The Department of Radiology is thrilled to welcome Dr. Bradley Spieler, Professor of Radiology, to the Emergency Imaging Division. With roots in New Orleans and footprints in Honolulu, New York, and beyond, Dr. Spieler brings with him not only deep clinical expertise, but a vibrant spirit that embodies generosity, adventure, and heart.
Although his official role is fully remote, Dr. Spieler plans to maintain a hybrid presence—making time to be on-site at UNC throughout the year. “I told them from the beginning—I want to be there. I want to be part of the team,” he shared. “This position might be virtual, but my commitment to the department is anything but.”
A Lifelong Calling, Reimagined
Dr. Spieler’s journey into medicine began with a child-sized set of reindeer antlers and a deep love for service. As a young boy, he accompanied his mother on volunteer shifts at Children’s Hospital in New Orleans, especially during the holidays. Those early experiences shaped his original dream of becoming a pediatrician—until his pediatric rotation in medical school revealed a heartbreaking truth: he could no longer simply be the “fun guy” once he wore the white coat. “I realized I wouldn’t be able to be the kind of pediatrician I had always envisioned. That was a really tough pivot.”
Fortunately, it was during that same rotation that radiology revealed itself as his true calling. In a collective effort diagnosing a case of necrotizing enterocolitis in a newborn using imaging, he had an “aha” moment—he could still be involved in pediatric care and play a pivotal role in patient outcomes, just in a different way.
Radiology, he realized, was a beautiful intersection of so many disciplines he loved: surgery, emergency care, pediatrics, urology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine amongst others. “Radiology is the one specialty that allows you to dip your toes into all the others.”
Drawn to UNC by People and Possibility
While Dr. Spieler had offers from other institutions, it was the culture and vision of UNC Radiology that won him over. A conversation with Dr. John Nazarian, Emergency Radiology Division Chief, was a turning point. “It became less about the workflow and more about the people,” he said. “They’re a progressive, collaborative, forward-thinking group, and I felt like I belonged from the very first call.”
He was also inspired by the department’s emphasis on faculty wellness, autonomy, and development—an ethos that mirrors his own leadership style. “I’m not here to steal anyone’s light. I’m here to help others shine.”
He’s particularly excited to contribute to faculty development and support residents as they grow into confident, independent radiologists. “I believe in letting residents fly solo, with me as the co-pilot. The ER is the perfect place for them to build confidence and autonomy.”
Beyond the Reading Room: A Life of Impact
Dr. Spieler wears many hats—radiologist, professor, nonprofit founder, global health advocate, husband, and dad. In New Orleans, he leads Saints Fans Being Saints, a charitable program through the Spirit of Charity Foundation that ensures hospitalized children, and their families have access to holiday gifts, art supplies, and joyful moments during difficult times. “It’s especially important in non-pediatric hospitals, where resources for kids are often lacking.”
He’s also eager to volunteer at the new UNC Children’s Hospital and continue giving back through global health efforts. Next year, he hopes to travel to Kenya to teach ultrasound and X-ray interpretation at Kilimanjaro Mission Hospital, an initiative aligned with UNC Radiology’s past global health missions. “It’s about empowering others to care for their communities long after we’ve left.”
Off the Clock: Surf, Soul, and the Saints
Ask Dr. Spieler how he recharges, and he lights up. He’s a yoga enthusiast, a world traveler, a die-hard New Orleans Saints fan, and a proud dad to three kids. Surfing is his newest ambition , especially since finally catching a wave all the way to shore in Kauai, an unforgettable moment shared with his father-in-law, wife, and newborn son. “That was the moment I got hooked.”
When he’s not working or volunteering, he’s supporting local artists, musicians, and culture bearers in New Orleans, traveling with his family, or planning events such as a tailgate or crawfish boil with loved ones .
His life mantra? “Laissez les bons temps rouler. Let the good times roll.”
Looking Ahead
While he’ll be logging in remotely from New Orleans (or perhaps a surfboard in Oahu), Dr. Spieler is all in on UNC. “I’m deeply committed to being an active, visible, and contributing member of this department. Professionally and personally, I want to be someone my colleagues can count on.”
With his blend of clinical excellence, academic passion, and wholehearted generosity, Dr. Spieler is sure to make waves—not just on the shoreline, but across UNC Radiology.
Welcome, Dr. Spieler—we’re lucky to have you on board.