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Vidhya Prakash, MD, FACP, FIDSA, FAMWA, Chief Medical Officer and Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs and Population Health at Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Medicine, joins host Mike Sacopulos for a candid conversation about her AAPL-published book, The Leadership Learning Curve: A Woman Physician's Journey as Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Prakash traces her path from an immigrant childhood in Cincinnati through infectious diseases, Air Force service, and hospital executive leadership. She speaks candidly about imposter phenomenon, adaptive versus technical problem-solving, and leadership lessons from military service, while also describing her role in founding the Alliance for Women in Medicine and Science (AWIMS) at SIU, a grassroots initiative that has measurably improved faculty promotion and tenure equity. Listeners will hear practical guidance on balancing clinical practice with executive responsibility; distinguishing adaptive from technical leadership; treating leadership as both an art and a practice; reframing failure; applying Air Force leadership principles of integrity, service before self, and excellence in all we do; and helping more physicians, especially “accidental leaders,” step into leadership roles. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.2882398846
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos talks with veteran healthcare journalist Ken Terry about his new book, Beyond Medicare for All: Cracking the Code of the Healthcare Affordability Crisis, published by the American Association for Physician Leadership. Terry, a former senior editor at Medical Economics has written for publications including Medscape Medical News, WebMD, cio.com, InformationWeek, and Fierce Healthcare. He is the author of two previous books on healthcare reform, Rx for Health Care Reform (Vanderbilt University Press, 2007) and Physician-Led Healthcare Reform: A New Approach to Medicare For All (AAPL, 2020). He also contributed to Stephen K. Klasko's 2023 book, Feelin' Alright: How the Message in The Music Can Make Healthcare Healthier. In this interview, Terry explains why he abandoned the assumption that Medicare for All will ever become reality — and lays out an alternative model built around empowered, salaried primary care groups, all-payer hospital rates, and a new “consumer council” to help guide difficult coverage decisions. Topics Discussed: Why primary care physicians should lead basic care — and how that could reverse primary care's decline The role of physician assistants and nurse practitioners in a primary-care-led system How corporate practice of medicine laws could be strengthened, state by state, to give PCPs more independence Why insurers and hospitals might support this model rather than fight it Maryland's all-payer, global-budget hospital system as a template for reform A modified approach for rural healthcare, where physician scarcity changes the equation Caring for an aging population and the unresolved challenge of long-term care financing The idea of a “consumer council,” inspired by the late David Eddy, to help guide coverage decisions for new technologies What's next for Terry, including plans to bring these ideas to Congress and the 2028 presidential campaigns Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.9016618520
In this episode, Edmund Pribitkin, MD, MBA, President, Jefferson Medical Group; Executive Vice President and Chief Physician Executive, Jefferson Health, discusses leveraging AI to reduce clinician burden, expand access and strengthen patient care. He also shares how Jefferson is approaching healthcare challenges through innovation, operational discipline and a focus on building trust with patients and communities.
SPONSORED BY NURP Nurp is algorithmic trading designed specifically for busy professionals who don't have time to watch markets. Check out start.nurp.com/doctors to learn more. --- What happens when the lessons learned in combat follow you into the exam room? In this repurposed episode of BS Free MD, Drs. May and Tim Hindmarsh sit down with Dr. Mike Simpson, whose path to medicine was anything but conventional. Before becoming a physician, Dr. Simpson spent years in military Special Operations, working in environments where decisions had to be made quickly, resources could be limited, and the stakes were very real. Dr. Simpson shares how those experiences shaped the way he approaches medicine today—from staying calm under pressure and making difficult decisions to understanding leadership, teamwork, resilience, and the human being behind the patient. But transitioning from the battlefield to civilian medicine wasn't simply a career change. It meant navigating a major shift in identity and learning how to translate skills developed in extreme circumstances into an entirely different world. This conversation explores what medicine can learn from Special Operations—and why some of the experiences that challenge us the most can ultimately make us better physicians, leaders, and people. In This Episode, We Discuss: Dr. Simpson's unconventional path from Special Operations to medicine What practicing medicine in high-stakes environments teaches you about decision-making How battlefield experience changed his approach to patient care Staying calm and effective when circumstances become chaotic Leadership, teamwork, and accountability under pressure The transition from military service into civilian life and medicine Navigating identity after leaving an intense, mission-driven career Why technical ability alone doesn't make someone a great physician The role of empathy and human connection in medicine How difficult experiences can become strengths in the next chapter of your life About Dr. Mike Simpson Dr. Mike Simpson is a physician and former U.S. Army Special Operations medic whose career has taken him from austere and high-risk environments to the practice of civilian medicine. His experiences across military operations, medicine, leadership, and major career transitions give him a unique perspective on performing under pressure, caring for people during their most vulnerable moments, and adapting when one chapter of life ends and another begins. Connect with BS Free MD
What if healthcare's greatest barrier is not funding, technology, or policy, but leaders' lack of self-awareness? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos talks with Jess Bunin, MD, MHPE, FACP, FCCM, CEC, a psychiatrist, author, and co-founder of All Levels Leadership, a consulting firm designed to revolutionize healthcare leadership training. Dr. Bunin brings a perspective forged at West Point and through a military career that included deployment to Iraq, leadership as an ICU director and chief of critical care, and service as dean of community at the Uniformed Services University, the nation's military medical school. She argues that healthcare's deepest wounds are relational—and that healing them starts with leaders doing the hard work of understanding themselves. Dr. Bunin discusses: Why physicians often overestimate their self-awareness, and what research reveals about the inverse relationship between confidence and competence. How struggling as a program director helped her distinguish between mentoring for her own success and mentoring around a resident's needs. How today's medical students and residents differ from those trained 15 years ago, and why digital communication, COVID, and political polarization have weakened the skills needed for productive disagreement. How patients have changed as well, and why declining doctor-patient trust and the rise of Dr. Google make emotional attunement essential. The CLEAR framework for civil discourse: Create psychological safety, Listen actively, Establish common ground, Adjust your thinking, and Respond skillfully. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.9800458950
What if healthcare's greatest barrier is not funding, technology, or policy, but leaders' lack of self-awareness? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos talks with Jess Bunin, MD, MHPE, FACP, FCCM, CEC, a psychiatrist, author, and co-founder of All Levels Leadership, a consulting firm designed to revolutionize healthcare leadership training. Dr. Bunin brings a perspective forged at West Point and through a military career that included deployment to Iraq, leadership as an ICU director and chief of critical care, and service as dean of community at the Uniformed Services University, the nation's military medical school. She argues that healthcare's deepest wounds are relational—and that healing them starts with leaders doing the hard work of understanding themselves. Dr. Bunin discusses: - Why physicians often overestimate their self-awareness, and what research reveals about the inverse relationship between confidence and competence. - How struggling as a program director helped her distinguish between mentoring for her own success and mentoring around a resident's needs. - How today's medical students and residents differ from those trained 15 years ago, and why digital communication, COVID, and political polarization have weakened the skills needed for productive disagreement. - How patients have changed as well, and why declining doctor-patient trust and the rise of Dr. Google make emotional attunement essential. - The CLEAR framework for civil discourse: Create psychological safety, Listen actively, Establish common ground, Adjust your thinking, and Respond skillfully. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org
In this episode, Leanne Yanni, MD, MHCM, President and Chief Executive Officer, Illinois Physician Enterprise, Hospital Sisters Health System, discusses building a long-term strategy for physician growth, expanding access in rural communities and strengthening leadership across the organization. She also shares how ambient AI, team-based care and population health are helping improve clinician experience and patient outcomes.
In this episode, Leanne Yanni, MD, MHCM, President and Chief Executive Officer, Illinois Physician Enterprise, Hospital Sisters Health System, discusses building a long-term strategy for physician growth, expanding access in rural communities and strengthening leadership across the organization. She also shares how ambient AI, team-based care and population health are helping improve clinician experience and patient outcomes.
In this episode of Hema Now, Megan Melody speaks about the evolution of CAR-T cell therapy and its impact on lymphoma care. She explores the major advances that have transformed outcomes for patients with relapsed and refractory disease, the unanswered questions shaping current research, and the practical challenges of building successful cellular therapy programmes. The conversation also covers equitable access to treatment, the role of quality standards and accreditation, personalised approaches to CAR-T therapy, and the importance of physician leadership and mentorship in shaping the future of academic haematology. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:13 – Journey into Haematology and Lymphoma 04:19 – Major Advances in CAR-T 06:00 – Unanswered Questions After CAR-T 07:45 – Building Successful Cellular Therapy Programmes 09:06 – Improving Access to CAR-T 12:55 – Evolving Standards in Cellular Therapy 14:16 – Towards Personalised CAR-T Treatment 16:00 – Physician Leadership in Academic Medicine 17:10 – Career Advice for Future Specialists 19:02 – Future Directions in Cellular Therapy
Lyndsay Hoy, MD, was just beginning her first week of anesthesia residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania when she was received a life-altering diagnosis: lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare and progressive lung disease that predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Diagnosed within 36 hours of experiencing symptoms, Hoy embarked on a journey defined by the dual roles of clinician and patient — a dynamic that profoundly influenced every aspect of her life. From her marriage to fellow physician Vincent Hoy, to her decision to pursue IVF and embryo preservation, to her advocacy for rare disease patients, and her leadership as Chief Mission Officer of The LAM Foundation, her experiences have shaped her path and purpose. In this episode, Hoy speaks with host Mike Sacopulos about the challenges of managing an invisible illness while navigating a demanding clinical career and the structural inequities that determine who gets diagnosed and treated for rare diseases. She also reflects on a chapter she co-authored with her husband for AAPL's recent book on dual-physician marriage. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
Lyndsay Hoy, MD, was just beginning her first week of anesthesia residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania when she was received a life-altering diagnosis: lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare and progressive lung disease that predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Diagnosed within 36 hours of experiencing symptoms, Hoy embarked on a journey defined by the dual roles of clinician and patient — a dynamic that profoundly influenced every aspect of her life. From her marriage to fellow physician Vincent Nguyen, to her decision to pursue IVF and embryo preservation, to her advocacy for rare disease patients, and her leadership as Chief Mission Officer of The LAM Foundation, her experiences have shaped her path and purpose. In this episode, Hoy speaks with host Mike Sacopulos about the challenges of managing an invisible illness while navigating a demanding clinical career and the structural inequities that determine who gets diagnosed and treated for rare diseases. She also reflects on a chapter she co-authored with her husband for AAPL's recent book on dual-physician marriage. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.4448307229
What does it take to break through leadership barriers in medicine without sacrificing your authenticity? In this inspiring episode, Dr. Andrea Austin welcomes Dr. Shannon Udovic-Constant, as she shares her journey into executive leadership, the lessons she learned navigating spaces where women remain significantly underrepresented, and why visibility, not just hard work, is essential for career advancement. Together, Andrea and Shannon unpack the realities women physicians continue to face, from being mistaken for non-physician staff to balancing invisible labor at home while pursuing leadership opportunities. Rather than accepting these challenges as personal failures, they encourage physicians to recognize the systemic barriers that exist and develop intentional strategies to overcome them. Shannon introduces the concept of strategic visibility, explaining why saying "yes" to every opportunity isn't enough. She shares actionable advice on building relationships with decision-makers, leading high-impact initiatives, communicating accomplishments with confidence, and understanding the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. The conversation also explores psychological safety, creating healthy leadership cultures, and why diverse leadership ultimately leads to better healthcare decisions for patients. Whether you're considering your first leadership role or looking to expand your influence within medicine, this episode offers practical tools, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that authentic leadership creates lasting change—for physicians, healthcare systems, and the patients they serve. You'll Hear How They: Discuss why women remain significantly underrepresented in executive healthcare leadership despite representing the majority of today's medical graduates. Explain how strategic visibility helps physicians position themselves for leadership opportunities by intentionally building relationships with key decision-makers. Share practical techniques for communicating accomplishments confidently while remaining authentic and collaborative. Explore the critical difference between mentorship and sponsorship, and why sponsorship is often the missing ingredient in advancing women leaders. Reveal leadership practices that build psychological safety, encourage healthy disagreement, and strengthen team performance. Discuss why physician advocacy and participation in organized medicine are essential for creating meaningful healthcare reform and improving patient care. Encourage physicians to embrace leadership without compromising their values, identity, or authenticity. About the Guest "You don't have to change who you are to become an effective leader, you simply need to become visible for the impact you're already creating." — Dr. Shannon Udovic-Constant Dr. Shannon Udovic-Constant is a pediatrician, leadership coach, and advocate for women in medicine. As President of California's largest medical association, she's a trailblazer for women in leadership. Through Physician Women Rising, she empowers women physicians to pursue executive roles, building visibility, presence, and influence. Her PWR Leadership Method drives meaningful change in healthcare."
Send us Fan MailEighty-one percent of physicians are already using AI in practice, more than double the rate from just three years ago. The tools are moving faster than the rules, and nobody has agreed on who gets to write them.Dr. John Whyte, CEO of the American Medical Association, joins hosts David E. Williams and John Driscoll to discuss why the medical community needs to lead the conversation on AI guardrails rather than wait for Washington to catch up, and why the most urgent regulatory question right now involves AI chatbots in mental health, where one in six American adults are already using them with no meaningful oversight in place.
What happens when a physician becomes a patient — and discovers that medicine can heal the body but leave the person behind? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Rana Awdish, MD, medical director of care experience at Henry Ford Health and bestselling author of In Shock: My Journey from Death to Recovery and the Redemptive Power of Hope. Awdish's path to physician leadership is unlike most. As a pulmonary and critical care fellow at Henry Ford, she nearly died — and that experience cracked open a new understanding of what physicians actually need to do their jobs well. She began building a communications curriculum, quietly and without a formal title, until the work proved so effective that the institution asked her to lead it systemwide. Today she oversees care experience, runs the Pulmonary Hypertension Program, and helps shape Henry Ford's physician onboarding and Leadership Institute. The conversation is equal parts practical and profound. Awdish describes Henry Ford's "senior peer partner" model — a social mentoring program that pairs new hires with seasoned clinicians not to teach clinical skills but to transmit culture. And she shares what comes next. Her forthcoming book, Aftershock: Learning to Reinhabit My Body After Illness, goes deeper than In Shock did, tracing a second journey — through somatic healing, art, and what she calls "re-embodiment" — that ultimately led her to discover her own undetected cancer. The book is a challenge to medicine's assumptions about where healing begins and ends. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
What happens when a physician becomes a patient — and discovers that medicine can heal the body but leave the person behind? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Rana Awdish, MD, medical director of care experience at Henry Ford Health and bestselling author of In Shock: My Journey from Death to Recovery and the Redemptive Power of Hope. Awdish's path to physician leadership is unlike most. As a pulmonary and critical care fellow at Henry Ford, she nearly died — and that experience cracked open a new understanding of what physicians actually need to do their jobs well. She began building a communications curriculum, quietly and without a formal title, until the work proved so effective that the institution asked her to lead it systemwide. Today she oversees care experience, runs the Pulmonary Hypertension Program, and helps shape Henry Ford's physician onboarding and Leadership Institute. The conversation is equal parts practical and profound. Awdish describes Henry Ford's "senior peer partner" model — a social mentoring program that pairs new hires with seasoned clinicians not to teach clinical skills but to transmit culture. And she shares what comes next. Her forthcoming book, Aftershock: Learning to Reinhabit My Body After Illness, goes deeper than In Shock did, tracing a second journey — through somatic healing, art, and what she calls "re-embodiment" — that ultimately led her to discover her own undetected cancer. The book is a challenge to medicine's assumptions about where healing begins and ends. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.4947586419
Justin Barr is a transplant surgeon at the Ochsner Clinic and a historian. Stephen Morrissey, the interviewer, is the Executive Managing Editor of the Journal. S.H. Podolsky, D.S. Jones, and J. Barr. Declarations of Independence — Physicians and the U.S. Body Politic, 1776–2026. N Engl J Med 2026;395:1-3.
What happens when the art of medicine collides with the rise of clinical algorithms, electronic health records, and artificial intelligence? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos speaks with Devjit Roy, MD, MAS, MSPC, CPE, from Nathan Littauer Hospital in rural New York — about his book, Between Heartbeats and Algorithms: Reclaiming What Matters in Healthcare. Roy explains how the book grew from journals he kept while working on the front lines of a COVID surge hospital, where he recorded patient stories as a way of processing the trauma. Years later, those stories became the foundation for a call to action: Physicians must step into leadership to ensure that technology serves medicine — not the other way around. He also serves as medical director of the hospital's nursing home, board member for Mountain Valley Hospice, and co-president of a regional joint venture focused on preserving specialty care. He continues to practice as a hospitalist and palliative care physician. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.9499938075
What happens when the art of medicine collides with the rise of clinical algorithms, electronic health records, and artificial intelligence? In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos speaks with Devjit Roy, MD, MAS, MSPC, CPE, from Nathan Littauer Hospital in rural New York — about his book, Between Heartbeats and Algorithms: Reclaiming What Matters in Healthcare. Roy explains how the book grew from journals he kept while working on the front lines of a COVID surge hospital, where he recorded patient stories as a way of processing the trauma. Years later, those stories became the foundation for a call to action: Physicians must step into leadership to ensure that technology serves medicine — not the other way around. He also serves as medical director of the hospital's nursing home, board member for Mountain Valley Hospice, and co-president of a regional joint venture focused on preserving specialty care. He continues to practice as a hospitalist and palliative care physician. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org.
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.
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.2297884529
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 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.
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.4001445650
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.
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.3119622965
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.3026455942
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.8370388571
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.
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.5906263102
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.
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.1079724205
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.
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. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.5134252129
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
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.3393190136
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. https://doi.org/10.55834/sp.5910569076
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.
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.