Stimulus - Learn Tools to Crush It in Your Medical Career

Rob Orman, MD
Stimulus - Learn Tools to Crush It in Your Medical Career

Do you work in medicine and love patient care but feel like parts of the job don’t measure up? Stimulus equips you with tools, mindset shifts, and strategies they didn’t teach you in training—so you can practice medicine like a boss, flourish in your career, and not let it crush your soul. Emergency physician and executive coach Rob Orman, MD, goes in-depth with thought leaders on how to avoid burnout, improve communication, lead without drama, and stay calm amidst the storm. Don’t just suck it up, think differently.

  1. 4 NOV

    Mel Herbert on Mediocrity, Forgiveness, and the Cost of Holding Grudges

    Holding onto a grudge can feel strangely delicious, but that sense of righteousness often comes at a steep cost. In this episode, EMRAP founder Mel Herbert joins Rob to unpack a rift that’s lingered for over half a decade—and explore the way forward to healing.  We also break down why achievement does not demand extraordinary genius or talent but a shift in how we view our perceived mediocrity. Why the idea that we need to be exceptional to succeed fuels imposter syndrome and keeps us from valuing the potential in our "average" qualities. We examine the pressing challenges of modern medicine, where corporate pressures often clash with the need for human connection, and how clinicians can reclaim compassion and autonomy. Finally, we address the role of forgiveness and communication in personal and professional growth, revealing how setting boundaries and letting go of resentments can transform relationships and renew purpose. 💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡 Guest Bio:  Dr. Mel Herbert is an acclaimed emergency medicine educator, entrepreneur, and speaker renowned for his innovative approach to accessible medical education. An Australian-born, U.S.-trained physician, Mel founded EM:RAP, a leading platform providing engaging, high-quality education for emergency care providers globally. His dedication to equitable access led to EM:RAP GO, a nonprofit extending emergency medical training to underserved communities worldwide. Mel’s philosophy, captured in his debut book The Extraordinary Power of Being Average, champions the idea that anyone can achieve remarkable things through dedication and resilience. Currently a Professor of Emergency Medicine at UCLA, Mel also serves as a consultant on the upcoming TV series The Pitt on MAX. We Discuss: The Power of Embracing MediocrityThe Myth of Extraordinary and Why Determination Outshines TalentTurning Weaknesses into StrengthsThe Evolution of Medical EducationThe Squeeze of Modern MedicineEmotional Intelligence in Medical PracticeForgiveness and Personal GrowthA Dust-Up and Its AftermathThe Weight of Sadness and ForgivenessThe Power of CommunicationBoundaries and Forgiveness – Healing Without Compromising SafetyEntrepreneurial Challenges and Lessons: Balancing Vision and Collaboration Mentioned in this episode: Never Lame. Never Spammy. Always Fresh. If you’d like a few minutes of career-elevating curated kickassery delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter Awake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up? Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited. 🎓 P.S. Yes, this is a CME event! Awake + Aware Bend 2025 5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice Easier Scripts for your least favorite conversations. The quick and dirty guide to calling consults. A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work. My favorite documentation templates. Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death. Free Resources Link

    52 min
  2. 21 OCT

    The Fine Print of Crushing It | Small actions for big impact

    It's often not the big power moves that change our lives; it's the small, intentional actions. By focusing on micro-skills, even the most ambitious goals become achievable. In this episode, we talk with Drs. Adaira Landry and Resa E. Lewiss about their new book, MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact.  We explore how financial literacy, self-presentation, concise communication, and allyship can be developed as essential micro-skills for a successful career. We also navigate workplace dynamics, including recognizing and addressing issues like mansplaining and bropropriating. Finally, we discuss the nuances of learning when to say “yes” or “no,” and the art of timely, respectful communication. 💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡 Guest Bios:  ADAIRA LANDRY, MD, MEd, is an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School who studied and trained at University of California, Berkeley; University of California, Los Angeles; New York University; and Harvard with almost a decade of experience mentoring students and early-career professionals. She is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and award winning mentor. She co-founded Writing in Color, a nonprofit that teaches the craft of writing. RESA E LEWISS MD is a professor of emergency medicine, TEDMED speaker, TimesUp Healthcare founder, designer, entrepreneur, and award winning educator, mentor, and point-of-care ultrasound specialist. She studied at Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the NIH Howard Hughes Research Scholars Program, Harvard Emergency Medicine, and Mount Sinai St. Luke’s Roosevelt. She hosts the Visible Voices Podcast, amplifying content in the healthcare, equity, and current trends spaces. They have written for CNBC, Fast Company, Forbes, Harvard Business Review, Nature, the Philadelphia Inquirer, Science, Slate, STAT News, Teen Vogue, VOGUE, and USA Today. We Discuss: The Concept of Micro-SkillsFinancial Literacy and Debt ManagementPerforming a Debt Inventory to Understand the Landscape of Your DebtAppearance Matters and Personal Hygiene is a Skill That Doesn't Always Come NaturallyTiming and Context are Critical When Checking In or Providing FeedbackWe’re Trained to be Cumbersome in Communication When What We Need is to be SuccinctDon't Bury The LeadRole-Playing to Improve CommunicationLearning from Experience and Modeling. Do we Leave Too Much Up to Chance?Micro-Skills for Self-Care and Burnout Prevention: The Art of Saying NoResponding to Emails Promptly and Respecting Deadlines are Force MultipliersAddressing Mansplaining and BropropriatingThe Power of AllyshipRecommended Books Mentioned in this episode: 5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice Easier Scripts for your least favorite conversations. The quick and dirty guide to calling consults. A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work. My favorite documentation templates. Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death. Free Resources Link Awake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up? Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited. 🎓 P.S. Yes, this is a CME event! Awake +

    58 min
  3. 7 OCT

    How to be a Good Boss and Navigate a Bad One

    It’s hard to be a good boss and even harder to work under a bad one. This episode breaks down how to begin as a new leader with little to no experience, the critical errors leaders often make, and what to do when your boss is suboptimal. We explore how quick fixes, lack of empathy, and poor communication can alienate teams and stifle growth. Leaders who ignore the importance of relationships, skip proper onboarding, or impose their own agendas without collaboration set themselves up for failure. We also discuss how future writing can help leaders clarify their vision and avoid these pitfalls. Finally, we offer strategies to recognize and correct these missteps, creating a more effective and cohesive leadership style. 💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡 Guest Bio:  Karl Pister is president and founder of The Coaching Group, with over 34 years of experience in executive coaching, conflict management, and leadership development. He’s also the host of the Healthcare Leadership Podcast, which focuses on leadership, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. We Discuss: The Practice of Future WritingThe Logic Behind Future WritingDaily Writing Routine and Its ImpactPremeditation Malorum | Best vs. Worst Case Scenario VisualizationMaladaptive vs. Adaptive PerfectionismWhat Daily Future Writing Looks Like—Doesn’t It Get Repetitive?Write for the Future in the Present TenseHow to Be a Successful New Leader With an Underperforming TeamTom Peters' Top 5 of Excellent LeadershipYour Team Knows What Action Needs To HappenHow Do You Know When You Have Enough Information To Start Taking Action?Identify Your InfluencersHandling Someone Else’s Emergencies as a New LeaderDay One as a New Physician Leader, You’re Prodded From Multiple Sides About a Pressing Issue. What Do You Do?Dealing with Difficult BossesBuilding Positive Relationships With a Bad LeaderA Bad Leader Is Often Insecure. Becoming an Asset to Them Rather Than an Opponent Can Make Your Job a Lot Better Books mentioned in this episode: The Inner Game of Tennis by Tim GallowayAtomic Habits by James ClearThe Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry PosnerWhat Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall GoldsmithGetting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William UryPossible by William UryNegotiating the Non-Negotiable by Daniel ShapiroThe First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded by Michael D. Watkins Mentioned in this episode: 5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice Easier Scripts for your least favorite conversations. The quick and dirty guide to calling consults. A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work. My favorite documentation templates. Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death. Free Resources Link Awake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up? Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited. 🎓 P.S. Yes, this is a CME event! a...

    49 min
  4. 23 SEPT

    Tax Secrets Every Doctor Should Know

    Navigating the complexities of taxes can be daunting, especially for medical professionals with unique financial situations. From maximizing retirement contributions to understanding the benefits of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), strategic tax planning is essential. In this episode, we explore various tax strategies that physicians can leverage to optimize their financial outcomes. Finally, we delve into practical tips for managing multiple income streams and setting up your business on the right side of the IRS. 💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡 Guest Bio: Alexis E. Gallati is the founder and Lead Tax Strategist at Cerebral Tax Advisors, Cerebral Wealth Academy, and the author of the book Advanced Tax Planning for Medical Professionals. She has over 20 years of experience in high-level strategic tax planning and multi-state tax preparation and has trained at the highest level, holding two master’s degrees. Alexis grew up in a family of physicians and is married to a private practice physician. That’s why she understands how hard medical professionals work to get where they are and why she provides simple and accessible tax solutions tailored to busy physicians. We Discuss: Maximizing Retirement ContributionsUnderstanding 403b and 457b PlansWhy Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are Tax Advantageous Compared with Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)Immediate vs. Deferred Medical Expense PaymentsHow to Make Smart HSA ChoicesTurboTax: When to DIY and When to Go ProA Primer on LLCs and S-Corps for PhysiciansBalancing Multiple Income StreamsThe Benefits of 1099 IncomeRetirement Plans for 1099 IncomeSEP IRA vs. Backdoor RothRenting Your House to Your BusinessCan I Write Off My Vacation?Starting a Business on the Right Side of the IRS Mentioned in this episode: Awake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up? Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited. 🎓 P.S. Yes, this is a CME event! Awake + Aware Bend 2025 Never Lame. Never Spammy. Always Fresh. If you’d like a few minutes of career-elevating curated kickassery delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter 5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice Easier Scripts for your least favorite conversations. The quick and dirty guide to calling consults. A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work. My favorite documentation templates. Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death. Free Resources Link

    55 min
  5. 9 SEPT

    Is Your Hospital Toxic? | The Critical Role of Psychological Safety

    Psychological safety is a crucial factor in creating a healthy and effective workplace. It involves a shared belief that the team is safe for interpersonal risk-taking. This episode delves into the intricacies of psychological safety, particularly in high-stakes environments like medicine. We explore how rigid hierarchies, cultural biases, incivility, and unrealistic expectations can hinder psychological safety and how fostering a culture of openness and vulnerability can lead to better team performance and resilience. We explore various strategies to enhance psychological safety, including setting clear expectations, modeling vulnerability, and showing gratitude. Finally, we provide actionable tools for leaders to create a psychologically safe team environment. 💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡 Guest Bio: Kim Bambach, MD  is an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at The Ohio State University and Assistant Director of the Kiehl Resident Wellness Endowment  We Discuss: What is “psychological safety”?Google's Project AristotleWhy psychological safety is important, even on a SWAT teamThreats to psychological safetyThe Korean Air Crash of 1997Contributors to trainees feeling psychologically unsafeCollegiality between specialties and its impact on psychological safetyThe Psychological Safety ScaleSix key leadership behaviors to create a culture of psychological safety Mentioned in this episode: Awake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up? Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited. 🎓 P.S. Yes, this is a CME event! Awake + Aware Bend 2025 Never Lame. Never Spammy. Always Fresh. If you’d like a few minutes of career-elevating curated kickassery delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter 5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice Easier Scripts for your least favorite conversations. The quick and dirty guide to calling consults. A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work. My favorite documentation templates. Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death. Free Resources Link

    39 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Do you work in medicine and love patient care but feel like parts of the job don’t measure up? Stimulus equips you with tools, mindset shifts, and strategies they didn’t teach you in training—so you can practice medicine like a boss, flourish in your career, and not let it crush your soul. Emergency physician and executive coach Rob Orman, MD, goes in-depth with thought leaders on how to avoid burnout, improve communication, lead without drama, and stay calm amidst the storm. Don’t just suck it up, think differently.

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