical education (GME) committee, including the policy subcommittee, and is a member of the staff clinician council. Her external committee activities include involvement in the food allergy and eosinophilic disorders committee, the program directors assembly, and the leadership institute of AAAAI . She serves on the board of the International Eosinophil Society (IES) and is the social media chair for the society.

Dr. Parker Ruhl BIO:

Dr. Parker Ruhl is an Associate Research Physician in the Physiology Unit of the Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research (LMVR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a joint appointment in the Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Dr. Ruhl serves on the NIH Pulmonary Consult Service and routinely sees patients in the NIH Sickle Cell Program. In the Physiology Unit, LMVR, Dr. Ruhl leads clinical research efforts within a translational research group focused on the impact of genetic variants of globin proteins, affecting both alpha and beta globin, on vascular function in human physiology and in disease states such sickle cell disease and malaria.

Dr. Ruhl is active in the professional community. She serves as Chair of the NIH Staff Clinician Council and Chair of the Staff Clinician Professional Development Committee, which serve to support physician professional development within the NIH Intramural Research Program. She serves as Vice President and an executive board member of the Metropolitan DC Thoracic Society. Dr. Ruhl joined the Office of Intramural Research (OIR) as a Senior Advisor to Dr. Michael Gottesman, Deputy Director of Intramural Research (DDIR) in 2022 and is currently working on several matters related to the NIH Staff Clinician community. Dr. Ruhl supports Dr. Janice Lee, Deputy Director of Clinical Research (DDICR) in performing the Staff Clinician title designation review process. Dr. Ruhl has worked closely Dr. Carl Hashimoto, Director of Faculty Development, OIR, to broaden access for Staff Clinicians to professional development opportunities across all ICs within the NIH Intramural Research Program.

Dr. Ruhl attended the University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed internal medicine training in the Osler Medical Residency at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed a combined fellowship in critical care medicine at the NIH Clinical Center and pulmonary medicine at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and received a Master’s of Health Sciences from the Duke University School of Medicine.

]]> 2720 no EP. 97 When you are “the only”: Carla Smith’s NEVER and ALWAYS principles https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/08/17/ep-97-when-you-are-the-only-carla-smiths-never-and-always-principles/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Smith, a health sector strategist and Founder of Carla Smith Health.  Over Carla’s storied career working with countless organizations, health systems, providers, payers, technology companies, and non-profits, she has seen enormous change and opportunity that has come with the adoption of technology in healthcare.  For Carla, healthcare matters.  Profound change has come now that the majority of the workforce are digital natives.  Yet enormous waste and cost are found in the gaps, whether that is the lack of affordable broadband or the concerning brain drain from the exodus of burnt out clinicians and CEOs.  She is excited about the potential with AI (it’s real and it’s here) but she wants to see more focus on implicit bias and attention to the diversity of the learning data sets. As it relates to women in healthcare tech, through her own lived experience of many years and countless meetings being “the only” woman in the room, she has relied on her NEVER and ALWAYS principles.  She NEVER considered herself anything other than equal and she was ALWAYS prepared.  But as it relates to the state of play for women in healthcare, Carla is dismayed.  Women are not making the progress that Carla expected (and championed) and in fact, she supplies evidence showing we are in fact going backwards. Carla has hope and important advice for women.  She outlines a clear plan for networking.  Consciously seek out professional organizations and get involved, volunteer!  As you gain experience, be more strategic in choosing where you volunteer and apply your energy but stay active.  And then, seek champions.  Beyond mentors, those people who can unlock key opportunities and make important connections for you. Carla closes by advising women to never give up, always keep trying.  Because it matters. Healthcare matters.    Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem: • Strategic planning and market positioning; • Corporate governance assessment and evolution; • Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion; • Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and, • Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success. Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem: • Strategic planning and market positioning; • Corporate governance assessment and evolution; • Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion; • Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and, • Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success. You can follow Carla on LinkedIn. Wed, 17 Aug 2022 15:16:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Smith, a health sector strategist and Founder of Carla Smith Health.  Over Carla’s storied career working with countless organizations, health systems, providers, payers, technology companies, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Smith, a health sector strategist and Founder of Carla Smith Health.  Over Carla’s storied career working with countless organizations, health systems, providers, payers, technology companies, and non-profits, she has seen enormous change and opportunity that has come with the adoption of technology in healthcare.  For Carla, healthcare matters.  Profound change has come now that the majority of the workforce are digital natives.  Yet enormous waste and cost are found in the gaps, whether that is the lack of affordable broadband or the concerning brain drain from the exodus of burnt out clinicians and CEOs.  She is excited about the potential with AI (it’s real and it’s here) but she wants to see more focus on implicit bias and attention to the diversity of the learning data sets. As it relates to women in healthcare tech, through her own lived experience of many years and countless meetings being “the only” woman in the room, she has relied on her NEVER and ALWAYS principles.  She NEVER considered herself anything other than equal and she was ALWAYS prepared.  But as it relates to the state of play for women in healthcare, Carla is dismayed.  Women are not making the progress that Carla expected (and championed) and in fact, she supplies evidence showing we are in fact going backwards. Carla has hope and important advice for women.  She outlines a clear plan for networking.  Consciously seek out professional organizations and get involved, volunteer!  As you gain experience, be more strategic in choosing where you volunteer and apply your energy but stay active.  And then, seek champions.  Beyond mentors, those people who can unlock key opportunities and make important connections for you. Carla closes by advising women to never give up, always keep trying.  Because it matters. Healthcare matters.    Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem: • Strategic planning and market positioning; • Corporate governance assessment and evolution; • Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion; • Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and, • Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success. Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem: • Strategic planning and market positioning; • Corporate governance assessment and evolution; • Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion; • Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and, • Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success. You can follow Carla on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carla Smith, a health sector strategist and Founder of Carla Smith Health.  Over Carla’s storied career working with countless organizations, health systems, providers, payers, technology companies, and non-profits, she has seen enormous change and opportunity that has come with the adoption of technology in healthcare.  For Carla, healthcare matters.  Profound change has come now that the majority of the workforce are digital natives.  Yet enormous waste and cost are found in the gaps, whether that is the lack of affordable broadband or the concerning brain drain from the exodus of burnt out clinicians and CEOs.  She is excited about the potential with AI (it’s real and it’s here) but she wants to see more focus on implicit bias and attention to the diversity of the learning data sets.

As it relates to women in healthcare tech, through her own lived experience of many years and countless meetings being “the only” woman in the room, she has relied on her NEVER and ALWAYS principles.  She NEVER considered herself anything other than equal and she was ALWAYS prepared.  But as it relates to the state of play for women in healthcare, Carla is dismayed.  Women are not making the progress that Carla expected (and championed) and in fact, she supplies evidence showing we are in fact going backwards.

Carla has hope and important advice for women.  She outlines a clear plan for networking.  Consciously seek out professional organizations and get involved, volunteer!  As you gain experience, be more strategic in choosing where you volunteer and apply your energy but stay active.  And then, seek champions.  Beyond mentors, those people who can unlock key opportunities and make important connections for you.

Carla closes by advising women to never give up, always keep trying.  Because it matters. Healthcare matters. 

 

Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem:
• Strategic planning and market positioning;
• Corporate governance assessment and evolution;
• Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion;
• Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and,
• Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success.
Carla Smith is a health sector strategic growth consultant, serving her clients as a thought leader and truth teller. With exceptional knowledge, industry contacts, & passion, Carla Smith Health creates meaningful change in the health sector. The firm’s engagements with C-level executives, boards, and policymakers equip leaders to positively transform the health ecosystem: • Strategic planning and market positioning; • Corporate governance assessment and evolution; • Due diligence on potential acquisitions and market expansion; • Practical & usable analysis of stability, opportunities, risks and vulnerabilities in the face of change; and, • Strategic collaborations and alliances between health organizations that drive mission and business success.

You can follow Carla on LinkedIn.

]]> 1672 no EP. 96 Competence was a given. Confidence took a thoughtful plan. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/08/09/ep-96-competence-was-a-given-confidence-took-a-thoughtful-plan/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, the CEO of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Dr. Harris describes her journey to leadership as one that started with simply saying “yes” to many extra assignments. She learned in time that she did want to be at the top of an organization, and she began to strategize on how to achieve that. This path included taking many lateral moves to develop her skills and her confidence. After time and opportunity, she found that she was a unique person at the table, uniquely different by ethnicity, gender and even age. And at some point, she recognized that she was good enough – that she always had the competence, it was the confidence needed to make the leap. Leadership skills development for Wylecia came through training but she was equally thoughtful about what she wanted to avoid. She appreciates that she has opportunities that were never available to the giants who came before her. However, if we were to go back 20 or 30 years, she expected we would be further along in terms of equity and opportunity for all. And while Wylecia does not have the answers, she is committed to sustained focus, measuring progress, and building sustainable solutions – which means DEI objectives need to be more than a side project assigned to a few people but rather a strategic focus of the full weight of an organization. As she thinks about her CEO peers, she sees a continuum in terms of focus, measurements, and sustainability. Her leadership journey continues today. Wylecia is focused on supporting the next generation of leaders, so that similar success doesn’t need to take as long. She advises – if someone has been helpful to you, say thank you. And if you have had some success, reach back, and allow others to stand on your shoulders. The time is now to pull forward the next generation of leaders! Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, CAE AHIMA CEO Hailed as an innovative leader with a vision for transformative growth, Wylecia Wiggs Harris is the Chief Executive Officer for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the leading voice for health information management. Harris joined AHIMA as CEO in February 2018, developing the organization’s strategic plan and advancing its mission and vision, nationally and internationally, to position AHIMA as a global leader. Prior to AHIMA, Harris was CEO at the League of Women Voters of the United States and the League of Women Voters Education Fund. She also served as Chief Operating Officer of the American Nurses Association, executive director of the Center for American Nurses, and executive director of the Maryland-based Sister to Sister Foundation. Harris also has served as senior vice president and executive director at the American Heart Association. Harris holds a PhD in organizational development from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN; a master of management degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL; and both a bachelor and honorary doctor of humane letters degree from Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH. She is an ASAE-certified association executive. Harris was nominated for the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management in 2018 and 2019. She was named one of 2021’s Top Diversity Leaders by Modern Healthcare, as well as one of the publication’s 10 Diversity Leaders to Watch. In 2022, Modern Healthcare recognized her on its Top Women Leaders list. Tue, 09 Aug 2022 15:29:03 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, the CEO of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Dr. Harris describes her journey to leadership as one that started with simply saying “yes” to many ext... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, the CEO of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Dr. Harris describes her journey to leadership as one that started with simply saying “yes” to many extra assignments. She learned in time that she did want to be at the top of an organization, and she began to strategize on how to achieve that. This path included taking many lateral moves to develop her skills and her confidence. After time and opportunity, she found that she was a unique person at the table, uniquely different by ethnicity, gender and even age. And at some point, she recognized that she was good enough – that she always had the competence, it was the confidence needed to make the leap. Leadership skills development for Wylecia came through training but she was equally thoughtful about what she wanted to avoid. She appreciates that she has opportunities that were never available to the giants who came before her. However, if we were to go back 20 or 30 years, she expected we would be further along in terms of equity and opportunity for all. And while Wylecia does not have the answers, she is committed to sustained focus, measuring progress, and building sustainable solutions – which means DEI objectives need to be more than a side project assigned to a few people but rather a strategic focus of the full weight of an organization. As she thinks about her CEO peers, she sees a continuum in terms of focus, measurements, and sustainability. Her leadership journey continues today. Wylecia is focused on supporting the next generation of leaders, so that similar success doesn’t need to take as long. She advises – if someone has been helpful to you, say thank you. And if you have had some success, reach back, and allow others to stand on your shoulders. The time is now to pull forward the next generation of leaders! Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, CAE AHIMA CEO Hailed as an innovative leader with a vision for transformative growth, Wylecia Wiggs Harris is the Chief Executive Officer for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the leading voice for health information management. Harris joined AHIMA as CEO in February 2018, developing the organization’s strategic plan and advancing its mission and vision, nationally and internationally, to position AHIMA as a global leader. Prior to AHIMA, Harris was CEO at the League of Women Voters of the United States and the League of Women Voters Education Fund. She also served as Chief Operating Officer of the American Nurses Association, executive director of the Center for American Nurses, and executive director of the Maryland-based Sister to Sister Foundation. Harris also has served as senior vice president and executive director at the American Heart Association. Harris holds a PhD in organizational development from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN; a master of management degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL; and both a bachelor and honorary doctor of humane letters degree from Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH. She is an ASAE-certified association executive. Harris was nominated for the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management in 2018 and 2019. She was named one of 2021’s Top Diversity Leaders by Modern Healthcare, as well as one of the publication’s 10 Diversity Leaders to Watch. In 2022, Modern Healthcare recognized her on its Top Women Leaders list.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, the CEO of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Dr. Harris describes her journey to leadership as one that started with simply saying “yes” to many extra assignments. She learned in time that she did want to be at the top of an organization, and she began to strategize on how to achieve that. This path included taking many lateral moves to develop her skills and her confidence. After time and opportunity, she found that she was a unique person at the table, uniquely different by ethnicity, gender and even age. And at some point, she recognized that she was good enough – that she always had the competence, it was the confidence needed to make the leap.

Leadership skills development for Wylecia came through training but she was equally thoughtful about what she wanted to avoid. She appreciates that she has opportunities that were never available to the giants who came before her. However, if we were to go back 20 or 30 years, she expected we would be further along in terms of equity and opportunity for all. And while Wylecia does not have the answers, she is committed to sustained focus, measuring progress, and building sustainable solutions – which means DEI objectives need to be more than a side project assigned to a few people but rather a strategic focus of the full weight of an organization. As she thinks about her CEO peers, she sees a continuum in terms of focus, measurements, and sustainability.

Her leadership journey continues today. Wylecia is focused on supporting the next generation of leaders, so that similar success doesn’t need to take as long. She advises – if someone has been helpful to you, say thank you. And if you have had some success, reach back, and allow others to stand on your shoulders. The time is now to pull forward the next generation of leaders!

Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, CAE
AHIMA CEO

Hailed as an innovative leader with a vision for transformative growth, Wylecia Wiggs Harris is the Chief Executive Officer for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the leading voice for health information management.

Harris joined AHIMA as CEO in February 2018, developing the organization’s strategic plan and advancing its mission and vision, nationally and internationally, to position AHIMA as a global leader.

Prior to AHIMA, Harris was CEO at the League of Women Voters of the United States and the League of Women Voters Education Fund. She also served as Chief Operating Officer of the American Nurses Association, executive director of the Center for American Nurses, and executive director of the Maryland-based Sister to Sister Foundation. Harris also has served as senior vice president and executive director at the American Heart Association.

Harris holds a PhD in organizational development from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN; a master of management degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL; and both a bachelor and honorary doctor of humane letters degree from Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH. She is an ASAE-certified association executive.

Harris was nominated for the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management in 2018 and 2019. She was named one of 2021’s Top Diversity Leaders by Modern Healthcare, as well as one of the publication’s 10 Diversity Leaders to Watch. In 2022, Modern Healthcare recognized her on its Top Women Leaders list.

]]> 1606 no EP. 95 Forget the side hustle. This millennial only pursues side passions. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/08/03/ep-95-forget-the-side-hustle-this-millennial-only-pursues-side-passions/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Smriti Kirubanandan, a Senior Healthcare Consultant at Tata Consultancy Services where she focuses on strategic planning.  Smriti has many passions which for her is a perfect venn diagram that includes technology, healthcare and food equity.  The area of food equity is receiving new attention with the Biden administration holding its first nutrition and food insecurity conference.  Smriti also segments food insecurity, impacting ~40M Americans, from nutrition insecurity, which impacts greater numbers who can not access nutritious food within a certain budget.  Tech such as AI with vertical farms, as well as her work with the World Food Bank shows promise.  Scalable solutions start with educating farmers and encouraging service within their own communities.   Smriti’s career path has not been a straight line at this juncture but she is pleased to have pursued such a variety of interests, such as being a raw vegan chef; developing a food product line; teaching cooking and nutrition classes; corporate pursuits advising clients in the payer and provider space.  She also gets a lot of satisfaction from her volunteering efforts.  Did I mention the long distance running and her new podcast HLTH Forward? Her advice for other women is to learn the skill of negotiation early as you will need it!!! She also is convinced that you need to follow your calling and believe in yourself.   Driven by Passion. Focused on Impact. Smriti is an experienced healthcare strategist, business development, sales, and marketing executive with 12 years of experience at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and innovation. Expertise in building new businesses and revenue streams focused on market research, analysis, and evaluation of growth strategies. Adept at strategic thinking, networking, sourcing and structuring fruitful partnerships, building and managing cross-functional teams, and delivering top-line growth. Expertise: Business development, strategy development + strategic partnerships, client relationship management, market research and analysis, project management, public health, building community health programs, healthcare thought leadership   You can follow Smriti on LinkedIn. Wed, 03 Aug 2022 18:57:24 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Smriti Kirubanandan, a Senior Healthcare Consultant at Tata Consultancy Services where she focuses on strategic planning.  Smriti has many passions which for her is a perfect venn diagram that includes tec... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Smriti Kirubanandan, a Senior Healthcare Consultant at Tata Consultancy Services where she focuses on strategic planning.  Smriti has many passions which for her is a perfect venn diagram that includes technology, healthcare and food equity.  The area of food equity is receiving new attention with the Biden administration holding its first nutrition and food insecurity conference.  Smriti also segments food insecurity, impacting ~40M Americans, from nutrition insecurity, which impacts greater numbers who can not access nutritious food within a certain budget.  Tech such as AI with vertical farms, as well as her work with the World Food Bank shows promise.  Scalable solutions start with educating farmers and encouraging service within their own communities.   Smriti’s career path has not been a straight line at this juncture but she is pleased to have pursued such a variety of interests, such as being a raw vegan chef; developing a food product line; teaching cooking and nutrition classes; corporate pursuits advising clients in the payer and provider space.  She also gets a lot of satisfaction from her volunteering efforts.  Did I mention the long distance running and her new podcast HLTH Forward? Her advice for other women is to learn the skill of negotiation early as you will need it!!! She also is convinced that you need to follow your calling and believe in yourself.   Driven by Passion. Focused on Impact. Smriti is an experienced healthcare strategist, business development, sales, and marketing executive with 12 years of experience at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and innovation. Expertise in building new businesses and revenue streams focused on market research, analysis, and evaluation of growth strategies. Adept at strategic thinking, networking, sourcing and structuring fruitful partnerships, building and managing cross-functional teams, and delivering top-line growth. Expertise: Business development, strategy development + strategic partnerships, client relationship management, market research and analysis, project management, public health, building community health programs, healthcare thought leadership   You can follow Smriti on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Smriti Kirubanandan, a Senior Healthcare Consultant at Tata Consultancy Services where she focuses on strategic planning.  Smriti has many passions which for her is a perfect venn diagram that includes technology, healthcare and food equity.  The area of food equity is receiving new attention with the Biden administration holding its first nutrition and food insecurity conference.  Smriti also segments food insecurity, impacting ~40M Americans, from nutrition insecurity, which impacts greater numbers who can not access nutritious food within a certain budget.  Tech such as AI with vertical farms, as well as her work with the World Food Bank shows promise.  Scalable solutions start with educating farmers and encouraging service within their own communities.

 

Smriti’s career path has not been a straight line at this juncture but she is pleased to have pursued such a variety of interests, such as being a raw vegan chef; developing a food product line; teaching cooking and nutrition classes; corporate pursuits advising clients in the payer and provider space.  She also gets a lot of satisfaction from her volunteering efforts.  Did I mention the long distance running and her new podcast HLTH Forward?

Her advice for other women is to learn the skill of negotiation early as you will need it!!! She also is convinced that you need to follow your calling and believe in yourself.

 

Driven by Passion. Focused on Impact.
Smriti is an experienced healthcare strategist, business development, sales, and marketing executive with 12 years of experience at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and innovation. Expertise in building new businesses and revenue streams focused on market research, analysis, and evaluation of growth strategies. Adept at strategic thinking, networking, sourcing and structuring fruitful partnerships, building and managing cross-functional teams, and delivering top-line growth.

Expertise: Business development, strategy development + strategic partnerships, client relationship management, market research and analysis, project management, public health, building community health programs, healthcare thought leadership

 

You can follow Smriti on LinkedIn.

]]> 1278 no EP. 94 Improving maternal mortality. Start with empowering greatness. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/26/ep-94-improving-maternal-mortality-start-with-empowering-greatness/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Shafia Monroe, a champion of change who has spent her entire professional life focused on creating awareness of the disparities with maternal and infant mortality and creating solutions to solve for them.  While she is known today as the queen mother of doulas and midwives, her beginning came from a family of doers.  For example, her father created the first community garden back in the ‘60’s.  She was raised being taught that if you see a problem, act.  This has been her approach ever since seeing the racial disparities of black women and babies dying in the ‘70s.  She became enthralled with being a midwife and hasn’t looked back since. At age 24, she started her first non-profit to train more black midwives.  And why does it matter?  Because trust, understanding, sharing a common history, and listening to black women are key to health.  When you can create spaces that are safe and allow women to be themselves, this leads to better outcomes.  Today, Shafia is extremely well recognized for her contributions to improving outcomes for black women, children and families based on her work delivering babies and training of thousands of midwives and doulas over decades. Over the years she has worked on policy change and other mainstream approaches (Shafia’s definition of “mainstream” is codename “white”).  However she finds it far more effective to educate the black community.  She states her work is more than just maternal mortality, it is about empowering the black community to embrace black culture, empower, and help others see their greatness.   E.g. What are your rights?  Here are the statistics – present them to your physician and ask them how they will ensure you do not become one of them…. Shafia is proud of building the next generation of leaders.  As she reflects on the work that she has loved over the decades, she knows the beginning was lonely.  Shafia advises other women to look into their hearts, if you love what you do, to claim their power with gratitude, grab the support of others along the way, go the extra mile, and indeed remarkable things can happen.    Shafia Monroe Background   Shafia M. Monroe is a renowned midwife, doula trainer, motivational speaker, and cultural competency trainer. Shafia has been “Birthing CHANGE” all her life. In 2016, Madame Noir named Monroe “Queen Mother of a Midwife Movement” for her pioneer midwifery work in Boston, Massachusetts, her hometown. It was there she co-founded the Traditional Childbearing Group (TCBG), a non-profit organization, whose mission was to reduce infant mortality through homebirth services, training community midwives, and providing prenatal education. Monroe served as Boston’s primary African American homebirth midwife from 1978-1991. In 1991, seven months pregnant with her sixth child, Monroe drove from Boston with her family to Portland, Oregon. When she arrived, she was unable to find an African American midwife for her homebirth. Experiencing the lack of midwives of color in the region, she responded by forming the non-profit organization International Center for Traditional Childbearing (ICTC), to increase the number of midwives and doulas of color to empower families, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and bring Black midwives together. Monroe positioned ICTC as an advocate for disseminating culturally competent midwifery education, achieving recognition for Certified Professional Midwives (CPM’s), and directing funds to improve maternal health and newborn care. Under her leadership, ICTC spread across the nation, increasing the number of midwives of color, giving midwives of color a seat at the decision-making table, promoting the profession, as well as researching and teaching the contributions of African descent midwives in world history. In 2002, Monroe organized the first US-based International Black Midwives and Healers Conference (IBMHC). The conference brought midwives together from around the world for improving maternity care, continuing education, and camaraderie. In 2010, Erykah Badu, a four-time GRAMMY Award winner, singer/songwriter, and holistic healer, was the keynote speaker for the conference. In 2011, Ms. Badu accepted Monroe’s invitation to be the ICTC National Spokesperson. In 2002, Monroe created the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training program to teach the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife, who exemplified compassionate care through traditional birth and postpartum rituals. The training program focused on improving perinatal care, increasing doulas of color, and developing entrepreneurship in doula work. From 2002 to 2016, Monroe trained nearly 2,000 people as ICTC Full Circle Doulas. In 2017, one year after Monroe’s retirement as CEO of ICTC, the ICTC board asked her to acquire the ICTC doula training. Monroe accepted and rebranded the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training to SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training and maintained the original curriculum. This groundbreaking doula-training program continues to serve as an international model for reducing infant mortality, increasing the number of doulas of color, empowering families for informed consent and physiological birth, and teaching traditional birth and postpartum practices using the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife. Championing doula care for all, Monroe spearheaded the Oregon Coalition to Improve Birth Outcomes (OCIBO), creating the legislative concept Oregon HB 3311 to investigate the use of doulas to improve birth outcomes in vulnerable populations. Her work marked Oregon as the first state in the nation to approve Medicaid reimbursement for doulas and ICTC as the first Oregon Health Authority (OHA) approved doula-credentialing organization. SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training became Oregon Health Authority Approved in 2018. Monroe became president of Shafia Monroe Consulting/Birthing CHANGE in 2013, to aid health care professionals and doulas in achieving cultural competency, increasing clients, and improving perinatal outcomes. In the same year, she opened Doula Ready LLC to prevent premature births by reducing perinatal stress for professional women. Monroe loves teaching and is a lifelong learner. She holds a BA in sociology, a Master of Public Health, and an Independent Primary Midwife (IPM) certification from the Massachusetts Midwives Alliance (MMA). She is a member of multiple coalitions to improve maternity care, through continuing education and training. Her work has made a significant impact in improving infant and maternal health through leadership development. As an influencer, her model for improving maternity care is being replicated both here and abroad and is featured in multiple publications. Monroe has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Midwives Alliance of North America and the Dr. Hildrus A. Poindexter of the Black Caucus of Health Workers of the American Public Health Association. Tue, 26 Jul 2022 23:41:25 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Shafia Monroe, a champion of change who has spent her entire professional life focused on creating awareness of the disparities with maternal and infant mortality and creating solutions to solve for them...   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Shafia Monroe, a champion of change who has spent her entire professional life focused on creating awareness of the disparities with maternal and infant mortality and creating solutions to solve for them.  While she is known today as the queen mother of doulas and midwives, her beginning came from a family of doers.  For example, her father created the first community garden back in the ‘60’s.  She was raised being taught that if you see a problem, act.  This has been her approach ever since seeing the racial disparities of black women and babies dying in the ‘70s.  She became enthralled with being a midwife and hasn’t looked back since. At age 24, she started her first non-profit to train more black midwives.  And why does it matter?  Because trust, understanding, sharing a common history, and listening to black women are key to health.  When you can create spaces that are safe and allow women to be themselves, this leads to better outcomes.  Today, Shafia is extremely well recognized for her contributions to improving outcomes for black women, children and families based on her work delivering babies and training of thousands of midwives and doulas over decades. Over the years she has worked on policy change and other mainstream approaches (Shafia’s definition of “mainstream” is codename “white”).  However she finds it far more effective to educate the black community.  She states her work is more than just maternal mortality, it is about empowering the black community to embrace black culture, empower, and help others see their greatness.   E.g. What are your rights?  Here are the statistics – present them to your physician and ask them how they will ensure you do not become one of them…. Shafia is proud of building the next generation of leaders.  As she reflects on the work that she has loved over the decades, she knows the beginning was lonely.  Shafia advises other women to look into their hearts, if you love what you do, to claim their power with gratitude, grab the support of others along the way, go the extra mile, and indeed remarkable things can happen.    Shafia Monroe Background   Shafia M. Monroe is a renowned midwife, doula trainer, motivational speaker, and cultural competency trainer. Shafia has been “Birthing CHANGE” all her life. In 2016, Madame Noir named Monroe “Queen Mother of a Midwife Movement” for her pioneer midwifery work in Boston, Massachusetts, her hometown. It was there she co-founded the Traditional Childbearing Group (TCBG), a non-profit organization, whose mission was to reduce infant mortality through homebirth services, training community midwives, and providing prenatal education. Monroe served as Boston’s primary African American homebirth midwife from 1978-1991. In 1991, seven months pregnant with her sixth child, Monroe drove from Boston with her family to Portland, Oregon. When she arrived, she was unable to find an African American midwife for her homebirth. Experiencing the lack of midwives of color in the region, she responded by forming the non-profit organization International Center for Traditional Childbearing (ICTC), to increase the number of midwives and doulas of color to empower families, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and bring Black midwives together. Monroe positioned ICTC as an advocate for disseminating culturally competent midwifery education, achieving recognition for Certified Professional Midwives (CPM’s), and directing funds to improve maternal health and newborn care. Under her leadership, ICTC spread across the nation, increasing the number of midwives of color, giving midwives of color a seat at the decision-making table, promoting the profession, as well as researching and teaching the contributions of African descent midwives in world history. In 2002, Monroe organized the first US-based International Black Midwives and Healers Conference (IBMHC). The conference brought midwives together from around the world for improving maternity care, continuing education, and camaraderie. In 2010, Erykah Badu, a four-time GRAMMY Award winner, singer/songwriter, and holistic healer, was the keynote speaker for the conference. In 2011, Ms. Badu accepted Monroe’s invitation to be the ICTC National Spokesperson. In 2002, Monroe created the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training program to teach the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife, who exemplified compassionate care through traditional birth and postpartum rituals. The training program focused on improving perinatal care, increasing doulas of color, and developing entrepreneurship in doula work. From 2002 to 2016, Monroe trained nearly 2,000 people as ICTC Full Circle Doulas. In 2017, one year after Monroe’s retirement as CEO of ICTC, the ICTC board asked her to acquire the ICTC doula training. Monroe accepted and rebranded the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training to SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training and maintained the original curriculum. This groundbreaking doula-training program continues to serve as an international model for reducing infant mortality, increasing the number of doulas of color, empowering families for informed consent and physiological birth, and teaching traditional birth and postpartum practices using the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife. Championing doula care for all, Monroe spearheaded the Oregon Coalition to Improve Birth Outcomes (OCIBO), creating the legislative concept Oregon HB 3311 to investigate the use of doulas to improve birth outcomes in vulnerable populations. Her work marked Oregon as the first state in the nation to approve Medicaid reimbursement for doulas and ICTC as the first Oregon Health Authority (OHA) approved doula-credentialing organization. SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training became Oregon Health Authority Approved in 2018. Monroe became president of Shafia Monroe Consulting/Birthing CHANGE in 2013, to aid health care professionals and doulas in achieving cultural competency, increasing clients, and improving perinatal outcomes. In the same year, she opened Doula Ready LLC to prevent premature births by reducing perinatal stress for professional women. Monroe loves teaching and is a lifelong learner. She holds a BA in sociology, a Master of Public Health, and an Independent Primary Midwife (IPM) certification from the Massachusetts Midwives Alliance (MMA). She is a member of multiple coalitions to improve maternity care, through continuing education and training. Her work has made a significant impact in improving infant and maternal health through leadership development. As an influencer, her model for improving maternity care is being replicated both here and abroad and is featured in multiple publications. Monroe has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Midwives Alliance of North America and the Dr. Hildrus A. Poindexter of the Black Caucus of Health Workers of the American Public Health Association.

 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Shafia Monroe, a champion of change who has spent her entire professional life focused on creating awareness of the disparities with maternal and infant mortality and creating solutions to solve for them.  While she is known today as the queen mother of doulas and midwives, her beginning came from a family of doers.  For example, her father created the first community garden back in the ‘60’s.  She was raised being taught that if you see a problem, act.  This has been her approach ever since seeing the racial disparities of black women and babies dying in the ‘70s.  She became enthralled with being a midwife and hasn’t looked back since.

At age 24, she started her first non-profit to train more black midwives.  And why does it matter?  Because trust, understanding, sharing a common history, and listening to black women are key to health.  When you can create spaces that are safe and allow women to be themselves, this leads to better outcomes.  Today, Shafia is extremely well recognized for her contributions to improving outcomes for black women, children and families based on her work delivering babies and training of thousands of midwives and doulas over decades.

Over the years she has worked on policy change and other mainstream approaches (Shafia’s definition of “mainstream” is codename “white”).  However she finds it far more effective to educate the black community.  She states her work is more than just maternal mortality, it is about empowering the black community to embrace black culture, empower, and help others see their greatness.   E.g. What are your rights?  Here are the statistics – present them to your physician and ask them how they will ensure you do not become one of them….

Shafia is proud of building the next generation of leaders.  As she reflects on the work that she has loved over the decades, she knows the beginning was lonely.  Shafia advises other women to look into their hearts, if you love what you do, to claim their power with gratitude, grab the support of others along the way, go the extra mile, and indeed remarkable things can happen.

  

Shafia Monroe Background

 

Shafia M. Monroe is a renowned midwife, doula trainer, motivational speaker, and cultural competency trainer. Shafia has been “Birthing CHANGE” all her life. In 2016, Madame Noir named Monroe “Queen Mother of a Midwife Movement” for her pioneer midwifery work in Boston, Massachusetts, her hometown. It was there she co-founded the Traditional Childbearing Group (TCBG), a non-profit organization, whose mission was to reduce infant mortality through homebirth services, training community midwives, and providing prenatal education. Monroe served as Boston’s primary African American homebirth midwife from 1978-1991.

In 1991, seven months pregnant with her sixth child, Monroe drove from Boston with her family to Portland, Oregon. When she arrived, she was unable to find an African American midwife for her homebirth. Experiencing the lack of midwives of color in the region, she responded by forming the non-profit organization International Center for Traditional Childbearing (ICTC), to increase the number of midwives and doulas of color to empower families, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and bring Black midwives together.

Monroe positioned ICTC as an advocate for disseminating culturally competent midwifery education, achieving recognition for Certified Professional Midwives (CPM’s), and directing funds to improve maternal health and newborn care. Under her leadership, ICTC spread across the nation, increasing the number of midwives of color, giving midwives of color a seat at the decision-making table, promoting the profession, as well as researching and teaching the contributions of African descent midwives in world history.

In 2002, Monroe organized the first US-based International Black Midwives and Healers Conference (IBMHC). The conference brought midwives together from around the world for improving maternity care, continuing education, and camaraderie. In 2010, Erykah Badu, a four-time GRAMMY Award winner, singer/songwriter, and holistic healer, was the keynote speaker for the conference. In 2011, Ms. Badu accepted Monroe’s invitation to be the ICTC National Spokesperson.

In 2002, Monroe created the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training program to teach the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife, who exemplified compassionate care through traditional birth and postpartum rituals. The training program focused on improving perinatal care, increasing doulas of color, and developing entrepreneurship in doula work. From 2002 to 2016, Monroe trained nearly 2,000 people as ICTC Full Circle Doulas. In 2017, one year after Monroe’s retirement as CEO of ICTC, the ICTC board asked her to acquire the ICTC doula training.

Monroe accepted and rebranded the ICTC Full Circle Doula Training to SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training and maintained the original curriculum. This groundbreaking doula-training program continues to serve as an international model for reducing infant mortality, increasing the number of doulas of color, empowering families for informed consent and physiological birth, and teaching traditional birth and postpartum practices using the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife.

Championing doula care for all, Monroe spearheaded the Oregon Coalition to Improve Birth Outcomes (OCIBO), creating the legislative concept Oregon HB 3311 to investigate the use of doulas to improve birth outcomes in vulnerable populations. Her work marked Oregon as the first state in the nation to approve Medicaid reimbursement for doulas and ICTC as the first Oregon Health Authority (OHA) approved doula-credentialing organization. SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training became Oregon Health Authority Approved in 2018.

Monroe became president of Shafia Monroe Consulting/Birthing CHANGE in 2013, to aid health care professionals and doulas in achieving cultural competency, increasing clients, and improving perinatal outcomes. In the same year, she opened Doula Ready LLC to prevent premature births by reducing perinatal stress for professional women.

Monroe loves teaching and is a lifelong learner. She holds a BA in sociology, a Master of Public Health, and an Independent Primary Midwife (IPM) certification from the Massachusetts Midwives Alliance (MMA). She is a member of multiple coalitions to improve maternity care, through continuing education and training.

Her work has made a significant impact in improving infant and maternal health through leadership development. As an influencer, her model for improving maternity care is being replicated both here and abroad and is featured in multiple publications. Monroe has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Midwives Alliance of North America and the Dr. Hildrus A. Poindexter of the Black Caucus of Health Workers of the American Public Health Association.

]]> 1587 no EP. 93 Changing the status quo means required and measured change, says Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford “As a black woman, I don’t turn off my blackness…” https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/26/ep-93-changing-the-status-quo-means-required-and-measured-change-says-dr-fatima-cody-stanford-as-a-black-woman-i-dont-turn-off-my-blackness/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford.  Speaking with Dr. Stanford is a lesson in humility.  If you don’t have nine degrees to your name, do ~150 lectures per year, actively mentor >50 students, conduct research in both a genetic and epigenetic fashion while simultaneously caring for patients ages 2 – 90 years old in a field you actually helped to create, obesity medicine….  When asked about her drive, Dr. Stanford laughs it off a bit and talks about being driven since she was in a spelling bee at 4 years of age, that’s right, four years old. Some combination of faith, family and fitness (kick boxing is her jam) are her go to’s for inspiration, focus, impact and the strength reserves required to serve her purpose.  This includes health equity and ensuring that weight bias and stigma, or just being black are not in fact obstacles to health or access or humanity. Dr. Stanford is less optimistic that change will just come.  She appreciates the efforts of education and new *Chief title* everything equity post the murder of George Floyd.  She believes requirements versus energy is needed for sustained change so that black women in particular do not need to shoulder the majority of the burden of DEI efforts without the requisite resources and commitment from others who can “turn it off” while she and others cannot. Closing advice for younger women.  Listen to yourself.  Understand what is unique about you and use that to forge your path. ********* Dr. Stanford is an obesity medicine physician scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/ Harvard Medical School (HMS). Dr. Stanford received her BS and MPH from Emory University as a MLK Scholar, her MD from the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine as a Stoney Scholar, and her MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government as a Zuckerman Fellow in the Harvard Center for Public Leadership. She completed her Obesity Medicine & Nutrition Fellowship at MGH/HMS after completing her internal medicine and pediatrics residency at the University of South Carolina. She has served as a health communications fellow at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and as a behavioral sciences intern at the American Cancer Society. Upon completion of her MPH, she received the Gold Congressional Award, the highest honor that Congress bestows upon America’s youth. Dr. Stanford has completed a medicine and media internship at the Discovery Channel. An American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation Leadership Award recipient in 2005, an AMA Paul Ambrose Award for national leadership among resident physicians in 2009, she was selected for the AMA Inspirational Physician Award in 2015. The American College of Physicians (ACP) selected her as the 2013 recipient of the Joseph E. Johnson Leadership Award and the Massachusetts ACP selected her for the Young Leadership Award in 2015. She is the 2017 recipient of the Harvard Medical School Amos Diversity Award and Massachusetts Medical Society Award for Women’s Health. Tue, 26 Jul 2022 16:18:28 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford.  Speaking with Dr. Stanford is a lesson in humility.  If you don’t have nine degrees to your name, do ~150 lectures per year, actively mentor >50 students, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford.  Speaking with Dr. Stanford is a lesson in humility.  If you don’t have nine degrees to your name, do ~150 lectures per year, actively mentor >50 students, conduct research in both a genetic and epigenetic fashion while simultaneously caring for patients ages 2 – 90 years old in a field you actually helped to create, obesity medicine….  When asked about her drive, Dr. Stanford laughs it off a bit and talks about being driven since she was in a spelling bee at 4 years of age, that’s right, four years old. Some combination of faith, family and fitness (kick boxing is her jam) are her go to’s for inspiration, focus, impact and the strength reserves required to serve her purpose.  This includes health equity and ensuring that weight bias and stigma, or just being black are not in fact obstacles to health or access or humanity. Dr. Stanford is less optimistic that change will just come.  She appreciates the efforts of education and new *Chief title* everything equity post the murder of George Floyd.  She believes requirements versus energy is needed for sustained change so that black women in particular do not need to shoulder the majority of the burden of DEI efforts without the requisite resources and commitment from others who can “turn it off” while she and others cannot. Closing advice for younger women.  Listen to yourself.  Understand what is unique about you and use that to forge your path. ********* Dr. Stanford is an obesity medicine physician scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/ Harvard Medical School (HMS). Dr. Stanford received her BS and MPH from Emory University as a MLK Scholar, her MD from the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine as a Stoney Scholar, and her MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government as a Zuckerman Fellow in the Harvard Center for Public Leadership. She completed her Obesity Medicine & Nutrition Fellowship at MGH/HMS after completing her internal medicine and pediatrics residency at the University of South Carolina. She has served as a health communications fellow at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and as a behavioral sciences intern at the American Cancer Society. Upon completion of her MPH, she received the Gold Congressional Award, the highest honor that Congress bestows upon America’s youth. Dr. Stanford has completed a medicine and media internship at the Discovery Channel. An American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation Leadership Award recipient in 2005, an AMA Paul Ambrose Award for national leadership among resident physicians in 2009, she was selected for the AMA Inspirational Physician Award in 2015. The American College of Physicians (ACP) selected her as the 2013 recipient of the Joseph E. Johnson Leadership Award and the Massachusetts ACP selected her for the Young Leadership Award in 2015. She is the 2017 recipient of the Harvard Medical School Amos Diversity Award and Massachusetts Medical Society Award for Women’s Health.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford.  Speaking with Dr. Stanford is a lesson in humility.  If you don’t have nine degrees to your name, do ~150 lectures per year, actively mentor >50 students, conduct research in both a genetic and epigenetic fashion while simultaneously caring for patients ages 2 – 90 years old in a field you actually helped to create, obesity medicine….  When asked about her drive, Dr. Stanford laughs it off a bit and talks about being driven since she was in a spelling bee at 4 years of age, that’s right, four years old.

Some combination of faith, family and fitness (kick boxing is her jam) are her go to’s for inspiration, focus, impact and the strength reserves required to serve her purpose.  This includes health equity and ensuring that weight bias and stigma, or just being black are not in fact obstacles to health or access or humanity.

Dr. Stanford is less optimistic that change will just come.  She appreciates the efforts of education and new *Chief title* everything equity post the murder of George Floyd.  She believes requirements versus energy is needed for sustained change so that black women in particular do not need to shoulder the majority of the burden of DEI efforts without the requisite resources and commitment from others who can “turn it off” while she and others cannot.

Closing advice for younger women.  Listen to yourself.  Understand what is unique about you and use that to forge your path.

*********

Dr. Stanford is an obesity medicine physician scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/ Harvard Medical School (HMS). Dr. Stanford received her BS and MPH from Emory University as a MLK Scholar, her MD from the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine as a Stoney Scholar, and her MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government as a Zuckerman Fellow in the Harvard Center for Public Leadership. She completed her Obesity Medicine & Nutrition Fellowship at MGH/HMS after completing her internal medicine and pediatrics residency at the University of South Carolina. She has served as a health communications fellow at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and as a behavioral sciences intern at the American Cancer Society. Upon completion of her MPH, she received the Gold Congressional Award, the highest honor that Congress bestows upon America’s youth. Dr. Stanford has completed a medicine and media internship at the Discovery Channel.

An American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation Leadership Award recipient in 2005, an AMA Paul Ambrose Award for national leadership among resident physicians in 2009, she was selected for the AMA Inspirational Physician Award in 2015. The American College of Physicians (ACP) selected her as the 2013 recipient of the Joseph E. Johnson Leadership Award and the Massachusetts ACP selected her for the Young Leadership Award in 2015. She is the 2017 recipient of the Harvard Medical School Amos Diversity Award and Massachusetts Medical Society Award for Women’s Health.

]]> 1637 no EP. 92 Fortitude and grit personified https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/21/ep-92-fortitude-and-grit-personified/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sonya Sloan, an orthopedic surgeon, supermom, a woman of faith, an athlete, health equity disruptor, author, educator.  Her life’s work has been centered on paying it forward.  Incredible conversation and you will be inspired hearing about Dr. Sloan’s journey, passions, and pursuit of impact.  Can women have it all?  Dr. Sloan says Yes! Journey notes from this episode include: From athlete to medicine: a sports injury might have ended her athletic career but it began her interest in medicine.  She noticed then that there were no black clinicians anywhere.  A physician suggested to her to pursue medicine as she knew so much already about her own injury and treatment, also noting that diversity was needed in the field.  This was also the first time Dr. Sloan had heard about diversity. Entrepreneurship: at 23, wait-listed for medical school, she borrowed $50,000 and opened a coffee shop.  She learned here that she loved, just loved, being an entrepreneur. Orthopedic surgeon: Being watched, monitored and criticized was a constant as one of the 1.5% of African American orthopedic surgeons.  This required great fortitude and she learned how to be a team player, how to stand up for herself, and believes this has made her a better surgeon.  Discussing burnout and the increased stresses on physicians which now includes violence, Dr. Sloan remains hopeful for medicine and for the next generation of physicians Health Equity Disruptor: medicine is her here and now and this is “my watch”.  As the VP of the Black Women Orthopedic Surgeon’s organization, Dr. Sloan describes working on the response letters to 45’s Executive Order reversing DEI efforts in government facilities which was eventually reversed with the new administration. Mission in life is grounded around the pillars of medicine, spiritual and education. Intent to increase the number of minority students in STEM.  Why?  Because this will correlate with generational financial sustainability for African American kids.  She also is focused on helping other women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.  Living by her Rule 34 which is Pay It Forward has remained a constant in her life. Closing advice for women: Be unapologetic!   ABOUT DR.SLOAN Sonya M. Sloan, M.D., aka #OrthoDoc, has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the male-dominated field of Orthopedic Surgery. Licensed to practice medicine in several states, she travels the country to extend the impact of her unique approach to patient care. With a B.S. in Chemistry from Texas Tech University and an M.D. from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Dr. Sloan completed her residency at Baylor College of Medicine where she made history as both the first African-American female Intern in General Surgery and the first African-American female Orthopedic Surgery resident. She has authored and published research projects in Orthopedic Surgery and a joint venture with NASA, Johnson Space Center. Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:22:29 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sonya Sloan, an orthopedic surgeon, supermom, a woman of faith, an athlete, health equity disruptor, author, educator.  Her life’s work has been centered on paying it forward. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sonya Sloan, an orthopedic surgeon, supermom, a woman of faith, an athlete, health equity disruptor, author, educator.  Her life’s work has been centered on paying it forward.  Incredible conversation and you will be inspired hearing about Dr. Sloan’s journey, passions, and pursuit of impact.  Can women have it all?  Dr. Sloan says Yes! Journey notes from this episode include: From athlete to medicine: a sports injury might have ended her athletic career but it began her interest in medicine.  She noticed then that there were no black clinicians anywhere.  A physician suggested to her to pursue medicine as she knew so much already about her own injury and treatment, also noting that diversity was needed in the field.  This was also the first time Dr. Sloan had heard about diversity. Entrepreneurship: at 23, wait-listed for medical school, she borrowed $50,000 and opened a coffee shop.  She learned here that she loved, just loved, being an entrepreneur. Orthopedic surgeon: Being watched, monitored and criticized was a constant as one of the 1.5% of African American orthopedic surgeons.  This required great fortitude and she learned how to be a team player, how to stand up for herself, and believes this has made her a better surgeon.  Discussing burnout and the increased stresses on physicians which now includes violence, Dr. Sloan remains hopeful for medicine and for the next generation of physicians Health Equity Disruptor: medicine is her here and now and this is “my watch”.  As the VP of the Black Women Orthopedic Surgeon’s organization, Dr. Sloan describes working on the response letters to 45’s Executive Order reversing DEI efforts in government facilities which was eventually reversed with the new administration. Mission in life is grounded around the pillars of medicine, spiritual and education. Intent to increase the number of minority students in STEM.  Why?  Because this will correlate with generational financial sustainability for African American kids.  She also is focused on helping other women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.  Living by her Rule 34 which is Pay It Forward has remained a constant in her life. Closing advice for women: Be unapologetic!   ABOUT DR.SLOAN Sonya M. Sloan, M.D., aka #OrthoDoc, has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the male-dominated field of Orthopedic Surgery. Licensed to practice medicine in several states, she travels the country to extend the impact of her unique approach to patient care. With a B.S. in Chemistry from Texas Tech University and an M.D. from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Dr. Sloan completed her residency at Baylor College of Medicine where she made history as both the first African-American female Intern in General Surgery and the first African-American female Orthopedic Surgery resident. She has authored and published research projects in Orthopedic Surgery and a joint venture with NASA, Johnson Space Center.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sonya Sloan, an orthopedic surgeon, supermom, a woman of faith, an athlete, health equity disruptor, author, educator.  Her life’s work has been centered on paying it forward.  Incredible conversation and you will be inspired hearing about Dr. Sloan’s journey, passions, and pursuit of impact.  Can women have it all?  Dr. Sloan says Yes!

Journey notes from this episode include:

  • From athlete to medicine: a sports injury might have ended her athletic career but it began her interest in medicine.  She noticed then that there were no black clinicians anywhere.  A physician suggested to her to pursue medicine as she knew so much already about her own injury and treatment, also noting that diversity was needed in the field.  This was also the first time Dr. Sloan had heard about diversity.
  • Entrepreneurship: at 23, wait-listed for medical school, she borrowed $50,000 and opened a coffee shop.  She learned here that she loved, just loved, being an entrepreneur.
  • Orthopedic surgeon: Being watched, monitored and criticized was a constant as one of the 1.5% of African American orthopedic surgeons.  This required great fortitude and she learned how to be a team player, how to stand up for herself, and believes this has made her a better surgeon.  Discussing burnout and the increased stresses on physicians which now includes violence, Dr. Sloan remains hopeful for medicine and for the next generation of physicians
  • Health Equity Disruptor: medicine is her here and now and this is “my watch”.  As the VP of the Black Women Orthopedic Surgeon’s organization, Dr. Sloan describes working on the response letters to 45’s Executive Order reversing DEI efforts in government facilities which was eventually reversed with the new administration.
  • Mission in life is grounded around the pillars of medicine, spiritual and education. Intent to increase the number of minority students in STEM.  Why?  Because this will correlate with generational financial sustainability for African American kids.  She also is focused on helping other women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.  Living by her Rule 34 which is Pay It Forward has remained a constant in her life.
  • Closing advice for women: Be unapologetic!

 

ABOUT DR.SLOAN

Sonya M. Sloan, M.D., aka #OrthoDoc, has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the male-dominated field of Orthopedic Surgery. Licensed to practice medicine in several states, she travels the country to extend the impact of her unique approach to patient care. With a B.S. in Chemistry from Texas Tech University and an M.D. from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Dr. Sloan completed her residency at Baylor College of Medicine where she made history as both the first African-American female Intern in General Surgery and the first African-American female Orthopedic Surgery resident. She has authored and published research projects in Orthopedic Surgery and a joint venture with NASA, Johnson Space Center.

]]> 1681 no EP. 91 Engaging Employees: Building the Intersystems’ Women’s Network https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/18/ep-91-engaging-employees-building-the-intersystems-womens-network/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alex MacLeod and Jennifer Catella of Intersystems.  Intersystems is a global tech company focused on healthcare, data and analytics.  After an engaging company leadership training, they along with another female leader colleague, began meeting regularly and thought about how they could engage with other female leaders or up and comers in the workplace.  These informal meetings led to larger group discussions and the forming of the Intersystems’ Women’s Network.  Alex, Jennifer and their colleague Yoonji Choe began hosting events with speakers on professional development, set up mentoring pairs, created opportunities for focused topic sessions like managing a new family while pursuing career advancement.  Employee response was simply fantastic – they had tapped into something much larger.  Since then, the company had asked for volunteers wot work on DE&I efforts and quickly saw they had significant engagement – over 200 volunteers in a ~1700 person company.   In this episode Alex and Jennifer discuss: How and why they started the Intersystems’ Women’s Network How they gained support from company senior management (it was easy!) Plans for how to expand the network for team members globally How the network connects with the company’s DE&I initiative   Their best advice for starting an effort like this at your own company – just get going!   Alex MacLeod Director, Healthcare Commercial Initiatives.   LinkedIn Jennifer Catella Manager, Quality Development.  LinkedIn Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:08:42 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alex MacLeod and Jennifer Catella of Intersystems.  Intersystems is a global tech company focused on healthcare, data and analytics.  After an engaging company leadership training, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alex MacLeod and Jennifer Catella of Intersystems.  Intersystems is a global tech company focused on healthcare, data and analytics.  After an engaging company leadership training, they along with another female leader colleague, began meeting regularly and thought about how they could engage with other female leaders or up and comers in the workplace.  These informal meetings led to larger group discussions and the forming of the Intersystems’ Women’s Network.  Alex, Jennifer and their colleague Yoonji Choe began hosting events with speakers on professional development, set up mentoring pairs, created opportunities for focused topic sessions like managing a new family while pursuing career advancement.  Employee response was simply fantastic – they had tapped into something much larger.  Since then, the company had asked for volunteers wot work on DE&I efforts and quickly saw they had significant engagement – over 200 volunteers in a ~1700 person company.   In this episode Alex and Jennifer discuss: How and why they started the Intersystems’ Women’s Network How they gained support from company senior management (it was easy!) Plans for how to expand the network for team members globally How the network connects with the company’s DE&I initiative   Their best advice for starting an effort like this at your own company – just get going!   Alex MacLeod Director, Healthcare Commercial Initiatives.   LinkedIn Jennifer Catella Manager, Quality Development.  LinkedIn

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Alex MacLeod and Jennifer Catella of Intersystems.  Intersystems is a global tech company focused on healthcare, data and analytics.  After an engaging company leadership training, they along with another female leader colleague, began meeting regularly and thought about how they could engage with other female leaders or up and comers in the workplace.  These informal meetings led to larger group discussions and the forming of the Intersystems’ Women’s Network.  Alex, Jennifer and their colleague Yoonji Choe began hosting events with speakers on professional development, set up mentoring pairs, created opportunities for focused topic sessions like managing a new family while pursuing career advancement.  Employee response was simply fantastic – they had tapped into something much larger.  Since then, the company had asked for volunteers wot work on DE&I efforts and quickly saw they had significant engagement – over 200 volunteers in a ~1700 person company.

 

In this episode Alex and Jennifer discuss:

  • How and why they started the Intersystems’ Women’s Network
  • How they gained support from company senior management (it was easy!)
  • Plans for how to expand the network for team members globally
  • How the network connects with the company’s DE&I initiative

 

Their best advice for starting an effort like this at your own company – just get going!

 

Alex MacLeod

Director, Healthcare Commercial Initiatives.   LinkedIn

Jennifer Catella

Manager, Quality Development.  LinkedIn

]]> 1964 no EP. 90 Want to build a business? Start with Google. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/12/ep-90-want-to-build-a-business-start-with-google/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amanda Gorman, Founder of the Nest Collaborative, an organization that provides telehealth lactation consultation services.  As a pediatric nurse practitioner Amanda found new mothers were often asking “can you help me?” when it came to breast feeding. The need for lactation consultants far outstrips the demand according to recommendations from the Surgeon General.  This led to Amanda forming the Nest Collaborative to provide these services in a scalable and accessible way via telehealth. When Amanda started, turned to Google for her business training.  Her original goals were small but as she developed this solution for families, the demand simply grew.  Amanda notes that upwards of 70% of mothers can struggle with breastfeeding and might benefit from Nest services.  This led to crowdfunding, learning how to speak with conviction and then taking advantage of women founder incubators like Springboard Enterprises.  This proved invaluable and allowed Amanda to make key decisions such as bringing on a CEO to bring order (and spreadsheets!) to provide balance and accelerate Amanda’s vision for Nest which means helping more families and improving outcomes.   Amanda Gorman Founder, Nest Collaborative   Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Nest Collaborative, improving maternal child health outcomes with the first preventive lactation telehealth program that is directly payer-reimbursed. We assist employers and health providers in enhancing lactation benefits for women by increasing access to breastfeeding support that impacts maternal-child health outcomes and decreases healthcare costs across the industry.   You can follow Amanda on LinkedIn. Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:54:04 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amanda Gorman, Founder of the Nest Collaborative, an organization that provides telehealth lactation consultation services.  As a pediatric nurse practitioner Amanda found new mothers were often asking “ca... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amanda Gorman, Founder of the Nest Collaborative, an organization that provides telehealth lactation consultation services.  As a pediatric nurse practitioner Amanda found new mothers were often asking “can you help me?” when it came to breast feeding. The need for lactation consultants far outstrips the demand according to recommendations from the Surgeon General.  This led to Amanda forming the Nest Collaborative to provide these services in a scalable and accessible way via telehealth. When Amanda started, turned to Google for her business training.  Her original goals were small but as she developed this solution for families, the demand simply grew.  Amanda notes that upwards of 70% of mothers can struggle with breastfeeding and might benefit from Nest services.  This led to crowdfunding, learning how to speak with conviction and then taking advantage of women founder incubators like Springboard Enterprises.  This proved invaluable and allowed Amanda to make key decisions such as bringing on a CEO to bring order (and spreadsheets!) to provide balance and accelerate Amanda’s vision for Nest which means helping more families and improving outcomes.   Amanda Gorman Founder, Nest Collaborative   Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Nest Collaborative, improving maternal child health outcomes with the first preventive lactation telehealth program that is directly payer-reimbursed. We assist employers and health providers in enhancing lactation benefits for women by increasing access to breastfeeding support that impacts maternal-child health outcomes and decreases healthcare costs across the industry.   You can follow Amanda on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amanda Gorman, Founder of the Nest Collaborative, an organization that provides telehealth lactation consultation services.  As a pediatric nurse practitioner Amanda found new mothers were often asking “can you help me?” when it came to breast feeding. The need for lactation consultants far outstrips the demand according to recommendations from the Surgeon General.  This led to Amanda forming the Nest Collaborative to provide these services in a scalable and accessible way via telehealth.

When Amanda started, turned to Google for her business training.  Her original goals were small but as she developed this solution for families, the demand simply grew.  Amanda notes that upwards of 70% of mothers can struggle with breastfeeding and might benefit from Nest services.  This led to crowdfunding, learning how to speak with conviction and then taking advantage of women founder incubators like Springboard Enterprises.  This proved invaluable and allowed Amanda to make key decisions such as bringing on a CEO to bring order (and spreadsheets!) to provide balance and accelerate Amanda’s vision for Nest which means helping more families and improving outcomes.

 

Amanda Gorman

Founder, Nest Collaborative

 

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Nest Collaborative, improving maternal child health outcomes with the first preventive lactation telehealth program that is directly payer-reimbursed. We assist employers and health providers in enhancing lactation benefits for women by increasing access to breastfeeding support that impacts maternal-child health outcomes and decreases healthcare costs across the industry.

 

You can follow Amanda on LinkedIn.

]]> 1434 no EP. 89 Addicted to start-ups! https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/07/07/ep-89-addicted-to-start-ups/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Eileen Maus, CEO of Renovia, a digital therapeutic and diagnostic company focused on women’s health and specifically, women’s pelvic floor health.  As CEO, Eileen spends a good portion of her time on fundraising and reimbursement now that innovations at Renovia have a published clinical trial to their name.  Some of her drive and commitment comes from an encounter with an investor who noted that exits in women’s health are not as exciting as other digital health companies which Eileen found quite frustrating.  The importance of women’s health issues for Eileen began early as she was a pharma rep working with OBGYN physicians.  She found these doctors to be real partners when adopting new technologies.  The issues of weakened pelvic floor can be uncomfortable to talk about, and Eileen will ask people to think through the important issues of dignity for people with these conditions.  She also describes herself addicted to start ups!   Building the right team, allowing people to shine, coupled with energy and leadership as service approach – all of these items are the ingredients of a fulfilling career.   Eileen Maus Chief Executive Officer, Renovia Eileen Maus brings 20 years as a healthcare industry sales and marketing executive with strategic planning experience to her role as Chief Executive Officer with Renovia.  Ms. Maus entered the women’s healthcare space during her 12 years with CYTYC Corporation, where she was a key contributor to Cytyc’s growth from $8 million to over $700 million, holding leadership roles from sales management to Vice President, Commercial Operations of the Surgical Division. Specifically, Ms. Maus built and managed sales forces for five new product launches, including the ThinPrep® Pap Test, ThinPrep® Imaging System, FirstCyte Breast Test, NovaSure Endometrial Ablation and Mammosite Targeted Radiation Treatment. In addition, Ms. Maus spearheaded the integration and commercialization of Cytyc’s surgical division. Prior to Renovia, Ms. Maus served as Chief Commercial Officer of Constitutional Medical Investors, a portfolio company of Warburg Pincus. In addition to participating in the diligence of diagnostic companies for potential acquisition, she developed the commercial plan for a disruptive technology in the hematology space that was acquired by Roche Diagnostic. Ms. Maus previously served as Chief Commercial Officer for Keystone Dental, where she created their marketing strategy to align with market needs, rebuilt their sales force and orchestrated the purchase of innovative products in a commoditized industry. Ms. Maus is a graduate of LaSalle University, with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Communications.   You can follow Eileen on LinkedIn. Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:49:23 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Eileen Maus, CEO of Renovia, a digital therapeutic and diagnostic company focused on women’s health and specifically, women’s pelvic floor health.  As CEO, Eileen spends a good portion of her time on fundr... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Eileen Maus, CEO of Renovia, a digital therapeutic and diagnostic company focused on women’s health and specifically, women’s pelvic floor health.  As CEO, Eileen spends a good portion of her time on fundraising and reimbursement now that innovations at Renovia have a published clinical trial to their name.  Some of her drive and commitment comes from an encounter with an investor who noted that exits in women’s health are not as exciting as other digital health companies which Eileen found quite frustrating.  The importance of women’s health issues for Eileen began early as she was a pharma rep working with OBGYN physicians.  She found these doctors to be real partners when adopting new technologies.  The issues of weakened pelvic floor can be uncomfortable to talk about, and Eileen will ask people to think through the important issues of dignity for people with these conditions.  She also describes herself addicted to start ups!   Building the right team, allowing people to shine, coupled with energy and leadership as service approach – all of these items are the ingredients of a fulfilling career.   Eileen Maus Chief Executive Officer, Renovia Eileen Maus brings 20 years as a healthcare industry sales and marketing executive with strategic planning experience to her role as Chief Executive Officer with Renovia.  Ms. Maus entered the women’s healthcare space during her 12 years with CYTYC Corporation, where she was a key contributor to Cytyc’s growth from $8 million to over $700 million, holding leadership roles from sales management to Vice President, Commercial Operations of the Surgical Division. Specifically, Ms. Maus built and managed sales forces for five new product launches, including the ThinPrep® Pap Test, ThinPrep® Imaging System, FirstCyte Breast Test, NovaSure Endometrial Ablation and Mammosite Targeted Radiation Treatment. In addition, Ms. Maus spearheaded the integration and commercialization of Cytyc’s surgical division. Prior to Renovia, Ms. Maus served as Chief Commercial Officer of Constitutional Medical Investors, a portfolio company of Warburg Pincus. In addition to participating in the diligence of diagnostic companies for potential acquisition, she developed the commercial plan for a disruptive technology in the hematology space that was acquired by Roche Diagnostic. Ms. Maus previously served as Chief Commercial Officer for Keystone Dental, where she created their marketing strategy to align with market needs, rebuilt their sales force and orchestrated the purchase of innovative products in a commoditized industry. Ms. Maus is a graduate of LaSalle University, with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Communications.   You can follow Eileen on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Eileen Maus, CEO of Renovia, a digital therapeutic and diagnostic company focused on women’s health and specifically, women’s pelvic floor health.  As CEO, Eileen spends a good portion of her time on fundraising and reimbursement now that innovations at Renovia have a published clinical trial to their name.  Some of her drive and commitment comes from an encounter with an investor who noted that exits in women’s health are not as exciting as other digital health companies which Eileen found quite frustrating.  The importance of women’s health issues for Eileen began early as she was a pharma rep working with OBGYN physicians.  She found these doctors to be real partners when adopting new technologies.  The issues of weakened pelvic floor can be uncomfortable to talk about, and Eileen will ask people to think through the important issues of dignity for people with these conditions.  She also describes herself addicted to start ups!   Building the right team, allowing people to shine, coupled with energy and leadership as service approach – all of these items are the ingredients of a fulfilling career.

 

Eileen Maus

Chief Executive Officer, Renovia

Eileen Maus brings 20 years as a healthcare industry sales and marketing executive with strategic planning experience to her role as Chief Executive Officer with Renovia.  Ms. Maus entered the women’s healthcare space during her 12 years with CYTYC Corporation, where she was a key contributor to Cytyc’s growth from $8 million to over $700 million, holding leadership roles from sales management to Vice President, Commercial Operations of the Surgical Division. Specifically, Ms. Maus built and managed sales forces for five new product launches, including the ThinPrep® Pap Test, ThinPrep® Imaging System, FirstCyte Breast Test, NovaSure Endometrial Ablation and Mammosite Targeted Radiation Treatment. In addition, Ms. Maus spearheaded the integration and commercialization of Cytyc’s surgical division.

Prior to Renovia, Ms. Maus served as Chief Commercial Officer of Constitutional Medical Investors, a portfolio company of Warburg Pincus. In addition to participating in the diligence of diagnostic companies for potential acquisition, she developed the commercial plan for a disruptive technology in the hematology space that was acquired by Roche Diagnostic.

Ms. Maus previously served as Chief Commercial Officer for Keystone Dental, where she created their marketing strategy to align with market needs, rebuilt their sales force and orchestrated the purchase of innovative products in a commoditized industry.

Ms. Maus is a graduate of LaSalle University, with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Communications.

 

You can follow Eileen on LinkedIn.

]]> 1238 no EP. 88 Narrowing decisions is key as a CEO, but hard when you’re a scientist https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/29/ep-88-narrowing-decisions-is-key-as-a-ceo-but-hard-when-youre-a-scientist/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Yael Katz, CEO of BrainCheck which is focused on democratizing cognitive health.  Yael began her career in academia as a neuroscientist.  After the work of grants and publications, she determined that she wanted her output to be more tangible.  A detour to management consulting taught her a lot, including that she had no appetite for management consulting!  Her attention went to finding a problem worth solving and BrainCheck was born.   For Yael, the guts to go after something has never been an issue, but when it comes to narrowing decisions, she finds that hard.  As a scientist, you want to look at the world of possibilities, as a CEO you want to be decisive and focused.  As this young company evolves, innovation has come with the technology and the product, but an equal amount of innovation working on the business model.  Yael has seen that diversity at the top has become more important to some funders yet she notes that her experience with raising $20M, gender never seemed to be a factor.  These days Yael is being asked more and more for advice.  Thinking about her own experience with mentors has been helpful.  Real talk with the balance of not squelching enthusiasm,  something she looks to emulate as she speaks to other entrepreneurs.   Yael Katz, PhD CEO, BrainCheck Founder, CountVision Neuroscientist, authoring over 20 articles with more than 1600 citations Entrepreneur, raising $20M in venture capital from top firms Business leader, overseeing the development and commercialization of BrainCheck’s cognitive assessment and care platform, cultivating a top-notch team with offices in Houston and Austin Passionate about technology, biotechnology, and building businesses Wed, 29 Jun 2022 16:04:08 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Yael Katz, CEO of BrainCheck which is focused on democratizing cognitive health.  Yael began her career in academia as a neuroscientist.  After the work of grants and publications, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Yael Katz, CEO of BrainCheck which is focused on democratizing cognitive health.  Yael began her career in academia as a neuroscientist.  After the work of grants and publications, she determined that she wanted her output to be more tangible.  A detour to management consulting taught her a lot, including that she had no appetite for management consulting!  Her attention went to finding a problem worth solving and BrainCheck was born.   For Yael, the guts to go after something has never been an issue, but when it comes to narrowing decisions, she finds that hard.  As a scientist, you want to look at the world of possibilities, as a CEO you want to be decisive and focused.  As this young company evolves, innovation has come with the technology and the product, but an equal amount of innovation working on the business model.  Yael has seen that diversity at the top has become more important to some funders yet she notes that her experience with raising $20M, gender never seemed to be a factor.  These days Yael is being asked more and more for advice.  Thinking about her own experience with mentors has been helpful.  Real talk with the balance of not squelching enthusiasm,  something she looks to emulate as she speaks to other entrepreneurs.   Yael Katz, PhD CEO, BrainCheck Founder, CountVision Neuroscientist, authoring over 20 articles with more than 1600 citations Entrepreneur, raising $20M in venture capital from top firms Business leader, overseeing the development and commercialization of BrainCheck’s cognitive assessment and care platform, cultivating a top-notch team with offices in Houston and Austin Passionate about technology, biotechnology, and building businesses

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Yael Katz, CEO of BrainCheck which is focused on democratizing cognitive health.  Yael began her career in academia as a neuroscientist.  After the work of grants and publications, she determined that she wanted her output to be more tangible.  A detour to management consulting taught her a lot, including that she had no appetite for management consulting!  Her attention went to finding a problem worth solving and BrainCheck was born.   For Yael, the guts to go after something has never been an issue, but when it comes to narrowing decisions, she finds that hard.  As a scientist, you want to look at the world of possibilities, as a CEO you want to be decisive and focused.  As this young company evolves, innovation has come with the technology and the product, but an equal amount of innovation working on the business model.  Yael has seen that diversity at the top has become more important to some funders yet she notes that her experience with raising $20M, gender never seemed to be a factor.  These days Yael is being asked more and more for advice.  Thinking about her own experience with mentors has been helpful.  Real talk with the balance of not squelching enthusiasm,  something she looks to emulate as she speaks to other entrepreneurs.

 

Yael Katz, PhD

CEO, BrainCheck

Founder, CountVision

Neuroscientist, authoring over 20 articles with more than 1600 citations
Entrepreneur, raising $20M in venture capital from top firms
Business leader, overseeing the development and commercialization of BrainCheck’s cognitive assessment and care platform, cultivating a top-notch team with offices in Houston and Austin
Passionate about technology, biotechnology, and building businesses

]]> 1279 no EP. 87 Putting a spotlight on inequities and where they originated https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/20/ep-87-putting-a-spotlight-on-inequities-and-where-they-originated/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alice Benjamin, aka Nurse Alice.  She may have wanted to be an accountant but when her father said she would become a great nurse, she changed course.  Her father, a veteran, lost the battle to heart disease and as Alice was helping navigate his care, translating for her mother, she saw first-hand the impact of implicit bias.  She set her sights on being the best cardiac nurse in the world and focused on prevention.  That led to educating the public.  She found she had a knack for this, perhaps because she understood the importance of cultural competence and meeting people where they are.  Health equity awareness also became a passion and putting a spotlight on not only the inequities within health care but how they came about.  Alice appreciates that there is more attention on the issues of systemic racism and that people are listening now – however, she points out the need to understand the many people left behind along the way and equity requires us to bring everyone to an equal starting point.  Alice also provides a message  of encouragement for women – even with the issue of our reproductive rights on the line – that women continue to be resilient and hopeful.   Alice Benjamin Clinical Nurse Specialist and Medical Correspondent   Alice Benjamin is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years nursing experience specializing in cardiovascular and critical care. She has served as an expert clinical practitioner responsible for providing direct patient care, leadership, consultation, education and patient care management expertise for complex cardiac patients including myocardial infarction, interventional cardiac catheterization, advanced congestive heart failure, CVICU patients, ICD/pacemakers, and post heart transplants at places like Cedars Sinai Medical Center and Sharp Memorial Hospital.  She also has extensive experience in burn, trauma, and emergency medicine having worked at Level 1 Trauma Centers including Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego and UC San Diego Regional Burn Center. Nurse Alice graduated with honors from San Diego State University with a dual major in Nursing and Psychology. She later obtained a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education/Clinical Nurse Specialist and Post-Masters as a Family Nurse Practitioner. You can follow her at asknursealice.com, on Twitter and Facebook at @AskNurseAlice, and on Instagram at @asknursealice. Mon, 20 Jun 2022 18:48:26 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alice Benjamin, aka Nurse Alice.  She may have wanted to be an accountant but when her father said she would become a great nurse, she changed course.  Her father, a veteran, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alice Benjamin, aka Nurse Alice.  She may have wanted to be an accountant but when her father said she would become a great nurse, she changed course.  Her father, a veteran, lost the battle to heart disease and as Alice was helping navigate his care, translating for her mother, she saw first-hand the impact of implicit bias.  She set her sights on being the best cardiac nurse in the world and focused on prevention.  That led to educating the public.  She found she had a knack for this, perhaps because she understood the importance of cultural competence and meeting people where they are.  Health equity awareness also became a passion and putting a spotlight on not only the inequities within health care but how they came about.  Alice appreciates that there is more attention on the issues of systemic racism and that people are listening now – however, she points out the need to understand the many people left behind along the way and equity requires us to bring everyone to an equal starting point.  Alice also provides a message  of encouragement for women – even with the issue of our reproductive rights on the line – that women continue to be resilient and hopeful.   Alice Benjamin Clinical Nurse Specialist and Medical Correspondent   Alice Benjamin is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years nursing experience specializing in cardiovascular and critical care. She has served as an expert clinical practitioner responsible for providing direct patient care, leadership, consultation, education and patient care management expertise for complex cardiac patients including myocardial infarction, interventional cardiac catheterization, advanced congestive heart failure, CVICU patients, ICD/pacemakers, and post heart transplants at places like Cedars Sinai Medical Center and Sharp Memorial Hospital.  She also has extensive experience in burn, trauma, and emergency medicine having worked at Level 1 Trauma Centers including Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego and UC San Diego Regional Burn Center. Nurse Alice graduated with honors from San Diego State University with a dual major in Nursing and Psychology. She later obtained a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education/Clinical Nurse Specialist and Post-Masters as a Family Nurse Practitioner. You can follow her at asknursealice.com, on Twitter and Facebook at @AskNurseAlice, and on Instagram at @asknursealice.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alice Benjamin, aka Nurse Alice.  She may have wanted to be an accountant but when her father said she would become a great nurse, she changed course.  Her father, a veteran, lost the battle to heart disease and as Alice was helping navigate his care, translating for her mother, she saw first-hand the impact of implicit bias.  She set her sights on being the best cardiac nurse in the world and focused on prevention.  That led to educating the public.  She found she had a knack for this, perhaps because she understood the importance of cultural competence and meeting people where they are.  Health equity awareness also became a passion and putting a spotlight on not only the inequities within health care but how they came about.  Alice appreciates that there is more attention on the issues of systemic racism and that people are listening now – however, she points out the need to understand the many people left behind along the way and equity requires us to bring everyone to an equal starting point.  Alice also provides a message  of encouragement for women – even with the issue of our reproductive rights on the line – that women continue to be resilient and hopeful.

 

Alice Benjamin

Clinical Nurse Specialist and Medical Correspondent

 

Alice Benjamin is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years nursing experience specializing in cardiovascular and critical care. She has served as an expert clinical practitioner responsible for providing direct patient care, leadership, consultation, education and patient care management expertise for complex cardiac patients including myocardial infarction, interventional cardiac catheterization, advanced congestive heart failure, CVICU patients, ICD/pacemakers, and post heart transplants at places like Cedars Sinai Medical Center and Sharp Memorial Hospital.  She also has extensive experience in burn, trauma, and emergency medicine having worked at Level 1 Trauma Centers including Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego and UC San Diego Regional Burn Center.

Nurse Alice graduated with honors from San Diego State University with a dual major in Nursing and Psychology. She later obtained a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education/Clinical Nurse Specialist and Post-Masters as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

You can follow her at asknursealice.com, on Twitter and Facebook at @AskNurseAlice, and on Instagram at @asknursealice.

]]> 1714 no EP. 86 Start-up whirlwind. Cementing your place at the table. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/15/ep-86-start-up-whirlwind-cementing-your-place-at-the-table/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cassie Smith, Chief of Staff for Wellvana Health.  When Cassie moved to Nashville, she wanted to work at HCA and she did.  When she received a call to be employee #3 at a small primary care start up, she surprised even herself when she said YES.  Start ups may seem glamorous but as Cassie well knows they are filled with many ups and downs.  There have been stressful times with entire leadership changes where she has never worked harder.  When she has doubts, she calls that same trusted friend her brought her to Wellvana in the first place.  When new leaders, all men, joined the company, she found she needed to cement her place at the leadership table, and she is quite happy that she did.   She has high hopes for the company despite all the hard work and fast pace and she wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.   Cassie Smith Chief of Staff, Wellvana Health Cassie Smith joined Wellvana in September of 2020 and now serves as the Company’s Chief of Staff, where she oversees strategic business initiatives, drives alignment across executives and their teams, and optimizes efficiency and productivity across the Company. Prior to joining Wellvana, Mrs. Smith was with HCA Healthcare, the largest for-profit healthcare system in the world, where she worked on several teams, including Strategy and Innovation, where she supported both corporate and hospital-level strategic initiatives. Prior to HCA, Mrs. Smith was with Ascension Care Management and Boston Healthcare Associates. Cassie Smith brings to Wellvana an impressive background in healthcare, with extensive knowledge in strategic consulting, health policy and value based care. Mrs. Smith holds a degree in economics from Connecticut College and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Vanderbilt University. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and mini Aussiedoodle. You can follow Cassie on LinkedIn. Wed, 15 Jun 2022 17:20:16 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cassie Smith, Chief of Staff for Wellvana Health.  When Cassie moved to Nashville, she wanted to work at HCA and she did.  When she received a call to be employee #3 at a small primary care start up, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cassie Smith, Chief of Staff for Wellvana Health.  When Cassie moved to Nashville, she wanted to work at HCA and she did.  When she received a call to be employee #3 at a small primary care start up, she surprised even herself when she said YES.  Start ups may seem glamorous but as Cassie well knows they are filled with many ups and downs.  There have been stressful times with entire leadership changes where she has never worked harder.  When she has doubts, she calls that same trusted friend her brought her to Wellvana in the first place.  When new leaders, all men, joined the company, she found she needed to cement her place at the leadership table, and she is quite happy that she did.   She has high hopes for the company despite all the hard work and fast pace and she wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.   Cassie Smith Chief of Staff, Wellvana Health Cassie Smith joined Wellvana in September of 2020 and now serves as the Company’s Chief of Staff, where she oversees strategic business initiatives, drives alignment across executives and their teams, and optimizes efficiency and productivity across the Company. Prior to joining Wellvana, Mrs. Smith was with HCA Healthcare, the largest for-profit healthcare system in the world, where she worked on several teams, including Strategy and Innovation, where she supported both corporate and hospital-level strategic initiatives. Prior to HCA, Mrs. Smith was with Ascension Care Management and Boston Healthcare Associates. Cassie Smith brings to Wellvana an impressive background in healthcare, with extensive knowledge in strategic consulting, health policy and value based care. Mrs. Smith holds a degree in economics from Connecticut College and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Vanderbilt University. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and mini Aussiedoodle. You can follow Cassie on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Cassie Smith, Chief of Staff for Wellvana Health.  When Cassie moved to Nashville, she wanted to work at HCA and she did.  When she received a call to be employee #3 at a small primary care start up, she surprised even herself when she said YES.  Start ups may seem glamorous but as Cassie well knows they are filled with many ups and downs.  There have been stressful times with entire leadership changes where she has never worked harder.  When she has doubts, she calls that same trusted friend her brought her to Wellvana in the first place.  When new leaders, all men, joined the company, she found she needed to cement her place at the leadership table, and she is quite happy that she did.   She has high hopes for the company despite all the hard work and fast pace and she wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.

 

Cassie Smith

Chief of Staff, Wellvana Health

Cassie Smith joined Wellvana in September of 2020 and now serves as the Company’s Chief of Staff, where she oversees strategic business initiatives, drives alignment across executives and their teams, and optimizes efficiency and productivity across the Company. Prior to joining Wellvana, Mrs. Smith was with HCA Healthcare, the largest for-profit healthcare system in the world, where she worked on several teams, including Strategy and Innovation, where she supported both corporate and hospital-level strategic initiatives. Prior to HCA, Mrs. Smith was with Ascension Care Management and Boston Healthcare Associates. Cassie Smith brings to Wellvana an impressive background in healthcare, with extensive knowledge in strategic consulting, health policy and value based care. Mrs. Smith holds a degree in economics from Connecticut College and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Vanderbilt University. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and mini Aussiedoodle.

You can follow Cassie on LinkedIn.

]]> 1802 no EP. 85 Reflections from Dr. Susan Bailey, AMA’s 175th President https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/10/ep-85-reflections-from-dr-susan-bailey-amas-175th-president/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Susan Bailey, practicing allergist/immunologist and lifelong advocate for patients through her work in advocacy.  As the 175th President of the American Medical Association, Dr. Bailey is completing forty years of leadership service in organized medicine.  She claims “I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up” when asked what is next and spent some time reflecting on her years of service during this episode of Inspiring Women. Dr. Bailey has always been a joiner, loving clubs and leadership, and as an extrovert, getting energy from being around other people.  She views advocacy as a professional obligation and privilege.  When she started in medicine, she had a successful practice, participated in organized medicine while raising two boys as a single mom.  How did she make it work?  It took a village but having flexibility with her schedule and the financial considerations of her practice were key.  She believes working parents have to have a Plan A…B…C…. AND D to make it work, certainly then, and also today. When discussing the evolution of women in medicine, Dr. Bailey reflected on her experience.  She did not have many female mentors as there were many fewer women in medicine back then.  And while she did break various gender barriers, she always thought things would just work out for women in medicine.  But not anymore.  She points out the disparities –  today, over a third of physicians are women which doesn’t correlate to medical school deans where only 12% are women.  And the lack of gender pay parity is just wrong.  Dr. Bailey suggests that women be intentional and be outspoken.  Consensus building is wonderful, but that should not mean NOT negotiating for what is fair. Dr. Bailey asks women to reach their hand out to help other women by being a mentor.  She also strongly supports being involved in organized medicine as it is gratifying to feel that sense of achievement with other like-minded colleagues. Thank you for your service and leadership Dr. Bailey!! ********************************************* Susan R. Bailey, MD, an allergist/immunologist from Fort Worth, Texas, was the 175th president of the American Medical Association. Previously, she served as president-elect of the AMA for one year, speaker of the AMA House of Delegates for four years and as vice speaker for four years. Dr. Bailey, who has been active in the AMA since medical school when she served as chair of the AMA Medical Student Section, has held numerous leadership positions with the AMA. These include serving as chair of both the Advisory Panel on Women in Medicine and the AMA Council on Medical Education, as well as representing the AMA on the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, the American Board of Medical Specialties, and COLA. Her long history of service in helping guide organized medicine extends to the local and state levels as well. She has served as board chair and president of the Tarrant County Medical Society, and as vice speaker, speaker and president of the Texas Medical Association. Dr. Bailey is an allergist in private practice and has been with Fort Worth Allergy and Asthma Associates for over 30 years. She completed her residency in general pediatrics and a fellowship in allergy/immunology at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minn., and is board certified in allergy and immunology, and pediatrics and has been awarded the title of Distinguished Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. In addition to receiving her medical degree with honors from the Texas A&M University College of Medicine as a member of its charter class, Dr. Bailey was later appointed to the Texas A&M System Board of Regents by then Gov. George W. Bush, and has been named a Distinguished Alumnus of Texas A&M University and of Texas A&M University College of Medicine. Dr. Bailey is married to W. Douglas Bailey, has two sons and one grandson, and is an elder and longtime choir member of her church. Fri, 10 Jun 2022 14:32:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Susan Bailey, practicing allergist/immunologist and lifelong advocate for patients through her work in advocacy.  As the 175th President of the American Medical Association, Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Susan Bailey, practicing allergist/immunologist and lifelong advocate for patients through her work in advocacy.  As the 175th President of the American Medical Association, Dr. Bailey is completing forty years of leadership service in organized medicine.  She claims “I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up” when asked what is next and spent some time reflecting on her years of service during this episode of Inspiring Women. Dr. Bailey has always been a joiner, loving clubs and leadership, and as an extrovert, getting energy from being around other people.  She views advocacy as a professional obligation and privilege.  When she started in medicine, she had a successful practice, participated in organized medicine while raising two boys as a single mom.  How did she make it work?  It took a village but having flexibility with her schedule and the financial considerations of her practice were key.  She believes working parents have to have a Plan A…B…C…. AND D to make it work, certainly then, and also today. When discussing the evolution of women in medicine, Dr. Bailey reflected on her experience.  She did not have many female mentors as there were many fewer women in medicine back then.  And while she did break various gender barriers, she always thought things would just work out for women in medicine.  But not anymore.  She points out the disparities –  today, over a third of physicians are women which doesn’t correlate to medical school deans where only 12% are women.  And the lack of gender pay parity is just wrong.  Dr. Bailey suggests that women be intentional and be outspoken.  Consensus building is wonderful, but that should not mean NOT negotiating for what is fair. Dr. Bailey asks women to reach their hand out to help other women by being a mentor.  She also strongly supports being involved in organized medicine as it is gratifying to feel that sense of achievement with other like-minded colleagues. Thank you for your service and leadership Dr. Bailey!! ********************************************* Susan R. Bailey, MD, an allergist/immunologist from Fort Worth, Texas, was the 175th president of the American Medical Association. Previously, she served as president-elect of the AMA for one year, speaker of the AMA House of Delegates for four years and as vice speaker for four years. Dr. Bailey, who has been active in the AMA since medical school when she served as chair of the AMA Medical Student Section, has held numerous leadership positions with the AMA. These include serving as chair of both the Advisory Panel on Women in Medicine and the AMA Council on Medical Education, as well as representing the AMA on the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, the American Board of Medical Specialties, and COLA. Her long history of service in helping guide organized medicine extends to the local and state levels as well. She has served as board chair and president of the Tarrant County Medical Society, and as vice speaker, speaker and president of the Texas Medical Association. Dr. Bailey is an allergist in private practice and has been with Fort Worth Allergy and Asthma Associates for over 30 years. She completed her residency in general pediatrics and a fellowship in allergy/immunology at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minn., and is board certified in allergy and immunology, and pediatrics and has been awarded the title of Distinguished Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. In addition to receiving her medical degree with honors from the Texas A&M University College of Medicine as a member of its charter class, Dr. Bailey was later appointed to the Texas A&M System Board of Regents by then Gov. George W. Bush, and has been named a Distinguished Alumnus of Texas A&M University and of Texas A&M University College of Medicine. Dr. Bailey is married to W. Douglas Bailey, has two sons and one grandson, and is an elder and longtime choir member of her church.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Susan Bailey, practicing allergist/immunologist and lifelong advocate for patients through her work in advocacy.  As the 175th President of the American Medical Association, Dr. Bailey is completing forty years of leadership service in organized medicine.  She claims “I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up” when asked what is next and spent some time reflecting on her years of service during this episode of Inspiring Women.

Dr. Bailey has always been a joiner, loving clubs and leadership, and as an extrovert, getting energy from being around other people.  She views advocacy as a professional obligation and privilege.  When she started in medicine, she had a successful practice, participated in organized medicine while raising two boys as a single mom.  How did she make it work?  It took a village but having flexibility with her schedule and the financial considerations of her practice were key.  She believes working parents have to have a Plan A…B…C…. AND D to make it work, certainly then, and also today.

When discussing the evolution of women in medicine, Dr. Bailey reflected on her experience.  She did not have many female mentors as there were many fewer women in medicine back then.  And while she did break various gender barriers, she always thought things would just work out for women in medicine.  But not anymore.  She points out the disparities –  today, over a third of physicians are women which doesn’t correlate to medical school deans where only 12% are women.  And the lack of gender pay parity is just wrong.  Dr. Bailey suggests that women be intentional and be outspoken.  Consensus building is wonderful, but that should not mean NOT negotiating for what is fair.

Dr. Bailey asks women to reach their hand out to help other women by being a mentor.  She also strongly supports being involved in organized medicine as it is gratifying to feel that sense of achievement with other like-minded colleagues.

Thank you for your service and leadership Dr. Bailey!!

*********************************************

Susan R. Bailey, MD, an allergist/immunologist from Fort Worth, Texas, was the 175th president of the American Medical Association. Previously, she served as president-elect of the AMA for one year, speaker of the AMA House of Delegates for four years and as vice speaker for four years.

Dr. Bailey, who has been active in the AMA since medical school when she served as chair of the AMA Medical Student Section, has held numerous leadership positions with the AMA. These include serving as chair of both the Advisory Panel on Women in Medicine and the AMA Council on Medical Education, as well as representing the AMA on the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, the American Board of Medical Specialties, and COLA.

Her long history of service in helping guide organized medicine extends to the local and state levels as well. She has served as board chair and president of the Tarrant County Medical Society, and as vice speaker, speaker and president of the Texas Medical Association.

Dr. Bailey is an allergist in private practice and has been with Fort Worth Allergy and Asthma Associates for over 30 years. She completed her residency in general pediatrics and a fellowship in allergy/immunology at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minn., and is board certified in allergy and immunology, and pediatrics and has been awarded the title of Distinguished Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

In addition to receiving her medical degree with honors from the Texas A&M University College of Medicine as a member of its charter class, Dr. Bailey was later appointed to the Texas A&M System Board of Regents by then Gov. George W. Bush, and has been named a Distinguished Alumnus of Texas A&M University and of Texas A&M University College of Medicine.

Dr. Bailey is married to W. Douglas Bailey, has two sons and one grandson, and is an elder and longtime choir member of her church.

]]> 1238 no EP. 84 Keeping your sense of Self, with a capital S https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/08/ep-84-keeping-your-sense-of-self-with-a-capital-s/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Afsaneh Naimollah, Managing Partner of XEN Partners and Silicon Valley-based healthcare technology executive who has advised over 1000 companies in her thirty years in healthtech.  Afsaneh continues to be energized about healthcare stating it is a bottomless pit of learning.  Having done over 150 M&A transactions, she has sage advice for entrepreneurs which includes being focused; having technical people on the team and raise just enough money to execute to the next stage but do not overshoot.  She has also thought a lot about how women can advance in the space of leadership and underscores the importance of the two P’s – Performance and Persistence. At the same time – if you are a woman who has made it, it is imperative that you make the time and help other women.  At the end of the day, success comes from who you are and for women in particular – keeping that sense of self with a capital S!   Afsaneh Naimollah Managing Partner, XEN Partners Executive in Residence, Plug and Play Tech Center Silicon Valley-based global technology and healthcare tech executive with over 30 years of corporate finance, strategic advisory and investment banking experience. Public company board experience with a successful exit (company sold to Google). Board member and Chair of Audit Committee of publicly-listed CA Healthcare Acquisition Corp., a SPAC formed to acquire healthcare companies. First transaction was the merger with LumiraDx, the world’s largest PoC testing company valued at $3B in December 2021. Subject matter expert in next gen healthcare technologies including the migration of old technologies to new digitally-enabled business models, AI, automation, payer/provider software, data analytics, virtual care, remote patient monitoring, wellness and precision medicine. Publisher of HIT Greatest Hits, a widely read monthly newsletter on healthcare. I have worked collaboratively with many CEOs and board of directors of mid size to large companies on growth and exit strategies. I have executed over 150 M&A transactions in 20 countries and have raised upwards of $12B of capital via IPOs, private placements and bank debt. I am also an angel investor and advisor to a number of healthcare companies which has given me the rare opportunity to participate in building businesses from the ground up. It is a rewarding and fulfilling experience to help CEOs navigate this exciting and dynamic industry.   You can follow Afsaneh on LinkedIn. Wed, 08 Jun 2022 15:37:50 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Afsaneh Naimollah, Managing Partner of XEN Partners and Silicon Valley-based healthcare technology executive who has advised over 1000 companies in her thirty years in healthtech. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Afsaneh Naimollah, Managing Partner of XEN Partners and Silicon Valley-based healthcare technology executive who has advised over 1000 companies in her thirty years in healthtech.  Afsaneh continues to be energized about healthcare stating it is a bottomless pit of learning.  Having done over 150 M&A transactions, she has sage advice for entrepreneurs which includes being focused; having technical people on the team and raise just enough money to execute to the next stage but do not overshoot.  She has also thought a lot about how women can advance in the space of leadership and underscores the importance of the two P’s – Performance and Persistence. At the same time – if you are a woman who has made it, it is imperative that you make the time and help other women.  At the end of the day, success comes from who you are and for women in particular – keeping that sense of self with a capital S!   Afsaneh Naimollah Managing Partner, XEN Partners Executive in Residence, Plug and Play Tech Center Silicon Valley-based global technology and healthcare tech executive with over 30 years of corporate finance, strategic advisory and investment banking experience. Public company board experience with a successful exit (company sold to Google). Board member and Chair of Audit Committee of publicly-listed CA Healthcare Acquisition Corp., a SPAC formed to acquire healthcare companies. First transaction was the merger with LumiraDx, the world’s largest PoC testing company valued at $3B in December 2021. Subject matter expert in next gen healthcare technologies including the migration of old technologies to new digitally-enabled business models, AI, automation, payer/provider software, data analytics, virtual care, remote patient monitoring, wellness and precision medicine. Publisher of HIT Greatest Hits, a widely read monthly newsletter on healthcare. I have worked collaboratively with many CEOs and board of directors of mid size to large companies on growth and exit strategies. I have executed over 150 M&A transactions in 20 countries and have raised upwards of $12B of capital via IPOs, private placements and bank debt. I am also an angel investor and advisor to a number of healthcare companies which has given me the rare opportunity to participate in building businesses from the ground up. It is a rewarding and fulfilling experience to help CEOs navigate this exciting and dynamic industry.   You can follow Afsaneh on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Afsaneh Naimollah, Managing Partner of XEN Partners and Silicon Valley-based healthcare technology executive who has advised over 1000 companies in her thirty years in healthtech.  Afsaneh continues to be energized about healthcare stating it is a bottomless pit of learning.  Having done over 150 M&A transactions, she has sage advice for entrepreneurs which includes being focused; having technical people on the team and raise just enough money to execute to the next stage but do not overshoot.  She has also thought a lot about how women can advance in the space of leadership and underscores the importance of the two P’s – Performance and Persistence. At the same time – if you are a woman who has made it, it is imperative that you make the time and help other women.  At the end of the day, success comes from who you are and for women in particular – keeping that sense of self with a capital S!

 

Afsaneh Naimollah

Managing Partner, XEN Partners

Executive in Residence, Plug and Play Tech Center

Silicon Valley-based global technology and healthcare tech executive with over 30 years of corporate finance, strategic advisory and investment banking experience. Public company board experience with a successful exit (company sold to Google). Board member and Chair of Audit Committee of publicly-listed CA Healthcare Acquisition Corp., a SPAC formed to acquire healthcare companies. First transaction was the merger with LumiraDx, the world’s largest PoC testing company valued at $3B in December 2021.

Subject matter expert in next gen healthcare technologies including the migration of old technologies to new digitally-enabled business models, AI, automation, payer/provider software, data analytics, virtual care, remote patient monitoring, wellness and precision medicine. Publisher of HIT Greatest Hits, a widely read monthly newsletter on healthcare.

I have worked collaboratively with many CEOs and board of directors of mid size to large companies on growth and exit strategies. I have executed over 150 M&A transactions in 20 countries and have raised upwards of $12B of capital via IPOs, private placements and bank debt.

I am also an angel investor and advisor to a number of healthcare companies which has given me the rare opportunity to participate in building businesses from the ground up. It is a rewarding and fulfilling experience to help CEOs navigate this exciting and dynamic industry.

 

You can follow Afsaneh on LinkedIn.

]]> 1836 no EP. 83 Still going for that extra 2% https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/06/03/ep-83-still-going-for-that-extra-2/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sanjida Chowdhury, Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Fresenius.   Sanjida prides herself as an executive on not just towing the company line but partnering with her business leader counterparts to achieve greater company objectives.  Empathy is core to her leadership approach.  Working harder to ensure that she can achieve the fully available opportunity ahead stems from childhood experience where she would achieve 90+% grades.  95%+ scores in school were never enough for her demanding father who was always asking about that extra 2%.  Sanjida defines her career pursuits as always finding that 2%!   Sanjida F. Chowdhury Vice President, Government Pricing & Compliance and Chief Compliance Officer, Region North America Past includes 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with demonstrated success in a consulting and industry career that includes client management, proposal development, business development, project management, compliance program development, training program design and implementation, business analysis, and data analytics spanning various aspects of regulatory and compliance issues that affect pharmaceutical, medical device, and healthcare organizations. Significant experience leading and coordinating Pharmaceutical engagements in regulatory compliance with a focus on Government Pricing and Sales and Marketing issues with responsibility for planning, budgeting, execution, and delivery. Considered a subject matter expert providing guidance pertaining to the areas of Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, Aggregate Spend and State Reporting, Sarbanes-Oxley reviews, Contract Operations, risk mitigation, and strategy/process improvement. Specialties: Medicaid, Medicare, government pricing/reporting, statutory pricing, class of trade, 340B membership, documentation development, contract compliance, SOX(404), litigation services, managed care organizations, aggregate spending, state disclosure “sunshine” laws   You can follow Sanjida on LinkedIn. Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:26:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sanjida Chowdhury, Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Fresenius.   Sanjida prides herself as an executive on not just towing the company line but partnering with her business leader counterpart... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sanjida Chowdhury, Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Fresenius.   Sanjida prides herself as an executive on not just towing the company line but partnering with her business leader counterparts to achieve greater company objectives.  Empathy is core to her leadership approach.  Working harder to ensure that she can achieve the fully available opportunity ahead stems from childhood experience where she would achieve 90+% grades.  95%+ scores in school were never enough for her demanding father who was always asking about that extra 2%.  Sanjida defines her career pursuits as always finding that 2%!   Sanjida F. Chowdhury Vice President, Government Pricing & Compliance and Chief Compliance Officer, Region North America Past includes 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with demonstrated success in a consulting and industry career that includes client management, proposal development, business development, project management, compliance program development, training program design and implementation, business analysis, and data analytics spanning various aspects of regulatory and compliance issues that affect pharmaceutical, medical device, and healthcare organizations. Significant experience leading and coordinating Pharmaceutical engagements in regulatory compliance with a focus on Government Pricing and Sales and Marketing issues with responsibility for planning, budgeting, execution, and delivery. Considered a subject matter expert providing guidance pertaining to the areas of Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, Aggregate Spend and State Reporting, Sarbanes-Oxley reviews, Contract Operations, risk mitigation, and strategy/process improvement. Specialties: Medicaid, Medicare, government pricing/reporting, statutory pricing, class of trade, 340B membership, documentation development, contract compliance, SOX(404), litigation services, managed care organizations, aggregate spending, state disclosure “sunshine” laws   You can follow Sanjida on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sanjida Chowdhury, Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Fresenius.   Sanjida prides herself as an executive on not just towing the company line but partnering with her business leader counterparts to achieve greater company objectives.  Empathy is core to her leadership approach.  Working harder to ensure that she can achieve the fully available opportunity ahead stems from childhood experience where she would achieve 90+% grades.  95%+ scores in school were never enough for her demanding father who was always asking about that extra 2%.  Sanjida defines her career pursuits as always finding that 2%!

 

Sanjida F. Chowdhury

Vice President, Government Pricing & Compliance and Chief Compliance Officer, Region North America

Past includes 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with demonstrated success in a consulting and industry career that includes client management, proposal development, business development, project management, compliance program development, training program design and implementation, business analysis, and data analytics spanning various aspects of regulatory and compliance issues that affect pharmaceutical, medical device, and healthcare organizations.

Significant experience leading and coordinating Pharmaceutical engagements in regulatory compliance with a focus on Government Pricing and Sales and Marketing issues with responsibility for planning, budgeting, execution, and delivery. Considered a subject matter expert providing guidance pertaining to the areas of Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, Aggregate Spend and State Reporting, Sarbanes-Oxley reviews, Contract Operations, risk mitigation, and strategy/process improvement.

Specialties: Medicaid, Medicare, government pricing/reporting, statutory pricing, class of trade, 340B membership, documentation development, contract compliance, SOX(404), litigation services, managed care organizations, aggregate spending, state disclosure “sunshine” laws

 

You can follow Sanjida on LinkedIn.

]]> 1556 no EP. 82 Big tech, big data and knowing your WHY. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/05/24/ep-82-big-tech-big-data-and-knowing-your-why/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Amy Abernethy.  As a leader, physician, researcher, author, public servant, speaker, advocate, and more, Dr. Abernethy’s storied career centers on her WHY.  As an oncologist at Duke, Dr. Abernethy’s patients were relatively young adults.  These patients more often than not would pass away within a few short years after their diagnosis and would face very tough choices.  Her clinic was between research facilities doing groundbreaking work in the area of melanoma, yet, those new therapies or clinical trials would not be available in time to help her patients when they needed it.  Speeding up the process of bringing therapies to the patients who needed them to change their outcomes became her driving focus. It was an unexpected leap to move into healthtech when she joined Flatiron Health, however, exploring the problem from a different angle was very instructional.  Her move to public service and the FDA meant tackling the regulatory angle.  Focus on patient centricity and evidence generation required modernizing the agency’s technology capabilities and demystifying how to work with the FDA.  Amy describes public service as both important and awe inspiring and highly recommended.  Today at Verily, this is the next chapter of tackling the same issue, now with big tech and big data at her disposal.  To unlock this potential, she suggests this requires bringing all professional disciplines to the table with equal voices and respect. Amy’s professional WHY is centered on those early patients.  She aims to significantly speed up the process of bringing lifesaving therapies to market, advance the state of medical care, and to change outcomes. In solving those large problems and pursuing her WHY, Amy was also strategic about her professional development, this included implementing a strategic mentor plan.  Early on, she conducted a self-assessment SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).  From that, she identified six people she felt could help her advance professionally or develop key skills.  She also wanted help advancing as a female leader without being characterized in unflattering ways (the “B” word).   Valuing people’s time, Amy was thoughtful about what she could bring to these relationships.  Over the years, Amy has changed who is part of her strategic mentor plan and credits those key relationships with having great impact on her professional development and pursuits.   Dr. Amy Abernethy President, Clinical Research Platforms at Verily Amy Abernethy is the President of Verily’s Clinical Studies Platforms, where she oversees the company’s clinical evidence generation platform product vision and related clinical research portfolio. Dr. Abernethy was most recently Principal Deputy Commissioner of Food and Drugs of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the agency’s acting Chief Information Officer. Prior to her role at the FDA, Dr. Abernethy was Chief Medical Officer, Chief Scientific Officer and Senior Vice President of Oncology of Flatiron Health. Before joining Flatiron, Dr. Abernethy was Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and directed the Center for Learning Health Care in the Duke Clinical Research Institute and Duke Cancer Care Research Program in the Duke Cancer Institute. Dr. Abernethy is a hematologist/oncologist and palliative medicine physician who has authored more than 500 publications. She holds a BA in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania, an MD from Duke University School of Medicine, and a PhD in Evidence Based Medicine and Informatics from Flinders University in Australia. You can follow Dr. Abernethy on LinkedIn. Tue, 24 May 2022 17:08:16 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Amy Abernethy.  As a leader, physician, researcher, author, public servant, speaker, advocate, and more, Dr. Abernethy’s storied career centers on her WHY.  As an oncologist at Duke, Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Amy Abernethy.  As a leader, physician, researcher, author, public servant, speaker, advocate, and more, Dr. Abernethy’s storied career centers on her WHY.  As an oncologist at Duke, Dr. Abernethy’s patients were relatively young adults.  These patients more often than not would pass away within a few short years after their diagnosis and would face very tough choices.  Her clinic was between research facilities doing groundbreaking work in the area of melanoma, yet, those new therapies or clinical trials would not be available in time to help her patients when they needed it.  Speeding up the process of bringing therapies to the patients who needed them to change their outcomes became her driving focus. It was an unexpected leap to move into healthtech when she joined Flatiron Health, however, exploring the problem from a different angle was very instructional.  Her move to public service and the FDA meant tackling the regulatory angle.  Focus on patient centricity and evidence generation required modernizing the agency’s technology capabilities and demystifying how to work with the FDA.  Amy describes public service as both important and awe inspiring and highly recommended.  Today at Verily, this is the next chapter of tackling the same issue, now with big tech and big data at her disposal.  To unlock this potential, she suggests this requires bringing all professional disciplines to the table with equal voices and respect. Amy’s professional WHY is centered on those early patients.  She aims to significantly speed up the process of bringing lifesaving therapies to market, advance the state of medical care, and to change outcomes. In solving those large problems and pursuing her WHY, Amy was also strategic about her professional development, this included implementing a strategic mentor plan.  Early on, she conducted a self-assessment SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).  From that, she identified six people she felt could help her advance professionally or develop key skills.  She also wanted help advancing as a female leader without being characterized in unflattering ways (the “B” word).   Valuing people’s time, Amy was thoughtful about what she could bring to these relationships.  Over the years, Amy has changed who is part of her strategic mentor plan and credits those key relationships with having great impact on her professional development and pursuits.   Dr. Amy Abernethy President, Clinical Research Platforms at Verily Amy Abernethy is the President of Verily’s Clinical Studies Platforms, where she oversees the company’s clinical evidence generation platform product vision and related clinical research portfolio. Dr. Abernethy was most recently Principal Deputy Commissioner of Food and Drugs of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the agency’s acting Chief Information Officer. Prior to her role at the FDA, Dr. Abernethy was Chief Medical Officer, Chief Scientific Officer and Senior Vice President of Oncology of Flatiron Health. Before joining Flatiron, Dr. Abernethy was Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and directed the Center for Learning Health Care in the Duke Clinical Research Institute and Duke Cancer Care Research Program in the Duke Cancer Institute. Dr. Abernethy is a hematologist/oncologist and palliative medicine physician who has authored more than 500 publications. She holds a BA in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania, an MD from Duke University School of Medicine, and a PhD in Evidence Based Medicine and Informatics from Flinders University in Australia. You can follow Dr. Abernethy on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Amy Abernethy.  As a leader, physician, researcher, author, public servant, speaker, advocate, and more, Dr. Abernethy’s storied career centers on her WHY.  As an oncologist at Duke, Dr. Abernethy’s patients were relatively young adults.  These patients more often than not would pass away within a few short years after their diagnosis and would face very tough choices.  Her clinic was between research facilities doing groundbreaking work in the area of melanoma, yet, those new therapies or clinical trials would not be available in time to help her patients when they needed it.  Speeding up the process of bringing therapies to the patients who needed them to change their outcomes became her driving focus.

It was an unexpected leap to move into healthtech when she joined Flatiron Health, however, exploring the problem from a different angle was very instructional.  Her move to public service and the FDA meant tackling the regulatory angle.  Focus on patient centricity and evidence generation required modernizing the agency’s technology capabilities and demystifying how to work with the FDA.  Amy describes public service as both important and awe inspiring and highly recommended.  Today at Verily, this is the next chapter of tackling the same issue, now with big tech and big data at her disposal.  To unlock this potential, she suggests this requires bringing all professional disciplines to the table with equal voices and respect.

Amy’s professional WHY is centered on those early patients.  She aims to significantly speed up the process of bringing lifesaving therapies to market, advance the state of medical care, and to change outcomes.

In solving those large problems and pursuing her WHY, Amy was also strategic about her professional development, this included implementing a strategic mentor plan.  Early on, she conducted a self-assessment SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).  From that, she identified six people she felt could help her advance professionally or develop key skills.  She also wanted help advancing as a female leader without being characterized in unflattering ways (the “B” word).   Valuing people’s time, Amy was thoughtful about what she could bring to these relationships.  Over the years, Amy has changed who is part of her strategic mentor plan and credits those key relationships with having great impact on her professional development and pursuits.

 

Dr. Amy Abernethy

President, Clinical Research Platforms at Verily

Amy Abernethy is the President of Verily’s Clinical Studies Platforms, where she oversees the company’s clinical evidence generation platform product vision and related clinical research portfolio. Dr. Abernethy was most recently Principal Deputy Commissioner of Food and Drugs of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the agency’s acting Chief Information Officer. Prior to her role at the FDA, Dr. Abernethy was Chief Medical Officer, Chief Scientific Officer and Senior Vice President of Oncology of Flatiron Health. Before joining Flatiron, Dr. Abernethy was Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and directed the Center for Learning Health Care in the Duke Clinical Research Institute and Duke Cancer Care Research Program in the Duke Cancer Institute. Dr. Abernethy is a hematologist/oncologist and palliative medicine physician who has authored more than 500 publications. She holds a BA in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania, an MD from Duke University School of Medicine, and a PhD in Evidence Based Medicine and Informatics from Flinders University in Australia.

You can follow Dr. Abernethy on LinkedIn.

]]> 1569 no EP. 81 Today’s Leadership Requirements: Empathy, Kindness, Resilience. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/05/18/ep-81-todays-leadership-requirements-empathy-kindness-resilience/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Erica Jain, CEO and CoFounder of Healthie.  Erica created Healthie back when she was in business school.  She is someone who cares about leaving the world a better place.  When she saw her own parents struggle with weight loss, and then to see the devastating impact that comes with mental health issues, and then through her own experience in the healthcare system as a pregnant woman and new mom – she felt there was a lot of opportunity to make a difference.  Today at Healthie, she works with many great founders and leaders.  What is Erica’s secret power as a leader?  She does NOT give up.  For Erica, work life balance does not exist, it’s all life.  She credits becoming a new mom with reinvigorating her “hustle”.  There are more women CEOs and Founders out there but again, Erica believes leadership and company success still comes down to the team.  She urges all women out there to not hold back, making the world a better place takes tremendous energy and as leaders, today’s new leaders, it requires empathy, kindness and resilience.   Erica Jain CEO and CoFounder, Healthie Healthie serves as the underlying infrastructure for digital health startups, grocery stores, health clinics, Universities, and other innovative health programs that seek to deliver long-term, preventative care to clients. We have a HIPAA and SOC 2 Compliant platform and API that saves organizations time, and allows them to launch and scale services faster.   You can follow Erica on LinkedIn. Wed, 18 May 2022 15:41:15 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Erica Jain, CEO and CoFounder of Healthie.  Erica created Healthie back when she was in business school.  She is someone who cares about leaving the world a better place. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Erica Jain, CEO and CoFounder of Healthie.  Erica created Healthie back when she was in business school.  She is someone who cares about leaving the world a better place.  When she saw her own parents struggle with weight loss, and then to see the devastating impact that comes with mental health issues, and then through her own experience in the healthcare system as a pregnant woman and new mom – she felt there was a lot of opportunity to make a difference.  Today at Healthie, she works with many great founders and leaders.  What is Erica’s secret power as a leader?  She does NOT give up.  For Erica, work life balance does not exist, it’s all life.  She credits becoming a new mom with reinvigorating her “hustle”.  There are more women CEOs and Founders out there but again, Erica believes leadership and company success still comes down to the team.  She urges all women out there to not hold back, making the world a better place takes tremendous energy and as leaders, today’s new leaders, it requires empathy, kindness and resilience.   Erica Jain CEO and CoFounder, Healthie Healthie serves as the underlying infrastructure for digital health startups, grocery stores, health clinics, Universities, and other innovative health programs that seek to deliver long-term, preventative care to clients. We have a HIPAA and SOC 2 Compliant platform and API that saves organizations time, and allows them to launch and scale services faster.   You can follow Erica on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Erica Jain, CEO and CoFounder of Healthie.  Erica created Healthie back when she was in business school.  She is someone who cares about leaving the world a better place.  When she saw her own parents struggle with weight loss, and then to see the devastating impact that comes with mental health issues, and then through her own experience in the healthcare system as a pregnant woman and new mom – she felt there was a lot of opportunity to make a difference.  Today at Healthie, she works with many great founders and leaders.  What is Erica’s secret power as a leader?  She does NOT give up.  For Erica, work life balance does not exist, it’s all life.  She credits becoming a new mom with reinvigorating her “hustle”.  There are more women CEOs and Founders out there but again, Erica believes leadership and company success still comes down to the team.  She urges all women out there to not hold back, making the world a better place takes tremendous energy and as leaders, today’s new leaders, it requires empathy, kindness and resilience.

 

Erica Jain

CEO and CoFounder, Healthie

Healthie serves as the underlying infrastructure for digital health startups, grocery stores, health clinics, Universities, and other innovative health programs that seek to deliver long-term, preventative care to clients. We have a HIPAA and SOC 2 Compliant platform and API that saves organizations time, and allows them to launch and scale services faster.

 

You can follow Erica on LinkedIn.

]]> 1341 no EP. 80 Mentoring Series: Ning Mosberger-Tang and Chiu-Ki Chan https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/05/09/ep-80-mentoring-series-ning-mosberger-tang-and-chiu-ki-chan/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women NING MOSBERGER-TANG and CHIU-KI CHAN in this Mentoring Series episode.  Ning and Chiu-Ki have a number of things in common.  Both began their careers as developers at Google, in fact, Ning was the first female developer there.  Both relocated from the west coast to Boulder, CO.  Both self describe as introverts and have passion, interest and feel obligation that they should be making the world better.  This means addressing climate change, saving democracy….the major issues of our time.  As Chiu-Ki took action to learn how to get involved – she connected with the local political party office.  What she learned didn’t make sense to her where politicians need to spend so much of their energy working on being re-elected v putting energy towards solving these major issues.  Ning had started a movement – the Blue Wave Postcard Movement specifically.  An all women organizations focused on community and taking action in ways that DOES have impact, DOES achieve results.  Chiu-Ki joined not because it was all women, but found that certainly helped.  She appreciates the respectful environment and not having to interrupt to be heard, a practice that was important to learn in Silicon Valley as a woman developer, but never felt good or right to Chiu-Ki.  Ning asks ALL people to consider getting involved, just start doing something, and to literally start today.   Ning Mosberger-Tang Activist/Philanthropist First female developer at Google now aiming to change the world through activism and social justice Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona. Blue Wave Postcard Movement:  https://www.bluewavepostcards.org   Chiu-Ki Chan Activist/Android Developer Chiu-Ki is an Android developer with a passion in speaking and teaching. She runs her own mobile development company, producing delightful apps such as “Monkey Write” for learning Chinese writing and ‘Heart Collage’ for snapping photos to stitch into a heart. When she is not writing apps, she can be found travelling the world, sometimes sightseeing, sometimes dispensing Android tips on stage at various tech conferences. You can follow Chiu-Ki HERE. Mon, 09 May 2022 17:24:52 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women NING MOSBERGER-TANG and CHIU-KI CHAN in this Mentoring Series episode.  Ning and Chiu-Ki have a number of things in common.  Both began their careers as developers at Google, in fact, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women NING MOSBERGER-TANG and CHIU-KI CHAN in this Mentoring Series episode.  Ning and Chiu-Ki have a number of things in common.  Both began their careers as developers at Google, in fact, Ning was the first female developer there.  Both relocated from the west coast to Boulder, CO.  Both self describe as introverts and have passion, interest and feel obligation that they should be making the world better.  This means addressing climate change, saving democracy….the major issues of our time.  As Chiu-Ki took action to learn how to get involved – she connected with the local political party office.  What she learned didn’t make sense to her where politicians need to spend so much of their energy working on being re-elected v putting energy towards solving these major issues.  Ning had started a movement – the Blue Wave Postcard Movement specifically.  An all women organizations focused on community and taking action in ways that DOES have impact, DOES achieve results.  Chiu-Ki joined not because it was all women, but found that certainly helped.  She appreciates the respectful environment and not having to interrupt to be heard, a practice that was important to learn in Silicon Valley as a woman developer, but never felt good or right to Chiu-Ki.  Ning asks ALL people to consider getting involved, just start doing something, and to literally start today.   Ning Mosberger-Tang Activist/Philanthropist First female developer at Google now aiming to change the world through activism and social justice Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona. Blue Wave Postcard Movement:  https://www.bluewavepostcards.org   Chiu-Ki Chan Activist/Android Developer Chiu-Ki is an Android developer with a passion in speaking and teaching. She runs her own mobile development company, producing delightful apps such as “Monkey Write” for learning Chinese writing and ‘Heart Collage’ for snapping photos to stitch into a heart. When she is not writing apps, she can be found travelling the world, sometimes sightseeing, sometimes dispensing Android tips on stage at various tech conferences. You can follow Chiu-Ki HERE.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women NING MOSBERGER-TANG and CHIU-KI CHAN in this Mentoring Series episode.  Ning and Chiu-Ki have a number of things in common.  Both began their careers as developers at Google, in fact, Ning was the first female developer there.  Both relocated from the west coast to Boulder, CO.  Both self describe as introverts and have passion, interest and feel obligation that they should be making the world better.  This means addressing climate change, saving democracy….the major issues of our time.  As Chiu-Ki took action to learn how to get involved – she connected with the local political party office.  What she learned didn’t make sense to her where politicians need to spend so much of their energy working on being re-elected v putting energy towards solving these major issues.  Ning had started a movement – the Blue Wave Postcard Movement specifically.  An all women organizations focused on community and taking action in ways that DOES have impact, DOES achieve results.  Chiu-Ki joined not because it was all women, but found that certainly helped.  She appreciates the respectful environment and not having to interrupt to be heard, a practice that was important to learn in Silicon Valley as a woman developer, but never felt good or right to Chiu-Ki.  Ning asks ALL people to consider getting involved, just start doing something, and to literally start today.

 

Ning Mosberger-Tang

Activist/Philanthropist

First female developer at Google now aiming to change the world through activism and social justice

Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona.

Blue Wave Postcard Movement:  https://www.bluewavepostcards.org

 

Chiu-Ki Chan

Activist/Android Developer

Chiu-Ki is an Android developer with a passion in speaking and teaching. She runs her own mobile development company, producing delightful apps such as “Monkey Write” for learning Chinese writing and ‘Heart Collage’ for snapping photos to stitch into a heart. When she is not writing apps, she can be found travelling the world, sometimes sightseeing, sometimes dispensing Android tips on stage at various tech conferences.

You can follow Chiu-Ki HERE.

]]> 1822 no EP. 79 Mentoring Series: Monique Terrell and Brande Martin https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/04/28/ep-79-mentoring-series-monique-terrell-and-brande-martin/ In this Mentorship Series episode, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Monique Terrell, a Senior Director at the College of American Pathologists and Brande Martin, a Director at Covetrus.  Monique and Brande have both been working in digital marketing before it was cool.  Maybe even dating herself, Brande thought she would “try that LinkedIn” and connected with Monique who hired her at CAP.  Their working relationship turned into friendship and they continue to learn a lot from each other sharing mutual respect.  Monique’s leadership style emphasized coaching, guiding and mentoring all of her team members but how far it goes is largely up to the individual.  With Brande, she has celebrated all of her accomplishments, first at CAP and now well beyond, and hopes to see her continue to advance and lead from the front of the room.  Brande seeks guidance from Monique because “she has my back”, their relationship being grounded in support and trust.  Does Brande always take the advice?  Usually (because it is valuable!) but shaping it to fit her unique leadership style.  Best and consistent advice from Monique – Hire strong.  And make sure you lead by pulling the best from each of your team members as that will help them pull together as a team.  Brande has taken that advice and is proud of how this has helped her develop as a leader.   Brande reminds us that when you receive, you need to pay it forward, which she does by mentoring others.  Monique tells younger women to Be Bold, Be Present and Be You!   Monique Terrell | Senior Director Annual Meeting, Events and Engagement, College of American Pathologists Monique is the first senior-most digital executive at the College of American Pathologists, the leading organization in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. At the CAP, she has led teams from 7 to 16 people across the digital, creative design, and now the Annual Meeting and Events team. She has over 15 years of experience as a digital strategy leader who works with organizations to maximize opportunities that effectively leverage technology. Through the comprehensive use of qualitative and predictive analytics, she drives brand experience, improves digital operations, and broadens revenue streams while being a catalyst for company-wide digital transformation. An effective leader and mentor who can train and motivate staff, increase productivity and retain talent. As a digitally centric executive, she specializes in the planning and implementation of digital solutions. Rounding out her expertise includes experience in user experience, technology selection, information architecture, e-commerce, web, search, email, social, video/audio, and mobile. Career Milestones: Created position of first Director of Digital Strategy for the second-largest U.S. medical association; founded one of the first dedicated social media agencies in Oklahoma City; Awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. You can follow Monique on LinkedIn.   Brande Martin | Director B2B Marketing, Content and Creative – North America, Covetrus Brande Martin is a digital content strategy, marketing and health care communications professional. Brande also is a certified master coach, specializing in leadership and wellness coaching. She is a leader focused on training and mentoring teams. Throughout her career, she has developed successful content strategy and digital marketing direction to increase sales and provide thought leadership. She is a member of the United Way, Metro Chicago, Women United board. Brande has presented at several conferences and been a guest panelist on various webinars and podcasts. She has published articles in Forbes, Ellevate Network, Medscape, and other outlets about health care, medical topics, diversity and general interest topics. Find out more about Brande by listening to her podcast: Strive, Thrive & Shine. You can follow Brande on LinkedIn. Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:02:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw In this Mentorship Series episode, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Monique Terrell, a Senior Director at the College of American Pathologists and Brande Martin, a Director at Covetrus.  Monique and Brande have both been working in digita... In this Mentorship Series episode, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Monique Terrell, a Senior Director at the College of American Pathologists and Brande Martin, a Director at Covetrus.  Monique and Brande have both been working in digital marketing before it was cool.  Maybe even dating herself, Brande thought she would “try that LinkedIn” and connected with Monique who hired her at CAP.  Their working relationship turned into friendship and they continue to learn a lot from each other sharing mutual respect.  Monique’s leadership style emphasized coaching, guiding and mentoring all of her team members but how far it goes is largely up to the individual.  With Brande, she has celebrated all of her accomplishments, first at CAP and now well beyond, and hopes to see her continue to advance and lead from the front of the room.  Brande seeks guidance from Monique because “she has my back”, their relationship being grounded in support and trust.  Does Brande always take the advice?  Usually (because it is valuable!) but shaping it to fit her unique leadership style.  Best and consistent advice from Monique – Hire strong.  And make sure you lead by pulling the best from each of your team members as that will help them pull together as a team.  Brande has taken that advice and is proud of how this has helped her develop as a leader.   Brande reminds us that when you receive, you need to pay it forward, which she does by mentoring others.  Monique tells younger women to Be Bold, Be Present and Be You!   Monique Terrell | Senior Director Annual Meeting, Events and Engagement, College of American Pathologists Monique is the first senior-most digital executive at the College of American Pathologists, the leading organization in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. At the CAP, she has led teams from 7 to 16 people across the digital, creative design, and now the Annual Meeting and Events team. She has over 15 years of experience as a digital strategy leader who works with organizations to maximize opportunities that effectively leverage technology. Through the comprehensive use of qualitative and predictive analytics, she drives brand experience, improves digital operations, and broadens revenue streams while being a catalyst for company-wide digital transformation. An effective leader and mentor who can train and motivate staff, increase productivity and retain talent. As a digitally centric executive, she specializes in the planning and implementation of digital solutions. Rounding out her expertise includes experience in user experience, technology selection, information architecture, e-commerce, web, search, email, social, video/audio, and mobile. Career Milestones: Created position of first Director of Digital Strategy for the second-largest U.S. medical association; founded one of the first dedicated social media agencies in Oklahoma City; Awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. You can follow Monique on LinkedIn.   Brande Martin | Director B2B Marketing, Content and Creative – North America, Covetrus Brande Martin is a digital content strategy, marketing and health care communications professional. Brande also is a certified master coach, specializing in leadership and wellness coaching. She is a leader focused on training and mentoring teams. Throughout her career, she has developed successful content strategy and digital marketing direction to increase sales and provide thought leadership. She is a member of the United Way, Metro Chicago, Women United board. Brande has presented at several conferences and been a guest panelist on various webinars and podcasts. She has published articles in Forbes, Ellevate Network, Medscape, and other outlets about health care, medical topics, diversity and general interest topics. Find out more about Brande by listening to her podcast: Strive, Thrive & Shine. You can follow Brande on LinkedIn.

In this Mentorship Series episode, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Monique Terrell, a Senior Director at the College of American Pathologists and Brande Martin, a Director at Covetrus.  Monique and Brande have both been working in digital marketing before it was cool.  Maybe even dating herself, Brande thought she would “try that LinkedIn” and connected with Monique who hired her at CAP.  Their working relationship turned into friendship and they continue to learn a lot from each other sharing mutual respect.  Monique’s leadership style emphasized coaching, guiding and mentoring all of her team members but how far it goes is largely up to the individual.  With Brande, she has celebrated all of her accomplishments, first at CAP and now well beyond, and hopes to see her continue to advance and lead from the front of the room.  Brande seeks guidance from Monique because “she has my back”, their relationship being grounded in support and trust.  Does Brande always take the advice?  Usually (because it is valuable!) but shaping it to fit her unique leadership style.  Best and consistent advice from Monique – Hire strong.  And make sure you lead by pulling the best from each of your team members as that will help them pull together as a team.  Brande has taken that advice and is proud of how this has helped her develop as a leader.   Brande reminds us that when you receive, you need to pay it forward, which she does by mentoring others.  Monique tells younger women to Be Bold, Be Present and Be You!

 

Monique Terrell | Senior Director Annual Meeting, Events and Engagement, College of American Pathologists

Monique is the first senior-most digital executive at the College of American Pathologists, the leading organization in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. At the CAP, she has led teams from 7 to 16 people across the digital, creative design, and now the Annual Meeting and Events team.

She has over 15 years of experience as a digital strategy leader who works with organizations to maximize opportunities that effectively leverage technology. Through the comprehensive use of qualitative and predictive analytics, she drives brand experience, improves digital operations, and broadens revenue streams while being a catalyst for company-wide digital transformation.

An effective leader and mentor who can train and motivate staff, increase productivity and retain talent. As a digitally centric executive, she specializes in the planning and implementation of digital solutions.

Rounding out her expertise includes experience in user experience, technology selection, information architecture, e-commerce, web, search, email, social, video/audio, and mobile.

Career Milestones: Created position of first Director of Digital Strategy for the second-largest U.S. medical association; founded one of the first dedicated social media agencies in Oklahoma City; Awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

You can follow Monique on LinkedIn.

 

Brande Martin | Director B2B Marketing, Content and Creative – North America, Covetrus

Brande Martin is a digital content strategy, marketing and health care communications professional. Brande also is a certified master coach, specializing in leadership and wellness coaching. She is a leader focused on training and mentoring teams. Throughout her career, she has developed successful content strategy and digital marketing direction to increase sales and provide thought leadership. She is a member of the United Way, Metro Chicago, Women United board. Brande has presented at several conferences and been a guest panelist on various webinars and podcasts. She has published articles in Forbes, Ellevate Network, Medscape, and other outlets about health care, medical topics, diversity and general interest topics. Find out more about Brande by listening to her podcast: Strive, Thrive & Shine.

You can follow Brande on LinkedIn.

]]> 1964 no EP. 78 The importance of being cheeky. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/04/25/ep-78-the-importance-of-being-cheeky/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michaela Griggs, CEO of Southern California Reproductive Center.  Over Michaela’s career, she found herself on the leadership track in a global company – this meant international work and complex assignments.  But she also found herself slipping into what she calls the “good girl syndrome” – where if you just work hard and do good work, believing that you will be noticed and rewarded.  It took being “cheeky” which meant stepping outside of the norm and directly asking for the assignments that Michaela really loved – big thorny problems that perhaps require a different point of view.  At first, she did not always get that plum assignment – but she did receive direct and actionable feedback.  Such as how to be more specific about what was important to her and how it is relevant and valuable to the corporation.  These cheeky actions led to larger assignments and responsibilities and learnings which remain important to Michaela today.  As Michaela balances the needs of growth of a high growth center with advances in technology and leading in the area of innovation, she also remains committed to her belief that a willingness to learn, continuously learn, is imperative to business growth.  And she also finds that a longer term view on career growth and the journey, to simply be more satisfying.   Michaela Griggs CEO , Southern California Reproductive Center Director, Guardion Health Sciences Michaela has over 20 years of experience at leading Pharmaceutical, Health, Wellness, and Beauty organizations, bringing to Guardion her strong marketing acumen and deep experience in consumer-driven and healthcare professional-driven markets. Most recently, she served as CEO for Southern California Reproductive Center, and prior to that was part of Barco Uniforms, Allergan, Bayer Healthcare, 3M Unitek, and Tria Beauty where she was instrumental in developing and improving brand, retail, and distribution strategies.   You can follow Michaela on LinkedIn.   Mon, 25 Apr 2022 03:00:27 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michaela Griggs, CEO of Southern California Reproductive Center.  Over Michaela’s career, she found herself on the leadership track in a global company – this meant international work and complex assignmen... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michaela Griggs, CEO of Southern California Reproductive Center.  Over Michaela’s career, she found herself on the leadership track in a global company – this meant international work and complex assignments.  But she also found herself slipping into what she calls the “good girl syndrome” – where if you just work hard and do good work, believing that you will be noticed and rewarded.  It took being “cheeky” which meant stepping outside of the norm and directly asking for the assignments that Michaela really loved – big thorny problems that perhaps require a different point of view.  At first, she did not always get that plum assignment – but she did receive direct and actionable feedback.  Such as how to be more specific about what was important to her and how it is relevant and valuable to the corporation.  These cheeky actions led to larger assignments and responsibilities and learnings which remain important to Michaela today.  As Michaela balances the needs of growth of a high growth center with advances in technology and leading in the area of innovation, she also remains committed to her belief that a willingness to learn, continuously learn, is imperative to business growth.  And she also finds that a longer term view on career growth and the journey, to simply be more satisfying.   Michaela Griggs CEO , Southern California Reproductive Center Director, Guardion Health Sciences Michaela has over 20 years of experience at leading Pharmaceutical, Health, Wellness, and Beauty organizations, bringing to Guardion her strong marketing acumen and deep experience in consumer-driven and healthcare professional-driven markets. Most recently, she served as CEO for Southern California Reproductive Center, and prior to that was part of Barco Uniforms, Allergan, Bayer Healthcare, 3M Unitek, and Tria Beauty where she was instrumental in developing and improving brand, retail, and distribution strategies.   You can follow Michaela on LinkedIn.  

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Michaela Griggs, CEO of Southern California Reproductive Center.  Over Michaela’s career, she found herself on the leadership track in a global company – this meant international work and complex assignments.  But she also found herself slipping into what she calls the “good girl syndrome” – where if you just work hard and do good work, believing that you will be noticed and rewarded.  It took being “cheeky” which meant stepping outside of the norm and directly asking for the assignments that Michaela really loved – big thorny problems that perhaps require a different point of view.  At first, she did not always get that plum assignment – but she did receive direct and actionable feedback.  Such as how to be more specific about what was important to her and how it is relevant and valuable to the corporation.  These cheeky actions led to larger assignments and responsibilities and learnings which remain important to Michaela today.  As Michaela balances the needs of growth of a high growth center with advances in technology and leading in the area of innovation, she also remains committed to her belief that a willingness to learn, continuously learn, is imperative to business growth.  And she also finds that a longer term view on career growth and the journey, to simply be more satisfying.

 

Michaela Griggs

CEO , Southern California Reproductive Center

Director, Guardion Health Sciences

Michaela has over 20 years of experience at leading Pharmaceutical, Health, Wellness, and Beauty organizations, bringing to Guardion her strong marketing acumen and deep experience in consumer-driven and healthcare professional-driven markets. Most recently, she served as CEO for Southern California Reproductive Center, and prior to that was part of Barco Uniforms, Allergan, Bayer Healthcare, 3M Unitek, and Tria Beauty where she was instrumental in developing and improving brand, retail, and distribution strategies.

 

You can follow Michaela on LinkedIn.

 

]]> 1754 no EP. 77 Mentoring Series: Helen Figge and Alexis Balingcongan https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/04/18/ep-77-mentoring-series-helen-figge-and-alexis-balingcongan/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Helen Figge and Alexis Balingcongan in this Mentoring Series episode.  Helen and Alexis are both clinicians working in the healthcare tech industry and are involved in HIMSS, serving on the New York state chapter Board (Helen is the incoming President).  Meeting there, they found mutual interest as well as admiration for each other in their different points of their career.   Helen found Alexis to be a bright “up and comer” and urged her to become more involved beyond just her current job at the time.  This relationship, which began as just casual conversations from seeing each other at events, grew to where Alexis would reach out to Helen for specific advice or coaching on specific career steps Alexis was considering.  Both view the mentor/mentee relationship as something positive for each of them and fits within their shared desire to give back to others. Helen Figge Chief Strategy Officer, MedicaSoft President Elect, HIMSS New York Award recognition for building sustainable teams with emotionally intelligent leadership using diverse skill sets; I marshal healthcare technology entities to heightened financial growth and understand the complexities associated with government standards. My professional accomplishments are transparent: leading teams with innovative strategy, product commercialization, business development, and go-to-market success. I easily launch emerging markets (e.g. startups and large publicly traded companies) to best practice and commercial success, understand the healthcare ecosystem in support of unbiased measurable data, and excel in: cloud-based FHIR standard solutions, artificial intelligence, population and behavioral health solution development, predictive analytics, and clinical workflow. I create growth and sustainability models supporting consumer centric applications for health & wellness, patient engagement, compliance, early disease detection, & evolving care model management. You can follow Helen on LinkedIn. Alexis Balingcongan Regional Connectivity Executive, Hillrom Board Member, HIMSS New York Experienced Registered Nurse with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. Skilled in Electronic Medical Record (EMR), Nursing, Critical Care, Hospitals, and Teamwork. Strong healthcare services professional graduated from New York University. You can follow Alexis on LinkedIn. Mon, 18 Apr 2022 08:50:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Helen Figge and Alexis Balingcongan in this Mentoring Series episode.  Helen and Alexis are both clinicians working in the healthcare tech industry and are involved in HIMSS, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Helen Figge and Alexis Balingcongan in this Mentoring Series episode.  Helen and Alexis are both clinicians working in the healthcare tech industry and are involved in HIMSS, serving on the New York state chapter Board (Helen is the incoming President).  Meeting there, they found mutual interest as well as admiration for each other in their different points of their career.   Helen found Alexis to be a bright “up and comer” and urged her to become more involved beyond just her current job at the time.  This relationship, which began as just casual conversations from seeing each other at events, grew to where Alexis would reach out to Helen for specific advice or coaching on specific career steps Alexis was considering.  Both view the mentor/mentee relationship as something positive for each of them and fits within their shared desire to give back to others. Helen Figge Chief Strategy Officer, MedicaSoft President Elect, HIMSS New York Award recognition for building sustainable teams with emotionally intelligent leadership using diverse skill sets; I marshal healthcare technology entities to heightened financial growth and understand the complexities associated with government standards. My professional accomplishments are transparent: leading teams with innovative strategy, product commercialization, business development, and go-to-market success. I easily launch emerging markets (e.g. startups and large publicly traded companies) to best practice and commercial success, understand the healthcare ecosystem in support of unbiased measurable data, and excel in: cloud-based FHIR standard solutions, artificial intelligence, population and behavioral health solution development, predictive analytics, and clinical workflow. I create growth and sustainability models supporting consumer centric applications for health & wellness, patient engagement, compliance, early disease detection, & evolving care model management. You can follow Helen on LinkedIn. Alexis Balingcongan Regional Connectivity Executive, Hillrom Board Member, HIMSS New York Experienced Registered Nurse with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. Skilled in Electronic Medical Record (EMR), Nursing, Critical Care, Hospitals, and Teamwork. Strong healthcare services professional graduated from New York University. You can follow Alexis on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Helen Figge and Alexis Balingcongan in this Mentoring Series episode.  Helen and Alexis are both clinicians working in the healthcare tech industry and are involved in HIMSS, serving on the New York state chapter Board (Helen is the incoming President).  Meeting there, they found mutual interest as well as admiration for each other in their different points of their career.   Helen found Alexis to be a bright “up and comer” and urged her to become more involved beyond just her current job at the time.  This relationship, which began as just casual conversations from seeing each other at events, grew to where Alexis would reach out to Helen for specific advice or coaching on specific career steps Alexis was considering.  Both view the mentor/mentee relationship as something positive for each of them and fits within their shared desire to give back to others.

Helen Figge

Chief Strategy Officer, MedicaSoft

President Elect, HIMSS New York

Award recognition for building sustainable teams with emotionally intelligent leadership using diverse skill sets; I marshal healthcare technology entities to heightened financial growth and understand the complexities associated with government standards. My professional accomplishments are transparent: leading teams with innovative strategy, product commercialization, business development, and go-to-market success. I easily launch emerging markets (e.g. startups and large publicly traded companies) to best practice and commercial success, understand the healthcare ecosystem in support of unbiased measurable data, and excel in: cloud-based FHIR standard solutions, artificial intelligence, population and behavioral health solution development, predictive analytics, and clinical workflow. I create growth and sustainability models supporting consumer centric applications for health & wellness, patient engagement, compliance, early disease detection, & evolving care model management.

You can follow Helen on LinkedIn.

Alexis Balingcongan

Regional Connectivity Executive, Hillrom

Board Member, HIMSS New York

Experienced Registered Nurse with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. Skilled in Electronic Medical Record (EMR), Nursing, Critical Care, Hospitals, and Teamwork. Strong healthcare services professional graduated from New York University.

You can follow Alexis on LinkedIn.

]]> 2004 no EP. 76 Mentoring Series: Kicking Off with Pam Pure https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/04/06/ep-76-mentoring-series-kicking-off-with-pam-pure/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Pam Pure, experienced digital health executive and CEO/CoFounder of Posterity Health.  And importantly, for many years she has also been a personal friend and mentor to me. Most successful women find help, advice and guidance from a mentor, someone who cares about you and your success and often removed from the intricacies of current work relationships.  Pam Pure has had a storied career as a leader and one of the most powerful women in healthcare.  Spanning those years of success, she also had time, or made time, to be a sounding board for career decisions or to help navigate untold number of transitions or complex work relationships.  For me, Pam has been one to push my thinking and vision of my career opportunities, often before I realized I was capable – and she wasn’t afraid to coach or point the way. In this Mentoring Series, I wanted to explore several mentor/mentee relationships – how they work, how each person benefits from the interaction.  This series is meant to inspire and encourage women of all career stages to ensure they have someone who is there for them. As we kick off this Mentoring Series, I do want to say THANK YOU PAM PURE.  For all of the advice, support, guidance and friendship throughout the years.   Pam Pure | CEO Posterity Health Pamela Pure is an experienced digital healthcare executive. She focuses on companies in high growth mode or in need of reinvention. Her tenure provides her with a unique ability to craft strategic direction and drive operational execution. She is an inspirational executive coach. Market entry and new product launch planning are key areas of expertise. Pam was actively involved in the rollout of HiTech, the Healthcare IT component of the American Recovery Act, recognized as Atlanta Woman of the Year in Technology and named one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Women in Healthcare.   You can follow Pam on LinkedIn. Wed, 06 Apr 2022 03:00:19 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Pam Pure, experienced digital health executive and CEO/CoFounder of Posterity Health.  And importantly, for many years she has also been a personal friend and mentor to me. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Pam Pure, experienced digital health executive and CEO/CoFounder of Posterity Health.  And importantly, for many years she has also been a personal friend and mentor to me. Most successful women find help, advice and guidance from a mentor, someone who cares about you and your success and often removed from the intricacies of current work relationships.  Pam Pure has had a storied career as a leader and one of the most powerful women in healthcare.  Spanning those years of success, she also had time, or made time, to be a sounding board for career decisions or to help navigate untold number of transitions or complex work relationships.  For me, Pam has been one to push my thinking and vision of my career opportunities, often before I realized I was capable – and she wasn’t afraid to coach or point the way. In this Mentoring Series, I wanted to explore several mentor/mentee relationships – how they work, how each person benefits from the interaction.  This series is meant to inspire and encourage women of all career stages to ensure they have someone who is there for them. As we kick off this Mentoring Series, I do want to say THANK YOU PAM PURE.  For all of the advice, support, guidance and friendship throughout the years.   Pam Pure | CEO Posterity Health Pamela Pure is an experienced digital healthcare executive. She focuses on companies in high growth mode or in need of reinvention. Her tenure provides her with a unique ability to craft strategic direction and drive operational execution. She is an inspirational executive coach. Market entry and new product launch planning are key areas of expertise. Pam was actively involved in the rollout of HiTech, the Healthcare IT component of the American Recovery Act, recognized as Atlanta Woman of the Year in Technology and named one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Women in Healthcare.   You can follow Pam on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Pam Pure, experienced digital health executive and CEO/CoFounder of Posterity Health.  And importantly, for many years she has also been a personal friend and mentor to me.

Most successful women find help, advice and guidance from a mentor, someone who cares about you and your success and often removed from the intricacies of current work relationships.  Pam Pure has had a storied career as a leader and one of the most powerful women in healthcare.  Spanning those years of success, she also had time, or made time, to be a sounding board for career decisions or to help navigate untold number of transitions or complex work relationships.  For me, Pam has been one to push my thinking and vision of my career opportunities, often before I realized I was capable – and she wasn’t afraid to coach or point the way.

In this Mentoring Series, I wanted to explore several mentor/mentee relationships – how they work, how each person benefits from the interaction.  This series is meant to inspire and encourage women of all career stages to ensure they have someone who is there for them.

As we kick off this Mentoring Series, I do want to say THANK YOU PAM PURE.  For all of the advice, support, guidance and friendship throughout the years.

 

Pam Pure | CEO Posterity Health

Pamela Pure is an experienced digital healthcare executive. She focuses on companies in high growth mode or in need of reinvention.

Her tenure provides her with a unique ability to craft strategic direction and drive operational execution. She is an inspirational executive coach. Market entry and new product launch planning are key areas of expertise.

Pam was actively involved in the rollout of HiTech, the Healthcare IT component of the American Recovery Act, recognized as Atlanta Woman of the Year in Technology and named one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Women in Healthcare.

 

You can follow Pam on LinkedIn.

]]> 1693 no EP. 75 Sage advice from Dr. Cheryl Rucker Whitaker: Get involved, join your professional society, and be expert. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/03/30/ep-75-sage-advice-from-dr-cheryl-rucker-whitaker-get-involved-join-your-professional-society-and-be-expert/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker, CEO of Complete Care Management Partners.  Dr. Whitaker is used to breaking new ground, focusing on care management before care management was cool; focusing on solving the problems by focusing at the root cause.  Understanding data and the financing of healthcare came with an awareness that was just appalling to Dr. Whitaker – health disparities were evident long before the pandemic and she has made it her life’s work to address them.  This includes meeting people where they are like the southside of Chicago.  Yes, of course, as an African American physician she has had many people who did not believe she was capable or qualified and the subtle shade or disrespectful comments are more numerous than she can count.  Guess what?  Dr. Whitaker knows what she is talking about, she has done her homework, and feels it is important to do the work to become expert.  Her advice for women?  Get involved, join your professional societies, and work at being expert in your field. Dr. Cheryl Whitaker is a practicing entrepreneur in search of innovative solutions for underserved communities and economic inclusion for such business. She is currently CEO of Complete Care Management Partners LLC, a delegate care management entity providing care management for the most difficult to reach members. She is a senior medical advisor to MyBexa, an innovative breast screening technology, a member of the board of directors of Equality Health, a consultant to Health2047, Inc., and a member of the Hyde Park Angels. She was Founding Chairman and CEO of NextLevel Health, a medicaid health insurance company dedicated to helping underserved populations access and manage Medicaid services. At the time, they were only 1 of 2 Black owned medicaid companies in the United States. This innovative for-profit company used a rigorous population health data-analytics approach to help coordinate extensive patient services provided through a geographically co-located Culturally Competent Care Management Team model. Her expertise includes executive management, building and leading high performing teams, change management, organizational transformation, leveraging IT to transform practice. From 2011-2013, she served as the inaugural chairman of the Illinois Health Information Exchange Authority, where she guided the State’s effort to create secure data exchange for health information. From 2009 to 2011, she worked as a Senior Program Officer for the Chicago Community Trust, overseeing strategy for all health-related grants—including efforts related to healthcare reform and the health information exchange. She also served as a faculty member at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Whitaker earned a medical degree at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard School of Public Health. She completed her clinical training in internal medicine at Stanford University and University of California San Francisco, and a fellowship in health services research at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. She is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Fellow of the Institute of Medicine Chicago, The Chicago Network, The Economic Club of Chicago, Women Business Leaders of the US Healthcare System, and Founding Member of Chief. You can follow Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker on LinkedIn. Wed, 30 Mar 2022 14:23:24 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker, CEO of Complete Care Management Partners.  Dr. Whitaker is used to breaking new ground, focusing on care management before care management was cool; focusing on solving the prob... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker, CEO of Complete Care Management Partners.  Dr. Whitaker is used to breaking new ground, focusing on care management before care management was cool; focusing on solving the problems by focusing at the root cause.  Understanding data and the financing of healthcare came with an awareness that was just appalling to Dr. Whitaker – health disparities were evident long before the pandemic and she has made it her life’s work to address them.  This includes meeting people where they are like the southside of Chicago.  Yes, of course, as an African American physician she has had many people who did not believe she was capable or qualified and the subtle shade or disrespectful comments are more numerous than she can count.  Guess what?  Dr. Whitaker knows what she is talking about, she has done her homework, and feels it is important to do the work to become expert.  Her advice for women?  Get involved, join your professional societies, and work at being expert in your field. Dr. Cheryl Whitaker is a practicing entrepreneur in search of innovative solutions for underserved communities and economic inclusion for such business. She is currently CEO of Complete Care Management Partners LLC, a delegate care management entity providing care management for the most difficult to reach members. She is a senior medical advisor to MyBexa, an innovative breast screening technology, a member of the board of directors of Equality Health, a consultant to Health2047, Inc., and a member of the Hyde Park Angels. She was Founding Chairman and CEO of NextLevel Health, a medicaid health insurance company dedicated to helping underserved populations access and manage Medicaid services. At the time, they were only 1 of 2 Black owned medicaid companies in the United States. This innovative for-profit company used a rigorous population health data-analytics approach to help coordinate extensive patient services provided through a geographically co-located Culturally Competent Care Management Team model. Her expertise includes executive management, building and leading high performing teams, change management, organizational transformation, leveraging IT to transform practice. From 2011-2013, she served as the inaugural chairman of the Illinois Health Information Exchange Authority, where she guided the State’s effort to create secure data exchange for health information. From 2009 to 2011, she worked as a Senior Program Officer for the Chicago Community Trust, overseeing strategy for all health-related grants—including efforts related to healthcare reform and the health information exchange. She also served as a faculty member at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Whitaker earned a medical degree at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard School of Public Health. She completed her clinical training in internal medicine at Stanford University and University of California San Francisco, and a fellowship in health services research at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. She is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Fellow of the Institute of Medicine Chicago, The Chicago Network, The Economic Club of Chicago, Women Business Leaders of the US Healthcare System, and Founding Member of Chief. You can follow Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker, CEO of Complete Care Management Partners.  Dr. Whitaker is used to breaking new ground, focusing on care management before care management was cool; focusing on solving the problems by focusing at the root cause.  Understanding data and the financing of healthcare came with an awareness that was just appalling to Dr. Whitaker – health disparities were evident long before the pandemic and she has made it her life’s work to address them.  This includes meeting people where they are like the southside of Chicago.  Yes, of course, as an African American physician she has had many people who did not believe she was capable or qualified and the subtle shade or disrespectful comments are more numerous than she can count.  Guess what?  Dr. Whitaker knows what she is talking about, she has done her homework, and feels it is important to do the work to become expert.  Her advice for women?  Get involved, join your professional societies, and work at being expert in your field.

Dr. Cheryl Whitaker is a practicing entrepreneur in search of innovative solutions for underserved communities and economic inclusion for such business. She is currently CEO of Complete Care Management Partners LLC, a delegate care management entity providing care management for the most difficult to reach members. She is a senior medical advisor to MyBexa, an innovative breast screening technology, a member of the board of directors of Equality Health, a consultant to Health2047, Inc., and a member of the Hyde Park Angels.

She was Founding Chairman and CEO of NextLevel Health, a medicaid health insurance company dedicated to helping underserved populations access and manage Medicaid services. At the time, they were only 1 of 2 Black owned medicaid companies in the United States. This innovative for-profit company used a rigorous population health data-analytics approach to help coordinate extensive patient services provided through a geographically co-located Culturally Competent Care Management Team model.

Her expertise includes executive management, building and leading high performing teams, change management, organizational transformation, leveraging IT to transform practice.

From 2011-2013, she served as the inaugural chairman of the Illinois Health Information Exchange Authority, where she guided the State’s effort to create secure data exchange for health information. From 2009 to 2011, she worked as a Senior Program Officer for the Chicago Community Trust, overseeing strategy for all health-related grants—including efforts related to healthcare reform and the health information exchange. She also served as a faculty member at Rush University Medical Center.

Dr. Whitaker earned a medical degree at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard School of Public Health. She completed her clinical training in internal medicine at Stanford University and University of California San Francisco, and a fellowship in health services research at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. She is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Fellow of the Institute of Medicine Chicago, The Chicago Network, The Economic Club of Chicago, Women Business Leaders of the US Healthcare System, and Founding Member of Chief.

You can follow Dr. Cheryl Rucker-Whitaker on LinkedIn.

]]> 1724 no EP. 74 So many questions!!!!! Curiosity can indeed be your superpower. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/03/28/ep-74-so-many-questions-curiosity-can-indeed-be-your-superpower/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sara Sweat, Head of Customer Success of Incredible Health, a new type of staffing company focused on nursing.  Sara talks about how her background in in high growth health tech companies prepared her for her current role and how her personal work as a mental health advocate and counselor inspires her to address some of the larger macro issues of workforce burnout.  Where does her confidence come from?  Well. Singing for one.  “If you can sing in front of 200 people, you can speak to 5 in a boardroom.”  Sara notes that people describe her as “borderline annoying” with her niceness and questions, but she has found curiousity to be her effective way of learning, growing, and becoming the leader that she is today.   Sara Sweat, MA | HEAD OF CUSTOMER SUCCESS Sara believes in the power of relationships. Bringing nearly 20 years of experience in healthcare technology to her role at Incredible Health, Sara has spent her career successfully leading sales, performance coaching, and client management teams – across Payer, Provider, and Channel Partner segments. She values authenticity, collaboration, and creativity and has leveraged those skills in her previous roles at companies like Teladoc Health and Change Healthcare. Sara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance and a Masters in Counseling and is an active advocate of mental health in her local community. She believes strongly in the mission of our organization and is honored to be part of Incredible Health.   You can follow Sara on LinkedIn. Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:59:14 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sara Sweat, Head of Customer Success of Incredible Health, a new type of staffing company focused on nursing.  Sara talks about how her background in in high growth health tech companies prepared her for h... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sara Sweat, Head of Customer Success of Incredible Health, a new type of staffing company focused on nursing.  Sara talks about how her background in in high growth health tech companies prepared her for her current role and how her personal work as a mental health advocate and counselor inspires her to address some of the larger macro issues of workforce burnout.  Where does her confidence come from?  Well. Singing for one.  “If you can sing in front of 200 people, you can speak to 5 in a boardroom.”  Sara notes that people describe her as “borderline annoying” with her niceness and questions, but she has found curiousity to be her effective way of learning, growing, and becoming the leader that she is today.   Sara Sweat, MA | HEAD OF CUSTOMER SUCCESS Sara believes in the power of relationships. Bringing nearly 20 years of experience in healthcare technology to her role at Incredible Health, Sara has spent her career successfully leading sales, performance coaching, and client management teams – across Payer, Provider, and Channel Partner segments. She values authenticity, collaboration, and creativity and has leveraged those skills in her previous roles at companies like Teladoc Health and Change Healthcare. Sara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance and a Masters in Counseling and is an active advocate of mental health in her local community. She believes strongly in the mission of our organization and is honored to be part of Incredible Health.   You can follow Sara on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sara Sweat, Head of Customer Success of Incredible Health, a new type of staffing company focused on nursing.  Sara talks about how her background in in high growth health tech companies prepared her for her current role and how her personal work as a mental health advocate and counselor inspires her to address some of the larger macro issues of workforce burnout.  Where does her confidence come from?  Well. Singing for one.  “If you can sing in front of 200 people, you can speak to 5 in a boardroom.”  Sara notes that people describe her as “borderline annoying” with her niceness and questions, but she has found curiousity to be her effective way of learning, growing, and becoming the leader that she is today.

 

Sara Sweat, MA | HEAD OF CUSTOMER SUCCESS

Sara believes in the power of relationships.

Bringing nearly 20 years of experience in healthcare technology to her role at Incredible Health, Sara has spent her career successfully leading sales, performance coaching, and client management teams – across Payer, Provider, and Channel Partner segments. She values authenticity, collaboration, and creativity and has leveraged those skills in her previous roles at companies like Teladoc Health and Change Healthcare.

Sara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance and a Masters in Counseling and is an active advocate of mental health in her local community. She believes strongly in the mission of our organization and is honored to be part of Incredible Health.

 

You can follow Sara on LinkedIn.

]]> 1575 no EP. 73 Move fast. Sure. But DO NOT break things. This is patient care. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/03/22/ep-73-move-fast-sure-but-do-not-break-things-this-is-patient-care/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lucia Huang, CEO and CoFounder of Osmind, a company focused on the future of mental health with an EHR as well as an engagement and outcomes platform.  Lucia is committed to rapid growth but not at all costs.  Silicon valley may be great for innovation but move fast and break things simply does not apply here when dealing with patients and patient care.  Lucia talks about how she and her co-founder came up with the idea for Osmind as well as how they are using data to transform the future of mental health. Lucia is co-founder and CEO of Osmind. Prior to Osmind, she led business and operations at Verge Genomics, invested in innovative healthcare technology companies at Warburg Pincus, and advised life sciences companies in investment banking. Lucia graduated Yale with a B.S. in Chemistry and earned an MBA at Stanford. Lucia is passionate about mental health and has devoted her career to improving healthcare, from life sciences to new technology innovation. She has been named to Forbes 30 under 30 for her innovative work in healthcare. You can follow Lucia on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Tue, 22 Mar 2022 00:24:45 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lucia Huang, CEO and CoFounder of Osmind, a company focused on the future of mental health with an EHR as well as an engagement and outcomes platform.  Lucia is committed to rapid growth but not at all cos... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lucia Huang, CEO and CoFounder of Osmind, a company focused on the future of mental health with an EHR as well as an engagement and outcomes platform.  Lucia is committed to rapid growth but not at all costs.  Silicon valley may be great for innovation but move fast and break things simply does not apply here when dealing with patients and patient care.  Lucia talks about how she and her co-founder came up with the idea for Osmind as well as how they are using data to transform the future of mental health. Lucia is co-founder and CEO of Osmind. Prior to Osmind, she led business and operations at Verge Genomics, invested in innovative healthcare technology companies at Warburg Pincus, and advised life sciences companies in investment banking. Lucia graduated Yale with a B.S. in Chemistry and earned an MBA at Stanford. Lucia is passionate about mental health and has devoted her career to improving healthcare, from life sciences to new technology innovation. She has been named to Forbes 30 under 30 for her innovative work in healthcare. You can follow Lucia on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lucia Huang, CEO and CoFounder of Osmind, a company focused on the future of mental health with an EHR as well as an engagement and outcomes platform.  Lucia is committed to rapid growth but not at all costs.  Silicon valley may be great for innovation but move fast and break things simply does not apply here when dealing with patients and patient care.  Lucia talks about how she and her co-founder came up with the idea for Osmind as well as how they are using data to transform the future of mental health.

Lucia is co-founder and CEO of Osmind. Prior to Osmind, she led business and operations at Verge Genomics, invested in innovative healthcare technology companies at Warburg Pincus, and advised life sciences companies in investment banking. Lucia graduated Yale with a B.S. in Chemistry and earned an MBA at Stanford. Lucia is passionate about mental health and has devoted her career to improving healthcare, from life sciences to new technology innovation. She has been named to Forbes 30 under 30 for her innovative work in healthcare.

You can follow Lucia on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1296 no EP. 72 On what’s next with Dr. Jenny Schneider https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/03/07/ep-72-on-whats-next-with-dr-jenny-schneider/ IW-LM Jenny Schneider RD1 Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jennifer Schneider, CEO and CoFounder of Homeward, a company focused on “re-architecting care delivery in markets for people who do not have quality care starting in rural markets”. Jenny talks about her new venture which fits her familiar model of picking a problem that matters, clearly describing and demonstrating economic value, and the importance of building your team.  She doesn’t like the term work life balance.  For Jenny, it’s all just life and she tells us that you really can have it all, you just can’t have it all at the same time.  Taking a break after having led at Livongo was important to Jenny.  She knows that for many women, FOMO (fear of missing out) can be an issue, that thought of …if I am not doing it right now, they will forget about me…which she views as a false narrative.  Jenny’s best advice for younger women is to “bet on yourself”.  Someone is getting that best seat at the table, and she suggests that young women ask for it. Prior to Homeward, Dr. Jennifer Schneider, M.D., M.S., was the Chief Medical Officer and President at Livongo, and oversaw the strategic, technical and clinical direction of the company. During her final year at Livongo, Dr. Schneider was instrumental in leading the company through the largest consumer digital health IPO in history, a secondary offering and a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, in addition to the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Currently, Dr. Schneider is on the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition, Board of the Revolution Healthcare Acquisition, Board of Cityblock Health, and CEO/Co-Founder of Welina Care.  Dr. Schneider has been honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and Fierce Healthcare as Women of Influence for her work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion.   You can follow Dr. Jennifer Schneider on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:54:01 -0000 full Laurie McGraw IW-LM Jenny Schneider RD1 Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jennifer Schneider, CEO and CoFounder of Homeward, a company focused on “re-architecting care delivery in markets for people who do not have quality care starting in rural mar... IW-LM Jenny Schneider RD1 Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jennifer Schneider, CEO and CoFounder of Homeward, a company focused on “re-architecting care delivery in markets for people who do not have quality care starting in rural markets”. Jenny talks about her new venture which fits her familiar model of picking a problem that matters, clearly describing and demonstrating economic value, and the importance of building your team.  She doesn’t like the term work life balance.  For Jenny, it’s all just life and she tells us that you really can have it all, you just can’t have it all at the same time.  Taking a break after having led at Livongo was important to Jenny.  She knows that for many women, FOMO (fear of missing out) can be an issue, that thought of …if I am not doing it right now, they will forget about me…which she views as a false narrative.  Jenny’s best advice for younger women is to “bet on yourself”.  Someone is getting that best seat at the table, and she suggests that young women ask for it. Prior to Homeward, Dr. Jennifer Schneider, M.D., M.S., was the Chief Medical Officer and President at Livongo, and oversaw the strategic, technical and clinical direction of the company. During her final year at Livongo, Dr. Schneider was instrumental in leading the company through the largest consumer digital health IPO in history, a secondary offering and a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, in addition to the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Currently, Dr. Schneider is on the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition, Board of the Revolution Healthcare Acquisition, Board of Cityblock Health, and CEO/Co-Founder of Welina Care.  Dr. Schneider has been honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and Fierce Healthcare as Women of Influence for her work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion.   You can follow Dr. Jennifer Schneider on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

IW-LM Jenny Schneider RD1

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Jennifer Schneider, CEO and CoFounder of Homeward, a company focused on “re-architecting care delivery in markets for people who do not have quality care starting in rural markets”. Jenny talks about her new venture which fits her familiar model of picking a problem that matters, clearly describing and demonstrating economic value, and the importance of building your team.  She doesn’t like the term work life balance.  For Jenny, it’s all just life and she tells us that you really can have it all, you just can’t have it all at the same time.  Taking a break after having led at Livongo was important to Jenny.  She knows that for many women, FOMO (fear of missing out) can be an issue, that thought of …if I am not doing it right now, they will forget about me…which she views as a false narrative.  Jenny’s best advice for younger women is to “bet on yourself”.  Someone is getting that best seat at the table, and she suggests that young women ask for it.

Prior to Homeward, Dr. Jennifer Schneider, M.D., M.S., was the Chief Medical Officer and President at Livongo, and oversaw the strategic, technical and clinical direction of the company. During her final year at Livongo, Dr. Schneider was instrumental in leading the company through the largest consumer digital health IPO in history, a secondary offering and a convertible debt offering that raised over $540 million, in addition to the industry’s largest merger ever between Livongo and Teladoc Health, valuing Livongo at $18.5 billion and beginning a new era of consumer centric virtual care. Currently, Dr. Schneider is on the Board of the Health Assurance Acquisition, Board of the Revolution Healthcare Acquisition, Board of Cityblock Health, and CEO/Co-Founder of Welina Care.  Dr. Schneider has been honored by Modern Healthcare as one of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives and Fierce Healthcare as Women of Influence for her work empowering women and modeling diversity and inclusion.

 

You can follow Dr. Jennifer Schneider on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1490 no EP. 71 Resolving challenges: Focus on the human side https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/03/03/ep-71-resolving-challenges-focus-on-the-human-side/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Patrice Wolfe, CEO of AGS Health, a global revenue cycle technology, analytics and services company.  Patrice was only a few months in at AGS before the pandemic hit and talks about how she worked with her ~10,000 employee workforce, mostly based in India, while still serving the needs of her clients.  Challenges certainly yet she also finds that she has been able to attract many more women to leadership by offering flexibility.  Creating opportunities for women to grow into leadership is important to Patrice.  This means providing networking opportunities and giving opportunities to manage a P&L, even if it is a just a sliver of the larger project.  While Patrice loves the complexity of healthcare, she really enjoys taking the complexity out… “it just shouldn’t be this hard!”.  She also spends a lot of time with young female founders and finds the enthusiasm and innovative ideas bring her a lot of energy, recognizing that not all the companies work out, and while she applauds all the successes, she also enjoys helping founders work through the needed company pivots.  Patrice provides frank advice for how to deal with leadership challenges which are not always all “unicorns and rainbows” and advises all leaders to remember the importance of the human side of leadership.  Treat people with dignity is just some of her sage advice on this Inspiring Women episode. Patrice describes herself as a high-energy, visionary CEO with a focus on transforming companies for maximum success. I am a strategist and operator who combines keen analytical mindset with willingness to roll up my sleeves and get things done without losing sight of long-term business goals. I am known as a passionate mentor and collaborative leader adept at setting high standards, capable of building and unifying great teams committed to excellence. A versatile business executive, I bring 30 years of healthcare industry experience serving payers, providers, employers, federal/state government agencies, and pharmacy/device manufacturers. You can follow Patrice on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Thu, 03 Mar 2022 04:00:23 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Patrice Wolfe, CEO of AGS Health, a global revenue cycle technology, analytics and services company.  Patrice was only a few months in at AGS before the pandemic hit and talks about how she worked with her... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Patrice Wolfe, CEO of AGS Health, a global revenue cycle technology, analytics and services company.  Patrice was only a few months in at AGS before the pandemic hit and talks about how she worked with her ~10,000 employee workforce, mostly based in India, while still serving the needs of her clients.  Challenges certainly yet she also finds that she has been able to attract many more women to leadership by offering flexibility.  Creating opportunities for women to grow into leadership is important to Patrice.  This means providing networking opportunities and giving opportunities to manage a P&L, even if it is a just a sliver of the larger project.  While Patrice loves the complexity of healthcare, she really enjoys taking the complexity out… “it just shouldn’t be this hard!”.  She also spends a lot of time with young female founders and finds the enthusiasm and innovative ideas bring her a lot of energy, recognizing that not all the companies work out, and while she applauds all the successes, she also enjoys helping founders work through the needed company pivots.  Patrice provides frank advice for how to deal with leadership challenges which are not always all “unicorns and rainbows” and advises all leaders to remember the importance of the human side of leadership.  Treat people with dignity is just some of her sage advice on this Inspiring Women episode. Patrice describes herself as a high-energy, visionary CEO with a focus on transforming companies for maximum success. I am a strategist and operator who combines keen analytical mindset with willingness to roll up my sleeves and get things done without losing sight of long-term business goals. I am known as a passionate mentor and collaborative leader adept at setting high standards, capable of building and unifying great teams committed to excellence. A versatile business executive, I bring 30 years of healthcare industry experience serving payers, providers, employers, federal/state government agencies, and pharmacy/device manufacturers. You can follow Patrice on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Patrice Wolfe, CEO of AGS Health, a global revenue cycle technology, analytics and services company.  Patrice was only a few months in at AGS before the pandemic hit and talks about how she worked with her ~10,000 employee workforce, mostly based in India, while still serving the needs of her clients.  Challenges certainly yet she also finds that she has been able to attract many more women to leadership by offering flexibility.  Creating opportunities for women to grow into leadership is important to Patrice.  This means providing networking opportunities and giving opportunities to manage a P&L, even if it is a just a sliver of the larger project.  While Patrice loves the complexity of healthcare, she really enjoys taking the complexity out… “it just shouldn’t be this hard!”.  She also spends a lot of time with young female founders and finds the enthusiasm and innovative ideas bring her a lot of energy, recognizing that not all the companies work out, and while she applauds all the successes, she also enjoys helping founders work through the needed company pivots.  Patrice provides frank advice for how to deal with leadership challenges which are not always all “unicorns and rainbows” and advises all leaders to remember the importance of the human side of leadership.  Treat people with dignity is just some of her sage advice on this Inspiring Women episode.

Patrice describes herself as a high-energy, visionary CEO with a focus on transforming companies for maximum success. I am a strategist and operator who combines keen analytical mindset with willingness to roll up my sleeves and get things done without losing sight of long-term business goals. I am known as a passionate mentor and collaborative leader adept at setting high standards, capable of building and unifying great teams committed to excellence. A versatile business executive, I bring 30 years of healthcare industry experience serving payers, providers, employers, federal/state government agencies, and pharmacy/device manufacturers.

You can follow Patrice on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1664 no EP. 70 “Use this year to manifest greatness.” https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/02/28/ep-70-use-this-year-to-manifest-greatness/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya, a healthcare leader over a network of community health centers. In addition to her work serving the population needs of underserved individuals and families, Kelli is very focused on supporting women in their own personal development as leaders.  Her own leadership journey started with the confidence building that came from programs like 4-H and later public speaking while working as a consultant.  Key life moments like becoming a mother were times when Kelli needed to re-assess what was most important to her as a professional but also in finding joy in her own life.  Today she is building out workforce pipeline programs for future leaders, while still finding time to teach university courses, and starting her own life coaching business.  These pandemic years have taken their toll on all of us but Kelli wants us all to use this year, 2022, to manifest greatness, through growth, life balance, and leadership. Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya currently serves as the COO of STRIDE Community Health Center. With over 18 locations, STRIDE provides community and refugee medical, dental, mental health, substance abuse, pharmacy, and community-based services, including case management, outreach to the homeless, adolescent services, health education, and maternal child health to the more than 57,000 underserved, uninsured and working individuals and families Kelli believes that access to physical, mental, and emotional wellness are foundational for an equitable and productive society. Kelli is committed to using a systems-thinking approach to spark transformational change, foster operational excellence. Prior to her current role, Kelli was a Client Executive for Optum, a division of UnitedHealthcare Group. In this role, Kelli partnered with national primary care and specialty medical group leaders to improve chronic care management through risk adjustment strategies including patient activation, telehealth integration, point of care technology optimization, and medical group governance. Kelli’s leadership initiatives also include EHR interoperability for leading provider groups including the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. While at PwC, Kelli supported the planning and activation of new medical facilities and provided program management for the Sierra Leone Trial to Introduce a Vaccine against Ebola (STRIVE), a collaborative Phase 3 clinical trial between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation. Kelli earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a Master of Health Administration degree from The Ohio State University College of Public Health. Internationally, she has studied and worked in South Africa, Costa Rica, Ghana, Liberia, and Ethiopia. With more than 18+ years of experience, Kelli is the Owner and Founder of Kelli Ogunsanya Coaching where she shares her business expertise with high performing women who are looking for life clarity, purpose, and renewed confidence. Get immediate access to Kelli: Gain insights via her podcast “She Needs a Life Coach with Kelli Ogunsanya” https://anchor.fm/sheneedsalifecoach Book your first FREE 30-minute BREAKTHROUGH CALL with Kelli at www.kelliogunsanyacoaching.com Get Kelli’s book “Madame Millennial” at www.barnesandnoble.com You can follow Kelli on LinkedIn Read the transcript here. Mon, 28 Feb 2022 04:00:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya, a healthcare leader over a network of community health centers. In addition to her work serving the population needs of underserved individuals and families, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya, a healthcare leader over a network of community health centers. In addition to her work serving the population needs of underserved individuals and families, Kelli is very focused on supporting women in their own personal development as leaders.  Her own leadership journey started with the confidence building that came from programs like 4-H and later public speaking while working as a consultant.  Key life moments like becoming a mother were times when Kelli needed to re-assess what was most important to her as a professional but also in finding joy in her own life.  Today she is building out workforce pipeline programs for future leaders, while still finding time to teach university courses, and starting her own life coaching business.  These pandemic years have taken their toll on all of us but Kelli wants us all to use this year, 2022, to manifest greatness, through growth, life balance, and leadership. Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya currently serves as the COO of STRIDE Community Health Center. With over 18 locations, STRIDE provides community and refugee medical, dental, mental health, substance abuse, pharmacy, and community-based services, including case management, outreach to the homeless, adolescent services, health education, and maternal child health to the more than 57,000 underserved, uninsured and working individuals and families Kelli believes that access to physical, mental, and emotional wellness are foundational for an equitable and productive society. Kelli is committed to using a systems-thinking approach to spark transformational change, foster operational excellence. Prior to her current role, Kelli was a Client Executive for Optum, a division of UnitedHealthcare Group. In this role, Kelli partnered with national primary care and specialty medical group leaders to improve chronic care management through risk adjustment strategies including patient activation, telehealth integration, point of care technology optimization, and medical group governance. Kelli’s leadership initiatives also include EHR interoperability for leading provider groups including the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. While at PwC, Kelli supported the planning and activation of new medical facilities and provided program management for the Sierra Leone Trial to Introduce a Vaccine against Ebola (STRIVE), a collaborative Phase 3 clinical trial between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation. Kelli earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a Master of Health Administration degree from The Ohio State University College of Public Health. Internationally, she has studied and worked in South Africa, Costa Rica, Ghana, Liberia, and Ethiopia. With more than 18+ years of experience, Kelli is the Owner and Founder of Kelli Ogunsanya Coaching where she shares her business expertise with high performing women who are looking for life clarity, purpose, and renewed confidence. Get immediate access to Kelli: Gain insights via her podcast “She Needs a Life Coach with Kelli Ogunsanya” https://anchor.fm/sheneedsalifecoach Book your first FREE 30-minute BREAKTHROUGH CALL with Kelli at www.kelliogunsanyacoaching.com Get Kelli’s book “Madame Millennial” at www.barnesandnoble.com You can follow Kelli on LinkedIn Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya, a healthcare leader over a network of community health centers. In addition to her work serving the population needs of underserved individuals and families, Kelli is very focused on supporting women in their own personal development as leaders.  Her own leadership journey started with the confidence building that came from programs like 4-H and later public speaking while working as a consultant.  Key life moments like becoming a mother were times when Kelli needed to re-assess what was most important to her as a professional but also in finding joy in her own life.  Today she is building out workforce pipeline programs for future leaders, while still finding time to teach university courses, and starting her own life coaching business.  These pandemic years have taken their toll on all of us but Kelli wants us all to use this year, 2022, to manifest greatness, through growth, life balance, and leadership.

Kelli Clifton Ogunsanya currently serves as the COO of STRIDE Community Health Center. With over 18 locations, STRIDE provides community and refugee medical, dental, mental health, substance abuse, pharmacy, and community-based services, including case management, outreach to the homeless, adolescent services, health education, and maternal child health to the more than 57,000 underserved, uninsured and working individuals and families

Kelli believes that access to physical, mental, and emotional wellness are foundational for an equitable and productive society. Kelli is committed to using a systems-thinking approach to spark transformational change, foster operational excellence.

Prior to her current role, Kelli was a Client Executive for Optum, a division of UnitedHealthcare Group. In this role, Kelli partnered with national primary care and specialty medical group leaders to improve chronic care management through risk adjustment strategies including patient activation, telehealth integration, point of care technology optimization, and medical group governance.

Kelli’s leadership initiatives also include EHR interoperability for leading provider groups including the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. While at PwC, Kelli supported the planning and activation of new medical facilities and provided program management for the Sierra Leone Trial to Introduce a Vaccine against Ebola (STRIVE), a collaborative Phase 3 clinical trial between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation.

Kelli earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a Master of Health Administration degree from The Ohio State University College of Public Health. Internationally, she has studied and worked in South Africa, Costa Rica, Ghana, Liberia, and Ethiopia.

With more than 18+ years of experience, Kelli is the Owner and Founder of Kelli Ogunsanya Coaching where she shares her business expertise with high performing women who are looking for life clarity, purpose, and renewed confidence.

Get immediate access to Kelli:
Gain insights via her podcast “She Needs a Life Coach with Kelli Ogunsanya” https://anchor.fm/sheneedsalifecoach
Book your first FREE 30-minute BREAKTHROUGH CALL with Kelli at www.kelliogunsanyacoaching.com
Get Kelli’s book “Madame Millennial” at www.barnesandnoble.com

You can follow Kelli on LinkedIn

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1361 no EP. 69 Facts are facts. If you led it, managed it, did it….. Own it! https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/02/07/ep-69-facts-are-facts-if-you-led-it-managed-it-did-it-own-it/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Rangel, CEO and Founder of Chameleon Resumes.  During this time of great workforce shifts, Lisa has advice for how to be noticed and not forgotten and talks about why it is so important to keep building your network at any stage of your career.  She finds that the more senior someone becomes, they often are surprised when they have to advocate for themselves v being pulled into that next higher level position.  Terrific advice and wisdom for anyone wishing to advance in their career.   Executive resume writing services for game-changing executives. We position you as the candidate to hire for your next 6- or 7-figure role using our 4-stage M.E.T.A. Job Landing System. #joblanding As top executive resume writers, we have direct expertise hiring executive talent and navigating economic cycles successfully. As an accomplished executive, you want to hire a recruiter-endorsed executive resume writing service who reverse-engineers the hiring process to get hired faster! Our team has 110+ LinkedIn recommendations from clients landing jobs since we draw from 80+ years as successful executive recruiters, 12+ resume/HR certifications and senior-level job landing success in 88 countries. Schedule a chat to learn how our M.E.T.A. job landing system can help you ► http://chameleonresumes.com/contact-us Executives get hired faster using visually-compelling executive resumes, keyword-optimized LinkedIn profiles and recruiter-designed job landing plans for today’s economic climate. Companies hire game changers because the game has changed. Executives are getting hired by essential companies, forward-thinking firms and organizations who ethically capitalize on the opportunity this economy has created. Be prepared. Now is the time to bring in the most experienced job landing consulting team for your job search. Check out our LinkedIn Recommendations and testimonials (http://chameleonresumes.com/testimonials/) showing our long success track record to date. We have succeeded in 3 economic cycles and know what executive job seekers need to do to succeed in landing their next role. ■ AUTHOR of The Definitive Guide To Executive Resume Writing. Free copy here: https://chameleonresumes.com/writing-your-executive-resume-this-year/ ■ FORBES TOP 100 CAREER WEBSITE | Forbes Coaches Council ■ HIRED BY LINKEDIN for 8 years as a Moderator Expert ■ RECRUITER-ENDORSED RESUMES that land COO, CFO, CIO, CEO & CMO interviews http://chameleonresumes.com/recruiter-reviews ■ GLOBAL EXECUTIVE RESUME EXPERT – Cited 180x in publications like Fortune, Fast Company, Newsweek, Time Money, CIO, CNBC, Investor’s Business Daily, BBC, Crain’s NY, Chicago Tribune, Good Morning America & more. Executive Resume Writer | LinkedIn Profile Writer | CEO Executive Resume Writer | CFO Executive Resume Writer | COO Executive Resume Writer | CMO Executive Resume Writer | CIO Executive Resume Writer | Supply Chain Resume Writer | Sales & Marketing Resume Writer | Retail Resume Writer | Pharmaceutical Resume Writer | Manufacturing Resume Writer | Finance Resume Writer   You can follow Lisa on LinkedIn Read the transcript here. Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:46:06 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Rangel, CEO and Founder of Chameleon Resumes.  During this time of great workforce shifts, Lisa has advice for how to be noticed and not forgotten and talks about why it is so important to keep buildi... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Rangel, CEO and Founder of Chameleon Resumes.  During this time of great workforce shifts, Lisa has advice for how to be noticed and not forgotten and talks about why it is so important to keep building your network at any stage of your career.  She finds that the more senior someone becomes, they often are surprised when they have to advocate for themselves v being pulled into that next higher level position.  Terrific advice and wisdom for anyone wishing to advance in their career.   Executive resume writing services for game-changing executives. We position you as the candidate to hire for your next 6- or 7-figure role using our 4-stage M.E.T.A. Job Landing System. #joblanding As top executive resume writers, we have direct expertise hiring executive talent and navigating economic cycles successfully. As an accomplished executive, you want to hire a recruiter-endorsed executive resume writing service who reverse-engineers the hiring process to get hired faster! Our team has 110+ LinkedIn recommendations from clients landing jobs since we draw from 80+ years as successful executive recruiters, 12+ resume/HR certifications and senior-level job landing success in 88 countries. Schedule a chat to learn how our M.E.T.A. job landing system can help you ► http://chameleonresumes.com/contact-us Executives get hired faster using visually-compelling executive resumes, keyword-optimized LinkedIn profiles and recruiter-designed job landing plans for today’s economic climate. Companies hire game changers because the game has changed. Executives are getting hired by essential companies, forward-thinking firms and organizations who ethically capitalize on the opportunity this economy has created. Be prepared. Now is the time to bring in the most experienced job landing consulting team for your job search. Check out our LinkedIn Recommendations and testimonials (http://chameleonresumes.com/testimonials/) showing our long success track record to date. We have succeeded in 3 economic cycles and know what executive job seekers need to do to succeed in landing their next role. ■ AUTHOR of The Definitive Guide To Executive Resume Writing. Free copy here: https://chameleonresumes.com/writing-your-executive-resume-this-year/ ■ FORBES TOP 100 CAREER WEBSITE | Forbes Coaches Council ■ HIRED BY LINKEDIN for 8 years as a Moderator Expert ■ RECRUITER-ENDORSED RESUMES that land COO, CFO, CIO, CEO & CMO interviews http://chameleonresumes.com/recruiter-reviews ■ GLOBAL EXECUTIVE RESUME EXPERT – Cited 180x in publications like Fortune, Fast Company, Newsweek, Time Money, CIO, CNBC, Investor’s Business Daily, BBC, Crain’s NY, Chicago Tribune, Good Morning America & more. Executive Resume Writer | LinkedIn Profile Writer | CEO Executive Resume Writer | CFO Executive Resume Writer | COO Executive Resume Writer | CMO Executive Resume Writer | CIO Executive Resume Writer | Supply Chain Resume Writer | Sales & Marketing Resume Writer | Retail Resume Writer | Pharmaceutical Resume Writer | Manufacturing Resume Writer | Finance Resume Writer   You can follow Lisa on LinkedIn Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lisa Rangel, CEO and Founder of Chameleon Resumes.  During this time of great workforce shifts, Lisa has advice for how to be noticed and not forgotten and talks about why it is so important to keep building your network at any stage of your career.  She finds that the more senior someone becomes, they often are surprised when they have to advocate for themselves v being pulled into that next higher level position.  Terrific advice and wisdom for anyone wishing to advance in their career.

 

Executive resume writing services for game-changing executives.

We position you as the candidate to hire for your next 6- or 7-figure role using our 4-stage M.E.T.A. Job Landing System. #joblanding

As top executive resume writers, we have direct expertise hiring executive talent and navigating economic cycles successfully. As an accomplished executive, you want to hire a recruiter-endorsed executive resume writing service who reverse-engineers the hiring process to get hired faster!

Our team has 110+ LinkedIn recommendations from clients landing jobs since we draw from 80+ years as successful executive recruiters, 12+ resume/HR certifications and senior-level job landing success in 88 countries.

Schedule a chat to learn how our M.E.T.A. job landing system can help you ► http://chameleonresumes.com/contact-us

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You can follow Lisa on LinkedIn

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1589 no EP. 68 Early Lessons: Understand how you will be evaluated https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/01/18/early-lessons-understand-how-you-will-be-evaluated/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Johanna Fic, a Senior Manager of Engagement Delivery at Salesforce.  Johanna is a technology consulting professional with experience helping clients in the consumer products industry, oil & gas industry, and the public sector improve and implement customer-centric technologies and business processes. Her passion is solving problems and improving customer experiences.  Johanna knew from an early stage that she wanted to move into leadership and actively pursued opportunities. She also learned some hard lessons early.  A large project went awry and yet the team delivered very good results given the circumstances.  However, she did not ensure the original evaluation objectives were changed to match the circumstances.  Result – less than stellar evaluation.  Those hard lessons have made Johanna a better leader of people and more attentive to results and measurements today. You can follow Johanna on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Tue, 18 Jan 2022 03:00:39 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Johanna Fic, a Senior Manager of Engagement Delivery at Salesforce.  Johanna is a technology consulting professional with experience helping clients in the consumer products industry, oil & gas industry, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Johanna Fic, a Senior Manager of Engagement Delivery at Salesforce.  Johanna is a technology consulting professional with experience helping clients in the consumer products industry, oil & gas industry, and the public sector improve and implement customer-centric technologies and business processes. Her passion is solving problems and improving customer experiences.  Johanna knew from an early stage that she wanted to move into leadership and actively pursued opportunities. She also learned some hard lessons early.  A large project went awry and yet the team delivered very good results given the circumstances.  However, she did not ensure the original evaluation objectives were changed to match the circumstances.  Result – less than stellar evaluation.  Those hard lessons have made Johanna a better leader of people and more attentive to results and measurements today. You can follow Johanna on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Johanna Fic, a Senior Manager of Engagement Delivery at Salesforce.  Johanna is a technology consulting professional with experience helping clients in the consumer products industry, oil & gas industry, and the public sector improve and implement customer-centric technologies and business processes. Her passion is solving problems and improving customer experiences.  Johanna knew from an early stage that she wanted to move into leadership and actively pursued opportunities. She also learned some hard lessons early.  A large project went awry and yet the team delivered very good results given the circumstances.  However, she did not ensure the original evaluation objectives were changed to match the circumstances.  Result – less than stellar evaluation.  Those hard lessons have made Johanna a better leader of people and more attentive to results and measurements today.

You can follow Johanna on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1481 no EP. 67 Dr. Nicole Christian Brathwaite on being trauma sensitive and aware https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/01/10/ep-67-dr-nicole-christian-brathwaite-on-being-trauma-sensitive-and-aware/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, who works with under-served children and families in the area of mental health.  Dr. Christian Brathwaite is concerned about the mental health of children today in particular those who are experiencing trauma which may come from discrimination, racism, as well as other impacts from this pandemic.  Her first most important mentor was her mom, oriented towards social justice and action.  There may have been issues of financial instability but that did not prevent actions like forming organizations to help and support others who have rights. These early beginnings give Nicole constant perspective of what it looks like to not have.  And she doesn’t take that for granted.  Over the course of her career, she has purposefully sought mentors who could provide knowledge or experience she wanted but did not yet have.   And to do her best work, she is a huge proponent of self-care.  She might not be expert at that yet, but she is working on it. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, MD | Senior Vice President and Medical Director, Scheduled Care and AtHome at Array Behavioral Care I am committed to working with under-served children and families both locally and globally. I am also interested in the interface between technology and medicine. I am Medical Director and SVP of Array Behavioral Care’s AtHome and Scheduled Care Divisions. Array Behavioral Care (formerly InSight + Regroup) is the leading and largest telepsychiatry service provider in the country with a mission to transform access to quality, timely behavioral health care. Array offers telepsychiatry solutions and services across the continuum of care from hospital to home with its OnDemand Care, Scheduled Care and AtHome Care divisions. For more than 20 years, Array has partnered with hundreds of hospitals and health systems, community healthcare organizations and payers of all sizes to expand access to care and improve outcomes for underserved individuals, facilities and communities. As an industry pioneer and established thought leader, Array has helped shape the field, define the standard of care and advocate for improved telepsychiatry-friendly regulations I am the CEO of Well Minds Consulting Company. Well Minds Consulting is a multifaceted organization dedicated to advising schools and educators on how to better understand and support youth with mental illness. We provide psychiatric expert witness support and testimony as well as implicit bias, trauma sensitive, and mental health training for schools and businesses www.wellmindsconsulting.com  www.techwavegroup.com You can follow Dr, Nicole Christian Brathwaite on LinkedIn Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:55:05 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, who works with under-served children and families in the area of mental health.  Dr. Christian Brathwaite is concerned about the mental health of children today in particul... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, who works with under-served children and families in the area of mental health.  Dr. Christian Brathwaite is concerned about the mental health of children today in particular those who are experiencing trauma which may come from discrimination, racism, as well as other impacts from this pandemic.  Her first most important mentor was her mom, oriented towards social justice and action.  There may have been issues of financial instability but that did not prevent actions like forming organizations to help and support others who have rights. These early beginnings give Nicole constant perspective of what it looks like to not have.  And she doesn’t take that for granted.  Over the course of her career, she has purposefully sought mentors who could provide knowledge or experience she wanted but did not yet have.   And to do her best work, she is a huge proponent of self-care.  She might not be expert at that yet, but she is working on it. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, MD | Senior Vice President and Medical Director, Scheduled Care and AtHome at Array Behavioral Care I am committed to working with under-served children and families both locally and globally. I am also interested in the interface between technology and medicine. I am Medical Director and SVP of Array Behavioral Care’s AtHome and Scheduled Care Divisions. Array Behavioral Care (formerly InSight + Regroup) is the leading and largest telepsychiatry service provider in the country with a mission to transform access to quality, timely behavioral health care. Array offers telepsychiatry solutions and services across the continuum of care from hospital to home with its OnDemand Care, Scheduled Care and AtHome Care divisions. For more than 20 years, Array has partnered with hundreds of hospitals and health systems, community healthcare organizations and payers of all sizes to expand access to care and improve outcomes for underserved individuals, facilities and communities. As an industry pioneer and established thought leader, Array has helped shape the field, define the standard of care and advocate for improved telepsychiatry-friendly regulations I am the CEO of Well Minds Consulting Company. Well Minds Consulting is a multifaceted organization dedicated to advising schools and educators on how to better understand and support youth with mental illness. We provide psychiatric expert witness support and testimony as well as implicit bias, trauma sensitive, and mental health training for schools and businesses www.wellmindsconsulting.com  www.techwavegroup.com You can follow Dr, Nicole Christian Brathwaite on LinkedIn

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Christian Brathwaite, who works with under-served children and families in the area of mental health.  Dr. Christian Brathwaite is concerned about the mental health of children today in particular those who are experiencing trauma which may come from discrimination, racism, as well as other impacts from this pandemic.  Her first most important mentor was her mom, oriented towards social justice and action.  There may have been issues of financial instability but that did not prevent actions like forming organizations to help and support others who have rights. These early beginnings give Nicole constant perspective of what it looks like to not have.  And she doesn’t take that for granted.  Over the course of her career, she has purposefully sought mentors who could provide knowledge or experience she wanted but did not yet have.   And to do her best work, she is a huge proponent of self-care.  She might not be expert at that yet, but she is working on it.

Nicole Christian Brathwaite, MD | Senior Vice President and Medical Director, Scheduled Care and AtHome at Array Behavioral Care

I am committed to working with under-served children and families both locally and globally.
I am also interested in the interface between technology and medicine.

I am Medical Director and SVP of Array Behavioral Care’s AtHome and Scheduled Care Divisions. Array Behavioral Care (formerly InSight + Regroup) is the leading and largest telepsychiatry service provider in the country with a mission to transform access to quality, timely behavioral health care. Array offers telepsychiatry solutions and services across the continuum of care from hospital to home with its OnDemand Care, Scheduled Care and AtHome Care divisions. For more than 20 years, Array has partnered with hundreds of hospitals and health systems, community healthcare organizations and payers of all sizes to expand access to care and improve outcomes for underserved individuals, facilities and communities. As an industry pioneer and established thought leader, Array has helped shape the field, define the standard of care and advocate for improved telepsychiatry-friendly regulations

I am the CEO of Well Minds Consulting Company. Well Minds Consulting is a multifaceted organization dedicated to advising schools and educators on how to better understand and support youth with mental illness. We provide psychiatric expert witness support and testimony as well as implicit bias, trauma sensitive, and mental health training for schools and businesses

www.wellmindsconsulting.com 
www.techwavegroup.com

You can follow Dr, Nicole Christian Brathwaite on LinkedIn

]]> 1628 no EP. 66 Today’s new power couple looks like this. Meet Team CJ. https://inspiringwomen.show/2022/01/03/todays-new-power-couple-looks-like-this-meet-team-cj/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Corbin Petro and Jessica Gelman, founders and CEOs of Eleanor Health and Kraft Analytics Group respectively.  As a married couple, Corbin and Jess jokingly refer to themselves as Team CJ, yet their drive and passion for growing their companies is anything but a joke.  There may be fewer female CEOs in their respective tech focused sectors – healthcare and sports analytics – however, both are used to pushing boundaries.  Which requires fortitude and hard work.  In the career stages of learning, earning and returning, both Corbin and Jess are determined to not wait until the end for the “returning” phase and recognize their unique position as role models.  Working hard and helping others seems to be the Team CJ approach.  And when asked about the future for women in their respective fields, they also recognize there is still a long way to go – “how much better do women need to be?” – yet they share optimism that we are on the right path. Corbin Petro is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a mission-driven, analytic approach to innovation. She is the CEO and co-founder of Eleanor Health, providing evidence-based, whole person care specializing in addressing the unique complexities of individuals and populations with substance use disorder and mental health needs. Eleanor Health leverages proprietary technology and data-driven insights, compassionate teams, and value-based payment to deliver superior clinical and financial outcomes. Prior to Eleanor Health, Corbin was the founding CEO of Benevera Health, a payer-provider JV and population health company. Corbin has an extensive background in healthcare including as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Massachusetts Department of Medicaid (MassHealth), a $13 billion agency providing health care to 1.4 million Massachusetts residents, advising a US Senator on health reform, and roles at Bain and Company, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte Consulting, and American Management Systems. Corbin is passionate about improving health for vulnerable populations, equity for women and other marginalized groups, and animal rights. She is co-chair of the board of visitors of Fenway Health, and on the boards of Reaching Out and the Eleanor Health Foundation. As a former collegiate distance runner, she enjoys long distance running and biking, and has completed 5 marathons and biked solo, self-supported across the country. She is active in local and regional politics, currently serving as the Chair and Treasurer of a campaign for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor. She was honored as one of fifteen healthcare executives under 40 named a 2018 Up and Comer by Modern Healthcare. She received a BA from Yale University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Jessica Gelman is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a data-driven, customer-centric approach and intrinsic ability to define what is next. As a founder of the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference & Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR), she has a track record of delivering results by building high performance teams, identifying business challenges through analytics, and defining the path forward through data and technology.  She is widely respected for her impact on the sports industry. Expert in building businesses, identifying growth opportunities, defining strategy and driving plans to successful completion. A proven leader who empowers teams. 2014 Forty Under 40: Sports Business Journal 2018 Power Players, Ticketing: Sports Business Journal 2012 Game Changers, Women Leading & Innovating in Sports Business: Sports Business Journal 2015 Power 100 Women: Brand Innovators Corbin and Jess are married, have two sons, and reside in the greater Boston area. You can follow both Corbin and Jess on LinkedIn HERE and HERE. Mon, 03 Jan 2022 04:00:12 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Corbin Petro and Jessica Gelman, founders and CEOs of Eleanor Health and Kraft Analytics Group respectively.  As a married couple, Corbin and Jess jokingly refer to themselves as Team CJ, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Corbin Petro and Jessica Gelman, founders and CEOs of Eleanor Health and Kraft Analytics Group respectively.  As a married couple, Corbin and Jess jokingly refer to themselves as Team CJ, yet their drive and passion for growing their companies is anything but a joke.  There may be fewer female CEOs in their respective tech focused sectors – healthcare and sports analytics – however, both are used to pushing boundaries.  Which requires fortitude and hard work.  In the career stages of learning, earning and returning, both Corbin and Jess are determined to not wait until the end for the “returning” phase and recognize their unique position as role models.  Working hard and helping others seems to be the Team CJ approach.  And when asked about the future for women in their respective fields, they also recognize there is still a long way to go – “how much better do women need to be?” – yet they share optimism that we are on the right path. Corbin Petro is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a mission-driven, analytic approach to innovation. She is the CEO and co-founder of Eleanor Health, providing evidence-based, whole person care specializing in addressing the unique complexities of individuals and populations with substance use disorder and mental health needs. Eleanor Health leverages proprietary technology and data-driven insights, compassionate teams, and value-based payment to deliver superior clinical and financial outcomes. Prior to Eleanor Health, Corbin was the founding CEO of Benevera Health, a payer-provider JV and population health company. Corbin has an extensive background in healthcare including as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Massachusetts Department of Medicaid (MassHealth), a $13 billion agency providing health care to 1.4 million Massachusetts residents, advising a US Senator on health reform, and roles at Bain and Company, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte Consulting, and American Management Systems. Corbin is passionate about improving health for vulnerable populations, equity for women and other marginalized groups, and animal rights. She is co-chair of the board of visitors of Fenway Health, and on the boards of Reaching Out and the Eleanor Health Foundation. As a former collegiate distance runner, she enjoys long distance running and biking, and has completed 5 marathons and biked solo, self-supported across the country. She is active in local and regional politics, currently serving as the Chair and Treasurer of a campaign for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor. She was honored as one of fifteen healthcare executives under 40 named a 2018 Up and Comer by Modern Healthcare. She received a BA from Yale University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Jessica Gelman is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a data-driven, customer-centric approach and intrinsic ability to define what is next. As a founder of the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference & Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR), she has a track record of delivering results by building high performance teams, identifying business challenges through analytics, and defining the path forward through data and technology.  She is widely respected for her impact on the sports industry. Expert in building businesses, identifying growth opportunities, defining strategy and driving plans to successful completion. A proven leader who empowers teams. 2014 Forty Under 40: Sports Business Journal 2018 Power Players, Ticketing: Sports Business Journal 2012 Game Changers, Women Leading & Innovating in Sports Business: Sports Business Journal 2015 Power 100 Women: Brand Innovators Corbin and Jess are married, have two sons, and reside in the greater Boston area. You can follow both Corbin and Jess on LinkedIn HERE and HERE.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Women Corbin Petro and Jessica Gelman, founders and CEOs of Eleanor Health and Kraft Analytics Group respectively.  As a married couple, Corbin and Jess jokingly refer to themselves as Team CJ, yet their drive and passion for growing their companies is anything but a joke.  There may be fewer female CEOs in their respective tech focused sectors – healthcare and sports analytics – however, both are used to pushing boundaries.  Which requires fortitude and hard work.  In the career stages of learning, earning and returning, both Corbin and Jess are determined to not wait until the end for the “returning” phase and recognize their unique position as role models.  Working hard and helping others seems to be the Team CJ approach.  And when asked about the future for women in their respective fields, they also recognize there is still a long way to go – “how much better do women need to be?” – yet they share optimism that we are on the right path.

Corbin Petro is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a mission-driven, analytic approach to innovation. She is the CEO and co-founder of Eleanor Health, providing evidence-based, whole person care specializing in addressing the unique complexities of individuals and populations with substance use disorder and mental health needs. Eleanor Health leverages proprietary technology and data-driven insights, compassionate teams, and value-based payment to deliver superior clinical and financial outcomes.

Prior to Eleanor Health, Corbin was the founding CEO of Benevera Health, a payer-provider JV and population health company. Corbin has an extensive background in healthcare including as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Massachusetts Department of Medicaid (MassHealth), a $13 billion agency providing health care to 1.4 million Massachusetts residents, advising a US Senator on health reform, and roles at Bain and Company, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte Consulting, and American Management Systems.

Corbin is passionate about improving health for vulnerable populations, equity for women and other marginalized groups, and animal rights. She is co-chair of the board of visitors of Fenway Health, and on the boards of Reaching Out and the Eleanor Health Foundation. As a former collegiate distance runner, she enjoys long distance running and biking, and has completed 5 marathons and biked solo, self-supported across the country. She is active in local and regional politics, currently serving as the Chair and Treasurer of a campaign for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor.

She was honored as one of fifteen healthcare executives under 40 named a 2018 Up and Comer by Modern Healthcare. She received a BA from Yale University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Jessica Gelman is an experienced CEO, industry leader, and entrepreneur with a data-driven, customer-centric approach and intrinsic ability to define what is next.

As a founder of the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference & Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR), she has a track record of delivering results by building high performance teams, identifying business challenges through analytics, and defining the path forward through data and technology.  She is widely respected for her impact on the sports industry.

Expert in building businesses, identifying growth opportunities, defining strategy and driving plans to successful completion. A proven leader who empowers teams.

2014 Forty Under 40: Sports Business Journal
2018 Power Players, Ticketing: Sports Business Journal
2012 Game Changers, Women Leading & Innovating in Sports Business: Sports Business Journal
2015 Power 100 Women: Brand Innovators

Corbin and Jess are married, have two sons, and reside in the greater Boston area.

You can follow both Corbin and Jess on LinkedIn HERE and HERE.

]]> 2891 no EP. 65 When the door to leadership opened for Abby Sears, she carried a sense of great responsibility with her. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/12/17/ep-65-when-the-door-to-leadership-opened-for-abby-sears-she-carried-a-sense-of-great-responsibility-with-her/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Abby Sears, President and CEO of OCHIN, a nonprofit health care innovation center designed to provide knowledge solutions that promote quality, affordable health care for all.  Early on Abby learned she had a passion for business and science.  Then someone opened the door to leadership.  Every day Abby feels a responsibility to honor that opportunity, for her employees, her members, her supportive network which includes her board.  More than ever, Abby believes that team members/employees should not be forced to separate their professional life from their personal life.  She spent years leading OCHIN taking calls from the soccer field or the parking lot of where she was picking up her kids.  Having to choose family over career was never a choice she was willing to make and if that means getting your work done with your toddler or your dog by your side, so be it.  What started out as a grant project, laden with stigma and obstacles, Abby has built a sustainable business which was required to ensure that she could provide premiere systems to support the needs of Medicaid populations and the uninsured.  And having data matters.  With data, Abby and OCHIN have been able to pinpoint key equity issues during this pandemic like vaccine availability to vulnerable populations and with that, support policy changes.  Abby is incredibly optimistic that we can build sustainable systems and realize OCHIN’s vision of providing ”quality, affordable healthcare for all”. Abby Sears | President & Chief Executive Officer As Chief Executive Officer, Abby Sears is responsible for the overall strategy and executive leadership at OCHIN. Abby has been with OCHIN since its inception and has helped grow the organization nationally, focusing on building a learning organization that supports the transformation of healthcare through the use of data and technology. A prominent national speaker and HIT advisor with over 15 years of healthcare expertise, she is focused on building a premier information and technology network leveraging Health IT products, services, and the use of practice-based research to help community practices nationwide achieve federal and industry standards for healthcare delivery, quality, and cost control. Abby was appointed to the federal Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC) for a three-year appointment, starting in January of 2020, where she will work to help elevate the voices of the patients and providers in historically underserved communities throughout the nation. HITAC advises policy makers on how to safely advance electronic access, exchange, and use of health information nationwide. In 2012, Abby was named CEO of the Year for Nonprofits in Oregon by the Portland Business Journal. She holds an MBA and MHA, both from the University of Minnesota. Read the transcript here. Fri, 17 Dec 2021 17:44:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Abby Sears, President and CEO of OCHIN, a nonprofit health care innovation center designed to provide knowledge solutions that promote quality, affordable health care for all. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Abby Sears, President and CEO of OCHIN, a nonprofit health care innovation center designed to provide knowledge solutions that promote quality, affordable health care for all.  Early on Abby learned she had a passion for business and science.  Then someone opened the door to leadership.  Every day Abby feels a responsibility to honor that opportunity, for her employees, her members, her supportive network which includes her board.  More than ever, Abby believes that team members/employees should not be forced to separate their professional life from their personal life.  She spent years leading OCHIN taking calls from the soccer field or the parking lot of where she was picking up her kids.  Having to choose family over career was never a choice she was willing to make and if that means getting your work done with your toddler or your dog by your side, so be it.  What started out as a grant project, laden with stigma and obstacles, Abby has built a sustainable business which was required to ensure that she could provide premiere systems to support the needs of Medicaid populations and the uninsured.  And having data matters.  With data, Abby and OCHIN have been able to pinpoint key equity issues during this pandemic like vaccine availability to vulnerable populations and with that, support policy changes.  Abby is incredibly optimistic that we can build sustainable systems and realize OCHIN’s vision of providing ”quality, affordable healthcare for all”. Abby Sears | President & Chief Executive Officer As Chief Executive Officer, Abby Sears is responsible for the overall strategy and executive leadership at OCHIN. Abby has been with OCHIN since its inception and has helped grow the organization nationally, focusing on building a learning organization that supports the transformation of healthcare through the use of data and technology. A prominent national speaker and HIT advisor with over 15 years of healthcare expertise, she is focused on building a premier information and technology network leveraging Health IT products, services, and the use of practice-based research to help community practices nationwide achieve federal and industry standards for healthcare delivery, quality, and cost control. Abby was appointed to the federal Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC) for a three-year appointment, starting in January of 2020, where she will work to help elevate the voices of the patients and providers in historically underserved communities throughout the nation. HITAC advises policy makers on how to safely advance electronic access, exchange, and use of health information nationwide. In 2012, Abby was named CEO of the Year for Nonprofits in Oregon by the Portland Business Journal. She holds an MBA and MHA, both from the University of Minnesota. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Abby Sears, President and CEO of OCHIN, a nonprofit health care innovation center designed to provide knowledge solutions that promote quality, affordable health care for all.  Early on Abby learned she had a passion for business and science.  Then someone opened the door to leadership.  Every day Abby feels a responsibility to honor that opportunity, for her employees, her members, her supportive network which includes her board.  More than ever, Abby believes that team members/employees should not be forced to separate their professional life from their personal life.  She spent years leading OCHIN taking calls from the soccer field or the parking lot of where she was picking up her kids.  Having to choose family over career was never a choice she was willing to make and if that means getting your work done with your toddler or your dog by your side, so be it.  What started out as a grant project, laden with stigma and obstacles, Abby has built a sustainable business which was required to ensure that she could provide premiere systems to support the needs of Medicaid populations and the uninsured.  And having data matters.  With data, Abby and OCHIN have been able to pinpoint key equity issues during this pandemic like vaccine availability to vulnerable populations and with that, support policy changes.  Abby is incredibly optimistic that we can build sustainable systems and realize OCHIN’s vision of providing ”quality, affordable healthcare for all”.

Abby Sears | President & Chief Executive Officer

As Chief Executive Officer, Abby Sears is responsible for the overall strategy and executive leadership at OCHIN. Abby has been with OCHIN since its inception and has helped grow the organization nationally, focusing on building a learning organization that supports the transformation of healthcare through the use of data and technology. A prominent national speaker and HIT advisor with over 15 years of healthcare expertise, she is focused on building a premier information and technology network leveraging Health IT products, services, and the use of practice-based research to help community practices nationwide achieve federal and industry standards for healthcare delivery, quality, and cost control.

Abby was appointed to the federal Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC) for a three-year appointment, starting in January of 2020, where she will work to help elevate the voices of the patients and providers in historically underserved communities throughout the nation. HITAC advises policy makers on how to safely advance electronic access, exchange, and use of health information nationwide.

In 2012, Abby was named CEO of the Year for Nonprofits in Oregon by the Portland Business Journal. She holds an MBA and MHA, both from the University of Minnesota.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1557 no EP. 64 Time to move from discussion and into the DO. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/12/09/ep-64-time-to-move-from-discussion-and-into-the-do/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ann Barnes, CEO of IMO a healthcare company focused on data and insights.  Ann has purposefully built her teams to focus on diversity because this simply makes sense for her business.  She encourages other leaders to move from the discussion of DEI to doing the work of DEI.  As a senior leader she also believes it is both an imperative and a responsibility to pay it forward.  Early on she was struck by how few seats there were for women at senior tables and today she is committed to ensuring there are more of them.   Ann Barnes, Chief Executive Officer Ann Barnes joined IMO in 2018 as Chief Executive Officer, leading the company’s day-to-day operations. In November 2008, she joined MedData as Vice President of Client Services and rose quickly to the position of Chief Operating Officer. In February 2013, Ann was promoted to President, then to CEO soon after. She also served on their Board of Directors. Prior to MedData, Ann was Executive Vice President for the student loan division of Wachovia Bank, she led a national sales force for New Horizons Computer Learning, and held leadership roles with Avolent, an enterprise software solution for electronic bill payments. Ann is a graduate of the University of the Pacific in San Francisco where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing. You can follow Ann on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:48:31 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ann Barnes, CEO of IMO a healthcare company focused on data and insights.  Ann has purposefully built her teams to focus on diversity because this simply makes sense for her business. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ann Barnes, CEO of IMO a healthcare company focused on data and insights.  Ann has purposefully built her teams to focus on diversity because this simply makes sense for her business.  She encourages other leaders to move from the discussion of DEI to doing the work of DEI.  As a senior leader she also believes it is both an imperative and a responsibility to pay it forward.  Early on she was struck by how few seats there were for women at senior tables and today she is committed to ensuring there are more of them.   Ann Barnes, Chief Executive Officer Ann Barnes joined IMO in 2018 as Chief Executive Officer, leading the company’s day-to-day operations. In November 2008, she joined MedData as Vice President of Client Services and rose quickly to the position of Chief Operating Officer. In February 2013, Ann was promoted to President, then to CEO soon after. She also served on their Board of Directors. Prior to MedData, Ann was Executive Vice President for the student loan division of Wachovia Bank, she led a national sales force for New Horizons Computer Learning, and held leadership roles with Avolent, an enterprise software solution for electronic bill payments. Ann is a graduate of the University of the Pacific in San Francisco where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing. You can follow Ann on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ann Barnes, CEO of IMO a healthcare company focused on data and insights.  Ann has purposefully built her teams to focus on diversity because this simply makes sense for her business.  She encourages other leaders to move from the discussion of DEI to doing the work of DEI.  As a senior leader she also believes it is both an imperative and a responsibility to pay it forward.  Early on she was struck by how few seats there were for women at senior tables and today she is committed to ensuring there are more of them.

 

Ann Barnes, Chief Executive Officer

Ann Barnes joined IMO in 2018 as Chief Executive Officer, leading the company’s day-to-day operations. In November 2008, she joined MedData as Vice President of Client Services and rose quickly to the position of Chief Operating Officer. In February 2013, Ann was promoted to President, then to CEO soon after. She also served on their Board of Directors.

Prior to MedData, Ann was Executive Vice President for the student loan division of Wachovia Bank, she led a national sales force for New Horizons Computer Learning, and held leadership roles with Avolent, an enterprise software solution for electronic bill payments.

Ann is a graduate of the University of the Pacific in San Francisco where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing.

You can follow Ann on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1491 no EP. 63 Author Stacey Vanek Smith on Machiavelli for Women https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/12/06/ep-63-author-stacey-vanek-smith-on-machiavelli-for-women/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stacey Vanek Smith, acclaimed business and economics correspondent for NPR and author of Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace.  Stacey recognizes that we are in a powerful moment right now with a convergence of forces that has the potential to be very good for women.  She turns to the unlikely hero of Machiavelli to write this women’s power playbook recognizing the clarity that comes when you remove the emotion of gender disparity issues.  Women may make 15% less in certain areas, and while that’s wrong, that also means there is 15% more on the table somewhere, now how do I go get it?  Stacey tackles tough and relatable issues with precise guidance from 500 years ago.  The combination of humor, wit, and personal stories tied to history lessons makes Machiavelli for Women one of the best business books I have read in quite some time and the top gift for my daughter this coming holiday! Stacey Vanek Smith, Co-Host, The Indicator from Planet Money; Correspondent, Planet Money Author, Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace Stacey Vanek Smith is the co-host of NPR’s The Indicator from Planet Money. She’s also a correspondent for Planet Money, where she covers business and economics. In this role, Smith has followed economic stories down the muddy back roads of Oklahoma to buy 100 barrels of oil; she’s traveled to Pune, India, to track down the man who pitched the country’s dramatic currency devaluation to the prime minister; and she’s spoken with a North Korean woman who made a small fortune smuggling artificial sweetener in from China. Prior to coming to NPR, Smith worked for Marketplace, where she was a correspondent and fill-in host. While there, Smith was part of a collaboration with The New York Times, where she explored the relationship between money and marriage. She was also part of Marketplace‘s live shows, where she produced a series of pieces on getting her data mined. Smith is a native of Idaho and grew up working on her parents’ cattle ranch. She is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in comparative literature and creative writing. She also holds a master’s in broadcast journalism from Columbia University. You can follow Stacey on LinkedIn, her website, or Twitter. Read the transcript here. Mon, 06 Dec 2021 14:21:33 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stacey Vanek Smith, acclaimed business and economics correspondent for NPR and author of Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stacey Vanek Smith, acclaimed business and economics correspondent for NPR and author of Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace.  Stacey recognizes that we are in a powerful moment right now with a convergence of forces that has the potential to be very good for women.  She turns to the unlikely hero of Machiavelli to write this women’s power playbook recognizing the clarity that comes when you remove the emotion of gender disparity issues.  Women may make 15% less in certain areas, and while that’s wrong, that also means there is 15% more on the table somewhere, now how do I go get it?  Stacey tackles tough and relatable issues with precise guidance from 500 years ago.  The combination of humor, wit, and personal stories tied to history lessons makes Machiavelli for Women one of the best business books I have read in quite some time and the top gift for my daughter this coming holiday! Stacey Vanek Smith, Co-Host, The Indicator from Planet Money; Correspondent, Planet Money Author, Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace Stacey Vanek Smith is the co-host of NPR’s The Indicator from Planet Money. She’s also a correspondent for Planet Money, where she covers business and economics. In this role, Smith has followed economic stories down the muddy back roads of Oklahoma to buy 100 barrels of oil; she’s traveled to Pune, India, to track down the man who pitched the country’s dramatic currency devaluation to the prime minister; and she’s spoken with a North Korean woman who made a small fortune smuggling artificial sweetener in from China. Prior to coming to NPR, Smith worked for Marketplace, where she was a correspondent and fill-in host. While there, Smith was part of a collaboration with The New York Times, where she explored the relationship between money and marriage. She was also part of Marketplace‘s live shows, where she produced a series of pieces on getting her data mined. Smith is a native of Idaho and grew up working on her parents’ cattle ranch. She is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in comparative literature and creative writing. She also holds a master’s in broadcast journalism from Columbia University. You can follow Stacey on LinkedIn, her website, or Twitter. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Stacey Vanek Smith, acclaimed business and economics correspondent for NPR and author of Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace.  Stacey recognizes that we are in a powerful moment right now with a convergence of forces that has the potential to be very good for women.  She turns to the unlikely hero of Machiavelli to write this women’s power playbook recognizing the clarity that comes when you remove the emotion of gender disparity issues.  Women may make 15% less in certain areas, and while that’s wrong, that also means there is 15% more on the table somewhere, now how do I go get it?  Stacey tackles tough and relatable issues with precise guidance from 500 years ago.  The combination of humor, wit, and personal stories tied to history lessons makes Machiavelli for Women one of the best business books I have read in quite some time and the top gift for my daughter this coming holiday!

Stacey Vanek Smith, Co-Host, The Indicator from Planet Money; Correspondent, Planet Money

Author, Machiavelli for Women: Defend Your Worth, Grow Your Ambition and Win the Workplace

Stacey Vanek Smith is the co-host of NPR’s The Indicator from Planet Money. She’s also a correspondent for Planet Money, where she covers business and economics. In this role, Smith has followed economic stories down the muddy back roads of Oklahoma to buy 100 barrels of oil; she’s traveled to Pune, India, to track down the man who pitched the country’s dramatic currency devaluation to the prime minister; and she’s spoken with a North Korean woman who made a small fortune smuggling artificial sweetener in from China.

Prior to coming to NPR, Smith worked for Marketplace, where she was a correspondent and fill-in host. While there, Smith was part of a collaboration with The New York Times, where she explored the relationship between money and marriage. She was also part of Marketplace‘s live shows, where she produced a series of pieces on getting her data mined.

Smith is a native of Idaho and grew up working on her parents’ cattle ranch. She is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in comparative literature and creative writing. She also holds a master’s in broadcast journalism from Columbia University.

You can follow Stacey on LinkedIn, her website, or Twitter.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1909 no EP. 62 Seeing yourself in others gives you permission and pride to show up as your true self. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/11/29/ep-62-seeing-yourself-in-others-gives-you-permission-and-pride-to-show-up-as-your-true-self/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rona Matthew, a leading woman in marketing and entertainment and currently a senior product marketing manager at TikTok.  Rona’s career has already been an adventure from when she started at Howard University to spending eight years in South Africa leading her own brand agency.  Being part of the majority, surrounding herself with other creatives has been very meaningful to Rona, so when she decided to “upskill” and go to Columbia Business School she had to develop a new network.  Finding her tribe and being a leader today at TikTok’s black employee resource group is important to Rona.  As a woman, a woman of color, Rona knows she is part of a small community in the workplace and affinity groups are just not enough.  Rona is pleased that TikTok took her advice to begin recruiting from HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities) as an important step to creating a more diverse workforce.  With her work, Rona aims to sustain artists and creatives and she is just getting started. Rona Matthew is a Product Marketing Manager at TikTok where she drives the development, positioning, and sales of the company’s marquee advertising product, the Branded Hashtag Challenge. She’s an accomplished marketing professional, collaboration facilitator, and dealmaker with a passion for creating and growing meaningful brands in tech, CPG, media and entertainment. Rona started her career in branding and advertising in Johannesburg, South Africa. While in Johannesburg, she founded a brand consulting company, Brandpulse and also led business development at Bamboo Network, a brand innovation firm. Rona has worked with a number of budding start-ups and multinationals including Spotify, IBM, Unilever, 3M, BET, Ericsson, and Pernod Ricard. Rona holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA in Marketing from Howard University. You can follow Rona on LinkedIn or Twitter. Read the transcript here. Mon, 29 Nov 2021 20:30:03 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rona Matthew, a leading woman in marketing and entertainment and currently a senior product marketing manager at TikTok.  Rona’s career has already been an adventure from when she started at Howard Univers... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rona Matthew, a leading woman in marketing and entertainment and currently a senior product marketing manager at TikTok.  Rona’s career has already been an adventure from when she started at Howard University to spending eight years in South Africa leading her own brand agency.  Being part of the majority, surrounding herself with other creatives has been very meaningful to Rona, so when she decided to “upskill” and go to Columbia Business School she had to develop a new network.  Finding her tribe and being a leader today at TikTok’s black employee resource group is important to Rona.  As a woman, a woman of color, Rona knows she is part of a small community in the workplace and affinity groups are just not enough.  Rona is pleased that TikTok took her advice to begin recruiting from HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities) as an important step to creating a more diverse workforce.  With her work, Rona aims to sustain artists and creatives and she is just getting started. Rona Matthew is a Product Marketing Manager at TikTok where she drives the development, positioning, and sales of the company’s marquee advertising product, the Branded Hashtag Challenge. She’s an accomplished marketing professional, collaboration facilitator, and dealmaker with a passion for creating and growing meaningful brands in tech, CPG, media and entertainment. Rona started her career in branding and advertising in Johannesburg, South Africa. While in Johannesburg, she founded a brand consulting company, Brandpulse and also led business development at Bamboo Network, a brand innovation firm. Rona has worked with a number of budding start-ups and multinationals including Spotify, IBM, Unilever, 3M, BET, Ericsson, and Pernod Ricard. Rona holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA in Marketing from Howard University. You can follow Rona on LinkedIn or Twitter. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rona Matthew, a leading woman in marketing and entertainment and currently a senior product marketing manager at TikTok.  Rona’s career has already been an adventure from when she started at Howard University to spending eight years in South Africa leading her own brand agency.  Being part of the majority, surrounding herself with other creatives has been very meaningful to Rona, so when she decided to “upskill” and go to Columbia Business School she had to develop a new network.  Finding her tribe and being a leader today at TikTok’s black employee resource group is important to Rona.  As a woman, a woman of color, Rona knows she is part of a small community in the workplace and affinity groups are just not enough.  Rona is pleased that TikTok took her advice to begin recruiting from HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities) as an important step to creating a more diverse workforce.  With her work, Rona aims to sustain artists and creatives and she is just getting started.

Rona Matthew is a Product Marketing Manager at TikTok where she drives the development, positioning, and sales of the company’s marquee advertising product, the Branded Hashtag Challenge.

She’s an accomplished marketing professional, collaboration facilitator, and dealmaker with a passion for creating and growing meaningful brands in tech, CPG, media and entertainment. Rona started her career in branding and advertising in Johannesburg, South Africa. While in Johannesburg, she founded a brand consulting company, Brandpulse and also led business development at Bamboo Network, a brand innovation firm. Rona has worked with a number of budding start-ups and multinationals including Spotify, IBM, Unilever, 3M, BET, Ericsson, and Pernod Ricard.

Rona holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA in Marketing from Howard University.

You can follow Rona on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1455 no EP. 61 Guiding principles means putting the patient at the center for Dr. Dana Zanone. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/11/22/ep-61-guiding-principles-means-putting-the-patient-at-the-center-for-dr-dana-zanone/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Dana Zanone, a family medicine physician who has been implementing technology solutions for most of her career.  Now she wants physicians to have less time with the computer and much more of it focused on the more important work of being a physician – time with the patient.  Dana is a self-described “click-counter” and knows how valuable that time with patients can be.  She also shares how patients can get lost in the system and her own very personal experience with mental illness in her family.  Talking about these topics is important to Dana to remove stigma and to find solutions. Dana Zanone,MD VICE PRESIDENT, HIO, ADVENTIST HEALTH Dr. Dana Zanone is a health information physician with experience in implementing and optimizing EMR for Epic, Allscripts Enterprise and Professional, and Nextgen for greater than 12 years. She was the chief medical information officer during large-scale implementation of >130 clinics using a cooperative team-building approach between IT and organizational leaders. Zanone also coordinated the development of a physician builder program, and development of policies and procedures for all aspects of the project for the outpatient workflows. She also supported and adapted the analytics for organizational goals in Meaningful Use Stage 1 and 2 and implemented accountable care organization metrics and population health management into the Epic EMR. Read the transcript here. Mon, 22 Nov 2021 15:56:48 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Dana Zanone, a family medicine physician who has been implementing technology solutions for most of her career.  Now she wants physicians to have less time with the computer and much more of it focused... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Dana Zanone, a family medicine physician who has been implementing technology solutions for most of her career.  Now she wants physicians to have less time with the computer and much more of it focused on the more important work of being a physician – time with the patient.  Dana is a self-described “click-counter” and knows how valuable that time with patients can be.  She also shares how patients can get lost in the system and her own very personal experience with mental illness in her family.  Talking about these topics is important to Dana to remove stigma and to find solutions. Dana Zanone,MD VICE PRESIDENT, HIO, ADVENTIST HEALTH Dr. Dana Zanone is a health information physician with experience in implementing and optimizing EMR for Epic, Allscripts Enterprise and Professional, and Nextgen for greater than 12 years. She was the chief medical information officer during large-scale implementation of >130 clinics using a cooperative team-building approach between IT and organizational leaders. Zanone also coordinated the development of a physician builder program, and development of policies and procedures for all aspects of the project for the outpatient workflows. She also supported and adapted the analytics for organizational goals in Meaningful Use Stage 1 and 2 and implemented accountable care organization metrics and population health management into the Epic EMR. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Dana Zanone, a family medicine physician who has been implementing technology solutions for most of her career.  Now she wants physicians to have less time with the computer and much more of it focused on the more important work of being a physician – time with the patient.  Dana is a self-described “click-counter” and knows how valuable that time with patients can be.  She also shares how patients can get lost in the system and her own very personal experience with mental illness in her family.  Talking about these topics is important to Dana to remove stigma and to find solutions.

Dana Zanone,MD VICE PRESIDENT, HIO, ADVENTIST HEALTH

Dr. Dana Zanone is a health information physician with experience in implementing and optimizing EMR for Epic, Allscripts Enterprise and Professional, and Nextgen for greater than 12 years. She was the chief medical information officer during large-scale implementation of >130 clinics using a cooperative team-building approach between IT and organizational leaders. Zanone also coordinated the development of a physician builder program, and development of policies and procedures for all aspects of the project for the outpatient workflows. She also supported and adapted the analytics for organizational goals in Meaningful Use Stage 1 and 2 and implemented accountable care organization metrics and population health management into the Epic EMR.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1536 no EP. 60 Take the bounce. Janet Dillione tells women, now is NOT the time to be timid. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/11/15/ep-60-take-the-bounce-janet-dillione-tells-women-now-is-not-the-time-to-be-timid/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Janet Dillione.  Janet is an incredibly accomplished executive in healthcare that is focused, at this stage of her career, on leaving healthcare better than when she found it.  As she reflects on key pivot points in her storied career, Janet has learned that progression is not a ladder and that careers are not linear.  Learning, working with a team, being at Phase 0 when starting something new are all energizing to Janet and have led to other opportunities.  And as Janet reflects on the industry today, she is very optimistic about the talent coming into healthcare.  When we all know the denominators, having this level of creativity to solve complex problems is something that she is inspired by as she continues to enjoy the ride! Janet is: a proven CEO with experience building innovative strategies and strong teams that transform businesses for sustained growth and profitability. Throughout my career, I have always looked for opportunities where technology can support patients and clinicians by helping to solve long-standing issues in the delivery of care. As I like to share with my teams, we are compelled to “leave it better than we found it.” With leading roles in both large-scale global businesses as well as start-up scenarios, I am a dynamic leader who knows how to effectively instill a customer- and market-centric culture within an organization to drive the business forward. As a champion of sustainable and differentiated innovation, my experience managing the complexities of global deployments and FDA-regulated products extends to businesses across North America, Europe and Asia with companies developing solutions that have been sold into diverse markets including the Federal market in the US. Throughout my career progression, I have been a frequent presenter at industry conferences and have authored dozens of articles for multiple healthcare publications. Since 2015, I have served as a member of the Board of Directors for CorMedix, and in 2019, also joined the Board of CortiCare. Additionally, I continue to provide strategic advisory services to several private equity firms that are assessing M&A opportunities, strategic expansion, or repositioning of current portfolio assets. Follow Janet on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:18:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Janet Dillione.  Janet is an incredibly accomplished executive in healthcare that is focused, at this stage of her career, on leaving healthcare better than when she found it. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Janet Dillione.  Janet is an incredibly accomplished executive in healthcare that is focused, at this stage of her career, on leaving healthcare better than when she found it.  As she reflects on key pivot points in her storied career, Janet has learned that progression is not a ladder and that careers are not linear.  Learning, working with a team, being at Phase 0 when starting something new are all energizing to Janet and have led to other opportunities.  And as Janet reflects on the industry today, she is very optimistic about the talent coming into healthcare.  When we all know the denominators, having this level of creativity to solve complex problems is something that she is inspired by as she continues to enjoy the ride! Janet is: a proven CEO with experience building innovative strategies and strong teams that transform businesses for sustained growth and profitability. Throughout my career, I have always looked for opportunities where technology can support patients and clinicians by helping to solve long-standing issues in the delivery of care. As I like to share with my teams, we are compelled to “leave it better than we found it.” With leading roles in both large-scale global businesses as well as start-up scenarios, I am a dynamic leader who knows how to effectively instill a customer- and market-centric culture within an organization to drive the business forward. As a champion of sustainable and differentiated innovation, my experience managing the complexities of global deployments and FDA-regulated products extends to businesses across North America, Europe and Asia with companies developing solutions that have been sold into diverse markets including the Federal market in the US. Throughout my career progression, I have been a frequent presenter at industry conferences and have authored dozens of articles for multiple healthcare publications. Since 2015, I have served as a member of the Board of Directors for CorMedix, and in 2019, also joined the Board of CortiCare. Additionally, I continue to provide strategic advisory services to several private equity firms that are assessing M&A opportunities, strategic expansion, or repositioning of current portfolio assets. Follow Janet on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Janet Dillione.  Janet is an incredibly accomplished executive in healthcare that is focused, at this stage of her career, on leaving healthcare better than when she found it.  As she reflects on key pivot points in her storied career, Janet has learned that progression is not a ladder and that careers are not linear.  Learning, working with a team, being at Phase 0 when starting something new are all energizing to Janet and have led to other opportunities.  And as Janet reflects on the industry today, she is very optimistic about the talent coming into healthcare.  When we all know the denominators, having this level of creativity to solve complex problems is something that she is inspired by as she continues to enjoy the ride!

Janet is: a proven CEO with experience building innovative strategies and strong teams that transform businesses for sustained growth and profitability. Throughout my career, I have always looked for opportunities where technology can support patients and clinicians by helping to solve long-standing issues in the delivery of care. As I like to share with my teams, we are compelled to “leave it better than we found it.”

With leading roles in both large-scale global businesses as well as start-up scenarios, I am a dynamic leader who knows how to effectively instill a customer- and market-centric culture within an organization to drive the business forward.

As a champion of sustainable and differentiated innovation, my experience managing the complexities of global deployments and FDA-regulated products extends to businesses across North America, Europe and Asia with companies developing solutions that have been sold into diverse markets including the Federal market in the US.

Throughout my career progression, I have been a frequent presenter at industry conferences and have authored dozens of articles for multiple healthcare publications. Since 2015, I have served as a member of the Board of Directors for CorMedix, and in 2019, also joined the Board of CortiCare.

Additionally, I continue to provide strategic advisory services to several private equity firms that are assessing M&A opportunities, strategic expansion, or repositioning of current portfolio assets.

Follow Janet on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1289 no EP. 59 Finding purpose and fusing interests. Katie Goodman on being a millennial. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/10/31/ep-59-finding-purpose-and-fusing-interests-katie-goodman-on-being-a-millennial/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Goodman.  Katie is a podcast host, an influencer (in the world of soccer), a business owner, a yoga instructor, PR consultant and several other things.  In other words, a millennial!  Katie graduated from Mississippi State and spent a few years in “big girl jobs” and learned that being in a cubicle just wasn’t for her.  She did learn that she was a business person.  Katie has been influenced by Ikigai, a Japanese concept that means your ‘reason for being”.   She began putting her business background to work with a number of her personal interests that she found deeply purposeful.  What started out as a lot of hustling, has turned into a series of opportunities such as Katie’s current work as a podcast host of Tidal League FC as well as Our Cup of Tea.  Katie discusses what it means to be a millennial today and how she thinks about career progression.  She is unafraid to take on learning new skills and try out her new business ideas knowing that they will not always work out.  Katie Goodman is going places and don’t be surprised if you see her reporting on ESPN some Katie Goodman:  Podcast Host, Influencer, Yoga and Wellness, PR and Production Management. Follow Katie on Twitter or Instagram Read the transcript here. Sun, 31 Oct 2021 18:47:06 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Goodman.  Katie is a podcast host, an influencer (in the world of soccer), a business owner, a yoga instructor, PR consultant and several other things.  In other words, a millennial! Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Goodman.  Katie is a podcast host, an influencer (in the world of soccer), a business owner, a yoga instructor, PR consultant and several other things.  In other words, a millennial!  Katie graduated from Mississippi State and spent a few years in “big girl jobs” and learned that being in a cubicle just wasn’t for her.  She did learn that she was a business person.  Katie has been influenced by Ikigai, a Japanese concept that means your ‘reason for being”.   She began putting her business background to work with a number of her personal interests that she found deeply purposeful.  What started out as a lot of hustling, has turned into a series of opportunities such as Katie’s current work as a podcast host of Tidal League FC as well as Our Cup of Tea.  Katie discusses what it means to be a millennial today and how she thinks about career progression.  She is unafraid to take on learning new skills and try out her new business ideas knowing that they will not always work out.  Katie Goodman is going places and don’t be surprised if you see her reporting on ESPN some Katie Goodman:  Podcast Host, Influencer, Yoga and Wellness, PR and Production Management. Follow Katie on Twitter or Instagram Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Goodman.  Katie is a podcast host, an influencer (in the world of soccer), a business owner, a yoga instructor, PR consultant and several other things.  In other words, a millennial!  Katie graduated from Mississippi State and spent a few years in “big girl jobs” and learned that being in a cubicle just wasn’t for her.  She did learn that she was a business person.  Katie has been influenced by Ikigai, a Japanese concept that means your ‘reason for being”.   She began putting her business background to work with a number of her personal interests that she found deeply purposeful.  What started out as a lot of hustling, has turned into a series of opportunities such as Katie’s current work as a podcast host of Tidal League FC as well as Our Cup of Tea. 

Katie discusses what it means to be a millennial today and how she thinks about career progression.  She is unafraid to take on learning new skills and try out her new business ideas knowing that they will not always work out.  Katie Goodman is going places and don’t be surprised if you see her reporting on ESPN some

Katie Goodman:  Podcast Host, Influencer, Yoga and Wellness, PR and Production Management.

Follow Katie on Twitter or Instagram

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1335 no EP. 58 The job of the First is not to be the Last. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/10/31/ep-58-the-job-of-the-first-is-not-to-be-the-last/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Patrice Harris.  Dr. Harris speaks about what it means to be the first, one of the first, the only …..African American woman in so many spaces.  She has always gravitated to where the decisions are being made and if she sees something that is not working, she feels this is usually a place where she wants to get involved and shape the direction.  Her views on leadership are simply – this is where the work gets done.  In her current role as CEO and founder of a digital health company, she is quite clear that with all the promise in the innovation space today – separating out the hype is key.  Being HYPER vigilant when it comes to healthcare is critical – why?  It’s about patients’ lives.  Period.  So disrupt with care and get out of your own bubble. Inspiring Women Book Club/Article:  Nice Girls Don’t Ask (Harvard Business Review, 2003) Dr. Patrice A. Harris is board-certified in psychiatry and has diverse experience as a private practicing physician, public health director and patient advocate. In 2019, Dr. Harris was elected as the 174th President of the American Medical Association, the first African-American woman to ever hold the position. Dr. Harris’ life is marked by her passion to improve the lives of children and communities around her, especially communities of color. She is a recognized expert in children’s mental health and childhood trauma, leading both local and national efforts to integrate public health, behavioral health and primary care services. She has received numerous awards in recognition of her service and leadership. Upon completing her term as President of the AMA, Dr. Harris has continued in private practice. She regularly consults with public and private organizations on health service delivery and emerging trends in health policy. She is a Visiting Professor at Columbia University, an Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Harris is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. You can follow Dr. Patrice Harris on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Sun, 31 Oct 2021 18:25:50 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Patrice Harris.  Dr. Harris speaks about what it means to be the first, one of the first, the only …..African American woman in so many spaces.  She has always gravitated to where the decisions are bei... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Patrice Harris.  Dr. Harris speaks about what it means to be the first, one of the first, the only …..African American woman in so many spaces.  She has always gravitated to where the decisions are being made and if she sees something that is not working, she feels this is usually a place where she wants to get involved and shape the direction.  Her views on leadership are simply – this is where the work gets done.  In her current role as CEO and founder of a digital health company, she is quite clear that with all the promise in the innovation space today – separating out the hype is key.  Being HYPER vigilant when it comes to healthcare is critical – why?  It’s about patients’ lives.  Period.  So disrupt with care and get out of your own bubble. Inspiring Women Book Club/Article:  Nice Girls Don’t Ask (Harvard Business Review, 2003) Dr. Patrice A. Harris is board-certified in psychiatry and has diverse experience as a private practicing physician, public health director and patient advocate. In 2019, Dr. Harris was elected as the 174th President of the American Medical Association, the first African-American woman to ever hold the position. Dr. Harris’ life is marked by her passion to improve the lives of children and communities around her, especially communities of color. She is a recognized expert in children’s mental health and childhood trauma, leading both local and national efforts to integrate public health, behavioral health and primary care services. She has received numerous awards in recognition of her service and leadership. Upon completing her term as President of the AMA, Dr. Harris has continued in private practice. She regularly consults with public and private organizations on health service delivery and emerging trends in health policy. She is a Visiting Professor at Columbia University, an Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Harris is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. You can follow Dr. Patrice Harris on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Patrice Harris.  Dr. Harris speaks about what it means to be the first, one of the first, the only …..African American woman in so many spaces.  She has always gravitated to where the decisions are being made and if she sees something that is not working, she feels this is usually a place where she wants to get involved and shape the direction.  Her views on leadership are simply – this is where the work gets done.  In her current role as CEO and founder of a digital health company, she is quite clear that with all the promise in the innovation space today – separating out the hype is key.  Being HYPER vigilant when it comes to healthcare is critical – why?  It’s about patients’ lives.  Period.  So disrupt with care and get out of your own bubble.

Inspiring Women Book Club/Article:  Nice Girls Don’t Ask (Harvard Business Review, 2003)

Dr. Patrice A. Harris is board-certified in psychiatry and has diverse experience as a private practicing physician, public health director and patient advocate. In 2019, Dr. Harris was elected as the 174th President of the American Medical Association, the first African-American woman to ever hold the position.

Dr. Harris’ life is marked by her passion to improve the lives of children and communities around her, especially communities of color. She is a recognized expert in children’s mental health and childhood trauma, leading both local and national efforts to integrate public health, behavioral health and primary care services. She has received numerous awards in recognition of her service and leadership.

Upon completing her term as President of the AMA, Dr. Harris has continued in private practice. She regularly consults with public and private organizations on health service delivery and emerging trends in health policy. She is a Visiting Professor at Columbia University, an Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Harris is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

You can follow Dr. Patrice Harris on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1553 no EP. 57 Group think is just a bad investment. Women need to start playing in venture. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/10/18/ep-57-group-think-is-just-a-bad-investment-women-need-to-start-playing-in-venture/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julie Castro Abrams, founder and CEO of How Women Invest and How Women Lead.  For over 30 years, Julie, who describes herself as a social justice warrior, has been intent on affecting everyone’s opportunity to advance.  She takes a scientific approach to supporting and advancing women at the investment and board level.  The approach covers regulatory and legislative issues; movement building; training women on the how to; and then actually doing placements.  By demystifying the process, Julie aims to bring 10,000 women into the world of venture.  Julie credits asset management companies being the first to move on creating more diverse boards to reduce their risk.  Group think makes for bad investments.  And Julie encourages women to start early.  Start looking at non-profit boards while in your twenties for example as a way to add scaffolding to your career.  And because 85% of all board seats get placed through word of mouth, Julie also asks women to be fierce advocates for each other including making those important introductions.   How Women Invest; How Women Lead Julie Castro Abrams is an expert on building boards that add a strategic advantage including proactive searches for women on corporate boards. An experienced CEO and sought-after speaker in entrepreneurship and how women lead, she is a widely recognized because of her unique ability to connect people and facilitate rich conversations that make change happen. Julie partners with terrific CEO’s to build high performance, multicultural teams, in particular boards that make organizations better. She has a successful consulting practice with leaders she admires to achieve their growth and breakthrough goals. Julie’s commitment to justice and community are well known in her personal and professional endeavors. She serves as a leader on the boards of organizations focused on women and children, Latinos, economic development and the arts. Julie is a philanthropist who launched How Women Give and serves as the Governance Chair for the Women’s Funding Network. Thousands of new businesses attribute their launch and growth to her support which has resulted in millions toward the economic growth in communities. She is a leader in the country’s movement to build and fund start ups. Julie has won many awards including the Jobs Genius Award, Morgan Stanley Innovation Award, Cisco Innovation in Technology, “Women Who Could Be President” League of Women Voters, Stevie Award for Best Non Profit Executive, Human Rights Award from the Commission on the Status of Women, the Women of Color Action Network, Leadership California and the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame in 2011. You can follow Julie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:20:40 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julie Castro Abrams, founder and CEO of How Women Invest and How Women Lead.  For over 30 years, Julie, who describes herself as a social justice warrior, has been intent on affecting everyone’s opportunit... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julie Castro Abrams, founder and CEO of How Women Invest and How Women Lead.  For over 30 years, Julie, who describes herself as a social justice warrior, has been intent on affecting everyone’s opportunity to advance.  She takes a scientific approach to supporting and advancing women at the investment and board level.  The approach covers regulatory and legislative issues; movement building; training women on the how to; and then actually doing placements.  By demystifying the process, Julie aims to bring 10,000 women into the world of venture.  Julie credits asset management companies being the first to move on creating more diverse boards to reduce their risk.  Group think makes for bad investments.  And Julie encourages women to start early.  Start looking at non-profit boards while in your twenties for example as a way to add scaffolding to your career.  And because 85% of all board seats get placed through word of mouth, Julie also asks women to be fierce advocates for each other including making those important introductions.   How Women Invest; How Women Lead Julie Castro Abrams is an expert on building boards that add a strategic advantage including proactive searches for women on corporate boards. An experienced CEO and sought-after speaker in entrepreneurship and how women lead, she is a widely recognized because of her unique ability to connect people and facilitate rich conversations that make change happen. Julie partners with terrific CEO’s to build high performance, multicultural teams, in particular boards that make organizations better. She has a successful consulting practice with leaders she admires to achieve their growth and breakthrough goals. Julie’s commitment to justice and community are well known in her personal and professional endeavors. She serves as a leader on the boards of organizations focused on women and children, Latinos, economic development and the arts. Julie is a philanthropist who launched How Women Give and serves as the Governance Chair for the Women’s Funding Network. Thousands of new businesses attribute their launch and growth to her support which has resulted in millions toward the economic growth in communities. She is a leader in the country’s movement to build and fund start ups. Julie has won many awards including the Jobs Genius Award, Morgan Stanley Innovation Award, Cisco Innovation in Technology, “Women Who Could Be President” League of Women Voters, Stevie Award for Best Non Profit Executive, Human Rights Award from the Commission on the Status of Women, the Women of Color Action Network, Leadership California and the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame in 2011. You can follow Julie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Julie Castro Abrams, founder and CEO of How Women Invest and How Women Lead.  For over 30 years, Julie, who describes herself as a social justice warrior, has been intent on affecting everyone’s opportunity to advance.  She takes a scientific approach to supporting and advancing women at the investment and board level.  The approach covers regulatory and legislative issues; movement building; training women on the how to; and then actually doing placements.  By demystifying the process, Julie aims to bring 10,000 women into the world of venture.  Julie credits asset management companies being the first to move on creating more diverse boards to reduce their risk.  Group think makes for bad investments.  And Julie encourages women to start early.  Start looking at non-profit boards while in your twenties for example as a way to add scaffolding to your career.  And because 85% of all board seats get placed through word of mouth, Julie also asks women to be fierce advocates for each other including making those important introductions.

 

How Women Invest; How Women Lead

Julie Castro Abrams is an expert on building boards that add a strategic advantage including proactive searches for women on corporate boards. An experienced CEO and sought-after speaker in entrepreneurship and how women lead, she is a widely recognized because of her unique ability to connect people and facilitate rich conversations that make change happen.

Julie partners with terrific CEO’s to build high performance, multicultural teams, in particular boards that make organizations better. She has a successful consulting practice with leaders she admires to achieve their growth and breakthrough goals.

Julie’s commitment to justice and community are well known in her personal and professional endeavors. She serves as a leader on the boards of organizations focused on women and children, Latinos, economic development and the arts. Julie is a philanthropist who launched How Women Give and serves as the Governance Chair for the Women’s Funding Network.

Thousands of new businesses attribute their launch and growth to her support which has resulted in millions toward the economic growth in communities. She is a leader in the country’s movement to build and fund start ups.

Julie has won many awards including the Jobs Genius Award, Morgan Stanley Innovation Award, Cisco Innovation in Technology, “Women Who Could Be President” League of Women Voters, Stevie Award for Best Non Profit Executive, Human Rights Award from the Commission on the Status of Women, the Women of Color Action Network, Leadership California and the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame in 2011.

You can follow Julie on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1528 no EP. 56 Get into the READY position. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/10/04/ep-56-ladies-get-into-the-ready-position/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman May Busch, a sought after executive coach, speaker, advisor, and author.  May was just one more incredibly smart, talented, hardworking financial analyst at Morgan Stanley when at age 23 she found she had a special strength – reading the room and performing some tai chi moves to change the energy. Being a student of the environment meant May understood how to navigate not just the org chart, but the informal powerchart.  And for women to succeed, May tells women to be in the READY position – be READY to return anything that comes as you.  Her teaching, coaching, writings will help you be READY.   May’s passion is helping people succeed in their career and life – to be better, do more, and make the difference they are meant to make. May’s book, ACCELERATE: 9 Capabilities to Achieve Success at Any Career Stage, helps identify, understand and master the hidden skills needed to get – and stay – ahead. Previously, May enjoyed a 24-year career at Morgan Stanley spanning two continents and nine different business roles across Investment Banking, Capital Markets and Firm Management. She was most recently Chief Operating Officer for Europe where she was responsible for the development and implementation of the Firm’s business strategy in Europe, Middle East and Africa. She chaired the firm’s European Diversity Council and was a member of Morgan Stanley’s European Management Committee as well as a Board Member of the Firm’s FSA-regulated UK broker dealer. May is also Senior Advisor and Executive in Residence in the Office of the President, and Professor of Practice at W.P. Carey School of Business, at Arizona State University. She lectures on leadership, and works on interdisciplinary initiatives across the university with an emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship and enhancing the engagement between business and academia. She chairs The Idea Enterprise, a program for bringing experienced business leaders to ASU to help turn its best ideas into forces for change in the world. ASU is the largest US public research university, and pioneer of the New American University model for higher education. You can follow May on her WEBSITE, TWITTER, or FACEBOOK. Read the transcript here. Mon, 04 Oct 2021 05:00:20 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman May Busch, a sought after executive coach, speaker, advisor, and author.  May was just one more incredibly smart, talented, hardworking financial analyst at Morgan Stanley when at age 23 she found she had ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman May Busch, a sought after executive coach, speaker, advisor, and author.  May was just one more incredibly smart, talented, hardworking financial analyst at Morgan Stanley when at age 23 she found she had a special strength – reading the room and performing some tai chi moves to change the energy. Being a student of the environment meant May understood how to navigate not just the org chart, but the informal powerchart.  And for women to succeed, May tells women to be in the READY position – be READY to return anything that comes as you.  Her teaching, coaching, writings will help you be READY.   May’s passion is helping people succeed in their career and life – to be better, do more, and make the difference they are meant to make. May’s book, ACCELERATE: 9 Capabilities to Achieve Success at Any Career Stage, helps identify, understand and master the hidden skills needed to get – and stay – ahead. Previously, May enjoyed a 24-year career at Morgan Stanley spanning two continents and nine different business roles across Investment Banking, Capital Markets and Firm Management. She was most recently Chief Operating Officer for Europe where she was responsible for the development and implementation of the Firm’s business strategy in Europe, Middle East and Africa. She chaired the firm’s European Diversity Council and was a member of Morgan Stanley’s European Management Committee as well as a Board Member of the Firm’s FSA-regulated UK broker dealer. May is also Senior Advisor and Executive in Residence in the Office of the President, and Professor of Practice at W.P. Carey School of Business, at Arizona State University. She lectures on leadership, and works on interdisciplinary initiatives across the university with an emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship and enhancing the engagement between business and academia. She chairs The Idea Enterprise, a program for bringing experienced business leaders to ASU to help turn its best ideas into forces for change in the world. ASU is the largest US public research university, and pioneer of the New American University model for higher education. You can follow May on her WEBSITE, TWITTER, or FACEBOOK. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman May Busch, a sought after executive coach, speaker, advisor, and author.  May was just one more incredibly smart, talented, hardworking financial analyst at Morgan Stanley when at age 23 she found she had a special strength – reading the room and performing some tai chi moves to change the energy. Being a student of the environment meant May understood how to navigate not just the org chart, but the informal powerchart.  And for women to succeed, May tells women to be in the READY position – be READY to return anything that comes as you.  Her teaching, coaching, writings will help you be READY.

 

May’s passion is helping people succeed in their career and life – to be better, do more, and make the difference they are meant to make. May’s book, ACCELERATE: 9 Capabilities to Achieve Success at Any Career Stage, helps identify, understand and master the hidden skills needed to get – and stay – ahead.

Previously, May enjoyed a 24-year career at Morgan Stanley spanning two continents and nine different business roles across Investment Banking, Capital Markets and Firm Management. She was most recently Chief Operating Officer for Europe where she was responsible for the development and implementation of the Firm’s business strategy in Europe, Middle East and Africa. She chaired the firm’s European Diversity Council and was a member of Morgan Stanley’s European Management Committee as well as a Board Member of the Firm’s FSA-regulated UK broker dealer.

May is also Senior Advisor and Executive in Residence in the Office of the President, and Professor of Practice at W.P. Carey School of Business, at Arizona State University. She lectures on leadership, and works on interdisciplinary initiatives across the university with an emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship and enhancing the engagement between business and academia. She chairs The Idea Enterprise, a program for bringing experienced business leaders to ASU to help turn its best ideas into forces for change in the world. ASU is the largest US public research university, and pioneer of the New American University model for higher education.

You can follow May on her WEBSITE, TWITTER, or FACEBOOK.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1556 no EP. 55 Every conversation is a potential opportunity. Natalie Davis knows how to listen AND bring her own ideas to the table. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/09/27/ep-55-every-conversation-is-a-potential-opportunity-natalie-davis-knows-how-to-listen-and-bring-her-own-ideas-to-the-table/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Natalie Davis, CEO and Co-Founder of United States of Care.  Natalie has been working to improve people’s lives and opportunity for health for nearly two decades.  This means bringing together a lot of stakeholders including many of healthcare’s power brokers.  You might find that intimidating, but not for Natalie. She looks for the human connections to drive the important issues and make progress.  In addition to leading United States of Care, Natalie has a busy life with her young family and awesome husband.  Balancing it all also means staying sharp and keeping herself challenged.  For Natalie, that means a lot of reading and spending time talking to smart people. Inspiring Women Book Club – Natalie’s Pick: Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead. By Brené Brown Natalie Davis has worked for nearly two decades shaping and implementing American health care policies to improve the lives of all people. In 2018, she and fellow national health care leader Andy Slavitt launched United States of Care to ensure that everyone in the country has access to quality, affordable health care regardless of health status, social need, or income. She is relentless in her person-centered approach to building health care solutions and has a history of building partnerships – with organizations, patient advocacy groups and everyday people – that work to create positive change in our country’s health care system. From 2010-2016, Natalie served at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with the final two years as Senior Advisor to former CMS Administrator, Andy Slavitt. At CMS, she was deeply engaged in the implementation of one of the country’s largest expansions of health care in modern history. Natalie provided strategic and tactical support during the development of the agency’s internal and external priorities, and served as a liaison between CMS and stakeholders across the country. In 2017, Natalie served as the Director of Strategic Engagement at the Bipartisan Policy Center. There she worked to launch the Future of Health Reform initiative which serves as a resource to policymakers by developing effective and politically viable solutions to our nation’s health care challenges. This effort is led by former Senate Majority Leaders Tom Daschle and Bill Frist, as well as by Andy Slavitt, Gail Wilensky, and other leaders. Natalie knows firsthand that it is possible to bring the smartest minds together to innovate and get things done — regardless of political party. A social entrepreneur, Natalie also helped found Town Hall Ventures and The Medicaid Transformation Project, both of which focus on bringing the best of innovation and care delivery to diverse communities. An advocate and a mother, Natalie currently serves on the board of directors of the Preeclampsia Foundation. Natalie believes that it has never been more important to make our health care system work better for everyone. She is dedicated to bringing together leaders and advocates from across the country who can help create meaningful change in our nation’s inequitable health care system. She brings all her personal and professional experiences to the fight for better health care, working to expand access to quality, affordable health care to help people right now, while working towards durable federal policies centered on the needs of people to provide real and lasting solutions for everybody. Natalie holds an M.A. in Social Policy from George Washington University and is an alumna of Salisbury University schools of Sociology and Art History. Natalie lives in Washington, DC with her amazing husband and four children. You can find Natalie on LinkedIn and Twitter Listen to the transcript here. Mon, 27 Sep 2021 06:00:58 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Natalie Davis, CEO and Co-Founder of United States of Care.  Natalie has been working to improve people’s lives and opportunity for health for nearly two decades. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Natalie Davis, CEO and Co-Founder of United States of Care.  Natalie has been working to improve people’s lives and opportunity for health for nearly two decades.  This means bringing together a lot of stakeholders including many of healthcare’s power brokers.  You might find that intimidating, but not for Natalie. She looks for the human connections to drive the important issues and make progress.  In addition to leading United States of Care, Natalie has a busy life with her young family and awesome husband.  Balancing it all also means staying sharp and keeping herself challenged.  For Natalie, that means a lot of reading and spending time talking to smart people. Inspiring Women Book Club – Natalie’s Pick: Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead. By Brené Brown Natalie Davis has worked for nearly two decades shaping and implementing American health care policies to improve the lives of all people. In 2018, she and fellow national health care leader Andy Slavitt launched United States of Care to ensure that everyone in the country has access to quality, affordable health care regardless of health status, social need, or income. She is relentless in her person-centered approach to building health care solutions and has a history of building partnerships – with organizations, patient advocacy groups and everyday people – that work to create positive change in our country’s health care system. From 2010-2016, Natalie served at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with the final two years as Senior Advisor to former CMS Administrator, Andy Slavitt. At CMS, she was deeply engaged in the implementation of one of the country’s largest expansions of health care in modern history. Natalie provided strategic and tactical support during the development of the agency’s internal and external priorities, and served as a liaison between CMS and stakeholders across the country. In 2017, Natalie served as the Director of Strategic Engagement at the Bipartisan Policy Center. There she worked to launch the Future of Health Reform initiative which serves as a resource to policymakers by developing effective and politically viable solutions to our nation’s health care challenges. This effort is led by former Senate Majority Leaders Tom Daschle and Bill Frist, as well as by Andy Slavitt, Gail Wilensky, and other leaders. Natalie knows firsthand that it is possible to bring the smartest minds together to innovate and get things done — regardless of political party. A social entrepreneur, Natalie also helped found Town Hall Ventures and The Medicaid Transformation Project, both of which focus on bringing the best of innovation and care delivery to diverse communities. An advocate and a mother, Natalie currently serves on the board of directors of the Preeclampsia Foundation. Natalie believes that it has never been more important to make our health care system work better for everyone. She is dedicated to bringing together leaders and advocates from across the country who can help create meaningful change in our nation’s inequitable health care system. She brings all her personal and professional experiences to the fight for better health care, working to expand access to quality, affordable health care to help people right now, while working towards durable federal policies centered on the needs of people to provide real and lasting solutions for everybody. Natalie holds an M.A. in Social Policy from George Washington University and is an alumna of Salisbury University schools of Sociology and Art History. Natalie lives in Washington, DC with her amazing husband and four children. You can find Natalie on LinkedIn and Twitter Listen to the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Natalie Davis, CEO and Co-Founder of United States of Care.  Natalie has been working to improve people’s lives and opportunity for health for nearly two decades.  This means bringing together a lot of stakeholders including many of healthcare’s power brokers.  You might find that intimidating, but not for Natalie. She looks for the human connections to drive the important issues and make progress.  In addition to leading United States of Care, Natalie has a busy life with her young family and awesome husband.  Balancing it all also means staying sharp and keeping herself challenged.  For Natalie, that means a lot of reading and spending time talking to smart people.

Inspiring Women Book Club – Natalie’s Pick:
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead. By Brené Brown

Natalie Davis has worked for nearly two decades shaping and implementing American health care policies to improve the lives of all people. In 2018, she and fellow national health care leader Andy Slavitt launched United States of Care to ensure that everyone in the country has access to quality, affordable health care regardless of health status, social need, or income. She is relentless in her person-centered approach to building health care solutions and has a history of building partnerships – with organizations, patient advocacy groups and everyday people – that work to create positive change in our country’s health care system.

From 2010-2016, Natalie served at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with the final two years as Senior Advisor to former CMS Administrator, Andy Slavitt. At CMS, she was deeply engaged in the implementation of one of the country’s largest expansions of health care in modern history. Natalie provided strategic and tactical support during the development of the agency’s internal and external priorities, and served as a liaison between CMS and stakeholders across the country.

In 2017, Natalie served as the Director of Strategic Engagement at the Bipartisan Policy Center. There she worked to launch the Future of Health Reform initiative which serves as a resource to policymakers by developing effective and politically viable solutions to our nation’s health care challenges. This effort is led by former Senate Majority Leaders Tom Daschle and Bill Frist, as well as by Andy Slavitt, Gail Wilensky, and other leaders. Natalie knows firsthand that it is possible to bring the smartest minds together to innovate and get things done — regardless of political party.

A social entrepreneur, Natalie also helped found Town Hall Ventures and The Medicaid Transformation Project, both of which focus on bringing the best of innovation and care delivery to diverse communities. An advocate and a mother, Natalie currently serves on the board of directors of the Preeclampsia Foundation.

Natalie believes that it has never been more important to make our health care system work better for everyone. She is dedicated to bringing together leaders and advocates from across the country who can help create meaningful change in our nation’s inequitable health care system. She brings all her personal and professional experiences to the fight for better health care, working to expand access to quality, affordable health care to help people right now, while working towards durable federal policies centered on the needs of people to provide real and lasting solutions for everybody.

Natalie holds an M.A. in Social Policy from George Washington University and is an alumna of Salisbury University schools of Sociology and Art History. Natalie lives in Washington, DC with her amazing husband and four children.

You can find Natalie on LinkedIn and Twitter

Listen to the transcript here.

]]> 1658 no EP. 54 Risk taking is a whole lot easier with a trusted support system. Just ask Miruna Sasu. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/09/20/ep-54-risk-taking-is-a-whole-lot-easier-with-a-trusted-support-system-just-ask-miruna-sasu/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Miruna Sasu, PhD, and Chief Strategy Office of COTA, Inc.  Always a risk taker, Miruna thrives on the challenges of pursuing big ideas and changing something drastically.  But risk taking comes with having a support system, one that she trusts, not only her husband and family, but also trusted friends and mentors.  With that, Miruna believes there is never a wrong time to pursue something next. Miruna has more than 20 years of experience at leading life science organizations such as Johnson & Johnson and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Most recently, Miruna was serving as the head of Johnson & Johnson’s Clinical Trial Feasibility and Advanced Analytics team where she drove global adoption of integrated real-world data and innovation strategies across several therapeutic areas. Miruna is an accomplished executive with a track record of success when it comes to driving broad-based digital innovation. Miruna brings deep experience in the utilization and scaling of emerging innovations to advance drug portfolios. She also has both a Ph.D. in biology and statistics, and a master’s in business administration. With decades of in-house life science experience, Miruna’s guidance and collaboration will prove invaluable to COTA clients that are looking to drive innovation and accelerate availability of much-needed cancer drugs and therapies through the adoption and at-scale use of real-world data. In her new role as Chief Strategy Officer, Life Sciences, Miruna will play a critical role in setting the strategy and executing the solutions delivery to meet critical needs in partnership with life science companies to drive efficient and optimal drug development. You can find Miruna Sasu, PhD on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 20 Sep 2021 11:40:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Miruna Sasu, PhD, and Chief Strategy Office of COTA, Inc.  Always a risk taker, Miruna thrives on the challenges of pursuing big ideas and changing something drastically. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Miruna Sasu, PhD, and Chief Strategy Office of COTA, Inc.  Always a risk taker, Miruna thrives on the challenges of pursuing big ideas and changing something drastically.  But risk taking comes with having a support system, one that she trusts, not only her husband and family, but also trusted friends and mentors.  With that, Miruna believes there is never a wrong time to pursue something next. Miruna has more than 20 years of experience at leading life science organizations such as Johnson & Johnson and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Most recently, Miruna was serving as the head of Johnson & Johnson’s Clinical Trial Feasibility and Advanced Analytics team where she drove global adoption of integrated real-world data and innovation strategies across several therapeutic areas. Miruna is an accomplished executive with a track record of success when it comes to driving broad-based digital innovation. Miruna brings deep experience in the utilization and scaling of emerging innovations to advance drug portfolios. She also has both a Ph.D. in biology and statistics, and a master’s in business administration. With decades of in-house life science experience, Miruna’s guidance and collaboration will prove invaluable to COTA clients that are looking to drive innovation and accelerate availability of much-needed cancer drugs and therapies through the adoption and at-scale use of real-world data. In her new role as Chief Strategy Officer, Life Sciences, Miruna will play a critical role in setting the strategy and executing the solutions delivery to meet critical needs in partnership with life science companies to drive efficient and optimal drug development. You can find Miruna Sasu, PhD on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Miruna Sasu, PhD, and Chief Strategy Office of COTA, Inc.  Always a risk taker, Miruna thrives on the challenges of pursuing big ideas and changing something drastically.  But risk taking comes with having a support system, one that she trusts, not only her husband and family, but also trusted friends and mentors.  With that, Miruna believes there is never a wrong time to pursue something next.

Miruna has more than 20 years of experience at leading life science organizations such as Johnson & Johnson and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Most recently, Miruna was serving as the head of Johnson & Johnson’s Clinical Trial Feasibility and Advanced Analytics team where she drove global adoption of integrated real-world data and innovation strategies across several therapeutic areas.

Miruna is an accomplished executive with a track record of success when it comes to driving broad-based digital innovation. Miruna brings deep experience in the utilization and scaling of emerging innovations to advance drug portfolios. She also has both a Ph.D. in biology and statistics, and a master’s in business administration.

With decades of in-house life science experience, Miruna’s guidance and collaboration will prove invaluable to COTA clients that are looking to drive innovation and accelerate availability of much-needed cancer drugs and therapies through the adoption and at-scale use of real-world data.

In her new role as Chief Strategy Officer, Life Sciences, Miruna will play a critical role in setting the strategy and executing the solutions delivery to meet critical needs in partnership with life science companies to drive efficient and optimal drug development.

You can find Miruna Sasu, PhD on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1544 no EP. 53 Be willing to say YES. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/09/13/ep-53-be-willing-to-say-yes/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Fran Ayalasomayajula.  She still doesn’t understand why it took a pandemic to embrace telehealth but she urges us to continue to accelerate and to double down on universal design.  Fran is clear that digital health holds great promise for global health issues, but personalization, form factors, and honing in on data science are key to sustained change.  When she began her focus on public health and global populations, she was not focused on a career destination.  She has been enjoying the journey ever since. Inspiring Women Book Club – Fran’s Pick: Finding Yourself in Transition:  Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening By Robert Brumet With over 20 years of dedication, Fran Ayalasomayajula, executive healthcare strategist and technologist, serves the interests of populations around the world to improve the quality of healthcare, increase access to healthcare, and obtain higher rates of health literacy and patient engagement. Currently the Head of Digital Health Strategy, Worldwide at HP, Fran leads the organization in devising strategies and innovations designed to advance and deliver improved clinical outcomes and better population health. Prior to HP, Frances worked for major healthcare institutions, including PAHO – WHO, CDC, BMS, and UHG. Fran is the recipient of national awards for motivational and collaborative leadership including the National Campaign for Tolerance. She is a member of the Wall of Tolerance, the United Nations Association, and multiple global organizations on population health. She is a renown international public speaker and writer. The author of several publications on technology-enabled population health management solutions, including best practices for the successful adoption of virtual reality in the clinical setting. An acclaimed thought leader, Fran engages and inspires audiences through storytelling from the front-lines of public health and “How To” presentations sharing approaches to applied innovation and technology enabled methodologies. You can find Fran on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 13 Sep 2021 13:19:44 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Fran Ayalasomayajula.  She still doesn’t understand why it took a pandemic to embrace telehealth but she urges us to continue to accelerate and to double down on universal design. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Fran Ayalasomayajula.  She still doesn’t understand why it took a pandemic to embrace telehealth but she urges us to continue to accelerate and to double down on universal design.  Fran is clear that digital health holds great promise for global health issues, but personalization, form factors, and honing in on data science are key to sustained change.  When she began her focus on public health and global populations, she was not focused on a career destination.  She has been enjoying the journey ever since. Inspiring Women Book Club – Fran’s Pick: Finding Yourself in Transition:  Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening By Robert Brumet With over 20 years of dedication, Fran Ayalasomayajula, executive healthcare strategist and technologist, serves the interests of populations around the world to improve the quality of healthcare, increase access to healthcare, and obtain higher rates of health literacy and patient engagement. Currently the Head of Digital Health Strategy, Worldwide at HP, Fran leads the organization in devising strategies and innovations designed to advance and deliver improved clinical outcomes and better population health. Prior to HP, Frances worked for major healthcare institutions, including PAHO – WHO, CDC, BMS, and UHG. Fran is the recipient of national awards for motivational and collaborative leadership including the National Campaign for Tolerance. She is a member of the Wall of Tolerance, the United Nations Association, and multiple global organizations on population health. She is a renown international public speaker and writer. The author of several publications on technology-enabled population health management solutions, including best practices for the successful adoption of virtual reality in the clinical setting. An acclaimed thought leader, Fran engages and inspires audiences through storytelling from the front-lines of public health and “How To” presentations sharing approaches to applied innovation and technology enabled methodologies. You can find Fran on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Fran Ayalasomayajula.  She still doesn’t understand why it took a pandemic to embrace telehealth but she urges us to continue to accelerate and to double down on universal design.  Fran is clear that digital health holds great promise for global health issues, but personalization, form factors, and honing in on data science are key to sustained change.  When she began her focus on public health and global populations, she was not focused on a career destination.  She has been enjoying the journey ever since.

Inspiring Women Book Club – Fran’s Pick:
Finding Yourself in Transition:  Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening

  • By Robert Brumet

With over 20 years of dedication, Fran Ayalasomayajula, executive healthcare strategist and technologist, serves the interests of populations around the world to improve the quality of healthcare, increase access to healthcare, and obtain higher rates of health literacy and patient engagement.

Currently the Head of Digital Health Strategy, Worldwide at HP, Fran leads the organization in devising strategies and innovations designed to advance and deliver improved clinical outcomes and better population health. Prior to HP, Frances worked for major healthcare institutions, including PAHO – WHO, CDC, BMS, and UHG.

Fran is the recipient of national awards for motivational and collaborative leadership including the National Campaign for Tolerance. She is a member of the Wall of Tolerance, the United Nations Association, and multiple global organizations on population health.

She is a renown international public speaker and writer. The author of several publications on technology-enabled population health management solutions, including best practices for the successful adoption of virtual reality in the clinical setting. An acclaimed thought leader, Fran engages and inspires audiences through storytelling from the front-lines of public health and “How To” presentations sharing approaches to applied innovation and technology enabled methodologies.

You can find Fran on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1582 no EP. 52 Emotional intelligence, demonstrating inclusivity and being inspirational –leaders today need to up their game to retain top talent. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/09/08/ep-52-emotional-intelligence-demonstrating-inclusivity-and-being-inspirational-leaders-today-need-to-up-their-game-to-retain-top-talent/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sarah Oremland.  She is an executive coach and leadership development consultant but considers herself a Business Psychologist.  Sarah discusses what today’s high-performance teams need to engage and retain the workforce of today. Sarah has a quintessentially unique mix: the hunger and motivation of a former salesperson, the ability to actively listen as a trained social worker, the results-focus of a former sales manager, and the concurrent creativity and analytical talents of a consultant. With over 14 years of clinical social work, consulting, and executive coaching experience, she recognizes that getting the right mix of strategy, people, skills, tools and measurement is a significant challenge to driving revenue growth. As a skilled executive coach and assessor experienced in the commercial and strategic realities of organizational leadership, Sarah partners closely with individuals and their organization to ensure measurable growth with a sustainable impact that is embedded within the workplace. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys virtually anything having to do with the outdoors- hiking, biking, skiing, and traveling to see the beauty of this world. Recently made the move from Chicago to Colorado with her family to take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and be closer to nature. B.S. Sociology and Fine Arts (Bates College), Masters of Social Work (University of Chicago – School of Social Service Administration), Hogan Certified You can find Sarah on LinkedIn Read the transcript here. Wed, 08 Sep 2021 06:00:32 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sarah Oremland.  She is an executive coach and leadership development consultant but considers herself a Business Psychologist.  Sarah discusses what today’s high-performance teams need to engage and retai... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sarah Oremland.  She is an executive coach and leadership development consultant but considers herself a Business Psychologist.  Sarah discusses what today’s high-performance teams need to engage and retain the workforce of today. Sarah has a quintessentially unique mix: the hunger and motivation of a former salesperson, the ability to actively listen as a trained social worker, the results-focus of a former sales manager, and the concurrent creativity and analytical talents of a consultant. With over 14 years of clinical social work, consulting, and executive coaching experience, she recognizes that getting the right mix of strategy, people, skills, tools and measurement is a significant challenge to driving revenue growth. As a skilled executive coach and assessor experienced in the commercial and strategic realities of organizational leadership, Sarah partners closely with individuals and their organization to ensure measurable growth with a sustainable impact that is embedded within the workplace. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys virtually anything having to do with the outdoors- hiking, biking, skiing, and traveling to see the beauty of this world. Recently made the move from Chicago to Colorado with her family to take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and be closer to nature. B.S. Sociology and Fine Arts (Bates College), Masters of Social Work (University of Chicago – School of Social Service Administration), Hogan Certified You can find Sarah on LinkedIn Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sarah Oremland.  She is an executive coach and leadership development consultant but considers herself a Business Psychologist.  Sarah discusses what today’s high-performance teams need to engage and retain the workforce of today.

Sarah has a quintessentially unique mix: the hunger and motivation of a former salesperson, the ability to actively listen as a trained social worker, the results-focus of a former sales manager, and the concurrent creativity and analytical talents of a consultant. With over 14 years of clinical social work, consulting, and executive coaching experience, she recognizes that getting the right mix of strategy, people, skills, tools and measurement is a significant challenge to driving revenue growth. As a skilled executive coach and assessor experienced in the commercial and strategic realities of organizational leadership, Sarah partners closely with individuals and their organization to ensure measurable growth with a sustainable impact that is embedded within the workplace.

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys virtually anything having to do with the outdoors- hiking, biking, skiing, and traveling to see the beauty of this world. Recently made the move from Chicago to Colorado with her family to take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and be closer to nature.

B.S. Sociology and Fine Arts (Bates College), Masters of Social Work (University of Chicago – School of Social Service Administration), Hogan Certified

You can find Sarah on LinkedIn

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1559 no EP. 51 When the Mrs. Kellys’ saw something in that girl in the garage. Today, Dr. Natasha Sheybani has her sights on eradicating cancer. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/09/03/ep-51-years-ago-the-mrs-kellys-saw-something-in-that-girl-in-the-garage-today-dr-natasha-sheybani-has-her-sights-on-eradicating-cancer/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Natasha Sheybani, a scientist focused on eradicating cancer. Natasha Sheybani, PhD, serves as Senior Scientist at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, where her role involves supporting research programs in glioblastoma, gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy. She is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stanford University, where her appointment is shared among the Departments of Oncology, Radiology, and Biomedical Data Science. Her research focuses on applications of liquid biopsy and radiomics/radiogenomics for advancing precision immuno-oncology. Dr. Sheybani received her BS (2015) and PhD (2020) in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University and University of Virginia (UVA), respectively. Her graduate research at UVA centered on leveraging image-guided focused ultrasound to potentiate immunotherapy for solid tumors including glioblastoma and metastatic breast cancer. During her training, Dr. Sheybani was supported by the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and Robert R. Wagner Fellowship, and she currently holds the prestigious NCI F99/K00 Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition Award. Read the transcript here. Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:44:14 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Natasha Sheybani, a scientist focused on eradicating cancer. Natasha Sheybani, PhD, serves as Senior Scientist at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, where her role involves supporting research programs... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Natasha Sheybani, a scientist focused on eradicating cancer. Natasha Sheybani, PhD, serves as Senior Scientist at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, where her role involves supporting research programs in glioblastoma, gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy. She is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stanford University, where her appointment is shared among the Departments of Oncology, Radiology, and Biomedical Data Science. Her research focuses on applications of liquid biopsy and radiomics/radiogenomics for advancing precision immuno-oncology. Dr. Sheybani received her BS (2015) and PhD (2020) in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University and University of Virginia (UVA), respectively. Her graduate research at UVA centered on leveraging image-guided focused ultrasound to potentiate immunotherapy for solid tumors including glioblastoma and metastatic breast cancer. During her training, Dr. Sheybani was supported by the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and Robert R. Wagner Fellowship, and she currently holds the prestigious NCI F99/K00 Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition Award. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Natasha Sheybani, a scientist focused on eradicating cancer.

Natasha Sheybani, PhD, serves as Senior Scientist at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, where her role involves supporting research programs in glioblastoma, gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy. She is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stanford University, where her appointment is shared among the Departments of Oncology, Radiology, and Biomedical Data Science. Her research focuses on applications of liquid biopsy and radiomics/radiogenomics for advancing precision immuno-oncology. Dr. Sheybani received her BS (2015) and PhD (2020) in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University and University of Virginia (UVA), respectively. Her graduate research at UVA centered on leveraging image-guided focused ultrasound to potentiate immunotherapy for solid tumors including glioblastoma and metastatic breast cancer. During her training, Dr. Sheybani was supported by the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and Robert R. Wagner Fellowship, and she currently holds the prestigious NCI F99/K00 Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition Award.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1649 no EP. 50 Diversifying the cap table is a hard problem without an easy solution. Chrissy Farr tells women to “find your tribe.” https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/30/ep-50-diversifying-the-cap-table-is-a-hard-problem-without-an-easy-solution-chrissy-farr-tells-women-to-find-your-tribe/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chrissy Farr, a San Francisco-based health-tech investor with a background in journalism. Chrissy is a Principal at OMERS Ventures having joined in 2020 and is focused on healthtech, with special expertise in behavioral health, telemedicine, electronic medical records, and women’s health. Previously, she was a writer and frequent on-air contributor for CNBC, Fast Company and Reuters News, among other publications. She was raised in London, UK, and received graduate degrees from University College London and Stanford University. To follow Chrissy’s writing, check out Second Opinion here. Also follow Chrissy on Twitter or LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 30 Aug 2021 11:49:39 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chrissy Farr, a San Francisco-based health-tech investor with a background in journalism. Chrissy is a Principal at OMERS Ventures having joined in 2020 and is focused on healthtech, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chrissy Farr, a San Francisco-based health-tech investor with a background in journalism. Chrissy is a Principal at OMERS Ventures having joined in 2020 and is focused on healthtech, with special expertise in behavioral health, telemedicine, electronic medical records, and women’s health. Previously, she was a writer and frequent on-air contributor for CNBC, Fast Company and Reuters News, among other publications. She was raised in London, UK, and received graduate degrees from University College London and Stanford University. To follow Chrissy’s writing, check out Second Opinion here. Also follow Chrissy on Twitter or LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chrissy Farr, a San Francisco-based health-tech investor with a background in journalism.

Chrissy is a Principal at OMERS Ventures having joined in 2020 and is focused on healthtech, with special expertise in behavioral health, telemedicine, electronic medical records, and women’s health. Previously, she was a writer and frequent on-air contributor for CNBC, Fast Company and Reuters News, among other publications. She was raised in London, UK, and received graduate degrees from University College London and Stanford University.

To follow Chrissy’s writing, check out Second Opinion here.

Also follow Chrissy on Twitter or LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1436 no EP. 49 Developing personal mastery – the key to making change or improving any system. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/23/developing-personal-mastery-the-key-to-making-change-or-improving-any-system/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Insha Haque, a family medicine doctor in New Hampshire who has led a life of service in addition to serving her patients today. Dr. Insha Haque’s focuses include Quality Improvement, Clinical Innovation, Population Health and Leadership via a Systems Change Philosophy. My clinical work is centered primarily in outpatient Primary Care Medicine. Family and Preventive Medicine + Population Health are my passions in healthcare. Dr. Haque is a graduate of Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, she received a B.A. in Spanish from the University of Louisville in 2011. She has a vivid interest in language which she uses to connect to an international patient population. She has served five years as a medical student and translator for Children’s Aid Mission International. Dual residency program in Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Read the transcript here. Mon, 23 Aug 2021 15:02:29 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Insha Haque, a family medicine doctor in New Hampshire who has led a life of service in addition to serving her patients today. Dr. Insha Haque’s focuses include Quality Improvement, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Insha Haque, a family medicine doctor in New Hampshire who has led a life of service in addition to serving her patients today. Dr. Insha Haque’s focuses include Quality Improvement, Clinical Innovation, Population Health and Leadership via a Systems Change Philosophy. My clinical work is centered primarily in outpatient Primary Care Medicine. Family and Preventive Medicine + Population Health are my passions in healthcare. Dr. Haque is a graduate of Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, she received a B.A. in Spanish from the University of Louisville in 2011. She has a vivid interest in language which she uses to connect to an international patient population. She has served five years as a medical student and translator for Children’s Aid Mission International. Dual residency program in Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Insha Haque, a family medicine doctor in New Hampshire who has led a life of service in addition to serving her patients today.

Dr. Insha Haque’s focuses include Quality Improvement, Clinical Innovation, Population Health and Leadership via a Systems Change Philosophy. My clinical work is centered primarily in outpatient Primary Care Medicine. Family and Preventive Medicine + Population Health are my passions in healthcare.

Dr. Haque is a graduate of Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, she received a B.A. in Spanish from the University of Louisville in 2011. She has a vivid interest in language which she uses to connect to an international patient population. She has served five years as a medical student and translator for Children’s Aid Mission International. Dual residency program in Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1486 no EP. 48 Pay it forward and give back, Sound advice from Marie Lamont. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/17/ep-48-pay-it-forward-and-give-back-sound-advice-from-marie-lamont/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marie E. Lamont, President and Chief Operating Officer of Inteliquet, a clinical trials technology company. Marie E. Lamont is responsible for the overall vision and operations of Inteliquet. With the goal of providing patients and physicians access to the latest and best treatment options and care available, she helps commercialize Inteliquet’s offerings of intelligent technology, insights, and services to improve the clinical trial process, research, and translational medicine. With more than 25 years as a global biotech leader, Marie has significant commercial and operational expertise. She has held senior leadership positions in many areas focusing on corporate strategic planning and analytics, commercial operations, finance and accounting, patient services, and payer contracting and reimbursement. Prior to Inteliquet, Marie headed up an executive consulting and advisory firm for the life science and technology industries that advised companies on commercialization and integration planning, M&A support, and global market expansion. Before her consultancy, Marie was President of the Patient Services Business at Dohmen Life Science Services (DLSS), which was subsequently sold and is now part of EVERSANA (a provider of global services to the life science industry). She directed all aspects of the unit and was responsible for improving the client and patient focus by shoring up the underlying infrastructure, as well as improving patient support and employee engagement. She also was heavily involved in the success of DLSS’s brand positioning, strategic road mapping, sales business development, and patient journey adoption, along with targeting analytics for key initiatives. Prior to DLSS, Marie was Global Head of Business Strategy and Commercial Operations for Rare Disease at Sanofi Genzyme. She had stewardship for the $2.9B business where annual operating profit improved at a rate greater than revenue. As a member of the senior leadership team, she was tasked with decision analytics and support as well as bringing together disparate groups and functions into a cohesive, comprehensive global unit. While reestablishing a Rare Disease global strategy, she worked to align efforts with a range of functions, including R&D, Biologics Manufacturing, and Medical/Regulatory Affairs. She also helped to lead humanitarian programs that provided free therapy for more than 1,100 patients suffering from rare diseases in emerging markets. Prior to this position, she held several senior operational and finance roles. She took on the assignment of Vice President of Integration for Finance and Accounting following the Sanofi acquisition. Before this assignment, she was Vice President of Operations & Finance for the International Group where the business grew from $100M in 2002 to $2B at time of the Sanofi acquisition. She guided the operational strategy for the international infrastructure on a regional and country basis for the Oncology, Transplant, Renal, Biosurgery, and Rare Disease Business Units. Before this role, she directed Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis and Strategic Planning. Marie holds a bachelor’s degree in Business from Saint Michael’s College, and attended Harvard Business School and Kellogg Executive Education programs. She lives in the St. Louis area. “Early on, I was fortunate to work for a CEO who believed that when you treat patients and employees right, business success follows — and you can change the world. I believe this applies to every employee in any role whether patient facing or not. “My grandfather passed due to lung cancer, so I saw how the cycle of disease progression and therapy can be a horrid emotional journey for everyone involved. When considering a new role, I evaluate whether I can make a difference to patients now or in the future. Since Inteliquet can harness the best data to rapidly identify and qualify patients for trials, we have a significant opportunity to benefit patients, improve health outcomes, and advance the standard of care in oncology and beyond.” You can follow Marie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:43:35 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marie E. Lamont, President and Chief Operating Officer of Inteliquet, a clinical trials technology company. Marie E. Lamont is responsible for the overall vision and operations of Inteliquet. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marie E. Lamont, President and Chief Operating Officer of Inteliquet, a clinical trials technology company. Marie E. Lamont is responsible for the overall vision and operations of Inteliquet. With the goal of providing patients and physicians access to the latest and best treatment options and care available, she helps commercialize Inteliquet’s offerings of intelligent technology, insights, and services to improve the clinical trial process, research, and translational medicine. With more than 25 years as a global biotech leader, Marie has significant commercial and operational expertise. She has held senior leadership positions in many areas focusing on corporate strategic planning and analytics, commercial operations, finance and accounting, patient services, and payer contracting and reimbursement. Prior to Inteliquet, Marie headed up an executive consulting and advisory firm for the life science and technology industries that advised companies on commercialization and integration planning, M&A support, and global market expansion. Before her consultancy, Marie was President of the Patient Services Business at Dohmen Life Science Services (DLSS), which was subsequently sold and is now part of EVERSANA (a provider of global services to the life science industry). She directed all aspects of the unit and was responsible for improving the client and patient focus by shoring up the underlying infrastructure, as well as improving patient support and employee engagement. She also was heavily involved in the success of DLSS’s brand positioning, strategic road mapping, sales business development, and patient journey adoption, along with targeting analytics for key initiatives. Prior to DLSS, Marie was Global Head of Business Strategy and Commercial Operations for Rare Disease at Sanofi Genzyme. She had stewardship for the $2.9B business where annual operating profit improved at a rate greater than revenue. As a member of the senior leadership team, she was tasked with decision analytics and support as well as bringing together disparate groups and functions into a cohesive, comprehensive global unit. While reestablishing a Rare Disease global strategy, she worked to align efforts with a range of functions, including R&D, Biologics Manufacturing, and Medical/Regulatory Affairs. She also helped to lead humanitarian programs that provided free therapy for more than 1,100 patients suffering from rare diseases in emerging markets. Prior to this position, she held several senior operational and finance roles. She took on the assignment of Vice President of Integration for Finance and Accounting following the Sanofi acquisition. Before this assignment, she was Vice President of Operations & Finance for the International Group where the business grew from $100M in 2002 to $2B at time of the Sanofi acquisition. She guided the operational strategy for the international infrastructure on a regional and country basis for the Oncology, Transplant, Renal, Biosurgery, and Rare Disease Business Units. Before this role, she directed Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis and Strategic Planning. Marie holds a bachelor’s degree in Business from Saint Michael’s College, and attended Harvard Business School and Kellogg Executive Education programs. She lives in the St. Louis area. “Early on, I was fortunate to work for a CEO who believed that when you treat patients and employees right, business success follows — and you can change the world. I believe this applies to every employee in any role whether patient facing or not. “My grandfather passed due to lung cancer, so I saw how the cycle of disease progression and therapy can be a horrid emotional journey for everyone involved. When considering a new role, I evaluate whether I can make a difference to patients now or in the future. Since Inteliquet can harness the best data to rapidly identify and qualify patients for trials, we have a significant opportunity to benefit patients, improve health outcomes, and advance the standard of care in oncology and beyond.” You can follow Marie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Marie E. Lamont, President and Chief Operating Officer of Inteliquet, a clinical trials technology company.

Marie E. Lamont is responsible for the overall vision and operations of Inteliquet. With the goal of providing patients and physicians access to the latest and best treatment options and care available, she helps commercialize Inteliquet’s offerings of intelligent technology, insights, and services to improve the clinical trial process, research, and translational medicine.

With more than 25 years as a global biotech leader, Marie has significant commercial and operational expertise. She has held senior leadership positions in many areas focusing on corporate strategic planning and analytics, commercial operations, finance and accounting, patient services, and payer contracting and reimbursement. Prior to Inteliquet, Marie headed up an executive consulting and advisory firm for the life science and technology industries that advised companies on commercialization and integration planning, M&A support, and global market expansion.

Before her consultancy, Marie was President of the Patient Services Business at Dohmen Life Science Services (DLSS), which was subsequently sold and is now part of EVERSANA (a provider of global services to the life science industry). She directed all aspects of the unit and was responsible for improving the client and patient focus by shoring up the underlying infrastructure, as well as improving patient support and employee engagement. She also was heavily involved in the success of DLSS’s brand positioning, strategic road mapping, sales business development, and patient journey adoption, along with targeting analytics for key initiatives.

Prior to DLSS, Marie was Global Head of Business Strategy and Commercial Operations for Rare Disease at Sanofi Genzyme. She had stewardship for the $2.9B business where annual operating profit improved at a rate greater than revenue. As a member of the senior leadership team, she was tasked with decision analytics and support as well as bringing together disparate groups and functions into a cohesive, comprehensive global unit. While reestablishing a Rare Disease global strategy, she worked to align efforts with a range of functions, including R&D, Biologics Manufacturing, and Medical/Regulatory Affairs. She also helped to lead humanitarian programs that provided free therapy for more than 1,100 patients suffering from rare diseases in emerging markets.

Prior to this position, she held several senior operational and finance roles. She took on the assignment of Vice President of Integration for Finance and Accounting following the Sanofi acquisition. Before this assignment, she was Vice President of Operations & Finance for the International Group where the business grew from $100M in 2002 to $2B at time of the Sanofi acquisition. She guided the operational strategy for the international infrastructure on a regional and country basis for the Oncology, Transplant, Renal, Biosurgery, and Rare Disease Business Units. Before this role, she directed Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis and Strategic Planning.

Marie holds a bachelor’s degree in Business from Saint Michael’s College, and attended Harvard Business School and Kellogg Executive Education programs. She lives in the St. Louis area.

“Early on, I was fortunate to work for a CEO who believed that when you treat patients and employees right, business success follows — and you can change the world. I believe this applies to every employee in any role whether patient facing or not.

“My grandfather passed due to lung cancer, so I saw how the cycle of disease progression and therapy can be a horrid emotional journey for everyone involved. When considering a new role, I evaluate whether I can make a difference to patients now or in the future. Since Inteliquet can harness the best data to rapidly identify and qualify patients for trials, we have a significant opportunity to benefit patients, improve health outcomes, and advance the standard of care in oncology and beyond.”

You can follow Marie on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1629 no EP. 47 Changing Course. When Dr. Alexis DiGasso saw the impact of trauma on young children, something clicked. And she changed her mind about previous career plans. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/12/changing-course-when-dr-alexis-digasso-saw-the-impact-of-trauma-on-young-children-something-clicked-and-she-changed-her-mind-about-previous-career-plans/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Alexis DiGasso, a psychologist/postdoctoral fellow practicing in Rhode Island. Dr. Alexis DiGasso is a Postdoctoral Fellow in clinical psychology at Providence Behavioral Health Associates. Dr. DiGasso earned her bachelor’s Degree from Boston College, and her master’s and doctorate degrees from William James College in Newton, MA with specializations in Children and Families and Global Mental Health. She has worked in a range of clinical settings and has expertise in diagnosing and treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families experiencing a broad range of presenting behavioral concerns. Dr. DiGasso has training in crisis de-escalation, family therapy, play therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Dr. DiGasso has worked both internationally and within the United States to deliver research-based, culturally sensitive interventions. If you are feeling suicidal, thinking about hurting yourself, or are concerned that someone you know may be in danger of hurting themself, help is available at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/youth/ or https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now/ Read the transcript here. Thu, 12 Aug 2021 15:32:56 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Alexis DiGasso, a psychologist/postdoctoral fellow practicing in Rhode Island. Dr. Alexis DiGasso is a Postdoctoral Fellow in clinical psychology at Providence Behavioral Health Associates. Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Alexis DiGasso, a psychologist/postdoctoral fellow practicing in Rhode Island. Dr. Alexis DiGasso is a Postdoctoral Fellow in clinical psychology at Providence Behavioral Health Associates. Dr. DiGasso earned her bachelor’s Degree from Boston College, and her master’s and doctorate degrees from William James College in Newton, MA with specializations in Children and Families and Global Mental Health. She has worked in a range of clinical settings and has expertise in diagnosing and treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families experiencing a broad range of presenting behavioral concerns. Dr. DiGasso has training in crisis de-escalation, family therapy, play therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Dr. DiGasso has worked both internationally and within the United States to deliver research-based, culturally sensitive interventions. If you are feeling suicidal, thinking about hurting yourself, or are concerned that someone you know may be in danger of hurting themself, help is available at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/youth/ or https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now/ Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Alexis DiGasso, a psychologist/postdoctoral fellow practicing in Rhode Island.

Dr. Alexis DiGasso is a Postdoctoral Fellow in clinical psychology at Providence Behavioral Health Associates. Dr. DiGasso earned her bachelor’s Degree from Boston College, and her master’s and doctorate degrees from William James College in Newton, MA with specializations in Children and Families and Global Mental Health. She has worked in a range of clinical settings and has expertise in diagnosing and treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families experiencing a broad range of presenting behavioral concerns. Dr. DiGasso has training in crisis de-escalation, family therapy, play therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Dr. DiGasso has worked both internationally and within the United States to deliver research-based, culturally sensitive interventions.

If you are feeling suicidal, thinking about hurting yourself, or are concerned that someone you know may be in danger of hurting themself, help is available at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/youth/ or https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now/

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1509 no EP. 46 From Denmark to the US. Dr. Monica Bolbjerg is confident in her vision to change how patients engage with their physicians. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/02/ep-46-from-denmark-to-the-us-dr-monica-bolbjerg-is-confident-in-her-vision-to-change-how-patients-engage-with-their-physicians/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Monica Bolbjerg, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Qure4u. Dr. Bolbjerg is a doctor, an entrepreneur, and a digital health pioneer. As a young physician, Dr. Bolbjerg noticed the lack of tools available to engage with and help patients beyond episodic, in-person encounters. That experience ignited her passion to create patient engagement and virtual care solutions that improve patient outcomes and experience while also helping providers drive efficiency. Dr. Bolbjerg launched one of the world’s first patient portals in 2001 in Denmark. Focused on building ever-better tools to enhance the doctor-patient relationship, she developed the Qure4u platform and has since traveled the world advocating new innovations aimed at benefiting both the practice of medicine and the patient journey with tools that, to date, have been used internationally by more than 15 million patients. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Qure4u, Dr. Bolbjerg is committed to continuing to revolutionize the delivery of patient-centric care. Qure4u’s MyCarePlan is a holistic patient journey and virtual care platform that arms patients with a Digital Health Key designed to give them simple and convenient access to care, from patient self-scheduling to remote patient monitoring and everything in between. The platform is trusted by providers and loved by patients. One of the few female physician tech founders, Dr. Bolbjerg has won multiple innovation prizes and been featured as a speaker at the Health Innovation Think Tank and other leading health innovation forums. Qure4u was recently recognized as a Strong Performer in “The Forrester Wave: Virtual Care Platforms For Digital Health, Q1 2021” report by Forrester Research. The company was also recognized as one of the MedikaLife Top 50 Most Impactful Tech Innovators for Digital Healthcare in 2021 and won the 2020 athenahealth Client Feedback Award. You can follow Dr. Bolbjerg on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 02 Aug 2021 04:30:59 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Monica Bolbjerg, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Qure4u. Dr. Bolbjerg is a doctor, an entrepreneur, and a digital health pioneer. As a young physician, Dr. Bolbjerg noticed the lack of tools available to ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Monica Bolbjerg, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Qure4u. Dr. Bolbjerg is a doctor, an entrepreneur, and a digital health pioneer. As a young physician, Dr. Bolbjerg noticed the lack of tools available to engage with and help patients beyond episodic, in-person encounters. That experience ignited her passion to create patient engagement and virtual care solutions that improve patient outcomes and experience while also helping providers drive efficiency. Dr. Bolbjerg launched one of the world’s first patient portals in 2001 in Denmark. Focused on building ever-better tools to enhance the doctor-patient relationship, she developed the Qure4u platform and has since traveled the world advocating new innovations aimed at benefiting both the practice of medicine and the patient journey with tools that, to date, have been used internationally by more than 15 million patients. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Qure4u, Dr. Bolbjerg is committed to continuing to revolutionize the delivery of patient-centric care. Qure4u’s MyCarePlan is a holistic patient journey and virtual care platform that arms patients with a Digital Health Key designed to give them simple and convenient access to care, from patient self-scheduling to remote patient monitoring and everything in between. The platform is trusted by providers and loved by patients. One of the few female physician tech founders, Dr. Bolbjerg has won multiple innovation prizes and been featured as a speaker at the Health Innovation Think Tank and other leading health innovation forums. Qure4u was recently recognized as a Strong Performer in “The Forrester Wave: Virtual Care Platforms For Digital Health, Q1 2021” report by Forrester Research. The company was also recognized as one of the MedikaLife Top 50 Most Impactful Tech Innovators for Digital Healthcare in 2021 and won the 2020 athenahealth Client Feedback Award. You can follow Dr. Bolbjerg on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Monica Bolbjerg, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Qure4u. Dr. Bolbjerg is a doctor, an entrepreneur, and a digital health pioneer.

As a young physician, Dr. Bolbjerg noticed the lack of tools available to engage with and help patients beyond episodic, in-person encounters. That experience ignited her passion to create patient engagement and virtual care solutions that improve patient outcomes and experience while also helping providers drive efficiency.

Dr. Bolbjerg launched one of the world’s first patient portals in 2001 in Denmark. Focused on building ever-better tools to enhance the doctor-patient relationship, she developed the Qure4u platform and has since traveled the world advocating new innovations aimed at benefiting both the practice of medicine and the patient journey with tools that, to date, have been used internationally by more than 15 million patients.

As the Co-Founder and CEO of Qure4u, Dr. Bolbjerg is committed to continuing to revolutionize the delivery of patient-centric care. Qure4u’s MyCarePlan is a holistic patient journey and virtual care platform that arms patients with a Digital Health Key designed to give them simple and convenient access to care, from patient self-scheduling to remote patient monitoring and everything in between. The platform is trusted by providers and loved by patients.

One of the few female physician tech founders, Dr. Bolbjerg has won multiple innovation prizes and been featured as a speaker at the Health Innovation Think Tank and other leading health innovation forums. Qure4u was recently recognized as a Strong Performer in “The Forrester Wave: Virtual Care Platforms For Digital Health, Q1 2021” report by Forrester Research. The company was also recognized as one of the MedikaLife Top 50 Most Impactful Tech Innovators for Digital Healthcare in 2021 and won the 2020 athenahealth Client Feedback Award.

You can follow Dr. Bolbjerg on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1426 no EP. 45 It took shadowing 1000 physicians to get from the ground floor to being the expert. Alerie Stiles is on a mission to improve healthcare for physicians. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/08/02/ep-45-it-took-shadowing-1000-physicians-to-get-from-the-ground-floor-to-being-the-expert-alerie-stiles-is-on-a-mission-to-improve-healthcare-for-physicians/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alerie Stiles, a Vice President at TSI Healthcare.  Alerie self describes as being ON A MISSION TO IMPROVE HEALTHCARE FOR PHYSICIANS AND PATIENTS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY Driven by value and outcomes Physician designed workflows (from personally shadowing over 1,000 physicians) Clinical product strategy & analytics Always striving to reduce physician burnout WORKING EVERYDAY TO: IMPROVE THE VALUE OF CARE GIVEN IN THE NATION IMPROVE THE LIVES OF INDEPENDENT/COMMUNITY SPECIALTY PROVIDERS IMPROVE THE LIVES OF THEIR PATIENTS ACROSS THE NATION. Helping providers: Get back valuable face time with patients Make their data work for them to manage and predict patient OUTCOMES With an advocate for their individual practice, and entire specialty (Rheumatology, Pulmonology, Neurology, Cardiology, ENT, etc) You can follow Alerie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 02 Aug 2021 04:00:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alerie Stiles, a Vice President at TSI Healthcare.  Alerie self describes as being ON A MISSION TO IMPROVE HEALTHCARE FOR PHYSICIANS 👨🏻‍⚕️👩🏻‍⚕️AND PATIENTS 👴🏻🧓🏽 THROUGH TECHNOLOGY Driven by value and outco... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alerie Stiles, a Vice President at TSI Healthcare.  Alerie self describes as being ON A MISSION TO IMPROVE HEALTHCARE FOR PHYSICIANS AND PATIENTS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY Driven by value and outcomes Physician designed workflows (from personally shadowing over 1,000 physicians) Clinical product strategy & analytics Always striving to reduce physician burnout WORKING EVERYDAY TO: IMPROVE THE VALUE OF CARE GIVEN IN THE NATION IMPROVE THE LIVES OF INDEPENDENT/COMMUNITY SPECIALTY PROVIDERS IMPROVE THE LIVES OF THEIR PATIENTS ACROSS THE NATION. Helping providers: Get back valuable face time with patients Make their data work for them to manage and predict patient OUTCOMES With an advocate for their individual practice, and entire specialty (Rheumatology, Pulmonology, Neurology, Cardiology, ENT, etc) You can follow Alerie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Alerie Stiles, a Vice President at TSI Healthcare.  Alerie self describes as being ON A MISSION TO IMPROVE HEALTHCARE FOR PHYSICIANS AND PATIENTS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

Driven by value and outcomes
Physician designed workflows (from personally shadowing over 1,000 physicians)
Clinical product strategy & analytics
Always striving to reduce physician burnout

WORKING EVERYDAY TO:
IMPROVE THE VALUE OF CARE GIVEN IN THE NATION
IMPROVE THE LIVES OF INDEPENDENT/COMMUNITY SPECIALTY PROVIDERS
IMPROVE THE LIVES OF THEIR PATIENTS ACROSS THE NATION.

Helping providers:
Get back valuable face time with patients
Make their data work for them to manage and predict patient OUTCOMES
With an advocate for their individual practice, and entire specialty (Rheumatology, Pulmonology, Neurology, Cardiology, ENT, etc)

You can follow Alerie on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1267 no EP. 44 Need a sounding board in a safe space? Create one. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/07/19/ep-44-need-a-sounding-board-in-a-safe-space-create-one/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Hena Waseem, a Resident Physician and Neurologist who recently completed her Masters of Public Health from Dartmouth.  Dr. Waseem currently in the Leadership and Preventive Medicine Residency at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.  There she has had several unique training opportunities due to the COVID19 pandemic including being Co-author of New Hampshire Crisis Standards of Care Plan; a Collaborator with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services on the statewide vaccine clinic rollout initiative; and a Project team member for the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Population Health Collaborative: Nutrition in the Upper Valley. Dr. Waseem completed her undergraduate work at the University of Florida and went to medical school at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. Prior to her schooling in the United States, Dr. Waseem lived and grew up in Pakistan.  Among her many volunteer activities, at Dartmouth, she founded and leads the Women and Negotiation group, focused on discussing and developing skillsets for women in leadership and negotiation roles. She is also a Group member of Dartmouth Hitchcock’s Women in Leadership program, which utilizes a 10-month curriculum focused on skills pertinent for women in the healthcare environment derived from Yale New Haven Hospital Health System Institute of Excellence Lean In Circles Course. Dr. Waseem’s research interests include:  Neurocritical care patient outcomes and quality improvement, shared decision making in critical care settings, adapting innovative neurocritical care models for middle- and low-income countries, public health outcomes in the critically ill, medical education and humanities, healthcare burnout and its relation to healthcare systems. Read the transcript here. Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:15:11 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Hena Waseem, a Resident Physician and Neurologist who recently completed her Masters of Public Health from Dartmouth.  Dr. Waseem currently in the Leadership and Preventive Medicine Residency at Dartmo... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Hena Waseem, a Resident Physician and Neurologist who recently completed her Masters of Public Health from Dartmouth.  Dr. Waseem currently in the Leadership and Preventive Medicine Residency at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.  There she has had several unique training opportunities due to the COVID19 pandemic including being Co-author of New Hampshire Crisis Standards of Care Plan; a Collaborator with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services on the statewide vaccine clinic rollout initiative; and a Project team member for the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Population Health Collaborative: Nutrition in the Upper Valley. Dr. Waseem completed her undergraduate work at the University of Florida and went to medical school at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. Prior to her schooling in the United States, Dr. Waseem lived and grew up in Pakistan.  Among her many volunteer activities, at Dartmouth, she founded and leads the Women and Negotiation group, focused on discussing and developing skillsets for women in leadership and negotiation roles. She is also a Group member of Dartmouth Hitchcock’s Women in Leadership program, which utilizes a 10-month curriculum focused on skills pertinent for women in the healthcare environment derived from Yale New Haven Hospital Health System Institute of Excellence Lean In Circles Course. Dr. Waseem’s research interests include:  Neurocritical care patient outcomes and quality improvement, shared decision making in critical care settings, adapting innovative neurocritical care models for middle- and low-income countries, public health outcomes in the critically ill, medical education and humanities, healthcare burnout and its relation to healthcare systems. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Hena Waseem, a Resident Physician and Neurologist who recently completed her Masters of Public Health from Dartmouth.  Dr. Waseem currently in the Leadership and Preventive Medicine Residency at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.  There she has had several unique training opportunities due to the COVID19 pandemic including being Co-author of New Hampshire Crisis Standards of Care Plan; a Collaborator with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services on the statewide vaccine clinic rollout initiative; and a Project team member for the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Population Health Collaborative: Nutrition in the Upper Valley.

Dr. Waseem completed her undergraduate work at the University of Florida and went to medical school at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. Prior to her schooling in the United States, Dr. Waseem lived and grew up in Pakistan.  Among her many volunteer activities, at Dartmouth, she founded and leads the Women and Negotiation group, focused on discussing and developing skillsets for women in leadership and negotiation roles. She is also a Group member of Dartmouth Hitchcock’s Women in Leadership program, which utilizes a 10-month curriculum focused on skills pertinent for women in the healthcare environment derived from Yale New Haven Hospital Health System Institute of Excellence Lean In Circles Course.

Dr. Waseem’s research interests include:  Neurocritical care patient outcomes and quality improvement, shared decision making in critical care settings, adapting innovative neurocritical care models for middle- and low-income countries, public health outcomes in the critically ill, medical education and humanities, healthcare burnout and its relation to healthcare systems.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1543 no EP. 43 Find and pursue what excites YOU. Dr. Renee Bovelle has done just that. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/07/19/ep-43-find-and-the-pursue-what-excites-you-dr-renee-bovelle-has-done-just-that/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Renee Bovelle, an ophthalmologist, business owner, educator, cyber security expert, organized medicine leader, and more.  How does she do it all?  She finds time for the things that excite her and gains her energy from giving back and continuing to learn. Renee Bovelle, MD is owner and Medical Director of Advanced Eyecare Medical Center “dba” Envision Eye and Laser. She is a board-certified ophthalmologist who graduated from Wellesley College and UCLA School of Medicine. Dr. Bovelle completed an ophthalmic residency at Yale University and a Cornea / Refractive Fellowship at LSU Eye Center. Additionally, she earned a Master’s in Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management from GWU and focused on policies and practices that protect critical information with particular attention to the healthcare field. Furthermore, Dr. Bovelle holds academic appointments at Howard University Hospital, Ross University School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. She educates medical students, residents, and physicians locally and during national conferences on ophthalmic issues. Dr. Bovelle authored the first MedChi approved continuing medical education course on Cybersecurity for Physicians. She is continuing this work with both national and regional medical organizations. Dr. Bovelle and has authored papers on healthcare and cyber-security issues, including Blockchain, Supply Chain Risk, and the Medical Internet of Things. Dr. Bovelle lectures on various cybersecurity and HIPAA topics at both local and national medical and cybersecurity conferences. Topics include Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Ransomware, HIPAA Policy and Strategy, and Healthcare Cybersecurity Issues. She holds leadership positions both locally and nationally in ophthalmic and other medical associations. Currently, she represents the Maryland Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MSEPS) as a councilor to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Besides serving on the MedChi legislative council, Dr. Bovelle serves as president of MSEPS effective January 2020. You can follow Dr. Renee Bovelle on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:09:55 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Renee Bovelle, an ophthalmologist, business owner, educator, cyber security expert, organized medicine leader, and more.  How does she do it all?  She finds time for the things that excite her and gain... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Renee Bovelle, an ophthalmologist, business owner, educator, cyber security expert, organized medicine leader, and more.  How does she do it all?  She finds time for the things that excite her and gains her energy from giving back and continuing to learn. Renee Bovelle, MD is owner and Medical Director of Advanced Eyecare Medical Center “dba” Envision Eye and Laser. She is a board-certified ophthalmologist who graduated from Wellesley College and UCLA School of Medicine. Dr. Bovelle completed an ophthalmic residency at Yale University and a Cornea / Refractive Fellowship at LSU Eye Center. Additionally, she earned a Master’s in Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management from GWU and focused on policies and practices that protect critical information with particular attention to the healthcare field. Furthermore, Dr. Bovelle holds academic appointments at Howard University Hospital, Ross University School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. She educates medical students, residents, and physicians locally and during national conferences on ophthalmic issues. Dr. Bovelle authored the first MedChi approved continuing medical education course on Cybersecurity for Physicians. She is continuing this work with both national and regional medical organizations. Dr. Bovelle and has authored papers on healthcare and cyber-security issues, including Blockchain, Supply Chain Risk, and the Medical Internet of Things. Dr. Bovelle lectures on various cybersecurity and HIPAA topics at both local and national medical and cybersecurity conferences. Topics include Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Ransomware, HIPAA Policy and Strategy, and Healthcare Cybersecurity Issues. She holds leadership positions both locally and nationally in ophthalmic and other medical associations. Currently, she represents the Maryland Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MSEPS) as a councilor to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Besides serving on the MedChi legislative council, Dr. Bovelle serves as president of MSEPS effective January 2020. You can follow Dr. Renee Bovelle on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Renee Bovelle, an ophthalmologist, business owner, educator, cyber security expert, organized medicine leader, and more.  How does she do it all?  She finds time for the things that excite her and gains her energy from giving back and continuing to learn.

Renee Bovelle, MD is owner and Medical Director of Advanced Eyecare Medical Center “dba” Envision Eye and Laser. She is a board-certified ophthalmologist who graduated from Wellesley College and UCLA School of Medicine. Dr. Bovelle completed an ophthalmic residency at Yale University and a Cornea / Refractive Fellowship at LSU Eye Center. Additionally, she earned a Master’s in Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management from GWU and focused on policies and practices that protect critical information with particular attention to the healthcare field.
Furthermore, Dr. Bovelle holds academic appointments at Howard University Hospital, Ross University School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. She educates medical students, residents, and physicians locally and during national conferences on ophthalmic issues.
Dr. Bovelle authored the first MedChi approved continuing medical education course on Cybersecurity for Physicians. She is continuing this work with both national and regional medical organizations. Dr. Bovelle and has authored papers on healthcare and cyber-security issues, including Blockchain, Supply Chain Risk, and the Medical Internet of Things. Dr. Bovelle lectures on various cybersecurity and HIPAA topics at both local and national medical and cybersecurity conferences. Topics include Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Ransomware, HIPAA Policy and Strategy, and Healthcare Cybersecurity Issues.
She holds leadership positions both locally and nationally in ophthalmic and other medical associations. Currently, she represents the Maryland Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MSEPS) as a councilor to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Besides serving on the MedChi legislative council, Dr. Bovelle serves as president of MSEPS effective January 2020.

You can follow Dr. Renee Bovelle on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1370 no EP. 42 “I haven’t stopped learning.” And neither should you. Sheila Talton worked her way from the admin desk to the board room by stretching herself and always being prepared. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/07/12/ep-42-i-havent-stopped-learning-and-neither-should-you-sheila-talton-worked-her-way-from-the-admin-desk-to-the-board-room-by-stretching-herself-and-always-being-prepare/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sheila Talton.  Corporate executive Sheila G. Talton was born on October 12, 1952 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a teenager, she became involved in the civil rights movement in Rockford, Illinois. Talton went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University with her B.S. degree in business administration and speech communications in 1980. Upon graduation, Talton was hired as a sales trainee at NCR Corporation. She became head of Midwest sales for Data Group Systems in Chicago in 1982, moving on to a position as team leader in the sales department of Applied Data Research (ADR) in 1984. Taking advantage of a void left by the breakup of AT&T, Talton founded Unisource Network Services, a provider of voice, data and video networking consultation and support services, in 1987. In 1996, while still leading Unisource, she helped establish the Information Technology Senior Management Forum, a mentoring group that cultivates executive talent among African American IT professionals. Talton sold her stake in Unisource in 2000, and was hired as the vice president of Cap Gemini, Ernst & Young’s Midwest technology consulting practice. In 2002, she was named president of global business innovation services for Electronic Data Systems (EDS). Talton was hired by the computer networking company Cisco Systems Inc. in 2004 where she became vice president of advisory services in the Customer Advocacy Group. She was promoted to a role as vice president of Cisco’s Office of Globalization in 2008 and helped the company identify growth opportunities in emerging markets around the world. She left Cisco in 2012 to found the consulting firm SGT, Ltd. In 2013, Talton established Gray Matter Analytics, Inc., a business providing consulting services and cloud hosting service for analytics. Talton has served as a member of the board of directors of the ACCO Brands Corporation, the Wintrust Financial Corporation, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Foundation, the Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her honors include selection as a Congressional appointee on the US White House Women’s Business Council, as one of the “Top 10 Women in Technology” by Enterprising Women, and as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the National Federation of Black Women Business Owners. She is also a recipient of the “Entrepreneurial Excellence Award” from Working Woman magazine and a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award. She was named a 2007 “Woman Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal, received a 2008 Egretha Award from the African American Women’s Business and Career Conference, and was named a 2009 Business Leader of Color by Chicago United. In 2010 she was honored as a Woman of Achievement by the Anti-Defamation League, and as the Outstanding College Alumni of the Year by the Business School of Northern Illinois University. In 2011 she was named one of “25 Influential Black Women in Business” by The Network Journal and received the “Diamond Leadership Award” from the Information Technology Senior Management Forum. You can follow Sheila on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 12 Jul 2021 12:40:52 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sheila Talton.  Corporate executive Sheila G. Talton was born on October 12, 1952 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a teenager, she became involved in the civil rights movement in Rockford, Illinois. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sheila Talton.  Corporate executive Sheila G. Talton was born on October 12, 1952 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a teenager, she became involved in the civil rights movement in Rockford, Illinois. Talton went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University with her B.S. degree in business administration and speech communications in 1980. Upon graduation, Talton was hired as a sales trainee at NCR Corporation. She became head of Midwest sales for Data Group Systems in Chicago in 1982, moving on to a position as team leader in the sales department of Applied Data Research (ADR) in 1984. Taking advantage of a void left by the breakup of AT&T, Talton founded Unisource Network Services, a provider of voice, data and video networking consultation and support services, in 1987. In 1996, while still leading Unisource, she helped establish the Information Technology Senior Management Forum, a mentoring group that cultivates executive talent among African American IT professionals. Talton sold her stake in Unisource in 2000, and was hired as the vice president of Cap Gemini, Ernst & Young’s Midwest technology consulting practice. In 2002, she was named president of global business innovation services for Electronic Data Systems (EDS). Talton was hired by the computer networking company Cisco Systems Inc. in 2004 where she became vice president of advisory services in the Customer Advocacy Group. She was promoted to a role as vice president of Cisco’s Office of Globalization in 2008 and helped the company identify growth opportunities in emerging markets around the world. She left Cisco in 2012 to found the consulting firm SGT, Ltd. In 2013, Talton established Gray Matter Analytics, Inc., a business providing consulting services and cloud hosting service for analytics. Talton has served as a member of the board of directors of the ACCO Brands Corporation, the Wintrust Financial Corporation, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Foundation, the Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her honors include selection as a Congressional appointee on the US White House Women’s Business Council, as one of the “Top 10 Women in Technology” by Enterprising Women, and as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the National Federation of Black Women Business Owners. She is also a recipient of the “Entrepreneurial Excellence Award” from Working Woman magazine and a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award. She was named a 2007 “Woman Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal, received a 2008 Egretha Award from the African American Women’s Business and Career Conference, and was named a 2009 Business Leader of Color by Chicago United. In 2010 she was honored as a Woman of Achievement by the Anti-Defamation League, and as the Outstanding College Alumni of the Year by the Business School of Northern Illinois University. In 2011 she was named one of “25 Influential Black Women in Business” by The Network Journal and received the “Diamond Leadership Award” from the Information Technology Senior Management Forum. You can follow Sheila on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sheila Talton. 

Corporate executive Sheila G. Talton was born on October 12, 1952 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a teenager, she became involved in the civil rights movement in Rockford, Illinois. Talton went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University with her B.S. degree in business administration and speech communications in 1980.

Upon graduation, Talton was hired as a sales trainee at NCR Corporation. She became head of Midwest sales for Data Group Systems in Chicago in 1982, moving on to a position as team leader in the sales department of Applied Data Research (ADR) in 1984. Taking advantage of a void left by the breakup of AT&T, Talton founded Unisource Network Services, a provider of voice, data and video networking consultation and support services, in 1987. In 1996, while still leading Unisource, she helped establish the Information Technology Senior Management Forum, a mentoring group that cultivates executive talent among African American IT professionals. Talton sold her stake in Unisource in 2000, and was hired as the vice president of Cap Gemini, Ernst & Young’s Midwest technology consulting practice. In 2002, she was named president of global business innovation services for Electronic Data Systems (EDS). Talton was hired by the computer networking company Cisco Systems Inc. in 2004 where she became vice president of advisory services in the Customer Advocacy Group. She was promoted to a role as vice president of Cisco’s Office of Globalization in 2008 and helped the company identify growth opportunities in emerging markets around the world. She left Cisco in 2012 to found the consulting firm SGT, Ltd. In 2013, Talton established Gray Matter Analytics, Inc., a business providing consulting services and cloud hosting service for analytics.

Talton has served as a member of the board of directors of the ACCO Brands Corporation, the Wintrust Financial Corporation, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Foundation, the Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her honors include selection as a Congressional appointee on the US White House Women’s Business Council, as one of the “Top 10 Women in Technology” by Enterprising Women, and as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the National Federation of Black Women Business Owners. She is also a recipient of the “Entrepreneurial Excellence Award” from Working Woman magazine and a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award. She was named a 2007 “Woman Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal, received a 2008 Egretha Award from the African American Women’s Business and Career Conference, and was named a 2009 Business Leader of Color by Chicago United. In 2010 she was honored as a Woman of Achievement by the Anti-Defamation League, and as the Outstanding College Alumni of the Year by the Business School of Northern Illinois University. In 2011 she was named one of “25 Influential Black Women in Business” by The Network Journal and received the “Diamond Leadership Award” from the Information Technology Senior Management Forum.

You can follow Sheila on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1311 no EP. 41 If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/07/06/ep-41-if-youre-not-living-on-the-edge-youre-taking-up-too-much-room/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denise Brosseau.  Denise understands what it takes to be a thought leader, an influencer and how to build your career through experience and expertise.  Denise has spent her career as an entrepreneur and thought leader herself and she has been adamant and active in supporting women advance their own careers.  Denise shares her experience, advice including views on how to best use social media to help other women in their career journeys. As the CEO of Thought Leadership Lab, I work with leaders and their teams to accelerate their journey from leader to thought leader. I believe that thought leadership is not marketing nor sales but instead is building a following for your ideas, thus building trust and credibility, amplifying influence and catalyzing strategic connections that lead to a seat at the table for the conversations that matter. I love to work with social entrepreneurs, start-up CEOs, heads of foundations and executives at Fortune 1000 companies. What they have in common is that they are all change agents in their field and are interested in building a platform so they can affect social, industry, community or organizational change. In 2014, I wrote Ready to Be a Thought Leader?, (Wiley) to begin to share my ideas about why thought leadership matters and what it really takes to be a thought leader. I also lecture at Stanford Business School on topics of credibility, influence and thought leadership. I am a frequent guest author for Salesforce.com, Inc.com and the UK Daily Telegraph Business Reporter and my ideas have also appeared in Fast Company, Entrepreneur and Forbes. Over the last twenty years, I have had the privilege of speaking before tens of thousands of people worldwide, at companies like Roche, Microsoft and Google; leadership conferences, including the California, Indiana and Arizona Governor’s Conferences and the Grace Hopper Conference for Women in Computing; and organizations like Coro and the Association of California Nurse Leaders. I have also guest lectured at Wellesley, Berkeley, Princeton, University of Winchester and MIT. I have a commitment to developing women leaders and I have created and led women’s leadership programs for Liberty Global, Nimble Storage, Gracenote and KPMG. As part of my work, I also enjoy facilitating strategy sessions, retreats, and thought leadership development sessions. My recent clients include the Packard Foundation, Vermillion, AICCU, the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, Barstow College, Planned Parenthood, PG&E and the Women’s Startup Lab. Over the last few years, my work has been recognized in a variety of forums. The Silicon Valley Business Journal honored me among their Top 100 Women of Influence and I was recognized as a Champion of Change by the White House and I received a Forever Green Award by the Girl Scouts. I was also recognized as one of six Women Who Have Made Their Mark by Watermark. In 2013, I received the Stanford STARS Award for my volunteer work encouraging entrepreneurship among women students at Stanford Business School. A Wellesley graduate with a Stanford MBA, I began my career in the technology industry at companies like Motorola and Broderbund Software. In 1993, I co-founded and was CEO of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE). I grew FWE (now Watermark) into the country’s leading organization for women-led start-ups. In 1999, I co-founded Springboard, the prestigious women’s startup launchpad that has led to over $7 billion in funding for women entrepreneurs. I also co-founded and served as President of Invent Your Future Enterprises and co-created the Invent Your Future Conference that is now in its 9th year. community and board service I am a member and past board member of the Northern California Chapter of the International Women’s Forum and member and past Chair of the Wellesley Business Leadership Council. I am a long-time advocate for choice. I serve as Chair of the Leadership Council of NARAL Pro-Choice America and previously served as Chair of the Advocates Board of Planned Parenthood Mar Monte and as a Board Member of 416 Holdings, a for profit company formed to increase the financial self-sufficiency of Planned Parenthood affiliates. I also serve on the advisory board of several start-ups including Kokko, Inc., The GUILD and Aspira Women’s Health and as an advisor to Watermark, Invent Your Future Enterprises and Springboard. You can follow Denise on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:18:15 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denise Brosseau.  Denise understands what it takes to be a thought leader, an influencer and how to build your career through experience and expertise.  Denise has spent her career as an entrepreneur and t... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denise Brosseau.  Denise understands what it takes to be a thought leader, an influencer and how to build your career through experience and expertise.  Denise has spent her career as an entrepreneur and thought leader herself and she has been adamant and active in supporting women advance their own careers.  Denise shares her experience, advice including views on how to best use social media to help other women in their career journeys. As the CEO of Thought Leadership Lab, I work with leaders and their teams to accelerate their journey from leader to thought leader. I believe that thought leadership is not marketing nor sales but instead is building a following for your ideas, thus building trust and credibility, amplifying influence and catalyzing strategic connections that lead to a seat at the table for the conversations that matter. I love to work with social entrepreneurs, start-up CEOs, heads of foundations and executives at Fortune 1000 companies. What they have in common is that they are all change agents in their field and are interested in building a platform so they can affect social, industry, community or organizational change. In 2014, I wrote Ready to Be a Thought Leader?, (Wiley) to begin to share my ideas about why thought leadership matters and what it really takes to be a thought leader. I also lecture at Stanford Business School on topics of credibility, influence and thought leadership. I am a frequent guest author for Salesforce.com, Inc.com and the UK Daily Telegraph Business Reporter and my ideas have also appeared in Fast Company, Entrepreneur and Forbes. Over the last twenty years, I have had the privilege of speaking before tens of thousands of people worldwide, at companies like Roche, Microsoft and Google; leadership conferences, including the California, Indiana and Arizona Governor’s Conferences and the Grace Hopper Conference for Women in Computing; and organizations like Coro and the Association of California Nurse Leaders. I have also guest lectured at Wellesley, Berkeley, Princeton, University of Winchester and MIT. I have a commitment to developing women leaders and I have created and led women’s leadership programs for Liberty Global, Nimble Storage, Gracenote and KPMG. As part of my work, I also enjoy facilitating strategy sessions, retreats, and thought leadership development sessions. My recent clients include the Packard Foundation, Vermillion, AICCU, the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, Barstow College, Planned Parenthood, PG&E and the Women’s Startup Lab. Over the last few years, my work has been recognized in a variety of forums. The Silicon Valley Business Journal honored me among their Top 100 Women of Influence and I was recognized as a Champion of Change by the White House and I received a Forever Green Award by the Girl Scouts. I was also recognized as one of six Women Who Have Made Their Mark by Watermark. In 2013, I received the Stanford STARS Award for my volunteer work encouraging entrepreneurship among women students at Stanford Business School. A Wellesley graduate with a Stanford MBA, I began my career in the technology industry at companies like Motorola and Broderbund Software. In 1993, I co-founded and was CEO of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE). I grew FWE (now Watermark) into the country’s leading organization for women-led start-ups. In 1999, I co-founded Springboard, the prestigious women’s startup launchpad that has led to over $7 billion in funding for women entrepreneurs. I also co-founded and served as President of Invent Your Future Enterprises and co-created the Invent Your Future Conference that is now in its 9th year. community and board service I am a member and past board member of the Northern California Chapter of the International Women’s Forum and member and past Chair of the Wellesley Business Leadership Council. I am a long-time advocate for choice. I serve as Chair of the Leadership Council of NARAL Pro-Choice America and previously served as Chair of the Advocates Board of Planned Parenthood Mar Monte and as a Board Member of 416 Holdings, a for profit company formed to increase the financial self-sufficiency of Planned Parenthood affiliates. I also serve on the advisory board of several start-ups including Kokko, Inc., The GUILD and Aspira Women’s Health and as an advisor to Watermark, Invent Your Future Enterprises and Springboard. You can follow Denise on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Denise Brosseau.  Denise understands what it takes to be a thought leader, an influencer and how to build your career through experience and expertise.  Denise has spent her career as an entrepreneur and thought leader herself and she has been adamant and active in supporting women advance their own careers.  Denise shares her experience, advice including views on how to best use social media to help other women in their career journeys.

As the CEO of Thought Leadership Lab, I work with leaders and their teams to accelerate their journey from leader to thought leader. I believe that thought leadership is not marketing nor sales but instead is building a following for your ideas, thus building trust and credibility, amplifying influence and catalyzing strategic connections that lead to a seat at the table for the conversations that matter. I love to work with social entrepreneurs, start-up CEOs, heads of foundations and executives at Fortune 1000 companies. What they have in common is that they are all change agents in their field and are interested in building a platform so they can affect social, industry, community or organizational change.

In 2014, I wrote Ready to Be a Thought Leader?, (Wiley) to begin to share my ideas about why thought leadership matters and what it really takes to be a thought leader. I also lecture at Stanford Business School on topics of credibility, influence and thought leadership. I am a frequent guest author for Salesforce.com, Inc.com and the UK Daily Telegraph Business Reporter and my ideas have also appeared in Fast Company, Entrepreneur and Forbes.

Over the last twenty years, I have had the privilege of speaking before tens of thousands of people worldwide, at companies like Roche, Microsoft and Google; leadership conferences, including the California, Indiana and Arizona Governor’s Conferences and the Grace Hopper Conference for Women in Computing; and organizations like Coro and the Association of California Nurse Leaders. I have also guest lectured at Wellesley, Berkeley, Princeton, University of Winchester and MIT.

I have a commitment to developing women leaders and I have created and led women’s leadership programs for Liberty Global, Nimble Storage, Gracenote and KPMG. As part of my work, I also enjoy facilitating strategy sessions, retreats, and thought leadership development sessions. My recent clients include the Packard Foundation, Vermillion, AICCU, the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, Barstow College, Planned Parenthood, PG&E and the Women’s Startup Lab.

Over the last few years, my work has been recognized in a variety of forums. The Silicon Valley Business Journal honored me among their Top 100 Women of Influence and I was recognized as a Champion of Change by the White House and I received a Forever Green Award by the Girl Scouts. I was also recognized as one of six Women Who Have Made Their Mark by Watermark. In 2013, I received the Stanford STARS Award for my volunteer work encouraging entrepreneurship among women students at Stanford Business School.

A Wellesley graduate with a Stanford MBA, I began my career in the technology industry at companies like Motorola and Broderbund Software. In 1993, I co-founded and was CEO of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE). I grew FWE (now Watermark) into the country’s leading organization for women-led start-ups. In 1999, I co-founded Springboard, the prestigious women’s startup launchpad that has led to over $7 billion in funding for women entrepreneurs. I also co-founded and served as President of Invent Your Future Enterprises and co-created the Invent Your Future Conference that is now in its 9th year.

community and board service

I am a member and past board member of the Northern California Chapter of the International Women’s Forum and member and past Chair of the Wellesley Business Leadership Council. I am a long-time advocate for choice. I serve as Chair of the Leadership Council of NARAL Pro-Choice America and previously served as Chair of the Advocates Board of Planned Parenthood Mar Monte and as a Board Member of 416 Holdings, a for profit company formed to increase the financial self-sufficiency of Planned Parenthood affiliates. I also serve on the advisory board of several start-ups including Kokko, Inc., The GUILD and Aspira Women’s Health and as an advisor to Watermark, Invent Your Future Enterprises and Springboard.

You can follow Denise on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1557 no EP. 40 Dr. Bridget Duffy took that good advice, faced her fear of public speaking and began to use her voice. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/28/ep-40-dr-bridget-duffy-took-that-good-advice-faced-her-fear-of-public-speaking-and-began-to-use-her-voice/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bridget Duffy. Bridget Duffy, M.D.,is the Chief Medical Officer for Vocera. As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duffy plays a key role in new product innovations, acquisitions, and accelerating adoption of technology that protects and connects frontline workers. Prior to her appointment at Vocera, Dr. Duffy co-founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of ExperiaHealth, a company that assisted healthcare leaders in accelerating improvement in the patient, family and staff experience through solutions that improve communication and restore human connections. ExperiaHealth was acquired by Vocera in 2010. Dr. Duffy was an early pioneer in the creation of hospitalist medicine and launched programs to accelerate clinical discovery in the field of Integrative and Heart-Brain medicine, helping establish the Earl and Doris Bakken Heart Brain Institute. She was also the country’s first chief experience officer (CXO) in healthcare, establishing that role at the Cleveland Clinic in 2006 and making experience improvement a top strategic priority there and across the nation. Dr. Duffy is considered the founder of the experience improvement movement and is a frequent speaker on redefining safety to include protecting the physical and emotional well-being of frontline healthcare workers. She has received many accolades for her work, and each year she is named to several prominent industry lists featuring women in healthcare and technology. In 2015, she was named “Woman of the Year” by Women Health Care Executives and selected as one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by San Francisco Business Times. In 2014, Dr. Duffy was recognized as a “Health IT Change Agent” by Health IT Outcomes and named among the “Top 50 in Digital Healthcare” by Rock Health. She also earned the Quantum Leap Award for taking the risk to spur internal change in the field of medicine, and was featured in HealthLeaders magazine as one of “20 People Who Make Healthcare Better.” Dr. Duffy attended medical school at the University of Minnesota, and completed her residency in internal medicine at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a co-founder of the National Taskforce for Humanity in Healthcare and serves on the board of directors for Evolent Health, Inc., Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, and on the advisory boards of Velano Vascular and Maven Clinic. Dr. Duffy can be followed on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:15:33 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bridget Duffy. Bridget Duffy, M.D.,is the Chief Medical Officer for Vocera. As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duffy plays a key role in new product innovations, acquisitions, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bridget Duffy. Bridget Duffy, M.D.,is the Chief Medical Officer for Vocera. As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duffy plays a key role in new product innovations, acquisitions, and accelerating adoption of technology that protects and connects frontline workers. Prior to her appointment at Vocera, Dr. Duffy co-founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of ExperiaHealth, a company that assisted healthcare leaders in accelerating improvement in the patient, family and staff experience through solutions that improve communication and restore human connections. ExperiaHealth was acquired by Vocera in 2010. Dr. Duffy was an early pioneer in the creation of hospitalist medicine and launched programs to accelerate clinical discovery in the field of Integrative and Heart-Brain medicine, helping establish the Earl and Doris Bakken Heart Brain Institute. She was also the country’s first chief experience officer (CXO) in healthcare, establishing that role at the Cleveland Clinic in 2006 and making experience improvement a top strategic priority there and across the nation. Dr. Duffy is considered the founder of the experience improvement movement and is a frequent speaker on redefining safety to include protecting the physical and emotional well-being of frontline healthcare workers. She has received many accolades for her work, and each year she is named to several prominent industry lists featuring women in healthcare and technology. In 2015, she was named “Woman of the Year” by Women Health Care Executives and selected as one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by San Francisco Business Times. In 2014, Dr. Duffy was recognized as a “Health IT Change Agent” by Health IT Outcomes and named among the “Top 50 in Digital Healthcare” by Rock Health. She also earned the Quantum Leap Award for taking the risk to spur internal change in the field of medicine, and was featured in HealthLeaders magazine as one of “20 People Who Make Healthcare Better.” Dr. Duffy attended medical school at the University of Minnesota, and completed her residency in internal medicine at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a co-founder of the National Taskforce for Humanity in Healthcare and serves on the board of directors for Evolent Health, Inc., Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, and on the advisory boards of Velano Vascular and Maven Clinic. Dr. Duffy can be followed on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Bridget Duffy.

Bridget Duffy, M.D.,is the Chief Medical Officer for Vocera. As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duffy plays a key role in new product innovations, acquisitions, and accelerating adoption of technology that protects and connects frontline workers. Prior to her appointment at Vocera, Dr. Duffy co-founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of ExperiaHealth, a company that assisted healthcare leaders in accelerating improvement in the patient, family and staff experience through solutions that improve communication and restore human connections. ExperiaHealth was acquired by Vocera in 2010.

Dr. Duffy was an early pioneer in the creation of hospitalist medicine and launched programs to accelerate clinical discovery in the field of Integrative and Heart-Brain medicine, helping establish the Earl and Doris Bakken Heart Brain Institute. She was also the country’s first chief experience officer (CXO) in healthcare, establishing that role at the Cleveland Clinic in 2006 and making experience improvement a top strategic priority there and across the nation. Dr. Duffy is considered the founder of the experience improvement movement and is a frequent speaker on redefining safety to include protecting the physical and emotional well-being of frontline healthcare workers.

She has received many accolades for her work, and each year she is named to several prominent industry lists featuring women in healthcare and technology. In 2015, she was named “Woman of the Year” by Women Health Care Executives and selected as one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by San Francisco Business Times. In 2014, Dr. Duffy was recognized as a “Health IT Change Agent” by Health IT Outcomes and named among the “Top 50 in Digital Healthcare” by Rock Health. She also earned the Quantum Leap Award for taking the risk to spur internal change in the field of medicine, and was featured in HealthLeaders magazine as one of “20 People Who Make Healthcare Better.”

Dr. Duffy attended medical school at the University of Minnesota, and completed her residency in internal medicine at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a co-founder of the National Taskforce for Humanity in Healthcare and serves on the board of directors for Evolent Health, Inc., Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, and on the advisory boards of Velano Vascular and Maven Clinic.

Dr. Duffy can be followed on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1394 no EP. 39 This Swiss Shark uses a winning formula to build companies and evaluate them when they come to the Tank. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/28/ep-39-this-swiss-shark-uses-a-winning-formula-to-build-companies-and-evaluate-them-when-they-come-to-the-tank/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Bettina Hein.  Bettina Hein is a serial software entrepreneur that has built technology companies in both Europe and the United States. She is most recently the founder of digital health startup juli, her third software company. She is also the founder of Pixability, a video advertising company in Boston. Prior to Pixability, Bettina co-founded SVOX, the Swiss-based speech technology company which was acquired by Nuance Communications (NUAN) for $125 million. Bettina has received numerous awards and recognitions such as the 2018 Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year Award, World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, L’Oreal NEXT Generation Award, and The Boston Business Journal’s “40 Under 40 Award.” Bettina holds an MS degree from MIT, a law degree from the University of Constance, and a business degree from the University of St. Gallen. Bettina holds two software patents and is the co-author of Video Marketing for Dummies. She is also a “shark” on the Swiss version of Shark Tank called “Höhle der Löwen Schweiz.” Learn more about juli Learn more about Pixability Follow Bettina on Twitter Connect with Bettina on LinkedIn Read the transcript here. Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:13:39 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Bettina Hein.  Bettina Hein is a serial software entrepreneur that has built technology companies in both Europe and the United States. She is most recently the founder of digital health startup juli, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Bettina Hein.  Bettina Hein is a serial software entrepreneur that has built technology companies in both Europe and the United States. She is most recently the founder of digital health startup juli, her third software company. She is also the founder of Pixability, a video advertising company in Boston. Prior to Pixability, Bettina co-founded SVOX, the Swiss-based speech technology company which was acquired by Nuance Communications (NUAN) for $125 million. Bettina has received numerous awards and recognitions such as the 2018 Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year Award, World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, L’Oreal NEXT Generation Award, and The Boston Business Journal’s “40 Under 40 Award.” Bettina holds an MS degree from MIT, a law degree from the University of Constance, and a business degree from the University of St. Gallen. Bettina holds two software patents and is the co-author of Video Marketing for Dummies. She is also a “shark” on the Swiss version of Shark Tank called “Höhle der Löwen Schweiz.” Learn more about juli Learn more about Pixability Follow Bettina on Twitter Connect with Bettina on LinkedIn Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Bettina Hein. 

Bettina Hein is a serial software entrepreneur that has built technology companies in both Europe and the United States. She is most recently the founder of digital health startup juli, her third software company. She is also the founder of Pixability, a video advertising company in Boston. Prior to Pixability, Bettina co-founded SVOX, the Swiss-based speech technology company which was acquired by Nuance Communications (NUAN) for $125 million. Bettina has received numerous awards and recognitions such as the 2018 Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year Award, World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, L’Oreal NEXT Generation Award, and The Boston Business Journal’s “40 Under 40 Award.” Bettina holds an MS degree from MIT, a law degree from the University of Constance, and a business degree from the University of St. Gallen. Bettina holds two software patents and is the co-author of Video Marketing for Dummies. She is also a “shark” on the Swiss version of Shark Tank called “Höhle der Löwen Schweiz.”

Learn more about juli

Learn more about Pixability

Follow Bettina on Twitter

Connect with Bettina on LinkedIn

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1233 no EP. 38 Motivated by mission. Meghan Krueger vaccinates the homeless. It is stressful, rewarding and an honor. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/21/ep-38-motivated-by-mission-meghan-krueger-vaccinates-the-homeless-it-is-stressful-rewarding-and-an-honor/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meghan Krueger.  Meghan Krueger, RN. Registered Nurse at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program You can follow Meghan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 21 Jun 2021 05:30:17 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meghan Krueger.  Meghan Krueger, RN. Registered Nurse at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program You can follow Meghan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meghan Krueger.  Meghan Krueger, RN. Registered Nurse at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program You can follow Meghan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meghan Krueger. 

Meghan Krueger, RN. Registered Nurse at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program

You can follow Meghan on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1193 no EP. 37 It started at the lemonade stand. Brook West found her passion for driving business at an early age. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/21/ep-37-it-started-at-the-lemonade-stand-brook-west-found-her-passion-for-driving-business-at-an-early-age/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brook West.  Brook West, Chief Commercial Officer LinkedIn As a successful P&L leader, Brook leads the enterprise sales function for Carrum Health. She has a proven track record of scaling sales multiple times in the digital health space. In her most recent role, Brook was responsible for building the go to market commercial plan at 98point6 resulting in the acquisition of over 3M members in just over two years. With her natural sales and leadership talent, and passion for building high-performance teams, Brook has consistently exceeded goals while commercializing healthtech and SaaS products at 98point6, Valant, Fuze, Microsoft, and others for the past 20 years. Brook holds a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and russian from the University of Pittsburgh. Read the transcript here. Mon, 21 Jun 2021 05:00:57 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brook West.  Brook West, Chief Commercial Officer LinkedIn As a successful P&L leader, Brook leads the enterprise sales function for Carrum Health. She has a proven track record of scaling sales multiple t... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brook West.  Brook West, Chief Commercial Officer LinkedIn As a successful P&L leader, Brook leads the enterprise sales function for Carrum Health. She has a proven track record of scaling sales multiple times in the digital health space. In her most recent role, Brook was responsible for building the go to market commercial plan at 98point6 resulting in the acquisition of over 3M members in just over two years. With her natural sales and leadership talent, and passion for building high-performance teams, Brook has consistently exceeded goals while commercializing healthtech and SaaS products at 98point6, Valant, Fuze, Microsoft, and others for the past 20 years. Brook holds a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and russian from the University of Pittsburgh. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Brook West. 

Brook West, Chief Commercial Officer

LinkedIn

As a successful P&L leader, Brook leads the enterprise sales function for Carrum Health. She has a proven track record of scaling sales multiple times in the digital health space. In her most recent role, Brook was responsible for building the go to market commercial plan at 98point6 resulting in the acquisition of over 3M members in just over two years.

With her natural sales and leadership talent, and passion for building high-performance teams, Brook has consistently exceeded goals while commercializing healthtech and SaaS products at 98point6, Valant, Fuze, Microsoft, and others for the past 20 years. Brook holds a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and russian from the University of Pittsburgh.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1357 no EP. 36 Environment. Women. Leadership. Dr. Sabina Shaikh understands that these important areas are all related. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/14/ep-36-environment-women-leadership-dr-sabina-shaikh-understands-that-these-important-areas-are-all-related/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sabina Shaikh.  Dr. Sabina Shaikh is the Director of the Program on Global Environment and an Associate Senior Instructional Professor in Environmental and Urban Studies at the University of Chicago.  She holds a PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California at Davis and a BA in Economics from the University of Wisconsin.  Sabina’s courses at the University of Chicago include Urban Design with Nature; Water: Economics, Policy and Society; Environmental Economics: and Unnatural Disasters: Human-Nature Connections in Cities.  Her collaborative research on environment and migration in Cambodia has been funded by the National Science Foundation, the Center for International Social Science Research, Social Science Research Center and the Neubauer Collegium at the University of Chicago.  She has published articles in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation, Ambio: A Journal of Human Environment, Handbook of Metropolitan Sustainability, Applied Geography, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Economic Inquiry, Ecological Economics, Land Economics and the Review of Economics and Statistics.  Sabina serves as the faculty director of the Chicago Studies program, faculty co-lead of the Environmental Frontiers Initiative at the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation at the University of Chicago, and as an advisor on urban sustainability issues for numerous non-governmental organizations. You can follow Dr. Sabina Shaikh on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 14 Jun 2021 06:00:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sabina Shaikh.  Dr. Sabina Shaikh is the Director of the Program on Global Environment and an Associate Senior Instructional Professor in Environmental and Urban Studies at the University of Chicago. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sabina Shaikh.  Dr. Sabina Shaikh is the Director of the Program on Global Environment and an Associate Senior Instructional Professor in Environmental and Urban Studies at the University of Chicago.  She holds a PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California at Davis and a BA in Economics from the University of Wisconsin.  Sabina’s courses at the University of Chicago include Urban Design with Nature; Water: Economics, Policy and Society; Environmental Economics: and Unnatural Disasters: Human-Nature Connections in Cities.  Her collaborative research on environment and migration in Cambodia has been funded by the National Science Foundation, the Center for International Social Science Research, Social Science Research Center and the Neubauer Collegium at the University of Chicago.  She has published articles in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation, Ambio: A Journal of Human Environment, Handbook of Metropolitan Sustainability, Applied Geography, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Economic Inquiry, Ecological Economics, Land Economics and the Review of Economics and Statistics.  Sabina serves as the faculty director of the Chicago Studies program, faculty co-lead of the Environmental Frontiers Initiative at the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation at the University of Chicago, and as an advisor on urban sustainability issues for numerous non-governmental organizations. You can follow Dr. Sabina Shaikh on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Sabina Shaikh. 

Dr. Sabina Shaikh is the Director of the Program on Global Environment and an Associate Senior Instructional Professor in Environmental and Urban Studies at the University of Chicago.  She holds a PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California at Davis and a BA in Economics from the University of Wisconsin.  Sabina’s courses at the University of Chicago include Urban Design with Nature; Water: Economics, Policy and Society; Environmental Economics: and Unnatural Disasters: Human-Nature Connections in Cities.  Her collaborative research on environment and migration in Cambodia has been funded by the National Science Foundation, the Center for International Social Science Research, Social Science Research Center and the Neubauer Collegium at the University of Chicago.  She has published articles in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation, Ambio: A Journal of Human Environment, Handbook of Metropolitan Sustainability, Applied Geography, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Economic Inquiry, Ecological Economics, Land Economics and the Review of Economics and Statistics.  Sabina serves as the faculty director of the Chicago Studies program, faculty co-lead of the Environmental Frontiers Initiative at the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation at the University of Chicago, and as an advisor on urban sustainability issues for numerous non-governmental organizations.

You can follow Dr. Sabina Shaikh on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1343 no EP. 35 In a race with Elon Musk. Gender parity? It’s not that complicated. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/14/ep-35-in-a-race-with-elon-musk-gender-parity-its-not-that-complicated/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dorri McWhorter.  Dorri is in a race with Elon Musk, whether he knows it or not.  There is a 30-year plan to get to Mars –the time to get to gender parity is currently estimated to be 200 years. 200 years?  Dorri is having nothing to do with that – it is not that complicated. Dorri McWhorter became the CEO of the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago in March 2013. She has embarked upon a journey to transform the 140 year old social service agency to a 21st century social enterprise. Dorri is moving the agency into the digital age and has led the YWCA’s expansion of digital services with the launch of YShop.org (e-commerce platform), womenshealthexchange.org (health insurance and information) and the MPWR, pronounced “empower”, mobile app (community engagement). Dorri leverages her large-scale change experience from working over 20 years in management consulting to the work that the YWCA does to create social change. Dorri led the process for the YWCA to develop an exchange traded fund (ETF) for women’s empowerment (NYSE: WOMN) in partnership with Impact Shares, which is the first non-profit investment advisor to develop an ETF product. Dorri was included in the inaugural list of “The Blue Network”, comprised of the top 100 innovators in Chicago, by Chicago Tribune’s Blue Sky Innovation and recognized by Good City Chicago receiving its Innovative Leader Award. Dorri is a 2019 Inductee in the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame. Dorri prides herself on being a socially-conscious business leader and is committed to creating an inclusive marketplace by leveraging a multi-sector approach across business, civic and community organizations. Most recently, she was a partner at Crowe Horwath LLP, one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S. She has also held senior positions with Snap-on Incorporated and Booz Allen Hamilton. Dorri serves on the Board of Directors for Lifeway Foods, William Blair Funds and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway). Dorri is also active in the accounting profession having served as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the current Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Illinois CPA Society. Dorri is dedicated to empowering women as a member of the Women in Entrepreneurship Institute at DePaul University and Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. Dorri’s civic and philanthropic leadership includes the board of directors for the Chicago Center for Arts and Technology, 1871 (Technology Business Accelerator), Civic Consulting Alliance, and the Civic Federation. She is also a member of the Illinois Charitable Trust Board. Dorri received a bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a master of business administration degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lake Forest College You can follow Dorri McWhorter on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 14 Jun 2021 05:30:26 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dorri McWhorter.  Dorri is in a race with Elon Musk, whether he knows it or not.  There is a 30-year plan to get to Mars –the time to get to gender parity is currently estimated to be 200 years. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dorri McWhorter.  Dorri is in a race with Elon Musk, whether he knows it or not.  There is a 30-year plan to get to Mars –the time to get to gender parity is currently estimated to be 200 years. 200 years?  Dorri is having nothing to do with that – it is not that complicated. Dorri McWhorter became the CEO of the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago in March 2013. She has embarked upon a journey to transform the 140 year old social service agency to a 21st century social enterprise. Dorri is moving the agency into the digital age and has led the YWCA’s expansion of digital services with the launch of YShop.org (e-commerce platform), womenshealthexchange.org (health insurance and information) and the MPWR, pronounced “empower”, mobile app (community engagement). Dorri leverages her large-scale change experience from working over 20 years in management consulting to the work that the YWCA does to create social change. Dorri led the process for the YWCA to develop an exchange traded fund (ETF) for women’s empowerment (NYSE: WOMN) in partnership with Impact Shares, which is the first non-profit investment advisor to develop an ETF product. Dorri was included in the inaugural list of “The Blue Network”, comprised of the top 100 innovators in Chicago, by Chicago Tribune’s Blue Sky Innovation and recognized by Good City Chicago receiving its Innovative Leader Award. Dorri is a 2019 Inductee in the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame. Dorri prides herself on being a socially-conscious business leader and is committed to creating an inclusive marketplace by leveraging a multi-sector approach across business, civic and community organizations. Most recently, she was a partner at Crowe Horwath LLP, one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S. She has also held senior positions with Snap-on Incorporated and Booz Allen Hamilton. Dorri serves on the Board of Directors for Lifeway Foods, William Blair Funds and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway). Dorri is also active in the accounting profession having served as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the current Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Illinois CPA Society. Dorri is dedicated to empowering women as a member of the Women in Entrepreneurship Institute at DePaul University and Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. Dorri’s civic and philanthropic leadership includes the board of directors for the Chicago Center for Arts and Technology, 1871 (Technology Business Accelerator), Civic Consulting Alliance, and the Civic Federation. She is also a member of the Illinois Charitable Trust Board. Dorri received a bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a master of business administration degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lake Forest College You can follow Dorri McWhorter on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dorri McWhorter.  Dorri is in a race with Elon Musk, whether he knows it or not.  There is a 30-year plan to get to Mars –the time to get to gender parity is currently estimated to be 200 years. 200 years?  Dorri is having nothing to do with that – it is not that complicated.

Dorri McWhorter became the CEO of the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago in March 2013. She has embarked upon a journey to transform the 140 year old social service agency to a 21st century social enterprise. Dorri is moving the agency into the digital age and has led the YWCA’s expansion of digital services with the launch of YShop.org (e-commerce platform), womenshealthexchange.org (health insurance and information) and the MPWR, pronounced “empower”, mobile app (community engagement). Dorri leverages her large-scale change experience from working over 20 years in management consulting to the work that the YWCA does to create social change. Dorri led the process for the YWCA to develop an exchange traded fund (ETF) for women’s empowerment (NYSE: WOMN) in partnership with Impact Shares, which is the first non-profit investment advisor to develop an ETF product. Dorri was included in the inaugural list of “The Blue Network”, comprised of the top 100 innovators in Chicago, by Chicago Tribune’s Blue Sky Innovation and recognized by Good City Chicago receiving its Innovative Leader Award. Dorri is a 2019 Inductee in the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame.

Dorri prides herself on being a socially-conscious business leader and is committed to creating an inclusive marketplace by leveraging a multi-sector approach across business, civic and community organizations. Most recently, she was a partner at Crowe Horwath LLP, one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S. She has also held senior positions with Snap-on Incorporated and Booz Allen Hamilton. Dorri serves on the Board of Directors for Lifeway Foods, William Blair Funds and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway). Dorri is also active in the accounting profession having served as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the current Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Illinois CPA Society.

Dorri is dedicated to empowering women as a member of the Women in Entrepreneurship Institute at DePaul University and Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. Dorri’s civic and philanthropic leadership includes the board of directors for the Chicago Center for Arts and Technology, 1871 (Technology Business Accelerator), Civic Consulting Alliance, and the Civic Federation. She is also a member of the Illinois Charitable Trust Board. Dorri received a bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a master of business administration degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lake Forest College

You can follow Dorri McWhorter on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1277 no EP. 33 The pandemic may have cost Maya Inozemtseva the job she loved, but it did not take her passion. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/07/ep-33-the-pandemic-may-have-cost-maya-inozemtseva-the-job-she-loved-but-not-it-did-not-take-her-passion/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maya Inozemtseva, a physical therapist and home health therapist.  Maya found her calling with physical therapy from an early age and pursued the needed coursework and training in Boston.  She was thrilled to be practicing what she loved and then the pandemic simply shut everything down.  She never lost her passion for physical therapy, but she did rediscover her passion for travel.  Now she does both. Maya Inozemtseva, DPT, ATC is a travel Physical Therapist with a passion for exploring and new experiences. She has special interests in performance sports and post-surgical rehabilitation. Also, a Licensed Athletic Trainer in the state of Massachusetts has worked with a variety of sports and age ranges. You can follow Maya on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 07 Jun 2021 06:00:59 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maya Inozemtseva, a physical therapist and home health therapist.  Maya found her calling with physical therapy from an early age and pursued the needed coursework and training in Boston. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maya Inozemtseva, a physical therapist and home health therapist.  Maya found her calling with physical therapy from an early age and pursued the needed coursework and training in Boston.  She was thrilled to be practicing what she loved and then the pandemic simply shut everything down.  She never lost her passion for physical therapy, but she did rediscover her passion for travel.  Now she does both. Maya Inozemtseva, DPT, ATC is a travel Physical Therapist with a passion for exploring and new experiences. She has special interests in performance sports and post-surgical rehabilitation. Also, a Licensed Athletic Trainer in the state of Massachusetts has worked with a variety of sports and age ranges. You can follow Maya on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maya Inozemtseva, a physical therapist and home health therapist.  Maya found her calling with physical therapy from an early age and pursued the needed coursework and training in Boston.  She was thrilled to be practicing what she loved and then the pandemic simply shut everything down.  She never lost her passion for physical therapy, but she did rediscover her passion for travel.  Now she does both.

Maya Inozemtseva, DPT, ATC is a travel Physical Therapist with a passion for exploring and new experiences. She has special interests in performance sports and post-surgical rehabilitation. Also, a Licensed Athletic Trainer in the state of Massachusetts has worked with a variety of sports and age ranges.

You can follow Maya on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1320 no EP. 34 Lara Dodo has stopped with the self-doubt. “If it doesn’t make sense to you, then it doesn’t make sense.” https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/06/07/ep-34-lara-dodo-has-stopped-with-the-self-doubt-if-it-doesnt-make-sense-to-you-then-it-doesnt-make-sense/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lara Dodo.  Working across different fields and industries has meant a lot of learning for Lara.  One of the most important learnings has been how she has become very comfortable asking the right questions until she gets answers that make sense to her. Lara Dodo, Chief Growth and Operating Officer for Newtopia Lara Dodo is a dynamic leader who believes in the strength of the team, the power of authentic communication and the impact of positive energy on innovation. As chief growth and operating officer at Newtopia, she leads the company’s talented teams in creating products, services and experiences that delight clients and drive results. Dodo, who joined Newtopia in 2017, has a strong track record of delivering exceptional results across multiple functions, including operations, product development, and sales and marketing. Her background includes roles as co-founder of Bedrock Affect, a Toronto-based branding and marketing firm; an independent operational and commercial consultant; CEO and strategic adviser to software entertainment company TimePlay; and chief operating officer and vice president of sales and operations at Cougar Software Inc. She also spent nearly 15 years in various roles, concluding as regional vice president, at international recruiting and placement firm Robert Half. Dodo is actively involved in community and professional organizations. She serves as a mentor and adviser to the 613 Lab business accelerator and as a guest speaker and mentor for Aish International university programs and students. She has also been a member of the board of the Canadian chapter of the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners, chair of the board of directors of Women in Technology, a volunteer judge for Enactus Canada, and an inspirational speaker and volunteer for Chabad. She received a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of South Africa. You can follow Lara on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 07 Jun 2021 05:30:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lara Dodo.  Working across different fields and industries has meant a lot of learning for Lara.  One of the most important learnings has been how she has become very comfortable asking the right questions... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lara Dodo.  Working across different fields and industries has meant a lot of learning for Lara.  One of the most important learnings has been how she has become very comfortable asking the right questions until she gets answers that make sense to her. Lara Dodo, Chief Growth and Operating Officer for Newtopia Lara Dodo is a dynamic leader who believes in the strength of the team, the power of authentic communication and the impact of positive energy on innovation. As chief growth and operating officer at Newtopia, she leads the company’s talented teams in creating products, services and experiences that delight clients and drive results. Dodo, who joined Newtopia in 2017, has a strong track record of delivering exceptional results across multiple functions, including operations, product development, and sales and marketing. Her background includes roles as co-founder of Bedrock Affect, a Toronto-based branding and marketing firm; an independent operational and commercial consultant; CEO and strategic adviser to software entertainment company TimePlay; and chief operating officer and vice president of sales and operations at Cougar Software Inc. She also spent nearly 15 years in various roles, concluding as regional vice president, at international recruiting and placement firm Robert Half. Dodo is actively involved in community and professional organizations. She serves as a mentor and adviser to the 613 Lab business accelerator and as a guest speaker and mentor for Aish International university programs and students. She has also been a member of the board of the Canadian chapter of the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners, chair of the board of directors of Women in Technology, a volunteer judge for Enactus Canada, and an inspirational speaker and volunteer for Chabad. She received a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of South Africa. You can follow Lara on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lara Dodo.  Working across different fields and industries has meant a lot of learning for Lara.  One of the most important learnings has been how she has become very comfortable asking the right questions until she gets answers that make sense to her.

Lara Dodo, Chief Growth and Operating Officer for Newtopia

Lara Dodo is a dynamic leader who believes in the strength of the team, the power of authentic communication and the impact of positive energy on innovation. As chief growth and operating officer at Newtopia, she leads the company’s talented teams in creating products, services and experiences that delight clients and drive results.

Dodo, who joined Newtopia in 2017, has a strong track record of delivering exceptional results across multiple functions, including operations, product development, and sales and marketing. Her background includes roles as co-founder of Bedrock Affect, a Toronto-based branding and marketing firm; an independent operational and commercial consultant; CEO and strategic adviser to software entertainment company TimePlay; and chief operating officer and vice president of sales and operations at Cougar Software Inc. She also spent nearly 15 years in various roles, concluding as regional vice president, at international recruiting and placement firm Robert Half.

Dodo is actively involved in community and professional organizations. She serves as a mentor and adviser to the 613 Lab business accelerator and as a guest speaker and mentor for Aish International university programs and students. She has also been a member of the board of the Canadian chapter of the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners, chair of the board of directors of Women in Technology, a volunteer judge for Enactus Canada, and an inspirational speaker and volunteer for Chabad.

She received a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of South Africa.

You can follow Lara on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1469 no EP. 32 Moving at the speed of need. Van Ton-Quinlivan’s longtime approach to business proved to be pandemic ready https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/24/ep-32-moving-at-the-speed-of-need-van-ton-quinlivans-longtime-approach-to-business-proved-to-be-pandemic-ready/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Van Ton-Quinlivan.  Years of experience across public, private and non-profit sectors did not prepare her for how to handle launching her business just before the pandemic brought the country to its knees.  But her longtime business approach and mindset, moving at the speed of need, certainly did. Van Ton-Quinlivan is a nationally recognized thought leader in workforce development. She has a proven record for guiding and implementing large system change while fostering a culture of experimentation, innovation and collaboration. Her distinguished career spans the public, private, and non-profit sectors. She is CEO of Futuro Health, whose mission is to improve the health and wealth of communities by growing the largest network of credentialed allied healthcare workers in the nation. Futuro Health was established through a $130 million commitment by Kaiser Permanente and SEIU-United Healthcare Workers to address the shortage of healthcare workers in the nation starting with California. Ton-Quinlivan previously served as executive vice chancellor for the California Community Colleges, the nation’s largest system of higher education, and grew public investment in workforce programs from $100 million to over $1 billion during her tenure. In 2013, Ton-Quinlivan was named a White House Champion of Change under the Obama Administration in recognition of her notable career in industry, education and service as a community leader. She received the California Steward Leader Award in 2017 for her dedication to collaboration and work to align public, private, and civic sector leaders in support of economic and social mobility for state residents. In 2019, Ton-Quinlivan was named a mediaX distinguished visiting scholar by Stanford University. You can follow Van on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 24 May 2021 04:30:53 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Van Ton-Quinlivan.  Years of experience across public, private and non-profit sectors did not prepare her for how to handle launching her business just before the pandemic brought the country to its knees.... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Van Ton-Quinlivan.  Years of experience across public, private and non-profit sectors did not prepare her for how to handle launching her business just before the pandemic brought the country to its knees.  But her longtime business approach and mindset, moving at the speed of need, certainly did. Van Ton-Quinlivan is a nationally recognized thought leader in workforce development. She has a proven record for guiding and implementing large system change while fostering a culture of experimentation, innovation and collaboration. Her distinguished career spans the public, private, and non-profit sectors. She is CEO of Futuro Health, whose mission is to improve the health and wealth of communities by growing the largest network of credentialed allied healthcare workers in the nation. Futuro Health was established through a $130 million commitment by Kaiser Permanente and SEIU-United Healthcare Workers to address the shortage of healthcare workers in the nation starting with California. Ton-Quinlivan previously served as executive vice chancellor for the California Community Colleges, the nation’s largest system of higher education, and grew public investment in workforce programs from $100 million to over $1 billion during her tenure. In 2013, Ton-Quinlivan was named a White House Champion of Change under the Obama Administration in recognition of her notable career in industry, education and service as a community leader. She received the California Steward Leader Award in 2017 for her dedication to collaboration and work to align public, private, and civic sector leaders in support of economic and social mobility for state residents. In 2019, Ton-Quinlivan was named a mediaX distinguished visiting scholar by Stanford University. You can follow Van on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Van Ton-Quinlivan.  Years of experience across public, private and non-profit sectors did not prepare her for how to handle launching her business just before the pandemic brought the country to its knees.  But her longtime business approach and mindset, moving at the speed of need, certainly did.

Van Ton-Quinlivan is a nationally recognized thought leader in workforce development. She has a proven record for guiding and implementing large system change while fostering a culture of experimentation, innovation and collaboration. Her distinguished career spans the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

She is CEO of Futuro Health, whose mission is to improve the health and wealth of communities by growing the largest network of credentialed allied healthcare workers in the nation. Futuro Health was established through a $130 million commitment by Kaiser Permanente and SEIU-United Healthcare Workers to address the shortage of healthcare workers in the nation starting with California.

Ton-Quinlivan previously served as executive vice chancellor for the California Community Colleges, the nation’s largest system of higher education, and grew public investment in workforce programs from $100 million to over $1 billion during her tenure.

In 2013, Ton-Quinlivan was named a White House Champion of Change under the Obama Administration in recognition of her notable career in industry, education and service as a community leader. She received the California Steward Leader Award in 2017 for her dedication to collaboration and work to align public, private, and civic sector leaders in support of economic and social mobility for state residents. In 2019, Ton-Quinlivan was named a mediaX distinguished visiting scholar by Stanford University.

You can follow Van on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1258 no EP. 31 Hello world, meet Joané Booth. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/24/ep-31-hello-world-meet-joane-booth/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joané Booth, who is passionate about engaging with communities of color in her work at the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.  She entered the government arena not knowing a lot about government.  Quickly she understood the impact of policy and she caught the bug.  Having now worked at both state and federal levels and on political campaigns, Joané is passionate and driven to make a difference. As a Partnerships Manager, Joané assists with building strong authentic and intentional relationships with diverse communities and businesses across the state. Prior to joining the Michigan LCV team, Joané lived in Minnesota and worked as a Diversity and Inclusion Outreach Director for U.S. Senator Tina Smith. Prior to that, she worked as a Senior Policy Advisor to former Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton, she was a legislative assistant to Minnesota State Senator Bobby Joe Champion and worked on Presidential and local Minnesota campaigns as a Political Director. Joané graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2012 with a bachelors in public relations. Joané is also an alumni of the 2016-2017 Humphrey Policy Fellowship at the University of Minnesota and a recipient of the 2018 40 under 40 award from The Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. She currently lives in Canton with her husband. Favorite Place in Michigan: Eau Claire where her dad was raised and she spent many summers with family! You can follow Joané on LinkedIn and Twitter: @joanepmcafee Read the transcript here. Mon, 24 May 2021 04:00:06 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joané Booth, who is passionate about engaging with communities of color in her work at the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.  She entered the government arena not knowing a lot about government. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joané Booth, who is passionate about engaging with communities of color in her work at the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.  She entered the government arena not knowing a lot about government.  Quickly she understood the impact of policy and she caught the bug.  Having now worked at both state and federal levels and on political campaigns, Joané is passionate and driven to make a difference. As a Partnerships Manager, Joané assists with building strong authentic and intentional relationships with diverse communities and businesses across the state. Prior to joining the Michigan LCV team, Joané lived in Minnesota and worked as a Diversity and Inclusion Outreach Director for U.S. Senator Tina Smith. Prior to that, she worked as a Senior Policy Advisor to former Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton, she was a legislative assistant to Minnesota State Senator Bobby Joe Champion and worked on Presidential and local Minnesota campaigns as a Political Director. Joané graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2012 with a bachelors in public relations. Joané is also an alumni of the 2016-2017 Humphrey Policy Fellowship at the University of Minnesota and a recipient of the 2018 40 under 40 award from The Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. She currently lives in Canton with her husband. Favorite Place in Michigan: Eau Claire where her dad was raised and she spent many summers with family! You can follow Joané on LinkedIn and Twitter: @joanepmcafee Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joané Booth, who is passionate about engaging with communities of color in her work at the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.  She entered the government arena not knowing a lot about government.  Quickly she understood the impact of policy and she caught the bug.  Having now worked at both state and federal levels and on political campaigns, Joané is passionate and driven to make a difference.

As a Partnerships Manager, Joané assists with building strong authentic and intentional relationships with diverse communities and businesses across the state.

Prior to joining the Michigan LCV team, Joané lived in Minnesota and worked as a Diversity and Inclusion Outreach Director for U.S. Senator Tina Smith. Prior to that, she worked as a Senior Policy Advisor to former Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton, she was a legislative assistant to Minnesota State Senator Bobby Joe Champion and worked on Presidential and local Minnesota campaigns as a Political Director.

Joané graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2012 with a bachelors in public relations. Joané is also an alumni of the 2016-2017 Humphrey Policy Fellowship at the University of Minnesota and a recipient of the 2018 40 under 40 award from The Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. She currently lives in Canton with her husband.

Favorite Place in Michigan: Eau Claire where her dad was raised and she spent many summers with family!

You can follow Joané on LinkedIn and Twitter: @joanepmcafee

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1326 no EP. 30 Only 2.3% of all venture funding went to female founders last year. Kristen Valdes changed her pitch to land her Series A. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/20/ep-30-only-2-3-of-all-venture-funding-went-to-female-founders-last-year-kristen-valdes-changed-her-pitch-to-land-her-series-a/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristen Valdes who shares lessons she has learned in building her company b.well Connected Health. Kristen Valdes, the founder and CEO of b.well Connected Health (www.icanbwell.com), has dedicated her career to empowering consumers with the data and tools to take control of their health care journey. An award-winning leader and acknowledged visionary, Valdes has pioneered inventive solutions that are pushing the industry forward into the consumer-directed future of digital health. She is driven in that quest by her experience as the mother of a child with an autoimmune disorder who nearly died due to a lack of health data interoperability.  (You can read about her virtual HIMSS20 presentation on that topic here: https://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/interoperability-can-save-lives-says-bwell-connected-health-ceo) Kristen’s story is a podcast (or made-for-Netflix movie) in its own right: her daughter, Bailey, was born with a significant autoimmune disorder that multiple physicians failed to recognize or diagnose.  Seven years into the quest for a diagnosis, Bailey was prescribed a medication that is contraindicated for her condition and ended up nearly dying (in part because one physician’s EMR couldn’t talk to the other’s). Finally, Kristen herself assembled all of Bailey’s records from 17 different clinicians, paid 5 experts to review them, and arrived at the right diagnosis. She founded b.well (named for Bailey or “B”) in 2016 so that no one would ever have to go through that nightmare again. The b.well Connected Health platform provides a long-overdue digital technology for health information interoperability and aggregation. By leveraging modern interoperability protocols such as FHIR-based APIs, the platform consolidates a 360-degree view of real-time data from insurer, provider and employer systems and integrates the rapidly-growing point solutions in these organizations. As a result, b.well transforms the way consumers interact with the health care industry, empowering them with a digital experience to manage all of their healthcare in one location that is persistent, portable, and personalized, driving meaningful interactions. We call it the “new front end” for healthcare. b.well landed a $16 million Series A last March led by Walgreens Boots Alliance, UnityPoint Health and ThedaCare Health. The company’s client base includes those three organizations plus several large self-insured employers and MedStar Health in Washington, DC. Partners include the likes of Mastercard, which just announced b.well as its first partner in healthcare to deliver mobile digital ID. Prior to founding b.well , Kristen was an executive at UnitedHealthcare running Medicare Advantage plans across 12 states. She started her healthcare career working with CMS on the first national payment integrity programs for Medicare and Medicaid. She then helped to build XLHealth, one of the pioneering Medicare Advantage plans for the chronically ill.  Kristen was responsible for maintaining and growing the profitability of the plan and was instrumental in its acquisition by UnitedHealthcare in late 2012 for $2.4 billion. Kristen has won numerous awards for her leadership. Named one of “Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs,” she was recognized in 2020 as one of four “Women Transforming Industries” by Accenture and Springboard Enterprises for re-imagining how we can more efficiently and wisely leverage technology to access healthcare. Under her leadership, b.well has been recognized by Business Insider as “one of 35 healthcare startups VCs say will take off in 2021”; by BuiltIn Austin as a 2020 Best Place to Work; by the Digital Health Awards as the 2020 winner of the “consumer directed digital health” category; and as a “Top Innovator” at the 2019 Accenture HealthTech Innovation Challenge. Kristen is a board member of the CARIN Alliance, a non-partisan multi-stakeholder collaborative that aims to enable consumers to access their health information with less friction. She is actively involved in her community; serves on various boards as an Advisor; mentors women entrepreneurs on her own and through organizations like Springboard Enterprises and the GuideWell Innovation Center; and has been a featured speaker at numerous healthcare industry conferences including HIMSS20 and CES21.   You can follow Kristen on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Thu, 20 May 2021 13:25:10 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristen Valdes who shares lessons she has learned in building her company b.well Connected Health. Kristen Valdes, the founder and CEO of b.well Connected Health (www.icanbwell.com), Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristen Valdes who shares lessons she has learned in building her company b.well Connected Health. Kristen Valdes, the founder and CEO of b.well Connected Health (www.icanbwell.com), has dedicated her career to empowering consumers with the data and tools to take control of their health care journey. An award-winning leader and acknowledged visionary, Valdes has pioneered inventive solutions that are pushing the industry forward into the consumer-directed future of digital health. She is driven in that quest by her experience as the mother of a child with an autoimmune disorder who nearly died due to a lack of health data interoperability.  (You can read about her virtual HIMSS20 presentation on that topic here: https://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/interoperability-can-save-lives-says-bwell-connected-health-ceo) Kristen’s story is a podcast (or made-for-Netflix movie) in its own right: her daughter, Bailey, was born with a significant autoimmune disorder that multiple physicians failed to recognize or diagnose.  Seven years into the quest for a diagnosis, Bailey was prescribed a medication that is contraindicated for her condition and ended up nearly dying (in part because one physician’s EMR couldn’t talk to the other’s). Finally, Kristen herself assembled all of Bailey’s records from 17 different clinicians, paid 5 experts to review them, and arrived at the right diagnosis. She founded b.well (named for Bailey or “B”) in 2016 so that no one would ever have to go through that nightmare again. The b.well Connected Health platform provides a long-overdue digital technology for health information interoperability and aggregation. By leveraging modern interoperability protocols such as FHIR-based APIs, the platform consolidates a 360-degree view of real-time data from insurer, provider and employer systems and integrates the rapidly-growing point solutions in these organizations. As a result, b.well transforms the way consumers interact with the health care industry, empowering them with a digital experience to manage all of their healthcare in one location that is persistent, portable, and personalized, driving meaningful interactions. We call it the “new front end” for healthcare. b.well landed a $16 million Series A last March led by Walgreens Boots Alliance, UnityPoint Health and ThedaCare Health. The company’s client base includes those three organizations plus several large self-insured employers and MedStar Health in Washington, DC. Partners include the likes of Mastercard, which just announced b.well as its first partner in healthcare to deliver mobile digital ID. Prior to founding b.well , Kristen was an executive at UnitedHealthcare running Medicare Advantage plans across 12 states. She started her healthcare career working with CMS on the first national payment integrity programs for Medicare and Medicaid. She then helped to build XLHealth, one of the pioneering Medicare Advantage plans for the chronically ill.  Kristen was responsible for maintaining and growing the profitability of the plan and was instrumental in its acquisition by UnitedHealthcare in late 2012 for $2.4 billion. Kristen has won numerous awards for her leadership. Named one of “Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs,” she was recognized in 2020 as one of four “Women Transforming Industries” by Accenture and Springboard Enterprises for re-imagining how we can more efficiently and wisely leverage technology to access healthcare. Under her leadership, b.well has been recognized by Business Insider as “one of 35 healthcare startups VCs say will take off in 2021”; by BuiltIn Austin as a 2020 Best Place to Work; by the Digital Health Awards as the 2020 winner of the “consumer directed digital health” category; and as a “Top Innovator” at the 2019 Accenture HealthTech Innovation Challenge. Kristen is a board member of the CARIN Alliance, a non-partisan multi-stakeholder collaborative that aims to enable consumers to access their health information with less friction. She is actively involved in her community; serves on various boards as an Advisor; mentors women entrepreneurs on her own and through organizations like Springboard Enterprises and the GuideWell Innovation Center; and has been a featured speaker at numerous healthcare industry conferences including HIMSS20 and CES21.   You can follow Kristen on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristen Valdes who shares lessons she has learned in building her company b.well Connected Health.

Kristen Valdes, the founder and CEO of b.well Connected Health (www.icanbwell.com), has dedicated her career to empowering consumers with the data and tools to take control of their health care journey. An award-winning leader and acknowledged visionary, Valdes has pioneered inventive solutions that are pushing the industry forward into the consumer-directed future of digital health. She is driven in that quest by her experience as the mother of a child with an autoimmune disorder who nearly died due to a lack of health data interoperability.  (You can read about her virtual HIMSS20 presentation on that topic here: https://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/interoperability-can-save-lives-says-bwell-connected-health-ceo)

Kristen’s story is a podcast (or made-for-Netflix movie) in its own right: her daughter, Bailey, was born with a significant autoimmune disorder that multiple physicians failed to recognize or diagnose.  Seven years into the quest for a diagnosis, Bailey was prescribed a medication that is contraindicated for her condition and ended up nearly dying (in part because one physician’s EMR couldn’t talk to the other’s). Finally, Kristen herself assembled all of Bailey’s records from 17 different clinicians, paid 5 experts to review them, and arrived at the right diagnosis.

She founded b.well (named for Bailey or “B”) in 2016 so that no one would ever have to go through that nightmare again. The b.well Connected Health platform provides a long-overdue digital technology for health information interoperability and aggregation. By leveraging modern interoperability protocols such as FHIR-based APIs, the platform consolidates a 360-degree view of real-time data from insurer, provider and employer systems and integrates the rapidly-growing point solutions in these organizations. As a result, b.well transforms the way consumers interact with the health care industry, empowering them with a digital experience to manage all of their healthcare in one location that is persistent, portable, and personalized, driving meaningful interactions. We call it the “new front end” for healthcare.

b.well landed a $16 million Series A last March led by Walgreens Boots Alliance, UnityPoint Health and ThedaCare Health. The company’s client base includes those three organizations plus several large self-insured employers and MedStar Health in Washington, DC. Partners include the likes of Mastercard, which just announced b.well as its first partner in healthcare to deliver mobile digital ID.

Prior to founding b.well , Kristen was an executive at UnitedHealthcare running Medicare Advantage plans across 12 states. She started her healthcare career working with CMS on the first national payment integrity programs for Medicare and Medicaid. She then helped to build XLHealth, one of the pioneering Medicare Advantage plans for the chronically ill.  Kristen was responsible for maintaining and growing the profitability of the plan and was instrumental in its acquisition by UnitedHealthcare in late 2012 for $2.4 billion.

Kristen has won numerous awards for her leadership. Named one of “Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs,” she was recognized in 2020 as one of four “Women Transforming Industries” by Accenture and Springboard Enterprises for re-imagining how we can more efficiently and wisely leverage technology to access healthcare. Under her leadership, b.well has been recognized by Business Insider as “one of 35 healthcare startups VCs say will take off in 2021”; by BuiltIn Austin as a 2020 Best Place to Work; by the Digital Health Awards as the 2020 winner of the “consumer directed digital health” category; and as a “Top Innovator” at the 2019 Accenture HealthTech Innovation Challenge.

Kristen is a board member of the CARIN Alliance, a non-partisan multi-stakeholder collaborative that aims to enable consumers to access their health information with less friction. She is actively involved in her community; serves on various boards as an Advisor; mentors women entrepreneurs on her own and through organizations like Springboard Enterprises and the GuideWell Innovation Center; and has been a featured speaker at numerous healthcare industry conferences including HIMSS20 and CES21.

 

You can follow Kristen on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1432 no EP. 29 Dr. Ying Sun is a first-generation Asian American postdoctoral scholar. Being a good ally means understanding the individual. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/10/ep-29-dr-ying-sun-is-a-first-generation-asian-american-postdoctoral-scholar-being-a-good-ally-means-understanding-the-individual/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ying Sun.  Dr. Sun is a first-gen, Asian American postdoctoral scholar.  She believes people need to see the whole individual to be a good ally.  First gens that come from low-income families – they are stressed out about finances; they are intimately tied to their families and communities. Understanding the individual is just as important as putting the systems in place to support each other. Passionate about leadership, fundraising, communication, project management, and team building. With 11+ years of experience in biological research.  Ying is a first-generation college student, and now postdoc, who immigrated to the US from rural China when she was young. She grew up in Las Vegas, NV where her parents worked as casino dealers. After high school, she attended UC San Diego to obtain a BS in Biochemistry, Cell Biology. While at UCSD, Ying was a part of the McNair Scholars program which supports students interested in obtaining a PhD. She worked on circadian rhythm in plants in the lab of Steve Kay and became interested in transcription and gene regulation. Previously, she was a graduate student in the lab of José Dinneny at Stanford University. Her project aimed to understand how some plants are more stress-tolerant than others. In her research, she analyzes the genomes of plants that live in extreme environments and utilizes bioinformatics tools to connect genotype to phenotype. Currently, Dr. Ying Sun is a postdoctoral scholar at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.  Her career goal is to be a faculty member and to work at the intersection between molecular biology, functional genomics, and evolutionary genomics. In her spare time, Ying enjoys volunteering, baking, playing with animals, dancing, any outdoor activity, ice skating, and watching TV! She believes in mentorship and advocates for inclusion, equity, diversifying academia and solidarity. She hopes to promote the mindset of having gratitude, respect, and love toward one another in academia. Dr. Sun can be found on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 10 May 2021 11:13:18 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ying Sun.  Dr. Sun is a first-gen, Asian American postdoctoral scholar.  She believes people need to see the whole individual to be a good ally.  First gens that come from low-income families – they ar... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ying Sun.  Dr. Sun is a first-gen, Asian American postdoctoral scholar.  She believes people need to see the whole individual to be a good ally.  First gens that come from low-income families – they are stressed out about finances; they are intimately tied to their families and communities. Understanding the individual is just as important as putting the systems in place to support each other. Passionate about leadership, fundraising, communication, project management, and team building. With 11+ years of experience in biological research.  Ying is a first-generation college student, and now postdoc, who immigrated to the US from rural China when she was young. She grew up in Las Vegas, NV where her parents worked as casino dealers. After high school, she attended UC San Diego to obtain a BS in Biochemistry, Cell Biology. While at UCSD, Ying was a part of the McNair Scholars program which supports students interested in obtaining a PhD. She worked on circadian rhythm in plants in the lab of Steve Kay and became interested in transcription and gene regulation. Previously, she was a graduate student in the lab of José Dinneny at Stanford University. Her project aimed to understand how some plants are more stress-tolerant than others. In her research, she analyzes the genomes of plants that live in extreme environments and utilizes bioinformatics tools to connect genotype to phenotype. Currently, Dr. Ying Sun is a postdoctoral scholar at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.  Her career goal is to be a faculty member and to work at the intersection between molecular biology, functional genomics, and evolutionary genomics. In her spare time, Ying enjoys volunteering, baking, playing with animals, dancing, any outdoor activity, ice skating, and watching TV! She believes in mentorship and advocates for inclusion, equity, diversifying academia and solidarity. She hopes to promote the mindset of having gratitude, respect, and love toward one another in academia. Dr. Sun can be found on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Ying Sun.  Dr. Sun is a first-gen, Asian American postdoctoral scholar.  She believes people need to see the whole individual to be a good ally.  First gens that come from low-income families – they are stressed out about finances; they are intimately tied to their families and communities. Understanding the individual is just as important as putting the systems in place to support each other.

Passionate about leadership, fundraising, communication, project management, and team building. With 11+ years of experience in biological research.  Ying is a first-generation college student, and now postdoc, who immigrated to the US from rural China when she was young. She grew up in Las Vegas, NV where her parents worked as casino dealers. After high school, she attended UC San Diego to obtain a BS in Biochemistry, Cell Biology. While at UCSD, Ying was a part of the McNair Scholars program which supports students interested in obtaining a PhD. She worked on circadian rhythm in plants in the lab of Steve Kay and became interested in transcription and gene regulation. Previously, she was a graduate student in the lab of José Dinneny at Stanford University. Her project aimed to understand how some plants are more stress-tolerant than others. In her research, she analyzes the genomes of plants that live in extreme environments and utilizes bioinformatics tools to connect genotype to phenotype. Currently, Dr. Ying Sun is a postdoctoral scholar at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.  Her career goal is to be a faculty member and to work at the intersection between molecular biology, functional genomics, and evolutionary genomics. In her spare time, Ying enjoys volunteering, baking, playing with animals, dancing, any outdoor activity, ice skating, and watching TV! She believes in mentorship and advocates for inclusion, equity, diversifying academia and solidarity. She hopes to promote the mindset of having gratitude, respect, and love toward one another in academia.

Dr. Sun can be found on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1047 no EP. 28 We can all make a difference. Carrie Valiant asks us to do more to promote others even while following our own stars. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/10/ep-28-we-can-all-make-a-difference-carrie-valiant-asks-us-to-do-more-to-promote-others-even-while-following-our-own-stars/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carrie Valiant.  Carrie has always been focused on outside interests during her long tenure practicing law.  She thinks the best career advice is to stay true to yourself and follow your own star.  But she also asks us all to do what we can to promote others, other women, other people of color.  We can all make a difference. CARRIE VALIANT is a Member of the Firm in the Health Care and Life Sciences practice in the Washington, DC office and co-chairs the firm’s health care fraud group. She is also Chair of the firm’s Diversity and Professional Development Committee. Ms. Valiant has more than thirty years of experience concentrating in health care fraud and abuse and government health care program payment matters, including: Defending clients undergoing civil and criminal investigation for health care fraud by the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, and other state and federal governmental authorities, including the negotiation of corporate integrity agreements. Representing all segments of the health care industry, including hospitals and academic medical centers, clinical laboratories, managed care organizations, home health care companies, physician group practices, and pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors with respect to managing government health care program compliance risks, including the design and implementation of corporate compliance programs for health care organizations, preparation of OIG advisory opinion requests, and conducting internal investigations and voluntary self-disclosures. Advising clients with respect to compliance with the Stark Law and other regulatory initiatives in the fraud and abuse area, including restructuring physician-owned health care entities. Handling a variety of Medicare/Medicaid and other government health care program payment and certification matters, including substantial overpayment assessments, EMTALA complaints, and privacy and security breaches, including the preparation and negotiation of Corrective Action Plans. Ms. Valiant’s accomplishments include: Obtaining Justice Department declinations to intervene in False Claims Act qui tam cases and subsequent dismissal/summary judgment of qui tam relator cases Negotiating and settling various OIG voluntary disclosures without imposition of a corporate integrity agreement Currently active in the defense of various criminal and civil health care fraud investigations Ms. Valiant writes and lectures extensively on health law fraud topics and is a coauthor of Legal Issues in Health Care Fraud and Abuse: Navigating the Uncertainties, 4th ed., published by the American Health Lawyers Association in June 2012. She has been included on Nightingale’s Healthcare News’ 2004 and 2009 lists of Outstanding Healthcare Fraud and Compliance Lawyers, selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© (2006 to 2021) in the field of Health Care Law, named to the Washington DC Super Lawyers list (2007 to 2011, 2013 to 2020) in the area of Health Care, ranked by Chambers USA as one of America’s leading Healthcare lawyers (2007 to 2020), and recommended by The Legal 500 United States (2016) in the Health Insurers and Healthcare: Service Providers categories. In 1997, the National Law Journal selected Ms. Valiant as one of “40 Health Care Lawyers Who Have Made Their Mark” in the area of white collar crime. Ms. Valiant founded and is President of the Health Care Industry Access Initiative, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to promoting collaborative action across the health care industry to improve access to health care coverage and services in the United States. You can follow Carrie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 10 May 2021 11:06:05 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carrie Valiant.  Carrie has always been focused on outside interests during her long tenure practicing law.  She thinks the best career advice is to stay true to yourself and follow your own star. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carrie Valiant.  Carrie has always been focused on outside interests during her long tenure practicing law.  She thinks the best career advice is to stay true to yourself and follow your own star.  But she also asks us all to do what we can to promote others, other women, other people of color.  We can all make a difference. CARRIE VALIANT is a Member of the Firm in the Health Care and Life Sciences practice in the Washington, DC office and co-chairs the firm’s health care fraud group. She is also Chair of the firm’s Diversity and Professional Development Committee. Ms. Valiant has more than thirty years of experience concentrating in health care fraud and abuse and government health care program payment matters, including: Defending clients undergoing civil and criminal investigation for health care fraud by the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, and other state and federal governmental authorities, including the negotiation of corporate integrity agreements. Representing all segments of the health care industry, including hospitals and academic medical centers, clinical laboratories, managed care organizations, home health care companies, physician group practices, and pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors with respect to managing government health care program compliance risks, including the design and implementation of corporate compliance programs for health care organizations, preparation of OIG advisory opinion requests, and conducting internal investigations and voluntary self-disclosures. Advising clients with respect to compliance with the Stark Law and other regulatory initiatives in the fraud and abuse area, including restructuring physician-owned health care entities. Handling a variety of Medicare/Medicaid and other government health care program payment and certification matters, including substantial overpayment assessments, EMTALA complaints, and privacy and security breaches, including the preparation and negotiation of Corrective Action Plans. Ms. Valiant’s accomplishments include: Obtaining Justice Department declinations to intervene in False Claims Act qui tam cases and subsequent dismissal/summary judgment of qui tam relator cases Negotiating and settling various OIG voluntary disclosures without imposition of a corporate integrity agreement Currently active in the defense of various criminal and civil health care fraud investigations Ms. Valiant writes and lectures extensively on health law fraud topics and is a coauthor of Legal Issues in Health Care Fraud and Abuse: Navigating the Uncertainties, 4th ed., published by the American Health Lawyers Association in June 2012. She has been included on Nightingale’s Healthcare News’ 2004 and 2009 lists of Outstanding Healthcare Fraud and Compliance Lawyers, selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© (2006 to 2021) in the field of Health Care Law, named to the Washington DC Super Lawyers list (2007 to 2011, 2013 to 2020) in the area of Health Care, ranked by Chambers USA as one of America’s leading Healthcare lawyers (2007 to 2020), and recommended by The Legal 500 United States (2016) in the Health Insurers and Healthcare: Service Providers categories. In 1997, the National Law Journal selected Ms. Valiant as one of “40 Health Care Lawyers Who Have Made Their Mark” in the area of white collar crime. Ms. Valiant founded and is President of the Health Care Industry Access Initiative, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to promoting collaborative action across the health care industry to improve access to health care coverage and services in the United States. You can follow Carrie on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Carrie Valiant.  Carrie has always been focused on outside interests during her long tenure practicing law.  She thinks the best career advice is to stay true to yourself and follow your own star.  But she also asks us all to do what we can to promote others, other women, other people of color.  We can all make a difference.

CARRIE VALIANT is a Member of the Firm in the Health Care and Life Sciences practice in the Washington, DC office and co-chairs the firm’s health care fraud group. She is also Chair of the firm’s Diversity and Professional Development Committee.

Ms. Valiant has more than thirty years of experience concentrating in health care fraud and abuse and government health care program payment matters, including:

  • Defending clients undergoing civil and criminal investigation for health care fraud by the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, and other state and federal governmental authorities, including the negotiation of corporate integrity agreements.
  • Representing all segments of the health care industry, including hospitals and academic medical centers, clinical laboratories, managed care organizations, home health care companies, physician group practices, and pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors with respect to managing government health care program compliance risks, including the design and implementation of corporate compliance programs for health care organizations, preparation of OIG advisory opinion requests, and conducting internal investigations and voluntary self-disclosures.
  • Advising clients with respect to compliance with the Stark Law and other regulatory initiatives in the fraud and abuse area, including restructuring physician-owned health care entities.
  • Handling a variety of Medicare/Medicaid and other government health care program payment and certification matters, including substantial overpayment assessments, EMTALA complaints, and privacy and security breaches, including the preparation and negotiation of Corrective Action Plans.

Ms. Valiant’s accomplishments include:

  • Obtaining Justice Department declinations to intervene in False Claims Act qui tam cases and subsequent dismissal/summary judgment of qui tam relator cases
  • Negotiating and settling various OIG voluntary disclosures without imposition of a corporate integrity agreement
  • Currently active in the defense of various criminal and civil health care fraud investigations

Ms. Valiant writes and lectures extensively on health law fraud topics and is a coauthor of Legal Issues in Health Care Fraud and Abuse: Navigating the Uncertainties, 4th ed., published by the American Health Lawyers Association in June 2012. She has been included on Nightingale’s Healthcare News’ 2004 and 2009 lists of Outstanding Healthcare Fraud and Compliance Lawyers, selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© (2006 to 2021) in the field of Health Care Law, named to the Washington DC Super Lawyers list (2007 to 2011, 2013 to 2020) in the area of Health Care, ranked by Chambers USA as one of America’s leading Healthcare lawyers (2007 to 2020), and recommended by The Legal 500 United States (2016) in the Health Insurers and Healthcare: Service Providers categories. In 1997, the National Law Journal selected Ms. Valiant as one of “40 Health Care Lawyers Who Have Made Their Mark” in the area of white collar crime.

Ms. Valiant founded and is President of the Health Care Industry Access Initiative, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to promoting collaborative action across the health care industry to improve access to health care coverage and services in the United States.

You can follow Carrie on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1466 no EP. 27 Waiting to be asked wasn’t working so well for Valerie Sullivan. So she practiced asking instead. Now she’s the CEO. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/10/ep-27-waiting-to-be-asked-wasnt-working-so-well-for-valerie-sullivan-so-she-practiced-asking-instead-now-shes-the-ceo/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Valerie Sullivan who is a big believer in practice, practice, practice.  She also believes you have more power than you think and tells us to not give it away! Valerie Sullivan, PRESIDENT AND CEO Valerie Sullivan brings significant experience in the pharma, digital health and pharma services industries to her role as President and CEO of etectRx. Innovative and forward thinking, Ms. Sullivan is passionate about creating meaningful, cost-effective solutions across the healthcare ecosystem by leveraging patient engagement and digital technology to support greater outcomes, more therapeutic impact and the potential to serve an unmet need. Prior to joining etectRx, she served as President of InVentiv Patient Access Solutions (sold to Xerox in 2015), a tech-enabled patient support services company. In addition, she served as Vice President and General Manager of the Patient Service Center at Pear Therapeutics, a program that she envisioned and built from the ground up. She began her career in healthcare working at Pfizer for over 15 years. Ms. Sullivan has previously served as an independent member on the board of directors at CareMetx and Two Labs Pharma Services.  She is also Chairman at the Group Insurance Commission, a quasi-state agency in the Commonwealth of MA. She is on faculty at Bentley University as adjunct professor in the Management Department. Ms. Sullivan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Economics from College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Northeastern University. You can follow Valerie Sullivan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 10 May 2021 11:01:21 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Valerie Sullivan who is a big believer in practice, practice, practice.  She also believes you have more power than you think and tells us to not give it away! Valerie Sullivan, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Valerie Sullivan who is a big believer in practice, practice, practice.  She also believes you have more power than you think and tells us to not give it away! Valerie Sullivan, PRESIDENT AND CEO Valerie Sullivan brings significant experience in the pharma, digital health and pharma services industries to her role as President and CEO of etectRx. Innovative and forward thinking, Ms. Sullivan is passionate about creating meaningful, cost-effective solutions across the healthcare ecosystem by leveraging patient engagement and digital technology to support greater outcomes, more therapeutic impact and the potential to serve an unmet need. Prior to joining etectRx, she served as President of InVentiv Patient Access Solutions (sold to Xerox in 2015), a tech-enabled patient support services company. In addition, she served as Vice President and General Manager of the Patient Service Center at Pear Therapeutics, a program that she envisioned and built from the ground up. She began her career in healthcare working at Pfizer for over 15 years. Ms. Sullivan has previously served as an independent member on the board of directors at CareMetx and Two Labs Pharma Services.  She is also Chairman at the Group Insurance Commission, a quasi-state agency in the Commonwealth of MA. She is on faculty at Bentley University as adjunct professor in the Management Department. Ms. Sullivan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Economics from College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Northeastern University. You can follow Valerie Sullivan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Valerie Sullivan who is a big believer in practice, practice, practice.  She also believes you have more power than you think and tells us to not give it away!

Valerie Sullivan, PRESIDENT AND CEO

Valerie Sullivan brings significant experience in the pharma, digital health and pharma services industries to her role as President and CEO of etectRx. Innovative and forward thinking, Ms. Sullivan is passionate about creating meaningful, cost-effective solutions across the healthcare ecosystem by leveraging patient engagement and digital technology to support greater outcomes, more therapeutic impact and the potential to serve an unmet need.

Prior to joining etectRx, she served as President of InVentiv Patient Access Solutions (sold to Xerox in 2015), a tech-enabled patient support services company. In addition, she served as Vice President and General Manager of the Patient Service Center at Pear Therapeutics, a program that she envisioned and built from the ground up. She began her career in healthcare working at Pfizer for over 15 years.

Ms. Sullivan has previously served as an independent member on the board of directors at CareMetx and Two Labs Pharma Services.  She is also Chairman at the Group Insurance Commission, a quasi-state agency in the Commonwealth of MA. She is on faculty at Bentley University as adjunct professor in the Management Department.

Ms. Sullivan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Economics from College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Northeastern University.

You can follow Valerie Sullivan on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1371 no EP. 26 Treat yourself like the professional you are. And get in the game. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/03/ep-26-treat-yourself-like-the-professional-you-are-and-get-in-the-game/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Ham who has been leading and growing companies for years.  If you are hesitating in your career, Nancy has some advice for you – Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get in the game! Nancy Ham is the CEO of WebPT, the country’s leading rehab therapy software platform for enhancing patient care and fueling business growth. Nancy joined WebPT in 2016, bringing with her a wealth of experience in successfully establishing, developing, growing, and operating private and public healthcare information technology companies. As CEO, she focuses on developing innovative strategies to help guide the company through its next phase of growth. In less than two year’s time, she has led WebPT through major achievements including reaching more than 10,000 clinics, several product innovation rollouts and two significant acquisitions resulting in the addition of two new product lines and the expansion of the WebPT team into new geographical locations. Prior to joining WebPT, Nancy served as CEO of Healthagen Population Health Solutions, an Aetna company. There, she oversaw several tech businesses, including Medicity, the market leader in clinical data exchange and interoperability. Prior to that, Nancy was president, CEO, and a director of MedVentive (later acquired by McKesson), a provider of performance analytics that enabled ACOs and payers to manage cost, efficiency, and quality. Her experience also includes executive roles at Sentillion, ProxyMed, Healtheon/WebMD, and ActaMed Corporation as well as five years in leveraged finance at GE Capital. Nancy has twice been named one of the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management, as well as Woman of the Year by the American Business Awards. Companies led by her have been consistently recognized for excellence from groups such as Gartner (Cool Company, Magic Quadrant), Microsoft (HUG Award Winner) and KLAS (Most Improved Vendor). Nancy is deeply engaged in promoting innovation in healthcare through her active membership in YPO Healthcare, through serving on the advisory boards of two venture capital firms (HLM Venture Partners and LRVHealth) and through her own direct investing. She also actively mentors rising talent, especially women focused on a career in healthcare IT. Nancy holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Duke University and a master’s degree in international business studies (MIBS) from the University of South Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys traveling the world, mountain biking, and being outdoors—no matter the season. Nancy can be found on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 03 May 2021 03:45:04 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Ham who has been leading and growing companies for years.  If you are hesitating in your career, Nancy has some advice for you – Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get in the game! Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Ham who has been leading and growing companies for years.  If you are hesitating in your career, Nancy has some advice for you – Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get in the game! Nancy Ham is the CEO of WebPT, the country’s leading rehab therapy software platform for enhancing patient care and fueling business growth. Nancy joined WebPT in 2016, bringing with her a wealth of experience in successfully establishing, developing, growing, and operating private and public healthcare information technology companies. As CEO, she focuses on developing innovative strategies to help guide the company through its next phase of growth. In less than two year’s time, she has led WebPT through major achievements including reaching more than 10,000 clinics, several product innovation rollouts and two significant acquisitions resulting in the addition of two new product lines and the expansion of the WebPT team into new geographical locations. Prior to joining WebPT, Nancy served as CEO of Healthagen Population Health Solutions, an Aetna company. There, she oversaw several tech businesses, including Medicity, the market leader in clinical data exchange and interoperability. Prior to that, Nancy was president, CEO, and a director of MedVentive (later acquired by McKesson), a provider of performance analytics that enabled ACOs and payers to manage cost, efficiency, and quality. Her experience also includes executive roles at Sentillion, ProxyMed, Healtheon/WebMD, and ActaMed Corporation as well as five years in leveraged finance at GE Capital. Nancy has twice been named one of the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management, as well as Woman of the Year by the American Business Awards. Companies led by her have been consistently recognized for excellence from groups such as Gartner (Cool Company, Magic Quadrant), Microsoft (HUG Award Winner) and KLAS (Most Improved Vendor). Nancy is deeply engaged in promoting innovation in healthcare through her active membership in YPO Healthcare, through serving on the advisory boards of two venture capital firms (HLM Venture Partners and LRVHealth) and through her own direct investing. She also actively mentors rising talent, especially women focused on a career in healthcare IT. Nancy holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Duke University and a master’s degree in international business studies (MIBS) from the University of South Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys traveling the world, mountain biking, and being outdoors—no matter the season. Nancy can be found on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Ham who has been leading and growing companies for years.  If you are hesitating in your career, Nancy has some advice for you – Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get in the game!

Nancy Ham is the CEO of WebPT, the country’s leading rehab therapy software platform for enhancing patient care and fueling business growth. Nancy joined WebPT in 2016, bringing with her a wealth of experience in successfully establishing, developing, growing, and operating private and public healthcare information technology companies. As CEO, she focuses on developing innovative strategies to help guide the company through its next phase of growth.

In less than two year’s time, she has led WebPT through major achievements including reaching more than 10,000 clinics, several product innovation rollouts and two significant acquisitions resulting in the addition of two new product lines and the expansion of the WebPT team into new geographical locations.

Prior to joining WebPT, Nancy served as CEO of Healthagen Population Health Solutions, an Aetna company. There, she oversaw several tech businesses, including Medicity, the market leader in clinical data exchange and interoperability. Prior to that, Nancy was president, CEO, and a director of MedVentive (later acquired by McKesson), a provider of performance analytics that enabled ACOs and payers to manage cost, efficiency, and quality. Her experience also includes executive roles at Sentillion, ProxyMed, Healtheon/WebMD, and ActaMed Corporation as well as five years in leveraged finance at GE Capital.

Nancy has twice been named one of the Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT by Health Data Management, as well as Woman of the Year by the American Business Awards. Companies led by her have been consistently recognized for excellence from groups such as Gartner (Cool Company, Magic Quadrant), Microsoft (HUG Award Winner) and KLAS (Most Improved Vendor).

Nancy is deeply engaged in promoting innovation in healthcare through her active membership in YPO Healthcare, through serving on the advisory boards of two venture capital firms (HLM Venture Partners and LRVHealth) and through her own direct investing. She also actively mentors rising talent, especially women focused on a career in healthcare IT.

Nancy holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Duke University and a master’s degree in international business studies (MIBS) from the University of South Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys traveling the world, mountain biking, and being outdoors—no matter the season.

Nancy can be found on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1565 no EP. 25 Be as you are. Show up 100%. Diane Adams lives by these words. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/03/ep-25-be-as-you-are-show-up-100-diane-adams-lives-by-these-words/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Diane Adams.  Diane’s life work has been focused on culture.  And by embracing the hard, she also believes you can make the world better for everyone. Culture and talent expert Diane K. Adams has devoted her career to building and studying the role of culture in a company’s success. Whether she’s at the helm of a Fortune 500 Human Resource organization or independently coaching and consulting chief executives of smaller organizations, and nonprofits, Diane is a leader in helping companies recognize what’s required to energize their people and to achieve long-term success at the bottom line. Currently serving as Chief Culture and Talent Officer for Sprinklr, the most complete social media and management system for the enterprise. Her team’s focus is on accelerating the growth of a high-performance and inclusive culture. Major responsibilities include building a great workforce culture and accelerating company performance, as well as human resources responsibilities for talent development and succession planning, talent acquisition, organization development, change management, total rewards, and data analytics. Prior to that, she had a similar position at McGraw-Hill Education. Prior to McGraw-Hill Education, she led the global human resources organization of Qlik, one of the fastest-growing technology companies in the world with more than 2,300 people around the globe.  Focused on building the Qlik culture –a values-based, high-performance culture that promotes innovation, learning and “making a difference”.  Before Qlik, Diane and her teams helped shape enduring values-based, high-performance cultures at companies including Cisco Systems (Nasdaq: CSCO) and Allscripts Healthcare Systems (Nasdaq: MDRX). At Cisco, for example, she joined the company when it had just 4,500 employees. Her roles—including Vice President Human Resources/International, and Vice President Human Resources/Worldwide Sales—revolved around helping ensure that the company could scale successfully. By the time she left 14 years later, Cisco had successfully grown to 70,000 employees in 152 countries. At Allscripts as Executive Vice President of Culture and Talent, Diane and her team were instrumental in enabling that company to scale its operations from $500 million to $1.44 billion. Diane also has helmed a successful consultancy focused on organizational and leadership development and excellence. Passionate about developing leaders, she’s also an annual co-host of the North Carolina CEO Forum. Diane does her best to live her values in her personal life, too. Reflecting her belief in social responsibility, she’s a chancellor of the International Board of Directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She’s also a member of other boards including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Center for Entrepreneurial Development, Communities in Schools of North Carolina, and previously served on the University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Visitors. Diane is a graduate in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. You can follow Diane Adams on LinkedIn or her website. Read the transcript here. Mon, 03 May 2021 03:30:49 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Diane Adams.  Diane’s life work has been focused on culture.  And by embracing the hard, she also believes you can make the world better for everyone. Culture and talent expert Diane K. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Diane Adams.  Diane’s life work has been focused on culture.  And by embracing the hard, she also believes you can make the world better for everyone. Culture and talent expert Diane K. Adams has devoted her career to building and studying the role of culture in a company’s success. Whether she’s at the helm of a Fortune 500 Human Resource organization or independently coaching and consulting chief executives of smaller organizations, and nonprofits, Diane is a leader in helping companies recognize what’s required to energize their people and to achieve long-term success at the bottom line. Currently serving as Chief Culture and Talent Officer for Sprinklr, the most complete social media and management system for the enterprise. Her team’s focus is on accelerating the growth of a high-performance and inclusive culture. Major responsibilities include building a great workforce culture and accelerating company performance, as well as human resources responsibilities for talent development and succession planning, talent acquisition, organization development, change management, total rewards, and data analytics. Prior to that, she had a similar position at McGraw-Hill Education. Prior to McGraw-Hill Education, she led the global human resources organization of Qlik, one of the fastest-growing technology companies in the world with more than 2,300 people around the globe.  Focused on building the Qlik culture –a values-based, high-performance culture that promotes innovation, learning and “making a difference”.  Before Qlik, Diane and her teams helped shape enduring values-based, high-performance cultures at companies including Cisco Systems (Nasdaq: CSCO) and Allscripts Healthcare Systems (Nasdaq: MDRX). At Cisco, for example, she joined the company when it had just 4,500 employees. Her roles—including Vice President Human Resources/International, and Vice President Human Resources/Worldwide Sales—revolved around helping ensure that the company could scale successfully. By the time she left 14 years later, Cisco had successfully grown to 70,000 employees in 152 countries. At Allscripts as Executive Vice President of Culture and Talent, Diane and her team were instrumental in enabling that company to scale its operations from $500 million to $1.44 billion. Diane also has helmed a successful consultancy focused on organizational and leadership development and excellence. Passionate about developing leaders, she’s also an annual co-host of the North Carolina CEO Forum. Diane does her best to live her values in her personal life, too. Reflecting her belief in social responsibility, she’s a chancellor of the International Board of Directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She’s also a member of other boards including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Center for Entrepreneurial Development, Communities in Schools of North Carolina, and previously served on the University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Visitors. Diane is a graduate in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. You can follow Diane Adams on LinkedIn or her website. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Diane Adams.  Diane’s life work has been focused on culture.  And by embracing the hard, she also believes you can make the world better for everyone.

Culture and talent expert Diane K. Adams has devoted her career to building and studying the role of culture in a company’s success.

Whether she’s at the helm of a Fortune 500 Human Resource organization or independently coaching and consulting chief executives of smaller organizations, and nonprofits, Diane is a leader in helping companies recognize what’s required to energize their people and to achieve long-term success at the bottom line.

Currently serving as Chief Culture and Talent Officer for Sprinklr, the most complete social media and management system for the enterprise. Her team’s focus is on accelerating the growth of a high-performance and inclusive culture. Major responsibilities include building a great workforce culture and accelerating company performance, as well as human resources responsibilities for talent development and succession planning, talent acquisition, organization development, change management, total rewards, and data analytics. Prior to that, she had a similar position at McGraw-Hill Education. Prior to McGraw-Hill Education, she led the global human resources organization of Qlik, one of the fastest-growing technology companies in the world with more than 2,300 people around the globe.  Focused on building the Qlik culture –a values-based, high-performance culture that promotes innovation, learning and “making a difference”.  Before Qlik, Diane and her teams helped shape enduring values-based, high-performance cultures at companies including Cisco Systems (Nasdaq: CSCO) and Allscripts Healthcare Systems (Nasdaq: MDRX).

At Cisco, for example, she joined the company when it had just 4,500 employees. Her roles—including Vice President Human Resources/International, and Vice President Human Resources/Worldwide Sales—revolved around helping ensure that the company could scale successfully. By the time she left 14 years later, Cisco had successfully grown to 70,000 employees in 152 countries.

At Allscripts as Executive Vice President of Culture and Talent, Diane and her team were instrumental in enabling that company to scale its operations from $500 million to $1.44 billion.

Diane also has helmed a successful consultancy focused on organizational and leadership development and excellence. Passionate about developing leaders, she’s also an annual co-host of the North Carolina CEO Forum.

Diane does her best to live her values in her personal life, too. Reflecting her belief in social responsibility, she’s a chancellor of the International Board of Directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She’s also a member of other boards including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Center for Entrepreneurial Development, Communities in Schools of North Carolina, and previously served on the University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Visitors.

Diane is a graduate in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

You can follow Diane Adams on LinkedIn or her website.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1404 no EP. 24 One foot in front of the other… how Dr. Nicole Neal managed family, job, community service, and additional degrees. Now she wants to help other women realize their dreams. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/05/03/ep-24-one-foot-in-front-of-the-other-how-dr-nicole-neal-managed-family-job-community-service-and-additional-degrees-now-she-wants-to-help-other-women-realize-their-dreams/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Neal, who pursued additional degrees while still focusing on her career, community and family.  She also aims to help other women with her new non-profit H.E.R. – Heal, Empower, Reclaim. Nicole F. Neal, PhD, MA Nicole is the director of data management & operations at the American Medical Association (AMA).  She leads the team responsible for procuring, adding value to, and ensuring the accuracy of the professional credentialing data for the more than 1.6M allopathic, osteopathic, and International physicians who practice medicine in the US.  No small feat, Nicole has committed much of her 33 years with the AMA to this work.  In 2016, Nicole was one of three recipients of the AMA Health Solutions “Peak” award which is given by the group’s senior leadership in recognition of outstanding performance. In addition to her more than 3 decades at the AMA, Nicole has a long list of educational accolades.  She earned a PhD in psychology from Capella University.  She has a master’s degree in organizational development, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, graduate certificates in training & development, instructional design, and human performance improvement from Roosevelt University.  And, if that were not enough, Nicole continues to seek opportunities to develop in her role at the AMA and well as in other endeavors. Outside of the AMA and her family life, Nicole looks for ways to contribute to and improve her community.  She was an active board member of the South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) which is a regional domestic violence organization. While there, she participated in and contributed to many events including the Adopt-a-Family (AAF) program which helped families displaced by domestic violence and experiencing hardship during the holiday season.  She continues to support this cause as an advisory board member.  Nicole has had memberships and/or affiliations with the American Association of Medical Society Executives (AAMSE), the American Association of Professional Women (AAPW), and the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi). Nicole recently founded Heal, Empower, Reclaim Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to, through a theory-based approach to leadership development, supporting the positive psychosocial development of minority, and underrepresented women as they mature into prolific ladies, leaders, and legacies.  The overarching goal of HER, Inc., is to help minority women to identify, prepare for and achieve their leadership purpose. You can follow Dr. Nicole Neal on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 03 May 2021 03:00:04 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Neal, who pursued additional degrees while still focusing on her career, community and family.  She also aims to help other women with her new non-profit H.E.R. – Heal, Empower, Reclaim. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Neal, who pursued additional degrees while still focusing on her career, community and family.  She also aims to help other women with her new non-profit H.E.R. – Heal, Empower, Reclaim. Nicole F. Neal, PhD, MA Nicole is the director of data management & operations at the American Medical Association (AMA).  She leads the team responsible for procuring, adding value to, and ensuring the accuracy of the professional credentialing data for the more than 1.6M allopathic, osteopathic, and International physicians who practice medicine in the US.  No small feat, Nicole has committed much of her 33 years with the AMA to this work.  In 2016, Nicole was one of three recipients of the AMA Health Solutions “Peak” award which is given by the group’s senior leadership in recognition of outstanding performance. In addition to her more than 3 decades at the AMA, Nicole has a long list of educational accolades.  She earned a PhD in psychology from Capella University.  She has a master’s degree in organizational development, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, graduate certificates in training & development, instructional design, and human performance improvement from Roosevelt University.  And, if that were not enough, Nicole continues to seek opportunities to develop in her role at the AMA and well as in other endeavors. Outside of the AMA and her family life, Nicole looks for ways to contribute to and improve her community.  She was an active board member of the South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) which is a regional domestic violence organization. While there, she participated in and contributed to many events including the Adopt-a-Family (AAF) program which helped families displaced by domestic violence and experiencing hardship during the holiday season.  She continues to support this cause as an advisory board member.  Nicole has had memberships and/or affiliations with the American Association of Medical Society Executives (AAMSE), the American Association of Professional Women (AAPW), and the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi). Nicole recently founded Heal, Empower, Reclaim Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to, through a theory-based approach to leadership development, supporting the positive psychosocial development of minority, and underrepresented women as they mature into prolific ladies, leaders, and legacies.  The overarching goal of HER, Inc., is to help minority women to identify, prepare for and achieve their leadership purpose. You can follow Dr. Nicole Neal on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Nicole Neal, who pursued additional degrees while still focusing on her career, community and family.  She also aims to help other women with her new non-profit H.E.R. – Heal, Empower, Reclaim.

Nicole F. Neal, PhD, MA

Nicole is the director of data management & operations at the American Medical Association (AMA).  She leads the team responsible for procuring, adding value to, and ensuring the accuracy of the professional credentialing data for the more than 1.6M allopathic, osteopathic, and International physicians who practice medicine in the US.  No small feat, Nicole has committed much of her 33 years with the AMA to this work.  In 2016, Nicole was one of three recipients of the AMA Health Solutions “Peak” award which is given by the group’s senior leadership in recognition of outstanding performance.

In addition to her more than 3 decades at the AMA, Nicole has a long list of educational accolades.  She earned a PhD in psychology from Capella University.  She has a master’s degree in organizational development, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, graduate certificates in training & development, instructional design, and human performance improvement from Roosevelt University.  And, if that were not enough, Nicole continues to seek opportunities to develop in her role at the AMA and well as in other endeavors.

Outside of the AMA and her family life, Nicole looks for ways to contribute to and improve her community.  She was an active board member of the South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) which is a regional domestic violence organization. While there, she participated in and contributed to many events including the Adopt-a-Family (AAF) program which helped families displaced by domestic violence and experiencing hardship during the holiday season.  She continues to support this cause as an advisory board member.  Nicole has had memberships and/or affiliations with the American Association of Medical Society Executives (AAMSE), the American Association of Professional Women (AAPW), and the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi).

Nicole recently founded Heal, Empower, Reclaim Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to, through a theory-based approach to leadership development, supporting the positive psychosocial development of minority, and underrepresented women as they mature into prolific ladies, leaders, and legacies.  The overarching goal of HER, Inc., is to help minority women to identify, prepare for and achieve their leadership purpose.

You can follow Dr. Nicole Neal on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1284 no EP. 23 Star individual contributor to Manager is a big step. And that means incorporating different styles to build high performance teams. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/26/ep-23-star-individual-contributor-to-manager-is-a-big-step-and-that-means-incorporating-different-styles-to-build-high-performance-teams/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Marks, a Senior Finance Manager at Grainger headquartered in Chicago. Becca has been at Grainger for nearly ten years in a variety of positions in Finance, currently, as a Senior Finance Manager supporting Sales Operations. Her team’s responsibilities are to provide strategic financial decision support, insights, and key deliverables relating to pricing strategy, sales coverage, sales compensation, seller effectiveness, sourcing, and contract realization. In her tenure at Grainger, she has consistently found ways to increase her responsibility and support impactful projects that drive positive business results. She has had the opportunity to work on several large-scale initiatives including reevaluating Grainger’s pricing strategy to increase relevancy in the market and rightsizing the brick and mortar segment of the business to align to changing customer demands. She is actively involved in recruiting and development. Becca leads the Finance campus recruiting efforts at Indiana University and recently worked with Finance leadership to develop bench planning processes and finding ways to improve development conversations with team members. She has a BS in Finance, Accounting, and International Business and a minor in French from the Indiana University, Kelley School of Business. You can follow Becca Marks on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 26 Apr 2021 04:00:55 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Marks, a Senior Finance Manager at Grainger headquartered in Chicago. Becca has been at Grainger for nearly ten years in a variety of positions in Finance, currently, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Marks, a Senior Finance Manager at Grainger headquartered in Chicago. Becca has been at Grainger for nearly ten years in a variety of positions in Finance, currently, as a Senior Finance Manager supporting Sales Operations. Her team’s responsibilities are to provide strategic financial decision support, insights, and key deliverables relating to pricing strategy, sales coverage, sales compensation, seller effectiveness, sourcing, and contract realization. In her tenure at Grainger, she has consistently found ways to increase her responsibility and support impactful projects that drive positive business results. She has had the opportunity to work on several large-scale initiatives including reevaluating Grainger’s pricing strategy to increase relevancy in the market and rightsizing the brick and mortar segment of the business to align to changing customer demands. She is actively involved in recruiting and development. Becca leads the Finance campus recruiting efforts at Indiana University and recently worked with Finance leadership to develop bench planning processes and finding ways to improve development conversations with team members. She has a BS in Finance, Accounting, and International Business and a minor in French from the Indiana University, Kelley School of Business. You can follow Becca Marks on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Rebecca Marks, a Senior Finance Manager at Grainger headquartered in Chicago.

Becca has been at Grainger for nearly ten years in a variety of positions in Finance, currently, as a Senior Finance Manager supporting Sales Operations. Her team’s responsibilities are to provide strategic financial decision support, insights, and key deliverables relating to pricing strategy, sales coverage, sales compensation, seller effectiveness, sourcing, and contract realization.

In her tenure at Grainger, she has consistently found ways to increase her responsibility and support impactful projects that drive positive business results. She has had the opportunity to work on several large-scale initiatives including reevaluating Grainger’s pricing strategy to increase relevancy in the market and rightsizing the brick and mortar segment of the business to align to changing customer demands.

She is actively involved in recruiting and development. Becca leads the Finance campus recruiting efforts at Indiana University and recently worked with Finance leadership to develop bench planning processes and finding ways to improve development conversations with team members.

She has a BS in Finance, Accounting, and International Business and a minor in French from the Indiana University, Kelley School of Business.

You can follow Becca Marks on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1715 no EP. 22 “Reality: Challenges are out there. Maritza Diaz chose to ignore them.” https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/26/reality-challenges-are-out-there-maritza-diaz-chose-to-ignore-them/ Do not be distracted.  Maritza Diaz wants her kids to be proud of Mommy.  She is busy creating jobs and doesn’t have time for doubters.  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maritza Diaz. Maritza Diaz, Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana Maritza Diaz is a talented and seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in IT and Software Engineering. She brings a wealth of expertise with particular strengths in areas such as engineering excellence, digital transformation, agile/scrum adoption, software engineering best practices, and building high-performing teams. With an abundance of international experience through her Big 4 exposure, Maritza has a strong understanding of various markets throughout North America, India, China and Latin America, including Mexico. Currently, Maritza operates a private firm, ITJuana, where she serves as the Chief Executive Officer. She has worked with multiple companies in California of different sizes and industries, offering consultancy and management services to create software centers of excellence in Tijuana Mexico. Maritza possesses the working experience and know-how and leverages the amazing talent available in Tijuana to serve and fulfill the digital talent needs of companies in California. Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana, Maritza served as Sr. Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific where she was responsible for growing the company’s digital capabilities in North America, India, and Mexico. In this role, she successfully managed the digital and agile transformation of an organization composed of 800 software professionals; today this organization is considered one of the finest software organizations in the industry. Over the past seven years, Maritza has established herself as a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco where she represents San Diego—a recent member of the Forbes Technology Council—and a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is an advocate of leveraging the strength of this region to build a thriving innovation economy that leads the digital transformation for companies in California. You can follow Maritza Diaz on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 26 Apr 2021 03:30:04 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Do not be distracted.  Maritza Diaz wants her kids to be proud of Mommy.  She is busy creating jobs and doesn’t have time for doubters.  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maritza Diaz. Maritza Diaz, Do not be distracted.  Maritza Diaz wants her kids to be proud of Mommy.  She is busy creating jobs and doesn’t have time for doubters.  Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maritza Diaz. Maritza Diaz, Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana Maritza Diaz is a talented and seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in IT and Software Engineering. She brings a wealth of expertise with particular strengths in areas such as engineering excellence, digital transformation, agile/scrum adoption, software engineering best practices, and building high-performing teams. With an abundance of international experience through her Big 4 exposure, Maritza has a strong understanding of various markets throughout North America, India, China and Latin America, including Mexico. Currently, Maritza operates a private firm, ITJuana, where she serves as the Chief Executive Officer. She has worked with multiple companies in California of different sizes and industries, offering consultancy and management services to create software centers of excellence in Tijuana Mexico. Maritza possesses the working experience and know-how and leverages the amazing talent available in Tijuana to serve and fulfill the digital talent needs of companies in California. Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana, Maritza served as Sr. Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific where she was responsible for growing the company’s digital capabilities in North America, India, and Mexico. In this role, she successfully managed the digital and agile transformation of an organization composed of 800 software professionals; today this organization is considered one of the finest software organizations in the industry. Over the past seven years, Maritza has established herself as a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco where she represents San Diego—a recent member of the Forbes Technology Council—and a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is an advocate of leveraging the strength of this region to build a thriving innovation economy that leads the digital transformation for companies in California. You can follow Maritza Diaz on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Do not be distracted.  Maritza Diaz wants her kids to be proud of Mommy.  She is busy creating jobs and doesn’t have time for doubters. 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Maritza Diaz.

Maritza Diaz, Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana

Maritza Diaz is a talented and seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in IT and Software Engineering. She brings a wealth of expertise with particular strengths in areas such as engineering excellence, digital transformation, agile/scrum adoption, software engineering best practices, and building high-performing teams. With an abundance of international experience through her Big 4 exposure, Maritza has a strong understanding of various markets throughout North America, India, China and Latin America, including Mexico.

Currently, Maritza operates a private firm, ITJuana, where she serves as the Chief Executive Officer. She has worked with multiple companies in California of different sizes and industries, offering consultancy and management services to create software centers of excellence in Tijuana Mexico. Maritza possesses the working experience and know-how and leverages the amazing talent available in Tijuana to serve and fulfill the digital talent needs of companies in California.

Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ITJuana, Maritza served as Sr. Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific where she was responsible for growing the company’s digital capabilities in North America, India, and Mexico. In this role, she successfully managed the digital and agile transformation of an organization composed of 800 software professionals; today this organization is considered one of the finest software organizations in the industry.

Over the past seven years, Maritza has established herself as a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco where she represents San Diego—a recent member of the Forbes Technology Council—and a thought leader in the field of cross-border collaboration in the software industry between San Diego and Baja California. She is an advocate of leveraging the strength of this region to build a thriving innovation economy that leads the digital transformation for companies in California.

You can follow Maritza Diaz on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1171 no EP. 21 Sow positivity and just keep working…… Dr. Suzet McKinney’s plan when confronting brick walls and cement ceilings. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/26/ep-21-sow-positivity-and-just-keep-working-dr-suzet-mckinneys-plan-when-confronting-brick-walls-and-cement-ceilings/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suzet McKinney, who shares her best advice for how to handle and break through roadblocks. Dr. Suzet McKinney, a nationally recognized public health expert, serves as Principal and Director of Life Sciences. In her role, Dr. McKinney leads the strategy to expand Sterling Bay’s footprint in life sciences nationwide, pursue grant programs for laboratory incubation and graduation space and advance the work of various Sterling Bay life sciences initiatives including Prysm Institute. Prior to joining Sterling Bay, Dr. McKinney was CEO and Executive Director of the Illinois Medical District (IMD) where she managed medical research facilities, labs, a biotech business incubator, universities, four hospitals, and more than 40 healthcare-related facilities. Before IMD, Dr. McKinney served as Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Public Health Preparedness and Emergency Response at the Chicago Department of Health. You can follow Dr. Suzet McKinney on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 26 Apr 2021 03:00:14 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suzet McKinney, who shares her best advice for how to handle and break through roadblocks. Dr. Suzet McKinney, a nationally recognized public health expert, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suzet McKinney, who shares her best advice for how to handle and break through roadblocks. Dr. Suzet McKinney, a nationally recognized public health expert, serves as Principal and Director of Life Sciences. In her role, Dr. McKinney leads the strategy to expand Sterling Bay’s footprint in life sciences nationwide, pursue grant programs for laboratory incubation and graduation space and advance the work of various Sterling Bay life sciences initiatives including Prysm Institute. Prior to joining Sterling Bay, Dr. McKinney was CEO and Executive Director of the Illinois Medical District (IMD) where she managed medical research facilities, labs, a biotech business incubator, universities, four hospitals, and more than 40 healthcare-related facilities. Before IMD, Dr. McKinney served as Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Public Health Preparedness and Emergency Response at the Chicago Department of Health. You can follow Dr. Suzet McKinney on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Suzet McKinney, who shares her best advice for how to handle and break through roadblocks.

Dr. Suzet McKinney, a nationally recognized public health expert, serves as Principal and Director of Life Sciences. In her role, Dr. McKinney leads the strategy to expand Sterling Bay’s footprint in life sciences nationwide, pursue grant programs for laboratory incubation and graduation space and advance the work of various Sterling Bay life sciences initiatives including Prysm Institute. Prior to joining Sterling Bay, Dr. McKinney was CEO and Executive Director of the Illinois Medical District (IMD) where she managed medical research facilities, labs, a biotech business incubator, universities, four hospitals, and more than 40 healthcare-related facilities. Before IMD, Dr. McKinney served as Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Public Health Preparedness and Emergency Response at the Chicago Department of Health.

You can follow Dr. Suzet McKinney on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1671 no EP. 20 Those gray areas of harassment, pay equity. Real issues. Real advice. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/19/ep-20-those-gray-areas-of-harassment-pay-equity-real-issues-real-advice/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Susan Gross Sholinsky, an expert on those workforce issues that still exist and really matter. Susan Gross Sholinsky gives employers the tools they need to make smart decisions about their workforce challenges. She is a sharp, versatile partner to executives, human resources, and in-house legal teams who seek her out for her straight-forward advice and access to boots-on-the-ground resources, regardless of location. Susan also helps employers ensure compliance with the latest local, state, and federal laws, from sexual harassment, to discrimination, restrictive covenants, paid family leave, and accommodations. When a company makes an acquisition, she literally writes the legal and compliance script for ensuring a smooth transition and integrating employees into the new organization. Her succinct talking points help deliver key updates and tough decisions to affected team members. Whether she’s conducting training on anti-harassment (similar to Epstein Becker Green’s “Halting Harassment” online training tool) or leading training on diversity, internal investigations, or performance documentation best practices, Susan’s effective training style helps managers spot problems early and boost productivity through safe, compliant practices. Susan helps employers respond rapidly to social issues, like the #MeToo or racial justice movements. She spearheaded the firm’s COVID-19 taskforce that provides employers with practical advice supported by training programs compliant in all 50 states, and dozens of pandemic-related policies and forms, as well as client advisories, blog posts, and articles. Susan holds several leadership positions within the firm, including as Vice Chair of both the Employment Labor & Workforce Management Steering Committee and the Diversity and Professional Development Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee and the Executive Committee of the Women’s Initiative. Among her many professional and community volunteer initiatives, she has served multiple years as New York Co-Chair of 2020 Women on Boards: Global Conversation on Board Diversity. She was also recognized as one of 2020’s Responsible 100 by City & State New York, an award bestowed upon private-sector leaders whose work makes life better in communities in New York City and across the state. Experience  Managed a software company’s absorption of two companies. Susan reviewed existing employment agreements and offer letters to make sure the company understood its obligations, and drafted scripts to communicate with employees. She facilitated the auditing of 401(k), pension, severance, and stock benefits, and helped ensure a seamless transition of benefits by merging company handbook and other policies of the various entities involved. Susan also reviewed the wage and hour exemption status of incoming employees to confirm compliance with federal and local laws. Created a global sexual harassment policy for a major international private equity firm. This substantial undertaking required Susan to coordinate with local counsel in multiple countries to make sure the company’s uniform policy could be enacted to the extent practicable in all locations. Conducted sexual harassment and manager training for a major hospital’s administrators, supervisors, and chiefs. Susan trained thousands of employees in several locations. Designed and led a four-day intensive internal investigation training program for the U.S. HR, Compliance, and in-house legal teams of one of Japan’s largest banks, which gave the company a cost-effective means to conduct their own investigations. Counseled numerous clients on updating their paid time off (PTO) policies to incorporate nationwide sick time requirements and, where desired, provide unlimited PTO. Susan frequently advises clients in creating a “leave suite” to avoid overlapping policies for Family and Medical Leave Act, paid family leave, short-term disability, workers’ compensation, and salary continuation. Advised clients on all aspects of COVID-19 workforce management. Susan helped clients assess their workforce needs and prepare for layoffs and furloughs. She provided due diligence of their selection process, and drafted furlough notices, employee FAQs, and separation agreements. She prepares leave of absence and remote work policies for during- and post-COVID-19 workforces and continues to provide return-to-work safety training and facilitates the creation and enforcement of protocols to address actual and suspected positive COVID-19 cases in the workplace. Trained numerous HR and legal teams for compliance in response to the #MeToo movement. Through a series of in-person and virtual programs, includingHalting Harassment, Susan gave clients a roadmap for dealing with harassment claims with the right procedures. She also helps ensure that systems are in place to avoid future allegations. Spearheaded initiatives for major global financial services companies, large international retailers, and a major U.S. sports league to address key areas of focus, including “ban the box” policies, flexible work policies, accommodations, sick leave, family leave, equal pay, salary history inquiry bans, and LGBTQ+ rights. Susan helps clients stay current with rapidly changing laws across the country and makes it easier for them to keep pace with changing rules regarding compliant policies, updated forms and posting requirements, and employment training. Oversaw various pay equity audits, including one at a major pharmaceutical firm. Education Northwestern Pritzker School of Law(D., 2000) Cornell University(S., 1995) School of Industrial and Labor Relations You can follow Susan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:12:52 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Susan Gross Sholinsky, an expert on those workforce issues that still exist and really matter. Susan Gross Sholinsky gives employers the tools they need to make smart decisions about their workforce challe... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Susan Gross Sholinsky, an expert on those workforce issues that still exist and really matter. Susan Gross Sholinsky gives employers the tools they need to make smart decisions about their workforce challenges. She is a sharp, versatile partner to executives, human resources, and in-house legal teams who seek her out for her straight-forward advice and access to boots-on-the-ground resources, regardless of location. Susan also helps employers ensure compliance with the latest local, state, and federal laws, from sexual harassment, to discrimination, restrictive covenants, paid family leave, and accommodations. When a company makes an acquisition, she literally writes the legal and compliance script for ensuring a smooth transition and integrating employees into the new organization. Her succinct talking points help deliver key updates and tough decisions to affected team members. Whether she’s conducting training on anti-harassment (similar to Epstein Becker Green’s “Halting Harassment” online training tool) or leading training on diversity, internal investigations, or performance documentation best practices, Susan’s effective training style helps managers spot problems early and boost productivity through safe, compliant practices. Susan helps employers respond rapidly to social issues, like the #MeToo or racial justice movements. She spearheaded the firm’s COVID-19 taskforce that provides employers with practical advice supported by training programs compliant in all 50 states, and dozens of pandemic-related policies and forms, as well as client advisories, blog posts, and articles. Susan holds several leadership positions within the firm, including as Vice Chair of both the Employment Labor & Workforce Management Steering Committee and the Diversity and Professional Development Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee and the Executive Committee of the Women’s Initiative. Among her many professional and community volunteer initiatives, she has served multiple years as New York Co-Chair of 2020 Women on Boards: Global Conversation on Board Diversity. She was also recognized as one of 2020’s Responsible 100 by City & State New York, an award bestowed upon private-sector leaders whose work makes life better in communities in New York City and across the state. Experience  Managed a software company’s absorption of two companies. Susan reviewed existing employment agreements and offer letters to make sure the company understood its obligations, and drafted scripts to communicate with employees. She facilitated the auditing of 401(k), pension, severance, and stock benefits, and helped ensure a seamless transition of benefits by merging company handbook and other policies of the various entities involved. Susan also reviewed the wage and hour exemption status of incoming employees to confirm compliance with federal and local laws. Created a global sexual harassment policy for a major international private equity firm. This substantial undertaking required Susan to coordinate with local counsel in multiple countries to make sure the company’s uniform policy could be enacted to the extent practicable in all locations. Conducted sexual harassment and manager training for a major hospital’s administrators, supervisors, and chiefs. Susan trained thousands of employees in several locations. Designed and led a four-day intensive internal investigation training program for the U.S. HR, Compliance, and in-house legal teams of one of Japan’s largest banks, which gave the company a cost-effective means to conduct their own investigations. Counseled numerous clients on updating their paid time off (PTO) policies to incorporate nationwide sick time requirements and, where desired, provide unlimited PTO. Susan frequently advises clients in creating a “leave suite” to avoid overlapping policies for Family and Medical Leave Act, paid family leave, short-term disability, workers’ compensation, and salary continuation. Advised clients on all aspects of COVID-19 workforce management. Susan helped clients assess their workforce needs and prepare for layoffs and furloughs. She provided due diligence of their selection process, and drafted furlough notices, employee FAQs, and separation agreements. She prepares leave of absence and remote work policies for during- and post-COVID-19 workforces and continues to provide return-to-work safety training and facilitates the creation and enforcement of protocols to address actual and suspected positive COVID-19 cases in the workplace. Trained numerous HR and legal teams for compliance in response to the #MeToo movement. Through a series of in-person and virtual programs, includingHalting Harassment, Susan gave clients a roadmap for dealing with harassment claims with the right procedures. She also helps ensure that systems are in place to avoid future allegations. Spearheaded initiatives for major global financial services companies, large international retailers, and a major U.S. sports league to address key areas of focus, including “ban the box” policies, flexible work policies, accommodations, sick leave, family leave, equal pay, salary history inquiry bans, and LGBTQ+ rights. Susan helps clients stay current with rapidly changing laws across the country and makes it easier for them to keep pace with changing rules regarding compliant policies, updated forms and posting requirements, and employment training. Oversaw various pay equity audits, including one at a major pharmaceutical firm. Education Northwestern Pritzker School of Law(D., 2000) Cornell University(S., 1995) School of Industrial and Labor Relations You can follow Susan on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Susan Gross Sholinsky, an expert on those workforce issues that still exist and really matter.

Susan Gross Sholinsky gives employers the tools they need to make smart decisions about their workforce challenges. She is a sharp, versatile partner to executives, human resources, and in-house legal teams who seek her out for her straight-forward advice and access to boots-on-the-ground resources, regardless of location. Susan also helps employers ensure compliance with the latest local, state, and federal laws, from sexual harassment, to discrimination, restrictive covenants, paid family leave, and accommodations. When a company makes an acquisition, she literally writes the legal and compliance script for ensuring a smooth transition and integrating employees into the new organization. Her succinct talking points help deliver key updates and tough decisions to affected team members.

Whether she’s conducting training on anti-harassment (similar to Epstein Becker Green’s “Halting Harassment” online training tool) or leading training on diversity, internal investigations, or performance documentation best practices, Susan’s effective training style helps managers spot problems early and boost productivity through safe, compliant practices. Susan helps employers respond rapidly to social issues, like the #MeToo or racial justice movements. She spearheaded the firm’s COVID-19 taskforce that provides employers with practical advice supported by training programs compliant in all 50 states, and dozens of pandemic-related policies and forms, as well as client advisories, blog posts, and articles.

Susan holds several leadership positions within the firm, including as Vice Chair of both the Employment Labor & Workforce Management Steering Committee and the Diversity and Professional Development Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee and the Executive Committee of the Women’s Initiative. Among her many professional and community volunteer initiatives, she has served multiple years as New York Co-Chair of 2020 Women on Boards: Global Conversation on Board Diversity. She was also recognized as one of 2020’s Responsible 100 by City & State New York, an award bestowed upon private-sector leaders whose work makes life better in communities in New York City and across the state.

Experience 

  • Managed a software company’s absorption of two companies. Susan reviewed existing employment agreements and offer letters to make sure the company understood its obligations, and drafted scripts to communicate with employees. She facilitated the auditing of 401(k), pension, severance, and stock benefits, and helped ensure a seamless transition of benefits by merging company handbook and other policies of the various entities involved. Susan also reviewed the wage and hour exemption status of incoming employees to confirm compliance with federal and local laws.
  • Created a global sexual harassment policy for a major international private equity firm. This substantial undertaking required Susan to coordinate with local counsel in multiple countries to make sure the company’s uniform policy could be enacted to the extent practicable in all locations.
  • Conducted sexual harassment and manager training for a major hospital’s administrators, supervisors, and chiefs. Susan trained thousands of employees in several locations.
  • Designed and led a four-day intensive internal investigation training program for the U.S. HR, Compliance, and in-house legal teams of one of Japan’s largest banks, which gave the company a cost-effective means to conduct their own investigations.
  • Counseled numerous clients on updating their paid time off (PTO) policies to incorporate nationwide sick time requirements and, where desired, provide unlimited PTO. Susan frequently advises clients in creating a “leave suite” to avoid overlapping policies for Family and Medical Leave Act, paid family leave, short-term disability, workers’ compensation, and salary continuation.
  • Advised clients on all aspects of COVID-19 workforce management. Susan helped clients assess their workforce needs and prepare for layoffs and furloughs. She provided due diligence of their selection process, and drafted furlough notices, employee FAQs, and separation agreements. She prepares leave of absence and remote work policies for during- and post-COVID-19 workforces and continues to provide return-to-work safety training and facilitates the creation and enforcement of protocols to address actual and suspected positive COVID-19 cases in the workplace.
  • Trained numerous HR and legal teams for compliance in response to the #MeToo movement. Through a series of in-person and virtual programs, includingHalting Harassment, Susan gave clients a roadmap for dealing with harassment claims with the right procedures. She also helps ensure that systems are in place to avoid future allegations.
  • Spearheaded initiatives for major global financial services companies, large international retailers, and a major U.S. sports league to address key areas of focus, including “ban the box” policies, flexible work policies, accommodations, sick leave, family leave, equal pay, salary history inquiry bans, and LGBTQ+ rights. Susan helps clients stay current with rapidly changing laws across the country and makes it easier for them to keep pace with changing rules regarding compliant policies, updated forms and posting requirements, and employment training.
  • Oversaw various pay equity audits, including one at a major pharmaceutical firm.

Education

  • Northwestern Pritzker School of Law(D., 2000)
  • Cornell University(S., 1995)
    • School of Industrial and Labor Relations

You can follow Susan on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1220 no EP. 19 Playbook for career growth in a pandemic as a new mom? Doesn’t exist. This attorney is writing her own. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/19/ep-19-playbook-for-career-growth-in-a-pandemic-as-a-new-mom-doesnt-exist-this-attorney-is-writing-her-own/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Gunzenhauser Popper, attorney and new mother who talks about the importance of her network and a supportive work environment. NANCY GUNZENHAUSER POPPER is a Member of the Firm in the Employment, Labor & Workforce Management practice, in the New York office of Epstein Becker Green. Ms. Popper: Counsels clients on compliance with EEO laws, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, worker classification issues, and other federal, state, and local statutes governing the workplace Advises employers in all facets of the employment relationship, from pre-employment considerations and hiring to terminations and post-employment restrictions Prepares employment, consulting, and separation agreements Audits employers’ employment policies, procedures, and handbooks to ensure compliance with applicable laws and best practices Conducts workplace training seminars for employees, managers, and human resources personnel Assists in defending clients in labor and employment-related litigation in a broad array of matters, such as discrimination, harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, and wage and hour disputes Ms. Popper has been chosen by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©: “Ones to Watch” (2021) in the field of Litigation – Labor and Employment. Prior to joining Epstein Becker Green, Ms. Popper worked as an intern in the Law Department of the Kings County Supreme Court; the Employment Law Department of one the world’s largest professional services, risk management, and insurance brokerage firms; and the Social Security Administration, among other positions. While at law school, Ms. Popper received the CALI “Excellence for the Future Award” in Privacy in the Workplace. You can follow Nancy on LinkedIn. Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:06:43 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Gunzenhauser Popper, attorney and new mother who talks about the importance of her network and a supportive work environment. NANCY GUNZENHAUSER POPPER is a Member of the Firm in the Employment, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Gunzenhauser Popper, attorney and new mother who talks about the importance of her network and a supportive work environment. NANCY GUNZENHAUSER POPPER is a Member of the Firm in the Employment, Labor & Workforce Management practice, in the New York office of Epstein Becker Green. Ms. Popper: Counsels clients on compliance with EEO laws, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, worker classification issues, and other federal, state, and local statutes governing the workplace Advises employers in all facets of the employment relationship, from pre-employment considerations and hiring to terminations and post-employment restrictions Prepares employment, consulting, and separation agreements Audits employers’ employment policies, procedures, and handbooks to ensure compliance with applicable laws and best practices Conducts workplace training seminars for employees, managers, and human resources personnel Assists in defending clients in labor and employment-related litigation in a broad array of matters, such as discrimination, harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, and wage and hour disputes Ms. Popper has been chosen by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©: “Ones to Watch” (2021) in the field of Litigation – Labor and Employment. Prior to joining Epstein Becker Green, Ms. Popper worked as an intern in the Law Department of the Kings County Supreme Court; the Employment Law Department of one the world’s largest professional services, risk management, and insurance brokerage firms; and the Social Security Administration, among other positions. While at law school, Ms. Popper received the CALI “Excellence for the Future Award” in Privacy in the Workplace. You can follow Nancy on LinkedIn.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Nancy Gunzenhauser Popper, attorney and new mother who talks about the importance of her network and a supportive work environment.

NANCY GUNZENHAUSER POPPER is a Member of the Firm in the Employment, Labor & Workforce Management practice, in the New York office of Epstein Becker Green.

Ms. Popper:

  • Counsels clients on compliance with EEO laws, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, worker classification issues, and other federal, state, and local statutes governing the workplace
  • Advises employers in all facets of the employment relationship, from pre-employment considerations and hiring to terminations and post-employment restrictions
  • Prepares employment, consulting, and separation agreements
  • Audits employers’ employment policies, procedures, and handbooks to ensure compliance with applicable laws and best practices
  • Conducts workplace training seminars for employees, managers, and human resources personnel
  • Assists in defending clients in labor and employment-related litigation in a broad array of matters, such as discrimination, harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, and wage and hour disputes

Ms. Popper has been chosen by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©: “Ones to Watch” (2021) in the field of Litigation – Labor and Employment.

Prior to joining Epstein Becker Green, Ms. Popper worked as an intern in the Law Department of the Kings County Supreme Court; the Employment Law Department of one the world’s largest professional services, risk management, and insurance brokerage firms; and the Social Security Administration, among other positions.

While at law school, Ms. Popper received the CALI “Excellence for the Future Award” in Privacy in the Workplace.

You can follow Nancy on LinkedIn.

]]> 1190 no EP. 18 It was a wake up call when her daughter wanted to drop out of STEM in high school. Now, Gavriella Schuster wants you to BeCOME an ally. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/19/ep-18-it-was-a-wake-up-call-when-her-daughter-wanted-to-drop-out-of-stem-in-high-school-now-gavriella-schuster-wants-you-to-become-an-ally/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Gavriella Schuster, a veteran executive with ideas and a plan to solve gender equity. Gavriella describes her BeCOME framework and urges all of us to take action now. Gavriella Schuster, Corporate Vice President, One Commercial Partner  As a C-level Microsoft executive and thought leader, Gavriella leads a global portfolio of channel partners that has influenced over $1 trillion in ecosystem revenues. She brings over 20 years of leadership in digital and cloud transformation roles, driving strategy and execution spanning all aspects of business model and product development, launch, marketing, sales and partner development. Gavriella currently leads global recruitment, enablement and engagement of Microsoft’s fast-growing partner ecosystem. As a builder and change agent, she has built and turned around businesses by inspiring a vision for future customer relevance and engaging teams in developing the roadmap. You can follow Gavriella on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:58:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Gavriella Schuster, a veteran executive with ideas and a plan to solve gender equity. Gavriella describes her BeCOME framework and urges all of us to take action now. Gavriella Schuster,   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Gavriella Schuster, a veteran executive with ideas and a plan to solve gender equity. Gavriella describes her BeCOME framework and urges all of us to take action now. Gavriella Schuster, Corporate Vice President, One Commercial Partner  As a C-level Microsoft executive and thought leader, Gavriella leads a global portfolio of channel partners that has influenced over $1 trillion in ecosystem revenues. She brings over 20 years of leadership in digital and cloud transformation roles, driving strategy and execution spanning all aspects of business model and product development, launch, marketing, sales and partner development. Gavriella currently leads global recruitment, enablement and engagement of Microsoft’s fast-growing partner ecosystem. As a builder and change agent, she has built and turned around businesses by inspiring a vision for future customer relevance and engaging teams in developing the roadmap. You can follow Gavriella on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Gavriella Schuster, a veteran executive with ideas and a plan to solve gender equity. Gavriella describes her BeCOME framework and urges all of us to take action now.

Gavriella Schuster, Corporate Vice President, One Commercial Partner 

As a C-level Microsoft executive and thought leader, Gavriella leads a global portfolio of channel partners that has influenced over $1 trillion in ecosystem revenues. She brings over 20 years of leadership in digital and cloud transformation roles, driving strategy and execution spanning all aspects of business model and product development, launch, marketing, sales and partner development. Gavriella currently leads global recruitment, enablement and engagement of Microsoft’s fast-growing partner ecosystem. As a builder and change agent, she has built and turned around businesses by inspiring a vision for future customer relevance and engaging teams in developing the roadmap.

You can follow Gavriella on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1442 no EP. 17 “Just start somewhere….” Amy Christensen’s advice on how to build your network, a key to unlocking opportunity. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/12/ep-17-just-start-somewhere-amy-christensens-advice-on-how-to-build-your-network-a-key-to-unlocking-opportunity/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Christensen, one of private equity’s Most Influential Women of Today and Tomorrow. Amy Christensen is a Partner and founding member of The Vistria Group, a Chicago-based, middle-market private equity firm that invests in healthcare, education, and financial services companies. She is responsible for the sourcing, due diligence, execution and portfolio management of Vistria’s healthcare investments. Ms. Christensen is also a board member of Behavioral Health Group, Supplemental Health Care, and Chiro One Wellness Centers.  Ms. Christensen previously served on the boards of Angel MedFlight, St. Croix Hospice, and Alacura. She has executed numerous private equity transactions across a variety of industries including healthcare, business services, financial services, and technology. Prior to joining Vistria, she was an investor with NewSpring Capital, The Gores Group, and CCP Private Equity Partners. Ms. Christensen has also spent time advising health systems as a healthcare consultant with The Huron Consulting Group. She received her MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and her B.S. from Northwestern University. You can follow Amy on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 12 Apr 2021 04:00:19 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Christensen, one of private equity’s Most Influential Women of Today and Tomorrow. Amy Christensen is a Partner and founding member of The Vistria Group, a Chicago-based,   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Christensen, one of private equity’s Most Influential Women of Today and Tomorrow. Amy Christensen is a Partner and founding member of The Vistria Group, a Chicago-based, middle-market private equity firm that invests in healthcare, education, and financial services companies. She is responsible for the sourcing, due diligence, execution and portfolio management of Vistria’s healthcare investments. Ms. Christensen is also a board member of Behavioral Health Group, Supplemental Health Care, and Chiro One Wellness Centers.  Ms. Christensen previously served on the boards of Angel MedFlight, St. Croix Hospice, and Alacura. She has executed numerous private equity transactions across a variety of industries including healthcare, business services, financial services, and technology. Prior to joining Vistria, she was an investor with NewSpring Capital, The Gores Group, and CCP Private Equity Partners. Ms. Christensen has also spent time advising health systems as a healthcare consultant with The Huron Consulting Group. She received her MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and her B.S. from Northwestern University. You can follow Amy on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Christensen, one of private equity’s Most Influential Women of Today and Tomorrow.

Amy Christensen is a Partner and founding member of The Vistria Group, a Chicago-based, middle-market private equity firm that invests in healthcare, education, and financial services companies. She is responsible for the sourcing, due diligence, execution and portfolio management of Vistria’s healthcare investments. Ms. Christensen is also a board member of Behavioral Health Group, Supplemental Health Care, and Chiro One Wellness Centers.  Ms. Christensen previously served on the boards of Angel MedFlight, St. Croix Hospice, and Alacura. She has executed numerous private equity transactions across a variety of industries including healthcare, business services, financial services, and technology. Prior to joining Vistria, she was an investor with NewSpring Capital, The Gores Group, and CCP Private Equity Partners. Ms. Christensen has also spent time advising health systems as a healthcare consultant with The Huron Consulting Group. She received her MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and her B.S. from Northwestern University.

You can follow Amy on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1271 no EP. 16 This astrophysicist started dreaming big when she “broke math” at age 8. Katie Melbourne is about to launch a $9B telescope. And she is just getting started. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/12/ep-16-this-astrophysicist-started-dreaming-big-when-she-broke-math-at-age-8-katie-melbourne-is-about-to-launch-a-9b-telescope-and-she-is-just-getting-started/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Melbourne, systems engineer and astrophysicist, ultra-marathoner, and PhD to be. Katie Melbourne is a Systems Engineer at Ball Aerospace working on the James Webb Space Telescope commissioning team. Developing an interest in science and space at a young age, Katie graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics in 2019. Her undergraduate thesis and main astronomy research focus was on M dwarf stars – small, dim stars making up about 75% of all the stars surrounding Earth – and the planets that orbit them. After internships at NASA Headquarters and Ball Aerospace’s Strategic Operations Office in DC, Katie became committed to pursuing a career that would help advance the future of space exploration through diplomacy and the development of space sustainability norms. This summer, she will be starting a part-time Ph.D. studying Space Domain Awareness through the University of Colorado Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences department. Outside of STEM, Katie served as president of her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma in undergrad, and now enjoys training for ultra-marathons and summit hikes, rock climbing, and learning guitar. You can follow Katie on Twitter @katiemel25 or Website: katiemelbourne.me. Read the transcript here. Mon, 12 Apr 2021 03:30:40 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Melbourne, systems engineer and astrophysicist, ultra-marathoner, and PhD to be. Katie Melbourne is a Systems Engineer at Ball Aerospace working on the James Webb Space Telescope commissioning team...   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Melbourne, systems engineer and astrophysicist, ultra-marathoner, and PhD to be. Katie Melbourne is a Systems Engineer at Ball Aerospace working on the James Webb Space Telescope commissioning team. Developing an interest in science and space at a young age, Katie graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics in 2019. Her undergraduate thesis and main astronomy research focus was on M dwarf stars – small, dim stars making up about 75% of all the stars surrounding Earth – and the planets that orbit them. After internships at NASA Headquarters and Ball Aerospace’s Strategic Operations Office in DC, Katie became committed to pursuing a career that would help advance the future of space exploration through diplomacy and the development of space sustainability norms. This summer, she will be starting a part-time Ph.D. studying Space Domain Awareness through the University of Colorado Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences department. Outside of STEM, Katie served as president of her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma in undergrad, and now enjoys training for ultra-marathons and summit hikes, rock climbing, and learning guitar. You can follow Katie on Twitter @katiemel25 or Website: katiemelbourne.me. Read the transcript here.

 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Katie Melbourne, systems engineer and astrophysicist, ultra-marathoner, and PhD to be.

Katie Melbourne is a Systems Engineer at Ball Aerospace working on the James Webb Space Telescope commissioning team. Developing an interest in science and space at a young age, Katie graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics in 2019. Her undergraduate thesis and main astronomy research focus was on M dwarf stars – small, dim stars making up about 75% of all the stars surrounding Earth – and the planets that orbit them. After internships at NASA Headquarters and Ball Aerospace’s Strategic Operations Office in DC, Katie became committed to pursuing a career that would help advance the future of space exploration through diplomacy and the development of space sustainability norms. This summer, she will be starting a part-time Ph.D. studying Space Domain Awareness through the University of Colorado Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences department. Outside of STEM, Katie served as president of her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma in undergrad, and now enjoys training for ultra-marathons and summit hikes, rock climbing, and learning guitar.

You can follow Katie on Twitter @katiemel25 or Website: katiemelbourne.me.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1354 no EP. 15 “Convene, understand, amplify, elevate.” More than a mantra – a purposeful approach to professional development for this inspiring attorney. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/12/ep-15-convene-understand-amplify-elevate-more-than-a-mantra-a-purposeful-approach-to-professional-development-for-this-inspiring-attorney/   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sumi Pitroda, an attorney with the AMA with a clear vision that supporting women is key to growing her own career while building her network for success. Sumi Pitroda, JD “Convene, understand, amplify, elevate.” Professional Bio:  Sumi Pitroda is Senior Assistant General Counsel at the American Medical Association.  She practices within the area of corporate transactions, specializing in data privacy matters.  Sumi completed her B.S. degree at the University of Illinois in 2004 and her Juris Doctor certificate at the Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2008.  During law school, she worked full-time as an IT consultant for Deloitte, leveraging the technology aspects of her background and training.  After graduation from law school, Sumi joined the top-ranked law firm of Sidley Austin, where she practiced corporate transactional law with a focus in technology transactions.  Her work on the Aon-Hewitt merger led to her role as in-house counsel for Aon Corporation in 2011.  At Aon, she built a secondary focus in data privacy prior to joining the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2016.  Her aim was to apply her growing portfolio of experience to the healthcare industry, which appealed to her core areas of interest (education and health).  Sumi co-founded and leads the Women Inspired Now (WIN) employee resource network at the AMA.  She is also a certified yoga instructor (RYT 200) and teaches yoga/meditation at the AMA.  Outside of work, Sumi volunteers and supports Namaste Charter School, a charter school located in the west side of Chicago focused on promoting equity by addressing the health and wellness needs of its student population that struggles with poor health and childhood obesity. Sumi enjoys translating detailed and complex legal analyses into macro summaries for broader understanding and consumption.  Macro-level thinking driven by micro-level knowledge. You can follow Sumi on LinkedIn and Instagram @Sumi_pit Read the transcript here. Mon, 12 Apr 2021 03:00:41 -0000 full Laurie McGraw   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sumi Pitroda, an attorney with the AMA with a clear vision that supporting women is key to growing her own career while building her network for success. Sumi Pitroda, JD “Convene, understand, amplify,   Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sumi Pitroda, an attorney with the AMA with a clear vision that supporting women is key to growing her own career while building her network for success. Sumi Pitroda, JD “Convene, understand, amplify, elevate.” Professional Bio:  Sumi Pitroda is Senior Assistant General Counsel at the American Medical Association.  She practices within the area of corporate transactions, specializing in data privacy matters.  Sumi completed her B.S. degree at the University of Illinois in 2004 and her Juris Doctor certificate at the Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2008.  During law school, she worked full-time as an IT consultant for Deloitte, leveraging the technology aspects of her background and training.  After graduation from law school, Sumi joined the top-ranked law firm of Sidley Austin, where she practiced corporate transactional law with a focus in technology transactions.  Her work on the Aon-Hewitt merger led to her role as in-house counsel for Aon Corporation in 2011.  At Aon, she built a secondary focus in data privacy prior to joining the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2016.  Her aim was to apply her growing portfolio of experience to the healthcare industry, which appealed to her core areas of interest (education and health).  Sumi co-founded and leads the Women Inspired Now (WIN) employee resource network at the AMA.  She is also a certified yoga instructor (RYT 200) and teaches yoga/meditation at the AMA.  Outside of work, Sumi volunteers and supports Namaste Charter School, a charter school located in the west side of Chicago focused on promoting equity by addressing the health and wellness needs of its student population that struggles with poor health and childhood obesity. Sumi enjoys translating detailed and complex legal analyses into macro summaries for broader understanding and consumption.  Macro-level thinking driven by micro-level knowledge. You can follow Sumi on LinkedIn and Instagram @Sumi_pit Read the transcript here.

 

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Sumi Pitroda, an attorney with the AMA with a clear vision that supporting women is key to growing her own career while building her network for success.

Sumi Pitroda, JD

“Convene, understand, amplify, elevate.”

Professional Bio:  Sumi Pitroda is Senior Assistant General Counsel at the American Medical Association.  She practices within the area of corporate transactions, specializing in data privacy matters.  Sumi completed her B.S. degree at the University of Illinois in 2004 and her Juris Doctor certificate at the Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2008.  During law school, she worked full-time as an IT consultant for Deloitte, leveraging the technology aspects of her background and training.  After graduation from law school, Sumi joined the top-ranked law firm of Sidley Austin, where she practiced corporate transactional law with a focus in technology transactions.  Her work on the Aon-Hewitt merger led to her role as in-house counsel for Aon Corporation in 2011.  At Aon, she built a secondary focus in data privacy prior to joining the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2016.  Her aim was to apply her growing portfolio of experience to the healthcare industry, which appealed to her core areas of interest (education and health).  Sumi co-founded and leads the Women Inspired Now (WIN) employee resource network at the AMA.  She is also a certified yoga instructor (RYT 200) and teaches yoga/meditation at the AMA.  Outside of work, Sumi volunteers and supports Namaste Charter School, a charter school located in the west side of Chicago focused on promoting equity by addressing the health and wellness needs of its student population that struggles with poor health and childhood obesity.

Sumi enjoys translating detailed and complex legal analyses into macro summaries for broader understanding and consumption.  Macro-level thinking driven by micro-level knowledge.

You can follow Sumi on LinkedIn and Instagram @Sumi_pit

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1361 no EP. 14 “Women’s libber” may have been her label early on, but it’s her badge of honor now. This scholar/thought leader tells us why Feminism and Feminist principles are simply good business. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/05/ep-14-womens-libber-may-have-been-her-label-early-on-but-its-her-badge-of-honor-now-this-scholar-thought-leader-tells-us-why-feminism-and-feminist-principles-ar/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. CV Harquail, author of Feminism:  A Key Idea in Business and a lifelong advocate for feminism. CV Harquail, PhD, Author, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business, Co-Founder, Feminists At Work CV Harquail, PhD, is an author, management scholar, consultant, writer, and tool maker. Her new book, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business and Society (Routledge, 2020), is the first to analyze business from a feminist perspective and to propose a feminist business praxis. CV is the co-founder of FeministsAtWork.com (a feminist business practice consultancy) and co-founder/producer of the Entrepreneurial FeministForums.com, a conference and community for feminist entrepreneurs.  She is the designer of the Feminist Business Model Canvas and Feminist Business Toolkit. She serves as a mentor and design team member in the Fifth Wave Feminist Business Accelerator, an initiative of the Canadian Film Centre’s Media Lab. CV advocates that we craft our work, design our products, set our ambitions, run our companies, and partner with our stakeholders in ways that lead us and our businesses to advance social justice and promote flourishing for everyone. CV holds a PhD in Management and Organizations from the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. She taught Leadership and Organizational Change at the Darden School of Business, University of Virginia for nine years before moving to Stevens Institute of Technology, where she taught the capstone undergraduate management practicum in Entrepreneurship. She has published her award-winning research in journals such as Administrative Science Quarterly, Academy of Management Journal, Academy of Management Review, and Organization Studies.   To learn more about feminist business practice, generativity as a business strategy, and business as social change, sign up for her newsletter and check out her work at cvharquail.com.  Follow @cvharquail on twitter and Instagram. Read the transcript here. Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:31:26 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. CV Harquail, author of Feminism:  A Key Idea in Business and a lifelong advocate for feminism. CV Harquail, PhD, Author, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business, Co-Founder, Feminists At Work CV Harquail, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. CV Harquail, author of Feminism:  A Key Idea in Business and a lifelong advocate for feminism. CV Harquail, PhD, Author, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business, Co-Founder, Feminists At Work CV Harquail, PhD, is an author, management scholar, consultant, writer, and tool maker. Her new book, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business and Society (Routledge, 2020), is the first to analyze business from a feminist perspective and to propose a feminist business praxis. CV is the co-founder of FeministsAtWork.com (a feminist business practice consultancy) and co-founder/producer of the Entrepreneurial FeministForums.com, a conference and community for feminist entrepreneurs.  She is the designer of the Feminist Business Model Canvas and Feminist Business Toolkit. She serves as a mentor and design team member in the Fifth Wave Feminist Business Accelerator, an initiative of the Canadian Film Centre’s Media Lab. CV advocates that we craft our work, design our products, set our ambitions, run our companies, and partner with our stakeholders in ways that lead us and our businesses to advance social justice and promote flourishing for everyone. CV holds a PhD in Management and Organizations from the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. She taught Leadership and Organizational Change at the Darden School of Business, University of Virginia for nine years before moving to Stevens Institute of Technology, where she taught the capstone undergraduate management practicum in Entrepreneurship. She has published her award-winning research in journals such as Administrative Science Quarterly, Academy of Management Journal, Academy of Management Review, and Organization Studies.   To learn more about feminist business practice, generativity as a business strategy, and business as social change, sign up for her newsletter and check out her work at cvharquail.com.  Follow @cvharquail on twitter and Instagram. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. CV Harquail, author of Feminism:  A Key Idea in Business and a lifelong advocate for feminism.

CV Harquail, PhD, Author, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business, Co-Founder, Feminists At Work

CV Harquail, PhD, is an author, management scholar, consultant, writer, and tool maker. Her new book, Feminism: A Key Idea in Business and Society (Routledge, 2020), is the first to analyze business from a feminist perspective and to propose a feminist business praxis. CV is the co-founder of FeministsAtWork.com (a feminist business practice consultancy) and co-founder/producer of the Entrepreneurial FeministForums.com, a conference and community for feminist entrepreneurs.  She is the designer of the Feminist Business Model Canvas and Feminist Business Toolkit. She serves as a mentor and design team member in the Fifth Wave Feminist Business Accelerator, an initiative of the Canadian Film Centre’s Media Lab.

CV advocates that we craft our work, design our products, set our ambitions, run our companies, and partner with our stakeholders in ways that lead us and our businesses to advance social justice and promote flourishing for everyone. CV holds a PhD in Management and Organizations from the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. She taught Leadership and Organizational Change at the Darden School of Business, University of Virginia for nine years before moving to Stevens Institute of Technology, where she taught the capstone undergraduate management practicum in Entrepreneurship. She has published her award-winning research in journals such as Administrative Science Quarterly, Academy of Management Journal, Academy of Management Review, and Organization Studies.   To learn more about feminist business practice, generativity as a business strategy, and business as social change, sign up for her newsletter and check out her work at cvharquail.com.  Follow @cvharquail on twitter and Instagram.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1712 no EP. 13 Dr. YiDing Yu describes the ingredients for explosive success: Care a lot, Work hard, Be good at what you do, and Bring your passion…. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/05/ep-13-dr-yiding-yu-describes-the-ingredients-for-explosive-success-care-a-lot-work-hard-be-good-at-what-you-do-and-bring-your-passion/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. YiDing Yu, practicing physician, executive, serial entrepreneur, YiDing Yu, MD, Chief Medical Officer Dr. YiDing Yu, MD, is a practicing physician and serial entrepreneur passionate about transforming the way we imagine and deliver healthcare. Named woman entrepreneur of the year in 2018 by the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, YiDing is a skilled business operator and passionate public speaker who has launched and scaled innovations across the healthcare ecosystem. Prior to Olive, YiDing was Chief Medical Officer at Verata Health, a top venture-backed AI company, where she led marketing, customer success, and payer partnerships, and pioneered Frictionless Prior Authorization® for payers and providers. She also founded and served as CEO of Twiage, an award-winning healthcare tech platform for emergency responders. YiDing began her career at Mass General Brigham, where she received the President’s Prize of Value-Based Healthcare Delivery. She’s also served as Chief Innovation Engineer of Atrius Health, a $2B health system in Boston, MA. Recognized throughout her career for her groundbreaking work, YiDing has won top innovation prizes from the American Heart Association, the American Medical Association, and the Cleveland Clinic. You can follow Dr. YiDing Yu on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:24:01 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. YiDing Yu, practicing physician, executive, serial entrepreneur, YiDing Yu, MD, Chief Medical Officer Dr. YiDing Yu, MD, is a practicing physician and serial entrepreneur passionate about transforming ... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. YiDing Yu, practicing physician, executive, serial entrepreneur, YiDing Yu, MD, Chief Medical Officer Dr. YiDing Yu, MD, is a practicing physician and serial entrepreneur passionate about transforming the way we imagine and deliver healthcare. Named woman entrepreneur of the year in 2018 by the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, YiDing is a skilled business operator and passionate public speaker who has launched and scaled innovations across the healthcare ecosystem. Prior to Olive, YiDing was Chief Medical Officer at Verata Health, a top venture-backed AI company, where she led marketing, customer success, and payer partnerships, and pioneered Frictionless Prior Authorization® for payers and providers. She also founded and served as CEO of Twiage, an award-winning healthcare tech platform for emergency responders. YiDing began her career at Mass General Brigham, where she received the President’s Prize of Value-Based Healthcare Delivery. She’s also served as Chief Innovation Engineer of Atrius Health, a $2B health system in Boston, MA. Recognized throughout her career for her groundbreaking work, YiDing has won top innovation prizes from the American Heart Association, the American Medical Association, and the Cleveland Clinic. You can follow Dr. YiDing Yu on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. YiDing Yu, practicing physician, executive, serial entrepreneur,

YiDing Yu, MD, Chief Medical Officer

Dr. YiDing Yu, MD, is a practicing physician and serial entrepreneur passionate about transforming the way we imagine and deliver healthcare. Named woman entrepreneur of the year in 2018 by the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, YiDing is a skilled business operator and passionate public speaker who has launched and scaled innovations across the healthcare ecosystem.

Prior to Olive, YiDing was Chief Medical Officer at Verata Health, a top venture-backed AI company, where she led marketing, customer success, and payer partnerships, and pioneered Frictionless Prior Authorization® for payers and providers. She also founded and served as CEO of Twiage, an award-winning healthcare tech platform for emergency responders. YiDing began her career at Mass General Brigham, where she received the President’s Prize of Value-Based Healthcare Delivery. She’s also served as Chief Innovation Engineer of Atrius Health, a $2B health system in Boston, MA. Recognized throughout her career for her groundbreaking work, YiDing has won top innovation prizes from the American Heart Association, the American Medical Association, and the Cleveland Clinic.

You can follow Dr. YiDing Yu on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1455 no EP. 12 Stay in the Game. How being curious and treating every assignment as an opportunity led Donna Thompson to success. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/04/05/ep-12-stay-in-the-game-how-being-curious-and-treating-every-assignment-as-an-opportunity-led-donna-thompson-to-success/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Donna Thompson, RN, MS, CEO of Access Community Health Network, one of the largest FQHC networks in the country serving 180,000 patients across its 35 health centers in Chicago. Donna Thompson, R.N., M.S., Chief Executive Officer For more than 30 years, Donna Thompson has been on the front lines of patient care delivery. When Donna first joined Access Community Health Network (ACCESS) as Chief Operating Officer in 1995, she was very familiar with the difficulties that patients faced due to their lack of access to primary and preventive care. Now as ACCESS’ CEO since 2004, Donna demonstrates daily how a focused commitment to high quality community health care can save lives, revitalize communities, and preserve the possibility of a healthy life for hundreds of thousands of patients across the Chicagoland area. Spearheading growth and quality at ACCESS Through its mission, ACCESS provides high quality, comprehensive community-based health care in the area’s most underserved communities. In her years as CEO, Donna has led ACCESS to become one of the largest federally qualified health center (FQHC) organizations in the country. ACCESS provides an integrative health home for patients in each of its 35 health center locations across the greater Chicago area, including suburban Cook and DuPage counties. Under Donna’s leadership, ACCESS has developed a model of health care that helps patients navigate the gap between community-based care and other critical resources from vital hospital services to community support services. ACCESS has been continuously accredited by the Joint Commission since 2000 and received National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) designation for each of its eligible health centers since 2015. Believing in the value of strong community partnerships, four ACCESS centers are co-located with other organizations, such as the Gary Comer Youth Center and the DuPage County Health Department, to better address resident needs comprehensively. Strongly believing in an integrative health model that decreases the barriers to optimal health and wellness, Donna has successfully led ACCESS in redesigning its care delivery system with enhanced focus on care coordination that goes ‘beyond the walls’ while embedding resources that address food, transportation and housing. Understanding the complexities of the opioid crisis, ACCESS is also licensed in the State of Illinois for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) allowing for a more extensive integration of primary care with addiction disorder support and treatment. Keeping the focus on providing solutions to health inequities, ACCESS has invested in long-term partnerships for teaching and research. ACCESS’ broad partnerships enable community-based research to address health disparities and to share those best practices within the community. In 2015, ACCESS opened its NIH-funded ACCESS Center for Discovery and Learning in Chicago’s Englewood community alongside a community health center and an integrative resource center. Championing early cancer detection As a community organizer concerned with effecting change beyond the health center walls, Donna organized the Stand Against Cancer program in 2002, bringing together more than 1,400 women, elected officials and faith leaders representing every religious denomination, race, ethnicity and age group to advocate for increased funding for breast and cervical cancer screenings. As a result of this advocacy effort, the State of Illinois allocated nearly $4 million annually to the Stand Against Cancer program, to reach women in faith communities to promote early detection and offer screenings and follow-up care for those who are underinsured and uninsured. While the State of Illinois terminated the program in 2015 due to the state budget crisis, ACCESS continues to advocate for reinstating the program. On Mother’s Day in 2007, Donna launched Pin-A-Sister/Examinate Comadre, bringing together members of predominantly African-American and Hispanic congregations to recognize breast cancer survivors and provide education around the importance of breast health and regular preventive screenings. To date, this faith-based breast cancer awareness campaign has reached more than one million people in churches, community organizations and correctional centers during its signature events surrounding Mother’s Day and has touched more than four million individuals through media outreach efforts locally, nationally and, even internationally. Other appointments and acknowledgments Donna received her bachelor of science degree from DePaul University in 1986, as well as her master’s degree of science in nursing administration in 1989. Donna was named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Executive Nurse Fellow in 2003. She received the 2007 Chicago Athena Award for her leadership in developing community health and was recognized as one of Chicago United’s 2007 Business Leaders of Color. She is also a co-founder of the Metropolitan Chicago Breast Cancer Task Force. In 2008, Donna received the Chicago National Organization for Women’s Outstanding Community Leader Award. In 2009, N’Digo magazine named her one of Chicago’s most influential women. Donna is a 2010 graduate of the Kellogg School of Management’s CEO Perspectives program. She received the National Medical Fellowship Leadership in Healthcare Award in 2015. Donna is a DePaul University Board Trustee and also serves on the Boards of Directors of the DuPage Health Coalition in DuPage County, Il.; the National Public Housing Museum; and Children’s Home & Aid Chicago. Read the transcript here. Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:16:31 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Donna Thompson, RN, MS, CEO of Access Community Health Network, one of the largest FQHC networks in the country serving 180,000 patients across its 35 health centers in Chicago. Donna Thompson, R.N., M. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Donna Thompson, RN, MS, CEO of Access Community Health Network, one of the largest FQHC networks in the country serving 180,000 patients across its 35 health centers in Chicago. Donna Thompson, R.N., M.S., Chief Executive Officer For more than 30 years, Donna Thompson has been on the front lines of patient care delivery. When Donna first joined Access Community Health Network (ACCESS) as Chief Operating Officer in 1995, she was very familiar with the difficulties that patients faced due to their lack of access to primary and preventive care. Now as ACCESS’ CEO since 2004, Donna demonstrates daily how a focused commitment to high quality community health care can save lives, revitalize communities, and preserve the possibility of a healthy life for hundreds of thousands of patients across the Chicagoland area. Spearheading growth and quality at ACCESS Through its mission, ACCESS provides high quality, comprehensive community-based health care in the area’s most underserved communities. In her years as CEO, Donna has led ACCESS to become one of the largest federally qualified health center (FQHC) organizations in the country. ACCESS provides an integrative health home for patients in each of its 35 health center locations across the greater Chicago area, including suburban Cook and DuPage counties. Under Donna’s leadership, ACCESS has developed a model of health care that helps patients navigate the gap between community-based care and other critical resources from vital hospital services to community support services. ACCESS has been continuously accredited by the Joint Commission since 2000 and received National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) designation for each of its eligible health centers since 2015. Believing in the value of strong community partnerships, four ACCESS centers are co-located with other organizations, such as the Gary Comer Youth Center and the DuPage County Health Department, to better address resident needs comprehensively. Strongly believing in an integrative health model that decreases the barriers to optimal health and wellness, Donna has successfully led ACCESS in redesigning its care delivery system with enhanced focus on care coordination that goes ‘beyond the walls’ while embedding resources that address food, transportation and housing. Understanding the complexities of the opioid crisis, ACCESS is also licensed in the State of Illinois for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) allowing for a more extensive integration of primary care with addiction disorder support and treatment. Keeping the focus on providing solutions to health inequities, ACCESS has invested in long-term partnerships for teaching and research. ACCESS’ broad partnerships enable community-based research to address health disparities and to share those best practices within the community. In 2015, ACCESS opened its NIH-funded ACCESS Center for Discovery and Learning in Chicago’s Englewood community alongside a community health center and an integrative resource center. Championing early cancer detection As a community organizer concerned with effecting change beyond the health center walls, Donna organized the Stand Against Cancer program in 2002, bringing together more than 1,400 women, elected officials and faith leaders representing every religious denomination, race, ethnicity and age group to advocate for increased funding for breast and cervical cancer screenings. As a result of this advocacy effort, the State of Illinois allocated nearly $4 million annually to the Stand Against Cancer program, to reach women in faith communities to promote early detection and offer screenings and follow-up care for those who are underinsured and uninsured. While the State of Illinois terminated the program in 2015 due to the state budget crisis, ACCESS continues to advocate for reinstating the program. On Mother’s Day in 2007, Donna launched Pin-A-Sister/Examinate Comadre, bringing together members of predominantly African-American and Hispanic congregations to recognize breast cancer survivors and provide education around the importance of breast health and regular preventive screenings. To date, this faith-based breast cancer awareness campaign has reached more than one million people in churches, community organizations and correctional centers during its signature events surrounding Mother’s Day and has touched more than four million individuals through media outreach efforts locally, nationally and, even internationally. Other appointments and acknowledgments Donna received her bachelor of science degree from DePaul University in 1986, as well as her master’s degree of science in nursing administration in 1989. Donna was named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Executive Nurse Fellow in 2003. She received the 2007 Chicago Athena Award for her leadership in developing community health and was recognized as one of Chicago United’s 2007 Business Leaders of Color. She is also a co-founder of the Metropolitan Chicago Breast Cancer Task Force. In 2008, Donna received the Chicago National Organization for Women’s Outstanding Community Leader Award. In 2009, N’Digo magazine named her one of Chicago’s most influential women. Donna is a 2010 graduate of the Kellogg School of Management’s CEO Perspectives program. She received the National Medical Fellowship Leadership in Healthcare Award in 2015. Donna is a DePaul University Board Trustee and also serves on the Boards of Directors of the DuPage Health Coalition in DuPage County, Il.; the National Public Housing Museum; and Children’s Home & Aid Chicago. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Donna Thompson, RN, MS, CEO of Access Community Health Network, one of the largest FQHC networks in the country serving 180,000 patients across its 35 health centers in Chicago.

Donna Thompson, R.N., M.S., Chief Executive Officer

For more than 30 years, Donna Thompson has been on the front lines of patient care delivery. When Donna first joined Access Community Health Network (ACCESS) as Chief Operating Officer in 1995, she was very familiar with the difficulties that patients faced due to their lack of access to primary and preventive care. Now as ACCESS’ CEO since 2004, Donna demonstrates daily how a focused commitment to high quality community health care can save lives, revitalize communities, and preserve the possibility of a healthy life for hundreds of thousands of patients across the Chicagoland area.

Spearheading growth and quality at ACCESS

Through its mission, ACCESS provides high quality, comprehensive community-based health care in the area’s most underserved communities. In her years as CEO, Donna has led ACCESS to become one of the largest federally qualified health center (FQHC) organizations in the country. ACCESS provides an integrative health home for patients in each of its 35 health center locations across the greater Chicago area, including suburban Cook and DuPage counties.
Under Donna’s leadership, ACCESS has developed a model of health care that helps patients navigate the gap between community-based care and other critical resources from vital hospital services to community support services. ACCESS has been continuously accredited by the Joint Commission since 2000 and received National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) designation for each of its eligible health centers since 2015. Believing in the value of strong community partnerships, four ACCESS centers are co-located with other organizations, such as the Gary Comer Youth Center and the DuPage County Health Department, to better address resident needs comprehensively.
Strongly believing in an integrative health model that decreases the barriers to optimal health and wellness, Donna has successfully led ACCESS in redesigning its care delivery system with enhanced focus on care coordination that goes ‘beyond the walls’ while embedding resources that address food, transportation and housing. Understanding the complexities of the opioid crisis, ACCESS is also licensed in the State of Illinois for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) allowing for a more extensive integration of primary care with addiction disorder support and treatment.
Keeping the focus on providing solutions to health inequities, ACCESS has invested in long-term partnerships for teaching and research. ACCESS’ broad partnerships enable community-based research to address health disparities and to share those best practices within the community. In 2015, ACCESS opened its NIH-funded ACCESS Center for Discovery and Learning in Chicago’s Englewood community alongside a community health center and an integrative resource center.

Championing early cancer detection

As a community organizer concerned with effecting change beyond the health center walls, Donna organized the Stand Against Cancer program in 2002, bringing together more than 1,400 women, elected officials and faith leaders representing every religious denomination, race, ethnicity and age group to advocate for increased funding for breast and cervical cancer screenings. As a result of this advocacy effort, the State of Illinois allocated nearly $4 million annually to the Stand Against Cancer program, to reach women in faith communities to promote early detection and offer screenings and follow-up care for those who are underinsured and uninsured. While the State of Illinois terminated the program in 2015 due to the state budget crisis, ACCESS continues to advocate for reinstating the program.
On Mother’s Day in 2007, Donna launched Pin-A-Sister/Examinate Comadre, bringing together members of predominantly African-American and Hispanic congregations to recognize breast cancer survivors and provide education around the importance of breast health and regular preventive screenings. To date, this faith-based breast cancer awareness campaign has reached more than one million people in churches, community organizations and correctional centers during its signature events surrounding Mother’s Day and has touched more than four million individuals through media outreach efforts locally, nationally and, even internationally.

Other appointments and acknowledgments

Donna received her bachelor of science degree from DePaul University in 1986, as well as her master’s degree of science in nursing administration in 1989. Donna was named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Executive Nurse Fellow in 2003. She received the 2007 Chicago Athena Award for her leadership in developing community health and was recognized as one of Chicago United’s 2007 Business Leaders of Color. She is also a co-founder of the Metropolitan Chicago Breast Cancer Task Force. In 2008, Donna received the Chicago National Organization for Women’s Outstanding Community Leader Award. In 2009, N’Digo magazine named her one of Chicago’s most influential women. Donna is a 2010 graduate of the Kellogg School of Management’s CEO Perspectives program. She received the National Medical Fellowship Leadership in Healthcare Award in 2015. Donna is a DePaul University Board Trustee and also serves on the Boards of Directors of the DuPage Health Coalition in DuPage County, Il.; the National Public Housing Museum; and Children’s Home & Aid Chicago.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1761 no EP.11 From the White House to today’s hottest start up, Caitlin Fleming shares her best advice: Get in the room where it happens…. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/29/from-the-white-house-to-todays-hottest-start-up-caitlin-fleming-shares-her-best-advice-get-in-the-room-where-it-happens/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Caitlin Fleming, Chief of Staff at Transcarent. Caitlin Fleming is Chief of Staff at Transcarent where she leads strategic initiatives and advises on growth and operations. Prior to joining Transcarent, she built and managed value-based health and social services at Haven, Optum, Social Finance, and the White House. While at Haven, she developed and launched innovative care models that spanned navigation, primary care, behavioral health, and specialty care. As a product and strategy leader at Optum, she managed tech-enabled population and behavioral health services. Through her work at the White House and Social Finance, she led the development of some of the country’s first social impact bonds – a public-private impact investment in which payment is based on measurable improvements in clients’ lives, including health, education, employment, and housing stability. She holds an MBA and MPP from Harvard University and a BA from Carleton College. When Caitlin isn’t fixing healthcare, you can find her exploring the trails of Maine, working on DIY house projects, or (attempting to) recreate the latest treat from the Great British Baking Show. She lives in Portland, ME with her partner, Scott. You can follow Caitlin on LinkedIn and @caitlinfleming on Twitter. Read the transcript here. Mon, 29 Mar 2021 04:45:10 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Caitlin Fleming, Chief of Staff at Transcarent. Caitlin Fleming is Chief of Staff at Transcarent where she leads strategic initiatives and advises on growth and operations. Prior to joining Transcarent, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Caitlin Fleming, Chief of Staff at Transcarent. Caitlin Fleming is Chief of Staff at Transcarent where she leads strategic initiatives and advises on growth and operations. Prior to joining Transcarent, she built and managed value-based health and social services at Haven, Optum, Social Finance, and the White House. While at Haven, she developed and launched innovative care models that spanned navigation, primary care, behavioral health, and specialty care. As a product and strategy leader at Optum, she managed tech-enabled population and behavioral health services. Through her work at the White House and Social Finance, she led the development of some of the country’s first social impact bonds – a public-private impact investment in which payment is based on measurable improvements in clients’ lives, including health, education, employment, and housing stability. She holds an MBA and MPP from Harvard University and a BA from Carleton College. When Caitlin isn’t fixing healthcare, you can find her exploring the trails of Maine, working on DIY house projects, or (attempting to) recreate the latest treat from the Great British Baking Show. She lives in Portland, ME with her partner, Scott. You can follow Caitlin on LinkedIn and @caitlinfleming on Twitter. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Caitlin Fleming, Chief of Staff at Transcarent.

Caitlin Fleming is Chief of Staff at Transcarent where she leads strategic initiatives and advises on growth and operations.

Prior to joining Transcarent, she built and managed value-based health and social services at Haven, Optum, Social Finance, and the White House. While at Haven, she developed and launched innovative care models that spanned navigation, primary care, behavioral health, and specialty care. As a product and strategy leader at Optum, she managed tech-enabled population and behavioral health services. Through her work at the White House and Social Finance, she led the development of some of the country’s first social impact bonds – a public-private impact investment in which payment is based on measurable improvements in clients’ lives, including health, education, employment, and housing stability.

She holds an MBA and MPP from Harvard University and a BA from Carleton College. When Caitlin isn’t fixing healthcare, you can find her exploring the trails of Maine, working on DIY house projects, or (attempting to) recreate the latest treat from the Great British Baking Show. She lives in Portland, ME with her partner, Scott.

You can follow Caitlin on LinkedIn and @caitlinfleming on Twitter.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1510 no EP. 10 A lifelong advocate for women’s health, Dr. Barbara Levy’s keys to success include advocating for yourself, mentoring others, and taking leadership opportunities. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/29/ep-10-a-lifelong-advocate-for-womens-health-dr-barbara-levys-keys-to-success-include-advocating-for-yourself-mentoring-others-and-taking-leadership-opportunities/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Barbara Levy, a lifelong advocate for women’s health. Barbara Levy, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is a lifelong advocate for advancing the quality of women’s health. Dr. Levy has co-founded Prenome and is president of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain.  She was elected as the first female president of AAGL in 1994-1995.   Dr. Levy was in private practice in comprehensive holistic women’s health for over 30 years, and served as a Medical Director for Women’s and Children’s Services for the Franciscan Health System in Washington State. Dr. Levy served two terms as chair of the American Medical Association Resource Based Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) advocating for fair payment for physicians, and she is currently an editorial panel member for CPT. She has served as a reviewer and editor for several medical journals, including Obstetrics & Gynecology, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, JAMA, JMIG, Fertility and Sterility. In 2012 Dr. Levy joined the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as the first full-time woman physician leader. Serving as Vice President of Health Policy at ACOG Dr. Levy directed the expansion of the Advocacy Division to support the Office of Global Women’s Health reducing maternal mortality and building sustainable capabilities in several countries.  She built a quality, safety and informatics team dedicated to supporting improvement in health care for women and launched the Birth Registry to improve inequities in maternity care.  In addition, Dr. Levy supported and grew ACOG’s commitment to contraceptive access, post-partum contraception and menopause management. Dr. Levy graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University. She obtained her medical degree from the University of California, San Diego, followed by an internship and residency at the Oregon Health Sciences University. Dr. Levy has been a vocal advocate for women’s health with appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and multiple other media outlets. Her research interests span from outcomes research in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery to optimizing care for women with chronic pelvic pain.  Her clinical work focused on evidence-based, equitable, comprehensive care for women throughout their life course. She has published and co-authored over 85 studies. **Post recording Inspiring Women, Dr. Barbara Levy announced that she has co-founded Prenome and has taken the role of President of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain. You can follow Dr. Barbara Levy on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 29 Mar 2021 04:30:08 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Barbara Levy, a lifelong advocate for women’s health. Barbara Levy, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is a lifelong advocate for advancing the quality of women’s health. Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Barbara Levy, a lifelong advocate for women’s health. Barbara Levy, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is a lifelong advocate for advancing the quality of women’s health. Dr. Levy has co-founded Prenome and is president of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain.  She was elected as the first female president of AAGL in 1994-1995.   Dr. Levy was in private practice in comprehensive holistic women’s health for over 30 years, and served as a Medical Director for Women’s and Children’s Services for the Franciscan Health System in Washington State. Dr. Levy served two terms as chair of the American Medical Association Resource Based Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) advocating for fair payment for physicians, and she is currently an editorial panel member for CPT. She has served as a reviewer and editor for several medical journals, including Obstetrics & Gynecology, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, JAMA, JMIG, Fertility and Sterility. In 2012 Dr. Levy joined the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as the first full-time woman physician leader. Serving as Vice President of Health Policy at ACOG Dr. Levy directed the expansion of the Advocacy Division to support the Office of Global Women’s Health reducing maternal mortality and building sustainable capabilities in several countries.  She built a quality, safety and informatics team dedicated to supporting improvement in health care for women and launched the Birth Registry to improve inequities in maternity care.  In addition, Dr. Levy supported and grew ACOG’s commitment to contraceptive access, post-partum contraception and menopause management. Dr. Levy graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University. She obtained her medical degree from the University of California, San Diego, followed by an internship and residency at the Oregon Health Sciences University. Dr. Levy has been a vocal advocate for women’s health with appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and multiple other media outlets. Her research interests span from outcomes research in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery to optimizing care for women with chronic pelvic pain.  Her clinical work focused on evidence-based, equitable, comprehensive care for women throughout their life course. She has published and co-authored over 85 studies. **Post recording Inspiring Women, Dr. Barbara Levy announced that she has co-founded Prenome and has taken the role of President of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain. You can follow Dr. Barbara Levy on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Barbara Levy, a lifelong advocate for women’s health.

Barbara Levy, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is a lifelong advocate for advancing the quality of women’s health. Dr. Levy has co-founded Prenome and is president of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain.  She was elected as the first female president of AAGL in 1994-1995.   Dr. Levy was in private practice in comprehensive holistic women’s health for over 30 years, and served as a Medical Director for Women’s and Children’s Services for the Franciscan Health System in Washington State. Dr. Levy served two terms as chair of the American Medical Association Resource Based Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) advocating for fair payment for physicians, and she is currently an editorial panel member for CPT. She has served as a reviewer and editor for several medical journals, including Obstetrics & Gynecology, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, JAMA, JMIG, Fertility and Sterility.

In 2012 Dr. Levy joined the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as the first full-time woman physician leader. Serving as Vice President of Health Policy at ACOG Dr. Levy directed the expansion of the Advocacy Division to support the Office of Global Women’s Health reducing maternal mortality and building sustainable capabilities in several countries.  She built a quality, safety and informatics team dedicated to supporting improvement in health care for women and launched the Birth Registry to improve inequities in maternity care.  In addition, Dr. Levy supported and grew ACOG’s commitment to contraceptive access, post-partum contraception and menopause management.

Dr. Levy graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University. She obtained her medical degree from the University of California, San Diego, followed by an internship and residency at the Oregon Health Sciences University.

Dr. Levy has been a vocal advocate for women’s health with appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and multiple other media outlets. Her research interests span from outcomes research in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery to optimizing care for women with chronic pelvic pain.  Her clinical work focused on evidence-based, equitable, comprehensive care for women throughout their life course. She has published and co-authored over 85 studies.

**Post recording Inspiring Women, Dr. Barbara Levy announced that she has co-founded Prenome and has taken the role of President of UroShape, LLC, medical device companies that focus on women’s health issues and alleviating pelvic pain.

You can follow Dr. Barbara Levy on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1334 no EP. 9 Faster than FEMA!!! This young professional forced herself to face fear and self-doubt which has led to real opportunity and incredible results. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/29/ep-9-faster-than-fema-this-young-professional-forced-herself-to-face-fear-and-self-doubt-which-has-led-to-real-opportunity-and-incredible-results/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelsey Prestesater who discusses how she forces herself to pursue new opportunities even when that means facing the uncomfortable. Kelsey Prestesater is a Senior Consultant at Ernst & Young where she provides strategic guidance to organizations seeking to modernize their finance operations, with a focus on automation and costing. Kelsey has an MBA with concentrations in Business Analytics and Consulting from the University of Notre Dame, where she graduated with honors, and an undergraduate degree from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University majoring in Finance, Operations Management and International Business.   While at Notre Dame, Kelsey was selected to participate in the Meyer Business on the Front Lines Program, where she partnered with non-profit organizations in Colombia supporting farmers transitioning out of illicit economies by finding new and innovative ways to earn sustainable incomes.  Prior to attending Notre Dame, Kelsey worked as a Product Manager at Grainger, managing their $75M public and traffic safety portfolio of products.  She was responsible for creating the company’s 5-year product strategy, managing profitability, and negotiating with suppliers.  Kelsey was a member of the emergency response team, coordinating product procurement and delivery for natural disasters and providing front-line support; receiving recognition for her outstanding contributions during Hurricanes Harvey and Maria.  While at Grainger, Kelsey also worked in inventory planning where she was responsible for forecasting volume, ensuring product availability, and adjusting product mix for changing customer and market needs. During college, Kelsey worked at McKesson as a Strategy and Operations Intern, volunteered as a Team Lead at 180 Degrees Consulting, the world’s largest consultancy for nonprofits and socially focused organizations, and was an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity. You can follow Kelsey Prestesater on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 29 Mar 2021 04:00:05 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelsey Prestesater who discusses how she forces herself to pursue new opportunities even when that means facing the uncomfortable. Kelsey Prestesater is a Senior Consultant at Ernst & Young where she provi... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelsey Prestesater who discusses how she forces herself to pursue new opportunities even when that means facing the uncomfortable. Kelsey Prestesater is a Senior Consultant at Ernst & Young where she provides strategic guidance to organizations seeking to modernize their finance operations, with a focus on automation and costing. Kelsey has an MBA with concentrations in Business Analytics and Consulting from the University of Notre Dame, where she graduated with honors, and an undergraduate degree from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University majoring in Finance, Operations Management and International Business.   While at Notre Dame, Kelsey was selected to participate in the Meyer Business on the Front Lines Program, where she partnered with non-profit organizations in Colombia supporting farmers transitioning out of illicit economies by finding new and innovative ways to earn sustainable incomes.  Prior to attending Notre Dame, Kelsey worked as a Product Manager at Grainger, managing their $75M public and traffic safety portfolio of products.  She was responsible for creating the company’s 5-year product strategy, managing profitability, and negotiating with suppliers.  Kelsey was a member of the emergency response team, coordinating product procurement and delivery for natural disasters and providing front-line support; receiving recognition for her outstanding contributions during Hurricanes Harvey and Maria.  While at Grainger, Kelsey also worked in inventory planning where she was responsible for forecasting volume, ensuring product availability, and adjusting product mix for changing customer and market needs. During college, Kelsey worked at McKesson as a Strategy and Operations Intern, volunteered as a Team Lead at 180 Degrees Consulting, the world’s largest consultancy for nonprofits and socially focused organizations, and was an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity. You can follow Kelsey Prestesater on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kelsey Prestesater who discusses how she forces herself to pursue new opportunities even when that means facing the uncomfortable.

Kelsey Prestesater is a Senior Consultant at Ernst & Young where she provides strategic guidance to organizations seeking to modernize their finance operations, with a focus on automation and costing. Kelsey has an MBA with concentrations in Business Analytics and Consulting from the University of Notre Dame, where she graduated with honors, and an undergraduate degree from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University majoring in Finance, Operations Management and International Business.   While at Notre Dame, Kelsey was selected to participate in the Meyer Business on the Front Lines Program, where she partnered with non-profit organizations in Colombia supporting farmers transitioning out of illicit economies by finding new and innovative ways to earn sustainable incomes.  Prior to attending Notre Dame, Kelsey worked as a Product Manager at Grainger, managing their $75M public and traffic safety portfolio of products.  She was responsible for creating the company’s 5-year product strategy, managing profitability, and negotiating with suppliers.  Kelsey was a member of the emergency response team, coordinating product procurement and delivery for natural disasters and providing front-line support; receiving recognition for her outstanding contributions during Hurricanes Harvey and Maria.  While at Grainger, Kelsey also worked in inventory planning where she was responsible for forecasting volume, ensuring product availability, and adjusting product mix for changing customer and market needs. During college, Kelsey worked at McKesson as a Strategy and Operations Intern, volunteered as a Team Lead at 180 Degrees Consulting, the world’s largest consultancy for nonprofits and socially focused organizations, and was an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity.

You can follow Kelsey Prestesater on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1305 no EP. 8 Being one of the first female engineers at Google taught Ning to think big. Now she wants your help protecting democracy. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/22/ep-8-being-one-of-the-first-female-engineers-at-google-taught-ning-to-think-big-now-she-wants-your-help-protecting-democracy/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ning Mosberger-Tang, an activist and community organizer. Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona. Ning’s current focus is on H.R.1/S.1 — the For the People Act — currently before the House and Senate, is the boldest democracy reform since Watergate. It’s a massive overhaul of money-in-politics, voting, and ethics laws — all to make our democracy more inclusive. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to pass the reform with a Democratic trifecta. However, it won’t happen unless we all advocate for it. Please take one or more of the following actions and take advantage of this historical opportunity to bring about fundamental changes we need in this country.  http://hr1.bluewavepostcards.org Read the transcript here. Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:50:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ning Mosberger-Tang, an activist and community organizer. Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in G... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ning Mosberger-Tang, an activist and community organizer. Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona. Ning’s current focus is on H.R.1/S.1 — the For the People Act — currently before the House and Senate, is the boldest democracy reform since Watergate. It’s a massive overhaul of money-in-politics, voting, and ethics laws — all to make our democracy more inclusive. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to pass the reform with a Democratic trifecta. However, it won’t happen unless we all advocate for it. Please take one or more of the following actions and take advantage of this historical opportunity to bring about fundamental changes we need in this country.  http://hr1.bluewavepostcards.org Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Ning Mosberger-Tang, an activist and community organizer.

Ning has a background in computer science and has worked for a number of years in the tech industry, including a few years as a technical lead in Google during its early years. Since 2006, she has focused on conservation and environmental education, climate change mitigation, community organizing, and policy advocacy. She does her work through a private foundation, a social welfare non-profit, and as a private investor in cleantech startups. She also serves on multiple environmental boards including the board of League of Conservation Voters. Ning received her B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University and M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Arizona.

Ning’s current focus is on H.R.1/S.1 — the For the People Act — currently before the House and Senate, is the boldest democracy reform since Watergate. It’s a massive overhaul of money-in-politics, voting, and ethics laws — all to make our democracy more inclusive. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to pass the reform with a Democratic trifecta. However, it won’t happen unless we all advocate for it. Please take one or more of the following actions and take advantage of this historical opportunity to bring about fundamental changes we need in this country.  http://hr1.bluewavepostcards.org

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1259 no EP. 7 Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth… How this rising star dusted off and regrouped after a pandemic forced her to change course. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/22/ep-7-everyone-has-a-plan-until-they-get-punched-in-the-mouth-how-this-rising-star-dusted-off-and-regrouped-after-a-pandemic-forced-her-to-change-course/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Boerger who is learning the ropes of sales having started off in communications. Amy is a 2014 SUNY Oswego graduate, earning her degree in Communication and Social Interaction. Following graduation, Amy moved to Boston to pursue a career in sales and currently works as an Inside Account Executive at Toast, a restaurant technology company.  A passionate volunteer and outdoor enthusiast, she spends most mornings volunteering with the nonprofit Back on My Feet, an organization providing community and career development resources to Boston’s homeless population. When she’s not at these events you can often find Amy skiing, hiking, or simply walking her pup, Ragnar.  Looking ahead, Amy hopes to someday build a sales organization from the ground up at a local start-up. Until then, she’ll learn all she can and try to make the world a more positive, exciting place! You can follow Amy Boerger on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:39:31 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Boerger who is learning the ropes of sales having started off in communications. Amy is a 2014 SUNY Oswego graduate, earning her degree in Communication and Social Interaction. Following graduation, Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Boerger who is learning the ropes of sales having started off in communications. Amy is a 2014 SUNY Oswego graduate, earning her degree in Communication and Social Interaction. Following graduation, Amy moved to Boston to pursue a career in sales and currently works as an Inside Account Executive at Toast, a restaurant technology company.  A passionate volunteer and outdoor enthusiast, she spends most mornings volunteering with the nonprofit Back on My Feet, an organization providing community and career development resources to Boston’s homeless population. When she’s not at these events you can often find Amy skiing, hiking, or simply walking her pup, Ragnar.  Looking ahead, Amy hopes to someday build a sales organization from the ground up at a local start-up. Until then, she’ll learn all she can and try to make the world a more positive, exciting place! You can follow Amy Boerger on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Amy Boerger who is learning the ropes of sales having started off in communications.

Amy is a 2014 SUNY Oswego graduate, earning her degree in Communication and Social Interaction. Following graduation, Amy moved to Boston to pursue a career in sales and currently works as an Inside Account Executive at Toast, a restaurant technology company. 

A passionate volunteer and outdoor enthusiast, she spends most mornings volunteering with the nonprofit Back on My Feet, an organization providing community and career development resources to Boston’s homeless population. When she’s not at these events you can often find Amy skiing, hiking, or simply walking her pup, Ragnar. 

Looking ahead, Amy hopes to someday build a sales organization from the ground up at a local start-up. Until then, she’ll learn all she can and try to make the world a more positive, exciting place!

You can follow Amy Boerger on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1296 no EP. 6 Have a strategy when you’re the only woman at the big boys’ table. You deserve to be there, and you deserve to be heard. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/15/ep-6-have-a-strategy-when-youre-the-only-woman-at-the-big-boys-table-you-deserve-to-be-there-and-you-deserve-to-be-heard/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Burns an accomplished C suite executive and board member.  She didn’t get where she is today by being silent, and when she talks, she has something she wants to say. Joanne Burns is a Board and C-suite healthcare, business, and technology leader with strategic, operational and governance experience at companies ranging from Fortune 500 to early-stage start-ups. Joanne’s leadership roles include Corporate Director, Committee Chair, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Information Officer. Director experience includes Chair of Compensation Committee and Member of Audit and Finance Committees. Operational experience includes launching start-up businesses, building executive and operational teams, turning around struggling business lines, defining and executing processes for market entry and exit, and reviewing/approving acquisition and divestiture targets. A seasoned operator with unique ability to define strategy, linking mission to outcomes through clearly defined plan and execution. An experienced board professional, Joanne currently serves as a Corporate Director of ATI Physical Therapy (Audit, Compensation), a $600M PE-backed Physical Therapy Services company going public in June 2021; Corporate Director of Availity (Compensation [Chair], Finance), a $300M, PE-backed healthcare technology company; Chair of the Board for SNOMED, an international, not-for-profit healthcare standards organization; Corporate Director of Innara Health, a Series A funded health care device start-up; and Advisory Board member for the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering at Purdue University. Former Chief Strategy Officer for Cerner Corporation (Nasdaq: CERN). Worked with Cerner’s CEO, defining corporate strategy and plans. Served as internal consultant to operations and business units to bring operational, technical and industry expertise improving execution, delivery and growth plans. Assumed operational responsibility to turnaround struggling $200M P&L securing additional $500M bookings, while reducing expense resulting in 52% operating margin in 18 months. Led a public/private joint venture between Cerner and the University of Missouri. As Chief Information Officer of MU Health Care had responsibility for strategic direction and operational execution for information technology including cybersecurity. As Executive Director of the Tiger Institute responsible for joint venture startup focused on new product development. Brought several new products to market, managing through the product lifecycle resulting in divestiture, ongoing ownership or market exit. As a Corporate Director, provide guidance and governance to the executive team. Serve as a mentor to CEOs; recognized for approachability and ability to navigate challenges and propose innovative solutions. Lend expertise where needed outside of standing Board meetings. Joanne is recognized as a leader in the healthcare IT industry through authorship, lectures, presentations, and awards including Women to Watch in Health IT 2020, American College of Healthcare Executives Fellowship, HIMSS Fellowship, Most Powerful Women in Health IT, and The Wharton School and Purdue University guest lectures. Community involvement includes President of the Board of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City. You can follow Joanne Burns on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 15 Mar 2021 03:00:27 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Burns an accomplished C suite executive and board member.  She didn’t get where she is today by being silent, and when she talks, she has something she wants to say. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Burns an accomplished C suite executive and board member.  She didn’t get where she is today by being silent, and when she talks, she has something she wants to say. Joanne Burns is a Board and C-suite healthcare, business, and technology leader with strategic, operational and governance experience at companies ranging from Fortune 500 to early-stage start-ups. Joanne’s leadership roles include Corporate Director, Committee Chair, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Information Officer. Director experience includes Chair of Compensation Committee and Member of Audit and Finance Committees. Operational experience includes launching start-up businesses, building executive and operational teams, turning around struggling business lines, defining and executing processes for market entry and exit, and reviewing/approving acquisition and divestiture targets. A seasoned operator with unique ability to define strategy, linking mission to outcomes through clearly defined plan and execution. An experienced board professional, Joanne currently serves as a Corporate Director of ATI Physical Therapy (Audit, Compensation), a $600M PE-backed Physical Therapy Services company going public in June 2021; Corporate Director of Availity (Compensation [Chair], Finance), a $300M, PE-backed healthcare technology company; Chair of the Board for SNOMED, an international, not-for-profit healthcare standards organization; Corporate Director of Innara Health, a Series A funded health care device start-up; and Advisory Board member for the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering at Purdue University. Former Chief Strategy Officer for Cerner Corporation (Nasdaq: CERN). Worked with Cerner’s CEO, defining corporate strategy and plans. Served as internal consultant to operations and business units to bring operational, technical and industry expertise improving execution, delivery and growth plans. Assumed operational responsibility to turnaround struggling $200M P&L securing additional $500M bookings, while reducing expense resulting in 52% operating margin in 18 months. Led a public/private joint venture between Cerner and the University of Missouri. As Chief Information Officer of MU Health Care had responsibility for strategic direction and operational execution for information technology including cybersecurity. As Executive Director of the Tiger Institute responsible for joint venture startup focused on new product development. Brought several new products to market, managing through the product lifecycle resulting in divestiture, ongoing ownership or market exit. As a Corporate Director, provide guidance and governance to the executive team. Serve as a mentor to CEOs; recognized for approachability and ability to navigate challenges and propose innovative solutions. Lend expertise where needed outside of standing Board meetings. Joanne is recognized as a leader in the healthcare IT industry through authorship, lectures, presentations, and awards including Women to Watch in Health IT 2020, American College of Healthcare Executives Fellowship, HIMSS Fellowship, Most Powerful Women in Health IT, and The Wharton School and Purdue University guest lectures. Community involvement includes President of the Board of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City. You can follow Joanne Burns on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Joanne Burns an accomplished C suite executive and board member.  She didn’t get where she is today by being silent, and when she talks, she has something she wants to say.

Joanne Burns is a Board and C-suite healthcare, business, and technology leader with strategic, operational and governance experience at companies ranging from Fortune 500 to early-stage start-ups.

Joanne’s leadership roles include Corporate Director, Committee Chair, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Information Officer. Director experience includes Chair of Compensation Committee and Member of Audit and Finance Committees. Operational experience includes launching start-up businesses, building executive and operational teams, turning around struggling business lines, defining and executing processes for market entry and exit, and reviewing/approving acquisition and divestiture targets. A seasoned operator with unique ability to define strategy, linking mission to outcomes through clearly defined plan and execution.

An experienced board professional, Joanne currently serves as a Corporate Director of ATI Physical Therapy (Audit, Compensation), a $600M PE-backed Physical Therapy Services company going public in June 2021; Corporate Director of Availity (Compensation [Chair], Finance), a $300M, PE-backed healthcare technology company; Chair of the Board for SNOMED, an international, not-for-profit healthcare standards organization; Corporate Director of Innara Health, a Series A funded health care device start-up; and Advisory Board member for the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering at Purdue University.

Former Chief Strategy Officer for Cerner Corporation (Nasdaq: CERN). Worked with Cerner’s CEO, defining corporate strategy and plans. Served as internal consultant to operations and business units to bring operational, technical and industry expertise improving execution, delivery and growth plans. Assumed operational responsibility to turnaround struggling $200M P&L securing additional $500M bookings, while reducing expense resulting in 52% operating margin in 18 months.

Led a public/private joint venture between Cerner and the University of Missouri. As Chief Information Officer of MU Health Care had responsibility for strategic direction and operational execution for information technology including cybersecurity. As Executive Director of the Tiger Institute responsible for joint venture startup focused on new product development. Brought several new products to market, managing through the product lifecycle resulting in divestiture, ongoing ownership or market exit.

As a Corporate Director, provide guidance and governance to the executive team. Serve as a mentor to CEOs; recognized for approachability and ability to navigate challenges and propose innovative solutions. Lend expertise where needed outside of standing Board meetings.

Joanne is recognized as a leader in the healthcare IT industry through authorship, lectures, presentations, and awards including Women to Watch in Health IT 2020, American College of Healthcare Executives Fellowship, HIMSS Fellowship, Most Powerful Women in Health IT, and The Wharton School and Purdue University guest lectures.

Community involvement includes President of the Board of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City.

You can follow Joanne Burns on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1501 no EP. 5 She didn’t start in digital medicine, but she’s driving it now. When Meg Barron had the opportunity, she took it. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/15/ep-5-she-didnt-start-in-digital-medicine-but-shes-driving-it-now-when-meg-barron-had-the-opportunity-she-took-it/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meg Barron Vice President of Digital Health Strategy at the AMA. Meg is passionate about driving change by collaborating with physicians, technology leaders, and solution innovators to improve health care. She has served in product development and business development leadership roles at the AMA and most recently is responsible for driving the roadmap of initiatives that support the AMA’s digital health and medicine strategy. In addition, she has led partnerships and innovation related initiatives, such as the inaugural AMA Healthier Nation Innovation Challenge, the establishment of the AMA Interaction Studio at MATTER, the AMA Physician Innovation Network that enables entrepreneurs and physicians to collaborate on the development of new solutions, the AMA Digital Health & Telehealth Implementation Playbook series, AMA Digital Health research and The Telehealth Initiative with collaborators. She participates on the Advisory Board for MATTER, MassChallenge HealthTech, HealthTech Arkansas, Together. Health and as a TEDMed Research Scholar. She also participates on the Editorial Review Board of The Telehealth and Medicine Today Journal. Meg has spoken at national conferences such as Health 2.0, Connected Health, HLTH, American Telemedicine Association National Conference, AMA State Advocacy Conference and contributes as speaking faculty for Columbia Business School’s Digital Health program curriculum. She has articles published in Health Affairs, Harvard Business Review and Nature Digital Medicine. Prior to AMA, Meg worked in the Consumer Product & Retail vertical at Capgemini and at SmithBucklin Corporation for various business and health care clients. She has experience creating a company through support at Built in Chicago and 1871 in Chicago; her company received acknowledgment by Crain’s Chicago, Chicago Ideas Week and was listed as one of the 24 Coolest New Businesses in Chicago by Business Insider. When not focused on improving healthcare, she can usually be found home remodeling, at a concert, or spending time with family. She is also an Auxiliary Board Member of Rebuilding Exchange Chicago – a non-profit focused on eliminating waste from landfills, repurposing salvaged materials, and providing education and training programs for job creation. You can follow Meg Barron on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 15 Mar 2021 02:00:07 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meg Barron Vice President of Digital Health Strategy at the AMA. Meg is passionate about driving change by collaborating with physicians, technology leaders, and solution innovators to improve health care.... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meg Barron Vice President of Digital Health Strategy at the AMA. Meg is passionate about driving change by collaborating with physicians, technology leaders, and solution innovators to improve health care. She has served in product development and business development leadership roles at the AMA and most recently is responsible for driving the roadmap of initiatives that support the AMA’s digital health and medicine strategy. In addition, she has led partnerships and innovation related initiatives, such as the inaugural AMA Healthier Nation Innovation Challenge, the establishment of the AMA Interaction Studio at MATTER, the AMA Physician Innovation Network that enables entrepreneurs and physicians to collaborate on the development of new solutions, the AMA Digital Health & Telehealth Implementation Playbook series, AMA Digital Health research and The Telehealth Initiative with collaborators. She participates on the Advisory Board for MATTER, MassChallenge HealthTech, HealthTech Arkansas, Together. Health and as a TEDMed Research Scholar. She also participates on the Editorial Review Board of The Telehealth and Medicine Today Journal. Meg has spoken at national conferences such as Health 2.0, Connected Health, HLTH, American Telemedicine Association National Conference, AMA State Advocacy Conference and contributes as speaking faculty for Columbia Business School’s Digital Health program curriculum. She has articles published in Health Affairs, Harvard Business Review and Nature Digital Medicine. Prior to AMA, Meg worked in the Consumer Product & Retail vertical at Capgemini and at SmithBucklin Corporation for various business and health care clients. She has experience creating a company through support at Built in Chicago and 1871 in Chicago; her company received acknowledgment by Crain’s Chicago, Chicago Ideas Week and was listed as one of the 24 Coolest New Businesses in Chicago by Business Insider. When not focused on improving healthcare, she can usually be found home remodeling, at a concert, or spending time with family. She is also an Auxiliary Board Member of Rebuilding Exchange Chicago – a non-profit focused on eliminating waste from landfills, repurposing salvaged materials, and providing education and training programs for job creation. You can follow Meg Barron on LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Meg Barron Vice President of Digital Health Strategy at the AMA.

Meg is passionate about driving change by collaborating with physicians, technology leaders, and solution innovators to improve health care. She has served in product development and business development leadership roles at the AMA and most recently is responsible for driving the roadmap of initiatives that support the AMA’s digital health and medicine strategy. In addition, she has led partnerships and innovation related initiatives, such as the inaugural AMA Healthier Nation Innovation Challenge, the establishment of the AMA Interaction Studio at MATTER, the AMA Physician Innovation Network that enables entrepreneurs and physicians to collaborate on the development of new solutions, the AMA Digital Health & Telehealth Implementation Playbook series, AMA Digital Health research and The Telehealth Initiative with collaborators. She participates on the Advisory Board for MATTER, MassChallenge HealthTech, HealthTech Arkansas, Together. Health and as a TEDMed Research Scholar. She also participates on the Editorial Review Board of The Telehealth and Medicine Today Journal.

Meg has spoken at national conferences such as Health 2.0, Connected Health, HLTH, American Telemedicine Association National Conference, AMA State Advocacy Conference and contributes as speaking faculty for Columbia Business School’s Digital Health program curriculum. She has articles published in Health Affairs, Harvard Business Review and Nature Digital Medicine.

Prior to AMA, Meg worked in the Consumer Product & Retail vertical at Capgemini and at SmithBucklin Corporation for various business and health care clients. She has experience creating a company through support at Built in Chicago and 1871 in Chicago; her company received acknowledgment by Crain’s Chicago, Chicago Ideas Week and was listed as one of the 24 Coolest New Businesses in Chicago by Business Insider. When not focused on improving healthcare, she can usually be found home remodeling, at a concert, or spending time with family. She is also an Auxiliary Board Member of Rebuilding Exchange Chicago – a non-profit focused on eliminating waste from landfills, repurposing salvaged materials, and providing education and training programs for job creation.

You can follow Meg Barron on LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1634 no EP. 4 Practicing her craft. Communicating clearly is just another step in the scientific method for this molecular biologist. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/15/ep-4-practicing-her-craft-communicating-clearly-is-just-another-step-in-the-scientific-method-for-this-molecular-biologist/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Emily Blair a fifth-year Molecular Biology Ph.D. candidate. Emily Blair graduated from Pepperdine University with a B.S. in Biology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in Dr. Jay Brewster’s Cell Biology lab at Pepperdine and interned in various research positions at E&J Gallo winery. These early research experiences inspired her to pursue her Ph.D. in Plant Biology at UC Riverside. She is currently a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Dawn Nagel’s plant molecular biology lab at UCR. Emily studies how plants protect themselves from temperature extremes at a genetic and molecular level. This work will ultimately inform crop improvement so that plants are more likely to survive despite extreme weather events due to climate change. Long-term, Emily wants to pursue a career where she can translate her knowledge of plant molecular biology between her fellow scientists and executive decision-makers. You can follow Emily on LinkedIn and Instagram and read her publications on Google scholar. Read the transcript here. Mon, 15 Mar 2021 01:30:33 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Emily Blair a fifth-year Molecular Biology Ph.D. candidate. Emily Blair graduated from Pepperdine University with a B.S. in Biology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in Dr. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Emily Blair a fifth-year Molecular Biology Ph.D. candidate. Emily Blair graduated from Pepperdine University with a B.S. in Biology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in Dr. Jay Brewster’s Cell Biology lab at Pepperdine and interned in various research positions at E&J Gallo winery. These early research experiences inspired her to pursue her Ph.D. in Plant Biology at UC Riverside. She is currently a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Dawn Nagel’s plant molecular biology lab at UCR. Emily studies how plants protect themselves from temperature extremes at a genetic and molecular level. This work will ultimately inform crop improvement so that plants are more likely to survive despite extreme weather events due to climate change. Long-term, Emily wants to pursue a career where she can translate her knowledge of plant molecular biology between her fellow scientists and executive decision-makers. You can follow Emily on LinkedIn and Instagram and read her publications on Google scholar. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Emily Blair a fifth-year Molecular Biology Ph.D. candidate.

Emily Blair graduated from Pepperdine University with a B.S. in Biology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in Dr. Jay Brewster’s Cell Biology lab at Pepperdine and interned in various research positions at E&J Gallo winery. These early research experiences inspired her to pursue her Ph.D. in Plant Biology at UC Riverside. She is currently a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Dawn Nagel’s plant molecular biology lab at UCR. Emily studies how plants protect themselves from temperature extremes at a genetic and molecular level. This work will ultimately inform crop improvement so that plants are more likely to survive despite extreme weather events due to climate change. Long-term, Emily wants to pursue a career where she can translate her knowledge of plant molecular biology between her fellow scientists and executive decision-makers.

You can follow Emily on LinkedIn and Instagram and read her publications on Google scholar.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1087 no EP 3: Dr. Aletha Maybank talks about what drives her passion. Being deeply rooted in health equity and health justice requires clarity, energy, and following your gut. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/08/dr-aletha-maybank-talks-about-what-drives-her-passion-being-deeply-rooted-in-health-equity-and-health-justice-requires-clarity-energy-and-following-your-gut/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Aletha Maybank, Chief Health Equity Officer & Group Vice President at the American Medical Association. Aletha Maybank, MD, MPH currently serves as the Chief Health Equity Officer and Group Vice President for the American Medical Association (AMA) where she focuses on embedding health equity across all the work of the AMA and leading the Center for HealthEquity. She joined the AMA in April 2019, to launch AMA’s Center for Health Equity as their inaugural Chief Health Equity Officer. Prior to joining the AMA, Dr. Maybank served as the Founding Deputy Commissioner for the Center for Health Equity at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (2014). Aimed at strengthening equity efforts and transforming organizational culture, the Center became a model of success recognized by NYC leadership, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. She was instrumental in infusing equity at the neighborhood level and advancing the Department’s place-based approach to addressing health inequities. She also set precedence with groundbreaking work at the Office of Minority Health in the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (2006) while serving as the Founding Director. Dr. Maybank has taught medical and public health students on topics related to health inequities, public health leadership and management, physician advocacy, and community organizing in health. In 2012, along with a group of Black woman physician leaders, Dr. Maybank co-founded “We Are Doc McStuffins”, a movement inspired by the Disney Junior character Doc McStuffins serving to shine a light on the critical importance of diversity in medicine. She is a highly sought-after health expert in media appearing on national and influential media outlets such as NPR, MSNBC, NewsOne, Roland Martin, the Lancet, Journal of the American Medical Association to name a few. More recently, due to her leadership in the COVID response efforts, she has been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and authored the New York Times Op-ed, “The Pandemic’s Missing Data” to bring more awareness to the structural inequities in the United States. She moderates the AMA bi-weekly web series, “Prioritizing Equity” that elevates the voices and stories of physicians centering equity in COVID-19 response efforts. Dr. Maybank holds a BA from Johns Hopkins University, an MD from Temple University School of Medicine, and an MPH from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She is a pediatrician and preventive medicine/public health physician.   You can follow Dr. Aletha Maybank on Twitter @DrAlethaMaybank and LinkedIn. Read the transcript here. Mon, 08 Mar 2021 17:49:51 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Aletha Maybank, Chief Health Equity Officer & Group Vice President at the American Medical Association. Aletha Maybank, MD, MPH currently serves as the Chief Health Equity Officer and Group Vice Presid... Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Aletha Maybank, Chief Health Equity Officer & Group Vice President at the American Medical Association. Aletha Maybank, MD, MPH currently serves as the Chief Health Equity Officer and Group Vice President for the American Medical Association (AMA) where she focuses on embedding health equity across all the work of the AMA and leading the Center for HealthEquity. She joined the AMA in April 2019, to launch AMA’s Center for Health Equity as their inaugural Chief Health Equity Officer. Prior to joining the AMA, Dr. Maybank served as the Founding Deputy Commissioner for the Center for Health Equity at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (2014). Aimed at strengthening equity efforts and transforming organizational culture, the Center became a model of success recognized by NYC leadership, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. She was instrumental in infusing equity at the neighborhood level and advancing the Department’s place-based approach to addressing health inequities. She also set precedence with groundbreaking work at the Office of Minority Health in the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (2006) while serving as the Founding Director. Dr. Maybank has taught medical and public health students on topics related to health inequities, public health leadership and management, physician advocacy, and community organizing in health. In 2012, along with a group of Black woman physician leaders, Dr. Maybank co-founded “We Are Doc McStuffins”, a movement inspired by the Disney Junior character Doc McStuffins serving to shine a light on the critical importance of diversity in medicine. She is a highly sought-after health expert in media appearing on national and influential media outlets such as NPR, MSNBC, NewsOne, Roland Martin, the Lancet, Journal of the American Medical Association to name a few. More recently, due to her leadership in the COVID response efforts, she has been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and authored the New York Times Op-ed, “The Pandemic’s Missing Data” to bring more awareness to the structural inequities in the United States. She moderates the AMA bi-weekly web series, “Prioritizing Equity” that elevates the voices and stories of physicians centering equity in COVID-19 response efforts. Dr. Maybank holds a BA from Johns Hopkins University, an MD from Temple University School of Medicine, and an MPH from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She is a pediatrician and preventive medicine/public health physician.   You can follow Dr. Aletha Maybank on Twitter @DrAlethaMaybank and LinkedIn. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Dr. Aletha Maybank, Chief Health Equity Officer & Group Vice President at the American Medical Association.

Aletha Maybank, MD, MPH currently serves as the Chief Health Equity Officer and Group Vice President for the American Medical Association (AMA) where she focuses on embedding health equity across all the work of the AMA and leading the Center for HealthEquity. She joined the AMA in April 2019, to launch AMA’s Center for Health Equity as their inaugural Chief Health Equity Officer. Prior to joining the AMA, Dr. Maybank served as the Founding Deputy Commissioner for the Center for Health Equity at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (2014). Aimed at strengthening equity efforts and transforming organizational culture, the Center became a model of success recognized by NYC leadership, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. She was instrumental in infusing equity at the neighborhood level and advancing the Department’s place-based approach to addressing health inequities. She also set precedence with groundbreaking work at the Office of Minority Health in the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (2006) while serving as the Founding Director.

Dr. Maybank has taught medical and public health students on topics related to health inequities, public health leadership and management, physician advocacy, and community organizing in health. In 2012, along with a group of Black woman physician leaders, Dr. Maybank co-founded “We Are Doc McStuffins”, a movement inspired by the Disney Junior character Doc McStuffins serving to shine a light on the critical importance of diversity in medicine.

She is a highly sought-after health expert in media appearing on national and influential media outlets such as NPR, MSNBC, NewsOne, Roland Martin, the Lancet, Journal of the American Medical Association to name a few. More recently, due to her leadership in the COVID response efforts, she has been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and authored the New York Times Op-ed, “The Pandemic’s Missing Data” to bring more awareness to the structural inequities in the United States. She moderates the AMA bi-weekly web series, “Prioritizing Equity” that elevates the voices and stories of physicians centering equity in COVID-19 response efforts.

Dr. Maybank holds a BA from Johns Hopkins University, an MD from Temple University School of Medicine, and an MPH from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She is a pediatrician and preventive medicine/public health physician.

 

You can follow Dr. Aletha Maybank on Twitter @DrAlethaMaybank and LinkedIn.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 2034 no EP 2: What are the 10 best practices for advancing women in business? Hear from Lynn Shapiro Snyder, she wrote the book! https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/08/what-are-the-10-best-practices-for-advancing-women-in-business-hear-from-lynn-shapiro-snyder-she-wrote-the-book/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green Lynn Shapiro Snyder is a Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green in Washington, D.C., a law firm with one of the largest health care and life sciences practices in the country.  There, she advises all types of health care companies and companies such as private equity firms that work with health care.  She is well- known for her expertise in FDA, Medicare, Medicaid and managed care issues whether it is in connection with the launch of a new product or defending a company under a fraud investigation. She has been at Epstein Becker Green for over 35 years. Additionally, Lynn is the Founder, Chairperson and President of the Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation (“WBL”), a non-profit that connects and convenes senior executive women from all across the health care industry.  WBL’s focus is on helping these women expand their leadership, such as by serving on a board of directors, and the organization has helped to propel hundreds of women to board directorships.  Named a “Director to Watch,” Lynn is a leader in the governance arena and is the co-author of Answering the Call: Understanding the Duties, Risks & Rewards of Corporate Governance – a book to educate busy executives about board service. She also is the author of Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices. Her current board memberships include Trustmark Companies, Epstein Becker Green, Savor Health and the Maryland/Israel Development Center.   You can follow Lynn Shapiro Snyder on LinkedIn. You can find Lynn’s book Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices here. Read the transcript here. Mon, 08 Mar 2021 17:49:10 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green Lynn Shapiro Snyder is a Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green in Washington, D.C., Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green Lynn Shapiro Snyder is a Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green in Washington, D.C., a law firm with one of the largest health care and life sciences practices in the country.  There, she advises all types of health care companies and companies such as private equity firms that work with health care.  She is well- known for her expertise in FDA, Medicare, Medicaid and managed care issues whether it is in connection with the launch of a new product or defending a company under a fraud investigation. She has been at Epstein Becker Green for over 35 years. Additionally, Lynn is the Founder, Chairperson and President of the Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation (“WBL”), a non-profit that connects and convenes senior executive women from all across the health care industry.  WBL’s focus is on helping these women expand their leadership, such as by serving on a board of directors, and the organization has helped to propel hundreds of women to board directorships.  Named a “Director to Watch,” Lynn is a leader in the governance arena and is the co-author of Answering the Call: Understanding the Duties, Risks & Rewards of Corporate Governance – a book to educate busy executives about board service. She also is the author of Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices. Her current board memberships include Trustmark Companies, Epstein Becker Green, Savor Health and the Maryland/Israel Development Center.   You can follow Lynn Shapiro Snyder on LinkedIn. You can find Lynn’s book Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices here. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Lynn Shapiro Snyder, Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green

Lynn Shapiro Snyder is a Board Member and Senior Member of Epstein Becker Green in Washington, D.C., a law firm with one of the largest health care and life sciences practices in the country.  There, she advises all types of health care companies and companies such as private equity firms that work with health care.  She is well- known for her expertise in FDA, Medicare, Medicaid and managed care issues whether it is in connection with the launch of a new product or defending a company under a fraud investigation. She has been at Epstein Becker Green for over 35 years. Additionally, Lynn is the Founder, Chairperson and President of the Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation (“WBL”), a non-profit that connects and convenes senior executive women from all across the health care industry.  WBL’s focus is on helping these women expand their leadership, such as by serving on a board of directors, and the organization has helped to propel hundreds of women to board directorships.  Named a “Director to Watch,” Lynn is a leader in the governance arena and is the co-author of Answering the Call: Understanding the Duties, Risks & Rewards of Corporate Governance – a book to educate busy executives about board service. She also is the author of Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices.

Her current board memberships include Trustmark Companies, Epstein Becker Green, Savor Health and the Maryland/Israel Development Center.

 

You can follow Lynn Shapiro Snyder on LinkedIn.

You can find Lynn’s book Advancing Women in Business – 10 Best Practices here.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 1453 no EP: 1: Let’s Get Started! Those first big decisions are never easy. Hear from Inspiring Woman Chelsea Pauga now back to school after that first job out of college. https://inspiringwomen.show/2021/03/08/lets-get-started-those-first-big-decisions-are-never-easy-hear-from-inspiring-woman-chelsea-pauga-now-back-to-school-after-that-first-job-out-of-college/ Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Pauga, a Master’s student at the University of Chicago. Chelsea Pauga is an early career professional currently studying for her Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Chicago. She graduated in 2016 with an environmental studies degree from the University of California: Santa Barbara with a focus on political science. Chelsea has spent the past four years conducting environmental assessments to facilitate real estate transactions nationwide. Chelsea believes the world can be a more equitable place by focusing on social justice through the lens of environmental policy.  Chelsea and her husband live in Chicago with their dog Jazz. You can follow Chelsea on LinkedIn and Instagram. Read the transcript here. Mon, 08 Mar 2021 17:49:00 -0000 full Laurie McGraw Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Pauga, a Master’s student at the University of Chicago. Chelsea Pauga is an early career professional currently studying for her Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Chicago. Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Pauga, a Master’s student at the University of Chicago. Chelsea Pauga is an early career professional currently studying for her Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Chicago. She graduated in 2016 with an environmental studies degree from the University of California: Santa Barbara with a focus on political science. Chelsea has spent the past four years conducting environmental assessments to facilitate real estate transactions nationwide. Chelsea believes the world can be a more equitable place by focusing on social justice through the lens of environmental policy.  Chelsea and her husband live in Chicago with their dog Jazz. You can follow Chelsea on LinkedIn and Instagram. Read the transcript here.

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Chelsea Pauga, a Master’s student at the University of Chicago.

Chelsea Pauga is an early career professional currently studying for her Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Chicago. She graduated in 2016 with an environmental studies degree from the University of California: Santa Barbara with a focus on political science. Chelsea has spent the past four years conducting environmental assessments to facilitate real estate transactions nationwide. Chelsea believes the world can be a more equitable place by focusing on social justice through the lens of environmental policy.  Chelsea and her husband live in Chicago with their dog Jazz.

You can follow Chelsea on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Read the transcript here.

]]> 670 no