Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio

In this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio, we’re celebrating the power of community in Southwest Michigan. Natalie sits down with Dr. Melinda Gruber, newly appointed President of the Corewell Health Foundation Southwest Michigan, to talk about how philanthropy, partnership, and local generosity are strengthening health care close to home. With more than 30 years in the community and nearly two decades serving Corewell Health, Dr. Gruber shares her vision for the Foundation as a catalyst for health, healing, and wellness. She highlights inspiring examples of local impact, from team-led diaper and holiday drives, to patient assistance funds that help families remain safely in their homes, to community support for the enhanced behavioral health unit. Dr. Gruber also emphasizes a powerful promise: 100% of gifts to the Foundation in Southwest Michigan stay local and support the purpose intended. Hear how together, we can continue building a healthier future for our friends, families, and neighbors — and discover how you can get involved.

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In this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio, Stephanie Ostrander, Vice President of Human Resources at Corewell Health South, discusses how workforce development is strengthening health care in Southwest Michigan. With nearly two decades in the region, she shares how intentional pipeline programs and community partnerships are attracting and growing local talent. Stephanie highlights the recruitment of more than 100 providers this year and the success of an in-house Medical Assistant training program with 100% retention. As demand for services continues to grow, so does the commitment to expanding access to high-quality health care. This conversation emphasizes how investing in people today is shaping the future of health care for the entire community.

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In this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio, we sit down with Heather Lallo, Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller at Corewell Health in Southwest Michigan, to explore the powerful connection between finance and patient care. With more than 14 years at Corewell Health and leadership experience across Michigan, Heather shares how financial decisions directly impact access to care, technology investments, and the long-term sustainability of health care in Southwest Michigan. She highlights a $15 million renovation of the inpatient behavioral health unit in St. Joseph, Michigan, offering insight into how strategic investments improve patient outcomes and keep essential services close to home. Together, Natalie and Heather discuss the challenges facing today’s health care landscape and how thoughtful financial stewardship ensures Corewell Health can continue reinvesting in its people, facilities, and services for years to come.

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In this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio, Dr. Chris Harvey, Medical Director of Specialty and Primary Care in Southwest Michigan, shares how health care works best when physicians are aligned with the community they serve. With more than 20 years practicing pediatrics in Niles, Dr. Harvey discusses how innovation and leadership are helping improve patient access and strengthen provider support. He highlights the role of new technology, including ambient AI documentation tools, in allowing physicians to focus more fully on their patients. Dr. Harvey also reflects on a powerful patient story that underscores the impact of teamwork in health care. Together, Natalie and Dr. Harvey explore the ongoing commitment to expanding primary care access across Southwest Michigan.

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After an emergency turns into something far more complex, Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio continues to follow Pat Moody as he shares more of his health care journey into unfamiliar and uncertain territory. Pat reflects on the days of waiting, the weight of unexpected complications, and the trust placed in the care teams at Corewell Health, guiding him forward. Through candid conversation and moments of perspective, this episode explores what happens between diagnosis and outcome.

DISCLAIMER: The guest featured in this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio is both a Corewell Health patient and an employee of Mid-West Family Marketing & Media, the company producing this podcast. Corewell Health also advertises on Mid-West Family Marketing & Media radio stations, including the guest’s show Moody on the Market. Pat Moody/the guest did not receive any direct payment for his story and appearance on the podcast.

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The guest featured in this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio is both a Corewell Health patient and an employee of Mid-West Marketing & Media, the company producing this podcast. Corewell Health advertises on Mid-West Marketing & Media radio stations and Moody on the Market.

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In part one of this episode of Core Conversations with Natalie Baggio, Natalie welcomes beloved Southwest Michigan community member Pat Moody, who shares the beginning of a deeply personal journey through an unexpected medical crisis. Pat reflects on the moment he knew something wasn’t right and the rapid response that followed, introducing listeners to the care teams at Corewell Health, who stepped in when it mattered most. With honesty and gratitude, he begins to unpack how a routine evening turned into a life-altering experience.

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This episode of Core Conversations highlights Corewell Health’s residency program, led by Dr. Mic Mancini, and its mission to train adaptable physicians in a family-centered, Midwest-focused environment. The discussion explores early recruitment through audition rotations, a strong emphasis on community, and why nearly 30% of residents choose to stay in Southwest Michigan. Dr. Mancini addresses key challenges like housing while sharing plans for future program expansion. The episode closes with reflections on leadership, long-term relationships, and finding meaning in the journey.

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Chris Fox, a veteran nurse and leader, shares her passion for nursing and developing strong care teams. She explains how clinical excellence is rooted in engaged, empowered nurses supported by open communication and continued education. The discussion explores current challenges like burnout and workforce shortages, alongside the evolution of nursing roles.

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.