We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kenosha Gleaton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Kenosha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
A Defining moment: “If you have to ask that question, you’re not cut out to be a doctor”
It was the summer after college graduation, and I desperately needed more volunteer hours. As a first-generation college grad, I was forced to hit the pavement in search of these opportunities. I was thrilled to land a spot at Bon Secours Roper Saint Francis Hospital, which represented a dual win for me — a healthcare system that intertwined faith with medicine.
From the time I was eight, I told my entire family that I would become a doctor; however, at this point in my life, I was entertaining the idea of becoming a physician assistant.
Thus I was excited that my volunteer assignment was with a male Physician Assistant. One day I asked a question about how physicians maintain work-life balance, having heard that juggling motherhood and a strenuous career could be difficult.
His response caught me off-guard.
“ if you have to ask that question, you’re not cut out to be a doctor…”
I quietly retreated back then, but now realize that this was a defining moment.
His response served as a direct challenge, fueling my ambition to achieve success in both motherhood and medicine.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Kenosha Gleaton, MD Revered for her willingness to listen and praised for the love and concern she shows patients,
Board Certified OB/GYN, Dr. Kenosha Gleaton, has passionately served the Carolinas for well over a decade. Her patients not only appreciate her in-depth knowledge and medical experience, they sing her praises. “She listens intently,” says one, and “You can tell she loves people,” says another. Dr. Gleaton, founder of The EpiCentre, values excellence and places top priority on her patients.
“My goal is to connect with women in such a way that they forget they’re conversing with their ob/gyn. To listen, to care, to anticipate needs in a manner that fosters transparency, and cultivates a doctor-patient relationship that is unmatched.” says Dr. Gleaton.
Dr. Gleaton is passionate about group prenatal care (Centering), lactation, adolescent gynecology, and minimally invasive surgery. She also enjoys using multicultural strategies to improve patient care— a skill learned abroad in South Africa and Costa Rica. She explains “Women’s care is complex, yet customizable. It’s a delicate balance where physical, mental, and spiritual needs must be addressed. That’s what our patients deserve.”
She not only serves her patients, but she serves the professional medical community at large. She is a member of the Charleston Medical Society, the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and is the Immediate past president of the Charleston Medical, Dental, and Pharmaceutical Association. For several years, she served on MUSC’s Committee of Diversity and Inclusion, and was the Physician Champion for Roper St. Francis’ baby friendly initiative. In addition, she serves on the Roper St Francis Foundation Board, engaging community supporters to fund the RSF mission to heal all people with compassion, faith, and excellence. In 2020, she was named the medical director of Natalist, a company helping women achieve and navigate pregnancy. Most recently, she became the Vice Chair of the Department of OB/GYN at Roper Berkeley Hospital.
Recently named a “Healthcare Hero” by the Charleston Regional Business Journal, Dr. Gleaton doesn’t see herself as a hero, but rather a patient advocate. “It truly is a privilege to serve my patients. When they walk through the doors of The EpiCentre, I want them to immediately feel like they matter— like they are a priority, and that I’m honored to be their doctor. That’s the heart of my practice.”
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Yes, I’m actually in the midst of a pivot right now! In medicine, it’s common for physicians/ providers to desire to meet all needs of all patients. But in reality, that’s just not possible. When I first opened the EpiCentre, I sought to provide every service a woman could desire. However, I’m discovering that my impact is greatest when I’m doing what i love. I’d rather provide A+ service in a few things than C minus service in many.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Its a common perception that Doctors are terrible business people, and I must admit, I agree. We are taught nothing in med school regarding managing a business, much less managing a team. (at least when I came through)
Realizing these deficits, I enrolled in EntreMD Business School, a school for doctor entrepreneurs, and this has been life-changing for my practice. As an entrepreneur, you must heavily and REGULARLY invest in developing your greatest asset —YOU!
Simply put, You’ll never see a different version of your business, until you create a different version of you.
As for resources, a few of my favorite books are “Eat that Frog” and “The Miracle Equation”. But my absolute must-have book for all entrepreneurs is “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz. After reading this book, my entrepreneurial acumen skyrocketed, and I no longer viewed profit as optional. If you’re an entrepreneur, struggling financially, & paying yourself only when there’s enough monthly revenue to do so, this book is for you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.epicentrecharleston.com/
- Instagram: The EpiCentre
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpicentreCharleston/
- Yelp: The E[iCentre
Image Credits
Ruta Elvikyte