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Changemaking in Healthcare with Dr. Andrea Austin

From Burnout to Breakthrough: A Tale of Twin Doctors

In this Heartline Echo Episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with twin OB-GYN twin sisters, Dr. Maryanna Barrett and Dr. Maria Paasch. Their journey from childhood aspirations to becoming trailblazers in women's health care offers a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of medicine. As we explore their story, we uncover the pivotal moments that shaped their career paths, from their father's influence as a surgeon to their unexpected parallel choices in specialization. The sisters' candid reflections on their medical school and residency experiences provide valuable insights for aspiring healthcare professionals. Key Highlights: The sisters' intertwined journey through medical education and specialization Their transition from traditional OB-GYN practice to a more holistic approach Insights into the challenges faced by modern healthcare practitioners The importance of following one's heart in medical career choices Discover How: Early life experiences can shape a physician's approach to patient care Staying geographically close to where you trained can benefit early career development Owning a private practice can open doors to innovative healthcare approaches Recognizing and addressing career dissatisfaction can lead to transformative changes This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the human side of medicine, touching on themes of sisterhood, mentorship, and the pursuit of fulfilling careers in healthcare. It's a must-listen for medical students, residents, and established physicians seeking inspiration and guidance in their professional journeys. "My heart's breaking because...I don't feel like I'm helping her... we just realized that the current system as... I like to refer to it as a medical-industrial complex. It isn't built to allow us to help patients that way." Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional career trajectories in medicine and inspires healthcare professionals to explore new possibilities in their field. Learn how embracing personal values and innovative practices can lead to greater fulfillment and potentially transform patient care for the better. Stay tuned for part two of this inspiring conversation, where Drs. Barrett and Paasch will delve into their transition to functional medicine and how it has reshaped their approach to patient care. 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
April 22, 2025

Finding Hope: An Oncologist’s Reflections on Compassion in Medicine

In this Heartline Echo Episode, I sit down with Dr. Maryam Zia, a hematologist and oncologist at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, to explore the profound impact of compassionate care in challenging healthcare environments. Dr. Zia's journey serving underserved communities offers a unique perspective on the rewards and challenges of working in public healthcare. Our conversation delves into the heart of what it means to be a woman in medicine, the emotional bonds formed with patients, and the delicate balance between professional dedication and personal well-being. Dr. Zia's insights shed light on the complexities of providing care in resource-limited settings and the unexpected ways in which such work can enrich a physician's life and practice. Key highlights from our discussion include: The evolution of Dr. Zia's career path and her decision to specialize in hematology-oncology The unique challenges and rewards of working in a county hospital system Strategies for maintaining compassion and avoiding burnout in high-stress medical environments The importance of recognizing and addressing signs of professional exhaustion Reflections on the disparities in healthcare and the impact on both patients and providers Discover how to: Cultivate resilience and maintain a sense of purpose in demanding healthcare roles Navigate the emotional complexities of forming bonds with patients facing serious illnesses Implement practical strategies for self-care and boundary-setting in medical practice Find inspiration and motivation through patient interactions, even in challenging circumstances Contribute to positive change within your sphere of influence in healthcare This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, as well as anyone interested in the human side of medicine. Dr. Zia's reflections on her experiences provide a compelling look at the realities of public healthcare and the profound impact of compassionate medical practice. "I think patients really bring you back down, and it's very eye-opening every day. Not just what people are going through medically, but in their lives and their families, with their jobs. And I think we really probably get a lot more out of working there than we give." Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between medical expertise and human experience. Let Dr. Zia's journey inspire you to find meaning and purpose in your own work, regardless of the challenges you face. 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
April 15, 2025

Radical Recovery: The Path to Sustainable Careers in Healthcare

In this Heartline Echo Episode, we revisit a powerful conversation about recovery in healthcare. As part of a three-part series, this episode focuses on macro recoveries - extended breaks that go beyond standard vacations. I share my personal experience of taking a three-month sabbatical from clinical work, which led to a transformative shift in my approach to emergency medicine. Joined by Dr. Cheryl Martin and Dr. Dan Dworkis, we explore the importance of long-term recovery for healthcare professionals. Key insights from our discussion include: The changing landscape of emergency medicine and the increased challenges faced by healthcare workers The value of extended breaks in regaining clarity, creativity, and passion for one's work Strategies for maintaining clinical skills during periods of reduced shifts or extended time off The importance of aligning one's career with personal values and priorities Discover how to: Recognize when you need more than just a vacation to recover from burnout Navigate guilt and shame associated with taking extended breaks from clinical work Create a sustainable career path that includes periods of rest and rejuvenation Leverage insights from other high-performance fields to improve recovery practices in healthcare This episode offers invaluable perspectives for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, especially those grappling with burnout or questioning their long-term sustainability in the field. We challenge the notion that full-time clinical work is the only path to success and explore alternative models for fulfilling medical careers. "You are worth it. You are worth your recovery... You are 100% worth it. And you're worth that vacation and you're worth taking a sabbatical if you need it." Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that advocates for "radical recovery" in healthcare. Learn how embracing extended periods of rest and reflection can lead to more sustainable, fulfilling careers and ultimately improve patient care. This episode is part of a three-part series on recovery in healthcare. Don't miss the companion episodes on micro and meso recoveries, which are available on The Emergency Mind, episode 65 on YouTube or Apple and The Mindful Medic podcasts, respectively. 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
April 8, 2025

From Emergency Room to Entrepreneurship: One Doctor’s Mission to Transform Palliative Care

In this Heartline Echo Episode, I sit down with Dr. Arian Nachat, an emergency medicine and palliative care physician who's making waves in healthcare. We explore her multifaceted career and the innovative platform she's created to address critical gaps in palliative care access. Dr. Nachat shares her journey from emergency medicine to palliative care, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to patient care. We discuss the challenges facing healthcare today, including the corporatization of medicine and its impact on patient-doctor relationships. Our conversation delves into the heart of what it means to provide compassionate care, especially for those facing serious illnesses. Dr. Nachat's insights on the importance of truly listening to patients and understanding their values are both inspiring and practical. Key insights from our discussion include: The evolution of emergency medicine and the need for a more patient-centered approach The critical role of palliative care in modern healthcare and why it's often misunderstood How technology can bridge the gap in palliative care access, especially in rural areas The importance of having difficult conversations about end-of-life care and advanced directives Balancing a medical career with motherhood and personal well-being Discover how to: Navigate career transitions in medicine while staying true to your values Incorporate a more holistic approach to patient care in high-stress environments Use technology to improve healthcare access and patient outcomes Find your voice as a healthcare professional and advocate for change Balance the demands of a medical career with personal life and family responsibilities This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, as well as anyone interested in the human side of medicine. Dr. Nachat's journey from the emergency room to founding a palliative care platform demonstrates the diverse paths available within the medical field. "Talking to me isn't about talking about dying. It's actually talking about how you want to live because your values and what brings meaning to you and how you define those things determines how you're going to live." - Dr. Arian Nachat Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between medical expertise and human experience, offering a rare glimpse into the world of emergency medicine, palliative care, and the evolving landscape of healthcare. Connect with Dr. Arian Nachat: Twitter: @ArianNachatMD LinkedIn: Arian Nachat MD Website: www.palady.com 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
April 1, 2025

Shattering Glass Ceilings One Surgery at a Time

In this Heartline Echo Episode, I sit down with Dr. JoAn Monaco, a trailblazing plastic surgeon who has shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for women in surgery. As we celebrate Women's History Month, Dr. Monaco's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the challenges that still lie ahead for women in medicine. Dr. Monaco shares her fascinating path to plastic surgery, from an 18-hour jaw reconstruction case that ignited her passion to becoming the first female graduate of her prestigious integrated plastic surgery residency. Her story is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in a male-dominated field. In this enlightening conversation, we explore: The diverse world of plastic surgery and how Dr. Monaco found her niche Balancing a thriving solo practice with family life and personal pursuits Navigating pregnancy and motherhood during surgical training The evolving landscape for women in surgery and medical education Essential advice for aspiring surgeons on business acumen and practice management Dr. Monaco's experiences offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by women in surgery, including the lack of maternity leave and the pressure to hide pregnancies. Her candid reflections on these experiences highlight the importance of continued progress in supporting women in medical careers. Key takeaways from our discussion include: The critical need for business education in medical training Strategies for creating a positive work culture and retaining quality staff Adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City The importance of flexibility and self-care in managing a demanding career "Hard work gets you places. And so it's exactly the same way in the surgical disciplines. Hard work will get you whatever it is you are trying to achieve either as a female or as a male." Dr. Monaco's story is not just about personal triumph; it's a call to action for continued support and mentorship of women in medicine. Her work with female medical students across the country demonstrates her commitment to nurturing the next generation of surgeons. This episode offers invaluable guidance for medical students, residents, and established physicians alike. Whether you're considering a career in surgery, looking to start your own practice, or seeking inspiration to overcome professional challenges, Dr. Monaco's journey will resonate and motivate. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that celebrates the achievements of women in surgery while addressing the ongoing need for equity and support in the medical field. Connect with Dr. JoAn Monaco: Instagram: @dr.joanmonaco_nyc and @monacoPlasticsurgerynyc Website: www.drjoanmonaco.com TikTok: @drjoanmonaco 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
March 25, 2025

Beyond Busy: An Emergency Physician’s Awakening

In this Heartline Echo Episode, I sit down with my dear friend and fellow emergency medicine physician, Dr. Torree McGowan, to explore the intricate balance of professional demands and personal well-being. As an Air Force veteran with multiple combat deployments and a now-retired member of the Oregon Air Guard, Torree brings a unique perspective to the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in today's ever-changing landscape. Our conversation delves into the complexities of managing multiple roles—from emergency physician to military commander, homeschooling parent, and passionate equestrian. We discuss the importance of recognizing when it's time to step back and reassess our commitments and the unexpected joys that can come from making space in our lives. Key insights from our discussion include: The process of learning to say "no" and the freedom it brings to pursue what truly matters How meditation and mindfulness can help us tune into our body's signals and make better decisions The impact of sleep on our overall well-being and its role as an indicator of stress Strategies for unpacking emotional "boxes" we've stored away during busy times The challenge and importance of becoming comfortable with not being busy Discover how to: Identify and address the addiction to busyness that many healthcare professionals experience Use body awareness to guide decision-making about commitments and responsibilities Create space for creativity, optimism, and presence to return to your life Navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic with a mindset of acceptance and adaptability Find joy and fulfillment in unexpected places when you allow yourself to step back This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, as well as anyone grappling with the demands of multiple roles and responsibilities. Dr. McGowan's journey from constant busyness to intentional living demonstrates the power of self-reflection and the courage to make changes. "Don't just do work, do the work that matters." - Dr. Torree McGowan Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional notions of success and productivity. Learn how embracing change, prioritizing self-care, and focusing on what truly matters can lead to a more fulfilling personal and professional life. 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
March 18, 2025

Small Actions, Big Impact: Dr. Ranney on Creating Meaningful Change

In episode 101 (Heartline Echo Episode: Must Listen Conversations), I sit down with Dr. Megan Ranney, a trailblazing emergency physician, researcher, and public health advocate. We explore the intricate landscape of healthcare activism, from firearm injury prevention to reproductive rights and beyond. Dr. Ranney shares her inspiring journey from a young emergency medicine resident to a national voice for innovative public health approaches. We discuss the pivotal moments that shaped her career, including a heartbreaking case that changed her perspective on firearm injuries and the profound impact of the Sandy Hook tragedy. Key insights from our conversation include: The importance of creating coalitions and networks to drive change in healthcare Strategies for balancing clinical practice, research, and public advocacy The role of healthcare professionals in combating misinformation and building trust Finding resilience and hope in the face of overwhelming challenges Discover how to: Navigate career transitions and overcome resistance to change Amplify existing efforts rather than reinventing the wheel Leverage your unique skills to contribute to larger social and health issues Balance media presence with substantive research and clinical practice This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals seeking to make a difference beyond their clinical roles. Dr. Ranney's experiences highlight the power of persistence, collaboration, and strategic communication in driving meaningful change. "Find that one small thing and see where it goes." - Dr. Megan Ranney Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional career trajectories in medicine and inspires healthcare professionals to explore the full spectrum of possibilities in public health advocacy. Connect with Dr. Megan Ranney: Threads @megranney Instagram: @megranney 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
March 12, 2025

100 Episodes of Heartfelt Healthcare Transformation

In this milestone 100th episode of Heartline Change Making in Healthcare, I reflect on the journey that has brought us here and the path that lies ahead. From its inception as "The Revitalizing Doctor" to now, this podcast has evolved into a platform for exploring the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in healthcare transformation. I begin by acknowledging the mentors and colleagues who have shaped this journey, including Dr. Dan Dworkis, founder of The Emergency Mind, who provided invaluable insights into finding one's purpose in medicine. His words serve as a reminder that our roles as healthcare professionals can and should extend beyond traditional boundaries. Celebrating Women in Medicine The podcast's roots in amplifying women's voices in medicine remain a core focus. I discuss the resurgence of FemInEM and my new role as Director of Well-being, highlighting the continued importance of gender equity in healthcare. A powerful clip from Dr. Dara Kass, founder of FemInEM, underscores the unique energy and problem-solving capacity of emergency physicians when united. I interviewed Dr. Shikha Jain, the founder of the Women in Medicine Summit. Don't miss the Women in Medicine conference in September, and in 2025, FemInEM will be there, too! Systemic Change Through Individual Growth Drawing from my ongoing research on Physician Changemakers, I emphasize the critical link between individual transformation and systemic change in healthcare. This podcast serves as a platform for both personal healing and collective action, inspired by theoretical frameworks that underscore the power of transformative learning. Leadership and Well-being in Healthcare Conversations with experts like Dr. Josh Hartzell (author of A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership: Building a Culture of Compassion and Excellence) and Dr. Eve Purdy highlight the crucial role of effective leadership in addressing burnout and improving well-being in healthcare. Their insights remind us that cultivating strong leaders is not just beneficial but essential for the future of medicine. The Power of Coaching and Self-Reflection Throughout the episode, I revisit impactful discussions on coaching, perfectionism, and self-compassion with guests like Dr. Kara Pepper and Sharee Johnson. These conversations underscore the importance of personal development and self-awareness in becoming effective changemakers. Looking Ahead As we celebrate this milestone, I share exciting updates about the podcast's future, including: A series of re-releases featuring improved audio quality Upcoming miniseries focused on deep dives into specific topics The launch of a YouTube channel The release of the "Revitalized" audiobook This 100th episode is a testament to the power of community, continuous learning, and the unwavering commitment to improving healthcare for both clinicians and patients. Join me as we reflect on our journey and look forward to the next chapter of transforming healthcare, one conversation at a time. 🎧 Thanks for tuning into Heartline: Changemaking in Healthcare! Ready to take the next step in your journey as a healthcare changemaker? Dr. Andrea Austin offers personalized coaching to empower healthcare professionals to thrive in their careers and rediscover their passion for medicine. Whether you're seeking clarity, balance, or strategies to overcome burnout, coaching with Dr. Austin can help you achieve your goals. 🌟 Learn more and book a free discovery call today at andreaaustinmd.com/coaching. Stay connected and keep making a difference: ✅ Subscribe to the Heartline newsletter for insights into reclaiming your well-being as a healthcare professional, improving teams around you, and transforming the system. 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!
March 4, 2025
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Heartline

Welcome to "Heartline," a podcast dedicated to exploring the inspiring journeys and impactful work of healthcare changemakers leading the charge in transforming healthcare. Despite the United States spending more on healthcare than any other developed nation, key quality outcomes like life expectancy and maternal mortality lag behind. With over half of American physicians experiencing burnout, the challenges within the system are clear.

Join us as we delve into the stories of thought leaders who defy the status quo. We’ll uncover the unique characteristics and experiences that propel them to be effective changemakers and the organizational factors that support change.

Dr. Austin, host of the podcast, is an emergency physician with real-world experience with the dysfunction in the system. Along with working in the emergency department, she is a medical educator focusing on healthcare worker well-being and how innovative approaches like simulation can improve healthcare. In addition, she researches how we can accelerate changemaking in healthcare. Dr. Austin also uses coaching-informed thinking to unlock the potential of healthcare changemakers, and she will guide you through these narratives with insightful commentary and expert analyses.

Through in-depth interviews and real-world examples, this podcast aims to inspire and equip the next generation to drive meaningful change in healthcare. Whether you're a physician, a medical student, or simply passionate about the future of healthcare, "Heartline" will offer valuable perspectives and actionable ideas to help you thrive in a challenging environment and contribute to improving our healthcare system.

Tune in to the "Heartline" for a deep dive into healthcare transformation and be inspired by the changemakers making a real difference.

Host

Andrea Austin MD

Andrea Austin MD

Dr. Andrea Austin is a leading emergency physician, simulation educator, and advocate for physician well-being. She is dedicated to inspiring more changemakers in healthcare and is researching the individual and organizational factors that promote innovation, creativity, and problem-solving in healthcare.

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