Podcast Summary: Becker Business

Episode: Leadership, Compliance, and Expanding Access in Eating Disorder Care

Host: Scott Becker
Guest: Susan Barrett, General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer, Monte Nido
Release Date: January 13, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode features a deep dive into leadership, regulatory trends, and patient access in the eating disorder care sector. Scott Becker interviews Susan Barrett—General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer at Monte Nido—about her career trajectory, Monte Nido’s growth and focus, current industry challenges, and the evolving role of technology and AI in behavioral health.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Introduction to Monte Nido and Susan Barrett

• Monte Nido is a top provider of eating disorder treatment with roughly 50 physical sites and a growing virtual presence across the US.

  • Quote (Susan Barrett, 00:37):

    "We are a leading provider of eating disorder treatment...inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and more recently, outpatient levels of care as well."

• Comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach: psychiatrists, therapists, dietitians, nurses, recovery coaches—a “rewarding” environment due to the impact on clients facing a “pretty deadly mental health disease.”

2. Growth & Strategic Focus for 2026

• Company is ambitious about broadening access— both in-person and virtually.

• Recent leadership updates: Andy Blankemeyer appointed CEO, addition of two “deep expertise” board members.

• Positive metrics: 2025 outcomes report shows “really strong symptom reduction and client satisfaction.”

  • Quote (Susan Barrett, 02:07):

    “It’s a good time to be a part of the behavioral health space, in my opinion, because there’s so many people to reach here, and I think it’s exciting for the company to continue to grow.”

3. Leadership Insights & Advice

• Core leadership value: Building relationships and trust is as important as technical skill.

• Susan’s approach: Be responsive and accessible, so colleagues can confidently bring concerns, and she can “internalize their problems.”

• Advocates for a proactive, approachable compliance and legal leadership style.

  • Quote (Susan Barrett, 04:04):

    “You have to build relationships and trust with the people that you work with...I want people to feel that they can reach out to me at any time with any question or concern.”

• Being the only attorney at Monte Nido increases the imperative for trust and accessibility.

4. Top Trends in Eating Disorder Care

• Constant monitoring of regulatory changes: judicial decisions, executive orders, EEOC, and HIPAA developments.

• Rapidly evolving legal landscape—daily review is essential.

• Emphasis on being proactive by training staff and updating policies swiftly to stay compliant.

  • Quote (Susan Barrett, 06:06):

    “I do a daily review of...the current administration and any impact on the healthcare sector...constantly, you know, reviewing and seeing how that’s evolving and impacting us.”

• Technology & AI: Increasingly central in care delivery and operational efficiency.

• Ensuring compliance with privacy (HIPAA) and other regulations while leveraging AI.

5. Internet, AI, and Patient-Family Dynamics

• Challenge: Patients and families often consult online resources and AI tools (like ChatGPT), which can spread both helpful and misleading information.

• Response: Monte Nido strives for transparency, open communication, and collaboration with outside providers to ensure families get medically sound information.

  • Quote (Susan Barrett, 08:14):

    “The Internet and AI is a great thing, right? In my opinion we can use it to really enhance the patient care experience...there’s also some dangers, what you just mentioned, on misconceptions from what you read online.”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Leadership:
  “Build that trust with your colleagues; when it comes to a situation where they are stuck, you want them to look to you as a resource.” (Susan Barrett, 05:20)

• On AI & Compliance:
  “You kind of have to be on top of the latest laws and regulations related to the use of technology and AI. I mean, it’s a hot topic right now.” (Susan Barrett, 06:54)

• On Company Culture:
  “Everyone that I work with is super passionate about what we’re doing...we can continue the good services, the good outcomes, and just continue to reach more people.” (Susan Barrett, 02:58)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:37 — Susan Barrett introduces herself and Monte Nido's comprehensive care model
• 02:07 — Strategic growth, leadership transitions, and 2025 outcomes report
• 04:04 — Susan’s leadership philosophy and advice for emerging leaders
• 06:06 — Regulatory and legal trends impacting eating disorder care
• 07:44 — Challenges and opportunities in integrating AI and online information for patients and families
• 08:14 — The dual-edged role of the internet and AI in patient care and information accuracy

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Scott Becker closes by commending Susan Barrett’s leadership and Monte Nido’s mission-driven work. The episode offers practical insights into navigating complex compliance requirements while maintaining empathy, communication, and forward-thinking leadership in behavioral health.