In a rapidly changing oncology landscape shaped by new technologies, growing pressures, and increasing complexity, what does it really mean to lead with humanity?
In Episode 4 of Open Doors Podcast, Dr. Ioanna Nixon and Dr. Vilma Pacheco Barcia welcome Dr. Petra Jankowska, Medical Director of the Royal College of Radiologists, consultant clinical oncologist, educator and national leader in training, workforce strategy, and patient safety.
This conversation explores the evolving role of the oncologist, not only as a clinician, but also as a leader, mentor, communicator, and advocate for patients and colleagues. Dr. Jankowska reflects on the qualities that matter most in leadership, how technology such as AI and genomics may reshape oncology, and why some of the most important skills of the future may be deeply human ones.
The conversation also turns to the next generation of oncologists: what meaningful training should look like, how confidence is built through experience and supervision, and what young doctors should consider when choosing their path in medicine.
Beyond clinical practice, they discuss the realities of sustaining a long career in oncology, navigating uncertainty, finding purpose, and protecting the sense of joy that can so easily be lost under professional pressure.
And as the conversation comes to a close, Dr. Jankowska shares a few more personal reflections, including lessons from earlier moments in her life that unexpectedly shaped the doctor and leader she would become.
A thoughtful conversation about leadership, medicine, humanity, and the choices that shape a career.
Open Doors Podcast explores professional well-being in oncology and beyond through thoughtful conversations with leading clinicians, researchers, and healthcare leaders, sharing experiences, perspectives, and lessons that can inspire the next generation.
About the Hosts
Dr. Ioanna Nixon is a Senior Clinical Oncologist at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow, Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer in Glasgow Cancer Sciences, and Visiting Professor in Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School. Her work focuses on innovation, clinician well-being, leadership, and the human side of medicine.
Dr. Vilma Pacheco Barcia is Head of Medical Oncology at Hospital Universitario La Luz, Associate Professor at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, and a member of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Unit at One Oncology Madrid Quirónsalud. Her work focuses on pancreatic cancer, malnutrition, and professional well-being.