Frances Mei and Lauren Umstattd, MD deliver a poignant and introspective episode from the tranquil poolside of Napa Valley, where they reflect on the evolution of their friendship and the trials of their surgical careers. Their dialogue is imbued with warmth and sincerity as they revisit the early days of their acquaintance, recalling the significance of their meeting during a residency graduation party. This recollection serves as a foundation for their exploration of the arduous journey through surgical training, filled with both triumphs and tribulations. The authenticity of their friendship shines through as they exchange heartfelt sentiments, celebrating each other's resilience and accomplishments in a demanding profession.

As the conversation unfolds, Frances Mei and Lauren dive into the societal challenges faced by female surgeons, discussing the often-overlooked emotional toll that surgical residency can impose. They share personal anecdotes that illuminate the pressures of maintaining professionalism amidst the chaos of rigorous training, while also highlighting the importance of solidarity among women in medicine. Their candid reflections serve to foster a greater understanding of the unique experiences of female surgeons, encouraging dialogue about the necessity of support systems in navigating their careers.

In a delightful interlude, the pair introduces a drinking game centered on their shared experiences, which adds a playful element to their serious discourse. This blend of humor and sincerity enriches the episode, showcasing the dynamic between the two speakers while emphasizing the significance of camaraderie in their professional lives. As they look ahead to future endeavors, Frances and Lauren express their commitment to uplifting the voices of women in surgery, advocating for a community where open conversations about challenges and successes can flourish. By sharing their journey, they inspire listeners to embrace the complexities of their own paths, fostering a sense of connection and empowerment within the medical community.

Host: Frances Mei Hardin, MD

Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

Following Frances Mei on Instagram & Tiktok @francesmeimd

Connect with Lauren on Instagram & Tiktok @lauren_umstattd_md

And subscribe to @HippocraticCollective on Youtube for all of the other shows the Hippocratic Collective has to offer.

France Mei and Tony Chin-Quee discuss their exclusive Dropout Club - 2 ENTs who finished residency, worked a single 3-year contract, then left clinical medicine for good. They explore the culture around leaving medicine and what the reactions and feedback have been for Frances Mei - leading to a round of 'Ex-Surgeon Reads Mean Tweets.' Finally they wrap up with Spooky Ghost Stories from the Hospital.

Surgeon, Interrupted is a new podcast taking you behind the scenes of Frances Mei's journey from young surgeon with promise and a full career in surgery ahead of her, to a drastic pivot out of medicine and into something completely different. This is a show for anyone who has felt uncertain about their career of life choices and wants to see and hear exactly how one person is starting the journey. This is will be a real time account of how the decisions were made, the wins and losses along the way, and everything in between.

Host: Frances Mei Hardin, MD

Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

Follow Frances Mei on Instagram & TikTok @francesmeimd

Connect with Tony Chin-Quee on Instagram @wheyouat and find his best-selling book 'I Can't Save You' here - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676638/i-cant-save-you-by-anthony-chin-quee/9780593418888

And Subscribe to @HippocraticCollective on Youtube for all of the other great shows the Hippocratic Collective has to offer.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context

02:42 The Decision to Leave Medicine

05:37 Mean Tweets and Public Perception

08:51 Partnerships and Personal Choices

11:42 Navigating Criticism and Expectations

14:41 The Journey of Medical Training

17:42 Finding Fulfillment Outside of Medicine

20:53 Addressing Misconceptions and Regrets

23:38 The Nature of Quitting and Resilience

29:37 The Decision to Move On

35:51 The Impact of Vulnerability

52:35 Life After Medicine

In the first episode of Surgeon Interrupted, Dr. Frances Mei Hardin shares her journey of leaving a career in surgery after years of feeling unsafe and unfulfilled in her work environment. She discusses the toxic culture of residency, the pressures of being a physician, and her path to self-discovery and personal growth. Frances Mei emphasizes the importance of breaking free from societal expectations and finding fulfillment in life beyond medicine.

Surgeon, Interrupted is a new podcast taking you behind the scenes of Frances Mei's journey from young surgeon with promise and a full career in surgery ahead of her, to a drastic pivot out of medicine and into something completely different. This is a show for anyone who has felt uncertain about their career of life choices and wants to see and hear exactly how one person is starting the journey. This is will be a real time account of how the decisions were made, the wins and losses along the way, and everything in between.

Host: Frances Mei Hardin, MD

Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

Follow Frances Mei on Instagram & TikTok @francesmeimd

And Subscribe to @hippocratic-collective on Youtube for all of the other great shows the Hippocratic Collective has to offer.