Episode 15: Voices for the Vulnerable: Strategic Patient Advocacy

LeaderVoices by Sadhna Bokhiria

Join us on this episode of LeaderVoices as we explore the dynamic and demanding world of pharmaceuticals with Kristen Ann Butler-Cummings, National Director of Key Account Management and Strategic Advocacy at Pharmacosmos Therapeutics.

With over two decades in healthcare, Kristen shares her profound journey through the evolving landscapes of innovation, regulation, and patient-centric approaches. From her early inspirations to her impactful role in shaping patient advocacy, Kristen's story is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to lead in the complex pharmaceutical industry. Dive deep into discussions on leadership, the importance of empathy in advocacy, and the critical role of collaboration in addressing healthcare disparities. Whether you're a healthcare professional, industry insider, or just curious about the intricacies of pharma, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of a seasoned leader making a real difference.

In this episode:

Introduction (00:04 - 09:40) Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria welcomes Kristen Ann Butler Cummings, National Director at Pharmacosmos Therapeutics. With over 24 years in healthcare and a decade in pharma leadership, Kristen shares her journey from nursing assistant to a leader driven by a desire to help people and improve patient care.

Career and Leadership (09:40 - 21:55) Kristen discusses her non-linear path in pharmaceuticals, and the challenges she faced in rural healthcare which shaped her patient advocacy work. Her leadership is characterized by empathy, collaboration, and a strong work ethic.

Resilience and Skills (21:55 - 31:06) Exploring her leadership qualities, Kristen emphasizes the importance of empathy and vulnerability. She recounts building teams from scratch and how resilience was crucial through volatile career phases, highlighting perseverance as a key to success.

Purpose and Inspiration (31:06 - 39:24) Kristen talks about finding one's calling and her passion for helping the underrepresented. She touches on influential women and mentors, and the impact of Kristin Hannah’s book "The Women" on her views of historical female roles.

Healthcare Future (39:25 - 47:41) Focusing on the current shifts in healthcare, Kristen addresses Covid-19’s spotlight on disparities and the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance patient care. She details her role in working with advocacy groups to challenge healthcare inequities.

Connect with Kristen: Kristen Ann Butler-Cummings on LinkedIn

About the show:

LeaderVoices is a show about leaders, and their infinite ability to change the world. The podcast is a deep-dive exploration into the multifaceted world of “for-purpose” leadership. In each episode, we dig into stories and sparks from “for-purpose” leaders, coaches, comedians, luminaries, and everyday heroes from around the globe. Tales of impact and failing forward, of aspirations and innovations — and the infinite and inspiring ways social purpose leaders lead and make the world a better place.

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About Your Host: Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria, Founder & CEO, KIRIA Research As a CEO of KIRIA Research, Sadhna leads her research firm advising the biotech and pharma sectors, notably influencing over $283 billion in client revenue in 2023 alone. Known for her quick wit and authentic leadership, she is revolutionizing cancer treatment by integrating psychosocial factors and humor into patient care. Dedicated to philanthropy, she partners with healthcare institutions to provide housing for cancer patients, and provides scholarships for underprivileged children in India, exemplifying the impact of perseverance and positivity.