Dr. Robert (Bob) A. Weinstein, former Chair of Medicine at Cook County Hospital, describes a career formed early as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer investigating hospital outbreaks at the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. A single investigation led to decades of research & inquiry, and international leadership. With characteristic humor, he provides advice on life and leadership. Epilogue by Denise Cardo, former Director of the Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion at CDC.

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Medical crises often require time to recuperate in a clean and safe environment—but what happens when someone leaves the hospital with no place to recover? Without access to basic hygiene, secure medication storage, or protection for wounds, recovery can be nearly impossible. In this episode, Christine Haley and Keiki Hinami share how they successfully developed a low-barrier medical respite center during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how that initiative evolved into a more permanent solution. Epilogue provided by Ed Stellon of the Illinois Public Health Institute.

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With roots across continents and religions, inclusion comes natural to Dr. Benjamin Mba. He shares insights on why inclusion is the requisite factor for meaningful DEI efforts, for success of organizations beyond healthcare. Ben explores the challenges faced by healthcare workers when guiding families through illness—and the healing role of kindness. With so many options, Ben reveals his preferred destination for a family reunion. Epilogue provided by former Cook County Hospital Chief Resident Farah Ciftci.

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Dr. Benjamin Mba is a nationally renowned clinical educator of internal medicine trainees and medical students. Effortless?? No! Ben shares insights he learned observing mentors and through decades of honing the craft teaching medical trainees during rounds and morning reports—presentations and discussions of challenging diagnostic cases. Now at @Yale School of Medicine, Ben reflects fondly on his career at Cook County Hospital.

Epilogue by Dr. Sanjay Saint, Professor at University of Michigan Medical School and author of “Teaching Inpatient Medicine: What Every Physician Needs to Know”. Sanjay observed Ben as part of a nation-wide evaluation of exemplary teachers.

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We hear the inspiring story of Mary Driscoll, who repurposed the skills she acquired during community organizing for peace and civil rights to Cook County Hospital and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Through tireless advocacy and relationship-building, she built bridges between neighborhoods and public health systems—recognizing that sustainable healing begins with community connections. Epilogue by Dr. Ellen Mason, who, in the words of John Lewis, recognized Mary’s penchant for “Good Trouble”.

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After medical school and training, Doctor Jen Smith knew how to treat the medical complications from harmful use of alcohol and drugs but not how to help people avoid those risks through treatment of their addiction. Through resolute dedication to self-education, listening to patients in the depths of their struggle, and guiding the evolution of Cook County Hospital’s treatment approach, she made a difference.

Epilogue provided by Peter Clarke, former colleague, esteemed educator, and primary care “doc” at Cook County Hospital.

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At a time when many were reluctant to provide care for people with AIDS, staff at Cook County Hospital rose to the challenge. With support from a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant, the Midwest’s largest provider of HIV services emerged with a welcoming and nurturing clinical center for women & children living with HIV. Mildred & Toyin share the perspectives of a social worker and physician on compassionate patient-centered care.

Epilogue provided by John Peller, CEO & President at the @AIDS Foundation of Chicago.

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With the looming cutbacks to Medicaid, safety net health systems are vital. After three-decades at County, Dr. David Schwartz explores its tumultuous history—one filled with challenge and progress. As a young doctor, he grappled with the frustrations of witnessing sometimes indifferent medical care, which improved under strong leadership and reduced political interference. Join us for stories of clinical care and our nation’s first blood “bank”.

Epilogue provided by Scott Fridkin, former Cook County Hospital fellow and CDC epidemiologist.

Visit major podcast platforms or www.inspiredtoheal.net to listen and for relevant links to information about this episode and prior episodes.

Additional guest information & links to podcast platforms are available at www.inspiredtoheal.net. Please like and follow us on your favorite platform.

Contact us with feedback and suggestions through the website.