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MGMA PodcastsWelcome to the MGMA Podcast Network, your gateway to insightful discussions and expert analysis on key topics in healthcare management. Author: MGMA
Welcome to the MGMA Podcast Network, your gateway to insightful discussions and expert analysis on key topics in healthcare management. Dive into a diverse array of shows tailored to meet the interests and needs of healthcare professionals like you. Explore the experiences and perspectives of trailblazing women in healthcare on "Women in Healthcare," or discover innovative strategies and solutions for your practice on "Business Solutions." Stay updated on the latest industry trends and news with "Week in Review," and gain valuable insights from industry leaders and MGMA members on "Member Spotlight." Don't miss our flagship show, "MGMA Insights," where we delve deep into the most pressing issues facing healthcare organizations today. Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or in-depth analysis, the MGMA Podcast Network is your trusted companion on your journey towards excellence in healthcare management. Tune in and join the conversation today! Language: en Genres: Business, Health & Fitness, Medicine Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Building a People‑First Practice: Adaptability, Conflict Resolution, and Better Onboarding with Amy Lafko
Episode 750
Wednesday, 28 January, 2026
On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with returning guest Amy Lafko — MGMA consultant, speaker, creator of the People First Method, and author of People First. Amy shares practical, immediately usable strategies for medical practice leaders navigating 2026’s rapidly shifting regulatory landscape, workforce challenges, and rising emotional strain within healthcare teams.From strengthening adaptability to reinventing onboarding, Amy delivers a toolkit that helps leaders build environments where teams feel supported, patients receive better care, and organizations thrive.KEY TAKEAWAYS (00:53) Amy’s healthcare leadership background shapes her "people first" philosophy — Beginning as a physical therapist and later serving in rehab, hospital, urgent care, and medical group leadership roles, Amy’s firsthand failures and successes inform her mission to help leaders avoid burnout and build thriving teams. (02:00) Adaptability is the #1 leadership skill for 2026 — With regulatory uncertainty and fast‑changing payer environments, leaders must intentionally build their “capacity to adapt.” Adaptability is learnable and essential.(03:36) Productive conflict should be trained at all levels, not just leadership — Teaching frontline staff to resolve issues reduces managerial burden and increases team cohesion. Practices that invest here see faster self‑resolution and fewer escalations.(05:20) Rising frustration is being mistaken for “more conflict” — Most conflicts aren’t actually new; people’s emotional set point is simply higher due to uncertainty. Leaders must help teams regulate emotions to reduce escalations. (08:03) The People First Method flips the traditional patient‑first mindset — Leaders shouldn’t bypass their teams to “get to the patient.” Supporting the team is what ensures outstanding patient care. (10:19) Onboarding must shift from task‑checking to “alignment and inspiration” — Traditional onboarding (e.g., first‑day EMR videos) disconnects new hires. People‑First onboarding welcomes, aligns with values, personalizes training, and boosts long‑term retention.(12:26) Weekly check‑ins using five simple questions transform new‑hire success — Quick meetings built around consistent reflection and support help new hires feel connected, confident, and aligned from day one.(13:53) People‑first cultures start with one deceptively simple factor: willingness — Willingness to invest time up front, to be consistent, and to level‑set leaders across the organization.RESOURCES Amy LafkoAmy Lafko's websitePeople First: A Method for Developing Leadership and Team Culture - bookMGMAMedical Practice Staffing Solutions PlaybookMedical Practice Staff Onboarding PlaybookHuman Resources Management CertificateHuman Resources resources Podcast Sponsor MGMA BestPriceManaging your supply chain doesn’t have to be complicated. MGMA BestPrice — the exclusive GPO for MGMA members — can help your practice save up to 20% on medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, office essentials, employee perks, waste management and more. This free national member benefit connects you to some of the most competitive pricing in the industry, helping every dollar saved become a dollar reinvested into better patient care and stronger operations. Learn how to start saving today at mgmabestprice.org.
