Exploring Life with Cochlear Implants: A Conversation with Paul Bass and Owen Whang

In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, we have excerpts from Dateline New Haven, in which host Paul Bass interviews Christine and her son Owen Whang about their picture book, SOUND SWITCH WONDER. The book, inspired by Owen's experiences with cochlear implants, aims to fill a gap in children's literature by featuring a character with the implants living his daily life. Christine, a Professor of Dermatology and Pathology at Yale, discusses the challenges and decisions they faced during Owen's early diagnosis and treatment for auditory neuropathy. Owen shares his perspective on the book and the unique advantages and challenges of having cochlear implants. The episode also delves into the creative process behind the book and the importance of representation and diversity in children's literature.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:21 Meet the Authors: Christine Ko and Owen Whang

00:51 The Inspiration Behind SOUND SWITCH WONDER

01:20 Creating a Children's Book

02:28 Understanding Cochlear Implants

04:57 The Decision and Its Impact

05:53 Owen's Experience with Cochlear Implants

07:57 Funny Moments and Final Thoughts

Unveiling the Connection: Dr. Keira Barr on Stress, Skin Health, and the Mind-Body Paradigm

In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Dr. Keira Barr, a dermatologist specializing in somatic psychodermatology, shares her personal journey of discovering early melanoma and the ensuing health challenges that led her to explore the mind-body connection. Dr. Barr discusses the critical role of stress in skin and overall health, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing body signals. She emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to wellness that includes proper diet, mindful movement, and adequate sleep. The conversation delves into adaptive strategies for handling stress, such as breath work and recognizing personal triggers, to maintain equilibrium in the face of the demands of medical training and professional life.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Keira Barr

00:26 Personal Journey: From Dermatologist to Somatic Psycho Dermatology

01:09 The Wake-Up Call: Diagnosing Her Own Melanoma

01:56 Connecting the Dots: Mind-Body Medicine

04:12 Lifestyle Changes for Better Health

06:13 The Impact of Medical Training on Health

07:26 Understanding and Managing Stress

11:01 The Nervous System and Stress Response

17:10 Practical Tips for Stress Management

19:57 Final Thoughts on Skin and Mental Health

Redefining Success and Survival for Physician Moms with Dr. Toya

In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Dr. La Toya Luces-Sampson, aka Dr. Toya, shares her top five tools for navigating motherhood while being a physician. She emphasizes the importance of redefining one's own values around motherhood, building a supportive village (both paid and unpaid), maintaining a healthy marriage, prioritizing self-care, and trusting oneself. Dr. Toya also discusses how the culture of medicine impacts physician well-being and the necessity of sustainable careers. She advocates for personal growth, getting necessary help, and recognizing the challenges within the medical system, particularly concerning physician parents.

00:00 Introduction to The Girl Doc Survival Guide

00:08 Top Five Tools for Physician Moms

01:27 The Importance of Outsourcing and Support

02:19 Focusing on Marriage and Self-Care

06:07 Redefining Success for Physician Moms

11:06 Challenges in Medicine and Motherhood

14:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement