BackTable / Urology / Podcast / Episode #283
Early Careers in Urology: Strategies for Success
with Dr. Raveen Syan and Dr. Helen Hougen
What determines success in the early years of urology practice? In this BackTable Urology episode, produced in collaboration with the Society of Women in Urology (SWIU), this episode of the BackTable Urology Podcast brings on Dr. Raveen Syan, Dr. Helen Hougen, and host Dr. Michelle Van Kuiken to discuss the transition to early career practice in urology.
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BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2026, January 6). Ep. 283 – Early Careers in Urology: Strategies for Success [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
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Podcast Contributors
Synopsis
Together, the doctors explore the realities that new attendings face, from building efficient clinical systems to managing complications and building support networks. Drawing from personal experience, the guests offer practical guidance on mentorship, recognizing when a role or environment may no longer be the right fit, and building a sustainable, fulfilling professional life.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
02:54 - Early Challenges
06:13 - Finding Support and Building Systems
11:49 - Balancing Work and Personal Life
15:52 - The Importance of Saying Yes Early On
18:16 - Mentorship and Finding Allies
22:29 - Decision Making and Cognitive Biases
24:36 - Managing Complications
27:31 - Prioritizing Clinical Goals
38:45 - Knowing When to Leave
42:09 - Final Reflections
Resources
Annie Duke
https://www.annieduke.com/
Aristotle’s 10 Rules for a Good Life
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/08/aristotle-10-rules-happy-life/674905/
Personal Productivity: How to work effectively and calmly in the midst of chaos
https://www.cvdtraining.pitt.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Johnson2009_Essays.pdf
Understanding Academic Medical Centers: Simone’s Maxims
https://aacrjournals.org/clincancerres/article/5/9/2281/287826/Understanding-Academic-Medical-Centers-Simone-s
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.














