Inspiring Women with 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 

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

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 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.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

“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 […]

Colleen Bowman, VP of HR at IAC, shares her unconventional path from nutrition to HR leadership, revealing how empathy and high expectations empower teams. Discover her insights on navigating complex healthcare benefits, building trust, and the evolving role of HR in a changing world. Colleen emphasizes the importance of relationships, continuous learning, and employee education […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

  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 […]

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, […]

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's AI-driven command centers are transforming patient care and hospital efficiency. Key takeaways:  Learn about GE's groundbreaking command center technology and […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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.  […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

Join Inspiring Women Host Lori 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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Laurie McGraw is speaking with Inspiring Woman Kristin Rodriguez.  Kristin is many things, and one of those things is that Kristen 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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]