Shows
Lean Out PodcastFlexibility with Asha PadmanabhanSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Dawn Baker talks with Asha Padmanabhan. Asha is an anesthesiologist, leader, coach, and speaker who delivers workshops, grand rounds, and keynote presentations for healthcare audiences. With more than 20 years in high-stakes operating rooms and leadership roles at state and national levels, she understands the real pressures physicians face — especially women navigating invisible expectations. Through her speaking and coaching, she provides practical tools to strengthen communication, confidence, and professional sustainability. Her work helps physicians reclaim their voice and thrive — in medicine and beyond.Asha shares how she became an acci...
2026-03-1937 min
Inspired Mom MDs86: Become the Leader You Already Are – Without Losing Yourself, with Dr. Asha PadmanabhanFind the full transcript and bonus resources at inspiredmommds.com/86.“Am I enough to be a leader?”If you’ve ever wondered that, you’re not alone.So many women physicians feel pressure to be louder, tougher, or somehow “more” than they are.But the truth is simple, we’re not taught how to lead. Not really. And that gap shows up everywhere.You can save a life without breaking a sweat… but presenting to a room full of executives? Yipes.So, are you enough? My guest today says yes—ab...
2025-12-0926 min
Scalpel and Sword: Conflict and Negotiation in Modern MedicineEP29 – From Conflict-Avoidant Introvert to Empowered Leader: Dr. Asha Padmanabhan’s Playbook for Women PhysiciansThis episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one._____________________________________What if being quiet isn’t a weakness… but your biggest leadership advantage?In this relatable episode on The Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. Asha Padmanabhan as she open...
2025-12-0135 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansStop Letting Your Inner Critic steal your confidenceEvery woman physician has an inner critic — that relentless voice that whispers, “You’re not enough.” In this episode, Dr. Padmanabhan shares her own journey of living with that voice, the toll that it took on her self-confidence, and the impact that it had on her work and relationships.She shares how she stopped letting it run the show, and three practical steps listeners can use right away.Connect with Dr. Asha Padmanabhan: 🌐 Website: www.theleadershiprx.com📝 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asha.padmanabhan.9📸 Instagra...
2025-11-0913 min
Stand Up for Doctors!Episode #106: Why Physician Advocacy Matters for Healthcare's Future! [Drs. Padmanabhan & Behringer]Discover how two inspiring physicians reignite their passion for medicine while advocating for change! ✨In this episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan and Dr. Christopher Behringer explore the dynamic world of physician wellness, advocacy, and leadership.From personal stories that reveal their 'why' to groundbreaking initiatives aimed at transforming healthcare culture, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of medicine. Key Takeaways:Learn about the importance of lifelong learning and diverse interests outside clinical work.Discover strategies to combat bu...
2025-11-0535 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe First Step to stop snapping at people you loveHave you ever come home from a long shift and snapped at the people you love most? In this episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan shares a personal story of how stress from the OR spilled over into her family life — and the surprising first step that helped her change it: self-awareness.Listeners will hear why self-awareness is the overlooked foundation for confidence and clarity, how ignoring signals affects relationships at work and home, and a one-minute practice to reset before walking into a new space.Free resource: Saying No Without Guilt
2025-10-0610 min
The Dr. Moe Show: Freedom to SHIFTDitch the W-2, Own Your TimeDr. Moe sits down with veteran anesthesiologist Dr. Asha Padmanabhan to break down her bold jump from a “safe” 20-year W-2 career to the unpredictable, but liberating-world of full-time locums. They get real about:• Why flexibility beats titles, ten-minute commutes, and a corner office• The hard trade-offs: uncertainty, hotel beds, and 30-day contracts• How caring for an aging parent lit the fuse for change• The myth that fewer hours = weaker skills (and what really keeps great doctors)• Building community and leadership that actually saves medicine from the inside• Straight-up advice for physicians three-to-five ye...
2025-07-3029 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe Perfectionism Trap. And How to Break FreeHave you ever felt like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough? That you’re constantly trying to meet impossibly high standards at work and at home? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Leadership Rx for Women Physicians, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan dives deep into The Perfectionism Trap—what it is, how it shows up in our lives, and what we can do to break free from it.Drawing from her own experiences as a young attending striving to be both the perfect doctor and the perfect mom, Dr. Asha shares relatable stories...
2025-01-3011 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansWhy Guilt Keeps You Saying Yes: and How to Break Free of the Guilt- Resentment CycleWelcome to The Leadership Rx for Women Physicians! In this episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan tackles one of the most emotionally draining patterns that keeps women physicians stuck: the guilt-resentment cycle.If you’ve ever said yes out of guilt, only to end up feeling resentful toward the person you helped, the situation, or even yourself, you’re not alone. This exhausting loop leaves us emotionally drained and overcommitted.Dr. Padmanabhan breaks down the three stages of the guilt-resentment cycle and offers the first steps toward breaking free. This episode will help you recognize guil...
2025-01-1608 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe Hidden Costs of Saying Yes: What Every Woman Physician Should KnowWelcome back to The Leadership Rx for Women Physicians! In this episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan takes a deeper dive into the often-overlooked costs of saying yes too often. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about being busy.Dr. Padmanabhan shares relatable stories and insights that uncover the ripple effects of overcommitting—on your emotional health, relationships, career, and overall well-being.If you’ve ever felt drained, stretched too thin, or stuck in a cycle of over-giving, this episode is for you. Discover the five biggest costs of saying yes and how learning to say no...
2025-01-0909 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe Truth About Saying No: 5 Reasons It’s So Hard for Women PhysiciansWelcome to The Leadership Rx for Women Physicians! In this episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan explores a challenge that resonates deeply with so many women physicians: Why is it so hard to say no?From the fear of disappointing others to internalized perfectionism, Dr. Padmanabhan breaks down five common reasons women physicians struggle to set boundaries—and why this matters for your well-being, relationships, and career.This episode is packed with relatable stories, thought-provoking insights, and a roadmap to help you take the first step toward healthier boundaries.If you’ve ever felt...
2025-01-0210 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansBraving Firsts: Lessons from a Year of Bold Moves and Embracing ChangeIn this episode, Dr. Padmanabhan reflects on a year of transformation, filled with bold steps, new experiences, and moments of growth. From starting a Locums life to navigating unfamiliar cities, living in hotels, and even dancing uninhibitedly in a crowd, it’s a journey of embracing bravery and stepping out of comfort zones.Listeners will hear:✨ Insights on why discomfort is the key to personal growth✨ How small, courageous steps can lead to big transformations✨ 3 actionable takeaways to help navigate change and uncertaintyThis episode offers inspiration and practical lessons for anyone facing c...
2024-12-2709 min
Residents in a Room by American Society of AnesthesiologistsAsk the Communications ExpertsDrs. Matt Hatch and Asha Padmanabhan, from ASA’s committee on communications, join resident host, Dr. Mauna Rao, and her fellow residents, Drs. Shreya Ranjan and Jao Ho Kim, for a discussion on best practices for improving communication with colleagues, legislators, the pubic and, most critically, patients and their families. Recorded January 2024.
2024-03-0441 minResidents in a Room by American Society of AnesthesiologistsAsk the Communications ExpertsDrs. Matt Hatch and Asha Padmanabhan, from ASA’s committee on communications, join resident host, Dr. Mauna Rao, and her fellow residents, Drs. Shreya Ranjan and Jao Ho Kim, for a discussion on best practices for improving communication with colleagues, legislators, the pubic and, most critically, patients and their families. Recorded January 2024.
2024-03-0441 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe Art of Conflict: Transforming Disagreements into ConnectionsIn this podcast episode, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan discusses the importance of embracing conflict constructively in order to enhance personal growth and improve relationships. She explains that conflict is often avoided out of fear of rejection, causing harm or escalating a situation. However, avoiding conflict leads to deterioration of relationships and mental health. She introduces a three-step framework for managing conflict, which includes preparation, communication, and resolution. She stresses on active listening, empathy, and finding a common ground as the keys to effective conflict resolution. The episode concludes with an invitation to sign up for her newsletter and watch...
2023-12-1108 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansAssertiveness Unleashed: Striking the perfect balance between 'too loud' and 'too soft'Mastering Assertiveness: Demystifying the Fine Line between Assertiveness and AggressionIn this episode of the Leadership Prescription Podcast for Women Physicians, host Dr. Asha Padmanabhan explores the oft-misunderstood concept of assertiveness. She dispels myths associating it with aggression and explains how it is actually rooted in respectful communication. Assertiveness, according to Dr. Asha, involves three key ingredients: confidence, clarity, and empathy. She provides practical tips to become more assertive, such as setting personal boundaries, owning your space, and expressing your needs and opinions. She concludes by inviting listeners to join her...
2023-11-2713 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansNavigating Difficult Conversations: Speak Your Truth Without Burning BridgesStrategically Handling Difficult Conversations: A Three-Step FrameworkIn this episode of Leadership RX for Women Physicians, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan, the host and anesthesiologist, physician leader, and founder of Leadership RX coaching, discusses the challenges of navigating difficult conversations. She provides a simple three-step framework — preparation, execution, and follow-up — to handle such situations better and with less stress. Alongside, she emphasizes the importance of two key tools, active listening, and emotional intelligence. Drawing from her own experiences, she demonstrates the application of these principles and encourages listeners to practice for better management of c...
2023-11-1310 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansRevolutionizing Healthcare: Fostering Collaboration and Community in Medicine _ Interview with Dr. Martha RodriguezThis episode is back to my interview series of inspiring women physician leaders.Dr. Martha Rodriguez is one such leader I have known for several years.At the time of this recording several months ago, Dr. Rodriguez owned and operated her private practice at a state-of-the-art facility she coined, MMR Healthcare. Her field of specialty is geriatric care and making patients' golden years shine. MMR Healthcare has been PCMH recognized since 2014. In 2012, she co-founded one of the highest performing Accountable Care Organizations in the country and served as its Chairman of the Board until the end of 2016...
2023-09-1232 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansSupercharge Your Resilience: Your 3-Step Process to Conquering Setbacks with Strength and WisdomAs a dedicated female physician, you're no stranger to the challenges that come your way. The demands of your profession can often lead to setbacks and obstacles that can leave you feeling drained and defeated. In this episode, join me, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan, as we embark on a journey to supercharge your resilience, empowering you to build unwavering strength and wisdom in navigating setbacks.Drawing insights from Positive Intelligence coaching, we delve into the art of quick recovery from setbacks and the profound impact it has on your performance, happiness, and overall well-being. From self-awareness to shifting...
2023-08-2723 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansResilience in the Face of Adversity: Thriving as a Female PhysicianIn the demanding world of female physicians, burnout and exhaustion often take a toll. In this episode, Dr. Asha dives into the journey of emotional resilience, highlighting the significance of acknowledging our burdens and granting ourselves permission to prioritize well-being. The concept of resilience might feel worn-out, but there's more to learn, especially in our profession.Discover how to turn resilience into a positive force that rejuvenates and empowers. Dr. Asha shares insights on adapting to challenges, building a supportive network, and prioritizing self-care. As female physicians, we have an innate ability to power through, but what...
2023-08-2112 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansFinding Harmony: Nurturing Work-Life Balance as a Female PhysicianStruggling to find the perfect work-life balance? As a physician juggling clinical, administrative responsibilities, and mom duties, I felt constantly off balance. The perpetual mom-guilt and physician guilt haunted me whenever I prioritized one over the other. But through a coaching exercise, I learned that work-life balance is unique to each individual—no one-size-fits-all approach. Join me as we delve into the powerful journey of finding harmony and nurturing work-life balance.Connect with Dr. Asha Padman...
2023-07-3009 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansLeading with Authenticity: Embracing Your Unique Leadership Style In this episode Dr. Asha shares her personal journey of trying to fit into a mold as an introverted and soft-spoken female physician in a leadership role. Realizing that conforming to societal expectations wasn't working, she embarked on a path of embracing her true self and discovered the power of leading authentically.Dr. Asha highlights three key takeaways from her experience. Firstly, she emphasizes the importance of embracing one's uniqueness as a female physician, recognizing that our diverse backgrounds and individual strengths shape our leadership styles. Secondly, cultivating self-awareness allows us to align our values and preferences w...
2023-07-2007 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansFrom Victim to Victor: Unleashing your potential through Radical Personal responsibilityAre you ready to take control of your life and transform your well-being? Discover the power of radical personal responsibility in this episode as Dr. Asha explores the concept of owning your emotions and choicesShe shares her own journey of understanding this concept and realizing that she could only control her own reactions, not others'. Dr. Asha reflects on the realization that she alone was responsible for her own emotions and choices.By embracing radical personal responsibility, she gained control over her life and reduced stress levels. She became more effective in managing her...
2023-07-0613 min
Design Your Physician Life68. Becoming the Leader You're Meant to BeI'm Dr. Myrdalis Diaz-Ramirez. Welcome to Episode #68!Today, we have someone very special with us: Dr. Asha Padmanabhan from TheLeadershipRx.com! We will be talking all about leadership and how you can become the one that you were meant to be, along with a review of the challenges, and the path to success. Are you ready? Let's go!Learn more about Dr. Asha Padmanabhan:Website: TheLeadershipRx.comEmail: asha@TheLeadershipRx.comFollow Dr. Myrdalis Diaz at these links:
2023-06-2047 min
Voices of Women PhysiciansEp 43: Leadership Skills with Dr. Asha PadmanabhanAn ‘Accidental Leader’ who found herself having to learn leadership skills through the school of hard knocks, Asha Padmanabhan MD, FASA is a soft-spoken introvert, an immigrant brown woman and a Board Certified Anesthesiologist who currently serves in several leadership roles including Medical Director of Anesthesiology, Vice President of the Florida Society of Anesthesiologists and Chair of the Committee on Women Anesthesiologists for the American Society of Anesthesiologists. She is also co-founder and current President of Female Indian Physcians of Florida.She is passionate about empowering and encouraging women physicians to step into leadership in their...
2023-04-2531 min
The Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansReset and Reboot: Reimagining Goal setting and ExecutionSetting goals for the New Year or periodically during the year is an exciting activity because we feel we are resetting and starting with a clear sense of direction and purpose.But often, although we start off with great intentions, we fall off halfway through the month for a variety of reasons. I know, because I have followed the same pattern over and over, with not just New Year Resolutions but throughout the year. That is why, this New Year I am going to do something different. I am going to use new and proven t...
2022-12-2708 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansA crucial Life Lesson: what I learnt from a stranger on the side of the roadDo you look at sportsmen and their coaches and wish you had someone one like that by your side to help you hone your strengths and work on your weaknesses?Or do you feel like sometimes you are not even aware of your weaknesses but somehow you know hat you could be so much better if someone only told you how?I've been a runner for a couple of years, and it took a stranger stopping me by the side of the road and giving me some practical advice to really make a difference to...
2022-12-0809 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansIQ, EQ, PQ? What, why and how!Most people I know want to improve their relationships by being able to manage conflict better, and thereby reduce their stress. A high EQ has been shown to help in this area.By now most people know what EQ or Emotional Intelligence Quotient is and why it so important to succeed in every area of our lives.In this episode, I talk about EQ and what it means, and about PQ, the Positive Intelligence Quotient, it's relationship to EQ and how it helps enhance and increase your EQ so that you can build better r...
2022-11-1812 min
Woman Up! Women in MedicineKey Take Aways from Women in Medicine Summit AttendeesDr. Shikha Jain, Founder and Chair of the Women in Medicine Summit invited previous Summit attendees to share observations and takeaways to educate and empower individuals to make a real difference in the healthcare environment and achieve career goals. Speakers are Dr. Arghvan Salles, Dr. Angela Weyand, Dr. Asha Padmanabhan, Dr. Inna Husain, Dr. Jesse Allen, Dr. Jessi Gold, Dr. Mark Shapiro, current medical student Ms. Olivia Negris, and Ms. Michelle Fernando, medical school applicant. To view presentations and access more exclusive Women in Medicine Summit content, download the ConveyMED Podcast app for free: Apple...
2022-11-1115 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansIf only I had known...And what I would do differently. 7 lessons on how not to be a part of the statistic of Gender Pay Disparity.Do men and women physicians get paid differently?Some would say yes. Some would categorically deny that such a thing exists.Like most things, I suspect the answer is somewhere in between. That it does exist in many practices, and there may be some that are very fair.How would you know? And what can you do about it?In this episode, I talk about 7 things I wish I had known at the beginning of my career that I would have done differently. Connect wit...
2022-10-1018 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansStarting your journey of building your Mental FitnessConflict is a part of our everyday life, no matter who we are.Some of us handle conflict head on, while most of us (like me) hate it and would do anything to avoid it until it becomes unavoidable.The able to manage conflict effectively is a key skill to learn, not just for leaders, but also in every day life.In this episode, I talk about how I went from running away from conflict to being able to face it with calm, clear-headed action, without spending hours and days in anger, frustration...
2022-09-2912 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe Next Steps in Becoming the Master of your Mind- Part 2Continuing the journey we began a few weeks ago, this week's episode takes you through the next steps of becoming the Master of your own mind. The most powerful gift I have ever been given is this one: being taught how to manage my mind and be responsible for my happiness and success.In this episode you will learn about the three muscles of Mental Fitness and how to get started in your own Mental fitness gym.Relevant links:Previous episodes Episode 39: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-leadership-rx-for-women-physicians/id1531236342?i=1000569083674
2022-07-2812 minThe Leadership Rx for Women PhysiciansThe next steps in becoming the Master of your Mind"Self-sabotaging, self-gaslighting, inner critic" these are all terms we are intimately familiar with. Those incredibly damaging voices that many times we consider to be the absolute truth, those voices that can be sometimes sneaky, sometimes loud, those voices that can sabotage our happiness and our potential greatness.In this episode, I talk about these voices, these Saboteurs in our minds, and how you can start the process of recognizing them and start taking steps to intercept them.Relevant links:Previous episodes Episode 39: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-leadership-rx-for-women-physicians/id1531236342?i=1000569083674...
2022-07-2116 min