Lauren Beyer

I attribute my success to resilience, empathy, curiosity, and authenticity. I’ve faced setbacks, but I’ve always found a way to keep moving forward and learn from what I’ve experienced. I genuinely care about people, I’m curious about what’s possible, and I’m willing to take risks, ask questions, and try something new. Most importantly, I continue to work on myself and stay connected to my purpose of helping others.

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is to be accommodating and willing to work with others, while still knowing your own boundaries and value. I believe being collaborative, flexible, and compassionate is important, but so is advocating for yourself and recognizing when you need to say no. You can be kind and supportive without losing yourself in the process.

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One of the most influential professionals in my journey has been Dr. Aimee Harris-Newton, PsyD, DABPS, CHt. Her work and the resources offered through The Center for Integrative and Functional Health and Wellness encouraged me to invest in myself, approach growth intentionally, and recognize that personal well-being is essential to professional success. Her influence reminded me that personal growth can have a meaningful impact on how we show up professionally and personally.

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I’d also like to recognize Paige DeSorbo and Hannah Berner of Giggly Squad. Their podcast has become one of my favorite sources of entertainment, laughter, and perspective, and I appreciate the authenticity and humor they bring to their work. It may be an unconventional answer, but I think the people and things that bring us joy can influence us in meaningful ways, too.

My advice to young women entering healthcare is to advocate for yourself, speak up, and never be afraid to ask questions. Build genuine relationships and take care of those relationships throughout your career—you never know who may become a mentor, colleague, advocate, or friend. Look beyond where you are today and don’t be afraid to take opportunities that stretch you. Most importantly, support other women along the way. We don’t have to compete with one another to succeed; we’re stronger when we share knowledge, open doors, and lift each other up.

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare right now is making sure patients and families understand their options and have access to the right care at the right time. In hospice and palliative care, there is still a great deal of education and conversation needed around what these services can provide and when they can be helpful. I see a real opportunity to build stronger relationships across healthcare, educate communities, and make compassionate care more accessible. I also think there is tremendous opportunity for people in healthcare to think creatively, collaborate across disciplines, and find better ways to meet people where they are.

The values that matter most to me are connection, authenticity, curiosity, creativity, and balance. I believe meaningful relationships are at the center of both a fulfilling career and a fulfilling life, and I try to approach people with empathy, openness, and genuine curiosity. I also value creativity and giving myself the freedom to explore new ideas and possibilities rather than always doing things the way they have been done before. Outside of work, spending time in nature, being creative, and being with my dogs bring me a lot of joy and help keep me grounded. Ultimately, I want to live and work in a way that feels purposeful, authentic, and meaningful.