Episode Description

Landing your first full-time job as CEO is unheard of, yet that’s exactly how Graciela’s story began.

Graciela Soto , CEO of Altura Centers for Health, joins Third Way Health CEO Frederik Mueller to reflect on her 22-year journey leading one of California’s largest FQHCs. From candy striper to chief executive, she shares how persistence, community roots, and mission-driven leadership fueled Altura’s growth from one small clinic to nine sites and three mobile units.

They cover scaling challenges, provider shortages, vendor trust, and the role of technology in patient access. Graciela also dives into recruiting international physicians, balancing in-house vs. outsourced services, and advocating for Medicaid funding amidst rising wage pressures.

An inspiring look at building a career and a health system at the same time. Listen in for lessons on leadership, resilience, and staying true to mission.