In this episode of Journey into Academia, we explore Vision to Impact, highlighting how powerful ideas can grow into lasting change in ophthalmology education and research. The hosts are joined by two inspiring leaders: Dr. Bonnie Henderson, clinical professor at Tufts University School of Medicine and founder of the Envision Summit, and Dr. Barbara Blodi, professor of ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin and longtime director of the Wisconsin Reading Center. Together, they share their personal journeys into academia, the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership, and how passion, mentorship, and teamwork can transform ideas into influential programs. From empowering women in eye care to advancing global retinal clinical trials and imaging innovation, this conversation offers meaningful insight, encouragement, and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to make an impact in academic medicine.

• Career paths in academia are rarely linear—growth comes from passion and persistence.

• Big ideas create impact when action and leadership follow.

• Representation and access are essential for meaningful progress.

• Mentorship plays a critical role at every career stage.

• Strong teams are the foundation of lasting success.

• Fresh leadership keeps programs innovative and sustainable.

• There is never a perfect time—say yes to opportunity.

• Balance and boundaries are key to long-term fulfillment.

In this episode of the WPO Journey into Academia podcast, hosts Cat Burkat and Thasarat engage in a profound conversation with Dr. Sonal Tuli and Dr. Carla Siegfried about the importance of support systems for women in academic ophthalmology. They share their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and how they built networks of mentorship and support. The discussion highlights the evolution of these relationships over time, the loneliness that can accompany leadership roles, and the significance of offering support to others during tough moments. The episode serves as a reminder that no one walks this road alone and that leadership is as much about giving support as it is about receiving it.

Key Takeaways:

• Both speakers emphasize the importance of mentorship in their careers.

• Perseverance and grit are essential traits for success in academia.

• Building a network of mentors can significantly impact one's career trajectory.

• Support systems evolve over time and can come from peers as well as senior mentors.

• Communication and transparency are vital in leadership roles.

• Feeling lonely in leadership is common, but finding peer groups can help.

• Listening and being present for colleagues in distress is crucial.

• Women in leadership may hesitate to make tough decisions, but collaboration can ease this process.

• Offering help without overstepping boundaries is important in supporting others.

• Leadership involves both giving and receiving support.

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett: Dr. Hartnett is the Michael F. Marmer Professor of Ophthalmology, Director of Pediatric Retina at Stanford, and an internationally renowned surgeon scientist. Her groundbreaking research has significantly advanced the field of pediatric retina diseases, establishing her as a leader in ophthalmic academia.

Dr. Christina Flaxel: Dr. Flaxel serves as a Professor of Ophthalmology at OHSU and holds the Bulabuk and Charles C. Arvison Professorship in Macular Degeneration Research. An expert in retina specialization, she currently heads the Wold Family Macular Degeneration Center at the Casey Eye Institute, contributing extensively to research and education in ophthalmology.

Join hosts Thasarat and Cat as they launch into Season 2 of the Women Professors of Ophthalmology podcast with an inspiring theme: redefining success. In this episode, they delve into the evolving definitions of success with two distinguished guests, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett and Dr. Christina Flaxel, both accomplished leaders in academic ophthalmology. With insightful conversations around their unique journeys into academia, listeners are offered an engaging exploration of how personal success can transform over time.

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Hartnett shares her fascinating path from a family of educators to becoming an internationally recognized figure in pediatric retina research at Stanford. Dr. Christina Flaxel reflects on her cherished role as an educator and retina specialist at the Casey Eye Institute, emphasizing the profound impact of training the next generation of ophthalmologists. Together, they discuss the importance of personal growth, mentorship, and how their career success has shifted focus from achieving personal milestones to inspiring others in the field.

As the discussion unfolds, both guests candidly share pivotal moments and challenges they faced along the way, offering lessons in leadership and the value of authenticity. They uncover the hidden victories that truly matter, whether in career advancements or personal relationships, and emphasize the significance of continuous learning. Dive into this episode for an enriching discourse on redefining success as a woman in academia, with insights applicable beyond the realm of ophthalmology that highlight resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of meaningful achievements.

• Success can evolve over time, with a shift from individual accomplishments to fostering growth in others.

• Authenticity and staying true to one's values are crucial on the path to success.

• Personal triumphs often go unnoticed but hold significant importance, providing true motivation.

• Mentorship and nurturing future leaders are fundamental to professional fulfillment.