EP56 | The Power of Narrative with Dr. Peter Crane

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What if one of the most powerful tools in medicine isn’t a treatment, diagnosis, or technology, but a story?

In this inspiring episode of Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma welcomes Dr. Peter Crane, family physician, medical director, cancer survivor, and host of the Doctors Making a Difference podcast. After facing a life-altering diagnosis and experiencing medicine from the patient’s perspective, Dr. Crane gained a renewed appreciation for the physicians who cared for him and a deeper understanding of the impact doctors have on the lives of others.

Together, they discuss how storytelling helps physicians reconnect with their purpose, process difficult experiences, and rediscover joy in practice. They explore the role of narrative medicine in reducing burnout, strengthening physician-patient relationships, improving advocacy efforts, and creating meaningful connections within healthcare. Through personal stories and practical insights, Dr. Crane demonstrates how authentic storytelling can remind physicians why they chose medicine in the first place and help leave the profession stronger for future generations.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that every physician has a story worth telling, and that story may inspire healing for both the storyteller and those who listen.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Your Story Matters: Physicians often underestimate the impact of their personal experiences. Sharing authentic stories helps build trust, foster connection, and inspire both colleagues and patients.

• Reconnect with Your Why: Burnout often grows when purpose gets buried beneath daily demands. Reflecting on why you chose medicine can restore meaning, resilience, and joy in practice.

• Reflection Creates Growth: Whether through journaling, audio notes, conversations, or podcasting, regularly reflecting on meaningful patient encounters helps physicians process experiences and stay grounded in their mission.

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. Peter Crane is a board-certified family physician, Medical Director of Bear Lake Family Care and OBGYN, and practicing physician at Bear Lake Memorial Hospital in Idaho. After surviving a rare solitary fibrous tumor, he developed an even deeper appreciation for the healing profession and launched the Doctors Making a Difference podcast. Through conversations with physicians across specialties, he highlights inspiring stories, practical wisdom, and the profound impact doctors have on their patients and communities.

Connect with Dr. Peter Crane

🌐 Website: doctorsmakingadifference.org (http://doctorsmakingadifference.org)

🎙️ Podcast: Doctors Making a Difference (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/doctors-making-a-difference/id1753613285)

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 (https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/provider/lee-sharma-md-obstetrics)

Tags:

Narrative Medicine, Physician Storytelling, Doctor Burnout, Physician Wellness, Purpose in Medicine, Conflict Resolution, Doctors Making a Difference, Medical Leadership, Physician Resilience, Healthcare Communication

Social Media Hashtags:

#ScalpelAndSword #DoctorsMakingADifference #NarrativeMedicine #PhysicianWellness #DoctorBurnout #HealthcareLeadership #PhysicianResilience #MedicalStorytelling #ConflictResolution #PurposeInMedicine

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute med…