Pleasant Radford Jr. ’14 MBA, a resident of Minneapolis, finds himself surrounded by both the promise and the pain of his city streets. In the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, these same streets have become a stark reminder of ongoing injustice. However, Radford remains an optimist, believing that out of trauma can come transformation and progress towards the equitable values that Minnesota was built upon.
Seeking to channel his anger into productive action, Radford launched the “Heart of Equity” podcast, a space for transparency, honesty, and vulnerability. Through conversations with community leaders like State Rep. Cedrick Frazier and Olivia Jefferson, he explores ways to create more equitable healthcare for all Americans.
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter praised Radford and his podcast for tackling long-standing healthcare disparities through important conversations. By spotlighting these issues and engaging experts, “Heart of Equity” aims to dismantle damaging narratives and work towards a more inclusive healthcare system.
In addition to featuring guest interviews, the podcast also shines a light on local Black businesses as a means of promoting prosperity and community engagement. Radford’s journey from Chicago to Minneapolis, where he pursued his MBA at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, has been marked by a commitment to creating positive change in healthcare. By connecting with organizations like the Mayo Clinic through the Opus College of Business, Radford has been able to leverage these relationships to drive impact and innovation.
As a member of the State Community Council on Inclusion and Equity, Radford has worked with a diverse array of organizations to prioritize and refine efforts towards meaningful change. Through this collaborative approach, he has learned valuable lessons on maximizing impact within the Minnesota community.
For Radford, community is not just a noun; it is a verb—a continuous action that requires dedication and effort from all. In his ongoing journey towards creating a more equitable society, Radford remains steadfast in his belief that meaningful change is possible when individuals come together to prioritize the common good.
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