Heartline

In Episode 87, I sit down with Dr. Stephanie Byerly, an obstetrical anesthesiologist and certified life coach, to dive deep into how trauma shapes our careers and personal lives. As healthcare providers, we’re trained to care for others—but how often do we address our own wounds? Dr. Byerly shares her powerful story of overcoming burnout and becoming a passionate advocate for physician wellness. We unpack the often-missed link between childhood experiences and our medical careers, discussing the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) score and its surprising relevance to healthcare professionals. In this episode, we explore: The real definition of trauma and how it impacts our nervous systems Trauma-informed care and its potential to transform patient interactions The unique challenges faced by women and people of color in the medical field Actionable tips for bringing trauma-informed leadership into healthcare settings Dr. Byerly’s insights offer a fresh perspective on self-compassion, navigating tough patient interactions, and fostering a culture of psychological safety in healthcare. Her message is clear: "Hurt people hurt people, but healing people heal people." This episode is a must for healthcare professionals looking to understand how trauma influences both their work and personal lives. Dr. Byerly’s wisdom provides a pathway toward creating more compassionate and effective healthcare environments—starting with ourselves. Key Takeaways: Understanding the ACEs score and its relevance to healthcare careers Practical tips for de-escalating tense patient interactions The importance of cultural humility in providing trauma-informed care Strategies for implementing trauma-informed leadership in healthcare settings The power of self-compassion and personal growth in healing ourselves and our patients Resources Mentioned: Dr. Stephanie Byerly's website National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine (NICABM) Book: "The Body Keeps the Score" by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Lodestar Executive Coaching Join us as we explore the intersection of trauma, healing, and healthcare, and discover how addressing our own wounds can lead to more compassionate, effective patient care.

In episode 86, I sit down with Dr. Brian Cohen, a practicing anesthesiologist and entrepreneurial innovator in healthcare. We explore his journey from traditional medical practice to founding Miami Anesthesia Services, a concierge ambulatory surgery center anesthesia company. Dr. Cohen shares his insights on the evolving landscape of anesthesiology, highlighting the shift towards independent practice models and the importance of physician autonomy. He discusses how his experiences in various healthcare settings led him to create a practice that prioritizes physician satisfaction and patient care. We delve into the world of healthcare technology, examining Dr. Cohen's role as Chief Medical Officer of Adaptrack and his involvement with CMEfy and Learner Plus. These platforms aim to revolutionize continuing medical education by focusing on reflective practice and personalized learning experiences. Key takeaways from our conversation include: The benefits of independent practice models in anesthesiology How technology can enhance physician learning and improve patient care The importance of reflective practice in medical education Strategies for physicians looking to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in healthcare Dr. Cohen offers valuable advice for healthcare professionals considering leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures, emphasizing the importance of finding supportive partners and embracing calculated risks. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Learner Plus - A platform for personalized medical education and reflective practice "Success is not about agreeing all the time. It's about finding the best path forward for the overall success of the organization or whatever group that you're working in." - Dr. Brian Cohen Join us for this inspiring conversation that challenges traditional notions of medical practice and education, offering a glimpse into the future of healthcare innovation.

In episode 85: Thanksgiving is coming up! Dr. Andrea Austin and Dr. Linda Lawrence dive into the transformative power of gratitude in relationships, highlighting the need for genuine appreciation and thoughtful acts of kindness.  Gratitude is more than just appreciation; it's about taking action and showing kindness towards others. - Linda Lawrence My special guest is Linda Lawrence. Dr. Linda Lawrence, CEO of Revitalize, joins Dr. Andrea Austin in this episode to discuss the importance of gratitude in relationships. With her expertise in coaching and empowering professionals, Linda brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. As a trailblazer in medicine, she embodies the Revitalize women vision and is dedicated to helping others enhance their relationships through genuine gratitude. Linda emphasizes the action aspect of gratitude, highlighting the importance of thoughtful acts of kindness and appreciation in strengthening connections. Through her personal stories and insights, she provides valuable strategies for expressing gratitude in both personal and professional settings. Get ready to learn practical tips and techniques for cultivating gratitude and experiencing increased fulfillment in your relationships. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the power of gratitude in relationships and how it can strengthen your personal and professional connections. Uncover effective strategies for expressing gratitude in the workplace, creating a positive and appreciative work environment. Learn how implementing gratitude can have a transformative impact on the organizational culture, fostering a sense of appreciation and boosting employee morale. The gratitude tips mentioned in this episode are: Send handwritten thank you notes: Take the time to write and send personalized thank you notes or emails to express your genuine Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.

In episode 84, Amy Yackowski, founder and chief evolution officer of Painted Porch Strategies, discusses the current state of healthcare staffing. Amy shares her extensive experience in the industry, starting from her early days as a call center staffer in a healthcare staffing organization to her current role, focusing on leveraging technology to connect clinicians with healthcare organizations. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the nursing profession, particularly the significant attrition. Amy explains that many nurses have shifted towards travel nursing or left the bedside altogether in search of more control and autonomy. Our conversation also touches on the differences in employment models between nurses and physicians, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of being an employee versus an independent contractor. We explore how healthcare organizations can better support and retain their staff by fostering a culture that values and sees clinicians as essential resources rather than mere commodities. Join us as Amy provides valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of healthcare staffing and the critical need for supportive work environments to combat burnout and improve job satisfaction among healthcare professionals. The better quality nurse you have, the greater relationship that you're going to have with those hospitals and health systems. Over time, you build that trust currency. - Amy Yackowski. My special guest is Amy Yackowski. Amy Yackowski, founder and chief evolution officer of Painted Porch Strategies, brings over 20 years of experience in the healthcare staffing industry. She started at a health care staffing organization in New Orleans, Louisiana, and transitioned to the technology side of the business, focusing on leveraging technology to efficiently connect clinicians with opportunities across the United States. Amy's insights into the challenges and solutions within healthcare staffing provide valuable perspectives for healthcare leaders and administrators looking to create supportive and resilient work environments. Her expertise sheds light on the impact of W-2 employment for travel nurses and the strategies needed to attract and retain healthcare professionals in the evolving industry. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the key challenges shaping the healthcare staffing industry and how to address them effectively. Explore innovative strategies for retaining and attracting healthcare professionals to create a resilient and supportive work environment. Unlock the valuable benefits of W-2 employment for travel nurses and how it can enhance their work experience. Learn effective solutions for addressing the nursing shortage and improving work conditions to ensure a thriving healthcare workforce. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Painted Porch Strategies to explore a variety of services offered, including targeted services for healthcare staffing firms and individuals looking to embark on a new change in their lives and work. Email Amy Yackowski directly at [email protected] for inquiries about services and to discuss equipping oneself with skills for resilience, mindset, confidence, and curiosity to lean into change. Connect with Amy: LinkedIn X

Episode 83: Dr. Will Bianchi, an emergency physician, shares the innovative approach of his ketamine clinic, dedicated to assisting individuals with treatment-resistant depression. He delves into the science behind ketamine therapy, its benefits, and the profound impact it has had on patients' lives. Frustrated by the limited options available for psychiatric patients in the emergency department, Dr. Bianchi sought a more effective solution, leading him to explore the potential of ketamine therapy. Through personal anecdotes and clinical evidence, Dr. Bianchi illustrates how ketamine can transform lives and redefine mental health care. We do see that with ketamine. I described it as the therapy that's really good if you're stuck where you are, if you are curious and if you're hopeful and if you're doing it with the right mindset and the right setting, can be really impactful and get people on stock, which is how we use it. -Will Bianchi My special guest is Dr. Will Bianchi. Dr. Will Bianchi brings a wealth of experience to the podcast as a medical director and private practice clinician. Transitioning from engineering to medicine, he eventually discovered his passion for healthcare through taking an EMT course and volunteering as a firefighter paramedic. Dr. Bianchi's journey includes military service and participation in the Health Professions Scholarship Program. His expertise in alternative mental health treatments, particularly ketamine therapy, offers valuable insights into innovative approaches to mental health care. With a focus on evidence-based practices, Dr. Bianchi's experience and knowledge contribute to a fascinating discussion on revitalizing healthcare. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the potential benefits and breakthroughs of ketamine treatment for mental health, offering a new perspective on alternative therapies. Explore the exciting advantages and opportunities of the health professions scholarship program, shedding light on a transformative path in the medical field. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Consider reading Michael Pollan's Book, How to Change Your Mind, to learn more about psychedelics and their clinical trials. Check out Dr. Will Bianchi's clinic, Maverick Medicine, located in La Jolla, by visiting their website or by calling to coordinate a phone consultation. Follow Dr. Will Bianchi's clinic, Maverick Medicine, on Instagram for updates and information about their services. Connect with Dr. Will Bianchi: LinkedIn Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.

Episode 82: Will Pamment, co-founder and COO of SimConverse, delves into the innovative world of healthcare simulations. SimConverse is revolutionizing medical training through advanced conversational simulations, enabling healthcare professionals to enhance their communication skills with patients. Pamment discusses the company's mission to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, emphasizing the importance of realistic patient interactions in improving clinical outcomes. The episode highlights SimConverse's commitment to leveraging technology to create more effective and empathetic healthcare environments. The phrase I usually refer to in my writing is the freedom to fail. So thats the other kind of big benefits of technology. It meets people where they are, rather than forcing them into uncomfortable situations so that they can practice and actually improve so that we can have a bit of an impact on communication more broadly so that we can stop that injury both ourselves. - Dr. Will Pamment Dr. Will Pamment is the co-founder and COO of SimConverse and brings a fascinating blend of medical and entrepreneurial expertise. With extensive clinical communication theory research, Dr. Pamment has become a prominent figure in the healthcare industry. His dedication to leveraging AI technology for effective communication skills training has revolutionized healthcare. Dr. Pamment's journey from medical studies to pioneering SimConverse showcases his unwavering commitment to transforming healthcare communication practices and making a lasting impact in the field. In this episode, you will be able to: Unlock the potential of Simconverse AI training platform for more effective and personalized healthcare communication skills. Embrace stage-based learning theory to enhance your healthcare communication skills at every level of your professional journey. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Watch a demo of SimConverse on their website to see the platform in action and learn more about its capabilities. Attend the upcoming AMEE conference in Switzerland or the ASPiH conference in the UK Plan to attend the IMSH conference in 2025 to explore the latest innovations in healthcare simulation. Connect with Will Pamment: Email [email protected] LinkedIn X Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.

Episode 81: Dr. Victoria Brazil, an esteemed emergency physician and renowned medical educator, delves into her passion for utilizing simulation to enhance healthcare outcomes. Dr. Brazil discusses how simulation not only sharpens clinical skills but also fosters high-performance teamwork. She shares insights from her extensive experience, illustrating how simulation-based training can bridge gaps in communication and coordination among healthcare professionals. Dr. Brazil's commitment to advancing medical education through innovative simulation techniques shines throughout the episode, offering valuable perspectives for both clinicians and educators. I think it's both a problem and an opportunity that people don't have a clear idea of what simulation is, because it's many things that maybe what they share in common is very narrow, but the breadth of what they can achieve is very wide. - Dr. Victoria Brazil My special guest is Dr. Victoria Brazil. Dr. Victoria Brazil is a distinguished professional in the healthcare and simulation fields. With a background in emergency medicine and healthcare improvement, she has been influential on the impact of simulation in healthcare, stress management, and teamwork. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of healthcare improvement, Dr. Brazil brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the podcast. Her unique perspective highlights the potential of simulation-based training to transform and elevate healthcare practices. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the impact of simulation-based training for enhanced skills and confidence. Explore the role of simulation in addressing PTSD and promoting mental well-being among healthcare professionals. Unlock the potential of design thinking to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare practices. The resource mentioned in this episode: Simulation Reconnect, a healthcare simulation and technology conference in Australia, held in November at Bond University. Connect Dr. Brazil and check out her website as well as podcasts: X LinkedIn Simulcast Harvard Macy Institute Podcast Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.

Episode 80: in this special episode of Heartline, the tables are turned as Dr. Andrea Austin takes the guest seat to discuss her newly released book, "Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline." Hosted by Dr. Resa E. Lewiss, this conversation delves into the heart of Dr. Austin's transformative journey and the insights she shares in her book. Dr. Austin opens up about the profound impact writing this book has had on her personal growth and professional outlook. She describes it as "the biggest gift to myself," highlighting how the process allowed her to reflect, connect past experiences to the present, and forgive herself for past mistakes. A Unique Approach to Healthcare Challenges What sets "Revitalized" apart from other self-help books is its focus on empathetic individuals in healthcare. Dr. Austin addresses the struggles of those who find themselves compromising their values in a dysfunctional system, offering a path to maintain integrity and compassion without feeling drained. The book incorporates self-reflection questions at the end of each chapter, providing readers with a form of self-coaching. This interactive approach empowers healthcare professionals to harness their agency and navigate the complexities of their field. Exploring Burnout and Moral Injury Dr. Austin dives into the nuances of burnout and moral injury in healthcare. She uses the metaphor of a tree to illustrate how burnout is merely the visible symptom, while the root causes - such as moral injury or gender bias - lie deeper beneath the surface. Personal Stories and Vulnerability Throughout the conversation, Dr. Austin shares personal anecdotes that resonate deeply: Her experience with "living apart together" during a career move The impact of changing institutions on professional growth The significance of her relationship with her hairstylist and other professionals that have contributed to her healing These stories highlight the importance of self-care, breaking cycles of negative self-talk, and finding unexpected sources of support in one's healing journey. Practical Advice for Healing For those beginning their own healing journey, Dr. Austin recommends starting with the book "What Happened to You?" by Oprah and Bruce Perry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, not only for personal growth but also for becoming a more empathetic healthcare provider. Dr. Austin also discusses the power of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and other somatic approaches in processing trauma, highlighting the limitations of talk therapy alone. A Call to Action As the conversation draws to a close, Dr. Austin expresses her concerns about the current state of societal division and encourages listeners to engage in active listening, connect with others, and use their agency to vote and make a positive impact in their communities and workplaces. This episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look into Dr. Andrea Austin's journey of self-discovery and her mission to help others in healthcare find their path to revitalization. It's a must-listen for anyone seeking to navigate the challenges of the healthcare system while maintaining their compassion and integrity. Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline is available on Amazon or order an autographed copy here! After you order your book, request a free journal to go with your book! Listen to Dr. Resa E. Lewiss's podcast, Visible Voices Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.