#019: Empowering Change in Healthcare and Leadership

Alaina Kennedy, a seasoned health equity professional, explores the intersection of policy, community engagement, and healthcare reform. Drawing from her Chicago roots and experience in healthcare legislation, she highlights the power of grassroots advocacy, personal and community-driven change, and resilient leadership in advancing health equity.

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Transcript

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SPEAKER_02 0:34

Elected officials work for you. There was a president who once said, I have continuously remember that I live in a house that's owned by the American people. And reminding that they work for you, not the other way around. And so we also have to hold them accountable and make our voices heard.

SPEAKER_01 0:52

They are supposed to be representing us in the end.

SPEAKER_00 0:55

Welcome to the Adromedus Way podcast, where we have meaningful discussions on the challenges in healthcare and the solutions behind them. I am your host, Liz Church. Each episode, we dive into the complexities of our health and social system, gaining the experiences and insights of the guests that shape our lives and our communities. We have a special guest joining us all the way from France, but with roots deeply embedded in the vibrant tapestry of Chicago, Illinois. Elena Kennedy, principal consultant of Adromedus. She is a seasoned health equity professional whose expertise spans from navigating complex legislative landscapes to crafting impactful public health initiatives. With a dedication to driving sustainable change, Elena's multifacet skill set and commitment to strategic problem solving make her a valuable asset in healthcare leadership. Together, we will embark on a journey through the streets of Chicago, the corridors of legislative power, and the depths of personal resilience. Without further ado, let us learn about one of our newest team members, Elena Kennedy, everyone! Elena started with the firm earlier this year of 2024, and I am excited to introduce her to you all. So let us begin with the fun little questions to get to know her better. Now, Elena, although you were talking to me all the way in France, tell me more about your background. It's been spoken among the team that you are very proud to represent Chicagoland. Can you emphasize what that means? Yes, of course.

SPEAKER_02 2:15

Well, I'm happy to be here. I do consider myself a daughter hailing from Chicagoland, and my roots really do run deep in this vibrant community. So funny enough, actually, during COVID, I dug deeper into my family genealogy and history with my cousins when we were trying to fill our time and connect with each other. And we actually found that our ties to the area were much deeper than we originally thought. My family ties to the areas are more than just the geographical elements. They're really intertwined to the area. My grandparents, or technically my great-grandparents, were among the first to establish roots in the Chicagoland area. And they were from France. So it's been quite hilarious. I had no idea. So it was quite, quite funny to have it all come full circle, considering now I am living in France. But originally, my my and my heart and my connection really is founded in Chicago and the Chicagoland spirit. And I am quite proud to be where I'm from. And everyone in the area knows that I'm always constantly talking about how fantastic it is. I also have to give a shout-out, though, having lived in Michigan for a time, I do part-time Michigander as well. So quite proud of that.

SPEAKER_00 4:02

So part-time, I forgot you uh uh goodness gracious, I can't remember uh your bachelor's you got in Michigan, right?

SPEAKER_02 4:10

Yes, I went to Michigan State University, so in East Lansing. And funny enough, where I live now is on the 45th parallel, which connects to Michigan. So much of the countryside can actually look like the Michigan's countryside and up north. So when I'm homesick, I just head out and go out into the countryside over here in France, and it feels like home.

SPEAKER_00 4:36

That is really amazing. And it gives me even more of a reason to come visit or to, you know, convince Michelle that we all need to go to France. But to keep talking about this fascinating place, what cherished memories and stories have shaped your deconnection to Chicagoland?

SPEAKER_02 4:52

Oh God, we could spend the whole time talking about that. So I won't I won't shock your ear off about that today. I know you and I have already had many numerous discussions offline and talking about all the things that are Chicago. But I think what's actually quite funny and quite interesting for me as I think about what it is to be from Chicago and what it is to be connected into that space. You know, my family, the homes in Roseland, which is a community out in Chicago on the south side, my family built. They're still there today. Uh, they also lived in a very small house and they raised the roof, and there's photos of that. And if you walk along the south side of Chicago, you'll see cobblestone that has the last name, the Kennedy inscribed on it. Many people think that is due to the Kennedys, John F. Kennedy and the Kennedy family, which is also has deep connections to the area, but that is actually my family. My family had a bricklaying company back in the day on the south side of Chicago. And there's a few buildings that also have connections and just the memories. My parents were all born on the south side of Chicago and supporting those hospitals, and my grandparents were, and my cousins and my aunts, and everyone was. Sadly enough, for my family. I I was born on the north side. So I always got a lot of grief from my family by being a north sider, uh, which I'm I'm still proud of. But it's those roots, the community, it's those roots of those locations and the the history, and there's just a lot of pride with that. And those the stories and memories will never leave me. And I've actually brought a lot of those to France and to my community here. And my husband now, who is French himself, is obsessed with deep dish pizza. We've been working very hard to perfect our recipe and something that we're very proud of. There is a competition also, deep dish pizza or tavern style. So that's another podcast, another day, and we can talk about that. But it's ultimately, I think my experiences with my family and my friends and the community and the connections that I made in Chicago have really had a mark on and shaped who I am, and really in profound ways. I joke around that Midwest nice. It's true. There's just been wonderful connections that I've had and in passing by. And I'm really grateful and appreciative of that. Sometimes I've had these really amazing connections with, you know, an Uber driver. And I remember talking about healthcare and access. And he was talking about how he didn't have health insurance. And so at the end of my Uber drive, I had my laptop and I said, Do you got five minutes? Do you want to sign up? And we went and I signed him up for Medicaid and we did work together and we just got him some health insurance. And it just that didn't seem weird to me. That felt very normal to have that just connection. He he was an individual in my community, and it I felt pride and connection to helping him and supporting him. And and I've had other stories like that, and it just and I feel like in Chicagoland, that's not out of the norm. That's something that's just very authentic, and I really appreciate that.

SPEAKER_00 8:19

I love that in general, just because that is authentic. That's that's the kindness that I think we all need more of. We're living in times where it's it's hard to find happiness and kindness and being a good human to other people. I mean, I've I'm talking to people on the podcast all the time, and they are good people doing good things, but like that, like that's like a a deer in the wild, what you just described, helping someone send it for Medicaid because they were your Uber driver. Like, you know, like it's just like in my heart, I'm like, that is just so sweet, you know. So I I just think that also shows a lot more to your character, and everybody will see it, or at least hear it as well, that you are very welcoming and warm, and you have that like down-to-earth wanting to help people, and that's just an example of it. But we'll get more into it, we'll get more into your background a little bit more. The last question I have for you what's your favorite quote? Um, it can be from a book, movie, or a speech.

SPEAKER_02 9:20

Okay, my favorite quote. Well, I think keeping with the Chicago theme, I have to say, make no little plans, they have no magic to stir blood. Technically speaking, it's they make no little plans, they have no magic to stir men's blood. But guy, I readapted, re-updated it for the modern audience. But it's famously attributed to the architect of Chicago, Daniel Burnham. And I think this quote holds a special place in my heart because it really embodies the spirit of boldness, ambition, and limitless possibility. You see, growing up in the vibrancy of Chicago, I felt like I was like I was surrounded by wonders, whether as architectural wonders or things that seemed to defy imagination. And I was always so in awe of all of that. Whether it was the towering skyscrapers that seemed to just like kiss the sky as a little girl to the intricate details of, you know, historic landmarks, I felt like they all told a story of innovation and aspiration, which I, as my hobby being, you know, architect and urban planning, which another time we'll get into that, I just was really inspired by Chicago in that. And so I felt at the heart of the enduring mantra was really a call to big dreams and per, you know, ultimately pursuing greatness with unwavering conviction. I think in this day and age, it's really hard to kind of keep going and have that resiliency and continue that leadership and keep going when we're really fatigued. I think their burnout rates are higher than ever. I think we're collectively struggling with the inundation of inner information and feeling loneliness as well. And so finding that inner spirit and finding that motivation to just keep stirring that magic inside of you as you can as we continue to age, I think is is difficult and it's hard. And for me, I feel like this quote serves as a reminder to that greatness that lies inside of us. And ultimately playing it safe or settling for, you know, mediocrity. You know, it has its place and has its purpose, but daring to envision extra extraordinary things and that relentlessness in pursuing it, I think it's inspiring. You know, we have to take our pauses, we have to take our breaks. That's really important. We have to, you know, guard ourselves and kind of build our walls when it's necessary, but then we have to be able to come back from that, come out strong. And so pursue courage, creativity, you know, and that possibility. So as I feel like continue to navigate the twists and turns, I carry those timeless wisdom with me. And so I think he put it eloquently when he said, make no little plans.

SPEAKER_00 12:18

That's also that goes with the mount, the mantra of Andromedus with being fearless and being able to tackle things without being afraid. So that's a little chime in, a little bit of a brand awareness there. But I feel I love how you carry that positivity and it's kind of like I'm not gonna let this hold me down, kind of that feeling. Not a lot of people can do that because with a lot of the things that are going on, especially within the world today, we can be deterred very quickly because the obstacle ahead of us, it's like that's a little much. I don't know if I'm gonna be able to get there and you know, do anything. And I think that's something that it's hard to do to get started. But once you keep going, if you get blocked by something, do you feel like I really can't do this? Or do you have like an easy ability to be like, oh no, yes, absolutely, I can just onward.

SPEAKER_02 13:09

Oh my goodness. I and uh not to get too personal, but I think in my own private life, I've experienced great pain and sadness and loss. And I know because I've been able to get through it and come out on the other side. And so having that comfort is one thing that I do hold on to. But at the same time, I also know that I want to make the world kind of a better place for those. I want to also help support my community and the people that I choose to have in my community and the collective at large through that and recognize you don't have to do it alone. I've gone through my dark places in life through the support of other people and with love and kindness, both for myself and from others. And so I want to help support other people in that journey and in that. And there's times, yeah, where it's saying, hey, I gotta step back for a moment and I gotta take a pause. Or by taking this pause, I will have the courage to continue to go on, or I will have more creativity and be innovative. So I'm gonna take that step back, but then you know, keep punching on. But yeah, it's difficult, I think, in this day and age. And when our phones are so close to us and we're connected both to work and our friends and family, we can feel really accessible to information and be inundated. And so it the paradox that comes with that can also feel disconnected from everything because you're so flooded and then feeling lonely. And that's really difficult. Uh, it yes, I am intrinsically motivated to get to your question, but at the same time, I, you know, I gotta I gotta find that motivation and push on. And when I'm not feeling like it, a good cup of coffee always helps.

SPEAKER_00 14:59

It's coffee or tea. It's uh it's always one of the two. Yeah, especially for me, it's one of the two. It depends on the mood and it depends on the tempter outside. Um, anything to anything to get the ball rolling. So um, as we pivot now from the personal to professional, so let's talk about your professional expertise. Elena and I have talked about her work in government on the sidelines. We have conversations a lot, everybody. Like this, we can really get going and have long conversations, but we need everybody to know about this in themselves. Um, to shed light on your past experience, can you tell us what it was like working in legislation?

SPEAKER_02 15:38

Yes, so amongst the many 15-minute huddles that have become long hour conversations that you and I have had, we've talked about some of my professional experiences and in particular one act. I would I remember describing an act concerning Pi. I absolutely adore this story, and it was truly eye-opening for me. So when you get a piece of legislation and when you're a young policy analyst, it's it's detailed as an act concerning, and then you can place something in there. And so when I had first started in my career on my desk, I had received that I had to analyze a bill, an act concerning pie. I thought it was a joke, clearly, uh a bill concerning pie. It seemed almost comical. So I went up to my director at the time and made a joke about it. And with a deadpan face, she said, Yeah, so if you could have that bill on my desk by Thursday, that'd be great. That's when the reality hit in. And I think it was a stark reminder that legislation, no matter how trivial it may seem on the surface, carries real weight and demands serious attention. So as a good young staffer and in policy management, uh, I dove in. And so I started analyzing a bill about pie with fervor. And I was surprised as I dived in. Turned out that this seemingly whimsical bill was brought forth by a student class. And for me, it actually shed light on the importance of you know, civic engagement, grassroot advocacy, and that any person, no matter how small, can have a voice in government and can have a voice and make a change. Moreover, I learned some funny things actually about Illinois that I had no idea about, which was fascinating. Apparently, Illinois is the largest producer of canned pumpkins. So that added a layer of complexity and significance to the legislation. Interestingly enough, Morton, Illinois is known as the pumpkin capital of the world, and it produces 85% of the world's canned pumpkins, which was and is great and so funny. And I and what was fantastic too about it is my office mate, he when I said that, like, did you know this? He was like, Oh yeah, I I used to shoot pumpkins out of a cannon for the pumpkin festival. So it's it was a big deal, and it was great, and it was so cool. And then, you know, that's one bill, but later on I transitioned on working on social services like TANET, FIMWIC, and Medicaid and a variety of other public safety and population health services. And, you know, I it transitioned to something very meaningful for me more specifically. Um the opiate and heroin epidemic was really rampant at that time, and it was really plaguing communities across the country, and Illinois was included in that. And my own family, actually, as well. The crisis really hit home, and my family was really impacted by that. And I was able to work on some really powerful legislation. So, as while I was dealing with an act concerning Pi, I was also dealing with things that really had a huge impact on people's health care. And they were, they were both important and they were both bought by grassroots you know activists, and they were really being charged and changed by the community. And that was really cool to see how that how that was carried out. Ultimately, the Heron Crisis Act was really also a testament to bipartisan collaboration. I was so grateful to see that in real time and see how, you know, as we talk about it today, it feels like harder as we talk about finding common ground. And it was just such a really beautiful moment to watch, you know, collective efforts to combat this really pressing issue. And it was ultimately really comprehensive legislation that addressed various facets of the crisis and you know, took a multifaceted approach named at tackling the root causes of addiction and providing support for those in needs, increasing access to naloxone and other things like that. And it just, it wasn't a cure-all. And legislation rarely is a cure-all. But the fight against the opiate and heroin abuse, you know, really required ongoing commitment and resources in a lot of things that we do. And so I think what it's more than just passing laws, it's about really trying to implement comprehensive strategies and see that people can make a change and come together from different life experiences from across the state. You know, Illinois is reflective of the country at large. There's urban sprawl, there's suburbia, there's rural communities. Um, it's a microcosm for the country at large. And so it was really powerful to see when I worked as a policy and legislative and budget analyst to see how everyone could come together to really make change and address public health crisis and make their voices heard. And it it makes honestly there's a big difference in how these things can really impact individual lives and the communities at large. And so it was really um, yeah, that was a really interesting time. That was for me and my career.

SPEAKER_00 21:15

I see where you know legislation really makes an impact, especially with public health, when you're trying to solve an issue that's like a real issue. I have to stop reading the news. But it's you know, you did something that affected people to have better outcomes with life, to have healthier lives, to get, you know, get themselves out of a situation that they were in. And I think we forget that processes often seem distant and abstract to many of us, right? So outside the podcast box, I don't I didn't know what else to call it besides the box. I mean, you're all the way in France, but I feel like it's the box. But um, you said that these legislative processes extend beyond traditional education and impact various aspects of our lives. Can you explain that in greater detail? Like how I know you give the example with the pie and the opiate crisis, but how are they influenced by personal experiences?

SPEAKER_02 22:15

Yeah. So I think when we are reading, you know, whether it's MPR or whatever, however, you're sourcing your information and looking on online, listening, whether it's also a podcast like this one or going on your phone, it's all seen in the abstract. It's all seen distant, it's happening away. From you. And sometimes that is done by design. I won't lie there. And sometimes the language that is also used isn't intended to feel foreign. And there's supposed to be those that in language. So whether you know it, do you know parliamentary procedure, do you understand that, going to feel that disconnect? But the important thing to remember is that the legislative processes are not confined to the halls of government. They really do permeate every facet of our lives. They shape the, you know, in shaping the laws and policies that govern our community. So we really need to also see ourselves as a part and a core component of that, not see it as an abstract thing or something that happens in DC or something that happens outside of our community or happens only in your capital or with lawmakers. You know, take, for instance, healthcare reform, the passage of healthcare legislature, you know, and then medical services, they really influences people's outcomes and, you know, financial well-being. We've had many discussions about the finances of healthcare as well. And so I think one of the ways that we can be political or be involved is really also sharing a personal experience. You know, personal experiences and stories are a powerful catalyst for legislative action. When individuals are sharing their stories of their struggles, of their triumphs, you know, their exciting things, policymakers are compelled to confront the human reality behind those legislative decisions. For example, hearing firsthand accounts of families, you know, grappling with exorbitant medical bills can motivate lawmakers to advocate for comprehensive healthcare reform. I have seen also firsthand mothers and women advocating for their health and their services in Illinois and how it's made a change. I have seen people coming to lawmakers' offices and saying, I need some help. I need a piece of legislation about this. And lawmakers sitting down and being like, Yeah, let's do that. Or staffers being like, let's talk about it. That's huge. That you can have an impact by walking in and advocating for yourselves and telling your story. Um, but that's scary. Yeah, that's really scary. Yeah. I work in this space. I am, you are someone I also enjoy talking to. But sharing my own personal experience is very difficult. And that can be hard. And that's something I want to guard. But it is in telling those difficult things that change can be made. And I go back to there's a uh feminist thinker and philosopher, Sarah Ahmed. Her theory encourages us to really integrate these structures and understand how they produce certain realities. And so, in the context of applying the legislative process beyond traditional education, it's it's really crucial to recognize that education is not just confined to classrooms, it extends to every facet of our lives. We are humans and we are experts in our own experiences. And we hold power to affect real tangible change, like real change when we work together to advocate for it. So, through this intersection of theory and action, it's really grounded in a reality of our lived experiences to change beyond our communities. And so I just don't want anyone to feel like they're alone in this. And I don't want anyone to feel like, well, what can I do when I feel like all of this is happening at me? And I know that's hard and I know that's tiring. And I know when you just want to get your kids to daycare and you just want to be able to relax at the end of the day to still hold that. But our existence is inherently also political, and you're not alone, and there are other people, and there's power in a voice coming together with our community.

SPEAKER_00 26:43

I think one of the struggles is what when you were saying it was scary, is that it's really hard for people to feel like they've been seen and heard. The the feeling of, I mean, I feel this going into the doctor's office. I got a list, right? And I'm like, we're gonna cover everything on this list because these are the things that are bugging me. And if I don't get through that list, I'm like, man, I feel like I've I've failed in some way. And I think that's the same kind of feeling that applies here, and especially with the same process, because you're going to somebody and you're trying to open up and you're hoping that they look at you as a human being with a problem and they're seeking your help. And I think now this could be a whole podcast conversation. We could do a panel about this, really, because you know, it's just it it's it's the the compassion to want to help others to do good things, right? Because we know talking about advocating for tangible change, there are things that people are working together to create change, but is it good change? Is there a meaningful impact behind it? It does, is it considered progress or is it regression? Like when you look at it in all these different facets, it's it you have to think of not only this person that's an individual, you have to go, okay, expand it out. How many more people are dealing with this problem that they just haven't come forward? How many more people can't speak for themselves? So you're advocating for people on a whole. This goes back to what I'm saying of like creating meaningful change for our communities. And I feel like this is it's a struggle and it's a kind of a it's a weird place because when I think of legislation, unfortunately, my brain goes into a negative space. And I don't know if it's because it's been our lives the last six years, seven, eight, I don't know anymore. But I think you have hope, I guess, is what I think what that it comes down to is having hope for more people that want to do good things and encouraging people to come forward and be like, hey, can we work together to do this thing, make it better, fix this problem? Um that was a little bit of a rant there, I feel like.

SPEAKER_02 28:47

Kind of applicable too, because uh during COVID too, I saw so many different community groups coming together in Chicago and providing services and doing some great work. I also have worked with different groups where we hosted baby showers for people in the community through, you know, they're healthcare providers and they're hosting baby showers. That is also a bit coming together and having that community. And also by having those women express, like, hey, I'm I'm not, I don't have a connect community or I'm needing support and at, you know, speaking up. There's also kind of that back and forth. And it it's difficult. Yeah, it's very hard because it can feel daunting to be like, I have to do it again. I have to explain who I am and my what I need again when I'm feeling like I'm not heard. And that's why I really seek out, I encourage people to seek out community and and seek out those connections to people. And also remember that elected officials work for you. Yeah. And I think there was a there was a president who once said, I have to remember continuously remember that I live in a house that's owned by the American people. And reminding that they work for you, not the other way around. And so we also have we have to hold them accountable and and make our voices heard.

SPEAKER_01 30:18

They are supposed to be representing us in the end.

unknown 30:21

Yeah.

SPEAKER_00 30:22

We could keep going on that, but to move onward, my dear. So uh building on the importance of personal narratives, how can individuals harness their own experiences to advocate for legislative change effectively? Like are there any specific strategies or approaches to grassroots advocacy and community organizing that prioritize the incorporation of lived experiences into the legislative process?

SPEAKER_02 30:51

Yeah, I think we've been kind of touching on that as we've been discussing. But it's complex, you know, as we're even navigating this conversation, and we have to remember that navigating the actual landscape is complicated. And I think that we also have to understand that it's essential to approach this with the understanding, a deep understanding of the real world implications. So, as lawmakers, as people who work in healthcare policy, as people who work in the healthcare space and sectors, whether it's even down to a hospital, a provider, the patient, all of those individuals, like every movement and every change is gonna have a real world implication. So we have to share those personal anecdotes and highlight the real world implications. So if we're talking about, you have to do this type of training, well, what's the that's gonna have an impact here? So let's talk through it. Um, and so if people who are gonna be impacted aren't sharing those stories, then it's gonna be difficult to make that connection. And so individuals can really come, you know, humanize that complex policy issue and then have policymakers and the public alike understand more the needs of the community. So I think grassroots organizations and grassroots efforts play a really crucial role in amplifying those voices, um, often for marginalized communities in the legislative process. I think community-led initiatives and coalition building efforts are really important and vital. I think it's also that stepping back sometimes as individuals when a community is speaking and listening is key. I think also individuals need to recognize that they can form their own alliances to advocate for legislative change. You know, grass, you know, roots organizations can focus on environmental justice and may mobilize for communities in the area. And I think that they can also work in partnership. How do maybe the environmental movement connect to healthcare? Clean health, you know, clean water and talking about how that can impact a community. Lead pipes can be a huge healthcare issue. Um, and how can maybe you also think about partnering with maybe abstract partners that you might not think is healthcare, like environmental groups or other organizations, to make a change? I also think it's about, you know, as we think through hospital associations or groups, uh Medicaid, managed care providers and different groups, also having uh peer groups and boards, maybe from people in the individual community, so that they can speak up and share those changes so that they can also be an avenue or act for change. I know that in certain spaces, uh some Medicaid managed care organizations have peer boards so they can talk about their shared experiences, which is great. But I think that it doesn't have to happen under the guise of a major name or a um a leader within the community. You can be that change yourself and your community, and however small can be that. I like I said, these kids were able to come together and make an act concerning pie. Um, but I also think that it's really important for us in the space, people like myself, to really demystify the process of legislation. So, like I had hinted earlier, I think too often legislative processes can feel opaque, inaccessible, really leaving individuals feeling disempowered and disconnected from the decisions that impact their life. So I think we really need to break down that process into digestible components, and we really can empower individuals to make meaningful change. Actually, I remember at brunch uh once I took out my notebook, and with all my friends there, I made like charts and I showed how a bill is made and the flow of it and talked through. And so there's ways for us to also talk about that on larger scales, and I think that that needs to happen. So, making providing accessible resources, educational materials that outline the various stages, you know, talking about how to introduce a bill, how to give testimony. It can feel daunting to public speak in general, and then you're also doing it in front of lawmakers. It can feel but they work for you. And you are an expert as a person with a lived experience. Um, so I think it's also about you know, equipping and helping people with knowledge and tools and resources and foster that within individuals. Remember to draw on your own experiences. And I've seen it firsthand. It's really powerful and it's fantastic. And I I'm I get really jazzed. So if our listeners at a Dramatus Way podcast are interested, I can dive deeper into these topics in future episodes and we can like really dive into everything and the dynamics of committee hearings, the intricacies of testifying before lawmakers and shed light on those processes if in the democratic process, if people are interested.

SPEAKER_00 36:11

So we have a former guest that was on the podcast, and they're trying to advocate for legislative change to allow certified professional midwives patients can have more access to care. They're making a documentary trying to get to educate. That's like one of the things that she's doing. They're making a documentary, they're bringing people together.

SPEAKER_02 36:32

So we did this in Illinois, and I worked on this um in Illinois, and actually I helped talk about implicit biasness too, and how that's a really key component in the discussion as well. Because as we as we were trying to also in Illinois look through and make Illinois, you know, a best practice state for maternal health. And as we were trying to strategize and think through how to improve that, we that's a huge component. Women actually were kept out of at Michigan State. One of the things I originally started as a biomedical and chemical engineering major. And there was a real call to action to having people in the space get into legislation and write policies and make the change. And so I pivoted and I took all of that science background and analyzed healthcare systems from the 1400s to the modern era. So, in part of that, I saw and learned how women were sometimes in doulas and midwives were kept in the United States, were kept out of that process. But how there's a real value. And in Europe and England specifically, they saw that value. And that's been a really core component. In France, for example, your sashwam, your midwife is a huge component. And it's actually a real cultural connection as a woman or an individual who will be bearing a child to have that connection to your sashvam, your doula, your your midwife. And so in Illinois, when I was doing that work, it was a big deal. And we we talked and connected with a lot of people. But in that, what I specifically saw is that when I worked at other organizations and uh queer-based organizations, that implicit bias can have a real impact on the quality of the healthcare you're receiving. It's scary and it's hard already. And then if you're not feeling like they're listening to you as an individual level or being like heard really fundamentally, it's difficult. And so I was talking to a lawmaker at the time who is now in leadership about implicit bias. And he said, let's write a legislation, let's do it. And so we wrote some implicit bias legislation and really were advocating and pushing for that. And eventually it was put into law. And it was a it so my heart, oh my God, really moved because it's such an exciting thing that physicians and nurses could have this implicit bias training and it starts the foundation, but there's so much more work to be done, like you were saying, with the midwives and the doulas. So I would love to talk more about that. And we can have a podcast or I can set up and connect with anyone on that because it's really important and can make make a huge difference in the world.

SPEAKER_00 39:30

That would be amazing, and I would love to see what we can make happen. I did I really didn't expect these things to align. It's amazing when you when you can connect the dots with situations that you know that are happening, and hey, there's somebody that might be able to help. So um, that's fantastic. So we'll see. Everybody stay tuned. Stay tuned. But to get back to the interview itself, so Elena, resilience and leadership is often regarded as a cornerstone for success, especially in navigating challenges and uncertainties. Can you share with us your philosophy on resilience and leadership and how it shapes your approach into leading teams and projects? Absolutely.

SPEAKER_02 40:10

I could talk about resiliency all day long. I really, oh my God, I love talking about it. I love thinking about it, I love digesting, exp it all. But ultimately, I think, yeah, resilience and leadership. To me, it's not just about bouncing back from setbacks, but rather it's about the capacity to adapt, learn, grow, grow stronger, actually, from those experiences. I think it involves fostering a culture where challenges are seen as opportunities for growth and setbacks are viewed as stepping stones towards that success. I was recently getting coffee with someone and they said, Alina, you're you're you're always able to find kind of that silver lining in something. And I said, Well, that's not because I'm overly optimistic. Actually, sometimes I can be quite a pessimistic myself, but I think it ultimately comes down to being a realist. When you see things actually for how they are, you can also realize we can make this work. We can get through this. And I think that's part of the idea of being a resilient leader is just seeing the layout of things and recognizing actually, hey, there's mutual alignment here. We're recognizing that, hey, we're we're both talking about the same thing, but we're coming at it from different angles because your life experience is gonna be different than mine. We were talking about recently, you know, our age, you know, some of the things about us are very similar, but you are Liz and I am Elena. And so how we're gonna approach things is gonna be fundamentally just different, even if we're talking about the same thing. And having that resiliency is recognizing, like, okay, there's a path forward. We'll get there. So I think, in my view, resiliency is deeply intertwined also with the emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, fostering a supportive environment for my team members too. You have to feel safe to do that. And I think it's about being able to weather the storms while maintaining focus on the goals and building, you know, my team and teams through turbulent times with optimism, but very important because if you keep the team uh good spirits, we'll keep going, we'll just keep that boat sailing through. Well, actually, that oh my god, there's a fantastic uh story about an individual who sailed to go to the Antarctic and his team crashed, and they were stuck. And he is a really great case study on being a resilient leader and the things he did to keep the team, the spirits up. And it's a really great case study of resiliency that I always come back to. So it's hilarious that you talk about keep the ships moving because the ship did not move, but he showed and proved that he was a very resilient leader. Uh, you know, one of his strategies actually was moving the camps around the people in the camps around. So when he started to hear dissent, what he actually did is he brought those individuals into his tent and spent time with them. Instead of separating or avoiding, he said he brought them closer in so that they felt connected and he could keep spirits high. And when the ship was actually sinking, when they were bringing out all the most important things from the ship, what they could have. A banjo was one of the most important things because that was important for morale. And so you have to keep thinking about that. So even when the ships aren't moving, how do you still be a resilient leader?

SPEAKER_00 43:42

That is awesome. That was a really great example. That's just fantastic. I'm gonna see, I'm gonna find it for everybody. And uh, I'll end up recording myself saying, Hey, I found it. Um, this is what it is. If you want to look it up. So to continue the idea of uh, or not the idea, uh, to continue talking about resilience and leadership. So in the past, Michelle had actually wrote, Michelle, our founder, everybody, uh, she wrote an Our Ideas article. It's a blog article that's on our website. And uh to date, it is the most viewed article. And I find that interesting just because so many people are looking up leader resilience and leadership and how to be resilient. So, you know, what motivates you to initiate and champion change within, you know, us or our organization? And how do you envision this commitment shaping the trajectory? Of your career.

SPEAKER_02 44:37

Hmm. Oh, that's a great question. Well, I would say my commitment to affecting change in professional settings really stems from a deep-seated belief in continuous improvement and ultimately wanting to have that positive impact. I believe that organizations really do have a responsibility to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of their stakeholders and the people that they're trying to, their clients or whoever they're trying to support and represent, and the community at large, though, as well. So whether they're customers, employees, it's all really important. So I think personally, as a leader, I see it as my duty to identify areas for improvement, challenge it, the status quo, and really spearhead initiatives that drive meaningful change. So whether it's streamlining processes for efficiency or fostering a more inclusive work culture or implementing sustainable practices, I really do believe I'm I'm driven by the desire to leave a lasting impact and legacy of progress and innovation in any role I'm undertaking. And so, on one hand, I'm surprised that Michelle's article is the highest and most viewed because we've got so many great articles on our team. But at the same time, I'm not surprised because resiliency and leadership is really important. And I think also recognizing the value of soft skills as we move and as technology is adapting and changing, hard skills are really going to be important. There's a lot of data about how continuous education, small certificates, and you know, tuning those hard skills are going to be really vital. But I think soft skills and fostering people's soft skills and really fostering that's going to be important. So ultimately, I want to be a force for change and positive change.

SPEAKER_00 46:31

You found the right team, ladies and gentlemen. Elena Kennedy. We are ending, no, we're not ending the show. I'm kidding. Don't be kidding. So I mean, this is one of the reasons that you're on the team. It's perfect, such a perfect fit. And uh it's, you know, it's evident that you're deeply committed to driving positive change. So, how will your beliefs of resilience and driving change influence your role at a dramatist? You know, what's what's your plan for our future?

SPEAKER_02 46:58

Absolutely. Well, at a dramatist, I feel my aim is to foster a culture of resiliency, as we were getting, and innovation, as I had noted earlier. So that empowers our team to tackle challenges. Head on, drive sustainable change. We keep saying we do the thing. So we got to do the thing and keep at it. This means investing in our people, providing them with tools and support they need to thrive, cultivating an environment where creativity and collaboration really flourishes. You know, there are a lot of things that I've been hinting at throughout this conversation, demystifying things and explaining and walking people through, whether it's our clients or whether it's our internal teammates or other people out in the community. I am a continuous learner. I actually found my old journal from when I was 18 and I had noted in there. I want to always keep learning because that means that I'm alive and I'm growing. So I take that very profound mind. Oh my goodness. I was gave myself a little pat on the back for that one. But nevertheless, I still take that same fervor and youthful energy and to grow and innovate into all that I do. So I'm committed to being a champion for initiatives that align with our core values. You know, my core values, I think, really do echo, are echoed in Andromeda's. And I want to be a contributor to that greater good, whether it's through community outreach programs, whether it's through, I don't know, environmental, sustainable efforts, diversity, inclusion initiatives and the like, project planning, literature reviews, and you know, stakeholder engagements, all of those things, I think they're really vital and really important to be change making. So I want to harness those collective strengths of our team, staying true to our principles. I'm confident. I really am. I'm really confident that we can achieve remarkable things together at a dramatic. I can't end on that that note either, Elena.

SPEAKER_00 48:47

I have to, I have to get you one more question. Why are you hitting me with these excuses, the perfect closers? Come on. Goodness gracious. I was not prepared for this. Well, okay, so I do have one final question for you. I ask all of our guests this. It's, you know, it changes every now and then, but really it's a call to action. So in the grand scope of the healthcare industry and its challenges, what's one piece of advice or call to action you would like to leave our listeners with? You know, how can the collective, regardless of our role or background, contribute to meaningful change in healthcare without being deterred by the obstacles ahead?

SPEAKER_02 49:28

That, Liz, is a great question. And it's a complicated one. It's there's oh, that could be a whole nother podcast. But if I have to kind of choose one thing, I think it gets back to something you and I have talked about about your perspective is a value. We were talking about doing something, and you had mentioned that you didn't think or know if you could provide value to something. And we discussed that actually you hold a lot of value in doing this project because of your experience and the lens in which you view it. And I think that that as it applies to healthcare is really important because some how a system is supposed to work isn't always how it actually works. And I think about that in my in my own family. I have family members who struggle with chronic disease, and the system has been explained, oh, it is like this because the people are wearing their white coats or the people are in a place of authority. But the system sometimes doesn't work like that and has created barriers and difficulties. And for individuals who might be in a vulnerable space, dealing with chronic disease, feeling like they're disenfranchised, like the system's not made for them, that can be really hard. And so I've tried to impress upon with my family members that your voice has value. You know the system because you're also living in it. Yes, they're one part of it, but you are also navigating. And so speak your truth. Tell your story, whether it's to your doctor, you can also advocate for yourself and be that advocate and lean on your family members or friends when you need also another support for that advocate. There's been situations in which I have had family members and friends apply for Medicaid and been denied when I know that they, because I work in the space, qualify. Well, we found that there was a bug in the system. Okay, well, let's pull that up and let's get what you need. Or a situation in which a healthcare provider was able to prescribe a piece of medication, but then it needed to be administered. It was a long-acting injectable for mental health supports. Well, they weren't going to support it, but then no one was. So actually, while my family member had been prescribed this medication, there was a barrier to actually getting really the medication. Having it in hand wasn't enough. They needed to actually have it in their body, in their system. So we had to advocate. And so I just want everyone to know that their perspective is of value. Their experience, their life experience is a value. They are an expert in their own life. And I just hope today that I've impressed that we must be resilient leaders in our own life and our own work. We must keep powering on. It's hard. Take your breaks, be mindful of your space, carve that out. Take that extra cup of coffee or that glass of water if you need it. But then keep going on. You are a value, you are important. Speak up, and it's gonna be okay.

SPEAKER_00 52:38

No matter when you're listening to this episode, at the end of the week, on the weekend, or late in your day, let Elena's words be the motivation that gets you up and feel empowered to create meaningful and sustainable change. Thank you, Elena, for coming aboard and speaking with me. When I was editing this, I couldn't believe it, but we spoke for two hours. We can really spend forever talking to each other. And as promised in my little research to find the resilient leader of the ship in the Arctic, the name in that leader was Ernest Shackleton, Polar Explorer who led four expeditions and the Trans Antarctic expedition between 1914 and 1916. That should help you begin your research in resilience, my friends. The Adromatus Way is produced by me, Liz Church. Editorial assistance for this episode was by Elena. Adromatus is a boutique consulting firm with the imperative mission of creating healthier, more resilient, more equitable communities. I encourage all of you to reach out and get to know us. You can listen to all of our previous episodes on our website, Adromatas Consulting.com slash Adromatas Dash Way. That's A-R-T-O-M-I-T-O-S. We can also be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. We'll see you next time!