15. From Passing out in Biology Class to Health System CEO, with Ric Ransom

In this episode of The Backstory, Anne Hancock Toomey sits down with Ric Ransom, CEO of University of Missouri Health Care, for a conversation that covers everything from comic books to crisis leadership. Ric’s journey started in Birmingham, Alabama, in a home filled with big personalities and even bigger aspirations. He carved out a career that spanned law and healthcare administration, helping guide major health systems like Baylor Health System (now Baylor Scott & White Health), Prisma Health and UW Health along the way. Known for his ability to build strong teams and steer through uncertainty, Ransom unpacks lessons on resilience, communications and the influence of formative leaders – starting with his own father. Plus, he shares his approach to staying sharp (spoiler: it involves exercise and a good graphic novel). Come for the conversation about his first job as a telemarketer, stay for the lightning round where Ransom talks about his introverted side, his go-to stress relievers and what’s on his reading list. 02:15 Early Life, First Jobs and Leadership Influences 09:21 Journey Through Education and Career Beginnings 11:27 Transition to Healthcare Administration 17:13 Leadership Philosophy and Crisis Management 20:54 Challenges and Surprises as a CEO 23:49 Learning from Mistakes 29:07 Staying Healthy and Hobbies 30:07 Effective Leadership Traits 35:55 Lightning Round Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices