What happens when one of the nation’s most influential physician leaders becomes a patient himself? In this powerful episode of The BOBcast, Bob Riney sits down with Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, President of the American Medical Association, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, resilience, and the future of healthcare in America. From growing up in Flint to leading the largest physician organization in the country, Dr. Mukkamala shares how his journey has shaped his perspective on prevention, physician burnout, and why America spends more on healthcare — yet too often falls short on outcomes. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Dr. Mukkamala reflects on his diagnosis with a cancerous brain tumor, the “tumor wisdom” he’s gained along the way, and how humor, humility, and hope have guided him through uncertainty. Together, Bob and Bobby explore what it will take to build a healthcare system that delivers world-class care while never losing its heart.

Time Stamps
Introduction and Background of Dr. Bobby Mukkamala
:00- “For what we spend, it's kind of a no brainer,” jokes Dr. Bobby Mukkamala with Bob Riney
:15- Bob introduces himself as the CEO of Henry Ford Health and host of The BOBCast, highlighting the podcast's focus on Detroit's future and influential voices.
:53- Bob praises Dr. Mukkamala, the president of the American Medical Association (AMA), for his national advocacy in healthcare transformation and his local contributions in Michigan.
2:05- Bob and Dr. Mukkamala discuss the challenges and frustrations faced by physicians, particularly the increasing age at which physicians are retiring.
Challenges and Solutions in Healthcare
3:20- Dr. Mukkamala discusses the frustration among physicians due to administrative burdens and financial stressors, such as the cost of necessary equipment.
3:43- He emphasizes the need for better organization and support among physicians to address these stressors and improve the healthcare system.
4:42- Dr. Mukkamala highlights the inefficiency of the U.S. healthcare system, noting that despite spending almost $5 trillion annually, the country performs poorly in certain metrics compared to other developed nations.
5:16- He suggests a focus on basic healthcare and preventative care to improve overall health outcomes and reduce costs in the long run.
Preventative Care and Healthcare Efficiency
5:41- Bob and Dr. Mukkamala discuss the importance of preventative care and how it can reduce the burden on the healthcare system.
6:12- Dr. Mukkamala argues that investing in preventative care now will lead to better health outcomes and lower costs in the future.
8:05- He shares his personal experience of growing up in Flint, Michigan, and how the city's revitalization efforts have inspired him to contribute to the community.
9:13- Dr. Mukkamala reflects on the love and support he received from his family and community during his battle with a brain tumor, which reinforced his commitment to healthcare advocacy.
Personal Journey and Healthcare Advocacy
10:10- Dr. Mukkamala recounts his diagnosis with a brain tumor in November 2024 and the emotional support he received from his family, community, and Jay Leno.
10:42- He shares his experience of meeting with top neurosurgeons through telemedicine and the importance of having access to specialized care.
10:59- Bob and Dr. Mukkamala emphasize the need for a healthcare system that can provide both expert medical care and personalized attention to patients.
11:44- He discusses the challenges of balancing his roles as a physician, business owner, and community advocate, highlighting the importance of doing what he loves.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
12:19- Bob talks about and the many roles Dr. Mukkamala plays, including being a restaurant owner in Flint.
13:34- Bob reflects on the episode.
14:13- Bob encourages listeners to follow The BOBCast for more episodes featuring influential voices and important conversations.
14:32- The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to take positive steps towards the future and continue striving for a better healthcare system.

What happens when a Detroit legend never forgets his roots? In this episode of The BOBcast, Bob sits down with Jalen Rose, a native of Northwest Detroit and former NBA star, to uncover the courage behind Rose’s journey from the "Fab Five" at Michigan, to 13 seasons in the NBA, and a successful sports broadcasting career. The discipline and work ethic that shaped his journey ultimately inspired him to create the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, an open-enrollment, tuition-free public charter high school on Detroit’s Northwest side that has already graduated more than 1,000 scholars and is now preparing to expand its impact even further.

Time Stamps
Jalen Rose's Commitment to Education and Leadership
:00- Jalen discusses the importance of securing cell phones in the morning and wearing uniforms, drawing a parallel to attending a Dave Chappelle concert.
:56- Bob Riney introduces Jalen, highlighting his achievements and his commitment to education through the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy (JRLA).
1:54- Jalen expresses gratitude for the partnership with Henry Ford Health and the impact of JRLA, mentioning the graduation of 1000 scholars and the current enrollment of over 400 students.
2:39- Jalen explains the educational philosophy of JRLA, focusing on growing young people to ninth-grade levels and providing support throughout high school and college.

Jalen Rose's Family Influence and Leadership
3:28- Jalen shares his family background, including his grandfather's entrepreneurial spirit and his grandmother's role as a disciplinarian.
4:09- He describes his family's blue-collar roots and the influence of his mother's work at Chrysler and local bars on his work ethic.
4:27- Jalen recounts personal anecdotes, such as promising himself to make it to the NBA and adopting the nickname "Dr. J" after Julius Erving.
6:25- Bob admires Jalen's deep commitment to changing lives and not seeking superficial recognition.

The Real Detroit and Community Involvement
6:41- Jalen discusses the concept of "the real Detroit," emphasizing the importance of community members who are deeply invested in the city.
7:15- Bob shares his experience of exploring Detroit by bicycle, highlighting the different perspectives one can gain from seeing the city's neighborhoods.
7:38- Jalen agrees, noting that many people only see the downtown or Eastern Market areas, missing the broader picture of the city.

Leadership and Sports
8:28- Jalen believes that leadership traits and grit are fostered through sports and being a Detroiter.
8:43- Jalen shares his experience of being a team captain at various levels, which he considers a significant compliment from his teammates.
8:52- Bob mentions the expansion of JRLA to the former Kingswood hospital site, which will allow the academy to expand its reach significantly.
9:22- Jalen Rose outlines his vision for the new facility, including a lower school for grades five through eight and a home basketball game for the first time.

Expanding JRLA's Reach and Impact
10:01- Jalen Rose discusses the importance of expanding JRLA's mission to influence more young people and provide resources beyond high school.
10:19- Jalen explains the nine-through-16 model, which includes secondary education and sports facilities, and his goal of raising $25 million to open the lower school by 2028.
10:54- Jalen emphasizes the unique aspect of JRLA, which continues to support students in various educational paths, unlike traditional high schools.
11:26- Bob and Jalen discuss the challenges of social media and the importance of setting high expectations for students.

Future Vision for JRLA
12:52- Jalen envisions JRLA as the most unique five-through-16 model in the United States, with a significant impact on young lives.
12:59- Jalen expresses gratitude for the partnership with Henry Ford Health and the opportunities it has provided.
13:20- Bob reflects on the episode and add his optimistic about the future of JRLA and its potential to transform lives.

What separates those who dream of change from those who make it happen? And how can personal tragedy become a catalyst for progress? In this episode of The BOBcast, Bob sits down with Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rocket Companies, and Dr. Steve Kalkanis, CEO of Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford Medical Group. Together, they explore how personal adversity, philanthropy, and bold decisions are reshaping Detroit’s healthcare and economic future. This is more than a conversation about medicine - it’s about momentum, legacy, and the shared belief that Detroit will be a global model for innovation.

Show Notes

Dan Gilbert and Dr. Steven Kalkanis' Relationship and Impact on Detroit
1:09- Bob Riney introduces the podcast and the guests, Dan Gilbert and Dr. Steven Kalkanis, highlighting their significant contributions to Detroit.
2:12- Dan shares how his son Nick's neurofibromatosis diagnosis led to his relationship with Dr. Kalkanis, who was a key doctor during Nick's treatment.
3:09- Dr. Kalkanis recalls his first meeting with Dan, emphasizing Dan's relentless pursuit of the best care for his son and his inquisitive nature.
3:54- The conversation touches on Nick Gilbert's passing and its impact on Dan's dedication to advancing research and care.

Philanthropy and Vision for Detroit's Future
4:06- Bob asks Dan about the influence of his son's battle on his broader vision for Detroit's future.
4:20- Dan discusses the personal nature of philanthropy and his commitment to partnering with Henry Ford Health to improve healthcare in Detroit.
4:45- Dan highlights the lack of neurorehab centers in Detroit and his excitement about contributing to the rehab center at Henry Ford Health.
4:53- Bob and Dan discuss the broader vision for Detroit, including the need for world-class healthcare and the impact of large investments like the Future of Health project and Destination Grand.

Economic and Social Impact of Major Investments
5:12- Bob asks Dr. Kalkanis about his hopes for patients, families, and Detroiters with the new healthcare investments.
5:40- Dr. Kalkanis expresses his hope that Detroiters will feel pride in the state-of-the-art healthcare available in their city.
6:08- Dan emphasizes the importance of other institutions and businesses making big bets on Detroit to create a vibrant and inspiring city.
6:25- The conversation shifts to the need to change the mentality of Detroit residents, encouraging them to stay and thrive in the city.

Personal Stories and Career Risks
7:20- Dr. Kalkanis shares a personal story about his son's internship with Dan's company, highlighting the impact of Dan's vision on young people.
7:53- Dr. Kalkanis discusses Dan’s quote "a rich man has 1000 problems, but a sick man has one," and its relevance to their work.
8:27- Bob and Dan discuss the need to recruit talent from outside Detroit and the importance of creating a city that inspires young people to stay.
8:43- Dan shares his experience with interns and the positive energy they bring to Detroit.
8:58- Bob asks Dan about his decision-making skills and the "isms" that guide his approach to making big decisions.
9:50- Dr. Kalkanis discusses how preparation and innovation play a major role in outcomes as he leads a multi-1000 team of physicians?
9:56- Dr. Kalkanis reflects on the importance of prioritizing health and ensuring that healthcare outcomes are not determined by zip code.

Future Vision and Personal Legacy
10:54- Bob asks Dr. Kalkanis and Dan the biggest risks in their careers that taught them a lesson that they still use today.
12:18- Dr. Kalkanis hopes that Detroit will become a global model for healthcare innovation and reminds listeners of Detroit's history of innovation.
12:50- Dan aims for Detroit to be a top choice for college graduates, both in-state and out-of-state.

Final Thoughts and Legacy
13:10- Dr. Kalkanis hopes to have a positive impact on health and life for those he touches.
13:19- Dan aims to eliminate neurofibromatosis and ensure that Detroit is recognized for its positive decisions and contributions to the community.
14:12- Bob reflects on the conversation and how both Dan and Dr. Kalkanis have a deep be lief in the power of momentum
14:52- Bob concludes by encouraging listeners to keep striving and making a difference in Detroit.