Lyne Martin
I co-founded Healthi Humans (spelled with an I) three years ago, and serving as its President has been the culmination of everything that's happened in my career. We're a charitable mobile diagnostics company that provides programs and on-site medical services for disadvantaged populations in Southern California who suffer from chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney disease. I lost someone close to me due to an undiagnosed illness because they didn't have access to healthcare, and that's what sent me down this path. That's why I formed it as a charity versus a for-profit organization - I want to make sure that everyone has access to appropriate healthcare. My day is filled with navigating relationships with all stakeholders including our medical oversight, funders, members, staff, and patients. I also manage our funding sources, grant opportunities, and our website. We're small but mighty and growing. I'm kind of still like a one-woman show right now, but I'm putting it all together.
• Bachelor's of Science in Organizational Leadership from Purdue University
• Master's in Organizational Leadership (in progress)
• VSEDC (Vermont Slauson Economic Development Center) Entrepreneur Award
• Judge Mablean Ephriam Foundation (MEF)
What do you attribute your success to?
First, I'd say my parents, because my dad's an engineer and mom's a nurse practitioner, so they instilled in me just a desire for education and community. And then there's obviously just a natural drive to help others, so I would give it to both of those things - the foundation my parents gave me and my own natural drive to help others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Just do it. One of my mentors was very big on not faking it to make it. There's no faking it, just do it. Don't wait around or pretend - just take action and do the work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do it for the love of others, not for the love of money, because a lot of people come into healthcare for the money. So, do it for the love of others. And I'd also say be ready to pivot. You have to always be ready - like today, I thought I was gonna have a Friday afternoon off, but no. So always be ready to pivot and adapt to what comes your way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Most recently, it's been funding - access to funding. There's been a lot of changes with Medicare and healthcare in general. And because I'm in Southern California specifically, there is a great portion of the population where English is a second language, and so getting them to trust that we're not coming to harm them in any way is a challenge. Building that trust with communities where language is a barrier is something we're constantly working on.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
First and foremost, I believe in integrity in everything. It should be weaved into your personal and professional life. I'm really big on integrity. Compassion would be a close second to that - I live by that as well. And then the golden rule is just something I was raised on, and I really believe in that as well: just do unto others as you'd have them do unto you. Those are like three principles I live by.
Locations
Healthi Humans
Los Angeles, CA