Feb 05 2025 40 mins 12
In today’s episode, I am chatting with Dr. Josh McConkey. Dr. (Colonel) Josh McConkey is an award-winning/best-selling author and esteemed Emergency Physician with over two decades of clinical experience. He served as a professor at Duke University and maintains Board Certification in Emergency Medicine. With 22 years of military service, Dr. McConkey now commands the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron in the US Air Force Reserves, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. He is a devoted father of three and his greatest passion lies in shaping future American leaders alongside his wife, Elsa.
Key Highlights:
- Josh’s Career: Serving as an air transport/CCAT doctor in the Air Force Reserves, where he provides critical care during medical evacuations. Insights into his work as a flight surgeon and how his perspective on adrenaline and risk-taking has evolved since becoming a father.
- The Weight Behind the Spear: Discussion on his book, which encapsulates his leadership ethos and was inspired by the increasing mental health challenges he has witnessed as an emergency room physician. Despite the divide in our country, his books talks about empowering and equipping the next generation.
- Taking Action on Mental Health: The importance of community engagement, personal empowerment, and leveraging individual strengths to make a meaningful impact.
- Personal Development & Leadership: A deep dive into his book flight, featuring titles that have shaped his leadership philosophy and personal growth.
This conversation is packed with wisdom, experience, and actionable insights—don’t miss it!
Connect with Dr. Josh McConkey:
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
- Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
- The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe)
- Mornings on Horseback by David McCullough
Book Flight
- Call Sign Chaos by Jim Mattis and Bing West
- An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth by Chris Hadfield
- Everything is F*cked by Mark Manson
Ready for a monthly literary adventure? We now have the BFF Book Club. Join us each month to explore a new book. After reading, connect with fellow book lovers and meet the author in a live interview! Can’t make it live? Don’t worry—we’ll send you the recording. You can find all our upcoming book club selections HERE.
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