In this episode, Gerry sits down with internal medicine physician Dr. Shaila Siraj to talk about something we don’t talk about enough in healthcare: compassion. This episode explores how empathy and human connection must flow both ways—from doctor to patient, and from patient to doctor.
They dive into what it really means to create emotional safety in a clinical space, how doctors can stay grounded in compassion without burning out, and how patients can hold space for the humanity of their providers while still advocating for themselves.
Whether you're a provider, patient, or someone in between, this conversation will leave you thinking about how we all show up in the exam room—and how compassion can be the bridge that changes everything.
💡 Key Takeaways:
Compassion isn’t just a doctor’s job—it’s a shared space between two humans.
Burnout is real, and empathy can be a grounding tool rather than a draining one.
Patients have the right to feel emotionally safe, seen, and heard.
Doctors need emotional support too—they’re human first.
When both sides come to the table with grace, healing happens beyond prescriptions.
🎧 Resources & Mentions:
Compassionomics: The Science and Practice of Caring, NIH
Rarely Typical podcast episode on Medical Gaslighting (for more patient advocacy tips)
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