What does it cost to stand on principle when everything around you says stay quiet?

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In this week’s show, Dr. Ryan Cole led a bold and personal conversation about courage in modern healthcare and what it truly means to stand firm when pressure mounts.

He was joined by Dr. Joseph Varon, Professor of Medicine and President and Chief Medical Officer of the Independent Medical Alliance, and Chris Ekrem, MBA, FACHE, former hospital CEO and healthcare executive.

Chris introduced Cowboy Ethics, including live each day with courage, finish what you start, ride for the brand, and always do what is right. He also explained what it means to be a “Daniel” in healthcare today and why the system needs more leaders willing to take that stand.

Together they explored:

• Standing firm when institutions push back

• Drawing the line before it is too late

• When walking away becomes integrity, not failure

• Why some things in medicine must never be for sale

• How accountability restores trust

The episode also highlighted IMA’s Ethics & Values Declaration and its commitment to Patients Over Profits, because principle must be lived, not merely declared.

Aired Wednesday, March 04, 2026.

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About IMA (Formerly FLCCC Alliance)

The Independent Medical Alliance™ is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization and coalition of physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals united by a mission to restore trust and transparency in healthcare. The organization’s mission is one driven by Honest Medicine™ that prioritizes patients above profits and emphasizes long-term wellness and disease prevention through empowerment of both physicians and their patients. With a focus on evidence-based medicine, informed consent, and systemic reform, IMA is driving a movement to create a more compassionate and effective healthcare system.

For more information about the Independent Medical Alliance, visit www.IMAhealth.org