Joan Hendricks: Using Anger As A Superpower

Joan Hendricks has blazed a trail in the field of veterinary medicine – starting from when only a small “quota” of women were allowed into vet school, and ultimately serving as the first woman dean of the distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. 

In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Joan shares how she got the courage to lead despite the obstacles in her path, including self-sabotage. And she reveals how anger has fueled her passion and drive – inviting us all to consider how we can harness the power of anger as a superpower. Now retired, Joan also reminds us of the importance of seeking joy and rocking our own unique brand of weird. Do not miss this empowering, eye-opening, and often funny interview with a true pioneer!

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EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

[3:15] Quotas, “tokes,” and Title IX: When women weren’t welcome in veterinary medicine  
[7:24] On being an “army brat” and crucial fatherly support
[11:20] Constructive rage and the catalyzing power of being underestimated 
[13:46] How allies helped amplify Joan’s voice 
[16:45] Why Joan initially avoided becoming the first woman dean at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine 
[23:40] Why women are dominating veterinary medicine today 
[27:32] Balancing family and career with the help of a supportive partner 
[29:34] Making a “joy list”
[32:29] Joan’s one tip to rock it  

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LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Penn Vet: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/

Penn Vet’s Bellwether magazine issue honoring Dean Joan Hendricks: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/about/news-room/bellwether/bellwether-magazine/bellwether-spring-2018

Penn Vet’s Bellwether magazine article focused on trailblazing women veterinarians: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/about/news-room/bellwether/bellwether-magazine/bellwether-winter-2015/penn-vet-pioneers

Info about Title IX: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Title_IX

The Nobel Prize-winning scientists Joan worked with: https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2017/press-release/

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