Candid conversations with healthcare’s brightest leaders. On Leader to Leader, hospital lifer and Healthcare IT Leaders President Ben Hilmes, MHA, FACHE, holds insightful conversations with some of the brightest minds in both healthcare and tech. Learn from their successes (and failures) and take away insights to fuel your own personal leadership journey through the healthcare industry.
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November 4, 202521 min
Unity of Mission: How Community Commitment Guides Health First
How do you lead through change and uncertainty?Start with your mission and let it guide the way.For Michael Carr, Chief Information Officer at Health First, that clarity of purpose has kept the organization steady through leadership turnover, provider shortages, and a system-wide Epic implementation. In this episode, he shares how Health First’s community-first approach impacts their AI strategy and technological investments.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to lead through turnover and organizational changeWhat innovation means in leadershipHow to apply AI in ways that support human careJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Michael Carr, Chief Information Officer at Health First(01:31) Providing world-class healthcare to Brevard County(05:27) Epic implementation insights(09:23) How to navigate organizational change(11:52) Health First’s adoption of AI (15:43) Leadership lessons from the military
July 16, 202525 min
Empowerment Through Innovations: Reimagining the Future of Nursing at Duke Health
The pandemic has fundamentally reshaped the nursing workforce, creating both challenges and opportunities to reimagine care delivery. In this episode, Dr. Terry McDonnell, Chief Nursing Executive and Senior Vice President at Duke University Health System, discusses how Duke Health is addressing turnover in nursing, empowering frontline staff through innovation initiatives, and building robust career pipelines as early as eighth grade. With a goal of building a sustainable, future-focused nursing workforce, Dr. McDonnell offers valuable insights into creating technology-enhanced innovation units, leveraging AI and ambient technology to transform documentation, and adapting care models for the next generation of patients.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Duke Health is addressing the post-pandemic nursing challenge with empowerment initiatives that reduced turnover by 10%The role of AI and technology in building the care environments of the futureWhy Dr. McDonnell believes the future of nursing will be hybrid, creating a need for nurses skilled in both direct and virtual patient careJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Terry McDonnell, Chief Nursing Executive and Senior Vice President at Duke University Health System(01:54) Impact of the pandemic on nursing(03:13) Challenges in the nursing workforce(04:55) Strategies to reduce nurse turnover(06:27) Empowering frontline staff(07:22) Building future nursing pipelines(09:37) Leveraging technology in healthcare(11:52) Innovation units at Duke(16:17) Hybrid models of care(17:07) Nursing innovation summit(20:18) Dr. McDonnell’s leadership journey
June 30, 202521 min
Stacking Small Wins for Big Impact: MultiCare’s Playbook for Sustainable Innovation
AI adoption in healthcare is no longer a question of if, but when. For leaders embracing this shift, the true challenge lies in addressing foundational issues, clearing technical debt, and ensuring data integrity to create a scalable and sustainable future.In this episode, Bradd Busick, SVP, Chief Information Officer at MultiCare, shares his leadership philosophy and emphasizes the importance of getting your foundations right before exploring innovative technologies like AI. With a focus on reducing clinician burnout, strengthening patient-provider relationships, and leading with authenticity, Bradd offers valuable insights on how healthcare organizations can scale effectively and create a more intimate, personalized care experience.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How ambient listening is reducing clinician burden and improving patient relationships in clinicsBradd’s leadership philosophy of wanting more for his team than from them, and why authenticity mattersThe role of AI in fostering deeper connections between healthcare providers and patientsJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Bradd Busick, SVP, Chief Information Officer at MultiCare Health System(01:12) MultiCare's vision and strategy(02:07) The importance of foundational tech(03:23) Data orchestration and AI integration(04:27) Challenges in healthcare technology(05:10) The philosophy of base hits(06:09) Enhancing clinician-patient interaction(10:00) Leadership lessons from COVID-19(11:12) Healthcare's arrogance and private sector lessons(14:19) The future of healthcare partnerships(15:05) Leadership and emotional intelligence(19:30) Final learnings with Paul
June 13, 202522 min
Modernizing Healthcare: How Cloud Adoption Drives Real Patient Outcomes
Cloud adoption in healthcare is no longer a question of if, but how. For leaders navigating this transformation, the real challenge is in aligning technology with organizational purpose, trust, and long-term impact.In this episode, Jeremy Marut, Founder and CEO of Sublimation Health, shares how his decades of experience in hospital IT led him to build a company that helps health systems shift from managing infrastructure to delivering meaningful solutions. He explores what it takes to overcome fear and uncertainty around cloud migration, why cost transparency matters, and how to reframe technical debt as an opportunity for reinvention.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Jeremy Marut left hospital IT after 25 years to help health systems escape the burden of technical debtThe biggest misconceptions about cloud migration in healthcare and how to overcome themHow cost transparency, job security, and organizational alignment shape successful cloud transitionsWhat’s next in cloud innovation, from AI-enhanced workflows to quantum computing, and why the future of healthcare depends on itHow Stoicism and servant leadership guide Jeremy’s decision-making as a founder and CEOJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Jeremy Marut, Founder and CEO of Sublimation Health(02:08) The problem with never-ending implementations and growing technical debt(03:46) “Save lives, not drives”: the personal meaning behind Sublimation’s tagline(07:54) Biggest misconceptions about cloud migration in healthcare(10:13) Addressing fear, uncertainty, and doubt: why cloud transformation feels risky(12:35) Where real cloud savings come from: hard vs. soft cost reductions(16:12) The future: AI, quantum computing, and workflow-driven cloud innovation(18:17) Jeremy’s leadership philosophy in Stoicism and servant leadership(20:20) The challenge of celebrating wins and evolving as a startup leader(20:46) Episode recap and closing thoughts on leadership in healthcare IT
May 20, 202517 min
Franciscan Health’s Journey to the Cloud: Pioneering Epic on Microsoft Azure
When hospital systems move to the cloud, it’s not just an IT project—it’s a leadership journey. Strategic choices made in this transition shape not only technical outcomes but also how teams collaborate and deliver care.In this episode, Chuck Christian, Chief Technology Officer at Franciscan Health, discusses the organization's move to migrate Epic to Microsoft Azure, paving a path for scalability and long-term success.Chuck talks about the complexities of cloud cost management and how it’s able to save them millions of dollars, and he also shares the leadership lessons that have shaped his career, especially around staying curious, practicing humility, and truly working together as a team. Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Franciscan Health achieved a successful migration of Epic to Microsoft Azure, enhancing scalability and infrastructureThe impact of introducing a cloud cost analyst role, leading to millions in savings through better cost management and predictionWhy leadership is practiced through curiosity and teamworkJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction to leadership and finance(00:22) Meet Chuck Christian: CTO at Franciscan Health(00:33) Pioneering move to Microsoft Azure(03:02) Challenges and learnings from cloud migration(05:45) Cloud cost management strategies(07:52) Consolidation and standardization efforts(10:11) The role of health information exchanges(12:58) Leadership and the CIO bootcamp(16:02) Chuck’s leadership styles
May 6, 202524 min
Driving Innovation at Emory Healthcare: Leveraging Cloud and AI for Better Patient Care
Innovation is required for navigating the evolving healthcare landscape. For leaders, however, this requires more than just technology. Organizational culture and norms, strategy, and people-first leadership come into play. In this episode, Scott Smiser, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer at Emory Healthcare, shares how meaningful change is achieved through cloud migration and AI advances. He also tells us about Emory’s experiments with using Apple devices in clinical settings, as well as his growth-centered approach to leadership. In a field where technology and humanity intersect, we’ll learn how innovation is a natural outcome when there is a harmonious relationship between people, processes, and technology.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Emory Healthcare is using innovation to drive both cost efficiency and top-line growthHow Emory’s “Shark Tank” style Innovation Hub is funding and scaling new ideas to drive meaningful healthcare improvementsWhy empowering teams and developing talent is at the heart of Scott Smiser’s leadership approachWhy Emory Healthcare is piloting the use of Apple products in clinical settings, and how it’s ultimately benefiting patient careJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Scott Smiser, Chief Innovation & Technology Officer at Emory Healthcare(00:22) Emory Healthcare’s approach to innovation: Internal and external impacts(03:34) The role of innovation in delivering better services and creating new value for patients and researchers(06:50) Emory’s “Shark Tank” style Innovation Hub(10:35) Moving to the cloud and shifting from managing data centers to cloud solutions(13:17) The importance of AI tools like ambient listening in transforming clinician workflows(17:30) Emory's experiment with Apple products in clinical settings(22:16) Empowering teams and leadership lessons learned from mentors(25:43) The future of healthcare innovation, leading a people-first culture
April 22, 202528 min
Shifting from Projects to Products: How NYC H+H Uses Data to Improve Patient Care
Data is at the heart of modern healthcare, but turning information into better patient outcomes requires more than just technology—it takes a clear strategy and a shift in mindset.In this episode, Shahran Haider, Deputy Chief Data Officer at NYC Health, unpacks how the nation’s largest public health system is rethinking its approach to data. He shares why NYC Health is moving from projects to products, how AI is being integrated responsibly to support clinicians, and what it takes to make data truly accessible across a massive, complex organization.But it’s not just about systems and tools. Shahran also reflects on the leadership principles guiding this transformation and why adaptability, collaboration, and trust are just as critical as any technology.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why NYC Health shifted from projects to products for sustainable data impactHow AI is driving clinical efficiency, ROI, and scalability in public healthHow data democratization is empowering teams while maintaining security and governanceJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Shahran Haider(00:47) How data improves patient care at NYC Health + Hospitals(04:15) Shifting from projects to a product mindset in healthcare(08:19) The AI Advisory Board’s three priorities for responsible AI(13:20) How Snowflake cut data delivery time from days to minutes(17:43) Data democratization and empowering self-service analytics(22:37) Leadership, AI, and the skills needed for the future
February 3, 202529 min
Can the Promise of AI Match the Hype? ROI and Lessons From Initial Use Cases at RUSH
Technology is reshaping healthcare, but it takes strong leadership to transform innovation into real impact.In this episode, Jeff Gautney, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Rush University System for Health, shares his career path from consulting to leading IT at a top academic medical center. He breaks down Rush’s digital transformation strategy—leveraging AI and automation, modernizing infrastructure, and driving operational efficiency.Beyond the technology, Jeff explores how the role of IT leadership is shifting and why change management is now a must-have skill.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How AI is reshaping healthcare operations—from ambient listening to robotic process automation.Why change management is now central to IT leadership and how Rush is embedding it as a core function.How automation is helping address workforce shortages while improving efficiency and patient care.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Jeff Gautney(02:31) How an unconventional career path led to a CIO role(05:33) Rush’s four-bucket AI strategy and responsible implementation(09:35) Why AI’s productivity gains don’t always mean cost savings(12:15) Using automation to address workforce shortages in healthcare(14:43) The three pillars driving digital transformation at Rush(23:08) The evolving role of CIOs and cybersecurity challenges
January 20, 202536 min
Tackling RCM challenges in a new role: Building culture and process at Sutter Health
When technology and leadership converge, wonderful things may happen. In this episode, Motti Edelstein, Vice President of the Chief Revenue Office at Sutter Health, shares his journey in leading revenue cycle transformation across two of the nation's largest healthcare systems. Motti reflects on his transition from Allina Health to Sutter Health, offering insights into managing payer-provider relationships, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and leveraging technology to drive efficiency and improve patient experiences.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Sutter Health is rethinking payer-provider dynamics to streamline processes and reduce operational waste.The importance of aligning patient-centered workflows with financial goals to minimize healthcare debt and enhance patient experiences.Why automation and digital transformation are critical to navigating the complexities of modern healthcare revenue cycles.Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introducing Motti Edelstein(01:43) Transitioning from Allina Health to Sutter Health(02:35) Comparing regulatory challenges in Minnesota and California(07:04) Rethinking payer-provider relationships with monthly touchpoints(13:41) Putting patients at the center of revenue cycle workflows(17:46) Embracing technology for digital transformation in healthcare(29:33) Leadership lessons from “Coffee with Motti”
December 16, 202427 min
From the Gift Shop to the C-Suite: Reflections on a Career In Healthcare Finance
When technology and leadership align, the future of healthcare becomes an exciting frontier of possibilities.In this episode, Rich Miller, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Strategy Officer at Northwell Health, reflects on his rise from a hospital gift shop manager to a senior leader at one of the nation’s largest healthcare systems. From driving automation to navigating pivotal moments like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rich shares the lessons that have shaped his approach to leadership.In addition to his leadership journey, Rich highlights Northwell’s commitment to leadership development, showcasing how mentorship and stretch roles empower emerging leaders to thrive. Rich also discusses the role of AI and automation in reducing costs, boosting efficiency, and enhancing the consumer experience. Whether advancing revenue cycle management or leading through crises, Rich provides actionable strategies for healthcare leaders striving to make a meaningful impact.Learn more about Healthcare IT Leaders.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Rich leveraged automation and AI to cut costs and improve efficiency while enhancing the consumer experience in healthcare.The value of mentorship and stretch assignments in Northwell’s leadership development programs, empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders.Why collaboration and innovation are critical for navigating challenges like 9/11, COVID, and the evolving revenue cycle landscapeJump into the conversation:(00:00) Introducing Rich Miller(04:31) Lessons learned from leading through 9/11(09:14) Developing leaders with stretch assignments and mentorship(19:30) Exploring the role of AI and automation in healthcare(24:15) Empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders
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