BEYOND THE CORNER OFFICE

In an era where healthcare systems grapple with relentless challenges—from workforce shortages to equity gaps—true leadership shines brightest in those who can innovate while staying deeply connected to the human element of the industry. In a recent episode of the Follow the Brand Podcast, hosted by the dynamic Grant McGaugh, Herb Buchanan, a seasoned healthcare executive and current chair of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE), shared invaluable insights on leadership, mentorship, and the future of healthcare.

This conversation wasn’t merely a recounting of professional achievements. Instead, it was a powerful masterclass in leadership for board chairs and healthcare executives navigating one of the most turbulent periods in the industry’s history.

From Cars to Care: The Unorthodox Journey of a Healthcare Executive

Herb Buchanan’s career trajectory is far from typical. Beginning as an automotive engineer at Chrysler, Buchanan transitioned into healthcare—a sector far removed from manufacturing but rich with opportunities for innovation. His engineering mindset, combined with an MBA from Northwestern University, provided the perfect foundation for tackling healthcare’s complex challenges. Over three decades, Buchanan has held C-suite roles across the Midwest and East Coast, overseeing transformative initiatives at both academic medical centers and community health systems.

But for Buchanan, leadership isn’t just about titles or operational successes. "You can get all the training and education you want," he emphasized on the podcast, "but until you build meaningful relationships, you won’t achieve true success."

Leadership in the C-Suite: The Power of Relationships

One of the most striking themes from Buchanan’s interview was his emphasis on relationship-building. For healthcare executives, it’s easy to get lost in the metrics—cost savings, quality scores, or patient throughput. Yet Buchanan insists that the heart of leadership lies in forging authentic connections.

"People want to work with someone who listens, collaborates, and delivers results," he said. "Your relationships—both within and outside your organization—are what ultimately propel you forward."

He credits much of his success to this approach, as well as to mentors who guided him throughout his career. Leaders like Kevin Lofton, former CEO of CommonSpirit Health, played pivotal roles in shaping Buchanan’s perspective. These relationships didn’t just help Buchanan advance; they laid the foundation for his philosophy of empowering others.

Diversity and Equity: Moving Beyond the Buzzwords

As chair of NAHSE, Buchanan is deeply invested in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare leadership. His message was clear: diversity in the C-suite isn’t just about representation—it’s about better outcomes for patients, organizations, and communities.

"Diversity isn’t a ‘nice-to-have.’ It’s essential to solving healthcare’s biggest problems," Buchanan noted. "When diverse leaders are at the table, they bring perspectives that lead to more innovative solutions and equitable care delivery."

Through NAHSE, Buchanan has championed initiatives like mentorship programs, case competitions for graduate students, and executive development for mid-career professionals. He highlighted the organization’s role in not only supporting Black leaders but also in tackling health equity issues that disproportionately affect underserved communities.

Preparing for the Future: Lessons for Healthcare Boards

Buchanan didn’t shy away from addressing the challenges facing healthcare systems today. For board chairs and C-suite executives, his insights are both a call to action and a roadmap for navigating uncertainty:

1. Workforce Shortages: "We’re not going to have enough nurses, techs, or physicians to meet the demand. Boards need to prioritize workforce development—starting as early as middle school—to create a pipeline of healthcare professionals."
2. Leadership Continuity: With CEO turnover averaging just three years, Buchanan emphasized the importance of retention and succession planning. "It takes two years just to learn a culture. Frequent turnover undermines strategy and stability."
3. Health Equity: Boards must go beyond surface-level commitments. "Equity initiatives need to be embedded into annual goals, board priorities, and executive evaluations. Without accountability, progress will stagnate."
4. Technology and AI: Buchanan sees immense potential in leveraging artificial intelligence but warned against rushing into implementation without a clear strategy. "AI can drive efficiencies and innovation, but it must be aligned with organizational goals."
5. Partnerships and Competition: As non-traditional players like Amazon and Walmart enter the healthcare space, traditional systems must adapt. "Healthcare is local, but partnerships can provide the scale needed to compete effectively."

A Legacy of Mentorship and Empowerment

Perhaps the most poignant takeaway from Buchanan’s interview was his focus on legacy. While he has achieved much in his career, he remains deeply committed to preparing the next generation of leaders.

"I tell my mentees, ‘One day, I’ll be working for you.’ And that’s not just a joke. There’s no greater pride than seeing someone you’ve mentored surpass you in their achievements," he said.

For board chairs, CEOs, and aspiring healthcare leaders, Buchanan’s insights are a timely reminder: the future of healthcare doesn’t just rest on technology, innovation, or policy. It rests on people—leaders who listen, inspire, and create opportunities for others to thrive.

The Final Word

In an industry where challenges often feel insurmountable, Herb Buchanan’s perspective offers hope and clarity. His approach—rooted in relationships, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to equity—reminds us all that the path to transformation begins with leadership.

As healthcare leaders across the nation grapple with their own complex challenges, Buchanan’s words are a rallying cry: "Be the kind of leader people remember—not for what you achieved, but for how you made others believe in what they could achieve."

For boardroom chairs and healthcare executives, this conversation is not just worth listening to—it’s worth acting on. After all, as Buchanan demonstrated, true leadership is about building legacies that endure long after we’ve left the room.

Subscribe to the Follow the Brand Podcast for more insights from leaders shaping the future of healthcare.

About 5 STAR BDM and Grant McGaugh

5 STAR BDM is a premier brand development and business strategy firm founded by Grant McGaugh, an accomplished thought leader with over 20 years of expertise in healthcare and technology. The company specializes in empowering professionals and businesses to amplify their potential through innovative branding, digital transformation strategies, and leadership development. At the heart of its mission is the belief that building strong personal and corporate brands fosters growth, resilience, and long-term success.

Grant McGaugh, the host of the Follow the Brand Podcast, is a dynamic speaker, consultant, and mentor dedicated to advancing the careers of emerging leaders and strengthening organizations through the power of strategic connection. Recognized as a trusted advisor in healthcare and IT, Grant has been featured in publications such as Legacy Magazine and has received accolades for his impactful leadership and commitment to community empowerment. His podcast, Follow the Brand, highlights transformative leaders across industries, inspiring audiences to redefine success and build lasting legacies.

For more information about 5 STAR BDM, visit www.5starbdm.com. To connect with Grant McGaugh, follow him on LinkedIn at Grant McGaugh.