Ep. 228 Standing Up for Doctors: Turning Tragedy into Physician Advocacy with Kim Downey

In this powerful and deeply human episode of the BOSS Podcast, Amy sits down with physician advocate Kim Downey — a three-time cancer survivor whose life changed after the tragic loss of her radiologist to suicide. What began as personal grief became a national mission to support physician wellbeing. Together, they explore the hidden emotional cost of practicing medicine, the culture of emotional suppression doctors are trained into, and why physicians must be seen — and supported — as human beings, not superheroes. Kim shares how her advocacy work, including the Stand Up for Doctors and her book White Coats Human Hearts, helps physicians feel less alone while educating patients and communities about the realities of medical practice. This episode is a moving conversation about grief, gratitude, complications, physician families, and the healing power of connection. If you’ve ever wondered who takes care of the doctors — this conversation is for you. 🎧 Topics include: Physician mental health and suicide awareness Emotional suppression in medical training Patient–physician relationships and trust The power of gratitude in medicine Rehumanizing doctors and healthcare culture Perfect for physicians, healthcare professionals, and anyone who wants to better understand the people behind the white coat.https://standupfordoctors.org/