Bryan J. Henderson, Ph.D., MBA, BSRT(R), is the director of radiology, cardiology, neurology and radiation oncology at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Los Angeles, California. His radiology career journey began across the country in Florida.
“Growing up as an active kid in South Florida, I was always playing outside and getting injured. Whether I was playing sports or trying to outrun an alligator, I was always getting hurt,” Henderson says. “Needless to say, I saw my fair share of emergency rooms and spent a good amount of time in radiology departments, which really sparked my interest in health care.”
“I’ve always enjoyed working in health care and especially with the elderly population and I’ve learned that age is just a number,” he adds. “Interacting with geriatric patients is a daily reminder of just how fragile life really is and it teaches you to be humble and to never take anything for granted.”
Thus far, he says that his greatest accomplishments include his family and becoming a doctor.
“I set new goals every year; for me, the finish line just keeps moving. I cherish my family and my friends, but I am most proud of the things that are not easily achieved in life, such as becoming a doctor, writing a book and traveling the world,” he explains.
Looking ahead, Henderson sees great things in store for diagnostic imaging.
“Imaging technology continues to evolve at an exponential rate, it seems like we’re experiencing new technological breakthroughs on an annual basis,” he says. “This is both exciting and intimidating. I look forward to seeing what artificial intelligence can bring to the world of imaging services, but I’ve also seen all the Terminator movies and may be a little skeptical.”
As far as leading others, Henderson is like a lot of imaging directors.
“I’m a big proponent of servant leadership and leading by example. I believe that my employees work with me, not for me, and that a leader should never expect their staff to do something that they wouldn’t do themselves,” he says. “If you cultivate the joy of working, your staff will follow.”
He also believes in mentorships.
“I’ve learned from many health care executives over the years, but the one I’ve learned the most from was a hospital CEO named Gus Valdespino. Gus was vital to my successful development as a health care leader, as he taught me the fundamental traits of good communication, delegation and decision-making, while also teaching me the importance of emotional intelligence, empathy and self-awareness,” Henderson says.
He also points to his family for some great guidance.
“My family tree is awesome and amazingly supportive of each other. Although my family is small compared to most, we are extremely mighty. Every year we pick a new location and get together for a family reunion,” he says. “I am truly blessed to have them all in my life.
His travels have also sparked a desire to give back to the less fortunate.
“After traveling to some of the most remote parts of the world and visiting several underprivileged health care facilities, my wife and I decided to launch the Henderson Heart Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to donating used medical equipment and supplies to some of the most impoverished areas around the globe,” Henderson says. “It’s amazing what a small group of people committed to changing the world for the better can do. For more information, please visit our website www.HendersonHeartFoundation.org.” •
1. What is the last book you read? I read constantly, but I haven’t read any new books over the last year, as I’ve been busy writing and publishing my first book, which is on the topic of patient satisfaction in health care. My book is titled “Satisfaction Guaranteed?” and it’s now available on Amazon.
2. Favorite movie? “The Shawshank Redemption”
3. What is something most of your coworkers don’t know about you? I just visited my 75th country and I’m excited for my next journey later this year, which will be to my 7th and final continent, Antarctica.
4. Who were your mentors in life? I’ve been blessed with many mentors in my life. Growing up, my grandparents taught me well. My grandfather preached the importance of higher education, hard work and perseverance; while my grandmother was the ultimate hostess and taught me how to cook and entertain a crowd. I was exposed to the best of both worlds.
5. What is one thing you do every morning to start your day? I always make my bed. This way, if I only make it downstairs to the couch, at least I’ve accomplished something that day.
6. Best advice you ever received? Travel while you’re young, because your money will return, but your time won’t.
7. Who has had the biggest influence on your life? Well, other than a plethora of scholars and teachers, my parents were very influential in my life. My mother taught me how to read, but my father taught me to question everything that I read, so I would say that both my parents were huge influences in my life and both are responsible for the man I am today.
8. What would your superpower be? I wish I could fly or have unlimited good health.
9. What are your hobbies? I enjoy spending time on my boat and scuba diving during the summer months and snowboarding during the winter months and, of course, traveling around the world with my wife.
10. What is your perfect meal? My palate has quite the range, I’ve enjoyed everything from Ibiza’s Sublimotion to a Florida Waffle House. But honestly, the perfect meal for me depends on where I’m at in the world as different countries and cultures offer such contrasting varieties of cuisine. Enjoying a meal is not just about the food, it’s also about the people that you’re sharing a meal with. Food might not be the answer to world peace, but it’s a start.
