In this episode of The Energized Leader Podcast, Desi Payne sits down with Donna Isgett, President and CEO of McLeod Health, to unpack what energized leadership looks like inside a high pressure healthcare environment. Donna shares the one word she believes defines an energized leader, enthusiastic, and explains how enthusiasm spreads when leaders connect people to purpose and consistently show up for their teams.

You will hear practical, leader tested strategies for building a culture where people stay, serve, and truly love where they work. From “wearing sneakers and walking the halls” to asking employees what they would do differently if they were the CEO, Donna reveals how visibility, listening, and follow through create trust and momentum across seven hospitals and a workforce of about 14,000 employees.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why enthusiasm is contagious, and how it helps people believe in themselves
• How “walking the halls” builds connection, accountability, and culture
• A simple question that uncovers real improvements, fast
• How Donna protects teams from burnout with a clear “family first” leadership standard
• The leadership advice she gives every leader, and why it works: “Get over yourself”

If you want to strengthen engagement, boost morale, and lead with purpose, this conversation will energize your leadership toolkit.

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