Peter Murphy Lewis is no ordinary CEO. He’s a fractional CMO, TV host, and creator of the People Worth Caring About docu-series—a project that’s turning the long-term care narrative on its head.
In his recent appearance on Becker’s Healthcare Podcast, one of the most-listened-to shows in the healthcare space, Peter pulled back the curtain on his unconventional career, offering exclusive insights into marketing, leadership, and his relentless passion for elevating the caregiving profession.
As founder and CEO of Strategic Pete, Peter has spent decades honing a marketing strategy that goes beyond buzzwords and stats—he’s deeply committed to telling real stories that resonate with audiences and change industries. In this episode, Peter shared his journey, the inspiration behind his docu-series, and what it really means to innovate in both healthcare marketing and leadership.
“A Conversation Over a Beer Turned Into a Docu-Series”
During the podcast, Peter explained how his groundbreaking People Worth Caring About docu-series—which highlights the unsung heroes of long-term care—came to life in an unexpected way:
“There may have been a beer involved, Scott. I said, ‘Why don’t we do something about caregivers?’ Instead of focusing on America’s seniors, let’s focus on the people who take care of them. Let’s show the world who they are, instead of letting the press tell the story for us.”
What started as a casual conversation with the board chair of the Nebraska Health Care Association has quickly blossomed into a powerful movement. The first series aired in Nebraska, receiving overwhelming positive feedback, including praise from industry leaders like the chair of the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHA), who described it as
“the most authentic thing I’ve seen in our industry.”
Peter’s vision for the docu-series is simple: “The best way to control the narrative in long-term care is to show real people who love what they do. Not just caregivers, but the caregivers—the 17-year-old CNAs who are committed for life, the 70-year-olds who can’t retire because this is their family away from home.”
Balancing a Global Career from a “Literal Zoo” in Kansas
Beyond his professional achievements, Peter’s personal life is as unique as his career path. When asked about his home life in Wichita, Kansas, Peter offered a laugh and said,
“I literally live inside of a zoo. There are zebras 30 yards behind me and cheetahs 60 yards in front of me.” It’s not just a fun fact—it’s a reflection of his extraordinary approach to life.
Peter and his family, including his wife and 8-year-old son, live on a property adjacent to a local zoo—a living situation that, by his own admission, is both chaotic and fulfilling. But it’s also a microcosm of his larger philosophy: embracing the unexpected, making room for family, and blending professional success with personal fulfillment.
“Living here, next to my parents, taking my son to school every morning—it gives me the foundation to do what I do professionally. It’s about balance. It’s about connection,” Peter shared.
From Intern to “A Player”: Empowering Future Leaders
Peter’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empowering others—especially younger talent. During the podcast, he revealed that his next major project is a book titled From Intern to A Player: CEO’s Playbook for Scaling Top Talent Remotely.
“Companies are always complaining about Gen Z’s work ethic. Instead of complaining, let’s empower them. Let’s train them to be A Players.”
Peter’s work with interns and younger professionals, particularly those in remote roles, has become a core part of his approach to leadership. He’s spent the last few years traveling the country, teaching healthcare organizations how to recruit, retain, and develop young talent.
“Marketers and CEOs need to get over their biases,” he said. “Stop focusing on the differences and start focusing on empowerment. Millennials and Gen Z are capable of doing incredible things if we give them the right tools.”
A TV Host with a Global Touch: Aqui Te Las Traigo Peter in Chile
Peter’s expertise in media and storytelling isn’t limited to the business world—he’s also a seasoned TV host. In Chile, he hosted the popular show Aqui Te Las Traigo Peter, a program that blended the essence of Dirty Jobs with the cultural depth of Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations.
On the podcast, Peter explained, “The show was all about me failing at things that people in Chile do with passion and skill. I couldn’t weld. I couldn’t build a house. But I learned about people’s lives through these jobs, and it gave me a new appreciation for the culture.”
Peter’s time in Chile also shaped his approach to storytelling. “The show was about authenticity. I wasn’t there to show off. I was there to be real, to fail, and to learn.”
“Vulnerability is My Currency”
When it comes to leadership, Peter’s mantra is clear: “There are only two things that I’m particularly great at: my currency is vulnerability, and I’m great at empowering younger talent.”
Peter’s openness about his flaws, challenges, and growth is a cornerstone of his leadership style—particularly effective when guiding teams or helping startups navigate their initial growth without losing their culture. He believes that true success comes from being real and transparent, both with your team and the world.
“You can’t build meaningful connections if you’re not vulnerable,” Peter said. “I’m not afraid to admit that I don’t have all the answers, and that’s something I want other leaders to embrace. Being vulnerable builds trust, and trust is everything.”
Why Peter Murphy Lewis is an Industry Leader You Need to Know
Peter Murphy Lewis’ recent appearance on Becker’s Healthcare Podcast is a must-listen for anyone in healthcare, marketing, or leadership. Whether it’s his innovative marketing strategies, his groundbreaking work in long-term care, or his unwavering belief in empowering the next generation, Peter is shaping the future of caregiving and leadership.
With a global perspective, a deep commitment to human connection, and a talent for telling the stories that matter, Peter is a leader who is redefining what it means to truly make an impact.
For a deeper dive into Peter’s insights on leadership, marketing, and the future of long-term care, listen to the full episode of Becker’s Healthcare Podcast here: Listen Now. There is a written companion to this episode in our article on what caregivers taught Peter.
