Residency is one of the most profound life-changing seasons in a physician's journey—a time of rapid growth, deep uncertainty, and one of the biggest decisions of all: what comes next. In this unique collaborative episode, host Dr. Dael Waxman is joined by Charles Lowry, Director of Graduate Medical Education Relations at PracticeLink and host of the Surviving and Thriving in Residency podcast.

Rather than a traditional interview, Dr. Waxman and Charlie engage in a shared conversation about the critical inflection points they've witnessed in medical students and residents. They explore the hidden struggles beneath the confident exterior—the loneliness, the imposter syndrome, the career uncertainty—and the powerful role that connection, validation, and intentional support can play. Together, they uncover how coaching and career resources can help residents move from survival mode to intentional choice, and why finding your "people" is essential for a sustainable, fulfilling career in medicine.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Charlie's journey from statewide campus director for medical students to his current role supporting residents nationwide.

• The vulnerability and openness residents show when given a safe, non-evaluative space to share their struggles.

• The hidden stressors of residency: loneliness, lack of family support, and the challenge of being an international medical graduate.

• How PracticeLink serves as a free, comprehensive career resource for residents, from CV reviews to scholarships.

• The role of coaching in addressing imposter syndrome, leadership challenges, and the transition from training to practice.

• Why career uncertainty is a major driver of stress and well-being issues.

• Practical advice for residents: take advantage of free resources, find your community, and remember that residency is just one chapter.

• What gives both Dr. Waxman and Charlie hope about the next generation of physicians.

Guest Information:

• Mr. Charles Lowry, Director of Graduate Medical Education Relations, PracticeLink.

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: practicelink.com

• Podcast: Surviving and Thriving in Residency

• PracticeLink offers free CV reviews, scholarships, webinars, and a robust job board for physicians at all stages.

Relevant Links:

• MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com

• Sponsor: PracticeLink – practicelink.com

• Sponsor: Navigate Student Loans – http://navigate.as.me/MD-Coaches

• Sponsor: Physician Outlook – physicianoutlook.com

• MD Coaches Community on Facebook

-+=-+=-+=-+=

Join the Conversation!

We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe

Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon

Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify

---

There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast

Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at [email protected]

Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com