Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Pradella was recently featured on the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, hosted by Alberta tech leader and entrepreneur Al Del Degan.

In this episode, Geoff reflects on his career journey from international relations and law to medicine and ethics, highlighting the unconventional choices and mentorship that shaped his path. As both the CEO of KBHN and Chair of Genome Alberta, he brings a deep commitment to advancing health systems and creating a lasting impact for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities.

“None of where I wound up was part of a plan,” Geoff shared during the conversation. “It was the courage of taking some leaps of faith on the advice of tremendous people.”

With authenticity and insight, he discusses the driving forces behind his work, including a deep-seated motivation to support underserved populations and tackle complex challenges through innovation and collaboration. He shares how bold decisions and the willingness to embrace uncertainty have helped him lead transformative initiatives in medical research, health ethics, and system-wide change.

“The magic happens on the other side of fear,” he said. “It’s all about taking those challenges.”

The conversation also explores the recent addition to KBHN’s growth strategy, a first-of-its-kind impact investing initiative in Canada called the Kids Brain Health Innovation Fund (KBH-IF).

“Getting up every day to make life better for kids with some pretty profound challenges right from the start of life” is what fuels Geoff’s work, and his story is a reminder of the difference dedicated leadership can make.