Covenant Health Launches New Video Podcast

Covenant Health is proud to introduce Covenant Health Conversations, a new video podcast. The series brings listeners closer to the people, innovation and mission shaping care across our region. Each episode will feature candid discussions with physicians, leaders and team members who make a difference every day. 

At its core, the podcast reflects who we are. Our health system is rooted in a promise to serve our community with compassion, excellence and integrity. Through each episode, listeners will hear how that promise comes to life in real stories, decisions and moments of care. 

Episode One Is Live 

Our debut episode features Covenant Health President and CEO Jim VanderSteeg and General Counsel Doug Campbell. They sat down for a conversation about leadership journeys, organizational culture and what’snext for healthcare in East Tennessee.  

VanderSteeg shared how his path into healthcare began with an early passion for science. He then discovered a calling in health system leadership. After decades of experience and over 10 years as CEO, his perspective centers on one simple truth: patients come first.  

After nearly 30 years of private practice, Campbell was drawn to the people and purpose behind Covenant Health. He emphasized the importance of working alongside leaders with strong values and integrity.  

Grounded in Mission, Vision and Pledge 

Their discussion highlights Covenant Health’s mission and vision and how they guide every aspect of care. 

As VanderSteeg explained, Covenant Health is a “patient-centered, people-centered company.” We are designing care around the needs of those we serve.  

That commitment reflects in the Covenant Health pledge: 

• The patient always comes first 
• Excellence in everything we do 
• We will be the first and best choice for our patients 

This simple statement guides how we deliver care, support one another and build trust in our communities.  

Where Culture Meets Care 

One of the most meaningful takeaways from the episode is how culture shapes every patient experience. 

VanderSteeg said, “The most heroic things we ever do is the kindness that we share with patients.” 

Campbell echoed that sentiment: “It’s amazing how often the story is ‘They were so kind.’” 

That culture is intentional. Covenant Health seeks to hire and support individuals who reflect these values. Together, we create an environment where compassion and excellence thrive. 

VanderSteeg shared a personal example of watching a nurse care for his daughter. He described how kindness made a lasting impact. “You step back and say, ‘That vision’s pretty cool; that pledge is pretty cool. But where is it really lived? It’s really lived in those moments.” 

The Future of Healthcare 

The episode also explores how Covenant Health is evolving to meet the changing needs of our communities. 

Our focus is on delivering high-quality care closer to home, from expanding urgent care access and outpatient services to advancing cardiac, stroke and oncology care.  

VanderSteeg emphasized that healthcare transformation is not about starting over but improving continuously. “It’s an evolution,” he said. Innovation remains grounded in purpose. Our commitment to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the care experience guides every new technology, program and partnership. 

Be Part of the Conversation 

Ready to join the conversation? Listen to episode one today, follow so you never miss an episode and like and share with your community! 

New episodes drop every other Wednesday, bringing fresh insights, meaningful stories and a closer look at the work happening across Covenant Health. Together, we’re telling the stories that define who we are and our promise for excellence with every patient, every time. 

“What is a covenant?” challenged VanderSteeg. “It’s a promise. We’re promising that you’re going to be first. We’re promising a commitment to excellence.”