Mentorship, Retention, and Growth: Insights from Physician Practice Management with Allen Alongi

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams speaks with Allen Alongi, MBA, PMP, SSGB, Physician Practice Manager at Northside Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, and one of the newly appointed members of MGMA’s Human Resources and Compliance Advisory Board. Allen shares his journey from patient to healthcare leader; his passion for writing, reading, and mentorship; and strategies for building resilient teams in a challenging healthcare environment.  This conversation offers practical solutions for medical practice leaders and MGMA members looking to strengthen their teams, improve operations, and foster professional growth. Key Takeaways:01:21 Allen’s Role at Northside Hospital Learn how Allen oversees multiple clinics, manages P&L, and drives strategic initiatives focused on retention and patient experience. 04:42 A Personal Healthcare Journey Allen’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes at age 14 and how it inspired his career in healthcare leadership.06:08 Career Path & Lessons Learned From academic medicine to physician practice management, Allen shares insights on staffing challenges and operational excellence. 09:05 Connecting with MGMA How MGMA resources and certification programs became a cornerstone for Allen’s professional development and decision-making. 11:05 Writing for MGMA Allen discusses his published articles on mentorship, feedback loops, and practical clinic solutions—and why writing matters for leadership. 12:36 Allen's Passion for Writing Stemmed from his Love of Reading Allen talks classic literature and various writing roles throughout his career. 19:28 Book Recommendations & Lifelong Learning Allen and Daniel talk about some leadership reads, plus details on MGMA’s book club for members.25:07 Maximizing Mentor-Mentee Programs Actionable advice for getting the most out of mentorship programs, including preparation, engagement, and growth strategies. Resources Mentioned:Allen’s MGMA Articles"Mentor up: How to be a great mentee and drive your own growth""Feedback for impact: Using employee and patient insights to drive operational improvements""Practical solutions to combat burnout in ambulatory clinics" Other MGMA ResourcesMGMA Certification - Demonstrate your skills and earn a recognized certificate of mastery.MGMA Mentor Program - New and improved! Books DiscussedThe Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre DumasEast of Eden by John SteinbeckLook Homeward, Angel by Thomas WolfeAlign the Mind by Britt FrankShatterproof by Tasha EurichThe Moviegoer by Walker PercyLemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events