In this episode of Charting the Future, Chip Hart sits down with Dr. Brian Bowman to reflect on a career shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and an unusually deep commitment to independent pediatrics. Dr. Bowman describes the growth of his North Carolina practice from a single office into a 17-clinician organization, and explains how he gradually became its go-to leader for billing, payer negotiations, quality programs, and practice operations. His perspective is clear: strong pediatric practices are built not merely by demanding better payment, but by demonstrating value, reducing administrative friction, sharing knowledge, and working collectively to improve care for children.

As Dr. Bowman begins transitioning from partner to part-time employed physician, he offers a thoughtful and candid perspective on succession, identity, and knowing when to step away. He discusses preparing younger physicians to lead, leaving the practice in capable hands, and making room for travel, family, and new adventures while he is still physically able to enjoy them. He also reflects on the threats facing pediatrics—including vaccine misinformation and public policy disconnected from public health—and closes with practical wisdom for younger physicians: do not settle for a career or life that leaves you unhappy, and never underestimate how much pediatric care depends on empathy, communication, and the ability to meet families where they are.

Chip is joined at the GA AAP's Pediatrics By The Sea event by practice owner and incoming chapter president, Dr. Patrick Pulliam. Dr. Pulliam has a strong vision for the future of pediatrics and hopes to reorganize how the AAP works for and represents pediatricians and children, starting with his own chapter.

Check out the video version of this episode on our Youtube channel!

In this episode of Charting the Future, Chip Hart sits down with Dr. Steven F. Hirsch, MD, FAAP founder and medical director of Hirsch Pediatrics, to explore what it means to build a pediatric practice with intention. From designing an office that feels more like a welcoming European village than a medical clinic to creating workflows that prioritize preventive care, patient convenience, and physician well-being, Dr. Hirsch shares the philosophy that has guided his independent practice from day one.

The conversation spans everything from data-driven practice management and patient portals to burnout, vaccine confidence, mental health integration, and the future of independent pediatrics. Along the way, Dr. Hirsch makes a compelling case that thoughtful design of spaces, systems, and relationships can improve both the patient experience and the sustainability of pediatric care.