Public Health Powerhouse: Dr. Frankie Shipman-Amuwo on Leading Chicago’s COVID Response, Fear, and the Power of EQ

In this dynamic episode of the Black Boss Ladies Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Frankie Shipman-Amuwo, a true powerhouse in Public Health Operations and a leader focused on dismantling systemic barriers. Dr. Shipman-Amuwo shares her incredible journey, from serving as the Interim Director of Emergency Preparedness for Cook County to her pivotal role as Assistant Commissioner for the COVID Bureau at the Chicago Department of Public Health, where she spearheaded the city's community-based testing operations. Frankie gets candid about the high-stakes environment of executive leadership, revealing her personal struggle with fear and imposter syndrome while managing massive, life-saving programs. She explains how her DrPH focus on equity, power, and trauma-informed practice fuels her work as a social justice change agent. Tune in to learn why Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is non-negotiable for adaptive leaders and how Dr. Shipman-Amuwo balances strategic management for vulnerable populations—from Children and Youth Services to Senior Services—with her new role as Senior Director for Community Health. A must-listen for anyone interested in Black women in leadership, public health careers, and leading with courage and compassion.