Clinical Challenges in Surgical Education: A Diver, Photographer, and a Chef Walk into an OR
Clinical Challenges in Surgical Education: A Diver, Photographer, and a Chef Walk into an OR  
Podcast: Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast
Published On: Thu Nov 20 2025
Description: Step outside the operating room with us to explore the art, creativity, and humanism that shape a surgeon’s life beyond medicine. Our guest Dr. Adnan Alseidi is not only a renowned hepatobiliary surgeon and surgical educator, but also an avid diver, photographer, and chef. Dr. Alseidi takes us from World War 2 shipwrecks to his restaurants around the world, reflecting on the fragility of humanity revealed in the oceans and moments of connection simmering in the kitchen. Along the way, he shares how creativity, service, and humility fuel his passions and his practice.Join hosts Pooja Varman, MD, Judith French, PhD, and Jeremy Lipman, MD, MHPE, for this inspiring conversation about finding joy and connection in and beyond surgical practice.Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this episode, listeners will be able to 1.     Describe the ways in which creative pursuits can deepen a surgeon’s perspective on medicine and life.2.     Identify parallels between artistry and surgery, including precision, patience, and respect for human fragility.3.     Discuss strategies for maintaining balance and encouraging trainees to integrate creativity into their professional identities.References1.     Executive Leadership Program in Health Policy and Management at Brandeis University, sponsored by the American College of Surgeons and several co-sponsoring organizations.2.     The Book of Joy, by Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Douglas Carlton Abrams3.     Dr. Alseidi’s Wildlife PhotographySponsor Disclaimer:Visit goremedical.com/btkpod to learn more about GORE® SYNECOR Biomaterial, including supporting references and disclaimers for the presented content.Refer to Instructions for Use at eifu.goremedical.com for a complete description of all applicable indications, warnings, precautions and contraindications for the markets where this product is available. Rx only Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://behindtheknife.org/listenBehind the Knife Premium:General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-reviewTrauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlasDominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkshipDominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotationVascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewColorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewSurgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-reviewCardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewDownload our App:Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US