Joshua Zhu, Chief Operating Officer
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN HEALTHCARE?
I knew I wanted to work in a space where I would be able to contribute to the well-being of others. Although this is possible in many fields, healthcare particularly drew me in with the opportunity to combine science and interpersonal dynamics to provide care during times of vulnerability. Additionally, the evolving nature of healthcare constantly challenges me to learn and grow. As I’ve grown as a healthcare provider, I’ve had the pleasure of taking on a multifaceted role as expert, advocate, and sympathizer — and it’s been incredibly fulfilling.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB AT SOULO?
It’s always great to hear from people who need our products. Soulo’s mission of helping people age in place spun out of observations of our grandparents’ struggles. Yet, people are constantly letting us know about new segments of people who might need our product. As a clinician, I love to think about how our products might improve the standard of care or quality of life for people living with certain conditions. It’s also been extremely exciting seeing our products in people’s hands. There is a lot of unseen work that goes into bringing an idea to life, but seeing photos and testimonials from people using the product makes it all worthwhile.
WHAT DOES YOUR DESK LOOK LIKE?
I’ve been moving every couple of months so my desk setup is pretty minimal. For better or worse, I am very plugged into the Apple ecosystem. When I am working at home, my Macbook plugs into my Dell monitor for some extra screen real estate. Some other essentials include my trusty Sony headphones and a stack of books that I am currently working through.
WHO IS AN OLDER ADULT IN YOUR LIFE WHO HAS BEEN AN INSPIRATION TO YOU?
My grandpa was born in China during a period of extreme change. Most of what his family owned was plundered by Imperial Japanese soldiers or destroyed during the later Cultural Revolution. Yet, throughout all of this, he was resilient. He was able to ”start from scratch” and formed a successful hardware business to support his family and is still independent today at 90 years old. He is a role model who has inspired me so much through his endurance, versatility, and entrepreneurial spirit.
TELL US ABOUT A TIME THAT YOU OVERCAME A DIFFICULT HEALTHCARE CHALLENGE.
There are many intellectually difficult cases I’ve encountered in the hospital, but the most challenging ones involve social dynamics. In one situation, a patient had been admitted for a urinary tract infection (UTI). From a clinical standpoint, her condition had a simple solution, but when I described the treatment options with her, she became overwhelmed and withdrawn. The primary medical team also found it increasingly difficult to provide the care she needed.
The patient’s UTI was a “simple case” but her life was anything but. A combination of factors including her social support system, insurance, and psychological health were key to ensuring she would make a safe transition out of the hospital. I began spending more time with her to learn about her rich life experiences, while also working with a multidisciplinary team to ensure a smooth discharge. Ms. Smith became compliant with her medications and physical therapy, and on the day she left, she looked at me and said "Thank you for treating me not just as a patient, but as a person." — words that have stuck with me ever since.
