The Reaching Higher Podcast

In this episode of the Reaching Higher podcast, Dr. Uché Blackstock discusses her journey in healthcare, inspired by her mother, and her advocacy for health equity. She highlights the importance of community engagement, the impact of historical policies like the Flexner Report, and the need for systemic changes to address health disparities. Dr. Blackstock also emphasizes the financial imperative of health equity, the role of AI in healthcare, and the significance of maternal health policies. Her work through Advancing Health Equity aims to bridge the gap between national initiatives and local community needs, ensuring that everyone has access to quality care.Show LinksDr. Blackstock's website: https://ucheblackstock.com/Articles on Time: https://time.com/author/uche-blackstock/Legacy book: https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Physician-Reckons-Racism-Medicine/dp/0593491289Flexner Report: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flexner_ReportInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheblackstockmd/

A walk back through season one highlighting key moments in our conversations. Here's a quick guide:Actor Adrian Grenier -- speaking about shifting from a global focus to hyper local when it comes to his social do-goodingNews Anchor, Wendy Tokuda -- highlighting why some of the 17 years old from her non-profit, Students Rising Above impressed her the mostDr. Joseph Wu, former President of the AHA and head of Stanford's Cardiology Lab -- his advice to President Trump on why STEM is so importantLiana Guzman, CEO of FOLX Health -- talks about the future of healthcare and why it's so important to connect mind, body and communityAl Roker of the Today Show -- Al shares why John Lewis is the famous person he was so impressed with based on his optimism and hope for AmericaU.S. Senate candidate, Mallory McMorrow -- recounts her now famous speech on the MI Senate floor and the advice her mom gave her after the speechRolling Stones keyboardist, Chuck Leavell -- shares a few tips on what everyone can do to help improve our environmentDr. Bayo Winchell-Curry, trailblazer in healthcare advocacy -- Dr. Bayo stresses the importance of taking a few seconds to focus on the ONE positive thing

In this introspective conversation, digital pioneer, John Battelle reflects on his journey from co-founding Wired Magazine to navigating the dot com boom with The Industry Standard. John discusses the importance of community building through events like the Web2 Summit and NewCo, and shares insights on transitioning to a life-driven approach. Battelle also highlights the creation of DOC, a community focused on medical integrity, and his ongoing connection to academia. The discussion culminates in a thought-provoking exploration of generative AI and its potential societal impact.Show LinksJohn's website and blog - https://battellemedia.com/DOC site - https://doc.health

In this conversation, Maimah Karmo shares her extraordinary journey from surviving multiple adversities, including being struck by lightning, held at gunpoint and battling breast cancer, to founding the Tiger Lily Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and empowering women, particularly those who are underrepresented in healthcare. Maimah reflects on her experiences, including a transformative appearance on Oprah Winfrey's show, and discusses the recent achievements of her foundation, including a significant grant from the Melinda Gates Foundation. The conversation highlights the power of resilience, purpose, and the impact of advocacy in the realm of women's health.Show LinksTigerlily Foundation -- https://tigerlilyfoundation.orgMaimah's clothes line -- https://slimthickclothing.com/Maimah on Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/maimahkarmo/

Welcome to this episode of Reaching Higher, featuring former Patriots guard and three-time Super Bowl champion Joe Andruzzi. In this powerful conversation, Joe shares his journey from the NFL gridiron to an even tougher battle—his fight against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which ended his playing career.He discusses his path to becoming a true champion both on and off the field. Joe opens up about his battle with cancer and his eventual recovery, a life-altering experience that inspired him and his wife, Jen, to found the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) in 2008. We delve into the Foundation’s mission of providing financial assistance and support to cancer patients and their families, easing their day-to-day struggles so they can focus on their treatment.Listen in to hear Joe's perspective on resilience, the importance of paying it forward, and how his family’s spirit guided him through his toughest moments. His story is a testament to turning personal struggles into a mission of hope and help for thousands of others.Show links: Foundation - https://joeandruzzifoundation.org

In this conversation, Liana Guzman, CEO of FOLX Health, discusses the vital work her organization does for the LGBTQIA+ community, the importance of representation, and her personal journey through various leadership roles. She emphasizes the need for inclusivity, the impact of societal changes on the community, and the significance of health innovation. Liana also shares her experiences with philanthropy, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, while encouraging allies to support the community actively.Key takeaways:Inclusivity is crucial as the community is diverse and not a monolith. Support from allies is essential during turbulent times. Health innovation is key to improving lives in marginalized communities.Show links:The Pink Agenda: https://thepinkagenda.org GLAAD: https://glaad.org Poet Andrea Gibson: https://andreagibson.org TV Show, The L Word: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0330251 Her SubStack on Right, Righteousness and Effectiveness: https://futurerx.substack.com/p/right-righteousness-and-effectiveness

In this conversation, Dr. Judith Joseph MD shares her journey from aspiring neurosurgeon to psychiatrist, emphasizing the importance of understanding hidden depression and the pathways to reclaiming joy. She introduces the Five V's framework for happiness, discusses the impact of social media on self-esteem, and highlights the mental health challenges associated with menopause. Dr. Joseph's insights provide valuable tools for navigating emotional health in today's world.Show linksDr. Judith's book - https://www.amazon.com/High-Functioning-Overcome-Depression-Reclaim/dp/0316577294Definition of Anhedonia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AnhedoniaThe Vault Podcast with Dr. Judith - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vault-with-dr-judith/id1705492235Menopause Masterclass with Halle Berry - https://www.masterclass.com/classes/the-magic-of-menopause

This conversation explores the evolution of cancer care, focusing on long-term patient relationships and the changing nature of suffering in chronic illness. Dr. Arif Kamal of the American Cancer Society shares insights from his experience with patients, highlighting advancements in treatment and the emotional journey of both patients and caregivers. Dr. Selin Karmaz, CEO of MassiveBio talks about the state of clinical trials and AI and how they are impacting patient care and Jena Quinn, CEO of Perfecting Peds discusses specific needs for pediatric oncology patients, particularly when it comes to their families and caregivers.Key takeawaysCancer care has evolved significantly over the years.Long-term relationships with patients can lead to unexpected postive outcomes.Healthcare providers must adapt to the emotional needs of patients.The role of hope is crucial in cancer treatment.Understanding patient experiences can improve care.Building trust with patients enhances their treatment journey.