Happy Holidays from all of us at
Do you believe in magic? Because one of my favorite things about this time of year is how, even after our Santa years fade, we can still feel a sense of wonder and enchantment. We see a picture, talk with a loved one or hear a familiar story… and suddenly, it feels like coming downstairs to find a brand-new bicycle waiting for us.
That same feeling struck me this fall, when Warbird’s leadership team gathered in Atlanta for our annual in-person strategy meeting.
In the weeks leading up to the meeting, I challenged our leaders to prepare one-of-a-kind presentations that highlighted not only their expertise, but their unique perspectives on challenges facing healthcare today. I expected everyone to apply the same dedication and care they bring to every client interaction – but I didn’t anticipate the emotional impact of what they shared.
Rather than focusing solely on finance, strategy and operations, our leaders shared the stories of hospital executives, board members and frontline team members we’ve been privileged to work alongside – the people who live in the communities their organizations serve, whose families, friends and neighbors rely on them every day.
They’re the people behind the bottom line.
They are the leaders who, when they’ve turned to Warbird, were able to wrest improved performance and long-term viability from an ever-changing healthcare environment.
I went into that meeting ready to present data and rally our team. I left it feeling like George Bailey when Clarence gets his wings.
Especially after a year that has stretched and challenged all of us, I was reminded of something we shared in our first edition of The Warbird Brief:
Unprecedented does not mean impossible.
Despite the market pressures and headwinds facing our industry, our team has seen the “impossible” happen.
We’ve helped rural and community hospitals remain open and independent. We’ve supported major academic health systems as they identified opportunities for growth and sustainability. And we’ve partnered with regional systems to pull them back from the brink of financial distress.
When circumstances feel impossible, I’m continually inspired by the team around me.
As we close out 2025, we’re at an inflection point. This is a moment to step back, gain clarity and set the stage for a stronger year ahead – ending the year and resetting our organizations with intentionality, discipline and optimism.
Whether your focus is culture, operations, finance or leadership development, the entire Warbird team is here to support you.
Because together, even in unprecedented times, we can still make a little magic.
Warm regards,
Mike Draa, CEO
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