Medvale Radio

Tim Raderstorf explores what it really means to move healthcare from reactive to proactive. Drawing on his background in nursing, innovation, and startup leadership, Tim shares how Steadywell is using clinician-designed, responsibly governed AI to proactively check in with patients, surface needs early, and help care teams operate at the top of their license. The vision isn’t about replacing people—it’s about strengthening them: expanding access, reducing unnecessary utilization, and ensuring the right human shows up at the right moment with the right information.

Kevin Lawhorn sits at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and federal policy—helping design and deliver solutions across government, commercial, and state markets as SVP of Growth at Myriddian. In this episode, he joins Dave Self for an insider look at what’s shifting inside the system: how CMS and federal agencies are working to reduce red tape, where reimbursement and Medicare Advantage models may be headed, and what “rural transformation” funding could mean on the ground.

In this Medvale Lyceum, physician leader and anesthesiologist Jeff Stuart explores why unresolved conflict is one of the most overlooked risks in healthcare—and how leaders can address it strategically. Drawing on real-world experience and Joint Commission standards, the conversation reframes conflict not as a problem to avoid, but as a leadership competency that directly impacts trust, team performance, and patient safety.

Tim Drake didn’t set out to work in healthcare—but years spent navigating science, technology, and growing organizations shaped how he thinks about leadership today. As CEO of eTactics, he joins Dave Self to talk about career pivots, decision-making in complex environments, and the operational realities that quietly shape the healthcare system. A reflective conversation on how leaders learn to navigate friction, prioritize what matters, and lead forward when the path isn’t obvious.

Long before “care transformation” became the phrase of the moment, Jim Souza was already focused on what it really takes to lead clinicians through change. Chief Physician Executive at St. Luke’s Health System, he joins Dave Self to talk about his unlikely path into leadership, the evolving expectations of physicians, and why today’s pressures—workforce strain, rising complexity, and shifting patient needs—require a new mental model for how care is delivered.

In this episode, Dave Self talks with Jesse Arnoldson—founder of Value Care Group—about what it really takes to make value-based care work for independent practices. Drawing on his decade at MedMan and deep roots in rural Idaho, Jesse explains how small clinics can join forces to negotiate better contracts, improve patient outcomes, and stay independent in an increasingly consolidated healthcare market. From shared savings models to medical home initiatives, he offers a candid view of what’s broken, what’s working, and how grassroots collaboration can reshape the future of primary care.

Before AI became a buzzword, Chris Bowen was already thinking about privacy, data protection, and the human side of technology. Founder and Chief Information Security Officer of ClearData, he joins Dave Self to talk about his unconventional path from politics to healthcare—and why the future of artificial intelligence still depends on getting the basics right.

From Alaska roots to Olympic-level athletics, and now leading a federally qualified health center in rural Idaho, Medvalista Amber “AJ” Jordan’s path has been anything but linear. In this episode of Megaphone, the CEO of Desert Sage Health explains why her north star is “taking care of the people who take care of the people,” how her team is innovating with one of the nation’s first permanent drive-through clinics, and the unique challenges of delivering care in rural communities.

What does servant leadership look like in practice? Jeremy Blanchard, MD—Chief Medical Officer at North Mississippi Health Services—shares how his personal journey shaped his approach to leadership, culture, and accountability in rural healthcare. He reflects on building ICU teams from scratch, leading through crisis, and the role of vulnerability, listening, and trust in transforming systems from within. (36min)

What do a rural hospital, the U.S. Army, and a small Idaho town have in common? For Jim Trounson, they’re all part of the path that led to Medvale. In this episode of MEGAPHONE, he reflects on the people, ideas, and moments that shaped the way forward—from early lessons in leadership to pioneering physician group management, and eventually designing a healthcare community rooted in trust and connection. More than a retrospective, this is the backstory of how a lifetime of work turned into a little town called Medvale.

How do you build stronger teams in a high-pressure healthcare system? In this episode of MEGAPHONE, Medvalista Jeff Stewart, MD—physician, mediator, and co-founder of Resolved Conflict—shares why conflict is one of the most avoided topics in healthcare, and what happens when we start teaching physicians how to manage it. He talks about the cultural patterns of avoidance, the impact of early leadership experiences, and how conflict competence can improve collaboration, trust, and wellbeing. Drawing on decades of clinical and administrative leadership, Jeff makes the case for bringing these skills into the heart of healthcare training.For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

How do you stand out in a noisy healthcare landscape? In this episode of Megaphone, Saul Marquez—founder and CEO of Outcomes Rocket—shares how intentional marketing, AI strategy, and real human connection can drive meaningful growth in healthcare. He talks about how his podcast became a business, why brand clarity matters, and how Outcomes Rocket supports large organizations through innovation, acceleration, growth, and what he calls “super connection.” With 2,000 interviews behind him, Saul also reflects on the power of showing up—and what it really takes to scale with purpose.

Missed follow-ups can cost lives, yet many systems still rely on manual processes. In this episode of Megaphone, Angela Adams, CEO of Inflo Health, explains how her team is helping health systems automate follow-up workflows to close care gaps, improve safety, and reduce liability—without adding staff. Drawing on her background in critical care, legal medicine, and startups, she shares why scalable systems matter and what sets Inflo apart. With a goal of reaching 2.8 million lives in five years, Angela offers a clear vision of what it takes to protect patients at scale.

Integrated care is reshaping healthcare, yet many systems remain fragmented. In this episode of Megaphone, Dr. Edward McEachern, Chief Medical Officer at St. Luke’s Health System, examines how better coordination between providers, improved data-sharing, and aligned incentives can drive efficiency and enhance patient outcomes. He breaks down the key barriers to integration, from siloed electronic health records to outdated payment models, and explores solutions that make care more connected. With deep experience in health system leadership, Dr. McEachern shares insights on what it takes to build a seamless, patient-centered healthcare ecosystem.

Andrea Rishmawi, co-founder and CEO of One Eighty Collective, explores best practices for attracting and retaining top talent in this Medvale Lyceum. This session dives into why traditional hiring approaches fall short and offers practical strategies for leadership teams to achieve clarity, alignment, and consistency in their recruiting efforts. From redefining roles based on real business needs to designing focused, purpose-driven interview processes, Rishmawi provides actionable insights to help healthcare executives build high-performing teams.

Fertility treatment has transformed countless lives, but access remains a challenge. In this episode of Megaphone, Medvalista David Adamson, MD, reproductive endocrinologist, surgeon, and CEO of ARC Fertility, unpacks the science, policies, and societal shifts shaping fertility medicine. He discusses the barriers that keep treatments out of reach, the role of employers in expanding coverage, and how advancements like IVF have changed reproductive healthcare. With decades of experience and a global perspective, Dr. Adamson explores what’s needed to make fertility care more accessible and effective. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

Burnout isn’t just about doctors working too hard—it’s about how the system is designed. This episode of Megaphone explores the leadership changes needed to address physician burnout with Medvalista Paul DeChant, MD, physician, author, and leadership expert. He shares how healthcare organizations can redesign workflows, bridge the gap between executives and frontline clinicians, and reduce inefficiencies that fuel burnout. With insights on Lean principles and leadership accountability, Paul offers a perspective on creating a system where doctors can thrive.For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

This episode of Megaphone explores the future of healthcare education with Joelle Powers, Dean of the College of Health Sciences at Boise State University. She shares how universities are adapting to workforce demands through online learning, clinical training, and mental health support, while addressing the growing need for health professionals across disciplines. With insights on industry collaboration and student preparation, Joelle offers a perspective on building a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce.For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

What does it take to truly transform the U.S. healthcare system? In this episode of Megaphone, Dave Self and Tom Ferkovic tackle this complex question, exploring challenges like rebuilding trust, reducing inefficiencies, and fostering innovation. Drawing from his experience, Tom shares how Medvale’s peer-driven community is creating spaces for honest conversations that inspire meaningful change. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

This episode of Megaphone explores the transformation of healthcare systems through the lens of LifeBridge Health, led by CEO Neil Meltzer. From championing population health to integrating AI and fostering community-focused initiatives, Neil shares how the organization thrives despite being surrounded by larger systems. Highlighting LifeBridge’s culture of "care bravely," he delves into tackling professional burnout, addressing gun violence, and expanding healthcare education. With insights rooted in purpose-driven leadership, Neil offers a compelling vision for innovation and resilience in the dynamic world of healthcare. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

Jim Souza, MD, and Katie Schneider, MD, share how St. Luke's Health System has tackled physician burnout through strategic leadership and innovative approaches. Moderated by Paul DeChant, MD, this session highlights the power of aligning organizational priorities with physician well-being. From reducing burnout rates and turnover to fostering a culture of wellness-centered leadership, this discussion offers actionable insights for healthcare organizations striving to improve outcomes for both caregivers and patients. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

Dave Self delves into the world of healthcare systems transformation with Ken, CEO of Value Capture. From his journey as a health policy aide to leading a mission-driven organization, the conversation centers on creating “habitual excellence” in healthcare operations. This episode explores how leadership, system integration, and a commitment to frontline engagement can drive lasting improvements in patient care and organizational culture. Ken shares actionable insights for tackling healthcare’s toughest challenges while fostering environments where teams and outcomes thrive.

Dave Self explores the evolving landscape of public health with Dave Jeppesen, former Director of Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare. From leading through the COVID-19 pandemic to addressing the complex challenges of today—like behavioral health, rural care access, and the future of Medicaid—Jeppesen shares valuable insights on leadership, communication, and collaboration. This episode highlights the balance between state and federal priorities and the critical role of innovation in building sustainable public health systems. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

John Sullivan, MD, reflects on how recognizing opportunities and embracing innovation can shape a meaningful career and life. From his work in medical toxicology to pioneering life-saving tools like the ColdAvenger mask, he shares how blending professional expertise with personal passion leads to impactful outcomes, inspiring others to plan transitions thoughtfully and seize opportunities to make a difference.

Dave Self engages with Dr. Kyle Rickner, founder and chairman of Primary Health Partners, to explore the transformative potential of direct primary care. From its unique subscription-based model to its patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Rickner shares insights on how this approach improves outcomes, reduces costs, and enhances the doctor-patient relationship. This episode highlights innovative strategies for addressing the challenges of traditional healthcare systems while fostering sustainable growth in primary care. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

This episode examines how the transition to a new administration is shaping the healthcare landscape. Panelists delve into the implications of political shifts on financial pressures, regulatory changes, and operational strategies, offering a range of perspectives to help healthcare organizations navigate this pivotal moment. For more information visit: www.medvale.com

In this episode of Megaphone, host Dave Self engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Bruce Cummings, a seasoned healthcare leader and co-founder of Organizational Well-being Solutions. Bruce reflects on the overlooked drivers of physician burnout, including inefficacy and cynicism, and critiques the widespread reliance on superficial remedies. He shares insights into how leadership can enact meaningful changes to improve workplace conditions and reduce burnout's prevalence. Packed with expert analysis and practical advice, this conversation is a must-listen for healthcare professionals and leaders striving to support their teams and themselves. Don’t miss this in-depth exploration of tackling burnout at its roots. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

In this special episode, recorded live at the Canterbury Golf Club, host Dave Self talks with Pam Holt, CEO of Empathetics, about her inspiring journey from nurse to leader in healthcare empathy training. Pam recounts her roots in Missouri and early challenges with toxic work environments that motivated her mission to transform healthcare culture. With evidence-based insights, she explains how Empathetics teaches healthcare providers to connect meaningfully through empathy, enhancing both patient and peer interactions. Pam highlights the powerful impact of empathy training, from reducing turnover and improving patient experiences to boosting clinician morale. Listen in to hear how Empathetics is reshaping healthcare communication and why empathy is vital not only in clinics but in life. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

In this insightful episode of Megaphone, host Dave Self engages in a compelling conversation with Jim Giuffre, an experienced leader in healthcare and current chairman of Saint Luke's Health Partners. Jim shares his invaluable perspectives on the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, highlighting its potential to reduce provider burden, personalize patient experiences, and enhance public health initiatives. He candidly discusses both the opportunities and challenges, including concerns about misinformation and the need for strong leadership to guide adoption. With anecdotes from his tenure at HealthWise and insights into future AI-driven transformations, Jim provides a thought-provoking vision of a more efficient, patient-centric healthcare system. Don't miss this episode if you're curious about how AI could revolutionize the healthcare landscape. For more about Medvale, visit: www.medvale.com

In this episode of Megaphone, host Dave Self engages in a compelling discussion with Dr. Mrunal Shah, an experienced physician, healthcare leader, and certified coach. Dr. Shah reflects on his nearly 30-year journey in family medicine and how it led him to coaching and supporting fellow physicians. He delves into the distinctions between coaching and mentoring, the value of coaching for physician growth, and its impact on reducing burnout and enhancing leadership. Through personal stories and professional insights, Dr. Shah reveals how coaching can drive positive change within the healthcare field. Don’t miss this exploration of coaching’s role in empowering healthcare professionals. For more about Medvale, visit www.medvale.com

“Barbarians at the Gate - Private Equity’s role and how you might benefit” Mike Ferkovic, a seasoned expert in private equity and healthcare, delves into the complex role of private equity in the healthcare industry. The discussion centers on the pros and cons of outside investment, including how private equity impacts healthcare organizations' growth, quality of care, and operational efficiency. Mike draws on his experience with mergers, acquisitions, and strategic planning, sharing insights from his time leading financial operations in a private equity-backed ophthalmology group. Key topics include understanding when private equity might be a beneficial option for healthcare providers, the challenges posed by debt in these investments, and the strategic decisions involved in pursuing outside funding. With real-life examples and a balanced approach, Mike explores whether private equity can truly deliver on its promise of increased efficiency or if it poses risks to the quality of care.

Crista Durand invites you to hear how she turned around the hospital she runs in Rhode Island by changing and personally pushing their new culture. You'll learn that organizational trust is the key tenet to cultural transformation, recognition platforms matter to staff/teams, and action/responsiveness is what physicians and staff want and respect.

Marni Carey, President of Power to the Patients, underscores the urgent need for healthcare price transparency. While healthcare costs have skyrocketed, far outpacing inflation, they are pushing for laws requiring healthcare providers to disclose prices.

Paul Miles, MD, discusses how healthcare organizations are integrating co-production of care into their models by encouraging and empowering patients to take greater responsibility. This approach aims to enhance patient outcomes and engagement, making care more collaborative and effective.

Amber “AJ” Jordan shares her unique insights on how she transformed the COVID-19 crisis into a monumental opportunity for Desert Sage Health Centers. This interview is not only a platform to learn from an inspiring healthcare leader but also an opportunity to see how AJ's leadership principles can be applied across different contexts to foster meaningful and sustainable change.

Maria Reising, VP of Nursing & Population Health at Full Circle Health, along with David Murgoitio, Director of Human Resources, present their successful recipe for recruiting and retaining talent. In a context where burnout is an increasing challenge, they led a successful strategy at Full Circle Health, reducing turnover from 35% annually to less than 20%.

After years working in programming, Ivan founded his company, Demigos, where he now serves as CEO. There, they develop and design IT solutions for startups and companies, having a focus on healthcare for the past 4 years. In recent times, to the challenge of leading his company, Ivan had to add a great difficulty: doing it in a war zone.

Meet a new Medvalista who you can certainly learn from. Amer Kaissi and Jim drill into why Amer posits that a combination of low ego and high drive is what fuels success for healthcare leaders in this environment; and he executive coaches them how to adopt this style He’s literally written the book on his topic – Humbitious.

Angela, the CEO of Inflo Health, inspires us with her journey from the bedside to the boardroom. Learn how Inflo Health helps healthcare organizations take a measured look at AI and then develop an intentional approach to what may be the most impactful breakthrough ever—bigger than electricity.

Dr. Chang talks about what he and his team are doing to reinvent a large regional healthcare system. His Tampa General is not just talking about change. They are doing Hospital-At-Home and their own command center to follow each patient.

Tim Pollard is the founder of Oratium, a renowned expert in the art of communication and messaging. At this month's Medvale Lyceum, we explore how to change the course of healthcare by revolutionizing our messaging strategies.

Andrew shares his entrepreneurial journey to healthcare where he is now designing transformative digital and mobile solutions to better impact care.

Saul Marquez is the founder of Outcomes Rocket Growth, a marketing firm that works exclusively with its healthcare clients to create sales results--specializing in digital marketing. You'll be amazed by Saul's journey as the son of Mexican immigrants to now running a powerful healthcare marketing ecosystem.

Jim interviews Ted for this only-in-Medvale opportunity to learn how a busy physician executive finds the time to write books... and what we in healthcare must do better when the next pandemic hits.

Dr. Stephen Beeson, founder and CEO of Practicing Excellence, is a nationally recognized speaker, physician, and author whose life mission is to coach and develop clinicians to be their best. In this video, he shares with us his journey to mastering human development four ourselves and our organizations.

Hospital CEOs pull Peter LaFleur into their inner circle of trusted advisers. As a CPA, Peter brings his financial know-how coupled with a broad strategic understanding of healthcare in order to reach sustainable agreements that benefit the entire community long-term. As the ultimate compliment, Peter’s Consilium Group is often asked to stay around to negotiate and then administrate plans for better healthcare delivery. To learn more, and get the full benefits of our community, visit us at medvale.com

Carlos Arce at Elation is on a mission to reduce the devastation of healthcare worker burnout. He asks why have we created a healthcare system that takes the world's most resilient people...and burns them out. Elation's assessment tool points out opportunities within healthcare organizations to build the resiliency of our physicians, nurses, and staff; and follows up with high touch approaches to return the joy of medicine.    To learn more, and get the full benefits of our community, visit us at medvale.com

Michael O’Neil was a cancer patient during his college years. While the medical treatments worked, his patient experience was lacking. This drove him to start Get Well Network to get patients engaged in their care. Through technology Get Well Network improves the health of the world by extending the work of physicians. Those physicians prescribe virtual care navigation for their patients—10 million of them. Technology-enabled patient engagement is the miracle drug of the future. Listen to how they involve patients in their care.   For the full show notes and more information visit medvale.com

Sam helps the sickest and most expensive patients get off ventilators and leave the hospital earlier. Lives are improved and hospitals do better financially through lower lengths of stay and reduced readmissions. Special Care Providers run intensive care units for hospitals; and you’ll be intrigued by how Sam picks their clients. Their team ideation works to come up with innovations to leverage virtual reality and opioid options to improve outcomes. You’ll be inspired by their stories. This is definitely a special episode that you don't want to miss!  For the full show notes and transcript, visit medvale.com