Our Story

A Crisis That Brought Forth Fundamental Transformation

In 2010, Dr. Walter Lee confronted a troubling reality: professionalism challenges were not isolated incidents but systemic issues cascading through through layers of the healthcare team. What started as individual concerns had evolved into team-wide dysfunction, directly undermining the quality of patient care his team could deliver. Rather than implementing temporary solutions, Dr. Lee recognized the critical need for a fundamental transformation that would address root causes and create lasting change...

Through what can only be described as providential timing, Dr. Lee encountered Dr. Barry Doublestein, an accomplished Leadership Consultant from the Atlanta area whose career had been dedicated to developing medical education programs throughout the Southeast. Dr. Doublestein's deep commitment to cultivating healthcare leaders made him an invaluable collaborator. The partnership expanded when Dr. Doublestein introduced Dr. Richard Pfohl, whose unique background bridging corporate leadership and healthcare systems brought essential perspective to their mission. Having met while pursuing their Doctorate in Strategic Leadership at Regent University, Drs. Doublestein and Pfohl had already established a track record of successful collaboration on transformative projects.

Now working together with Dr. Lee, they developed the Professionalism Intelligence Model—a virtue-based framework that has become the foundation for comprehensive programs designed to create meaningful, sustainable change in healthcare environments. Since 2010, their collaborative efforts have generated an impressive body of evidence-based work, including peer-reviewed publications, successful grant funding, and presentations at prestigious national and international conferences.

Witnessing the profound impact of their work on students, trainees, and professionals alike, they are excited to bring their expertise and practical wisdom through the International Phronesis Institute to individuals who are committed to excellence, seeking meaningful career fulfillment, and aspiring to flourish in a healthcare career.