Feel like you need a fancy title or corner office to make real change happen in public health? Think again. In this episode of Public Health Curated, we're exploring how to lead from exactly where you are, using the power you already have to create meaningful transformation.
Key Takeaways
- Your ability to create change isn't determined by your title
- Authentic influence often surpasses formal authority
- Small, strategic actions can create significant ripples of change
- Building relationships is more powerful than wielding authority
Episode Highlights
Understanding Your Power Sources
1. Expertise Power
- Your unique perspective and experience
- Ground-level understanding of what works
- Community knowledge and insights
- Practical implementation expertise
2. Relationship Power
- Networks across departments and organizations
- Community connections
- Cross-functional relationships
- Support system builders
3. Strategic Influence
- Coalition building
- Data-driven storytelling
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Change through connection
The Strategic Action Framework
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The "Pilot Project" Approach
- Start small and document everything
- Use data to tell your story
- Let success build your authority
- Scale what works
-
The "Coalition Building" Method
- Find others who share your vision
- Create space for diverse voices
- Build momentum together
- Celebrate collective wins
-
The "Visible Wins" Strategy
- Celebrate small victories publicly
- Share credit generously
- Document impact consistently
- Build credibility through results
Success Strategies
1. Map Your Influence
- Identify what you can control directly
- Understand where you can have influence
- Recognize your broader concerns
- Focus energy on your influence zone
2. Build Authentic Relationships
- Foster genuine connections
- Create collaborative spaces
- Share knowledge freely
- Support others' success
3. Lead Through Service
- Focus on solving real problems
- Support team success
- Share resources and knowledge
- Create value without authority
Your Action Steps
- Create your influence map using the three circles exercise
- Choose one item from your influence zone to focus on
- Take one small action this week toward your chosen goal
- Share your commitment using #LeadWhereYouAre
Join the Conversation
Share your leadership journey and connect with other impact-shapers using #LeadWhereYouAre. How are you creating change from your current position? What small wins are you celebrating this week? Let's grow our collective power together!
About the Host: Veronica Sek-Shubert, MPH, is the founder of Public Health Curated and a DrPH candidate at Tulane University. With over 15 years of experience in non-for-profit and public health spaces, she's dedicated to helping professionals rediscover their spark while creating meaningful system change.