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How Riley Became One of the Best Children’s Hospitals in America

Dr. Mustafa and Meghan Freeman share how Riley Children’s Health saves lives through advanced fetal surgery and how the foundation funds vital research and mental health programs across Indiana.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I learned about the remarkable work being done at Riley Children's Health and Riley Children's Foundation with Dr. Mustafa and Meghan Freeman, assistant vice president of marketing and communications.

Our discussion delves into life-saving fetal surgeries performed at Riley, the comprehensive care provided by the hospital, and the foundation's $300 million campaign 'Every Child Deserves Riley.'

Dr. Mustafa shares her journey from Iraq to Indiana, her specialized work in fetal surgery, and the support systems that make these advanced procedures possible.

Meghan elaborates on the foundation's role in funding cutting-edge research, programs like Camp Riley, and initiatives addressing the youth mental health crisis.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast

You are going to learn about:

  • Life-Saving Fetal Surgeries at Riley

  • The Riley Children’s Foundation’s Multi-Million Dollar Campaign

  • How the Foundation Funds Research and Addresses Mental Health Among Youth

Thank you to our partners:
Elements Financial

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:35 Guest Introduction: Dr. Mustafa and Meghan Freeman
02:31 Understanding Riley Children's Health and Foundation
05:15 Dr. Mustafa's Journey and Expertise
08:11 Fetal Surgery and Specialized Procedures
14:13 The Importance of Support and Resources
23:10 Challenges and Rewards of Fetal Surgery
28:15 Realizing the Importance of Medical Specialties
29:21 The Impact of Social Media on Medical Information
31:20 Riley Children's Health Foundation Initiatives
34:41 Moving to Indiana: A Personal Journey
35:58 Riley Children's Health Services and Innovations
39:14 Youth Mental Health Crisis in Indiana
41:51 Riley's Community and Research Programs
46:51 Personal Stories and Impact of Riley Children's Health
49:46 Ways to Support Riley Children's Foundation

Guest(s)

Dr. Mustafa and Meghan Freeman

Date Published

October 13, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.