Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads between what you've always done and the potential of what you could do?  This episode offers a glimpse into the heart of medicine with Dr. Tariq Salman, an interventional cardiologist whose own pivot from academic medicine to private practice exemplifies the essence of adaptability and continuous growth. We share stories and insights on the art of mastering cardiology's complexities while maintaining an open mind in the face of evolving medical practices.The journey of self-betterment is fraught with confronting our limitations, and it is within this space that we find the seeds of personal and professional growth. Dr. Salman and I delve into how recognizing and tackling our weaknesses can transform our approach to patient care and self-actualization. The discussion navigates through learning new skills, such as ultrasound-guided access, and emphasizes eloquent communication with patients, separating professional setbacks from our self-worth.Collaboration over competition, the nurturing of curiosity, and the value of shared knowledge take center stage as we explore how these principles can revolutionize patient care. We dissect the vital importance of feedback in refining medical techniques and underscore the parallels between the discipline of elite athletes and the resilience required in medicine. Wrapping up, we touch on the profound influence of authenticity and compassion in both our personal lives and the workplace, leaving you with a vivid reminder of the transformative power of vulnerability and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Join us for this profound expedition as we journey towards being better practitioners, better listeners, and ultimately, better human beings.

Bill and Scott Nelson, the CEO of FastWave Medical and Medsider, discussed the complexities of balancing shareholder value and the interests of their physician customers and patients in the medical technology industry.  They also shared their insights on the role of a CEO in a startup, the importance of emotional strength and mindfulness in decision-making, and the challenges and opportunities of using social media in their professional context. Lastly, they highlighted the importance of innovation, risk-taking, and focusing on solving patient needs, and shared their thoughts on what they wished they had learned earlier in their careers.

Bill hosts Dr. Kate Kearney, Dr. Rhian Davies, and Dr. Kathryn Dawson to discuss the challenges faced by women in interventional cardiology, including gender discrepancies, assumptions about professional abilities, and experiences of imposter syndrome.They also explored the importance of creating supportive communities, mentorship, and training opportunities to empower women in these roles.  Lastly, they addressed issues such as pregnancy discrimination and the need for compassion and solidarity within the team.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Stephanie Patterson BSN, RN, dipACLN, who transformed her career as a critical care nurse into a mission for wellness through lifestyle medicine.  Her candid insights reveal the stark realities of burnout in high-stress healthcare roles and the revival of her spirit through embracing a new approach to health. Together, we traverse the emotional landscapes that shape our health choices, from the subtle daily stressors to the life-altering traumas that can redirect our entire existence. It's not just about shedding pounds; it's about the metamorphosis of identity as Stephanie and I discuss the inner work that's crucial for meaningful transformation. The dialogue unfolds like a roadmap, guiding listeners through the importance of self-awareness, confronting fears, and redefining success to unlock genuine fulfillment.As the episode progresses, we advocate for a cultural overhaul within the healthcare realm, promoting a holistic model that marries health coaching with traditional medicine. Stephanie's story is not just a narrative of personal enlightenment; it's a call to action for all caregivers to cultivate deeper connections with themselves and their patients. By the end of our journey, we arrive at the shared understanding that incremental lifestyle adjustments can lead to monumental shifts in health outcomes and personal contentment. Join us as we lay bare the heart and soul of health transformation.

Dr. Marty Leon candidly shares his trajectory, rife with both personal and professional milestones, we traverse the ethics of patient care, the challenges in achieving medical excellence, and the evolving landscape of healthcare technology.Our heartfelt discussion doesn't shy away from the complexities that come with striving for innovation in cardiology. The formation of the Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) and the inception of the TCT conference are testament to a collective aspiration to refine patient care. It's this spirit of collaboration and mentorship that defines Marty's approach, and we take a moment to reflect on the impact of embracing young talent in medicine, the importance of work-life balance, and the integration of faith and family in finding contentment.The episode closes on a note of camaraderie and personal growth, exploring how shared successes often eclipse individual achievements in a collaborative medical environment. As we acknowledge the ups and downs of this demanding yet rewarding field, we also celebrate the moments of mentorship, teamwork, and even the simple joys like sharing a slice of pepperoni pizza in the lab. Join us as we not only honor the accomplishments of Dr. Marty Leon but also extend an invitation to those on their own medical journeys, looking for guidance and inspiration.

When the weight of a lead apron threatens to end a career, what does a pioneering cardiologist do?  Dr. Bob Foster, a beacon in the field of cardiology and peripheral intervention, wasn't ready to hang up his stethoscope. Journey with him as he defies the odds, crafting a legacy that intertwines medical innovation with personal triumph over adversity. From his upbringing in hospital corridors to the epiphany that led to a pioneering radiation protection device, Dr. Foster's story is a masterclass in turning challenges into catalysts for change.Navigating the complexities of the healthcare industry requires more than just medical knowledge; it demands courage and creativity. In an episode brimming with ingenuity, we uncover how Dr. Foster's collaboration with an engineer and close friend resulted in Rampart, a revolutionary lead-free radiation protection system. This narrative isn't just about a medical device; it's a testament to the power of teamwork and tireless dedication to patient care, even when faced with personal health battles. The evolution of safety practices in the cath lab—and the skeptics turned advocates along the way—offers a compelling look at how persistence can reshape an entire field.But this isn't solely a tale of professional achievement. At its heart, Dr. Foster's journey is underscored by the resilience born of faith, family, and health. The candid discussion on cultivating compassion in the face of corporatization, the importance of prioritizing patient care over volume, and the call for cultural shifts within medicine, challenges us to consider the broader implications of our work. It's an invitation to champion innovation and collaboration, ensuring those who heal others aren't left behind in the pursuit of progress.

Jennifer Frampton, DO, MPH, is an interventional cardiologist at Yale Medicine developing a CTO program.  She is stepping out of her comfort zone to ensure she is prepared for the challenges ahead.

Bill and Dr. Allison Hall discussed her journey through her training experiences, the challenges she faced, and the benefits of competition in the medical field.  They also explored the importance of collaboration, self-confidence, and creating inclusive environments in their profession.  Reflection on effective communication, the importance of speaking up, and the value of internal validation in defining a meaningful career wraps up the episode.

Bill and Brian discussed the importance of wealth management and financial planning, emphasizing the need for individualized goals and adaptable plans. They explored the challenges retirees face, the importance of social support and enjoyable activities, and the role of a trusted team in financial decision making. They also discussed the idea of leaving a trust for the benefit of others and the importance of selecting a trustee. Towards the end, they discussed the significance of early and disciplined planning, the role of co-trustees, and the impact of significant life events on financial planning.

Bill and Dr. Richard Shlofmitz shared his life story, medical career journey, and experiences with new technologies in medicine. He emphasized the importance of humility, education, and collaboration in the medical field. He also discussed his personal life and his drive to always be the best.  Richard and Bill have a wide-ranging discussion about the importance of self-reflection, the role of industry in education, and the challenges of being a good leader. They emphasized the importance of treating everyone with respect and helping others succeed.

Bill Lombardi and Dr. Robert Federici discuss Dr. Federici's background and experiences in Albuquerque.  They also explored Dr. Federici's journey into CTOs, his emotional experiences, and the role of faith and spirituality in navigating challenging situations. The conversation also touched on the importance of balance, humility, and gratitude, and the role of competition and compassion in healthcare.

Bill and Cynthia Rutzick, Bill's sister, discussed their respective career paths in the healthcare industry, with Cynthia's legal focus on supporting physicians.  They delve into the importance of legal representation in contract negotiations, particularly in the medical field. They emphasized the need for physicians to ask questions and express their expectations to ensure a good match with the practice.  They touched on the changes in compensation strategies, the challenges faced when making career and personal life decisions, the importance of parental leave, and the need for compassion in the healthcare system.

After a week in the lab with Bill, Dr. Tony Cedrone sits down to discuss his journey in medicine and faith.  They discuss how faith plays a role in imposter syndrome, confronting negativity and fear.

Ron Hentges, previously a cardiovascular technician, discuss his extensive experience in the medical field, including his time with the Navy and teaching new technologies as Director of Marketing & Education at Asahi Intecc USA, Inc. They emphasized the importance of effective communication and feedback loops, as well as the need for empathy towards operators in the cath lab. The conversation also touched upon the significance of team dynamics and training, and the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life.

Bill and Dr. Jonathan Hill had a conversation about Jonathan's professional journey in the medical field, including his experiences training in Scotland, London, and the US. They discussed his current focus on molecular biology and stem cell research, his interest in treating patients with CTO's, and his research on angiogenesis. They also talked about Jonathan's shift from stem cell research to focusing on CTO's, the importance of being open to new opportunities and experiences, and the financial challenges faced by interventional cardiologists in the UK.

Dr. Lindsey Cilia provides a candid look into her career and how it has effected her personal life.   She emphasized the importance of having a supportive environment during her transition from training to her first job and the challenges of managing a personal life alongside a professional career in medicine.

Bill and Dr. Brian Whisenant, Medical Director, Heart Valve and Structural Heart Disease at Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute, shared their personal experiences, emotions, and challenges related to their profession, including dealing with the loss of a mentor and cultural differences on a team. They emphasized the significance of teamwork, trust, and support, especially in the context of innovation and new technologies.  Both agreed on the need to find an environment that suits them best and the importance of self-improvement rather than comparing oneself to others.  They also highlighted the challenges and counterproductive incentives in the medical field, particularly in relation to continuing medical education and physician productivity.

To kick off 2024, Bill is joined on the Journey with Dr. Jennifer Tremmel, a Mid-westerner living on the west coast as an interventional cardiologist at Standford. She draws on her experienceas an avid runner and a motto "don't think, just run" that translates to other aspects of her life to help push forward through the mental barriers and accomplish her goals.

Bill is joined by Dr. Babak Nazer the first Electrophysiologist on the podcast and his colleague at UW Medicine Heart Institute specializing in complex ablation of arrhythmia including ventricular tachycardia.  In addition to clinical work he has garnered a lot of news around a device in development in his research lab on campus.Dr. Nazer directs the UW Translational Electrophysiology Laboratory, where his research focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of ventricular arrhythmias (premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) and ventricular tachycardia (VT). In collaboration with acoustic physicists and biomedical engineers, his laboratory develops new diagnostic and therapeutic ablation tools for the treatment of PVCs and VT, particularly those using ultrasound as an energy source.

Drs. Pranaychan Vaidya, Ankitkumar Patel, and Haroon Faraz are an interventional team in Hackensack, NJ building a high risk PCI program.   They visited UW Heart Institute for a two day live case course  with Bill and his team, Drs. Kate Kearney and Lorenzo Azzalini, to focus on their skill development and decision making.  Special thanks to Medtronic for supporting the visit.