In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, Dr. Gian Varbaro, MD, MBA–Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Ambulatory Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, New Jersey–shares a deeply personal and inspiring story of how grit, curiosity, and a relentless drive for justice shaped his career in healthcare leadership. From humble beginnings working in construction alongside his immigrant father to earning his MD from NYU and an MBA from Yale, Gian’s story is a testament to the power of intention, adaptability, and standing up for what matters. Today, as Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Ambulatory Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, he leads with empathy, insight, and a clear vision for health equity and organizational transformation.

Gian opens up about his early resistance to following his father’s dream of him becoming a doctor, his disillusionment with medical education, and how unexpected opportunities, and even moments of failure, led him to forge a unique path as a changemaker in hospital medicine. He also reflects on the mentors who shaped his leadership, the importance of learning from both positive and ineffective examples, and the role of intentionality in making meaningful career decisions. Whether you're in healthcare or navigating a different career journey, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and heart.

In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

• How frustration can be a powerful catalyst for discovering purpose and direction in your career
• Why intentionality matters and how to approach your next move with a sense of clarity and a strategy
• The value of learning from both positive and ineffective leaders to shape your leadership style
• The evolving role of the hospitalist and how Dr. Varbaro helped pioneer hospital-based care
• The importance of mentorship and being mentored—even in unconventional or informal ways
• Why equity and trust are essential to transforming institutions and rebuilding morale



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