Reimagining Healthcare for Indigenous Communities | Dr. Crystal Lee, United Natives

Building healthier communities takes more than healthcare alone. It starts with understanding the people being served, the realities they face, and the cultural knowledge that already exists within the community.

Dr. Crystal Lee, CEO and Founder of United Natives, joins Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter for a conversation about Indigenous health, community resilience, and innovation. From growing up on the Navajo Nation to becoming one of the nation’s leading voices in Indigenous health equity, Dr. Lee shares how her experiences, culture, and commitment to service have shaped her life’s work.

Together, they explore how Indigenous wisdom and modern technology can work hand in hand to address health disparities and create opportunities for future generations. Dr. Lee also shares the story behind United Natives, which began as a $100 mentorship initiative and evolved into a national organization serving Indigenous communities through health services, youth leadership, emergency response, and more.

The conversation also dives into the upcoming United Natives Health App, a digital ecosystem designed to improve access to healthcare, education, community resources, and support for missing and murdered Indigenous relatives. Dr. Lee also shares her broader vision for creating opportunities for future generations, including why sports remain a powerful pathway to education and long-term success for Indigenous youth.

Dr. Lee’s perspective is a reminder that lasting change starts with listening, building trust, and recognizing that the decisions we make today can shape communities for generations.