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In this powerful final episode, I sit down with Dr. Robert Montgomery, Chair of Surgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, and one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025. A heart transplant recipient himself, Dr. Montgomery shares how personal loss and major health challenges fueled his drive to push boundaries in medicine. 

In our conversation, we explore his leadership philosophy, his commitment to expanding access to life-saving transplants, and the importance of mentorship in shaping future surgeons. With a career marked by groundbreaking achievements, Dr. Montgomery offers invaluable insights for aspiring surgical leaders and highlights the transformative power of organ transplantation in saving lives. This episode is a fitting conclusion to the season, as Dr. Montgomery’s experiences and advice leave a lasting impression on anyone striving to make an impact in the world of surgery. 

Takeaways

• Personal challenges made him more focused during residency.
• Pushing boundaries is essential for innovation in medicine.
• Vision and culture are key to building successful teams.
• Empathy should guide healthcare practices.
• Strategic partnerships can expand access to transplants.
• Smart risks can lead to significant advancements in healthcare.
• Surround yourself with the best possible people.
• You have to be fearless but responsible in decision-making.
• Be present in the moment with patients and colleagues.
• Be open to learning from both positive and negative experiences.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Bellal Joseph, Martin Gluck Endowed Professor of Surgery, Chief of Trauma, Critical Care, Burns, and Emergency Surgery, and Executive Vice Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Arizona. He shares his remarkable leadership journey, from his early passion for surgery’s human connection to his evolution as a leader on the national stage.

We discuss pivotal moments that shaped his leadership philosophy, the evolving expectations of surgical leaders, and the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and continuous learning. Dr. Joseph introduces the concept of “triple integration” — blending clinical excellence, education, and research — and offers practical advice on building trust within teams, leading through organizational change, and balancing delegation with maintaining influence.

Through powerful personal reflections, he highlights the importance of setting boundaries, leading yourself first, and staying true to your mission, even when challenging the status quo. This conversation is packed with timeless leadership lessons!

Takeaways

• Being clinically competent is essential for effective leadership in surgery.
• The concept of a 'triple threat' in surgical leadership is evolving towards a more integrated approach.
• Understanding your audience is crucial for effective leadership.
• Emotional intelligence involves self-management and the ability to remain calm in chaos.
• Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth as a leader.
• Building trust in teams requires recognizing silence as a potential trust gap.
• Alignment in teams is more important than mere agreement.
• Investing time in understanding leadership traits is essential for young surgeons. You build trust by being honest and real.
• Delegation is opportunity, not just a task.
• The hardest person to lead is yourself.
• Communication is key in leadership.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dean Amy J. Goldberg, a master trauma surgeon, visionary leader in academic medicine, and a tireless advocate for education and community engagement. She currently serves as the Marjorie Joy Katz Dean of the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University. Prior to this role, she held a succession of leadership positions, including Chief of the Trauma and Surgical Critical Care Division, Director of the General Surgery Residency Program, and the George S. Peters MD and Louise C. Peters Chair and Professor of Surgery. Additionally, she is the Chair of the Board of Directors at the American Board of Surgery.

Dean Goldberg shares her inspiring journey from a fascination with anatomy in medical school to becoming a nationally recognized trauma surgeon and medical school dean. She reflects on the mentors who shaped her, the power of following one’s purpose, and how she found a deep sense of home and mission at Temple. We explore her groundbreaking work in community violence prevention through the Cradle to Grave program, her views on leadership, imposter syndrome, and what it truly takes to step into high-impact roles while staying grounded in service and empathy.

Takeaways

• Dr. Goldberg's passion for anatomy drew her to surgery.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in her career development.
• Leadership opportunities can arise unexpectedly.
• Finding a supportive community is vital for success.
• Listening is a key skill for effective leadership.
• Imposter syndrome is common among leaders.
• Data-driven decision-making is essential in healthcare.
• Building strong relationships within the community is important.
• Stumbling in your career can lead to growth and resilience.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Cripps, Section Chief for Trauma and Acute Care Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Trauma Medical Director at the Anschutz Medical Campus, and Chair of the SAGES Committee on Acute Care Surgery. A nationally recognized leader in trauma and acute care surgery, Dr. Cripps brings a wealth of experience shaped by high-impact leadership roles, a robust academic career, and a deep commitment to education and mentorship.

We explore his journey from clinician-scientist to transformative leader, his philosophy on building strong team culture, and the importance of managing up. Dr. Cripps shares hard-earned lessons about emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and the influence of martial arts on his leadership style. He reflects on pivotal moments, including turning conflict into collaboration, and emphasizes the need for humility, reflection, and continual learning in surgical leadership.

Takeaways

• Dr. Cripps attributes his success to the guidance of mentors throughout his career.
• Learning from both good and bad leaders is crucial for personal growth.
• Feeling unprepared for leadership roles is a common experience and can be beneficial.
• A strong team culture is built on shared values and a common mission.
• Listening to team members is essential for new leaders to understand existing cultures.
• Building relationships is more important than titles in leadership.
• Resilience is a key component of a strong team culture.
• Leaders must align their goals with the organization's mission for success.
• Effective leadership requires checking one's ego and understanding others' stressors.
• Detaching from emotional responses is crucial in leadership.
• Conflict is an inevitable part of leadership.
• Finding common ground is essential in conflict resolution.
• Leadership skills should be developed early in one's career.
• Emotional intelligence is a key component of effective leadership.
• Leadership is a continuous journey of self-improvement.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Todd Rosengart, Professor and DeBakey-Bard Chair of the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, Vice President for Hospital Operations and Quality Improvement, and a member of the Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center Board of Directors. Dr. Rosengart is the past Chair of the NIH Bioengineering, Technology and Surgical Sciences Study Section, inaugural Chair of the ACS National Surgeon Scientist Study Section, Chair of the ACS Board of Governors Physician Competency and Health Workgroup, and a member of the ACS Academy of Master Surgeon Educators. He is also past President of the Society of Surgical Chairs and recently completed a four-year term as Board Director for the American Association for Thoracic Surgery.

Dr. Rosengart reflects on his journey to a pioneering cardiac surgeon and academic leader. We explore the lasting impact of mentorship, the mindset behind innovation and discovery, and the evolving role of surgeons as collaborative problem solvers in today’s complex healthcare systems. He shares hard-earned lessons on time management, team-building, and creating a culture that attracts and retains top talent.

Takeaways

• Dr. Rosengart's journey to surgery was influenced by mentors.
• Innovation stems from a passion for improvement and curiosity.
• Surgeons are trained as problem solvers, which translates to leadership.
• Collaboration is essential in today's complex healthcare environment.
• Quality improvement is a change journey requiring buy-in from all levels.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in developing future leaders.
• AI will transform the practice of medicine, emphasizing empathy and communication.
• Aspiring leaders should focus on mastering the basics of their profession.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Martin McCarter, Professor of Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Surgical Director of the Esophageal & Gastric Cancer Program, and the Gary, Debbie, and Brandon Mandelbaum Endowed Chair in Melanoma Research.

Dr. McCarter shares the leadership lessons he’s learned over the course of a career spent at the intersection of surgical oncology, research, and academic medicine. From leading multidisciplinary cancer programs to mentoring the next generation of surgeons, he reflects on the values that have guided him and the mindset needed to lead through uncertainty.

We talk about the importance of humility, consistency, and teamwork—how leaders gain trust, how they earn respect, and how they grow others. Dr. McCarter also discusses what it means to create culture in an academic department, and why being present and prepared can make the biggest difference.

Takeaways

• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping one's career.
• Research is a team sport that requires collaboration.
• Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and engagement.
• Strategic planning must align with healthcare system goals.
• Flexibility is key in navigating career paths and research.
• Effective delegation balances leadership presence and team empowerment.
• Understanding the big picture is essential for impactful leadership.
• Future leaders must adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lars Svensson, Professor of Surgery, Director of the Marfan Syndrome & Connective Tissue Disorder Clinic, and Chairman of the Heart, Vascular, & Thoracic Institute at the Cleveland Clinic. We discuss his journey from aspiring mechanical engineer to a world-renowned surgeon and leader. Dr. Svensson shares pivotal moments that shaped his career, the impact of his mentors on his path, and the innovations that defined his work in aortic surgery. We explore the role of leadership in medicine, the importance of understanding organizational culture, and the evolving challenges in healthcare. Dr. Svensson offers invaluable advice on personal growth, teamwork, and the strategies that drive meaningful change in surgery.

Takeaways

• Dr. Svensson's journey began with an interest in mechanical engineering.
• Surgery training was shaped by influential mentors and experiences.
• Innovations in aortic surgery were pivotal in his career.
• Leadership in surgery requires adaptability and understanding of culture.
• Dr. Svensson shares his take on great leadership.
• Recognition and respect are key motivators for physicians.
• Building personal relationships enhances team dynamics.
• Understanding organizational culture is crucial for effective leadership.
• Continuous learning is essential for mastering surgical skills.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Sutherland, a leader in surgery and trauma systems development and Director of the Division of Member Services at the American College of Surgeons. We explore his journey from military service to surgical leadership, discussing how his experience in the U.S. Air Force shaped his structured approach to leadership and problem-solving. Dr. Sutherland shares insights into the complexities of building and optimizing trauma systems, the importance of aligning stakeholders, and the delicate balance of implementing change within established healthcare structures. He also reflects on the evolving role of the American College of Surgeons in supporting professional development and how surgeons can take initiative in leadership. Throughout our conversation, he emphasizes the value of patience, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Takeaways

• Dr. Sutherland's journey into medicine began with a personal medical experience.
• Military service shaped his structured approach to leadership.
• Leadership is about inspiring others to join the journey.
• An MBA can enhance competitiveness in leadership roles.
• Building trauma systems requires alignment among stakeholders.
• Gaining buy-in involves leveraging existing organizational culture.
• Change should be gradual and collaborative, not forced.
• Individual initiative is key to leadership development.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dean John H. Sampson, a distinguished neurosurgeon, physician-scientist, and leader in academic medicine. As the Richard D. Krugman Endowed Chair, Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs, and Dean of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, he has played a pivotal role in shaping medical education, research, and patient care.

We discuss his journey into neurosurgery, the importance of mentorship, and the intersection of innovation and leadership in academic medicine. He reflects on his tenure at Duke University, where he led transformative initiatives, advanced groundbreaking research in brain tumors, and mentored the next generation of physician-scientists. Dean Sampson shares his philosophy on leadership, the role of curiosity in driving progress, and why enjoying the journey is just as important as the destination.

Takeaways

• Dean Sampson's journey into neurosurgery began unexpectedly during medical school.
• Curiosity and problem-solving have been central to Dean Sampson's career.
• Innovative programs can significantly enhance surgical training.
• Understanding one's passions can empower individuals in their careers.
• Innovation is essential for the future of academic medicine.
• Leadership roles require a balance of authenticity and creativity.
• Organizational structure is vital for effective leadership.
• Enjoying the journey is more important than focusing solely on titles.
• Future surgeons should prepare for diverse career paths.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nancy Ascher, a Distinguished Professor of Surgery and a trailblazer in organ transplantation and surgical leadership. As the first woman to perform a liver transplant and the first female Chair of the UCSF Department of Surgery, she has spent decades shaping the future of transplantation. She has served as President of both The Transplantation Society and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons, and has also served on the Presidential Task Force on Organ Transplantation, the Surgeon General’s Task Force on Increasing Donor Organs, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee on Organ Transplantation. Currently, she is a member of the WHO Taskforce on Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues, continuing her work on shaping global transplantation policy. 

We discuss her path to leadership, the challenges she faced breaking barriers, and her role in mentoring the next generation of surgeons. Dr. Ascher also shares insights on the evolving landscape of transplantation and the future of organ donation. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the field!

Takeaways

• Dr. Ascher is a pioneer in organ transplantation.
• Her upbringing instilled a drive for excellence.
• Medical school was a competitive environment for women.
• Her first solo surgical case was a trial by fire.
• She chose organ transplantation for its lifelong interest.
• Becoming the first woman to perform a liver transplant was a significant milestone.
• Leadership involves mentoring and supporting young surgeons.
• Honesty and curiosity are key attributes for trainees.
• A master surgeon continuously seeks to improve.
• Global health initiatives are crucial for advancing transplantation.