Note: This blog post was also published as a newsletter article by Healthcare Communicators Northwest . So much has changed for healthcare communicators in the past few years. I know what you’re thinking: That is an understatement to say the least! You would be right and as we look ahead to the rest of this year and beyond, it’s clear to me that the pace of change will not slow down. Far from it.   With leaner budgets, reduced staff and the proliferation of AI tools, we are a

If you're looking for something to read in 2026, I have a few suggestions for you to consider. And as always, I encourage you to buy books that catch your eye from independent bookstores, such as Powell’s  in Portland or Vroman’s  in Pasadena, which are two of my personal favorites. Supporting your local library is also a wonderful option. Here’s to another year filled with great books! 📖 👍👍  Essential reading Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike  by Phil Knight. This

All good things must come to an end. Yes, I know say that’s a cliché, but it’s also true. Every November, the Society for Healthcare Market and Strategy Development (SHSMD) advisory board holds its final meeting of the year where departing board members are given a nice send off. It gets emotional. That last part might seem a bit strange to you, but I swear it happens every year. The bonds between SHSMD board members are strong. So many life-long partnerships and friendships

Welcoming the audience – made up of many first timers – on the opening day of the conference, SHSMD board president David Grandy addressed the importance of community and supporting each other during turbulent times. David spoke passionately about how having a community to learn from is essential to personal development and driving change in our organizations. His words hit home.   This was my last SHSMD conference as a board member. I’ve had the privilege of serving on the b