Precision Problem-Solving with Dr. Rick Van Pelt (No Hypotheses Needed)

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila is joined by Dr. Rick Van Pelt, a board-certified anesthesiologist and healthcare transformation leader, to discuss his new book, It’s Not What You’re Thinking: Precision Problem Solving With No Hypothesis. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Van Pelt shares his insights on why the healthcare system is “perfectly designed” to deliver its current results—and how to fix it. The conversation explores the challenges of driving change in healthcare, from systemic inefficiencies to the personal conflicts that arise when shifting long-standing practices.

Dr. Van Pelt reveals a near-catastrophic medical event that reshaped his approach to conflict resolution and patient care, highlighting the importance of transparency and peer support in high-stakes environments. Listeners and viewers will gain a fresh perspective on problem-solving, learning why traditional hypotheses often fail and how precision problem-solving—rooted in observation and collaboration—can lead to meaningful solutions. From OR delays to the “”white wall of silence”” in healthcare culture, this episode is packed with candid stories and actionable insights for leaders in any industry. Tune in to discover how to tackle complex problems by focusing on what’s actually happening—not just what we think is happening.

Dr. Rick Van Pelt has over three decades of experience as a board-certified anesthesiologist and leader in healthcare transformation. Throughout his career, he has pioneered innovative approaches to improving clinical performance, quality, and patient safety, working with frontline-empowered teams to redesign healthcare delivery. His expertise spans system-based performance improvement, implementation science, and clinical variation management to improve structure, process, and outcomes across health systems.

He is also a pioneer of peer support integration and creating solutions to the root causes of burnout faced by healthcare providers. Currently serving as the Chief Clinical Transformation Officer at UAB Medicine, Dr. van Pelt is known for facilitating sustained change in complex healthcare environments with his talented clinical transformation team.