Shows
The Fire ChiefWe Serve Two MastersIn this suborbital episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart goes interstellar with Dr. J.D. Polk, the Chief Health and Medical Officer at NASA. The two physicians explore the shared leadership parallels in space medicine and here on earth. Dr. Polk recently returned from Oxford where he enrolled in an Advanced Leadership and Management Program and brought back with him new leadership perspectives to help him manage inside an ever changing ecosystem of government and the rapidly accelerating spaceflight challenges across the globe. Dr. Polk shares insights on leadership in the context of aerospace medicine, the fu...2025-07-2942 minThe Fire ChiefSix Months On The Fire LineAfter six months of non-stop episodes, Dr. Lee Scheinbart, the host of The Fire Chief podcast takes a moment to reflect on the leadership themes that have emerged from his conversations from physician leaders and Chief Medical Officers. The show has evolved from exposing the lessons learned in natural and manmade disasters to lessons in leadership, resiliency, vulnerability and humility. Take a moment to hear what has happened during the last 30 episodes and what it takes to succeed as a physician leader in healthcare. Stay tuned for more insights as the show stays on the frontlines of physician leadership and...2025-07-2207 minThe Fire ChiefBe A Knight. Not A Knave.In this "top ten" episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Dr. Sachin Jain, a prolific writer and amazing leader in transformative healthcare delivery. They discuss Dr. Jain's journey from medicine to executive roles, the challenges of driving transformational change in healthcare, and the importance of clinical voices in leadership positions. The conversation highlights the need for innovative approaches to support vulnerable populations and the evolving role of young physicians in shaping the future of healthcare. Dr. Jain emphasizes the significance of treating healthcare professionals with respect and the necessity of taking risks to foster c...2025-07-1547 minThe Fire ChiefDon't Ask For Permission!In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart breaks down the Breakdowns with Preston Alexander, the self proclaimed Taylor Swift of LinkedIn healthcare writing. A seasoned healthcare entrepreneur, and author of The Healthcare Breakdown and the Forward / Health Breakdown newsletters, Preston discusses the challenges and opportunities facing physician leaders in today's healthcare landscape. Together Preston and Lee explore the importance of financial literacy among physicians, the impact of healthcare financialization, and the need for physician leaders to take an active role in decision-making processes. Preston shares insights from his work with Forward / Health, aimed at supporting p...2025-07-0847 minThe Fire ChiefFor Whom The Fiduciary Tolls? It Tolls For Thee.In this intense episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Jeffrey Kuhlman, physician to the 44th President, Barack Obama, and author of "Transforming Presidential Healthcare." Dr. Kuhlman shares insights from his time as a Navy physician and director of the White House Medical Unit, discussing the importance of rigorous medical standards, the role of chief medical officers, and the ethical considerations in healthcare leadership. Medical officers have a clear fiduciary responsibility when they assess the health and wellbeing of those in positions of power, especially when the position (e.g. pilot, physician, official) involves very hi...2025-07-0142 minThe Fire ChiefThe Nation's Doctor, Not Trump's!In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Dr. Lee Scheinbart engages in a profound and deeply personal conversation with Dr. Jerome Adams, the former U.S. Surgeon General. During the initial wave of COVID-19, Dr. Adams made some of the most impactful decisions in US history that only he could make. Perhaps the most crucial was his commitment to lead the nation and not to be painted as the politicized doctor of the President. Dr. Adams shares insights from his book 'Crisis and Chaos,' emphasizing the importance of effective communication, health equity, and the critical role of...2025-06-2449 minThe Fire ChiefThe Hardest Interview Question. Ever.As the United States heats up on multiple fronts regarding our military, our immigration policies, our access to healthcare, our rights to peaceful protest and our vaccine stance, this week's Fire Chief Podcast features Dr. Gerry Cox, a retired physician who served as a White House physician and held various leadership roles in the military and the Veterans Administration. Hosted by Dr. Lee Scheinbart, the two physician leaders discuss the challenges of navigating political crises, particularly in the largest integrated health system in the US. Throughout the program Dr. Cox shares valuable insights on leadership, the complexities of veteran ca...2025-06-1741 minThe Fire ChiefA Man On A MissionIn this EXCLUSIVE episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Greg Murphy, a physician and member of Congress, discussing his journey from medicine to politics, his advocacy for physicians, and the challenges within the healthcare system. Dr. Murphy shares insights from his medical mission work, his experiences as chief of staff, and the importance of physician involvement in legislative processes. He emphasizes the need for reform in the insurance industry and the role of entrepreneurialism in healthcare, while also reflecting on the significance of faith and servant leadership in his life and career.
2025-06-1028 minThe Fire ChiefYou DON'T Learn This in Med School or Business SchoolThis hot off the press episode of the Fire Chief Podcast discusses the recent closure of the Crozer Health System and its implications for healthcare in Delaware County. Host Lee Scheinbart and guest Dr. Marcin Jankowski explore the challenges faced by healthcare providers during this crisis, the impact on patient care, and the personal toll of such closures on medical professionals. They delve into the importance of leadership in navigating these turbulent times and reflect on their own experiences with hospital closures. In this conversation, Marcin Jankowski and Lee Scheinbart explore the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership, emphasizing the...2025-06-0349 minThe Fire ChiefInvest In PeopleIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Michael Bakerman, the Chief Medical Officer at HCA Lawnwood Hospital. They discuss Dr. Bakerman's journey from cardiology to leadership roles in healthcare, the evolution of medical informatics, and the role of young physicians play in shaping the future of patient care. Dr. Bakerman shares insights on the challenges facing healthcare today, the importance of mentorship for aspiring CMOs, and the need for a collaborative approach in medical leadership. The conversation highlights the optimism for the future of healthcare and the critical role of CMOs in navigating...2025-05-2748 minThe Fire ChiefChief Medical TRUST OfficerIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Austin Chang, an interventional gastroenterologist and Chief Medical Officer at Medtronic. They discuss Dr. Chang's journey in healthcare, the importance of patient education, and the role of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Chang talks about his book about gut health, the challenges of navigating the healthcare ecosystem, and the need for healthcare professionals to engage with social media to rebuild trust in medicine. In this conversation, Austin and Lee discuss the evolving landscape of medical education, the impact of social media on health communication...2025-05-2046 minThe Fire ChiefCMO + COO = Chief Taser OfficerSummary
In this sparky episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, Dr. Ghazala Sharif discusses her unique dual role as Chief Medical Officer and Chief Operations Officer at Scripps Health. She shares insights on the importance of rapid decision-making in healthcare, especially during crises like COVID-19, and emphasizes the need for physician involvement in operational decisions. Dr. Sharif also addresses the challenges of building trust among physician leaders and the importance of work-life integration in maintaining personal well-being while navigating the complexities of healthcare leadership. In this conversation, Dr. Ghazala Q Sharieff and Dr. Lee Scheinbart discuss the...2025-05-1342 minThe Fire ChiefThe Enemy Gets A VoteSummary
In this flamethrowing episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart engages with Lieutenant General Mark Hertling to discuss the critical role of leadership in healthcare. They explore the development of physician leaders, the importance of interprofessional education, and the mulititude of crises faced by healthcare leaders in today's complex environment. The conversation delves into the impact of misinformation, supply chains, power outages, cyberattacks, funding and political crises on healthcare and how CMOs can address all of them. The conversation also leans into the necessity of embedding leadership principles in medical education as well as t...2025-05-0643 minThe Fire ChiefLet's Put Med Students in the C Suite?!In this remarkable episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, two former CMOs, now both dedicated to working with medical students, Dr. Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Stuart Marcus, a seasoned physician leader. Dr. Marcus was a surgical leader at Bellevue Hospital when the planes crashed into the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001. His life changed forever that day, as did so many others. They discuss the importance of integrating leadership training into medical education and the need for students and physicians to be prepared for a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Dr. Marcus is pioneering a program for medical students to spend ti...2025-04-2944 minThe Fire ChiefNever BluffIn this masterful episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Doug Koekkoek, a former Chief Physician Executive, discussing his journey in healthcare leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced by Chief Medical Officers today. They explore the transition from clinical roles to executive positions, the significance of leadership training, and the complexities of labor relations in healthcare. Dr. Koekkoek shares insights on addressing professional behavior among physicians and the evolving landscape of healthcare management. In this conversation, Doug Koekkoek and Lee Scheinbart discuss the complexities of hospital management, particularly focusing on the roles of...2025-04-2247 minThe Fire ChiefA (bit of a) Reluctant LeaderIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Christopher Chisholm, the Chief Medical Officer of Providence Swedish Central Service Area. They discuss Dr. Chisholm's journey from military medicine to civilian healthcare leadership, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, the role of influence in leadership, and the impact of mentorship. In this conversation, Chris and Lee discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership, emphasizing the importance of women in executive roles. They share personal experiences related to crisis management, one of which is the ongoing doctor shortage. The dialogue highlights the need for adaptability in m...2025-04-1544 minThe Fire ChiefDoctor vs LawyerIn this crazy episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Tim Norton, Chief Legal Officer at Augusta Health. They discuss the evolving role of Chief Medical Officers in healthcare, the importance of understanding legal frameworks, and the challenges posed by legislative changes, particularly regarding Medicaid. Tim shares insights on effective physician leadership, emphasizing the need for curiosity and the ability to make tough decisions. The conversation also touches on the concept of captive insurance and its relevance to healthcare systems. In this conversation, Tim Norton and Lee Scheinbart discuss the complexities of healthcare leadership, focusing on...2025-04-0838 minThe Fire ChiefDon't Get Trivialized!In this remarkable episode, Dr. Stephen Klasko shares his journey from aspiring DJ to a prominent figure in healthcare innovation. He discusses the importance of patient-centered care, the evolving role of chief medical officers, and the impact of AI on the future of medicine. Klasko emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to adapt to changing environments and redefine their roles to lead effectively in a transformative healthcare landscape. In this conversation, Stephen Klasko and Lee Scheinbart discuss the evolving roles of leadership in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, the need for diverse perspectives, and the necessity for CMOs...2025-04-0145 minThe Fire ChiefA Moral ResponsibilityIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Brian Vartabedian, Chief Medical Officer at Texas Children's Hospital. They discuss Dr. Vartabedian's journey from medical school to leadership, the challenges of opening a new children's hospital, and the importance of addressing physician burnout. The conversation also explores the evolving role of physicians in the age of technology, the distinction between transactional and interactional care, and the moral responsibility of physicians to engage in public discourse about healthcare issues.
2025-03-2538 minThe Fire ChiefThis Is Fascinatingly HorribleIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Eric Bricker, Chief Medical Officer and founder of A Healthcare Z. They discuss Dr. Bricker's journey from a summer internship at the NIH to becoming a CMO, his experiences in healthcare billing, and the founding of Compass Professional Health Services. Dr. Bricker shares insights on the importance of financial literacy in healthcare, his motivation for creating educational videos, and the challenges faced by new physicians in understanding healthcare finance. In this conversation, Dr. Eric Bricker emphasizes the need for humility, effective communication, and project management skills f...2025-03-1835 minThe Fire ChiefDon't Read The CommentsIn this blazing episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Lara Johnson, Chief Medical Officer at Covenant Health in Lubbock, Texas which is experiencing an outbreak of measles. They discuss Dr. Johnson's journey back to her hometown, her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the impact of both the virus and the media attention affecting her community. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by healthcare leaders, the importance of community commitment, and the impact of social media on caregivers. Dr. Johnson shares insights on leadership, crisis management, and the need for physician engagement and transparency i...2025-03-1131 minThe Fire ChiefThe Complexity of Healthcare Is Not Obvious (To Them)In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Robert Underwood, Chief Medical Officer of San Juan Regional Medical Center in the Four Corners of the United States. They discuss Dr. Underwood's diverse background, including his military service, transition to medicine, and the importance of physician involvement in healthcare legislation. Dr. Underwood shares insights on leadership, decision-making in healthcare, and the personal challenges he has faced, including a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. The conversation emphasizes the value of physician leaders in shaping healthcare policy and improving patient care. In this conversation, Drs. Scheinbart and Underwood...2025-03-0446 minThe Fire ChiefWe're In The World Of SuperlativesIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Mohsin Shabahang, Chief Medical Officer at WellSpan Health. They discuss Dr. Shabahang's journey from surgical oncology to healthcare leadership and how the healthcare system faces significant challenges related to compensation models. Dr. Shabahang advocates for a balance between clinical productivity and other contributions and states, “external validations are valuable but should not define one's worth.” Healthcare leadership is a marathon and Dr. "Mo" will share what it takes to run the race.
2025-02-2544 minThe Fire ChiefWe Need Truth TellersIn this blistering hot episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Doug Salvador, Chief Medical Officer at ATW Health Solutions and former CMO/CQO at BayState Medical Center. Dr. Salvador shares his journey from a first-generation American to becoming a physician leader, emphasizing the need for truth telling in healthcare and the crushing burden of responsibility carried by CMOs in today's healthcare landscape. He introduces the “CAUTI game” to the listeners and stumps the host, Dr. Lee Scheinbart while demonstrating how to effectively communicate to the Board of Trustees in the process. The conversation highlights one o...2025-02-1849 minThe Fire ChiefIt's Like Being An Intern All Over AgainIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Gil Padula, the Chief Medical Officer at Bon Secours Mercy Health. They discuss Dr. Padula's journey from being a radiation oncologist to a CMO, the challenges faced in healthcare leadership, and the importance of effective communication especially in the physician lounge!! Dr. Padula shares his insights on preparing for his leadership role describing that at times it as though he is an Intern all over again. He emphasizes the need for effective communication, patient experience, and the balance between his personal and professional life. Dr. Padula a...2025-02-1151 minThe Fire ChiefIt Takes Courage (Which Is Not Hard) But Can Be DifficultIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Kristin Mascotti, the newly appointed Market Chief Medical Officer for Greater Colorado and Kansas at Common Spirit Health. Dr. Mascotti shares her unique journey to becoming a CMO, highlighting her background in pathology and transfusion medicine, and her passion for quality management in healthcare. The conversation explores the evolution of physician leadership and the challenges faced by CMOs, including crisis management during the Ebola outbreak. Dr. Mascotti emphasizes the need for collaboration, COURAGE, and adaptability in leadership roles. In this conversation, Lee Scheinbart and Kristin Mascotti...2025-02-0440 minThe Fire ChiefHow Can We Flip That (aka Asking Generative Questions)In this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Elizabeth Warner, Chief Medical Officer at Cherry Health and co-author of Conversations Worth Having in Healthcare: Boost Satisfaction & Quality Using Appreciative Inquiry. They discuss the importance of leadership preparation, and the need for self-care and resilience in the role. Dr. Warner shares her journey to becoming a CMO with a focus on the significance of asking generative questions to foster improvement. The conversation highlights the value of mentorship, the importance of aligning personal and organizational values, and the ongoing need for growth and learning in leadership.2025-01-2840 minThe Fire ChiefYou Have Got to Learn the Vocabulary of the JobIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Rex Hoffman, Chief Medical Officer at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center and author of I Want to Be a Chief Medical Officer : Now What? They discuss Dr. Hoffman's journey to becoming a CMO, particularly the things he HAD to know before taking the role along with the importance of mentorship, and his efforts to write material for others to become a CMO. Dr. Hoffman shares insights on leadership styles, the significance of understanding healthcare finance, and the current issues facing the healthcare system. The conversation emphasizes t...2025-01-2138 minThe Fire ChiefDeal With The Gray Or Else Go Sell Ice CreamIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Stephen Brass, the Chief Medical Executive at Harris Health. They discuss Dr. Brass's journey to becoming a CMO, the importance of mentorship, various leadership styles, and the challenges faced in executive decision-making. To be an effective leader you have to realize you MUST learn to deal with the gray and that you won't always make people happy (or else go sell ice cream)! The conversation also touches on the critical issues of physician burnout, the role of AI in healthcare, and the significance of optimizing peer r...2025-01-1436 minThe Fire ChiefIt's Always Sunny In the BronxIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Louis Marshall, Chief Medical Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals. They discuss Dr. Marshall's journey to becoming a CMO, the importance of education and mentorship in healthcare leadership, and the challenges faced in the role, particularly in addressing toxic workplace cultures. Dr. Marshall shares insights on leadership styles, the significance of data in decision-making, and the impact of effective mentorship on career development. In this conversation, Lee Scheinbart and Lewis Marshall discuss the complexities of leadership in healthcare, focusing on cultural challenges, conflict resolution, and the importance...2025-01-0741 minThe Fire ChiefMiracles Can Happen: Ten Tips for Physician Fee CutsIn this Holiday Edition of the Fire Chief Podcast, host Lee Scheinbart discusses the evolving format of the show, emphasizing the importance of providing timely tips and insights for Chief Medical Officers (CMOs). He shares a personal story about managing physician contracts, highlighting the challenges faced in compensation negotiations. The podcast also addresses current issues in physician compensation due to changes in CMS regulations and offers ten practical tips for CMOs to navigate these challenges effectively. The episode concludes with a call to action for CMOs to engage with their financial teams and physicians to foster loyalty and understanding...2024-12-2422 minThe Fire ChiefIt's About Leadership More Than The Technical, Interview with Dr. Mark OlszykIn this episode of the Fire Chief Podcast, the only podcast dedicated to the CMO, host Lee Scheinbart interviews Dr. Mark Olszyk, Chief Medical Officer at Carroll Hospital and author of The Chief Medical Officer's Essential Guidebook. They discuss the journey to becoming a CMO, the importance of leadership, and the challenges faced in healthcare. Dr. Olszyk shares valuable insights on navigating the complexities of the medical field, emphasizing the need for effective communication, teamwork, and the significance of learning from experiences. The conversation highlights the evolving role of CMOs and the importance of preventing issues before they arise...2024-12-1043 minThe Fire ChiefTen Tips for IV Fluid ShortageAt listeners request, a set of tips for the brand new CMO to address IV Fluid Shortages following Baxter's facility closure in North Cove, NC after Hurricane Helene.
2024-10-1812 minThe Fire ChiefTen Tips for MiltonAdapted from Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mark Hertling's classic article in The Journal of Hospital Medicine, "Ten Tips For a Crisis: Lessons From a Soldier" written for physician leaders, this podcast shares ten tips for CMOs to use for Hurricane Milton (or for any other impending crisis!)
2024-10-0911 minThe Fire ChiefComing SoonIntroduction to a podcast coming soon
2024-09-2602 min