Jordan Peel | May 29, 2025
At Inspire Radiology, we believe that the best patient care comes from fostering a culture where innovation, collaboration, and professional growth are not just encouraged—but expected. In this Q&A, we sit down with Dr. John Waddell, a musculoskeletal radiologist whose passion for complex cases and team-based care reflects the very heart of Inspire’s mission. From his motivations for joining our team to the culture and support that shape his daily work, Dr. Waddell offers an inside look at what makes Inspire Radiology more than just a place to work—it’s a place to thrive.
What motivated you to join Inspire Radiology?
I joined Inspire because I believe in the power of innovation and collaboration to transform healthcare. At the core of my values is patient care – every decision I make is focused on providing the best outcomes for our patients. I am passionate about working with a strong network of like-minded professionals who share that commitment and who challenge each other to grow and improve.
Being a part of Inspire Radiology offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of medicine. It is not just about keeping up with current standards, but about pushing boundaries, exploring new ways of delivering care, and reimagining what is possible in radiology. Together, we are building something exciting and forward-thinking—an environment where both our patients and our practice can thrive and grow in a new age of medicine.
How has your experience at Inspire differed from other places you’ve worked?
I have been fortunate to work at some truly wonderful institutions in my career, and I have a deep respect for all my peers, mentors, and colleagues that helped shape the radiologist I am along the way. What resonates so strongly with me about my job at Inspire is that it feels like everything I’ve learned and enjoyed in my career has come together perfectly here. It’s the ‘just right’ I was searching for.
We do an excellent job blending unique culture and collaboration. My partners here have a remarkable willingness to work together, cover for one another, and truly support each other, not just as colleagues, but as a team. It is a rare dynamic that makes coming to work feel like being part of something bigger than just “a practice”—it feels like a shared mission.
On a personal level, as a musculoskeletal radiologist, I thrive on challenging, complex cases. At Inspire, I have the opportunity to engage with cases that are both intellectually stimulating and incredibly rewarding. These cases feed my passion for the field, keeping me motivated and excited about the work we do. The balance of collaboration, respect, and the thrill of tackling tough cases has made this a truly unique experience for me—one that is not only enriching professionally but fulfilling personally, as well.
How does the team support you in delivering high-quality care?
Our incredible admin team is the backbone of delivering high-quality care! They work behind the scenes to handle credentialing, manage relationships with our hospitals, and help ensure easy contact and collaboration with our referring clinicians—something that’s truly vital to me. They keep everything running smoothly, and more importantly, they support us in ways that allow us to focus on what really matters: our patients. In short, they are ‘The Dream Team’ as I call them, and we could not do it without them!
How would you describe the culture at Inspire Radiology?
At Inspire Radiology, our culture is all about connection—with our colleagues, our community, and our families. We thrive on collaboration, where every voice matters and teamwork fuels innovation. Flexibility is not just a perk; it is a core value, empowering our team to balance meaningful work with rich home lives. We are friendly, approachable, and always learning—sharing knowledge is second nature here. Whether it’s supporting one another professionally or making time for what matters most at home, we believe success is best when shared.
Has working here impacted your work-life balance or overall well-being? If so, how?
Absolutely! Working at Inspire Radiology has been a game-changer for my work-life balance. As a teleradiologist, I have the ability to work from the comfort of home, skip the commute, and spend more quality time with my family. The generous vacation time allows me to unplug and recharge—whether I am traveling, spending time with family, or cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs every Sunday. Working here is a career that supports my lifestyle, not one that controls it.
How does Inspire support your professional goals?
Inspire Radiology truly invests in our growth. They offer generous CME funds and even help cover top-notch programs internally, so continuing education is always within reach. Whether you are aiming to sharpen your skills or step into a leadership role, there is a clear path forward—and the Administrative Staff (or Dream Team) help you every step of the way. It is a place where your goals are not just encouraged—they are made possible.
If you could tell a potential radiologist one thing about working at Inspire, what would it be?
If I could tell a potential radiologist one thing about working at Inspire Radiology, it’s this: you are not just another name on a roster—you are truly valued. Our forward-thinking leadership is not just keeping up with change; they are helping shape the next wave of medicine. Here, you are part of a team that is redefining what radiology can look like—where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth all go hand in hand.