Inspiring physicians to develop the personal tools to navigate the complexities of modern health care and become impactful leaders within their teams and communities
Motivating medical professionals and organizations to face challenges, solve problems and create a culture of innovation, continuous improvement and compassionate patient care
I met Dr. Letson in 2008 while interviewing for a position at All Children’s Hospital. I was so impressed by his enthusiasm and passion for the academic culture of Moffitt Cancer Center that I negotiated 1 day a week to work with him at Moffitt. He, more than any other physician, made the greatest impact on my career. As former Physician-in-Chief and Sarcoma Chair, he has hired and led hundreds of faculty members who hold him in the highest esteem. He gave me opportunities, welcomed me into his Sarcoma Department, and accelerated my career trajectory. My work with adult patients at Moffitt gave me exposure to new therapeutic agents, to which I would not have had access within a children’s hospital alone. By making me the leader of the Sunshine Project for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, he enabled me to build a clinical trial network--a community with shared motivations, goals, and methods--contributing success in the pediatric clinical trial space. Dr. Letson’s belief in me and mentorship honed my professional success and satisfaction. Dr. Letson’s visionary leadership blends inclusion, transparency, and clear, honest communication.
He motivates and leads by example. He fertilizes potential and builds cohesive teams. And he demonstrates strength and strategic problem-solving. When I was averse to delegating responsibility to others, he taught me the art of delegation. He also taught me the wisdom of weighing multiple options for strategic decision-making. Importantly, he never pressures anyone to do something his way, but, rather, to consider how other team members might approach the same challenge. He fosters an environment where people are heard and can contribute to the best solution. His positivity, confidence, and can-do attitude make the impossible seem possible. He is an adept problem-solver with the wisdom to recognize when it’s best to re-strategize or engage external consultants. He keeps commitments and promises. He communicates when things are going well and when things aren’t going well.
Dr. Letson transcends the surgical/medical fields effortlessly. I can’t think of another surgeon who fostered a clinical trial consortium and engaged the right people for success. I can’t think of another surgeon who commands as much knowledge of medical oncology and radiology as he does. His teaching and training skills are so extraordinary that Moffitt has established the G. Douglas Letson lounge for trainees. He is the consummate professor who is prepared to answer the most challenging questions on any topic. And he is the consummate leader who is prepared to mentor and coach individuals, build successful teams, and manage institutions effectively.
--Damon Reed, MD, Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York
"This is a dynamic team! I worked with Lou the entire time he was at Moffitt, and John when he provided consulting services for Moffitt. Lou is an innovator, always looking to move ahead of the competition, and he’s on the cutting edge of technology. Lou was able to turn around a department with high turnover and build a strong team with internationally known talent that attracted patients from all over the US and abroad. I have known Doug for over ten years. Doug has always been a great listener, mentor, and physician leader. He has built strong relationships with other leaders at Moffitt and has worked closely with Board members, who always had faith that his hand was on the pulse of the physician leaders. Doug is trusted and sought after by younger physicians who want advice on career-building, navigating processes and fostering relationships. Doug has always been a great coach. It comes naturally to him because he is a relationship person who leads with his heart and wants the best for everyone. While always positive, he is honest and direct when needed. He is a partner and great collaborator--a team player who wants to ensure everyone’s success. He is not selfish, nor does he have an ego, enabling him to work with everyone--nurses, officers in chief, department chairs--and make every team member feel equally important. That is a great and unique quality. Doug is always positive, and on the rare occasion that he has a bad day, he looks at the bright side. He is a wonderful person who inspires people to be their absolute best."
--Yvette Tremonti, CPA, MBA, System Chief Financial Officer, City of Hope
I have had the privilege of working with these three exceptional professionals for many years. They consistently demonstrate a remarkable ability to mentor and guide talent, helping individuals reach their fullest potential.
Their contributions have been truly transformative for our organization and for the science and business of healthcare. They brought fresh perspectives and uncovered opportunities we might not have considered otherwise.
Through thorough analysis of our internal operations and the broader competitive landscape, they provided invaluable insights. The strategies developed and implemented with their support led to significant improvements in efficiency and clear strategic advantages.
I highly recommend them to any healthcare organization looking to strengthen its business, improve performance, and achieve lasting, measurable results."
--Jack Kalowski
“I am incredibly grateful for the mentorship from Drs. Harrison, Letson, and Peabody. They have instilled confidence in me and provided me invaluable guidance throughout my career. Their advice has truly shaped my professional and personal growth.”
--Christine Chung
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