In this special live episode of the Lead Change podcast, recorded at the Inspire Women in Orthopaedics Summit 2025 in Philadelphia, Dr. Mary Mulcahey sits down with Drs. Meghan Bishop and Danielle Ponzio, co-founders and co-chairs of the INSPIRE Summit. Both accomplished orthopaedic surgeons at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Bishop and Ponzio share the origins, growth, and vision behind the conference—a space designed to empower, educate, and connect women in orthopaedics. 
They reflect on how INSPIRE evolved from an idea to a nationally recognized event
emphasizing leadership, mentorship, authenticity, and collaboration. This year’s summit incorporated fresh perspectives from orthopedic leaders, executive coaches, and professionals outside of medicine, covering topics such as advocacy, work-life integration, leadership development, and finding one’s “why.”
Throughout the conversation, the guests discuss lessons learned in leadership, the importance of authenticity, and the transformative power of mentorship. They also share their favorite leadership books and quotes—Dr. Ponzio citing Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In, and Dr. Bishop highlighting the athletic mindset from Beyond Grit and her lifelong motto: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.”

Key Takeaways

• Purpose-Driven Leadership: Understanding your “why” helps guide your “what.” Passion and purpose fuel success.
• Authenticity Matters: Being true to yourself allows you to thrive in your role and find the right environment for growth.
• Collaboration Across Fields: Including voices from business, coaching, and advocacy enriches leadership and broadens perspective.
• Mentorship & Representation: Building networks of female leaders strengthens the pipeline and fosters lasting impact.
• Evolving Together: The INSPIRE Summit continues to grow by adding new topics, diverse speakers, and fresh approaches each year.
• Leadership Lessons: Listening, inclusion, and confidence are essential leadership skills—especially for women in male-dominated fields.
• Inspiration in Action: The event embodies the spirit of empowerment and
  community—encouraging women to lead, lift others, and embrace opportunity.