What challenges do elite athletes and healthcare leaders face in their respective arenas, and how do they overcome them?

On this episode of Practice Freedom, Mark welcomes Dr. Michael Neal, an aspiring ultramarathoner, and compares notes on fitness ambitions and the trials that come with them. From dealing with injuries like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis to unusual fueling strategies like consuming mashed potatoes mid-run, we explore the mental and physical resilience required to push boundaries. Mark and Michael’s conversation transitions from the marathon track to the professional field, examining the dynamics of optometry and healthcare recruiting.

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, finding and nurturing top talent is no less challenging than training for a 12-hour race. We share insights on effective recruitment strategies, likening the search for exceptional candidates to panning for gold. Mark and Michael’s discussion underscores the importance of leadership and the role of organizational culture in integrating new hires. We explore the advantages of leveraging automated assessments and video interviews, emphasizing the need for quick decision-making in a competitive hiring landscape where the best candidates are quickly snapped up.

Creating a thriving healthcare practice that meets professional aspirations and patient needs requires vision and adaptability. We offer guidance for healthcare leaders seeking to build high-value practices, focusing on aligning individual strengths with organizational roles. With the support of tools like Build My Team, practitioners can navigate the complex hiring process with confidence.

• From personal marathon aspirations to enjoying running post-injury
• Dr. Michael Neal’s preparation for a 12-hour ultra marathon, including unique race nutrition strategies
• Challenges and strategies in healthcare recruitment, especially in optometry
• The importance of aligning new hires with organizational culture and adapting to post-COVID work preferences
• Use of modern hiring techniques like automated assessments and video interviews to streamline recruitment
• Balancing empathy with strategic decision-making in talent management and acquisition
• Encouragement for healthcare practitioners to create high-value practices that align with personal and professional goals

• Dr. Michael Neal’s website: www.buildmyteam.com
• Email Dr. Neal: drmike@buildmyteam.com
• Find Build My Team on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BuildMyTeamCompany
• Connect with Build My Team on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/build-my-team-health-wellness

As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

What's enough pain to drive change in your life?

Join Mark as he tackles this question, sparked by an insightful conversation with John Gallagher. He discusses how minor inconveniences can snowball into major issues if not addressed promptly and the critical role that time and acceptance play in this process. Through relatable examples, including Mark’s own struggle with pool maintenance, he highlights the importance of prioritizing problems and making timely changes in both your personal life and business.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, whether you're dealing with the clinical or business aspects of your practice or striving for a better work-life balance. Learn about the systems and tools available to ensure you have the right people in the right seats within your organization, fostering a healthier, more productive work environment.

Don't miss the chance to get insights that could help you move towards the life you deserve.

• The importance of having a coach for achieving a balanced and thriving practice
• Dynamics of change driven by pain and prioritizing what matters most
• Managing minor issues before they snowball into bigger problems
• Leveraging systems to ensure the right people are in the right seats
• Real-world examples highlighting timely decision-making and problem-solving
• Strategies for transforming clinical and business challenges
• Building a healthier, more productive work environment through coaching insights

• www.markhendersonleary.com

As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

What happens when the discomfort of staying the same outweighs the fear of change?

On this episode of Practice Freedom, Mark welcomes John Gallagher, founder of Growing Champions Coaching and Consulting, who draws from his experience with giants like IBM and Harvard University. John brings to life the need for transformation through a story about a smoke alarm that wakes him in the dead of night, pushing him to recognize and act upon life's pivotal moments. You’ll hear insights on personal growth, the role of coaches in navigating change, and the urgency of breaking out of mediocrity.

Mark and John’s discussion turns into the healthcare sector, where John shares his transition from manufacturing to healthcare consulting. Mark and John dive into the multifaceted challenges healthcare professionals face, from entrenched practices to a lack of business training, and how these barriers can hinder operational excellence. Drawing inspiration from the Toyota Production System, they explore ways to eliminate waste and enhance efficiency within healthcare organizations. The conversation underscores a need for adept management and leadership to fully harness the potential of healthcare systems.

Mark and John shift focus to the importance of vulnerability and continuous learning in healthcare leadership. Highlighting John Maxwell's Five Levels of Leadership, we discuss the transition from individual excellence to collaborative roles that require openness and trust. This part of the episode stresses the need for a cultural shift from scarcity to abundance, where healthcare staff feel safe to make mistakes and grow.

By fostering a culture of questioning and learning, Mark and John aim to inspire leaders to create environments centered on healing, innovation, and sustainable growth.

• Insights on effective leadership and operational excellence with John Gallagher
• Real-world examples from IBM and Harvard University on embracing change
• Application of Toyota Production System principles to healthcare efficiency
• Challenges in healthcare, including resistance to change and lack of business training
• Importance of vulnerability and openness in healthcare leadership
• Creating a culture of continuous learning and reflection
• Personal anecdotes and practical advice for fostering personal and professional growth

• John Gallagher’s website: coachjohngallagher.com
• John’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/coachjohngallagher
• John’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/coachjohngallagher

As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.