The Fire Chief – The Chief Medical Officer Podcast is your frontline briefing on what it truly means to lead in the heat of healthcare. Hosted by Dr. Lee Scheinbart, this series offers raw, insightful conversations with current and former Chief Medical Officers—unfiltered stories from the command center of crisis, healing, and transformation.
Drawing a powerful parallel between firefighting and medical leadership, each episode illuminates the path from early training to the burning challenges of the CMO role. From crisis response and financial strain to resilience, equity, and ethical leadership—these candid conversations decode what it takes to steer healthcare systems through turbulence.
Whether you’re a physician climbing the leadership ladder, a seasoned executive confronting systemic fires, or simply fascinated by the intersection of medicine and leadership, The Fire Chief delivers thought-provoking leadership lessons that are as urgent as they are timeless. Welcome to the front line.
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The Fire Chief – The Chief Medical Officer Podcast is your frontline briefing on what it truly means to lead in the heat of healthcare. Hosted by Dr. Lee Scheinbart, this series offers raw, insightful conversations with current and former Chief Medical Officers—unfiltered stories from the command center of crisis, healing, and transformation.
Drawing a powerful parallel between firefighting and medical leadership, each episode illuminates the path from early training to the burning challenges of the CMO role. From crisis response and financial strain to resilience, equity, and ethical leadership—these candid conversations decode what it takes to steer healthcare systems through turbulence.
Whether you’re a physician climbing the leadership ladder, a seasoned executive confronting systemic fires, or simply fascinated by the intersection of medicine and leadership, The Fire Chief delivers thought-provoking leadership lessons that are as urgent as they are timeless. Welcome to the front line.
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.
The Fire Chief – The Chief Medical Officer Podcast is your frontline briefing on what it truly means to lead in the heat of healthcare. Hosted by Dr. Lee Scheinbart, this series offers raw, insightful conversations with current and former Chief Medical Officers—unfiltered stories from the command center of crisis, healing, and transformation.
Drawing a powerful parallel between firefighting and medical leadership, each episode illuminates the path from early training to the burning challenges of the CMO role. From crisis response and financial strain to resilience, equity, and ethical leadership—these candid conversations decode what it takes to steer healthcare systems through turbulence.
Whether you’re a physician climbing the leadership ladder, a seasoned executive confronting systemic fires, or simply fascinated by the intersection of medicine and leadership, The Fire Chief delivers thought-provoking leadership lessons that are as urgent as they are timeless. Welcome to the front line.
