In the Arena with NOW
In the Arena with NOW lifts up the voices of community leaders who are “in the arena” -- in classrooms, playgrounds, Congressional halls, hospitals, and neighborhood streets -- working to make sure that all children and families can live healthy, thriving lives. Each episode will delve into the experiences of local coalitions, residents, and experts who are working to create equitable systems of care and education. We’ll learn about what they are doing and why, challenges and successes faced, and advice for others seeking to build, grow, and sustain momentum for the long haul. Learn more at: https://www.networksofopportunity.org
In the Arena with NOW
The Power of Convivencia: Finding Connections through Community Care
In episode seven, we visit the community of Travis County, Texas and speak with Dr. Michelle Gallas, a pediatrician who has worked for the last decade caring for children and families facing complex medical and social challenges that impact their health and wellbeing. Dr. Gallas reflects on her own personal journey that transformed her care approach away from an “illness” model toward a “health promotion” model. Serving as the lead pediatrician for the Centering Parenting program, she evokes the power of convivencia - “coexistence” or “coliving”- outside the home, an important perspective learned from her patients. She shares more about how this innovative group-based model of care brings together children and families for group well child visits, peer learning, and meaningful connections across critical life stages in a child’s first three years. Dr. Gallas highlights the power that’s generated when you find people who share your passion, and reflects on how healthcare workers are uniquely positioned to honor the full spectrum of human connection - from pain to joy - through their work.
Featured guest:
- Dr. Michelle Gallas, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School
- Host: Ronda Alexander, Director of National Partnerships, NOW at Vital Village Networks
Produced by: Networks of Opportunity for Child Wellbeing
Music: Want U W/ Me (Instrumental Mix), by Akira Sora, From the Free Music Archive, CC BY 4.0
Edited By: Resonate Recordings