Empowering Women to Lead with Ndidi Musa

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Dr. Ndidi Musa, pediatric cardiac intensive care specialist, professor at the University of Washington, and director of the new internal coaching program at Seattle Children’s Hospital. We dive into her powerful journey through medicine, leadership, and her calling to build a coaching culture in healthcare.

Dr. Musa opens up about breaking barriers as a woman and minority in academic medicine, the critical role of mentors, sponsors, and coaches, and how cultivating a growth mindset transformed her career path. She shares eye-opening insights about the gender gap in surgery and leadership, the importance of deliberate effort, and how women can advocate for themselves and others.

Whether you're in medicine, leadership, or simply looking for motivation to step into your own potential, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real-world strategies for growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Why every leader needs a coach, mentor, and sponsor

• The power of sponsorship and speaking names in rooms where others aren’t yet invited

• How gratitude and a growth mindset create lasting transformation

• How women can rise—and help others rise—with confidence and purpose

Quotes:

"You have to have a coach, a mentor, and a sponsor to thrive in medicine—and in life." – Dr. Ndidi Musa

 "Sometimes we underestimate our potential. But when we write down what we’ve actually accomplished, we surprise ourselves." – Dr. Ndidi Musa

"Gratitude fuels growth. When you’re thankful for the small steps, the next opportunity reveals itself." – Dr. Nidi Musa

Contact:

Dr. Musa website: https://www.seattlechildrens.org/directory/ndidi-musa/

Purpose Journey: www.rutheasterling.org

Tune in and be empowered to lead—wherever you are.