In this grounded, real-world conversation, Danny sits down with healthcare leader Donna McNichol to explore what leadership actually looks like on the front lines. Drawing from decades of experience managing complex healthcare teams, Donna shares why great leadership isn’t about constant firefighting—it’s about building systems that prevent emergencies before they happen.

Together, they unpack the hidden cost of “fire hose management,” how workplace drama quietly drains energy, and why boredom can actually be a sign of healthy leadership. This episode is a must-listen for managers who want stability, trust, and momentum—especially in high-pressure environments like healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

• Constant emergency management is exhausting—and often preventable with better systems
• Strong leaders reduce drama by addressing issues early and directly
• Psychological safety grows when mistakes are treated as system issues, not personal failures
• Preventative leadership creates space for focus, energy, and even fun at work
• Culture is shaped through small, consistent behaviors—not big dramatic moves

Resources & Mentions:

• Guest: Donna McNichol
  • Connect with Donna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-mcnichol-782b3915
• Recommended Books:
  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Host: Danny Ceballos – Unleashed Consulting
https://unleashedconsult.com/

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The Best Boss Whisperer is a leadership podcast for individuals who want to lead effectively without burning out or becoming the bottleneck that stifles their team’s decisions, momentum, and productivity.

© 2026 Danny Ceballos / Unleashed Consulting