Each month, Medical News catches up with a hospital or health system leader to learn about their organization, interests, favorite pieces of advice and healthcare issues that ruffle their feathers most.
Just the Facts
Estopinal
Hometown: Easy one, Jeffersonville, Indiana. But, when traveling, I just say Louisville, I spend half my life in both cities.
Family: Wife, Thresa. Two great adult kids, Ashley, 28 with a masters in environmental genetics and Andrew, 24, progressing on his bachelors in marketing/communications. Both are great young people with wonderful futures.
What one thing piqued your interest in architecture specializing in healthcare construction?
I’ve always had an interest in medicine, even as a kid. And this interest was increased while working on a project for Humana and a staff member from the design and construction department approached me. My interest was further inspired by the idea that healthcare architecture actually helps people.
I enjoy the fact that our projects help patients, their families and everyone connected to the delivery of healthcare. It is gratifying to know that the architecture we create is helping someone regain wellness, cope with a tragedy or bring a new life into the world.
What do you consider your greatest talent or skill?
Being an innovator. My approach to healthcare facility problem solving is the same whether designing a new medical center or a small clinical area. I really strive to design while looking for every possible opportunity to design with TEG’s innovative Efficient Design+Productive Care strategies.
What one piece of advice you remember most clearly?
Work hard and good things will eventually happen.
What do you consider your greatest achievement at TEG so far?
TEG has helped many architects across the country learn about high-performance healthcare planning and design while part of our team.
Tell us about the culture you’re trying to foster at TEG?
We have created a culture of studio collaboration. There are many talented members on our TEG team whom share ideas, review design solutions at every level, jointly solve problems and constantly focus on internal evidence-based design research – which is what allows us to be innovative.
Any feedback you’ve gotten over the years about your leadership style that made you think: “Fair point. I’m going to make an adjustment.”
Yes, many years ago one of my staff said, “Wayne you work too hard and it intimidates people.” So, I make it very clear that I don’t expect the TEG team to work like I do. I work 95 percent of the weekends and tend to be the only person in the office, which is excellent as I get a lot accomplished and the staff stays fresh. (I’m 5’-9” – so it was difficult to understand how I was intimidating!)
What advice do you give to graduating college students?
Do things that give you energy and inspire you.
What’ are you currently reading?
I’m reading a book titled, “Creative Confidence,” by Tom Kelly. So far it is a good book on innovation and creativity. But honestly, I haven’t gotten very far into the book due to a very busy few months getting Louisville City FC up and running. We have had a good start to the pro soccer season, so maybe I’ll be able to finish the book as things calm down.
How do you revitalize yourself?
Get some quality sleep, and then go for a good long run. That does it every time. Running and exercise – primarily to keep my sanity. I have run 30 marathons, of which my favorite was Chicago, and least favorite, Disney. Soccer. Minority owner of Orlando City SC in the MLS and Louisville City FC of the USL.
