A single promotion can shift the energy of an entire organization. In this episode, Cindi and Geoff sit down with Leticia Rodriguez, CEO of Ward Memorial Hospital, to talk about why internal promotions build stronger organizations and how to take smart chances on people who are still growing.
Leticia shares how someone once saw potential in her, and how she now pays that forward by developing talent from the inside. From intentional one-on-ones to strategic learning investments, she shows how internal hires create a culture where people stay, grow, and deliver.
This episode offers a framework for betting on your people, without setting them up to fail. Tune in for a fresh take on increasing retention, performance, and shared purpose.
Episode Highlights:
- The ripple effects of well-placed internal promotions
- How to spot potential before it announces itself
- The tradeoffs between hiring internal versus external
- How to course correct when a gamble doesn’t work
- Why investing in development changes team dynamics over time
- The leadership habit that keeps communication open and growth on track
About Leticia Rodriguez:
Leticia Rodriguez is the CEO for Ward Memorial Hospital, Monahans, TX and has held that role for the last 12 years. Professionally, Rodriguez serves on the board for The Texas Health Services Authority. Locally, she serves as the Vice President for the Monahans Economic Development and Board Member of the Chamber of Commerce. She is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce Women’s Division, Rotary and Ambassador’s Club.
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Want to Go Deeper? Check Out Our Recommended Reading:
- Minni, Virginia. “New Research on How the Best Managers Shape Employees’ Careers,” Harvard Business Review, 1 Oct. 2025. https://hbr.org/2025/10/new-research-on-how-the-best-managers-shape-employees-careers
- Benson, A and Rissing, B. “Strength from Within: Internal Mobility and the Retention of High Performers,” Organizational Science, 7 Dec. 2019. DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.3503708
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