In this 3-part series: The Human Side of Leadership: Becoming the Physician You Want to Be, we explore the inner work of becoming an effective, authentic, and resilient healthcare professional. Through discussions of self-doubt, feedback, vulnerability, perfectionism, and emotional intelligence, the series examines how the way we understand and manage ourselves shapes the way we practice medicine, connect with others, and lead. Because leadership development is not just about acquiring new skills or earning a title. It is about learning to respond with intention, pursue excellence without losing ourselves, and build the kinds of relationships and professional environments in which both people and teams can thrive.

The central message of the series is simple: leadership begins with how we show up—as people, before we show up as professionals. In Part 1 we explore understanding ourselves, Part 2 we explore becoming ourselves and finally Part 3 we explore how we manage ourselves and connect with others.

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Johanna Richey welcomes Dr. Savannah Santiago, third-year chief resident at Ascension St. Vincent in Indianapolis, alongside Lyndley Andrews, president of the Maryland Healthcare Education Institute and leadership consultant to the APMA, for an honest conversation about imposter syndrome, leadership, and the ongoing pursuit of personal and professional excellence.

The discussion begins with how self-doubt and imposter syndrome contribute to the experience of questioning whether we truly belong in the positions we have earned. Savannah shares her experiences navigating self-doubt throughout podiatric medical school and residency, while Lyndley and Johanna reflect on how these feelings can persist even as accomplishments and responsibilities increase. The conversation explores practical strategies for challenging negative self-talk, including keeping a record of positive feedback and accomplishments, revisiting meaningful evaluations, and grounding self-doubt in objective evidence rather than assumptions.

The conversation then turns to the challenges of leadership, particularly when physicians and residents take on roles without formal leadership training. Listen as the panel reflects on learning curve of being a leader, emphasizing the importance of open communication, listening to difficult feedback without becoming defensive, acknowledging mistakes, and working collaboratively to identify solutions. Lyndley highlights the value of trusted mentors, supportive colleagues, and intentional leadership development in helping individuals navigate uncertainty and build confidence.

The group also explores emotional regulation, reframing negative narratives, and recognizing the difference between what we can and cannot control. From pausing before responding to a difficult message to questioning assumptions about others’ intentions, the speakers discuss ways to respond more thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. They emphasize the importance of personal values, self-awareness, and maintaining healthy habits that support resilience during stressful periods.

Ultimately, this episode reminds listeners that confidence and excellence do not require perfection. Growth involves vulnerability, accountability, accepting feedback, and learning to extend grace to ourselves and others while continuing to improve. This conversation is the first in a planned series exploring how we can show up as our best selves, navigate challenges with greater intention, and continue developing throughout our personal and professional lives.

www.apma.org/wellbeing

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