Episode SummaryThis episode of the Lead Change podcast features Dr. David Parker, an internationally recognized knee surgeon from Sydney, Australia, and past president of ISAKOS and APKASS. Dr. Parker shares insights from his career in knee surgery, leadership experiences in international orthopedic societies, and his commitment to evidence-based practice. He discusses ISAKOS’s global educational initiatives, including cadaveric labs and programs supporting female surgeons, the importance of mentorship, and lessons learned about diplomacy and consensus-building in leadership. Dr. Parker emphasizes persistence, credibility among peers, and respect as keys to success, while acknowledging the role of self-criticism in driving improvement. He also reflects on how leadership can be both challenging and deeply rewarding, especially when it fosters diversity and inspires the next generation.Key TakeawaysEvidence-Driven Care: Building a strong research foundation—over 20,000 patients dataset—allows for data-backed clinical decision-making and advances in patient outcomes.Global Collaboration: Exposure to diverse perspectives through organizations like ISAKOS and APKASS fosters innovation and better patient care worldwide.Leadership Challenges: Leading an international organization requires diplomacy, the ability to synthesize diverse viewpoints, and the skill to maintain unity while making strategic decisions.Power of Mentorship: Early mentors can inspire confidence and open doors to leadership opportunities that might otherwise seem unattainable.Diversity Matters: Promoting women in leadership enriches organizations, broadens perspectives, and removes barriers to contribution.Self-Criticism as a Driver: Being one’s own toughest critic can fuel improvement but requires balance to avoid burnout.Persistence as a Strength: Endurance—likened to running a marathon—is key to sustaining high performance and achieving long-term goals.Respect Over Recognition: True career success lies in earning and keeping the respect of one’s peers.Implementation Over Theory: Leadership principles are most valuable when actively applied, not just understood.Life Philosophy: Quotes from his swimming coach—"Plenty of time for rest when you’re dead" and "What time is it? It’s the best time of your life, enjoy it"—capture his approach to work and life.

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