FOCUS on Leadership

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.

Whose story are we telling and why does it matter? In this episode of the FOCUS on Leadership podcast, we had the privilege to sit down with historian and author (and former FOCUS board member) Dr. Frances Levine. We explore the roots of her early interest in history, as well as her distinguished career in museum administration, including her work as past President of the Missouri Historical Society. Dr. Levine discusses her perspective on the valuable role museums play in today's culture, the importance of stories in building community, and the stories she brings to light in her new book, Crossings: Women on the Santa Fe Trail. 

As President of Marian Middle School since 2013, Mary Elizabeth Grimes is responsible for stewarding over 200 students from 5th grade through post-secondary education and beyond. In this episode of the FOCUS on Leadership podcast, she shares her thoughts on the power of education and the joy she finds in supporting and leading her students. Reflecting back on a long and extensive career, ranging from media sales to sports marketing to nonprofit management, Mary Elizabeth discusses the importance of staying in alignment with your purpose and values.