Global Health Insights
Global Health Insights
Podcast Description
Interviews with global health leaders on how they are working to speed up impact singerp.substack.com
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on global health innovation, health equity, social entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. Episodes delve into specific topics like maternal health and economic productivity, with concrete examples showcasing projects such as the M-MAMA initiative providing transport for pregnant women in rural Tanzania and discussions about Grand Challenges Canada and its impact on local health systems.
Interviews with global health leaders on how they are working to speed up impact
Summary
In this conversation, Katri Bertram shares her insights on leadership in global health, discussing the lessons learned from her extensive experience in various organizations. She emphasizes the importance of accountability for results and humility in leadership. We discuss the lack of progress in Universal Health Coverage as a case example calling for leadership. Katri also reflects on the future of global health, and offers advice for young people entering the field. We also talk about the desired leadership traits of the next WHO Director-General. More: singerp.substack.com
Keywords
global health, leadership, accountability, universal health coverage, future of health, leadership lessons, health systems, mentoring, results-driven leadership, health equity
Takeaways
Katri Bertram emphasizes the importance of knowing what you want as a leader.
Purpose is crucial for effective leadership in global health.
Authentic buy-in from staff is essential for success.
Leaders must appreciate the value of their team members.
Letting go of control is a significant challenge for leaders.
Accountability is key to achieving results in global health.
The global health landscape is becoming increasingly fragmented.
Young professionals should be encouraged to speak out and ask questions.
The golden era of global health funding is over, requiring new leadership approaches.
Health is inherently political, and leaders must take responsibility for their actions.
Sound Bites
“Health is a political choice.”
“The golden era is over.”
“We need more people speaking out.”
Chapters
00:00 Leadership Lessons in Global Health
07:16 The Essence of Effective Leadership
14:31 Best and Worst Leadership Experiences
21:20 Accountability and Results in Global Health
27:53 Accountability in Global Health
28:48 The End of the Golden Era?
29:55 Future of Global Health Leadership
33:47 Fragmentation and Competition in Leadership
36:50 The Role of WHO in Global Health
41:26 Existential Questions for WHO
42:34 Unifying Goals in Global Health
45:22 Health as a Political Choice
47:54 Leadership Roles in Global Health
50:34 Advice for Young Global Health Professionals
Links
Katri Bertram’s blog on leadership
https://katribertram.wordpress.com/2025/11/24/lead-the-ship/
Peter Singer’s blog on leadership in global health
Singerp.substack.com
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