EPISODE 22: Dr. Jillann Farmer – Clinical Courage, Global Leadership, and The Long Game of Better Culture

EPISODE 22: Dr. Jillann Farmer – Clinical Courage, Global Leadership, and The Long Game of Better Culture EPISODE DESCRIPTION When your career takes you from rural Queensland all the way to the halls of the United Nations there’s certainly been some recalibrating!!  In this episode Sharee is thrilled to be in conversation with Dr Jillann Farmer—rural generalist, former Medical Director of the UN, martial artist, and advocate for an equitable, kind medical culture. Together they explore the wisdom Jillann has gained on the frontlines of global crises, the mindset required to step into big opportunities, tackling perfectionism and burnout, and why equity is essential for our future. A thought provoking discussion about leadership, privilege, mindfulness, and how one breath can make all the difference in moments of chaos. SHOW NOTES “Colorblindness is not kindness... it's a stubborn denial of intersectional disadvantage.” — Dr Jillann Farmer Key Takeaways Clinical courage means stepping up, even when you’re not the world’s expert, because you’re the one present to help (36:03). Perfectionism: Striving is vital, but perfection can also discourage you from stepping up or trying new things (01:32, 36:21). Mindfulness under pressure: Even a single intentional breath can ground you and change your day (14:20). Intersectional disadvantage: True leadership is recognizing your own privilege and working to dismantle the barriers others face (57:37, 59:09). Growth comes from openness to opportunity and stepping outside your comfort zone—sometimes into entirely new worlds (44:52). Non-medical experiences (martial arts, music, board service) enrich leadership and personal wellbeing (33:11, 37:23, 39:39). Peer support, reflection, and prioritizing even brief pauses are crucial for resilience and leadership (50:04, 51:24). Medicine’s “culture of perfection” can drive high standards but also reinforce burnout and exclusion; recalibration is possible at every stage of your career. Resources Mentioned A Better Culture: National project to improve medical culture, focused on equity, inclusion, and respect. Check show notes for links to final reports and resources (52:19). Medical Training Survey (MTS): Nationwide survey of early-career doctors, uncovering persistent challenges in medical culture (52:30). Reflected Best Self Exercise: A reflective tool for strengths-based leadership development (01:07:51). Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course: Example of embracing learning beyond healthcare (44:15). Joint Commission International: Partnered to establish auditable healthcare standards at the UN (31:19). Penny Abeywardena’s book is out in late 2027  Research regarding 360 feedback favouring men: https://hbr.org/2021/02/research-men-get-more-actionable-feedback-than-women   Additional Highlights Dr Jillann Farmer shares stories from leading the UN through the first wave of COVID-19 in New York and responding to the Ebola crisis. Reflections on how early experiences in student advocacy, martial arts, and rural medicine shaped her systemic outlook. The importance—and challenge—of returning to clinical work after leadership roles (01:18:20). Why “all doctors are leaders” is both true and misleading (01:02:33). The necessity of pausing, even briefly, for food and connection in high-intensity work environments (51:24). Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean. Disclaimer The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Always seek advice from your doctor or qualified healthcare professional. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily represent any entity they work with or for. Connect and Subscribe Enjoyed this conversation? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with colleagues or friends who may benefit from stories of recalibration and growth in healthcare. Stay tuned for future episodes with inspiring guests!