In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Betsy Grunch, a board-certified neurosurgeon, mom, and social media sensation known as LadySpineDoc . Dr. Grunch shares her incredible journey—from growing up with a single mom, to becoming a leading figure in neurosurgery, to inspiring millions on Instagram and TikTok. She discusses how her mother’s spinal cord injury shaped her path, the importance of creating relatable content online, and how being authentic builds trust with her patients. We als...
Dec 05, 2024•34 min
In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss winning strategies to improve relationships based on the work of renowned marriage therapist Terry Real. They explore how to move away from reactive, self-protective behaviors (losing strategies) and adopt proactive, compassionate approaches to foster deeper connection, trust, and resilience. Key Takeaways: 1. Shift from Complaint to Request: - Replace complaints with specific, actionable requests. - Example: Instead of "You never help with chor...
Nov 28, 2024•36 min
In this episode, we tackle a common yet frustrating challenge: indecision. Even as professionals who excel in high-stakes environments, when it comes to personal or career decisions, we often find ourselves paralyzed. Why does this happen? How can we overcome it? Here’s what we cover: - Why indecision is so common – especially for high-achieving professionals accustomed to structured paths. - The psychological underpinnings of indecision, including fear of failure, perfectionism, and a lack of c...
Nov 21, 2024•28 min
Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we’re diving into *Us: Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship* by Terrence Real. This book has left a deep impact on all three of us, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra, and we're excited to share key insights on how to foster deeper connections in relationships. 1. The Three Selves in Relationships Terrence Real introduces the concepts of the "Wounded Child," "Adaptive Child," and "Wise Adult" within us. Each part can impact our interactions, espe...
Nov 14, 2024•20 min
System-Wide Remedies for Physician Burnout with with Stef Simmons, MD In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra welcome Dr. Stef Simmons, a board-certified emergency physician and the Chief Medical Officer of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation. Dr. Simmons shares her journey and discusses the critical work of the foundation, created to honor Dr. Lorna Breen, an emergency physician who tragically died by suicide during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Simmons addresses the systemi...
Nov 07, 2024•40 min
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the second part of our series on “Losing Strategies” in relationships. We explore how certain behaviors undermine connection, create emotional distance, and hinder growth, drawing insights from renowned therapists Terry Real and Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife. We begin with a quick recap of the first episode and then introduce five additional “losing strategies” that can be detrimental to relationships: 1. Playing the Victim – Recognizing the disempowerment in ...
Oct 31, 2024•29 min
Losing Strategies in Relationships In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra dive into the first of two episodes on losing strategies in relationships, focusing on behaviors that harm intimacy and connection. Drawing from the work of renowned therapist Terry Real and psychologist Dr. Jennifer Finlayson Fife, the hosts break down five common maladaptive strategies that people often use, thinking they will give them more power in relationships. However, these strategies ultimately damage trust an...
Oct 24, 2024•32 min
Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra share their excitement over a glowing five-star review from Dr. Lauren Anderson, MD, and dive into a discussion on repairing relationships with adults, inspired by the Gottman Institute’s research. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - The Gottman Method: John and Julie Gottman’s robust research on marriage and relationships has provided a wealth of knowledge about what makes relationships work and fail. The hosts discuss the...
Oct 17, 2024•26 min
Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into a crucial relationship skill: making repairs after conflicts or emotional disconnections. Inspired by a TED Talk from clinical psychologist Dr. Becky Kennedy, also known as Dr. Becky, they discuss why repairs are vital, especially between parents and children, though the principles apply to all relationships. Learn how to move beyond surface-level apologies and create meaningful reconnections with loved ones. The hosts explore what happens when rupt...
Oct 10, 2024•15 min
In this episode, the hosts welcome Dr. Andrea Austin, an emergency physician and advocate for physician well-being, to discuss her new book 'Revitalized'. The conversation explores themes of hyperfunctioning and underfunctioning in medical culture, the challenges of mental health in both military and medical settings, the importance of emotional check-ins, and the role of humor in coping with the stresses of the profession. Dr. Austin shares personal experiences and insights on navigating nihili...
Oct 03, 2024•31 min
In this episode, we dive into the last chapter of Dan Buettner's book, Blue Zones: Secrets for Living Longer, Lessons from the Healthiest Places on Earth . He addresses ways that we can make longevity-promoting behaviors automatic for us. We discuss his suggestions for optimizing our homes, kitchens, and bedrooms for the greatest chance of success. Resource: Blue Zones Books Link to Networking Event Got Burnout? Download the free training: "How to Crush Physician Burnout (for Good) without Cutti...
Sep 26, 2024•26 min
In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss the alarming rate of physician suicide and the need for increased awareness and support. They share the story of Dr. Lorna Breen, an emergency physician who tragically took her own life after working tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The hosts explore the factors that contribute to physician suicide, including the stigma around mental health in the medical profession and the unique challenges faced by female physicians. They emphasize the...
Sep 19, 2024•31 min
Creating Your Own Blue Zone – Food Guidelines for Longevity In this episode of the Blue Zones Book Club podcast, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra dive into practical ways to create your own Blue Zone with a focus on nutrition and lifestyle. They discuss key habits and food guidelines that help people in Blue Zones around the world live longer, healthier lives. From adopting a plant-based diet to eating less processed foods, the hosts share tips based on research from *The Blue Zones: Secrets for Living...
Sep 12, 2024•23 min
Summary In this episode, Amanda, Kendra and Laura discuss the Blue Zone of Okinawa and the factors that contribute to the longevity and health of its residents. They highlight the importance of finding purpose in life, following a plant-based diet, relying on social support networks, and staying active. They also mention the traditional foods of Okinawa, such as purple sweet potatoes and tofu, which are rich in nutrients. The hosts provide takeaways for listeners, including finding their own Iki...
Sep 05, 2024•19 min
Podcast Episode: Blue Zones Book Club – The Power Nine In this episode, we dive into the seventh installment of our Blue Zones Book Club, exploring the "Power Nine"—the nine habits identified by Dan Buettner in his book *The Blue Zones: Secrets for Living Longer Lessons from the Healthiest Places on Earth*. These habits, observed across five cultures on four continents, offer valuable insights into living a long, healthy life. As always, our discussion is purely educational and meant to offer nu...
Aug 29, 2024•25 min
Blue Zones Book Club, Part 6 - Singapore Hosts: Amanda, Laura, and Kendra Episode Summary: In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra dive into the sixth installment of their Blue Zones book club, focusing on Singapore. Despite its urban environment, Singapore boasts one of the highest life expectancies in the world, proving that longevity isn't limited to rural, pastoral lifestyles. The hosts explore how this small island nation has transformed its public health landscape and shares insights in...
Aug 22, 2024•22 min
Beloved past-president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, Dr. Gillian Schmitz joins us to discuss an emergency department accreditation program that aims to address systemic problems and reduce burnout in emergency medicine. The program proposes different levels of accreditation based on criteria such as staffing, supervision, social work support, and patient care resources. The goal is to improve the practice environment and ensure physician-led care. Dr. Schmitz emphasizes the im...
Aug 15, 2024•23 min
Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss the Blue Zone of Ikaria, Greece, where residents live longer and have lower rates of heart disease and dementia. The key factors contributing to their longevity include a Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, regular physical activity through walking and manual labor, taking regular naps to reduce stress, and prioritizing social connections. The hosts also highlight the importance of occasional fasting and the rol...
Aug 08, 2024•15 min
Summary In this podcast episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss the concept of busyness and how it affects our lives. They explore the glorification of busyness in society and the importance of aligning our activities with our values. The hosts emphasize the need to say yes with purpose and eliminate tasks that don't align with our values. They also discuss the importance of rest and play in combating busyness and finding balance. The episode concludes with a challenge to say no, prioritize r...
Aug 01, 2024•26 min
Episode Summary: In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra dive into the topic of patient expectations, a common pain point identified through recent market research. They discuss the impact of unexpressed and unmet expectations on both patients and healthcare providers, and how these can lead to disappointment and frustration. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights on handling expectations in a clinical setting, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, empathy, and setting b...
Jul 25, 2024•25 min
Summary In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss ways to build lasting connections with kids of all ages. They provide tips for connecting with younger kids through play, reading, singing, and positive affirmations. They also discuss the importance of establishing routines and boundaries. For tweens and teens, they emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive ratio of interactions, respecting their autonomy, and engaging in quality conversations. Finally, they discuss how to main...
Jul 18, 2024•31 min
In this podcast episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss the importance of building lasting connections with children. They introduce the concept of the five-to-one positivity rule, which states that for every negative interaction during conflict, there should be at least five positive interactions. They provide examples of positive interactions, such as verbal affirmations, physical affection, shared activities, active listening, expressing interest in the world, offering words of encourageme...
Jul 11, 2024•26 min
Finding Healing in Creativity: Dr. Robin Hitchcock's Journey Episode Description: In today's episode, Kendra introduces us to Dr. Robin Hitchcock, an emergency physician with expertise in palliative care. Dr. Hitchcock shares her journey of overcoming challenging experiences in the medical field and the unique ways she processed these difficulties. Dr. Hitchcock's story is one of resilience and innovation. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding purpose in pain and the transformative...
Jul 04, 2024•30 min
Blue Zones Book Club - Loma Linda, California Hosts: - Amanda Dinsmore - Laura Cazier - Kendra Morrison Episode Highlights: - Introduction - Amanda reminds listeners about the importance of leaving ratings and reviews on Apple Podcasts. - Continuing the Blue Zones Book Club series, focusing on Loma Linda, California. - Episode Overview - Discussing the principles and practices of the Blue Zones, with an emphasis on living longer, healthier lives. - Reminder: Hosts are doctors, but the informatio...
Jun 27, 2024•19 min
Understanding Grief with Krista St. Germain Hosts: Amanda Dinsmore, Laura Cazier, Kendra Morrison Guest: Krista St. Germain - Widow, Master Certified Life Coach, Post-Traumatic Growth and Grief Expert, Host of the Widowed Moms Podcast Introduction: In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra welcome Krista St. Germain to the show. Physicians often encounter patients on their worst days, yet they find themselves unprepared to handle grief, whether it’s their patients', their families', or even the...
Jun 20, 2024•30 min
In this episode, Tony Overbay discusses narcissism and emotional immaturity in the medical field. He explains the concept of differentiation and the importance of discomfort in personal growth. Tony also explores the dynamics of narcissistic abuse and the trauma bond that keeps individuals trapped in toxic relationships. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by doctors in a narcissistic system and the constant need for external validation. Overall, the episode sheds light on the impac...
Jun 13, 2024•58 min
Summary: In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra discuss the importance of sleep for overall health and well-being. They highlight the negative effects of sleep deprivation on mental health, metabolism, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. They provide practical tips for improving sleep, such as creating a sleep routine, optimizing the sleep environment, and incorporating exercise. They also emphasize the need to prioritize sleep and seek professional help if experiencing sleep diff...
Jun 06, 2024•41 min
Episode Title: Digital Nomad Docs with Kristine Goins, MD Achieving Balance and Freedom as a Digital Nomad Doctor with Dr. Kristine Goins, MD Hosts: Amanda, Laura, and Kendra Guest: Dr. Kristine Goins, MD, Integrative Adult and Pediatric Psychiatrist, Digital Nomad Summary: In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra welcome Dr. Kristine Goins, an integrative adult and pediatric psychiatrist who is also a digital nomad. Dr. Goins shares her journey from medical training to becoming a digital noma...
May 30, 2024•34 min
In this special episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra are joined by Dr. Nneka Unachukwu, also known as Dr. Una. Dr. Una is a pediatrician and serial entrepreneur who has been the CEO of her pediatric practice for the last 14 years and is the founder of EntreMD, a platform dedicated to helping physicians build profitable businesses. She shares her journey from medical school to becoming a successful entrepreneur, offering valuable insights and practical advice for physicians looking to start their o...
May 23, 2024•43 min
Welcome back to the podcast! Today’s episode features Dr. Marc-David Munk, an emergency medicine physician and author of Urgent Calls from Distant Places: Emergency Doctor’s Notes about Life and Death on the Frontiers of East Africa. Dr. Munk shares his experiences as a flight surgeon serving 11 East African countries, discussing the challenges and rewards of providing medical care in such demanding conditions. Hosts: Amanda, Laura, and Kendra Guest: Dr. Marc-David Munk - Emergency Medicine Phys...
May 16, 2024•38 min
