Dr. Jeremy Leidenfrost, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon at St. Luke's, opens up about the extraordinary effort required to maintain a top-ranked cardiothoracic surgery program. Listeners will learn how high surgical volumes are key to sharpening the skills of both surgeons and their teams. Dr. Leidenfrost also discusses the vital roles of specialized anesthesiologists and post-operative care, revealing the meticulous standards based on Medicare data and risk-adjusted mortality rates that contribute to their prestigious ranking. Join us as he shares insights into the demanding world of medical training, where the quest for competence often extends beyond the 80-hour workweek.

The journey of mastering cardiothoracic surgery is not just about hours spent in practice but also about the bonds formed along the way. We reflect on how these connections, akin to those in the military, offer a support system through shared struggles and triumphs. Drawing parallels to Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule, we discuss the dedication required to excel in this challenging field. Dr. Leidenfrost provides personal anecdotes from his training days, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and mentorship in shaping a successful career.

Our conversation with Dr. Leidenfrost wouldn't be complete without recognizing the exceptional quality of nursing care and cardiology collaborations at St. Luke's Hospital, Chesterfield, Missouri. He recounts a memorable story of a loyal patient from rural Missouri, illustrating the program's widespread reputation. Personal and humorous accounts highlight the importance of physical fitness amidst a busy career, inspired by mentors who lead by example. This episode is a testament to the power of a skilled team, where trust and reliability elevate patient care and outcomes.

What if the relentless cycle of news isn't just keeping you informed but also compromising your well-being? Join us as Dr. Jason Edwards sits down with Emily Rosencrans, the insightful director of spiritual care services at St. Luke's, to uncover the profound impact of constant media consumption on our mental and emotional health. Together, we unravel the intricate link between stress and physical conditions like Takotsubo syndrome, highlighting how unchecked anxiety can manifest in unexpected ways. Emily guides us through practical strategies to establish a healthier relationship with the news, suggesting therapeutic activities such as absorbing music or seeking uplifting content. By exploring mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, we explore how staying centered amidst life's chaos can fortify your resilience.

Our conversation deepens with an exploration of emotional healing and vulnerability, drawing on Emily’s rich background in military upbringing and chaplaincy training. We discuss the transformative power of acknowledging and processing emotions, sharing poignant stories that illustrate the delicate balance between suppressing and honoring grief. Enhanced by insights from Brene Brown, we examine how vulnerability can be a conduit for personal growth and the necessity of support systems in navigating complex emotional landscapes. As we turn to hope and resilience, we challenge the misconception that our world is more perilous than ever, reminding ourselves of humanity’s enduring spirit as exemplified by Japan’s post-World War II recovery. Tune in to rediscover the power of hope and a positive outlook as keys to overcoming adversity and envisioning a brighter future.

Discover how the ancient practice of variolation laid the groundwork for one of the greatest medical triumphs in history: vaccination. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Bill Campbell, an infectious disease expert from St. Luke's, to explore the compelling evolution of vaccines from early observations in ancient Asia and Africa to Edward Jenner’s pioneering work with cowpox in the 1790s. Dr. Campbell shares captivating insights into how smallpox shaped societies, the pivotal role vaccines played during the Revolutionary War, and the historical struggles against disease that forever altered the course of human history.

In our conversation, we unravel the ongoing challenge of vaccine hesitancy, shedding light on its deep-rooted history and persistent presence. Dr. Campbell offers a nuanced perspective on public resistance, tracing it back to the mandatory vaccinations ordered by George Washington himself. This episode invites you to reflect on the enduring power of vaccines alongside the societal debate over their acceptance. Don't miss this engaging narrative that combines historical accounts, scientific breakthroughs, and societal perspectives, promising an enlightening look at the balance between public health achievements and individual concerns.