In this episode of the Las Vegas HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Maia Carter, a remarkable leader in the healthcare field. Our conversation delved deep into the essence of leadership, exploring not only Dr. Carter's personal journey but also her insights on developing future leaders within clinical settings.

We kicked off the episode by discussing the definition of leadership. Dr. Carter emphasized that true leadership begins with self-leadership—taking care of oneself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This foundational principle resonated with me, as I reflected on my own experiences with leadership, particularly the challenges and responsibilities that come with it.

Dr. Carter shared her background, growing up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in a family deeply rooted in healthcare. With a father who was an anesthesiologist and a mother who held multiple degrees in nursing and social work, she was inspired from a young age to pursue a career in medicine. Her early experiences, including volunteering in healthcare settings and caring for her grandmother, solidified her passion for patient care and the healing process.

As we explored her career trajectory, Dr. Carter revealed how her journey evolved from being a physician to stepping into leadership roles. She candidly discussed the moment she was approached for a leadership position and the initial self-doubt that crept in. However, with encouragement from her parents, she embraced the opportunity, which marked a significant turning point in her career.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the importance of resilience and self-care in leadership. Dr. Carter shared her experiences with burnout and the strategies she employs to maintain her well-being while juggling the demands of her profession. We also discussed the critical role of emotional intelligence and the ability to see both the big picture and the details in effective leadership.

One of the most compelling aspects of our discussion was the recognition that education alone does not equate to leadership. Dr. Carter highlighted the need for clinicians to step into leadership roles and advocate for their peers, leveraging their unique perspectives to drive positive change in healthcare systems.

As we wrapped up the episode, I was struck by Dr. Carter's insights on the duality of being a clinician and a leader. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is not just about authority; it's about influence, compassion, and the ability to inspire others.