Unlock the Secrets to Effective Feedback

Unlocking the Secret to Effective Feedback Listen directly on Apple or Spotify In this episode, Dr. Stacey Ishman explores the art of giving effective feedback in academic medicine. She discusses common pitfalls in feedback delivery and introduces a powerful framework that focuses on the "ideal version" of a role rather than past shortcomings. Through personal examples and practical scripts, she demonstrates how to transform feedback conversations from defensive encounters into collaborative problem-solving sessions. No need to take notes, just check out the Blog to get a summary of these insights. If you are interested in my Academic Physician Kickstarter Course designed to chart your personalized path to promotion for physicians in the first 5 years of practice, please DM me on Instagram @sishmancoach. You can also email me at [email protected] This course is designed to help you set up your practice, learn finances 101, build a research program, build a national reputation, and prepare a personalized plan for promotion. My mission is to help you envision your ideal career and create a path to your version of success. Join us to kickstart your career. Key Points: Introduction and Context Setting (0:00 - 2:30) The challenge of giving feedback when tired and frustrated Importance of delivering feedback in a way that can be received Personal example of "we need to talk" triggering fight-or-flight response The Problem with Traditional Feedback (2:30 - 6:45) Why past-focused feedback creates defensiveness Example of research productivity feedback done wrong vs. right The psychological impact of criticism on high achievers Types of Ineffective Feedback (6:45 - 10:30) Too vague: "do better" provides no actionable guidance Too negative or past-focused: dwelling on missed targets Too personal: attacking natural abilities rather than specific behaviors Personal story about RVU productivity after maternity leave The Consequences of Poor Feedback (10:30 - 11:45) Shuts people down and fuels burnout Doesn't drive actual improvement Can create lasting negative attitudes toward work The "Ideal Version" Framework (11:45 - 13:30) Why high achievers respond well to clear targets How this approach protects professional identity Creating collaboration instead of defensiveness Framework in Action - Examples (13:30 - 16:45) Research productivity: focusing on leadership expectations Education: emphasizing innovation and mentoring Clinical efficiency: balancing patient volume with teaching The Three-Step Process (16:45 - 17:30) Define the ideal: "this is what great looks like" Give forward-focused feedback: "here's how we get there" Tie to shared values: connect to personal career goals Personal Success Story (17:30 - 20:00) Overcoming feedback about not connecting with residents The power of turning around and giving full attention Simple changes that create significant impact Practical Application and Scripts (20:00 - 22:00) Examples of reframing common feedback scenarios Preparing scripted versions before difficult conversations Engaging others in problem-solving rather than just pointing out problems Conclusion and Call to Action (22:00 - end) Summary of effective feedback principles Invitation to share and subscribe Contact information and social media handles Summary Dr. Ishman transforms how we think about feedback by shifting from a deficit-focused approach to an aspirational one. Her "ideal version" framework helps medical professionals deliver feedback that motivates rather than demoralizes, creating collaborative relationships that drive actual improvement. This episode is essential listening for anyone who regularly provides feedback in medical settings. Please RATE, REVIEW and FOLLOW the Medical Mentor Coaching Podcast on your favorite app (well Apple and Spotify since that is where we are right now!) If you are interested in getting in touch with us or providing topic suggestions, please: ● DM me on Instagram at @sishmancoach  ● Message me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-mentor-coaching  ● Email me at [email protected]  ● Contact me at the website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com/welcome