In this episode of FOCUS on Leadership, Amy Shaw, President and CEO of Nine PBS and past Board Chair for FOCUS, explores an often-overlooked leadership principle: joy. From stepping into the CEO role during a time of crisis to navigating personal health battles and industry-wide uncertainty, she explains how leading with joy has helped her and her organization stay grounded, resilient, and forward-looking. In this candid conversation, we also discuss the importance of vulnerability, the lessons learned from navigating crisis, and how to create a workplace where people feel energized and valued.

How do we lead with clarity and compassion through times of crisis or uncertainty? In this episode, we had the privilege to talk with Dr. Alexander Garza, Chief Community Health Office for SSM Health and past Commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force. Drawing from his unique experiences in emergency medicine, military service, and public health, Dr. Garza reflects on the lessons he has learned and the leaders who have shaped his path. He also discusses today’s biggest public health challenges, his goals for the future, and how health is shaped far beyond hospital walls.

In this episode, we sit down with FOCUS Leadership St. Louis grad Dr. Yusef Scoggin, Executive Director of Delmar DivINe, to explore his career evolution and vision for our region. From his early experiences in medicine to leading a regional nonprofit hub, Dr. Scoggin reflects on the importance of cultural competence, collaboration, and courage in creating real community change. He shares how Delmar DivINe is redefining the historic Delmar Divide and driving collective impact. The conversation also explores the hidden traumas that affect local communities and how healing begins with inclusion, understanding, and shared purpose.