In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in Conversation, host Rafael Bras discusses higher education, public health, and leadership with Julio Frenk, the incoming chancellor of the University of California, Los Angeles. Frenk, a former president of the University of Miami, shares his rich background—from his family's escape from Nazi Germany to his groundbreaking reforms as Mexico's Minister of Health. He delves into his decision to shift from clinical medicine to public health, his influential role in creating Seguro Popular, and his perspectives on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Frenk also discusses the challenges facing higher education today, and his unique contributions to children's education through his book series on human physiology. This episode offers valuable insights into how evidence-based policy, global cooperation, and enlightened leadership can shape better outcomes in health and education.
00:00 Introduction to Not Alone Leaders in Conversation
00:51 Meet Julio Frenk: From Mexico to Harvard
01:35 Family Background and Early Influences
06:18 A Diverse and Accomplished Family
09:59 Choosing Public Health Over Clinical Medicine
16:31 Navigating the Political Landscape as Minister of Health
25:41 Creating Seguro Popular and Its Impact
33:16 Massive Loss of Progress in Mexico
33:48 Impact of COVID-19 on Mexico
37:03 Leadership Styles and Pandemic Outcomes
40:02 Gender and Leadership During the Pandemic
41:47 Lessons from the Pandemic
50:11 Higher Education Challenges and Opportunities
01:01:38 Children's Books and Science Education
01:09:51 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections