The Silent Cost of High Achievement: "Physician, heal thyself"

Paul W.M. Fedak, MD PhD, is a cardiac surgeon, scientist, and writer who brings both clinical expertise and emotional depth to the world of modern medicine. Known for his thought-provoking work at the intersection of identity, excellence, and healing, Paul joins us to share his experiences through burnout and professional fatigue. As a leading voice in academic medicine and innovation, Paul has become an advocate for shifting the culture of healthcare—from performance-driven to purpose-centered. In this episode, he opens up about the silent cost of high achievement, the moral injuries that go unspoken, and the importance of reconnecting with the deeper meaning behind medical practice. Through his leadership, writing, and speaking, Paul invites a powerful conversation on how we can heal not only patients, but also the people who care for them.  And by extension, how leaders need the care they often provide.