The Interview: Mike Robertson
This month, The Paper publishes its Interview with Mike Robertson.
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I am CEO of Piedmont Newnan and have been with Piedmont since 2004. I”ve been involved in healthcare for 25 years and prior to management I was a Neonatal & ICU Respiratory Therapist. I am responsible for the Newnan facility and for the 1,000 men and women that make healthcare one of the most rewarding jobs one could have. I work with some of the most talented nurses, doctors, patient support team members and leaders, frankly in the world. Piedmont Healthcare has been a blessing to my family and I and I am lucky to work for such a great company and ethical leadership focused on patient care.
Best piece of business advice you’ve received.
If you are making changes that affect physicians: “If you’re not talking to them before, you will surely be talking to them after.” That advice was from a prior hospital CEO and board member, and he was right.
If I had it to do over …
Tell my parents and my wife and kids, “Thank You” more for their love and support. We all get too busy, but it is times like we live in now with Covid you realize exactly how short life is. Say “I love you” and “thank you” to those that mean the most to you.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Albums: Jimmy Buffett- Changes in Latitudes 1977, The Beatles Greatest Hits, Patrick O’Hearn So Flows the Current album. I enjoy all kinds of music. As I’ve gotten older the music gets more relaxing and comfortable.
Books: The Bible- I need the study time and all the help I can get!
Jimmy Buffett – A Salty Piece of Land & A Pirates Look at Fifty – Jimmy has a way to connect with me through both fantasy and his life through our lens as we see it.
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.
Oldest of 3 children and have worked since I was 15. My first “job” was at age 13 where I was paid by our HOA to cut grass and maintain the pool. $2,500 at age 13 was huge money!
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why.
Anthony Bourdain – fascinating chef, style and attitude. Interesting perspective on food, travel and culture.
Dr. Martin Luther King – We could all learn so much from his perspective, as a man, pastor, and believer through faith
Wyatt Earp – From a historical perspective this was THE guy, Buffalo hunter, cowboy, sherriff- Love to hear his stories
Jesus Christ – like many, I owe him everything.
My Father, Bill – My father would say something catchy like “I wouldn’t even invite myself to your party,” butI definitely would. As aboy and now a man, I see my father in ways he never saw himself. I’ve learned a lot from him about life, work, family and faith. I’m truly blessed to have the parents and siblings I do. I enjoy his company and friendship.
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream …
Attend a F1 event and meet the drivers.
Camp/Fish Montana, Wyoming and Alaska with my son.
Spend a month in the summer in the Yukon.
A dream vacation (TBD) with my wife and kids.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
A F1 driver, veterinarian, a chef, or a Forest Ranger.
Your go-to food.
Mexican Food- Beef enchiladas, chips, salsa and cheese dip and cheese dip (*The double cheese dip is on purpose!).
Favorite movies(s) …
Tombstone
Harry Potter
James Bond- Daniel Craig versions
Dogs or cats?
Dogs – We have three, a Corgi named Freckles, a female Cocker spaniel – Maggie, male Cocker spaniel- Beau.
Your favorite quote and why.
“Say When”- Doc Holiday in a shootout in the movie Tombstone- I saw a vanity tag on a sports car. I love it!
Jimmy Buffett – “Indecision may or may not be my biggest problem” – anybody that must be decisive and make decisions for a living, on 60% of the needed information to make that decision can appreciate the irony.
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
Completing my MBA while working full time, married with two young children.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own.
No time is the right time in love, marriage, kids, family or work. Think through it, decide and stick to it.
“Success” is defined in different ways by different people. You define your own success. Be “successful” is also up to one’s interpretation of the prior. In my mind, being successful is where hard work and skill set and luck seem to hit at the same time. Be yourself and portray the person you want to be. Stop talking and Listen more. Stress is relative. Make time for yourself – do what you enjoy, find a hobby.
Pictured above … Mike Robertson (center), Taylor (left), Will (back) and Georgette (right).
