Be the Weight Behind the Spear with Dr. Josh McConkey

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Dr. Colonel Josh McConkey

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka interviews Dr. Colonel Josh McConkey, an award-winning author, emergency physician, military leader, and community builder. With over 20 years of service in both clinical and military roles, Dr. McConkey shares his inspiring journey, stories from the ER, and insights from his book, Be the Weight Behind the Spear.

Guest Introduction

Dr. McConkey's achievements are impressive:

• Emergency physician with 23 years of experience
• Military leader, former commander of the 4/59 Aeromedical Staging Squadron
• Author of Be the Weight Behind the Spear
• Dedicated father and community builder

Dr. McConkey is passionate about empowering communities and shaping future leaders.

From Small-Town Roots to a Global Impact

Dr. McConkey reflects on his upbringing in rural Nebraska and how his hardworking family inspired his journey. As the first in his family to attend college, his path led him to medical school, military service, and eventually, a life of saving lives and developing leaders.

Life as an Emergency Physician

"Adrenaline Junkie with a Mission"

Dr. McConkey discusses the highs and lows of working in emergency medicine:

• Saving lives under pressure
• Facing the unexpected, like a rattlesnake selfie gone wrong
• Heartbreaking moments, including pediatric codes and the toll of combat reintegration

Memorable ER Stories

Dr. McConkey shares fascinating and emotional cases:

1. Rattlesnake Bite Gone Wrong: An 18-year-old’s attempt to take a selfie with a rattlesnake turned into a life-threatening emergency.
2. Unexpected Foreign Objects: From vibrating devices to cologne bottles, the ER never ceases to surprise.
3. Tragic Losses: A poignant story about a baby who couldn’t be saved, underscoring the emotional toll of emergency medicine.

Transitioning to a Bigger Mission

After serving in combat zones and working in high-stress environments, Dr. McConkey found new purpose through writing and community engagement.

"Be the Weight Behind the Spear":

Dr. McConkey’s book encourages everyone to support their communities and future leaders. He emphasizes that each person’s daily actions have an impact and that everyone has unique gifts to share.

Travel, Pumpkin Pie, and Gratitude

Dr. McConkey reminisces about his time in New Zealand and his cultural discoveries, like the lack of pumpkin pie. Gratitude and family stories also play a central role in his journey and his book.

The Power of Positivity

Dr. Lycka and Dr. McConkey discuss the importance of small acts of kindness and being present for others. Whether it's in the ER, at home, or in the community, making a difference starts with simple actions.

Where to Find Dr. McConkey’s Book

Be the Weight Behind the Spear is available in eBook, audiobook, and paperback formats:

• Website: www.weightbehindthespear.com
• Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Connect with Dr. Josh McConkey

• Website: www.weightbehindthespear.com
• Instagram: @JoshMcConkeyMD

Bio:

Dr. (Colonel) Josh McConkey is an award-winning/best-selling author and esteemed Emergency Physician with over two decades of clinical experience. He served as a professor at Duke University and maintains Board Certification in Emergency Medicine. With 22 years of military service, Dr. McConkey now commands the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron in the US Air Force Reserves, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication.

Beyond his medical and military achievements, Dr. McConkey has been recognized for his contributions to education and community. He was honored in 2022 with induction into the Alliance, Nebraska Public Schools Hall of Fame and received the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from Chadron State College. A devoted father of three, his greatest passion lies in shaping future American leaders alongside his wife, Elsa, in Apex, North Carolina.