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EPISODE 21: Dr. Simon Fleming – Diversity, Responsibility, and Belonging strengthen medicine as a profession
EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What happens when you dare to confront the open secrets of medicine—from hierarchy and burnout to bullying and the struggle for genuine diversity? Simon Fleming joins Sharee for a sweeping conversation about challenging toxic traditions, championing inclusion, and rethinking what it means to belong and lead in healthcare. From his journey as an outspoken advocate (even when it meant risking his own safety) to making practical space for joy, community, and mindful recalibration, Simon shares hard truths and hope for culture change—one courageous act at a time.
SHOW NOTES: "Up until the point you speak up... you've been complicit in it, you've been part of it, because until you speak up, you've been going along." — Simon Fleming 27:29
Key Takeaways:
- Everyone in medicine is a participant in culture; silence can equate to complicity.
- Moral injury, burnout, and power dynamics are systemic—naming them is the first step to change.
- True change involves discomfort and challenging inherited professional codes—often a multigenerational task.
- Insight is essential: self-awareness, self-critique, and a willingness to adapt enable growth for clinicians at every level.
- Creating belonging and diversity requires listening, humility, and collaboration—not just top-down mandates.
- Practical rituals outside work (like cooking or sharing food with community) can ground us through stress and transitions.
- Leadership training should begin early, focus on real skills (not just performance), and be accessible to all, not just those already "at the top."
- Apologies and culture change are both about authentic action and being open to feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Resources & References:
- International Orthopaedic Diversity Alliance: Simon Fleming is a founding member advocating for real inclusion in surgical education.
- Research Highlight: The significance of insight for sustained surgical competence 01:04:07.
- Mentioned Thinkers: Lorelei Lingard on “God terms” in medical culture;
- Dr Eric Holmboe, (USA medical educator) was likely referencing "People don't resist change, they resist loss” which is a well recognised organisational psychology principle. Originally coined by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky in their seminal book Leadership on the Line.
- Saint Francis of Assisi’s serenity prayer on change and acceptance.
- Dr William Halstead
- Dr Kevin Dutton, Australian Psychologist and Author of The Wisdom of Psychopaths
- “Do the best you can until you know better. Once you know better, do better.” (Maya Angelou)—Simon Fleming's mantra for accountability and growth 01:34:25.
Food for Thought:
- Experimenting with the perfect fried chicken and the importance of sharing meals as a metaphor for nurturing, diversity, and community 07:22.
- The paradox of empathy and the pressure to develop “empathy fatigue” vs. true compassionate action 47:23.
Theme music: "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean.
Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. This podcast represents the views of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any entity we work with or for.
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