S01E10: “Surgeon” is What You Do, Not Who You Are with Dr. Jennifer Tseng

Surgeons often have an A+ mindset, but too frequently, we tie our self-worth to our job titles. This fixation on continuous achievements and accolades can lead to burnout and an unbalanced life. This cycle needs to change.

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Jennifer F. Tseng to discuss how our identity shouldn't be defined by our job titles, why working longer hours doesn’t necessarily make us better surgeons, and how outdated expectations impact our residents.

Dr. Jennifer F. Tseng, MD, MPH, is currently a Professor of Surgery Emerita at Boston University. A distinguished leader in several key surgical societies, Dr. Tseng also serves as a core advisor to various philanthropic, research, and corporate organizations. She is a deputy editor of JAMA Surgery and a councilor for the American Board of Surgery. Until January 1, 2024, Dr. Tseng held the prestigious positions of Utley Endowed Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, as well as Surgeon-in-Chief at Boston Medical Center.

Dr. Tseng’s career includes her role as the founding Chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology and Clinical Co-Director of the Cancer Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, along with a professorship in surgery at Harvard Medical School. As a surgical oncologist and gastrointestinal surgeon, Dr. Tseng’s practice focuses on the upper GI tract, including hepato-pancreato-biliary, gastric, and upper intestinal surgery. Her groundbreaking research has significantly influenced cancer diagnosis and detection, pancreatic disease management, and the pursuit of health equity, particularly in eradicating disparities in cancer care.

Featured in this episode:

• Outdated perceptions from veteran surgeons
• The Importance of “Being”
• Salary vs value as a Surgeon
• Creating a surgical system that serves everyone
• Being a surgeon is not our identity

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Want to create a balanced workplace for your residents? Sharon, a surgeon, coach, and speaker, can help you define and refine your unique leadership qualities. Whether you’re seeking personal coaching, professional development for your team, or a refresher on seizing opportunities, Sharon has the expertise to guide you. Contact Sharon for more information.

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