MGMA Insights: Storytelling in Healthcare Leadership with Kelly Swanson

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with award-winning storyteller, comedian, and motivational speaker Kelly Swanson to discuss the power of storytelling in healthcare leadership. In this conversation, Kelly shares how medical practice leaders can use storytelling to reframe stress, connect with patients and staff, and create a meaningful workplace culture.

Storytelling is more than just entertainment—it’s a leadership tool that can shape culture, improve patient and staff engagement, and create a sense of purpose in even the most stressful environments. If you’re a healthcare leader navigating burnout, administrative overload, and patient care challenges, this episode provides actionable insights to help you use the power of storytelling to lead more effectively.

Storytelling as a Leadership Tool

• "Your story shows us who you are without you having to tell us," Kelly explains.
• A well-crafted story builds trust among staff, patients, and leadership teams.
• Leaders can use personal and organizational stories to motivate teams, humanize their leadership, and create stronger workplace connections.

Reframing Stress Through Narrative

• Stress isn’t just what happens—it’s the story we tell ourselves about what happens.
• Leaders should pay attention to their internal dialogue and reframe negative thoughts into stories of resilience and purpose.
• Encouraging staff to reframe their own workplace challenges through storytelling can improve engagement and reduce burnout.

Creating Meaningful Patient and Staff Connections

• Small personal gestures can have a big impact on patient experiences.
• Kelly shares a story about a healthcare worker who learned her father loved The Eagles and created a personalized playlist for him—a small act that left a lasting impression.
• Humanizing patient interactions through storytelling can increase trust and improve patient satisfaction.

Why Every Leader Needs a 'Why' Story

• Leaders should define their personal ‘Why’ story—a moment that connects them to their greater mission in healthcare.
• Encouraging staff to share their own stories creates a culture of purpose-driven work and deeper engagement.

Keeping the Spark Alive Beyond a Single Moment

• Conferences and motivational talks inspire in the moment—but how do leaders sustain that energy?
• Leaders should integrate storytelling into daily operations through:

1. Story-based team meetings
2. Collecting and sharing patient and staff success stories
3. Using social media to showcase the human side of healthcare

The Future of Storytelling: Emotional Intelligence in the Age of AI

• As technology evolves, storytelling will become an essential leadership skill.
• Kelly believes emotional intelligence and storytelling will be the most valuable skills in the future workforce, helping leaders connect, inspire, and lead through change.

Resources and Links:

KellySwanson.net – Official website for Kelly Swanson

Story Impact Network – Free storytelling resources

Kelly Swanson on LinkedIn – Connect with Kelly for storytelling insights
Affirmation Journal for Positive Thinking - Purchase Kelly's book