Dr. Nicole Boutilier: It's All the Little Pieces

Nova Scotia Health's Dr. Nicole Boutilier brings great optimism to the system. In all that she shares about their work, Dr. Boutilier reminds us why it's important to understand our true north.  Dr. Nicole Boutilier is known at Nova Scotia Health as Executive Vice President, Medicine and Clinical Operations, but she is so much more to the system at large. In her work, Dr. Boutilier dedicates herself to coaching, and developing strong partnerships across the sector.  On this episode of Healthcare Change Makers, Dr. Boutilier shares her excitement around how research and AI will shape the future for the province, and the work they've been doing to open Nova Scotia up to innovation.  Dr. Boutilier also shares many nuggets of wisdom around coaching and bringing people along, so they are as connected to the work as you are.  What keeps Dr. Boutilier and her team focused is remembering how what they do ultimately impacts their community, friends, and family. Looking back on her 30-year career, Dr. Boutilier says what makes it worthwhile is seeing how all the little pieces come together over time.  Listen to this episode if you need a dose of optimism for what you have today, and what's to come.   Quotables: "You cannot make changes in healthcare without engagement and collaboration amongst many people." – NB "You really have to think about why you're saying no, and how to get to yes." – NB "Partnerships are the only way you get there, there is no other way." – NB "With coaching you learn as much as you actually assist." – NB "As a coach you say you want to hold people capable, and people are capable… you just need to give them the opportunity." – NB "There are not always immediate payoffs for things that you do, it's not like other industries… I can look back now over a 30-year career and see all the little pieces. And it makes it worthwhile every day." – NB   Mentioned in this Episode: Dr. Nicole Boutilier Nova Scotia Health  Royal Roads University 2026 Chris Carruthers Excellence in Medical Leadership Award Winner Whistler: Ann Patchett   Access More Interviews with Healthcare Leaders at HIROC.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favourite podcasts. Email us at [email protected].