NOTE: The following message was emailed to Ballad Health team members on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
Dear Colleague,
Over the past several months, the Better Begins With Us program has focused on bringing four of our six core values – Honesty, Caring, Faith, and Respect – to life through practical skills designed to be learned, tried and shared. Each skill in this program was intentionally selected to support personal growth, strengthen teamwork and reinforce the culture we strive to create for our teammates, our patients and their families.
The program began with The Empathy Effect, which aligned with Honesty. This skill encouraged team members to listen with intent, seek to understand different perspectives and communicate openly and authentically. By practicing empathy, teams strengthen trust and create space for honest conversations that lead to better collaboration and connection.
The focus then shifted to Gratitude, which aligned with Caring. This skill reinforced the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of others. Expressing gratitude helps build stronger relationships, boosts morale and reminds us that caring is demonstrated through everyday acknowledgment and appreciation.
Next, team members explored What Does It Mean to S.E.R.V.E., which aligned with Faith. This skill centered on purpose, service and showing up for others with intention. It reminded us that our work has meaning and that serving others, be it teammates, patients or families, is a powerful way to live out our values even in challenging moments.
The program concluded with There for Each Other, which aligned with Respect. This skill emphasized supporting one another through awareness, empathy and action. From offering help, to asking for support, to recognizing when someone may be struggling, this skill reinforced the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.
The engagement throughout Better Begins With Us has been encouraging. Team members shared thoughtful reflections, personal experiences and examples of how these skills are influencing their daily work. That participation reinforces the impact of B Excellent in strengthening our culture and supporting meaningful connections across the organization.
Thank you to every team member who engaged with Better Begins With Us. While the program has ended, the skills and values it reinforced continue to shape our culture and strengthen how we care for one another and those we serve every day.
New B Excellent Podcast episode
To continue the spirit of Better Begins With Us, we invite you to listen to the latest episode of the B Excellent Podcast. In this episode, Aaron travels to Marion, Virginia,to talk with physical therapist Lindsey King, a recent recipient of the Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award.
Lindsey shares what inspired her to pursue physical therapy, why she values a career focused on helping others and how her faith and commitment to service keep her centered in her work. Her story is a moving example of our values in action.
Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and on the Practicing Excellence app.
