This week we pull back the curtain on the business side of healthcare: how hospitals actually make money, why our bills are high yet hospitals are doing layoffs, and what it was like to step into the CEO role as an interim first. Dr. Elizabeth Wako, President & CEO of Swedish Health Services, also shares how a simple idea in the delivery room dropped C-section rates for women of color from 44% to 27%.

Top stories this week:

1. The business of hospitals

2. Starbucks signs a lease in Nashville

3. Kraken takes majority ownership of Climate Pledge Arena

About Dr. Elizabeth Wako - President & CEO, Swedish Health Care Services:

She began her career in nursing before becoming a physician and anesthesiologist, then stepped into executive leadership as Chief Medical Officer before ultimately taking the top role of President & CEO. She made history as the first woman and first Black person to lead Swedish in its 116-year history. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Washington and an MBA, and is overseeing the development of the new Hughes Tower, a major investment in Seattle's healthcare infrastructure.

About host Rachel Horgan:

Rachel is an independent event producer, emcee and entrepreneur. She worked for the Business Journal for 5 years as their Director of Events interviewing business leaders on stage before launching the weekly podcast. She earned her communication degree from the University of San Diego.

Contact:

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Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.theweeklyseattle.com