In this soul-stirring episode of The Doer’s Lab, I sit down with Dr. Bijal Patel, a Kidney Care expert, educator, and advocate for empathy in leadership, whose service and leadership earned him the distinct honor of having August 23rd declared Doctor Bijal Patel Day in San Diego, California.

Our conversation goes far beyond accolades and clinical routines.

We talk about what it really means to lead with empathy in a world that often expects perfection, especially from those in white coats. Dr. Patel opens up about identity, cultural nuance, and the quiet resilience it takes to show up fully for others while navigating the pressures of being “the one who holds it all together.”

Whether you are in healthcare, leadership, or simply trying to lead with more heart, this episode will meet you where you are.

Listen in and be reminded: resilience is not about being unbreakable, it is about staying open, grounded, and human.