Rx for Success Podcast

During a recent conversation, Dr. Bela Mehta, Chair of the Division of Pharmacy Practice and Science at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy, shared her insights on the vital role of community pharmacists. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic, including increased patient care demands and immunization efforts, which contributed to rising levels of burnout among pharmacy practitioners.

Dr. Mehta reflected on her personal journey, beginning with her father's immigration from India to the U.S. in the 1960s, her childhood in India, and her eventual return to the U.S. Her early experiences working in a community pharmacy sparked a passion for the profession, reinforcing her commitment to patient care. Her academic path, including earning a PharmD and completing a residency, led her to academia, where she now focuses on training future pharmacists and advancing equitable healthcare access.

The conversation explored the evolving landscape of pharmacy education and the need for innovative approaches to prepare students for modern challenges. Dr. Mehta emphasized the systemic issues affecting the profession post-pandemic, including workforce shortages and mental health strains on pharmacists. She discussed ongoing efforts to address burnout, improve working conditions, and foster collaboration among healthcare teams to enhance both provider well-being and patient outcomes.

Dr. Mehta also shared her interest in complementary and alternative medicine, challenging conventional perspectives within the field. Her approach underscores the importance of evidence-based, patient-centered care that respects diverse needs and preferences.

To conclude, Dr. Mehta offered valuable advice on mentorship, leadership, and finding purpose in one's career. She stressed the importance of recognizing achievements and maintaining a balance between personal and professional growth.

The discussion reinforced the essential role pharmacists play in healthcare and the ongoing need to support their contributions to community health.

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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

Host Dr. Dael Waxman welcomes Dr. Stuart Slavin, Vice President for Well-Being at the ACGME, for a deep dive into the systemic challenges and solutions surrounding physician well-being in medical training. Dr. Slavin recounts his transformative work at St. Louis University, where interventions like reduced class time and pass-fail grading slashed student depression rates by 80%—without sacrificing academic performance. The conversation exposes the harsh realities residents face: sleep deprivation, productivity pressures, and cultures that stigmatize vulnerability. Dr. Slavin details how the ACGME is pushing structural reforms, from embedding well-being in accreditation standards to providing programs with data-driven tools to diagnose and address environmental stressors.

The discussion also explores the psychological burdens unique to trainees, including imposter syndrome and the "Stanford Duck" effect—the tendency to hide distress beneath a calm exterior. Dr. Slavin advocates for dual solutions: fixing toxic systems (like inefficient workflows and punitive feedback cultures) while equipping individuals with cognitive tools to reframe maladaptive mindsets. He shares promising models, such as Mount Sinai's Well-Being Champions program, and stresses the need for iterative, trainee-informed change. A rallying cry for educators and leaders, this episode balances stark truths with actionable hope for a healthier future in medicine.

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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

In this episode of Life-Changing Moments, Dr. Kelly Schmidt, a fifth-year otolaryngology resident at the University of Missouri, shares pragmatic insights on resilience and self-care in medical training. Moving beyond conventional wellness advice, she emphasizes sustainable, small-scale habits—such as integrating personal checklists and celebrating incremental progress—to navigate residency's demands. Crucially, she reframes resilience as a systemic issue, challenging the notion that burnout reflects individual failure.

Dr. Schmidt candidly discusses the pressures of rigorous schedules, imposter syndrome, and the importance of redefining success in an imperfect system. She advocates for building supportive peer and mentor networks while normalizing professional mental health care as a proactive step, not a weakness. Her perspective balances realism with optimism, acknowledging residency's challenges while highlighting the growth they foster.

This episode offers actionable strategies for medical trainees and professionals in high-stakes fields, underscoring how self-compassion, community, and adaptable self-care practices can sustain well-being and improve patient care. Dr. Schmidt's reflections serve as both a guide and a reminder: progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Rethinking Residency — https://rethinkingresidency.com/ Self-Care Mantras That Help Me Survive Surgical Residency, Dr. Kelly Schmidt - Essay

This episode of Prescription for Success features Dr. Stephanie Wu, an internationally renowned podiatrist and dean of the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Wu shares her unconventional journey into medicine, beginning with a career in marketing before serendipitously discovering podiatry through an unplanned MCAT exam. Her story highlights the importance of remaining open to unexpected opportunities and embracing career changes. She also reflects on her deeply personal decision to become a U.S. citizen following the events of September 11, emphasizing the resilience and unity she witnessed in the aftermath.

A significant portion of the conversation centers on Dr. Wu's passion for wound care, a specialty she describes as uniquely rewarding due to the deep patient connections and interdisciplinary collaboration it fosters. She underscores the profound impact of chronic wounds on patients' lives and the satisfaction of providing long-term, life-changing care. Additionally, Dr. Wu discusses her transition into academic leadership, including the challenges of guiding her institution through the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode concludes with her "prescription for success," a thoughtful acronym (A-E-I-O-U) that emphasizes availability, enthusiasm, inspiration, seizing opportunities, and the value of hard work—principles that have shaped her distinguished career.

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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

In this episode of Prescription for Success, host Dr. Randy Cook speaks with Dr. Elizabeth "Lizzie" Lieberman, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction and a core faculty member at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Lieberman shares her journey into medicine, reflecting on her unconventional path—initially resistant to following in her father's (a urologist) footsteps before finding her passion in orthopedics. She discusses the challenges of entering medical school off the waitlist, the exhilaration of surgical rotations, and the pivotal moment she realized orthopedics was her calling.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on diversity in medicine, particularly the underrepresentation of women in orthopedic surgery. Dr. Lieberman, an advocate for inclusivity, highlights systemic biases and the importance of mentorship and early exposure to shift demographics. She also offers her "prescriptions for success," emphasizing a growth mindset, embracing discomfort, and the power of assuming good intent in professional interactions. Her insights serve as both inspiration and a roadmap for aspiring surgeons navigating similar challenges in medicine.

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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

Please see https://www.mymdcoaches.com/podcast/episode/a7461b32/199-the-ibmer-dennis-mihale-md-mba for previos Rx For Success Episode.

Dr. Dael Waxman sits down with Dr. Dennis Mihale, a physician whose career has spanned clinical medicine, healthcare leadership, and corporate innovation. The conversation explores the universal challenges of professional reinvention, particularly for physicians navigating transitions between clinical and non-clinical roles. Dr. Mihaly reflects on the skills that bridge these worlds—from the interpersonal lessons learned at IBM to the resilience required in medicine—and underscores the importance of purpose, mentorship, and incremental change when stepping into the unknown.

The discussion delves into the emotional and practical complexities of career shifts, emphasizing that fulfillment often lies at the intersection of adaptability and self-awareness. Dr. Mihale shares insights on recognizing when to pivot, the value of maintaining ties to patient care, and the power of leaning on trusted advisors during moments of uncertainty. Themes of meaning, identity, and the evolving physician role resonate throughout, offering listeners a roadmap for embracing change without losing sight of their core values.

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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

In this episode of Prescription for Success, host Dr. Randy Cook interviews Dr. Ed Foxall, a surgeon with a unique career journey. Dr. Foxall shares how he overcame early challenges, including attending medical school in Guadalajara after U.S. rejections and persevering through board certification struggles. He emphasizes the "three A's" of success—being available, affable, and able—and highlights the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and building meaningful relationships in medicine. Now an associate program director for a general surgery residency, Dr. Foxall reflects on embracing change, transitioning from private practice to academia, and the value of mentorship in shaping his fulfilling career.

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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

The episode features a roundtable discussion among the coaching team at MD Coaches, designed to address the complex and evolving landscape of modern medicine in honor of Physicians Week. We acknowledge the remarkable advancements in medical innovation and evidence-based practices that have significantly transformed patient care. While these innovations offer unprecedented opportunities for physicians to impact their patients positively, they also bring forth new challenges, including legislative hurdles, ethical dilemmas, and systemic pressures that can hinder a physician's ability to practice medicine as they deem best. During our conversation, each panel member shares their thoughts on the contemporary issues facing medical professionals today. From digital recordkeeping to financial sustainability, we explore how these changes can inadvertently create barriers between doctors and their patients. We reflect on the shift from independent practices to employment models, emphasizing how this transition has altered the dynamics of physician autonomy and patient interaction. As physicians express their frustrations over increased workloads and reduced one-on-one time with patients, the discussion turns to the resulting feelings of disconnection and loss of joy in practice. We delve deeper into specific examples of ethical and moral dilemmas arising from new legislation, particularly in states with restrictive health laws. These regulations can force physicians into challenging positions where they must balance compliance with their professional obligations, as evidenced by discussions around reproductive health laws and minor patient treatment without parental consent. The panelists collectively acknowledge a growing sense of 'moral injury'—the distress resulting from the disconnect between personal values and professional responsibilities. One poignant thread throughout the episode is the importance of fostering meaningful relationships with patients. As we share personal stories and experiences, it becomes evident that many physicians find fulfillment in their roles when they can connect emotionally with their patients. We also discuss the increasing trend of medical students not committing to full-time clinical practice, exploring the underlying factors influencing this shift and its potential long-term consequences for the healthcare system. The conversation shifts towards the role of coaching in helping physicians navigate these turbulent waters. We highlight success stories of individuals who, through coaching, have rediscovered their passion for medicine and implemented changes that resulted in more fulfilling practices. As panelists share their insights, we emphasize the importance of self-agency and personal alignment in fostering satisfaction within the profession. Towards the end of the episode, we reflect on the gradual recognition within the medical community that the well-being of physicians is paramount to providing quality patient care. We advocate for a positive mindset and the importance of gratitude and connection, encouraging our listeners to focus on their strengths and the meaningful aspects of their practice. This episode serves as both a mirror to current challenges and a beacon of hope for positive change within the medical profession, inviting an ongoing conversation about resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity.

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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

n this episode, Dr. Randy Cook speaks with Dr. Sanj Katyal, a radiologist who uniquely blends medicine with positive psychology. Reconnecting after three years, Dr. Katyal reflects on his journey to find greater joy and fulfillment, despite achieving many professional and personal goals. He shares insights into the emotional challenges physicians face, including the pervasive discontent he observed among peers, which inspired him to explore the science of happiness. Dr. Katyal discusses his experience managing a large radiology group, his studies under Harvard psychologist Tal Ben-Shahar, and transformative concepts like "hedonic adaptation" and "Rapid Transformational Therapy" (RTT). These tools help individuals reframe subconscious beliefs formed in childhood, paving the way for a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Katyal also highlights his mission to empower physicians through candid discussions about mental health and well-being. He introduces his online course, ThriveRx, and his book, Positive Philosophy: Ancient Modern Wisdom to Create a Flourishing Life, which offers evidence-based strategies for personal and professional growth. This conversation underscores the importance of introspection, community, and support in achieving lasting fulfillment, especially within the demanding healthcare landscape. Dr. Katyal's integration of radiology and positive psychology serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins from within.

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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

This Podcast offers a pathway to continuing education via this CMEfy link: https://earnc.me/mhp2xn

In this episode of "Life-Changing Moments," we delve into the demanding journey of residency training, a period often filled with intense challenges and overwhelming pressure. Renowned figures in the medical coaching domain, Dr. Tyra Fainstad and Dr. Adrian Mann, share their experiences and insights into the critical need for mental wellness support for medical trainees. They shed light on the perils of burnout, imposter syndrome, and moral injury that are unfortunately prevalent among resident physicians due to the grueling demands of their training. Addressing these pressing issues requires innovative solutions beyond traditional methods such as employee assistance programs. Dr. Fainstad and Dr. Mann have pioneered a unique group coaching approach called "Better Together," a fully digital, four-month program tailored specifically to the needs of resident physicians. Throughout this enlightening conversation, they explain how this program not only promotes well-being but actively combats the rise of distress associated with training in the medical field. The discussion transitions into their individual journeys that led them to develop this impactful coaching program. Dr. Fainstad opens up about her encounters with burnout, sharing the struggles she faced balancing her career alongside the pressures of motherhood. Her experiences underscored the urgent need for support systems within the medical training framework. Dr. Mann shares a similar narrative and reflects on her own transformative relationship with coaching, emphasizing the importance of redefining success and learning to trust oneself amidst external pressures. The structure of the "Better Together" program is one of its standout features. Offering both asynchronous learning materials and live group coaching sessions, participants can engage in a way that suits their busy schedules. Each week, residents join virtual calls where they can share their challenges, glean insights from their peers, and engage in lively discussions that typically see between 5 and 30 attendees. The camaraderie and shared vulnerability foster an environment where residents feel safe and encouraged to explore their mental health challenges and triumphs. Dr. Fainstad and Dr. Mann are keen to share the results of their research, which illustrates the effectiveness of this program. In their preliminary studies, they demonstrated significant reductions in burnout and moral injury among participants, leading to a notable increase in self-compassion and overall wellness. Spurred by their initial successes, they expanded their work to include a larger, multi-centered trial, solidifying "Better Together" as a model with the potential for nationwide impact. As the conversation unfolds, both speakers emphasize their commitment to making these coaching resources accessible to medical trainees. By partnering with institutions, they have created a program that allows residents to benefit from coaching without the financial burden, ensuring that all participants can engage in a healing journey that ultimately enhances their personal and professional lives. Listeners can expect not only to grasp the profound impact of such support systems on medical professionals but also to gain insights into the broader implications for patient care. As Dr. Fainstad and Dr. Mann eloquently express, reducing healthcare professionals' distress results in better patient outcomes, thus creating a ripple effect throughout the healthcare ecosystem. Their ongoing research aims to elevate the understanding and accounting for mental health in medical training, paving the way for future generations of healthcare providers to thrive. Tune in for an intimate exploration of resilience, coaching, and the transformative power of community in mitigating the struggles faced by medical trainees. Join us in this vital conversation that aims to change the landscape of medical education and well-being for future healthcare professionals.

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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