Ripple Effect Podcast

What does the future of healthcare mean for the future of the River Region?

In this episode of The Ripple Effect, three of the region’s healthcare leaders—Peter Selman, COO of Baptist Health; John Quinlivan, CEO of Jackson Hospital & Clinic, Inc.; and Gilbert Darrington, CEO of Health Services, Inc.—come together for a conversation about the challenges and opportunities shaping healthcare across the Capital City and River Region.

From recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals to expanding access to care, managing rising costs and embracing new technology, the discussion explores how a strong healthcare system impacts far more than patients. It is also critical to workforce development, talent attraction, business recruitment, quality of life and the region’s overall economic competitiveness.

Together, these leaders offer a look at where healthcare stands today, where it is headed and what it will take from healthcare providers, employers, educators and community leaders to build a healthier—and stronger—River Region.

In the inaugural episode of The Ripple Effect, guest host Megan Carlisle sits down with Anna Buckalew, President & CEO of the Montgomery Regional Chamber, to discuss the ideas and motivations behind the new platform. The conversation explores how meaningful change rarely happens in isolation and how investments in workforce, economic development, tourism, education, military partnerships, innovation, and quality of life are all interconnected.

Anna shares why now is a pivotal moment for Montgomery and the Capital River Region, highlighting the importance of telling the region's story, shaping perceptions, and creating opportunities through collaboration. She discusses how growth is intentionally built through partnerships, leadership, and long-term vision rather than individual projects or ribbon-cuttings alone.

The episode also establishes what listeners can expect from future conversations: authentic discussions with leaders, innovators, educators, military partners, entrepreneurs, and community builders who are helping to shape the region's future. Throughout the discussion, a central theme emerges - that every investment, relationship, and strategic decision has the potential to create ripple effects that extend far beyond their original purpose.

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the Chamber's role as a regional convener and how connected efforts across sectors are positioning the Capital River Region for future growth and opportunity.