Dr. Anisha Patel on humanizing change through community outreach (podcast episode #12)
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On today’s episode, Ari has a conversation with Dr. Anisha Patel, Professor of Pediatrics at Stanford University.
Ari’s chat with Anisha covers several topics, including partnering with local organizations in community-engaged research, understanding every step of the process, from assessment to measuring results, and implementing regional AND national change based on community feedback.
The conversation begins with Anisha sharing her early experiences growing up as the only Indian family in rural North Carolina, feeling welcomed and encouraged by her pediatrician growing up, and how she combined that with an interest in anthropology to help her influence the healthcare system at large for children outside a clinic setting.
Highlights from the conversation:
- I start with listening. Real change begins by listening deeply to the people impacted — designing with communities, not just for them.
- I translate data into human stories. I believe in making complex data meaningful by turning it into clear, relatable narratives that inspire understanding and action.
- I build trust through transparency. Even when the message is tough, I commit to honest, open communication because trust is earned through consistency and clarity.
- I center lived experience. I include community voices in the design and decision-making process to ensure the solutions reflect their actual needs.
- I keep communication simple and consistent. Whether it’s a flyer or a framework, I make sure every message is clear, cohesive, and accessible.
Produced by Ari Abraham and Hannah Fales, with artwork by Chris Roettger.
