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What happens when being a surgeon becomes so central to your identity that losing it feels like losing yourself? In this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with ENT surgeon, coach, and author Dr. Mel Thacker to discuss her new memoir, Scrubbing In: A Surgeon’s Journey from Self-Doubt to Wholeness. Mel shares the deeply personal story behind the book, from a childhood shaped by trauma and instability to medical training, private practice, and eventually experiencing panic attacks while operating. She explains how she came to realize that her sense of worth had become inseparable from her identity as a surgeon, and what it took to begin untangling the two. Lauren and Mel also talk about toxic martyrdom in medicine, why surgeons are taught to override their own needs, moral injury, imposter syndrome, rupture and repair, and the strange way surgical culture can reward the ability to ignore the basic realities of being human. They also discuss how writing helped Mel process her past, why she…

What are residency programs actually looking for during interviews? In this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares residency interview advice from both sides of the table. She has been a medical student interviewing for residency, a chief resident interviewing applicants, a fellowship candidate, part of the fellowship interview process, and now a business owner who regularly hires for her own practice. Her biggest advice? Once you have made it to the interview, your CV has already gotten you into the room. The interview is about something different: Are you someone they can trust, teach, and work beside at 2 a.m. when things get hard? Lauren breaks down the three qualities she looked for most in residency applicants: calmness, intelligence and resourcefulness, and curiosity. She also covers the biggest residency interview red flags, how to prepare without sounding rehearsed, what questions you should always be ready to answer, why you should never say you have no questions for the program, and how to…

The biggest threat to a surgeon's career may not be competition, reimbursement, or even the changing healthcare system. It may be their own body and mind. In the final episode of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd explores what it takes to build a surgical career that can actually last. For Lauren, that means treating herself like the high-performance athlete she is: protecting her physical health, caring for her mind, and intentionally building systems that make the hardest days sustainable. From 90-second microbreaks in the operating room and surgical ergonomics to sleep, nutrition, coaching, self-regulation, and protecting your relationship with your work, Lauren shares the practices she uses to preserve both her body and her desire to keep operating. In this episode: Why surgeons should think of themselves as high-performance athletes Protecting your neck and spine in the operating room The power of 90-second surgical microbreaks Improving surgical ergonomics Why sleep…

What if one of the best investments you could make in your career had nothing to do with your actual business? In Episode 11 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon, practice owner, and mom Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares why bringing an au pair into her home became one of the most consequential decisions she made for her business. With two young children and two working parents, reliable childcare didn't just make home life easier—it gave Lauren the security to operate, see patients, and lead her practice without constantly wondering what would happen when school closed or a child got sick. Lauren walks through the entire experience: why a traditional nanny didn't work for their family, how the au pair program works, what it costs, interviewing and choosing someone to live in your home, navigating boundaries, and what she would do differently next time. In this episode: Why childcare is a business issue for working parents Au pair vs. nanny How the au pair program works What an au pair actually does…

How do you manage stress when you're simultaneously a surgeon, business owner, leader, spouse, parent, and person? In Episode 10 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd gets candid about something she is still figuring out herself: stress management. Rather than trying to eliminate stress entirely, Lauren shares the strategies she uses to manage it while building a career she wants to sustain for decades. From compartmentalization and communication to delegation, outsourcing, taking time away, and learning to recognize when stress is changing how you lead, this episode explores what it actually takes to keep all of the plates spinning—without expecting yourself to do it perfectly. In this episode: Managing stress as a physician and business owner Why work-life balance may be the wrong goal Compartmentalizing work, family, and personal responsibilities Communicating when your plate is full Managing the stress of surgical complications Why vacation isn't always truly "off" for a…

What does it actually take to make a surgical practice profitable? In Episode 9 of the Business of Surgery series, Dr. Lauren Umstattd breaks down the decisions that helped her build a profitable practice by year three, and why physicians need to get more comfortable thinking about marketing, money, pricing, and business growth. From starting marketing before she felt ready to niching down her surgical offerings, raising prices, investing in the patient experience, hiring ahead of growth, and paying close attention to the numbers, Lauren shares the strategies that have shaped her practice. She also talks candidly about the uncomfortable side of profitability: talking about money, making major capital purchases, investing in employees, and learning to view your business finances as objective measures of practice health. In this episode: • Why you should start marketing before you feel ready • The business advantage of niching down • Why Lauren stopped performing rhinoplasty • How and when to raise your prices…

Running a surgical practice isn't just about patients, procedures, and revenue. It's about people. In Episode 8 of the Business of Surgery series, Dr. Lauren Umstattd talks candidly about one of the hardest parts of owning a practice: hiring, managing, promoting, and sometimes letting people go. She shares lessons from her own mistakes—including realizing that the best candidate for an open position may already be on your team, learning to address performance issues before they become major problems, and understanding when it's time to let someone go. Lauren also gets into the emotional side of personnel management: the guilt that can come with firing someone, the tension between being generous and protecting your business, and why compassionate leadership doesn't mean lowering your standards. In this episode: • Why you should look at your existing team before hiring externally • Why hiring slowly can save you from bigger problems later • How to define expectations before someone starts • When and how to…

When you own a private practice, you're not just the physician. You're also the manager, problem-solver, employer, and sometimes the janitor. In Episode 7 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd tackles one of the hardest transitions for physician entrepreneurs: learning when to delegate. Lauren shares how she went from personally managing nearly every aspect of her practice to gradually handing off responsibilities to a team, and why doing everything yourself can eventually become a barrier to growth. In this episode: What physicians underestimate about running a business How to decide what to delegate Why repeatable tasks should come off your plate first What Lauren still refuses to outsource Delegating without losing oversight Empowering employees to make decisions How to audit roles as your practice grows Why one-on-one employee conversations can transform a business Protecting your time for clinical work, creativity, and growth Why you can outsource tasks—but not…

Luxury healthcare isn't about marble countertops or expensive furniture. It's about making every patient feel seen, cared for, and confident—from the first phone call through recovery. In Episode 6 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares the philosophy behind creating a premium patient experience. Drawing inspiration from brands like Ritz-Carlton, Hermès, and world-class hospitality, Lauren explains why thoughtful details, genuine human connection, and exceptional follow-through matter more than flashy amenities. Whether you run a medical practice, own a business, or simply want to create a better customer experience, these principles apply far beyond surgery. In this episode: What luxury patient care really means Creating a premium experience from the first phone call Building trust before surgery Why thoughtful details matter more than expensive ones Designing an unforgettable patient experience How to say "no" to the wrong patients The importance of postoperative…

How do you get patients to find—and trust—you before your practice even opens? In Episode 5 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares the marketing strategy she used to build a thriving physician-owned practice. From documenting the journey before opening day to creating educational content, embracing authenticity, and thinking long-term, this episode is a roadmap for physicians who want to grow their practice without relying on traditional advertising. Lauren explains why social media isn't about selling—it's about becoming the trusted resource patients already know when they're finally ready to seek care. In this episode: Why social media is the most powerful marketing tool for physicians How to build trust before patients ever meet you Creating content that attracts the right patients Why consistency beats perfection Overcoming the fear of being on camera Marketing your practice before you open Growing organically across multiple platforms Local marketing ideas that…

The success of your private practice depends on one thing more than almost anything else: the people you hire. In Episode 4 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares her approach to hiring, building culture, and creating a team that patients genuinely love. From choosing your first employee to conducting working interviews, investing in staff, and knowing when it's time to let someone go, this episode is an honest look at the leadership side of physician entrepreneurship. Whether you're opening your first practice or leading an established team, these lessons apply far beyond medicine. In this episode: Who should be your first hire? Building a private practice team from scratch How to interview and evaluate candidates Why working interviews matter Hiring for attitude over experience Creating a strong workplace culture Investing in employee growth and retention Giving raises, CME budgets, and meaningful benefits Difficult conversations and firing with integrity Why…

What does it actually take to build and operate your own ambulatory surgery center (ASC)? In Episode 3 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd shares the realities of designing, building, and running a physician-owned surgery center—from navigating state regulations and construction delays to sourcing equipment, building the right team, and creating an exceptional patient experience. Rather than focusing on theory, Lauren walks through the practical lessons she learned while opening her own ASC, including the mistakes, unexpected challenges, and decisions she would make again. In this episode: Should you open your own ambulatory surgery center? The advantages of physician-owned ASCs Building an operating room from the ground up State regulations and accreditation Construction challenges and project management How to save money on surgical equipment When it's worth investing in premium equipment Designing a luxury surgical experience Hiring your first surgery center team The…

Thinking about starting your own private medical or surgical practice? Where do you even begin? This is business 101, basics for the modern physician. In Episode 2 of The Business of Surgery, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd breaks down the financial and operational foundations of launching a physician-owned practice. From loans and lines of credit to pricing, startup costs, and creating a premium patient experience, this episode is a practical guide to the business skills physicians rarely learn during training. Whether you're a medical student dreaming about entrepreneurship, a resident considering private practice, or an attending ready to build something of your own, this episode offers an honest look at what it really takes to get started. In this episode: How to finance a private practice Loans vs. lines of credit Building your first business plan (pro forma) Managing startup expenses Buying equipment without overspending Pricing medical and surgical services Creating a luxury patient…

Welcome to The Business of Surgery, a brand-new 12-part summer series on FEM, MD. Every week this summer, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lauren Umstattd pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a successful private practice - from financing and hiring to marketing, leadership, pricing, and the mindset required to bet on yourself. In Episode 1, Lauren starts with the most important question of all: Should you even become an entrepreneur? Drawing from her own experience building a thriving, physician-owned cosmetic surgery practice, she discusses: • How to know if you're cut out for business ownership • Risk tolerance and entrepreneurial mindset • Why physicians struggle with imposter syndrome outside of medicine • Learning to embrace failure in business • Building your dream practice through intentional vision • Why "just start" is often the best advice • Autonomy vs. employment in medicine • Why physicians deserve more control over how they practice Whether you're a medical student, resident,…

Women physicians are often expected to do it all: care for patients, raise families, support everyone around them, and somehow never ask for anything in return. In this episode of FEM, MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with physician, writer, and creator Dr. Laura Vater for an honest conversation about toxic martyrdom in medicine, physician burnout, motherhood, sleep deprivation, and building a sustainable career as a woman doctor. Together, they discuss why so many women in medicine struggle with boundaries, how residency training can normalize self-sacrifice, the reality of the "second shift" at home, and practical advice for physicians navigating career, family, and personal well-being. Topics discussed include: • Toxic martyrdom in medicine • Women physicians and burnout • Motherhood during medical training • The "second shift" and working moms • Setting boundaries as an attending physician • Sleep deprivation and physician wellness • Negotiating your first physician contract • Financial…

Why are so many women physicians walking away from medicine? In this episode of FEM, MD, host Lauren Umstattd sits down with retinal specialist and physician coach Dr. Shanika Esparaz to discuss the wake-up call that forced her to rethink everything. After experiencing debilitating physical symptoms—including the worst headache of her life—Dr. Esparaz realized that what looked like success on the outside was costing her far more than she realized. Together, they explore physician burnout, the unique challenges facing women in medicine, the pressure to do it all, and how learning to slow down helped Dr. Esparaz reclaim her career, family life, and sense of self. Topics discussed include: • The physical symptoms of physician burnout • Why women doctors are leaving medicine at alarming rates • The hidden cost of perfectionism and overachievement • Building boundaries in clinical practice • Opening (and later closing) a concierge medical practice • Autonomy vs. workload in medicine • How coaching helped redefine…

Dr. Betsy Dovec was one of the busiest bariatric surgeons in the country when she made a decision that shocked many of her colleagues: she walked away from a secure, high-paying hospital position to build her own practice and surgery center from the ground up. In this episode of FEM, MD, Betsy shares the behind-the-scenes reality of launching Body by Bariatrics, navigating non-competes, securing a $12 million loan, building an ambulatory surgery center, and leading a growing healthcare business. She also discusses how GLP-1 medications are changing the bariatric landscape, why she believes traditional hospital-employed bariatric programs are facing major disruption, and what it takes to balance entrepreneurship, surgery, and motherhood. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to build a medical practice on your own terms, this conversation is packed with practical lessons on risk-taking, leadership, resilience, and creating a life that aligns with your ambitions. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with…

On this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Natalie Krane for a candid conversation about the surprising overlap between elite athletics and surgical training. From Division I soccer and career-ending injuries to residency culture, burnout, performance psychology, and personal wellness, they unpack the coping mechanisms that make high-achieving women successful — and the ways those same traits can quietly erode long-term wellbeing. The two surgeons discuss restorative breathing in the operating room, microbreaks during surgery, the psychology of performance under pressure, protecting life outside the hospital, and why “even baddies get saddies.” They also reflect on ambition, retirement, identity outside medicine, and the realization that women are allowed to “take up more space” — in medicine and in life. This episode is for every woman in medicine who has ever pushed through exhaustion, ignored her body’s signals, or wondered what it…

What happens when a long-term marriage evolves beyond monogamy? In this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with clinical psychologist and relationship coach Dr. Rachel Meir to explore what it actually looks like to open a relationship—and why more people are questioning traditional models of love. Dr. Meir shares her personal story of being married for over 20 years before coming out as bisexual, opening her marriage, and ultimately building a committed triad relationship. Together, they unpack the emotional, logistical, and cultural realities of non-monogamy—from communication and jealousy to family reactions and societal expectations. This conversation isn’t just about polyamory. It’s about identity, honesty, and what it means to build a relationship that actually fits your life. In this episode, they discuss: What polyamory actually is (and what it isn’t) Opening a long-term marriage—how it really happens Jealousy, insecurity, and emotional regulation The logistics of a “throuple”…

What does it actually take to build a successful surgical practice—and a life outside of it? In this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lindsey Pennington to talk about the realities of modern surgical careers: from patient red flags and pricing decisions to working with your spouse, motherhood, and building a business that’s actually sustainable. They get candid about the “era of yes” early in your career, why learning to say no is critical, and how protecting your time can completely change your practice—and your life. Dr. Pennington also shares: The biggest patient red flags (and why ignoring them backfires) How she built and scaled her private practice What it’s really like working with your husband in the OR The tradeoffs between revenue, time, and family Why she stopped focusing on money—and what happened instead Leadership, burnout, and the shift from surgeon to CEO This is a conversation about ambition, boundaries, and building a…

What if the most dangerous relationships don’t look dangerous at first? In this episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with psychotherapist Vanessa Reiser to unpack the reality of narcissistic abuse—how it starts, why it’s so hard to leave, and why even highly trained professionals aren’t immune. From love bombing and future faking to gaslighting and trauma bonding, this conversation breaks down the patterns that keep people stuck—and the subtle warning signs most of us miss. Vanessa also shares her own story of escaping an abusive relationship and spending years navigating a system that often fails victims. They explore: The difference between narcissistic traits vs. narcissistic personality disorder Why some “dark traits” can actually fuel professional success The cycle of abuse—and why it feels addictive Red flags in dating that are often dismissed as “personality quirks” Why autonomy—not avoidance—is the real protection How to support a friend without pushing them further in This is not just…

In this special episode of FEM MD, the tables turn. Host Dr. Lauren Umstattd steps into the hot seat as she’s interviewed by her cousin, former Emmy-winning journalist Brooke Martin. What follows is an unfiltered look at the woman behind the brand—surgeon, founder, mother, and builder of one of the most sought-after facial plastic practices in the Midwest. They cover: What it actually takes to build a surgical practice from the ground up The myth of a “flawless” medical career—and what failure really looked like Confidence, imposter syndrome, and learning to trust yourself The emotional reality of surgery (for both doctor and patient) Work, motherhood, and the truth about “balance” Why she believes you don’t need to rush your life This is a rare, behind-the-scenes conversation about ambition, identity, and choosing your life on your own terms. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to build something from nothing—this episode is it. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren:…

In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd speaks with Marta Ravin—Emmy-nominated executive producer, showrunner, TEDx speaker, and creator of Personality Hire, a framework focused on the human skills AI can’t replace. Marta shares her deeply personal journey with body image, weight, and identity, shaped by early childhood experiences, cultural pressures of the ’80s and ’90s, and decades in entertainment. She opens up about her recent life transitions, including an 80-pound weight loss using GLP-1 medications—exploring not just the physical changes, but the mental “peace” these drugs brought by quieting lifelong food noise. Together, Marta and Dr. Umstattd unpack the long-term psychological impact of growing up in weight-focused environments, the realities of dieting culture, the promise and risks of GLP-1 medications, and how these drugs may reshape society, Hollywood, and expectations around thinness. Marta Ravin is an Emmy-nominated executive producer, showrunner and writer who has redefined the…

In this powerful episode of FEM, MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with ENT surgeon-turned-author Frances Mei Hardin to discuss her debut memoir and the hidden emotional cost of surgical training. Frances Mei speaks candidly about the anger she carried out of residency and how writing became the vehicle that transformed it. From resident-on-resident hostility and weaponized reporting systems to the psychological toll of perfectionism, sleep deprivation, and hierarchy in the OR, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what many physicians experience but rarely say out loud. They explore: • The cultural legacy of The House of God — and why its themes still ring true • How narrative nonfiction differs from anonymous venting and why accountability matters • Neurodivergence as both vulnerability and superpower in medicine • The role of hypnosis therapy in healing trauma and reclaiming focus • Perfectionism, emotional intelligence, and the cost of brittle excellence • Psychological safety in the operating room…

In this episode of Fem MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with Dr. Maheetha Bharadwaj, a urology resident, educator, and content creator. Maheetha shares her journey into medicine, from her early love of science and the arts to choosing urology—a field that blends surgery, patient care, and navigating sensitive topics with empathy. She offers an inside look at the realities of surgical residency, including long hours, on-call challenges, and mentorship in a traditionally male-dominated specialty. Maheetha also discusses her work in gender-affirming care and how she uses social media to educate the public, demystify medicine, and connect authentically with a broad audience. This episode highlights the dedication, creativity, and passion required to balance medicine, mentorship, and innovative outreach in today’s healthcare landscape. Dr. Maheetha Bharadwaj, 4th year Urology Resident at the University of Washington, dancer, advocate, and social media creator. Her journey sits at the intersection of…

In this episode of FEM MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd engages in a candid conversation with Dylan Cade Bates, a seasoned law enforcement professional and mental health advocate. They explore the unique challenges faced by women in law enforcement and the importance of mental health for first responders. The discussion highlights the need for support systems and the significance of addressing mental health issues in high-stress professions. Dylan Cade Bates is a seasoned law enforcement professional, mental health advocate, and founder of Blonde in Blue—a nationwide peer support network dedicated to first responders and their families. With nearly a decade of experience in patrol, investigations, crisis negotiation, critical incident response, and peer support, Dylan brings both professional expertise and lived experience to supporting those serving on the front lines. Certified in Hostage and Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Informed Care, and Peer Support Facilitation, Dylan is also a counselor-in-training.…

In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd speaks with Dr. Stephanie Pearson, an OB-GYN whose surgical career ended after a work-related shoulder injury sustained while delivering a baby. What should have been a routine delivery resulted in permanent damage, ultimately preventing her from returning to operative or obstetric practice. Dr. Pearson shares the difficult aftermath of her injury, including being dismissed by early providers, navigating frozen shoulder and nerve damage, and losing her job when she could no longer meet the “100% of job duties” requirement in her contract. Despite FMLA protections, she was terminated when her leave ended—highlighting the legal and contractual vulnerabilities physicians often overlook. The conversation explores the hidden gaps in disability insurance, the challenges of workers’ compensation, and the emotional toll of losing one’s identity as a physician. Dr. Pearson also reflects on rebuilding her sense of self and purpose after medicine, and how her experience…

In this episode of Fem MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with Brooke Martin—Emmy Award–winning news anchor turned author—to discuss her powerful memoir, Controlled Burn. Brooke opens up about her journey of faith, resilience, and love in the face of unimaginable loss after her daughter, Emma, was diagnosed with a fatal condition. Together, they explore the inspiration behind the book, the emotional challenges of writing through grief, and the lasting impact loss can have on relationships. Brooke also reflects on the power of storytelling and how sharing her story has become a source of hope, connection, and healing for others walking similar paths. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Brooke Martin Connect with Brooke: @brookemartin.tv https://morewithbrookemartin.com/ Controlled Burn: https://store.dexteritybooks.com/products/controlled-burn-rising-from-the-ashes-to-forge-an-unshakable-faith Presented by: @HippocraticCollective

In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd interviews author Audrey Bellezza, who shares how, at age 50—healthy, active, and a mom of two boys—she was blindsided by a diagnosis of stage IV ALK-positive lung cancer. Audrey recounts the shock, the agonizing period of unknowns, and how biomarker testing revealed a mutation-driven cancer. She explains her targeted therapy treatment, its difficult side effects, and how seeking specialists at Johns Hopkins introduced her to the possibility of a groundbreaking vaccine now in early clinical trials. Alongside her advocacy, Audrey has authored a Jane Austen trilogy and most recently released Anne of Avenue A, blending her love of literature with her mission to inspire hope. Audrey also founded Love4Lungs, a nonprofit dedicated to funding research, supporting patients, and raising awareness that lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. She leaves listeners with a quote from her latest novel that now guides her life: “Don’t delay what brings…

In this episode of Fem MD, Lauren sits down with Emmy-nominated producer Chelsea White — known for her work on Watch What Happens Live and The Drew Barrymore Show — for an honest, layered conversation about identity, neurodiversity, and the freedom that comes from embracing every part of who you are. Chelsea was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at just three years old, a moment that shaped how she understood herself long before she had language for it. Growing up with Tourette’s and OCD meant navigating stigma, misunderstanding, and the pressure to hide the parts of herself that didn’t fit neatly into others’ expectations. Together, Lauren and Chelsea talk about: • What early diagnosis actually felt like from the inside • The misconceptions about Tourette’s and OCD that still persist • How Chelsea found her voice in the entertainment industry • Why mentorship matters — especially for young women • The moment she stopped trying to “pass as normal” • How embracing your quirks can become your superpower, not…

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Fem, MD, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Melyssa Hancock opens up about her 12-round, 3-year IVF journey—one that spanned multiple clinics, a cross-country move of frozen embryos, a complicated surrogacy process, canceled transfers, and more than $250,000 in out-of-pocket costs. We talk about: Fertility preservation as a surgical trainee Why she switched IVF clinics after two failed transfers What it’s actually like to do daily injections, hormone surges, and constant ultrasounds while running a busy private practice How IVF reshaped her marriage, her sense of identity, and her mental health The moment she saw the faintest line on a pregnancy test after years of negatives How hyperbaric oxygen therapy and NAD ended up part of her “Hail Mary” cycle Nearly pursuing surrogacy — and why she ultimately carried her daughter The emotional, physical, and financial toll on female physicians navigating fertility Why we need to talk about infertility in medicine loudly and without shame…

In this episode of Fem, MD, Lindsey White—professional fit model, jewelry designer, and mother—joins to explore how fashion, identity, and creativity collide. Through years of working within an industry obsessed with measurement and perfection, Lindsey learned the tension between being the “ideal” body and living in a body that evolves. She opens up about the quiet discipline behind fit modeling, the emotional toll of maintaining sameness, and the moment she began to question who she was really working to please. As motherhood transformed her perspective, Lindsey turned to jewelry design as a new form of expression—one rooted in authenticity rather than approval. This conversation traces her journey from compliance to creativity, unpacking how we learn to define beauty, success, and worth in our own terms. It’s a thoughtful look at how self-acceptance takes shape when we stop trying to fit and start learning to create. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Lindsey White…

When a freak accident ended her performing career, Lala Ziemski turned pain into purpose—pivoting from the stage to the kitchen, and eventually building The Firefly, a boutique hotel and restaurant in Panama. Now a private chef in New York City and host of the podcast Put It In My Mouth, Lala joins Dr. Lauren Umstattd for an open conversation about resilience, creativity, and redefining success. They discuss how hospitality principles can transform any business (even medicine), finding alignment after chaos, and why balance—not perfection—is the ultimate luxury. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Lala Ziemski Connect with Lala: @ohheylala & @thefireflybocasdeltoro Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective 0:00 – Meet Lala Ziemski: performer turned chef, hotelier, and podcast host 1:00 – From the Mickey Mouse Club dreams to musical theater life 2:40 – The freak accident that changed everything 4:00 – Learning to start over: from injury to imposter syndrome 5:00 – The…

Dr. Lily Nguyen’s path to medicine didn’t begin in a classroom - it began at the bedside. After five years as a nurse, she made the rare leap from nursing to medical school and is now completing her residency in radiology. In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Nguyen reflects on how her nursing background shaped her clinical intuition, her empathy, and her definition of “success.” We talk about identity shifts, impostor feelings, and the quiet power of taking the long way around. Dr. Nguyen shares how she learned to stop comparing timelines and start honoring her own, proving that purpose doesn’t expire and that every detour brings you closer to where you’re meant to be. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Dr. Lily Nguyen Connect with Lily: @nursemdlily Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

What does it take to survive — and actually thrive — as a surgeon when the system keeps asking you to show up like a machine? In this episode of Fem MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd talks with Dr. Mel Thacker — double-boarded ENT, lifestyle medicine specialist, and surgeon-coach — about the “dark surgeon psyche,” the ways training teaches us to disconnect from our bodies and feelings, and how to come back to being a whole person. Mel pulls back the curtain on perfectionism, trauma responses in training, and the dopamine-seeking habits that help us numb out. Whether you’re in the OR, the clinic, or parenting after a 24-hour call, this episode offers humane, practical steps to feel less alone and more like yourself again. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Dr. Mel Thacker Connect with Mel: https://www.melthackercoaching.com/ Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

What does it really take to be happy? In this episode of Fem, MD, host Lauren talks with happiness coach Dannie De Novo, who shares her powerful journey from years of depression and anxiety to building a life rooted in true joy. Dannie opens up about breaking free from destructive cycles, challenging the idea that happiness is out of reach, and finding the courage to face yourself honestly. Together, they dive into the limits of relying solely on medication, the role of nutrition and mindfulness, and why rewiring your patterns of thought is key to lasting change. You’ll walk away with both inspiration and practical tools—from cultivating gratitude to practicing emotional honesty—that can help you create your own path to well-being. This isn’t about chasing happiness. It’s about building it. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Dannie De Novo Connect with Dannie: https://www.danniedenovo.com/ Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

What if the secret to a long, fulfilling medical career isn’t doing more—but doing less? This week on Fem MD, host Lauren sits down with Dr. Joan Chan, a Canadian family physician, coach, mom, and host of The Other Human in the Room. Joan shares her radical approach to working under maximum capacity, teaching physicians how to reclaim space, set boundaries, and prioritize joy without sacrificing patient care. Together they explore why honoring your limits can actually make you a better doctor, how to recognize the signs that you’re over capacity, and what it looks like to say no without guilt. Joan explains the value of creative days, rest, and small acts of humanity—like a midday nap or playing her ukulele—as well as how technology like AI scribes is reshaping charting and giving time back to clinicians. Her calm, grounded energy offers a refreshing antidote to hustle culture and a reminder that we are all human first, doctors second. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest:…

In this powerful episode of Fem MD, host Lauren Umstattd sits down with Alex Owens to share the raw, unfiltered reality of life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Alex speaks candidly about the unique grief of losing parts of oneself—physically and emotionally—captured in her poignant words: “You’re grieving your old self, you’re grieving your breasts.” Through intimate storytelling, Alex and Lauren explore the fears, losses, and identity shifts that come with serious illness. They discuss the tension between maintaining a professional facade and navigating personal pain, the societal pressures to hide vulnerability, and the transformative role of community and connection. This is not just a story about cancer—it’s about identity, womanhood, and the resilience that emerges in the face of life-altering change. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md Guest: Alex Owens Connect with Alex: @alexowenskc Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

In this episode of Fem MD, we explore the uncomfortable truth: love alone doesn’t make a marriage last. Dr. Lauren Umstattd opens up about the realities of partnership, drawing from her own experiences to unpack the deeper ingredients that sustain a strong marriage—kindness, respect, communication, and growth. It's a candid conversation about what happens after the honeymoon phase ends, how couples evolve through challenges, and why being intentional in your relationship matters more than romantic ideals. Whether you're married, thinking about it, or questioning what a healthy relationship looks like, this episode offers a thoughtful, grounded perspective on building a life together.

In this powerful episode of FEM MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with Dr. Frances Mei Hardin for an unflinching conversation about the darker realities of surgical training. Frances Mei shares her personal experience navigating a medical culture where bullying, abuse, and emotional isolation are often normalized—and where “resilience” is too often code for silent suffering. Together, they unpack the structural issues baked into the hierarchy of medicine and what it means to walk away—not as a failure, but as an act of reclaiming agency. This episode explores what happens when your identity is bound to your profession, and what’s possible when you begin to untangle that narrative. It’s a must-listen for anyone who’s ever questioned the cost of staying silent in a broken system. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Dr. Frances Mei Hardin IG: @francesmei.md Website: https://hippocratic-collective.com Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd unpacks the quiet pressure to be everything to everyone: the perfect doctor, the perfect parent, the perfect partner. But what if success isn’t about getting it all right? What if the real work, and the real growth, comes from simply getting a little better each day? This episode explores how embracing small, consistent improvements can lead to more sustainable fulfillment, both professionally and personally. It’s a conversation about showing up, letting go of unrealistic standards, and making peace with the messy middle. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren @lauren_umstattd_md Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

Why do women in medicine still have to be twice as good to get half the credit? In this episode of Fem MD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with facial plastic surgeon Dr. Sinehan Bayrak for a raw and real conversation about what it takes to succeed as a woman in medicine—and the unspoken costs of trying to be “perfect” in a system that still rewards mediocrity in men. They talk candidly about the double standards women face in surgery, the psychological toll of perfectionism, and how implicit bias still shapes who gets promoted, praised, or believed. From patient selection to mentorship to the quiet calculus women make every day just to be taken seriously—this episode goes deep on what it means to strive for excellence in a field that often sets the bar unevenly. Whether you're a med student, resident, or attending, this one’s for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to overperform just to be seen. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Dr. Sinehan Bayrak IG: @dr.bayrak Website: https://bayrakmd.com/ Presented…

In this episode, I open up about something that’s all too common in medical training but rarely talked about: abuse and mistreatment. I share a personal story from my own training — including a moment where a supervising surgeon crossed a serious line with physical aggression — and reflect on how that experience shaped my decision to walk away from fellowship. We talk about the blurry line between tough coaching and outright abuse, and what it really means to push someone “for their own good.” This one is about drawing your own boundaries, reclaiming your autonomy in a system that often strips it away, and naming the things we’ve all been taught to stay silent about. If you've ever felt gaslit, undermined, or just plain mistreated in medicine, this one’s for you. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Lauren @lauren_umstattd_md Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective

In this raw and thought-provoking episode of Fem MD, trauma surgeon Dr. Brittany Bankhead sits down with Dr. Lauren Umstattd for an honest conversation about the challenges of being a woman in surgery. Dr. Bankhead opens up about her personal journey to embracing her full identity—not only as a surgeon but as a mother, partner, and woman who has navigated professional toxicity, imposter syndrome, and the emotional weight of caring for patients at their most vulnerable. The two dive into the "arrival fallacy"—the idea that happiness will come once you reach the next milestone—and explore the emotional burden of the “patient graveyard,” the haunting memories of lives lost. Dr. Bankhead also shares the practical and emotional tools she and her husband—a fellow physician—use to juggle two demanding careers, raising two kids, and navigating the complexities of divorce and reconciliation. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Connect with Dr. Bankhead IG: @BBankheadMD IG: @ModernMomLab Website: https://www.modernmomlab.com/…

In this powerful and unfiltered debut episode of FEMMD, Dr. Lauren Umstattd—a facial plastic surgeon, business owner, and mother—opens up about the beautiful mess of balancing a high-stakes medical career with motherhood, identity, and ambition. Lauren speaks candidly about what it means to crave complexity, lean into vulnerability, and challenge societal norms around success, femininity, and parenting. From the raw realities of surgery to the emotional demands of parenting, she doesn’t hold back. She discusses the guilt many working mothers carry, the myth of perfection in both medicine and parenting, and the power of taking up space unapologetically. Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd Presented by: The Hippocratic Collective