We've all heard that we are living in "unprecedented times" and "a new normal”. The last time the world faced a pandemic was over a century ago. So, what does it take to actually lead during the COVID-19 global pandemic in 2020? During this episode, we talk with three women who are leading in this time of crisis: Dr. Tener Veenema, an internationally recognized expert in disaster nursing; Grelia Steele, a vibrant emergency manager and Phebean Akinwande, a Nigerian immigrant who for 30 years has cared for the elderly. From their vantage points, they explain what makes the COVID-19 pandemic different than anything they've seen, how they lead, and how the US response to the pandemic is intricately entwined with their daily lives.

This episode was produced in partnership with the Diversity in National Security Network, Ink Stick Media, and Columbia University. Production Assistant is Mandy Kwan. Listen to more episodes at whatintheworldpodcast.com and follow us on Twitter and Instagram: WITWPod.

Credits: Water No Get Enemy, Fela Kuti//The Carter Barron, Oddisee.