How to Lead (and Excel) in Academic Medicine feat. Dr. Angela Lamb

Dr. Angela Lamb, Associate Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, has never been content to sit on the sidelines. As System Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Strategy and Director of the Mount Sinai Doctors Patient Access Center, she’s not only leading with vision—she’s doing it with intention, clarity, and compassion.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

In this episode of That’s Derm Good!, Dr. Lamb joins Janelle to discuss what it really takes to flourish in academic medicine—and why doing so often requires equal parts grit, mentorship, and humility. She opens up about her path into leadership, why she values agency over complaint, and how creating real impact often means going against the grain.

Dr. Angela Lamb shares how she balances clinical care, faculty onboarding, and operational strategy, all while maintaining her core belief that medicine is an art that should be practiced with integrity. She also offers advice for residents and early-career doctors: how to ask for mentorship, when to pivot, and why rushing into leadership roles before you’ve built real experience can do more harm than good.

From managing large-scale patient access systems to setting boundaries in cosmetic care, Dr. Lamb keeps it honest about what leadership really looks like—behind the accolades and outside of Instagram. Whether you're on the path to academic medicine or simply passionate about patient-first care, this conversation is a masterclass in leading well, living fully, and showing up with purpose.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for business owners and creatives.