Editor’s Note: This article is a reprint that was originally published on August 21, 2022.
In this interview, Dr. Joe Ladapo discusses his book, “Transcend Fear: A Blueprint for Mindful Leadership in Public Health,” and how he was appointed surgeon general of Florida. Ladapo witnessed the chaos at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center during the initial COVID-19 lockdowns in California. His differing perspective led him to write articles that caught the attention of The Wall Street Journal editorial board.
Ladapo’s childhood trauma, including corporal punishment and sexual abuse, shaped his path to healing, which culminated in a transformative experience before the pandemic. This experience allowed him to navigate the fear-based narratives and propaganda that emerged during the pandemic.
Ladapo reflects on the misguided measures taken in California during the pandemic, highlighting the harm caused by excessive restrictions and societal isolation. As the state surgeon general of Florida, Ladapo aims to approach public health with a clear vision and a focus on individual freedoms and well-being. Ladapo was selected by Governor Ron DeSantis in September of 2021 to serve as the surgeon general in Florida. In this role, Ladapo is responsible for overseeing the Department of Health in Florida, which employs between 15,000 to 16,000 individuals. Each of the 67 counties in Florida has its own county health department, and Ladapo works closely with the governor and his team to ensure the health and well-being of the state’s residents.
In contrast to the federal surgeon general, who is often viewed as a symbolic figurehead, Ladapo believes in promoting personal empowerment and health responsibility. He criticizes the lack of emphasis on prevention and healthy lifestyle choices during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of exercise, weight loss, and sun exposure for overall well-being.
Regarding the response to monkeypox, Ladapo emphasizes the importance of clear and honest communication about risk factors and transmission. He notes that Florida’s approach focuses on providing education and offering vaccines to individuals who choose to receive them, rather than promoting fear and hysteria.
Ladapo expresses his surprise at the political nature of his role as surgeon general, describing politics as a “blood sport” where self-interest often trumps truth. Despite the challenges, he finds satisfaction in challenging false narratives and beliefs, particularly regarding COVID-19 vaccines for children. He criticizes the CDC and federal leadership for spreading misinformation and commends parents for seeing through the falsehoods and making informed decisions about their children’s health. Entonces, es muy refrescante ver a los padres decir, ‘No, no creo que sea una buena idea.’