
In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy Fellowship Review Podcast, host Vrushangi Shah interviews Rachel Gerhardt, MPH, a post-fellowship professional with an accomplished career in healthcare. Rachel shares her journey from starting her career at Boston Children’s Hospital to completing an MPH at Boston University, her fellowship at Johns Hopkins Medicine, and her subsequent roles at UPMC and Beth Israel Lahey Health. The discussion highlights the importance of being authentic, understanding personal values, and the benefits of gaining management experience. Rachel also offers valuable advice on navigating career decisions, the significance of mentorship, and balancing personal life with professional growth.Timestamps:00:00 Connecting with People: Be Yourself00:31 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:03 Rachel’s Background and Career Journey02:08 Graduate School Experience at Boston University03:53 Discovering Healthcare Administration07:47 Pursuing an Administrative Fellowship13:32 Experience at Johns Hopkins Fellowship21:52 Reflecting on Fellowship Experiences22:36 Living in Baltimore: Beyond the Fellowship26:39 Transitioning from Fellowship to Career28:31 Navigating Career Decisions and Mentorship36:27 Returning to Boston: Balancing Career and Family41:21 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways