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Few physicians ever experience healthcare from the perspective of a health plan, but Jacob Asher, MD, is an exception. A former ENT surgeon with Kaiser Permanente, Asher shifted gears in 2008 to pursue a career in commercial health plan management. Over the next 14 years, he served as California Commercial Market Medical Director for Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare. Today, he shares his expertise by mentoring students in Stanford University's Master's Program in Medical Informatics. In this conversation with host Michael Sacopulos, Asher pulls back the curtain on commercial insurance — from how contracts are structured, to who holds pricing power, why behavioral health has been siloed, and what AI might finally be able to fix in a system long defined by friction and misaligned incentives. Asher also shares how serving on Kaiser Permanente's Medical Group Board of Directors helped prompt his move from surgery into health plan leadership. He also discusses the role of AAPL (then ACPE) in preparing physicians for non-clinical career paths. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
What does it take to drive meaningful change in healthcare when systems feel broken and institutional betrayal runs deep? Dr. Jessica Bunin, a retired Army Colonel with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, joins Dr. Andrea Austin to discuss her remarkable journey from psychiatrist to critical care physician and senior academic leader. Through compelling stories; including dramatically reducing ICU central line infections by empowering unexpected team members, Jessica reveals how shifting from “extreme ownership” to true team-building, practicing moral courage, and mastering civil discourse can rebuild trust and create healthier healthcare cultures. The conversation explores self-awareness as the foundation of effective leadership, the CLEAR framework for civil discourse, navigating institutional betrayal, and why leadership development must become central to medical education. You'll hear how they: Address institutional betrayal and moral injury by focusing on micro-cultures and small-team empowerment Build high-impact teams by including unexpected voices and shifting from doing things to people to doing things with them Practice moral courage in everyday healthcare settings, from challenging hierarchy to protecting patient safety Use the CLEAR framework (Create safety, Listen actively, Establish common ground, Adjust thinking, Respond skillfully) for productive conversations across difference Develop self-aware leaders who build trust and drive system-level transformation About the Guests “Civil discourse is our way forward.” – Dr. Jessica Bunin Dr. Jessica Bunin is a retired Army Colonel, critical care physician, and former psychiatrist with 23 years of service including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. She has held numerous leadership roles in academic medicine including critical care program director, assistant dean of faculty development, associate dean of DEI and community, and professor of medicine and health professions education. She is the co-founder and Chief Architect of All Levels Leadership, an International Coaching Federation certified executive leadership coach, and the author of the upcoming book From the Inside Out: How Self-Aware Leaders Build Trust and Transform Healthcare.
What does it actually cost when a doctor writes a verbal order over the phone instead of seeing the patient? Scott Middleton has the receipts — and the answer is going to make you rethink everything about how American healthcare spends its money. In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott announces a landmark three-way merger bringing Your Health together with Transitional Care Professionals of America (TCPA) out of Georgia and Providence Care, a hospice organization in South Carolina. The combined organization will serve approximately 55,000 active patients — not patients on a list, but people being seen regularly — and Scott lays out exactly how he's going to run it. What you'll hear in this episode: Why Scott's family owning 80% of the merged company changes everything about how decisions get made — and who they get made for The difference between fee-for-service and value-based care, and why the ACO model means every unnecessary hospitalization literally comes out of Your Health's pocket How Your Health's risk-adjustment-based visit model (16 visits per year per risk point) was independently validated by a new government study — and why it works The three things Scott is asking every new employee to do in the first weeks: align with a nurse practitioner, track every minute of care management, and recruit like their livelihood depends on it — because it does Why Scott's new management philosophy is six words: "Keep them out of the hospital and see your damn patients" This isn't a corporate announcement. It's a playbook for how healthcare can actually work when operators run the company, providers see their patients, and every minute of care gets counted. www.YourHealth.Org
What does it take to build a culture of ethics inside a health system — and what happens when leaders lack the courage to defend it? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Arthur Caplan, PhD, one of the world's foremost bioethicists and the founding head of the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine's Department of Population Health. Dr. Caplan traces his path into bioethics from a childhood hospitalization for polio to graduate training at Columbia, where he witnessed firsthand the ethical gaps in medicine's early encounters with IVF, informed consent, and research oversight. That experience shaped a career devoted not just to theorizing about ethics, but to solving real problems in real institutions. In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Caplan and Mike Sacopulos explore: - What an effective ethics infrastructure looks like - The defining bioethical challenges of the next decade - Compassionate use and unproven therapies - Misinformation and informed consent - Rationing and equity - Bioethics training for the next generation Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.
Get the FREE GUIDE to 10 Nonclinical Careers at nonclinicalphysicians.com/freeguide. Get a list of 70 nontraditional jobs at nonclinicalphysicians.com/70jobs. =============== The American Association for Physician Leadership played a direct role in John's own path to becoming a chief medical officer. So who better to dedicate a full episode to than the organization's President and CEO, Dr. Peter Angood. In this throwback from 2022, they get into what AAPL actually is and what it offers. Why Dr. Angood believes physician leadership isn't a title reserved for a few, it's a responsibility that extends across the entire profession. Dr. Angood covers the full scope of the organization: 85+ courses, a Certified Physician Executive credential, seven master's degree programs through five university partnerships, and 350–400 institutional programs annually. He also tackles physician burnout from a systems perspective. Arguing that telling already-resilient physicians to be more resilient simply misses the point entirely. You'll find links mentioned in the episode at nonclinicalphysicians.com/build-leadership-skills/.
What happens when excellence makes others uncomfortable? In this deeply personal solo episode, Dr. Andrea Austin introduces the concept of Tall Poppy Syndrome, the tendency for high achievers to be criticized, diminished, or excluded simply because they stand out. Drawing from her own experiences and the stories of coaching clients, she explores how this dynamic often shows up in healthcare organizations, leadership structures, and academic medicine. Dr. Austin unpacks the connection between tall poppy syndrome and gaslighting, the emotional impact of professional rejection, and the difficult process of discerning when to fight for accountability versus when to leave toxic environments behind. She also reflects on the importance of self-awareness, humility, healthy conflict, and community in sustaining meaningful growth. This episode is ultimately a reminder that being different, courageous, or innovative does not make you the problem. Sometimes it simply means you've outgrown the field you're standing in, and it's time to find one where you can thrive alongside other tall poppies. Inside This Episode: What Tall Poppy Syndrome is and why it shows up in medicine How gaslighting is often used to diminish high achievers Why professional rejection can feel devastating for physicians The importance of healthy conflict, coaching, and self-reflection Finding communities where growth and authenticity are celebrated
We're discussing Family Medicine Revolution: Physician Leadership in Action! Faisel and Dan are joined by Dr. Jay Lee, co-founder of #FMRevolution.Our conversation revolves around starting an ongoing movement to inspire the family medicine workforce, defining success in leadership and advocacy, and fulfilling your values through current technology and alternative care models.
In this episode, Stephen B. Williams, MD, MBA, MS, FACS, FACHE, Associate Chief Medical Officer, UTMB Clear Lake, Medical Director for High Value Care, UTMB Health System, Chief, Division of Urology, Professor (Tenured), Urology and Radiology, The Robert Earl Cone Professorship, Director of Urologic Oncology, The University of Texas Medical Branch,discusses physician leadership, operational transformation, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos speaks with two physician-researchers whose landmark study is sounding an early warning about the long-term consequences of state abortion restrictions on the U.S. physician workforce. Anisha Ganguly, MD, MPH, assistant professor of medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Anna Morenz, MD, MPH, assistant clinical professor of internal medicine at the University of Arizona, discuss their study published in JAMA Network Open in March 2026. Their study analyzed nearly 24.2 million residency applications submitted to more than 4,300 programs across all medical specialties between the 2018–2019 and 2022–2023 application cycles. Using an interrupted time-series causal methodology developed in collaboration with health economist Anirban Basu, PhD, MS, at the University of Washington, the team found that applications to programs in states enacting new abortion restrictions after Dobbs dropped significantly — among both male and female applicants. Among the conversation's most striking moments: Ganguly reveals that the decline among men applicants was larger than expected — and larger than they had originally hypothesized. She and Morenz discuss why this makes Dobbs an “all of us” problem, not just a women's issue, and what it signals about the broader reproductive climate of restricted states. The episode also covers the pipeline problem: because more than half of physicians ultimately practice in the state where they trained, sustained declines in application volume could worsen existing physician shortages in primary care and emergency medicine in restricted states for years to come. Morenz shares a timely update: in the most recent March 2026 match cycle, two OB-GYN residency programs — both in Texas — failed to fill all their slots. Study Reference: Ganguly AP, Basu A, Morenz AM. State-Level Disparities in Residency Applications After Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization. JAMA Netw Open. 2026;9(3):e260286. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.0286 Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
What does success in medicine really look like? In this heartfelt final episode of Succeed in Medicine, Dr. Bradley Block reflects on the seven-and-a-half-year journey of building a podcast dedicated to helping physicians grow as communicators, leaders, and human beings. As he steps away from podcasting to focus on his newly elected position on the board of his nearly 300-physician practice, Dr. Brad shares the lessons, insights, and personal growth that shaped both his career and his understanding of success. He discusses why he started the podcast in the first place: to ask questions he didn't have answers to and learn directly from experts about communication, leadership, burnout, parenting, financial planning, and the business of medicine. Along the way, those conversations transformed not only his perspective but also the trajectory of his professional life. Brad opens up about burnout, overcommitting, side hustles, physician identity, and the “arrival fallacy” that convinces physicians happiness always exists in the next milestone. He also shares practical communication strategies for building trust with patients and emphasizes the importance of intentional living, meaningful work, and aligning your time with your values. More than a farewell, this episode is a reflection on growth, purpose, and what it truly means to succeed, not by titles or achievements alone, but by spending your time in ways that are meaningful, fulfilling, and aligned with who you want to become. Top 3 Takeaways: Success Is Alignment, Not Achievement Alone: Dr. Brad redefines success as spending your time intentionally, consistently with your values, and aligned with your purpose. Career milestones and titles may matter, but fulfillment comes from engaging daily in work and relationships that genuinely feel meaningful and energizing. Communication in Medicine Is About Building Trust: Excellent physician communication is not simply about gathering information, it is about creating trust. Patients need to feel seen, heard, and cared for as human beings. Small actions like eye contact, emotional validation, and intentional presence dramatically improve both patient experience and physician satisfaction. The Arrival Fallacy Keeps Physicians Chasing Happiness: Many physicians believe success will come after the next promotion, title, or accomplishment. But waiting for future milestones delays fulfillment. Instead of constantly chasing the next achievement, physicians can build meaningful lives now by intentionally pursuing work, relationships, and activities that align with their purpose. About the Show: Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school! About the Host: Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians Want to be a guest? Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more! Socials: @physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook @physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube @physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter Want to start a podcast? Visit: doctorpodcastnetwork.co This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let's grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Send us Fan MailAmerican employers now spend over $25,000 a year to cover a single family, and chronic disease is driving the system toward collapse. Yet medicine is still built around a doctor's office visit every three to four months.Dr. Robert Pearl, former CEO of the Permanente Medical Group, Stanford professor, and author of ChatGPT MD, joins host David E. Williams to make the case that generative AI is the only tool that can shift medicine from episodic to continuous care, and why without it, the chronic disease crisis will break American healthcare entirely.
What does commanding troops in combat have to do with leading a hospital? More than you might think. In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, U.S. Army (Ret) — former commander of U.S. Army Forces in Europe, CNN military analyst — to explore the surprising parallels between military and medical leadership. Soldiers and physicians share more in common than most realize. Both are defined by their profession first, and both operate in life-and-death environments where leadership is not optional. Hertling shares how he came to spend nearly a decade at AdventHealth developing physician leadership programs, what his doctoral research revealed about inter-professional training, and why getting doctors, nurses, and administrators in the same room may be the single most important thing hospitals can do. Inter-professional leadership training produces measurably better outcomes than siloed programs. He also discusses his newly released memoir, If I Don't Return: A Father's Wartime Journal, drawn from a handwritten journal he kept during Operation Desert Storm. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
What does it mean to truly flourish at work — and why are physician leaders especially vulnerable to losing that? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with MaryCay Durrant, a nationally recognized expert on human fulfillment whose 30-year career has taken her inside transformation efforts at Deloitte, Pepsi, Johnson & Johnson, Hyatt, and — increasingly — the world of healthcare and physician leadership. MaryCay brings a perspective that is part organizational science, part nature wisdom, and entirely focused on helping leaders rediscover what fuels them. Her approach helps human beings flourish at work. The conversation moves from the personal — MaryCay's father was a pediatrician and president of the American College of Physician Executives — to the deeply practical, as she walks through her WORK model, a framework for combating burnout through small, consistent adjustments rather than wholesale system overhaul. As she describes in two compelling case studies, meaningful change happens through small communities of practice — not top-down mandates. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
aIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Derrel Walker, Chief Medical Officer at The Pennant Group, for a powerful conversation on what it truly means to lead as a physician in today's complex healthcare environment.From his early experiences in hospital medicine to shaping innovative care models, Dr. Walker shares how compassion, communication, and leadership—not just clinical expertise—are the keys to transforming patient outcomes.Key takeaways:Why Physician Leadership Matters More Than EverThe Power of Hard ConversationsThe Broken Care Continuum (and How to Fix It)Rethinking Care Delivery“Bullets Before Cannonballs” StrategyLeadership Principles for PhysiciansGrowth Through FeedbackGreat healthcare isn't just about treating illness—it's about guiding people through their most vulnerable moments with clarity, compassion, and connection. And great physician leaders aren't defined by what they know—but by how they lead, listen, and grow.
Pamela Sullivan, MD, MBA, CPE, is the author of the new book, Career Prescription Guide: A Physician's Guide for Career Transformation or Advancement. She is a national medical director, High-Risk Programs at P3 Health Partners and founder of National Healthcare Solutions LLC. Dr. Pamela Sullivan brings a career as varied as it is distinguished — from physical therapist to emergency medicine physician, urgent care pioneer, and now national leader in value-based care. In this episode, Dr. Sullivan shares her unconventional path through medicine, her hard-won perspective on patient-centered leadership, and her vision for what healthcare can and should be. Episode Highlights: - Why Value-Based Care Works: When you do the right things for the patient, the financial outcomes follow. - What Emergency Medicine Taught Her About People: Years in a trauma center shaped Dr. Sullivan's view of compassion and human dignity. She reflects on shedding early biases, treating every patient — from hospital CEOs to the unhoused — with equal respect. - The Public's Eroding Trust in Healthcare: Dr. Sullivan speaks candidly about experiencing healthcare inequities firsthand. She advocates strongly for universal access to healthcare and its core components, and acknowledges the complex, multi-layered challenges. - Reasons for Hope: Dr. Sullivan highlights home-based care models as a meaningful step forward. - Advice for Early-Career Physicians: Medicine is just one piece of what new physicians need to master. Dr. Sullivan urges young physicians to give themselves grace, invest in mentors, treat every member of the care team with dignity, and immerse themselves in their organization's culture. Packed with wisdom for early-career physicians and insights into compassion-centered leadership, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about creating a better healthcare future. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
In this episode, Lawrence Ward, MD, MPH, MACP, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Group, Holy Cross Health, discusses physician shortages, access challenges, and growth opportunities in Florida's evolving healthcare market. He shares how AI, system-level thinking, and a strong physician-patient connection are shaping the future of care delivery and leadership.
Join host Mike Sacopulos for a compelling conversation with Michael S. Hein, MD, MS, MHCM, PCC, senior vice president and executive coach, MEDI Leadership, about his new book, Shifting Towards Unorthodoxy. Drawing on nearly four decades in healthcare — from competitive swimming coach to general internist, CMO, CEO, and now executive leadership coach — Hein tackles a question that haunted him throughout his career: Why is healthcare leadership so difficult? In this episode, he introduces the crucial distinction between complicated and complex systems, explores how industrial-age mindsets contribute to burnout and suffering, and shares practical insights from coaching hundreds of healthcare leaders across the country. - How mental models and beliefs shape thinking, which determines actions and results - The difference between being a "hero leader" versus a "gardener leader" - Why shifting mindsets is uncomfortable — and connects to our deepest beliefs about reality - What healthcare executives and competitive athletes have in common Shifting Towards Unorthodoxy by Michael S. Hein, MD, — an invitation to think differently about healthcare leadership and an introduction to navigating complexity in organizational life. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
This episode of WarDocs features an in-depth conversation with LTG Mary K. Izaguirre, DO, the 46th Army Surgeon General and Commanding General of U.S. Army Medical Command. LTG Izaguirre shares her personal journey from a residency at Madigan Army Medical Center to serving in a tent in Bagram, Afghanistan, during the early stages of the war. She discusses how these early experiences shaped her understanding of the "why" behind military medicine: maintaining the trust of the American soldier by providing world-class care shoulder-to-shoulder on the battlefield. A central theme of the interview is the fundamental difference between civilian and military healthcare; while civilian systems often optimize for profit or specific health outcomes, military medicine must optimize for the mission, sometimes reprioritizing traditional medical metrics to ensure the Army remains effective in dangerous and dynamic environments. The discussion also explores the evolving role of the Army Surgeon General as an "integrator," a position codified to synchronize medical capabilities across the entire Army and joint force. LTG Izaguirre highlights the 250-year heritage of the Army Medical Department and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, emphasizing that this history of overcoming "hard things" provides the foundation for today's leaders to tackle modern challenges. Looking toward the future, she identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool rather than a distant prospect, advocating for "human-machine teaming" to decrease cognitive loads and improve clinical decision-making for medics in the field. By combining these technological advancements with a flexible mindset and a commitment to people, LTG Izaguirre outlines a vision for an Army health system that is lethal, cohesive, and consistently ready to support the nation's heroes. Chapters (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care Chapter Summaries (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine: LTG Izaguirre discusses her early interest in biology and how her path led from veterinary aspirations to human medicine within the U.S. Army. She explains how the Army's broad range of opportunities and scholarship programs provided a meaningful way to serve something bigger than herself. (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines: This chapter details LTG Izaguirre's deployment to Afghanistan in 2002 and how it shifted her focus from academics to the practical realities of operational medicine. She reflects on the critical "why" of her service: providing shoulder-to-shoulder support to maintain the faith and trust of the American soldier. (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage: LTG Izaguirre reflects on the 250-year history of Army Medicine and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps as sources of inspiration for today's challenges. She describes her role as an "integrator," tasked with synchronizing medical capabilities across the entire Army to support the joint force. (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System: The discussion focuses on how military medicine differs from civilian systems by optimizing specifically for the mission and operational outcomes. LTG Izaguirre emphasizes the need for a flexible mindset and curiosity as the Army undergoes significant structural changes to reflect the National Security Strategy. (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care: LTG Izaguirre identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool that can decrease cognitive loads and assist with clinical decision-making in austere environments. She concludes with a vision for the future of Army Medicine that focuses on vibrant training, strengthened partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the soldiers and civilians who serve. Take Home Messages Optimizing for the Mission: The fundamental difference between military and civilian healthcare lies in what the system is optimized for: military medicine prioritizes mission readiness and operational outcomes over profit or standard health metrics. This may require reprioritizing certain medical strategies to ensure the soldier is best postured for the fight and the joint force remains effective. The Role of the Integrator: Modern medical leadership in the Army requires serving as an integrator who synchronizes capabilities across diverse commands and joint partners. This role extends beyond direct command and control to influence the entire Army health system, ensuring it is properly postured to support national defense strategies. The Power of Trust and Heritage: A 250-year heritage of overcoming difficult challenges provides the foundation for today's medical leaders to build trust within their communities and with the soldiers they serve. This trust is maintained by acting in ways consistent with the identity of both a soldier and a clinician, ensuring that the best possible care is always available on the battlefield. Human-Machine Teaming in Medicine: Artificial intelligence is a present-day tool that should be utilized through human-machine teaming to improve decision-making and reduce the mental burden on medical personnel. While technology can get a clinician to the starting line, human judgment and the "human voice" remain essential to successfully providing care in complex environments. Learning Through Listening: Effective leadership during periods of intense transformation requires being a good listener who is willing to hear difficult or differing perspectives. By understanding these viewpoints before attempting to "explain away" problems, leaders can foster curiosity and synchronization throughout their organizations. Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Army Surgeon General, Lieutenant General Mary K. Izaguirre, WarDocs Podcast, Combat Casualty Care, Army Medicine History, Healthcare Transformation, Medical Leadership, AI in Medicine, Military Healthcare, Army Nurse Corps, Veteran Health, Bagram Afghanistan, Medical Residency, Physician Leadership, Integrated Healthcare, Medical Technology, Trauma Care, Clinical Decision Support, Human-Machine Teaming, Military Strategy, National Security Strategy, Healthcare Trust. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #ArmyMedicine, #Leadership, #WarDocs, #ArmySurgeon General, #MedicalInnovation, #HealthcareLeadership, #CombatMedic LTG Izaguirre Biography Lieutenant General Izaguirre serves as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Medical Command. A career physician and leader, she previously commanded Medical Readiness Command, East, and Tripler Army Medical Center. Commissioned in 1991, LTG Izaguirre earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is board-certified in Family Medicine with advanced degrees in Public Health, Military Arts, and National Security Strategy. Her distinguished service includes deployments to Iraq (4th Infantry Division) and Afghanistan, as well as key leadership roles at the Pentagon and various Army medical centers. A recipient of the Army Distinguished Service Medal and the Bronze Star, LTG Izaguirre is also an Army Flight Surgeon and a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit. She remains dedicated to the health, readiness, and resilience of the Total Army Force Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms. Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast
Join host Mike Sacopulos for an eye-opening conversation with Hugo Huang about the financial realities of adopting generative AI in healthcare organizations. Drawing from his Harvard Business Review article "What CEOs Need to Know About the Costs of Adopting Gen AI," Hugo explains why many companies are pulling back from AI implementation due to unexpected cost pressures — and what leaders can do to avoid these pitfalls. From understanding the difference between predictive and generative AI to navigating infrastructure bottlenecks and the emerging "diamond-shaped" organizational structure, this episode provides practical guidance for healthcare executives navigating the complex landscape of AI adoption. Hugo Huang, MBA, is an expert in cloud computing and business models who works with Canonical, a leading provider of infrastructure technology for Google's cloud business. He discusses building your AI cost dashboard, top metrics CEOs should track for AI spending visibility, understanding consumption patterns to estimate future costs, and getting started safely on AI. "What CEOs Need to Know About the Costs of Adopting Gen AI" by Hugo Huang, published in Harvard Business Review and featured for members of the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://www.physicianleaders.org/articles/what-ceos-need-to-know-about-the-costs-of-adopting-genai Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
In this deeply moving episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Louis M. Profeta, MD, a clinical instructor of emergency medicine at Indiana University and Marian University Schools of Medicine, bestselling author, and speaker. Profeta shares his unconventional path to medicine — from a catastrophic neck injury that ended his Olympic dreams to choosing his college based on a basketball game. He candidly admits he initially pursued medicine for financial security, but along the way discovered a profound calling in emergency medicine, which he describes as "the most spiritual and enlightening environment in healthcare." The conversation explores the unique position of the ER as society's great equalizer, where everyone from premature babies to Fortune 500 CEOs receive care under one roof. Profeta discusses how emergency departments serve as early warning systems for societal crises — from the fentanyl epidemic to homelessness — often sounding alarms years before mainstream attention arrives. The episode's most powerful message centers on Profeta's philosophy captured in his article "These Four Words That May Offend You May Also Just Save You" — the understanding that being a physician is what you do, not who you are. He advocates prioritizing family and personal life over professional identity as the key to career longevity and genuine patient care. Profeta offers a refreshingly honest and deeply human perspective on what it means to sustain a career in medicine while maintaining your soul. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
Event Objectives:Identify Key Strategies for Physician Leadership During Major Transitions in Health Care.Evaluate the Impact of National and Local Policy Priorities on Pediatric Surgical Practice.Apply Advocacy and Innovation to Advance Equitable Pediatric Health Outcomes.Claim CME Credit Here!
Mike Sacopulos speaks with Jordan Grumet, MD, associate medical director of Unity Hospice, podcaster, and author of The Purpose Code. Grumet shares his deeply personal journey from burning out as an internal medicine physician to finding fulfillment in hospice care, and explains how his work with dying patients has revealed profound lessons about living with purpose. Most people get purpose wrong, Grumet argues. Rather than being your "why" in life — some grand, audacious mission — purpose is simply the actions you take in the present and future that light you up. This reframe makes purpose abundant rather than anxiety-inducing. Working with dying patients has taught Grumet that the key question to ask yourself is: "If I were on my deathbed tomorrow, what would I regret never having the energy, courage, or time to do?" The answers reveal your true purpose anchors. "You don't find your purpose. You build or create it." Looking ahead, Grumet previews his upcoming AAPL book, The Healthcare Heist, which examines how third parties have leveraged the healthcare system and explores potential solutions. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
How can physicians and their teams deliver exceptional patient experiences, even when things go wrong?In this episode of Succeed In Medicine Podcast, Dr. Bradley Block interviews Shep Hyken, as he shares practical strategies for elevating patient care, emphasizing that "amazing" service doesn't require grand gestures, it's about being slightly better than average, consistently. Drawing parallels from hospitality giants like the Ritz-Carlton, he explains how using patients' names, setting clear expectations, and leveraging technology like patient portals can reduce friction and build loyalty.The conversation dives into handling "moments of misery," such as late appointments or scheduling mishaps, with a five-step process: acknowledge the issue, apologize, discuss resolutions, own the problem, and act with urgency. Shep also stresses the importance of creating a patient-focused culture through leadership, training, and hiring for personality fit. He introduces concepts like "destination employment" to foster employee fulfillment and uniqueness, ensuring staff feel empowered to deliver compassionate care. Ultimately, Shep reinforces that patients compare healthcare experiences to top-tier service in any industry, so practices must prioritize convenience, empathy, and proactive communication to stand out.Three Actionable TakeawaysDefine "Amazing" as Consistent Excellence: Aim to be just 10% better than average every time—through friendly interactions, using patients' names, and meeting expectations reliably—to create loyalty without over-the-top efforts.Turn Complaints into Opportunities: Use a five-step process for moments of misery: acknowledge the issue, apologize, discuss fixes with options, own the resolution personally, and act urgently to rebuild trust.Build a Patient-Focused Culture: Start with leadership by defining a one-sentence vision for the experience, communicate it repeatedly, train staff ongoingly, role-model behaviors, defend the standards, and celebrate successes to empower your team.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, award-winning keynote speaker, researcher, and New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He has been quoted in hundreds of publications and is the author of eight books, including his most recent, "I'll Be Back: How to Get Customers to Come Back Again and Again." Shep works with companies and organizations that want to build loyal relationships with their customers and employees.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shephykenWebsite: hyken.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let's grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Drs. Alex McDonald and Marie Elizabeth-Ramas highlight the difference between mentorship and sponsorship in medicine.
In this enlightening episode, Mike Sacopulos sits down with three visionary leaders from the American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL) — Peter Angood, MD, president and CEO, Joe LiVigni, senior vice president of education, and Devin Glasgo, director of consumer experience and development — to discuss the groundbreaking launch of AAPL Helix. AAPL Helix is a comprehensive learning ecosystem designed to redefine how physician leaders develop their skills throughout their careers. From AI-powered personalized learning to seamless community integration, this platform is more than just a tool — it's a transformational approach to professional development that transcends traditional CME credit tracking. In this episode, you will explore: - The "Leadership is Learned" Philosophy - Beyond Transactional CME: A Transformational Ecosystem - AI-Powered Personalization - Competency-Based Learning Journeys - Streamlined User Experience - Community Integration - The Vision Forward Dr. Angood envisions Helix as the core of AAPL's evolution — supporting not only individual physician development but also institutional clients and expanding into inter-professional leadership development. With a legacy spanning 50 years, AAPL is positioned to lead healthcare transformation by strengthening the patient-physician relationship and empowering physicians as natural stewards of industry improvement. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about how innovative technology is reshaping leadership in healthcare. Learn more about AAPL Helix at www.physicianleaders.org
Marie-Elizabeth Ramas, MD, speaks with Alex McDonald, MD, about her experience as a physician leader.
In this insightful episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Vivek Iyer, an internationally recognized executive coach and principal of Swanvesha Executive Coaching. The Significance of Swanvesha: Derived from Sanskrit, "Swanvesha" means "self-enquiry," embodying the fundamental principle of coaching — that true, lasting solutions arise from introspection and focusing on what lies within one's control. Vivek shares his journey from corporate strategist to certified coach, offering valuable perspectives on how coaching can transform physician leaders facing the unique challenges of healthcare leadership. With extensive experience in strategic planning and process improvement at firms such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and A.C. Nielsen, Vivek offers a unique global perspective, shaped by his experiences living in four countries and fluency in six languages. Whether you are considering working with a coach, curious about its transformative impact, or seeking to understand how strategic planning and facilitation can strengthen healthcare organizations, this episode delivers practical wisdom and actionable strategies for leaders at every stage of their journey. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
This Christmas Day episode is a quieter, more reflective conversation about leadership that actually works — especially in high-pressure environments like healthcare.Dex is joined by Dr Joshua Hartzell, retired US Army Colonel, physician, and author of A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership.Josh has spent 25 years in military medicine and leadership training. His message is simple and deeply relevant at this time of year:Take care of your people. They will take care of the mission.In this episode, we talk about:Why caring leadership is not “soft” — it's effectiveWhat military leadership gets right about standards and supportBurnout as a leadership systems issue, not a personal failureWhy psychological safety improves outcomesHow small human interactions create powerful ripple effectsIf you're a leader who genuinely cares — but feels stretched thin — this conversation will meet you where you are.Resources:A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSQ4276KDr Joshua Hartzell https://joshuahartzellmd.com/Send us a text----------------------------------- Resources:Start 1-on-1 coaching at https:/mini.dexrandall.comLead Better with Dex AI Coach https://app.coachvox.ai/share/dexrandallConfidential. Expert. Free. Solve problems fast.For even more TIPS see FACEBOOK: @coachdexrandallINSTAGRAM: @coachdexrandallLINKEDIN: @coachdexrandallYOUTUBE: @dexburnoutcoachSee https://linktr.ee/coachdexrandall for all links
In this episode of SoundPractice, Matthew Mazurek, MD, assistant professor of anesthesiology at Yale School of Medicine discusses his new book, Sexual Misconduct, Harassment, and Discrimination in Healthcare by the AAPL. Mazurek reveals sexual misconduct in healthcare occurs on multiple levels: - Confidential surveys show the problem remains significantly underreported. - Social media has created new avenues for inappropriate behavior, particularly among younger staff members. - Healthcare workers face harassment from patients more frequently than in other STEM fields due to physical touching and power dynamics. For healthcare leaders conducting investigations, Mazurek recommends: - Use two-person interview teams to avoid "he said, she said" situations while preventing respondents from feeling ganged up on. - Strip away who is telling the story and focus objectively on what happened. - Involve risk management early in high-stakes cases. - Maintain consistency in questioning and look for corroboration. Reality check: Lack of standardization across 50 state medical boards contributes to delays in addressing misconduct, with some physicians maintaining long histories of violations before consequences. Mazurek emphasizes prevention over investigation expertise: - Leadership must model appropriate behavior — executives engaging in misconduct set a tone of tolerance. - Training programs should use case studies in small groups to help staff feel the emotional impact, not just understand it intellectually. - Address microaggressions through comprehensive education on bias and stereotypes. - Create policies expressly covering social media interactions with colleagues as part of the work environment. The bottom line: Healthcare organizations must balance their duty to provide safe environments for staff with their obligation to care for patients, even when patient behavior crosses lines. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos explores the critical skill of strategic thinking with Michael Gardner, MD, vice president and administrator of Women's and Children's Hospital at University Health in San Antonio, Texas. Gardner shares his extensive journey through physician leadership and breaks down why strategic thinking is essential for physicians who want to shape the future of healthcare. Michael Gardner is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as maternal fetal medicine. He is a certified physician executive (CPE) and in 2025 became a fellow of the American Association for Physician Leadership. Why strategic thinking matters for physicians: Physicians bring a unique perspective that is essential for improving American healthcare. With healthcare consuming roughly 20% of GDP and outcomes that lag behind other developed nations, physician leaders must actively participate in strategic decision-making rather than exclude themselves from these conversations. Strategic vs. clinical thinking: While clinical thinking focuses on immediate patient care with narrow attention to detail, strategic thinking requires a broader view of internal and external environments, long-term organizational goals, and the ability to embrace foresight and ambiguity. The key difference lies in scope and timeline — strategic thinking means planning months and years ahead. Strategic thinking can be learned: Though some physicians may naturally gravitate toward systems-level thinking, strategic thinking is a skill that can be developed through mentorship, education, practice, and progressive leadership experiences. Starting with smaller leadership roles and building confidence prepares physicians for larger strategic challenges. Physician leaders as translators: Successful physician leaders must learn to speak both clinical and business languages. While they don't need to match their CFO's financial expertise or their COO's operational knowledge, they must understand enough to communicate effectively with administrative colleagues and translate strategic concepts back to medical staff. Gardner and his colleague Mark Guadagnoli, PhD, are developing a strategic thinking and planning course series for AAPL, including: - An online strategic thinking course - "The Who, What, Where, and When of Strategic Planning" course - A hybrid strategic planning workshop in 2026 where participants will create actual strategic plans with ongoing guidance and feedback. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You're an institution. Time to invest like one.-------------------------------------------What do you do when a colleague needs coaching but resists every step? In this essential episode for physician leaders, host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes back Dr. John Schneider, as they explore starting productive conversations with those who don't want to hear it: from remediation for below-standard behavior to subtle issues. Dr. Schneider stresses asking questions from their perspective, building psychological safety, and inviting participation to open doors for change, not pushing through them. He warns against "hammer" approaches like HR escalation unless minimum competencies fail, and shares the "challenge plus support" quadrant: challenge without support leads to retreat; support without challenge stalls growth. Drawing from his roles as Assistant Dean for Faculty Coaching and private practice coach, he emphasizes leading with belief in people, connecting to their original "calling" in medicine, and accepting that not everyone will walk through the door. If you're in leadership facing resistance. This episode offers nuanced, practical strategies to foster trust, inspire evolution, and avoid burnout for you and your team.Three Actionable Takeaways:Start with Their Perspective, Not Yours: When addressing resistance, ask questions that uncover what they need, not what you think they need. Avoid starting from remediation or "hammer" tactics; build psychological safety by showing you believe in them, inviting participation to make change feel meaningful and voluntary.Balance Challenge and Support for Growth: Use the quadrants: Challenge without support causes retreat; support without challenge leads to stagnation. As a leader, consciously provide both, holding accountable while being "with them" to open doors for self-reflection and behavior shifts, even if they don't always step through.Reconnect to Their Original Calling: Remind resistant colleagues of why they chose medicine, the inspiration that's often buried under policies and metrics. Frame changes as ways to rediscover that purpose, making evolution feel like a personal win, not an imposed fix; not everyone changes, but this invites possibility.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest: Dr. John Schneider is the Division Chief of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery and Associate Professor at Washington University in St. Louis. He serves as the university's first Assistant Dean for Faculty Coaching and is a Master Certified Physician Development Coach. In addition to his academic and clinical roles, Dr. Schneider runs his own coaching practice called Physicians' Mind Coaching, focused on helping physicians improve self-awareness, leadership, communication, and professional fulfillment. He is a nationally recognized expert in physician coaching, particularly in having difficult conversations, addressing disruptive behavior, building psychological safety, and guiding reluctant physicians toward personal and professional growth. He trains faculty coaches at Wash U and frequently speaks on topics including conflict resolution, the coach approach in leadership, and burnout prevention.Email: john@physiciansmind.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let's grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How economically viable is gynecologic surgery today, and what happens if the system keeps pushing the limits? In this episode of BackTable OBGYN, Dr. Marisa Dahlman from Virginia Mason in Seattle sits down with hosts Mark Hoffman and Dr. Amy Park to discuss the evolving landscape of this field and the pressures surrounding reimbursement. --- SYNPOSIS Dr. Dahlman begins by sharing her career path and fellowship experience before the conversation expands to explore the shift from MIGS (Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery) to CBG (Complex Benign Gynecology), current reimbursement challenges, the difficulty of balancing obstetric and gynecological practice, and how these forces influence training and clinical life. They also discuss the stressors new graduates face while building viable practices, broader healthcare system challenges, resource allocation, and potential solutions to improve practice sustainability and patient care. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 03:06 - Fellowship Training and Career Pathways11:43 - Impact of Reimbursement on Fellowship Applications15:20 - Workforce Issues and Future of GYN Surgery28:02 - Advocacy and Leadership in Healthcare29:27 - Understanding Hospital Revenue and Efficiency31:54 - The Role of Physician Leadership in Healthcare35:35 - Navigating Healthcare System Mergers36:47 - The Future of Healthcare Amidst Financial Cuts41:40 - Addressing Healthcare Costs and Reimbursement45:11 - The Importance of Women's Health Services47:37 - Strategies for Improving Healthcare Systems53:48 - Concluding Thoughts --- RESOURCES Trends in gynecologic surgery reimbursement and physician payhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40305043/
Media relations is more than press releases — it's a strategic tool for driving hospital goals like patient acquisition, physician recruitment, and employee retention. Key Insights - Media vs. PR: Public relations is the tree; media relations is its largest branch. Both must align with organizational priorities, not executive egos. - Platform Strategy: Tailor content for each platform. Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok. Know your audience and demographic. - Crisis Management: Handle negative social media comments strategically —hide misinformation, engage critics through patient advocates, and turn them into ambassadors. - Staffing Impact: Media relations enhance recruitment by showcasing employee recognition stories, cultivating a positive workplace narrative that attracts top talent. Episode Overview In this episode of SoundPractice, Mike Sacopulos interviews Dan Collins, senior director of media relations at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. With nearly three decades of experience at Mercy and a journalism background with the Washington Times and Baltimore Examiner, Collins offers expert insights into how strategic media relations can transform healthcare organizations. Mercy Medical Center's success story is remarkable: the urban community hospital grew from seventh to first in Baltimore's women's health market share, thanks to their "magnet doc" philosophy — recruiting top-tier physicians whose reputations attract patients and peers. Collins explains the hospital's innovative partnership with NBC affiliate WBAL for "The Woman's Doctor," a weekly TV segment running for over 30 years (likely the longest-running hospital media campaign in the U.S.). The conversation explores tailoring content for different platforms, avoiding TikTok because of demographic mismatches, and managing social media crises by addressing misinformation while engaging critics directly. Collins emphasizes the importance of collaborating with hospital executives, ensuring media relations teams are part of strategic planning. The episode concludes with how media relations support staffing challenges by creating recognition stories for nurses and other healthcare workers, demonstrating organizational values that aid in recruitment and retention. Why It Matters Patients choose doctors, not hospitals. Strategic media relations ensure the right physicians reach the right audiences at the right time. Contact Dan Collins at dcollins@mdmercy.com Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You're an institution. Time to invest like one. How do you rise in academic medicine without losing your sense of purpose?Dr. Bradley Block joins Dr. Joseph Losee for a powerful conversation about the real path to academic advancement. Drawing from over two decades as a department chair, program director, and mentor, Dr. Losee reveals how saying “yes” shaped his journey from young faculty member to national leader—and why the same word must be used intentionally at different seasons of life.The discussion explores the balance between sacrifice and wellbeing, the shifting culture of academic medicine, and how meaning and mentorship sustain long-term fulfillment. Dr. Losee also shares insights on conflict resolution, leadership development, and his latest venture, Clarity Med Solutions, where he pioneers early dispute mediation to restore trust and healing between physicians, patients, and health systems.This episode is a roadmap for physicians seeking impact, growth, and balance—without losing sight of what truly matters.Three Actionable Takeaways:Say Yes With Intention: Early in your career, saying yes opens doors, builds credibility, and creates opportunities. But as your life evolves, align your yeses with your passions—and protect your energy for what truly matters.Sacrifice is the Path to Leadership: Every leader pays a price for impact. True advancement in academic medicine requires time, service, and persistence—but when rooted in purpose, those sacrifices yield meaning and legacy.Relationships Are the Real Reward: From mentoring residents to mediating patient disputes, relationships—not titles—define success. Meaning in medicine comes from connection, compassion, and helping others thrive.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Joseph Losee is Vice Dean for Faculty Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Dr. Ross H. Musgrave Endowed Chair of Pediatric Plastic Surgery. A nationally recognized surgeon, educator, and leader, he has authored over 250 publications, edited seven textbooks, and led multiple professional societies.He co-chairs the UPMC Physician Wellbeing Initiative, teaches leadership in the Katz Graduate School of Business, and is the founder of Clarity Med Solutions, a consulting firm specializing in leadership coaching and conflict resolution.
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with John Sawyer, PhD, ABPP-CN, a neuropsychologist and medical director of professional staff experience at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, who leads initiatives to address physician burnout and improve well-being across Ochsner's 40,000 employees. With healthcare facing a workforce crisis — an aging population requiring more care, fewer physicians entering the field, and reduced discretionary time among practitioners — Sawyer shares Ochsner's innovative approach to tackling burnout. Since 2017, Ochsner has focused on three pillars: building individual resilience, improving ease of practice by reducing administrative burdens, and fostering team and culture development. Sawyer also introduces his framework of four archetypes of burned-out physicians: - Over-Engaged: Taking on too much, with unclear priorities. - People-Pleaser: Struggling with boundaries and delegation. - Perfectionist: Over-documenting and micromanaging. - Cynic: Problem-focused and rejecting solutions. He emphasizes the importance of creating psychological safety, where physicians can openly discuss challenges without fear of career repercussions. Effective well-being programs should address the entire healthcare team, as physicians rely on engaged support staff to function effectively. Also, Sawyer encourages organizations to start well-being initiatives now, view them as investments in retention and recruitment, and commit financial resources to wellness efforts — even those not tied directly to RVU generation. Whether you are a healthcare leader or practitioner, this episode provides actionable insights into combating burnout and making your organization "irresistible." Connect with Dr. John Sawyer on LinkedIn. http://linkedin.com/in/john-sawyer-phd-abpp-cn-a1b842156 Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
In this episode join healthcare executive and patient experience expert Susan Baker as she uncovers actionable strategies to increase patient loyalty and recommendations. From mastering respect-driven behaviors to leveraging social media testimonials, Susan shares insights that can transform your patient experience and drive revenue growth. Discover how to: - Define and demonstrate respect in every interaction. - Empower patients by offering choices, not commands. - Build trust by acknowledging preferences — even when compromises are needed. - Nail the basics: introductions, empathy, wait-time acknowledgment, and clear communication. Plus, learn how to strategically request feedback, optimize HCAHPS scores, and turn social media reviews into powerful marketing tools. Whether you're a physician leader or healthcare administrator, this episode is packed with practical tips to elevate your patient care approach. Connect: Visit https://susanbaker.com/ to connect with Susan Baker Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
In this episode of The Business of Healthcare Podcast, host Dan Karnuta welcomes Don Taylor, director of the Alliance for Physician Leadership at The University of Texas at Dallas' Naveen Jindal School of Management, for a discussion about Taylor's new book, Healing. They discuss how the U.S. healthcare system fails to support physicians' well-being, both mentally and spiritually. Taylor describes how doctors struggle with the stress, isolation and burnout of leadership expectations although they do not get trained in that aspect of their careers. They also discuss how the U.S. healthcare system prioritizes profit over true health, creating a structure where sickness — not wellness — drives revenue, leaving doctors feeling voiceless and disconnected from their calling. Karnuta is an associate professor in the Naveen Jindal School of Management's Organizations, Strategy and International Management Area as well as director of its Professional Program in Healthcare Management.
Ben Schwartz, MD, MBA, wrote an article recently, and yeah, he makes a really compelling point. Dr. Schwartz wrote, “Ultimately, the most successful care models are those that create value inherently. The goal isn't simply cost arbitrage; it's creating a sustainable system that makes value attainable. Care delivery innovation is about more than optimizing for VC [venture capital] returns or maximizing operational efficiency.” For a full transcript of this episode, click here. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to the free weekly newsletter to be a member of the Relentless Tribe. That mention of value and how to achieve it for real—like, actually create a care model that delivers value inherently—is a great segue to introduce the show this week. It's a continuation of our mission/margin theme, and this week, we're talking about the margin part of the “no margin, no mission” cliché. So, taking this from the top, last week—and go back and listen to that show if you have not yet (and you can listen to both of these parts in no particular order; you do you)—but last week, we talked mission. That part about value and creating value inherently? The tie-in here to mission and margin could be a value equation, really. Like, mission divided by margin is how you calculate the value delivered (less carrier spread), but that's a whole other show with Cynthia Fisher (EP457). So, let me introduce my guest this week, who was also my guest last week: Dan Greenleaf, CEO of Duly, which is a multispecialty group in Chicago. So, last week Dan and I talked mission, as I said; but today we're talking margin, which is, again, gonna be the denominator of so many value equations. Last week in that mission show, quick review (or spoiler alert, depending on the order in which you may be listening to these shows), but last week, Dan Greenleaf broke mission, Duly's mission, into four quadrants. The four quadrants of mission being affordability, access, consumer experience, and quality. In this conversation today, the margin conversation, Dan Greenleaf emphasizes that achieving these four quadrants reduces friction for patients and clinicians that leads to not only better care outcomes but also financial sustainability (ie, margin). Margin can therefore be a function of mission. And again, as Dr. Ben Schwartz put it, “Ultimately, the most successful care models are those that create value inherently.” So, here we go. To be noted with one big fat fluorescent highlighter marker, a big part of this mission that comes up over and over again last week, it's about making prices reasonable and predictable and transparent for patients. Financial toxicity is a thing. Financial toxicity not only is clinical toxicity when so many people are delaying needed care. And look, I don't often quote Marjorie Taylor Greene, but recently she was in the New York Times and was quoted as saying, “The cost of health care is killing people.” This is what we should be focusing on. I just read the other day that one-third of adults in this country are currently delaying or forgoing care due to cost. One-third! Not one-third of low income or something like that. One-third of adults in this country are delaying or forgoing care due to fear of cost. In today's world, affordability and price transparency is part of what customer experience means—not just, like, lemon water in the waiting room. This is what struck me the most about the conversation from last week. But wait. Does affordable for patients spell trouble when it comes to the margin part of the operation? Will an affordability mission wreak havoc on margin? Is this business model doomed? Is there even a successful care model that creates value inherently that is sustainable? Such a good question, which is why I ask it to Dan Greenleaf right out of the gate. So, just to sum this all up in the conversation that follows, Dan Greenleaf gets into the challenges and the strategies involved in balancing mission-driven healthcare with financial realities. Duly's approach to being fiscally solid includes, well, I'm just gonna say many of the same types of efficiency things to maintain and retain margin that other more mainstream health systems might deploy. But I'd say there's a really striking difference in the why and the how. And the impact of this why and how is striking when you look at Duly's prices and the impact it has on its overall community. So, even though it's using similar types of strategies, maybe, as big consolidated health systems or other organizations, the impact and what it all adds up to is, again, very, very different. This is what I mean. At health systems, and maybe my head is just lost in a couple of anecdotal bits of evidence right now, but I just had two conversations in the past two days with physician leaders at big health systems (different ones), but both of these individuals said variations of the same theme. And if you wanna picture the scene, picture the saddest expressions, and one of them had a martini and the other one had a big-boy glass of wine. And both of them said, Look, my organization has lost sight of patient care, but also my organization has lost sight of, like, financial goals in most parts of the organization. All I seem to do all day is play politics with a whole lot of middle managers or even senior leaders jockeying for position and having turf wars within these sprawling bureaucracies. These are just great people who are trying so hard to do the right thing and are just struggling to find the foothold to do so within their own organizations. So, let's just say it was refreshing to hear Dan Greenleaf talk about an alignment of incentives and hook the margin up with the mission train in a really tight way throughout the entire organization. And to do this really well—achieve that mission/margin alignment across the whole entire organization—Dan underscores the value of clinician involvement in leadership and having, as I just said, aligned incentives with clinical teams. Keep in mind, this is the margin show, where clinical leadership came up and the number of doctors on their board and the level of physician ownership in the organization. I'm highlighting that this is the margin show here because usually so-called dyad leadership with physicians in leadership roles only comes up in mission conversations, right? Like, in situations where somebody wants the doctor to be the defender of mission and the battle to keep the MBAs in check. And I say this as the comic book stereotype, obviously. But yeah, it's true often enough. But then we have Dan, who is thinking about clinicians who have, again, aligned incentives across the organization so you don't have your physician leaders day drinking while I'm sitting across from them finding myself quoting Sun Tzu The Art of War and helping them craft the perfect PowerPoint slide to weaponize a reorg. Honestly, in my experience, there's no better way to waste metric assloads of money than in an organization where personal power grabs start to supersede anything that smells vaguely like an organizational imperative. And again, these just big bureaucracies at many health systems … yeah, too big not to fail at this is often the way of it. Then lastly, I grilled Dan Greenleaf about capital partners and how to manage to achieve private equity (PE) funding, where there's support for a model that delivers inherent value—a model that benefits both patients and providers as well as investors. And I'm saying this, keeping all of the things that Yashaswini Singh, PhD, said in that episode (EP474) about private equity a few weeks ago. Go back and listen to that. And by the way, Dan Greenleaf in this show has roughly the same ideas as Tom X. Lee, MD (EP445), founder of One Medical and Galileo told me, and also Rushika Fernandopulle, MD (EP460), founder of Iora. Great minds think alike. So, should figuring out how to work with PE be a topic of interest, there you go. Listen to my conversation today with Dan Greenleaf and then go back and listen to those other two shows. Dan Greenleaf, CEO of Duly, my guest today, has been in healthcare for 30 years. He's a six-time CEO: three public companies and has also run three companies backed by private equity and thus very aware of the many different funding mechanisms that exist in the marketplace. This podcast is sponsored by Aventria Health Group, but I do just wanna mention that Duly offered Relentless Health Value some financial support, which we truly appreciate. So, call this episode not only sponsored by Aventria but also Duly. And with that, here is my conversation with Dan Greenleaf. Also mentioned in this episode are Duly Health and Care; Benjamin Schwartz, MD, MBA; Cynthia Fisher; Cristin Dickerson, MD; Yashaswini Singh, PhD; Tom X. Lee, MD; Galileo; Rushika Fernandopulle, MD; Vivian Ho, PhD; Scott Conard, MD; Stanley Schwartz, MD; Vivek Garg, MD, MBA; and Dave Chase. You can learn more at Duly Health and Care and follow Dan on LinkedIn. You can also email Dan at dan.greenleaf@duly.com. Daniel E. Greenleaf is the chief executive officer of Duly Health and Care, one of the largest independent, multispecialty medical groups in the nation. Duly employs more than 1700 clinicians while serving 1.5 million patients in over 190 locations in the greater Chicago area and across the Midwest. The Duly Health and Care brand encompasses four entities—DuPage Medical Group, Quincy Medical Group, The South Bend Clinic, and a value-based care organization. Its scaled ancillary services include 6 Ambulatory Surgery Centers, 30 lab sites, 16 imaging sites, 39 physical therapy locations, and 100 infusion chairs. Its value-based care service line provides integrated care for 290,000 partial-risk and 100,000 full-risk lives (Medicare Advantage and ACO Reach). Dan has nearly 30 years of experience leading healthcare services organizations. He is a six-time healthcare CEO, including prior roles as president and CEO of Modivcare; president and CEO of BioScrip, Inc.; chairman and CEO of Home Solutions Infusion Services; and president and CEO of Coram Specialty Services. Dan graduated from Denison University with a bachelor of arts degree in economics (where he received the Alumni Citation—the highest honor bestowed upon a Denisonian) and holds an MBA in health administration from the University of Miami. A military veteran, he was a captain and navigator in the United States Air Force and served in Operation Desert Storm. 09:56 How does Dan achieve his mission given the realities of margin? 14:49 How Duly Health's approach and incentives differ from other health systems. 16:04 EP466 with Vivian Ho, PhD. 16:28 EP462 with Scott Conard, MD. 16:31 Summer Shorts episode with Stan Schwartz, MD. 17:27 EP460 with Rushika Fernandopulle, MD. 17:29 EP445 with Tom X. Lee, MD. 17:30 EP407 with Vivek Garg, MD, MBA. 18:50 How having physicians on the hospital board greatly improves margin and mission. 20:04 How Dan explains his approach to his capital partners. 22:23 Fee for service vs. institutional care. You can learn more at Duly Health and Care and follow Dan on LinkedIn. You can also email Dan at dan.greenleaf@duly.com. @d_greenleaf of @dulyhealth_care discusses #margin creating a path to #mission in #multispecialtycare on our #healthcarepodcast. #healthcare #podcast #financialhealth #patientoutcomes #primarycare #digitalhealth #healthcareleadership #healthcaretransformation #healthcareinnovation Recent past interviews: Click a guest's name for their latest RHV episode! Dan Greenleaf (Part 1), Mark Cuban and Cora Opsahl, Kevin Lyons (Part 2), Kevin Lyons (Part 1), Dr Stan Schwartz (EP486), Dr Cristin Dickerson, Elizabeth Mitchell (Take Two: EP436), Dave Chase, Jonathan Baran (Part 2), Jonathan Baran (Part 1), Jonathan Baran (Bonus Episode)
In this compelling episode, we sit down with Mohamad Saad, MD, MBA, CPE, an internal medicine physician, healthcare leader, and certified coach, to explore solutions for two of healthcare's most pressing challenges: workforce disengagement and physician burnout. With 70% of employees disengaged and burnout at crisis levels, Saad presents a data-driven approach to organizational alignment and coaching that can revolutionize healthcare leadership. Why it matters: Burnout and disengagement don't just affect morale — they impact outcomes. Engaged employees are 1.5x more productive, and inspired employees are 2.25x more productive. Saad's alignment framework connects organizational vision and goals to frontline work, creating purpose-driven teams that thrive. Key Insights: - The alignment triangle: How cascading vision → mission → goals → SMART objectives → projects, drives measurable improvements. - Three types of alignment: Vertical (vision to frontline), horizontal (cross-departmental), and diagonal (interdisciplinary connections). - Coaching vs. directing: Why empathetic listening and powerful questions unlock potential better than traditional leadership. - AI's role in healthcare: How artificial intelligence will amplify emotionally intelligent physicians while challenging those still developing intrinsic skills. Real-world results: As a residency program director, Saad aligned resident quality improvement projects with hospital operational goals, significantly reducing length-of-stay for heart failure, pneumonia, and COPD patients. Bottom line: Healthcare leaders need tools like organizational alignment and coaching to combat burnout, inspire teams, and prepare for the future. Saad's insights offer actionable strategies for creating engaged, purpose-driven organizations. Connect with Mohamad Saad, MD, MBA, CPE, http://linkedin.com/in/mohamad-s-saad-md-mba-cpe-dipablm-icf-coach-b80533371 Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.
Healthcare is changing faster than ever, but it is not just about new technology. It is about patients becoming active, equal partners in their own care. In this episode, Mike Sacopulos sits down with Bertalan Mesko, PhD, director of The Medical Futurist Institute and author of The Guide to the Future of Medicine, Technology, and the Human Touch, to explore how patient empowerment is reshaping the future of medicine. Mesko explains why the biggest shift in modern healthcare is not AI or digital tools — it is the idea of patients becoming “members of their own medical team” and working side-by-side with their doctors. He shares practical advice for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patients on how to navigate this new era, from mastering AI tools to building stronger doctor-patient relationships. Key topics include: - Why patients are the most underutilized resource in healthcare - The importance of starting with partnerships, not technology - Predictions for remote care and the challenges ahead - Surprising insights into skills doctors will need in the future (hint: it involves AI prompts!) This episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas about the evolving doctor-patient relationship and what it means for the future of primary care. Tune in to hear Mesko's vision for a healthcare system that puts patients at the center, and why he believes medical future studies should become a scientific discipline. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
Listen in on this episode of the September 2025 Good Leadership Breakfast featuring Dr. John Pryor, President and Chairman of Proliance Surgeons. Joining the podcast to debrief with Paul Batz is Troy Simonson, the CEO of Proliance Surgeons and Founder and CEO of True North Health Partners. Paul and Troy breakdown the most capitvating moments from the stage with John, highlighting the importance of physicians gaining the leadership necessary to thrive in modern organizations.
In the Season 6 premiere of the Wealth Planning for the Modern Physician Podcast, host David Mandell welcomes Dr. Cynthia Matossian, an accomplished ophthalmologist, entrepreneur, and industry leader. Dr. Matossian shares her unique journey into medicine, starting from an initial interest in political science and international relations before ultimately discovering her passion for ophthalmology. She discusses the early challenges she faced in starting her own practice in 1987, particularly as a woman seeking financial backing in a male-dominated field, and the resilience and determination that fueled her success. Dr. Matossian reflects on the growth of her solo practice into a thriving multi-location enterprise with 14 physicians and over 90 employees. She emphasizes the importance of delegation, transparency, and staff empowerment in building an efficient, patient-focused practice. Her insights into practice management include implementing scribes to reduce physician burnout, investing in proper business education, and hiring skilled managers to bring structure and professionalism to the organization. She also highlights her personal approach to financial planning, beginning with small investments guided by a trusted advisor, which laid the foundation for long-term financial success. The conversation also explores Dr. Matossian's involvement in industry innovation, her leadership in clinical trials, and her founding of GPOptho, a group purchasing organization designed to help practices lower costs through collective buying power. She shares valuable advice for physicians considering private equity transactions, stressing the importance of preparing years in advance and selecting the right advisors. Ultimately, Dr. Matossian underscores the critical need for physicians to educate themselves on the business of medicine early in their careers, pairing clinical excellence with sound financial and practice management strategies. Learn more, including additional show notes, links, and detailed key takeaways, by visiting physicianswealthpodcast.com. Click here to get your FREE copy of our latest book, Wealth Strategies for Today's Physician!
How can military-honed resilience and positive psychology supercharge physician leadership? In this episode of Bootstrap MD, host Dr. Mike Woo-Ming interviews Dr. Christopher Colombo, as he shares his path from elementary school dreams of medicine to active-duty training, and his post-retirement "Lego break" before embracing part-time ICU night shifts and executive coaching. Inspired by a fellow physician's transition, he pursued training in executive and positive psychology coaching to address the personal-professional overlaps that frustrated him—like compartmentalizing life domains without recognizing the "you" as the common denominator. The discussion dives into military lessons on resilience (e.g., Army-adopted programs from UPenn's Barbara Fredrickson), the pitfalls of large-organization training, and why authenticity matters in leadership. Dr. Colombo offers mindset shifts for new leaders: acknowledge emotions and relationships, control primitive responses via storytelling, and use techniques like drafting "flame emails" to yourself. He emphasizes building trust through personal "why" alignment and avoiding cognitive traps like "should" or "must." A vital listen for physicians eyeing leadership or coaching, blending clinical credibility with life-changing insights. Three Actionable Takeaways: Acknowledge Emotions in Leadership – Suppress less, embrace more: Build relationships by understanding your team's personal "why" and framing missions accordingly. Control reactions by pausing to re-story stimuli (e.g., "That driver isn't plotting against me") before responding. Draft 'Flame Emails' to Yourself – When rage hits from an email, reply to your own address, vent fully, then step away. Return calmer to craft (or delegate) a measured response—preventing regrettable sends and honing emotional regulation. Pursue Authentic Alignment – Identify your core values (e.g., excellence over winning) to bridge personal and professional life. Seek a "cognitive sparring" partner for breakthroughs, ensuring you're effective, not just right. About the Show: Bootstrap MD is the ultimate podcast for physician entrepreneurs looking to escape traditional healthcare and control their financial futures. Hosted by Dr. Mike Woo-Ming, a successful physician, entrepreneur, and investor, the show delivers actionable insights on starting businesses, creating passive income, and navigating healthcare entrepreneurship. Featuring interviews with industry leaders, physicians, and experts in telemedicine and digital health, it's your guide to building a profitable, fulfilling career. Tune in weekly at http://bootstrapmd.com About the Guest: Dr. Christopher Colombo is a retired Army critical care physician with 24 years of service, including deployments, is co-founder and president of Functional Mentoring (functionalmentoring.com). A former department chief and program director, he blends executive and positive psychology coaching to mentor physicians, focusing on resilience, emotional control, and aligning personal-professional values. Email: chris@functionalmentoring.com Website: https://functionalmentoring.com Book a free 45-minute cognitive sparring session via the website. About the Host: Dr. Mike Woo-Ming has over 20 years of experience as a physician entrepreneur. He's built and sold multiple seven-figure companies and now leads Executive Medical, a group of clinics specializing in age management and aesthetics. Through BootstrapMD, he mentors physicians in business, content creation, and autonomy. Let's Connect: www.https://www.bootstrapmd.com Want to start a podcast? Check out the Doctor Podcast Network!
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Peter Hotez, MD, PhD, professor of pediatrics and molecular virology, Baylor College of Medicine and the co-author of the new book (with Michael Mann) Science Under Siege: How to Fight the Five Most Powerful Forces that Threaten Our World. Hotez pulls back the curtain on the alarming rise of anti-science movements that are costing lives and threatening public health. From vaccine misinformation that led to 200,000 preventable COVID deaths in America to a tragic measles outbreak fueled by unvaccinated populations, he reveals the five powerful forces driving the war on science: - Plutocrats: Wealthy donors funding anti-science think tanks. - Petro-states: Governments opposing climate and health science for profit. - Pros: Credentialed experts pushing contrarian agendas. - Propagandists: Media amplifying misinformation. - Press: Outlets promoting false "both sides" narratives. Hotez also traces the evolution of the anti-vaccine movement, from debunked autism claims to today's wellness influencers profiting off pseudoscience. He challenges medical professionals to embrace the "art" of medicine and step up as defenders of scientific truth. His call to action is clear: silence and invisibility allow bad actors to win. Physicians remain heroes on the frontlines, but they must help turn the tide against misinformation. This must-listen episode is for anyone passionate about science, medicine, and the fight for public health. Tune in to learn how we can push back against disinformation and secure a healthier future for all. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
Physician leadership is evolving from informal, "oldest doctor gets the job" to rigorous, accredited training programs that could reshape healthcare administration. Mike Sacopulos interviews Daniel A. Handel, MD, MBA, MPH, CPE, chief medical officer at Atrium Health, to discuss the basics of the new Healthcare Administration, Leadership, and Management (HALM) fellowship. The exam, first held in November 2024, will now be offered annually because of increased physician demand; it was previously biennial. Handel is the editor of the new textbook, Healthcare Administration, Leadership and Management: The Essentials, First Edition, with 44 expert contributors covering finance, compliance, HR, among other executive topics. He is also a contributor to a board review course that AAPL is developing for HALM. Handel's overarching advice for physician leaders: “Stay focused on your why — the purpose that drove you to leadership in the first place.” Resources: - Healthcare Administration, Leadership and Management: The Essentials, First Edition - Connect with Dan Handel, MD Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
In this expanded episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Jerome Adams, MD, MPH, the 20th Surgeon General of the United States, to discuss his remarkable journey from a rural community in Maryland to becoming the nation's top doctor. Adams shares personal anecdotes, professional insights, and the challenges he faced while serving as Surgeon General. This episode covers the nuances of the role of the Surgeon General and is a must-listen for anyone interested in public health, physician leadership, and the evolving role of physicians in society. Tune in to this insightful conversation that sheds light on the critical issues facing our healthcare system today. Episode Highlights - Path to Leadership: Explore Adams' unexpected journey into medicine, including parental influence, personal health challenges, role models, and the impact of professional organizations. - Role and Responsibilities of the Surgeon General: Understand the historical and modern roles of the Surgeon General and key initiatives during Adams' tenure, such as promoting Naloxone to combat the opioid crisis. - Trust in Physicians and Institutions: Learn strategies to rebuild trust in healthcare through personalized care and patient concern. - Balancing Individual Freedom and Public Health: Examine the balance between individual freedom and public health, emphasizing empathy and communication in addressing issues like vaccine hesitancy and chronic diseases. - The Importance of Public Service: Recognize the value of public service in enhancing the skills and character of physicians. Resource: Book by Jerome Adams, MD, MPH: Crisis and Chaos Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
Host Mike Sacopulos interviews Jennifer O'Brien, a healthcare expert and author, to discuss her book, Care Boss: Leadership Strategies and Resources for Family Caregivers. They delve into the growing demographic of family caregivers, address the challenges they face, and the perspective of caregiving as a leadership role. Don't miss this insightful discussion where Jennifer shares actionable advice, strategies, and resources to help caregivers manage their responsibilities effectively. Episode Highlights - Growing Demographics: Discover the rise in family caregivers in the United States, with 53 million Americans currently serving in this role and the expectation of continued growth because of an aging population. - Caregiving as Leadership: Recognize caregiving as a leadership role that can provide clarity and direction in managing care responsibilities and apply leadership strategies to effectively handle the emotional and logistical challenges associated with caregiving. - Early Preparation: Learn the importance of planning and preparing for caregiving duties before illness strikes, and explore the benefits of early considerations, such as home modifications and end-of-life conversations. - Support Systems: Identify and use available support systems, including professional caregivers, to enhance caregiving effectiveness, engage family and friends in specific caregiving tasks to distribute responsibilities and lighten the caregiver's load, and understand the role of healthcare professionals in involving and supporting family caregivers as vital members of the care team. - Emotional Resilience: Acknowledge the isolation and emotional strain that caregivers often experience and use leadership tools to manage stress and maintain perspective. Resource - Book by Jennifer O'Brien: Care Boss: Leadership Strategies & Resources for Family Caregivers offers practical tools, from creating a go-bag to comprehensive medical records and is an essential resource for caregivers, providing both strategic guidance and heartfelt support. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
In this episode of SoundPractice, Ron Howrigon, president and CEO of Fulcrum Strategies, brings his extensive experience in the healthcare industry to the forefront. Having worked as a senior executive with major managed care companies like Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, Howrigon shares his journey. From negotiating contracts to founding Fulcrum Strategies, his consulting firm helps doctors and hospitals navigate the complex world of managed care agreements so they can focus more on patient care. With a keen eye on the flaws of a profit-driven healthcare system, join us as we delve into the complexities of the healthcare system and discuss innovative solutions for a better future. Key Takeaways: - Navigating Capitalistic Healthcare: Uncover the inherent problems of a for-profit healthcare system where insurers often prioritize shareholder profits over patient care. Howrigon also discusses Medicare reimbursement cuts and provides a balanced view on private equity in healthcare, highlighting both potential benefits and risks. - Changing Patient Experience: Over the last 30-40 years, increasing bureaucracy and challenges in accessing necessary care have dramatically altered the patient experience, leading to poor health outcomes and a more critical patient perspective on the industry. - Solutions and Reforms: Howrigon suggests vital reforms to ensure medical directors for third-party payers adhere to medical practice standards when approving or denying claims, aiming to enhance patient care. - Impact of Physician Employment: Explore how the shift from self-employed physicians to those employed by non-physician-controlled organizations affects relationships at every level of healthcare. Howrigon predicts significant access issues and reimbursement changes because of the worsening physician shortage. - Learn more and Connect: -- Gain more insights in Howrigon's books, CLEAR! Reforming Healthcare to Save the U.S. Economy and FLATLINING: How Healthcare Could Kill the U.S. Economy. -- Visit fsdoc.com to connect with Ron Howrigon. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at https://www.physicianleaders.org/.
In this episode of the Healthcare Plus Podcast, host Dan Collard speaks with Don Taylor and Kurt Scott, co-creators of From Healer to Leader: The Path to Physician Leadership, a unique new leadership development program designed specifically for physicians.Together, they explore why physician leadership is more essential than ever—and why so many physicians find themselves in leadership roles without the preparation or support they need. Drawing from years of experience in academic programs, military leadership, and physician career development, Don and Kurt talk about the serious gap in physician leadership training and what they're doing to close it.Listeners will hear:Why a certificate isn't enough—and why the real outcome should be a personalized leadership plan for each physicianWhat makes physicians different from other emerging leaders—and how to support them with the right level of challenge and psychological safetyHow their rolling cohort model and flexible structure honors physicians' time while still building powerful peer connectionsWhy organizations that invest in physician growth see stronger retention and better outcomesHow leadership development is also a strategy for physician well-being and renewalWhether you're a physician, a hospital executive, or someone passionate about building strong clinical leaders, this episode offers smart, strategic insights into what physician leadership training should look like today—and how we can do it better.For more information about the physician leader development course, please visit: https://www.plc-network.com/the-path-to-physician-leadership/Don Taylor, Director of the Alliance for Physician Leadership and Professor of Practice at the Naveen Jindal School of Management, UT DallasAt the Alliance for Physician Leadership, Don's focus is on cultivating physician leaders who can navigate the complex dynamics of organizational change and healthcare management. Through their programs, they empower physicians with the knowledge to lead cultural shifts and respond to financial challenges in the medical field. As a professor of practice at UT Dallas, Don is dedicated to fostering innovation in healthcare. The team's work centers on providing executive physicians with a deep understanding of themselves and the healthcare landscape, ensuring that learning is at the heart of health.Kurt Scott, Founder & CEO, The Physician Leadership Career NetworkWith over 35 years of experience building and leading successful physician and physician executive recruitment programs, Kurt has dedicated his career to fostering meaningful connections between healthcare organizations and the leaders who drive them forward. In 2019, he recognized a gap in the field—a lack of a dedicated space for physician leaders to connect, grow, and advance their careers. To address this, Kurt founded the Physician Leadership Career Network, creating a platform that bridges this gap and empowers physician leaders to thrive.
Physicians are trained to diagnose and treat disease, but they're not always taught how to lead. Yet in an era of increasing administrative burdens, evolving healthcare policies, and growing physician burnout, leadership skills have never been more essential. How can physicians reclaim their voices in healthcare decision making? What makes an effective physician leader in today's complex landscape? Here to answer these questions is Peter Angood, MD, President and CEO of the American Association for Physician Leadership, an organization dedicated to empowering physicians with the tools and strategies to lead successfully. With years of experience as a trauma surgeon and a leader of patient safety at organizations ranging from The Joint Commission to the World Health Organization, Dr. Angood has thought deeply about expanding the role of physicians beyond the bedside.Over the course of our conversation. Dr. Angood first takes us into the mind of a trauma surgeon dealing with split-second life-or-death decisions, then discusses the evolving role of physician leadership, trends that concern and excite him about modern healthcare, and concrete skills all clinicians can develop to lead meaningful changes.In this episode, you'll hear about: 2:23 - How Dr. Angood became drawn to a career in medicine 5:58 - The day-to-day experience of a trauma surgeon 18:39 - How Dr. Angood expanded his role beyond the operating room21:44 - The role of the Joint Commission23:02 - Finding the balance between patient safety, teamwork, and physician autonomy 31:37 - Dr. Angood's leadership philosophy 41:40 - Why all physicians should be seen as leaders43:45 - Dr. Angood's advice for how to be successful in a leadership role 53:57 - Dr. Angood's advice for new clinicians Dr. Angood is the author of Inspiring Growth and Leadership in Medical Careers: Transform Healthcare as a Physician Leader (2024) and All Physicians are Leaders: Reflections on Inspiring Change Together for Better Healthcare (2020). Visit our website www.TheDoctorsArt.com where you can find transcripts of all episodes.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our show, available for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you know of a doctor, patient, or anyone working in health care who would love to explore meaning in medicine with us on the show, feel free to leave a suggestion in the comments or send an email to info@thedoctorsart.com.Copyright The Doctor's Art Podcast 2025