Explore every episode of the podcast Surgeons at The Table

Send us a text

Dr. Joseph Coselli, Executive Vice Chair in the Department of Surgery, Professor and Cullen Foundation Endowed Chair in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Program Director of the Aortic Surgery Fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine, reflects on the profound impact of mentorship on his career, the evolution of surgical techniques in aortic surgery, and the role of instinct in the operating room. He shares his journey of developing surgical skills, the challenges of innovation, and the importance of resilience and self-care in maintaining a long and impactful career.

With insights on leadership, adaptability, and the significance of respecting patients and their families, Dr. Coselli offers valuable lessons for aspiring surgeons and established professionals alike. This episode captures the essence of a master surgeon who has not only shaped his field but also inspired countless future leaders in surgery.

 Takeaways

• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping leadership styles.
• Continuous evaluation and follow-up of patients can lead to research opportunities.
• Innovation is essential for evolving surgical specialties.
• Instinct in surgery develops with experience and deep interest.
• Confidence in surgical skills can be built through practice and exposure.
• Resilience is key in managing the challenges of a surgical career.
• Self-care is important for maintaining long-term health in surgery.
• A master surgeon is committed to continuous improvement.
• Patients and their families are integral to the surgical process.
• Embracing change is vital for future surgical leaders.

Send us a text

Dr. Herbert Chen, Professor of Surgery and Surgeon-in-Chief at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System, and Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at UAB School of Medicine, reflects on his journey from being inspired by his father, a retired orthopedic surgeon, to becoming a trailblazer in academic surgery. He highlights how mentorship and a pivotal research year shaped his career and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing education and mentorship in surgical leadership. Dr. Chen also explores the adaptability required in leadership, the value of practical experience over formal degrees, and aligning career goals with institutional expectations.

Takeaways

• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping one's career in surgery.
• Effective leaders in surgery must prioritize education and mentorship for trainees.
• Leadership requires a mindset focused on serving others rather than personal ambitions.
• Practical experience is more valuable than formal degrees in leadership roles.
• Young faculty should focus on building their expertise before seeking leadership positions.
• Alignment between personal career goals and job expectations is essential.
• NIH funding can enhance leadership prospects but is not the only path to success.
• Choosing a specialty should be based on passion rather than potential for leadership.

Send us a text

Dr. Justin Dimick, Professor of Surgery at the University of Michigan School of Medicine and Chair of the Department of Surgery in the University of Michigan Health System, shares his journey to becoming a pioneering leader in surgical innovation. In this episode, he reflects on the transformative role of mentorship in shaping his career, the importance of high standards in surgical practice and research, and the evolving culture of surgery, emphasizing inclusivity, humility, and the critical role of feedback in leadership development. Dr. Dimick also explores the balance between financial sustainability and technological advancements in healthcare, underscoring the value of strategic planning and innovation in navigating modern challenges. He offers aspiring surgical leaders lessons on defining their purpose, embracing self-reflection, and developing a strategic vision to thrive in a complex and dynamic field.

 Takeaways

• Understanding one's 'why' is crucial for leadership and personal development.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping careers and providing support during challenging times.
• High standards and impactful work are essential in surgical research and practice.
• Cultural shifts in surgery are moving towards inclusivity and humility.
• Financial decision-making in surgery requires a balance between value and innovation.
• Strategic financial planning is crucial for long-term success in healthcare organizations.
• Forecasting in healthcare is often inaccurate but necessary for budgeting and planning.
• Future surgical leaders must embrace development, inclusivity, and high standards.
• Feedback and self-reflection are key components of leadership growth.

Send us a text

Dr. Oscar Joe Hines, Chair, Executive Director, and Professor of the Department of Surgery at UCLA, shares his remarkable journey in surgery, from early inspirations to becoming a nationally recognized leader in the field. In this episode, Dr. Hines discusses the qualities essential for leadership in surgery, including emotional intelligence, time management, and the ability to balance professional and personal responsibilities. Drawing on his extensive experience, he highlights the unique advantages of staying at one institution versus moving for career growth, the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, and making timely decisions as a leader. Dr. Hines offers invaluable advice for aspiring surgeons, emphasizing the need for vision, kindness, and structured approaches to leadership while advocating for the growth and success of their teams. 

Takeaways

• Dr. Hines was inspired to pursue surgery due to its combination of immediate solutions and the need for extensive medical knowledge.
• Leadership roles in surgery can significantly alter one's career trajectory and provide opportunities for personal growth.
• Time management and scheduling are crucial for balancing professional and personal life.
• Staying at one institution can offer unique advantages, but moving can also provide personal and career growth.
• Emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership, especially in high-stakes environments like surgery.
• Listening to diverse opinions is important, but leaders must also make timely decisions.
• Learning from mistakes and having a structured approach to leadership can enhance team dynamics.
• Leadership in surgery requires vision, kindness, and the ability to advocate for team members.
• Patience and attention to all aspects of a career are vital for aspiring leaders.

Send us a text

Dr. Amir Ghaferi, Professor of Surgery & Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the Medical College of Wisconsin, and President & CEO of Physician Enterprise Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin, shares his experience establishing a bariatric surgery program at the VA, and how leadership roles have shaped his career. He dives into his research on quality and surgical care, highlighting the importance of fostering high-reliability systems in healthcare. Additionally, Dr. Ghaferi provides insights into the financial side of surgery, explaining revenue models like the dollar-per-RVU approach, tracking performance against budgets, and the value of a team-based approach to financial planning. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the courage to embrace new opportunities.

Takeaways

• Dr. Ghaferi's journey highlights the importance of adaptability in career paths.
• Establishing a new program requires both passion and perseverance.
• Building coalitions is essential for successful healthcare initiatives.
• Leadership roles can significantly shape one's career trajectory.
• Research in health services can bridge gaps in surgical care.
• A culture of high reliability is vital for improving patient outcomes.
• Budgeting is a critical skill for surgical department management.
• Collaboration among healthcare teams is key to effective patient care.
• Budgeting is a collaborative effort involving multiple expertise.
• Budgeting is more of an art than a science.
• Tracking performance requires understanding the story behind the data.
• Re-forecasting budgets is essential for accuracy.
• Emotional intelligence is key for future surgical leaders.
• Leaders should embrace opportunities and challenges.
• Saying yes more than no can lead to personal growth.

Send us a text

Dr. Bruce Perler, the Julius H. Jacobson II Professor and Vice Chair Emeritus for Clinical Operations and Financial Affairs in the Department of Surgery at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and School of Medicine, shares his journey from a middle-class upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in vascular surgery and academic leadership. With insights into his surgical training, mentorship from figures like Dr. David Sabiston, and his experiences at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Perler discusses how passion, strong mentorship, and relationship-building have shaped his approach to leadership. He reflects on the essential role of financial management in healthcare and the importance of clinician-administrator collaboration, offering valuable advice for aspiring leaders. His journey is a testament to dedication, resilience, and a commitment to advancing the field.

Takeaways

• Dr. Perler's upbringing instilled a strong work ethic.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in surgical training.
• The importance of teaching and engaging with students.
• Building relationships with colleagues is vital for success.
• Transitioning to academic surgery can be serendipitous.
• Internal candidates face unique challenges in leadership roles.
• Changing institutions can facilitate career advancement.
• Understanding the business side of medicine is essential.
• Collaboration between clinicians and administrators is key.
• Passion for one's work leads to fulfillment and success.

Send us a text

Dr. Thomas Varghese, Professor, Chief, Section of General Thoracic Surgery at the University of Utah, and Chief Value Officer at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, joins us to share his inspiring journey in surgery. In this conversation, he discusses the evolving roles of mentorship and leadership, stressing the importance of resilience and continuous learning. Dr. Varghese highlights how he forged his path by seeking mentorship and embracing challenges, ultimately contributing to initiatives like the ACS Strong for Surgery program and the HCI-IMPACT Center.

He offers powerful advice on building a strong culture in medical institutions, emphasizes the role of effective communication, and breaks down quality improvement as a systematic approach to advancing patient care. Dr. Varghese’s story is a must-listen for aspiring surgical leaders, providing valuable insights on guiding others, creating lasting impact, and navigating the journey to leadership in medicine.

Takeaways

• Dr. Varghese's journey began with a fascination for teamwork in surgery.
• Mentorship in surgery is evolving to be multi-directional and involves curating a circle of mentors.
• Training future leaders in surgery is essential for building a strong culture in medical institutions.
• Leadership in surgery is defined by the ability to guide and positively influence others.
• First impressions matter!
• Establishing a cancer center requires a deep understanding of organizational principles and mentorship.
• Quality improvement is a systematic process that aims for measurable improvements in patient care.
• Effective communication is crucial for surgeons to convey information to patients and teams.
• Aspiring surgeon leaders should seek feedback and continuously strive for improvement.

Send us a text

Dr. Rebecca Minter, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, and Vice Chair of the American Board of Surgery, Board of Directors, reflects on her journey in surgery and shares her perspectives on impactful leadership, emphasizing the importance of influence over titles. She discusses challenges in performance evaluations, the need for strong mentorship, and her dedication to Entrustable Professional Activities and competency-based training in surgical education. Dr. Minter offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders in surgery, guiding listeners on how to navigate their careers and make meaningful contributions to the field.

Takeaways

• Leadership is about influence, not titles.
• Everyone can be a leader at any level.
• Networking is crucial for career advancement.
• Self-awareness is essential for growth.
• Faculty assessment needs improvement.
• Mentorship should be intentional and structured.
• Competency-based training is the future of education.
• Feedback is vital for leadership development.
• Aspiring leaders should focus on their impact.

Send us a text

Dr. Thomas Scalea, the Honorable Francis X. Kelly Distinguished Professor of Trauma Surgery, Physician-in-Chief of the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, and Director of the Program in Trauma at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, joins us to discuss his unconventional path to becoming a leader in trauma care. Reflecting on pivotal career moments, Dr. Scalea highlights innovative approaches in trauma management and the importance of empowering teams to foster excellence in patient care. He shares insights on leadership, from conflict resolution and negotiation to the essential role of “managing up” in a high-stakes environment. Dr. Scalea’s emphasis on challenging the status quo and pursuing one’s passions offers invaluable advice for aspiring surgeons and leaders.

 Takeaways

• Dr. Scalea's journey to surgery was unplanned and filled with pivotal moments.
• Innovative techniques in trauma care can lead to remarkable patient recoveries.
• Effective leadership requires listening and leading by example.
• Improving patient care involves protocolizing processes and enhancing communication.
• Quality assurance in complex healthcare systems relies on empowering skilled individuals.
• Conflict management starts with understanding others' perspectives.
• Influence as a leader is built through a willingness to help and support others.
• Aspiring leaders should challenge the status quo and pursue what they love.

Send us a text

Dr. Charles Yeo, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and Senior Vice President and Chair of Enterprise Surgery at Jefferson Health, shares his journey to becoming a leader in pancreatic surgery. He reflects on the pivotal role of mentorship, the resilience needed during his transition to faculty, and the evolution of pancreatic surgery over the years. Dr. Yeo dives into the complexities of healthcare systems, discussing the funds flow model and the importance of preserving academic missions. For aspiring leaders, Dr. Yeo highlights the need for emotional intelligence and foundational skills essential to succeed in surgery.

Takeaways

• Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping Dr. Yeo's career path.
• The evolution of pancreatic surgery has been significant over the years.
• Early challenges in faculty positions require resilience and adaptability.
• Leadership in surgery is about advancing others and setting them up for success.
• Effective communication is vital in surgical leadership.
• Balancing work and personal life is a continuous challenge for surgeons.
• Healthcare systems benefit from regional facilities for patient care and education.
• Quality assurance requires delegation and oversight in large healthcare systems.
• Future surgical leaders must develop emotional intelligence and sound surgical skills.

Send us a text

Dr. Robert McIntyre, John and Cynthia Schultz Professor and Chief of the Division of GI, Trauma, and Endocrine Surgery, as well as Vice Chair of Finance in the Department of Surgery at the University of Colorado, reflects on how personal trauma influenced his career path and discusses the transition from resident to attending surgeon, highlighting the new responsibilities that come with leadership.

He emphasizes the importance of soft skills—especially listening—and how leadership opportunities often arise from being prepared and open to them. Dr. McIntyre shares his insights into balancing multiple roles in a surgical career, the value of collaboration, and the power of building trust within a team.

Dr. McIntyre also highlights the complexities of revenue cycle management and the significance of compliance in billing practices.


 Takeaways

• Dr. McIntyre's journey into surgery was influenced by personal trauma.
• The transition from resident to attending brings new responsibilities.
• Leadership opportunities often arise from being prepared and open to them.
• Soft skills, especially listening, are crucial for effective leadership.
• Balancing multiple roles can be achieved through collaboration and teamwork.
• Influence in leadership comes from valuing team input and building trust.
• Documentation is key to successful revenue cycle management.
• Timely filing and clean claims are critical to avoid denials.
• Regular feedback and education are essential for compliance and improvement.
• Future leaders should focus on management and finance skills alongside clinical expertise.

Send us a text

Dr. Parsia Vagefi, Professor and Executive Vice Chair of Strategy and Finance in the Department of Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center, and Chief of the Division of Surgical Transplantation, shares his journey into transplant surgery and the importance of mentorship in shaping his career. Specializing in liver transplantation and hepatobiliary surgery, he discusses the rewards and challenges of the field, emphasizing teamwork in achieving successful outcomes. Dr. Vagefi also provides insights into leadership, adaptability, and transparency, while highlighting the financial aspects of running a surgical department, optimizing care pathways, and value-based care. He offers advice to trainees, encouraging them to focus on their interests and prioritize open communication in navigating challenges.

 Takeaways

• Mentorship and early exposure to surgery are crucial in shaping a career in surgery.
• Effective leadership requires adaptability, presence, open communication, and transparency.
• When considering career transitions, it is important to assess the opportunities and challenges of the new environment and weigh them against the current situation.
• Preparing for leadership roles in healthcare administration may involve reading relevant literature, optimizing care pathways, and focusing on value-based care. Be good stewards of resources and find opportunities to increase efficiency.
• Consider the interconnectedness of clinical care, research, and education in building a successful department.
• Focus on your interests and commit to becoming an expert in your chosen areas
• Transparency and open communication are key in managing financial challenges

Send us a text

Dr. Keith Lillemoe, W. Gerald Austen Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School and Surgeon-in-Chief at Massachusetts General Hospital, shares his journey to becoming a leader in the field. He dives into the critical role of mentorship, the key traits of effective leadership, and how surgical education and quality improvement are evolving. Dr. Lillemoe highlights the importance of balancing leadership duties while fostering a culture of safety and excellence. He offers practical strategies for developing leadership skills, engaging faculty in quality initiatives, and sustaining progress, even in resource-constrained environments. His advice for aspiring leaders centers on mastering time management and making strategic decisions.


 Takeaways

• Leadership in surgery requires understanding multiple missions.
• Trainees should seek leadership opportunities early in their careers.
• National leadership roles enhance institutional leadership capabilities.
• Setting educational standards is crucial for surgical departments.
• Assessing leadership qualities starts early in residency.
• Quality improvement is a priority in surgical departments.
• Engaging faculty in quality initiatives is essential for success.

Send us a text

Dr. Allan Kirk, Professor and Chair of Surgery at Duke University School of Medicine shares his unique journey from time in the military to becoming a distinguished transplant surgeon and scientist. He offers deep insights into the evolution of leadership in surgery and reflects on the critical importance of authenticity, teamwork, and balancing innovation with financial sustainability. Dr. Kirk provides invaluable advice for future surgical leaders, emphasizing personal development, subject matter expertise, and the power of genuine leadership.

Takeaways

• Leadership is about developing expertise, not seeking authority.
• Military experience provided valuable resources and encouragement.
• Encouragement in a workplace is crucial for growth.
• Innovation must be balanced with financial sustainability.
• Effective leaders listen more than they speak.
• Authenticity is essential for positive influence as a leader.
• Building a strong team is foundational for departmental success.

Send us a text

Dr. Martha Zeiger is an internationally renowned endocrine surgeon at the National Cancer Institute, NIH, and is an expert in the molecular aspects of thyroid cancer. She is the Founder and Dean of Endocrine Surgery University and has served as President of both the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons and the American Thyroid Association. In this episode, Dr. Zeiger shares her inspiring journey as a pioneering woman in surgery, discussing her early experiences in medical school without female role models, and her rise to leadership. She reflects on her time in the Navy, her unique surgical experiences, and the challenges and triumphs along the way. Dr. Zeiger also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and leadership in medicine, as well as her efforts in developing programs for surgeon-scientists, while offering her vision for the future of surgical leadership. 

Takeaways

• Her love for science and helping people drove her to medicine.
• She was the first woman to graduate from her surgical residency program.
• Her first surgical patient was a gooney bird.
• Dr. Zeiger served as the only woman surgeon on an aircraft carrier.
• She was part of the surgical team during President George HW Bush's inauguration.
• She discusses her framework for conceiving and implementing new programs at a national level.
• Dr. Zeiger encourages aspiring surgeons to embrace their careers with passion.

Send us a text

Dr. Timothy Pawlik, Professor and Surgeon-in-Chief at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, shares valuable insights on self-awareness, mentorship, and the power of continuous learning. He highlights the critical role professional societies play in career advancement and underscores the importance of collaboration in research. Dr. Pawlik also offers advice for aspiring leaders, encouraging them to discover their passion while remaining patient in their career development.

Takeaways

• Leadership is a purposeful journey that requires mentorship and continuous learning.
• It's important to lead where you currently are, regardless of your position.
• Aim to make an impact!
• Success in research comes from collaboration and having a supportive team.
• Professional societies provide opportunities for impact and career advancement.
• Research infrastructure is crucial for new faculty to succeed in their careers.
• Patience is essential in both personal and professional growth.

Send us a text

Dr. Cristina Ferrone, Professor and Chair of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, shares her journey in surgical oncology and the influence of her mentors. She emphasizes the importance of finding a niche area of expertise and building collaborations with colleagues. Dr. Ferrone also discusses the significance of career planning, skill enhancement, and mentorship in faculty professional development. She encourages individuals to reflect on what brings true fulfillment and to make incremental milestones in all areas of their work. Lastly, Dr. Ferrone highlights her contribution to changing the paradigm of locally advanced pancreas cancer.

Takeaways

• Find mentors who are inspirational and have a strong impact on your career path.
• Focus on a niche area of expertise and collaborate with colleagues in different disciplines.
• Reflect on what brings true fulfillment and make incremental milestones in all areas of your work.
• Build meaningful relationships with mentors through working together on projects.
• Do the right thing for your patients, colleagues, and trainees, regardless of whether someone is watching.

Send us a text

Dr. Steven Wexner, Professor of Surgery and Emeritus Chair of the Department of Colorectal Surgery at The Cleveland Clinic Florida, and Editor-in-Chief of Surgery, shares his journey into surgery, the importance of leadership, and the essence of effective collaboration in healthcare. He discusses his experiences, challenges, and the significance of mentorship in shaping future leaders in surgery. Dr. Wexner emphasizes the need for passion, dedication, and the ability to adapt in order to build a lasting legacy in the field.

Takeaways

• Leadership is based on respect and trust, not titles.
• Effective leaders lead by example and are passionate about their work.
• Balancing responsibilities is easier with a supportive team.
• Navigating challenges requires conflict resolution and compromise.
• Collaboration across departments enhances healthcare outcomes.
• Building relationships is key to successful mentorship.
• Setbacks are opportunities for growth and learning.
• A lasting legacy is built through mentorship and influence.

Send us a text

Dr. Gilbert Upchurch, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Florida College of Medicine, reflects on his remarkable career journey, mentorship, and the complexities of surgical leadership. He underscores the pivotal role that mentors and role models have played in shaping his career and guiding his development. As a leader, Dr. Upchurch emphasizes the value of education and mentorship, both of which are integral to his mission. Despite the demanding nature of running an entire department, Dr. Upchurch has managed to balance his responsibilities, not only excelling in the operating room but also producing landmark papers, authoring surgical textbooks, and mentoring dozens of trainees. He shares insights on how he has juggled these commitments, strategically setting priorities to maintain a thriving career while managing the pressures of a constantly evolving healthcare landscape. Finally, he speaks candidly about the challenges of surgical leadership, including adapting to external forces and navigating the changing financial realities of healthcare, all while keeping family a top priority. 

Takeaways

• Choose a career path based on role models and mentors who inspire and guide you.
• Education and mentoring are essential in surgical leadership, and it is important to find joy in what you do.
• Managing a busy schedule requires setting priorities and finding a balance between work and family.
• Being a surgical leader involves responding to external forces and navigating the changing financial landscape of healthcare.

Send us a text

Dr. Kevin Bozic, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care at Dell Medical School, shares his journey in surgery and the importance of understanding the financial aspects of surgical care. He emphasizes the role of mentors and role models in obtaining leadership positions and the value of getting an MBA. Dr. Bozic also discusses the importance of innovation and the need to focus on health rather than just healthcare.

 Takeaways

• Mentors and role models are crucial for obtaining leadership positions.
• Getting an MBA can be beneficial for leadership positions, but it's important to choose the right program.
• Understanding the financial aspects of surgical care is important for surgeons.
• Innovation is essential for progress in healthcare.
• Health should be the focus, not just healthcare.
• Clinical reputation is important for aspiring leaders.
• Leadership requires being a servant leader and putting the interests of others first.
• Moving between institutions can provide diverse perspectives and opportunities for growth.
• Measuring and improving health should be the goal of healthcare systems.
• Leadership involves being comfortable with failure and taking risks.

Send us a text

Dr. Andrew Cameron, a Professor of Surgery and Surgeon-in-Chief at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, shares his journey to becoming a surgeon and his experiences in the field. He discusses the influence of his father, who is a giant in surgery, and the impact it had on his career choice. Dr. Cameron talks about the challenges he faced and the importance of adaptability in his career. He also highlights the financial challenges of being in an academic medical center and the need for strong financial management skills. Additionally, he discusses the role of different specialties in leadership positions and the importance of being a reasonable human being in the field of medicine. Dr. Andrew Cameron discusses the importance of following one's passion in choosing a surgical specialty and not making decisions based on potential future benefits. He emphasizes the need to do what you love and be fully committed to patient care. Finally, he talks about the concept of a 'triple threat' and the importance of finding the right balance between clinical practice, research, and leadership roles.
 
 Takeaways

• Adaptability is crucial in navigating the challenges and changes in the field of medicine.
• Financial management is a significant challenge in academic medical centers.
• Different specialties can contribute to leadership roles in surgery.
• Being a reasonable human being is a fundamental aspect of being a successful surgeon. Follow your passion and do what you love in your surgical specialty
• Serve your institution in meaningful ways that align with your interests and expertise
• Participation in national societies is no longer the only path to academic advancement
• Balance clinical practice, research, and leadership roles to achieve success
• Hire individuals who fit the needs of the institution and avoid internal competition

Send us a text

Dr. Fredric Pieracci, Professor and Director of Surgery at Denver Health Medical Center, shares his journey into surgery and the impact of working with underserved communities. He emphasizes the importance of addressing healthcare disparities and striving for equity in surgical care. Dr.  Pieracci discusses his leadership style, which includes being a servant leader, practicing radical candor, and recognizing his privilege. He also highlights the value of mentorship and having a leadership coach. Dr.  Pieracci advises trainees and early career faculty to document their experiences and understand the compensation models in their institutions.

Takeaways

• Addressing healthcare disparities and striving for equity in surgical care is crucial.
• Being a servant leader, practicing radical candor, and recognizing privilege are important aspects of effective leadership.
• Mentorship and having a leadership coach can greatly contribute to career development.
• Documenting experiences and understanding compensation models are valuable for trainees and early career faculty.

Send us a text

Dr. Mary Killackey, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at Tulane University School of Medicine, discusses her journey to becoming a surgeon and a leader in the field. She emphasizes the importance of mentors and sponsors in obtaining leadership positions and highlights the role of organic relationships in mentorship. Dr. Killackey also shares her experience in creating a positive work environment and the impact of professionalism on department culture. She provides advice for trainees and early career faculty who aspire to be surgical leaders, including the importance of establishing a strong reputation and being open to opportunities. Lastly, she discusses the metrics used to evaluate the effectiveness of a department chair.

Takeaways

• Mentors and sponsors play a crucial role in obtaining leadership positions.
• Creating a positive work environment requires setting expectations, holding people accountable, and fostering a culture of professionalism.
• Trainees and early career faculty should focus on establishing a strong reputation and being open to opportunities.
• Metrics used to evaluate the effectiveness of a department chair include academic productivity, program growth, resident and student evaluations, and involvement outside the department.
• Building relationships with influential individuals and participating in leadership programs can increase chances of being nominated for leadership positions.

Send us a text

In the debut episode of Surgeons at the Table, Dr. Richard Schulick, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Colorado, shares his journey into surgery, the influences that shaped his career, and the challenges he faced transitioning into leadership roles. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring surgical leaders, insights into the balance between clinical practice, research, and administration, and the importance of mentorship in building a successful career in surgery!

Takeaways

• The combination of surgery and oncology offers the opportunity to cure patients and improve their quality of life.
• Mentorship is crucial for aspiring surgical leaders, providing guidance and opening doors.
• Building a positive culture within an organization is essential for success.
• Balancing clinical practice, research, and administration is a challenge but necessary for growth and impact.
• Centers of excellence play a vital role in providing high-quality care, advancing research, and training the next generation of surgeons.