January 14, 2025 • 20 mins
Welcome to HTM On The Line, where we challenge, inspire, and empower HTM professionals to lead and grow. Today’s episode is for those ready to break free from hesitation and embrace their full potential.
We’ll tackle key areas like:
- Mastering new technology without fear.
- Addressing tough conversations with courage.
- Stepping into leadership roles with confidence.
- Building connections at industry events.
- Advocating for yourself and your team.
Hesitation holds us back, but every step forward moves the entire industry ahead. Grab your notebook, and let’s go forward—always forward!
We are immensely grateful to our partners— College of Biomedical Equipment Technology, A.M. BICKFORD, INC., UptimeServices, PM BIOMEDICAL, and Talent Exclusive—for their support in making this podcast possible. Their dedication to advancing the Healthcare Technology Management industry is truly commendable. For more information about their contributions and services, please visit their websites.
For more podcast episodes, motivational videos, blogs, and newsletters, make sure to visit our website at htmontheline.com. We look forward to connecting with you.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:02):
Welcome back to HTM Underline, where we don't just
talk about healthcare technologymanagement.
We challenge, inspire and pusheach other to grow.
I'm your host, bryant HawkinsSr.
This episode is for the oneswho know they are made for more
but feel stuck in hesitation,whether it's learning new
(00:25):
technology, stepping intoleadership or just speaking up
when it matters.
We're breaking down howhesitation holds us back and how
to crush it for good.
You've heard it before youdon't have to be perfect, but
you've got to be committed.
This field doesn't wait foranyone, and it's time for us to
(00:51):
stop waiting for permission tostep into our greatness.
If you're ready to stophesitating and start leading
whether in your career, yourteam, whether in your career,
your team or the entire HTMindustry this episode is for you
(01:12):
.
So grab your notebook, openyour mind and get ready to take
action.
I promise the next 18 minuteswill transform the way you see
the HTM industry.
The way you see the HTMindustry.
This is HTM on the line, andtoday we're breaking free from
hesitation.
Forward, always forward.
(01:35):
Let's go.
(02:01):
Many of us can relate to thechallenge of hesitating to adopt
new technology.
Picture about a medicaltechnician who has spent years
working with legacy systems,perhaps even outdated
end-of-life equipment.
They feel confident with thetools they know, but are
reluctant to explorecutting-edge advancements like
(02:21):
AI-driven diagnostic tools orsurgical robots.
This hesitation might stem froma fear of failure or the
perception that they lack thetime to develop new skills.
Meanwhile, their team andhospital move forward,
(02:43):
integrating innovative devicesthat demand specialized
expertise.
Listen, comfort is the enemy ofprogress.
You can't stay in your comfortzone and expect to grow.
As HTM professionals, we're notjust technicians.
(03:04):
We're innovators, problemsolvers and critical thinkers.
Don't wait for the world tomove forward without you.
When new technology isintroduced, don't resist it.
Run toward it.
Resist it.
Run toward it.
(03:27):
Stop saying I don't have timeor what if I fail.
The real failure is stayingstill while the industry moves
forward.
Take control.
Attend that workshop, sign upfor the Wednesday webinars or
(03:53):
even spend 15 minutes a dayreading the user manual of the
latest equipment.
If you can shout at a colleaguewho's already working with
robotics or AI, don't let egostop you from asking for help.
Look, this isn't just about you.
It's about the patients whorely on these machines to stay
(04:16):
alive, the surgeons who trustthe technology to perform, and
the hospitals that depend on HTMprofessionals to keep the
system running.
You are the gatekeeper ofinnovation and if you stay stuck
, you're holding the wholesystem back.
(04:38):
You don't have to be perfect,just be committed.
So commit to showing up, committo progress.
The discomfort of learningsomething new today will become
the confidence of masterytomorrow.
And when you master the newtechnology, not only will you
(05:01):
elevate your career, but you'llset an example for your team,
proving that the HTMprofessionals don't just keep up
.
We lead forward, always forward.
(05:33):
Here is another tough oneavoiding difficult conversations
.
We have a team lead.
He or she avoids addressinggaps in their team's workflow.
Perhaps equipment inspectionsare falling behind or repair
times are too long.
They hesitate to address theseissues with team members out of
(05:54):
fear of conflict or upsettingrelationships, allowing
inefficiencies to continue.
You can't fix what you'reafraid to face.
Leadership isn't about avoidingconflict.
It's about stepping into itwith courage and empathy.
(06:15):
If you see inefficiencies,don't just hope they'll resolve
themselves.
Approach your team with honestyand humility.
Stop playing small becauseyou're scared of how people will
react.
Start with the facts, not thefeelings, say.
(06:36):
I've noticed our PM completionrate has dropped and I want to
understand what's causing thedelay.
Let's brainstorm together tofind a solution that works for
all of us.
This isn't about pointingfingers.
It's about collaboration andproblem solving.
(06:57):
Remember your team is lookingto you for direction.
When you avoid toughconversations, you're not
protecting relationships.
You're letting inefficienciesrob your team of its full
potential.
Real leadership requires you tostep up, set clear expectations
(07:21):
and inspire your team to riseto the challenge.
You don't just lead by title.
You lead by example.
Forward, always forward.
(07:46):
We're all familiar with eventslike MD Expo, amy Exchange, fbs
Symposium or CMIA Connectprominent conferences in the HTM
industry.
Now imagine an HTM professionalattending one of these events
(08:07):
but keeping to the sidelines,hesitant to engage with peers,
vendors or industry leaders.
They might feel self-consciousor worried.
They have nothing important tocontribute.
Consequently, they missvaluable opportunities to
(08:29):
network, grow meaningfulconnections and unlock potential
avenues for new jobs,partnerships or career
advancement.
Stop playing the wallflower.
If this is you, the room you'reavoiding is the room that holds
(08:50):
your next opportunity.
Networking isn't about beingperfect or impressive.
It's about showing up and beingpresent.
Start small.
Introduce yourself to oneperson, ask them about their
role or their journey in the HTMindustry.
(09:13):
These conversations buildconnections and connections
build opportunities.
You don't have to knoweverything to contribute.
You just have to be curious andgenuine.
The HTM industry thrives onrelationships.
(09:34):
The people you meet today couldbecome your future mentors,
collaborators or partners.
Don't let fear hold you backfrom what could be your next big
breakthrough.
Forward, always forward.
(10:18):
An HTM manager sees that theirteam's contributions are
overlooked within their hospital.
With other departmentsreceiving more recognition, they
hesitate to speak up, fearingthey'll come across as
complaining or self-serving.
This leads to HTM professionalsremaining in the background,
(10:42):
even as their work is criticalto hospitals' operations.
Advocacy isn't about ego.
It's about impact.
If you don't speak up for yourteam, who will?
Htm professionals are thebackbone of healthcare
technology and it's time theworld knows it.
Start by sharing the measurablevalue your team brings.
(11:05):
Highlight metrics like reducedequipment downtime, cost savings
from in-house repairs or quickresponse times during critical
situations.
Share success stories withhospital leadership and tie them
to patient outcomes.
(11:27):
Advocate for initiatives likeBiomed Awareness Month or HTM
Week, or propose ways to educateother departments about the
importance of HTM.
Don't stay solid while otherstake the spotlight.
(11:48):
Stand up and claim your team'srole in the healthcare ecosystem
.
When you advocate for HTM,you're not just boosting your
team, you're elevating theentire profession.
Don't wait for recognition tocome to you, make it happen
(12:12):
Forward, always forward.
What I'm about to speak on nowreally hits home for me, and I
know some of you listening knowwhat I'm talking about.
(12:37):
Picture an HTM professional withvaluable insights to share.
Yet they turn down invitationsto speak at conferences or
events.
They fear public speaking,worry about saying the wrong
thing or feel they aren'tqualified enough to present.
As a result, their ideas andexpertise remain unheard and the
(13:04):
industry misses out on theircontributions.
Listen your voice matters.
You are given knowledge andexperience to keep it to
yourself.
You put in the hours, solvedthe problems and gained insight
(13:25):
that could change the game forsomeone else, insight that could
change the game for someoneelse.
Yet you hesitate because you'reafraid of stumbling over words
or not being good enough.
Let me tell you something.
No one needs perfect, they needreal.
(13:46):
Start small.
Share your ideas in teammeetings or workshops.
Practice presenting to yourcolleagues or even in front of a
mirror.
I do that all the time.
If the idea of standing on stagestill feels overwhelming, join
(14:09):
a panel discussion where you canease into public speaking by
answering questions alongsideothers.
Partner with a mentor orcolleague to co-present at an
event.
It's a great way to gainconfidence while sharing the
spotlight.
But here's the thing Publicspeaking isn't about you.
(14:29):
It's about the audience.
Someone in that room needs tohear what you have to say.
Maybe it's a new technicianwho's struggling to find their
place in the field.
Maybe it's a hospitaladministrator who finally
understands the value HTM bringsafter hearing your perspective.
(14:53):
Maybe it's another professionalwho's inspired to take action
because of your story.
Your words could spark change,solve a problem or motivate
someone to step up in their owncareer.
(15:14):
The first step is always thehardest, but it's also the most
important prepare, rehearse andthen take the stage.
Own the mic.
Speak from your heart.
Don't aim to impress and thentake the stage.
Own the mic.
Speak from your heart.
Don't aim to impress.
Aim to connect.
(15:36):
When you focus on serving others, the fear starts to fade and
what remains is the purposebehind your message.
Every time you stand up andspeak, you're not just sharing
(15:58):
your knowledge.
You're elevating the entire HTMprofession.
You're showing the world thatHTM professionals are leaders,
innovators and vitalcontributors to healthcare.
So don't let fear rob theindustry of your brilliance.
Take that invitation, standtall, share your story.
(16:26):
And here's the best part thereare so many places to start.
Consider speaking at a localBiomed Association meeting to
connect with professionals inyour community.
On a national level, eventslike MD Expo or the AMI Exchange
(16:47):
provide incredible platforms toshare your expertise and
network with industry leaders.
If you prefer a virtual setting, there are countless webinars
hosted by HTM organizations,vendors and schools.
Don't forget your local schools, whether it's a high school
career day or a collegeengineering program.
Inspiring the next generation,it's one of the most impactful
(17:13):
ways to share your knowledge.
The opportunities are endless.
The time to step up is nowForward, always forward.
(17:38):
In the HTM industry, hesitationisn't just a personal setback.
It's a missed opportunity forimpact, whether it's learning
new technology, addressingworkflow gaps, stepping into
leadership, engaging with peersor advocating for your
(18:01):
profession.
Every moment of hesitation is amoment we lose in pushing the
field forward.
But here's the good news Everysingle one of us has the power
to change that.
Think about the technicianafraid to tackle emerging
(18:21):
technologies.
What if they chose courage overcomfort and became the expert
their team relied on for thenext breakthrough device?
Imagine the team lead whofinally addresses inefficiencies
with empathy and transformstheir group into a
high-performing unit.
(18:42):
Picture the seasonedprofessional who takes the leap
into leadership, shaping notjust their team but the future
of HTM itself.
Networking and advocacy are nodifferent.
The quiet professional whochooses to introduce themselves
(19:05):
at a conference could growpartnerships that spark
innovation.
The manager who champions theirteam's contributions to
hospital leadership ensures thatHTM is seen, valued and
celebrated as the criticalbackbone of healthcare
technology.
(19:28):
You don't have to be perfect,just be committed.
It's not about waiting for thestars to align.
It's about taking action now,stepping out of your comfort
zone.
Have the difficultconversations apply for the
roles you're meant for, make theconnections that matter and
(19:52):
speak up for the value you bring.
Every step you take forwardisn't just for you.
It's for your team, yourpatients and the HTM industry as
a whole, and the HTM industryas a whole.
The time for hesitation is over.
(20:12):
You have the knowledge, thepassion, the purpose to make an
impact.
Your legacy begins with thechoices you make today.
So choose progress, choosecourage, choose to move forward,
(20:34):
forward, always forward.
Welcome back to HTM Underline, where we don't just
talk about healthcare technologymanagement.
We challenge, inspire and pusheach other to grow.
I'm your host, bryant HawkinsSr.
This episode is for the oneswho know they are made for more
but feel stuck in hesitation,whether it's learning new
(00:25):
technology, stepping intoleadership or just speaking up
when it matters.
We're breaking down howhesitation holds us back and how
to crush it for good.
You've heard it before youdon't have to be perfect, but
you've got to be committed.
This field doesn't wait foranyone, and it's time for us to
(00:51):
stop waiting for permission tostep into our greatness.
If you're ready to stophesitating and start leading
whether in your career, yourteam, whether in your career,
your team or the entire HTMindustry this episode is for you
(01:12):
.
So grab your notebook, openyour mind and get ready to take
action.
I promise the next 18 minuteswill transform the way you see
the HTM industry.
The way you see the HTMindustry.
This is HTM on the line, andtoday we're breaking free from
hesitation.
Forward, always forward.
(01:35):
Let's go.
(02:01):
Many of us can relate to thechallenge of hesitating to adopt
new technology.
Picture about a medicaltechnician who has spent years
working with legacy systems,perhaps even outdated
end-of-life equipment.
They feel confident with thetools they know, but are
reluctant to explorecutting-edge advancements like
(02:21):
AI-driven diagnostic tools orsurgical robots.
This hesitation might stem froma fear of failure or the
perception that they lack thetime to develop new skills.
Meanwhile, their team andhospital move forward,
(02:43):
integrating innovative devicesthat demand specialized
expertise.
Listen, comfort is the enemy ofprogress.
You can't stay in your comfortzone and expect to grow.
As HTM professionals, we're notjust technicians.
(03:04):
We're innovators, problemsolvers and critical thinkers.
Don't wait for the world tomove forward without you.
When new technology isintroduced, don't resist it.
Run toward it.
Resist it.
Run toward it.
(03:27):
Stop saying I don't have timeor what if I fail.
The real failure is stayingstill while the industry moves
forward.
Take control.
Attend that workshop, sign upfor the Wednesday webinars or
(03:53):
even spend 15 minutes a dayreading the user manual of the
latest equipment.
If you can shout at a colleaguewho's already working with
robotics or AI, don't let egostop you from asking for help.
Look, this isn't just about you.
It's about the patients whorely on these machines to stay
(04:16):
alive, the surgeons who trustthe technology to perform, and
the hospitals that depend on HTMprofessionals to keep the
system running.
You are the gatekeeper ofinnovation and if you stay stuck
, you're holding the wholesystem back.
(04:38):
You don't have to be perfect,just be committed.
So commit to showing up, committo progress.
The discomfort of learningsomething new today will become
the confidence of masterytomorrow.
And when you master the newtechnology, not only will you
(05:01):
elevate your career, but you'llset an example for your team,
proving that the HTMprofessionals don't just keep up
.
We lead forward, always forward.
(05:33):
Here is another tough oneavoiding difficult conversations
.
We have a team lead.
He or she avoids addressinggaps in their team's workflow.
Perhaps equipment inspectionsare falling behind or repair
times are too long.
They hesitate to address theseissues with team members out of
(05:54):
fear of conflict or upsettingrelationships, allowing
inefficiencies to continue.
You can't fix what you'reafraid to face.
Leadership isn't about avoidingconflict.
It's about stepping into itwith courage and empathy.
(06:15):
If you see inefficiencies,don't just hope they'll resolve
themselves.
Approach your team with honestyand humility.
Stop playing small becauseyou're scared of how people will
react.
Start with the facts, not thefeelings, say.
(06:36):
I've noticed our PM completionrate has dropped and I want to
understand what's causing thedelay.
Let's brainstorm together tofind a solution that works for
all of us.
This isn't about pointingfingers.
It's about collaboration andproblem solving.
(06:57):
Remember your team is lookingto you for direction.
When you avoid toughconversations, you're not
protecting relationships.
You're letting inefficienciesrob your team of its full
potential.
Real leadership requires you tostep up, set clear expectations
(07:21):
and inspire your team to riseto the challenge.
You don't just lead by title.
You lead by example.
Forward, always forward.
(07:46):
We're all familiar with eventslike MD Expo, amy Exchange, fbs
Symposium or CMIA Connectprominent conferences in the HTM
industry.
Now imagine an HTM professionalattending one of these events
(08:07):
but keeping to the sidelines,hesitant to engage with peers,
vendors or industry leaders.
They might feel self-consciousor worried.
They have nothing important tocontribute.
Consequently, they missvaluable opportunities to
(08:29):
network, grow meaningfulconnections and unlock potential
avenues for new jobs,partnerships or career
advancement.
Stop playing the wallflower.
If this is you, the room you'reavoiding is the room that holds
(08:50):
your next opportunity.
Networking isn't about beingperfect or impressive.
It's about showing up and beingpresent.
Start small.
Introduce yourself to oneperson, ask them about their
role or their journey in the HTMindustry.
(09:13):
These conversations buildconnections and connections
build opportunities.
You don't have to knoweverything to contribute.
You just have to be curious andgenuine.
The HTM industry thrives onrelationships.
(09:34):
The people you meet today couldbecome your future mentors,
collaborators or partners.
Don't let fear hold you backfrom what could be your next big
breakthrough.
Forward, always forward.
(10:18):
An HTM manager sees that theirteam's contributions are
overlooked within their hospital.
With other departmentsreceiving more recognition, they
hesitate to speak up, fearingthey'll come across as
complaining or self-serving.
This leads to HTM professionalsremaining in the background,
(10:42):
even as their work is criticalto hospitals' operations.
Advocacy isn't about ego.
It's about impact.
If you don't speak up for yourteam, who will?
Htm professionals are thebackbone of healthcare
technology and it's time theworld knows it.
Start by sharing the measurablevalue your team brings.
(11:05):
Highlight metrics like reducedequipment downtime, cost savings
from in-house repairs or quickresponse times during critical
situations.
Share success stories withhospital leadership and tie them
to patient outcomes.
(11:27):
Advocate for initiatives likeBiomed Awareness Month or HTM
Week, or propose ways to educateother departments about the
importance of HTM.
Don't stay solid while otherstake the spotlight.
(11:48):
Stand up and claim your team'srole in the healthcare ecosystem
.
When you advocate for HTM,you're not just boosting your
team, you're elevating theentire profession.
Don't wait for recognition tocome to you, make it happen
(12:12):
Forward, always forward.
What I'm about to speak on nowreally hits home for me, and I
know some of you listening knowwhat I'm talking about.
(12:37):
Picture an HTM professional withvaluable insights to share.
Yet they turn down invitationsto speak at conferences or
events.
They fear public speaking,worry about saying the wrong
thing or feel they aren'tqualified enough to present.
As a result, their ideas andexpertise remain unheard and the
(13:04):
industry misses out on theircontributions.
Listen your voice matters.
You are given knowledge andexperience to keep it to
yourself.
You put in the hours, solvedthe problems and gained insight
(13:25):
that could change the game forsomeone else, insight that could
change the game for someoneelse.
Yet you hesitate because you'reafraid of stumbling over words
or not being good enough.
Let me tell you something.
No one needs perfect, they needreal.
(13:46):
Start small.
Share your ideas in teammeetings or workshops.
Practice presenting to yourcolleagues or even in front of a
mirror.
I do that all the time.
If the idea of standing on stagestill feels overwhelming, join
(14:09):
a panel discussion where you canease into public speaking by
answering questions alongsideothers.
Partner with a mentor orcolleague to co-present at an
event.
It's a great way to gainconfidence while sharing the
spotlight.
But here's the thing Publicspeaking isn't about you.
(14:29):
It's about the audience.
Someone in that room needs tohear what you have to say.
Maybe it's a new technicianwho's struggling to find their
place in the field.
Maybe it's a hospitaladministrator who finally
understands the value HTM bringsafter hearing your perspective.
(14:53):
Maybe it's another professionalwho's inspired to take action
because of your story.
Your words could spark change,solve a problem or motivate
someone to step up in their owncareer.
(15:14):
The first step is always thehardest, but it's also the most
important prepare, rehearse andthen take the stage.
Own the mic.
Speak from your heart.
Don't aim to impress and thentake the stage.
Own the mic.
Speak from your heart.
Don't aim to impress.
Aim to connect.
(15:36):
When you focus on serving others, the fear starts to fade and
what remains is the purposebehind your message.
Every time you stand up andspeak, you're not just sharing
(15:58):
your knowledge.
You're elevating the entire HTMprofession.
You're showing the world thatHTM professionals are leaders,
innovators and vitalcontributors to healthcare.
So don't let fear rob theindustry of your brilliance.
Take that invitation, standtall, share your story.
(16:26):
And here's the best part thereare so many places to start.
Consider speaking at a localBiomed Association meeting to
connect with professionals inyour community.
On a national level, eventslike MD Expo or the AMI Exchange
(16:47):
provide incredible platforms toshare your expertise and
network with industry leaders.
If you prefer a virtual setting, there are countless webinars
hosted by HTM organizations,vendors and schools.
Don't forget your local schools, whether it's a high school
career day or a collegeengineering program.
Inspiring the next generation,it's one of the most impactful
(17:13):
ways to share your knowledge.
The opportunities are endless.
The time to step up is nowForward, always forward.
(17:38):
In the HTM industry, hesitationisn't just a personal setback.
It's a missed opportunity forimpact, whether it's learning
new technology, addressingworkflow gaps, stepping into
leadership, engaging with peersor advocating for your
(18:01):
profession.
Every moment of hesitation is amoment we lose in pushing the
field forward.
But here's the good news Everysingle one of us has the power
to change that.
Think about the technicianafraid to tackle emerging
(18:21):
technologies.
What if they chose courage overcomfort and became the expert
their team relied on for thenext breakthrough device?
Imagine the team lead whofinally addresses inefficiencies
with empathy and transformstheir group into a
high-performing unit.
(18:42):
Picture the seasonedprofessional who takes the leap
into leadership, shaping notjust their team but the future
of HTM itself.
Networking and advocacy are nodifferent.
The quiet professional whochooses to introduce themselves
(19:05):
at a conference could growpartnerships that spark
innovation.
The manager who champions theirteam's contributions to
hospital leadership ensures thatHTM is seen, valued and
celebrated as the criticalbackbone of healthcare
technology.
(19:28):
You don't have to be perfect,just be committed.
It's not about waiting for thestars to align.
It's about taking action now,stepping out of your comfort
zone.
Have the difficultconversations apply for the
roles you're meant for, make theconnections that matter and
(19:52):
speak up for the value you bring.
Every step you take forwardisn't just for you.
It's for your team, yourpatients and the HTM industry as
a whole, and the HTM industryas a whole.
The time for hesitation is over.
(20:12):
You have the knowledge, thepassion, the purpose to make an
impact.
Your legacy begins with thechoices you make today.
So choose progress, choosecourage, choose to move forward,
(20:34):
forward, always forward.
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