Episode # 255 • 19 Aug 2025
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: New Perspectives for Urology Trainees
In medicine, the hardest critic you’ll face is often yourself. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Michelle Van Kuiken joins host Dr. Lindsay Hampson to unpack the realities of imposter syndrome in urology practice and discuss its impact on trainees and professionals
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
02:29 - Defining Imposter Syndrome
04:24 - Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome
08:44 - Impact of Imposter Syndrome in Medicine
10:39 - Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
13:59 - The Role of Mentorship
16:28 - Gender and Mentorship in Medicine
27:24 - Peer Support and Building Community
32:13 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Resources
- Medical Trainees and the Dunning–Kruger Effect: When They Don't Know What They Don't Know
- Imposter Syndrome in Surgical Trainees: Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale Assessment in General Surgery Residents
- Defining the Incidence of the Impostor Phenomenon in Academic Plastic Surgery: A Multi-Institutional Survey Study
- Academic Urology Endowments and Leadership Roles are Disproportionately Held by Male Urologists
- Implementation of a “Best Self” Exercise to Decrease Imposter Phenomenon in Residents
- Keep-Stop-Start Framework
- Lean In
- W. Brad Johnson, PhD
You may also like
More about this episode
Dr. Van Kuiken and Dr. Hampson explain the basics of imposter syndrome, its prevalence, and the many ways it can show up in medical training and practice. They also share candid personal experiences and practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt, from reframing negative thoughts to embracing feedback as a tool for growth. The doctors highlight the value of mentorship, peer support, and celebrating achievements, as well as the importance of creating a culture where vulnerability and open conversations are encouraged.
The Materials available on BackTable are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the independent professional judgment of a qualified healthcare professional in diagnosing or treating patients. Any opinions, statements, or views expressed are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, platform, or any affiliated organization.