Alignment between our people, our systems and our strategies" - Reggie Newson of Wellpoint Care Network

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Reggie Newson, President and CEO of Wellpoint Care Network, about what it takes to lead a deeply rooted organization into its next chapter.

Reggie reflects on his first year in the role and the work of entering a complex organization with a long history and strong mission. Rather than moving too quickly to impose change, he began with listening: spending time with associates, leaders, community partners, donors, and stakeholders to understand what was working, where improvement was needed, and how the organization could better align around impact.

The conversation explores Reggie’s focus on culture, accountability, clarity, and high reliability. He shares practical examples, from leadership expectations and mission moments to connecting with field staff through informal conversations, all aimed at breaking down silos and improving the experience of the families Wellpoint serves. For leaders entering high-stakes roles, Reggie emphasizes the importance of alignment, decisive action, learning in real time, and keeping mission at the center of organizational change.

Listen to the full episode: