Episode: Turning Busyness Into Promotion Series (4 of 5): Define Your Niche Before It Defines You

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman discusses one of the most important strategic decisions early-career academic physicians can make: defining a clear niche. Many faculty work incredibly hard, but when their projects, committees, and collaborations spread across too many directions, it becomes difficult for promotion committees to understand their impact.

Dr. Ishman explains why intentionally choosing a niche can accelerate recognition and promotion. She shares how focusing on one area allows research, talks, collaborations, and clinical work to reinforce each other over time. She also introduces a simple three-filter framework to help physicians evaluate and select a niche that is sustainable, meaningful, and differentiating.

No need to take notes—just check out the blog for a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points 1. Introduction to the Busyness Into Promotion Series (0:00 - 0:45)

Overview of the series focused on turning academic busyness into promotable work.
Explanation of why defining a niche is critical for translating effort into recognition and career advancement.

2. Why Your Niche Matters for Academic Recognition (0:45 - 2:30)

How failing to choose a niche can lead your CV to unintentionally define your academic identity.
Example of a faculty member becoming known for work they were not passionate about because of early publications and talks.

3. Dr. Ishman’s Personal Example of Choosing a Niche (2:30 - 3:45)

Story of identifying pediatric sleep medicine as an underdeveloped field within otolaryngology.
How selecting a specific and differentiating area created opportunities for research, collaboration, and recognition.

4. The Common Mistake: Confusing Fields with Niches (3:45 - 4:50)

Why broad areas like a specialty or subspecialty are not enough to build visibility.
The importance of identifying a clear and specific focus within a larger field.

5. Why Early Focus Accelerates Promotion (4:50 - 6:30)

How scattered projects slow recognition and dilute impact.
Why concentrating early publications and presentations in one area helps build a clear academic narrative.

6. Building a Compounding Academic Story (6:30 - 7:40)

How aligned research questions, talks, committees, and collaborations reinforce expertise.
Why consistent focus makes it easier for others to recognize and refer to you as an expert.

7. The Three-Filter Framework for Choosing a Niche (7:40 - 8:50)

Three questions to guide niche selection:
• Sustainability – Can you work in this area for at least two to three years?
• Problem Clarity – Is there a defined patient, system, or educational problem you can study?
• Differentiation – Is there space to build depth without duplicating what senior faculty are already doing?

8. Why a Niche Strengthens Rather Than Limits Your Career (8:50 - 9:45)

Clarification that choosing a niche does not restrict clinical practice or future research areas.
Instead, it provides a recognizable starting point that accelerates visibility and opportunity.

9. Summary and Department-Level Strategy (9:45 - 11:06)

Why departments should support faculty in defining and building niches early in their careers.
How strategic alignment of academic work can help both individuals and institutions move forward.

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite podcast app (Apple Podcasts or Spotify).

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me through the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman challenges early-career physicians to rethink how they approach service, committees, and opportunities. She explains why being reliable and saying yes to everything can quietly delay promotion — and how to instead choose roles that align with your career narrative, build your reputation, and create measurable impact.

If you’ve ever felt stretched thin by service work or unsure which opportunities actually move your career forward, this episode offers a practical framework to help you be intentional with your time, energy, and yeses.

No need to take notes — check out the blog for a concise summary of these insights.

If you are interested in the Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first years of practice, DM on Instagram @sishmancoach or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This course is designed to help you build your foundation, develop a research or clinical niche, grow a national reputation, and create a clear, personalized promotion plan. The mission is to help you design your ideal career and move toward your version of success.

Join us to accelerate your career trajectory.

Key Points

1. Introduction: From Good Citizen to Strategic Physician (0:00 – 1:00)
Overview of the series on turning busyness into promotion
Why overcommitment and excessive service can slow advancement
The importance of being thoughtful with yeses and nos

2. Understanding Your Career Story (1:00 – 2:00)
Why not all meaningful work translates to promotion
Example of curriculum work that didn’t build a promotable narrative
Aligning activities with your long-term career story

3. Service Is Valuable — But Strategy Matters (2:00 – 3:00)
All service roles are important to institutions
The key question: Is this strategic for you?
How saying yes can unintentionally block others’ opportunities

4. Reallocating Energy for Alignment (3:00 – 4:00)
Letting go of excess roles to focus on leadership
Sponsoring others into opportunities you leave
Key insight: alignment increases satisfaction without reducing impact

5. Finding the Intersection of Joy and Promotion (4:00 – 5:00)
Doing work you love vs. work that advances your rank
Shifting committees to better match your niche
Building a coherent narrative over time

6. When Service Compounds Your Career (5:00 – 6:00)
Roles that produce scholarship, leadership, or measurable outcomes
How being reliable increases requests — and workload
Why promotion committees value impact over busyness

7. A Framework for Evaluating Opportunities (6:00 – 8:00)
How to pause instead of automatically saying yes
Key questions to assess alignment, leadership growth, and ROI
Simplifying the decision: Do I enjoy it or does it move me forward?

8. Reframing Boundaries and Intentional Career Design (8:00 – 9:00)
Why saying no isn’t selfish
Choosing aligned service and letting go of misaligned roles
Promotion as recognition of intentional, meaningful contribution

9. Closing Reflection and Call to Action (9:00 – End)
Audit your current commitments for alignment
Consider sponsoring others into roles you release
Encouragement to share the episode with colleagues

Summary

Being dependable is a strength — but without strategy, it can lead to overload and stalled advancement. This episode reframes service as a tool for intentional career design, encouraging physicians to prioritize opportunities that either bring joy or clearly advance their narrative. By aligning commitments with long-term goals and focusing on measurable impact, early-career physicians can build both a sustainable workload and a promotable portfolio.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app.

If you’d like to connect or suggest future topics:

● DM on Instagram @sishmancoach
● Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

Likable Badass Leadership — Leading with Warmth and Confidence

In this episode of Medical Mentor Coaching, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores the concept of Likable Badass Leadership, inspired by Likable Badass by Alison Fragale. Designed for physicians in their first 10 years of practice, this conversation reframes leadership as the intentional balance of warmth and competence—connection and confidence—especially in high-stakes academic and clinical environments.

Dr. Ishman reflects honestly on her own leadership evolution, shares research-backed insights on why warmth comes first, and offers practical, actionable strategies to help physician leaders build trust, psychological safety, and followership without sacrificing clarity or authority.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a full written summary of these insights.

If you’re interested in leadership development, mentorship, and career strategy for early-career physicians, this episode is for you.

Key Points

1. Introduction to Likable Badass Leadership (0:00 – 1:00)

• Overview of the book Likable Badass by Alison Fragale

• Why this framework resonated deeply with physician leadership experiences

• The gap between competence-focused training and connection-based leadership

2. Competence vs. Connection in Physician Leadership (1:00 – 2:30)

• Physicians are highly trained in competence—but rarely in connection

• Why leading with confidence alone can unintentionally create distance

• The power of combining assertiveness with warmth

3. Personal Reflection: When Confidence Misses Connection (2:30 – 3:30)

• Dr. Ishman’s own tendency to “come in hot” and skip the human layer

• How intention without connection can still land poorly

• Lessons learned at work—and at home

4. Why Warmth Comes First (3:30 – 7:00)

• Psychological research showing that people assess warmth before competence

• How warmth creates psychological safety and openness

• Why competence without warmth is often perceived as abrasive or intimidating

5. Finding Your Default Leadership Pattern (7:00 – 6:30)

• Identifying whether you naturally lead with warmth or assertiveness

• The importance of intentionally strengthening the opposite muscle

• Examples from peer leadership conversations

6. Actionable Strategies for Likable Badass Leadership (6:30 – 9:30)

• Pause and ground yourself before difficult conversations

• Open by acknowledging the person and the problem

• Use curiosity, open-ended questions, and shared purpose

• Align expectations with mission (patient safety, team function, care quality)

7. Practical Communication and Presence Tips (9:30 – 10:30)

• The role of tone, pacing, and body language

• Why speed can read as impatience

• How posture, eye contact, and openness build trust

8. Feedback, Criticism, and Psychological Safety (10:30 – 11:15)

• Why public criticism erodes warmth instantly

• How to give feedback with partnership and shared goals

• Leading with clarity and care, not harshness

9. Leadership as a Skill You Can Build (11:15 – 12:00)

• Likable Badass leadership is not about changing your personality

• It’s about upgrading your mindset and habits

• The future leader you want to be starts with daily intentional choices

Episode Summary

Leadership in medicine is not just about being right—it’s about being trusted. In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman challenges the idea that competence alone is enough and introduces a more effective, human-centered model: Likable Badass Leadership. By leading with warmth first and confidence second, physicians can foster safer teams, better communication, stronger retention, and more meaningful impact.

This episode offers both mindset shifts and concrete tools to help early-career physicians lead in a way that feels authentic, effective, and sustainable—without sacrificing authority or excellence.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it truly helps us reach more physicians who need this message.

If you’d like to connect with us or suggest future topics, you can:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach

• Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching

• Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

• Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

Thank you for being part of this community—and please share this episode with someone who could benefit from it.

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores why constant input is undermining clarity for physicians in their first 10 years of practice—and how intentional silence can become a powerful tool for insight, creativity, and confident leadership. Drawing on neuroscience, real-life reflection, and practical strategies, she reframes silence not as absence, but as a strategic skill for thinking better, leading better, and living with more intention.

No need to take notes—visit the blog for a written summary of these insights.

If you’re interested in working with Dr. Ishman or learning more about creating space for clarity and strategy in your career, visit medicalmentorcoaching.com or explore current coaching programs.

Key Points

1. The Problem With Constant Noise (0:00 – 1:00)
How podcasts, social media, meetings, and nonstop input crowd out your own thinking
Why many physicians rarely hear their own internal voice anymore.

2. The Turning Point: Choosing Silence (1:00 – 2:00)
Realizing that more information wasn’t leading to better decisions
The simple but transformative decision to drive in silence—and what emerged from it.

3. Why Silence Fuels Insight (2:00 – 3:00)
The science behind silence: hippocampal growth, creativity, and problem-solving
How the brain reorganizes rather than “shuts down” during quiet reflection.

4. Why This Matters for Physicians (3:00 – 3:45)
Physicians process complex data, emotions, and decisions all day
Silence allows integration, meaning-making, and higher-level insight.

5. Practical Ways to Build Silence Into Your Day (3:45 – 4:45)
Why you don’t need meditation retreats or long sessions
Using commutes, walks, or showers intentionally
Consistency matters more than duration.

6. Replacing the Scroll With Stillness (4:45 – 5:30)
Pausing before automatic phone use
Asking what you actually need in that moment
Capturing insights to reveal where your focus should go next.

7. Using Silence Strategically in High-Stakes Moments (5:30 – 6:30)
How silence increases perceived confidence and authority
Techniques for grounding yourself before responding in negotiations or presentations.

8. Final Reflection: Silence as a Leadership Skill (6:30 – End)
Silence is not empty—it creates space for your best thinking
Moving from reaction to intention by listening inward first
Invitation to deepen this work through coaching and resources.

Episode Summary

Silence is not wasted time—it’s where clarity is formed. In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman challenges the assumption that constant learning and input lead to better outcomes. Instead, she shows how intentional stillness allows physicians to integrate information, reduce stress, think creatively, and show up with greater confidence. For early-career physicians navigating complexity, uncertainty, and pressure, silence becomes a strategic advantage—not a luxury.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify

If you’d like to connect or suggest a topic:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach
• Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
• Email: team@staceyishman.com
• Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Leading When You Don't Have All the Answers

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of Medical Mentor Coaching for Physicians in Their First 10 Years of Practice, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores one of the most underrated leadership skills in academic medicine: leading through uncertainty. Physicians are trained to know the answers—yet real leadership often requires navigating ambiguity, modeling vulnerability, and creating psychological safety for your team.

Drawing from her own experience building a hospital Utilization Management Group with no blueprint, Dr. Ishman shows listeners how to reframe vulnerability as strength training, cultivate trust, and guide teams even when the path isn’t clear.

No need to take notes—just check out the Blog for a full summary of these insights.

If you’re interested in the Academic Physician Kickstarter Course—designed for physicians in their first five years to set up practice systems, learn finances 101, build a research program, grow a national reputation, and map your personalized promotion pathway—DM @sishmancoach on Instagram or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

Key Points 1. Why Uncertainty Feels So Hard (00:00 – 01:07)

• Physicians are conditioned to have answers, expertise, and confidence.

• Leadership often requires the opposite: navigating situations with no clear roadmap.

2. A Story From the Field: Building a Team With No Blueprint (01:07 – 03:00)

• Dr. Ishman shares how she stepped into an administrative leader role with minimal prior knowledge.

• Instead of pretending, she named what she knew, identified gaps, and asked the right questions.

3. The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership (03:00 – 04:20)

• Being open about what you don’t know builds trust—not doubt.

• Expertise culture in medicine makes vulnerability feel risky, but it’s essential for innovation.

4. Rethinking Failure: Pivoting Quickly Instead of Perfecting (04:20 – 05:20)

• “Fail quickly” ≠ failure—it means testing, learning, refining.

• Model the practice of identifying when something isn’t working and adjusting early.

5. Reframing Vulnerability as Strength Training (05:20 – 06:30)

• Treat uncertainty like reps at the gym—each moment builds the muscle.

• Examples across clinical, research, and education settings where transparency accelerates progress.

6. A Three-Step Structure for Leading Through the Unknown (06:30 – 07:30)

1. Acknowledge the gap

2. Frame the opportunity

3. Engage the team

• Inviting participation sparks creativity, problem-solving, and ownership.

7. Avoiding the Over-Preparation Trap (07:30 – 08:30)

• Early leaders often over-control, over-explain, or over-analyze to feel safe.

• Start with solid data—but don’t let perfectionism block action.

8. Pause, Breathe, and Reframe (08:30 – 09:20)

• Silence isn’t danger—it’s space for thinking.

• Shift from “I should know this” to “I’m leading us through discovery.”

9. Final Leadership Lessons (09:20 – End)

• Leadership is about creating clarity—not certainty.

• Psychological safety unlocks stronger teams, better ideas, and true collaboration.

• Say: “I don’t know, but we’ll figure it out together.”

Summary

You don’t need all the answers to lead effectively—especially in the early years of practice where new roles, new systems, and new responsibilities often come without clear instructions. Dr. Ishman illustrates how vulnerability, curiosity, honesty, and quick pivots create strong, innovative teams. Leadership isn’t about perfection. It’s about modeling the courage to explore, refine, and grow—together.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

If you’d like to connect or suggest a topic:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach

• Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching

• Email: team@staceyishman.com

• Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Visibility & Connection in One Hour a Week

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman breaks down how early-career physicians can build national visibility and meaningful professional relationships without overwhelm—using a simple, one-hour-a-week framework.

If you’ve ever felt torn between wanting to be known for your work and just trying to survive clinic, charting, inboxes, and academic responsibilities, this episode will give you a realistic, sustainable way forward. Dr. Ishman shares her own early-career story of doing “all the right things” but remaining invisible outside her division—and the small weekly habit that changed everything.

No need to take notes—check out the Blog for a written summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course, designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This course helps you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, develop a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points 1. Why Visibility Feels Overwhelming (00:00 – 01:07)

• Common early-career tension between wanting to be known and trying to keep up
• Inbox overload, EMR tasks, trainee needs, and constant clinical demands
• Clarifying that visibility does not require constant networking or posting

2. Protecting Your “Career Care” Hour (01:00 – 01:50)

• The importance of scheduling one hour a week like you would clinic or procedures
• Visibility grows from consistency, not intensity

3. Early Career Reality Check (01:50 – 02:35)

• Dr. Ishman’s personal story: doing all the right things but remaining unnoticed
• Realization that visibility doesn’t happen by accident—connection must be intentional

4. Small, Authentic Actions That Build Reputation (02:35 – 03:40)

• Collaborating with colleagues, even informally
• Connecting through notes, emails, texts
• Citing others’ work or amplifying them on social media
• Pitching panels using senior experts while you moderate

5. The One-Hour-a-Week Visibility Routine (03:40 – 06:00)

A four-week rotation designed to build reputation without burnout:

Week 1 – Connect
• Reach out to someone new or reconnect with a colleague
• Examples: society members, journal editors, national experts
• Tip: keep a running list of people you admire

Week 2 – Share
• Post or share something meaningful: reflection, research summary, shout-out
• Authenticity > perfection

Week 3 – Pitch
• Submit one opportunity: panel, talk, manuscript review, committee, webinar
• Reminder: perfectionism kills momentum

Week 4 – Follow Up
• Re-engage conversations
• Check in, ask about next steps, or reintroduce yourself if needed

6. Visibility vs. Hustle (06:00 – 07:00)

• Visibility should feel authentic, not salesy
• Healthy discomfort is okay; inauthenticity is not
• One hour a week becomes 52 hours a year—enough to create real career movement

7. What Consistent Visibility Leads To (07:00 – 08:00)

• Speaking invitations
• Cross-department collaborations
• Visiting professorships
• Professional society leadership roles
• Promotion committee recognition

8. How to Make It Stick (08:00 – 08:30)

• Stack visibility hour onto an existing routine (after clinic, before research meeting)
• Document your plan
• Track actions and celebrate small wins
• Consistency beats perfection

Summary

Visibility in academic medicine doesn’t require hustle—it requires intentionality. With just one protected hour a week, early-career physicians can expand their network, amplify their work, and open doors to national recognition. Through Dr. Ishman’s four-week rotation—Connect, Share, Pitch, and Follow Up—you’ll learn how to build genuine relationships, create opportunities, and grow your academic presence in a way that feels sustainable and authentic.

Stay Connected

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

If you’d like to get in touch or suggest a topic:
● DM me on Instagram: @sishmancoach
● Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Finding Joy Again in Academic Medicine Through a Career Pivot

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman shares her personal journey of rediscovering joy and purpose in academic medicine through a career pivot. After stepping away from clinical practice for 18 months to lead a utilization management program, she returned with a broader perspective — one that blended systems-level leadership with her love for mentoring trainees.

This episode explores how early- and mid-career physicians can realign their professional lives without leaving academic medicine entirely. Dr. Ishman breaks down practical strategies for small and large pivots that create renewed energy, focus, and fulfillment — and why departments that invest in coaching see measurable benefits in retention, promotion, and culture.

No need to take notes — the full blog summary is available on the Medical Mentor Coaching site.

If you’re a physician in your first 10 years of practice and ready to design your ideal academic career, join the Faculty Excellence & Retention Initiative (FERI) or reach out directly to learn more.
📩 Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
📱 Instagram: @sishmancoach
🌐 Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

Key Points

1. Introduction & Stacey’s Pivot Story (00:00–02:00)

• Dr. Ishman shares her 18-month shift from clinical care to utilization management.

• The experience provided new leadership skills and a broader systems view of medicine.

• What she missed most: mentoring and coaching trainees — the work that truly fueled her.

2. Recognizing Faculty Strain (02:00–03:00)

• Common struggles: packed clinical schedules, administrative overload, unclear promotion paths.

• Many physicians feel stretched thin between professional and personal responsibilities.

• The insight: You don’t need to leave academic medicine to rediscover purpose.

3. Small Shifts with Big Impact (03:00–04:00)

• Case examples of faculty who made minor adjustments:

  • Restructuring clinic templates to allow research time.

  • Blocking “mentor hours” weekly to engage with trainees.

  • Negotiating administrative support for scholarship.

• These micro-pivots restore alignment between values and daily work.

4. Larger Career Pivots (04:00–05:30)

• Examples include:

  • Surgeons stepping into education leadership roles.

  • Researchers moving into clinical outcomes or policy work.

  • Clinicians leading hospital quality initiatives.

• Each shift reconnected physicians with their purpose while advancing their impact.

5. Department-Level Benefits (05:30–07:00)

• Coaching improves retention, culture, and productivity.

• Physician turnover costs 2–3× annual salary — often $500K or more.

• Departments that support coaching see greater visibility and promotion rates.

• Faculty joy translates to departmental stability and stronger national reputation.

6. The Joy-Alignment Connection (07:00–08:00)

• Joy in work is directly linked to promotion readiness and visibility.

• Enthusiasm and clarity make faculty more likely to be invited to speak and lead.

• Clear storytelling — connecting “this led to that” — strengthens academic advancement.

7. Call to Action: Faculty Coaching and FERI (08:00–09:00)

• Coaching reduces burnout and builds momentum for promotion and retention.

• The Faculty Excellence & Retention Initiative helps departments:

  • Clarify faculty vision and align goals.

  • Build achievable promotion pathways.

  • Strengthen culture and collaboration.

• “When departments invest in coaching, everyone rises together.”

Summary:
Finding joy in academic medicine doesn’t always mean leaving — it often means realigning. Whether it’s one protected hour for mentoring or a department-wide coaching initiative, small shifts toward alignment create massive changes in fulfillment and impact.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

Connect with Dr. Stacey Ishman:

• Instagram: @sishmancoach

• LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching 

• Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

• Website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

From Perfectionist to Pro — The 80% Rule Revealed!

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores one of the biggest mindset shifts for early-career physicians: moving from perfectionism to progress. She introduces the “80% Rule,” a practical framework that helps you escape the trap of over-editing, over-preparing, and overthinking — and start building momentum in your career.

Dr. Ishman shares how striving for perfection often slows growth, limits visibility, and drains energy. Instead, she offers strategies for applying the 80% Rule to writing, research, presentations, and academic collaborations — so you can produce excellent work efficiently and sustainably.

No need to take notes — the Blog has a full summary of these insights.

If you’re interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course — designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in their first 5 years of practice — please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com.

This course helps you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, grow your national reputation, and prepare a personalized promotion plan. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points

1. Introduction: The Problem with Perfectionism (00:00 - 01:00)

• Many early-career physicians believe that if something isn’t perfect, it isn’t ready.
  
• This mindset leads to unfinished drafts, delayed submissions, and missed opportunities.
  
• Perfectionism doesn’t get you promoted — progress does.
  
  

1. The 80% Rule Explained (01:00 - 02:00)

• The 80% Rule means stopping when your work is 80% as good as you think it should be.
  
• Your 80% is often better than others’ 100%.
  
• It’s not about cutting corners — it’s about aligning time with energy and value.
  
  

1. The Hidden Costs of Perfectionism (02:00 - 03:00)

• Perfectionism masquerades as high standards but functions like quicksand.
  
• It creates invisible barriers to progress and contributes to burnout.
  
• Projects that sit unfinished rob you of visibility and collaboration opportunities.
  
  

1. Why 80% is Strategic (03:00 - 04:00)

• Momentum matters more than polish — sharing drafts leads to feedback and growth.
  
• Multiple “good enough” outputs compound visibility and reputation over time.
  
• Freeing up energy allows focus on high-impact activities like mentorship and leadership.
  
  

1. A Personal Shift: Stacey’s Story (04:00 - 05:00)

• Early in her career, Dr. Ishman lost weeks perfecting manuscripts.
  
• Adopting the 80% Rule led to more publications, invitations, and visibility.
  
• Momentum proved more powerful than perfection.
  
  

1. Practical Tips to Apply the 80% Rule (05:00 - 06:30)

• Set a timer when writing or creating slides — and stop when it goes off.
  
• Share drafts early; use checklists instead of chasing perfection.
  
• Delegate the final 20% — formatting, proofreading, or references.
  
• Redefine excellence: impact and consistency > flawlessness.
  
• Practice releasing work that’s “almost ready” and track the results.
  
  

1. Case Study: Progress Over Perfect (06:30 - 07:00)

• A physician hesitated to email for speaking invitations until her message was “perfect.”
  
• When she finally did, three institutions responded immediately.
  
• Visibility and confidence grew once she stopped over-polishing.
  
  

1. Final Takeaway (07:00 - End)

• Your promotion committee, collaborators, and patients don’t need perfection — they need visibility and reliability.
  
• The 80% Rule is the mindset shift that takes you from perfectionist to strategic — and it can save your career.
  
  

Summary

Perfectionism may feel like dedication, but it’s often disguised procrastination. The 80% Rule empowers you to act sooner, publish more, and grow faster by valuing momentum over polish. Dr. Ishman reminds us that excellence isn’t about flawlessness — it’s about consistent, visible, and meaningful work that moves your career forward.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app — Apple or Spotify!

If you’d like to connect or suggest topics:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
  
• Message me on LinkedIn
  
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com
• Or visit www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

The Invisible Work That Builds National Visibility

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of Medical Mentor Coaching, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores the often-overlooked “invisible work” that builds national visibility for physicians. From quiet acts of professionalism to behind-the-scenes committee work, she shares how consistent follow-through, authentic relationships, and strategic visibility can shape your academic career — even when it feels like no one is watching.

If you’ve ever wondered why you aren’t being asked to serve on a national panel or guideline committee despite showing up, publishing, and doing the work, this episode will help you see your efforts in a new light — and give you practical strategies to make them count.

No need to take notes — you can read the full summary on the blog.

If you’re interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course, designed for physicians in their first five years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com.

This course helps you set up your practice, understand finances, build a research program, grow a national reputation, and chart your personalized path to promotion.

Join us to design your version of success.

Key Points

1. Introduction (0:00 – 1:10)
Dr. Ishman introduces the concept of “invisible work” — the tasks and efforts that don’t always show up in your CV or promotion packet but are foundational to career visibility and advancement.

2. What Is Invisible Work? (1:10 – 2:30)
Invisible work isn’t busywork — it’s the quiet, relationship-building actions that make you memorable: following up after meetings, engaging with colleagues’ research, and showing genuine professional interest.

3. How Invisible Work Builds Visibility (2:30 – 4:10)
These small acts — like tagging others’ work on social media or sharing feedback after a conference — can make you visible to leadership and open doors for future collaborations.

4. The Power of Committees and Work Groups (4:10 – 5:30)
Serving on work groups or committees can feel low-profile but offers valuable opportunities to connect, contribute, and build a reputation as someone who follows through. Reliability and consistency stand out more than titles.

5. Volunteering Without a Title (5:30 – 6:30)
Dr. Ishman shares how early-career volunteering led to leadership opportunities — from drafting a policy statement to eventually serving on the Board of Governors and later the Executive Committee of her specialty academy.

6. Peer Review, Mentorship, and Guideline Work (6:30 – 7:30)
These are high-impact forms of invisible work that help establish expertise and credibility. They may not be public-facing immediately, but leaders and editors notice who delivers quality work consistently.

7. Making the Invisible Visible (7:30 – 8:45)
Don’t assume mentors know your goals. Ask for sponsorship — directly and confidently. Often, people are willing to promote you but don’t realize you want the opportunity.

8. Turning Invisible Work into Career Momentum (8:45 – 10:10)
Attend committee meetings, even as an observer. Introduce yourself, volunteer for specific tasks, and follow up. Visibility comes from showing up, contributing, and letting others see your reliability.

9. Taking Strategic Next Steps (10:10 – 11:10)
Pick one action this week — follow up with a contact, volunteer for a committee, or ask a mentor for sponsorship. Keep a record of your invisible work to make it count during promotion and review.

10. Final Reflection (11:10 – End)
The invisible work you do today becomes the visible foundation for your promotion, reputation, and ability to mentor others. Strategic visibility starts with intentional contribution.

Summary

In The Invisible Work That Builds National Visibility, Dr. Ishman reframes what career advancement looks like for physicians. Visibility isn’t built overnight or through high-profile titles alone — it’s earned through consistent, meaningful engagement and follow-through. By saying yes strategically, tracking your behind-the-scenes contributions, and asking for sponsorship when needed, you can transform quiet effort into recognized leadership.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

For topic suggestions or to connect:

• 💬 DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach 

• 💼 Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching 

• 📧 Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

• 🌐 Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

How Mentorship Changes Everything – Two Conversations That Shaped Careers

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores how mentorship can transform the trajectory of an early-career physician. Through two powerful mentorship stories—her own and that of a colleague—she illustrates how clarity of focus, alignment with passion, and the right guidance can turn scattered efforts into a compelling career narrative.

Dr. Ishman also shares practical advice on identifying your “one word,” building collaborations that still support your niche, and how to evaluate whether your CV reflects the story you want promotion committees to see.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com.

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to shape your career story.

Key Points

1. Introduction & Why Story Matters (0:00 – 2:34)

• The challenge of saying yes to everything early in academic medicine

• Why a clear narrative is essential for recognition and promotion

2. Scattered Beginnings & The Power of One Word (2:34 – 4:55)

• Dr. Ishman’s early publications across varied topics

• Mentor David Brown’s advice: choose one word (her word was sleep)

• How consistently linking her work to “sleep” clarified her academic identity

3. Aligning Collaboration With Focus (4:55 – 6:01)

• How to collaborate broadly while still reinforcing your niche

• Examples of adding “sleep” into multidisciplinary projects

4. Mentorship Story #2 – Turning Passion Into Academic Focus (6:01 – 8:18)

• A colleague’s love of coding and policy

• How he turned nontraditional interests into academic leadership and national roles

• Passion as a driver for recognition and career satisfaction

5. Recognition Through Alignment (8:18 – 9:43)

• The importance of matching your CV and PubMed record to your actual goals

• How alignment opens doors to panels, guidelines, and leadership roles

6. Paying It Forward – Mentoring Junior Faculty (9:43 – 11:24)

• Story of a junior colleague excelling in sleep apnea panels

• Guiding her to pivot toward her true niche in pediatric ear disease

• How mentors can redirect talent toward lasting impact

7. Final Takeaways (11:24 – 12:41)

• Success comes from consistency, not volume of work

• Audit your CV and PubMed—do they tell the story you want?

• Share your goals with peers, mentors, and sponsors

• Coaching can help individuals and departments align career narratives

Summary

Mentorship can change everything—by helping you clarify your focus, align your work with your passions, and tell a clear story that others can recognize. Whether it’s choosing your “one word,” reshaping your collaborations, or auditing your CV for alignment, these mentorship conversations reveal how strategic guidance transforms careers. For physicians in their first 10 years of practice, the key lesson is clear: success is not about doing more, but about doing the right things consistently.

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify!

If you’d like to connect, you can:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach

• Message me on LinkedIn 

• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

• Visit the website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

How to Lead When You Are Not the Boss: Academic Medicine Edition

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores the powerful concept that leadership begins long before you receive a formal title. She shares practical strategies for early-career physicians to build influence, shape culture, and create meaningful change from any position within academic medicine. Through real-world examples and actionable advice, she demonstrates how every physician—from medical students to junior faculty—can lead effectively in their current role.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envisage your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction & The Reality of Leadership in Medicine (0:00 - 2:00)
   • Leadership exists at every level of medical practice
   • Most influential people aren't always those with formal titles
   • Every clinical encounter requires leadership skills - even convincing a child to let you examine their ears
2. Why Leadership Without Title Matters (2:00 - 3:00)
   • Helps you enjoy your job and handle the "messy middle"
   • Allows you to shape culture and show stress management
   • Builds reputation early and improves patient care systems
3. Strategy #1-3: Model Behavior, Fill Gaps, and Teach (3:00 - 4:00)
   • Model the behavior you want to see (like prepping cases early)
   • Identify and fill process gaps in clinics or departments
   • Use micro-teaching moments and mini-debriefs to shift culture
4. Strategy #4-5: Mentoring and Data-Driven Leadership (4:00 - 6:00)
   • Share personal story of adopting a resident class informally
   • Bring data to support changes (like evening coverage analysis)
   • Use service roles strategically, including agenda-setting
5. Strategy #6-7: Speaking Up and Strategic Communication (6:00 - 7:00)
   • Fresh eyes perspective valuable for junior faculty
   • Speak up at the right moments with solutions, not just problems
   • Use your own experience as examples for proposed changes
6. Strategy #8-9: Being a Connector and Championing Collaboration (7:00 - 8:00)
   • Connect residents with faculty across departments
   • Champion interdisciplinary collaborations and joint clinics
   • Create opportunities that benefit multiple parties
7. Strategy #10: Volunteer for Visible Wins (8:00 - 9:00)
   • Lead QI projects, create efficient templates, run wellness initiatives
   • Example of Utah-Colorado coaching exchange program
   • Show leadership through successful, visible projects
8. Action Steps and Final Thoughts (9:00 - 10:00)
   • Choose one strategy to implement this month
   • Remember: leadership is about habits that build trust and influence
   • Influence often comes before the title, not after
   • Consider coaching for guidance and support

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
• Message me on LinkedIn OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

Unlocking the Secret to Effective Feedback

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores the art of giving effective feedback in academic medicine. She discusses common pitfalls in feedback delivery and introduces a powerful framework that focuses on the "ideal version" of a role rather than past shortcomings. Through personal examples and practical scripts, she demonstrates how to transform feedback conversations from defensive encounters into collaborative problem-solving sessions.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Context Setting (0:00 - 2:30)
   • The challenge of giving feedback when tired and frustrated
   • Importance of delivering feedback in a way that can be received
   • Personal example of "we need to talk" triggering fight-or-flight response
2. The Problem with Traditional Feedback (2:30 - 6:45)
   • Why past-focused feedback creates defensiveness
   • Example of research productivity feedback done wrong vs. right
   • The psychological impact of criticism on high achievers
3. Types of Ineffective Feedback (6:45 - 10:30)
   • Too vague: "do better" provides no actionable guidance
   • Too negative or past-focused: dwelling on missed targets
   • Too personal: attacking natural abilities rather than specific behaviors
   • Personal story about RVU productivity after maternity leave
4. The Consequences of Poor Feedback (10:30 - 11:45)
   • Shuts people down and fuels burnout
   • Doesn't drive actual improvement
   • Can create lasting negative attitudes toward work
5. The "Ideal Version" Framework (11:45 - 13:30)
   • Why high achievers respond well to clear targets
   • How this approach protects professional identity
   • Creating collaboration instead of defensiveness
6. Framework in Action - Examples (13:30 - 16:45)
   • Research productivity: focusing on leadership expectations
   • Education: emphasizing innovation and mentoring
   • Clinical efficiency: balancing patient volume with teaching
7. The Three-Step Process (16:45 - 17:30)
   • Define the ideal: "this is what great looks like"
   • Give forward-focused feedback: "here's how we get there"
   • Tie to shared values: connect to personal career goals
8. Personal Success Story (17:30 - 20:00)
   • Overcoming feedback about not connecting with residents
   • The power of turning around and giving full attention
   • Simple changes that create significant impact
9. Practical Application and Scripts (20:00 - 22:00)
   • Examples of reframing common feedback scenarios
   • Preparing scripted versions before difficult conversations
   • Engaging others in problem-solving rather than just pointing out problems
10. Conclusion and Call to Action (22:00 - end)
    • Summary of effective feedback principles
    • Invitation to share and subscribe
    • Contact information and social media handles

Summary

Dr. Ishman transforms how we think about feedback by shifting from a deficit-focused approach to an aspirational one. Her "ideal version" framework helps medical professionals deliver feedback that motivates rather than demoralizes, creating collaborative relationships that drive actual improvement. This episode is essential listening for anyone who regularly provides feedback in medical settings.

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach 

● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 

● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

● Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

 

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching, Dr. Stacey Ishman walks early-career physicians through a practical strategy to align their time with their promotion goals. She explains why a full calendar does not equal meaningful progress and how intentional scheduling creates the visibility needed for career advancement.

If you’ve ever felt busy but unsure why your scholarship or promotable work isn’t moving forward, this episode offers a clear framework to audit your time, reclaim protected blocks, and prioritize the work that truly builds your academic career.

No need to take notes — just listen and then audit your calendar using the steps outlined below.

If you are interested in the Academic Accelerator Course designed to help physicians in their early career create a personalized path to promotion, you can:

● DM on Instagram @sishmancoach
● Email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

This program helps physicians build a research and promotion strategy, develop a national reputation, and design a career aligned with their goals and values.

Join us to intentionally design your career.

Key Points 1. Introduction to Calendar Visibility (00:00 – 01:00)

Overview of auditing your calendar for visibility rather than volume
Why promotable work must be scheduled to happen consistently

2. Recognizing the Gap Between Goals and Time Use (01:00 – 03:00)

Comparing stated priorities with actual calendar patterns
How reactive work crowds out meaningful progress

3. Promotion Committees Evaluate Output, Not Busyness (03:00 – 04:00)

Why full days don’t translate into advancement
Examples of work that truly counts toward promotion

4. Identifying Reactive vs Promotable Time (04:00 – 05:30)

How email, meetings, and clinical spillover dominate schedules
The importance of deep, protected work blocks

5. Reclaiming Administrative and Protected Time (05:30 – 07:00)

Why giving away protected time doesn’t solve system problems
The long-term cost of turning academic time into catch-up time

6. Case Example: Restructuring a Calendar (07:00 – 08:30)

Color-coding time to reveal patterns
How reclaiming blocks increased productivity and satisfaction

7. Practical Calendar Audit Exercise (08:30 – 09:30)

Pulling two representative weeks
Categorizing time as reactive, collaborative, or promotable
Setting a target of at least 20% promotable time

8. Final Takeaways: Scheduling Promotion (09:30 – End)

Why scholarship won’t happen if it waits until everything else is done
The importance of planning instead of relying on more hours

Summary

A busy calendar can create the illusion of progress, but promotion is built on visible, intentional work. In this episode, Dr. Ishman emphasizes that the issue for most early-career physicians is not effort — it’s allocation. By auditing your calendar, protecting deep work time, and aligning your schedule with your goals, you can turn daily activity into meaningful career momentum.

Small, disciplined changes in how you schedule your time can dramatically increase your output, reduce frustration, and make your priorities visible — both to yourself and to promotion committees.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app.

If you’d like to get in touch or suggest a topic:

● DM on Instagram @sishmancoach
● Connect on LinkedIn (Medical Mentor Coaching)
● Email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

How to Be Selected to Speak at a Meeting When They Don't Know Who You Are YET

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman tackles one of the biggest challenges facing early-career physicians: getting selected to speak at conferences when you're still building your reputation. She addresses the classic catch-22 of needing exposure to build credibility while needing credibility to get exposure, offering five strategic approaches to break through this barrier.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and The Core Problem (0:00 - 2:30)
   • The challenge of building credibility while needing exposure
   • Importance of identifying your niche with 1-2 key words
   • Dr. Ishman's example: evolution from "sleep" to "pediatric sleep apnea"
2. Strategy 1: Don't Wait to Be Invited - Build a Panel (2:30 - 5:15)
   • Become a moderator on timely topics in your expertise area
   • Invite top-tier, well-known experts to join your panel
   • Take lead on logistics: write abstracts, make slides, handle coordination
   • Your name appears alongside established leaders on the program
3. Strategy 2: Pick the Correct Stage (5:15 - 7:30)
   • Consider smaller, specialty-specific meetings over large national conferences
   • Start where your mentors and collaborators are already presenting
   • Ask senior colleagues to co-author abstracts for credibility
   • Examples: laryngology meetings, pediatric surgical association workshops
4. Strategy 3: Play the Long Game with Abstracts (7:30 - 11:45)
   • Submit abstracts consistently year over year
   • Study what gets accepted regularly (methodology, systematic reviews)
   • Dr. Ishman's "best of literature review" strategy
   • Tips for strong abstracts: lead with clarity, use meeting-appropriate language, explain why work matters, avoid jargon and excessive abbreviations
5. Strategy 4: Use Posters as a Stepping Stone (11:45 - 15:30)
   • Posters get your name on peer-reviewed programs
   • Senior judges and program committee members attend poster sessions
   • Opportunity for one-on-one conversations with key leaders
   • Practice your elevator pitch and build visible contributions
   • Use QR codes to connect people with your work
6. Strategy 5: Ask for an Opportunity (15:30 - 18:00)
   • After consistent participation, you're no longer unknown
   • Directly ask mentors for panel recommendations
   • Contact program committees about speaking opportunities
   • Offer to help with meetings and include yourself in recommendations
   • Keep 1-2 topics ready to discuss when asked
7. Final Thoughts and Key Takeaway (18:00 - end)
   • Success is about being clear, not just being known
   • Focus on providing value and timely content
   • Show up consistently at meetings that matter
   • Reputations are built "quietly and steadily with purpose"

🎓 Ready to build your academic career with less chaos and more clarity?
Get in touch for a free checklist on optimizing your time and building your national reputation:

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach

● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 

● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

● Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the podcast on Apple or Spotify—or subscribe on YouTube.
Your future self will thank you. 💬

Why Your Calendar is the Most Powerful Academic Tool

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman shares why your calendar is more than just a scheduling tool—it's your greatest asset for achieving academic success and avoiding burnout in the first 10 years of practice. She offers a practical, honest look at how early-career physicians can take back control of their time, align their schedules with their values, and protect the academic blocks that fuel career advancement.

No need to take notes—just check out the blog for a summary of these insights.

🎯 If you’re in your first 5 years of practice and want help mapping out your promotion path, DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com.

Key Points:

1. The Illusion of Control (00:44–3:10)

• How Dr. Ishman’s early calendar filled up with other people’s priorities

• Realizing that a full schedule ≠ intentional schedule

2. The Wake-Up Call (3:11–5:48)

• A mentor helped her see the misalignment between time and goals

• Recent example: spending too much time on real estate, not coaching

3. Anchoring with What You Can’t Control (5:49–7:58)

• Use fixed obligations (clinic, OR time) as anchors

• Research shows more time control = less burnout, more productivity

4. Protecting Your Best Brain Time (7:59–10:44)

• Schedule high-cognition work during your peak hours

• Pro tip: reverse-engineer optional meetings from end of day

5. Making Time for Academic Work (10:45–12:52)

• Schedule large blocks (ideally half-days) for writing and research

• Take 30 minutes weekly (e.g., Sundays) to plan ahead

6. EMR Time Drain & Documentation Hacks (12:53–17:23)

• Data shows physicians spend 1–2 hours after work on notes

• Document in real-time to avoid “recall tax”

• Use smart phrases, templates, and aim for clarity—not perfection

7. Real-Time Charting with Patients (17:24–19:40)

• Narrate your note-writing and plan aloud with patients present

• This boosts communication and reduces after-hours work

8. Boundaries = Academic Survival (19:41–23:06)

• Guard academic time fiercely—don’t fill it with random meetings

• Faculty who protect 4+ hours/week are more likely to get grants/promoted

• Avoid context switching; it kills productivity by 40%

9. Accountability Is a Secret Weapon (23:07–26:15)

• Share your “ideal week” with admin staff and mentors

• Train your scheduler to protect your academic blocks too

10. Take-Home Wisdom (26:16–end)

• Schedule the work that gets you promoted

• Finish notes during the workday

• Set boundaries early—and ask others to help you keep them

🎓 Ready to build your academic career with less chaos and more clarity?
Get in touch for a free checklist on optimizing your time and building your national reputation:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach

• Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching

• Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

• Website: medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the podcast on Apple or Spotify—or subscribe on YouTube.
Your future self will thank you. 💬

How to Decode Academic Promotion Criteria Before You Waste 5 Years

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman tackles one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of academic medicine: understanding your institution's promotion criteria from day one.

She reveals why many physicians waste years on activities that don't align with their promotion requirements and provides a strategic framework for building an intentional path to advancement.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course - designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach.

You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion.

My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

Introduction: The Promotion Reality Check

(0:02 - 0:48) Why promotion isn't just about being busy or saying yes to everything. The importance of having an intentional plan that aligns with your interests and career goals. Common mistakes that lead to promotion delays or denials. Know Your Institution's Specific Criteria

(0:49 - 2:45) Understanding that criteria vary significantly by institution and track. Identifying whether you're on tenure track, non-tenure track, clinician educator, or clinician researcher path. Getting the actual promotion document and talking to administrators about unwritten requirements. Understanding authorship requirements and what counts toward promotion. Promotion is a Narrative, Not a Checklist

(2:45 - 5:20) Dr. Ishman's personal story of scattered early-career activities across multiple topics. The importance of creating a coherent story that shows intentional progression. How to build a focused narrative around your niche expertis.e Transitioning from general activities to a specialized focus area. Decode the Action Verbs

(5:20 - 6:45) Understanding what "contribute," "lead," and "demonstrate excellence" actually mean, how each verb signals different levels of involvement and impact required. Matching your activities to the specific expectations for each promotion criterion. Create a Realistic 5-Year Timeline

(6:45 - 7:47) Reverse engineering your promotion goals from target date

Years 1-2: Establishing your niche, finding mentors, building systems

Years 3-4: Leading projects, mentoring others, growing national visibility

Year 5: Formal review preparation and submission. Building in buffer time for delays and processing. Set Aligned, Clear Targets

(7:48 - 9:30) Specific benchmarks: 3-5 publications per year with increasing senior authorship Strategic approach to first vs. senior authorship early in career Building national visibility through invited talks and conference panels Importance of teaching evaluations and curriculum development Strategic Service Selection

(9:30 - 10:45) Choosing committee work that aligns with your research and career focus How to politely redirect service requests that don't fit your trajectory Balancing institutional needs with personal career development Funding Strategy

(10:45 - 11:10) Starting with internal funding and foundation grants Importance of mentorship in early grant applications Building toward external funding over time Track Everything Systematically

(11:10 - 11:37) Maintaining a live CV in your institution's format Creating a promotions folder with evaluations, letters, and feedback Monthly logging system for activities and accomplishments Using templates and tools for organization Summary: Dr. Ishman emphasizes that successful academic promotion requires understanding your institution's specific expectations, translating the action verbs in criteria documents, building a strategic timeline, and creating a coherent narrative that shows intentional career focus.

The key is being proactive and organized from the beginning, rather than reactive in year five.

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR

Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR

Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR

Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Envisioning Your Ideal Career

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman dives into how early-career physicians can build a fulfilling and aligned professional life by starting with their core values, mission, and vision. Through personal stories and real-life examples, she walks listeners through the practical steps of defining what matters most, auditing their current work, and creating a plan that actually matches their long-term goals.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure about what direction to take in your first 10 years of practice, this episode is your roadmap to clarity.

No need to take notes—check out the Blog for a written summary.

If you're ready to go deeper, the Academic Kickstarter Course helps early-career physicians build a customized, promotion-aligned career strategy. DM @sishmancoach on Instagram or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com to learn more.

Key Points

1. Introduction: Defining Career Fulfillment (0:00–2:54)

   • Stacey shares how she lacked focus early on in her academic career.

   • Realization that aligning with a niche—pediatric sleep apnea—helped her grow quickly.

2. Clarifying Values (2:55–7:20)

   • How values shift over time and why they’re the cornerstone of a fulfilling career.

   • Examples of Stacey’s current core values and how she uses them to make decisions.

3. The Power of Saying No (7:21–9:48)

   • How values help filter requests.

   • Healthy vs. unhealthy guilt and how to use guilt as a feedback tool.

4. Clarifying Your Brand (9:49–11:30)

   • Why being “all over the place” hurts your visibility.

   • The importance of alignment in publications, talks, and committees.

5. Crafting a Mission and Vision Statement (11:31–15:42)

   • Mission = what and why; Vision = what it looks like in 5–10 years.

   • Stacey’s examples of her evolving mission from research to coaching.

6. Real-Life Coaching Stories (15:43–18:15)

   • How helping others align with their own values resulted in national recognition.

   • Tips on leveraging panels, papers, and speaking invitations to align with your brand.

7. Audit Your Life & Calendar (18:16–22:01)

   • Does your schedule reflect your priorities?

   • Aligning time blocks with values to maintain focus and joy.

8. Final Action Steps (22:02–24:50)

   • Write down top values

   • Create mission and vision statements

   • Audit your calendar and make aligned changes

   • Myth-busting: You do not have to say yes to everything to get promoted.

9. Join the Academic Kickstarter Course (24:51–end)

   • How to build a personalized promotion plan with coaching support

   • Call to connect via DM, email, LinkedIn, or website

🔁 Know someone who needs this? Share this episode and help them kickstart their career the right way

Connect with Dr. Stacey Ishman
📧 Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com
📸 Instagram: @sishmancoach
🔗 LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
🌐 Website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Check out the Academic Kickstarter Course www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/kickstarter

🎧 Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the podcast on Apple or Spotify to help others discover it.

Your First Attending Job – Setting the Stage for a Career You Love

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman welcomes new attending physicians with a practical and empowering guide to launching a fulfilling academic medical career. Drawing on two decades of mentoring and her own experience navigating academic medicine, she shares tangible strategies to help you create a career with intention—from crafting an ideal weekly schedule to choosing the right “yes” opportunities.

🎧 No need to take notes—get the Academic Launchpad Guide for New Attendings by emailing staceyishmancoach@gmail.com or DMing @sishmancoach on Instagram.

🔑 Key Points & Timestamps:

1. Welcome Back & Episode Purpose (0:00 – 1:07)

• Acknowledge the podcast's return

• Purpose: Support for early-career attendings as they step into leadership and autonomy

2. The Power of Intentional Career Design (1:07 – 2:38)

• Your career doesn’t just happen—design it

• Ask yourself what your ideal Tuesday looks like

• Think about how clinical, teaching, and research time fit into your life

3. Academic Kickstarter Framework (2:38 – 3:59)

• Four key pillars:

  1. Envisioning your ideal life

  2. Setting up your practice

  3. Creating your research plan

  4. Building your promotion plan

• Coaching as a GPS: accelerates clarity and progress

4. Vision Post-it Exercise (3:59 – 5:10)

• Create a sticky note with your top 3 career goals

• Use it to guide decisions and set boundaries

5. Setting Up Your Clinical Practice (5:10 – 6:00)

• Clinic structure: slots, templates, breaks, smart scheduling

• Aligning your clinical load with your energy

6. Building a Research and Promotion Plan (6:00 – 7:00)

• Know your niche—focus creates visibility

• Promotion starts now—know your criteria early

7. Track Your Growth in Real-Time (7:00 – 7:53)

• Use a project sheet or enhanced CV

• Include outcomes: number of patients, growth in volume, productivity stats

8. Strategic Yes and Gracious No (7:53 – 9:56)

• Yes isn’t forever—be strategic

• Watch out for the “perpetual helper” trap

• Sample scripts for respectful no’s and sponsor-style referrals

9. Invest in Relationships (9:56 – 11:28)

• Build vertically (mentors, sponsors) and laterally (peers)

• Advice: “Work with people you like”

• Consider a personal board of advisors

10. Protect Space for Growth (11:28 – 13:03)

• Academic time is sacred—don’t trade it away

• Block time for strategic work weekly

• Creative work and personal interests matter too

11. Final Thoughts & Call to Action (13:03 – End)

• You get to lead your career—don’t outsource your path

• Download the Academic Launchpad

• Rate, review, and follow the podcast

• Connect:

  • Instagram: @sishmancoach

  • LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching

  • Website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

  • Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

⏰ Guess What's Draining Your Time!

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman discusses the impact of context switching on productivity, patient care, and overall well-being for physicians. She offers insights into the challenges of multitasking and provides strategies for managing interruptions and improving focus in academic medicine.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, check it out on the website.

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Context Switching Defined (1:08 - 2:32)

   - Explanation of context switching and its prevalence in medical practice

   - Surprising statistic: Only 2.5% of people can effectively multitask

1. Impact on Productivity (2:32 - 3:26)

   - Context switching reduces productivity by 20-40%

   - It takes an average of 23 minutes to fully return to an original task after an interruption

   - Primary care physicians experience 5-23 interruptions per hour

1. Strategies for Focused Work (3:26 - 4:47)

   - Creating focused work periods and minimizing interruptions

   - Grouping similar tasks together

   - Setting up structured periods for uninterrupted work

1. Patient Safety and Care Quality (4:48 - 7:20)

   - Interruptions during medication-related tasks increase error rates by 13%

   - Each interruption is associated with a 12% increase in procedural failures

   - High cognitive load linked to 30-40% decrease in diagnostic accuracy

1. Cognitive Load and Decision-Making (7:20 - 8:42)

   - Impact of context switching on mental fatigue and decision-making abilities

   - Importance of managing cognitive load for maintaining mental sharpness

1. Burnout Prevention and Career Development (8:42 - 10:15)

   - Connection between constant interruptions and physician burnout

   - Strategies for prioritizing tasks and enhancing work quality

1. Tips and Tricks for Managing Context Switching (10:15 - 13:45)

   - Time blocking techniques, including the Pomodoro method

   - Creating smarter to-do lists

   - Batching similar tasks

   - Practicing intentional context switching

Summary (13:45 - end)

Dr. Ishman emphasizes the importance of reducing context switching to improve productivity, patient care, and personal well-being for physicians. She provides practical strategies for managing interruptions and creating focused work periods, highlighting the long-term benefits for career advancement and quality of life in academic medicine. 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

•   DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
•   Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
•   Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
•   Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

Rediscovering My Emotions: 5 Essential Tips

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman shares her personal journey of rediscovering emotional awareness after years of emotional detachment in medical practice. She discusses the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions for physicians, offering insights and practical tips to help physicians reconnect with their feelings.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, check it out on the website.

 

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Personal Realization (0:00 - 1:17)
• Dr. Ishman's 23-year journey to recognize her emotional disconnection
• Brief introduction to the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast
2. The Culture of Emotional Detachment in Medicine (1:17 - 4:17)
• How medical training encourages emotional suppression
• Personal anecdotes illustrating emotional disconnection
3. Tips for Regaining Emotional Awareness (4:17 - 6:57)
• Acknowledging emotional detachment
• Using tools like Word Hippo, Emotion Journals, Wheel of Emotions & the How We Feel app
• Creating a supportive environment for emotional expression
4. Data on the Impact of Emotional Detachment (6:57 - 10:22)
• Negative effects on patient care and colleague interactions
• Reduced professional satisfaction and cognitive function
• Lowered personal well-being and professional reputation
5. Personal Stories and Reflections (10:22 - 12:44)
• Experiences as a young attending and intern dealing with emotional situations
• Recognizing the need for better emotional support in medical education
6. Conclusion and Call to Action (12:44 - 13:40)
• Importance of reconnecting with emotions for better patient care and personal well-being
• Encouragement to create supportive environments for emotional expression
7. Academic Accelerator Course Information (13:40 - End)
• Brief overview of the course benefits
• Bonus offer for those who sign up through the waitlist

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

•   DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
•   Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
•   Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
•   Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

 

How to Get People To Do What You Want

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacy Ishman discusses the art of giving effective constructive criticism, focusing on how to provide feedback that builds people up rather than shutting them down. She shares personal insights and practical advice on improving communication skills for physicians and mentors.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Key Points

1. Introduction (0:00 - 1:15)

   * Dr. Ishman's background and the podcast's focus

   * Importance of effective feedback in medical careers

1. The Problem with Traditional Feedback Methods (1:30 - 3:45)

   * Drawbacks of negative feedback in medical training

   * Issues with the "feedback sandwich" approach

1. The Aha Moment: Critique vs. Insult (3:18 - 4:10)

   * Differentiating between critiquing and insulting

   * Importance of comparing performance to the ideal

1. Examples of Effective Feedback (4:10 - 5:15)

   * Contrasting poor and effective feedback examples

   * Providing specific, actionable feedback

1. Key Concepts for Giving Effective Feedback (5:15 - 6:50)

   * Being direct without sugarcoating

   * Explaining the impact of behavior

   * Framing feedback in terms of specific actions

1. Real-Time Feedback (6:50 - 7:34)

   * Benefits of immediate feedback

   * Implementing real-time feedback in medical settings

1. Future-Focused Feedback (7:34 - 8:31)

   * Orienting feedback towards future improvement

   * Examples of future-focused feedback phrases

1. Actionable Steps for Implementing Effective Feedback (8:31 - 9:41)

   * Immediate acknowledgment of good behavior

   * Collaborative planning and ongoing support

1. Summary (9:41 - 9:58)

   * Recap of key points for effective feedback

1. Academic Accelerator Course Information (9:58 - end)

    * Overview of course benefits

    * Invitation to join the waitlist

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

•   DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
•   Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
•   Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR

●  Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Choose Your Own Adventure: When to Say Yes and When to Say No

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman discusses the art of decision-making for early-career physicians, focusing on when to accept or decline opportunities. She offers practical advice on aligning choices with personal goals and maintaining a balanced approach to career advancement.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

Key Points:

1. Introduction (1:07 - 3:34)
• Overview of decision-making challenges for new physicians
• Introduction to the concept of "choose your own adventure"
2. Understanding Your "Why" (3:34 - 5:20)
• Importance of identifying your core motivation
• Resources for discovering your purpose
• Seeking input from close associates
3. Aligning Opportunities with Your Vision (5:20 - 7:04)
• Distinguishing between mission and vision
• Evaluating opportunities against long-term goals
• Setting boundaries and sponsoring others
4. The Impact of Saying Yes and No (7:04 - 8:43)
• Understanding the trade-offs of each decision
• Respecting personal limits
• Focusing on priorities and preventing overcommitment
5. Balanced Decision-Making (8:43 - 10:02)
• Considering short-term and long-term impacts
• Evaluating risks, requirements, and rewards
• Taking a holistic perspective on opportunities
6. Summary and Key Questions (10:02 - 11:05)
• Four essential questions to ask when evaluating opportunities
• Guidelines for when to say yes or no
7. Academic Accelerator Course Information (11:32 - end)
• Overview of course benefits
• Invitation to join the waitlist

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

•   DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
•   Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
•   Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR

●  Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Being An Exceptional Medical Educator: Teaching Adult Learners

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman discusses effective strategies for teaching adult learners in medical settings. She focuses on three key principles to help academic physicians master the art of teaching:

1) fostering active learning

2) providing constructive feedback

3) tailoring education to individual needs

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

 

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

 

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success.

 Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Key Points:

1. 1. Introduction and Recap (1:29 - 1:45)

- Overview of the importance of teaching in academic medicine

   - Introduction to adult learning principles

 

1.   Fostering Active Learning (1:45 - 6:28)

   - Using simulators and practical workshops

   - Implementing case-based discussions

   - Creating interactive lectures

   - Tips for low-fidelity simulation options

   - Importance of a Debriefing Session (4:48)

 

1.   Academic Accelerator Course (6:28 - 6:56)

   - Benefits of coaching for physicians

   - Overview of the course offerings

 

1.     Providing Constructive Feedback (6:56 - 8:45)

   - Importance of regular, specific, and actionable feedback

   - Using structured feedback methods (tests, checklists, rubrics)

   - Implementing reflective practice techniques

 

1.   Tailoring Education to Individual Needs (8:45 - 10:18)

   - Creating individualized learning plans

   - Utilizing various teaching techniques for different learning styles

   - Considering mentorship programs

 

1.   Conclusion and Call to Action (10:18 - 10:50)

   - Recap of key points

   - Invitation for topic suggestions

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

•   DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
•   Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
•   Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
•   Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

 

Turning Busyness into Promotion - Build a Clear Career Story from the Start

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores why so many early-career physicians feel constantly busy yet still disconnected from meaningful progress. She explains how the real challenge isn’t time — it’s the absence of a clear priority system. Through practical examples and a simple framework, she shows how aligning daily work with long-term goals can restore momentum, clarity, and career satisfaction.

No need to take notes — check out the blog for a concise summary of these insights.

If you are interested in learning more about building a focused, promotable career path, you can DM on Instagram @sishmancoach or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

Key Points 1. The Real Problem Isn’t Time (0:00 – 2:00)

Why high-achieving physicians often feel overwhelmed despite being productive
How full clinics, awards, and busy schedules can still mask a lack of progress toward long-term goals
Introduction to the idea that priorities — not time — are the true constraint

2. Your Calendar Reveals Your Priorities (2:00 – 3:00)

How time audits expose misalignment between goals and daily work
Why giving up academic or strategic time to do more clinical work doesn’t solve systemic issues
Reframing discretionary time as essential rather than optional

3. Why Everything Feels Urgent (3:00 – 5:00)

How inbox-driven work turns into default task management
The emotional and professional cost of letting reactive work dictate your schedule
The key question: what are you doing today that moves your career forward?

4. Reactive vs. Strategic Work (5:00 – 7:00)

Why reactive tasks provide immediate rewards but little long-term progress
How delaying important work affects promotion timelines and career satisfaction
The concept that “delay is not neutral”

5. The Three Types of Work Framework (7:00 – 10:00)

Deep work: writing, thinking, strategy, and creation
Collaborative work: teaching, mentoring, and teamwork
Reactive work: emails, messages, and administrative tasks
Why a true priority system intentionally allocates time for all three

6. Case Example: Permission to Prioritize (10:00 – 12:30)

A coaching story illustrating how clarity often isn’t the issue — permission is
How protected time reframed as “deep work” can transform engagement and satisfaction
Aligning daily actions with what you actually care about

7. How to Reset Your Next 90 Days (12:30 – 14:00)

Stop trying to fit more in — decide what deserves space
Choose one primary outcome and schedule protected time for it
Why priorities must be revisited regularly to stay aligned with evolving goals

Summary

Feeling busy isn’t the same as moving forward. In this episode, Dr. Ishman explains how many physicians unintentionally inherit other people’s priorities, allowing reactive work to crowd out meaningful progress. By identifying what truly matters, protecting time for deep work, and intentionally structuring the next 90 days, physicians can shift from constant busyness to purposeful career growth. The goal isn’t to work more — it’s to work in alignment with what you want your career to become.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app.

If you’d like to get in touch or suggest future topics:

● DM on Instagram @sishmancoach
● Connect on LinkedIn at Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Thriving in Academic Medicine Without Losing Your Mind (Part 2)

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman continues her discussion on thriving in academic medicine, focusing on developing research skills and effective goal-setting strategies for early-career physicians. She offers practical advice on building a strong research foundation and maintaining a balanced approach to career advancement.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

 

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

 

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Recap (0:23 - 1:42) 
• Brief recap of Part 1: dual identity and setting up a research plan
• Overview of topics for Part 2: developing research skills and goal-setting
2. Developing Research Skills (2:02 - 5:57) 
• Importance of a strategic research plan
• Attending research methodology workshops
• Benefits of full-day courses on writing and publishing
• Networking opportunities in workshops
• Finding mentors within and outside your specialty
• Starting small with collaborations and existing projects
3. Leveraging Institutional Resources (5:58 - 6:30) 
• Utilizing paper editing services and grant writing assistance
• Accessing institutional databases and clinical resources
4. Goal Setting Strategies (6:31 - 9:31) 
• Setting short-term and long-term goals
• Using the 12-week year framework
• Implementing SMART goals
• The importance of regular reassessment
• Focusing on "the gain" rather than "the gap"
5. Practical Tips for Goal Setting (9:32 - 10:09) 
• Regular self-assessments
• Adjusting goals based on changing circumstances
• Seeking feedback from mentors, colleagues, and patients
• Celebrating achievements
• Balancing professional and personal goals
•  

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
• Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

 

Thriving in Academic Medicine Without Losing Your Mind (Part 1)

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

This episode shares insights on how to thrive in academic medicine while maintaining balance. Dr. Stacey Ishman focuses on the challenge of embracing dual identities as both a clinician and an academician, offering practical advice for early-career physicians.

 

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

 

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

 

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Academic Accelerator Course Overview (00:00 - 00:22)
• Benefits of coaching for physicians
• Introduction to the Academic Accelerator course
2. Personal Journey and Podcast Introduction (00:23 - 03:15)
• Dr. Ishman's experience as an early-career physician
• Overview of the podcast's focus
3. Embracing Dual Identities in Academic Medicine (03:16 - 05:30)
• Balancing clinical practice and academic pursuits
• Challenges of early career development
4. Creating a Personal Mission Statement (05:31 - 07:30)
• Using AI tools to draft a research mission statement
• Aligning clinical and academic goals
5. Focusing Clinical and Academic Life (07:31 - 08:20)
• Finding overlap between clinical practice and research
• Importance of role models and mentors
6. Developing Clinical Skills (08:21 - 09:04)
• Utilizing courses, skills training, and observerships
• Personal anecdote: Learning from international colleagues
7. Measuring Clinical Outcomes (09:05 - 10:27)
• Importance of tracking your own data
• Using standardized assessments and questionnaires
• Atul Gawande's advice: "Measure something"
8. Conclusion and Preview (10:28 - end)
• Teaser for Part 2: Optimizing research skills and setting goals
• Call to action for subscribers and feedback

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
• Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

 

Taylor Swift's Success Lessons for Early Career Physicians

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

This episode explores how Taylor Swift's career and songs offer valuable insights for physicians in their first 10 years of practice. Host Stacey Ishman, a full professor and ENT surgeon, draws parallels between Swift's journey and the challenges faced by early-career physicians, offering inspiration and practical advice for navigating the medical field.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Taylor Swift Concert Experience (00:00)
   • Parallels between Taylor Swift's career and starting in academic medicine
   • Importance of storytelling and connection in both music and medicine
2. Shake It Off: Dealing with Rejection (03:00)
   • Importance of moving past negative experiences
   • Rejection as a normal part of academic medicine
3. Long Live: Celebrating Victories (04:30)
   • Recognizing and enjoying both small and big wins
   • Importance of positive reflection in personal and professional life
4. Ready For It: Embracing New Challenges (05:40)
   • Approaching new experiences with confidence
   • Reframing discomfort as excitement and opportunity for growth
5. You Need to Calm Down: Self-Worth and Boundaries (07:40)
   • Understanding that others' perceptions don't determine your worth
   • Importance of setting boundaries in professional and personal life
6. Conclusion: Empowerment for Early Career Physicians (09:00)
   • Encouragement to stand tall in your worth
   • Reminder of the unique value each physician brings to medicine

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

• DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach OR
• Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at medicalmentorcoaching.com

PS - If you are interested in getting on the waitlist for my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please contact us. This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Zero to Hero: Crafting Your Research Plan

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

This episode explores strategies for early-career physicians to develop a focused and impactful research plan. Host Stacey Ishman, a full professor and ENT surgeon, shares insights on identifying your niche, utilizing local resources, and setting clear research goals to build a strong foundation for academic success.

Dr. Ishman emphasizes the importance of aligning your research with your passions and creating a clear research identity to establish yourself as an expert in your field. She provides practical advice on crafting a research plan that can propel your career forward and set you on the path to national recognition.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get more detail regarding these insights.

In addition, if you are interested in getting on the waitlist for the Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career

Key Points:

1. Identifying Your Research Niche (2:30)

   - Determine your area of interest or expertise

   - Focus on what you want to be known for

   - Align your research with your passion

 

1. Utilizing Local Resources (6:15)

   - Leverage institutional support and funding

   - Take advantage of unique practice patterns

   - Identify existing data collection opportunities

 

1. Setting Clear Research Goals (9:00)

   - Define the questions you want to answer

   - Consider the impact you want to make on the field

   - Create a personal mission statement for your research

 

1. Developing a Research Plan (12:45)

   - Outline objectives, methodology, timelines, and resources

   - Break down into short-term and long-term tactics

   - Measure progress and adjust as needed

 

1. Building Your Research Career (16:30)

   - Identify key mentors and collaborators

   - Publish and present regularly

   - Know funding deadlines and application processes

   - Network at national meetings

   - Consider using social media to build connections

 

Summary

• Crafting a focused research plan is crucial for early-career physicians aiming to establish themselves in academia 
• Aligning research with personal interests and institutional resources can lead to more impactful and sustainable research programs
• Regular publishing, presenting, and networking are key to building a national reputation in your chosen niche
• Remaining adaptable and open to opportunities can lead to unexpected career growth and collaborations

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please

• DM me on instagram at  @sishmancoach  OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

 

In addition, if you are interested in getting on the waitlist for the Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

 Be A Goldfish – Advice to New Graduates

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

This episode explores advice for new graduates to embrace the philosophy of "be a goldfish". embracing the ability to let go of negativity quickly and embrace the mentality that mistakes happen, they lead to learning and letting them go leads to resilience, improved mental health, self-compassion and improved decision. making.

Host Stacey Ishman, a full professor and ENT surgeon, draws inspiration from the famous Ted Lasso quote and shares how this mindset can benefit early-career physicians navigating the transition from residency to their first jobs.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you are interested my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please please DM me on instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com

This course if designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

 

Key Points:

1.  The "Be a Goldfish" Mindset (0:55)
   • Let go of negativity within a short timeframe (10 seconds)
   • Don’t dwell on mistakes or setbacks for too long
   • Allow yourself to reset and move forward positively
2. Benefits of Positivity: Resilience (4:40)
   • Quickly let go of negative emotions is key to resilience
   • Improves self-esteem, relationships, sense of control and purpose
3. Mental Health and Positivity (6:25)
   • Counters negativity bias linked to depression, anxiety, burnout
   • Positive psychology reduces depression, improves resilience, job satisfaction
4. Self-Compassion (8:40)
   • Being kind, non-judgmental towards oneself
   • Recognizing common humanity in struggles
   • Mindfulness and present moment awareness
   • Reduces depressive episodes, anxiety, stress
5.  Improved Decision-Making (11:15)
   • Clearing the mind of negativity allows better focus
   • Positive thinkers make more effective decisions
   • Applies to complex medical decisions and problem-solving

Summary

• The "be a goldfish" philosophy encourages letting go of negative thoughts quickly to improve resilience, mental health, self-compassion, and decision-making abilities
• This mindset shift can significantly benefit physicians, especially those navigating the demanding early-career years, by enabling them to move forward positively and perform at their best

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please

• DM me on instagram at @sishmancoach  OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at medicalmentorcoaching.com

If you are interested my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please contact us.  This course if designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. Join us to kickstart your career.

 

 

Networking Like a Pro

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

Networking is a crucial skill for academic physicians, especially in the early stages of their careers. It can help you get on committees, be invited to speak at events, and connect with mentors and thought leaders in your field. This episode provides actionable advice on how to network like a pro.

No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights.

If you have recommendations for additional topics for me to cover in future blogs, please DM me on instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

 

Key Points:

1. Prepare in Advance (1:13 - 2:25): 
• Research the event, speakers, and attendees you want to connect with. 
• Consider making appointments with thought leaders in your area of interest.
2. Set Clear Goals (2:26 - 4:02): 
• Know what you hope to achieve through networking, such as gaining feedback on your research, finding collaboration opportunities, or learning about gaps in the field.
3. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch (4:03 - 5:12): 
• Craft a concise 30-second summary of who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for. 
• Practice it until it feels natural.
4. Engage on Social Media (5:13 - 5:49): 
• Use event hashtags, tag speakers, and post about your interests to attract like-minded individuals.
5. Attend Networking Events and Social Gatherings (5:50 - 6:48): 
• While it may not be your ideal setting, these events provide opportunities to meet influential people and leaders in your field.
6. Follow Up Promptly (6:49 - 7:47): 
• Send personalized messages to the people you've met, thanking them and expressing your interest in staying connected.
7. Exchange Digital Contact Information (7:48 - 8:50): 
• Use modern methods like QR codes, contact-sharing apps, or Apple's Name Drop feature to easily exchange contact details.
8. Be a Good Listener and Show Genuine Interest (8:51 - 10:13): 
• Ask questions, make eye contact, and avoid interrupting or appearing distracted during conversations.

 

Summary  

• Networking is an essential skill for career advancement in academic medicine
• By preparing in advance, setting clear goals, perfecting your elevator pitch, engaging on social media, attending events, following up promptly, exchanging digital contacts, and being a good listener, you can build meaningful connections and increase your visibility in your field.

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please

• DM me on instagram at  @sishmancoach  OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

 

Prioritize Yourself 

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Today I am talking about prioritizing yourself and how it will help you be more successful and enjoy the journey to success. She emphasizes that you are an amazing human being with inherent worth, and your wellbeing matters beyond just being able to care for others.

If you have recommendations for additional topics for me to cover in future blogs, please DM me on instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

(5:18) Reframe Your Mindset:

• Prioritizing your wellness is not selfish or contradictory to good patient care
• Challenge limiting beliefs about needing to be perfect or always put patients first

(6:03) Set Boundaries and Manage Expectations:

• Learn to say no to overcommitments that don't align with your goals
• Manage response times and availability expectations

(6:44) Practice Regular Self-Care:

• Make self-care non-negotiable (meditation, exercise, quality time)
• Take breaks throughout the day to recharge
• Schedule time for hobbies and activities you enjoy

(8:15) Seek Support and Share the Load:

• Reach out to colleagues, family, or friends when needed
• Outsource tasks you don't enjoy or find meaningful

(9:04) Prioritize Work-Life Integration:

• Schedule personal events and obligations on your calendar
• Communicate your priorities to colleagues and support staff

(9:44) Practice Self-Compassion:

• Treat yourself with kindness, understanding, and patience
• Shift from negative self-talk to positive language

(10:44) Advocate for Systematic Change:

• Identify opportunities to improve systems for better work-life integration
• Engage in conversations about reasonable workloads and leveraging resources

(11:35) Continuously Reassess and Adjust:

• Reevaluate if your commitments still align with your goals and needs
• Make small, meaningful changes to improve your life

 

Key Points

• Reframe  your mindset to prioritize your wellbeing and self-worth
• Set boundaries and learn to say NO
• Practice regular self-care
• Advocate for systematic changes to improved work-life integration for all

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please

• DM me on instagram at  @sishmancoach  OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

How to Score a Seat: Getting on a Committee

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Today I am talking about how to get on a committee and how to succeed once you get there.

I have also created a checklist with all these pointers which you can get by DMing the word NICHE to me on instagram @sishmancoach or on Facebook or Linkedin. You can also email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

(2:12) Selecting the Right Organizations

• Pick 1-2 organizations to focus your efforts, likely in your specialty area
• Consider special interest groups as well
• Talk to mentors/sponsors who may have influence to help get you involved

(4:15) Identifying Potential Committees

• Look for committees that fit your interests/niche
• You may not get your ideal committee at first, so be open
• Mentors can provide insight on which committees highlight contributors
• Attend open committee meetings as a guest to show interest

(7:25) The Application Process

• Understand how committee appointments happen (applications, nominations, etc.)
• Know the timeline for applications
• Leverage mentors/sponsors and connections for appointment recommendations

(8:18) Making an Impact as a Committee Member

• Volunteer for initiatives that align with your niche
• Raise your hand, participate in discussions, propose new focus areas
• Do the work you volunteer for - complete tasks thoroughly and on time
• Opportunity to drive change and establish thought leadership

(10:52) Networking Benefits

• Expand your professional network
• Connect with potential collaborators
• Make new friends

Key Points

• Stay focused on establishing your niche
• Participate and finish what you volunteer for
• Network and make friends
• Change the World! (or at least move the field forward)

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in a free checklist on how to Find Your Word, please

• DM the word NICHE to @sishmancoach on instagram OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR

Becoming a Medical Conference Rockstar: The Insider's Playbook

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, we provide tips and strategies for securing speaking opportunities and getting on the program at major academic conferences. 

We also emphasize the importance of establishing your niche expertise and making that clear to others as a key step. 

We then dive into specific tactics like: 

—How to stay organized with submission deadlines

—Why to connect with member of the program committees

—What you should talk to committee members about

—How submitting panel proposals can build your reputation

—How to leverage your professional network to get on the program 

Tune in to hear about my best strategies to gain visibility and reinforce your reputation as a go-to expert!

 

A preview of what's in store for this episode:

0:45 - Establish your clear niche (see Episode 3)

1:20 - Stay organized with conference deadlines & calendar tracking

2:25 - Connect with program committee members

3:00 - Don't be shy asking to be on the program  

3:35 - Understand good/bad abstracts by serving on committees

4:15 - Submit panels/courses in addition to abstracts

5:55 - Make it easy for panelists to say yes

6:50 - Leverage your network

8:10 - Be proactive to gain visibility as an expert

 

 

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in a FREE CHECKLIST on how to Find Your Word, please

• DM the word NICHE to @sishmancoach on instagram OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

Focus Your Niche

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

In this episode, we emphasize the crucial strategy of defining and consistently pursuing a focused area of expertise or "niche" to build your academic brand and reputation. 

She also suggests creative ways to collaborate across disciplines while still linking to your specialty domain. Throughout, Stacey underscores communicating your niche clearly to mentors and sponsors so they can connect you to the right avenues for recognition.

We go over step-by-step advice regarding:

• Why need to identify your passion
• How to align your work with your interests
• Why you should craft a concise way to articulate your niche in 1 to 2 words 
• The importance of maintaining that focus over time
• Why it is critical to say no to opportunities that are not in  your area of expertise
• Creative ways to collaborate across disciplines while still linking to your niche

… Plus much more!

Tune in now to hear me talk about finding your niche, describing it easily, and being known for your area of expertise in academic medicine.  

By concentrating your efforts, you can more effectively tell your professional story and have others recognize you as an authority in your chosen domain.

A preview of what's in store for this episode:

0:00 - Introduction to focusing your niche

0:53 - Understand your passion and expertise

2:43 - Recognize inconsistencies in your perceived niche

3:14 - Early career advice to focus on one area

4:03 - Step-by-step for defining your niche

5:19 - Maintain niche consistency to build your reputation

6:01 - Say no to opportunities outside your niche

6:27 - Get creative with collaborations

7:37 - Communicate your niche to mentors/sponsors

Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

 

If you are interested in a free checklist on how to Find Your Word, please

• DM the word NICHE to @sishmancoach on instagram OR
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

The Inside View: A Coaching Conversation with Client Dr. Reema Padia

In this episode of Medical Mentor Coaching, Dr. Stacey Ishman welcomes her first guest, Dr. Reema Padia, a pediatric otolaryngologist at the University of Utah and Associate Professor in her seventh year of practice.

Dr. Padia shares her experience transitioning to a new institution, stepping into leadership, and navigating promotion while balancing family life and personal goals. Together, they explore how coaching can support early- and mid-career physicians in building national presence, strengthening leadership skills, and creating a career that feels both meaningful and sustainable.

No need to take notes—check out the Blog for a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in coaching for physicians in the first 10 years of practice—whether individually or at the department level—DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

My mission is to help you build clarity, momentum, and a personalized path to your version of success in academic medicine.

Join us to intentionally shape your career.

Key Points:

1. Introduction & Career Background (0:00 – 1:00)

• Introduction of Dr. Reema Padia

• Pediatric otolaryngologist at University of Utah

• Seventh year of practice, Associate Professor

• Transitioned institutions and stepped into leadership

2. Transitioning Institutions & Taking on Leadership (1:00 – 3:00)

• Moving across the country with two children

• New department, new leadership role

• Leading an established team as the “new person”

• Recognizing the need for support during major transitions

3. Building Trust as a New Leader (3:00 – 4:30)

• Balancing vision with humility

• Avoiding the urge to “change everything” immediately

• Focusing on relationship-building and trust

• Positioning herself as the “glue” rather than the disruptor

4. From Broad Emails to Targeted Conversations (4:30 – 6:30)

• Why “Let me know if you’re interested” often fails

• The power of one-on-one conversations

• Asking concrete, directed questions

• Creating buy-in through personal connection

5. Creating Structure: Retreats & Program Growth (5:00 – 6:30)

• Launching a vascular anomalies program retreat

• Scaling ideas realistically (lunch-hour retreat vs. grand event)

• Generating feedback with focused questions

• Supporting interdisciplinary collaboration

6. Surgical Coaching & Interdepartmental Coaching (6:30 – 9:30)

• Partnering with University of Colorado for resident coaching

• Benefits of cross-institutional coaching

• Psychological safety for residents

• What surgical coaching is and how it works

• Coaching focused on efficiency, communication, and teaching

7. Bringing Coaching to the Department Level (9:30 – 12:30)

• Why coaching isn’t just about promotion

• Accountability and implementation

• Faculty across career stages benefiting from coaching

• Strengthening academic alignment and shared goals

8. Expanding National Presence (11:30 – 13:00)

• Strategies for increasing visibility

• Committee involvement and academic networking

• Connecting with colleagues across subspecialties

• Coaching across the lifespan of academic medicine

9. Coaching Beyond Promotion (13:30 – 16:00)

• Coaching is not therapy—it’s forward-focused

• Individualized goal-setting

• Consistency and cadence (monthly vs. twice monthly sessions)

• The importance of accountability

10. Boundaries, Priorities & Work-Life Integration (16:00 – 18:30)

• Moving away from arbitrary promotion timelines

• Choosing activities aligned with genuine interest

• Letting go of “CV padding”

• Fully engaging in family time without guilt

11. Identity Outside of Medicine (18:30 – 19:30)

• Joining an adult recreational soccer league

• Building friendships outside of work

• Reclaiming personal identity beyond physician and parent

12. Setting Ambitious Personal Goals (19:00 – 19:45)

• Training for a Half Ironman

• Bringing colleagues along for the journey

• Modeling enjoyment and shared growth

13. Final Advice: Enjoy the Process (20:00 – 21:00)

• Avoiding arbitrary timelines

• Focusing on meaningful goals

• Enjoying leadership rather than rushing through it

• Buy-in grows when people see authentic investment

14. Closing Thoughts (21:00 – End)

• Growth in leadership communication

• Building momentum through small shifts

• Invitation to connect and explore coaching

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

The Insider’s Guide to Owning National Meetings

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

 

Introduction 

• Importance of national meetings for learning, networking, and building reputation
• Goals: Getting on the program, being invited as a speaker, getting published

 

Building Connections Early On

• Strategies for networking as an introvert/newcomer
• Identifying key people (program committee, mentors, leaders)
• Making initial one-on-one connections
• Offering to volunteer or join committees

 

Speaking Up and Raising Your Profile 

• Asking thoughtful questions during Q&A sessions
• Providing insightful feedback to speakers
• Networking at social events with leaders and organizers

 

Getting on the Program 

• The ultimate goal: Speaking on the program
• Submitting research abstracts and getting accepted
• Serving as a moderator or panelist
• Preparing and practicing presentations

 

Being an Engaged Participant 

• Using social media to share updates and commentary
• Submitting abstracts/posters for future meetings
• Attending business meetings to get involved

 

Self-Care and Enjoyment 

• Making time for friends, learning, and self-care
• Treating yourself during the conference

 

Please Rate, Review and Follow the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!)

If you are interested in a free checklist on how to optimize your time at national meetings to build your national reputation, please 

• DM me the word MEETING to @sishmancoach on instagram OR 
• Message me on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching OR 
• Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com OR
• Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com

Introduction to Medical Mentor Coaching

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

"I want to help you be efficient in what you're doing, whether that's improving your charting or focusing your practice. I'm here to be your academic medicine career coach."

Episode Title: Welcome to the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast! 

 

Introduction:

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Medical Mentor Podcast, where Dr. Stacey Ishman, a seasoned otolaryngologist and sleep medicine specialist, introduces herself and shares her journey and goals for this podcast series.

 

About Dr. Stacey Ishman:

Dr. Stacey Ishman is a triple-boarded, fellowship-trained otolaryngologist specializing in sleep medicine. She has a distinguished career in both clinical practice and research, with over 220 peer-reviewed publications and involvement in significant NIH, industry, and DOD grants. Dr. Ishman has also contributed extensively to medical education and mentorship, impacting the careers of many in the field of medicine.

 

Episode Highlights:

• Personal and Professional Journey: Dr. Ishman discusses her extensive experience in sleep medicine, research, and population health. She also reflects on her roles on editorial boards and committees, emphasizing the importance of aligning professional roles with personal passion.
• Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic brought significant personal and professional changes for Dr. Ishman, leading her to reevaluate her career and focus more on what she truly values—mentoring and coaching in academic medicine.
• Podcast Goals: Dr. Ishman aims to assist physicians, especially those in the early stages of their careers, to efficiently manage their academic productivity, navigate organizational involvement, and achieve leadership roles without feeling overwhelmed.

 

What To Expect From The Podcast: 

• Focused on helping doctors optimize their academic productivity (papers, presentations, organizational involvement)
• Tips for finding your niche, getting published, getting on programs, and moving into leadership roles
• Strategies for efficiency and avoiding burnout in academic medicine
• Quick 10-15 minute episodes

 

• "I'm talking to you if you're a physician in your first 10 years of practice or you're beyond that but struggling with how to make all this work together." 

 

Upcoming Topics: Detailed discussion on finding one's niche in medicine, handling panel submissions, and strategies for national meetings to enhance one's reputation.

 

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Follow Dr. Ishman on Instagram (@SIshmanCoach), Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn for more insights and updates.
• PLEASE Reach out with feedback or questions through social media platforms!

 

Next Episode Preview:

Episode 1: "Crafting Your Career Plan" – Dr. Ishman will discuss how to effectively create a career plan that reflects your professional goals and personal values.

Episode 2: “The Insider’s Guide to Owning National Meetings” - We will discuss how to maximize your impact at conferences and meetings to build your national reputation. 

 

Thank You Message:

Thank you for listening (and reading this)!

I appreciate your joining me on this journey of academic and personal growth in medicine.

Your Career Roadmap: Planning for Success in Academic Medicine

Listen directly on Apple or Spotify

Are you an early career physician in academic medicine feeling lost on how to navigate the path to success? Or a mid-career academic struggling to balance clinical, research, teaching, and personal responsibilities?

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman, a seasoned academic pediatric otolaryngologist, shares her hard-earned wisdom on strategic career planning for academic physicians. Drawing from over two decades of experience, she provides a step-by-step roadmap to crafting a fulfilling and impactful career.

You'll learn practical tips on:

• Conducting a self-assessment to identify your strengths, passions, and values
• Determining a focused niche and uncovering gaps in your specialty
• Setting SMART goals to propel you towards major milestones
• Acquiring critical skills through mentorship and continual learning
• Evaluating your progress and adapting your plan over time
• Climbing the academic ladder through publishing, networking, and visibility
• Achieving work-life integration for overall well-being

Whether you're just starting out or mid-career, this candid conversation offers invaluable insights to help you map out a strategic career vision aligned with your professional aspirations and personal priorities. Tune in to gain the tools to design a rewarding and impactful journey in academic medicine.

Please access the Checklist for Academic Promotion HERE

Why Busy CVs Don’t Always Advance Careers

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman unpacks one of the most common and frustrating experiences in academic medicine: working hard, staying busy, and still feeling stalled when it comes to promotion. She explains why promotion criteria alone are not enough, how interpretation—not effort—drives advancement decisions, and why many early-career physicians unknowingly drift off track.

This episode is especially for physicians in their first 10 years of practice who feel productive, valued, and praised—but unclear on whether their work is actually moving them toward promotion. Dr. Ishman walks through how promotion committees really evaluate candidates and how to shift from being busy to building a coherent academic narrative.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a written summary of these insights.

If you want support translating promotion criteria into a strategy that reflects how decisions are actually made, join the Medical Mentor Coaching community.

Key Points

1. Why Promotion Criteria Create False Security (0:00 – 1:00)
Why written promotion documents feel reassuring—but often fail to explain how decisions are actually made
The difference between published criteria and real-world interpretation

2. The Hidden Problem: Interpretation, Not Access (1:00 – 3:00)
Why most institutions make promotion criteria easy to find
How ambiguity around “reputation” (regional, national, international) creates confusion
Why following the rules doesn’t guarantee advancement

3. Promotion Readiness Is Rarely Explicit (3:00 – 5:00)
Why many faculty never have formal promotion readiness conversations
How changing tracks and criteria over time increase misalignment
The cost of outdated or incomplete advice

4. Track Matters More Than Volume (5:00 – 8:00)
How clinician, educator, researcher, and administrative tracks differ
Why excellent work can look weak if it doesn’t tell a clear story
Examples of work that may or may not count depending on track

5. Adequate vs. Strong Evidence of Impact (8:00 – 9:30)
What promotion committees mean by “strong” reputation
Why expectations vary by institution and rank
Why asking for examples of successful CVs matters

6. Busy Is Not the Same as Aligned (9:30 – 11:30)
Why committees don’t see effort—they see patterns
How scattered excellence stalls promotion
The difference between productivity and trajectory

7. A Real Case of Promotion Drift (11:30 – 13:00)
How a packed CV still failed to support promotion
Why the issue was misalignment, not underperformance
What changed once expectations were clarified

8. The Emotional Cost of Unclear Promotion Systems (13:00 – 14:30)
How stalled promotion erodes confidence and engagement
Why unclear systems—not personal failure—drive frustration and attrition

9. The Truth That Changes the Outcome (14:30 – End)
Why promotion stalls are rarely about not working hard enough
How criteria without interpretation create drift
Action steps to regain clarity and momentum

Summary

Promotion committees do not confirm checklists. They interpret patterns. Advancement depends on a coherent academic narrative, evidence of impact at the appropriate level, and visible trajectory over time. When criteria change or interpretation is unclear, even highly productive physicians can drift off course.

If your CV is full but your path feels uncertain, the issue is often structural—not personal. Clarity, alignment, and intentional strategy are what turn busy work into forward momentum.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (Apple Podcasts and Spotify).

If you’d like to connect, ask a question, or suggest a topic:

● DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach
● Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

In this episode of Medical Mentor Coaching, Dr. Stacey Ishman unpacks why being the most reliable faculty member can quietly stall your academic career. She introduces opportunity selection as a critical (and teachable) career skill, explaining how saying yes to the wrong work—even when it’s valued and appreciated—can slow promotion, visibility, and leadership advancement for physicians in their first 10 years of practice.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a written summary of these insights.

If you are interested in learning how to build a promotion-ready career strategy instead of defaulting into overcommitment, this episode will help you rethink how and when to say yes.

Key Points:

1. Why the Most Reliable Faculty Get Stuck (0:00 – 2:10)
How dependable, high-performing physicians often feel invisible despite being indispensable
Why this stagnation is often misdiagnosed as burnout
The hidden cost of doing essential but non-advancing work

2. The Real Problem Isn’t Effort—It’s Selection (2:10 – 4:00)
Why productivity, resilience, and motivation aren’t the issue
How academic medicine trains execution but not decision-making
The long-term consequences of default yeses

3. Promotion Is About Narrative, Not Effort (4:00 – 5:45)
How promotion committees evaluate coherence, trajectory, and impact
Why scattered service roles dilute your story
The difference between being busy and being promotable

4. The Trade-Off Between Being Helpful and Being Strategic (5:45 – 7:10)
Why saying yes feels professional—and why that can be misleading
How loyalty and guilt influence opportunity decisions
When service helps your career and when it quietly hurts it

5. Opportunity Selection as a Career Skill (7:10 – 8:50)
Why saying no is disciplined, not selfish
How intentional yeses build depth, visibility, and authority
How to redirect opportunities toward roles that fit your goals

6. A Real Coaching Case: Invisible Work, Missed Advancement (8:50 – 10:20)
A mid-career faculty example of being passed over for leadership
Why invisible institutional work doesn’t translate externally
How redesigning roles and focus changes outcomes

7. What Leaders Miss—and Why Retention Suffers (10:20 – 11:40)
How departments unintentionally overload their most reliable faculty
Why departures often feel sudden but are actually predictable
How strategic opportunity alignment can prevent attrition

8. Practical Questions Before You Say Yes (11:40 – 12:50)
What this opportunity replaces
How it maps to promotion criteria and skill-building
Whether it advances your next step—or is time to let it go

9. From Silent Overcommitment to Strategic Careers (12:50 – 14:10)
Why goodwill sustains departments but strategy drives promotion
How opportunity selection benefits both faculty and institutions
Making intentional career design part of academic culture

Summary

Academic medicine runs on reliable faculty—but careers advance through intentional strategy. In this episode, Dr. Ishman reframes saying yes as a choice that shapes your professional narrative, not a measure of commitment. By learning how to select opportunities that align with promotion criteria, leadership goals, and long-term impact, physicians can stop overcommitting by default and start building careers that move forward with clarity and purpose.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (Apple Podcasts and Spotify).

If you’d like to connect with us or suggest future topics:

● DM on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message us on LinkedIn at Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman unpacks a critical but rarely named challenge facing early-career physicians: the leadership gap that emerges after training ends. While medicine prepares physicians to execute, it does not prepare them to choose. The result is ambiguity, misalignment, and career drift that often gets mislabeled as burnout.

This conversation reframes leadership development as a clarity problem—not a resilience problem—and offers a strategic lens for physicians navigating promotion, leadership roles, and long-term career direction in their first decade of practice.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a full written summary of these insights.

If you are interested, book a call HERE, designed to help physicians in their first 5 years of practice chart a personalized, strategic path to promotion, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This course is designed to help you intentionally set up your clinical practice, understand academic finances, build a research or education portfolio, establish a national reputation, and create a promotion-ready career narrative. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and build a path to your version of success.

Join us to start your career with clarity rather than drift.

Key Points:

1. The Invisible Transition from Trainee to Faculty (0:00 – 2:00)
Why early attending life feels harder than expected
What medicine prepares you for—and what it does not
The abrupt loss of structure after training ends

2. When Decision-Making Becomes the New Skill Gap (2:00 – 3:45)
The challenge of moving from responder to decision-maker
Why many physicians have never been asked what they want
How vague success metrics create overwhelm

3. Values, Time, and Career Alignment (3:45 – 5:45)
Why copying a mentor’s path often fails
The importance of aligning values with how time is spent
Understanding what promotion committees actually evaluate

4. Leadership Roles, Tracks, and Career Sequencing (5:45 – 7:45)
Different leadership paths in academic medicine
Why “watch and learn” no longer works
How unexamined yeses lead to career drift

5. Burnout Reframed as Ambiguity (7:45 – 9:15)
Why burnout is often a clarity problem
The limits of self-care and resilience solutions
The cost of not knowing what work actually counts

6. The Power of Strategic Clarity (9:15 – 11:15)
Why clarity—not wellness programs—drives career progress
Choosing leadership roles that advance rather than stall careers
Regaining agency over your professional trajectory

7. Why This Is Not a Personal Failing (11:15 – 12:45)
How academic medicine fails to teach career strategy
Why hard work alone does not guarantee advancement
The role of strategic mentorship and coaching

8. Designing Your Career by Intentional Choice (12:45 – End)
Identifying decisions made by default rather than design
Building a multi-year plan aligned with your track and values
Why the leadership gap is real—and solvable

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (Apple Podcasts and Spotify).

If you are interested in getting in touch or suggesting future topics, you can:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Why Doing Great Work Is Not Enough to Get Promoted

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman breaks down one of the most misunderstood truths in academic medicine: promotion is not a reward for effort. It is an evaluation of coherence, clarity, and impact. Using real examples from faculty CVs and promotion committees, Stacey explains why excellent work can still stall—and how to align your work so it actually advances your career.

No need to take notes—check out the accompanying blog for a written summary of the framework and examples discussed in this episode.

If you’re interested in strategic guidance on promotion planning, academic identity, and building a coherent career narrative, reach out to Medical Mentor Coaching using the links below.

Key Points

1. Why “You’re Doing Great Work” Can Be Misleading (0:00 – 1:55)
Why reassurance without direction can quietly derail promotion
The difference between performance and progress

2. Promotion Committees Don’t Evaluate Effort (1:55 – 3:20)
What committees are actually looking for: clarity, coherence, and narrative
Why invisible labor and day-to-day excellence don’t translate on paper

3. The Missing Academic Narrative (3:20 – 5:10)
Why strong CVs still fail when there’s no clear focus
How over-delivering across too many areas dilutes impact

4. Knowing Your Track and Criteria (5:10 – 6:55)
Why many faculty don’t know their promotion track or requirements
The importance of reading—and understanding—your institution’s criteria

5. Promotion Is a System, Not a Judgment (6:55 – 8:30)
Why promotion is an evaluation framework with rules and precedent
How guessing your way through promotion is costly

6. The Three Signals Committees Look For (8:30 – 10:20)
Clear academic identity
Impact beyond your home institution
Time structured for advancement

7. Turning Effort Into Signal (10:20 – 11:45)
How talks, publications, and service should reinforce one another
Why strategy—not more work—changes trajectories

8. How to Apply This Now (11:45 – End)
Define what you want to be known for
Audit your work against promotion criteria
Choose alignment over accumulation

Summary

Promotion in academic medicine is not about working harder—it’s about working with intention. Committees need to clearly articulate what you are known for, why it matters, and how your work fits together. When effort is aligned with a coherent narrative, promotion becomes legible, defensible, and achievable.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite podcast app.

If you’d like to connect or suggest future topics:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach

• Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching

• Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 

• Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

You Don’t Have a Time Management Problem — You Have a Priority System Failure

In this episode of the Medical Mentor Coaching podcast, Dr. Stacey Ishman challenges one of the most common assumptions early-career physicians make: that feeling behind is a time problem. Drawing from real coaching examples and lived experience in academic medicine, she explains why the real issue is a missing or misaligned priority system—and how that quietly derails careers, promotions, and fulfillment.

This conversation is especially relevant for physicians in their first 10 years of practice who look successful on paper but feel stalled, reactive, or frustrated underneath it all.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a written summary of these insights.

If you are interested in structured support to build a focused, sustainable academic career, keep reading for ways to connect.

Key Points:

1. It’s Not About Time (0:00 – 2:20)

• Most physicians do not have a time management problem—they have a priority and boundary problem

• Clinics are full, inboxes are overflowing, and goals keep getting deferred

• The assumption that “next year will be different” rarely holds true

2. What Your Calendar Reveals (2:20 – 3:15)

• “My days are full, but my priorities are not on there”

• A time audit shows what is actually being valued

• Building a national reputation requires visible, consistent focus—not scattered effort

3. Why Giving Up Discretionary Time Doesn’t Work (3:15 – 4:10)

• Seeing one more patient does not fix a broken system

• Sacrificing academic or protected time creates short-term relief without long-term progress

4. Urgency vs. Importance (4:10 – 6:00)

• Without a priority system, everything feels urgent

• Reactive work becomes all of your work

• Important but non-urgent work must come first or it never happens

5. Delay Is Not Neutral (6:00 – 7:15)

• Postponing strategic work compounds over time

• Promotion delays, unfocused CVs, and persistent frustration are common downstream effects

6. Looking Successful While Feeling Stuck (7:15 – 8:30)

• Leadership roles and committee work can mask internal dissatisfaction

• Burnout often appears here—but it’s a signal, not the root problem

7. The Three Types of Work You’re Juggling (8:30 – 10:30)

• Deep work: writing, research, thinking, creating

• Collaborative work: teaching, mentoring, teamwork

• Reactive work: email, EMR, administrative tasks

• A real priority system creates boundaries for all three

8. A Coaching Example: Permission, Not Clarity (10:30 – 12:30)

• A surgeon who knew exactly what he cared about—but hadn’t protected time for it

• The missing piece was permission to treat academic time as non-negotiable

• Alignment restored momentum and meaning

9. A 90-Day Reset (12:30 – 14:00)

• Stop asking how to fit more in

• Decide what actually needs time and space this quarter

• Protected time + a clear framework changes everything

Summary

This episode reframes productivity struggles in academic medicine and offers a more honest diagnosis: without a clear priority system, physicians inherit everyone else’s agenda. Dr. Ishman outlines why working harder isn’t the answer—and how intentional focus, protected time, and aligned priorities are what actually move careers forward.

If you are interested in getting structured support around priorities, promotion strategy, and career direction, join us for the 90-Day Strategy Sprint or explore additional resources at Medical Mentor Coaching.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

If you’d like to get in touch or suggest future topics:

● DM on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Stop Trying to Write Manuscripts at 7pm After a Full Clinic Day

Your calendar may look efficient, but if your energy is misaligned, your output will suffer. In this episode, Dr. Ishman breaks down why late-night writing sessions fail—and how aligning your work with your brain’s natural rhythms is essential for sustainable academic success.

No need to take notes—visit the blog for a full summary of key insights.

If you’re interested in working with Academic Medicine Strategy Group, visit www.amedsg.com  to learn more about our programs designed to help you build a clear, strategic path to promotion, research, and career advancement.

Key Points:

[00:00:00] Time Management Isn’t Enough
A well-structured calendar can still fail if it ignores cognitive limits—energy, not time, drives meaningful output.

[00:01:00] Your Brain Has Predictable Limits
Cognitive performance fluctuates throughout the day, and high-level academic work requires peak executive function—not leftover energy.

[00:02:00] Nighttime Work Is Biologically Mismatched
Late evening writing sessions clash with your brain’s lowest performance window, leading to slower, lower-quality output.

[00:03:00] Chronic Sleep Deprivation Is a Hidden Career Risk
Even mild, consistent sleep loss significantly impairs cognition—often without you realizing it.

[00:04:00] You Can’t Outwork Cognitive Impairment
Sleep-deprived performance declines mirror real-world risks, including increased errors and reduced efficiency.

[00:05:00] Match Work to Energy Levels
High-demand tasks (writing, research) belong in peak hours; administrative work should be reserved for low-energy periods.

[00:06:00] Recovery Is a Strategic Priority
Sleep and downtime are not optional—they are essential for sustaining high-quality academic output over time.

[00:07:00] Build an Energy-Aware Workflow
Track your energy patterns, protect peak hours for deep work, and create intentional recovery to support long-term success.

Summary:
Your academic success depends on more than discipline—it depends on alignment. When you match high-impact work with peak cognitive capacity and prioritize recovery, you produce better work in less time. For early-career physicians, this shift is not just helpful—it’s career-defining.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Academic Medicine Strategy Group Podcast on your favorite platform.

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:
● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me at the website at www.amedsg.com

If Deep Work Only Happens After Everything Else, It Will Never Happen

Early-career academic physicians are often told to “be more productive,” but rarely given a system that actually supports meaningful progress. This episode breaks down why deep work—the kind that drives promotion and career advancement—rarely happens by accident, and how to redesign your schedule to make it possible.

No need to take notes—visit the blog for a full summary of key insights.

If you’re interested in working with Academic Medicine Strategy Group, visit www.amedsg.com  to learn more about our programs designed to help you build a clear, strategic path to promotion, research, and career advancement.

Key Points:

00:00 – Why Deep Work Doesn’t Happen by Default
Deep work only happens when it’s intentionally scheduled. If it’s left for “after everything else,” it will consistently get crowded out by reactive demands

00:01 – This Is a Structural Problem, Not a Discipline Problem
Lack of progress on manuscripts or grants isn’t about willpower—it’s about a weekly structure that doesn’t protect career-advancing work.

00:03 – Deep Work vs. Shallow Work in Academic Medicine
Shallow work (emails, meetings, admin tasks) fills most calendars, while deep work (writing, analysis, curriculum design) is what actually builds a career—but requires uninterrupted focus.

00:04 – Why Fragmented Time Doesn’t Work
Switching tasks destroys focus—each interruption can cost up to 10–23 minutes of recovery time, making short, scattered blocks largely ineffective for meaningful work.

00:06 – Busyness Is Not Productivity
Academic culture often rewards responsiveness and visibility, but inbox zero and meeting attendance don’t translate into promotion or scholarly output.

00:09 – Two Scheduling Strategies That Actually Work
The most practical approaches are:

• Bimodal: Blocking full or half days for deep work
• Rhythmic: Building a consistent daily deep work habit
  Both require intentional time-blocking and protection.

00:11 – Protecting Deep Work Like Clinical Time
Deep work must be scheduled, labeled specifically, and treated as non-negotiable—just like clinic or OR time—to prevent it from being taken over by other demands.

00:15 – Audit, Focus, and Measure What Matters
Track how your time is actually spent, define your scholarly niche, and measure success by hours of uninterrupted deep work—not just outputs like publications.

Summary:

Deep work is not about working harder—it’s about working differently. For early-career academic physicians, career advancement depends on intentionally designing a schedule that protects the work that matters most. When you shift from reacting to your calendar to structuring it, your output—and your trajectory—changes.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Academic Medicine Strategy Group Podcast on your favorite platform.

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:
● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me at the website at www.amedsg.com

Why Your Best Cognitive Hours Are Wasted on Email (And What to Do About It)

Early-career academic physicians often feel busy all day but still struggle to make meaningful progress on the work that drives promotion. This episode breaks down why that happens—and how misallocating your highest-energy hours to reactive tasks like email is quietly stalling your career. You’ll learn a practical framework to take back control of your time and start moving your academic work forward.

No need to take notes—visit the blog for a full summary of key insights.

If you’re interested in working with Academic Medicine Strategy Group, visit www.amedsg.com  to learn more about our programs designed to help you build a clear, strategic path to promotion, research, and career advancement.

Key Points:

[00:00:00] The Real Time Problem in Academic Medicine
It’s not about lacking time—it’s about treating all work as equal when different tasks require different levels of cognitive energy.

[00:01:00] The Three Types of Work Framework
Academic work falls into three categories: deep work, collaborative work, and reactive work—each requiring different structures and boundaries.

[00:02:00] Why Deep Work Drives Promotion
High-impact tasks like writing, research, and curriculum development require uninterrupted focus and are critical for career advancement.

[00:03:00] The Trap of Reactive Work (Email, EMR, Admin)
Reactive tasks feel urgent and endless, often consuming the day without contributing meaningfully to long-term academic progress.

[00:06:00] Why Most Schedules Are Backwards
Faculty often prioritize reactive and collaborative work first, leaving deep work fragmented or pushed to evenings and weekends.

[00:07:00] The Career-Changing Shift: Schedule Deep Work First
Blocking protected time during peak cognitive hours for meaningful work can dramatically accelerate productivity and promotion.

[00:10:00] Practical Strategies to Reclaim Your Time
Batch meetings, limit email checks, turn off notifications, and assign specific blocks for reactive work to protect focus.

[00:13:00] A Simple Weekly Experiment
Schedule one protected deep work block, batch meetings, and track how often distractions interrupt your focus.

Summary:

If your best cognitive hours are spent on email and low-impact tasks, your academic progress will always feel slower than it should. By intentionally prioritizing deep work and restructuring how your time is allocated, you can shift from constant busyness to meaningful productivity—building a clear, strategic path toward promotion and career fulfillment.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Academic Medicine Strategy Group Podcast on your favorite platform.

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:
● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me at the website at www.amedsg.com

You Don’t Have a Time Problem. You Have a Decision Problem

Early-career physicians often feel like they’re running out of time, yet still falling behind on the work that actually moves their careers forward. In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman reframes the problem: it’s not about finding more time, it’s about making better decisions about where your time and energy go. This shift is critical for building a sustainable path to promotion, research, and meaningful academic impact.

No need to take notes—visit the blog for a full summary of key insights.

If you’re interested in working with Academic Medicine Strategy Group, visit www.amedsg.com  to learn more about our programs designed to help you build a clear, strategic path to promotion, research, and career advancement.

Key Points:

[00:00–00:03] The Myth of “Not Enough Time”
Feeling behind isn’t due to lack of effort. Physicians are working hard, but often not on the work that actually advances their careers.

[00:03–00:05] Reactive Work vs Strategic Work
Most physicians operate in reactive mode—handling urgent tasks—while delaying high-impact work like manuscripts, grants, and career planning.

[00:05–00:07] Motion vs Progress
Being busy and productive doesn’t equal career advancement. Strategic output, not activity, is what drives promotion and reputation.

[00:07–00:09] Decision Fatigue Is the Real Bottleneck
The constant micro-decisions in academic medicine drain cognitive energy, leaving little capacity for deep, meaningful work.

[00:09–00:11] You Can’t “Find” Time—You Allocate It
Every hour is already assigned. The key is intentionally allocating time to what matters most for your career trajectory.

[00:11–00:13] The Three Types of Work That Define Your Career

• Reactive work: urgent, externally driven
• Collaborative work: necessary but scheduled around others
• Deep work: high-value, career-defining work that requires focus

[00:13–00:16] Protecting Deep Work Time
Strategic work requires protected, uninterrupted time blocks. Treat this time like clinic—non-negotiable and essential.

[00:16–00:18] A Practical System to Start This Week
Identify one meaningful project, schedule a dedicated block, define exactly what you’ll do, and track whether it actually happens.

Summary:
The real barrier to career progress isn’t time—it’s unstructured decision-making. When you shift from reacting to intentionally allocating your energy toward deep, strategic work, you create momentum that compounds over time. For early-career physicians, this is the difference between staying busy and actually building a career that advances.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Academic Medicine Strategy Group Podcast on your favorite platform.

If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please:
● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Contact me at the website at www.amedsg.com

In this episode of the Academic Medicine Strategy Group, Dr. Stacey Ishman welcomes her first guest under the podcast’s new direction as part of the Academic Medicine Strategy Group—Dr. Chrissie Ott. Together, they explore how coaching transforms physician careers, why burnout is often misunderstood, and how emerging tools like AI can reshape clinical workflows.

This conversation is especially relevant for physicians in their first 10 years of practice who are navigating competing demands, questioning sustainability, and looking for more effective, fulfilling ways to build their careers.

No need to take notes—just check out the Blog for a full summary of these insights.

If you are interested in my Academic Accelerator Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach or email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, establish a national reputation, and create a personalized promotion plan. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and build a path to your version of success.

Join us to take control of your career early.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Evolution of the Podcast (0:00 - 1:00)
Overview of the transition from coaching business to Academic Medicine Strategy Group
Introduction of Dr. Chrissie Ott and her unique career path

2. A Nontraditional Career Path in Medicine (1:00 - 2:30)
From academic medicine to diverse clinical roles
Building a portfolio career aligned with personal values
Transition into physician coaching through wellness leadership

3. Why Physicians Need Coaching (4:00 - 6:00)
Coaching as a proactive tool—not remediation
Recognizing hidden burnout patterns (irritability, cynicism, frustration)
Expanding awareness of what is possible in a medical career

4. Coaching as a Force Multiplier in Academic Medicine (6:00 - 7:30)
Faculty applying coaching tools directly to trainees
Example: Sphere of control vs. influence vs. concern
Ripple effect from faculty development to learner growth

5. The Mindset Shift: From Constraint to Possibility (5:00 - 6:30)
Challenging limiting beliefs about career paths
Realizing flexibility within a medical degree
Developing more supportive internal thought patterns

6. AI and the Future of Physician Workflows (8:30 - 10:30)
Introduction to AI tools for documentation (e.g., ambient scribes)
Moving from resistance to adoption of AI in clinical practice
AI as a bridge to efficiency, not replacement of clinical judgment

7. The Real Problem: Time-Work Mismatch (12:30 - 14:30)
Understanding the structural issue behind documentation burden
“If you’re seeing 25 patients with hours of charting, the system is broken”
Physicians as the “elasticity” absorbing system inefficiencies

8. Charting, Perfectionism, and Energy Management (10:30 - 12:30)
The cost of delayed documentation (50 cents vs. $50 energy analogy)
Perfectionism as a hidden driver of inefficiency
Practicing “good enough” documentation to reclaim time

9. Boundaries, Freedom, and Discomfort (9:30 - 10:30)
Setting boundaries in patient encounters
“The cost of freedom is a little discomfort”
Learning to leave the room and complete notes in real time

10. Balancing Multiple Roles and Real Life (15:30 - 18:00)
Navigating clinical work, coaching, family, and leadership roles
The importance of presence over perfection
Short, deeply present moments vs. long distracted time

11. Practical Strategy: How to Slow Down (20:00 - 21:00)
Using breathwork to regulate stress in real time
2:1 exhale-to-inhale technique for nervous system reset
Applying this tool anywhere—in clinic, OR, or meetings

12. Coaching Opportunities and AI Integration (21:00 - End)
Upcoming coaching lab on AI-assisted charting
Combining mindset work with practical tools
How to connect with Dr. Chrissie Ott

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite platform (Apple and Spotify).

If you are interested in getting in touch or suggesting future topics, please:

● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach
● Message me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching 
● Email me at staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Visit the website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

If this conversation resonated with you, I highly recommend exploring Dr. Chrissie Ott’s work.

Her podcast, Solving for Joy, offers thoughtful, practical insights on physician wellbeing, mindset, and sustainable careers in medicine.

🎧 Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solving-for-joy/id1762515642 
🌐 Learn more about her work: https://chrissieottmd.com/

Summary

This episode reframes coaching as an essential strategy—not a last resort—for physicians navigating early career challenges. Dr. Chrissie Ott highlights how burnout often presents subtly, how mindset shifts unlock new possibilities, and how tools like AI can dramatically reduce administrative burden.

The central message is clear: many of the struggles physicians face are structural, not personal. By combining coaching, boundary-setting, and smarter workflows, physicians can reclaim both their time and their energy—building careers that are not only successful, but sustainable.

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman introduces the transition from Medical Mentor Coaching to the Academic Medicine Strategy Group, reflecting a broader mission to support not just individual physicians, but entire departments and institutions.

Joined by Chief of Education Kirsten, this conversation explores the hidden gaps in academic medicine, the cost of misalignment, and how intentional career design can transform physician satisfaction, retention, and culture.

No need to take notes—just check out the Blog for a summary of these insights.

If you are interested in programs designed to help early-career physicians build a clear path to promotion and career alignment, DM on Instagram @sishmancoach or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com .

This work is designed to help physicians create intentional careers, align their time with their values, build academic success, and develop a sustainable and fulfilling path in academic medicine.

Join us to build a career you actually want to stay in.

Key Points: 1. Introduction & Name Change (0:00 – 1:30)

• Announcement of the transition to Academic Medicine Strategy podcast
• Why the name change matters
• Expansion from individual coaching to broader institutional impact

2. Why the Brand Evolved (1:30 – 3:30)

• Moving beyond coaching into:
  • Department-level strategy
  • Institutional partnerships
• Growth into a team-based model
• Focus on culture change, not just individual success

3. Dr. Ishman’s Background & Mission (3:30 – 5:00)

• Career journey in academic medicine
• Passion for mentoring and career development
• Recognizing the gap between:
  • Who physicians are
  • What their careers actually become

4. The Hidden Gap After Training (5:00 – 6:30)

• Transition from structured training → unstructured faculty life
• Lack of guidance on:
  • Promotion
  • Time management
  • Career direction
• The challenge of learning to say yes—and no

5. Misalignment as a System Problem (6:30 – 8:30)

• Physicians entering medicine with one vision
• Reality not matching expectations
• Many assume leaving is the only solution
• High financial and cultural cost of turnover

6. The Role of Culture & External Perspective (8:30 – 11:00)

• Importance of culture interviews and honest feedback
• Increased vulnerability when speaking to someone outside the system
• Departments often unaware of real pain points
• Opportunity to improve systems—not just individuals

7. Coaching Impact: Small Shifts, Big Change (11:00 – 12:30)

• Reframing overwhelm into manageable strategies
• Validation as a powerful first step
• Change doesn’t require:
  • Leaving academic medicine
  • Major life disruption

8. From Coaching to Faculty Development (12:30 – 14:30)

• Transition to group and departmental impact
• Shared learning amplifies results
• Creating a common language across teams
• Coaching insights spreading organically within departments

9. Growth Through Word-of-Mouth (14:30 – 15:30)

• Expansion driven by physician referrals
• Individual success leading to department-level engagement
• “Raving fans” bringing the work into institutions

10. Vision for the Future (15:30 – 17:00)

• Expanding into:
  • Medical schools
  • Faculty onboarding
• Creating scalable support systems
• Helping physicians start their careers with intention

11. Early Career Challenges & Uncertainty (17:00 – 18:30)

• Lack of clarity in first years of practice
• Navigating independence without guidance
• Normalizing uncertainty and self-doubt

12. Supporting Leaders & Departments (18:30 – 20:00)

• Role of department chairs in retention
• Key strategies:
  • Time management
  • Promotion planning
  • Aligning work with interests
• Coaching as a high-ROI investment

13. Leadership, Culture & Feeling Seen (20:00 – 21:30)

• Many professionals feel invisible in their roles
• Importance of:
  • Validation
  • Agency
  • Ownership
• Culture as the primary driver of retention

14. Mission & Closing Thoughts (21:30 – End)

• Academic medicine as a lifelong dream for many physicians
• Goal: help physicians stay and thrive, not leave
• Invitation to individuals and departments to seek support
• Vision of a system where physicians feel:
  • Seen
  • Heard
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Summary

This episode marks a pivotal shift from individual coaching to a broader, systems-level approach in academic medicine. The conversation highlights a critical truth: physicians are not struggling بسبب lack of motivation—but بسبب lack of structure, alignment, and support.

By focusing on intentional career design, culture transformation, and scalable faculty development, the Academic Medicine Strategy Group aims to redefine how institutions support physicians—so they can build careers they actually want to stay in.

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite platform.

If you are interested in getting in touch or suggesting topics:

● DM on Instagram @sishmancoach
● Message on LinkedIn: Medical Mentor Coaching
● Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com 
● Website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome 

Turning Busyness Into Promotion Series (5 of 5): Protect Deep Work Like It Is Clinic

In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman closes out her 5-part series on turning busyness into promotion by focusing on one of the most overlooked drivers of academic advancement: protected deep work. She explains why working harder isn’t the problem—and how failing to intentionally schedule and defend cognitively demanding work is what keeps many early-career physicians stuck.

This episode offers a practical framework to help physicians reclaim their time, reduce fragmentation, and create consistent, meaningful progress toward promotion—without sacrificing their lives outside of medicine.

No need to take notes—check out the blog for a full breakdown of these strategies.

If you are interested in the Academic Accelerator Course designed to help physicians in their first 5 years of practice build a clear path to promotion, DM @sishmancoach on Instagram or email staceyishmancoach@gmail.com.

This course helps you build your academic foundation, develop your niche, create a promotion plan, and establish a national reputation—all while aligning your career with your values.

Join us to take control of your trajectory.

Key Points:

1. Introduction: The Problem Isn’t Effort (0:00 - 1:00)

• Many physicians feel stuck despite being busy, productive, and constantly working
• The real issue is lack of strategy and alignment—not lack of effort
• Overview of the series and focus on execution through deep work

1. Why Academic Work Must Be Protected (1:00 - 2:00)

• Academic work is the reason many physicians chose this path
• It should be treated as essential—not optional
• Promotion depends on meaningful academic output, not just activity

1. What Deep Work Means in Academic Medicine (2:00 - 3:30)

• Defined as focused, distraction-free, cognitively demanding work
• Includes writing manuscripts, grants, curriculum development, and strategic planning
• Requires uninterrupted time to reach full cognitive potential

1. The Cost of Fragmentation and Context Switching (3:30 - 4:30)

• Frequent interruptions reduce efficiency and quality of work
• “Attentional residue” makes it hard to refocus after switching tasks
• Academic environments are inherently fragmented, making deep work harder

1. Why Busyness Doesn’t Lead to Promotion (4:30 - 5:30)

• Reactive work (emails, meetings, quick tasks) dominates the day
• Deep work gets pushed to the margins and becomes inconsistent
• Promotion is built on depth, not scattered productivity

1. Personal Experience: Learning the Hard Way (5:30 - 6:30)

• Early career filled with productivity but lacked direction and cohesion
• Feedback revealed a lack of clear academic narrative
• Shift to protected deep work improved output and clarity

1. Finding Your Optimal Deep Work Time (6:30 - 7:30)

• Early morning, late night, or midday—depends on individual energy patterns
• Key is identifying and consistently using your “best brain” time
• Environment should minimize interruptions

1. Treat Academic Time Like Clinic Time (7:30 - 8:30)

• Deep work should be non-negotiable and protected
• Avoid giving academic time away for meetings or clinical overflow
• Most “urgent” requests are not true emergencies

1. Practical Strategies for Deep Work (8:30 - 10:00)

• Use time blocking and pre-commitment to reduce decision fatigue
• Start small (even 25 minutes) and build consistency
• Consider structured techniques like Pomodoro if needed
• Define a specific output goal for each session

1. Building a Sustainable Deep Work System (10:00 - 11:00)

• Aim for longer blocks (ideally 2 hours) when possible
• Schedule at least one larger session weekly
• Track outcomes (what you produced), not just time spent
• Focus on discipline and consistency, not perfection

1. Final Takeaway: Make Promotion Predictable (11:00 - 12:00)

• Busyness is automatic; deep work must be intentional
• Protecting academic time is essential for long-term success
• Treat deep work like clinic: scheduled, defended, and non-negotiable

Please RATE, REVIEW, and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (Apple Podcasts and Spotify).

If you are interested in getting in touch or suggesting topics:

• DM on Instagram: @sishmancoach
  ● Message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching
  ● Email: staceyishmancoach@gmail.com
  ● Website: www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome

Summary:
This episode emphasizes that promotion in academic medicine is not driven by how busy you are, but by how effectively you protect and use your time for deep, meaningful work. By treating academic work with the same level of priority as clinical responsibilities, early-career physicians can create consistent output, reduce overwhelm, and build a clear, sustainable path to advancement.