EP57 | The Curriculum We Never Had – Teaching Conflict Management in Medical School

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What if conflict resolution was taught with the same intentionality as clinical medicine?

In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Lee Sharma welcomes medical students Rachel Cotter and Caroline Hawkins to discuss the often-overlooked aspects of medical training: professional identity, conflict management, feedback, emotional intelligence, and leadership. The discussion explores how modern medical education is intentionally teaching students to reflect on their values, communicate effectively, navigate difficult conversations, and build supportive professional relationships. Rachel and Caroline share their experiences learning within an environment that prioritizes feedback, psychological safety, and personal growth alongside academic excellence.

Together, they examine how conflict resolution skills can improve patient care, strengthen healthcare teams, and help physicians become better leaders, colleagues, and human beings. They also reflect on the importance of emotional regulation, mentorship, and building a personal support network throughout medical training.

This episode offers a refreshing glimpse into the future of medicine and the physicians who will help shape it.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Professional identity is built intentionally, not accidentally: The physicians we become are shaped by the behaviors we observe, the values we choose to embrace, and the examples we decide to follow. Medical students who actively reflect on leadership, communication, and professionalism develop a stronger sense of purpose and are better equipped to navigate the challenges of healthcare.

• Feedback is most powerful when it becomes part of everyday learning: A culture that normalizes constructive feedback creates safer learning environments and stronger healthcare teams. When feedback is viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism, learners become more resilient, self-aware, and capable of continuous improvement throughout their careers.

• Emotional regulation is one of the most valuable skills in medicine: Healthcare professionals routinely work in high-stress environments where emotions can run high. Learning to pause, regulate reactions, and respond thoughtfully instead of impulsively improves teamwork, strengthens relationships, reduces conflict, and ultimately benefits both patients and providers.

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 Guests:

Rachel Cotter is a medical student whose interests include leadership development, professional identity formation, and creating healthier learning environments within medicine.

Caroline Hawkins is a medical student passionate about communication, emotional intelligence, and improving the educational experiences of future healthcare professionals.

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 (mailto:scalpelandsword@gmail.com)

🌐 Website: East Alabama Health – Dr. Sharma (https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/provider/lee-sharma-md-obstetrics)

 

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

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