Heartline

In episode 94, I sit down with two inspiring medical leaders: Dr. Amandeep Hansra, founder of Creative Careers in Medicine, and Dr. Elise Putt, the organization’s Chief Operations Officer. Together, they are redefining how doctors perceive their professional journeys, creating new pathways to exciting opportunities beyond traditional clinical roles. Our conversation highlights a growing movement in medicine—one that champions diversity, innovation, and personal fulfillment. We explore how shifting career preferences among graduates, increased exposure to non-traditional paths, and the strength of community are reshaping the future of healthcare. Key insights include: The rise of multifaceted careers in medicine, blending clinical practice with technology, management, and entrepreneurship The need for medical education to evolve, incorporating training in digital literacy, leadership, and financial management The importance of experiential learning and micro-credentials for developing new skills and diversifying careers How AI and technology are poised to enhance healthcare delivery and improve physician well-being Discover how to: Seamlessly navigate career transitions in medicine while feeling supported and empowered Utilize resources like Creative Careers in Medicine to explore new career paths and build connections with like-minded professionals Balance clinical practice with other pursuits for a sustainable and fulfilling career Harness technological advancements to enrich patient care and professional satisfaction This episode offers valuable guidance for medical students, residents, and seasoned physicians eager to explore unique career opportunities or reignite their passion for medicine. It’s an essential listen for anyone in healthcare looking to expand their horizons beyond the traditional clinical scope. 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 their field. Learn how embracing creativity and innovation in your medical career can lead to greater fulfillment and potentially transform healthcare for the better. Connect With Dr. Amandeep Hansra, Dr. Elise Putt, & Creative Careers: Facebook Page Creative Careers Creative Careers Podcast Spotify and Apple Creative Careers Instagram LinkedIn Dr. Amandeep Hansra LinkedIn Dr. Elise Putt 🎧 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!

In Episode 93, I sit down with Dr. Brian Clyne, an emergency physician and leadership coach, to explore the transformative power of coaching in healthcare. We delve into Dr. Clyne's journey from medical school to emergency medicine, and how a pivotal experience with a leadership coach sparked his passion for coaching others. Key insights from our discussion include: The importance of early exposure to coaching for medical students and residents How coaching can help address burnout and enhance leadership skills in healthcare The value of "coach-like" leadership in fostering a more supportive and effective healthcare environment Practical strategies for incorporating coaching techniques into daily interactions Discover how to: Implement three foundational coaching skills in your leadership approach Create psychological safety and clear expectations in professional relationships Enhance your listening skills to become a more effective leader and colleague Ask powerful questions that stimulate insight and personal growth This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals at all levels seeking to enhance their leadership abilities and create positive change within their organizations. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate a more supportive and empowering healthcare culture. "If the best, highest performing athletes in the world still need a coach, then guess what? Physicians who want to get better in some way should use a coach." - Dr. Brian Clyne Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to approach leadership with newfound intention and depth. Learn how integrating coaching principles into your professional life can lead to significant positive changes for you, your team, and your patients. Resources mentioned: Brown School of Professional Studies American College of Emergency Physicians Institute of Coaching 🎧 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!

In Episode 93, I sit down with Dr. Kara Pepper, a physician coach and eating disorder specialist, to explore the intricate connections between perfectionism, burnout, and self-compassion in healthcare. Dr. Pepper's journey from professional ballet dancer to physician offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by high-achieving professionals. We delve into the often-overlooked world of eating disorders, discussing how these conditions can manifest in unexpected ways and impact healthcare providers themselves. Dr. Pepper shares valuable insights on recognizing and addressing eating disorder behaviors across diverse populations, challenging common misconceptions. Key topics we explore include: The difference between high achievement and perfectionism and how perfectionism undermines growth and well-being. How the healthcare system often trains professionals to ignore their own needs, leading to burnout and disconnection. Practical strategies for cultivating self-compassion and building resilience in the face of professional and personal challenges. The role of somatic awareness in clinical decision-making, career transitions, and emotional well-being. Ways to create a more fulfilling professional life by embracing imperfection and advocating for yourself. Discover how to: Recognize and address perfectionist tendencies that may be holding you back. Build a healthier, more compassionate relationship with your achievements and self-worth. Harness body awareness to enhance both your professional intuition and personal decision-making. Transition to a career or practice model that aligns with your values and passions. Advocate for a balanced approach to excellence that prioritizes both patient care and self-care. Dr. Pepper's candid reflections on her own struggles and triumphs provide a relatable and inspiring roadmap for healthcare professionals looking to reclaim joy and purpose in their careers. Through her lens as both a physician and coach, she invites us to rethink conventional notions of success and embrace the healing power of self-compassion. Join us for this enlightening conversation that challenges the perfectionist mindset and offers actionable tools to cultivate resilience, fulfillment, and a more balanced approach to medicine and life. Resources Mentioned: Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff – This book introduces the concept of self-compassion as a powerful tool for personal growth and resilience. Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive by Kristin Neff – This book expands on the concept of self-compassion by integrating advocacy and empowerment, aligning with movements like Me Too and social justice. Connect with Dr. Kara Pepper: @karapeppermd on all platforms 🎧 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: 📱 Follow us on social: @andreaaustinmd 📚 Discover Dr. Austin’s book Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline on Amazon or Ingram. Follow Your Heartline and transform healthcare today!

In episode 91, Dr. Jessie Gold—psychiatrist and author of "How Do You Feel?"—joins us to unpack the mental health challenges unique to healthcare professionals. As the inaugural Chief Wellness Officer for the University of Tennessee System, Dr. Gold brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation, focusing on curiosity and self-reflection as tools for resilience and growth. Dr. Gold shares her insights on the importance of curiosity and self-reflection in navigating the complexities of a medical career. We discuss the prevalence of mental health issues among healthcare workers, the impact of workplace culture on well-being, and innovative approaches to addressing these challenges. Key insights from our conversation include: The nuanced relationship between personal predisposition and workplace environment in mental health outcomes for healthcare professionals The importance of acknowledging and normalizing emotional responses to traumatic medical events Strategies for incorporating self-care and boundary-setting into high-pressure medical careers The potential of external, independently-funded mental health resources for healthcare workers Discover how to: Cultivate curiosity about your own emotional responses and reactions in medical settings Implement effective debriefing practices after challenging cases Navigate the complexities of countertransference in patient interactions Prioritize meaning and purpose in your medical career to combat burnout This episode offers valuable perspectives for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, as well as administrators and policymakers seeking to create more supportive work environments. Dr. Gold's expertise provides a roadmap for addressing the mental health challenges inherent in medical professions while fostering resilience and job satisfaction. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between mental health expertise and the lived experiences of healthcare professionals. Learn how cultivating curiosity about yourself and your reactions can lead to profound personal and professional growth in the medical field. Connect with Dr. Jessie Gold: Website Social media: @rjessiegold across platforms "How Do You Feel?" By Jessi Gold

In episode 90, I sit down with Dr. Jonathan Fisher, a cardiologist and expert in well-being, to examine the intricate challenges of burnout in healthcare. Our discussion explores moral injury, the critical role of social connections, the power of positive psychology, and the importance of a holistic approach to supporting physician well-being. Dr. Fisher offers a unique perspective, shaped by growing up in a family of seven physicians, which informs his understanding of the profession’s pressures. Together, we challenge traditional views on burnout and uncover strategies for creating meaningful change. Key insights include: Understanding burnout as a multifaceted issue beyond moral injury Reigniting passion for healthcare through a sense of agency Harnessing positive psychology to boost resilience and motivation Building supportive relationships among healthcare professionals Discover how to: View burnout through a comprehensive lens Foster a sense of purpose and agency in your career Leverage positive psychology to enhance personal and professional well-being Nurture collegial relationships to improve workplace dynamics Address the emotional and spiritual dimensions of heart health This episode offers actionable advice for healthcare professionals seeking sustainable solutions to the challenges of modern medicine. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, it’s an inspiring conversation to help you prioritize well-being and resilience in your professional and personal life. "We have to look at our emotional hearts and address the root causes of rising anxiety, depression, PTSD, and burnout." – Dr. Jonathan Fisher Tune in for this thoughtful discussion and learn how shifts in mindset, the application of positive psychology, and stronger interpersonal connections can create lasting positive change. Resources mentioned in this episode: Ending Clinician Burnout Global Community on LinkedIn Dr. Jonathan Fisher's book "Just One Heart" on Amazon Connect with Dr. Jonathan Fisher: LinkedIn Instagram Join Dr. Fisher and Dr. Austin for The Heart of Medicine Conference: When: 29-31 July 2026 Where: Uluru Resort, Central Australia

In episode 89, I sit down with Dr. Rebecca Szabo, a simulation educator from Australia, to explore the transformative impact of healthcare simulation. Our discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities in integrating simulation-based education programs within teaching hospitals, drawing from Dr. Szabo's recent publication in Advances in Simulation. My special guest is Dr. Rebecca Szabo who provides valuable insights on advancing simulation-based education in teaching hospitals. We discuss strategies for tailoring your approach to different audiences when advocating for simulation, methods for demonstrating its value to decision-makers, and ways to manage the balance between revenue generation and internal cost savings in simulation centers. Dr. Szabo also offers a global perspective on regulatory requirements for simulation, with a focus on Australia's standards. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone invested in patient safety and healthcare quality through simulation. In This Episode, Discover How To: Effectively communicate the benefits of simulation to diverse stakeholders Navigate the complexities of establishing and sustaining a simulation program Leverage incentive programs to support simulation initiatives Balance clinical work with roles in simulation education and research This episode is a rich resource for healthcare professionals who are passionate about enhancing patient safety and quality improvement through simulation. Whether you're a seasoned expert or new to the field, you'll find practical insights to help you champion and implement effective simulation programs in your organization. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to reimagine the role of simulation in healthcare education and patient safety, helping you to build a persuasive case for simulation within your institution. Resources mentioned in this episode: Gandel Simulation Service The Royal Women's Hospital Connect with Dr. Szabo Linkedin Instagram

Episode 88: In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David Weill, a renowned transplant surgeon and accomplished author, to uncover the intricate world of organ transplants. Dr. Weill takes us on a journey through his impressive career, from his early days as an intern to his rise as a leading expert in lung transplants. We discuss the emotional highs and lows of transplant surgery, the critical decisions involved in patient selection, and how personal experiences have shaped his professional approach.  In this candid conversation, Dr. Weill opens up about the often-overlooked struggles within the healthcare system, the concept of moral injury among healthcare workers, and the immense challenges that came with balancing life-saving procedures with the harsh realities of medicine today. His unique perspective offers listeners an inside look into one of the most transformative fields in healthcare.  Key Highlights: The serendipitous path that led Dr. Weill to specialize in transplant surgery The unique challenges of lung transplantation compared to other organs Navigating the complex decision-making process in organ allocation The emotional toll of long-term patient relationships in transplant care Dr. Weill's transition from clinical practice to writing and consulting Discover how: Personal experiences, such as a family member's transplant, can reshape a surgeon's approach to patient care The concept of "moral injury" offers a new perspective on healthcare worker burnout Writing can serve as both a therapeutic outlet and a means to educate the public about healthcare realities Maintaining connections with family, friends, and personal beliefs can help healthcare professionals navigate career challenges This episode provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers, as well as anyone drawn to the human side of medicine. Through Dr. Weill's journey from transplant surgeon to author and consultant, we explore the emotional complexities of patient care, the ethical dilemmas of organ allocation, and the concept of "moral injury" in healthcare—highlighting how personal experiences can shape both medical practice and career paths beyond the operating room. Resources Mentioned: "Exhale" by Dr. Weill "All that Really Matters" by Dr. Weill Davidweill.com Join us for this enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between medical expertise and human experience, offering a rare glimpse into the world of organ transplantation and the evolving landscape of healthcare. Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.

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.