April 23, 2024 • 33 mins
This podcast episode highlights that innovation in healthcare goes beyond just technological breakthroughs—it also encompasses the narratives we craft and the diversity we embrace. Tune in to discover how Jennifer Chester's creation, 'Bella The BMET', is establishing a lasting impact in the healthcare technology management (HTM) industry.
Addressing representation within the HTM industry, particularly for women and Black females, is crucial, and Jennifer's character, 'Bella the B-MET', is pioneering change. This episode explores the significance of representation and the motivation behind Bella's character. It illustrates how combining art and advocacy can powerfully amplify the voices of marginalized groups. With Jennifer's background in graphic design, she infuses authenticity into her character creation, making Bella a visual source of inspiration for both seasoned professionals and those new to the HTM Industry.
Tune in and feel the passion coming from Jessica, as we celebrate the artistic journey and the personal growth that comes with creating a legacy in healthcare technology management.
For more details about "Bella The BMET," please visit the following platforms:
- Website: https://lnkd.in/gj59R-Qa
- Instagram: https://lnkd.in/gTwbshQr
This podcast is sponsored by The College of Biomedical Equipment Technology. You can find out more information about this outstanding institution at CBET.EDU.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Get ready for an amazing episode of HTM on the
Line.
I'm your host, bryant HawkinsSr, and today's show is going to
be absolutely spectacular.
We're thrilled to welcome backa familiar face, the incredibly
talented Jennifer Chester, todiscuss her latest masterpiece,
(00:22):
bella the B-Med.
Jennifer is here to give us anexclusive behind-the-scenes look
at her creation.
Bella the B-Med isn't justwinning hearts, it's paving the
way for a monumental shift inhow women and black females are
seen in the healthcaretechnology management industry.
(00:42):
Buckle up, because this isgoing to be a groundbreaking
discussion you do not want tomiss.
I'm here with Jennifer Chester,a returning guest, but I guess
(01:13):
he's a new guest because he'sreturning with something that's
been tearing up the internetthese last few weeks.
How are you doing, jennifer?
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I am doing well and I'm happy to be back.
Speaker 1 (01:23):
Yes, yes, I must say I'm glad to have you back and I
probably twist your arm to getyou back.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Not a hard twist.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
But let's cut to the chase of why we're here.
Of course, everyone knows aboutyour new creation or your new
passion, bella, to be met.
Yes, let's talk about that.
How did you come about thatcreative process?
Speaker 2 (01:51):
So it's funny because it was a character that I've
been thinking about for a longtime and I wasn't really sure
how it was going to be receivedif I just put her out there.
But I really was inspired whenI went to MD Expo recently.
All of the talk about, you know, getting people interested in
(02:13):
this field of work and sheddinglight on what we do every day it
just really made me understandthat it was.
You know.
We needed some representation,so I jumped out on a limb and I,
you know, went ahead andcreated the character and I put
her out there.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Now, when you say we needed some representation, what
are you speaking of?
Speaker 2 (02:40):
Well, I'm speaking of basically how we're talking
about the career field as awhole.
For one, as you know,biomedical equipment technicians
, we kind of you know we're thesilent heroes and a lot of times
(03:00):
our career field is not onethat's on the forefront and a
lot of people don't know aboutit we talk about all the time.
When I talk to othertechnicians or other people who
come into the industry, it'salways by happenstance, it's
never because you know well, notnever, but sometimes it's very
rarely because they decided as achild or they decided, you know
(03:23):
, as a young adult or as ateenager, that they wanted to do
this job.
They kind of just tripped andfell upon it and I wanted to
kind of change that.
I wanted to be, I wanted to beas prominent as other things
that we see.
Speaker 1 (03:41):
OK great.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
Makes sense.
Speaker 1 (03:43):
Now you also have a representation for the females
of the industry.
Was that part of the plan, too,when you said representation?
Speaker 2 (04:07):
side of things, because, um, because of course I
am a woman, I'm a girl, so Iwanted to make sure females were
represented as well, and also,in addition to that, you know,
black females are represented aswell.
So it all of it was veryimportant to me.
I think that, um, you know,it's one of the things that kind
of culminates the characterthat Bella is.
Speaker 1 (04:28):
Now Bella.
How did you choose the nameBella?
How did you develop thischaracter?
Speaker 2 (04:36):
It's funny because I went through several names.
I kind of like tried a coupleof things.
I even tried it with my ownname, but I was like I don't
really like the ring, it doesn'tsound good, and so, funny story
, I was teaching a group ofgirls at a spring break camp and
(04:59):
there were two sisters.
One's name was Bella and theother one's name is Callie, and
Bella really just stood out tome.
So when her name came up I waslike you know, that one sounds
really good and it kind of stuckwith me and that's where Bella
came from, because it justsounds so good.
It just it has a ring to it.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
I look at these pictures, man, I mean they're so
real life, they just come offthe paper at you.
Was any of these picturesinspired by real life people or
is just something you justdabbled with?
Speaker 2 (05:37):
Well, I mean, it was definitely inspired, of course,
by myself, because I mean, whenI was creating the images, it
was just easier to use my ownself as representation.
But Bella, even though shelooks like me, like I said,
(06:00):
she's a representation of all ofus in the field.
So I do definitely take somenotes from my own styling.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Okay, now is this something you've been doing, of
recent or discipline you've beencreating for years?
How long you've been creatingcharacters in this form?
Speaker 2 (06:27):
So yeah, so within the last couple of years, I've
been creating characters in thisform.
So yeah, so within the lastcouple of years, I've been
creating characters in this form.
I actually a lot of peopledon't know this about me, but I
majored in art in college.
I was majoring in graphicdesign, so I do have a
background in art and um workingwith computers in art.
So it's just something thatI've always had a passion for
(06:50):
and that I always kind of loveto do, um as in, as a secondary
thing okay, great, now let's seethemes and let's look at it
from this aspect.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
What themes or messages do you hope to convey
through these comic strips?
Is there some type ofparticular themes or message you
want to convey each time youproduce one?
Speaker 2 (07:27):
two sides of the coin with the themes that I'm going
with.
On one side of it I want Bellato be like an inspiration.
I want it to be inspiring tothe people that are already in
the field and just something tolike laugh at and you know, I
guess I don't want to say makelight of, but kind of, like, you
know, add a little bit of funto the career that we do every
(07:49):
day.
But I also want to use Bellaand I'm using the themes that
I'm creating for children aswell, like I want them to be
interesting and I want them tobe eye catching and I want them
to be, you know, fun for kids towant to be involved in reading
(08:09):
and, you know, hopefully in thefuture maybe you want to be
involved in the kind ofactivities that Bella does.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
You mentioned humor, and how do you balance the humor
aspect with, I guess I'll say,any serious undertones?
I know you want a message, sohow would you balance that humor
along with being serious?
Speaker 2 (08:35):
Honestly, I'm not really sure how I do it when I
put this stuff down on paper.
It's me, it's just how I talk,it's how I write, um.
So I'm really just coming froma very transparent, um, very, um
raw place.
That is just me.
(08:57):
These are like just stories.
A lot of times they're storiesthat I've either been through,
heard about, been through theheard about been through.
The one you put out thismorning about the PM party.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
That was perfectly blended where it was some humor
with it, but at the same timeyou got the work done and you
completed the task at hand.
You got the equipment PM'd andyou did it in a way to where it
was a lot of hard work involvedbut you did it with humor and I
think that was pretty.
That took some creativity,whether you might have realized
it or not, to make that all inline, right.
(09:32):
So what has been?
I guess we'll say how has theresponse been from your audience
?
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Oh man, the response has been amazing.
Like I don't even know how tothank everybody for the
wonderful kind words that I'vebeen receiving via messages and
emails.
I couldn't I just couldn'texpect a better response to the
(10:00):
character and yeah.
So I just really.
I mean, I've really beengetting a great response now.
Speaker 1 (10:10):
Were there any reactions that surprised you?
Speaker 2 (10:15):
um, I think even just so many positive reactions
surprised me.
Sometimes I just throw thingsout there and I don't get a
reaction.
So the fact that you know Bellagot a positive response was
just so great to me, becausethis character, the way I built
(10:36):
it within myself, is so near anddear to me that it's, you know,
very nice to know that otherpeople feel the same way.
Speaker 1 (10:47):
Yes, and I can tell you personally from being in
this industry.
When I first saw it I washooked on it.
I said, wow, this is great.
I love everything about thisrepresentation that you're
presenting and I'm more thansure everyone else that saw it
probably had that same feelingat that same moment.
So it's a good thing you'recoming out with it.
(11:08):
It's needed, I'll tell you thatmuch.
Are there any comic artists oranyone that have influenced your
work or inspired you when youstarted creating Bella?
Speaker 2 (11:19):
When I was a kid, me and my brother just used to.
We read comics all the time.
When I was a kid, me and mybrother just used to.
We read comics all the time.
We'd read the X-Men, you know,comic strips we would read.
The Ninja Turtles comic stripswe would read.
I mean, we would read all kindsof comic strips.
And what's so interesting aboutit is now my kids.
(11:40):
They read what they callgraphic novels and those are
like big books of comic stripsbut they're like regular
characters in life.
Like there's a book called foureyes and it's just a young girl
who's navigating through lifeand you know she wears glasses,
obviously, but it's a, it'swritten like a comic strip, it's
(12:01):
a graphic, graphic novel.
So I think that you know theinspiration comes from several
different places becausevisually I'm constantly seeing
it with my children's books andthen also in my past with my own
love for the comic books.
So I mean I just I use theinspiration from everywhere.
Speaker 1 (12:23):
Where do you see Bella to be made going in the
future?
Any exciting developments orexpansions in the works?
Speaker 2 (12:31):
Oh yeah, ok, so in the works, right now I am
working on a children's book.
It is called Bella's Big Fixthe story of a smart girl and
her tools.
So that is coming soon.
(12:52):
I have not finished having itpublished, but it is on its way.
I also have created and thiswas actually by the response
that I received.
A lot of people have askedabout you know Bella, and how
they can distribute it or passit out to kids at career fairs
(13:13):
and things like that.
So what I have done is createda coloring slash activity
booklet for Bella and it shouldbe ready very soon and I will be
posting that information assoon as possible, as soon as I
can.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
Oh, that's, that's exciting.
Wow, now do you, since you saidposting, do you have a website
that they may can go to to findinformation about Bella?
Or is it your LinkedIn?
How can they?
How can people find moreinformation about Bella?
Speaker 2 (13:47):
So currently I, since I just started it I'm still
working on building the pagesfor specifically for Bella, but
you can follow me on LinkedInfor sure I will be posting as
much as I can about Bella.
I also have a specific Bellathe B-Met Instagram page now, so
(14:10):
that is dedicated just to Bella.
If you would like to follow onInstagram and everything that's
coming, um will be on there, aswell as my website, which is
wwwnextgentechmomorg.
Um.
On nextgentechmomorg, I will.
(14:30):
I do have a dedicated um pagejust for Bella.
You just have to click in themenu as the category and you
will see all of the links thereto, like I said, eventually
purchase the books and also toview the comics.
Speaker 1 (14:48):
What advice would you give to someone who wants to
start their own comic strip?
I mean, you're probably goingto inspire someone because this
is probably hitting worldwide.
So somebody is sitting theregetting inspired by what you're
doing.
What advice would you givesomeone who wants to start their
own comic strip?
Speaker 2 (15:08):
My advice to you is don't sit on it, Just do it.
Like I said, I sat on thecharacter for a long time.
I eventually decided that itfor a long time.
I eventually decided that itwas time to release and and the
response has been amazing, and Ifeel like this is something
that I have should have put outa long time ago.
(15:28):
So I I feel like my advice tothem would be to just do it.
Sometimes you just have tothrow it at the wall and see if
it sticks.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
How do you interact with I hate this.
I mean, you might not want tocall it this how would you
interact with your fans andincorporate their feedback into
your work?
Because, say, I'm a fan, so howdo you interact with them and
then turn around and use theirfeedback into your creative
juices?
Speaker 2 (15:58):
Look, I am very open to feedback.
I'm also open to stories.
If anybody has a story thatthey want to share, I am very
open to you.
Know, send me your stories, Letme know these adventures that
you go through every day out inthe field.
If you're in the field, Like wehad talked about before, one of
(16:22):
the themes that I've reallybeen thinking about is like I've
been inspired by Project Cure,as well as the Mercy Ships.
So those are some things I'mthinking about incorporating
within the comics, but I, likeBella is ours.
Bella is not just mine, itbelongs to all of us.
So I really would love ifpeople have stories that they
(16:44):
want to share or if they want toinspire others with the stories
that they've been through.
I can, you know, take thosestories and make them um hours
through Bella and make them oursthrough.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
Bella, I'm gonna ask you this question too.
Have you ever thought about areyou already collaborating with
other artists or comic creators?
Speaker 2 (17:09):
I would love to do that as well, since it's such a
new thing, a new idea.
I haven't had the time to reachout to anyone, really, but I
would love to do that.
You know, I would love to, youknow, add some different
characters in there, or, youknow, put some together even,
(17:32):
you know, in a book or in acomic.
Speaker 1 (17:35):
Yes, I know for one person Douglas Redwine writes a
lot of children's books, and ofcourse you know Chase Right,
Ollie the Bowman.
So that's just some thingspopping in my head.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Yeah absolutely.
We'd love to do some thingswith them.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
That's great.
Now I know you mentioned thatyou got a book activity book
coming out and a book Bella'sBig Fix.
Yeah, now are there any othercreations that may be in the
works?
Because I've had people evenask me if you have a baby doll
in the works.
Not to my knowledge, but I mean, yeah, it's just any other
(18:17):
things you see maybe in thefuture coming about from bella,
maybe some stickers or I?
Speaker 2 (18:24):
yes, definitely I'm working on it.
I definitely have stickersalready in the works, um, I have
.
I created some and had themsent to my house, so they
haven't arrived yet, but I'mgoing to see how they turn out
and then I want to share thosewith everybody as well as, um,
somebody asked me about anaction figure or a doll as well.
(18:45):
Um, and I'm starting to do theresearch, like I'm not sitting
on it, because I really I reallywant to make sure that, like I
said, everybody is representedin this thing and and yeah, so
I'm willing.
If you guys have ideas, pleasesend them over, you know.
Speaker 1 (19:03):
Now I know you've been doing this for a short
period of time.
We're not doing this, but,bella, rather now I know you.
You say you've been putting alot of hours into this.
So has your style of artevolved since you started this
comic strip?
Speaker 2 (19:19):
Oh yeah, Um, like we said earlier, like, like I said
earlier, at first I thought thatyou know, I, I've done um
composite photography andeverything and it.
It kinda is one of those thingsthat eventually, after doing it
for years, it's, it's not, youknow, it's not as difficult for
(19:40):
me anymore.
I can pop out an image pretty,pretty simply, Um, but this is
actually way more challengingthan I anticipated.
Um, so I, I, I have had somechallenges and I've learned a
lot since the, since thebeginning, since the creation of
(20:01):
Bella.
Speaker 1 (20:02):
So, All right.
So, like you mentioned, it's alearning curve.
So what new skills ortechniques have you learned
since starting this project?
Speaker 2 (20:10):
So this is actually like, um, the first time I've
actually used the AI images todo almost like a composite
photography kind of thing, whereI'm, you know, putting pictures
together and creating a scene,and all of that learning the mix
(20:33):
of telling a story with thecomic, but also using my
artistic skills to create thatscene.
Speaker 1 (20:44):
Do you have a favorite comic strip that you've
created so far and can youshare the story behind it?
Speaker 2 (20:51):
I do.
So I haven't put it out yet, soI'm not going to tell the story
, but I will say that one of myfavorites was the PM party um
comic strip.
I couldn't wait to get that oneout, um, and the reason why is
because, as as technicians outin the field, we work together
(21:17):
so much.
I feel like you know we're noneof us are out here doing it by
ourselves, so it was soimportant for me to incorporate
other people, or you know theteamwork that it takes to
complete our jobs and you know,sometimes it can be so fun like
just, you know, just havingsomeone there with you.
(21:39):
Sometimes we're out there byourselves and we're just doing
our thing, but when you'reworking with a, with a fun team
member, or you're working withsomebody who you really enjoy
their company, it can make it areally fun experience.
So I thought that that one waswas one of my tops.
Speaker 1 (21:57):
Yes, that PM party was awesome.
I love that one too.
I've been in a few PM partiesFrom a.
I guess let's look at it from acultural way.
Do you think your comic storieshave a role in reflecting, or
maybe influencing culturaldiscussions?
Speaker 2 (22:15):
I do.
I think that, like we talkedabout earlier with
representation, it's just likerepresentation matters.
It matters so much to be ableto see somebody or see a
character or, you know, beinvolved with a character that
(22:37):
looks like you or that is likeyou.
So, culturally, it's justreally important to bring to
light that we exist, that we'reout there and also that you know
it's normal, so that you knowit's normal.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
It's a normal part of you know life and what we do
that there are all kinds ofpeople doing this job.
You're working in the sameindustry as Bella, to be mad.
Speaker 2 (23:16):
Writer's block probably wouldn't be an issue,
but how would you deal with acreative block if it came to you
trying to think of new content?
So I haven't really sufferedfrom writer's block, like you
said, because I'm constantlyremembering things and things
are just constantly coming to meabout different stories,
because I've been in theindustry for quite a while or
something close to it.
(23:36):
So.
But I think that if I ever didencounter the rightest block,
like I stated earlier, I reallyfeel like there's always a story
to be told within this industry.
So even the reaching out tointerview other people or to
(23:57):
just hear other people's stories, it's like I said, it's
important.
Since Bella is us, I want tomake sure to incorporate not
only my experiences but theexperiences of other people that
are also in this industry.
Speaker 1 (24:14):
Absolutely, If you ever get writer's block give me
a call.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
You got stories.
Speaker 1 (24:19):
I got stories and I guarantee you you can listen to.
You can go to any indie expo,amy, and just talk to people.
You'll get some stories.
Trust me, I could turn you onto some people who got tons of
stories to share with you.
If you run into writer's blockbut I mean, you're a long way
from that right now.
If you run into writer's block,but I mean, you're a long way
(24:42):
from that right now.
Speaker 2 (24:45):
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave with Bella?
To be mad.
So my personal motto, um andit's been my personal motto
since I was in college I wasmaybe 19 years old um is aspire
to inspire before you expire.
So I think that a major partthat I have tried to incorporate
(25:08):
with Bella is just, I hope thatit's a means to inspire people,
whether it be somebody who's inthe job and having a tough time
, or or in the job and lovingthe job, but just loving to see
somebody that represents them,or a character that represents
(25:30):
them, or a child that might beinterested, that, like me, that,
like me, just loves to tinkerand play with tools, or you know
, and is looking for that outletor looking for that place where
they belong in the career world.
So just, I mean my whole modelas a person is to make sure that
(25:53):
I'm inspiring someone.
So that's really what I'mlooking to do with Bella man.
Speaker 1 (26:02):
you kind of answered my next question without me even
asking because I was going toask you what would be your dream
scenario.
What would?
Speaker 2 (26:25):
what would your dream scenario be like for your comic
strip in the next few years,when you kind of already touched
on it?
But well, I just haveaspirations still.
Um, one of the things that Iwant to start working on, um is,
like I said earlier, my kids.
They read a lot of like littlegraphic novels just for fun, the
comic strip kind I even thoughI do, I said, have the
children's book that's comingout and then also the activity
and coloring book.
I think that, um, I would loveto do like a graphic novel with
(26:48):
Bella, um to, you know, appealto the older kids, the kids that
are a little bit, that areabove eight years old.
So that is something that I'maspiring to do in the future.
And also, I mean, I just hope,like I said, I hope that it
leaves a legacy not only formyself but for this entire
(27:11):
industry, that you were thesilent heroes in healthcare.
Speaker 1 (27:17):
Yes, great man.
Every time you talk up, anotherquestion pops in my head.
Now this is more like apersonal question how has
working on Bella to be madeimpacted you personally and
professionally?
Personally first.
Speaker 2 (27:35):
So personally, I think that through Bella, it has
given me like a confidenceboost, almost, especially, like
I said, with all of the positiveresponses from Bella, it almost
is like a reassurance or a or apush for me, you know, saying
(27:57):
that you're moving in the rightdirection.
So I think, personally isdefinitely kind of like I said,
I can, I can have a lot ofself-doubt sometimes and I think
that this has been a a seriousconfidence boost for myself, for
me, professionally.
This is also I guess this canalso count as personal but it
(28:22):
shows how people feel the sameor that they relate to me, and I
think that when you're in anindustry where you feel like you
belong and that you feel likethe people around you are, you
know we're all on the on thekind of on the same, same
wavelength and we have, you know, we have real feelings and that
(28:46):
we have commonalities.
I think that that really hasimproved my, my mindset and my,
my involvement in the career.
Speaker 1 (29:02):
I'll tell you this how it's made an impact on me.
And you wouldn't think a comicstrip can do something for
someone who's been in theindustry a while, but just the
energy that comes from it issometimes overwhelming, because
it's it's great information andit almost like re-sparks the
(29:23):
fire, even though I don't needto spark at the moment, but it
gives me more excitement to dowhat I'm doing because you see
someone coming into the industry.
Even though you're not new, youcould be new to someone else.
And when we see the energy thatyou're not new yeah, you could
be new to someone else and whenwe see the energy that you're
putting into it, it inspiresindividuals to go to work with a
(29:43):
little pep in their step I lovethat I love that they see that
you're doing the same thingwe're doing, so that's one way I
think it can impact someoneprofessionally, because they say
man, you know, because all I'vebeen hearing from people is
jennifer's on fire, fire, she'sdoing it, she's killing it.
And then Bella comes.
They were saying that beforeBella.
Oh, wow, you know.
(30:05):
So now, when you presented thatin the expo, everyone loved your
presentation about the memoirand mistakes.
I might be saying it wrong, butyou know what I'm saying.
You mentioned how it's okay tomake mistakes, so that was great
.
And then, after that, you hitus with this and it just shows
that you have a lot of passionfor this industry and that's the
(30:27):
point.
That's the part that'simpacting people professionally
and I'm going to show it'simpacting you also, because if
it wasn't, you wouldn't be doingthis Right, absolutely.
I appreciate your efforts.
Now, in conclusion, as we bringthis conversation to a close, I
love for you to leave us withsome inspiring thoughts about
(30:49):
what inspires you to keepcreating every day, because I
know you're probably creatingevery day I am, I'm, I'm
creating right now.
Speaker 2 (30:57):
You just don't know it.
So what inspires me to keeppressing forward with Bella is
just the hope that not only thatI inspire the people that are
in the field every day, like Isaid, but I also want to inspire
the next generation, becauseit's so important that we bring
(31:19):
light to our industry and justget them excited about what the
possibilities are and let themknow that this is a viable
industry for them and this, thisis something that could be very
fun, very exciting and can justbe a really good option.
Speaker 1 (31:43):
Great, well said, jennifer.
I appreciate you coming on.
I know it was last minute, butI just had to get you on here
because your story needed to betold and I think everyone got a
better understanding behind thatlittle to be mad comic strip
and I salute you and if anythingI can do to help you, please
(32:03):
don't hesitate to reach out tome, because I'm probably one of
your biggest fans when it comesto this Bella to be mad.
Speaker 2 (32:10):
I'm also a fan of yours, so you know.
Speaker 1 (32:14):
I appreciate that.
All right, thank you very muchfor your time All right.
Speaker 2 (32:18):
Thank you very much for your time All right, thank
you for having me.
Speaker 1 (32:20):
Jennifer's work with Bella to be met is more than a
passion project.
It's a powerful promoter forcultural discussions and
transformative change in the HTMindustry.
This episode has showed theimportance of representation,
storytelling and connection,showcasing how one character can
(32:43):
impact an entire HTM community.
As we close, we encourage youto share our inspiring story and
spark meaningful conversationsthat drive change in the HTM
industry.
Until next time, y'all be safeout there.
Get ready for an amazing episode of HTM on the
Line.
I'm your host, bryant HawkinsSr, and today's show is going to
be absolutely spectacular.
We're thrilled to welcome backa familiar face, the incredibly
talented Jennifer Chester, todiscuss her latest masterpiece,
(00:22):
bella the B-Med.
Jennifer is here to give us anexclusive behind-the-scenes look
at her creation.
Bella the B-Med isn't justwinning hearts, it's paving the
way for a monumental shift inhow women and black females are
seen in the healthcaretechnology management industry.
(00:42):
Buckle up, because this isgoing to be a groundbreaking
discussion you do not want tomiss.
I'm here with Jennifer Chester,a returning guest, but I guess
(01:13):
he's a new guest because he'sreturning with something that's
been tearing up the internetthese last few weeks.
How are you doing, jennifer?
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I am doing well and I'm happy to be back.
Speaker 1 (01:23):
Yes, yes, I must say I'm glad to have you back and I
probably twist your arm to getyou back.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Not a hard twist.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
But let's cut to the chase of why we're here.
Of course, everyone knows aboutyour new creation or your new
passion, bella, to be met.
Yes, let's talk about that.
How did you come about thatcreative process?
Speaker 2 (01:51):
So it's funny because it was a character that I've
been thinking about for a longtime and I wasn't really sure
how it was going to be receivedif I just put her out there.
But I really was inspired whenI went to MD Expo recently.
All of the talk about, you know, getting people interested in
(02:13):
this field of work and sheddinglight on what we do every day it
just really made me understandthat it was.
You know.
We needed some representation,so I jumped out on a limb and I,
you know, went ahead andcreated the character and I put
her out there.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Now, when you say we needed some representation, what
are you speaking of?
Speaker 2 (02:40):
Well, I'm speaking of basically how we're talking
about the career field as awhole.
For one, as you know,biomedical equipment technicians
, we kind of you know we're thesilent heroes and a lot of times
(03:00):
our career field is not onethat's on the forefront and a
lot of people don't know aboutit we talk about all the time.
When I talk to othertechnicians or other people who
come into the industry, it'salways by happenstance, it's
never because you know well, notnever, but sometimes it's very
rarely because they decided as achild or they decided, you know
(03:23):
, as a young adult or as ateenager, that they wanted to do
this job.
They kind of just tripped andfell upon it and I wanted to
kind of change that.
I wanted to be, I wanted to beas prominent as other things
that we see.
Speaker 1 (03:41):
OK great.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
Makes sense.
Speaker 1 (03:43):
Now you also have a representation for the females
of the industry.
Was that part of the plan, too,when you said representation?
Speaker 2 (04:07):
side of things, because, um, because of course I
am a woman, I'm a girl, so Iwanted to make sure females were
represented as well, and also,in addition to that, you know,
black females are represented aswell.
So it all of it was veryimportant to me.
I think that, um, you know,it's one of the things that kind
of culminates the characterthat Bella is.
Speaker 1 (04:28):
Now Bella.
How did you choose the nameBella?
How did you develop thischaracter?
Speaker 2 (04:36):
It's funny because I went through several names.
I kind of like tried a coupleof things.
I even tried it with my ownname, but I was like I don't
really like the ring, it doesn'tsound good, and so, funny story
, I was teaching a group ofgirls at a spring break camp and
(04:59):
there were two sisters.
One's name was Bella and theother one's name is Callie, and
Bella really just stood out tome.
So when her name came up I waslike you know, that one sounds
really good and it kind of stuckwith me and that's where Bella
came from, because it justsounds so good.
It just it has a ring to it.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
I look at these pictures, man, I mean they're so
real life, they just come offthe paper at you.
Was any of these picturesinspired by real life people or
is just something you justdabbled with?
Speaker 2 (05:37):
Well, I mean, it was definitely inspired, of course,
by myself, because I mean, whenI was creating the images, it
was just easier to use my ownself as representation.
But Bella, even though shelooks like me, like I said,
(06:00):
she's a representation of all ofus in the field.
So I do definitely take somenotes from my own styling.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Okay, now is this something you've been doing, of
recent or discipline you've beencreating for years?
How long you've been creatingcharacters in this form?
Speaker 2 (06:27):
So yeah, so within the last couple of years, I've
been creating characters in thisform.
So yeah, so within the lastcouple of years, I've been
creating characters in this form.
I actually a lot of peopledon't know this about me, but I
majored in art in college.
I was majoring in graphicdesign, so I do have a
background in art and um workingwith computers in art.
So it's just something thatI've always had a passion for
(06:50):
and that I always kind of loveto do, um as in, as a secondary
thing okay, great, now let's seethemes and let's look at it
from this aspect.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
What themes or messages do you hope to convey
through these comic strips?
Is there some type ofparticular themes or message you
want to convey each time youproduce one?
Speaker 2 (07:27):
two sides of the coin with the themes that I'm going
with.
On one side of it I want Bellato be like an inspiration.
I want it to be inspiring tothe people that are already in
the field and just something tolike laugh at and you know, I
guess I don't want to say makelight of, but kind of, like, you
know, add a little bit of funto the career that we do every
(07:49):
day.
But I also want to use Bellaand I'm using the themes that
I'm creating for children aswell, like I want them to be
interesting and I want them tobe eye catching and I want them
to be, you know, fun for kids towant to be involved in reading
(08:09):
and, you know, hopefully in thefuture maybe you want to be
involved in the kind ofactivities that Bella does.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
You mentioned humor, and how do you balance the humor
aspect with, I guess I'll say,any serious undertones?
I know you want a message, sohow would you balance that humor
along with being serious?
Speaker 2 (08:35):
Honestly, I'm not really sure how I do it when I
put this stuff down on paper.
It's me, it's just how I talk,it's how I write, um.
So I'm really just coming froma very transparent, um, very, um
raw place.
That is just me.
(08:57):
These are like just stories.
A lot of times they're storiesthat I've either been through,
heard about, been through theheard about been through.
The one you put out thismorning about the PM party.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
That was perfectly blended where it was some humor
with it, but at the same timeyou got the work done and you
completed the task at hand.
You got the equipment PM'd andyou did it in a way to where it
was a lot of hard work involvedbut you did it with humor and I
think that was pretty.
That took some creativity,whether you might have realized
it or not, to make that all inline, right.
(09:32):
So what has been?
I guess we'll say how has theresponse been from your audience
?
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Oh man, the response has been amazing.
Like I don't even know how tothank everybody for the
wonderful kind words that I'vebeen receiving via messages and
emails.
I couldn't I just couldn'texpect a better response to the
(10:00):
character and yeah.
So I just really.
I mean, I've really beengetting a great response now.
Speaker 1 (10:10):
Were there any reactions that surprised you?
Speaker 2 (10:15):
um, I think even just so many positive reactions
surprised me.
Sometimes I just throw thingsout there and I don't get a
reaction.
So the fact that you know Bellagot a positive response was
just so great to me, becausethis character, the way I built
(10:36):
it within myself, is so near anddear to me that it's, you know,
very nice to know that otherpeople feel the same way.
Speaker 1 (10:47):
Yes, and I can tell you personally from being in
this industry.
When I first saw it I washooked on it.
I said, wow, this is great.
I love everything about thisrepresentation that you're
presenting and I'm more thansure everyone else that saw it
probably had that same feelingat that same moment.
So it's a good thing you'recoming out with it.
(11:08):
It's needed, I'll tell you thatmuch.
Are there any comic artists oranyone that have influenced your
work or inspired you when youstarted creating Bella?
Speaker 2 (11:19):
When I was a kid, me and my brother just used to.
We read comics all the time.
When I was a kid, me and mybrother just used to.
We read comics all the time.
We'd read the X-Men, you know,comic strips we would read.
The Ninja Turtles comic stripswe would read.
I mean, we would read all kindsof comic strips.
And what's so interesting aboutit is now my kids.
(11:40):
They read what they callgraphic novels and those are
like big books of comic stripsbut they're like regular
characters in life.
Like there's a book called foureyes and it's just a young girl
who's navigating through lifeand you know she wears glasses,
obviously, but it's a, it'swritten like a comic strip, it's
(12:01):
a graphic, graphic novel.
So I think that you know theinspiration comes from several
different places becausevisually I'm constantly seeing
it with my children's books andthen also in my past with my own
love for the comic books.
So I mean I just I use theinspiration from everywhere.
Speaker 1 (12:23):
Where do you see Bella to be made going in the
future?
Any exciting developments orexpansions in the works?
Speaker 2 (12:31):
Oh yeah, ok, so in the works, right now I am
working on a children's book.
It is called Bella's Big Fixthe story of a smart girl and
her tools.
So that is coming soon.
(12:52):
I have not finished having itpublished, but it is on its way.
I also have created and thiswas actually by the response
that I received.
A lot of people have askedabout you know Bella, and how
they can distribute it or passit out to kids at career fairs
(13:13):
and things like that.
So what I have done is createda coloring slash activity
booklet for Bella and it shouldbe ready very soon and I will be
posting that information assoon as possible, as soon as I
can.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
Oh, that's, that's exciting.
Wow, now do you, since you saidposting, do you have a website
that they may can go to to findinformation about Bella?
Or is it your LinkedIn?
How can they?
How can people find moreinformation about Bella?
Speaker 2 (13:47):
So currently I, since I just started it I'm still
working on building the pagesfor specifically for Bella, but
you can follow me on LinkedInfor sure I will be posting as
much as I can about Bella.
I also have a specific Bellathe B-Met Instagram page now, so
(14:10):
that is dedicated just to Bella.
If you would like to follow onInstagram and everything that's
coming, um will be on there, aswell as my website, which is
wwwnextgentechmomorg.
Um.
On nextgentechmomorg, I will.
(14:30):
I do have a dedicated um pagejust for Bella.
You just have to click in themenu as the category and you
will see all of the links thereto, like I said, eventually
purchase the books and also toview the comics.
Speaker 1 (14:48):
What advice would you give to someone who wants to
start their own comic strip?
I mean, you're probably goingto inspire someone because this
is probably hitting worldwide.
So somebody is sitting theregetting inspired by what you're
doing.
What advice would you givesomeone who wants to start their
own comic strip?
Speaker 2 (15:08):
My advice to you is don't sit on it, Just do it.
Like I said, I sat on thecharacter for a long time.
I eventually decided that itfor a long time.
I eventually decided that itwas time to release and and the
response has been amazing, and Ifeel like this is something
that I have should have put outa long time ago.
(15:28):
So I I feel like my advice tothem would be to just do it.
Sometimes you just have tothrow it at the wall and see if
it sticks.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
How do you interact with I hate this.
I mean, you might not want tocall it this how would you
interact with your fans andincorporate their feedback into
your work?
Because, say, I'm a fan, so howdo you interact with them and
then turn around and use theirfeedback into your creative
juices?
Speaker 2 (15:58):
Look, I am very open to feedback.
I'm also open to stories.
If anybody has a story thatthey want to share, I am very
open to you.
Know, send me your stories, Letme know these adventures that
you go through every day out inthe field.
If you're in the field, Like wehad talked about before, one of
(16:22):
the themes that I've reallybeen thinking about is like I've
been inspired by Project Cure,as well as the Mercy Ships.
So those are some things I'mthinking about incorporating
within the comics, but I, likeBella is ours.
Bella is not just mine, itbelongs to all of us.
So I really would love ifpeople have stories that they
(16:44):
want to share or if they want toinspire others with the stories
that they've been through.
I can, you know, take thosestories and make them um hours
through Bella and make them oursthrough.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
Bella, I'm gonna ask you this question too.
Have you ever thought about areyou already collaborating with
other artists or comic creators?
Speaker 2 (17:09):
I would love to do that as well, since it's such a
new thing, a new idea.
I haven't had the time to reachout to anyone, really, but I
would love to do that.
You know, I would love to, youknow, add some different
characters in there, or, youknow, put some together even,
(17:32):
you know, in a book or in acomic.
Speaker 1 (17:35):
Yes, I know for one person Douglas Redwine writes a
lot of children's books, and ofcourse you know Chase Right,
Ollie the Bowman.
So that's just some thingspopping in my head.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Yeah absolutely.
We'd love to do some thingswith them.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
That's great.
Now I know you mentioned thatyou got a book activity book
coming out and a book Bella'sBig Fix.
Yeah, now are there any othercreations that may be in the
works?
Because I've had people evenask me if you have a baby doll
in the works.
Not to my knowledge, but I mean, yeah, it's just any other
(18:17):
things you see maybe in thefuture coming about from bella,
maybe some stickers or I?
Speaker 2 (18:24):
yes, definitely I'm working on it.
I definitely have stickersalready in the works, um, I have
.
I created some and had themsent to my house, so they
haven't arrived yet, but I'mgoing to see how they turn out
and then I want to share thosewith everybody as well as, um,
somebody asked me about anaction figure or a doll as well.
(18:45):
Um, and I'm starting to do theresearch, like I'm not sitting
on it, because I really I reallywant to make sure that, like I
said, everybody is representedin this thing and and yeah, so
I'm willing.
If you guys have ideas, pleasesend them over, you know.
Speaker 1 (19:03):
Now I know you've been doing this for a short
period of time.
We're not doing this, but,bella, rather now I know you.
You say you've been putting alot of hours into this.
So has your style of artevolved since you started this
comic strip?
Speaker 2 (19:19):
Oh yeah, Um, like we said earlier, like, like I said
earlier, at first I thought thatyou know, I, I've done um
composite photography andeverything and it.
It kinda is one of those thingsthat eventually, after doing it
for years, it's, it's not, youknow, it's not as difficult for
(19:40):
me anymore.
I can pop out an image pretty,pretty simply, Um, but this is
actually way more challengingthan I anticipated.
Um, so I, I, I have had somechallenges and I've learned a
lot since the, since thebeginning, since the creation of
(20:01):
Bella.
Speaker 1 (20:02):
So, All right.
So, like you mentioned, it's alearning curve.
So what new skills ortechniques have you learned
since starting this project?
Speaker 2 (20:10):
So this is actually like, um, the first time I've
actually used the AI images todo almost like a composite
photography kind of thing, whereI'm, you know, putting pictures
together and creating a scene,and all of that learning the mix
(20:33):
of telling a story with thecomic, but also using my
artistic skills to create thatscene.
Speaker 1 (20:44):
Do you have a favorite comic strip that you've
created so far and can youshare the story behind it?
Speaker 2 (20:51):
I do.
So I haven't put it out yet, soI'm not going to tell the story
, but I will say that one of myfavorites was the PM party um
comic strip.
I couldn't wait to get that oneout, um, and the reason why is
because, as as technicians outin the field, we work together
(21:17):
so much.
I feel like you know we're noneof us are out here doing it by
ourselves, so it was soimportant for me to incorporate
other people, or you know theteamwork that it takes to
complete our jobs and you know,sometimes it can be so fun like
just, you know, just havingsomeone there with you.
(21:39):
Sometimes we're out there byourselves and we're just doing
our thing, but when you'reworking with a, with a fun team
member, or you're working withsomebody who you really enjoy
their company, it can make it areally fun experience.
So I thought that that one waswas one of my tops.
Speaker 1 (21:57):
Yes, that PM party was awesome.
I love that one too.
I've been in a few PM partiesFrom a.
I guess let's look at it from acultural way.
Do you think your comic storieshave a role in reflecting, or
maybe influencing culturaldiscussions?
Speaker 2 (22:15):
I do.
I think that, like we talkedabout earlier with
representation, it's just likerepresentation matters.
It matters so much to be ableto see somebody or see a
character or, you know, beinvolved with a character that
(22:37):
looks like you or that is likeyou.
So, culturally, it's justreally important to bring to
light that we exist, that we'reout there and also that you know
it's normal, so that you knowit's normal.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
It's a normal part of you know life and what we do
that there are all kinds ofpeople doing this job.
You're working in the sameindustry as Bella, to be mad.
Speaker 2 (23:16):
Writer's block probably wouldn't be an issue,
but how would you deal with acreative block if it came to you
trying to think of new content?
So I haven't really sufferedfrom writer's block, like you
said, because I'm constantlyremembering things and things
are just constantly coming to meabout different stories,
because I've been in theindustry for quite a while or
something close to it.
(23:36):
So.
But I think that if I ever didencounter the rightest block,
like I stated earlier, I reallyfeel like there's always a story
to be told within this industry.
So even the reaching out tointerview other people or to
(23:57):
just hear other people's stories, it's like I said, it's
important.
Since Bella is us, I want tomake sure to incorporate not
only my experiences but theexperiences of other people that
are also in this industry.
Speaker 1 (24:14):
Absolutely, If you ever get writer's block give me
a call.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
You got stories.
Speaker 1 (24:19):
I got stories and I guarantee you you can listen to.
You can go to any indie expo,amy, and just talk to people.
You'll get some stories.
Trust me, I could turn you onto some people who got tons of
stories to share with you.
If you run into writer's blockbut I mean, you're a long way
from that right now.
If you run into writer's block,but I mean, you're a long way
(24:42):
from that right now.
Speaker 2 (24:45):
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave with Bella?
To be mad.
So my personal motto, um andit's been my personal motto
since I was in college I wasmaybe 19 years old um is aspire
to inspire before you expire.
So I think that a major partthat I have tried to incorporate
(25:08):
with Bella is just, I hope thatit's a means to inspire people,
whether it be somebody who's inthe job and having a tough time
, or or in the job and lovingthe job, but just loving to see
somebody that represents them,or a character that represents
(25:30):
them, or a child that might beinterested, that, like me, that,
like me, just loves to tinkerand play with tools, or you know
, and is looking for that outletor looking for that place where
they belong in the career world.
So just, I mean my whole modelas a person is to make sure that
(25:53):
I'm inspiring someone.
So that's really what I'mlooking to do with Bella man.
Speaker 1 (26:02):
you kind of answered my next question without me even
asking because I was going toask you what would be your dream
scenario.
What would?
Speaker 2 (26:25):
what would your dream scenario be like for your comic
strip in the next few years,when you kind of already touched
on it?
But well, I just haveaspirations still.
Um, one of the things that Iwant to start working on, um is,
like I said earlier, my kids.
They read a lot of like littlegraphic novels just for fun, the
comic strip kind I even thoughI do, I said, have the
children's book that's comingout and then also the activity
and coloring book.
I think that, um, I would loveto do like a graphic novel with
(26:48):
Bella, um to, you know, appealto the older kids, the kids that
are a little bit, that areabove eight years old.
So that is something that I'maspiring to do in the future.
And also, I mean, I just hope,like I said, I hope that it
leaves a legacy not only formyself but for this entire
(27:11):
industry, that you were thesilent heroes in healthcare.
Speaker 1 (27:17):
Yes, great man.
Every time you talk up, anotherquestion pops in my head.
Now this is more like apersonal question how has
working on Bella to be madeimpacted you personally and
professionally?
Personally first.
Speaker 2 (27:35):
So personally, I think that through Bella, it has
given me like a confidenceboost, almost, especially, like
I said, with all of the positiveresponses from Bella, it almost
is like a reassurance or a or apush for me, you know, saying
(27:57):
that you're moving in the rightdirection.
So I think, personally isdefinitely kind of like I said,
I can, I can have a lot ofself-doubt sometimes and I think
that this has been a a seriousconfidence boost for myself, for
me, professionally.
This is also I guess this canalso count as personal but it
(28:22):
shows how people feel the sameor that they relate to me, and I
think that when you're in anindustry where you feel like you
belong and that you feel likethe people around you are, you
know we're all on the on thekind of on the same, same
wavelength and we have, you know, we have real feelings and that
(28:46):
we have commonalities.
I think that that really hasimproved my, my mindset and my,
my involvement in the career.
Speaker 1 (29:02):
I'll tell you this how it's made an impact on me.
And you wouldn't think a comicstrip can do something for
someone who's been in theindustry a while, but just the
energy that comes from it issometimes overwhelming, because
it's it's great information andit almost like re-sparks the
(29:23):
fire, even though I don't needto spark at the moment, but it
gives me more excitement to dowhat I'm doing because you see
someone coming into the industry.
Even though you're not new, youcould be new to someone else.
And when we see the energy thatyou're not new yeah, you could
be new to someone else and whenwe see the energy that you're
putting into it, it inspiresindividuals to go to work with a
(29:43):
little pep in their step I lovethat I love that they see that
you're doing the same thingwe're doing, so that's one way I
think it can impact someoneprofessionally, because they say
man, you know, because all I'vebeen hearing from people is
jennifer's on fire, fire, she'sdoing it, she's killing it.
And then Bella comes.
They were saying that beforeBella.
Oh, wow, you know.
(30:05):
So now, when you presented thatin the expo, everyone loved your
presentation about the memoirand mistakes.
I might be saying it wrong, butyou know what I'm saying.
You mentioned how it's okay tomake mistakes, so that was great
.
And then, after that, you hitus with this and it just shows
that you have a lot of passionfor this industry and that's the
(30:27):
point.
That's the part that'simpacting people professionally
and I'm going to show it'simpacting you also, because if
it wasn't, you wouldn't be doingthis Right, absolutely.
I appreciate your efforts.
Now, in conclusion, as we bringthis conversation to a close, I
love for you to leave us withsome inspiring thoughts about
(30:49):
what inspires you to keepcreating every day, because I
know you're probably creatingevery day I am, I'm, I'm
creating right now.
Speaker 2 (30:57):
You just don't know it.
So what inspires me to keeppressing forward with Bella is
just the hope that not only thatI inspire the people that are
in the field every day, like Isaid, but I also want to inspire
the next generation, becauseit's so important that we bring
(31:19):
light to our industry and justget them excited about what the
possibilities are and let themknow that this is a viable
industry for them and this, thisis something that could be very
fun, very exciting and can justbe a really good option.
Speaker 1 (31:43):
Great, well said, jennifer.
I appreciate you coming on.
I know it was last minute, butI just had to get you on here
because your story needed to betold and I think everyone got a
better understanding behind thatlittle to be mad comic strip
and I salute you and if anythingI can do to help you, please
(32:03):
don't hesitate to reach out tome, because I'm probably one of
your biggest fans when it comesto this Bella to be mad.
Speaker 2 (32:10):
I'm also a fan of yours, so you know.
Speaker 1 (32:14):
I appreciate that.
All right, thank you very muchfor your time All right.
Speaker 2 (32:18):
Thank you very much for your time All right, thank
you for having me.
Speaker 1 (32:20):
Jennifer's work with Bella to be met is more than a
passion project.
It's a powerful promoter forcultural discussions and
transformative change in the HTMindustry.
This episode has showed theimportance of representation,
storytelling and connection,showcasing how one character can
(32:43):
impact an entire HTM community.
As we close, we encourage youto share our inspiring story and
spark meaningful conversationsthat drive change in the HTM
industry.
Until next time, y'all be safeout there.
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