In this episode, Joy welcomes Andrea Daugherty, Head of Digital Health at SHI International. Andrea shares her journey from caregiver to healthcare executive, highlighting the challenges and bold moves that shaped her career. The discussion spans from navigating male-dominated spaces to the critical importance of cybersecurity in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. With insights into workforce shortages and the necessity of technology in combating cyber threats, this episode offers a glimpse into the frontline defense of healthcare data protection and the empowerment of women in IT leadership roles. 00:11:42 - Building a Supportive Network in the Industry 00:12:25 - Owning Confidence in a Male-Dominated Environment 00:20:41 - Educating the Workforce on Cybersecurity 00:21:37 - Establishing SHI as a Trusted IT Solutions Provider 00:22:45 - Bringing Joy and Wellness to Healthcare Events 00:23:31 - Connecting with SHI and Andrea Daugherty on LinkedIn

In this episode, Joy welcomes back Dr. Adaira Landry and introduces Dr. Resa E. Lewiss for a conversation about navigating the ever-changing landscape of the workplace. With their new book, "MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact," Landry and Lewiss provide essential guidance for individuals entering the workforce, focusing on practical strategies for success. Drawing from their experiences as emergency medicine physicians, educators, and authors, they explore the necessity of honing micro skills for self-care, task management, communication, reputation building, and more. From offloading routine tasks to maintaining a positive attitude in challenging situations, they offer practical advice for individuals navigating today's professional world.

In this episode, Joy delves into the complexities of healthcare with Carrie Kozlowski, co-founder and COO of Upfront Healthcare. Carrie discusses Upfront's mission to guide patients to the care they need, addressing barriers to access and striving to transform healthcare. Emphasizing personalized engagement and leveraging technology as a conduit, they explore how to empower patients and remove friction from the healthcare process. Through insights into psychographics and behavioral science, they reveal strategies to motivate patients and foster trust, ultimately aiming to enhance outcomes and promote population health.

In this episode, Joy delves into the complex world of pediatric mental health care with guest Naomi Allen, CEO and co-founder of Brightline. Naomi shares her journey from a personal crisis with her son to founding Brightline, the first national pediatric mental health solution. Amidst a growing crisis, Naomi discusses the profound shortage of clinicians and the barriers families face in accessing quality care. Through virtual care and innovative solutions, Brightline aims to bridge these gaps, providing accessible and affordable support for children and their families across the nation. From teletherapy to coaching programs and digital interventions, Brightline's holistic approach demonstrates the power of human-led care enabled by technology in addressing the pediatric mental health crisis.

In this episode, Joy sits down with Larissa DAndrea, Head of Global Impact Programs at ResMed, a leading sleep apnea medical technology company. Larissa shares insights into ResMed's initiatives in the healthcare space, emphasizing their focus on amplifying underrepresented voices and empowering patients through innovative digital tools. Through engaging storytelling and impactful art installations, ResMed strives to bridge the gap between technology and patient experience, ensuring inclusivity and meaningful impact in healthcare. The conversation delves into the importance of incorporating real user experiences in product development, exemplified by ResMed's collaboration with patient associations to capture diverse perspectives. Larissa also discusses the potential of augmented reality and virtual reality to further enhance storytelling and immersive experiences in healthcare. With a keen eye on inclusive design and technological innovation, Larissa and ResMed are paving the way for transformative change in the healthcare ecosystem.

In this episode, Joy sits down with Stacy Fox, VP of Sales at Health Gorilla and a seasoned healthcare industry professional, who shares her unique insights and personal journey within the complex world of healthcare. With a background that includes a heartfelt connection to Children's Hospital Colorado driven by her brother's experience with Down Syndrome, Fox delves into the challenges and triumphs of improving healthcare connectivity and data sharing. Her transition from hands-on roles in healthcare practices to leading digital health sales teams underscores the critical importance of access to medical records and the seamless integration of health information systems. Fox's narrative is not just about her professional achievements but also intertwines her athletic background, emphasizing the value of teamwork, discipline, and leadership—qualities that she brings to her role at Health Gorilla. This episode provides a compelling look at how personal motivations and professional experiences can converge to drive innovation and improvement in healthcare delivery.

In this episode, Joy Rios welcomes Dr. Jhaimy Fernandez, a family medicine resident and digital health equity leader, and Betty Villantay, an aspiring physician and advocate in the digital health equity space. The episode delves into the complexities of healthcare, with a particular focus on digital health equity and the challenges of telemedicine, especially in underserved communities. Dr. Fernandez shares her journey from being the first in her family to attend medical school to recognizing the importance of giving back and supporting non-traditional, underrepresented students in medicine. Betty's story highlights the obstacles of navigating a career in biomedical engineering and medicine without a clear guide. Together, they discuss their collaboration in hosting a digital health conference aimed at bringing together people of color to share their experiences in the digital health space. The conversation also touches on the practical aspects of implementing telemedicine, addressing biases from healthcare providers, and the importance of communicating effectively with patients to overcome language barriers and technological challenges. This episode sheds light on the necessity of digital health equity and the power of innovative communication strategies like leveraging common platforms such as WhatsApp to improve patient engagement and access to care.

In this episode, Joy welcomes multifaceted health IT expert Juliette Nwagbara, who shares her journey and contributions to the field of health IT. Juliette wears numerous hats as a project manager at a health IT AI company, an instructor in health IT at UT Austin, and the founder of RHIA Essential, where she prepares future professionals for the RHIA certification. She discusses the significance of the RHIA certification, administered by AHIMA, which validates expertise in patient data governance, law, data standards, and project management. Juliette's mission is driven by her own challenges in finding support while studying for the RHIA exam, leading her to create resources that make learning engaging and accessible. She emphasizes the transformative power of health IT education in providing confidence, knowledge, and opening up diverse career paths for her students. Juliette's personal journey from discovering health IT amidst career uncertainty to becoming a passionate educator and advocate for the field underscores the impact of dedication and the desire to give back to the community.

In this episode, Joy Rios welcomes Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, a dedicated physician, mother, and health equity advocate. Dr. Curry-Winchell shares her impactful journey in the medical field, focusing on advocating for historically excluded and underserved communities of color. Through her multifaceted role, which includes being a medical contributor, TEDx speaker, and creator of the "Beyond Clinical Walls" series, she addresses critical issues like race-based medicine practices and the maternal mortality crisis among black women. Dr. Curry-Winchell's personal experience with unconscious bias during her childbirth highlights the deep-rooted challenges in healthcare. The conversation delves into the importance of acknowledging and addressing unconscious biases, the role of patient-centered teams, and the necessity of community engagement to build trust and provide culturally competent care. This episode is a compelling call to action for systemic change in healthcare to ensure equitable treatment for all.

In this episode, OB/GYN physician Heather Irobunda shares her remarkable career journey, from serving in the army to working in private practice and now in public community health in New York City. She discusses the stark differences between these healthcare sectors, shedding light on the challenges faced by marginalized individuals in accessing proper healthcare. Heather emphasizes the critical need for health literacy and education, especially in a society where access to information is constantly evolving. She also highlights the role of technology in democratizing information and the importance of medical advocacy in addressing the gaps in healthcare access and understanding.

Welcome to HITea With Grace’s “Fund Like a Girl” series where we're thrilled to feature Cheryl Cheng, founder of Vive Collective, a dynamic VC in health IT. Join us as Cheryl shares her career journey that led to Vive Collective and delves into the Vive Collective survey conducted via LinkedIn, revealing the top 4 "Digital Health Mafia Companies" and sharing surprising findings. Listen in as Cheryl emphasizes the importance of founders being former high-growth startup operators and the key traits she looks for in companies and founders she invests in. In this episode, Cheryl also sheds light on the evolving landscape of digital health funding, discussing inclusivity and the challenges that still need to be addressed.

In this episode, Joy Rios explores the complexities of the healthcare industry with guest Katy Allen, EVP, Managing Director at Bounteous, a digital experience company. They discuss how the industry is filled with various point solutions that need integration into a cohesive platform. Katy highlights the roles of caregivers, both always-on caregivers and crisis caregivers, and the challenges they face in managing multiple solutions for their loved ones' healthcare. The conversation also touches on the importance of involving the caregiver's voice in healthcare solutions and the need to value and support caregivers more within the system. It's a thought-provoking discussion on the intricacies of healthcare and the evolving role of caregivers in it.

In this episode of HITea With Grace’s “Fund Like a Girl”, we have a very special guest - Halle Tecco - a pioneering VC in the health IT space.  In this episode, Halle shares her career journey, insights into the evolving healthcare landscape, and invaluable advice for women venturing into healthcare entrepreneurship and venturing into venture. She discusses key challenges and effective strategies, highlights success stories of women-led startups, and navigates the complexities of healthcare regulations. Halle emphasizes the importance of building diverse teams, leveraging technology, and seeking mentorship for women founders in healthcare.  Join us for a deep dive into Halle Tecco's perspective on driving innovation and making a difference in healthcare IT through funding technologies that seamlessly improve care and outcomes and so generously sharing her learnings with us along the way.

In this episode, Joy Rios engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Dr. Jessi Gold, a psychiatrist and anthropologist. Together, they delve into the complex issue of burnout in healthcare. Jessi sheds light on the multifaceted nature of burnout, emphasizing its emotional, depersonalization, and reduced accomplishment components. They discuss how burnout not only affects individual healthcare workers but also has significant systemic implications, impacting patient care and hospital costs. Jessi highlights the importance of both individual and systemic changes in addressing burnout and advocates for a more open and vulnerable workplace culture to normalize discussions around mental health and well-being. They also explore the significance of finding meaning, purpose, and gratitude in combating burnout and enhancing the overall quality of life for healthcare professionals. This episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and potential solutions in the realm of healthcare burnout.

In this episode, Joy Rios explores the complexities of healthcare with her guests, Lindsey Williams and Megan Henken, co-founders of MyUTI. MyUTI is a platform that offers advanced testing for urinary tract infections (UTIs) from the comfort of one's home. Lindsey and Megan emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis for UTIs, especially in the face of rising antibiotic-resistant infections. They dispel common myths about UTI remedies, such as cranberry juice and yogurt, and highlight the need for a more convenient and effective approach to UTI testing and treatment. The episode also delves into the challenges of starting a business in the healthcare industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and convenience in modern healthcare solutions.

In this episode welcomes a very special guest, Andrea Fletcher, the Chief Digital Strategy Officer at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Andrea provides insight into her pioneering role in establishing an agency digital service team within CMS and shares how her team, often referred to as a "SWAT team" for government technology, solves complex challenges in the healthcare sector. They discuss the unique role of bridging the gap between policy creation and implementation, with a focus on improving the lives of millions of beneficiaries and modernizing the Medicare payment systems. Join them as they explore the intricacies of healthcare technology and the transformative impact of their work in the Health and Human Services building.

In this episode, Joy welcomes Carly Olsten, Senior Marketing Manager at Health Gorilla, to discuss her journey from marketing tires to healthcare. Carly shares insights into her career path, her experiences in different industries, and the challenges of marketing in the healthcare sector. They delve into the importance of effective messaging and communication in healthcare marketing, with Carly highlighting how data and statistics play a significant role in making their product resonate with customers. The episode also touches on the complexity of healthcare terminology and regulations, and Carly emphasizes the importance of finding ways to make healthcare solutions relatable and understandable to customers.

In this enlightening episode of the "HIT Like a Girl" podcast, host Joy Rios engages in a profound discussion with Kenzie Butera Davis, CEO and Founder of Maro. The conversation delves into the intricate intersections of healthcare, education, and mental health, particularly focusing on Maro’s innovative approach to screening and supporting mental health in children. Kenzie shares her inspiring journey, from her early days working at a domestic violence and rape crisis center, to her pivotal research on health education, and eventually founding Maro. Her story is a testament to the power of proactive solutions and the importance of mental health education in shaping safer environments for children. Maro’s work, especially during the rise of the youth mental health crisis, highlights the urgent need for early intervention and the challenges of navigating politically sensitive landscapes in education. Through their discussion, Joy and Kenzie explore the complexities of health education, the nuances of language in different states, and the pressing statistics that drive Maro's mission. This episode provides a compelling look into how one company is creatively addressing the mental health crisis among youth, blending technology, education, and compassion.

In this episode, Joy interviews Avery Haller, TEFCA Advocate and former Executive Director of Strategy and Partnerships at Health Gorilla, who shares her fascinating journey from anthropology major to public health and health tech. Avery discusses the crucial need for infrastructural changes in healthcare, emphasizing the power of data in transforming public health and patient care. The episode also touches on initiatives like the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TAFCA) and the dream of creating a comprehensive birth-to-death health record, showcasing how innovative solutions are bringing us closer to a more connected and patient-centric healthcare system.

In this episode, Joy interviews Saumya Rawat, the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Pharmesol, a startup pioneering the development of an AI-enabled pharmacy assistant. Pharmesol's mission is to automate the frequently-held conversations that pharmacists engage in with patients about their medications, from proper usage to managing side effects, through text-based interactions. Saumya shares her journey, starting from her passion for technology and healthcare at MIT to the creation of Pharmesol. The conversation highlights the importance of flexibility, patient choice, and providing accessible, trustworthy healthcare information, along with Pharmasol's commitment to building a comprehensive medication knowledge base and conversation flow algorithms to enhance patient care.