The Long Call

In this episode, we take on a heavier topic: burnout. We share our own experiences, unpack the definition, and break down the three core components of burnout — emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced sense of accomplishment. We also explore the conversation around “moral injury” and how system pressures can erode meaning and purpose in our work.

We discuss how burnout shows up in residents, how to tell the difference between a bad week and something deeper, and what actually can help. From the EMR and night float to boundaries, mentorship, reflection, and reconnecting with our “why,” we offer practical insights and real talk from inside training.

In this episode, we discuss how to support new residents! We reflect back on the early days of intern year — the excitement, the chaos, and the steep learning curve that comes with becoming a new doctor. We talk about what makes orientation actually helpful, how programs and peers can best support new residents, and why small things (like meeting admin staff or knowing who to call for help) make a big difference. A real, honest look at those first months of residency and how to make them a little easier for everyone.

Welcome to The Long Call! We are Mary and Khaila — an OB-GYN program director and a current resident — and we're excited to kick off The Long Call, a podcast about thriving in residency and beyond. In this first episode, we share our stories, what inspired the show, and why the “in-between” years of medical training matter just as much as the milestones. It’s a real, honest conversation about finding meaning, purpose, and a little bit of joy in the chaos of residency.