Episodes
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Wind Beneath Their Wings: Improving a County Healthcare System
Chief Communications Officer, Caryn Stancik, and General Counsel, Elizabeth Reidy, recognized the value of having a highly functional government healthcare system to care for the medically underserved population of Cook County. Their careers were devoted to helping guide Cook County Hospital through the Affordable Care Act, a transition to an independent health system board; they provided stability through a series of CEOs. They describe their motivation for working in government, in health care, and how the mission sustained them as they developed legal and communications strategies to navigate a series of crises—and, they managed to retain their sense of humor. Find out what it takes to thrive in a no-frills work environment.
Chief Communications Officer, Caryn Stancik, and General Counsel, Elizabeth Reidy, recognized the value of having a highly functional government healthcare system to care for the medically underserved population of Cook County. Their careers were devoted to helping guide Cook County Hospital through the Affordable Care Act, a transition to an independent health system board; they provided stability through a series of CEOs. They describe their motivation for working in government, in health care, and how the mission sustained them as they developed legal and communications strategies to navigate a series of crises—and, they managed to retain their sense of humor. Find out what it takes to thrive in a no-frills work environment.
Audio Players 
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Leadership With Laughter: The Triple Threat Doctor
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.
Audio Players
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Essential Items for Your Medical Bag
When asked, “What is the one item, literal or figurative, that you would put in your medical bag?”, seventeen former Cook County Hospital healthcare workers provided responses that sustained them during challenging but fulfilling, mission-oriented careers. Collectively, they distill hundreds of years of patient care into advice that is critical to pack with you during a healthcare career.
Laryngoscopy: From Head Mirrors to Fiberoptics
Audio Players
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Running Toward Chaos: Emergency Medicine, with Dr. Jeff Schaider
Dr. Jeff Schaider thrived in his career as an emergency medicine physician in Cook County Hospital’s storied Emergency Department. From the “routine” chaos of a Friday night in the ER to the stress of resuscitating a dying patient, he enjoyed having his brain activated by the rapid pace of medical care and his hand on the pulse of the city. Jeff reflects on his career, the patients, the hospital, and Hollywood’s adaptation of the original “ER”. Epilogue provided by Dr. Steve Aks, toxicologist and emergency department colleague.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Legacies in Medicine: Marcus Welby to Smartphones with Drs. Peter Clarke & Chris Smith
Legendary leaders of Cook County Hospital’s internal medicine program for trainees and medical students, and expert clinicians, Peter Clarke and Chris Smith, share their wisdom. They discuss caring for patients, educating the next generation of physicians, and their evolution as healers. Epilogue by former internal medicine training program director, Dr. Christine Acob.
Legendary leaders of Cook County Hospital’s internal medicine program for trainees and medical students, and expert clinicians, Peter Clarke and Chris Smith, share their wisdom. They discuss caring for patients, educating the next generation of physicians, and their evolution as healers. Epilogue by former internal medicine training program director, Dr. Christine Acob.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Deep Roots of Inclusion & Caring for Family with Dr. Benjamin Mba (Part 2)
With roots across continents and religions, inclusion comes naturally to Dr. Benjamin Mba. He shares insights on why inclusion is the requisite factor for meaningful DEI efforts, for the 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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Teaching Thinking: A Master Educator’s Methods with Dr. Benjamin Mba (Part 1)
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 the University of Michigan Medical School and author of “Teaching Inpatient Medicine: What Every Physician Needs to Know”. Sanjay observed Ben as part of a nationwide evaluation of exemplary teachers.
Audio Players
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Healing Connections: The Organizer who Wove Community into Healthcare with Mary Driscoll
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”.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Treating Addiction: Compassion meets Courage with Dr. Jen Smith
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 the 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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Women Healing Women with HIV/AIDS with Drs. Mildred Williamson & Toyin Falusi-Nwafor
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.
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
County Hospital’s Past & Present: A Candid Conversation with Dr. David Schwartz
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Healthcare Behind Bars at Cook County Jail (Part 2) with Dr. Jack Raba
While working in Guatemala, Dr. Jack Raba is recruited back to Cook County Hospital to be the medical director for Cook County Jail. He negotiates and spearheads the transformation of healthcare at the jail, and champions public health initiatives to combat tuberculosis, smoking, and sexually transmitted infections. He courageously works to reduce the use of excessive force within the walls of the jail and pre-arrival by Chicago Police. Epilogue provided by Doctors Jane Leonardson and Connie Mennella, two Northwestern Medical Students who made correctional healthcare a career after hearing Dr. Raba’s guest lecture.
A Doctor’s Life in Correctional Healthcare, Dr. Jack Raba
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Cook County Jail: Patients, Public Health, & Prevention (Part 1) with Dr. Jack Raba
In Part 1, Dr. Jack Raba recounts his transformative high-school volunteer experience at Cook County Hospital, his return to Cook County as a student at Northwestern Medical School. Seeking to build clinical confidence, he took a year off to work in hospitals in Mexico and Guatemala. As a physician-in-training at Cook County Hospital, he and his colleagues grappled with the ethical dilemma of physicians going on strike. Hear about the brief incarceration of the strike organizers and Jack’s accidental escape from Cook County Jail. Epilogue provided by Ken Brucks, longtime friend and sometimes rival on Christ the King basketball courts.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Healing when Unhoused: Creating a Medical Respite Center with Christine Haley & Keiki Hinami
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.
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Beats and Balance: The Rhythm of Effective Leadership with Dr. Christine Acob
Dr. Christine Acob trained at Cook County Hospital and ended her 30-year career as the Chair of the Internal Medicine Residency Program. She provided calm and compassionate leadership before, during, and after the COVID pandemic. But, perhaps, she is best remembered as the drummer for resident rock bands. Commentary provided by former vocalist, Dr. Paula Eryacizi.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Chicago to Chinle: A Journey from Urban to Tribal Health Justice with Dr. David Goldberg
Dr. David Goldberg discusses his over 30-year career spanning Cook County & the Indian Health Service with characteristic humility and thoughtfulness. Join this deep thinker as he describes how his dreams of being a physicist evolved into a career addressing health disparities—as a frontline clinician, preventive medicine champion, and social justice advocate. Commentary provided by Dr. Jen Smith.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Academics Advance Medicine with Dr. Brian Lucas, Inaugural Chair of Hospital Medicine
Dr. Brian Lucas discusses his experience as a clinician, educator, & researcher at Cook County Hospital. A serial innovator, he founded the hospital medicine program, bedside ultrasound and procedure services, and a short-stay unit for rapid assessment & treatment of patients. A national expert in bedside ultrasound, he now works at the Dartmouth Institute of Health Policy & Clinical Practice. Brian discusses the value of academic excellence for patient care and reveals an unconventional hobby! Commentary provided by Dr. Stefan Tchernodrinski.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Creating a Palliative Care Program with Dr. Cathy Deamant
Dr. Cathy Deamant was drawn to the mission of Cook County Hospital as a medical student. After providing care for patients hospitalized with HIV/AIDS, she was motivated to improve the care of patients with terminal illnesses in a safety-net institution. This included hospice care, and when requested, facilitating a return to their country of origin for immigrant patients—commentary provided by Dr. Josh Baru.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close
-
Wind Beneath Their Wings: Improving a County Healthcare System
Chief Communications Officer, Caryn Stancik, and General Counsel, Elizabeth Reidy, recognized the value of having a highly functional government healthcare system to care for the medically underserved population of Cook County. Their careers were devoted to helping guide Cook County Hospital through the Affordable Care Act, a transition to an independent health system board; they provided stability through a series of CEOs. They describe their motivation for working in government, in health care, and how the mission sustained them as they developed legal and communications strategies to navigate a series of crises—and, they managed to retain their sense of humor. Find out what it takes to thrive in a no-frills work environment.
Chief Communications Officer, Caryn Stancik, and General Counsel, Elizabeth Reidy, recognized the value of having a highly functional government healthcare system to care for the medically underserved population of Cook County. Their careers were devoted to helping guide Cook County Hospital through the Affordable Care Act, a transition to an independent health system board; they provided stability through a series of CEOs. They describe their motivation for working in government, in health care, and how the mission sustained them as they developed legal and communications strategies to navigate a series of crises—and, they managed to retain their sense of humor. Find out what it takes to thrive in a no-frills work environment.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Leadership With Laughter: The Triple Threat Doctor
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Essential Items for Your Medical Bag
When asked, “What is the one item, literal or figurative, that you would put in your medical bag?”, seventeen former Cook County Hospital healthcare workers provided responses that sustained them during challenging but fulfilling, mission-oriented careers. Collectively, they distill hundreds of years of patient care into advice that is critical to pack with you during a healthcare career.
Laryngoscopy: From Head Mirrors to Fiberoptics
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Running Toward Chaos: Emergency Medicine, with Dr. Jeff Schaider
Dr. Jeff Schaider thrived in his career as an emergency medicine physician in Cook County Hospital’s storied Emergency Department. From the “routine” chaos of a Friday night in the ER to the stress of resuscitating a dying patient, he enjoyed having his brain activated by the rapid pace of medical care and his hand on the pulse of the city. Jeff reflects on his career, the patients, the hospital, and Hollywood’s adaptation of the original “ER”. Epilogue provided by Dr. Steve Aks, toxicologist and emergency department colleague.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Legacies in Medicine: Marcus Welby to Smartphones with Drs. Peter Clarke & Chris Smith
Legendary leaders of Cook County Hospital’s internal medicine program for trainees and medical students, and expert clinicians, Peter Clarke and Chris Smith, share their wisdom. They discuss caring for patients, educating the next generation of physicians, and their evolution as healers. Epilogue by former internal medicine training program director, Dr. Christine Acob.
Legendary leaders of Cook County Hospital’s internal medicine program for trainees and medical students, and expert clinicians, Peter Clarke and Chris Smith, share their wisdom. They discuss caring for patients, educating the next generation of physicians, and their evolution as healers. Epilogue by former internal medicine training program director, Dr. Christine Acob.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Deep Roots of Inclusion & Caring for Family with Dr. Benjamin Mba (Part 2)
With roots across continents and religions, inclusion comes naturally to Dr. Benjamin Mba. He shares insights on why inclusion is the requisite factor for meaningful DEI efforts, for the 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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Teaching Thinking: A Master Educator’s Methods with Dr. Benjamin Mba (Part 1)
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 the University of Michigan Medical School and author of “Teaching Inpatient Medicine: What Every Physician Needs to Know”. Sanjay observed Ben as part of a nationwide evaluation of exemplary teachers.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Healing Connections: The Organizer who Wove Community into Healthcare with Mary Driscoll
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”.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Treating Addiction: Compassion meets Courage with Dr. Jen Smith
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 the 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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Women Healing Women with HIV/AIDS with Drs. Mildred Williamson & Toyin Falusi-Nwafor
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.
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
County Hospital’s Past & Present: A Candid Conversation with Dr. David Schwartz
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Healthcare Behind Bars at Cook County Jail (Part 2) with Dr. Jack Raba
While working in Guatemala, Dr. Jack Raba is recruited back to Cook County Hospital to be the medical director for Cook County Jail. He negotiates and spearheads the transformation of healthcare at the jail, and champions public health initiatives to combat tuberculosis, smoking, and sexually transmitted infections. He courageously works to reduce the use of excessive force within the walls of the jail and pre-arrival by Chicago Police. Epilogue provided by Doctors Jane Leonardson and Connie Mennella, two Northwestern Medical Students who made correctional healthcare a career after hearing Dr. Raba’s guest lecture.
A Doctor’s Life in Correctional Healthcare, Dr. Jack Raba
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Cook County Jail: Patients, Public Health, & Prevention (Part 1) with Dr. Jack Raba
In Part 1, Dr. Jack Raba recounts his transformative high-school volunteer experience at Cook County Hospital, his return to Cook County as a student at Northwestern Medical School. Seeking to build clinical confidence, he took a year off to work in hospitals in Mexico and Guatemala. As a physician-in-training at Cook County Hospital, he and his colleagues grappled with the ethical dilemma of physicians going on strike. Hear about the brief incarceration of the strike organizers and Jack’s accidental escape from Cook County Jail. Epilogue provided by Ken Brucks, longtime friend and sometimes rival on Christ the King basketball courts.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Healing when Unhoused: Creating a Medical Respite Center with Christine Haley & Keiki Hinami
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.
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.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Beats and Balance: The Rhythm of Effective Leadership with Dr. Christine Acob
Dr. Christine Acob trained at Cook County Hospital and ended her 30-year career as the Chair of the Internal Medicine Residency Program. She provided calm and compassionate leadership before, during, and after the COVID pandemic. But, perhaps, she is best remembered as the drummer for resident rock bands. Commentary provided by former vocalist, Dr. Paula Eryacizi.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Chicago to Chinle: A Journey from Urban to Tribal Health Justice with Dr. David Goldberg
Dr. David Goldberg discusses his over 30-year career spanning Cook County & the Indian Health Service with characteristic humility and thoughtfulness. Join this deep thinker as he describes how his dreams of being a physicist evolved into a career addressing health disparities—as a frontline clinician, preventive medicine champion, and social justice advocate. Commentary provided by Dr. Jen Smith.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Academics Advance Medicine with Dr. Brian Lucas, Inaugural Chair of Hospital Medicine
Dr. Brian Lucas discusses his experience as a clinician, educator, & researcher at Cook County Hospital. A serial innovator, he founded the hospital medicine program, bedside ultrasound and procedure services, and a short-stay unit for rapid assessment & treatment of patients. A national expert in bedside ultrasound, he now works at the Dartmouth Institute of Health Policy & Clinical Practice. Brian discusses the value of academic excellence for patient care and reveals an unconventional hobby! Commentary provided by Dr. Stefan Tchernodrinski.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close -
Creating a Palliative Care Program with Dr. Cathy Deamant
Dr. Cathy Deamant was drawn to the mission of Cook County Hospital as a medical student. After providing care for patients hospitalized with HIV/AIDS, she was motivated to improve the care of patients with terminal illnesses in a safety-net institution. This included hospice care, and when requested, facilitating a return to their country of origin for immigrant patients—commentary provided by Dr. Josh Baru.
Audio Players
replay_10play_arrowforward_10close