Culture Eats Strategy: Leadership They Don’t Teach in Med School

In this episode of The Hauer Hour, Emma interviews Dr. Lindsay Ragsdale, chief medical officer at Kentucky Children's Hospital, discussing her journey in pediatric palliative care and leadership. They explore the importance of empathy, communication, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. Lindsay shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, the significance of mentorship for women in medicine, and the need for visionary leadership in healthcare. The conversation emphasizes the value of self-reflection, the importance of taking vacations, and the power of community and support in both personal and professional realms.


Takeaways

• Leadership is about communication, teamwork, and vision.
• Imposter syndrome is common, especially in leadership roles.
• Soft skills are crucial for effective leadership in healthcare.
• Empathy can coexist with accountability in leadership.
• Visionary leaders must embrace uncertainty and adaptability.
• Self-care and boundaries are essential to avoid burnout.
• Outsourcing tasks can help maintain balance in life.
• Learning from failure is part of the leadership journey.
• Mentorship is vital for empowering women in medicine.
• Palliative care skills are transferable to leadership roles.

Dr Ragsdale's Book Recommendations 

• The First 90 Days – A tactical guide for navigating leadership transitions with clarity, confidence, and strategic momentum.
• Social Capital in Healthcare – Explores how trust, relationships, and informal networks shape influence and innovation in medical systems.
• Conflict Resilience – Highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in transforming conflict into opportunities for growth and connection.

Follow up with Dr. Lindsay Ragsdale via email lindsay.ragsdale@uky.edu

Email us at hauerhourpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, comments, and ideas for future episodes

Find Emma Jones at The Recharge Studio and on Instagram