Muted in Medicine

Saba Fatima MD
  • 5.0 (7)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Muted in Medicine, the podcast that amplifies the often-silenced voices in healthcare. Join us as we dive into the hidden struggles and unspoken challenges faced by healthcare professionals. From the trauma of litigation and the weight of PTSD to the impact of errors and the journey towards mental health, we explore the raw and real experiences that shape the medical field.Subscribe to stay updated on our latest episodes and join the conversation as we break the silence and shed light on the crucial issues affecting healthcare professionals. Together, we can foster a more open, supportive, and resilient medical community.Follow us on Social Media:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MutedinMedicine. Contact us: mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

  1. 18H AGO

    E40:From Patient to Physician-Treating Eating Disorders After Lived Experience(w/Dr Melissa Shadoin)

    In this heartfelt interview, Dr. Melissa Shadoin shares with Host Dr Saba Fatima her personal journey with eating disorders, her passion for adolescent medicine, and insights into recognizing and treating eating disorders in youth. Discover how her experiences shape her compassionate approach to patient care and the importance of early intervention. Dr Melissa Shadoin is an Adolescent Medicine Physician specialized in treating eating disorders at the Kansas University School of Medicine- Wichita and an avid fan of taylor swift. #eatingdisorders ,  #AdolescentMedicine,  #mentalhealth ,  #medicaltraining  #Recovery ,  #Stigma,  #earlydetection ,  #patientcare  Takeaways: 1. Eating disorders are often misunderstood and stigmatized, which can hinder effective treatment and support. 2. Recognizing early signs and debunking myths about eating disorders can lead to better diagnosis and treatment. 3. The culture of perfectionism in medicine can contribute to silence and self-stigma among healthcare providers and patients. 4. Early intervention and family involvement are crucial in the treatment and recovery process. 5. The way healthcare providers and families talk about weight and health can significantly impact individuals with eating disorders. 6.  Curating social media to support recovery and mental health is essential in today's digital age. 7. Healthcare providers should strive to create safe and supportive environments for patients with eating disorders. 8. The episode offers practical advice for adolescents, parents, and clinicians navigating the complexities of eating disorders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eating Disorders 02:57 Personal Journey with Eating Disorders 05:55 The Intersection of Medicine and Personal Struggles 09:17 Choosing a Specialty in Adolescent Medicine 11:58 Stigma and Myths Surrounding Eating Disorders 15:09 Recognizing Early Warning Signs 18:04 Language and Weight Culture in Medicine 26:50 Navigating Weight and Health Conversations 31:54 Understanding Eating Disorders in Males 32:50 Parental Guidance for Eating Disorders 34:03 The Culture of Perfectionism in Medicine 37:31 Progress in Recovery Post-Residency 39:02 The Impact of Medical Culture on Eating Disorders 40:56 Shifting Focus from Appearance to Health 42:38 Advice for Pediatricians on Eating Disorders 44:34 Coping Strategies for Recovery 45:54 The Role of Social Media in Eating Disorders 47:05 A Message of Hope for Those Struggling 47:58 Proud Moments in Recovery 49:52 Compassion for Patients with Eating Disorders 51:15 Conclusion   The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    51 min

  2. MAR 9

    E39: Why Good Doctors Get Misunderstood in Court- A Trial Lawyer Explains

    In this insightful interview, Heather Hansen, a trial lawyer and communication expert for healthcare professionals along with host Dr Saba Fatima, shares strategies for physicians to improve courtroom and clinical communication, reduce lawsuits, and foster trust through authentic human connection. Heather Hansen is a premier expert in healthcare communication with over 20 years of experience defending providers and hospitals in medical malpractice litigation. She developed a specialized three-year curriculum for medical residents, teaching vital communication and advocacy tools. Heather has helped leaders from Harvard Business School, Google, and the American Medical Association leverage credibility, compassion, and charisma to lead effectively. A former trial attorney and TV anchor, Heather combines her legal expertise with a psychology degree and conflict-resolution training to build her trademarked communication systems. She has been featured on The Today Show, CNN, and MSNBC, and is the best-selling author of The Elegant Warrior: How to Win Life’s Trials Without Losing Yourself. Heather also hosts The Elegant Warrior podcast, consistently ranked among the top 100 business podcasts on Apple, helping clients navigate high-stakes conversations with grace and authority. takeaways Authentic human connection reduces lawsuits and improves care. Effective communication is a skill that can be learned and practiced. Changing perspective from 'defense' to 'storytelling' can influence courtroom outcomes. Small, mindful changes in clinical interactions build trust and reduce legal risk. keywords #medicalcommunication , #courtroom  #strategy  #physician-patient relationship,  #defense ,  #empathy  #medicine , #medicalmalpractice, #communicationskills ,  #healthcaretrust, #lawsuitprevention, physician stress management Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Communication Challenges 04:20 Understanding Physician Misunderstanding 07:17 The Impact of Courtroom Dynamics on Physicians 10:24 The Emotional Toll of Litigation on Physicians 13:21 Shifting Jury Perspectives 16:34 Overcoming Fear and Nervousness in Court 19:22 The Role of Identity in Legal Proceedings 22:08 Why Doctors Get Sued 25:15 The Importance of Compassion in Medicine 28:14 Preventing Lawsuits Through Effective Communication 31:54 The Importance of Patient Communication 35:50 Empathy and Compassion in Medicine 41:09 Navigating Depositions and Legal Challenges 49:20  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    55 min

  3. FEB 24

    E38:Leaving Medicine Without Shame-When Staying No Longer Fits(W/Dr Francis Mei Hardin)

    In this conversation,  Dr Frances Mei Hardin shares with Host Dr Saba Fatima, her journey from being a physician to exploring new career paths. She discusses the joy found in simple pleasures, the challenges faced during her medical training, and the decision to leave medicine. Frances emphasizes the importance of self-permission, overcoming shame, and the limiting mindset prevalent in the medical field. She encourages physicians to explore their identities beyond medicine and highlights the systemic issues within the healthcare system. The conversation concludes with insights on redefining success and the importance of taking ownership of one's career decisions. Frances Mei Hardin, MD, is an ENT surgeon, writer, and startup CEO whose work focuses on the hidden curriculum of medicine. She speaks with trainees and early-career physicians on practical skills rarely taught in formal training, including communication, self-advocacy, and navigating organizational dynamics. She is the co-founder of The Hippocratic Collective, a physician-led media company that advocates for cultural change in medicine via storytelling and community. Her debut memoir, Surgeon on the Edge (February 24, 2026), examines medical training from the inside out: tracing a path through burnout, reinvention, and the reclamation of agency. takeaways Leaving medicine can be a thoughtful decision. Physicians can outgrow their careers. Financial planning is crucial when leaving medicine. Expectations from family can pressure career choices. Residency experiences can significantly impact career satisfaction. The culture in medicine can lead to burnout. Shame and guilt are common feelings among physicians. Self-permission is essential for career changes. Physicians possess skills that are transferable to other fields. keywords #medicine,  #careerchange ,  #physicianburnout ,  #mentalhealth ,  #personalgrowth ,  #identity , self-permission,  #mindset , empowerment, work-life balance Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Leaving Medicine 07:07 The Decision-Making Process Behind Leaving Medicine 12:55 Navigating Shame and Societal Expectations 20:58 Reflections on Life After Leaving Medicine 50:58 Conclusion  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    51 min

  4. FEB 9

    E37:When “Hard” Becomes Harm-The Unspoken Reality of Residency Training(w/ Dr Kelly Cheung)

    In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Cheung and Dr Saba Fatima discuss the multifaceted challenges of residency, emphasizing the emotional toll, the struggle for work-life balance, and the importance of compassion in medicine. They explore the cultural expectations within medical training, the financial burdens faced by residents, and the need for supportive environments. The dialogue highlights the evolution of medical education and the necessity for a more humane approach to training future physicians. Dr Kelly Cheung is a geriatrics–palliative care fellow in a new two-year combined program at UCLA. She trained in internal medicine in the primary care track and attended medical school at VCU in Richmond, Virginia. She hopes to bring geriatrics and palliative care into both primary care and hospital settings, serving both resourced and under-resourced communities. Her professional passions include building age-friendly health systems and exploring the intersection of medical education and social media. Kelly grew up in Anaheim, California, in a trilingual, multigenerational immigrant household and was the first in her family to attend college at UC Irvine. Her opinions are her own and do not reflect those of her employer. Takeaways Residency is not just about long hours; it involves emotional and financial strains. Emotional regulation is crucial for coping with the challenges of residency. Balancing personal life and professional demands is a significant challenge for residents. Work hours in residency can be brutal, impacting mental health. The culture of toughness in medicine can be detrimental to resident well-being. Financial struggles and social isolation are common among residents. Compassion in medicine is essential for both patient care and personal fulfillment. The narrative around residency is changing with a new generation of physicians. Support from attendings can greatly impact resident experiences. Mental health and emotional well-being should be prioritized in medical training. keywords #residency , #medical  #training, emotional health, #worklifebalance , #compassion , #healthcare  culture, financial struggles, #medicaleducation , #mentalhealth , #physicianwellness  well-being Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kelly Chang and Her Journey 05:01 Reflections on Residency: Joys and Challenges 08:16 Balancing Personal Life and Residency 11:02 The Reality of Work Hours in Residency 13:52 Coping with Emotions in Medicine 16:59 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Patient Care 20:01 Changing Perspectives on Work-Life Balance 23:01 Financial Education in Medical Training 27:58 Navigating Residency Challenges 30:15 The Culture of Residency 32:01 Feedback and Evaluation in Medical Training 34:05 The Role of Attendings and Mentorship 37:08 Compassion in Medicine 42:14 Personal Stories and Emotional Resilience 45:05 Systemic Issues in Residency 47:20 Self-Care and Boundaries in Medicine 50:04 The Impact of Social Media on Medical Professionals 53:51 Conclusion  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    54 min

  5. JAN 28

    E36: Medical Child Abuse-An Uncomfortable Diagnosis(w/ Dr Rebecca Gill)

    In this conversation, Dr. Rebecca Gill, a pediatric hospitalist and expert in medical child abuse, discusses with host Dr Saba Fatima, the complexities of diagnosing and managing cases of Munchausen by proxy. She emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork, effective communication with families, and the emotional toll that such cases can take on healthcare providers. Dr. Gill shares her personal journey into this niche field, the challenges of identifying early red flags, and the significance of documentation in protecting both the child and the medical team. The conversation highlights the need for compassion, understanding, and collaboration in addressing these sensitive issues in pediatric care. Rebecca Gill, M.D., also known as Dr. Bex, is a distinguished pediatric hospitalist with over a decade of experience at Nemours Children’s Hospital. In addition to her clinical duties, Dr. Bex plays a pivotal role in shaping future medical professionals as an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, and she is actively involved in resident and medical student education. Dr. Bex is a recognized expert in medical child abuse/Munchausen by proxy, having presented her knowledge at prestigious conferences across the country. She is also a recurring contributor on the acclaimed podcast "Nobody Should Believe Me" which delves into compelling cases of medical child abuse and has garnered a significant following. Passionate about spreading awareness of medical child abuse, Dr. Bex actively advocates for victims and survivors through various initiatives, including as a Board member for the nonprofit organization, Munchausen Support, and as a member of the APSAC National Subcommittee on Munchausen by Proxy. takeaways • The emotional impact of medical child abuse on healthcare providers is significant. • Effective communication with families is crucial in managing suspicions of abuse. • Documentation should be thorough and objective to protect the child and the provider. • Identifying early red flags can help in preventing severe cases of medical child abuse. • A multidisciplinary approach is essential in addressing complex cases of Munchausen by proxy. • Physicians must balance compassion with the need to protect children from harm. • Social media and the internet can complicate the dynamics of medical child abuse cases. • Healthcare providers should be aware of their own biases and assumptions in these situations. • Shared experiences among providers can provide support and validation in difficult cases. • Advocating for the child sometimes requires being seen as the 'villain' by families. keywords medical #childabuse, #munchausenbyproxy #healthcare pediatric hospitalist, physician well-being, multidisciplinary teams, patient advocacy, emotional toll, communication in healthcare, documentation, early red flags #childabuseawareness #munchausen  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Medical Child Abuse 04:17 Understanding Munchausen by Proxy 07:16 The Impact on Healthcare Providers 10:18 Defining Medical Child Abuse 13:18 Exploring Causes and Motivations 16:22 Identifying Red Flags 19:15 Differentiating Between Real Symptoms and Abuse 22:11 Navigating the Diagnosis Process 25:13 The Role of Teamwor  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    1h 2m

  6. JAN 13

    E35: The Hidden Cost of Racism in Medicine – A Conversation with Dr. Pamela Buchanan

    In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Pamela Buchanan shares  with host Dr Saba Fatima her experiences and insights on the intersection of race and healthcare. She discusses the impact of racism on patient care, the importance of recognizing and addressing implicit biases, and the need for culturally competent care. Dr. Buchanan emphasizes the significance of listening to patients, advocating for their needs, and the challenges faced by healthcare providers of color. She also highlights the importance of mental health and self-care for physicians, particularly in the face of systemic racism and burnout. The conversation concludes with a call for systemic changes to promote racial equity in healthcare and the importance of compassion in the medical field. Dr Pamela Buchanan is a board-certified physician, speaker, and nationally recognized thought leader in mental well-being and health equity. With over 20 years of medical experience, she's a TEDx speaker known for her powerful talk on emotional flatline, where she shared the emotional toll of emergency medicine during the pandemic. She is the author of the Oxygen Mask Principle and a strong voice in the movement to prevent physician suicide. Her work in health equity challenges healthcare systems to listen better, reflect deeply, and deliver care that is truly inclusive. #healthequity, #racism in healthcare, maternal mortality, implicit bias, culturally competent care, #physicianwellness,  #mentalhealth, patient advocacy, racial disparities,  #DEI efforts takeaways Dr. Buchanan emphasizes the importance of joy in medicine and the lives she has touched. Racism in healthcare is still prevalent and affects patient outcomes. Maternal mortality rates for Black women are alarmingly high. Implicit biases can lead to mismanagement of pain in patients of color. Culturally competent care is essential for effective treatment. Healthcare providers must actively combat their biases. Compassion is crucial when dealing with racist comments from patients. Advocacy and allyship are important for career advancement in medicine. Mental health support is vital for healthcare providers. Systemic changes are needed to ensure equitable care for all patients. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Racism in Medicine 03:50 Personal Experiences with Racism 06:59 Impact of Racial Bias on Patient Care 12:03 Recognizing and Addressing Implicit Bias 13:17 Culturally Competent Care 15:30 Navigating Racism in Healthcare 18:04 Racism in Professional Advancement  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    40 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    E34: What We Carry — How Shame Shapes Our Identity In Healthcare(w/Dr Will Bynum)

    In this episode of Muted in Medicine, host Saba Fatima speaks with Dr. Will Bynum about the pervasive issue of shame in the medical field. Dr. Bynum shares his personal journey with shame stemming from a medical error during his residency, highlighting the emotional turmoil and isolation that often accompanies such experiences. The conversation delves into the cultural factors that perpetuate shame in healthcare, including perfectionism and the stigma surrounding vulnerability. Dr. Bynum emphasizes the need for open discussions about shame and the importance of creating supportive environments in medical education and practice. The episode concludes with reflections on how to navigate struggles in medical training and the role of grading and ranking in shaping self-worth among medical learners. In this conversation, Will Bynum and Saba Fatima explore the complexities of shame, its impact on personal growth, and the importance of shame competence in various contexts, including parenting and medical education. They discuss practical strategies for managing shame, recognizing it in others, and fostering a supportive environment that encourages self-compassion and emotional literacy. The dialogue emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding of shame as a universal human experience, particularly in professional settings. Will Bynum, MD, PhD is an Associate Professor of Family Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and a Veteran of the United States Air Force. He received his M.D. at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in 2010, completed his residency with the US Air Force and received his Ph.D. in Health Professions Education at Maastricht University in the Netherlands in 2023, where defended his thesis entitled “Out of the shadows: a qualitative exploration of shame in medical learners”, which was awarded best Doctoral Dissertation by the Association for Medical Education in Europe. He has published and spoken widely on the topic of shame and is Co-Founder and Co-Director of The Shame Lab, which conducts research, develops training, and delivers consultancy to advance constructive engagement with shame in professional practice takeaways Shame is a common yet invisible emotion in medicine. Medical errors can lead to feelings of isolation and shame. Human connection is a source of joy in medicine. Struggle is a normal part of the learning process. Perfectionism in medicine can exacerbate feelings of shame. Shame can hinder open communication among healthcare professionals. Creating supportive environments can help mitigate shame. Medical education often perpetuates a culture of shame. Grading and ranking can negatively impact self-worth. Engaging with shame can lead to personal and professional growth. You can hold them accountable to things that shame otherwise might have impeded accountability. Children need to learn about failure, but at what age? Instilling effort and self-worth in children is crucial. Authentic self-worth should not be tied to achievement. Shame competence is a set of skills we can learn. Shame is a distributed emotion that affects everyone. Recognizing shame in ourselves and others is essential. Self-compassion is a vital tool for managing shame. Treating ourselves with kindness can transform our experiences. Feeling shame is a sign of our hu  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    1h 4m

  8. 12/09/2025

    E33:Silence to Action-The Essential Role of Physicians in Healthcare Advocacy(w/Dr Jennifer Cowart)

    In this episode of Muted in Medicine,  Host Dr. Saba Fatima speaks with Dr. Jennifer Cowart about the critical role of advocacy in healthcare. They discuss the importance of physician advocacy, the barriers that prevent doctors from engaging in advocacy, and how physicians can get involved at local, state, and federal levels. Dr. Cowart shares her experiences with current healthcare issues, including rural access to care, food insecurity, and the impact of Medicaid cuts. The conversation also highlights the challenges posed by prior authorization processes in patient care, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and advocacy in the healthcare system. In this conversation, Jennifer Cowart discusses the evolving dynamics of hospital care, emphasizing the shift towards outpatient services and the challenges faced by families in providing care. The discussion also highlights the pressing issue of food insecurity, particularly its impact on children and families, and the importance of community support. Cowart advocates for healthcare workers, addressing workplace safety and the need for systemic reforms. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by rural healthcare providers, particularly regarding visa issues for international physicians. Cowart encourages healthcare professionals to engage in advocacy, providing practical steps for involvement while navigating the potential risks of political engagement. The discussion concludes with a hopeful outlook on future generations and their commitment to justice and equity in healthcare. Dr. Jennifer Cowart is a practicing academic hospitalist and Associate Professor of Medicine. She has more than ten years of experience in patient safety and quality improvement, which led her to develop an interest in healthcare policy and legislative advocacy. She has served on policy committees for Society of Hospital Medicine and Society of General Internal Medicine. Her opinions expressed here are her own and not representative of her employer nor any medical society of which she is a member.  takeaways Advocacy is essential for improving patient care. Physicians often hesitate to advocate due to fear of politics. Small actions can lead to significant changes in healthcare. Engaging with local policymakers can improve community health. Advocacy can start with identifying daily frustrations in care. Physicians can participate in advocacy days organized by medical societies. Meetings with lawmakers can be productive and engaging. Medicaid cuts lead to increased healthcare deserts and access issues. Prior authorization processes can delay necessary patient care. Advocacy is a moral responsibility for healthcare providers. Moral injury is prevalent in healthcare due to tight turnaround times. Hospitals are no longer places for recovery but for acute care. Food insecurity is a growing concern, especially for children. Community support is vital in addressing food insecurity. Staff safety is directly linked to patient safety in healthcare settings. Advocacy can start at the local level and be impactful. Physicians should be aware of their organization's media policies. Younger generations are passionate about creating a more just world. There is a need to increase the number of American medical trainees. Engaging in advocacy can begin with small, practical s  The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.   © 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

    58 min
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to Muted in Medicine, the podcast that amplifies the often-silenced voices in healthcare. Join us as we dive into the hidden struggles and unspoken challenges faced by healthcare professionals. From the trauma of litigation and the weight of PTSD to the impact of errors and the journey towards mental health, we explore the raw and real experiences that shape the medical field.Subscribe to stay updated on our latest episodes and join the conversation as we break the silence and shed light on the crucial issues affecting healthcare professionals. Together, we can foster a more open, supportive, and resilient medical community.Follow us on Social Media:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MutedinMedicine. Contact us: mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    Saba Fatima MD
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Muted in Medicine
  • Show Website
    Muted in Medicine

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