EPISODE NOTES

• Jamie and Matt open the episode with lighthearted holiday banter and personal Christmas traditions.
• This 99th episode marks a milestone far beyond the average podcast lifespan of seven episodes.
• Jamie introduces the shift from typical healthcare culture/policy topics to a deeply personal conversation about patient experience from Matt’s perspective.
• Matt admits he’s more nervous for this episode than almost any other—because it’s personal.
• The conversation acknowledges the hardship of 2024–2025 for both hosts’ families.
• Matt walks through how a wellness check and PSA screening unexpectedly detected something abnormal.
• An MRI experience becomes meaningful thanks to a tech who sensed his anxiety and used music to calm him—highlighting how small patient-experience moments matter.
• The MRI revealed something suspicious, leading to a biopsy.
• Matt received his cancer diagnosis alone in a conference center during a professional event—an emotionally jarring moment.
• He immediately sought clarity and support from a physician colleague, who helped him interpret the results.
• Matt reflects on the shock of seeing “prostate cancer” in writing and how it triggered grief-like emotions.
• He emphasizes the importance of asking for results early so patients can process before appointments.
• His urologist spent over an hour walking through options—an impactful example of patient-centered communication.

KEY POINTS

• Organizational vs. personal purpose — They don’t have to be identical, but they should coexist well.

• Purpose requires focus — You can’t say yes to everything; not every opportunity is yours.

• Boundaries shape clarity — Emotional, professional, and ethical lines protect your ability to serve.

• Delegation is essential — Tasks don’t define identity; leaders must let go to grow.

• Purpose evolves — Organizations and individuals change; your purpose may shift with seasons.

• Fun ≠ meaningful — Great opportunities still have to align with who you’re becoming.

• Gratitude clarifies calling — Noticing what you’re grateful for can reveal purpose.

• Quitting can be healthy — Letting go of roles, tasks, or beliefs creates space for what matters most.

• Reflection is ongoing — Purpose isn’t found once; it’s revisited repeatedly.

• Purpose is clarified through experience and reflection, not just passion.
• Helping others find purpose requires curiosity, coaching, and equipping them with the tools to succeed.
• Distinguishing passion from purpose involves commitment, impact, and skill alignment.
• Gratitude and intentional reflection help maintain focus on what truly matters.
• Leaders can spot misalignment by observing engagement, mood, and energy, but must approach it with curiosity and connection.