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Podcast Episode

Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled Presented by NCH- Episode 17

Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled··31 July 2026·29 min

About this episode

In this heartfelt episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, Ren and Gavin sit down with Karen Gagnon from North Country Healthcare’s Case Management team. Known by colleagues for her extraordinary compassion, Karen shares what it means to support patients and families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.Recently recognized through a DAISY Award nomination, Karen reflects on the power of empathy in healthcare, the importance of staying curious, and how asking thoughtful questions can help patients and families feel heard, understood, and supported.This conversation explores the emotional side of healthcare work, the humanity behind case management, and the quiet leadership that happens through presence, patience, curiosity, and care.Warm, thoughtful, and deeply grounded in mission, Karen reminds us that healthcare is ultimately about people showing up for one another.