SoundPractice

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.

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 SoundPractice, we dive into an engaging and informative discussion on the future of AI in healthcare and its implications for both doctors and patients. Host Mike Sacopulos is joined by Laura Landro to explore the emerging world of ambient listening technology. Laura Landro, an award-winning writer and journalist, former Wall Street Journal “Informed Patient” columnist, and author of Survivor: Taking Control of Your Fight Against Cancer, brings an innovative perspective on medical technology advancements. This technology captures clinician-patient conversations, aiming to alleviate documentation burdens, enhance patient care, and reduce clinician burnout. However, it also raises important concerns about privacy and data security. Tune in to learn how leading institutions are pioneering research while ethical considerations continue to shape its future, especially in sensitive areas of healthcare. Episode Highlights: • Research Insights: Discover the benefits that institutions like Mass General Brigham are experiencing in terms of cost and time savings, and improved quality of care. • Regulatory and Liability Concerns: Explore the potential need for FDA oversight if the technology influences clinical decisions, and the implications of errors in AI-generated documentation. • Initial Patient Reactions: Gain first-hand insights from patients, including those who find the technology beneficial and others who have privacy concerns. • Future Outlook: Project how ongoing development and ethical considerations will shape the integration of AI in healthcare. Resources • Laura Landro’s WSJ Article: Why AI May Be Listening In On Your Next Doctor's Appointment - https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/ai-ambient-listening-doctor-appointment-e7afd587 • Book by Laura Landro: Survivor: Taking Control of Your Fight Against Cancer - https://www.amazon.com/Survivor-Taking-Control-against-Cancer/dp/0684856786 Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at https://www.physicianleaders.org/

Join us for an enlightening episode of SoundPractice featuring Lisa Kern, MD, MPH, a national expert, distinguished professor of medicine, and associate chief for research at Weill Cornell Medicine. In this episode, we explore Kern’s unique career path — from her early fascination with communication as a psychology major at Harvard to her impactful research on healthcare delivery in the United States. Her journey reveals an enduring commitment to understanding and improving the healthcare system, driven by the impact of external factors like insurance and policy on patient care. This episode not only sheds light on the complexities of the American healthcare system but also underscores the importance of inter-professional collaboration and patient engagement in shaping the future of medicine. Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding Healthcare Fragmentation: Kern explains the concept of fragmentation, when patients see multiple providers without coordinated care, and the potential harm caused by a lack of coordination. 2. A Patient’s Role in Healthcare Delivery: Fragmentation can lead to communication gaps and poor outcomes, particularly for older adults and minority populations. Kern provides tips for incorporating real-time patient input to enhance care coordination and satisfaction. 3. Inter-Professional Collaboration: Explore proposed policy changes to improve care delivery that focus on value over volume. Kern highlights alternative models for healthcare payment and delivery to better serve patients and reduce provider burnout. 4. The Future of Healthcare Delivery: Identify future challenges and opportunities in healthcare, including the integration of AI. She identifies the importance of ongoing dialogue and proactive measures to shape healthcare to meet the needs and expectations of the American population. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the status quo and explores innovative solutions for a more integrated and effective healthcare system. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at https://www.physicianleaders.org/.

Join us for an enlightening episode of SoundPractice with guest Jennifer Clark, MD, as she delves into the profound topic of suffering in healthcare. As an allopathic physician specializing in internal medicine, pediatrics, hospice, and palliative care, Clark’s journey from the bedside to the boardroom has been dedicated to healing, education, and innovation. Now volunteering as a medical liaison, she fosters a compassionate learning environment for students and professionals interested in community-based end-of-life care. In her forthcoming book, Suffer, she reflects on nearly 25 years of practice and passion to promote well-being. Tune in as Clark shares her journey from a career in business to medicine, highlighting the importance of finding purpose and meaning in one’s vocation. Episode Highlights: - Purpose and Passion: Discover how Clark’s transition from corporate life to medicine was driven by a search for purpose and influenced by her family’s background in healthcare. - Understanding Suffering: Clark discusses the importance of defining suffering and understanding its impact. She outlines how reframing pity into compassion can aid in the healing process. - Art and Science in Medicine: Amidst technological and systemic pressures, Clark outlines the seemingly diminishing role of art in medicine. She addresses the disconnect between healthcare systems and the human aspect of medicine, advocating for compassionate care. - Looking Ahead: Clark shares her optimism about the potential for healthcare professionals to use the understanding of suffering to improve patient care and clinician well-being. Don’t miss this compelling conversation that explores the intersection of medicine, compassion, and the quest for meaning in healthcare. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at https://www.physicianleaders.org/.

In this episode of SoundPractice, we welcome Corey M. Cronrath, DO, MPH, MBA, FACOEM, CPE, FAAPL, a triple board-certified physician and fellow of the American Association for Physician Leadership. Cronrath’s journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. From overcoming a challenging socioeconomic background and serving in the military, he has emerged as a prominent physician leader with aspirations for the future. Cronrath has committed his career to enhancing chronic disease care with a passion for supporting patients with mental illness. With his extensive list of credentials, he provides valuable insights and personal experiences on the optimal timing for physicians to pursue leadership education and certification. Key Topics: - Growing in Your Career: Cronrath discusses the importance of post-clinical education and career planning while prioritizing self-reflection. Driven by patient-centered values, he also shares his future goals of transitioning from Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). - Lessons From the Military: Learn from his experience in military healthcare and the valuable lessons he learned through training and service. The unique challenges and learning experiences in the military still shape his approach to civilian healthcare today. - Embracing Value-Based Care: In his current role at Mental Health Cooperative in Nashville, TN, Cronrath shares his work on implementing and expanding a successful value-based care model in a state that does not participate in Medicaid expansion. Listen to the Episode: Tune in to this episode on SoundPractice, or subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated with our latest episodes. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at https://www.physicianleaders.org/.

In this insightful episode of SoundPractice, we welcome Heather McGowan, BFA, MBA, a prominent future-of-work strategist, keynote speaker, and bestselling author. With a background in industrial design and extensive expertise in the evolving landscape of work, McGowan is a leading voice on how we can adapt to the future. Join us as Heather McGowan shares her fascinating journey and insights into the dynamic changes shaping the workforce. From the influence of AI to the pivotal role of leadership in healthcare and beyond, this episode offers a deep dive into what lies ahead. Key Points: -Sustainable Leadership *Discover the essential traits future healthcare leaders need to foster human connection in a digital world. *Learn about the importance of hope and purpose in leadership and how it can significantly enhance team performance. -Healthcare and Technology *Explore the integration of advanced technologies like AI to support and elevate clinician performance. *Find the balance between utilizing technology and maintaining human connection to ensure accuracy and efficiency in patient care. -Ensuring Privacy *Understand the fine line between data sharing for innovation and protecting privacy. *Recognize the impact of employer surveillance on trust and autonomy in the workplace. -Resilience and High-Performing Teams: *Learn strategies to promote employee well-being and build resilient teams. *Discover how reframing loneliness, building strong social connections, and managing failure can positively impact work and patient outcomes. Learn more about McGowan’s work. Tune in for an optimistic and forward-thinking discussion that will equip you with strategies to navigate and thrive in the ever-changing world of work. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.

Episode Summary: In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Mark Katlic, MD, the chair emeritus of surgery for LifeBridge Health System in Baltimore, Maryland. Katlic opens up about his illustrious career, the creation of the Aging Surgeon Program, and the essential topic of maintaining surgical competence as surgeons age. The Aging Surgeon Program: The program addresses the critical issue of age-related competency in the surgical field. It offers a comprehensive and unbiased evaluation that assesses the physical and cognitive functions of surgeons over the age of 70. Aimed to ensure the ongoing safety and proficiency of aging surgeons, it identifies treatable or reversible conditions that, if addressed, could enhance their functional capacity. By fostering a culture of self-regulation within multidisciplinary surgical teams, the program helps maintain public trust in the healthcare system. Key Points: - The necessity of avoiding a mandatory retirement age, as individual capabilities can vary widely. - The role of strict confidentiality protocols in identifying and addressing issues that might affect a surgeon’s performance. - Potential solutions that modify work conditions, allowing experienced surgeons to continue contributing without compromising safety or forcing retirement. About Mark Katlic, MD: Katlic pursued education at Washington and Jefferson College, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and Massachusetts General Hospital. His extensive career spans private practice, general and thoracic surgery, and academic positions at Geisinger Health System and LifeBridge Health System. Tune in to this insightful episode to learn how the Aging Surgeon Program is making a difference in the surgical community. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.

Overview: In this episode, Mike Sacopulos interviews Naakesh Dewan, MD, CPE, DLFAPA, FASAM, a certified physician executive and internationally recognized expert in healthcare quality and digital innovations. Dewan shares his journey from collegiate athlete to physician executive and discusses the parallels between high performance in sports and medicine. Key Topics: 1. Physicians versus Professional Athletes: Dewan compares physicians to world-class cognitive athletes and discusses how sports techniques can influence medical practice and leadership, emphasizing the importance of mental health and well-being in both fields. 2. Well-Being and Burnout: Both physicians and athletes must manage purpose, satisfaction, adaptability, and control to maintain their well-being. Dewan addresses the root causes of physician burnout and offers individual-level strategies for tackling it. 3. Role of Organizations and Leaders: Healthcare leaders have a responsibility to create supportive work environments to reduce the impact burnout has on physicians and regulatory and productive aspects of the organization. 4. Lessons in Leadership and High Performance: Setting ambitious goals and adapting to challenges are crucial. Dewan highlights the importance of learning from others and maintaining mutual accountability within support systems. Takeaway: High performance in sports and medicine requires a balance of technical skills, mental resilience, and well-being. As healthcare leaders, we must create environments that support physicians' well-being, prioritize self-care, and foster peer-to-peer support. By building trust and addressing burnout, we can maintain positive and effective practices. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.

Episode Summary: Join host Mike Sacopulos in an engaging conversation with Lisa Herbert, MD, FAAFP, PCC, a board-certified family physician and the visionary founder and CEO of Just the Right Balance. Herbert shares her inspiring journey from an early interest in medicine to becoming a transformative coach for physician leaders. "Physicians being in a leadership role is crucial,” says Herbert. “We need people who have done the work and been in the frontlines to continue making important healthcare decisions." In this discussion, discover the pivotal role of physician leadership coaching in today's healthcare landscape. At a Glance: Early Inspiration: Herbert's passion for medicine was ignited by her grandfather’s passing due to healthcare inequities. This personal experience motivated her to pursue a career in family medicine to prevent similar tragedies for others. Career Path: Influenced by mentors and driven by her desire to help others, she has held various roles, including medical director and private practice owner, gaining extensive experience in healthcare leadership. Transition to Coaching: Recognizing the profound impact coaching had on her life, Herbert dedicated herself to helping other physicians navigate their careers and develop essential leadership skills. Challenges in Healthcare: She emphasizes the urgent need for leadership development programs to address workforce shortages and combat physician burnout. Making a Lasting Impact: Herbert offers personalized coaching, focusing on achieving each physician’s career goals and overcoming challenges. Learn More: Visit her website to explore her books: Physicians Rise Up and Take Back Your Life Connect with her on LinkedIn and Facebook Discover her insights on the Forbes Coaches Council and in the Huffington Post About Lisa Herbert, MD, FAAFP, PCC: Lisa Herbert is a distinguished family physician, executive leadership coach, and national speaker with more than 25 years of experience in healthcare. She holds an MD from Upstate Medical Center and is a professional certified coach recognized by the International Coaching Federation. Herbert is dedicated to bridging gaps in healthcare through her coaching, consulting, and training programs, aiming to create collaborative cultures where physicians thrive and patient outcomes improve. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.

Episode Overview: Join SoundPractice host, Mike Sacopulos, as he explores the rapid evolution and integral role of private equity (PE) in healthcare with expert Max Reiboldt, CPA. This episode is essential for physicians, health system leaders, PE sponsors, payers, and anyone involved in the healthcare industry. Key Topics: About Max Reiboldt: Learn about Max Reiboldt’s extensive experience in healthcare consulting. Discover his book, Private Equity and Healthcare: Leadership, Economics, and Trends for the Future, which equips you with the knowledge to tackle PE challenges head-on. History: Gain insights into the genesis and evolution of PE in healthcare over the past decade. Deal Metrics: Understand how PE determines a practice’s value and makes diverse investments in healthcare entities like physician groups, surgery centers, and small hospitals. Regulatory Concerns: Discover how increased regulatory scrutiny is impacting transactions and may lead to changes in investment strategies and governance. Benefits, Challenges, and Future Predictions: Examine how PE benefits physicians nearing retirement, while younger physicians remain hesitant. Get a concise forecast for the future of PE in healthcare, its impact on group cohesion, and potential challenges. Additional Insights: Reiboldt also shares insights from his book, Private Equity and Healthcare, recently published by the American Association for Physician Leadership. This book, written by a distinguished group of contributing authors from Coker, provides an unbiased and fact-based examination of this complex field. Listen Now: Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of private equity in healthcare and stay ahead of the trends shaping the industry. Subscribe and Follow: Don't miss out on future episodes of SoundPractice. Subscribe to our podcast and follow us on social media to stay updated on the latest in physician leadership and healthcare insights. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership .

In this episode of SoundPractice, we delve into the specialized area of healthcare law and the intricacies of physician contracts. Join us as we sit down with Kyle Claussen, CEO of Resolve.com, a firm renowned for its expertise in the legal, financial, and strategic aspects of physicians' employment agreements. Claussen offers insight into fair market value, noncompete clauses, and the influence of private equity in healthcare.

Join host Mike Sacopulos in this compelling episode of SoundPractice as he sits down with David Matchar, MD, to delve into the transformative potential of systems thinking in healthcare. Matchar is a distinguished expert in the industry with a rich career from his early days at Duke University to current influential roles. Drawing from lived experiences, he shares unique insights on how viewing healthcare as an interconnected system, rather than isolated silos, can significantly enhance organizational performance.

Summary: In this insightful episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos engages in a compelling conversation with Linda Roszak Burton, an accomplished author, researcher, and executive coach. Linda, the author of The Power of Gratitude to Heal the World, delves into the integration of neuroscience-based methodologies in her coaching to enhance well-being and performance in the healthcare sector. Key Takeaways: • Linda's Fascination with Neuroscience: o Linda shares her journey into neuroscience through a NeuroLeadership program. o Emphasizes the importance of understanding brain functionality to improve coaching effectiveness. • Virtuous Practice in Healthcare: o Discusses her article in Wharton Healthcare Quarterly on clinician burnout and job satisfaction. o Highlights the concept of the virtuous cycle, where reconnecting with the purpose and values in medicine enhances clinician well-being and patient care. • Gratitude in Clinical Practice: o Explores how gratitude and virtues like empathy and compassion can transform patient-physician relationships. o Discusses reciprocity and its impact on both clinicians and patients. • Addressing Anger in Healthcare: o Linda talks about societal anger towards the healthcare system. o Emphasizes the need for holistic well-being, including emotional, mental, and social aspects. • Gratitude Practices and Neuroscience: o The significance of gratitude practices in reshaping neural pathways for improved mental health. o Practical tips on incorporating gratitude into daily routines for healthcare professionals. • Generational Benefits of Gratitude: o Research shows the universal benefits of gratitude across different generations. • Implementing Gratitude in Leadership: o Strategies for healthcare leaders to foster a culture of gratitude and well-being. o The importance of positive deviance and learning from high-functioning teams. Practical Tips: • Schedule a regular gratitude practice, be it morning or evening. • Integrate gratitude into existing activities, like a mindful walk, to make it a sustainable habit. Listen Now: Tune in to this episode of SoundPractice for an enriching discussion on how gratitude and neuroscience can revolutionize healthcare practice and clinician well-being. Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.

Episode Overview: Today’s guests have had immense impacts reaching far beyond the healthcare system. Their transformative work has revolutionized mental health reporting requirements and licensed over 1.2 million healthcare workers with the skills to reduce stigma and improve access to care. Join host Mike Sacopulos as he interviews Tim Fischer, president of Jackson and Coker, and J. Corey Feist, JD, MBA, founder and CEO of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation about their vital work supporting the mental health and well-being of healthcare professionals. Key Takeaways: Healthcare’s Mental Health Crisis: The CDC reports that healthcare workers in the U.S. face worse mental health conditions than any other job sector. We can address this crisis by changing institutional practices and reducing the stigma of seeking mental health treatment. Inspire Change Today: Revise mental health-related questions in applications and credentials with resources in the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation’s toolkit. Create a supportive environment for healthcare workers by creating a safe space where you can discuss mental health challenges. Dig Deeper: Jackson and Coker: Jackson and Coker specialize in locum tenens, connecting physicians and advanced practitioners with communities. They collaborate with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation to support healthcare worker well-being. Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation: Focusing on improving mental health and well-being for healthcare workers, the foundation was established in 2020 to honor Dr. Lorna Breen, an emergency medicine physician. The foundation aims to reduce burnout and destigmatize mental health treatment for healthcare professionals. Partnership and Initiatives: ALL IN: WellBeing First for Healthcare: A coalition with diverse partners like Harvard School of Public Health and Johnson & Johnson, aiming to scale well-being solutions and remove barriers to mental health access. Champion Badge Program: Recognizes organizations that audit and revise their mental health-related questions to reduce stigma and improve access to care. Get Involved For more information and to become an ambassador visit Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation. Listen Now: Tune in and learn how you can support your peers’ mental health and well-being today! Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership.