In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Scott Ellner, a former trauma surgeon who now leads physicians as president of Integris Health Medical Group in Oklahoma City. We start with a life-changing moment on the Pacific Coast Highway, in southern California, when Scott is a 21-year-old surfer and witnesses a Harley-Davison motorcycle accident. A trauma surgeon pulls over, places a breathing tube in the middle of the highway, and saves a life. That single act changes the entire direction of his career.

From there, we walk through the big ideas in his  book, Wipe Out, Rise Up. We talk about what surfing teaches leaders: scanning the waves, building situational awareness, and knowing when not to “take off” – as a surgeon and as an executive. Scott explains the difference between resilience and true anti-fragility, how to “find comfort in discomfort,” and why boring routines come before brilliance.

We also go straight at mental health. Scott shares honestly about suicidal thoughts earlier in his career and how getting help, practicing gratitude, and living his values shape the way he leads today. We close with the four cardinal virtues, the hard work of letting people go, and why trust and follow-through sit at the center of effective leadership.

This episode is for clinicians, physician leaders, and executives who are tired of white-knuckle resilience and want something deeper; for people navigating stress, uncertainty, and tough calls; and for anyone ready to use adversity, values, and daily practice to lead with more wisdom, courage, and clarity.

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