What if the next wave of doctors, nurses, and scientists found inspiration from an animated series created by someone just like them? Ron Brown Captain and Advisory Board Member Joel Bervell is turning that vision into reality with his groundbreaking animated/live-action children’s series, The Doctor Is In.
Inspired by his journey and the animated heroes of his youth, Joel’s series introduces kids to medical concepts through the curious adventures of six-year-old Leland and his doctor, “Dr. Joel.” Supported by talking medical tools like Sammy the Stethoscope, Otto the Handbag, and Zeta the X-ray, the show aims to educate children, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, about basic health concepts while sparking their curiosity for careers in medicine and STEM fields.
“We’re addressing everyday questions kids have, like why we wash our hands or what causes asthma. But beyond the lessons, the show provides representation, showing Black and Brown children that they, too, can grow up to be doctors, nurses, or researchers.” – Joel Bervell
Joel credits the Ron Brown Scholar Program for playing a pivotal role in his journey. “Ron Brown is more than a program—it’s a family that has given me mentorship, connections, and opportunities to pursue my dreams,” he said. Joel’s connection to Dr. Steven Gunther, a friend of the Program, highlights the life-changing power of mentorship, which led to Joel spending a summer shadowing Dr. Gunther and gaining firsthand surgical experience.
Currently in production with support from Ad Astra Media and a collaboration with YouTube, Joel’s series seeks to make a significant impact. His hope? To inspire children to see themselves in medicine, engineering, and beyond, just as he once dreamed of becoming a doctor after watching characters like Static Shock.
You can help make stories like Joel’s possible. Donate today to the Ron Brown Scholar Program and support changemakers transforming their communities and the world.
