The Human Doctor

Shrink to Fit Feb 19, 2025

The stories we often tell ourselves, about ourselves, later become self-fulfilling prophesies that can either help us reach our potential or keep us constricted. Sometimes we need to pump the breaks long enough to ask, what story am I telling and is it true? Sometimes we need others to help us do it. This week Kimberly shares a pivotal moment that invited her to reshape her narrative and learn to aim higher.

"Be nice, or leave" Feb 12, 2025

How you treat people always matters; and in places or spaces where there are differences in power, it's even more important to recognize the type of impact we can have on others. Here, Ashley shares a story from training and lessons she learned from a negative interaction.

What's the Point? Feb 07, 2025

At a time when concepts like diversity and inclusivity may seem dilute or even controversial in some cases, it's worth revisiting the WHY behind DEI. This episode, Kimberly highlights how proximity to a very different lived experience set her up to become a better doctor and better human.

Look out for Dr. McMullen and Dr. Manning at the SGIM National Meeting - May 2025!

Take the Leap Jan 29, 2025

The HD Pod is back! This week Ashley shares some important updates from our time away and a story that highlights the importance of taking the occasional leap of faith, especially in times that feel difficult or uncertain.

Topics Discussed:

Unrivaled - Women's Basketball League
Poet Andrea Gibson
All Fours, by Miranda July
Australia recs: State Library of New South Wales, The Rocks, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
Look out for Dr. McMullen and Dr. Manning at the SGIM National Meeting - May 2025

Right and Wrong Oct 23, 2024

In many situations, the line between right and wrong can be blurred or confusing, but sometimes it is very clear. On this final episode of the season, Kimberly gives a powerful reflection on accountability and owning what is right vs. what is wrong when it comes to certain behaviors.

It's Ok to Cry Oct 17, 2024

Everyone expresses grief or sorrow in different ways, and in an ideal world, we would all feel safe enough to do so however we choose. This week, Ashley shares stories on what this has looked like in her life.

Good Ol' Days Oct 09, 2024

When is the last time you paused to really take in a meaningful moment - big or small? This week, Kimberly shares a reflection on this practice along with an invitation for us all to make time to appreciate the moments we may look back on one day and long for.

Topics Discussed:

Nexus Summit 2024 Conference
The Message - by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Marcus Bookstore - Oakland, CA
Playground - by Richard Powers
"Cherish the Day" - by Sade
Make a plan to vote!

Go See the Baby Sep 25, 2024

Today, Ashley reflects on the most important gift she received in her medical training - it's one that continues to give, even to this day.

Topics Discussed:

Make a plan to vote!

No News is Good News Sep 18, 2024

Our words have power - and sometimes a positive word can be life-giving, especially in a world that often prioritizes negativity. This week, Kimberly shares a story about a patient who reminded her of this possibility.

Topics Discussed:

Women in Medicine Summitt 2024 - Dr. Manning's Closing Keynote Speech
Beyond the A Word: Reproductive Life Stories
Make a plan to vote!

Words of Affirmation Sep 11, 2024

This week, Ashley reflects on some pivotal experiences from medical training and the lessons she learned.

Topics Discussed:

The Five Love Languages
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
Slow AF Run Club by Martinus Evans
Make a plan to vote!

Hell No -- I Won't Go! Sep 04, 2024

In today's episode, Kimberly describes an encounter with a patient that pushed her to think differently about what it means to "do no harm"

Topics Discussed:

The Fire Next Time - by James Baldwin, audiobook narrated by Jesse L. Martin
NYT 100 Best Books of the 21st Century
- Panchinko by Min Jin Lee
- Trust by Hernan Diaz
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
- An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Make a plan to vote!

Keeping it 100 Aug 28, 2024

This week Ashley will share a story from her personal statement for residency applications, which is one that highlights her motivation for becoming an internist and a human doctor. Also, on our 100th (!) episode, we'd like to send a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners and supporters - we could not have made it to this milestone without you!

Topics Discussed:

iMED (@iMedEducation) by Adam Rodman, MD & Shreya Treveti, MD
Bedside Rounds Podcast (@BedsideRounds)
Listeners >50 years old, get your Shingles Vaccine!

People Can Handle the Truth Aug 21, 2024

This week, Kimberly is back on the mic to share some wise reflections on her experiences of being in the spotlight, and what we actually mean when we talk about "imposter syndrome".

Topics Discussed:

Check your voter registration status here!
Make a plan to vote!

Shoutout to Amanda Aug 14, 2024

In this episode, Ashley pays homage to one of her most cherished human connections.

Topics Discussed:

The Bishop Museum - State Museum of Natural and Cultural History of Hawaiʻi
Hawaii State Library
Telltale Hearts - by Dean-David Schillinger, MD
Check your voter registration status here!

The Bumble Bee Still Flies Jul 17, 2024

Many times, the primary barrier to us achieving our goals is our own thoughts. However, being practical does not have to mean overthinking or succumbing to the idea that certain goals just don't make sense for us. This week, Kimberly shares an inspiring example of a time she set out to achieve something seemingly out of reach.

Topics Discussed:

RYSE Clerkship Applications are OPEN - deadline to apply 8/7/2024

Love You Can Trust Jul 11, 2024

Is there someone in your life you can trust to be there in moments of triumph, but also in times of potential failure? This week Ashley shares memories of times when she had the courage to let someone in, and what she took away from those experiences.

Topics Discussed:

Elderhood - by Louise Aronson
Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez (@DoctoraEdith)

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.

Culture Club Jul 03, 2024

July is a major transition time for folks in the medical field. Just like in many other institutions or professions, in medicine, it's easy to look at new changes and lament that things "aren't like they used to be." However, we should pause to recognize, thankfully, that things can and often do change for the better. This week, Kimberly reflects on the early days of her training and a few changes that she's grateful for.

Topics Discussed:

Born to Run - by Christopher McDougall
Lorena, Light-footed Woman - documentary on the Tarahumara women (can watch on Netflix)
Making the World Sparkle Again - Hidden Brain Podcast. How we get used to things, and how to see things through fresh eyes.

Redemption Song Jun 26, 2024

On today's episode, Ashley reflects on a meaningful patient experience, as well as the privilege and challenges of human doctoring.

Topics Discussed:

Dr. Lucy Kalanithi (@rocketgirlmd)
Annual Paul Kalanithi Writing Award - Dr. McMullen being a judge for the 2024 contest
When Breath Becomes Air - by Dr. Paul Kalanithi
How many hugs a day do we need? Virginia Satir - Author, social worker, psychotherapist

Stay in the Ring Jun 20, 2024

This episode, Kimberly shares a very personal story of caring for a loved one in the hospital and how it has shifted her perspective as both a doctor and caregiver.

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Topics Discussed:

CP solvers episode on Juneteenth with Dr. Manning and her father Mr. William Draper, Sr.
More Juneteenth listening: The History and Meaning of Juneteenth by The Daily (NYT) from 2020

Sliding Doors May 29, 2024

This week we share another special episode recorded at the Society of General Internal Medicine annual meeting in Boston, Massachusetts, featuring a very special guest storyteller, Dr. Utibe Essien - an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the UCLA School of Medicine, an award-winning health equity researcher, and an all-around dope human doctor.

********************** Topics Discussed:

Check out Dr. Utibe Essien's work, @UREssien on Twitter
- Bow Tie recommendation - Beau Ties
- Pharmacoequity
- SGIM's Outstanding Junior Investigator of the Year Award
Distinguished Professor of Health Equity @ SGIM - Dr. Monica Peek
Valerie Stone, MD
Sherri-Ann Burnett-Bowie, MD, MPH
Movie - Sliding Doors
Thomas Inui, MD - Past President of SGIM

Meeting to Meaning (Live from SGIM 2024!) May 22, 2024

Live from the Society of General Internal Medicine 2024 annual meeting in Boston, MA! Kimberly and Ashley share the stage to tell the story of their first meeting and a meaningful connection that would lead to the beginnings of The Human Doctor Podcast and so much more.

Topics Discussed:

The Curbsiders Teach Podcast
ACP Mastership
IgA Vasculitis in Adults
Atomic Habits - by James Clear
UCSF - Beth Harleman, MD
UCSF - Gurpreet Dhaliwal, MD, Twitter @Gurpreet2015
The Missing Piece - by Shel Silverstein

Mothers and Babies Apr 17, 2024

In the final episode of this season, Ashley shares a story about a profound experience in residency that shaped her perspective on patients and their families, and how we care for both.

Have a friend, be a friend Apr 10, 2024

Who are the friends that you can call on no matter what the circumstance? Who are the those that you can trust to love and care for you, even when you feel you don't deserve it? In our busy adult lives, we often miss opportunities to form deep connections beyond the bounds of traditional family and romantic partnerships. However, on this episode Kimberly takes the time to celebrate one of these connections and what it means to her.

Topics Discussed:

Kierstin Kennedy, MD: CMO @ UAB and Visiting Professor at Emory
Interview with Flau'jae Johnson, Angel Reese, and Haley Van Lith (LSU Women's Basketball)
Dawn Staley on Caitlin Clark
Shanta Zimmer, MD - Check out her episode with the Review of Systems MedEd Podcast

See Dr. McMullen & Dr. Manning at the SGIM Meeting!

Society of General Internal Medicine - Meeting in Boston May 15-18, 2024
The Human Doctor Podcast at SGIM

Joy, Pain, Sunshine and Rain Apr 03, 2024

This week Ashley is back on the mic sharing a story from early adulthood when an unexpected message resonated in unexpected ways.

Topics Discussed:

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater - Revelations
Charlie Varon - A mentor of Dr. McMullen
Documentary - Trembling Before G-d, directed by Sandi Simcha DuBowski (2001)
Song - Joy & Pain by Maze feat. Frankie Beverly

See Dr. McMullen & Dr. Manning at the SGIM Meeting!

Society of General Internal Medicine - Meeting in Boston May 15-18, 2024
The Human Doctor Podcast at SGIM

The Holdovers Mar 13, 2024

Each of us at some point in our lives will have the experience of not being chosen for something or not getting the thing we desperately wanted. This week, Kimberly shares her reflections on this experience and some important lessons along the way.

Topics Discussed:

Clio's Bookshop - Oakland, CA
Harriett's Bookshop - Philadelphia, PA
Uncle Bobbie's Coffee & Books - Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Manning's Movie Recs: American Fiction - directed by Cord Jefferson, starring Jeffrey Wright
The Holdovers - directed by Alexander Payne, starring Paul Giamatti and Da'Vine Joy Randolph

See Dr. McMullen & Dr. Manning at the SGIM Meeting!

Society of General Internal Medicine - Meeting in Boston May 15-18, 2024
The Human Doctor Podcast at SGIM

Real Talk Mar 06, 2024

When it comes to difficult news, what we say and how we say it matters a lot, especially in medicine. Today, Ashley recalls a moment in training where this concept became very clear.

Topics Discussed:

Society of General Internal Medicine - Meeting in Boston May 15-18, 2024
The Human Doctor Podcast at SGIM
Dr. Manning's Life Advice - How to decide what you're going to do or not do:
- Is this a nonrepeatable life event?
- Will I regret it?
- Bonus Question: Who is the person to you?

F.A.F.O. Feb 28, 2024

Even the most humanistic doctors can sometimes make the wrong assumptions about the patients in their care. In this episode, Kimberly reflects on a time when she missed the mark and how that changed her practice.

Topics Discussed:

Children's Fairyland - Oakland, CA
Society of General Internal Medicine - Meeting in Boston May 15-18, 2024
The Human Doctor Podcast at SGIM
I Did a New Thing - by Tabitha Brown
Against Medical Advice Discharges - Things We Do For No Reason, Journal of Hospital Medicine

Strong Black Woman Feb 21, 2024

Many of us have heard the disheartening statistic that Black women experience the highest rates of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States, 3x that of white women, and regardless of socioeconomic status. This week Ashley offers a humanistic lens to this fact by sharing the story of her own mother's experience bringing her into this world.

Check out The Human Doctor Podcast at the SGIM Conference in Boston - May 15-18, 2024

When Somebody Loves You Back Feb 14, 2024

On this episode, Kimberly reflects on a really difficult but necessary choice that she made when she was younger. It's a choice that she still makes routinely today.

Topics Discussed:

Dr. Manning at the Power Rising Conference
Harriett's Bookshop - Philadelphia, PA
Legacy by Dr. Uché Blackstock
Uncle Bobbie's Coffee & Books - Philadelphia, PA
Marcus Books - Oakland, CA
Deacon King Kong - by James McBride
The Human Doctor Podcast at the SGIM Conference in Boston - May 15-18, 2024

Let the World See Feb 07, 2024

In this episode, Ashley shares the story of a decisive moment where she did something she never could have imagined herself doing before.

Topics Discussed:

Yonah Mountain Vineyards
We're Not Really Strangers - Card Game
Image shared by Dr. McMullen - Speaking at #OurFirstStand Rally (Jan 2017)
Alley Cat Bookstore - Closed in 2021
Mamie Till-Mobley - "Let The World See"

This is your gift Jan 24, 2024

Today, Kimberly shares about a recent reunion with a person who made a significant difference in her life and career.

Topics Discussed:

The Sympathizer - by Viet Thanh Nguyen
The Vietnam War - PBS Documentary Series by Ken Burns & Lynn Novick
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store - by James McBride
Deacon King Kong - by James McBride
Dr. André Churchwell visits Emory
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. - Atlanta Chapter

Fleeting Moments Jan 17, 2024

This week, Ashley reflects on a moment where so much changed in the blink of an eye.

Topics Discussed:

Chain-Gang All-Stars - by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
MLK Day - 1/15/24
Delta Sigma Theta Founders Day - 1/13/24
Learn about platelet donation
Learn about becoming CPR-certified

Hey Little Sister Jan 10, 2024

Happy New Year fam! This week, Kimberly shares with us a thoughtful reflection about an interaction she had with a trainee.

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Topics Discussed:

Chain-Gang All-Stars - by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
The 1619 Project - Nikole Hannah-Jones
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store - James McBride
The Color of Water - James McBride Memoir
Hidden Potential - Adam Grant
- Podcast
- Takeaways:
  - Set your sights on something specific rather than "doing your best"
  - Instead of asking people for feedback - ask for advice

Love Languages Dec 23, 2023

This episode, Ashley shares a recent experience in clinic that helped reshape her views on gifts and giving. We want to also wish all of our listeners a wonderful and safe holiday season. We'll be back in the New Year!

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Topics Discussed:

The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman
Elderhood - by Louise Aronson

Come See About Me Dec 13, 2023

This episode Kimberly shares another compelling story along with some unforgettable advice she received while on the wards at Grady Hospital

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Topics discussed:

Wellness - by Nathan Hill
Chain-Gang All-Stars - by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
Bellevue Literary Review
The James Webb Telescope Detects a Heartbeat - by Terry Tierney

Time-Out Dec 06, 2023

We're back and excited to kick-off another season of storytelling on the Human Doctor Pod. This week, Ashley is on the mic to tell you about an experience in medical training that needed a time-out for serious reflection.

#TeamYou Aug 30, 2023

We've made it to our final episode of the season. This week we're leaving you with another powerful story from Kimberly about a meaningful exchange she had with a young patient at Grady. As we move into this period of rest/restoration, we continue to extend our deepest gratitude to all our listeners - please know that both Kimberly and Ashley are %100 Team YOU.

------------------- Topics Discussed

Formally Incarcerated People's Performance Project (link)
Virtual Visiting Clerkship Program at Emory
Seeing White - Scene on Radio

Trauma-Informed Love Aug 23, 2023

On this episode, Ashley recounts an experience where she had to have a difficult conversation with someone she loves. It's a reminder that even the most cherished relationships can oft times be complicated.

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Topics Discussed:

"Beloved" by Toni Morrison (Audiobook)
Sha'Carri Richardson winning the 100-meter world title
Celebrating National Latina Day (August 20th)
David Malebranche, MD, MPH - Letting People In

Groundhog Day Aug 16, 2023

Kimberly is back on the mic this episode with an insightful reflection on the importance of acknowledgement and its impact, especially towards learners.

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Topics Discussed:

The 50th anniversary of Hip-hop: NPR, It's Been a Minute
Dr. Manning at the Beyoncé Renaissance Experience
The Killing of Professional Dancer O'Shae Sibley
"What is the What" by Dave Eggers
Knock Knock, Hi with the Glaucomfleckens, feat. Dr. Manning
"Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston
Parker J. Palmer - "The human soul doesn’t want to be advised or fixed or saved. It simply wants to be witnessed — to be seen, heard and companioned exactly as it is."

The choice is yours Aug 09, 2023

This week Ashley shares a narrative from her first year on faculty where a difficult patient interaction helped her realize a sense of agency in terms of how the experience unfolded.

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Topics Discussed:

"Diastolito" at Yeppa & Co, Buckhead, Atlanta
The Nap Ministry - Rest as Reparations
The Nocturnists episode with Eric Topol, MD, author of Deep Medicine
Clinical Problem Solvers Juneteenth episode w/ Kimberly and her dad, Mr. William Draper

Stand by me Aug 02, 2023

**Note: this episode contains some explicit language**

Each of us, at one point or another, have faced the choice of whether to stand up for someone or something, even when it comes at a personal cost. We hope that in those moments we'll always choose to do what's right, but because we're humans, we oftentimes fall short. This week, Kimberly shares a powerful reflection about a time when she faced this choice.

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Topics Discussed:

"What you say impacts what you see" - Dr. Manning
Bonsai Garden - Lake Merritt (Oakland, CA)
Actively Black Athletic Wear
Film - Beautiful Boy
Stand - Donnie McClurkin
I'll Stand By You - The Pretenders

Who’s (Re)liable? Jul 26, 2023

Stepping into a more senior role often comes with greater responsibilities, as well as greater repercussions for adverse events. Ashley reflects on her first experience stepping into a new attending role and the challenges that came with it.

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Topics Discussed:

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson named an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at its 56th National Convention
Dr. Manning's email away message
Documentary (on Disney+) - Wild Life

Do Stuff Jul 19, 2023

When was the last time you did something big, purely because you wanted to do it? This week Kimberly shares some wisdom she received from a Grady patient, and how that led to a pivotal moment in her life.

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Topics Discussed:

Breast or Bottle - The Illusion of Choice - Amy J. Kennedy, M.D. for NEJM
Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
- Listen to the audiobook
The Retrievals - The latest season of the Serial podcast
Dr. Manning's Paris Half Marathon

Wade in the Water Jul 12, 2023

This episode, Ashley shares about a recent experience where she had to push herself outside the boundaries of her comfort zone.

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Topics Discussed:

Black Girl Sunscreen
Remembering Dr. Alanna Stone
The Esalen Institute - Big Sur, CA
BLK Hiking Club - Atlanta, GA. Follow on IG @blkhikingclub

We Gon’ Be Alright Jul 05, 2023

This week Dr. Manning shares an uplifting reflection on the critical role of representation and what it means to push the boundaries of what we think is possible for ourselves as well as others.

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Topics Discussed:

Supreme Court Decision Ending Affirmative Action
Supreme Court Ruling on LGBT and business owners' rights
AAMC National Meeting: Conversation with Dr. Cornel West.
Dr. Justin Bullock - Opinion: "I am a Physician Face of Affirmative Action"
Shirley Chisholm - The First Black Woman to be Elected to the United States Congress

Bonus Listening:

Before I Let Go - Beyoncé's Version
Before I Let Go - Maze feat. Frankie Beverly
Alright - Kendrick Lamar

Taking Pride Jun 28, 2023

Have you ever had certain experiences or chance meetings with other people that just seemed meant to be? Whether we believe it is an act of divine will or simply pure luck, those moments can have a lasting impact. This week Ashley shares a story about an important connection that felt predestined.

Check out the following references mentioned in this episode:

The Pain We Carry (newharbinger.com)

Downs Oakland

If you know, you know (#IYKYK) Jun 21, 2023

This week, Kimberly shares an incredible story about an exchange with a young patient who was anticipating a life-changing event.

Know better, do better Jun 07, 2023

As healthcare providers, we are often in a zone of learning new information and new ways of doing things. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself how your care of a person may have changed had you known back then what you know now? In this episode, Ashley shares a story about a time where she would have done things differently.

The Right Side of the Steno Pad May 31, 2023

Who are the people in your life that will speak up for you, even when you're not there? Are you that person for someone else? This week Kimberly reflects on key moments that epitomized what it means for someone to truly have your back.

Little Mercies Everywhere May 10, 2023

This week, Ashley is back in the storytelling hot seat, sharing about a very memorable experience and how it has shaped her perspective going forward.

And Grace Will Lead You Home May 03, 2023

Welcome back! We're excited to kickstart this next season with a phenomenal story from Kimberly as she reflects on a time when a stranger's unexpected kindness left a lasting impression.

No Fear in Love Mar 01, 2023

In this final episode of Season 4, Ashley looks back on a few key moments in her professional life and personal journey towards greater love and self-acceptance.

Like a Dog on a Bone Feb 23, 2023

Has someone else's persistence ever moved you to do things you were absolutely convinced you wouldn't do? On this episode, Kimberly examines a series of moves that landed her in a pivotal moment.

Flag on the Play Feb 15, 2023

Have you ever had an experience that felt out of completely out of control? Even in the midst of turmoil, sometimes we must throw down a flag and find a moment to reflect. This week, Ashley shares a story and the lessons learned from it.

No One Can Tell You What You Know Feb 08, 2023

Oftentimes the best thing we can do for those we care for, as well as for ourselves, is to be still and know exactly who we are. On today's episode, Kimberly drops some serious wisdom as she recalls an experience when she first learned this lesson well.

Scattered, Smothered, and Covered Feb 01, 2023

This week Ashley reflects on a patient encounter that started off on rocky terms.

Everybody Can’t Go Jan 25, 2023

How many of us struggle to say no to the many tasks and asks that place a heavy toll on our well-being? This week, Kimberly reflects on a time where she had to reconcile what was being asked of her and how much she could give.

N of 1 Jan 11, 2023

At many points in life, we may find ourselves tasked with letting go of our attachments, but not our hope. This week Ashley reflects on an experience where this lesson be very real.

Game Changer Dec 28, 2022

Are there moments you can recall when someone or something changed the course of your professional or personal life? Today, Kimberly reflects on a few key moments that set her on the path to becoming the phenomenal writer and clinician educator we know and love today.

Presence Over Presents Dec 21, 2022

Holidays are an especially difficult time of year to be in the hospital. Today, Ashley reflects on her own experience as an intern during this season and how she found healing in the midst of burnout.

Do it Scared Dec 14, 2022

Have you ever come close to doing something but for some reason didn't quite see it through? This week, Kimberly talks about a very special experience that almost did not happen.

Finding Me Nov 30, 2022

For many of us, early experiences in childhood can have a major impact on how we view ourselves and others going forward. In today's episode, Ashley shares one of these moments.

The Story vs. The Glory Nov 23, 2022

Have you ever thought you knew something, or someone, but turned out you didn't actually know the full story? This week Kimberly reflects on a time when this occurred and the wisdom she took away from that experience.

Just Pet the Monkey Nov 16, 2022

This week Ashley shares a story about a formative experience in medical school and some important lessons learned about taking care of others while caring for yourself.

Who Gets the Credit? Nov 09, 2022

This week Kimberly is back with an important reflection on her journey through higher education. Oftentimes the real question is not about whether you'll be great, but rather, who is deserving of your legacy.

Hunger Games Nov 02, 2022

We're back! After a restorative break, we're on the mic again for another season of stories, conversation, and connectedness! This week Ashley shares story from her time in medical school and how it shaped her perception of a particular specialty.

When Harry Met Kimberly... Aug 24, 2022

Oftentimes the most important moments of our lives occur exactly when we least expect. For this final episode of Season 3, Kimberly shares a story of how the stars aligned in all the ways she never saw coming.

Holy Sh*t Aug 17, 2022

How often do we stop to take in the day-to-day moments in life that are truly awe-inspiring? This week, Ashley reflects on one of these moments and how it changed her.

Homegoing Aug 10, 2022

It's not often that we find ourselves immersed in an experience that is completely new and outside our normal comfort zones. However, when we do, it can leave us forever changed. This week, Kimberly recalls an event that left a lasting impact.

Be Still and Know Jul 27, 2022

One of the biggest challenges we continue to face in medicine is taking the time to be still and truly see the person in front of us. This week Ashley reflects on an experience with a patient where an unexpected bond was formed.

You Don’t Know Jack Jul 20, 2022

In medicine and in life we don't always get things right, but we do have to own up to our decisions. This week Kimberly reflects on how a particular decision impacted her during medical training.

Me, Myself, and Mahalia Jul 13, 2022

We often face choices that are very painful but also can lead us to a life of greater authenticity. Along the way, it's important that we affirm our truest selves and recognize that each of us is uniquely incredible. This week Ashley shares a story about part of this journey.

What My Grief Looks Like Jun 29, 2022

In this episode, Kimberly and Ashley pay a special tribute to those they've lost.

The Fellowship of Suffering Jun 22, 2022

Through our hardest times - sometimes you just need someone who sees you and understands. Kimberly shares a powerful reflection this week on what it means to step into the fellowship of suffering with another human being.

Power to the People Jun 15, 2022

How often do we stop to think about how tasks that feel menial or annoying to us, may make a huge difference in the lives of those we care for? In this episode, Ashley reflects on a time where this question really hit home.

You think you know, but you have no idea Jun 08, 2022

Happy Pod-i-versary! It's been one year since we launched The Human Doctor Podcast and we're commemorating this milestone with another phenomenal story of humanism in medicine. This week Kimberly reflects on a pivotal lesson she learned from her patients at Grady Hospital.

Low-key Unessential May 25, 2022

In a culture that places high value on productivity, there is a lot of pressure to do things, as well as fear of what happens when we don't. In this week's episode, Ashley reflects on this idea.

This Too Shall Pass May 18, 2022

Have you ever experienced something so hard or so devastating that you found yourself questioning whether things would ever get better? Yea, we've been there too. This week, Kimberly shares a story about one of those times.

”Soft Skills” May 11, 2022

Often the most important skills we learn in medicine are the ones least recognized or valued. Listen in to this week's conversation as Ashley reflects on a memorable experience and how those skills came through.

Love’s Myopic View May 04, 2022

This week, Kimberly shares a story and reflects on one of the challenges she experienced while recently caring for a loved one.

Landmines Apr 27, 2022

Hey y'all, welcome back for Season 3! As humans in medicine, there are inevitably times in which we do not show up fully for those we care for. However, it's imperative to reflect on how we got there and what to change. This week Ashley reflects on an important experience that occurred during her training.

”Please listen to my demo” Feb 09, 2022

Each of us is endowed with our own unique purpose and potential. However, instead of tapping into something authentic within ourselves, we often allow fear to lead us towards what feels safe. In this last episode of season 2, Kimberly shares a story inspiring us to be original.

Save Yourself Feb 02, 2022

Painful moments often become perfect opportunities for us to grow into our more fully actualized selves. This week, Ashley tells a story about a time when she learned this lesson well.

”Feel like goin’ on” Jan 26, 2022

In medicine we're trained to provide help and healing to our patients. Yet, in the day-to-day grind of this profession, we can easily miss the help and healing that our patients provide to us. In this episode, Kimberly shares a story of such an experience and how it changed her.

What Are You Doing? Jan 19, 2022

Has fear ever kept you from doing something you were truly meant to do? Tune in this week as Ashley shares a story about how fear almost derailed her plans and what pushed her to keep going.

I Was Wrong Jan 12, 2022

Sometimes, the truth hurts. This week, Kimberly reflects on an experience where she had to face a hard truth early in her career and the important lesson she learned as a result.

I See You Jan 05, 2022

Good mentors are important for helping us achieve our goals. However, great mentors are often those who help us see our potential before we recognize it for ourselves. In this episode, Ashley shares the story of an important mentor who came into her life at a critical time.

Pass the Ball! Dec 29, 2021

Have you ever had an experience where you felt like you were left on the outside, struggling to get in? This week Kimberly tells a story that challenges all of us to think deeper about what inclusion really looks like in medicine.

#Love is the What Dec 22, 2021

Sometimes we find love in unexpected places - but we must be willing and open to receive it, and to give love in return. This week Ashley reflects on an unexpected bond with another individual and the important lessons she learned.

Sorry, not sorry Dec 08, 2021

In this profession we routinely experience a roller coaster of human emotions. Yet, we're often limited in how or when we are able express those feelings. This week, Kimberly tells us about a pivotal moment in which she recognized the power of letting her emotions show.

Mistakes were Made Dec 01, 2021

We're human beings. Human beings make mistakes. Yet, we don't seem to talk about it enough in medicine. In this episode, Ashley reflects on a mistake that was made during her training and how it impacted her afterwards.

The Thing Speaks for Itself Nov 24, 2021

We may not always agree on who or what has worth in our society, but oftentimes, the thing speaks for itself. This week Kimberly shares an epic story of how she handled a murky situation during her first year of residency training.

Shine Together Nov 17, 2021

Have you ever found yourself in "competition" with someone who could have been a potential ally? There are times in life where we may feel like there aren't enough seats at the table, and we build rivalries instead of relationships. In this episode, Ashley shares a story of how one of her most valued relationships almost did not happen.

”All I have to do is miss her” Nov 10, 2021

No matter how hard we try to plan ahead or maintain control of things in our lives, oftentimes the most meaningful changes are born out of the circumstances we least expect. This week Kimberly gifts us with a powerful story about an experience that would change her life in ways she did not see coming.

Big Fish in a Big Pond Nov 03, 2021

Have you ever had someone tell you to limit your aspirations or aim low instead of shooting for the stars? This week Ashley reflects on some interesting advice she was given in her last year of medical school.

We Are All Support Beams Oct 27, 2021

Welcome back! This week we dive into a new story shared by Kimberly about an experience at Grady's "No Judgement Zone" table that took an unexpected turn.

Sometimes We Get it Right Sep 01, 2021

In medicine, we dedicate a lot of time and energy towards thinking about things that went wrong or could have gone better. For the final episode of this season, Ashley tells us about a time when she got it right.

Declare Yourself Aug 24, 2021

Errors and adverse events in medicine are complicated. They often stem from so much more than a missed diagnosis or failed procedure. Kimberly reflects on a difficult experience she had as an attending physician and the important lessons she learned.

Stop Everything Aug 18, 2021

In this episode Ashley shares a story about a time when her world effectively stopped, but not everyone noticed. On days that feel very ordinary for us, how do we stop and make space for folks whose lives have become anything but ordinary?

#38 HOT Aug 11, 2021

Kimberly recalls a valuable lesson she learned from a Grady elder and how it helped her deal with a situation where emotions ran high. Often times we must realize, it's not about us.

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