108 | Changing the World with Dr. Brittany Bankhead

About the Guest:

Dr. Brittany Bankhead: Dr. Brittany Bankhead is an accomplished trauma surgeon known for her resilience and determination. She is a double board-certified academic trauma surgeon with an impressive history that includes transforming setbacks into stepping stones for success. Despite early challenges in her academic journey, including starting in an international medical program, Dr. Bankhead went on to complete her residency at prestigious institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and a fellowship at Harvard Medical School. Beyond her medical expertise, she is an educator, researcher, entrepreneur, and a social media influencer who advocates for authenticity and balance in professional and personal life. Currently, she is a part of the Medical University of South Carolina.

Episode Summary

In this riveting episode of “Becoming UnDone,” Dr. Toby Brooks interviews Dr. Brittany Bankhead, who shares her inspiring journey from struggling undergrad student to a double board-certified trauma surgeon. The episode sheds light on Dr. Bankhead’s fortitude and willpower as she navigates the trials of medical school in the Caribbean, eventually securing a fellowship at Harvard. Her story is a testament to perseverance, evidenced by the uplifting message she later shared publicly, challenging naysayers who doubted her potential. Throughout her journey, Dr. Bankhead has embraced vulnerability and authenticity, carving a path that inspires budding medical professionals and beyond.

Moreover, the conversation delves into the personal aspects of Dr. Bankhead’s life, including her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic as an ICU fellow in Boston. Her candid recounting of the profound personal and professional challenges faced during that time underscores the importance of mental health support in high-stakes environments. She discusses her journey of self-discovery and resilience that led to a rekindled marriage. By openly sharing these impactful experiences, Dr. Bankhead emerges as a beacon of hope and strength, advocating for authenticity and balance in multifaceted roles as a mother, surgeon, and emerging entrepreneur.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Brittany Bankhead’s journey from international medical school to Ivy League fellowship is a story of perseverance and determination against the odds.
• The importance of authenticity and embracing one’s true self in professional settings is highlighted as a key to feeling a sense of belonging and maintaining mental well-being.
• Dr. Bankhead’s experience during COVID-19 emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to have access to mental health resources, considering the high stress and emotional challenges they face.
• A testament to second chances, Dr. Bankhead’s remarriage to her husband illustrates personal growth and the importance of self-awareness in nurturing relationships.
• Entrepreneurship and mentoring are pivotal aspects of Dr. Bankhead’s life, reflecting her passion for innovation and her commitment to fostering the next generation of medical professionals.

Notable Quotes

1. “I learned the hard way and I kind of stuck my head in the sand and I didn’t deal with the grades that were coming in and I wasn’t failing, but I wasn’t doing great and certainly not good enough for medical school.”
2. “It’s a pretty story on the other side, because now I can sit here and say, oof, that gave me grit. Oof, that gave me resilience.”
3. “It turned out that once I started being me, then I felt like I belonged a lot more.”
4. “What else are you going to do? Is that what you want to be doing during the day?”
5. “You can have a very pink office or pink pillows or whatever it is and still be a professional.”

Resources

• Dr. Brittany Bankhead on Twitter and Instagram: @bbankheadmd
• “Stop the Bleed” National Campaign.
• Ross University School of Medicine.

Tune in to this powerful episode to hear more about Dr. Brittany Bankhead’s journey and stay connected for more inspirational stories that explore the indomitable spirit of high achievers. Don’t miss out on future content from Becoming Undone, where setbacks become the launchpad for extraordinary success. Becoming Undone, where setbacks become the launchpad for extraordinary success.