In this episode of Lead Change, Dr. Mary Mulcahey interviews Dr. Ellen Casey, attending physiatrist at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and professor at Weill Cornell Medical College. A former collegiate gymnast, Dr. Casey has built her career around sports medicine, research, and leadership. She shares insights from her journey—ranging from her early days as a gymnast and team captain, to her current role directing research at HSS Physiatry and serving as team physician for USA Gymnastics.

Dr. Casey emphasizes the importance of individualized leadership, collaboration, and adaptability. She discusses her role in reshaping residency leadership structures, her perspective on balancing clinical care with research, and her philosophy of leading with authenticity and vulnerability. She also reflects on challenges of prioritization, the myth of a perfect system, and the need to embrace change throughout a medical career. Influenced by mentors and leadership resources like Deep Work, Simon Sinek, and Brene Brown, Dr. Casey models mission-driven leadership rooted in teamwork, continuous learning, and service.

Key Takeaways

• Individualized Leadership: Lessons from gymnastics and residency leadership show the value of supporting people’s unique strengths rather than forcing uniformity.
• Redefining Systems: Dr. Casey helped restructure residency leadership into a three-chief model, creating lasting positive change.
• Mission-Driven Practice: Clear purpose and “knowing the why” are central to her leadership style.
• Balancing Roles: Time management, deep work, and strict prioritization are essential to balancing clinical, research, and leadership responsibilities.
• Authenticity and Vulnerability: Being open, reflective, and authentic fosters trust, growth, and stronger mentorship.
• Adaptability in Career: Change—whether geographic, institutional, or personal—can lead to unexpected growth and opportunities.
• Team-Based Leadership: Collaboration across disciplines and perspectives strengthens patient care, research, and organizational culture.
• Continuous Learning: Books, podcasts, and mentors fuel ongoing leadership development; even popular culture (e.g., Ted Lasso) can offer leadership lessons.
• Core Values: Service, community, and the courage to “lead change” shape her leadership philosophy.