Exploring Wellbeing, Motivation, and Lifelong Learning with Dr. Oksana Babenko

In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine welcomes Dr. Oksana Babenko, an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, to discuss themes of wellbeing, motivation, and lifelong learning. Dr. Babenko shares her personal journey from the Soviet Union to Canada, her academic inspirations, and how her experiences in sports have shaped her approach to challenges and burnout. The conversation delves into her research on the importance of exercise in managing burnout among medical students and professionals. Dr. Babenko emphasizes individualized approaches to maintaining psychological needs, the significance of a mastery mindset, and the value of staying curious in a complex world.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:35 Personal Anecdotes and Academic Journey

02:36 Path to Canada and Research Interests

04:19 Wellbeing, Motivation, and Lifelong Learning

05:09 Exercise as a Preventive Measure for Burnout

10:27 The Importance of Consistency and Intentionality

12:19 Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness

14:36 Mastery Mindset and Need Crafting

15:42 Final Thoughts and Staying Curious