Guest: Kevin B. Mahoney, Chief Executive Officer, University of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine)

Hosts: Dr. Hank Davis, Dr. Saïd Azoury

EPISODE SUMMARY
Recorded on location inside Pennsylvania Hospital’s historic medical library, this episode of The DIEP End steps beyond the operating room to explore how large academic health systems are led through moments of crisis, growth, and scientific transformation.

Hank Davis and Dr. Saïd Azoury sit down with Kevin Mahoney, CEO of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, for a candid conversation about leadership grounded in humility, curiosity, and being present. Mahoney reflects on formative experiences—from a near-fatal accident and a life-changing interaction with a nurse, to navigating a hospital strike early in his career—that shaped how he leads today.

The discussion spans Penn Medicine’s culture of science and dissemination, the realities of healthcare finance, lessons learned during COVID-19, and why Mahoney believes artificial intelligence will reshape medicine while never replacing the human work of being a physician.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

• Why Mahoney believes you shouldn’t chase titles, but instead chase impact: “Pick your organization first and your job second.”
• How a wise nurse showed him that insight and compassion can change someone’s path—and why that moment inspired him to work in healthcare.
• What real-time leadership looked like during COVID-19, including the limits of messaging and the importance of listening.
• The core elements of the “Penn DNA”: science, dissemination, collaboration, grit, and health equity.
• How breakthrough ideas like CAR-T therapy and mRNA move from concept to clinical care inside an academic health system.
• Why embracing AI is essential for healthcare leaders—and how it may democratize scarcity without replacing physicians.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
• “Never do things the way they’ve always been”—the advice that stayed with Mahoney before his career pivoted.
• An early career experience with frontline workers that taught him what leadership looks like when you stay inside the fence, not outside it.
• A COVID communication moment that reframed what “six feet apart” meant for frontline staff.
• Why financial strength is less about margins and more about trust, mission, and sustainability.
• Mahoney’s clear stance on AI: it will change medicine, but it will never replace doctors.

ABOUT THE GUEST
Kevin B. Mahoney is the Chief Executive Officer of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. He joined Penn Medicine in 1996 and was appointed CEO in 2019. Mahoney oversees one of the nation’s leading academic health systems, guiding its clinical operations, research mission, and long-term strategy.

KEYWORDS (SEO)

Kevin Mahoney Penn Medicine
University of Pennsylvania Health System CEO
Academic medical center leadership
Healthcare innovation
Hospital leadership during COVID
Penn Medicine culture
CAR-T therapy Penn
mRNA research Penn Medicine
Health equity in healthcare
AI in medicine
Healthcare administration
Future of medical education

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In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their guest, Dr. Lindsey Fitzharris, delve into the fascinating world of medical history, exploring the legacies of influential figures like Joseph Lister and the evolution of surgical practices. They share personal anecdotes that shaped their interests in the field, discuss the importance of medical education, and reflect on the ethical implications of modern medicine. The dialogue highlights the balance between nostalgia for the past and appreciation for contemporary advancements in healthcare. In this engaging conversation, Lindsey discusses her book 'The Facemaker' and the life of Harold Gillies, a pioneer in plastic surgery. She reflects on the challenges of writing about medical history, her personal experience with breast cancer, and the importance of empathy in patient care. The discussion also touches on the legacy of Joseph Lister and the evolution of surgical practices, emphasizing the need for a balance between medical innovation and human connection.

titles

• Exploring the Depths of Medical History
• The Legacy of Surgery and Its Pioneers

Sound Bites

• "We have to have a reckoning."
• "No two faces are the same."
• "Doctors are not gods."

Chapters

00:00
Remembering a Mentor

02:59
The Influence of Medical History

06:00
Exploring Medical Personalities

09:03
The Art of Storytelling in Medicine

11:49
The Legacy of Joseph Lister

17:26
Growing Up with History

19:47
The Mystery of Jack the Ripper

22:54
The Role of Baby Farmers in Victorian Times

23:43
Pursuing a PhD in Medical History

30:07
The Importance of Medical History

32:30
Modern Medicine vs. Historical Practices

36:53
The Facemaker: Unveiling Harold Gillies

42:02
The Challenge of Facial Reconstruction

47:27
Personal Journeys: Breast Cancer and Identity

58:59
Navigating the Medical Landscape: A Patient's Perspective

01:08:34
The Evolution of Plastic Surgery and Its Societal Impact

01:10:30
The Human Connection in Medicine

01:11:46
The Legacy of Joseph Lister and Antisepsis

01:14:04
The Importance of Medical History and Learning from Failure

01:19:21
The Future of Medical Storytelling

01:24:10
The Role of Humanity in Medicine

01:30:21
Remembering a Medical Connector

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keywords

microsurgery, reconstructive surgery, Buncke Clinic, Godina Fellowship, phalloplasty, ASRM, surgical podcast, hand surgery, medical education, surgeon journey, Godina Fellowship, mentorship, networking, private equity, family priorities, entrepreneurship, medical education, imposter syndrome, career development, microsurgery

takeaways

• Dr. Safa emphasizes the importance of mentorship in shaping a medical career.
• The Buncke Clinic is known for its legacy in microsurgery and its collaborative environment.
• Dr. Safa's journey into reconstructive surgery was influenced by his father's medical background.
• The podcast aims to share unedited, authentic conversations about surgery and life.
• Dr. Safa's experience during COVID led to the creation of the Buncke Podcast.
• The Godina Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for surgeons in microsurgery.
• Phalloplasty has evolved significantly, with Dr. Safa contributing to its advancements.
• The importance of maintaining a broad skill set in surgery is highlighted.
• Dr. Safa's accidental journey into microsurgery showcases the unpredictability of medical careers.
• The camaraderie and culture at the Buncke Clinic play a crucial role in its success. Bauback's journey to the Godina Fellowship was unexpected and filled with serendipitous events.
• Imposter syndrome is common, and it's natural to have doubts about one's work.
• Networking and mentorship play crucial roles in career development.
• The importance of community in the ASRM is highlighted, with many talented individuals deserving recognition.
• Breaking barriers and building bridges is essential for the future of microsurgery.
• An MBA can provide structured learning and valuable networking opportunities.
• The corporate practice of medicine has its pros and cons, often affecting physician autonomy.
• Family priorities should be emphasized, as time with loved ones is limited.
• Musical passions can provide a creative outlet and balance in a demanding profession.
• Surgical instruments, like the Micron's razor edge scissors, are vital for precision in microsurgery.

summary

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Bauback Safa shares his journey through the world of reconstructive microsurgery, highlighting his experiences at the Buncke Clinic and the importance of mentorship in shaping his career. He discusses the genesis of his podcast, the significance of authentic conversations in surgery, and the evolution of phalloplasty. Dr. Safa reflects on the legacy of the Buncke Clinic, the impact of the Godina Fellowship, and the necessity of maintaining a broad skill set in the surgical field. The discussion emphasizes the unpredictability of medical careers and the camaraderie that fosters success in the surgical community. In this engaging conversation, Bauback Safa shares his journey to becoming a Godina Fellow, reflecting on the importance of mentorship, community, and the gradual realization of aspirations. He discusses the value of networking and the impact of an MBA on his career, while also addressing the challenges posed by private equity in medicine. The conversation touches on personal priorities, particularly the significance of family, and concludes with insights into Bauback's musical passions and favorite surgical instruments.

Sound Bites

• "It's not about how to do a case."
• "I think it made me a better surgeon."
• "All you need is one opportunity."

Chapters

00:00
Podcast Setup and Intro

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keywords

plastic surgery, aesthetic surgery, leadership, mentorship, women in medicine, practice management, patient care, surgical education, networking, professional development

summary
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer shares her journey in plastic surgery, discussing her childhood influences, the path to her specialty, and the importance of leadership and mentorship in the field. She emphasizes the need for business acumen in establishing a successful practice and advocates for fair compensation for surgeons. Dr. Pfeifer also highlights the significance of patient-centric care and the evolving role of women in surgery, offering valuable advice for aspiring surgeons and the importance of networking and professional development.

takeaways

• Dr. Pfeifer's childhood was influenced by strong women in her family.
• She always aspired to be a surgeon from a young age.
• Plastic surgery appealed to her due to its creative and patient-centered nature.
• Building a successful practice takes time and effort, often around 10 years.
• Business acumen is crucial for running a successful practice.
• Surgeons should advocate for fair compensation and recognize their value.
• Research is important, but technical excellence should be prioritized.
• Patient experience is key to a thriving practice.
• Leadership in surgery requires vision and effective communication.
• Women in surgery are increasingly supported and have a bright future.

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Keywords

surgery, commitment, social media, mastery, medical field


Summary

In this conversation, Kyle Eberlin emphasizes the importance of commitment and focus in the field of surgery, particularly in an age dominated by social media distractions. He discusses the journey to mastery, highlighting that success requires dedication and hard work, and that aspiring surgeons must navigate the challenges posed by modern distractions to achieve their goals.


Takeaways

Commitment to excellence is crucial in surgery.
Social media can be a significant distraction.
Mastery in surgery requires hard work and dedication.
Surgeons must focus on their craft to succeed.
The journey to becoming a great surgeon is unique for everyone.
Distractions can derail one's professional goals.
Success in surgery is a continuous journey.
Dedication is what sets great surgeons apart.
It's important to block out external noise.
The best surgeons are those who prioritize their training.


Titles

Commitment to Excellence in Surgery



Sound bites

"Social media can distract from our goals."
"Mastery requires dedication and hard work."
"Commitment is key to becoming a great surgeon."

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keywords

plastic surgery, vascular surgery, medical education, career balance, family life, mentorship, lower extremity reconstruction, academic medicine, running, personal stories, work-life balance, sleep health, patient care, limb salvage surgery, women in medicine, career reflections, operating room music, surgical instruments

summary

In this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Karen Evans shares her journey through medicine, from her early interest in biology to her specialization in plastic and vascular surgery. The conversation delves into her educational background, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and her experiences in the demanding field of lower extremity reconstruction. Dr. Evans also discusses the challenges of balancing a medical career with family life, her passion for mentoring young medical professionals, and her personal love for running. The episode highlights the importance of mentorship, the joy of academic medicine, and the unique stories that shape a physician's path. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Karen Evans discusses the balance of work and family life, the importance of sleep, and the evolving definitions of success in patient care. She shares insights on advancements in limb salvage surgery and the future of lower extremity surgery, emphasizing the role of women in medicine and the importance of individualized patient care. The discussion also touches on personal experiences, including living in her car during medical training, and the role of music in the operating room.

takeaways

• Dr. Evans emphasizes the importance of mentorship in academic medicine.
• Her early interest in biology was sparked by a unique experience in middle school.
• She found her passion in vascular surgery during her medical training.
• The transition to plastic surgery was influenced by a memorable debridement case.
• Balancing a demanding career with family life is a significant challenge for physicians.
• Dr. Evans values the energy and excitement that young medical students bring to her practice.
• She believes in the importance of finding one's niche in medicine during residency.
• Running has been a consistent part of her life and relationship with her husband.
• The support of family and caregivers has been crucial in her career.
• Dr. Evans shares a humorous anecdote about her early days in residency. Dr. Evans attributes her resilience to her mother's genetic strength.
• She believes in the importance of sleep but feels lucky to function well with less.
• Defining success in patient care is complex and varies by individual.
• Perforator-based flaps represent a significant advancement in surgery.
• The future of lower extremity surgery should focus on individualized care.
• Women in medicine can set great examples for future generations.
• Adaptability and flexibility are crucial in balancing work and family.
• Living in her car during training was a unique experience for Dr. Evans.
• Music plays a vital role in creating a positive atmosphere in the OR.
• The right surgical instruments can greatly enhance a surgeon's capabilities.

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Amber Leis shares her unique journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in plastic surgery. She discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of social media in education, and her transition to a new position at WashU. Dr. Leis emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence in medical training and offers valuable advice for aspiring plastic surgeons, including insights on personal statements and the match process. The discussion also touches on the challenges of moving and starting over, as well as the joys of personal growth and self-reflection.

Takeaways

The importance of community and mentorship in medical careers.

Social media can be a powerful tool for education and outreach.

Transitioning to a new role can lead to personal growth and reflection.

Competency-based education is the future of medical training.

Emotional intelligence is crucial in surgical training and practice.

Personal statements should focus on the applicant's unique story.

Research years should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

The match process requires strategic planning and preparation.

Engaging joyfully in education can enhance learning experiences.

Self-reflection is key to understanding one's journey and growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Amber Leis

02:02 Childhood and Early Influences

05:44 Path to Medicine and Plastic Surgery

09:18 Transition to Program Director

10:14 The Role of Social Media in Education

13:59 Moving Across the Country: Challenges and Opportunities

20:01 The Importance of Education in Plastic Surgery

21:36 Advice for Aspiring Plastic Surgeons

25:17 Navigating the Match Process

29:05 Final Thoughts on Resilience and Growth

30:15 Navigating Research Years in Plastic Surgery

34:02 Application Strategies and Interview Preparation

37:10 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Medicine

39:12 Competency-Based Education in Plastic Surgery

43:18 Personal Reflections and Career Transitions

Keywords

plastic surgery, education, mentorship, social media, career transition, personal growth, medical training, residency, emotional intelligence, research

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