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What happens when a pediatric plastic surgeon becomes a master of conflict resolution?

From program director to mediator-in-training, Dr. Losee shares how his journey from educator to conflict expert evolved and why coaching isn’t therapy, mentoring, or advice-giving. It’s a structured process of calibration, connection, and transformation that helps physicians answer: Where am I? How did I get here? And where do I want to go?

He breaks down the real-world challenges of faculty conflict, far messier than resident issues, the rise of pre-litigation mediation through programs like AHRQ’s CANDOR, and why CMS is now scoring hospitals on early dispute resolution. Plus, how peer coaching at UPMC is reducing burnout, boosting retention, and creating psychologically safer workplaces with data to prove it.

Whether you're a burned-out attending, a new department chair, or a leader building a better culture, this episode delivers the tools to lead with clarity.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Start with self-awareness: book a coaching session (even if you’re “fine”) to examine where you are, how you got stuck, and who you want to become. Coaching isn’t just for crises; it’s career nutrition. Use it to prevent burnout before it starts.
• Train in the 5 core coaching skills: deep listening, powerful questioning, reflecting, naming emotions, and reframing. These aren’t just for coaches; they make you a better leader, parent, spouse, and colleague. Enroll in a peer coach program or workshop today.
• Advocate for early dispute resolution: push your institution to adopt a CANDOR-style program with trained mediators. When harm occurs, offer patients a mediator before litigation. It heals relationships, reduces lawsuits, and builds trust. CMS is watching, get ahead of the curve.

About the Show:

Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Joseph E. Losee is the Dr. Ross H. Musgrave Endowed Chair of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, Executive Vice Chair of Plastic Surgery at UPMC, and Vice Dean for Faculty Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. A former residency program director and past President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, he co-chairs UPMC’s Physician Wellness Initiative and serves on the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine. Through his firm Clarity Med Strategies, he is a board-certified executive coach and trained mediator, helping physicians resolve conflict, build self-awareness, and prevent burnout with peer coaching and pre-litigation mediation programs.

📍 Connect with Dr. Losee

• University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine – Faculty Profile
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joseph-losee
• Email: [email protected]

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

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