Improv Techniques to Sharpen Your Interpersonal Skills | Ep488

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone Direct LLC. Lightstone Direct LLC connects you to institutional-quality real estate investments backed by a $12-billion AUM firm that co-invests alongside you—your partner in building lasting wealth. All investments involve risk. Please visit LightstoneDirect.com for a full list of disclosures.__________________________________________________Can improv skills transform patient interactions in healthcare?Dr. Bradley Block and Tane Danger, share how improvisation fosters essential skills like active listening, empathy, collaboration, and adaptability. Drawing from over 20 years in improv theater, Tane explains techniques such as "Yes, And" to validate patient concerns and build trust, staying present to avoid jumping to conclusions, and using nonverbal cues for better rapport. Through fun exercises like one-word stories, Tane demonstrates how these tools help healthcare professionals slow down, connect authentically, and navigate unpredictable situations, ultimately making interactions more enjoyable and effective for both providers and patients.Three Actionable Takeaways:· Stay Present and Listen Actively: In healthcare, it's easy to jump to conclusions based on experience, but staying present ensures accurate diagnoses and builds patient trust. Repeat the last thing a patient says to start your response, slowing down your thought process, demonstrating engagement, and allowing their full story to unfold naturally for better outcomes. Embrace "Yes, And": Validate patient ideas by starting responses with "Yes" to affirm what they've said, then add "And" to build collaboratively, exploring their concerns without dismissal. This fosters open dialogue, rapport, and partnership, turning potential conflicts into constructive conversations that enhance understanding and adherence to treatment plans. Incorporate Theatricality: Use exaggerated nonverbal cues, like expressive facial reactions and body language, to show genuine interest in patients' stories. This "theatricality" amplifies empathy, making interactions more authentic and helping patients feel heard, even if you're familiar with their condition, ultimately strengthening trust and the therapeutic relationship. About the ShowSucceed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Tane Danger is an improviser with over 20 years of experience performing, teaching, and directing improv theater. He is the co-founder of Danger Boat Productions, which uses improv to facilitate important conversations and improve communication and collaboration. As artist-in-residence at the Mayo Clinic Lavin Center for Humanities in Medicine, he trains healthcare professionals in improv techniques to enhance connection, empathy, and quick thinking.  Website: tanedanger.comCompany Website: dangerboat.netAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone Direct LLC. Lightstone Direct LLC connects you to institutional-quality real estate investments backed by a $12-billion AUM firm that co-invests alongside you—your partner in building lasting wealth. All investments involve risk. Please visit LightstoneDirect.com for a full list of disclosures.__________________________________________________What happens when money, meant as a tool, becomes the driving force of our lives, sidelining health, family, and purpose?In this transformative episode of Succeeded Medicine Podcast, Carl Richards, joins Dr. Cobin Soelberg to unpack how society—especially in the U.S.—has "lost the plot" on money. Drawing from his four years in New Zealand, where he noticed a cultural shift prioritizing life over work, Carl challenges the Western tendency to make money and work the organizing principles of existence, often at the expense of sleep, health, and relationships. He shares a vivid metaphor of money as a discouraged golden retriever, earnestly trying but failing to deliver intangibles like love, happiness, or self-worth. For physicians, this resonates deeply with the pressures of high-stakes careers and financial expectations. Carl offers actionable insights: assign money specific "jobs" it can handle (e.g., funding experiences or security) while releasing it from impossible tasks (e.g., defining self-esteem). He introduces the concept of "forcing functions"—deliberate commitments like signing up for a retreat or coaching a child’s soccer team—to align actions with values. Reflecting on his retreats, including a women’s financial advisor event and an upcoming couples’ retreat, Carl emphasizes creating safe spaces for tough conversations about risk, uncertainty, and values. He advocates for quiet reflection—whether through meditation, gardening, or mountain biking—to escape the "matrix" of comparison and competition, a trap many physicians face in demanding healthcare systems. Three Actionable Takeaways: Reframe Money as a Tool to Serve Your Values: Physicians often face societal pressure to prioritize financial success, but Carl emphasizes that money is a tool, not the goal. It excels at funding tangible needs like a secure retirement or family vacations but fails at delivering intangibles like love, self-worth, or happiness. To apply this, list your core values (e.g., family time, patient care, personal health), then evaluate your financial decisions—such as investments or practice expenses—to ensure they align with those values, reducing stress and fostering purpose.Use Forcing Functions to Drive Intentional Change: Carl’s concept of "forcing functions" involves committing to actions that push you toward your desired life, even if uncomfortable. For physicians, this might mean signing up to coach your child’s soccer team to prioritize family, enrolling in a mindfulness retreat to combat burnout, or scheduling regular "quiet time" to reflect on career goals.Prioritize Quiet Reflection to Escape the Comparison Trap: The healthcare system’s competitive "matrix" can erode well-being, but Carl advocates for intentional pauses—through meditation, nature, or activities like mountain biking—to rediscover what truly matters. Physicians can carve out 10-20 minutes daily for journaling or mindfulness to clarify their "world," as inspired by David Whyte’s Sweet Darkness. This practice counters burnout by helping you focus on what brings you alive, such as patient connections or personal growth, rather than external metrics like income or status.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest Hosts: Carl Richards is a financial storyteller, artist, and author known for his "Sketch Guy" column in the New York Times. With decades in the financial sphere, he helps people re-imagine wealth through simple sketches and profound insights. His new book "Your Money: Re-Imagining Wealth in Simple Sketches," challenges conventional views on money. Carl draws from global experiences, including four years in New Zealand, and hosts retreats focused on values, risk, and decision-makingWebsite: https://behaviorgap.com Dr. Cobin Soelberg is a private practice anesthesiologist and principal advisor at Greeley Wealth Management. He focuses on financial strategies, personal development, and holistic success for healthcare professionals. Drawing from his own career, he integrates practical advice with deeper reflections on wealth and well-being. Website: GreeleyWealthManagement.com This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How can Navy SEAL training principles transform medical practice amid rising uncertainty? In this special guest-hosted episode of Succeed in Medicine, John Schneider interviews Rich Diviney, as he recounts developing The Attributes during his time leading selection for SEAL Team Six, distinguishing between teachable skills and innate qualities that underpin performance under stress. Listeners learn about the 41 attributes assessment available at theattributes.com, which reveals personal "dimmer switch" settings to enhance self-awareness without judgment. The discussion bridges military and medical worlds, exploring how ER physicians and SEALs share traits like compartmentalization, while roles like general practitioners demand higher empathy. Transitioning to Masters of Uncertainty, Rich delves into identity's role in performance, advocating "I am" statements tied to attributes for resilience during career shifts. He introduces the "Moving Horizons" tool to generate personal certainty by chunking challenges, drawing from SEAL Hell Week and Apollo missions to show how it dissipates fear through neuroplasticity. The episode culminates in dynamic subordination—a fluid leadership model where teams adapt like an amoeba, empowering all members in uncertain environments, with parallels to surgical teams. Essential listening for physicians navigating change, burnout, and team dynamics.Three Actionable Takeaways:Assess Your Attributes – Visit theattributes.com to take the free assessment and identify your unique strengths and blind spots. Use this self-awareness to match roles that align with your innate qualities, enhancing performance in high-stress medical settings.Practice Moving Horizons – In moments of uncertainty, ask: What do I know? What can I control? Choose a short, achievable horizon (e.g., next 10 breaths or task) to generate dopamine and focus, building resilience through daily practice like workouts.Foster Dynamic Subordination – Lead by behavior, not title: Create environments where the most competent person steps up, and others support. In teams, use first names and empower voices to optimize decision-making in fluid, high-stakes scenarios like surgery or emergencies.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest Hosts:· John Schneider – An academic neurosurgeon and physician coach, guest hosts the Succeed in Medicine podcast, interviewing former Navy SEAL Rich Diviney. He trains residents, values self-discovery through assessments, and champions dynamic subordination in teams. Fascinated by human behavior, Schneider initially aimed to be an economist before pursuing medicine.Rich Diviney – A retired Navy SEAL Commander with over 20 years of service and 13 deployments, authored The Attributes and Masters of Uncertainty. As a performance consultant, he advises high-performing teams, using his SEAL Team Six experience to develop assessments and strategies for mastering uncertainty and enhancing self-awarenessConnect with Rich Diviney:Website:    https://theattributes.comEmail:    [email protected]  This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ready to turn procrastination into productivity and make to-do lists work for you? Dr. Bradley Block and Dr. Russell Ramsay continue their discussion on time management for physicians. In part two, Dr. Ramsay explores forgiving procrastination through normalization, identifying progressivity (productive avoidance), and breaking tasks into small, actionable steps. He shares tips on using daily planners, keeping to-do lists manageable (2-5 items), and incorporating self-compassion to sustain motivation. While rooted in ADHD strategies, these insights help anyone in high-demand fields like medicine avoid overcommitment and build momentum. Tune in for practical advice on planners, task breakdown, and iterating for success—perfect for shifting work-life balance.Three Actionable Takeaway:Forgive and Normalize Procrastination – Recognize that relapse is 100%, and focus on understanding why it happens (e.g., lack of planning or overcommitment). Dr. Ramsay advises reframing through normalization and self-compassion: acknowledge slip-ups, identify specific causes, and get back on track without self-judgment to minimize future occurrences.Avoid Progressivity with Task Prioritization – Identify when you're doing lower-priority tasks (e.g., organizing files instead of charting) as avoidance. Dr. Ramsay suggests making priority tasks more appealing by focusing on hands-on starts, clear endpoints, and small steps—like mowing the lawn before taxes—to build momentum and prevent productive procrastination.Optimize To-Do Lists and Planners – Keep lists short (2-5 bite-sized items) and specific (e.g., "run errand" vs. vague goals). Dr. Ramsay recommends using planners for time-blocking, sequencing tasks logically, and iterating if needed; if a task lingers, break it down further into initial steps like "get to workstation" for sustained progress.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Russell Ramsay is a psychologist specializing in the assessment and psychosocial treatment of adult ADHD. With international lectures and over six books, including CBT for Adult ADHD and The Adult ADHD Toolkit, he advises on behavioral strategies for efficiency and well-being. Formerly at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, he focuses on helping professionals, including physicians, manage procrastination and perfectionism. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-ramsay-a8bbb310Website: https://www.cbt4adhd.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 Can physicians break the cycle of procrastination and reclaim their personal lives? Dr. Bradley Block and Dr. Russell Ramsay dive into practical approaches for managing time, tackling dreaded tasks like charting and difficult patient calls, and addressing perfectionism. Drawing from his expertise in adult ADHD, Dr. Ramsay discusses behavioral scripts, implementation intentions, and reframing tasks to build momentum and reduce avoidance. While emphasizing that these skills benefit everyone, he highlights the role of social capital, small actions for big gains, and tools like talk-to-text for efficiency. Tune in for insights on current challenges, actionable strategies, and how to stay motivated—part one of a two-part series.Three Actionable Takeaway: Behavioral Scripts for Task Initiation – Break down challenging tasks, like difficult patient phone calls, into clear roles and minimal actions (e.g., communicate key information). Dr. Ramsay explains this reduces avoidance by focusing on fulfilling your professional duty, similar to starting gym routines with small steps like wearing gym clothes.Combat Perfectionism with Good Enough Standards – Identify where perfectionism slows you down (e.g., over-editing notes or emails) and reframe to "fully competent" outcomes. Dr. Ramsay suggests using timers, word limits, or talk-to-text to draft quickly, and evaluating trade-offs like lost family time to incentivize efficiency.Build Momentum Through Small Actions – Use implementation intentions ("If X, then Y") and "touch the task" techniques to start admin work or self-care. Dr. Ramsay notes that small steps, like opening a chart or comparing colleagues' efficient notes, create inertia and help shift from "have to" to intentional productivity.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Russell Ramsay is a psychologist specializing in the assessment and psychosocial treatment of adult ADHD. With international lectures and over six books, including CBT for Adult ADHD and The Adult ADHD Toolkit, he advises on behavioral strategies for efficiency and well-being. Formerly at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, he focuses on helping professionals, including physicians, manage procrastination and perfectionism. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-ramsay-a8bbb310Website: https://www.cbt4adhd.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can AI revolutionize behavioral health without replacing therapists?  Dr. Bradley Block and Dr. Tristan Gorrindo dives into the transformative potential of AI in mental health care. Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Gorrindo discusses how AI can assist with subclinical issues through coaching-like support, streamline administrative tasks like intake and note-taking, and enhance patient-clinician connections by freeing up time for meaningful interactions. While addressing fears of AI replacing physicians, he emphasizes the irreplaceable role of human therapists for severe mental illnesses, citing the importance of nonverbal cues and mirror neurons. Tune in for insights on AI’s current applications, future potential, and how to stay informed via resources like LinkedIn.Three Actionable Takeaway:AI for Subclinical Support and Efficiency – AI tools, like chatbots, can provide coaching-style support for patients with mild issues (e.g., grief, stress) and handle administrative tasks (e.g., intake, note-taking), freeing clinicians to focus on severe cases like depression or psychosis. Dr. Gorrindo highlights that 50% of primary care visits involve behavioral health components, making AI a valuable tool for triaging and support.Preserving Human Connection – While AI can mimic empathy or mirror expressions, it struggles to replicate the neurobiological resonance (e.g., mirror neurons) critical for therapy in severe mental illnesses. Dr. Gorrindo notes that AI can enhance trust-building by offloading routine tasks, allowing clinicians to engage deeply with patients’ stories, as seen in examples like vestibular neuritis consultations.Practical AI Integration – Tools like AI scribes and intake avatars (e.g., language-adaptive systems in Pennsylvania health systems) can be customized via prompt engineering to align with a clinician’s style, similar to training a medical student. Dr. Gorrindo stresses using HIPAA-compliant platforms (e.g., Google Gemini with a BAA) and staying updated via professional networks like LinkedIn.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the GuestDr. Tristan Gorrindo is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, CEO of Forza Behavioral Consulting, and former Chief Medical Officer of Optum Behavioral Care, where he led one of the nation’s largest behavioral health platforms. With over 25 publications and more than 100 national presentations, he advises health systems, payers, and organizations on behavioral health transformation, including value-based care, integrated delivery models, and digital innovations like AI. He remains active in national policy and clinical practice, emphasizing whole-person care that integrates physical and mental health needs.LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/tristanlgAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when a single bill threatens to leave 10+ million Americans uninsured and hospitals on the brink?In this episode, host Dr. Bradley Block reunites with Adam Block, PhD, to break down Trump's sweeping healthcare legislation, HR 1—dubbed the "big beautiful bill"—which consolidates multiple reforms into one massive package. He explains how indirect measures like increased paperwork, monthly re-enrollments, and work requirements will lead to 10+ million losing Medicaid and ACA coverage, without direct cuts. The discussion covers fraud, waste, and abuse in Medicaid, the role of AI in filling government gaps, and the bill's delayed rollout post-midterms. They also explore site-neutral payments' effects on hospitals and ambulatory centers, cross-subsidization for safety-net services, and why hospitals' razor-thin margins make them vulnerable. This episode is crucial for healthcare professionals preparing for higher uncompensated care, sicker patients, and systemic shifts in reimbursement and access.Three Actionable Takeaway:Monitor Policy Changes Closely – Stay informed on Medicaid work requirements and ACA enrollment shifts rolling out in 2027. Review your practice's payer mix and prepare for increased uninsured patients by advocating for state-level expansions or adjustments.Advocate for Your Practice – If you own or operate ambulatory surgery centers, assess the impact of site-neutral payments. Engage with hospital associations to push for subsidies that maintain safety-net services, ensuring cross-subsidization doesn't erode entirely.Prepare for Operational Strain – Anticipate higher uncompensated care and sicker presentations. Build contingency plans like AI-assisted administrative tools or partnerships with community resources to handle paperwork burdens and support vulnerable patients.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Adam Block is a Harvard-trained health economist with over two decades of experience at the intersection of healthcare policy, hospitals, and insurance. He played a key role in drafting sections of the Affordable Care Act for Congress and writing foundational regulations for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to establish health insurance exchanges. After five years in data analytics roles reporting to CFOs, he founded Charm Economics, a consulting firm focused on health economics, and serves as an associate professor of public health at New York Medical College. Dr. Block’s expertise lies in navigating complex policy changes, reimbursement challenges, and systemic healthcare shifts, offering critical insights for physicians and providers.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adameblockEmail: [email protected]: https://www.charmeconomics.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Dr. Bradley Block picks up with Dr. Cheryl Chase for part 2 on enhancing executive functioning for physicians and high-performers. They explore self-monitoring tools like tone tapes (or music playlists with varying intervals), buzzing devices, timers, and apps such as Brick for blocking distractions. Dr. Chase discusses visual timers for better time perception, productivity apps like ToDoist, Trello, and Notion, and prioritization using the Eisenhower matrix to sort tasks by urgency and importance. She emphasizes delegating to free up time and replenishing the "EF bucket" with mindfulness practices (e.g., box breathing), exercise, sipping glucose-rich beverages, sleep, and nurturing relationships. Drawing from Dr. Russ Barkley's insights, these strategies help anyone—not just those with ADHD—optimize focus, persist through tasks, and maintain work-life balance. This episode wraps up the series with essential tips for thriving in demanding roles.Three Actionable Takeaways:Enhance Self-Monitoring with Tools – Use tone tapes (or playlists with varying song lengths), buzzing watches, or timers to check in on your focus at random intervals; for distractions, try apps like Brick to physically lock social media until you complete tasks.Prioritize and Delegate Effectively – Apply the Eisenhower matrix to categorize tasks by urgency and importance, focusing on high-impact items first; delegate non-essential duties after investing time to teach others, freeing up your schedule for what matters most.Replenish Your EF Bucket – Before EF-heavy tasks, practice box breathing (inhale/hold/exhale/hold for 4 counts each) or mindful minutes; incorporate exercise (20-30 minutes, 2-3 times/week), sip glucose-rich beverages while working, prioritize sleep, diet, and social connections to boost cognitive fuel.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the GuestDr. Cheryl Chase is a licensed clinical psychologist in Independence, Ohio, specializing in assessments and treatments for ADHD, learning disorders, and emotional challenges across the lifespan. She's an international speaker on executive functioning, dyslexia, co-regulation, and performance improvement in work and school settings. Her strategies help high-achievers, including physicians, enhance efficiency and balance.Website: https://chasingyourpotential.comAbout the host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Succeed In Medicine  podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by: My Financial CoachYou trained to save lives—who’s helping you save your financial future? My Financial Coach connects physicians with CFP® Professionals who specialize in your complex needs. Whether it’s crushing student loans, optimizing investments, or planning for retirement, you’ll get a personalized strategy built around your goals. Save for a vacation home, fund your child’s education, or prepare for life’s surprises—with unbiased, advice-only planning through a flat monthly fee. No commissions. No conflicts. Just clarity.Visit myfinancialcoach.com/physiciansguidetodoctoring to meet your financial coach and find out if concierge planning is right for you._____________In this episode, host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes Dr. Cheryl Chase, to discuss common challenges faced by high-achieving physicians, such as task overload, time management struggles, procrastination, and balancing demanding caseloads with home life. Dr. Chase shares evidence-based strategies like habit-building techniques from Atomic Habits, pairing tasks with rewards, breaking down large projects, and setting boundaries to minimize distractions. She emphasizes that these tools, originally for neurodiverse clients, can enhance efficiency for all professionals pushing their limits. Tune in for part 1, with more on self-monitoring and persistence in part 2 next week. This episode is essential for physicians seeking to sharpen focus, reduce guilt, and reclaim work-life balance.Three Actionable Takeaways:Build Habits Over Willpower – For boring tasks like charting, make cues visible (e.g., set up your workspace for easy access), pair them with rewards (e.g., a favorite tea after completion), and eliminate aversive elements (e.g., adjust your environment to avoid distractions) to increase compliance without relying on sheer grit.Break Down Large Tasks and Minimize Distractions – Tackle complex projects like mandatory modules or side gigs by dividing them into small steps, setting timers or task goals, and using techniques like tone tapes (variable alarms) to self-check focus; reward persistence to maintain motivation.Set Firm Boundaries for Work-Life Balance – Establish clear rules for interruptions (e.g., airplane mode during deep work), secure reliable childcare to close mental "browser tabs," and communicate availability with family and colleagues to stay present at work or home without guilt.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Cheryl Chase is a licensed clinical psychologist in Independence, Ohio, specializing in assessments and treatments for ADHD, learning disorders, and emotional challenges across the lifespan. She's an international speaker on executive functioning, dyslexia, co-regulation, and performance improvement in work and school settings. Her strategies help high-achievers, including physicians, enhance efficiency and balance.Website: https://chasingyourpotential.comAbout the host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Succeed In Medicine  podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest? Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by: My Financial CoachYou trained to save lives—who’s helping you save your financial future? My Financial Coach connects physicians with CFP® Professionals who specialize in your complex needs. Whether it’s crushing student loans, optimizing investments, or planning for retirement, you’ll get a personalized strategy built around your goals. Save for a vacation home, fund your child’s education, or prepare for life’s surprises—with unbiased, advice-only planning through a flat monthly fee. No commissions. No conflicts. Just clarity.Visit myfinancialcoach.com/physiciansguidetodoctoring to meet your financial coach and find out if concierge planning is right for you.———————In this episode, Dr. Bradley Block  welcomes Dr. Michael  Hersh, to explore the common challenge of career stagnation in medicine. After years of routine patient care, Dr.  Hersh found himself questioning, “Is this it?” Through coaching, he rediscovered joy by embracing new ventures like podcasting and coaching other physicians. He discusses strategies to combat burnout, including learning new skills, setting firm boundaries, and practicing self-compassion to balance work and family life. As host of Better Physician Life: How to Get Unstuck in Your Medical Career, Dr.  Hersh offers practical tools to help physicians redefine success, stay present, and find fulfillment. This episode is a must-listen for doctors feeling stuck and seeking renewed purpose.Three Actionable Takeaways:Embrace New Challenges – Combat stagnation by learning something new, like a hobby, side project, or podcasting, to reignite the joy of growth and keep your career dynamic.Set Firm Boundaries – Establish clear work-life boundaries, like reserving family time or managing EMR tasks strategically, to reduce stress and enhance presence at home.Practice Self-Compassion – Forgive yourself for missing occasional events (e.g., a child’s concert) by focusing on your consistent presence, ensuring balance without guilt.About the ShowSucceed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the GuestDr. Michael Hersh is a full-time gastroenterologist, physician coach, and host of Better Physician Life: How to Get Unstuck in Your Medical Career on the Doctor Podcast Network. With over 16 years in practice, he helps physicians overcome burnout, set meaningful goals, and achieve work-life balance through his coaching practice, Better Physician Life Coaching. Dr. Hersh’s journey from career stagnation to renewed purpose inspires doctors to rethink success and embrace new opportunities.Website: betterphysicianlife.comPodcast: Better Physician Life: How to Get Unstuck in Your Medical CareerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hersh-mdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterphysicianlifeAbout the hostDr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Succeed In Medicine  podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at [email protected]  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter   This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.