Mindful Medicine: Finding Resilience on Everest with Dr. Mimi Zieman

MGMA Podcasts

Welcome to Mindful Medicine, where we explore the intersection of mindfulness, health, and transformative experiences. In this episode, Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA and host of the MGMA Insights Podcast, speaks with Dr. Mimi Zieman—an OB/GYN, adventurer, and author of the memoir Tap Dancing on Everest. Dr. Zieman’s story takes us from her beginnings in New York City to her pivotal role as the expedition doctor on an unaided climb of Everest. She shares profound insights into the healing power of nature, the courage to embrace the unknown, and lessons from her multifaceted career in medicine, writing, and beyond.

Key Discussion Points (with Timestamps):

• [00:01:00] Introduction to Dr. Mimi Zieman
  Dr. Zieman’s background as an OB/GYN, author, and adventurer, and her unique journey from New York City to the peaks of Everest.
• [00:02:30] Discovering a Love for Mountains
  How a college field biology lab in Colorado sparked her lifelong passion for the mountains and adventure.
• [00:05:30] Highlights from Dr. Zieman’s Medical Career
  Her work in academic medicine, leadership at Emory’s family planning program, and transitioning into consulting and creative writing.
• [00:10:00] Writing Tap Dancing on Everest
  The inspiration behind her memoir, how the title evolved, and the pivotal moment she literally danced on Everest.
• [00:13:30] Role as Expedition Doctor on Everest
  Reflections on serving as the medical officer during an unaided climb of Everest, supporting the climbers while managing extreme conditions.
• [00:16:30] Influence of Her Father’s Story
  How her father’s experience as a Holocaust survivor shaped her identity, perspective on resilience, and approach to both medicine and life.
• [00:18:00] Healing Power of Nature and Solitude
  Insights on how extreme natural environments and mindfulness practices influenced her understanding of health and well-being.
• [00:20:30] Facing Uncertainty in Life and Leadership
  Dr. Zieman’s advice for medical leaders on embracing challenges and fostering growth through uncertainty.
• [00:23:00] Outro
  What’s next for Dr. Zieman, including upcoming writing projects and creative endeavors.

Resources and Links:

• Tap Dancing on Everest: Purchase the book here.
• Dr. Mimi Zieman’s Newsletter: Explore Medicine, Mountains, and More on Substack.
• Managing Contraception (17th Edition): Find out more.
• Learn about the MGMA community and more episodes of Mindful Medicine: MGMA Insights Podcast.