In this "mini-lesson" episode, Dr Thomas White explores the topic of trust, a fundamental element of the physician-patient relationship, and how trust in the medical establishment, including physicians, has deteriorated in recent years. He begins with a very personal family story. He goes on to share some common examples of distrust in daily practice, and offers suggestions on how we as family physicians might work to restore and maintain trust with our patients and the public. He ends with some (hopefully heeded) advice for his 10 year old grandson!

In this episode of The Family Doctor: Lessons Learned, Wisdom Shared, Dr Thomas White speaks with Dr Mark McNeill, the current President of the NCAFP. Raised in Raeford NC from a family of educators, Dr McNeill describes his journey to establishing his unique, independent, patient-centered, portal-facilitated practice in Asheville in 2012. He clearly describes how good practice management is the key driver of professional satisfaction. Dr McNeill shares his personal experience with Hurricane Helene and his suggestions on how Family Physicians might prepare for and respond to such disasters in the future. Lastly, hear what a mentor taught Dr McNeill early in his career about the one word that signifies the ultimate virtue of the "good" Family Physician. (Hint: the word starts with an A and ends with a Y.)

By the way, go to thefamilydoctorpodcast.com for our new website and blog. Dr Lee Beatty shares his thoughts on the latest shared lessons and wisdom from our distinguished guests.

In this edition of the podcast, Dr Thomas White talks with Dr Brian Lanier, the founder, owner, and medical director of Promina Health in Wilmington NC. Dr Lanier shares his experiences as a young man growing up in eastern NC, his early interest in music, his somewhat bumpy college career, his service as a Marine, his life-changing automobile accident, and his decision to pursue a career in medicine. He describes how he planned and launched his Direct Primary Care practice directly out of residency. You will be impressed with his commitment to family, community, and country. This is one of the most memorable and emotional interviews we have recorded.

"It's really clear that the most precious resource we all have is Time" - Steve Jobs.

This Family Doctor "mini lesson" focuses on the subject of "Time" as it relates to the education of Family Physicians, and to the day-to-day practice of Family Medicine. Dr White shares a very personal story about his career after nearly 40 years in practice. His story may resonate with many community physicians: how we manage time affects our relationship with patients, family, and our own self-image. Dr. White offers possible time management solutions, including the pros and cons of each strategy. Healthy time management will require both personal practice choices from physicians and systemic, value-based change from health care leaders and administrators.
And most importantly, you will hear a heartfelt wish by Dr White that Family Medicine be the most attractive, rewarding, and sustainable specialty possible. Thank you for listening.

In this month's episode, Dr Thomas White speaks with Dr Rebecca "Becky" Love from Shelby NC. Dr Love's journey has been unique. She grew up in rural Cabarrus County, the daughter of a minister and a teacher. After a successful career in banking and finance, she pursued a career in medicine. She has served her community as a Family Physician, providing care to the underserved and those with increased needs and, as a committed and involved citizen, promoting healthy lifestyles and collaborative approaches to solving problems. You will find the lessons she imparts about respecting others, showing love by listening, the importance of honesty, and pursuing the truth very impactful and moving. Another inspiring example of Family Medicine in North Carolina at its best!

This month the podcast welcomes Dr Carson Rounds, a Family Physician from Charlotte NC and long time leader in Family Medicine in our state. A former president of the NCAFP, Dr Rounds shares his perspectives on truly caring for patients, his love of the exam room, and his ideas on administrative burden. You will be impressed with not only his "answers" but even more so by the "questions" he raises. Listen to this thoughtful Family Physician and be moved!

Dr Tommy Newton of Clinton N.C. returns to the podcast this month! Listen as he and Dr Thomas White discuss Dr Newton’s professional and personal activities since he retired from clinical practice in 2021, his perspectives on when and how to retire, his belief in the value of mentoring and serving as a mentor, and his views on the future of Family Medicine. Notably, Dr Newton pays tribute to the “Godfather of Family Medicine” in North Carolina: the late Dr Jim Jones. Dr Newton brings a wise and experienced perspective to the podcast. Listen and learn!

How do we get through difficult times? In this "Mini Lesson," Dr Thomas White shares the teachings of a major college basketball coach on the importance of her players "handling harder better". Dr White goes on to explore the concept of "resiliency", which we have heard examples of many times on this podcast. He expands that to the the broader concept of "grit." This podcast will give you an opportunity to pause and contemplate how you might be better prepared to handle those difficult times in your life and career, and support others in your life. A serious but much needed discussion, applicable to us all.