Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges

Grand Challenges represent the wicked problems that society faces—complex, persistent, and difficult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory, and ever-changing demands. Yet, addressing them is essential for humanity and life on Earth to survive and thrive. My work is dedicated to confronting these monumental issues.

These challenges are too vast for any single mind to fully comprehend or solve. They are multi-dimensional, with deep systemic roots that are reflected in legislation, policies, social behavior, and even individual thoughts and mindsets. These factors limit our ability to effectively address them.

However, there are models and frameworks I’ve developed to help organizations and activists collaborate in making tangible progress. These stem from my experience at the World Bank, where I’ve witnessed both the successes and failures of multinational efforts, and from my work with Grand Challenges in sectors that include maternal health in Kenya, earth science, finance, nursing, and mental health.

Guest

Joe Feldman

Joe Feldman is the founder and president of Cover My Mental Health, a Chicago nonprofit helping clinicians, patients, and families overcome insurance barriers to mental healthcare. His advocacy began nearly a decade ago when his family faced a devastating denial of care for his daughter, a battle that led to a successful federal lawsuit.

With 15 years of experience in corporate growth consulting and executive roles in tech startups, Joe launched Cover My Mental Health in 2024 to provide practical tools—like customizable medical necessity letters—that help families and clinicians push back against denials. He also serves on the board of The Kennedy Forum Illinois, has testified before the Illinois legislature, and published guidance in The Journal of Psychiatric Practice.

Joe speaks to clinical and advocacy audiences nationwide and also serves on the board of Thresholds, a Chicago-based provider for individuals with mental illness.

Guest appearance on:

Fighting Back: Joe Feldman on Covering Mental Health Care