When hospital systems move to the cloud, it’s not just an IT project—it’s a leadership journey. Strategic choices made in this transition shape not only technical outcomes but also how teams collaborate and deliver care.

In this episode, Chuck Christian, Chief Technology Officer at Franciscan Health, discusses the organization's move to migrate Epic to Microsoft Azure, paving a path for scalability and long-term success.

Chuck talks about the complexities of cloud cost management and how it’s able to save them millions of dollars, and he also shares the leadership lessons that have shaped his career, especially around staying curious, practicing humility, and truly working together as a team. 

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In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Franciscan Health achieved a successful migration of Epic to Microsoft Azure, enhancing scalability and infrastructure
• The impact of introducing a cloud cost analyst role, leading to millions in savings through better cost management and prediction
• Why leadership is practiced through curiosity and teamwork



Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introduction to leadership and finance

(00:22) Meet Chuck Christian: CTO at Franciscan Health

(00:33) Pioneering move to Microsoft Azure

(03:02) Challenges and learnings from cloud migration

(05:45) Cloud cost management strategies

(07:52) Consolidation and standardization efforts

(10:11) The role of health information exchanges

(12:58) Leadership and the CIO bootcamp

(16:02) Chuck’s leadership styles

Innovation is required for navigating the evolving healthcare landscape. For leaders, however, this requires more than just technology. Organizational culture and norms, strategy, and people-first leadership come into play.

In this episode, Scott Smiser, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer at Emory Healthcare, shares how meaningful change is achieved through cloud migration and AI advances. He also tells us about Emory’s experiments with using Apple devices in clinical settings, as well as his growth-centered approach to leadership. 

In a field where technology and humanity intersect, we’ll learn how innovation is a natural outcome when there is a harmonious relationship between people, processes, and technology.

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In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Emory Healthcare is using innovation to drive both cost efficiency and top-line growth
• How Emory’s “Shark Tank” style Innovation Hub is funding and scaling new ideas to drive meaningful healthcare improvements
• Why empowering teams and developing talent is at the heart of Scott Smiser’s leadership approach
• Why Emory Healthcare is piloting the use of Apple products in clinical settings, and how it’s ultimately benefiting patient care



Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Scott Smiser, Chief Innovation & Technology Officer at Emory Healthcare

(00:22) Emory Healthcare’s approach to innovation: Internal and external impacts

(03:34) The role of innovation in delivering better services and creating new value for patients and researchers

(06:50) Emory’s “Shark Tank” style Innovation Hub

(10:35) Moving to the cloud and shifting from managing data centers to cloud solutions

(13:17) The importance of AI tools like ambient listening in transforming clinician workflows

(17:30) Emory's experiment with Apple products in clinical settings

(22:16) Empowering teams and leadership lessons learned from mentors

(25:43) The future of healthcare innovation, leading a people-first culture

Data is at the heart of modern healthcare, but turning information into better patient outcomes requires more than just technology—it takes a clear strategy and a shift in mindset.

In this episode, Shahran Haider, Deputy Chief Data Officer at NYC Health, unpacks how the nation’s largest public health system is rethinking its approach to data. He shares why NYC Health is moving from projects to products, how AI is being integrated responsibly to support clinicians, and what it takes to make data truly accessible across a massive, complex organization.

But it’s not just about systems and tools. Shahran also reflects on the leadership principles guiding this transformation and why adaptability, collaboration, and trust are just as critical as any technology.

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why NYC Health shifted from projects to products for sustainable data impact
• How AI is driving clinical efficiency, ROI, and scalability in public health
• How data democratization is empowering teams while maintaining security and governance



Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Shahran Haider

(00:47) How data improves patient care at NYC Health + Hospitals

(04:15) Shifting from projects to a product mindset in healthcare

(08:19) The AI Advisory Board’s three priorities for responsible AI

(13:20) How Snowflake cut data delivery time from days to minutes

(17:43) Data democratization and empowering self-service analytics

(22:37) Leadership, AI, and the skills needed for the future

Technology is reshaping healthcare, but it takes strong leadership to transform innovation into real impact.

In this episode, Jeff Gautney, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Rush University System for Health, shares his career path from consulting to leading IT at a top academic medical center. He breaks down Rush’s digital transformation strategy—leveraging AI and automation, modernizing infrastructure, and driving operational efficiency.

Beyond the technology, Jeff explores how the role of IT leadership is shifting and why change management is now a must-have skill.

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How AI is reshaping healthcare operations—from ambient listening to robotic process automation.
• Why change management is now central to IT leadership and how Rush is embedding it as a core function.
• How automation is helping address workforce shortages while improving efficiency and patient care.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Jeff Gautney

(02:31) How an unconventional career path led to a CIO role

(05:33) Rush’s four-bucket AI strategy and responsible implementation

(09:35) Why AI’s productivity gains don’t always mean cost savings

(12:15) Using automation to address workforce shortages in healthcare

(14:43) The three pillars driving digital transformation at Rush

(23:08) The evolving role of CIOs and cybersecurity challenges

When technology and leadership converge, wonderful things may happen. 

In this episode, Motti Edelstein, Vice President of the Chief Revenue Office at Sutter Health, shares his journey in leading revenue cycle transformation across two of the nation's largest healthcare systems. Motti reflects on his transition from Allina Health to Sutter Health, offering insights into managing payer-provider relationships, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and leveraging technology to drive efficiency and improve patient experiences.

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Sutter Health is rethinking payer-provider dynamics to streamline processes and reduce operational waste.
• The importance of aligning patient-centered workflows with financial goals to minimize healthcare debt and enhance patient experiences.
• Why automation and digital transformation are critical to navigating the complexities of modern healthcare revenue cycles.

Jump into the conversation: 

(00:00) Introducing Motti Edelstein

(01:43) Transitioning from Allina Health to Sutter Health

(02:35) Comparing regulatory challenges in Minnesota and California

(07:04) Rethinking payer-provider relationships with monthly touchpoints

(13:41) Putting patients at the center of revenue cycle workflows

(17:46) Embracing technology for digital transformation in healthcare

(29:33) Leadership lessons from “Coffee with Motti”

When technology and leadership align, the future of healthcare becomes an exciting frontier of possibilities.

In this episode, Rich Miller, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Strategy Officer at Northwell Health, reflects on his rise from a hospital gift shop manager to a senior leader at one of the nation’s largest healthcare systems. From driving automation to navigating pivotal moments like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rich shares the lessons that have shaped his approach to leadership.

In addition to his leadership journey, Rich highlights Northwell’s commitment to leadership development, showcasing how mentorship and stretch roles empower emerging leaders to thrive. Rich also discusses the role of AI and automation in reducing costs, boosting efficiency, and enhancing the consumer experience. Whether advancing revenue cycle management or leading through crises, Rich provides actionable strategies for healthcare leaders striving to make a meaningful impact.

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Rich leveraged automation and AI to cut costs and improve efficiency while enhancing the consumer experience in healthcare.
• The value of mentorship and stretch assignments in Northwell’s leadership development programs, empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders.
• Why collaboration and innovation are critical for navigating challenges like 9/11, COVID, and the evolving revenue cycle landscape

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Rich Miller

(04:31) Lessons learned from leading through 9/11

(09:14) Developing leaders with stretch assignments and mentorship

(19:30) Exploring the role of AI and automation in healthcare

(24:15) Empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders

Healthcare is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by cutting-edge digital innovations that promise to transform patient care and operational efficiency alike.

In this episode, Crystal Broj, Enterprise Chief Digital Transformation Officer at the Medical University of South Carolina, shares how MUSC is pioneering innovations in healthcare delivery. From pushing AI and its capabilities for tools such as voice bots to streamlining patient access to care to implementing robotic process automation to optimize workflow, Crystal has tons of insight into how MUSC is improving its services. 

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How MUSC uses AI tools and voice bots like “Emily” to streamline patient scheduling and reduce clinician burnout.
• Why starting small with pilot programs can drive successful large-scale digital transformation projects.
• The role of automation in closing care gaps and improving operational efficiency, from mammogram reminders to prior authorization approvals.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing to Crystal Broj

(02:23) Enhancing patient care with seamless access and AI-driven tools

(04:27) Early successes and lessons from launching a voice bot

(09:17) Reducing provider after-hours work through ambient scribing technology

(16:53) Leveraging robotic process automation for operational efficiency

(20:21) Exploring future trends in AI and healthcare innovation

When healthcare meets cutting-edge technology, the possibilities for smarter systems and better patient outcomes are seemingly endless.   

In this episode, Chris Mate, Chief Information Officer at Elara Caring, shares how technology solutions are reshaping everyday healthcare delivery, as well as enhancing patient care in home settings. 

From the power of AI to reduce administrative work for healthcare providers to strategies for integrating data across systems, Chris discusses the innovations that are transforming the industry. He also sheds light on the challenges of cybersecurity and managing a vast network of devices in the field.

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In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Chris integrates AI to reduce administrative tasks and allow providers to spend more time on patient care.
• The importance of seamless data integration in home healthcare, where sharing patient information across providers can improve outcomes. 
• Why cybersecurity in healthcare is a top priority and how Chris and his team are using technology to safeguard patient information.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Chris Mate

(05:25) How AI is reducing administrative burdens and improving nursing efficiency

(11:48) Cybersecurity in healthcare and strategies to safeguard patient data

(16:33) Chris’s previous experiences in healthcare and its impact on his current role

(21:34) The future of AI in healthcare and creating operational capacity

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Dr. Robert Adamson's bold decision to proceed with a major deployment during the COVID-19 pandemic showcased effective leadership, transforming a potential setback into significant success.
• The responsible and safe use of AI in healthcare requires a strong foundation in governance and ethics.
• Dr. Robert Adamson’s concept of "ASPIRE" serves as a guiding principle, helping teams stay focused on their goals.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Dr. Robert Adamson

(07:16) Improving information sharing across digital platforms

(14:47) Dr. Adamson’s guiding principles for teamwork

(18:30) How Dr. Robert Adamson’s transition from a clinician to Chief Pharmacy Officer

(19:59) The importance of kindness, empathy, and poise as a leader

(23:29) Dr. Robert Adamson’s thoughts on using AI ethically

Healthcare technology is advancing quickly, and those who innovate will lead the way.

In this episode, Scott Arnold, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Innovation Officer at Tampa General Hospital, shares how his team leverages cloud technology, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence to improve patient care and streamline operations. Scott offers insights into how these tools are transforming healthcare while staying focused on delivering better outcomes for both patients and providers.

Scott also discusses strategies for Healthcare IT leaders aiming to lead digital change while keeping patient needs front and center.

Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Scott Arnold and the team at Tampa General Hospital are transforming healthcare operations by using AI to enhance patient care and simplify administrative tasks.
• By adopting cloud technology, they’re improving system flexibility and reducing costs, allowing the hospital to scale while maintaining secure data management. This shift ensures a more efficient and adaptable infrastructure.
• With a strong focus on cybersecurity, Tampa General regularly brings in external auditors to assess and strengthen its security measures. This proactive approach helps protect patient data and builds confidence among both staff and patients.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Scott Arnold

(03:13) Fostering a culture of psychological safety to encourage innovation

(05:23) The challenges of healthcare scheduling and financial navigation

(06:13) Results from Tampa General's experience improvement initiatives

(07:24) The role of AI in Tampa General's operations and governance

(09:36) Tampa General's partnership with Nuance for AI-powered ambient listening technology

(12:29) Tampa General's partnership with Palantir for analytics and care coordination

(16:53) Cybersecurity strategies and proactive threat hunting at Tampa General

(18:44) Tampa General's growth and expansion plans for the next 3–5 years

(20:14) Insights from the recent Epic UGM conference on AI and innovation