Ep. 2 What does it take to become one of the most powerful voices in American healthcare? Dr. Willie Underwood III didn't just beat the odds—he redefined them. From humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to the highest ranks of the American Medical Association, his story is a blueprint for turning purpose into power. 🩺🔥
Join hosts Mrs. T (The Spark), Natasha (The Doc), and Cool Cuz’n Kim as they sit down with the newly elected President of the AMA, only the third Black physician in the organization's 177-year history to do so and the 2nd Urologist inHistory. In this intimate and impactful conversation, Dr. Underwood breaks down the real-world impact of health disparities, why equity matters more than ever, and how community, mentorship, and mindset create lasting leaders.
Key Takeaways:
Leaders are created. Dr. Underwood’s story proves that with the right support system and self-determination, anything is possible.
Health equity is a human right. Systemic disparities aren’t just unfair—they’re expensive and deadly.
Prostate cancer prevention is urgent. Black and brown men face significantly higher risks, and early detection saves lives.
Strategic planning = health justice. Building equity requires community-driven solutions that address root causes.
Family matters. Parental expectations and belief in a child’s greatness help to shape future trailblazers.
🗣️ Memorable Quotes from Dr. Underwood:
“You have to see greatness in yourself to see greatness in your children.”
“Health inequity... if you’re rich, white, educated, and insured, your outcomes are better. That’s not equality.”
“You do your part, and God will do the rest.”
Willie Underwood, III, MD, MSc, MPH, FACS is a board-certified urologist, TEDx speaker, and the 2025 president-elect of the American Medical Association. With over 25 years in urologic surgery and a focus on health equity, he’s led numerous national health policy efforts and holds leadership roles across major medical organizations. Dr. Underwood is also a published researcher, prostate cancer innovator, and co-founder of KAPS Biotechnology.
🔗 Resources & Links:
🎓 Dr. Underwood's AMA President-Elect Bio
🏥 KAPS Biotechnology LLC
🏛️ American Medical Association (AMA)
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that greatness comes from grit—and the power of purpose.
#HealthEquity #BlackDoctors #AMA #DrUnderwood #TheStir716 #BuffaloPride #ProstateCancerAwareness #LeadershipMatters
Chapters:
00:00 Dr. Willie Underwood III Joins The Stir 716 Podcast
02:24 Childhood Influences and the Path to Becoming a Doctor
08:46 Overcoming Educational Inequities and Personal Challenges
14:26 From Struggling Reader to Academic and Athletic Leader
16:27 The Importance of Community Support in Personal Development
19:14 It Takes a Village
20:45 Lost Community Values and Generational Gaps
23:27 Cultural Expectations and Career Choices in Black Communities
24:35 Becoming a Morehouse Man and the Path to Medical School
31:56 Resilience and Sacrifice
37:56 Achieving Success Without a Father Figure
39:17 Addressing Health Equity to Enhance National Productivity
43:37 Maternal Mortality Disparities Persist in Modern Healthcare
46:40 Healthcare Policy Impacts on Black and Brown Communities
51:01 Prostate Cancer Awareness and Preventative Care
54:55 Empowering Children Through Intentional Parenting and Education
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