My Reading List
This reading list includes books that have shaped how I think about leadership, medicine, systems, and personal growth. Some are directly related to healthcare, while others come from business, psychology, and philosophy. What they all have in common is that they’ve influenced how I lead, make decisions, and build teams.
I don’t agree with everything in every book listed here. The value is in the ideas they challenge and the questions they raise. I return to many of these books over time, often finding new insights as my perspective evolves.
This list is meant to be practical and honest, not exhaustive. If you’re a physician, healthcare leader, or anyone interested in leading with clarity, discipline, and integrity, these are books I believe are worth your time.
Culture by Design by David J. Friedman
Culture by Design is a practical and thoughtful exploration of how organizational culture is intentionally built, not left to chance. The book emphasizes that culture is shaped by consistent behaviors, clear expectations, and daily habits rather than slogans or mission statements. What makes it especially relevant to healthcare is its focus on accountability, leadership visibility, and reinforcing standards over time.
One concept from the book that deeply resonated with me is the idea of translating values into clear, repeatable behaviors. Inspired by this, I introduced Fundamental of the Week at InCare. Each week, we highlight one core behavior that reflects our values and expectations, reinforce why it matters, and call out real examples of team members living it. This simple but intentional practice has helped move our culture from something we talk about to something we actively practice. It’s a direct application of Friedman’s message that culture is built in the small moments, consistently, and by design.