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WPO Podcast - Journey Into Academia

WPO Podcast - Journey Into Academia

By: InBound Podcasting Network
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 Welcome to the "WPO Journey into Academia" podcast, where Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO) share inspiring stories, career insights, and advice for women in academic ophthalmology. Hosted by Drs. Cat Burkat and Thasarat Vajaranant, this series brings you engaging conversations with accomplished women professors who have shaped their academic careers while balancing personal growth and professional development. Supported by the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO), our guests reflect on the pathways, challenges, and collaborative spirit that created WPO as a community for mentoring and support. Whether you're an aspiring professor, a seasoned faculty member, or simply passionate about advancing women in ophthalmology, join us as we explore how women leaders are achieving their highest potential and shaping the future of academic ophthalmology. Tune in for meaningful insights on navigating academia, building impactful careers, and empowering the next generation of women professors in ophthalmology. Visit: https://aupo.org/women-professors-ophthalmology2024 Career Success Economics
Episodes
  • Season 2 - Redefining Success

    Season 2 - Redefining Success
    Oct 22 2025
    About the Guests:

    Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett: Dr. Hartnett is the Michael F. Marmer Professor of Ophthalmology, Director of Pediatric Retina at Stanford, and an internationally renowned surgeon scientist. Her groundbreaking research has significantly advanced the field of pediatric retina diseases, establishing her as a leader in ophthalmic academia.

    Dr. Christina Flaxel: Dr. Flaxel serves as a Professor of Ophthalmology at OHSU and holds the Bulabuk and Charles C. Arvison Professorship in Macular Degeneration Research. An expert in retina specialization, she currently heads the Wold Family Macular Degeneration Center at the Casey Eye Institute, contributing extensively to research and education in ophthalmology.

    Episode Summary:

    Join hosts Thasarat and Cat as they launch into Season 2 of the Women Professors of Ophthalmology podcast with an inspiring theme: redefining success. In this episode, they delve into the evolving definitions of success with two distinguished guests, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett and Dr. Christina Flaxel, both accomplished leaders in academic ophthalmology. With insightful conversations around their unique journeys into academia, listeners are offered an engaging exploration of how personal success can transform over time.

    Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett shares her fascinating path from a family of educators to becoming an internationally recognized figure in pediatric retina research at Stanford. Dr. Christina Flaxel reflects on her cherished role as an educator and retina specialist at the Casey Eye Institute, emphasizing the profound impact of training the next generation of ophthalmologists. Together, they discuss the importance of personal growth, mentorship, and how their career success has shifted focus from achieving personal milestones to inspiring others in the field.

    As the discussion unfolds, both guests candidly share pivotal moments and challenges they faced along the way, offering lessons in leadership and the value of authenticity. They uncover the hidden victories that truly matter, whether in career advancements or personal relationships, and emphasize the significance of continuous learning. Dive into this episode for an enriching discourse on redefining success as a woman in academia, with insights applicable beyond the realm of ophthalmology that highlight resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of meaningful achievements.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Success can evolve over time, with a shift from individual accomplishments to fostering growth in others.

    • Authenticity and staying true to one's values are crucial on the path to success.

    • Personal triumphs often go unnoticed but hold significant importance, providing true motivation.

    • Mentorship and nurturing future leaders are fundamental to professional fulfillment.
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    26 mins
  • The Inclusivity Advocates: Fostering Diversity in Academic Medicine

    The Inclusivity Advocates: Fostering Diversity in Academic Medicine
    Mar 16 2025
    About the Guest(s): Dr. Terri L. Young is the Peter Duer Endowed Professor and Chairwoman of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She is a renowned pediatric ophthalmologist and clinician scientist, having dedicated over 25 years to groundbreaking research in ophthalmic genetics and genomics, specifically focusing on refractive error, ocular development, and childhood glaucoma. Dr. Young is a leader in numerous national and international organizations and currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Arville and the Association for University Professors of Ophthalmology. Her commitment to diversity and innovation has made a transformative impact on the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Gloria Fleming is a Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, known for her expertise as an anterior segment surgeon and glaucoma specialist. Widely celebrated as one of the best doctors in America, Dr. Fleming is an advocate for diversity in academic medicine. She holds significant leadership roles as an Assistant Dean for Faculty Diversity and Inclusion and Vice Chair for Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Talent. Her leadership in these areas has contributed to impactful initiatives, earning her prestigious awards and accolades. She is also a Fellow of the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) class of 2025. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of WPO Journey into Academia, co-hosts Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant engage in a dynamic conversation with esteemed ophthalmologists Dr. Terri L. Young and Dr. Gloria Fleming. The episode provides a glimpse into their personal and professional journeys, highlighting key experiences and challenges that shaped their careers in academic medicine. Dr. Young and Dr. Fleming discuss pivotal moments and breakthroughs in their careers, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, resilience, and self-awareness in overcoming challenges and driving meaningful change to advocate for innovation in ophthalmology. The conversation also covers themes of inclusivity in academic settings, reflecting on lessons learned and offering actionable advice for creating equitable environments in medicine. The guests share insights into the academic promotion process and provide tips for successfully navigating career transitions, making this episode a valuable source of guidance and inspiration for current and aspiring women professors in ophthalmology. Key Takeaways: Importance of Mentorship and Networking: Both guests emphasize the significant role of mentorship and networking in career development and success. Navigating Career Transitions: Dr. Young and Dr. Fleming provide strategies for making thoughtful career transitions and highlight the importance of understanding personal and professional needs. Inclusive Leadership: The episode covers the critical need for diversity and inclusion within academic medicine, showcasing how these principles contribute to improved healthcare and educational environments. Resilience in Career Challenges: The guests share personal stories of overcoming obstacles in their careers, demonstrating how resilience and self-advocacy can lead to positive outcomes. Lifelong Learning and Collaboration: Both ophthalmologists underscore the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in academia, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and growth. Notable Quotes: "I think having that closer relationship with these teachers made me understand and realize how impactful that what they do is for someone else." - Dr. Terri L. Young "There are so many resources there that I just didn't know about, and so much guidance that I didn't know about." - Dr. Gloria Fleming "It's extremely important in our learning environment, in our trainees, in diversifying our workforce." - Dr. Gloria Fleming "Sometimes you just don't realize what your worth is until you have to go somewhere else." - Dr. Terri L. Young "What are we doing in our daily lives to change the circumstance, to fight the systems?" - Dr. Terri L. Young Resources: University of Wisconsin, Madison Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) Dive deep into the captivating journeys and insightful conversations of women leaders in ophthalmology by tuning into this episode. Stay engaged with WPO Journey into Academia for more inspiring content that shapes the future of the field.
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    31 mins
  • The Strategic Planners

    The Strategic Planners
    Feb 14 2025

    We invite you to listen to this enlightening episode to further explore the inspiring journeys of Dr. Thorne and Dr. Ramanathan. Stay tuned for more captivating stories from phenomenal women who have paved the pathway of ophthalmology on WPO Journey into Academia.

    About the Guest(s):

    Dr. Jennifer Thorne
    Dr. Jennifer Thorne is a distinguished ophthalmologist and academic leader. She serves as the Cross Family Professor of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute, where she leads the Division of Ocular Immunology and Uveitis. Dr. Thorne is at the forefront of ocular inflammatory disease research, serving as the Medical Officer for the MUST Research Group and Editor in Chief of Ocular Immunology and Inflammation. She also holds a joint appointment as a Professor of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and is the Chair of the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) Fellowship Compliance Committee board of managers.

    Dr. Saras Ramanathan
    Dr. Saras Ramanathan is a leading figure in medical education within ophthalmology. She holds the Stephen P. Shearing Professorship of Ophthalmology and is the Vice Chair for Medical Education and Residency Program Director at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Ramanathan is well-known for her innovative approaches to teaching cataract surgery and surgical simulation. Her contributions have significantly influenced ophthalmological training across the United States. She also serves as the Medical Director of Comprehensive Ophthalmology and Senior Associate Editor of the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology.

    Episode Summary:

    Welcome to another insightful episode of WPO Journey into Academia, where Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vagaranant explore the narratives of pioneering women in academic ophthalmology. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Thorne and Dr. Saras Ramanathan share their journey in academic medicine, highlighting their impactful work in ocular immunology and medical education. These influential leaders delve into how mentorship and collaboration have shaped their careers, offering listeners a glimpse into their professional world.

    In this episode, the conversation flows into the importance of empathy in education, balancing academic and personal life, and the significance of long-term career planning by writing goals down to maintain focus. Dr. Thorne and Dr. Ramanathan reflect on their own paths, emphasizing the value of collaboration with diverse experts and mentorship that extends beyond conventional boundaries. From pursuing research in ocular inflammatory diseases to revolutionizing cataract surgery training methods, these experts provide insights that are both profound and practical for those in the field of ophthalmology.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Embrace Multifaceted Roles: Dr. Thorne emphasizes the rewarding balance in academia involving patient care, teaching, and research.

    • Empathy in Education: Both guests underscore the necessity of empathy and personalized teaching methods for effective mentorship and education.

    • Collaboration and Mentorship: Leveraging diverse skill sets through collaboration you can broaden your professional growth and opportunities.

    • Strategic Career Planning: Establishing five-year plans aligned with personal values and goals can significantly propel professional development.

    • Adaptability and Evolution: Dr. Ramanathan showcases the dynamic nature of academic careers and the evolving roles that mentors and educators play.

    Notable Quotes:

    1. "I liked the idea of being able to take care of patients and teach or mentor as well as doing some research." - Dr. Jennifer Thorne

    2. "I still come to work every day and love the mission of teaching people how to do something they desperately want to do." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

    3. "Empathy is way more effective in teaching than impatience." - Dr. Jennifer Thorne

    4. "You must write down your goals; it keeps you on the trajectory that you want to be on." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

    5. "Amazingly, the people I taught now are collaborators; it's a great way to stay in touch and help each other." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

    Resources:

    • Wilmer Eye Institute: Wilmer Eye Institute

    • University of California, San Francisco: UCSF Ophthalmology

    • Journal of Academic Ophthalmology: Journal Site
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
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