Flourish Sound Bytes: Stepping Away to Step Forward - Lessons From Sabbatical with Erik Howell

October 30, 2025: After 25 years leading transformational change in healthcare IT, Erik Howell, VP and Head of Technology at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, made an unconventional decision that most leaders only dream about: he took a sabbatical. Following major EHR implementations, enterprise PMO leadership, and scaling a Silicon Valley AI startup's delivery team, Erik stepped away to travel, reflect, and rediscover what truly mattered in his career. The result? A complete reframing of success, renewed energy, and a mission-driven role leading technology at an LGBTQ-focused community health center in New York City. Join as Erik shares the lessons from his intentional career pause and why stepping away might be the secret to stepping forward with clarity and purpose.Key Points:07:08 Erik's Pivot to a Silicon Valley Startup12:46 Lessons from the Sabbatical19:23 Finding the Right Career Fit25:26 Speed Round and Final ThoughtsX: This Week HealthLinkedIn: This Week HealthDonate: Alex’s Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer