Scalpel and Sword: Conflict and Negotiation in Modern Medicine

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if locking up a gun could prevent a child's accidental death and spare families lifelong heartbreak?

In this powerful episode of the Scalpel and Sword Podcast, host Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. Jillian Ploof, as she reveals the harsh realities of treating pediatric gunshot wounds from playground accidents to teen suicides and the broader societal costs, including disabilities, family trauma, and healthcare provider burnout. She discusses her advocacy for Louisiana's failed secure storage bill, the cultural challenges of gun ownership in the South, and how states with safety laws see fewer incidents. If you're a physician grappling with gun violence's ripple effects or seeking ways to advocate effectively, this is your call to action—protecting kids, building coalitions, and turning personal stories into policy wins.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

•  Secure your firearms: If children or teens are in your home, lock guns unloaded and store ammunition separately to prevent accidents, suicides, or unintentional shootings, states with secure storage laws show lower rates of child gun injuries.
• Engage legislators personally: Research bills on your state government website, contact sponsors via email, share your medical experiences (e.g., treating victims), ask about current anti-violence efforts, and listen to build common ground from a place of shared community care.
• Advocate as a physician: Join groups like Moms Demand Action or the Physicians Foundation, use your voice to highlight stories of survivors' disabilities and families' grief, and emphasize that gun safety protects rights while saving lives—pause, reflect, and respond calmly to foster dialogue over debate.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Jillian Ploof is a pediatric neurosurgeon at Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With undergraduate studies at Temple University, medical school and residency at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and a fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital, she combines clinical expertise with advocacy against gun violence, inspired by her frontline experiences and participation in the Physicians Foundation Leadership Institute.

LinkedIn ; Dr. Jillian Ploof

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if the solution to healthcare burnout wasn’t more studies but immediate, actionable help like a free ride home after a 24-hour shift?

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Jodie Green, CEO and founder of the Clinician Burnout Foundation, who draws from her decades as a caregiver to her mother and autistic brother to explain why burnout affects everyone from janitors to surgeons, and why it’s not just “the job,” but a 24/7 crisis. Jodie unpacks moral injury as the “conscience of the system,” shares her “action not agonizing” mantra, and reveals how her foundation underwrites restorative support (rides, meals, childcare) to create a stable base for deeper healing. With ties to fencing, Bruce Lee philosophy, and alliances like Kim Downey’s Stand Up for Doctors, Jodie proves we need a “diverse army of burnout warriors” to crush systemic issues before more lives are lost.

If you’ve ever felt isolated in exhaustion, this episode is your rally cry: You’re not alone, and real help is here.

Three Actionable Takeaways :

• Recognize burnout as a four-legged stool: mental, emotional, physical, and financial. Assess your own balance, track sleep, finances, emotions daily. If one leg wobbles (e.g., skipped meals from long shifts), seek immediate micro-supports like a free Uber home or meal delivery to prevent total collapse before deeper fixes.
• Differentiate burnout (systemic overload) from moral injury (ethical distress like denied care). Advocate for cultural change: Join alliances, write legislators about PBM profits, and push for psychological/physical safety in your workplace. Turn challenges into opportunities, view setbacks as fencing moves to anticipate and counterattack.
• Build your burnout warrior network: Sign up for free, frictionless resources at Clinician Burnout Foundation (rides, childcare, peer support). Share ideas, volunteer, or donate to scale solutions. Educate patients on systemic issues to grow a louder chorus for policy change, everyone’s life depends on healthy clinicians.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Jodie Green is CEO, President, and Founder of the Clinician Burnout Foundation, the first “healthcare burnout first responder”—a global charity providing frictionless, free support to restore clinicians before they sink. A lifelong caregiver, digital strategist (invited to Obama White House Women’s Digital Health Summit), and advisor in health tech and AI, she brings marketing expertise from startups to Fortune 500s. Jodie’s mantra: Action not agonizing, solutions not lip service—underwriting rides, meals, and more to crush burnout system-wide.

Connect with Jodie Green:

• Website: clinicianburnoutfoundation.org
• LinkedIn: clinician-burnout-foundation

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if your retirement plan didn’t rely on stock market volatility, but on institutional-grade real estate with skin in the game?

In this empowering episode, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Jonathan Spitz to break down private real estate investing for physicians, from fresh-out-of-residency tax strategies to legacy-building passive income. Jonathan shares his core principle (“long-term clarity creates long-term power”), why physicians often start with curiosity but no plan, and how to ask the right questions: direct vs. passive ownership? Manager track record? Leverage levels? He reveals red flags like excessive debt or inexperienced teams, explains Lightstone’s vertically integrated model (40 years, $12B AUM, in-house everything), and proves that with high-conviction deals where they commit 20% of their own capital first, physicians can build wealth without the daily grind.

If you’ve ever thought “I want more, but where do I start?” This is your roadmap to investing like a family office, safely, transparently, and aligned.

Three Actionable Takeaways :

• Decide if you want direct ownership (hands-on rentals) or passive investing (outsourcing to pros like Lightstone): For busy physicians, passive often wins. Vet managers by asking: How long in business? Track record? Skin in the game? Alignment ensures they treat your money like their own for long-term stability.
• Spot red flags before investing: Excessive leverage like 85% debt magnifies risks in volatile markets. Check track record for losses in good times, team longevity (avoid 2-year firms), and aggressive assumptions promising 25% returns. Prioritize wealth preservation over high-risk highs.
• Build clarity by defining goals: Income now or growth later? Liquidity needs? Risk tolerance? Start small with education—podcasts, white papers, consultations. Meet managers where you are; if they rush or lack access and transparency, walk away. Long-term power comes from informed, patient decisions.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Jonathan Spitz is Head of Capital Formation at Lightstone Direct, where he helps investors access institutional-grade commercial real estate. With over a decade in private real estate, he’s advised physicians, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals on long-term strategies, risk management, and wealth building. His guiding principle: Long-term clarity creates long-term power. Jonathan focuses on simplifying real estate for busy professionals, emphasizing alignment, education, and passive income for legacies beyond medicine.

Connect with Jonathan Spitz:

· Website: https://lightstonedirect.com

                     lightstonegroup.com

· Email: [email protected]

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What happens when a paramedic becomes a medical-malpractice lawyer and then an appellate clerk? You get Tevor Allen: a rare voice who has lived on both sides of the chart, the gurney, and the courtroom. 

In this eye-opening episode of Scalpel and Sword Podcast,  host Dr. Lee Sharma talks with Trevor Allen ESQ.,  as he shares how his EMS background gave him an unfair advantage reading medical records, spotting documentation red flags, and understanding what patients and families are really asking for beneath the surface.

From intubation cases and bougie questions that made partners clap, to mediating family evictions and reading judges’ body language in real time, Trevor proves that the skills that keep patients calm at 3 a.m. are the exact same skills that win appellate arguments and malpractice mediations. 

If you’ve ever wished physicians were better trained in conflict, listening, and “arguing to the room,” this episode is your masterclass.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Document every chart as if it will one day be projected in open court in front of a jury. Ask yourself: “Would I be proud to read this aloud?” If the answer is no, rewrite it now. Clear, thorough, defensible notes protect you more than any insurance policy ever could.
• Treat every difficult patient encounter as a micro-mediation: Look past the surface demand and uncover the real need—almost always respect, being heard, or fear. Address the hidden interest instead of arguing the position, and most conflicts dissolve before they ever reach a lawyer’s desk.
• In deposition or mediation your only job is to tell the plain truth without coloring or spinning it. Stay calm, human, and factual. The other side will try to twist your words, but a thousand hours of rehearsal won’t stop that. Trust your attorney to untie the knots later.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Trevor Allen, Esquire, is a judicial law clerk for the Missouri Court of Appeals Eastern District. A former paramedic and clinical trainer, Trevor graduated from Washington University School of Law Dean’s List, Order of Barristers, Judge Amanda Brackman Moot Court Award after spending a summer working at a medical-malpractice defense firm. His unique dual background lets him spot documentation gaps, read hidden patient interests, and translate clinical reality into courtroom credibility. Bonus: he bakes a mean loaf and is owned by an adorable dog named Gwen.

Connect with Trevor Allen:

• Instagram: @FifthOfDaybreak
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevor-allen91

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if being quiet isn’t a weakness… but your biggest leadership advantage?

In this relatable episode on The Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. Asha Padmanabhan as she opens up about her accidental rise: stepping up when no one else would, learning business and negotiation on the fly, and discovering that trying to become the stereotypical “loud” leader made her miserable and ineffective. She reveals the hidden shame cycle of conflict avoidance that so many women physicians know too well, shares her dead-simple, OR-tested CUE Method that turns surgeon-anesthesiologist standoffs into collaborative wins, explains how to treat imposter thoughts like bad evidence in court, and proves that curiosity, not volume  is the ultimate leadership superpower. 

If you’ve ever felt “I’m too quiet, too nice, too introverted to lead,” this episode is your permission slip to lead exactly as you are and win.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Stop trying to become the loud leader you’re not: Identify your natural strengths (quiet observation, deep listening, empathy) and weaponize them. Authenticity builds trust faster than volume ever will. Lean into who you are, the right rooms will amplify you.
• Use the CUE Method in your next conflict: Create space, pause and breathe. Uncover what’s underneath both positions “I’m worried about patient safety or you’re worried about schedule flow”, then explore a third option that serves both. Practice it until it’s muscle memory.
• Kill imposter thoughts with facts: When “I only got this because no one else wanted it” shows up, demand evidence like you’re cross-examining a witness. Write down the actual facts of why you’re in the role. Read them daily until your brain believes you belong.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

​Dr. Asha Padmanabhan is a board-certified anesthesiologist, past-president of the Florida Society of Anesthesiologists, and founder of The Leadership Rx. A self-described “accidental leader,” introvert, and former conflict-avoider, she stepped up to save her private practice and now coaches women physicians to lead authentically, negotiate confidently, and master conflict without becoming someone they’re not. Through her signature CUE Method and evidence-based tools, she helps women dismantle imposter syndrome, embrace their natural strengths, and thrive personally and professionally.

Connect with Dr. Padmanabhan:

• Website: theleadershiprx.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashapadmanabhan
• Email: [email protected]
• FSA: fsahq.org for events and speaking.

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What happens when a pediatric plastic surgeon becomes a master of conflict resolution? 

From program director to mediator-in-training, Dr. Losee shares how his journey from educator to conflict expert evolved and why coaching isn’t therapy, mentoring, or advice-giving. It’s a structured process of calibration, connection, and transformation that helps physicians answer: Where am I? How did I get here? And where do I want to go?

He breaks down the real-world challenges of faculty conflict, far messier than resident issues, the rise of pre-litigation mediation through programs like AHRQ’s CANDOR, and why CMS is now scoring hospitals on early dispute resolution. Plus, how peer coaching at UPMC is reducing burnout, boosting retention, and creating psychologically safer workplaces with data to prove it.

Whether you're a burned-out attending, a new department chair, or a leader building a better culture, this episode delivers the tools to lead with clarity.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Start with self-awareness:  book a coaching session (even if you’re “fine”) to examine where you are, how you got stuck, and who you want to become. Coaching isn’t just for crises; it’s career nutrition. Use it to prevent burnout before it starts. 
• Train in the 5 core coaching skills: deep listening, powerful questioning, reflecting, naming emotions, and reframing. These aren’t just for coaches; they make you a better leader, parent, spouse, and colleague. Enroll in a peer coach program or workshop today.
• Advocate for early dispute resolution: push your institution to adopt a CANDOR-style program with trained mediators. When harm occurs, offer patients a mediator before litigation. It heals relationships, reduces lawsuits, and builds trust. CMS is watching, get ahead of the curve. 

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Joseph E. Losee is the Dr. Ross H. Musgrave Endowed Chair of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, Executive Vice Chair of Plastic Surgery at UPMC, and Vice Dean for Faculty Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. A former residency program director and past President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, he co-chairs UPMC’s Physician Wellness Initiative and serves on the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine. Through his firm Clarity Med Strategies, he is a board-certified executive coach and trained mediator, helping physicians resolve conflict, build self-awareness, and prevent burnout with peer coaching and pre-litigation mediation programs.

📍 Connect with Dr. Losee

• University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine – Faculty Profile
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joseph-losee
• Email: [email protected]

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if a single comment could push a talented resident out of medicine—and how can we stop it?

In this episode of Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma welcomes Dr. Tracy MacIntosh, as she shares eye-opening stories like an intern greeted with “I don’t want a doctor with an accent” and the hidden toll of repeated microaggressions: burnout, attrition, and even suicidal ideation. Drawing from surgical residency data and her own workshops, she introduces a simple triangle framework (source, recipient, bystander) plus scripted “I” statements to interrupt bias without escalating conflict. Dr. MacIntosh emphasizes curiosity over defense, grace for patients in pain, and anonymous reporting channels to prevent retaliation. The goal: retain diverse talent, improve patient trust, and create training environments where the work is hard—but never toxic. This episode equips physicians, residents, and teams with immediately actionable tools to foster respect, reduce burnout, and preserve the workforce we desperately need.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Use “I” Statements to Respond, Not React: When bias strikes, start with curiosity: “I’m curious—why don’t you want a doctor who looks like me?” Practice one scripted response this week to stay calm and keep the dialogue open.
• Empower the Bystander: If you witness a microaggression, check in privately: “I saw what happened—are you okay? How can I support you?” One supportive conversation can break the isolation cycle.
• Build Reporting Safety Nets: Advocate for (or create) anonymous feedback channels in your program. Knowing retaliation isn’t a risk makes learners 10× more likely to speak up and protect their mental health.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Tracy MacIntosh is the Associate Dean for Access, Belonging and Community Engagement at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. A Yale MD with master’s degrees in science and public health, she completed emergency medicine residency at Yale and became founding faculty for the UCF-HCA Florida Emergency Medicine Residency of Greater Orlando. Passionate about teaching and psychological safety, she develops workshops that give learners scripting and reporting tools to address bias without fear. Her work fights burnout and attrition while improving patient trust through diverse, respected teams.

Email: [email protected]

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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One apple, three conflicts.

 In this solo episode of The Scalpel and Sword Podcast, Dr. Lee Sharma breaks down the hidden languages of conflict using a single prop: an apple.

Interest-Based Conflict (The Apple Itself): Tangible, quantifiable resources—money, time, call shifts. Logical fix? Split it. But when “half” isn’t enough (e.g., a part-time doc’s reimbursement drop), the fight escalates.

Identity-Based Conflict (Apple + Mirror): Self-image enters the chat. “I worked harder,” “I have seniority,” “I gave up partnership for family.” Cue: titles, effort, or sacrifice thrown like grenades. Dr. Sharma recounts her 90s practice battle—offering to cover walk-in OB for fair pay—met with “heck no.” Not about money. About who she was (part-time = less committed). Fix: Acknowledge identity (“I hear you worked hard”), then reframe to the apple.

Worldview-Based Conflict (Apple + Lens): Same object, different meaning. Intern-year story: pregnant teen refuses IV antibiotics. To Dr. Sharma? Lifesaving. To patient? Sister-killing poison (from prior sepsis death). Without worldview alignment, coercion fails. With it? Patient feels seen, buys in.

Physicians excel at rapid history-taking—use it for worldview analysis on the fly. When patients say “I felt heard,” you’ve nailed their lens. Master these three languages to keep conflicts from fracturing teams, partnerships, or patient trust.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Name the Conflict Type in Real Time: Next dispute (call, bonus, refusal), ask: Is this about the apple (interest), the mirror (identity), or the lens (worldview)? Label it silently—shifts your response from reactive to strategic.
• Reframe Identity Bombs Without Dismissal: When someone says “I’ve been here 20 years,” reply: “I respect your tenure—let’s keep this about the schedule so we both get home to our families.” Acknowledge, redirect. Practice 3x this week.
• Run 60-Second Worldview Scans with Patients: Before pushing treatment, ask: “What’s your biggest worry about this med/procedure?” Listen for lens (past trauma, distrust). Mirror back: “I hear your sister’s story terrified you—here’s why this is different.” Builds trust, reduces AMA risk.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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Effective communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a reflection of inner stress and burnout. 

In this insightful episode of The Scalpel and Sword Podcast, Dr. Lee Sharma sits with Dr. Anne Hirsch to reveal how peer review experiences exposed her to physicians’ blind spots in communication. Drawing from her coaching certification and decades in practice, Dr. Hirsch shares how doctors often lack insight into how they’re perceived—stemming from exhaustion, bureaucracy, and high-stakes environments.

The discussion dives into strategies for self-awareness: identifying emotional triggers (like that adrenaline rush from a cop’s lights), pausing to ground yourself (deep breaths, wiggling toes), and focusing on core messages without rabbit-hole distractions. Role-playing emerges as a game-changer, helping physicians see their tone, body language, and proximity—especially in power imbalances like attending-resident dynamics or physical size differences.

Generational shifts in medicine are highlighted: younger doctors prioritize work-life balance, challenging “old-school” grind culture, while wellness practices (walks, movies, family time) regenerate without being dismissed as frivolous. Dr.Hirsch emphasizes vulnerability in group coaching, where peers call each other out compassionately, leading to broader impacts on patient care and family life. Ultimately, mastering communication means deciding: Does this need saying? Now? By me?

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Identify and Pause on Triggers for Better Responses: Burnout amplifies reactive communication—start by listing 3–5 personal triggers (e.g., insurance denials, scheduling conflicts). Practice a grounding ritual (deep breath, finger rub) daily; before tough talks, ask: What’s my core point? What might they feel? Journal post-conversation to track calmer outcomes and reduced regret.
• Incorporate Role-Playing to Refine Body Language and Tone: Authority gaps erode trust—practice hard conversations weekly with a trusted peer or mirror. Simulate scenarios (e.g., towering over a colleague) and swap roles; focus on proximity, seating, and compassion. Aim for one role-play per conflict-prone week to build insight and respectful conflict navigation.
• Embrace Vulnerability and Generational Wellness for Sustainable Practice: Isolation breeds poor communication—join or form a small peer group for monthly check-ins on work-life balance. Adopt one “cup-filling” activity (walk, family dinner) thrice weekly; reflect: Does this regenerate me without guilt? Model this for trainees to foster healthier teams and patient interactions.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Anne Hirsch is an internist with over 30 years in practice, serving on the Oregon State Peer Review Committee and as an expert medical coder. Passionate about physician communication, she became a certified coach in 2022 to address burnout, leadership, and behavioral issues through one-on-one and group sessions.

Website: https://physiciancoachingwithanne.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-m-hirsch-md/

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.

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What if a nurse’s positivity could calm a chaotic ER night and reshape physician behavior?

In this episode of Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Pooie Cantrell, a retired nurse whose 33-year career at East Alabama Medical Center transformed high-stakes CVICU and recovery room settings. A Daisy Award winner, Pooie’s infectious positivity created a tight-knit team atmosphere, uplifting colleagues and patients during chaotic nights. She shares bold stories of confronting disruptive physician behavior with professional “reality checks,” fostering mutual respect and reflection. Pooie highlights the shift toward humble, team-oriented younger doctors and the power of pausing in crises to leverage team expertise, like Dr. Sharma’s husband calming a code blue. Now cancer-free, thanks to Dr. Sharma’s care, Pooie enjoys retirement adventures in Alaska and Maine. This episode offers healthcare professionals tools to build collaborative, patient-centered environments, emphasizing joy, teamwork, and resilience to combat burnout and elevate care.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Positivity Transforms Teams: Pooie’s intentional joy, even after grueling 12-hour shifts, created a supportive community in recovery, uplifting both staff and patients. Try smiling through one tough shift to see its impact on your team’s morale.
• Respect Earns Respect: Pooie stood up to disruptive physicians by emphasizing mutual expertise, fostering reflection without shame. Practice respectfully addressing one unprofessional interaction this week, focusing on teamwork for patient outcomes.
• Pause for Better Outcomes: Effective physicians take a moment to assess and trust their team during crises, leading to calmer, more effective care. Next time chaos hits, pause for 10 seconds to survey your team’s strengths before acting.

About the Show:

 Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest

Pooie Cantrell, a retired nurse with over 32 years at East Alabama Medical Center, graduated from Southern Union in 1993. She served 17 years in CVICU and later in the recovery room, fostering a tight-knit team with her infectious positivity. A Daisy Award recipient,Pooie’s joy uplifted colleagues and patients, even during grueling shifts. She confronted disruptive physician behavior professionally, advocating for mutual respect and teamwork. Now cancer-free alongside her friend Belinda, Pooie enjoys retirement, traveling to Alaska and Maine. Her legacy highlights the power of positivity, collaboration, and patient-centered care in high-stakes healthcare settings.

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooie-cantrell-8b432269

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.