Ep. 329 - Naomi Schmid "Physician Coaching and the Art of Realignment"

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Naomi Schmid for an open and personal conversation about medicine, burnout, coaching, and finding alignment in both career and life. Dr. Schmid shares her journey into podiatric medicine after discovering the profession during a gap year following college, and reflects on how meaningful patient relationships became a defining theme throughout her career. The discussion also highlights the influence of mentorship in shaping generations of podiatrists across decades of training.The heart of the episode centers on Dr. Schmid’s transition into physician coaching after experiencing overwhelm herself while balancing clinical practice, leadership responsibilities, and family life. She candidly describes the moment she realized she needed support and how working with a coach transformed her perspective on success, fulfillment, and personal well-being. Together, we explore themes that resonate deeply within medicine: people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, work-life alignment, and the pressure many physicians feel to constantly achieve more while neglecting themselves in the process.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Schmid discusses how coaching helps physicians reconnect with their core values, identify what truly brings them joy, and make small but meaningful shifts that create lasting change. The group reflects on how external definitions of success can leave even highly accomplished professionals feeling unfulfilled, and why self-awareness, boundaries, and intentional decision-making are critical for sustainability in medicine. The episode also dives into differences in how men and women often experience medicine, leadership, and self-expectation, touching on topics like imposter syndrome, societal conditioning, and the challenge of saying “no.” Dr. Schmid emphasizes that coaching is not about “blowing up your life,” but rather making thoughtful, aligned changes that help physicians build careers and lives they genuinely enjoy.Blending humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, this episode offers an honest look at the realities of modern medical practice while reminding listeners that meaningful growth often begins with small shifts, self-reflection, and the willingness to ask for support. We hope you enjoy!Website: naomischmid.comLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-schmid-dpmFacebook: Dr. Naomi Schmid CoachingInstagram: drnaomischmidcoaching