The Fire Chief

In this heartfelt, face-to-face interview for The Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages in a profound conversation with Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling US Army (ret), author of the recently published book, If I Don't Return: A Father's Wartime Journal.  Together they explore their shared passion, research, and results in leadership development and the impact of context in leadership teaching. The conversation covers key concepts like trust, self-awareness, and adapting leadership to changing environments. In the second half of the interview, they turn to the recent publication and Mark offers timeless lessons on character, the scars of leadership, and the value of service.  The two compare profound parallels between the military and medicine, and in a moving moment near the end of the discussion, Mark offers his deeply personal reflections on why he wrote the book.  Finally, the two gentlemen conclude that leadership is, at its essence, all about love.

In this deep dive episode of The Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Li Ern Chen, a visionary leader in healthcare transformation and Korn Ferry's Market Leader of Physician Workforce. They delve into Korn Ferry's 2026 Physician Executive Survey and highlight the evolving role of Chief Medical Officers, emphasizing the importance of financial fluency, workforce strategy, and cultural development in driving change. Dr. Chen shares strategic insights on leveraging digital investments and fostering a resilient, engaged physician workforce. The discussion highlights the necessity of cross-functional collaboration, the integration of technology in healthcare, and the cultivation of organizational culture to enhance recruitment and retention. Dr. Chen underscores the importance of linking metrics to culture and performance, framing leadership as a journey of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-changing landscape of healthcare.  Ultimately, culture wins over compensation among today's healthcare leaders and it is a wise leader that treats their workforce not as "staffing" but as capital that cannot be squandered and that must be invested.

In this existential episode, host Lee Scheinbart interviews LynAnn Weaver, Certified High Performance Coach, a transformation strategist dedicated to empowering physicians and healthcare leaders. LynAnn, a former healthcare service line leader, shares practical strategies (three pillars) to enhance practice growth, leadership skills, and well-being to improve clinical excellence and organizational culture.  The conversation touches on the gaps in leadership development for both practicing physicians and their physician leaders and how these gaps can lead to, in some cases, a real existential (identity) crisis for a doctor.  The show breaks new ground when it comes to exploring what physicians go through when they are trying to lead themselves and others.     

In this transformational episode, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Joe Mazzenga, Managing Partner at NuBrick Partners, a highly specialized executive coaching team for healthcare leaders. Lee and Joe explore how physicians, especially those aspiring to senior leadership roles like Chief Medical Officer, can navigate the complex transition from clinical expertise to system-wide enterprise leadership. Joe, a seasoned leadership development expert, shares practical insights on mindset shifts, behavioral traits, and coaching strategies essential for success, such as contextual coaching.  The conversation touches on the barriers physicians face when transitioning to leadership roles, including identity shifts, the four pillars of EQ (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship management), and the significance of curiosity.

In this timely episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Leah Houston, founder and CEO of evercred, a technology platform aimed at modernizing physician credentialing. Dr. Houston shares her personal experiences with credential misuse and the inefficiencies of traditional credentialing processes. She discusses how evercred empowers physicians by giving them control over their credentials and introduces AI as a transformative tool in credentialing. The conversation also touches on the financial implications of credentialing delays, the future of patient care, and the journey of a physician entrepreneur.  

In this panoramic episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart talks with Dr. Dani Zoorob, CMIO of Ochsner-LSU Health and author of a critical paper on physician leadership competencies. They discuss the evolving landscape of physician leadership, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of competencies required for effective leadership in healthcare. Dr. Dani Zoorob shares insights from his research on physician leadership competencies, highlighting gaps in financial acumen and emotional intelligence. The conversation underscores the trifecta importance of coaching, mentorship, and continuous learning for physician leaders to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare systems.

In this foundational episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Ethan Nkana, Principal of the Rocky Mountain Physician Agency, to discuss the critical importance of advocacy for physician contracting during the course of their careers. They explore the common blind spots physicians face when negotiating contracts, the significance of support and professional development, and the challenges emerging physician leaders encounter as they transition into administrative roles. The conversation emphasizes the need for mentorship, understanding contractual obligations, and recognizing one's value in the healthcare system.  If you are looking ahead to your next role as physician leader, this is one episode you don't want to miss!  

In this incredibly insightful episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, Lee Scheinbart explores the critical journey of physician leadership, emphasizing the need for structured training and coaching to transition from clinical roles to executive positions. He discusses the secret of upskilling as a physician executive, the importance of identity shift, the role of feedback, and the necessity of having a highly specialized coach to navigate the complexities of healthcare leadership. The conversation highlights the differences between being a physician and an executive, and the skills required to succeed in leadership roles.  

In this winning episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews William 'Bill' Cowan, author of Building a Winning Career and expert in career management and leadership development. If you are truly serious about finding your next role, then listen as they discuss the challenges physicians face when transitioning from clinical roles to leadership positions, emphasizing the importance of preparation, networking, and understanding the skills required for effective leadership. Cowan shares insights on common mistakes made by physicians, the significance of building a diverse professional network, and what hiring managers look for in potential leaders. The conversation highlights the need for self-awareness, the value of mentorship, and the importance of communicating strengths effectively during the hiring process.  

In this heartfelt episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the longest-serving White House physician. They explore the moral responsibilities of leadership in medicine, emphasizing the importance of values-based decision-making and the challenges of maintaining integrity in high-pressure situations. Dr. O'Connor shares insights on navigating ethical dilemmas, the significance of trust in healthcare, and the necessity of effective communication under pressure. The discussion highlights the need for young leaders to define their values and non-negotiables before facing crises, ultimately framing leadership as a journey of stewardship and service to others.  This episode sets the bar as a master class in physician leadership.  

In this honest and humble episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart welcomes Dr. Dani Madril, a seasoned physician executive with over 25 years of experience in various healthcare settings. They discuss Dr. Madril's journey from clinical practice as a pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist to her current role as the market Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare. Dr. Madril emphasizes the importance of adaptability in healthcare leadership, particularly in navigating the complexities of the payer landscape and the evolving dynamics of patient care. She shares insights on the necessity of continuous learning and collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and streamline processes, particularly in the context of prior authorizations and value-based care strategies.  The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by physicians transitioning to alternative administrative roles, particularly when accused of being on the dark side of healthcare. The episode concludes with a call to action for healthcare leaders to remain engaged and proactive in shaping the future of healthcare delivery.  

In this EXCLUSIVE episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart welcomes William Walders, the Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Information Officer for the Joint Commission. They discuss the rapid pace of technological advancements in healthcare, particularly Artificial Intelligence. Walders shares insights on the importance of AI in healthcare, emphasizing the need for responsible governance and the integration of AI tools into clinical practice. He highlights the challenges faced by healthcare systems in adopting new technologies and the necessity for collaboration between clinical staff and IT departments to ensure effective implementation. The conversation delves into the role of AI in enhancing patient care and the importance of educating boards on AI governance. Walters also addresses the need for healthcare organizations to adapt to the changing landscape, where patients increasingly arrive with information from AI tools, and the importance of ensuring that these tools are used responsibly and effectively within clinical settings. The two thought leaders also explore the role of credentialing the AI tool itself (How was it trained? Where was it trained?) and the credentialing of the medical staff about their own level of training to use such tools, akin to a new surgical procedure.  Leadership in healthcare technology has never been this hot before…

In this mind-bending and existential episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Dr. Paulius Mui, a leader in primary care innovation. They discuss the importance of using AI tools to redefine quality in primary care, emphasizing relationships over processes, and the need for better frameworks to evaluate clinician performance. Dr. Mui shares insights on learning how to use new AI tools, addressing skill gaps, the role of chart reviews in improving care, and the significance of feedback loops in healthcare. They also explore the future of personalized primary care and the motivations driving Dr. Mui's work in the field.

In this 2026 new year kick-off episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart speaks with Dr. Carla Goulart Peron, Chief Medical Officer of Philips, a multibillion dollar, multinational healthcare innovation company, about her journey from practicing medicine to leading innovation in healthcare. They discuss the impact of medical technology, the importance of curiosity in career transitions, and the role of AI in improving patient care and access to care. Carla shares personal stories of her career changes, the misconceptions about corporate healthcare, and the skills needed to navigate this new landscape. The conversation emphasizes the importance of doing what you love and the moral responsibility of physicians to advocate for patients.  

In this dynamite episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Dr. Katherine Meese, an expert in healthcare leadership and organizational behavior. They discuss the importance of prioritizing human well-being in healthcare settings, the need for trust in leadership, and the impact of generational differences on workplace dynamics. Dr. Meese emphasizes the necessity of preventative maintenance for healthcare workers, the significance of measuring the "human margin," and actionable strategies for leaders to foster a supportive and productive environment. The conversation highlights the critical role of empathy and genuine care in effective leadership, especially in the challenging landscape of healthcare today.  

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Professor Matt Sabin, former Chief Medical Officer at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, Australia. The two former CMOs discuss the challenges of physician leadership, the importance of self-awareness, communication, and organizational culture in improving patient outcomes. Matt shares insights on handling disruptive behavior, the significance of written communication, the importance of values-based leadership and the need for a shift in the traditional role of CMOs. The conversation also touches on the psychological impact of the pandemic on healthcare workers, emphasizing the significance of staff-centered care in healthcare settings.

In this honest and heartfelt episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews the show’s first Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO), Dr. Rachel McEntee.  They discuss Dr. McEntee's journey into informatics, the evolving role of CMIOs, the need to move from integration of technology in healthcare to the importance of leadership in informatics. This is particularly true as the conversation touches on the challenges of burnout, and the bravery that Dr. McEntee and her team exhibited when they examined their responsibility to the medical staff, et. al.  After discovering a baseline from a remarkable survey, the Informatics team not only intervened but also received recognition from the AMA Joy in Medicine program regarding their work effort. As an emerging leader, Dr. McEntee emphasizes the need for a values-driven approach in the informatics space, along with the need to promote the right types of impact of digital healthcare technology.

In this next level episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart once more explores AI, but this time with a lens on Peer Review and Physician Performance.  The conversation delves into the possibility of not just automating medical staff office functions of credentialing and privileging, but how integrating AI through ambient architecture into physician workflows and care delivery is poised to revolutionize the identification of deviations in clinical practice, recovery times, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines, enabling real-time insights that can preemptively address potential issues before they are noticed by human reviewers.  CMOs would be wise to consider how AI will not only improve the medical staff office, but how it will improve the medical staff itself.  

In this sci-fi episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart explores the future of healthcare, focusing on the role of AI, the transformation of care delivery and possibly medical education, and the need for innovative leadership in the healthcare sector. He discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by ambient AI and emphasizes the importance of rethinking workforce training to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Scheinbart advocates for a shift in system architecture and design, one that prioritizes judgment and contextual understanding over old school hierarchy, ultimately aiming to enhance patient care and outcomes.  A flattening of workflows over insertion into the old tiresome ones.  

In this perceptive episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Leo Spector, CEO of OrthoCarolina, about the evolving role of physician executives. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in transitioning from the OR and clinical roles to leadership positions, emphasizing the importance of empathy, humility, and intentionality in leadership. Dr. Spector shares deeply personal anecdotes and remarkable insights on how physicians can prepare for leadership roles, the misconceptions about physician executives, and the future of physician leadership.

In this insightful episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages in a deep conversation with Steve McGovern, President and CEO of McGovern Executive Search. They explore the evolving role of physicians as CEOs in healthcare, discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition. Using recent publications and informal, but truthful responses from healthcare leaders, the discussion covers the importance of empathy, business acumen, and strategic thinking in leadership roles, as well as the impact of corporatization in medicine. The podcast explores how physicians need to avoid being typecast when seeking leadership roles and Steve shares insights from his extensive experience in executive search, highlighting the unique attributes physicians bring to leadership positions and the potential for more mission-driven leadership in healthcare.  

In this dynamite episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Rawle “Tony” Seupaul, diehard U of Miami ‘Canes fan AND Chief Physician Executive at Carilion Clinic. They discuss the importance of physician leadership, the unique structure of Carilion Clinic, and the need for coaching and development in leadership roles. Dr. Seupaul shares his personal journey in developing leadership skills and the initiatives he has implemented to foster a culture of leadership development within the organization. The conversation also touches on the evolution of medical education and the importance of aligning departmental goals with institutional priorities.  Oh yeah, and Dr. Seupaul’s intense desire for a UM-OSU Championship re-match.  Serious like a Hurricane…  

In this energetic episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Tina Shah, a devoted pulmonary and critical care physician and passionate Congressional candidate. They discuss Dr. Shah's journey in healthcare, her leadership philosophy, and her advocacy for healthcare reform. Dr. Shah shares her experience with burnout, the drive to help others, and the importance of getting upstream to change policy.  Dr. Shah also stresses importance of having more physicians in Congress (and in all levels of government) to address the most pressing healthcare issues of our day.   

In this profound and meaningful episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Deborah Rowland, a leader in organizational change and mindfulness. They discuss the importance of mindfulness in leadership, particularly in high-pressure environments like healthcare. Deborah emphasizes the need for leaders to confront reality without judgment and to understand the difference between what 'ought' to be and what 'is'. The conversation also explores the challenges leaders face and the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating these challenges. Deborah introduces the concept of 'institutional acupuncture', advocating for minimal yet impactful changes in organizations. The episode concludes with a reflection on the role of leaders as Sherpas, guiding others through difficult journeys.  

In this explosive episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Regina Phelps, a global expert in crisis management, to discuss the critical role of physician leaders in navigating crises within healthcare. They explore the differences between emergency response and crisis management, the challenges faced by healthcare systems, and the importance of effective communication and training. Regina emphasizes the need for self-care among healthcare leaders and the significance of enterprise resiliency in preparing organizations for unexpected events. The conversation highlights the necessity for boards to be involved in crisis management and the impact of malinformation on healthcare leadership.  

In this witty episode of The Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Clarissa Barnes, former President and CEO of the American College of Physician Advisors and currently the Chief Medical Officer for Medicaid in South Dakota. They discuss the evolving role of physician advisors, the challenges and opportunities in healthcare leadership, and the impact of AI on the in UR/UM and denials. Dr. Barnes shares her journey from a family background in medicine to her current leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of understanding both clinical and administrative aspects of healthcare. The conversation also touches on how to embark on a physician leadership career as well as the significance of continuous learning and adaptation in the role of leader.  

In this off-world of an episode, host Lee Scheinbart launches into the remarkable career and educational journey of Dr. Daniel Handel, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for the Central Area of Atrium Health.  Dr. Handel, the primary editor of the definitive and groundbreaking textbook on healthcare administration for aspiring physicians, is now also the program director of the Healthcare Administration Leadership and Management (HALM) fellowship at Atrium. Lee and Dan explore a wide range of future facing topics for future CMOs, including teaching residents about workflows, a post-EHR ecosystem, and changes to administrative fellowships.  Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating the healthcare landscape of this world as we simultaneously prepare for the next one. 

In this truly remarkable episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, we delve into the amazing career of Chris Deacon, a nationally respected voice on healthcare reform. From her beginnings as a Deputy Attorney General to leading one of the largest health plans in the country, the indefatigable Chris shares her journey and the pivotal moment when her moral compass shifted. Frustrated by a system rigged against patients and public servants, she chose to speak hard truths and advocate for change. Join us as Chris discusses her dedication to transparency, her testimony before Congress, and her vision for a rebirth in healthcare. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about mascots, leadership, courage, and the relentless pursuit of doing what's right.  

In Part 2 of this incredible conversation, Lee Scheinbart and Dr. Larry McEvoy, the founder of Epidemic Leadership, continue to go exponential and explore leadership 'at scale.', In this blistering Part 2 of the most intense conversation to date on the podcast, the you will hear further insights on physician leadership, the importance of a healing ethic, and the role of strategic development in creating impactful leaders.  The two physicians expound on the importance of physicians leading with a healing ethic that extends beyond the bedside and how strategic development and intentionality can shape effective physician leaders. While recognizing the structural forces at work in today's world, both leaders share a vision for the economic and societal benefits of prioritizing health in leadership roles.    

In this intense conversation, Lee Scheinbart and Dr. Larry McEvoy, the founder of Epidemic Leadership, explore the evolving landscape of healthcare and the role of physician leadership. In the first of this two part series, the discussion touches on the importance of nurturing emerging leaders and the potential for innovative solutions in healthcare management.  These two leadership teachers deep dive into the importance of a healing ethic in medicine, the need for physicians to exponentially lead both internally and externally, and the challenges facing the healthcare system today. Dr. McEvoy presents a radical, yet entirely logical, approach to create change in healthcare right now and both doctors examine and redefine what success in healthcare looks like beyond profit, advocating for a focus on health as a driver of societal well-being. 

In this hot start episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Harpreet Pall, the recently appointed Chief Medical Officer at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore Hospital AND K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital.  Dr. Pall shares his journey from pediatric gastroenterology to adult hospital management, discussing the challenges and learning experiences he faced during this transition as a new CMO and covering adult medicine for the first time in his executive trajectory. He emphasizes the importance of leadership skills, building relationships with medical staff, and the need for effective time management. Dr. Pall also reflects on his first 90 days in the role and expresses concerns about what keeps him awake at night amidst the changing healthcare landscape.

In this lightning hot episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart welcomes Rebecca Kapphahn, Vice President and Senior Client Partner at Furst Group, to explore the mystery of physician executive recruitment, especially for the role of Chief Medical Officer.  Together they examine the critical role of cultural fit and the contribution of leadership. With over two decades of experience in physician leadership recruitment, Rebecca shares insights into how aligning personal values with organizational culture can drive impactful change. Discover the art and science behind executive recruitment, the importance of soft skills, and how leaders can become cultural contributors to inspire and engage their teams. Tune in for a deep dive into the nuances of leadership that go beyond traditional metrics. 

In this deeply heartfelt episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart honors Dr. Lorna Breen and discusses the critical issues surrounding physician leadership and mental health in healthcare. Dr. Stefanie Simmons, Chief Medical Officer of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation, shares her journey from emergency medicine to leadership, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal relationships and change management in healthcare. The conversation explores the impact of trauma on medical professionals, the role of the Foundation in advocating for healthcare worker wellbeing, and the necessity of self-care for effective leadership.

In this insightful, yet funny and irreverent episode, host Lee Scheinbart sits down with Dr. Caesar Gonzalez to explore the dynamic world of physician leadership. For the first time on The Fire Chief, the topic of job security is discussed.  Dr. Gonzalez shares his personal journey from anesthesiologist to Chief Medical Officer, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning into leadership roles.  He also opens up about what it was like when facing job insecurity in healthcare today. Discover the strategies he employed to overcome obstacles, the importance of staying true to one's values, and the impact of strong physician leadership on healthcare systems. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating career transitions in the ever-evolving field of healthcare and physician leadership.

In this suborbital episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart goes interstellar with Dr. J.D. Polk, the Chief Health and Medical Officer at NASA. The two physicians explore the shared leadership parallels in space medicine and here on earth.  Dr. Polk recently returned from Oxford where he enrolled in an Advanced Leadership and Management Program and brought back with him new leadership perspectives to help him manage inside an ever changing ecosystem of government and the rapidly accelerating spaceflight challenges across the globe.  Dr. Polk shares insights on leadership in the context of aerospace medicine, the future of space medicine, and the importance of continuous learning and self-leadership for aspiring physician leaders everywhere. This episode is truly out of this world.  

After six months of non-stop episodes, Dr. Lee Scheinbart, the host of The Fire Chief podcast takes a moment to reflect on the leadership themes that have emerged from his conversations from physician leaders and Chief Medical Officers.  The show has evolved from exposing the lessons learned in natural and manmade disasters to lessons in leadership, resiliency, vulnerability and humility.  Take a moment to hear what has happened during the last 30 episodes and what it takes to succeed as a physician leader in healthcare.  Stay tuned for more insights as the show stays on the frontlines of physician leadership and barrels into the second half of the year.

In this "top ten" episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Dr. Sachin Jain, a prolific writer and amazing leader in transformative healthcare delivery.  They discuss Dr. Jain's journey from medicine to executive roles, the challenges of driving transformational change in healthcare, and the importance of clinical voices in leadership positions. The conversation highlights the need for innovative approaches to support vulnerable populations and the evolving role of young physicians in shaping the future of healthcare. Dr. Jain emphasizes the significance of treating healthcare professionals with respect and the necessity of taking risks to foster change.  

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart breaks down the Breakdowns with Preston Alexander, the self proclaimed Taylor Swift of LinkedIn healthcare writing.  A seasoned healthcare entrepreneur, and author of The Healthcare Breakdown and the Forward / Health Breakdown newsletters, Preston discusses the challenges and opportunities facing physician leaders in today's healthcare landscape. Together Preston and Lee explore the importance of financial literacy among physicians, the impact of healthcare financialization, and the need for physician leaders to take an active role in decision-making processes. Preston shares insights from his work with Forward / Health, aimed at supporting physicians in establishing and growing their practices. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring physician leaders to confidently engage in their roles and advocate for positive change in healthcare.  

In this intense episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Jeffrey Kuhlman, physician to the 44th President, Barack Obama, and author of "Transforming Presidential Healthcare."  Dr. Kuhlman shares insights from his time as a Navy physician and director of the White House Medical Unit, discussing the importance of rigorous medical standards, the role of chief medical officers, and the ethical considerations in healthcare leadership.  Medical officers have a clear fiduciary responsibility when they assess the health and wellbeing of those in positions of power, especially when the position (e.g. pilot, physician, official) involves very high stakes.

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Dr. Lee Scheinbart engages in a profound and deeply personal conversation with Dr. Jerome Adams, the former U.S. Surgeon General.  During the initial wave of COVID-19, Dr. Adams made some of the most impactful decisions in US history that only he could make.  Perhaps the most crucial was his commitment to lead the nation and not to be painted as the politicized doctor of the President.  Dr. Adams shares insights from his book 'Crisis and Chaos,' emphasizing the importance of effective communication, health equity, and the critical role of trust in healthcare.  The two physician leaders also discuss lessons learned from the opioid epidemic, emergency readiness and response, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need to safeguard public health as an issue of national security.   

As the United States heats up on multiple fronts regarding our military, our immigration policies, our access to healthcare, our rights to peaceful protest and our vaccine stance, this week's Fire Chief Podcast features Dr. Gerry Cox, a retired physician who served as a White House physician and held various leadership roles in the military and the Veterans Administration.  Hosted by Dr. Lee Scheinbart, the two physician leaders discuss the challenges of navigating political crises, particularly in the largest integrated health system in the US.  Throughout the program Dr. Cox shares valuable insights on leadership, the complexities of veteran care, and the ethical responsibilities of physicians in politically charged environments.    

In this EXCLUSIVE episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Greg Murphy, a physician and member of Congress, discussing his journey from medicine to politics, his advocacy for physicians, and the challenges within the healthcare system. Dr. Murphy shares insights from his medical mission work, his experiences as chief of staff, and the importance of physician involvement in legislative processes. He emphasizes the need for reform in the insurance industry and the role of entrepreneurialism in healthcare, while also reflecting on the significance of faith and servant leadership in his life and career.  

This hot off the press episode of the Fire Chief Podcast discusses the recent closure of the Crozer Health System and its implications for healthcare in Delaware County. Host Lee Scheinbart and guest Dr. Marcin Jankowski explore the challenges faced by healthcare providers during this crisis, the impact on patient care, and the personal toll of such closures on medical professionals. They delve into the importance of leadership in navigating these turbulent times and reflect on their own experiences with hospital closures. In this conversation, Marcin Jankowski and Lee Scheinbart explore the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, the role of love in leadership, and the necessity of adapting to change. They discuss how personal values and relationships influence effective leadership and the need for leaders to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Michael Bakerman, the Chief Medical Officer at HCA Lawnwood Hospital. They discuss Dr. Bakerman's journey from cardiology to leadership roles in healthcare, the evolution of medical informatics, and the role of young physicians play in shaping the future of patient care. Dr. Bakerman shares insights on the challenges facing healthcare today, the importance of mentorship for aspiring CMOs, and the need for a collaborative approach in medical leadership. The conversation highlights the optimism for the future of healthcare and the critical role of CMOs in navigating the complexities of the industry.

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Austin Chang, an interventional gastroenterologist and Chief Medical Officer at Medtronic. They discuss Dr. Chang's journey in healthcare, the importance of patient education, and the role of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Chang talks about his book about gut health, the challenges of navigating the healthcare ecosystem, and the need for healthcare professionals to engage with social media to rebuild trust in medicine. In this conversation, Austin and Lee discuss the evolving landscape of medical education, the impact of social media on health communication, and the transition from clinical practice to industry roles. They explore the importance of critical thinking in medicine, the challenges of engaging audiences in an attention-driven economy, and the future of healthcare and the complexity of future systems.  The discussion also emphasizes the need for physician leaders to navigate complexity and the value of networking and self-reflection in career transitions.

Summary In this sparky episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, Dr. Ghazala Sharif discusses her unique dual role as Chief Medical Officer and Chief Operations Officer at Scripps Health. She shares insights on the importance of rapid decision-making in healthcare, especially during crises like COVID-19, and emphasizes the need for physician involvement in operational decisions. Dr. Sharif also addresses the challenges of building trust among physician leaders and the importance of work-life integration in maintaining personal well-being while navigating the complexities of healthcare leadership. In this conversation, Dr. Ghazala Q Sharieff and Dr. Lee Scheinbart discuss the challenges of balancing very serious personal health issues with professional responsibilities while at the same time emphasizing the need for clinical expertise in leadership roles. They also discuss the value of volunteerism and experiential learning in developing effective healthcare leaders. Finally, the discussion highlights the integral role of every team member in patient care, reinforcing the idea that healthcare is a collaborative effort.  

Summary In this flamethrowing episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Lieutenant General Mark Hertling to discuss the critical role of leadership in healthcare. They explore the development of physician leaders, the importance of interprofessional education, and the mulititude of crises faced by healthcare leaders in today's complex environment. The conversation delves into the impact of misinformation, supply chains, power outages, cyberattacks, funding and political crises on healthcare and how CMOs can address all of them.  The conversation also leans into the necessity of embedding leadership principles in medical education as well as the concept of moral injury among healthcare professionals. Throughout the discussion, Hertling emphasizes the need for effective communication, resilience, and proactive crisis management in healthcare leadership.  

In this remarkable episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, two former CMOs, now both dedicated to working with medical students, Dr. Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Stuart Marcus, a seasoned physician leader. Dr. Marcus was a surgical leader at Bellevue Hospital when the planes crashed into the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001.  His life changed forever that day, as did so many others. They discuss the importance of integrating leadership training into medical education and the need for students and physicians to be prepared for a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.  Dr. Marcus is pioneering a program for medical students to spend time with health system CEOs and to live and breathe the dynamics of healthcare from the C Suite. In this conversation, the two former CMOs discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare, focusing on change management, the future of physician leadership, the impact of AI, and the challenges faced by physician leaders. They emphasize the importance of understanding the reasons behind changes in healthcare, the necessity of team-based care, and the need for adaptability in leadership roles. 

In this masterful episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Doug Koekkoek, a former Chief Physician Executive, discussing his journey in healthcare leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced by Chief Medical Officers today. They explore the transition from clinical roles to executive positions, the significance of leadership training, and the complexities of labor relations in healthcare. Dr. Koekkoek shares insights on addressing professional behavior among physicians and the evolving landscape of healthcare management. In this conversation, Doug Koekkoek and Lee Scheinbart discuss the complexities of hospital management, particularly focusing on the roles of Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) in navigating peer review processes, the importance of preserving physician careers, and the financial pressures facing healthcare systems today. They emphasize the need for transparency in peer review, the challenges of consensus building in large health systems, and the shift towards outcome-based credentialing.

In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Christopher Chisholm, the Chief Medical Officer of Providence Swedish Central Service Area. They discuss Dr. Chisholm's journey from military medicine to civilian healthcare leadership, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, the role of influence in leadership, and the impact of mentorship.  In this conversation, Chris and Lee discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership, emphasizing the importance of women in executive roles. They share personal experiences related to crisis management, one of which is the ongoing doctor shortage. The dialogue highlights the need for adaptability in medical practice and the significance of calm leadership during chaotic situations. Chris reflects on lessons learned throughout both his military and his civilian careers, advocating for patience and humility as essential traits for effective leadership.