The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes

What if the biggest challenge in healthcare revenue cycle management isn't effort, talent, or technology, but how the entire system is structured to win? In this episode of The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes, healthcare finance meets high-performance sports as we break down what football can teach us about building stronger, more efficient revenue cycle teams. Joining Asbel Montes is Griffin Hebert, former NFL wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles, now working in healthcare operations and business development at Solutions Group Services. Drawing from years inside elite football systems, Griffin unpacks how championship teams are built, and why many healthcare organizations are unknowingly operating without the structure needed to consistently perform at a high level. Because in football, every position has a role. Every player has accountability. And every breakdown is reviewed, studied, and corrected. In healthcare revenue cycle management, that level of clarity is often missing. And it's costing organizations more than they realize. Here's the tension: Many healthcare organizations still rely on "all-in-one" billers expected to manage the entire revenue cycle process. But elite systems don't work that way. They rely on specialization, defined roles, leadership alignment, and continuous feedback loops that drive improvement over time. So what happens when healthcare tries to operate without that structure? This episode explores how that gap impacts performance, staffing, denials, vendor relationships, and overall financial sustainability.   In this episode, we share: Why the "super biller" mindset limits revenue cycle performance How football positions translate directly into specialized RCM roles The difference between offensive (preventative) and defensive (denials and recovery) revenue cycle strategies Why revenue cycle leaders must operate like general managers building a roster, not just managing tasks How bench strength and depth protect organizations from operational breakdowns Why vendor selection should function like a strategic "draft," not a transactional decision How film study in football mirrors healthcare data, reporting, and performance improvement Why short-term wins can create long-term complacency in financial performance The importance of structured review cycles to sustain continuous improvement If you are a healthcare finance executive, revenue cycle leader, or healthcare operations strategist, this conversation will challenge how you think about team design, performance structure, and what it truly takes to build a winning healthcare system. Because in healthcare, just like in football, the strongest organizations do not rely on individual effort alone. They build systems that make every part of the team perform better.   🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Griffin Herbert Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/griffin.hebert.1/  Griffin Herbert TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@hebertgriffin  Griffin Herbert X - https://x.com/lanettehebert  Griffin Herbert Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hebertgriffin/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

What happens when a $1.5B business leader steps into government, and starts questioning how healthcare and EMS are funded? In this episode, Asbel Montes sits down with Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to explore the intersection of healthcare finance, public policy, and frontline care delivery. With a background in scaling a national company across 49 states, Pamela brings a private-sector mindset into public leadership, focused on efficiency, accountability, and measurable outcomes. But here's the tension: EMS providers deliver critical care every day… yet many aren't reimbursed unless a patient is transported. That gap exposes a larger issue. Healthcare payment models are not aligned with how care is actually delivered. In this episode, we discuss: EMS reimbursement and the "treat-no-transport" financial gap. The growing pressure on rural healthcare systems. Why must the government adopt private-sector efficiency and accountability. The role of data, technology, and leadership in healthcare transformation. How policy and payment reform can support sustainable EMS systems. Why EMS must have a seat at the table in healthcare decision-making. As healthcare costs rise and rural systems face increasing strain, leaders must confront a difficult reality: If reimbursement models don't evolve, access to care may decline, especially in the communities that need it most. This conversation is essential for anyone working at the intersection of healthcare finance, policy, and system design. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership. Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Pamela Evette Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pamelaevettesc  Pamela Evette LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-evette  Pamela Evette Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pamelasevette  Pamela Evette X - https://x.com/PamelaEvette    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Healthcare systems are being reshaped by innovation, policy pressure, and financial reform, but one of the most overlooked drivers of change is how care is actually paid for. In this episode of The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes, Dr. Nicholas Cozzi—emergency physician and EMS Medical Director—explores a foundational tension in healthcare finance: a reimbursement model that continues to prioritize transport over care delivered. Even as EMS evolves into mobile integrated healthcare and value-based care frameworks expand, reimbursement structures often fail to reflect clinical reality. Patients are assessed, stabilized, and treated in real time outside the hospital. Yet without transport, that work frequently goes unpaid. Through a powerful clinical scenario involving a severe asthma patient treated at home with advanced interventions and physician oversight, Dr. Cozzi highlights a stark contrast: the same level of care that would be billable in the emergency department is not recognized within EMS payment systems. This disconnect raises a broader systems question for healthcare leaders: How do we define value in a system where care is increasingly delivered outside traditional settings? The episode also reframes EMS not as a standalone service, but as part of a continuous care ecosystem that spans the home, the field, and the hospital. Yet current financial systems continue to treat these stages as separate rather than interconnected. For healthcare executives, finance leaders, policymakers, and EMS professionals, this episode surfaces critical questions about alignment, accountability, and the future of healthcare funding. This episode dives into: Why EMS reimbursement remains tied to transport instead of clinical care value How high-acuity prehospital care is often uncompensated under current models Why physician engagement in healthcare finance is becoming essential How the gap in healthcare economics education impacts system-level decisions Why the shift from "fair" to measurable reimbursement matters for reform How mobile emergency medicine is reshaping acute care delivery Why EMS and ED systems must be viewed as one continuous care pathway For healthcare leaders, the implications are clear: reimbursement design is not just a financial mechanism, it is a behavioral force that shapes how care is delivered, documented, and ultimately valued. And as healthcare continues to move beyond hospital walls, the systems that fail to evolve will increasingly fall out of alignment with the care patients are already receiving. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Dr. Nicholas Cozzi LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaspcozzi/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Leadership, self-compassion, and the courage to grow are shaping the future of healthcare leadership, starting with you. In this solo episode of The Leadership Lab, Asbel Montes shares a personal and strategic reflection on the inner work of leadership: how grace, humility, and the right circles of influence determine the long-term impact of high-performing leaders. Drawing from pivotal moments in his own journey. Including navigating the pressures of the pandemic and personal family challenges. Asbel examines why many leaders operate from depletion, comparison, and isolation, even while driving outcomes at the highest levels. He introduces the concept of "jumping the fence," inspired by John C. Maxwell, and explores why stepping into growth-oriented environments, even when uncomfortable, is essential for sustainable leadership. This episode dives into: Why self-grace is a leadership multiplier, not a luxury How comparison culture quietly undermines leadership effectiveness The importance of choosing the right circles for growth How isolation shows up in high-performing executives Why humility and reflection are critical for long-term impact For healthcare executives, finance leaders, and senior managers, this episode offers actionable insight into how leadership posture, culture, and internal alignment shape organizational outcomes. Because in leadership, the greatest transformations begin inside, and the leaders who master themselves set the trajectory for their teams, organizations, and industries. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Leadership, technology, and policy are converging in ways that could fundamentally reshape emergency medical services. In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with longtime EMS leader Donnie Woodyard for a strategic conversation about the future of EMS, healthcare system integration, artificial intelligence, and the leadership decisions that will determine how emergency care evolves over the next decade. Donnie brings a rare perspective shaped by decades across the EMS ecosystem, from starting as a teenage EMT in rural Appalachia to serving as a firefighter-paramedic, international EMS leader, state EMS director in Louisiana, executive leadership at the National Registry, and now Executive Director of the EMS Compact. Together, they examine why EMS may be approaching a defining inflection point. The conversation explores a central question facing the industry: whether EMS will evolve into a fully integrated mobile healthcare platform working alongside hospitals, physicians, and digital health systems, or remain primarily a transportation layer within the healthcare system. Asbel and Donnie discuss the structural challenges that have historically isolated EMS from the broader healthcare ecosystem, including gaps in data integration, limited participation in policy development, and fragmented professional identity across the industry. They also examine the emerging forces accelerating change.   For healthcare executives, EMS leaders, and policy strategists, these developments create both opportunity and risk. The episode explores how leadership, policy frameworks, and industry collaboration will determine whether EMS plays a central role in the future healthcare ecosystem, or whether new entrants ultimately reshape the system around it.   You'll learn: How EMS history and leadership lessons can inform the industry's next phase of growth. Why EMS remains one of the least integrated components of the healthcare system. How artificial intelligence could augment paramedics through real-time clinical decision support. Why rural healthcare transformation funding presents a major opportunity for EMS infrastructure. How emerging aviation technologies could change the future of medical transport. Why policy engagement is essential for scaling innovation in healthcare systems. For leaders working at the intersection of healthcare operations, policy, and innovation, this episode offers insight into the strategic decisions shaping the future of emergency medical services. Because at moments of industry transformation, the defining factor is rarely technology. It's leadership. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Donnie Woodyard Jr LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donwoodyard  Donnie Woodyard Jr Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/donnie.woodyard/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Power, law, and leadership are more connected than most executives in regulated industries realize. In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson, candidate for Texas Attorney General, for a focused conversation on constitutional authority, healthcare regulation, artificial intelligence, and the responsibility that comes with leading one of the most powerful legal offices in the country. This is not partisan commentary. It's a serious discussion about institutional trust, executive restraint, and what happens when legal authority shifts from stewardship to spectacle. Asbel and Senator Johnson examine the constitutional framework of the Texas Constitution, why the Texas Attorney General is independently elected, and how that independence directly impacts healthcare systems, insurers, and technology innovators operating in regulated markets. They also explore Johnson's unconventional path, from composing music for Dragon Ball Z to passing bipartisan legislation, and how creativity and humility inform his approach to governance. The episode addresses the current direction of the AG's office under Ken Paxton and the broader tension between headline-driven litigation and constitutional restraint. For healthcare finance executives, compliance leaders, and digital health founders, this conversation surfaces critical questions: When enforcement becomes unpredictable, how do you plan long term? When AI reshapes claims and coverage, who sets the guardrails? When markets consolidate, who protects competition?   You'll learn: How the AG influences healthcare fraud enforcement and agency interpretation. Why constitutional discipline strengthens economic confidence. What proactive AI oversight in healthcare could look like. Why primaries often shape regulatory leadership more than general elections. How humility and legislative experience shape executive effectiveness. If you lead in healthcare, finance, or technology, this episode offers insight into the leadership philosophy that may shape regulatory stability in Texas—and beyond. Because strong institutions create stable markets. And stable markets allow leaders to operate with clarity, not caution.   🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Nathan Johnson Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nathanfortexas/?hl=en  Nathan Johnson Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NathanforTexas  Nathan Johnson TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@nathanfortexas  Nathan Johnson LinkedIn - ​​ https://www.linkedin.com/company/nathanjohnsontx    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

EMS sustainability, patient trust, and financial performance are more connected than many healthcare leaders are willing to acknowledge. In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, the Solutions Group team is joined by Bill Mergendahl, founder of Pro EMS and Pro EMS Solutions, for a case study conversation on how modern revenue cycle strategy is reshaping financial outcomes across ambulance services. Drawing from more than a decade of experience and data from nearly 200 EMS agencies, the discussion shows how small changes in billing strategy can drive meaningful impact. The conversation explores why the traditional "bill as fast as possible" approach often increases patient burden while limiting reimbursement, and how managing deductible and out-of-pocket exposure differently can improve both collections and patient experience. Bill explains why selectively timing claims allows hospitals to absorb deductibles first, reducing patient friction and improving net revenue. As the discussion turns to third-party liability and claim discovery, the focus shifts to motor vehicle accidents, workers' compensation, and other liability-based transports where revenue is frequently missed. The group explains how automated discovery tools reduce reliance on patient contact, improve speed to file, and increase reimbursement by identifying liability coverage earlier. You will also hear why expecting field clinicians to gather insurance details is unrealistic, how separating clinical care from billing discovery improves outcomes, and why long-term data matters more than theoretical ROI. Bill shares why these tools have become foundational to sustaining EMS operations in an increasingly complex reimbursement environment. You'll learn: How billing timing affects both patient responsibility and EMS revenue. Why managing out-of-pocket exposure reduces friction without disrupting cash flow. How selective claim holding improves collections without slowing operations. Why automated third-party liability discovery uncovers revenue many agencies miss. How speed and accuracy determine success in MVA and workers' compensation claims. Why process discipline and payer-level nuance matter more than blanket rules. How data-driven systems support sustainability in a constrained reimbursement climate. If you are an EMS executive, healthcare finance leader, or operations professional navigating shrinking margins and rising complexity, this episode offers a practical reframing of revenue cycle management grounded in data, experience, and long-term sustainability. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Bill Mergendahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-mergendahl-8621006  Pro EMS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proems/     Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Money, faith, and leadership are more connected than most executives are willing to admit. In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with Matt Morizio, founder of Reconstructing Wealth, for a thoughtful conversation about how leaders form their relationship with money and how that relationship quietly shapes decision-making, anxiety, and impact. Drawing from personal experience, psychology, and values-based investing, this episode challenges conventional assumptions about wealth and success. Asbel and Matt explore why high-income leaders often feel stuck financially, how fear and scarcity influence financial behavior, and why generosity can become a powerful catalyst for freedom rather than a liability. The discussion moves beyond tactics to examine the deeper beliefs that drive financial choices and leadership posture. You'll hear how education reduces uncertainty, why many leaders avoid financial conversations out of shame or comparison, and how aligning money with mission can unlock clarity and confidence. Matt also shares how his own journey led to a different approach to wealth management, one centered on stewardship, understanding, and purposeful growth. You'll learn: How emotional freedom from money changes the way leaders show up. Why generosity reshapes financial behavior more effectively than willpower. The hidden cost of avoiding financial education. How executives can move from fear-based decisions to intentional strategy. Why stewardship requires participation, not passivity. How values-aligned financial guidance accelerates alignment and impact. If you're a healthcare finance executive, senior leader, or values-driven professional wrestling with financial pressure behind the scenes, this conversation offers a reframing of wealth that supports both leadership effectiveness and personal integrity. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Matt Morizio LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmorizio  Matt Morizio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mattmorizio/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Healthcare systems are only as strong as the voices shaping them, and EMS is too often left out of the conversation. In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with New Hampshire State Senator Sue, a former paramedic, State EMS Director, mayor, and national trauma leader, for a candid discussion on leadership, rural healthcare policy, and how EMS can become a core part of system design. Drawing from decades of frontline experience and state-level policymaking, this conversation challenges conventional thinking about reimbursement, patient access, and who really sits at the table when critical healthcare decisions are made. Asbel and Sue explore how state-level policy can deliver faster, more practical wins than waiting for federal action, why unified messaging is more powerful than perfection, and how treating EMS as essential infrastructure transforms rural healthcare outcomes. The discussion moves beyond policy mechanics to examine the deeper leadership mindset required to create sustainable, patient-centered systems. You'll learn: Why EMS is healthcare infrastructure, not an add-on. How direct-pay and treat-no-transport reimbursement reforms stabilize agencies and protect patients. What the $204M Rural Health Stabilization Fund teaches about speed, accountability, and coordination. How federal frameworks like the No Surprises Act intersect with state solutions. Why regionalization and shared resources can improve access without sacrificing community identity. How leadership, compromise, and unified vision drive meaningful system change. Why institutionalizing EMS representation ensures long-term system resilience.   If you're a healthcare finance executive, rural health leader, policymaker, or EMS professional, this episode offers a reframing of leadership, system design, and healthcare strategy that delivers both impact and sustainability.   🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Sue Prentiss Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SuePrentissforNH/  Sue Prentiss LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-prentiss-961414a4  Sue Prentiss Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sueprentissfornh/  Sue Prentiss X - https://x.com/PrentissSuzanne    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Culture, candor, and innovation are redefining what it means to lead in emergency medical services. In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with the executive team of Pro EMS and Prodigy EMS to explore how leadership, operational strategy, and a mission-driven culture are transforming out-of-hospital care. From field experience to executive decision-making, this team shares the practices that have turned a small ambulance service into a nationally recognized leader. Asbel and the Pro EMS leaders unpack how to balance innovation with sustainability, adopt technology that truly serves clinicians, and maintain clinical excellence even under pressure. They discuss the tensions of financial constraints, workforce challenges, and system-wide vulnerabilities—and how a culture of candor and accountability helps them overcome these obstacles. You'll learn: How a "duty to dissent" fuels better decisions and stronger leadership Why financial sustainability is critical for innovation and mission continuity Lessons in rapid clinical adaptation, from advanced equipment to just-in-time training How Prodigy EMS evolved from internal need to a national leader in EMS education The impact of cross-sector partnerships on operational resilience and patient care Strategies for building a workforce motivated by mission and equipped to perform If you're a healthcare finance executive, EMS leader, operations strategist, or policy maker, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and provide a roadmap for leading organizations that thrive under pressure, innovate with purpose, and put patients first. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    James DiClemente - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdiclemente  Bill Mergendahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-mergendahl-8621006  Gibson McCullagh - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmccullagh  Dan Wagner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdanwagner  Pro EMS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proems/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Fragmented data, regulatory hurdles, and outdated EMS workflows are challenging the very foundation of U.S. healthcare delivery. In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with Jonathon Feit, EMS innovator and data strategist, to explore how data, AI, and frontline insights can transform emergency medical services and the broader healthcare system. From network coverage gaps to interoperability challenges, Jonathan shares lessons learned from military service, field medicine, and healthcare entrepreneurship—highlighting how personal experience drives systemic innovation. Asbel and Jonathan discuss the operational, financial, and cultural barriers that prevent EMS data from delivering its full potential. They discuss strategies for reducing data loss, empowering practitioners with analytics, leveraging AI responsibly, and collaborating across vendors, agencies, and policymakers. The conversation highlights why modernization is not about tearing down systems but bridging gaps and building sustainable, data-driven workflows. You'll learn: How up to 50% of EMS data is lost at each handoff, and the implications for patient care, reimbursement, and system efficiency Why current EMS network and billing regulations create unnecessary barriers and risk for patients and providers The tension between AI promise and data integrity, and how to build trust in analytics How lived experience, from field medic to entrepreneur, shapes EMS innovation and operational strategy Practical approaches to cross-vendor collaboration and policy-driven modernization without overhauling existing workflows How to empower EMS professionals to engage confidently with analytics and challenge outdated myths Strategies for improving responder wellness, patient safety, and financial sustainability in EMS This episode is essential for healthcare executives, EMS leaders, and policy innovators looking to harness data, AI, and operational insights to create more efficient, resilient, and patient-centered healthcare systems. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Jonathon Feit LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfeit    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Policy shifts, market pressures, and rising healthcare costs are redefining what it means to lead in U.S. healthcare. In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with Loren Adler, healthcare economist at the Brookings Institution, to explore how evidence-based policy, innovative financing strategies, and pragmatic leadership can shape a more resilient and equitable healthcare system. From legislative updates to market dynamics, Loren shares insights into the risks and opportunities facing healthcare finance executives, policymakers, and operational leaders today. Asbel and Loren unpack how to balance cost containment with access, adopt reforms that truly serve patients and providers, and navigate the tensions of consolidation, coverage cliffs, and insurance market shifts. They discuss how data-driven decision-making, competitive strategies, and thoughtful policy innovation can protect patients, strengthen risk pools, and foster systemic improvements. You'll learn: How coverage cliffs and expiring subsidies could impact millions of Americans The promise and pitfalls of Health Savings Accounts, premium tax credits, and market-based reforms Why consolidation drives costs without improving outcomes—and what leaders can do Key lessons from the No Surprises Act and ongoing gaps in patient protection How Medicaid and Medicare Advantage changes affect coverage, funding, and operations Strategies for mitigating fraud, administrative errors, and risk in insurance programs Evidence-based approaches to balancing cost, access, and innovation If you're a healthcare executive, finance leader, or policy strategist, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and provide a roadmap for leading organizations that thrive amid uncertainty, innovate with purpose, and prioritize both efficiency and patient-centered care. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Loren Adler LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/loren-adler-73a97519  Loren Adler X - https://x.com/LorenAdler  Loren Adler Instagram - http://instagram.com/lorendadler/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

AI is transforming healthcare finance but will it solve problems or create new ones? In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down with Brian Choate to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping revenue cycle management and financial strategy in healthcare. From automating pre-bill processes to improving reimbursements, AI is already proving its value. But with opportunity comes risk. Asbel and Brian unpack how to balance efficiency with critical thinking, how to adopt AI without compromising compliance, and what healthcare leaders must do to prepare for an industry where 80–85% of providers will soon be using AI. You'll learn: How tools like Intelliscrub and IntelliAR streamline billing and reduce manual errors Why governance, compliance, and PHI protection must anchor every AI strategy The real ROI of AI in healthcare finance and why some organizations are already seeing results Why methodical adoption outperforms rushing to deploy How to use AI to augment, not replace human expertise and decision-making If you're a healthcare CFO, finance executive, or policy strategist, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and provide a roadmap for using AI as a competitive advantage in healthcare finance. 🔔 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast and join the conversation about what's next for healthcare leadership.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Brian Choate LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-choate-90b576332/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

What if artificial intelligence in healthcare doesn't just improve efficiency, but quietly creates compliance and privacy risks that could reshape the entire system? In this episode of The Leadership Lab, Asbel Montes sits down with Alexandra Farr, General Counsel at Solutions Group, for a powerful conversation about AI's legal, ethical, and financial impact on healthcare organizations. From her background in applied mathematics and healthcare policy to her work advising on AI adoption and data privacy, Alexandra shares how healthcare leaders can balance innovation with regulation, before the rules catch up. The tension is real: AI is moving faster than compliance teams can monitor it. How do leaders protect patient data, maintain HIPAA standards, and still drive progress? In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The "trust but verify" framework for safely integrating AI in healthcare ✅ How to ensure every AI tool meets HIPAA compliance and BAA requirements ✅ Why AI should augment, not replace, and what happens when that balance is lost ✅ The role of an AI Compliance Officer in modern healthcare organizations ✅ How to conduct AI audits to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse in billing ✅ The difference between secure healthcare AI tools and risky open-access systems ✅ What healthcare executives must know about upcoming AI legal regulations Key Takeaways: ✅ Verify all vendor claims and compliance certifications before deploying AI ✅ Never input Protected Health Information (PHI) into unsecured AI systems ✅ Establish policies, training, and documentation for responsible AI use ✅ Build cross-functional communication between legal, finance, and clinical teams ✅ Proactive compliance today prevents costly litigation tomorrow AI is changing everything, from revenue cycle management to regulatory oversight. But with transformation comes tension. This episode reveals the guardrails every healthcare executive needs to lead confidently in an AI-driven future. If you're a CFO, COO, compliance leader, healthcare attorney, or data strategist, this conversation will help you rethink risk, governance, and innovation in one of the most complex sectors on earth. 👉🏻 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes for more conversations with industry innovators. 👉🏻  Follow and rate the show to help others discover the future of healthcare transformation. 👉🏻  Share this episode with your team to spark meaningful change.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Alex Pharr Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-pharr-84653635a    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

Can affordability, transparency, and physician leadership rebuild trust in American healthcare? In this episode, Asbel Montes sits down with Brian J. Miller, M.D., M.B.A., M.P.H., Associate Professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins and voting member of MedPAC, to explore the reality behind Medicare Advantage, prior authorization, and the future of value-based care. Drawing from his unique experience at CMMI, FTC, FCC, and FDA, Dr. Miller unpacks how policy, payment, and pragmatism can reshape the system from the inside out. Together, they discuss why seniors often choose Medicare Advantage for affordability, how utilization review can be modernized through electronic prior authorization and AI-driven workflows, and why price and quality transparency must move in tandem. The conversation dives into EMTALA challenges, clinician-payer friction, and the need for smarter, program-level quality measurement. Dr. Miller also shares his perspective on how the Rural Health Transformation Fund could empower EMS professionals to deliver care closer to home—and how restoring physician agency through aligned incentives could redefine modern healthcare leadership. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why affordability drives Medicare Advantage enrollment—and what reforms are still needed ✅ How to modernize prior authorization through e-PA, AI, and EHR integration ✅ Why price transparency alone isn't enough without clear quality transparency ✅ How clinician education and aligned incentives can reduce payer-provider friction ✅ A roadmap for smarter, program-level quality metrics across Fee-for-Service, MA, and ACOs ✅ How Rural Health Transformation can extend access and redefine EMS roles ✅ Why re-empowering physicians through shared ownership could spark real reform Key Takeaways: ✅ Affordability remains the strongest driver of Medicare Advantage adoption ✅ Prior authorization is here to stay—so it must become digital, fast, and fair ✅ Price + quality transparency builds trust, competition, and better outcomes ✅ Quality should be measured at the program level—not by micromanaging clinicians ✅ Rural health innovation and physician agency can drive the next wave of transformation If you're a healthcare leader, policymaker, or clinician looking to understand how policy meets practicality, this episode offers a candid, forward-thinking look at how data, design, and leadership can modernize American healthcare 👉🏻 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes for more conversations with industry innovators. 👉🏻  Follow and rate the show to help others discover the future of healthcare transformation. 👉🏻  Share this episode with your team to spark meaningful change.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Dr. Brian Miller Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjmillermd/   Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/

Can data, innovation, and collaboration truly rebuild the foundation of emergency medical care? In this episode, Asbel Montes sits down with Dr. Gerad Troutman, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Global Medical Response (GMR), one of the largest ambulance services in the United States. Together, they dig into how data-driven models, nurse navigation systems, and patient-centered design are transforming how emergency medicine operates. Dr. Troutman shares his remarkable story from rebuilding cars to reshaping healthcare systems and how his team at GMR has already served over 250,000 patients through nurse navigation programs that match people to the right care, at the right time, for the right cost.  But there's tension at the heart of this transformation: Can a system built on transport volume shift toward outcomes and efficiency without losing its soul? Through this episode, you'll discover what the next generation of EMS looks like and how it connects to healthcare finance, policy, and community-based innovation. What You'll Learn: ✅ How GMR's nurse navigation model uses data and telephonic triage to improve efficiency ✅ Why only a fraction of 911 calls require ambulance transport and what that means for reform ✅ How federal rural health funds ($50B) could reshape emergency response systems ✅ The role of data integration and reimbursement redesign in sustainable healthcare ✅ Why clinician leadership and financial collaboration are critical for transformation ✅ How to turn EMS challenges into innovation opportunities through evidence-based outcomes Key Takeaways: ✅ Sustainability requires rethinking EMS's core model beyond transport. ✅ Data-driven, patient-centric care models lead to both clinical and financial wins. ✅ Collaboration between EMS, hospitals, and policymakers drives scalable change. ✅ Clinician leadership and financial insight must align to shape the system's future. If you're a healthcare executive, EMS leader, or policymaker, this episode will challenge how you view emergency medicine, data, and finance. 👉🏻 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes for more conversations with industry innovators. 👉🏻  Follow and rate the show to help others discover the future of healthcare transformation. 👉🏻  Share this episode with your team to spark meaningful change.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Gerad Troutman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerad-troutman-md-mba-facep-faems-3154ba5b/   Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

What if one of healthcare's greatest untapped resources isn't technology or funding but EMS itself? In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, Asbel Montes talks with Dr. Victoria Reinhartz, Executive Director of the National Association of Mobile Integrated Healthcare Providers (NAMIHP), about how Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) and Community Paramedicine (CP) are redefining the future of healthcare delivery. Dr. Reinhartz shares how data-driven storytelling, collaboration, and agility can transform EMS from a reactive transport model into a proactive healthcare solution. Together, they explore how MIH and CP are reshaping value-based care, driving innovation in rural health systems, and creating sustainable pathways for EMS integration within the broader healthcare ecosystem. Listeners will gain insights into: The Rural Health Transformation Program and funding opportunities The power of data in influencing healthcare policy and reimbursement Strategies for empowering and sustaining EMS professionals Why collaboration, not competition, is the future of healthcare 🎧 Subscribe to The Leadership Lab Podcast for more conversations on healthcare innovation, data-driven leadership, and transforming care delivery.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Victoria Reinhartz Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriareinhartz/   MIH Week Celebrates MIH & CP: https://namihp.org/mihweek    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

What if EMS doesn't prove its value and loses its seat at the table? In this episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes sits down again with Dr. Eric Beck to unpack the future of EMS and its critical role in value-based healthcare. Dr. Beck warns that the era of fee-for-service is ending and EMS must adapt now. This episode offers a roadmap for EMS leaders, healthcare finance executives, and policymakers to navigate the shift toward outcome-based reimbursement and secure the future of emergency medical services. You'll Learn: ✅ Why Value-Based Care is Inevitable – and what it means for EMS reimbursement ✅ How to Link Clinical Outcomes to Financial Impact ✅ The $50B Rural Stabilization Fund – and how EMS leaders can tap into it ✅ Data-Driven Decision Making – why claims data isn't enough and what EMS must collect next ✅ Chronic Disease Prevention & Population Health – EMS's untapped potential ✅ Tech & Innovation – how AI and advanced analytics can transform care delivery ✅ Strategic Action Plan – steps to build payer partnerships, demonstrate ROI, and future-proof funding This conversation blends urgency with optimism, challenging leaders to move beyond transporting patients and instead prove measurable value in the healthcare continuum. Listen now to discover: ✅ How to make EMS indispensable in a value-based world ✅ Why outcome-based payments will transform healthcare ✅ What data EMS must provide to stay relevant and funded Don't miss future episodes that equip you to lead systemic change in healthcare. Follow The Leadership Lab Podcast and share this episode with your team and network.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Dr. Eric Beck LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-beck-do-mph-50542576    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  

What if EMS was more than transport? In this episode of The Leadership Lab, Asbel Montes sits down with Henry Lewis, Executive Director of the South Carolina EMS Association, to explore how EMS is moving beyond flashing lights and faster ambulances to become a cornerstone of community healthcare. Henry shares how South Carolina unified fragmented EMS groups, built cross-sector partnerships, and secured millions in new funding to strengthen the workforce pipeline. From embedding community paramedics into rural health clinics to protecting $16M in Medicaid revenue, this episode highlights what it really takes to shift EMS from a reactive transport model to a sustainable, integrated healthcare delivery system. You'll learn: ✅ Why the average paramedic age (42+) signals a workforce crisis ✅ How South Carolina created a unified voice across public, private, and air ambulance services ✅ The innovative programs expanding EMS training in "education deserts" ✅ How rural clinics and EMS are partnering to deliver better outcomes for 12,000+ patients ✅ Why reimbursement reform—not grants—is key to long-term sustainability ✅ What policymakers and healthcare finance leaders must do to support EMS transformation Only 8% of EMS calls are true emergencies, yet the system still pays for transport first. Without reform, EMS risks collapse. With collaboration, innovation, and aligned incentives, EMS can deliver value-based care that improves outcomes and reduces costs.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Henry Lewis Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-lewis-mha-nrp-cem-303a47251/   Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/

What if the Medicare policies we've trusted for decades are actually widening gaps instead of closing them? In this episode of The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes, healthcare economist Dr. Lisa Grabert joins us to break down the real trade-offs shaping Medicare Advantage, traditional Medicare, and telehealth. Dr. Grabert reveals why beneficiaries' choices are so predictable, how Congressional investments don't always deliver expected results, and why hospitals continue to dominate funding despite decades of failed "fixes." She also unpacks her vision for redirecting dollars toward community-based care like EMS, federally qualified health centers, and mental health providers. Here's what you'll take away: ✅ Why Medicare Advantage adapted to telehealth faster—without new funding ✅ How income, race, and education shape Medicare coverage choices ✅ The hidden costs of Medicare Advantage emergency services ✅ Why hospital consolidation keeps draining resources from communities ✅ A smarter way to use the new Rural Stabilization Fund ✅ The urgent need for better public education and patient decision tools ✅ What "radical incrementalism" means for Medicare's future If you've ever wondered why the U.S. spends so much but still leaves so many behind, this conversation will challenge assumptions—and offer practical paths forward. Subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes and share this episode with a colleague who's rethinking healthcare's future. Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Dr. Lisa Grabert LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lisa-grabert-78ab527/ Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/

Why is one of healthcare's most critical systems still stuck in the past? In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, Dr. Charles Miramonti shares how he went from front-line EMS responder to leading bold reforms that connect emergency services to value-based care. From unifying Indianapolis EMS to launching mobile integrated health platforms, he explains what it takes to move EMS beyond a "transport-first" model into a proactive force for community health. His work with Crosswalk Health shows how rethinking patient pathways can ease ER overcrowding, reduce costs, and deliver higher-quality care—if leaders are willing to challenge outdated systems and build the right partnerships. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ How Indianapolis EMS transitioned to a unified, outcomes-focused model ✅ The structural barriers slowing mobile integrated health adoption—and how to dismantle them ✅ The untapped role of EMS in managing unplanned, unscheduled care ✅ Lessons from pilot programs, including the pharmacy cost spike no one predicted ✅ How targeted care pathways can divert patients from overcrowded ERs ✅ Why payer partnerships are critical for sustainable EMS innovation ✅ Practical steps executives can take to integrate EMS into the broader healthcare ecosystem EMS is built to respond to emergencies, yet the system itself remains locked in reaction mode. Without bold change, patients, providers, and payers will continue to pay the price. But with the right partnerships, regulatory flexibility, and financial alignment, EMS can shift from being a responder of last resort to a proactive architect of healthier communities. Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/   

When EMS leaders unite around value, policy follows. In this episode of The Leadership Lab, Asbel Montes sits down with Butch Oberhoff, Senior Director of Government Affairs at Acadian Ambulance Service and President of the Texas EMS Alliance, to unpack how strategic advocacy, clinical credibility, and data-driven storytelling reshaped emergency care policy across Texas. From solving EMS workforce shortages to securing $10M+ in funding for field blood programs, this episode exposes how collaborative, clear, and accountable leadership changed outcomes across systems long constrained by fragmentation, underfunding, and regulatory barriers. You'll Learn: ✅ How Texas EMS expanded its workforce by 10,000+ personnel using ARPA funds ✅ The critical role of transparency in winning legislative support for EMS funding ✅ Why physicians—not lobbyists—testified to unlock millions in whole blood care ✅ How payer-provider alliances crafted surprise-billing reforms that stuck ✅ What it means to lead with a "rising tide lifts all boats" mentality ✅ Real, replicable frameworks to elevate finance, operations, and advocacy in EMS This episode is for leaders who move systems forward—not just keep them running. Whether you're in healthcare finance, EMS operations, government relations, or clinical leadership, you'll walk away with practical insights to influence policy, unlock funding, and drive meaningful reform where it matters most.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634 Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Butch Oberhoff LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/butch-oberhoff-15750b21/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/   

When the pressure's on, do you prioritize rapid growth or intentional, value-based leadership? In this episode of Leadership Lab podcast, Asbel Montes examines the tension between aggressive growth and value-based leadership, especially in healthcare systems that are facing burnout, budget constraints, and cultural erosion. From the growing presence of AI to the unforgettable leadership showdown between Chick-fil-A and Boston Market, this conversation is a strategy for leaders seeking lasting cultural transformation. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why "value" is a leadership strategy, not a buzzword ✅ How AI threatens human connection in care delivery ✅ The real danger of "dream killers" in your leadership circle ✅ Why growth isn't the goal—getting better is ✅ How relational leadership drives sustainable success ✅ A powerful business lesson from Chick-fil-A's culture-first pivot Whether you're a healthcare finance executive, operational leader, or C-suite strategist, this episode will challenge your thinking and strengthen your leadership foundation in a time of rapid change.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices   

What does it cost when a system built for emergencies becomes the only response to a behavioral health crisis? In this compelling episode of The Leadership Lab, Asbel Montes sits down with Dr. Octavious Bishop, Doctor of Psychology and advocate for systemic healthcare reform. Together, they examine the rising tension between compassionate care and financial risk in pre-hospital and emergency response settings. From police interventions to emergency room overuse, Dr. Bishop outlines how the current system often fails both the patient and the provider—while costing the healthcare system millions. But there's hope. This conversation explores how relational equity, legislation, and cross-disciplinary training can close the gap and build lasting change. 🔍 What You'll Learn: Why pre-hospital care is the breaking point for mental health crises How emergency response systems are strained—and what's missing What "relational equity" means for frontline teams and patient dignity The post-COVID reality for mental health service gaps The role of advocacy and policy in creating sustainable reform If you're a healthcare finance executive, compliance officer, EMS leader, or policymaker—this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain insight, challenge assumptions, and discover how compassion and cost-effectiveness can coexist. Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Octavious Bishop LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/octavious-bishop-ph-d-52762a1b/   Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/

EMS is often the forgotten link in the healthcare delivery chain—but that oversight comes with real costs. In this episode, Kim Godden, Vice President at Superior Air Ground Ambulance, shares her journey from CASA advocate to healthcare legal and compliance leader. She unpacks the power of advocacy in EMS and how a single form—the Physician Certification Statement (PCS)—helped cut red tape, reduce appeals, and improve patient outcomes across Illinois. You'll discover: How EMS is being left out of key healthcare finance conversations Why the PCS form matters for Medicaid, Medicare, and transport compliance The hidden impact of regulatory gaps on non-emergency ambulance care What healthcare executives must do to ensure EMS is supported, funded, and integrated How legal, finance, and government relations leaders can drive better care through smart policy This episode is a must-listen for healthcare finance executives, compliance officers, legal advisors, and public policy advocates working toward a more efficient, more equitable healthcare system.   Links:  Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Kim Godden LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-pate-godden/   Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/   

Leadership isn't one-size-fits-all—and neither is your journey. In this powerful episode of The Leadership Lab podcast, I invite you to explore your personal leadership soundtrack. Drawing from my personal background as a musician and executive leader, I share vulnerable stories and actionable insights to help you: ✅ Identify the unique song that defines your leadership style ✅ Tune out critics and distractions that derail your purpose ✅ Lead with authenticity, empathy, and grace—especially in high-pressure healthcare environments Whether you're a healthcare executive, team lead, or aspiring changemaker, this episode will help you move beyond burnout and performance pressure to a place of clarity, strength, and resilience. Tune in and discover: - Servant, compassionate, grace-based, and empathetic leadership styles - How to lead through personal pain and come out stronger - Why purpose matters more than performance in sustainable leadership Follow or subscribe to The Leadership Lab with Asbel Montes for honest conversations that inspire real growth for real leaders—especially in healthcare.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634   Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/   

Is artificial intelligence the next breakthrough in healthcare finance—or just another buzzword? In this episode of The Leadership Lab Podcast, together with Brian Choate, we unpack the real-world impact of AI on healthcare reimbursement, automation, and operational efficiency. With firsthand insights and candid conversation, they explore how healthcare organizations can harness AI the right way—without falling for the hype. If you're a healthcare CFO, CTO, or revenue cycle leader, this episode offers a roadmap for using AI to lower costs, increase efficiency, and support your team—without replacing them. You'll learn how to: 🎯 Use AI and automation to enhance (not replace) your revenue cycle 🎯 Identify the true ROI behind AI in healthcare finance 🎯 Avoid common implementation pitfalls that lead to audits and inefficiencies 🎯 Apply a "crawl-walk-run" framework to lead smart, sustainable change 🎯 Reframe the question from "Can we use AI?" to "What value does it bring?" Whether you're cautiously exploring AI or already deep in digital transformation, this episode gives you practical steps and bold questions to move forward with clarity.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Brian Choate LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-choate-90b576332/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/   

Healthcare systems are strained. Clinical staff is overwhelmed. And the cost of care keeps rising. So how can healthcare finance leaders create sustainable, patient-centered solutions—today? In this episode, Brandy Beierle, Chief Clinical Officer at Home Care Home Base, shares game-changing insights on the integration of mobile health and community paramedicine—a model that could transform how we deliver care in home health and hospice. With data-driven urgency and visionary clarity, Brandy explains: ✅ Why seamless data integration between EMS, home health, and hospice is no longer optional ✅ How leveraging the OASIS dataset drives better outcomes and smarter care decisions ✅ The cracks in current reimbursement models—and why finance leaders must push for change ✅ The role of clinical storytelling in improving continuity and value-based care ✅ Why interoperability and regulatory innovation are the missing pieces to scalability "If we want better outcomes, we have to connect the entire care ecosystem—starting at the patient's home." This episode is a must-watch for healthcare finance executives, operational leaders, and clinical innovators who know that status quo thinking is costing lives—and dollars.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  Brandy Beierle LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-sparkman-beierle-852575207/

Are healthcare brands missing the mark?  Most organizations market like they're the hero—but in today's hyper-competitive healthcare space, that narrative is no longer enough. In this episode, Bethany Cranfield and Prentice Howe of Door No. 3 dive deep into why challenger healthcare brands must pivot their messaging—from self-centered to patient-centered—to achieve growth and measurable ROI. What if your marketing strategy isn't broken—but your message is? This conversation breaks down how forward-thinking marketing leaders at Baylor Scott & White Health transformed storytelling, improved patient outcomes, and stopped talking about themselves. If you're a healthcare finance executive or strategy leader looking to make your organization's marketing actually matter, this is your wake-up call. Ready to Transform Your Brand's Impact? Don't just advertise—articulate.Subscribe now and turn marketing into a strategic lever, not a cost center. Drop your thoughts in the comments. How has your organization embraced challenger thinking?   Links:  Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/  Bethany Cranfield LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-cranfield-a60738111/ Prentice Howe LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/prentice-howe-54163b4/ Door No. 3: Website - https://www.dn3austin.com/

Are we thinking about healthcare reimbursement the wrong way? Why do 55% of EMS and Mobile Integrated Health programs fail? Is it time for EMS to shift from being the "hero" to the "guide" in healthcare?   In this inaugural episode of The Leadership Lab, we dive deep into the world of healthcare finance, EMS, and Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) with Eric Beck, President & CEO of ESO, as we discuss: ✔️ The financial sustainability crisis in EMS & healthcare  ✔️ The real reason most EMS and MIH programs fail (it's not what you think)  ✔️ How data-driven insights are the key to unlocking sustainable reimbursement models  ✔️ The role of physicians in leading the next wave of EMS transformation  ✔️ The shift from hero to guide – and why EMS must rethink its approach to value-based care   The healthcare system is at a crossroads. The reality? Payers, regulators, and legislators don't understand the full value of EMS. Data and outcomes will determine who gets reimbursed and who doesn't. If we fail to align our industry with the broader healthcare ecosystem, we risk missing out on critical funding and support. Time is running out! The healthcare system is changing fast. Regulatory windows won't stay open forever. If EMS doesn't position itself correctly, other players will step in and take control of the reimbursement landscape.   Links: Asbel Montes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asbel-montes-31027634  Asbel Montes Book (In Plain Sight): https://asbelmontes.com/store/ Asbel Montes Website: https://asbelmontes.com/    Solutions Group Services: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solutionsgroupservices  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solution_sgroup/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solutionsgroupservices  Website -  ​​https://www.solutionsgroup.com/    Eric Beck LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-beck-do-mph-50542576