“The Resilient Surgeon” is a new program from the Society designed to inspire cardiothoracic surgeons to be their best selves, in and out of the OR, using scientifically proven tools and recovery strategies of the world’s top performers. Host Dr. Michael Maddaus will talk to game changers in the high-performance and wellness space who can share real-world strategies for building and maintaining resiliency.

In this inaugural episode, Dr. Maddaus interviews executive coach Dr. Monique Valcour, who shares advice and strategies on integrating work and life and thriving in a high-demand world. According to Dr. Valcour, burnout is fundamentally a state of resource depletion. She recommends thinking about “what are the elements of my work, what are the moments where I feel most alive, where I have a sense of meaning, and where I have a sense of contributing something of value.” Then, “really lean into” those activities and relationships. Listeners will discover that being on “autopilot” puts them at risk for a less-than-optimal mind, body, energetic state, and focus. The goal instead should be to become more “conscious and intentional” of the choices that are being made. Hear also what Dr. Valcour says about having a sense of meaning in every moment and how to “keep the life force within you bright and shining.”

Dr. Valcour can be reached at moniquevalcour.com and @moniquevalcour.

Learn more about STS wellness efforts at sts.org/wellness.