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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.