Dr. Julie Wilson, a family physician in British Columbia, joined Michael to discuss her work in transforming healthcare workplaces. Her organization now manages 20 clinics and supports more than 100 healthcare providers across the province. Julie shared her motivation to expand access and improve the quality of care, especially as BC faces the dual challenge of an aging population and rapidly growing immigrant communities. She emphasized the essential role of primary care in offering trusted guidance and stability for patients. Michael noted that stronger healthcare systems support healthier communities, which ultimately strengthens economic productivity and quality of life.

Michael and Julie explored the global shortage of healthcare workers, particularly physicians, which is placing immense strain on clinics and care systems. They discussed how rising patient volumes without matching compensation or support lead to burnout, turnover, and reduced quality of care. Julie highlighted the importance of creating supportive environments where healthcare professionals can practice in ways that align with their strengths and patient needs, rather than being restricted by rigid schedules or outdated expectations.

Michael spoke about the importance of meaningful clinician–patient relationships, especially for individuals living with chronic conditions or complex medical histories. He reflected on the growing administrative burden clinicians face due to charting demands and documentation requirements, which often distract from patient care and contribute to burnout. Michael expressed optimism that AI integration into electronic health records could reduce these tasks and give clinicians more time with patients.

Julie and Michael discussed how AI can transform healthcare documentation. They noted that AI tools can improve the completeness and accuracy of patient records, reduce the hours clinicians spend on charting, and support better follow up and communication. Michael highlighted the potential for AI to uncover meaningful patterns in patient data that can ultimately improve outcomes. Both agreed that reducing administrative friction will allow healthcare professionals to focus more fully on the practice of medicine.

Julie shared her philosophy for running medical clinics, grounded in autonomy, trust, and respect. She emphasized the value of listening to staff, providing emotional and operational support, and fostering a positive work culture. Michael added a personal example of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in one of his clinics, which aligned with Julie’s approach. Together, they underscored that when employees feel heard and supported, they deliver better care and maintain higher levels of engagement.

Website: https://terranovamedical.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wilson-4a25b4214/

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alexandra Gajer, a board certified physician who made a courageous shift from emergency medicine to the world of performance health optimization. Dr. Gajer shared how she reached a point of burnout even though she loved her work in the ER. Her story highlights a powerful truth that many high performers overlook. Loving your career does not make you immune to burnout. She explained why self care cannot be something we practice only during off hours, and how traditional medicine often focuses more on disease than on sustaining long term vitality. I emphasized how essential her work is, especially for leaders and professionals who want to feel energized and capable for decades rather than reacting to health problems after they arise.

Dr. Gajer broke down a shift she sees in her clients. Success is no longer just about titles or income. True success requires a strong foundation of health. She explained how metabolic health plays a central role in energy, performance, and longevity. Small changes in how the body uses food for fuel can create massive improvements. She also covered the importance of hormone health and how people at any age can regain optimal energy levels. Dr. Gajer described clients in their 70s, 80s, and even 90s who continue thriving because they invested early in their health and maintained consistent habits.

We explored why leaders over 45 must be proactive about both cognitive and physical health. Many people hit their 40s with more wisdom, capability, and clarity than ever, yet their bodies begin sending subtle warning signs. Dr. Gajer explained how burnout symptoms often show up quietly for people in demanding professions like healthcare, leadership, and entrepreneurship. We talked about why mindfulness, nutrition, movement, and regular health assessments are essential investments for long term functionality and longevity.

I shared my own experience with food intolerance testing and how it changed the way I look at nutrition. Discovering that I have a potato allergy, despite my Irish roots, and an intolerance to eggs, despite the egg in my brand logo, created some irony and a lot of self reflection. I talked about how foods interact with one another much like medications do, and why paying attention to how your body responds can be a game changer for overall well being.

Dr. Gajer discussed the sharp decline in testosterone levels among men and why diet is a major contributor. She emphasized the importance of whole foods over processed products that are engineered to be addictive. Whole foods help regulate appetite, stabilize weight, and support hormone balance. She also highlighted the link between processed foods, inflammation, and cognitive decline. The message was clear. Your diet is creating either long term strength or long term struggle.

We explored the consequences of poor dietary habits, including the rising rates of type 3 diabetes, Alzheimer's, and dementia. I shared why I believe medications like Ozempic are often used as a Band Aid for lifestyle choices rather than addressing root causes. We discussed how healthy food choices combined with regular movement help people maintain clarity, emotional stability, and resilience. When you take care of your body, you are better equipped to handle every other area of life.

Dr. Gajer emphasized that small health habits create major shifts. He noted that it is never too late to start making positive changes. We discussed the importance of consuming adequate protein, supporting gut microbiome health, and using daily rituals to reduce stress. I reinforced that when you strengthen your health, your performance improves in your relationships, your leadership, and your decision making.

Dr. Gajer shared an overview of her health optimization practice, which supports clients nationwide. Listeners can book a free intro call through her website theguyerPractice.com. With my background in primary care administration, I deeply appreciate how vital her work is for healthcare professionals and high performers striving to stay healthy while maintaining demanding careers. Her contact information is included for anyone ready to take the next step toward long term health and vitality.

Episode Summary Workplace stress steals joy, drains productivity, and harms overall well being. In this episode, we break down eight practical strategies employees and leaders can use to reduce stress, rebuild clarity, and create healthier work environments. If left unchecked, stress can impact performance, morale, and mental health, but the right habits and boundaries can change everything.

Stress is one of the biggest barriers to engagement and performance. Millions of workdays are lost each year due to stress, anxiety, and depression. Tight deadlines, heavy workloads, and lack of support are often the biggest contributors. Ignoring stress hurts people and companies. Addressing it helps everyone thrive.

Irritability, worry, trouble sleeping, shallow breathing, and trouble focusing are often the first signals. Understanding how stress shows up emotionally, physically, and behaviorally helps you catch it before it escalates.

Is it workload? Expectations? A demanding boss? Interpersonal conflict? Clarity helps you respond more intentionally and set healthier boundaries.

Boundaries communicate what is acceptable and sustainable. Whether it is availability, workload, or working hours, defining your limits reduces overload and protects your well being.

Your routines matter. Poor sleep, rushed mornings, and lack of recovery time amplify workplace stress. Incorporate activities that reset your nervous system like yoga, exercise, or quiet mornings.

Staying grounded in the present moment reduces anxiety about yesterday’s mistakes or tomorrow’s deadlines. Mindfulness, breathwork, and even aromatherapy can help calm the mind and increase clarity.

Strong relationships act as a buffer against stress. Talking with trusted friends, colleagues, or family helps you problem solve, feel supported, and maintain perspective.

Alcohol, junk food, caffeine overload, and smoking increase stress long term. Choose healthier outlets like movement, meditation, and nourishing routines to support your mental and physical health.

Multitasking increases errors and stress. Focus on single tasking, prioritizing what matters most, and organizing your workload in a manageable way. Efficiency reduces pressure.

Healthy employees perform better. Organizations that prioritize well being experience higher morale, stronger retention, and greater productivity. Flexible work options, reasonable expectations, appreciation, and opportunities for connection all reduce workplace stress.

Stress does not have to dominate your work life. When employees understand the signals, identify the root causes, and take proactive steps to manage stress, everyone benefits. When leaders support this effort, workplace culture transforms. Reducing stress is possible – and it starts with awareness, boundaries, connection, and smarter working habits.

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Marcotte — a seasoned retail and customer experience leader who has shaped some of the world’s most iconic brands. We explore what it really takes to build, scale, and transform organizations through culture, leadership, and a relentless focus on the customer. Matt shares insights from decades of navigating high-pressure environments, leading teams through disruption, and finding clarity in complexity.

Throughout our conversation, we dig into the mindset shifts leaders must make to succeed today, why experience is becoming a non-negotiable differentiator, and how the best organizations create consistency without stifling creativity. We also get personal: Matt opens up about his own evolution as a leader, where he’s gotten it wrong, and what he’s learned along the way. If you’re looking to elevate your leadership, rethink how you serve your customers, or simply hear a refreshingly honest perspective from someone who’s been in the trenches — this episode is for you.

Built on Belief: Why Cultures of Commitment Are the Competitive Advantage

What drives truly successful organizations? It is not just products, processes, or profits—it is belief.

In Built on Belief, leadership advisor Matt Marcotte reminds us that people are a brand’s greatest asset. When leaders and teams align around a shared belief, commitment naturally follows—and commitment always outperforms compliance.

This book is for leaders who want to inspire collaboration instead of control, employees who thrive in connection, and customers who stay loyal because of meaningful experiences.

Marcotte doesn’t offer empty corporate jargon or quick-fix trends. Instead, he distills three decades of leadership lessons into practical, human-centered strategies, including:

• How to clarify and codify the beliefs that define your brand

• How to shift from box-checking compliance to genuine commitment

• How to inspire people with a shared North Star

If you want to lead a culture that begins in the heart, aligns the head, and moves through the hands of every person in your organization, Built on Belief is your guide.

Matt Marcotte is the founder of M2 Collaborative, a leadership coaching and brand strategy consultancy. Over more than 30 years in the C-suite, Matt has helped build, scale, and reinvent some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Apple, Gap, Tory Burch, Bergdorf Goodman, and Salesforce.

He teaches MBA students at Boston College—his alma mater—on the power of brand and consumer relationships. A Columbia University–trained coach, Matt has been recognized as one of RETHINK Retail’s 100 Most Influential People and a Thinkers360 Top 100 Thought Leader.

Matt brings both wisdom and warmth to his work, balancing strategic insight with an unwavering belief in people. He lives in Boston with his husband and their dog.

Connect with Matt on LinkedIn

The Power of Purpose and People with Stephen Dwyer

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Dwyer, Incoming CEO (January 2026) of the American Staffing Association (ASA), to explore the intersection of purpose, leadership, and the future of work. From his early ambitions of becoming a lawyer to leading one of the most influential organizations in the staffing industry, Stephen shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey—and the values that guide his leadership today.

We unpack the evolution of the staffing sector, how ASA is addressing today’s workforce challenges, and why people-centered leadership is not just a philosophy but a necessity. If you’re passionate about shaping workplaces where people thrive, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Episode Highlights

[0:51] – Stephen’s unconventional path from law to leadership [3:20] – Lessons from two decades at the American Staffing Association [6:45] – Navigating workforce disruption and embracing innovation [10:12] – The human side of staffing: why people matter most [14:05] – Stephen’s vision for the future of work and leadership [18:40] – Advice for leaders navigating change in today’s world

🔗 Links & Resources

• American Staffing Association: americanstaffing.net

• Connect with Stephen Dwyer on LinkedIn: Stephen Dwyer

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Stephen Dwyer is a leading authority on the legal and public policy aspects of staffing. He engages in and coordinates the association’s legal and public affairs activities and advises the staffing industry on labor and employment law and policy issues. He has testified before legislatures and regulatory bodies regarding, and written extensively and spoken widely on, the staffing industry.

Before joining ASA, he was associated with the New York multinational law firm Chadbourne & Parke, as well as De Forest & Duer, a 100-year-old Wall Street firm. Dwyer is a member of the New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Virginia, and District of Columbia bar associations.

https://americanstaffing.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-dwyer-aa1116/