Do you really know the difference between being a team player… and being codependent?

In this eye-opening and deeply validating episode, the docs take a tender and honest look at codependence in medicine — what it is, where it comes from, how it hides behind “professionalism”… and why so many physicians unknowingly carry these patterns from childhood into their careers.

We explore:

✨ The 5 core symptoms of codependence (originally defined by Pia Mellody)
✨ Why medicine often rewards codependent behavior
✨ How emotional neglect or inconsistency in childhood can shape who we become as physicians
✨ Why boundaries are not selfish (and how to actually hold them)
✨ The real reason we say yes to shifts we don’t want, take on burdens that aren’t ours, and don’t let ourselves pee, eat, or rest
✨ What it means to return to your career on your terms

Plus: what we each wish we’d known earlier, and the freeing realization that you don’t have to be Superwoman to be worthy. You already are.

🔁 Whether you’re a “recovering people-pleaser,” just starting to untangle from burnout, or curious about how codependence shows up in your life — this episode is for you.

💌 Reflection prompt: Where in your life are you over-functioning, denying your needs, or confusing self-sacrifice with self-worth?

🔊 Tune in to learn:

Why your emotional suppression was adaptive — and how to gently grow past it

How to recognize when you’re doing other people’s emotional work

What boundaries really are (and how they can bring you back to life)

The simple mindset shift that helps you reclaim your energy, agency, and worth

💬 Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear your experience with these patterns.
📲 Follow us on socials @thewholephysician for memes, tools, and behind-the-scenes inspiration.

🌟 And exciting news! We’re back for the third annual Happier Hours at ASEP Scientific Assembly 2025 in Salt Lake City!! Stay tuned for the official launch of our event page. 🎉

Until next time —
You are whole. You are a gift to medicine. The work you do matters.