What does it really feel like to transition from pediatric radiology fellow to independent attending?

In this episode of Inside Pediatric Radiology, we explore the personal and professional challenges of the first years in practice.Through candid conversations with early career radiologists, this episode examines the internal dialogue many physicians experience during the transition to independent practice, the role of mentorship and departmental culture, and how challenges can gradually become opportunities for resilience, perspective, and professional growth.Whether you're a trainee preparing for independent practice, an early attending navigating those first years, or a senior radiologist supporting the next generation - this episode offers an honest and thoughtful look at one of the most formative periods in a radiologist’s career.

Guests:

Dr. Derek Wang, Sanford Health

Dr. Brianna Vey, ARA Health Consultants

Dr. Jerry Thomas, Rady Children’s Hospital of Orange County

Dr. Charlie Fry, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Links to topics discussed in this episode:

Patel AK, Heitkamp DE, Fleming MM, Beavers KM, Parikh JR. Transitioning to Independent Practice: An Early Career Perspective. J Am Coll Radiol. 2021 Jun;18(6):774-776. https://www-sciencedirect-com.proxy.library.upenn.edu/science/article/pii/S1546144021002301?via%3Dihub

Rotenstein L, Harry E, Shanafelt T. The Early Career Phase: Fostering Physician Well-being Over the Career Life Cycle. Mayo Clin Proc. 2025 Oct;100(10):1836-1845. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(25)00305-2/pdf

Better Together: Physician Coaching at the University of Colorado https://bettertogetherphysiciancoaching.com/research/

SPR Slovis Course: How To Build a Career After Training https://myedu.spr.org/products/how-to-build-a-career-after-training#tab-product_tab_speaker_s