Episodes

4d ago

Physician and writer Francis Southwick tells a deeply personal story about love and illness. Growing up queer in rural Colorado, Francis experiences mysterious episodes of sudden paralysis triggered by intense emotion, beginning in adolescence and persisting for decades without a diagnosis. After years of shame, misattribution, and near-abandonment of dreams, Francis falls in love with Judith, builds a life with her, and finally receives a diagnosis of type 1 narcolepsy with cataplexy—explaining why moments of beauty, joy, and love literally caused collapse. Frances originally performed this story at Medicine Story: on the meanings of healing, a live storytelling event produced by Dr. Rebecca George from the Sierra Valley Health Center in Nevada City, CA in 2025. This event was generously funded by the California Health Care Foundation , as a part of our S atellites Program . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation . and our friends at the podcast Unleashed: Redesigning Health Care .

Dec 11

Community health workers Alicia Ashorn and Anthony Thigpen share their personal stories—Alicia's journey through addiction and recovery, and Anthony's path through grief, transformation, and reentry work—and how these experiences shape their care for people returning from incarceration. In the conversation that follows, they reflect on the power of storytelling, the emotional complexity of supporting clients in crisis, and the wisdom required to balance compassion with boundaries. Through vivid anecdotes from the field, they illuminate the essential yet often unseen role of community health workers as bridges between the clinic and the community, offering trust, dignity, and hope to people navigating systems that routinely fail them. Alicia and Anthony originally told their stories at Journeys of Healing: Stories of Resilience and Transformation , a storytelling event presented by Transitions Clinic Network in Los Angeles in 2025. The event was made possible by a generous grant from the California Health Care Foundation in support of our program, The Nocturnists Satellites . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation . and our friends at the podcast Unleashed: Redesigning Health Care .

Nov 26

Sharon Fennix spent 38 years incarcerated before becoming the hotline coordinator for the Transitions Clinic Network (TCN), where she now supports people returning to the community with empathy, compassion, and lived experience. In this episode, she talks with Emily about reentry, the power of peer support, and the creative life she built inside prison—evolving from seamstress to playwright, director, and storyteller whose productions bridged divides and transformed her own sense of self. Sharon was a producer for Journeys of Healing: Stories of Resilience and Transformation , a storytelling event presented by the Transitions Clinic Network in Los Angeles in 2025. The event was made possible by a generous grant from the California Health Care Foundation in support of our program, The Nocturnists Satellites . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Nov 13

Nurse practitioner Linda Wick has spent more than four decades in medicine, beginning her journey as a six-year-old watching nurses care for her injured brother. In today's story, she recalls the early lessons that shaped her career—from the strict nuns who taught her at the College of St. Scholastica to the life-and-death responsibilities of the ICU and dialysis unit. When a medical emergency reunites her with one of her toughest teachers, Sister Helen, Linda is forced to confront the words that haunted her for years. Linda originally performed this story live on stage at Intersections, a live storytelling event produced by the Center for the Art of Medicine in Minneapolis in 2024 through our program, The Nocturnists Satellites . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Nov 6

Birth doula Sarah Auna has attended nearly 500 births. Today, she shares the story of one particularly powerful birth—an experience that unfolded not only in the body, but in the mind and spirit of everyone present. Through vivid storytelling, Sarah reflects on the physiology and psychology of labor, the art of creating safety in moments of intensity, and the lessons birth has taught her about trust, presence, and self-knowledge. Sarah originally performed this story live on stage at Intersections, a live storytelling event produced by the Center for the Art of Medicine in Minneapolis in 2024 through our program, The Nocturnists Satellites . Music by Rachel Kurtz (song: "Lioness") The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Oct 30

Infectious disease Physician Meghan Rothenberger grew up feeling uncertain and disconnected from her body. As a teenager, she struggled with an eating disorder, trying to make sense of the changes of adolescence and the cultural messages around her. Years later, as a medical student studying anatomy, she began to see the body not as something to control, but as something wondrous and worthy of care. In this conversation, Meghan talks with Emily about growing up, navigating an eating disorder, and finding healing through science, pregnancy, and the everyday miracle of being alive. Together, they explore how understanding the body can open the door to compassion, connection, and belonging within oneself. Meghan originally performed this story live on stage at Intersections, a live storytelling event produced by the Center for the Art of Medicine in Minneapolis in 2024 through our program, The Nocturnists Satellites . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Stories from the World of Medicine is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Oct 16

Physician Jessica Zitter and chaplain Betty Clark to explore their partnership and the making of their film The Chaplain and The Doctor . The documentary, set in Oakland's Highland Hospital, captures the real work of palliative care and spiritual care, alongside a growing friendship between two women who cross lines of race, power, and professional hierarchy. They discuss what it means to listen with compassion, how bias and racism manifest at the bedside, and how storytelling, humility, and friendship can become acts of healing. From funny hospital moments to scenes of deep moral reckoning, this episode shows how two healers learn from each other, and how humanity itself can be the best medicine. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Oct 9

Pediatrician and author Perri Klass joins us to discuss the dramatic fall in child mortality, drawing from her book The Best Medicine. She traces how clean water, vaccines, antibiotics, and neonatal care transformed family life, revisits once-feared diseases and the breakthroughs that conquered them, and reflects on the cultural shift that made childhood death unacceptable. We also explore the return of measles amid misinformation, the evolution of pediatrics from infection-fighting to child development, and what it means to raise kids in the most medically protected era in history. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Oct 2

Writer Sarah Manguso joins us to discuss Questions Without Answers —a book born from a single tweet that drew thousands of kids' startling, funny, and profound questions, later shaped with New Yorker cartoonist Liana Finck. Part poetry, part philosophy, part comedy, it's an anthology of childhood wonder. She also revisits her memoir Two Kinds of Decay , which chronicles her diagnosis with CIDP, a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, and how it shaped her understanding of illness, vulnerability, and the power of storytelling. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Sep 23

Michael Grassi, veteran TV writer, and Daniela Lamas, ICU physician and writer, join us to discuss Brilliant Minds, a medical drama inspired by the cases and philosophy of Oliver Sacks. Together, they reflect on what makes Brilliant Minds different from other medical dramas: a focus not on miracle cures or fast diagnoses, but on adaptation, empathy, and the human condition. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Sep 11

Anne Basting , a scholar, writer, and advocate for creative aging, speaks about her groundbreaking work transforming dementia care through creativity and storytelling. As the founder of TimeSlips and author of " Creative Care ," Basting shares how she discovered the power of improvisation to spark imagination, dignity, and joy in people with dementia. Together, we explore the "beautiful question," the principles of "yes, and," and "proof-of-listening" — simple but profound tools for building connection. Anne reflects on her journey from studying senior theater to pioneering a movement that redefines care as a creative, relational process, offering practical insights for caregivers, families, and communities to engage with people living with dementia in more meaningful ways. This episode was originally produced by Remo Health as a part of their " Talking Dementia " podcast. Remo Health is an innovative telehealth company providing whole-person care to people living with dementia and their caregivers. To learn more about Remo, visit remo.health . Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and the Physicians Foundation .

Sep 4

Dr. Susan Nathan, a palliative care physician at the Boston VA, and Thor Ringler, a therapist and poet at the Madison VA, share the story of My Life, My Story — a groundbreaking program that brings veterans' voices into their medical charts through first-person narratives. Born from a desire to foster empathy and human connection in clinical care, the program has now spread to over 80 VA hospitals nationwide. Susan and Thor reflect on the origins of the initiative, the impact these stories have on patient-clinician relationships, and the profound moments of vulnerability, dignity, and healing that emerge from the storytelling process. We discuss the art of deep listening, the logistics of writing and sharing these narratives, and their vision for expanding this model to institutions beyond the VA. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Aug 28

Corey Feist, co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation , shares the story of his sister-in-law, Dr. Lorna Breen, a dedicated New York City emergency physician who died by suicide in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Corey reflects on her passion for medicine, the shock and grief that followed her death, and the flood of messages from healthcare workers that exposed deep stigma and barriers to seeking mental health care. He describes how this outpouring sparked the creation of the foundation and the passing of the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, driving systemic change to better support clinicians. We also explore ongoing advocacy, progress in reforming licensing and credentialing practices, and the power of community, collaboration, and action in preserving clinician wellbeing. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Aug 21

Dr. Wendy Dean , psychiatrist, writer, and co-founder of Moral Injury of Healthcare , reveals how a profit-driven healthcare system is wounding the very clinicians sworn to care for patients. Drawing from her book If I Betray These Words , Dean explains the concept of moral injury—how systemic betrayal, not personal weakness, often drives physician distress—and shares harrowing true stories of doctors punished, silenced, or even destroyed for putting patient safety first. From corporate consolidation gutting primary care to non-compete clauses that trap physicians, she exposes the forces undermining patient-first medicine and highlights the courageous clinicians fighting back through lawsuits, new care models, and bold advocacy. Find show notes, transcript, and more on our substack and website . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of Conversations is sponsored by The Physicians Foundation .

Jul 3

Today, we're releasing a special bonus episode featuring Emily and our "uncertainty correspondent" Alexa Miller, in conversation with the ABIM Foundation. Together, they reflect on the key insights from creating the Uncertainty in Medicine series. Thank you to the ABIM Foundation for hosting and recording this webinar. To sign up for a webinar in the future, visit buildingtrust.org/webinars . Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Pamela Browner White Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Jun 26

In the series finale, we explore a different type of uncertainty—the uncertainty that arises around the healthcare system itself. This episode follows Ed Stratton, a stage IV cancer patient who beat his cancer, only to be denied a life-saving liver transplant by his insurance provider. His daughter Erin, armed with industry knowledge and unshakable determination, teams up with a healthcare whistleblower and an AI-powered startup to wage an extraordinary battle for his life. We end with a quiet reflection on uncertainty, and what it means to keep going. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Jun 19

What does it mean to live well in a world where nothing is certain — not in medicine, not in life? In this episode, we follow a high school teacher who asks his students to examine "the good life" through philosophy, Buddhism, and existential inquiry. We meet two women — a Buddhist monk and a disability rights advocate — who bring spiritual wisdom to the messy realities of illness, caregiving, and embodiment. Their stories, woven with reflections on impermanence, suffering, and compassion, offer a new way of thinking about uncertainty: not as something to fix, but as something to live with. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Jun 12

Today, we explore the paradox of mortality: something both certain and utterly unknowable. Through a haunting parable from Ursula K. Le Guin and stories from doctors and loved ones, we hear what happens when people try to plan for death—or avoid it. A daughter processes her mother's calm decision to pursue assisted dying. A physician grapples with an ambiguous advance directive. A neurointensivist weighs the line between hope and false hope. What do we do when clear answers are impossible? And what happens when our attempts to control death only bring more suffering? And in the midst of all this uncertainty, how do we find peace? Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Jun 5

Today, we step inside the studio of visual artist Leila Simon Hayes, whose bold, shape-driven designs are born from a process rooted in imperfection, intuition, and trust. Through her story, we explore how Leila's creative practice helped her navigate decades of chronic pain and medical dismissal, eventually leading her to healing not through certainty, but through listening—both to her art and her body. Her journey invites us to reconsider our own relationship with uncertainty, and to ask: what happens when we stop demanding answers and start embracing the unknown? Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

May 29

Today, we explore the hidden layers of communication in medicine—what gets said, what doesn't, and how uncertainty lives not just in the clinical data, but in the space between people. From a telemedicine encounter with a stubbornly independent patient in the Santa Cruz mountains, to a deeply personal story of navigating breast cancer risk, and finally to the ICU, where one physician is trying to revolutionize how teams talk about the unknown, this episode invites listeners into the gray zones of uncertainty and the doctor-patient relationship. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

May 22

Today, we step into the dance studio with improvisational dance artist Chris Aiken, whose work lives at the intersection of uncertainty, movement, and presence. With insights that resonate far beyond the dance studio, Chris explores how attention, poetic instinct, and even failure are essential tools for responding creatively under pressure—much like an ER doctor at a moment of crisis. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

May 15

This week, we explore how time and uncertainty are intertwined in the practice of medicine. A toxicologist faces a split-second decision in the ER that could mean life or death for a young patient. A woman with chronic ankle pain spends years searching for answers as dozens of doctors offer snap diagnoses and failed treatments. A rheumatologist navigates the slow, murky waters of autoimmune disease, where diagnosis and treatment often unfold over months or years. And a couple reckons with the long-term implications of a rare and unpredictable heart condition. Through these stories, we see how uncertainty can stretch time out endlessly or collapse it into a single moment and how, in medicine, working with time rather than fighting against it is often the only way forward. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

May 8

When a 7.6 magnitude earthquake leveled entire villages in Pakistan, retired U.S. Navy Admiral Mike LeFever was thrust into the heart of the disaster with no playbook and a simple directive: provide humanitarian aid and strengthen U.S.-Pakistan relations. In this episode, LeFever recounts what it was like to lead a massive relief effort in the chaotic aftermath—coordinating aid, rebuilding schools, and navigating diplomacy in a country where his presence was politically charged. As his mission evolved from emergency response to long-term relationship-building, including during the fallout of the Bin Laden raid, LeFever shares hard-won lessons on leadership, humility, and decision-making in extreme uncertainty. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

May 1

What happens when doctors have to make life-or-death decisions in an evidence-free zone — and patients are left to navigate the unknown? In episode 5 of "Uncertainty in Medicine", we bring you three gripping, real-life stories: a neurosurgeon weighing impossible risks in the operating room, a palliative care doctor facing a young man's quiet resolve to die, and a patient whose long-awaited kidney transplant vanishes in a single phone call. These are high-stakes moments where instinct takes over, control slips away, and the only way forward is a leap of faith. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode is sponsored by a new podcast that fans of the Nocturnists are sure to love. Unleashed: Redesigning Health Care features clinician-innovators who have changed care on the front lines. Their stories, their voices, their ingenuity. Learn more at unleashedpodcast.org . Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Apr 24

What does uncertainty in medicine have to do with Chernobyl? According to patient safety officer Dr. Ron Wyatt, more than we might think. In the fourth episode of our "Uncertainty in Medicine" series, he draws a chilling connection between one of history's worst nuclear disasters and the quiet, preventable tragedies that unfold in hospitals every day. In both cases, the warning signs were there. People sensed something was wrong. But no one spoke up—or if they did, no one listened. Through his work at the Joint Commission, Dr. Wyatt has spent decades investigating sentinel events, the most serious and avoidable medical errors. What he's found is deeply unsettling: the root causes rarely come down to lack of knowledge. They come from cultures where fear, hierarchy, and silence override curiosity and caution. And time and again, he's seen how racism and bias magnify that silence. Here, Dr. Wyatt reveals what truly makes healthcare safe—and what has to change to protect every patient, equally. Quick note: In this episode, Dr. Wyatt mentions his time at The Joint Commission. The correct length of his tenure is 5 years. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode is sponsored by a new podcast that fans of the Nocturnists are sure to love. Unleashed: Redesigning Health Care features clinician-innovators who have changed care on the front lines. Their stories, their voices, their ingenuity. Learn more at unleashedpodcast.org . Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Apr 17

In episode 3 of the "Uncertainty in Medicine" series, patient Dana undergoes a routine knee replacement and expects a straightforward recovery. Instead, she's plunged into a baffling and relentless illness—one that defies diagnosis and leaves her life in limbo. As her symptoms intensify and specialists write her off, Dana finds an unwavering ally in her primary care doctor, the one person who refuses to let her fall through the cracks. This episode traces their year-long search for answers, revealing the emotional cost of medical uncertainty and the rare power of a clinician who stays the course. Along the way, we visit Lewiston, Maine, where a small, intentional change to residents' schedules is making the uncertainty of primary care more manageable and helping keep young doctors in the field. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode is sponsored by a new podcast that fans of the Nocturnists are sure to love. Unleashed: Redesigning Health Care features clinician-innovators who have changed care on the front lines. Their stories, their voices, their ingenuity. Learn more at unleashedpodcast.org . Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Apr 15

On this episode of Conversations , Emily sits down with the creative team behind The Pitt —a gripping new medical drama on HBO Max that's making waves in the healthcare world and beyond. Joining her are showrunner R. Scott Gemmill (ER, NCIS: LA), physician-writer Dr. Joe Sachs (ER), and emergency medicine educator and EM:RAP founder Dr. Mel Herbert. Together, they go behind the scenes of the show, discussing characters, medical cases, set design, and the creative team's relentless pursuit of medical authenticity. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Apr 10

Step inside Alexa Miller's classroom, where paintings become portals and doctors learn to see like patients. In this episode, Alexa leads a powerful exercise called the "image circle," where clinicians reflect on their own experiences of medical uncertainty and choose artworks that speak to those moments. What follows is anything but abstract—through close looking and deep conversation, participants begin to feel what it's like to sit on the other side of the exam table. Alexa, a trailblazer at the crossroads of art and medicine, shares frameworks for understanding uncertainty and introduces her BOLD framework for navigating uncertainty in healthcare. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Apr 3

In the premiere of the "Uncertainty in Medicine" series, The Nocturnists explore medicine's uneasy relationship with not knowing. From the clean resolutions of medical dramas to the structured rituals of case conferences, the culture of medicine often treats uncertainty as something to be avoided, resolved, or explained away. But what happens when uncertainty is not just a temporary gap in knowledge—but a constant, lived reality? Through story and reflection, this episode invites listeners to reconsider the role of uncertainty in clinical care. What if the goal isn't to eliminate it, but to navigate it skillfully? And what if doing so makes us not only better clinicians, but better collaborators, listeners, and humans? Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org , and subscribe to our substack . The "Uncertainty in Medicine" series is generously funded by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by The California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Host: Emily Silverman, MD Uncertainty Correspondent: Alexa Miller Series Illustrations by Eleni Debo

Mar 27

Our Uncertainty in Medicine series launches next week, and to set the stage, we're sharing one of our favorite episodes from the archives - a heartfelt conversation with New York Times columnist Ross Douthat about his journey through the healthcare system while living with chronic Lyme disease. Medicine likes certainty - diseases we can see and test for and treat. But what do we do when we can't see? When we can't help? Do we keep searching? Or do we look away? In this episode, Emily speaks with New York Times columnist Ross Douthat about his book The Deep Places , which tells the harrowing story of his experience with Lyme disease, and what it's like to navigate a chronic illness that mainstream medicine hasn't yet fully explained. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Mar 21

Medicine is full of uncertainty—from ambiguous diagnoses to unpredictable outcomes and the complex emotions of not knowing. Uncertainty in Medicine is a new documentary podcast series, created in collaboration with Alexa Miller of ArtsPractica , that examines how both healthcare workers and patients navigate the unknown. Through powerful personal stories and in-depth conversations with professionals whose work depends on making decisions amid uncertainty, the series explores what it means to embrace the gray areas of medicine—and life. The first episode of Uncertainty in Medicine drops Thursday, April 3. Find show notes, transcripts, and more at thenocturnists.org The Uncertainty in Medicine series is supported by the ABIM Foundation , by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation , and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by T he California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. Series Host & Co-Creator: Emily Silverman, MD Series Correspondent: Alexa Miller ( ArtsPractica )

Mar 6

Dr. Allan Detsky, a Canadian physician, health economist, and Broadway producer, examines the contrasts between Canadian and American healthcare. He then delves into his passion for musical theater, recounting his unexpected journey into Broadway production and how he integrates musical theater into hospital wards as a means of decompression and connection in medical education. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Feb 27

Kali Dayton, critical care nurse practitioner, ICU outcomes consultant, and host of the Walking Home from the ICU podcast, joins pioneering ICU physical therapist Heidi Engel to discuss long-standing ICU practices rooted in sedation and immobility. Together, they make a powerful case for a transformative model that keeps patients awake, engaged, and walking—even while on ventilators. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Jan 30

Dr. Marcy Bolster, Dr. Jason Liebowitz, and Dr. Philip Seo join us to discuss their newly published anthology, A Masterclass in Medicine: Lessons from the Experts . They created this compelling essay series to explore what it means to be a master clinician, featuring lessons from their own clinical heroes as well as other renowned physicians. Through these essays, they highlight the essential qualities of exceptional doctoring—empathy, clinical reasoning, and lifelong learning. In this conversation, they share the insights that shaped their careers, reflect on the impact of mentorship, and examine the enduring art of patient-centered care. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Jan 23

Physician and New Yorker writer Dhruv Khullar argues that modern medicine is in a Gilded Age —one where groundbreaking innovations mask deep systemic issues, including misaligned incentives, escalating costs, and growing dissatisfaction. From the influence of private equity on healthcare to the flaws of Medicare Advantage and the crucial role of data as the 'oil' of the healthcare system, this conversation explores the challenges of contemporary medicine while underscoring the importance of frontline clinicians actively engaging in health policy debates. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Jan 16

Susannah Fox discusses her book Rebel Health: A Field Guide to the Patient-Led Revolution in Medical Care . Drawing from decades of research, Susannah shares stories of patients and caregivers who, when faced with challenges mainstream medicine couldn't solve, stepped up as innovators. From parents hacking their own medical devices to build DIY artificial pancreases to communities collecting critical data for rare diseases, Susannah highlights the power of grassroots healthcare innovation. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Jan 9

Jamie Metzl, author of Superconvergence , explores the convergence of technologies shaping humanity's future. From the genetics revolution to artificial intelligence, he unpacks how these technologies intersect, the ethical dilemmas they pose, and their potential to reshape life, work, and health. With insight and optimism, Jamie challenges us to harness humanity's newfound powers wisely to create a better world for all. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute for Clinical Excellence at The University of Chicago. The Institute is dedicated to fostering compassionate doctor-patient relationships and advancing clinical care. Each year, the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute recognizes extraordinary healthcare professionals through The National Clinical Excellence Award. To learn more about the award and to nominate a deserving clinician, visit bucksbauminstitute.uchicago.edu .

Dec 19, 2024

Journalist Sarah DiGregorio delves into the history and humanity of nursing in her book, Taking Care: The Story of Nursing and Its Power to Change Our World . Tracing the ancient roots of caregiving to the critical role of nurses in modern healthcare, she uncovers untold stories that illuminate the complexities and significance of this often undervalued profession. Through meticulous research and compelling narratives, DiGregorio portrays nursing as both a fundamental human act and and cornerstone of healthcare. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute for Clinical Excellence at The University of Chicago. The Institute is dedicated to fostering compassionate doctor-patient relationships and advancing clinical care. Each year, the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute recognizes extraordinary healthcare professionals through The National Clinical Excellence Award. To learn more about the award, and to nominate a deserving clinician, visit bucksbauminstitute.uchicago.edu .

Dec 12, 2024

Dr. Rana Awdish, critical care physician and author of In Shock , reflects on her near-death experience and its transformative impact on her understanding of medicine and healing. Written seven years ago, In Shock marked her "first pass" at recovery. Now, as she prepares for her second book, she reframes healing as a recursive process rather than a linear journey, uncovering deeper layers of growth and emphasizing the power of listening, connection, and embodiment. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute for Clinical Excellence at The University of Chicago. The Institute is dedicated to fostering compassionate doctor-patient relationships and advancing clinical care. Each year, the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute recognizes extraordinary healthcare professionals through The National Clinical Excellence Award. To learn more about the award, and to nominate a deserving clinician, visit bucksbauminstitute.uchicago.edu .

Dec 5, 2024

Playwright and memoirist Sarah Ruhl discusses her book Smile , which chronicles her journey with Bell's Palsy and the emotional and spiritual challenges of chronic illness. She reflects on the idea of the "slow" or "partial" recovery, how her work as a playwright informs her perspective, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, and the power of storytelling to heal both writer and reader. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you. This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute for Clinical Excellence at The University of Chicago. The Institute is dedicated to fostering compassionate doctor-patient relationships and advancing clinical care. Each year, the Bucksbaum-Siegler Institute recognizes extraordinary healthcare professionals through The National Clinical Excellence Award. To learn more about the award, and to nominate a deserving clinician, visit bucksbauminstitute.uchicago.edu .

Nov 21, 2024

In this episode of Conversations , Dr. Jessi Gold, psychiatrist and Chief Wellness Officer at the University of Tennessee, discusses the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers. Jessi shares insights from her new book, How Do You Feel? One Doctor's Search for Humanity in Medicine , and explores how burnout, moral injury, and wellness are shaping the future of medicine. The conversation delves into topics ranging from telemedicine's influence on mental health care to breaking down the stigma that prevents clinicians from seeking help. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Nov 14, 2024

In this episode of Conversations , Ruth Madievsky, clinical pharmacist and author of the national bestseller "All-Night Pharmacy," shares the inspiration behind her darkly poetic novel about sisterhood, addiction, and intergenerational trauma. Ruth reflects on how her Moldovan roots, her healthcare career, and her love of poetry have shaped her writing. We also dive into the mysticism that permeates her work and explore how trauma and healing intersect in her life and fiction. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Nov 7, 2024

In this episode of Conversations, Dr. Gita Pensa opens up about her harrowing experience as a defendant in a 12-year-long malpractice lawsuit and how it spurred her to create Doctors and Litigation: The L Word , a podcast aimed at helping physicians cope with the emotional toll of litigation. Gita also discusses her involvement in the documentary " A World of Hurt: How Medical Malpractice Fails Everyone ," which exposes the flaws in the malpractice system. Through her personal story, Gita highlights practical and psychological tools for doctors navigating the legal system while dealing with fear, shame, and burnout. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Oct 31, 2024

In this episode of Conversations , we sit down with Dr. Sara Walker, an astrobiologist and theoretical physicist who is reshaping the way we think about life. From her work on the origins of life to her innovative assembly theory, Sara takes us on a journey through the possibilities of discovering alien life and challenges some of the core tenets of biology and physics. This conversation will make you rethink not just how life began, but what life is and does. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Oct 10, 2024

Family medicine physician Zed Zha persuades her reluctant parents, visiting from China, to indulge in the treat of ice cream. Zed performed this story live at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space in New York in November 2023, for an event on the theme of "Taking Care" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Bellevue Literary Review. Find show notes, transcript and more at thenocturnists.org .

Oct 3, 2024

Mother of four, writer, and attorney Ann Schrooten reflects on a pivotal moment from her fifteen year journey caring for her son Jack, who lived with congenital muscular dystrophy. Ann performed this story live at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space in New York in November 2023, for an event on the theme of "Taking Care" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Bellevue Literary Review. Find show notes, transcript and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Sep 26, 2024

Shaida Dusenge Kamali, originally from Kigali, Rwanda, reflects on her journey from earning a prestigious scholarship to study in Oklahoma, to raising her younger brother after the sudden passing of their mother. Now a second-year medical student with a passion for geriatrics, Shaida shares the challenges and growth that came with balancing education, caregiving, and cultural transitions. Shaida performed this story live at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space in New York in November 2023, for an event on the theme of "Taking Care" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Bellevue Literary Review. Find show notes, transcript and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Sep 19, 2024

Nurse Roshni Shah reflects on how water and ritual bathing brought serenity to a difficult life period, where she was balancing caring for her aging mom with working nights in the ICU. Roshni performed this story live at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space in New York in November 2023, for an event on the theme of "Taking Care" which The Nocturnists co-produced with Bellevue Literary Review . Find show notes, transcript and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Sep 12, 2024

Emmy-winning writer and creative director Lu Chekowsky delves into her mother's powerful lessons on resilience, navigating a high-stakes media career, and facing the biases of healthcare in a larger body. Lu performed this story live at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space in New York in November 2023, for an event on the theme of "Taking Care" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Bellevue Literary Review. Find show notes, transcript and more at thenocturnists.org . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

May 23, 2024

In our 50th The Nocturnists: Conversations episode, Emily speaks with Maggie Jackson, award-winning author and journalist, about her book "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure." Maggie describes the neuroscience of uncertainty, the benefits of curiosity and slowing down, and findings from her interviews with physicians and surgeons about uncertainty in medical practice. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

May 16, 2024

Dr. Uché Blackstock, an emergency medicine physician and health equity advocate, discusses her book "Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine." She shares personal stories about her family's journey in medicine, systemic racism and her work to create a more equitable healthcare. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

May 9, 2024

Documentary filmmaker Luke Lorentzen and hospital chaplain Mati Engel discuss their award-winning film, "A Still Small Voice," which explores the rewards and challenges of providing spiritual care in the hospital setting. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

May 2, 2024

Pediatric ER physician and author Rachel Kowalsky discusses her short story, "The Delivery Boy." Set in an ER, the story follows a young Guatemalan boy and the team of clinicians who treat him. Rachel talks about how her experiences influence her writing and teaching in health humanities. " The Delivery Boy " is available to read online for free. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and donations from listeners like you.

Mar 28, 2024

When Dr. Augie Lindmark first started receiving obituaries in the mailbox, he wasn't sure whether to be amused or afraid. But soon he discovers the identity of the sender, and enters into a rare an unexpected dialogue about aging and mortality. Augie performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This episode of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is sponsored by The New York Zen Center . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Mar 21, 2024

Physician Tiffany Albrecht jumped into "doing" mode when her beloved husband died – she ran a 5K, cleaned out her closet, and went on a hike. But when her son was finally born, she was overcome by a cathartic wave of emotions. Tiffany performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This episode of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is sponsored by The New York Zen Center . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Mar 7, 2024

When medical student Peter Park's grandfather died, he was unable to fly to Korea for the funeral due to COVID restrictions. But in anatomy lab, the cadaver he was assigned to shared some similarities to his grandfather that were difficult to explain. Spending time with the body of this stranger, he was able to come to terms with his grandfather's death. Peter performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This episode of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is sponsored by The New York Zen Center . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Feb 29, 2024

Pathologist Sue Wheaton tells a story about helping her mom, a surgeon and racecar driver, navigate the challenges of aging. Later, she reflects on their complicated relationship, and how car metaphors helped them move through difficult moments in their lives. Sue performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Feb 22, 2024

When Anthony's wife got sick, he believed the way to best support her was by getting stuff done. Over time though, he discovered that in order to become a better caregiver, he was going to need to unlearn some of the lessons he'd learned growing up about what love looks like in practice. Anthony performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Feb 15, 2024

The Nocturnists is back with Season 6 of its classic storytelling series, "Stories from the World of Medicine." We begin with Dr. Meghan Rothenberger, an infectious disease doctor in Minneapolis who had to lose her dog, her wallet, and her dinner, before she realized she'd also lost something more important: herself. Meghan performed this story live at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in April 2023, for an event on the theme of "REBIRTH" which The Nocturnists co-produced with the Center for the Art of Medicine . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This season of "Stories from the World of Medicine" is supported by The Physicians Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association .

Feb 12, 2024

The Nocturnists, the award-winning medical storytelling podcast, is thrilled to announce the launch of its sixth season of its series Stories from the World of Medicine, themed "REBIRTH," available starting February 15, 2024. Hosted by Dr. Emily Silverman, this season features an inspiring lineup of medical professionals and students, including Dr. Meghan Rothenberger, Dr. Anthony Williams, Dr. Sue Wheaton, 4th year medical student Peter Park, Dr. Carson Brown, Dr. Tiffany Albrecht, and Dr. Augie Lindmark, who share their experiences and transformations within the world of medicine. This season, the award-winning podcast The Nocturnists takes listeners on a captivating journey through seven episodes that delve into the personal and professional rebirths of those deeply embedded in healthcare. Recorded live in Minneapolis at the Parkway Theatre in collaboration with the Center for the Art of Medicine at the University of Minnesota (CFAM), these narratives explore themes of discovery, loss, love, and the serendipitous paths to healing.

Dec 14, 2023

Oncologist Stuart Bloom speaks about his staged musical, How to Avoid Burnout in 73 Minutes , which tracks his journey from songwriter to oncologist, and the way he copes with burnout and finds meaning in his work. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by Nabla .

Dec 7, 2023

Author Laurel Braitman speaks about her memoir, What Looks Like Bravery , which explores her relationship to her physician-father, and her professional journey toward a career teaching writing to clinicians. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 30, 2023

Emergency medicine doctor and author Jay Baruch speaks about his memoir, Tornado of Life: A Doctor's Journey Through Constraints and Creativity in the ER , which explores ethics, stories, and uncertainty in the emergency room. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 16, 2023

Television writer and former ENT surgeon Anthony Chin-Quee speaks about his memoir, I Can't Save You , and his burgeoning career in storytelling for the screen. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com

Nov 2, 2023

What does the future hold for abortion care? In this final episode of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America , we hear from clinicians at the forefront of finding new solutions for patients in need. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Featuring: Amy Meg Autry, MD; April Lockley, DO; Jiana Menendez, MD, MPH; Oriaku Njoku; Linda Prine, MD; and other contributors who wish to remain anonymous Find show notes, transcript, and more at https://thenocturnists.com/pra/7/futures . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Oct 26, 2023

How has the Dobbs decision impacted medical education? In episode 6 of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America we talk to trainees and educators about how Dobbs has impacted their lives in the classroom, and explore what we lose when we lose abortion training. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Anastasia Anazonwu, MD Candidate; Bria Peacock, MD; and other contributors who wish to remain anonymous Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/pra/6/next-generation . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Oct 19, 2023

Many physicians have been advocating publicly for reproductive health for decades, but many more have remained silent on the subject of abortion, fearing retribution from the general public and their communities. In episode 5 of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America we talk about the culture of silence around reproductive health in medical spaces, and how breaking that silence is our only hope for reclaiming our reproductive freedom. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Vineesha Arelli, MD; Caitlin Bernard, MD MSCI FACOG; and Emily Patel, MD Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/pra/5/culture-of-silence . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Oct 12, 2023

Leilah Zahedi-Spung never planned to leave her life behind in Tennessee. But after Roe fell, she found herself having to make an impossible decision about the future of her career. In episode 4 of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America , we examine how political events can upend clinicians' lives and communities. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Scott Dunn, MD; Zachary Halversen, MD; and Leilah Zahedi-Spung, MD Find show notes, transcript, and more at https://thenocturnists.com/pra/4/uprooted . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Oct 9, 2023

Host of STAT First Opinion Podcast, Torie Bosch, interviews family medicine physicians and abortion providers Ali Block and Nikki Zite. Physicians Alison Block and Nikki Zite knew what they were getting into when they became abortion providers early in their medical training. Family planning has long been a politicized, divisive area of medicine. And even though they knew that Roe v. Wade — the 1973 Supreme Court case that protected abortion access across the country — was being threatened, it still hit them hard when that ruling was actually overturned in June 2022. This interview was originally released on STAT's First Opinion Podcast , October 4, 2023.

Oct 5, 2023

After Dobbs, many states in the middle of the country severely restricted abortion – but Kansas stood out as an exception. As a result, a small clinic in Wichita called Trust Women became an unexpected oasis for abortion care. In episode 3 of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America , we bring you inside the clinic to learn how they handled the overwhelming influx of patients. *This episode briefly mentions violent imagery and actions targeting abortion clinics. Listener discretion is advised. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Christina Bourne, MD MPH; Ashley Brink; Zack Gingrich Gaylord; Catalina Moreno-Hernandez, RMA; and other contributors who wish to remain anonymous Find show notes, transcript, and more at https://thenocturnists.com/pra/3/trust-women . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Sep 28, 2023

Before the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, there was S.B. 8—a Texas law that prohibited any abortion after 6 weeks, essentially banning it entirely in the state. In episode 2 of The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America , we hear from healthcare workers in and around Texas. What was it like to be an early witness to America's crumbling abortion rights? Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Kiernan Cobb, RN; Bhavik Kumar, MD MPH; and other contributors who wish to remain anonymous Find show notes, transcript, and more at https://thenocturnists.com/pra/2/the-canary . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Sep 21, 2023

The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America opens in Orlando, at a reproductive health conference where many abortion providers were gathered on the day of the Dobbs leak. We follow a few of them home, as they scramble in the aftermath to figure out what the ruling means for their practices, their patients, and themselves. Host & Co-creator: Ali Block, MD Co-creator: Emily Silverman, MD Contributors: Diane Horvath, MD MPH; Jiana Menendez, MD MPH; Nikki Zite, MD MPH Find show notes, transcript, and more at https://thenocturnists.com/pra/1/the-day-roe-fell . Follow @thenocturnists. The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Sep 14, 2023

On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court issued the Dobbs Decision. Overnight, Americans lost the protections on abortion care that Roe vs. Wade had afforded for almost 50 years. Soon afterward, The Nocturnists began talking to abortion providers around the country. Join us for The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America – a 7-episode podcast series featuring the stories of abortion providers from Texas to Tennessee, Oklahoma to Ohio, and beyond. Series Host: Ali Block, MD Co-creators: Emily Silverman, MD & Ali Block, MD Featured Contributors: April Lockley, DO; Bhavik Kumar, MD MPH; Christina Bourne, MD MPH; Emily Patel, MD; Zack Gingrich-Gaylord and other healthcare workers who wish to remain anonymous More information at thenocturnists.com/post-roe-america The Nocturnists: Post-Roe America series was made possible in part by the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation . The Nocturnists is supported by the California Medical Association , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Aug 24, 2023

Psychiatrist Pooja Lakshmin speaks about her book Real Self-Care , which challenges mainstream notions of "self care" and offers a new framework for cultivating wellbeing. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 17, 2023

Emily speaks with critical care physician Hannah Wunsch about her book The Autumn Ghost , which tells the story of a polio epidemic in Copenhagen in the 1950s, and how it gave birth to the invention of the modern ventilator and the field of ICU medicine. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 10, 2023

Emily speaks with ophthalmologist-comedian Will Flanary and educator Kristin Flanary (aka Dr. Glaucomflecken and Lady Glaucomflecken) about their medical comedy platform, and how Will's personal experience with cardiac arrest impacted the way they view their work as healthcare satirists and content creators. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 3, 2023

Emily speaks with cardiologist Eric Topol about his 2019 book Deep Medicine , which explores the potential for AI to enhance medical decision-making, improve patient outcomes, and restore the doctor-patient relationship. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jun 15, 2023

In honor of Juneteenth this year, we're re-releasing one of our favorite episodes from our 2020 Black Voices in Healthcare series – Episode 7. "Standout." Have you ever looked around and realized you were the only one? Standing out in the crowd can be hard, but it might just be your superpower. The Black Voices in Healthcare series is hosted by Ashley McMullen, MD and executive produced by Kimberly Manning, MD. Contributors include: Marla Law Abrolat, MD; Tomás Díaz, MD; Utibe R. Essien, MD; Erica DaVonne Farrand, MD; Akeem Nassor Marsh, MD; Ekene Onwuka, MD; Whitney Wellenstein, MD; and other healthcare workers who participated anonymously. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jun 1, 2023

Emily speaks with physician, public health professor, and author Michael Stein about his recent book Me vs. Us: A Health Divided , which explains why the U.S. focuses on individualized health rather than public health, and the importance of considering populations, prevention, and policy. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 25, 2023

Emily speaks with writer and physician Ricardo Nuila about his debut book The People's Hospital , a love letter to Ben Taub Hospital in Houston, Texas, and exploration of how its unique business model may help solve our broken healthcare system. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 18, 2023

Emily speaks with writer and philosophy professor Chloé Cooper Jones about her memoir Easy Beauty , which chronicles her quest to widen perceptions of beauty, motherhood, and disability. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 11, 2023

Emily speaks with historian, attorney, and diplomat Philip Zelikow, about the investigative report Lessons from the Covid War , authored by the COVID Crisis Group, which examines the U.S. response to COVID and provides valuable insights for how we can do better in the future. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 4, 2023

The Nocturnists' Emily Silverman tells a story about how medical school satisfied much of her curiosity about the human body—but how some mysteries remain, especially related to her dreams. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Apr 27, 2023

Medical student Katie van Kampen brings us into the magical world of Dungeons & Dragons. The deeper they get into the forest, the more parallels they find between their role as Dungeon Master and their role as physician-in-training. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Apr 20, 2023

Medical student Oak Sonfist brings us inside their vivid dream about the Lost City of Atlantis – and the impossible decisions they face as they navigate between two worlds. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Apr 13, 2023

Actor-turned-otolaryngologist Alessa Colaianni has no problem acting sad—it's actually feeling sad that's the problem. In this episode, Alessa tells the story of losing and regaining access to her emotional landscape. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Apr 6, 2023

Primary care doctor Tseganesh Selameab brings us inside her practice as a provider for immigrants and refugees, and describes one of the most common ailments she sees: "homelonging." Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 30, 2023

Medical student and classically-trained cellist Melanie Ambler describes her most memorable concert, which took place over Zoom with only one other person in attendance. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 23, 2023

Hospitalist PJ Lally reflects on a time he got a second chance at life. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 16, 2023

Emergency medicine and helicopter flight physician Mike Abernethy recounts an unexpected run-in at his local Walmart that made him feel as if he'd seen a ghost. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com

Mar 9, 2023

OB/GYN Jackie Howitt and pediatrician Gretchen Volk bring us into the deserted airport where they first met in April 2020 on their way to offer COVID-19 relief in NYC. Though their friendship began at one of the most disorienting moments in their lives, the coincidences that followed made the connection feel almost fated. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 2, 2023

On March 9th, join The Nocturnists for our newest season of "Stories from the World of Medicine," featuring original stories from frontline clinicians.

Feb 23, 2023

In today's episode, Emily speaks with author Dolen Perkins-Valdez about her recent novel Take My Hand, based on the 1973 case of the Relf sisters who were forcibly sterilized at a federally-funded health clinic in Montgomery, Alabama. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 16, 2023

In this live panel at the UCSF Memory and Aging Center, Emily sits down with playwright Jake Broder, actor Lucy Davenport, and neurologist Bruce Miller to discuss Broder's play UnRavelled , which explores the fascinating relationship between dementia, art, and music. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 9, 2023

In this episode, Emily speaks with psychiatrist-philosopher Iain McGilchrist about his seminal book The Master and His Emissary, which explores the relationship between our brain's right and left hemispheres and how they structure our understanding of the world. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Dec 15, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with physician-painter Matthew Wetschler about pushing limits, the tension between presence and absence, and how he's remained curious in the aftermath of crisis. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Dec 8, 2022

Emily speaks with physician and author, Dr. Gabor Maté about his latest book, The Myth of Normal , which explores the connections between our environment, psychological wounds, and medical disease. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Dec 1, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with physician, artist, and author, Shirlene Obuobi about fiction as escapism, and the stories behind her debut novel, On Rotation. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 29, 2022

Hi Listeners! Today is Giving Tuesday, and we wanted to take this time to express our gratitude and let you know what's coming up on The Nocturnists podcast. Thank you for supporting our work in transforming medical culture through storytelling. To learn more, head to thenocturnists.com .

Nov 15, 2022

Over the last nine episodes, we've listened to dozens upon dozens of clinicians tell their stories about shame. What have we learned? What can we take away from all of this? And where do we go from here? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Nov 8, 2022

According to medical culture, a clinician should "fix" illness, not have one – especially not a mental illness. But in reality, mental illness is incredibly common, and a huge source of shame, which may prevent us from seeking help. In this episode, we hear stories of sadness, "madness," stigma, grief, and the potential for healing. If you or someone you love needs help, please see our list of "resources" in the episode show notes at thenocturnists-shame.org where you can find free, confidential support. And, as always, please take good care of yourself, whatever that may mean for you.

Nov 1, 2022

When healthcare workers put on their uniforms to go to work, what other roles, masks, or disguises do they put on as well? The norms and standards of our workplace culture are often more implicit than explicit, but many of us still go to great lengths to present a curated version of self at work that fits into this unspoken code of conduct. The right mask, we tell ourselves, will win the respect and trust of our colleagues and protect us from painful judgments and feelings of alienation. But what are the side effects of hiding parts of ourselves at work? And what about the parts of ourselves that remain exposed? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Oct 25, 2022

1 in 10 physicians will get sued at some point in their career – but physicians rarely discuss this, much less prepare for it. How do we bring litigation, and all the stress and shame associated with it, out of the shadows? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Oct 18, 2022

For most clinicians, the idea of harming a patient is a worst nightmare. But in a high-stakes profession, practiced by humans in a dysfunctional system, errors are nearly inevitable. So how do we deal with the shame that follows? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Oct 11, 2022

In medical culture, shame is often wielded as a teaching tool. We shame learners for not knowing, for forgetting, for making mistakes. When does this serve us? When is it harmful? Is there a better way? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Oct 4, 2022

On the path to medicine, we're constantly taking tests: MCAT, shelf exams, step exams, boards, and more. What are these numbers good for? What are they not good for? What is the emotional impact of these tests, and their scores, on medical learners? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Sep 27, 2022

We all arrive at the gateway to medicine carrying baggage from our past. We've had different hopes, hurts, and childhood arcs. How do these early life experiences guide us toward our careers? And once we "arrive," how do they impact the way we experience shame in the workplace? Find show notes, discussion guide, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Sep 20, 2022

Medical culture is filled with impossible ideals: the resident expected to work a 28-hour shift without complaint or error; the surgeon with the steel bladder; the doctor with perfect bedside manner; the student with all the answers. How should a doctor look, act, think, speak, dress, feel? What should they value? In this episode, we explore the concept of "The Ideal Doctor." Where do these "ideals" come from? How are they communicated? And what do they have to do with shame? Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Sep 13, 2022

What is shame? And how does it manifest in medical culture? In this episode, The Nocturnists teams up with two shame experts to investigate these questions. From a pool of over 200 stories submitted to The Nocturnists from healthcare workers across the US, the UK, and beyond, we'll explore the tension between who we are, and what the culture expects of us. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists-shame.org .

Sep 6, 2022

A 10-part audio documentary series on The Nocturnists podcast, "Shame in Medicine: The Lost Forest" explores how shame manifests in medical culture. Shame is ubiquitous in healthcare. Shame experiences in healthcare workers contribute to burnout, depression, suicidality, impaired empathy, disengagement from learning, social isolation, diminished physical wellness, unprofessional behavior, and altered professional identity formation — all challenges that continue to vex the medical community and lead to poor health outcomes. Hosted by Emily Silverman, MD and produced in collaboration with the Shame and Medicine project at the University of Exeter, this podcast series breaks the silence about shame in medical practice, sharing intimate stories told by healthcare workers from across the globe. "Shame in Medicine: The Lost Forest" starts on September 13. Listen to the series trailer and follow The Nocturnists wherever you listen to podcasts.

Aug 30, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with pediatrics resident Nina Shevzov-Zebrun about movement, medicine, and the creation of The Ten Tensions Project , which explores core dilemmas of the physician experience through photography and dance The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 23, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with physician-author Danielle Ofri about the science of writing, the art of medicine, and the imperative of recognizing stories as a tool for healing. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 16, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with data scientist and author Cathy O'Neil about her book The Shame Machine: Who Profits in the New Age of Humiliation, which investigates how society exploits the powerful emotion of shame. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Aug 9, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with documentary filmmaker and journalist David France about his films How to Survive a Pandemic (2022) and How to Survive a Plague (2012), and the role of storytelling in documenting public health crises and holding institutions accountable. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jul 26, 2022

In this special episode, Emily speaks with The Nocturnists' Executive Producer, family medicine physician and abortion provider, Dr. Alison Block, who recently published an Op-Ed in The New York Times called "Why I Learned to Perform Second-Trimester Abortions for a Post-Roe America." The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 17, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with physician Rupa Marya and political economist Raj Patel about their recent book Inflamed: Deep Medicine and the Anatomy of Injustice , which explores the impact of oppressive systems on our health, and how deep medicine can facilitate collective healing. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 10, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with neuroscientist and author Sidarta Ribeiro about his book The Oracle of Night , which investigates the art and science of dreams and the extraordinary power dreams have in shaping our world. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 3, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with poet, physician, and medical ethicist Dr. Laura Kolbe about her poetry collection, Little Pharma, the languages of poetry and medicine, and how poetry can help illuminate the various aspects of self. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Apr 26, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with Dr. Wesley Ely about the harms of deep sedation and immobilization in the ICU, and how he's transforming critical care, one patient at a time. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 29, 2022

In this episode, Emily speaks with cancer biologist and poet Jenny Qi, about her poetry collection "Focal Point," which examines science, disease, love, and family. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 22, 2022

In today's episode, Emily speaks with Professor Cindy Weinstein and Dr. Bruce Miller, authors of the book Finding the Right Words , which explores literature, grief, and the brain. It tells the story of Cindy's father, who lived and died with early-onset Alzheimer's disease, and serves as a dialogue between patient and doctor, literary critic and neuroscientist. A great example of narrative medicine in action. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 15, 2022

In today's episode, Emily speaks with New York Times columnist Ross Douthat about his book The Deep Places , which tells the harrowing story of his experience with Lyme disease, and what it's like to navigate a chronic illness that mainstream medicine hasn't yet fully explained. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Mar 8, 2022

The American healthcare system is a tapestry of providers, insurers and chargemasters, and often leaves patients with unexpected and crippling bills. That is, if they show up to the hospital at all. In this episode, Emily speaks with Emily Maloney who has been on both sides of the health care cost equation. After being hospitalized for a suicide attempt, she began working as an emergency room technician to pay off her medical debt. Emily Maloney tells her story in a new collection of essays, Cost of Living . The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 15, 2022

Physician Tobin Greensweig makes an unannounced visit to a patient's house to check on him after he leaves the hospital. Recalling stories from his father's community medical practice, he is struck by the constraints on the doctor-patient relationship in modern medicine. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 8, 2022

Psychiatrist Shaili Jain tells the story of a pivotal experience on a road trip with her father, and how it catalyzed her career as a PTSD specialist. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 1, 2022

Pediatrician Christina Lee recounts a memorable ambulance ride from residency, in which she helped transport a child from the hospital to hospice. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jan 25, 2022

Medical student Pablo Romano tells the story of losing his mother to complications of surgery, and how he continues her legacy as a medical student. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Dec 7, 2021

Internal medicine physician Natasha Spottiswoode reflects on her flying days from Oxford while teaching a green intern how to recognize whether patients are "sick" or "not sick." The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 30, 2021

Internist Ashley McMullen decides to let her hair go natural for the first time in over a decade — a process which serves as a metaphor for self-acceptance in the rigid world of medicine. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 23, 2021

Interventional Radiologist Bobby Chiong's patient codes on the table during a procedure, prompting a frantic but successful resuscitation. Afterward, Dr. Chiong reflects on the high-stakes nature of his job and the intimidating responsibility of being entrusted with patients' care. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 16, 2021

An improv workshop transforms the way psychiatrist David Elkin approaches a patient on the psych consult service, and catalyzes a philosophical shift in his approach to patient care. The Nocturnists is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Nov 2, 2021

Alzheimer's disease used to be a rare diagnosis. But today, more than 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's and this number is projected to triple to 14 million over the next forty years. In this episode, Emily discusses the mounting practical, moral, and ethical quandaries of caring for patients with Alzheimer's and other dementia-causing diseases with Dr. Jason Karlawish, author of The Problem of Alzheimer's: How Science, Culture and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It . The Nocturnists are partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Oct 26, 2021

The emergency room is a place of intensity—a place of noise and colors and human drama. This is the setting of Dr. Michele Harper's memoir, The Beauty in Breaking , which explores how the healing journeys of her patients intersect with her own. Emily and Dr. Harper discuss the back stories that become salient in caring for patients who may be suffering from more than just the injuries bringing them to the ER. The Nocturnists are partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Oct 19, 2021

Do no harm. Thou shalt not kill. Life is sacred and should be protected at all costs, right? But when is life no longer worth living? Who decides? And what do we do about it? In this episode, Emily discusses the murky ethical dilemmas of medical aid in dying with award-winning journalist Katie Engelhart, the author of The Inevitable: Dispatches On The Right to Die . The Nocturnists are partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer free CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Oct 12, 2021

In the last few years, the medical profession has been grappling with the problem of gender bias in medicine, with how the symptoms of women are seen as atypical, or worse, are minimized, dismissed or ignored. But where did this problem come from? How far have we come and where should we go from here? In this episode, Emily discusses these questions and more with Dr. Elinor Cleghorn, author of Unwell Women: Misdiagnosis and Myth in a Man-Made World . The Nocturnists are partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer free CME credits for healthcare professionals. Visit ce.vcuhealth.org/nocturnists to claim credit for this episode. More at thenocturnists.com .

Jul 27, 2021

It's been over a year since the first case of COVID-19 appeared in Seattle, and it's been a long cold lonely winter. But in our series finale, we wanted to hear about a bright spot in all the darkness: the first vaccines that found their way into the arms of healthcare workers all around the country. More at thenocturnists.com

Jul 20, 2021

Where did the pandemic become real for you? This has been the most significant global public health crisis in a generation, but we each experienced it through a different set of eyes. More at thenocturnists.com

Jul 13, 2021

The acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic is over, but some things are here to stay. How have N-95s, face shields, gowns, gloves and ventilators inserted themselves into our everyday lives? More at thenocturnists.com

Jul 6, 2021

The COVID-19 global health crisis shed light on the immense value of doctors, nurses, public health workers, and research scientists. At the same time, the pandemic has all but obliterated the arts: theater artists, dancers, and performers have lost their livelihoods and their purpose. But doesn't art save lives, too? More at thenocturnists.com

Jun 29, 2021

We know the pandemic has affected the waking lives of healthcare workers. But what happens after we fall asleep? Does the pandemic haunt us in the shadows too? More at thenocturnists.com .

Jun 22, 2021

One of the hardest things about being healthcare workers going through this pandemic is that we've both experienced and borne witness to moments that nobody should have to go through alone. Who do we need by our side when everything falls apart? And what do we do when they can't be there? More at thenocturnists.com .

Jun 15, 2021

To some, the pandemic is a distant thing. The deaths of hundreds of thousands can feel unreal and even impossible to comprehend. That is, until COVID hits home. More at thenocturnists.com

Jun 8, 2021

The Nocturnists is back with the second installment of "Stories from a Pandemic". How have healthcare workers been holding up over the past year? In this episode we hear stories from healthcare workers around the country about what it's been like after the dust has settled. Visit our website for episode show notes here .

Jun 1, 2021

The Nocturnists is proud to announce the second installment of Stories from a Pandemic , which explores what the murky, middle part of the pandemic has been like for healthcare workers. Tune in Tuesday, June 8, 2021 for the first of eight episodes, "The Space Between".

May 4, 2021

Emily talks to Dr. Suzanne Koven, author of Letter to a Young Female Physician: Notes from a Medical Life . Dr. Koven graduated from medical school in the 80s at a time when there were so few women in her residency program that she had to write up her own maternity leave policy. Her memoir is a testament to how, while some things have changed for the better for women in medical education, much of the culture remains the same. Dr. Suzanne Koven is a primary care physician and the inaugural Writer in Residence at Massachusetts General Hospital. Hosted by Emily Silverman . Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou. Edited and mixed by Jon Oliver. Recorded in San Francisco by audio engineer Jon Oliver and at Ugly Duck Studios in Brighton by Ian Bouslough. Original Theme by Yosef Munro . Other music by Blue Dot Sessions . This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by Fabled . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Apr 27, 2021

As much as our culture delights in talking about sex, we do not relish discussing the sexually transmitted diseases which sometimes follow. But STDs are not just a fact of life, they are a subject that has been shrouded in mystery and moralizing throughout the history of medicine. In this episode, Emily speaks with Dr. Ina Park , a family medicine doctor, Associate Professor of Family and Community Medicine at the University of California San Francisco, and the author of Strange Bedfellows: Adventures in the Science, History, and Surprising Secrets of STDs . Hosted by Emily Silverman . Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou. Edited and mixed by Jon Oliver. Original Theme by Yosef Munro . Other music by Blue Dot Sessions . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Apr 20, 2021

All of us have experienced physical pain at some point in our lives. Yet many of us are unaware of how essential context is to the pain experience. Even today, there is much about pain that remains poorly understood. How is it that something so core to being human can remain such a mystery? Joining me to unravel some of these complexities is Dr. Abdul-Ghaaliq Lalkhen, an anesthesiologist and author of An Anatomy of Pain: How the Body and the Mind Experience and Endure Physical Suffering . Hosted by Emily Silverman . Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou. Edited and mixed by Jon Oliver. Original theme by Yosef Munro . Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Apr 13, 2021

Many of us have had to imagine dreaded scenarios for the death of a loved one with dementia. But few have done so with as much cinematic ingenuity and depth of affection as our next guest. In this episode, Emily talks to Kirsten Johnson, the veteran cinematographer and award-winning documentary filmmaker of the film Dick Johnson is Dead , which centers around her father's experience with dementia. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Feb 9, 2021

More and more Americans are choosing to die at home in the care of a loved one. But who takes care of the caregiver? In today's episode, Emily talks to Dr. Jessica Zitter, a critical care and palliative care specialist, about her award-winning directorial debut film, Caregiver: A Love Story . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . .

Feb 2, 2021

Emily sits down with Danielle Spencer to discuss her book Metagnosis: Revelatory Narratives of Health and Identity which, in identifying and naming the concept of "metagnosis," brings the study of healthcare into conversation with the discourse on identity. In doing so, this extraordinary new work in narrative medicine underscores the importance of narrative in healthcare in relation to concepts of self. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jan 26, 2021

Our lungs connect us to our innermost selves, the outside world, and each other. In this episode, Emily talks to pulmonologist Dr. Michael Stephen, author of Breath Taking: What Our Lungs Teach Us About Our Origins, Ourselves, and Our Future . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jan 19, 2021

Emily talks to biographer Janice Nimura about her new book, The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women—and Women to Medicine , which examines the complicated and exceptional lives of Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell, the first and third female physicians in the United States, two women who profoundly influenced the medical profession. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Dec 22, 2020

The Nocturnists Holiday Special looks back on a year like no other and celebrates the holiday season with creative contributions from healthcare workers. Contributors include: Alex Raines, Alina Kung, Brad Hunter, Brian Bobby Chiong, Catherine Forest, Dan Merriott , Dawn Marie Wadle, Elsa Alaswad, Emmeline Sun, Greta Peng, Theodore Peng, Jacqueline Flores, Jessica Briggs, John Danyi, Kathy Lin, Katie Brooks, Kimberly Manning, Lily Stern and brothers, Lori Edwards, Mariam Nawas, Marshall Fleurant, Mike Reid, Natasha Spottiswoode, Nick Iverson, Patrick McMurray, Raphaela Posner, Resa Lewiss, Syed Hoda , Teja Kompala, Tina Munjal, Tseganesh Selameab, and other healthcare workers who chose to remain anonymous. Hosted by Emily Silverman. Producers: Emily Silverman, Adelaide Papazoglou, Raphae Posner Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Janaé E. The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Dec 22, 2020

The Nocturnists Holiday Special looks back on a year like no other and celebrates the holiday season with creative contributions from healthcare workers. Contributors include: Alex Raines, Alina Kung, Brad Hunter, Brian Bobby Chiong, Catherine Forest, Dan Merriott , Dawn Marie Wadle, Elsa Alaswad, Emmeline Sun, Greta Peng, Theodore Peng, Jacqueline Flores, Jessica Briggs, John Danyi, Kathy Lin, Katie Brooks, Kimberly Manning, Lily Stern and brothers, Lori Edwards, Mariam Nawas, Marshall Fleurant, Mike Reid, Natasha Spottiswoode, Nick Iverson, Patrick McMurray, Raphaela Posner, Resa Lewiss, Syed Hoda , Teja Kompala, Tina Munjal, Tseganesh Selameab, and other healthcare workers who chose to remain anonymous. Hosted by Emily Silverman Producers: Emily Silverman, Adelaide Papazoglou, Raphae Posner Illustrations by Lindsay Mound Original theme music by Janaé E. The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, bonus playlist, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Dec 8, 2020

Pediatric critical care physician Cathy Humikowski tells the story of having a cardiac arrest the day she gave birth to her daughter. This story was originally told at The Nocturnists Transitions show in San Francisco on January 16, 2020. Hosted by Emily Silverman Illustrations by Lindsay Mound Original theme music by Yosef Munro Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Dec 1, 2020

The Nocturnists picks up with Season 3, which was interrupted by the COVID pandemic. Internal medicine physician David Muller tells a story about a chance encounter on the George Washington Bridge that made him ponder what makes caring real, and not just something we do professionally. This story was originally told live in New York City at our October 2019 event at the Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. Learn more about this great venue and organization here . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. __________ WARNING: Today's episode of The Nocturnists contains descriptions of mental health crises and suicidal actions. Listener discretion is advised. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.

Nov 24, 2020

The Nocturnists continues with Season 3, which was previously interrupted by the pandemic. In this episode, family medicine doctor Miriam Sheinbein tells a story about coming to terms with ambivalence surrounding pregnancy and motherhood. This story was originally told at a storytelling event produced by TEACH ( teachtraining.org ), an organization that cultivates the next generation of reproductive health care providers. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page.

Nov 17, 2020

The Nocturnists picks up with Season 3, which was interrupted by the COVID pandemic. Medical student Latha Panchap shares a story about a crisis of confidence on the wards. Latha was the winner of The Nocturnists' medical student storytelling contest on the theme of LEARNING, and told her story in front of a live audience at the Housing Works Bookstore and Cafe in New York City on December 19, 2019. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This episode was brought to you by Vocera Communications' Experience Innovation Network , an organization that has investigated the impact of stress, divided attention, and cognitive load on clinicians, and published data on how it affects communication and emotional wellbeing. Learn more about their work here and here . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Also mentioned in this episode: Saturday Night Stories from UCSF .

Sep 8, 2020

In this final episode of Black Voices in Healthcare , Host Ashley McMullen and Executive Producer Kimberly Manning discuss the making of the series. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E. Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Aug 25, 2020

Our series began with reflections on the death of George Floyd, and ends with stories of birth. Even in the midst of tragedy, new life is beginning. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Aug 18, 2020

From the physical exams we conduct to diagnose disease to the reassuring handshakes before a surgical procedure, human touch is fundamental to the work we do in healthcare. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Aug 11, 2020

Have you ever looked around and realized you were the only one? Standing out in the crowd can be hard, but it might just be your superpower. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Aug 4, 2020

Everyone has a different origin story. This week we hear about all the roads you've taken to become who you are. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jul 28, 2020

We know the pandemic has disproportionately affected communities of color. This week, we hear about how COVID-19 has affected your lives. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Featuring music "Heart Shaped Box" by Amber Mark (covering Nirvana). Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jul 21, 2020

Our Black hair speaks volumes about our lives, and can be a source of joy or pain. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Featuring music inspired by "I am Not My Hair" by India.Arie. Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jul 14, 2020

Many of us travel far and wide to become healthcare workers. What is home to you? Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Featuring "Home" from The Wiz , written by Charlie Smalls. Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jul 7, 2020

We are so much more than Black pain. This week, we focus on what makes us come alive. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jun 30, 2020

In our first episode of Black Voices in Healthcare , we sit with the grief of the event that set this project into motion: the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a white police officer in Minneapolis. Host: Ashley McMullen, MD Executive Producer: Kimberly Manning, MD Consulting Producer: Emily Silverman, MD Podcast Producer: Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Ashley Floréal Original music by Janaé E . Black Voices in Healthcare series sponsors: California Health Care Foundation and The California Wellness Foundation . The Nocturnists is made possible by the California Medical Association and people like you who have donated through our website and Patreon page. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com/black-voices-in-healthcare .

Jun 9, 2020

How does the pandemic end? Does it go out with a bang? Does it fizzle out? What we know for sure is that this story is not over. In today's episode you will hear from a pediatric hospitalist, laboratory scientist, pulmonologist, hospitalist, trauma nurse, OB/GYN, and an internal medicine resident, from California, the Midwest, Michigan, New Jersey, and New York. Featuring Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah . Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Jun 2, 2020

May 26, 2020

It takes surprisingly little for the human psyche to come undone. We know that the virus can't survive when we isolate ourselves, but can we survive the isolation? Today's voices include an ER nurse, a medical student, a geriatrician, a maternal and fetal medicine fellow, a vaccine trial subject, a primary care doctor, a pediatrics medical resident, as well as some unexpected voices. This episode features Bill Conti's Gonna Fly Now (Theme from Rocky). Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

May 19, 2020

The mass media portrays us as "healthcare heroes," or soldiers fighting a battle. For some people this language may ring true, but for others, it feels wrong. This week you'll hear voices from diarists based in California, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. They include a geriatrician, a pediatric and an adult emergency physicians, an ER nurse, a hospitalist and historian of medicine, and two medical students. *This episode includes themes of mental health crises and suicidal actions. Listener discretion is advised. Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

May 12, 2020

We've been holding our breath for weeks. The future is unclear, but this week, we invite you to exhale and celebrate small wins. You'll hear voices from North Carolina, Michigan, Maryland, Oklahoma, Colorado, and California, including those of a radiologist, a family practice doctor, an infectious disease researcher, meds-peds and internal medicine doctors, a neuroimmunology fellow, and a fourth year medical student. Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

May 5, 2020

What have we learned about the sickness caused by coronavirus? You'll hear from diarists from Michigan, Maryland, Ontario/Canada, Massachusetts, and California. You will hear from a meds/peds resident, a neuroimmunology fellow, a MICU nurse, two internal medicine residents, a primary care doctor, and an OB/GYN. Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Apr 28, 2020

What's it like to be a healthcare worker standing on the sidelines during a pandemic? This week, you'll hear from diarists from California, North Carolina, Indiana, Texas, and New York, including a primary care doctor, a travel nurse, a speech language pathologist, a pediatrician, an endocrinologist, and critical care doctor. Featuring the song Helpless by Neil Young. Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Apr 21, 2020

This week you discuss ventilator hacks, breathing tubes, search and rescue, and ministries of presence. You will hear from diarists in New York, Colorado, Maryland, Indiana, Atlanta, and California, who include a family physician, a nurse practitioner, a veterinarian, a medical student, a couple of interns, and a hospital chaplain. Featuring Bill Withers' Lean on Me . Hosted by Emily Silverman Produced by Emily Silverman and Adelaide Papazoglou Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Apr 14, 2020

What have we learned about the virus so far? In the third episode of Stories from a Pandemic , you will hear voices of a MICU nurse in San Francisco, an internal medicine resident in New York City, an internal medicine resident in Montreal, Canada, a neonatology fellow in Pennsylvania, a geriatrician in California, a participant in a study of a candidate vaccine, an anonymous health care provider, and a medical student in New York City. Produced by Emily Silverman, Adelaide Papazoglou, and Vishal Khetpal Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 7, 2020

The COVID pandemic arrives in the USA. In this episode of The Nocturnists: Stories from a Pandemic , you will hear diary entries from healthcare workers from New York, California, Massachusetts, and Indiana, all grappling with the first of the COVID case arrivals in their institutions. You will hear the voices of an internist, a pulmonologist, an emergency medicine intern, a clinical laboratory scientist, and a recently graduated medical student. Produced by Emily Silverman, Adelaide Papazoglou, and Vishal Khetpal Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Mar 31, 2020

In the first episode of our new Stories from a Pandemic series, you share stories of bracing for disaster. You will hear the voices of a trauma nurse in San Francisco, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor in New York City, a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) truck driver in the Southern US, a neonatologist in Pennsylvania, a neurosurgery resident in Los Angeles, an emergency medicine physician in Arizona, and an internal medicine resident in New York City. Produced by Emily Silverman, Adelaide Papazoglou, and Vishal Khetpal Illustrations by Lindsay Mound This series is brought to you by the California Medical Association , the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation , and donations from our listeners. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com . Follow @thenocturnists.

Mar 24, 2020

Rasha Khoury takes us inside a Doctors Without Borders hospital. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 17, 2020

Social worker Emmeline Sun has to betray the trust of a client in order to care for him. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 10, 2020

On Jeremy Topin's first call night in the ICU, his checklist was not enough. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This episode was made possible by Vocera Communication's Experience Innovation Network , an organization that has investigated the impact of stress, divided attention, and cognitive load on clinicians, and published data on how it affects communication and emotional wellbeing. Learn more about their work here . This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 2, 2020

Hospitalist Abhi Kole tells a story about the ethics—and the art—of blocking patients. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This episode was made possible by Vocera Communication's Experience Innovation Network , an organization that has investigated the impact of stress, divided attention, and cognitive load on clinicians, and published data on how it affects communication and emotional wellbeing. Learn more about their work here . This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 24, 2020

Internal medicine resident Elie Adler tells a story about loving someone with a chronic illness, how that relationship changed when she became a doctor, and how being a doctor affects her relationship. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 18, 2020

Otolaryngologist Tina Munjal tells a story about learning to be comfortable outside of her comfort zone. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 11, 2020

Pediatric hospitalist Monica Stemmle tells a story about her imperfect strategies for coping with feelings on the job. Warning: this story depicts sick and injured children. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 4, 2020

Season 3 of The Nocturnists, hosted by physician Emily Silverman, will be coming soon to your feed. This season of The Nocturnists was made possible by the California Medical Association. Learn more at cmadocs.org . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Oct 30, 2019

In this live podcast taping, Emily speaks with UCSF geriatrician and author Louise Aronson about her New York Times best-selling book, Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life . Louise opens the episode with a reading from her book. Emily follows with questions about the inspiration behind Elderhood , biases in medicine that impact geriatric care, and ways to reframe our perspectives on aging. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Sep 26, 2019

Emily sits down with palliative care doctor BJ Miller and IDEO's Global Editorial Director, Shoshana Berger, to talk about their new book, A Beginner's Guide to the End: Practical Advice for Living Life and Facing Death . First, BJ and Shoshana read excerpts from the book about their individual stories. The readings are followed by a conversation with Emily about the inspirations behind their new book, the challenging nature of the dying process, and the importance of preparing for our final days. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Sep 19, 2019

Emily sits down with physician Matt McCarthy, an infectious disease specialist at New York Presbyterian Hospital who researches drug-resistant microbes, to talk about his latest book, Superbugs . Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

Jun 18, 2019

Here we share a tapestry of voices that we stitched together from the 38 audio submissions we received for our first storytelling contest on the theme of "Learning." The entries came from 28 institutions, 14 states, and 3 countries. We plan to announce the contest winner before the end of the month. Thank you to all who submitted! Music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Jun 13, 2019

Emily sits down with internist and thought leader Dr. Lucy Kalanithi to discuss her late husband's book When Breath Becomes Air and topics such as illness and identity, prognosis and uncertainty, love and suffering, and the importance of community. Find show notes, transcript, and more at thenocturnists.com .

May 28, 2019

After hearing a mentor make an inappropriate joke, medical student Jenny Tiskus grapples with humor's place in the world of medicine. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

May 21, 2019

Physician Maureen Miller describes how perusing a dusty box of autopsy reports from 1897 helped her embrace her new professional future as a pathologist. Learn more about Maureen's work here . She also recommends reading The Misfit , featuring one of her favorite writers David Milch. For reference, the Conan and Colbert interviews are here and here . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

May 14, 2019

Psychiatrist Matthew Hirschtritt turns to lessons from his Jewish upbringing when caring for a patient with severe refractory depression. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

May 7, 2019

Hospitalist Archna Eniasivam describes the time she made a diagnostic error with one of her favorite patients. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you! For more content, we recommend some of our favorite medical podcasts: The Curbsiders , The Clinical Problem Solvers , and Core IM .

Apr 30, 2019

Family medicine physician Catherine Forest listens to her one of her classical music idols serenade a dying loved one in the hospital. According to the internet, the most relaxing song in the world is Weightless by Marconi Union. To learn more about music and the brain, check out the book Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain by Oliver Sacks. For more of Catherine's work, check out this essay in Vox. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 23, 2019

82-year-old retired trauma surgeon Bill Meffert, who cared for wounded soldiers in Vietnam, reflects on that bloody experience and the words of a priest who worked beside him. You can read more about Bill and his novel, A Long Way From Home , on his website . To learn more about the Vietnam War, Bill recommends reading the book Dispatches , by Michael Herr. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 16, 2019

When caring for a young woman with a new brain cancer diagnosis, medicine resident Colleen Farrell comes to grips with her own mortality. Books referenced include Noonday Demon by Andrew Solomon. You can find the poem "Intensive Care" by Jane O. Wayne here . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 9, 2019

Hospitalist Peter Barish recounts an intense, intimate moment with a patient. Learn more about Ladybird here . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 2, 2019

Michele DiTomas, a hospice physician who cares for incarcerated men, races against the clock and slashes through bureaucratic tape to help a dying man go home. Learn more about the U.S. criminal justice system at the ACLU . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 26, 2019

Emergency medicine physician Joe Sills panics when the patient he has just pronounced dead regains a pulse. The article mentioned in our conversation, "What Does It Mean to Die?" can be found in The New Yorker . Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Other music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you! For more about emergency medicine, visit The EM Over Easy Podcast .

Mar 12, 2019

Season 2 of The Nocturnists, hosted by physician Emily Silverman, launches on Tuesday, March 26th. Illustrations by Lindsay Mound . Original theme music by Yosef Munro . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

May 23, 2018

Cardiologist Dhruv Kazi recounts the heart-stopping tale of an emergency medical encounter in North Korea. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

May 9, 2018

Hospital administrator Galen Laserson recounts the time she got an unexpected call in the middle of the night, which prompted her to learn all about the hospital's underbelly and the logistics of death. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . This week, you also have the opportunity to listen to Galen's story on Snap Judgment from WNYC. Also catch Emily on The Short Coat Podcast and House of Pod from earlier this month. Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 25, 2018

The electronic medical record and a list of to-dos distract family medicine resident Milana Pebenito from her patient's impending death. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Apr 11, 2018

Hospitalist Meghan O'Brien recounts the frustration of caring for a homeless patient who would rather be on the streets. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 28, 2018

Grant Smith, chief resident in internal medicine at UCSF, recounts the story of his first code blue. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Mar 7, 2018

In the hospital, pediatrician Dana Gal struggles with a young patient who asserts her autonomy in ways that are frustrating, and even dangerous. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 21, 2018

Hospitalist Ann Knapp navigates her own doubts and assumptions when her patient, a ninety-year-old man, states he wants to die—today. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Feb 6, 2018

Sirisha Narayana, a hospital medicine physician, discusses her strong identity as a physician, and how it collided with her other identities, until one of her interns made a simple observation in the hospital. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Jan 25, 2018

Ben Lerman, an emergency medicine physician, describes how his ability to empathize with his patients deteriorated throughout his medical training, and how a chance encounter with a patient outside the hospital helped set him back on track. Special thanks to Leon Morimoto. Illustrations by Stephanie Muscat . Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!

Dec 7, 2017

The Nocturnists, hosted by physician Emily Silverman, debuts soon! Learn more and support us at thenocturnists.com . Thank you!