What if true advocacy for children starts not just in the clinic, but in communities, legislatures, and even within ourselves?

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Lee Sharma sits with Dr. Alisa Minkin as she shares her journey as a pediatrician and mother of a daughter with autism, highlighting how personal advocacy evolved into broader efforts for inclusion and neurodiversity, including the evolution of programs like Art Buddies and Friendship Circles amid initial resistance from both sides.

She discusses the conflicts within advocacy groups, such as the polarization in autism advocacy; debates over whether it's an epidemic or better diagnosis, and tensions between neurodiversity advocates who view it as a way of being and those seeking treatments for severe cases, often complicated by denialism and financial interests that hinder progress on environmental factors like toxins.

Dr. Minkin emphasizes the importance of humility and open dialogue in advocacy, inviting diverse viewpoints to strengthen policies, while addressing challenges in modern pediatrics like burnout, limited time for empathy, and the need for self-advocacy among physicians. She also touches on post-COVID societal fatigue and the yearning for nuance in solving "we problems" like child mental health. Dr. Minkin shares powerful personal stories, including her own phase of vaccine hesitancy and how empathy bridges gaps in patient and advocate interactions.

Three Actionable Takeaways

• Start advocacy from within: Prioritize self-care and personal well-being as a physician to model healthy behaviors and sustain energy for patient and community advocacy.
• Embrace diverse viewpoints: Invite guests or colleagues with differing opinions to foster nuanced discussions and create more robust, practical policies.
• Use empathy in communication: Approach hesitant patients or advocates by acknowledging their fears and perspectives, drawing from personal experiences to build trust and buy-in.

About the Show:

Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Alisa Minkin, is a board-certified pediatrician with a passion for child advocacy and neurodiversity. She attended Johns Hopkins University and earned her medical degree from NYU School of Medicine, completing her residency at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center. As a mother of six, including a daughter with autism, Dr. Minkin has dedicated years to creating inclusive programs and hosts the podcast "Kids Matter!" to discuss raising healthy, happy children.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Alisa Minkin

🌐 Podcast: Kids Matter!

📘 Instagram: instagram.com/alisaminkin

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: scalpelandsword@gmail.com
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

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