What if smaller wasn’t a limitation, but a superpower? 

We explore the countercultural truth that success doesn’t always mean scaling up—it can mean rooting down. Inspired by Bo Burlingham’s book Small Giants, we reflect on companies and people who intentionally choose depth, intimacy, and meaning over sheer size. 

We discuss how “great instead of big” has led us to more fulfillment, deeper connection, and increased joy. 

You’ll hear our personal stories and be invited to rethink how you measure success—whether that's in medicine, business, or simply being human.

Pearls of Wisdom:

• Fulfillment can be your ultimate measure of success—quality, mastery, and purpose often matter more than numbers or scale.

• Being “small” can deepen roots, strengthen community, and preserve your values.

• Intimacy—whether with patients, clients, or community—creates an impact that scale can’t always replicate.

• You can intentionally design your “company culture,” whether that’s your workplace, your family, or your ecosystem.

• Choosing less can often give you so much more.

Reflection Questions:

• What would it look like for you to be a “small giant” in your own life?

• How might you choose quality, intimacy, and depth instead of scale, speed, or more?

• Where could you deepen your roots instead of stretching yourself thinner?

If you’d like to bring this kind of mindful, intentional leadership into your life and work, I invite you to join me for coaching or a retreat at www.jessiemahoneymd.com or learn more about my speaking offerings at www.jessiemahoneymd.com/speaking. 

Dr. Liang also offers workshops and speaking engagements at www.awakenbreath.org.

We are, proudly, a small giant—-rooted in connection, intimacy, and the belief that depth changes lives.

Nothing shared in the Healing Medicine Podcast is medical advice.