In this live episode of the Lead Change Podcast from AOSSM in Seattle, Dr. Mary Mulcahey is joined by sports medicine surgeons Drs. Mia Hagen, Justin Arner, and Drew Lansdown to reflect on their experience participating in the AOSSM–ESSKA Traveling Fellowship. The group discusses their varied clinical practices, their involvement with AOSSM, and what motivated them to pursue an immersive international experience in sports medicine.

The fellows describe traveling throughout Europe and learning directly from leaders in sports medicine through a combination of operative experiences, scientific exchange, research discussions, and cultural immersion. Their journey included stops in Amsterdam, Oslo, Brandenburg, Milan, Barcelona, and Lyon, with opportunities to observe different surgical approaches, healthcare systems, clinical practices, and research infrastructures. Just as important as the formal education were the relationships, hospitality, and conversations that developed along the way.

The conversation also explores the leadership lessons that emerged from seeing how accomplished surgeons intentionally build teams, structure clinical practices, create efficient operating environments, and develop successful research programs. Rather than simply learning what these leaders had accomplished, the fellows gained insight into how they built the systems and cultures that allowed those accomplishments to happen.

Ultimately, the episode highlights the transformative potential of leaving familiar surroundings, learning from different perspectives, investing in professional societies, and building relationships that extend beyond institutions and national borders. The closing discussion reinforces several broader leadership themes: the importance of visibility and representation, learning how to motivate and develop teams, and the idea that “preparation creates confidence”—whether in surgery, research, leadership, or any other professional opportunity.