Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

In this episode, Doug Meil, Software Architect for Data and Analytic Solutions & ACM Senior Member reflects on his decade-long journey with Explorys and IBM Watson Health, sharing insights from his book The Rise and Fall of Explorys and IBM Watson Health. He discusses what went wrong, what could have been done differently, and the lessons healthcare tech leaders can apply today.

AI just got faster, smarter, and a lot more… agentic. In this episode of The No Normal Show, UChicago Medicine CMO Andy Chang joins us to talk about the tech that's rewriting the rules for healthcare marketing. We discuss the rise of AI “agents” that can book your appointment before you've finished your coffee, to why websites as we know them might not survive. Also, Andy shares how his team is building a frictionless, hyper-personalized patient experience. We cover the future of MarTech stacks, the end of one-size-fits-all healthcare, and yes—why video games are surprisingly great for family bonding. The future's here, are you ready to play? Tune in now.Subscribe to The No Normal Rewind, our newsletter featuring a mashup of the boldest ideas, sharpest takes, and most rewind-worthy moments from our podcast here: https://bpdhealthcare.com/insights/#newsletterInterested in joining us at Joe Public Retreat? Learn more here: https://bpdhealthcare.com/insights/events/joe-public-retreat-2026/

In this episode, Stephanie Conners, Nurse and CEO of BayCare Health System, shares her journey from the bedside to the C-suite, the lessons she's carried from outside healthcare into leadership, and how family, resilience, and bold thinking shape the way she leads today.

In this episode, Paige Twenter highlights major developments in public health, including CDC leadership changes, vaccine committee decisions, and new state-level policies that could reshape vaccination requirements.

In this episode,  Scott Becker shares 22 key insights on the U.S. healthcare system, covering workforce shortages, rising costs, payer influence, the need for innovation, and more.

In this episode, Dr. Qoot Alkhubaizi, Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD), joins the podcast to share her journey in dentistry, insights on global oral health, and how digital innovations and AI are shaping the future of dental education and patient care.

In this episode, Melissa Golombek, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Tampa General Hospital, shares how her team is advancing operational strategy, strengthening partnerships, and preparing for future challenges. She also reflects on her leadership journey and the evolving role of the COO in academic health systems.

In this episode, Ashley Hilliard, MBA, MSN, RN, CPAN, Administrator of Piedmont Outpatient Surgery Center, shares insights on new ASC procedure codes, reimbursement challenges, and the impact of North Carolina's changing certificate of need laws on future growth.

In this episode, Mandy Fauble, PhD, LCSW, Vice President of Operations at UPMC Western Behavioral Health, discusses workforce transformation, community partnerships, and the role of technology in expanding access and improving behavioral health services.

In this episode, Brendan Harris, president of UPMC for You and state programs, shares how initiatives like the Pathways to Work program and Neighborhood Centers are addressing social determinants of health, supporting Medicaid members, and strengthening local communities.

Rick A. Mars, DDS, Dental Care Group President and Align (Invisalign) Global Faculty Member, joins the podcast to share insights on the latest trends in the dentistry space. He emphasizes the critical role oral health plays in overall wellness, explores the growing use of AI in dentistry, and raises concerns about the risks of DIY dentistry.

In this episode, Dr. Anshelle Tucker, Clinical Director at Aspen Dental, shares her perspective on the rapid adoption of dental technologies, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving expectations of patients. She also highlights how leaders can prepare for the future by embracing innovation and guiding the next generation of clinicians.

Paula Ferrada, MD, FACS, FCCM, MAMSE, Chair of the Department of Surgery at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus (IFMC), Professor of Medical Education at the University of Virginia, Division and System Chief of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, and Medical Director of Perioperative Services at IFMC, highlights her focus on driving long-term success. She emphasizes viewing failure as a learning opportunity, building a culture of trust, and the importance of fostering community within an organization.

Merage Ghane, Ph.D., Director of Responsible AI in Health at the Coalition for Health AI (CHAI), discusses the consequences of AI misuse and the importance of building trust in clinical applications of AI. She highlights the need for human-centered solutions, emphasizing ethics in healthcare, and discusses the evolution of the healthcare industry.

In this episode, Mack McGee, Chief Marketing Officer at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, shares how the organization earned top marks for customer experience in Forrester's 2025 rankings and discusses the importance of trust, personalization, and simplifying healthcare interactions for members.

In this episode, Krista Kappus, DDS, a private practice dentist in California, shares her perspective on staffing shortages, rising costs, and the role of insurance reform in shaping the future of dentistry. She also highlights exciting innovations such as AI, 3D printing, and digital tools that are transforming patient care and practice operations.

In this episode, Mark Mayo, CASC, Administrator at Associated Surgical Center, discusses the top challenges and opportunities for ASCs today. He shares insights on physician independence, regulatory changes, and how outpatient surgery centers can prepare for growth in a shifting healthcare landscape.

In this episode, Matt Steele, Director of State and Local Advocacy at CareQuest, discusses the impact of upcoming Medicaid changes, the importance of community water fluoridation, and strategies for ensuring vulnerable populations maintain access to essential dental care.

In this episode, Michael Ugwueke, President and CEO of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, reflects on lessons from his career journey, the importance of balance and wellbeing in leadership, and how taking risks has shaped both his life and impact on the healthcare community.

In this episode, Mathew Timmons, COO of Manning Family Children's, shares insights on advancing pediatric care through expanded access, brand amplification, and a focus on behavioral health. He also reflects on the evolving role of the COO, balancing strategy with operational detail, and leading with a family-centered approach.

In this episode, Eric Huckins, Vice President of Business Development at Lumicera Health Services, discusses how health systems can build stronger specialty pharmacy programs by navigating challenges such as 340B, payer access, and accreditation. He also highlights the role of strategic partnerships, biosimilars, and technology in improving patient care and driving growth.This episode was sponsored by Lumicera Health Services.

In this episode, Mary Frances Southerland, Chief Administrative Officer at UVA Health, shares how the system is building a culture of empowerment, advancing integration across hospitals, and expanding access to care. She also highlights UVA Health's focus on innovation and collaboration to serve patients and support its workforce.

In this episode, Dr. Maulik Purohit, Chief Health Innovation Officer at datosX Digital Health Labs, explores the benefits and challenges of quality metrics in healthcare. He shares insights on how metrics affect patient care, physician burnout, and the balance between true quality improvement and administrative burden.

In this episode, Mary Frances Southerland, Chief Administrative Officer at UVA Health, shares how the system is building a culture of empowerment, advancing integration across hospitals, and expanding access to care. She also highlights UVA Health's focus on innovation and collaboration to serve patients and support its workforce.

In this episode, Jim Heilsberg, CFO of Tri-State Memorial Hospital, discusses the hospital's community-driven growth, expansion of specialty services, and strategies to balance financial sustainability, culture, and innovation to ensure high-quality rural healthcare for the future.

Gabrielle Cummings, President of Evanston Hospital and NorthShore Hospitals, emphasizes how kindness and compassion play a vital role in healthcare. She shares her personal strategies for maintaining wellness, including meditation, and how she bounces back from challenging days. Cummings also addresses the growing concern of workforce violence and its impact on the healthcare environment.

In this episode, Dr. Nwando Olayiwola and Dr. Matt Anderson of Advocate Health share how the system is advancing rural care, building local workforce pipelines, and leveraging technology to expand access. They also discuss leadership, lifelong learning, and the importance of tailoring care to diverse communities.

In this episode, Scott Becker reviews year-to-date stock performance for major payers.

In this episode, Mohan Giridharadas, Founder and CEO of LeanTaaS, answers unfiltered questions from healthcare leaders about hospital capacity, throughput, and operational efficiency. He shares practical insights on leveraging AI, improving OR utilization, addressing bottlenecks, and driving better outcomes with existing resources.To learn more and register for the upcoming Transform Hospital Operations Virtual Summit, visit: https://conferences.beckershospitalreview.com/september-2025-transform-virtual-event?utm_source=virtual-conference&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=september-transform-podcast&utm_content=lt

In this episode, Scott Becker shares updates on hospital revenue and margin pressures, rising expenses, maternity care closures, payer performance, and more.

In this episode, Seema Verma, EVP and GM of Oracle Health and Life Sciences, discusses Oracle's vision for transforming healthcare through AI, interoperability, and next-generation EHR technology. She shares insights on reducing administrative costs, advancing clinical research, improving prior authorization, and strengthening cybersecurity to create a more efficient and patient-centered system.This episode is sponsored by Oracle.

In this episode, Jan Grigsby, CFO at AnMed, reflects on his first months in the role and the importance of listening, culture, and community-focused leadership. He also discusses key healthcare finance trends, growth opportunities in South Carolina, and how AnMed is preparing for the shift toward outpatient care.

In this episode, Scott Becker outlines the top five not-for-profit health systems in the U.S. ranked by annual revenue.

In this episode, Scott Becker highlights five healthcare companies hit hard over the past year.

In this episode, Dr. Kevin Davis, Pharmacy Operations Manager at Baptist Health, shares how robotics and IV compounding are enhancing patient safety, strengthening supply chain resiliency, and easing workload challenges for pharmacy teams.This episode is sponsored by Omnicell.

In this episode, Rick Talento, CFO of Inova, discusses the financial trends shaping health systems today, including regulatory impacts, payer dynamics, and workforce challenges. He also shares Inova's growth strategy, technology investments, and commitment to community care across Northern Virginia.

Allison Roditi, Vice President of the Musculoskeletal Service Line at Catholic Health, shares insights on growing orthopedic services while prioritizing an excellent patient experience. She emphasizes a patient-centric approach and highlights the importance of including all stakeholders in the process of delivering high-quality care.

This episode features Mark Solazzo, Chief Operating Officer of Northwell Health, as he shares insights from his 30-year career, discusses the importance of culture and people in healthcare leadership, and reflects on his transition toward retirement. He also offers advice for future COOs navigating the evolving health system landscape.

In this episode, Mary Martin, COO of Duke University Hospital, shares insights on leading growth, advancing quality and safety, and leveraging technology to support caregivers. She also reflects on evolving as a leader and helping to define what the hospital of the future will look like.

In this episode, Dio Sumagaysay, Vice President of Perioperative and Multi-Specialty Procedural Services at Oregon Health & Science University, shares how his team is using iQueue for Operating Rooms' Staff Planner tool by LeanTaaS to streamline staffing across 54 operating rooms and procedural areas. He highlights the time savings, efficiency gains, and improvements in staff morale achieved through data-driven scheduling.This episode is sponsored by LeanTaaS.

Stan Kinder, President and Founder of Everything DSO, discusses operational performance at the individual practice level and shares success tips for new leaders. He explores the implementation of AI and highlights key trends shaping the DSO space today.

Jon Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer at Smile Doctors LLC, discusses creating the best patient experience through the use of AI and the growing role of private equity in the DSO space. He also explores key industry drivers shaping the future of dental service organizations.