Health Podcast Library
Season 3 • Episode 16

How to Work with Jerks in Healthcare IT | Flourish Rerelease with Eric Williamson

May 12, 2026
36:15

Episode Description

May 12, 2025: Ever wonder why empathy gets dismissed as a "soft skill" when it's actually your most powerful leadership tool? Eric Williamson went from being what he calls an expert jerk to becoming a jerk expert, and his transformation story will change how you think about workplace dynamics. From invisible disengagement in hybrid teams to managing star performers who steamroll everyone, Eric shares practical wisdom on navigating today's most challenging leadership scenarios. Discover his three-step AAA method for staying measured under pressure, learn why your one-on-ones might be completely missing the mark, and find out how to hold people accountable without losing your humanity. This conversation is packed with real talk about creating connections in environments where face-to-face interaction is increasingly rare.

Key Points:

  • 02:28 The Importance of Empathy in the Workplace

  • 07:35 Interview Tips to Identify Toxic Cultures

  • 16:19 Empathy in Hybrid Work Environments

  • 27:49 Speed Round: Funniest Jerk Stories

  • 33:44 Empathy as a Powerful Tool


X: This Week Health

LinkedIn: This Week Health

Donate: Alex’s Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer

oundation for Childhood Cancer

Proudly Supported by

Patrons of Health Podcast Library

Achieving Health
AAOS Career Podcast
AAOS Now Podcast
OrthoInfo
Aging Like a Pro
Who the Health Cares? with Prof Michael Sparer
Stronger After Stroke

Supporting Shows

Faces of Digital Health
Cuts and Consults
Speak Up For Your Health
This Just In Radio Show
HIT Like a Girl Pod: Empowering Women in Health IT
Beyond The Paper Gown Podcast
Hopeful Hints
Healthcare for Humans
Coffee Break: Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Healthcare, One Cup at a Time
Thriving with Addiction with Dr. Jonathan Avery