For our final episode of Season 2, we are excited to share our conversation with Dr. Maria (Marti) Russell, a surgical oncologist at Emory University and Grady Memorial Hospital. She delves into her unique (though often challenging) practice, as she operates both at Emory Midtown Hospital and at Grady Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Russell shares a lot of practical advice in this episode, especially when it comes to advocating for ourselves as women in the field of surgery, such as during contract negotiations and career advancement. She never wanted to be labeled a “female” surgeon (and neither do we!). Initially not thinking that there was any differential treatment towards men and women in surgery, she discusses her realization for the need for structured mentorship programs and advocacy groups like WISER, to equal the playing field between men and women.
She highlights the support systems – both at home and at work – that have allowed her to build her career as it stands now. In her words: “None of us do this by ourselves,” and we think that aptly summarizes why we do what we do, here at WISER.
Editor/Producer: Alex Speak