Lillian Erdahl, MD — On Speaking up and Being Heard

The theme of communication winds through Dr. Lillian Erdahl’s childhood and adult life. As a child, she loved to perform, act, and deliver messages to a crowd. As an adult, being a surgeon has brought with it roles heavy in communication. Through her various roles, she finds herself engaged in communication not only in the classroom and with patients but in online spaces through social media and podcasting

In today’s episode, we discuss means of communication, especially through online channels, the potential ramifications of using social media, the importance of building an online community, and how an online community can especially serve underrepresented groups in the workplace. We discuss barriers to speaking up, especially for medical residents, and why having support is crucial for not only emotional support but for reality checks and gleaning wisdom about choosing battles carefully.

• About Dr. Erdahl and what drew her to medicine
• How communication has been a common thread throughout Dr. Erdahl’s life and career
• How social media can grow your tribe and your reach
• About the barriers to speaking up and being heard
• About online mentorship and allyship

• Dr. Erdahl’s bio at University of Iowa Healthcare
• Gloria Steinem resource
• Era of Ignition: Coming of Age in a Time of Rage and Revolution by Amber Tamblyn

• Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

• Hardball for Women: Winning at the Game of Business by Pat Heim

• Find Dr. Erdahl on Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin 
• Find University of Iowa Surgery on Twitter and Instagram
• Association of Women Surgeons
• Association of Women Surgeons Podcast