Dialogues

Jul 18, 2025, 07:48

Empowering Oncologists: How I created a business out of my passion while being an oncologist

In this episode of Empowering Oncologists, host Dr. Jasmine Kamboj, a medical oncologist and hematologist, is joined by Dr. Merry Jennifer Markham, a gynecologic medical oncologist and professor at the University of Florida Health Cancer Center. Dr. Markham shares her journey from her passion for patient care to creating a successful travel business, MMarkham Travel, while continuing her practice in oncology. Dr. Markham reflects on the challenges of leadership, the importance of relationships, and how her skills as a division chief transitioned into running her own company.

She emphasizes the significance of listening, building connections, and maintaining balance in both professional and personal life. MJ also discusses her dedication to empowering other oncologists, organizing trips for women physicians, and staying motivated through ongoing personal and professional growth. In this inspiring conversation,

Dr. Markham provides valuable insights on overcoming burnout, the power of travel for mental health, and how to find fulfillment in multiple career paths. Key Takeaways:

Great leadership is built on listening and relationships.
Relationships matter, both with staff and patients, to stay motivated in oncology.
Burnout can be avoided by pursuing passion-driven ventures outside of oncology.

00:00 Introduction
01:37 Dr. Markham shares her journey to Florida and joining the University of Florida.
03:00 Discussion on Dr. Markham’s time as division chief.
03:44 Best and worst parts of being in leadership as a division chief.
04:33 Key leadership takeaway: being open-minded and listening.

05:25 Discussion on staying motivated as an oncologist despite challenges like burnout.
06:45 The importance of relationships in maintaining motivation in oncology.
07:47 Dr. Markham talks about how the pandemic prompted her to start a travel business.
09:56 The evolution of MMarkham Travel and her passion for travel planning.
12:25 Managing a balance between the travel business and an oncology career.
13:10 Dr. Markham shares insights into building a team for her travel business.

14:46 How Dr. Markham gives back to her community by organizing trips for physicians.
15:11 The power of in-person connections
16:23 Dr. Markham’s inspiration to create trips specifically for women physicians.
17:31 Advice to her younger self: not to worry about how things will turn out.
23:01 How she met her high school sweetheart.
23:53 Dr. Markham’s thoughts on reliving her life and becoming an oncologist again.