In this episode of Empowering Oncologists, host Dr. Jasmine Kamboj, medical oncologist-hematologist in Minnesota, welcomes Dr. Laurie Matt Amaral, Medical Oncologist and Chair of Internal Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Akron General. Dr. Amaral shares her candid journey of balancing life as a physician leader, mom of two, and international medical graduate. From navigating gender bias in leadership to building a support system both at work and at home, she offers practical insights into thriving in oncology while staying grounded.
Key Themes from this conversation:
- The reality of work-life balance for physician-parents—why “perfect” doesn’t exist
- Overcoming gender bias and breaking barriers in medical leadership
- Finding your people—why friendships and support systems are therapeutic
- Why she would still choose oncology again, without hesitationThis is an inspiring and honest conversation about resilience, leadership, and community in oncology.
00:00 Introduction
01:05 Dr. Laurie Matt Amaral’s early journey
03:12 First leadership lessons and challenges in oncology
05:45 Balancing clinical leadership with motherhood
08:20 Why backup plans are essential in medicine
10:55 Confronting and overcoming gender bias in oncology
13:30 How mentorship and sponsorship shape careers
16:18 Building friendships and a support system in medicine
18:40 Honest reflections: would she choose oncology again?
23:10 Key advice for young oncologists and leaders