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What if being quiet isn’t a weakness… but your biggest leadership advantage?

In this relatable episode on The Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. Asha Padmanabhan as she opens up about her accidental rise: stepping up when no one else would, learning business and negotiation on the fly, and discovering that trying to become the stereotypical “loud” leader made her miserable and ineffective. She reveals the hidden shame cycle of conflict avoidance that so many women physicians know too well, shares her dead-simple, OR-tested CUE Method that turns surgeon-anesthesiologist standoffs into collaborative wins, explains how to treat imposter thoughts like bad evidence in court, and proves that curiosity, not volume is the ultimate leadership superpower.

If you’ve ever felt “I’m too quiet, too nice, too introverted to lead,” this episode is your permission slip to lead exactly as you are and win.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Stop trying to become the loud leader you’re not: Identify your natural strengths (quiet observation, deep listening, empathy) and weaponize them. Authenticity builds trust faster than volume ever will. Lean into who you are, the right rooms will amplify you.
• Use the CUE Method in your next conflict: Create space, pause and breathe. Uncover what’s underneath both positions “I’m worried about patient safety or you’re worried about schedule flow”, then explore a third option that serves both. Practice it until it’s muscle memory.
• Kill imposter thoughts with facts: When “I only got this because no one else wanted it” shows up, demand evidence like you’re cross-examining a witness. Write down the actual facts of why you’re in the role. Read them daily until your brain believes you belong.

About the Show:

Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

​Dr. Asha Padmanabhan is a board-certified anesthesiologist, past-president of the Florida Society of Anesthesiologists, and founder of The Leadership Rx. A self-described “accidental leader,” introvert, and former conflict-avoider, she stepped up to save her private practice and now coaches women physicians to lead authentically, negotiate confidently, and master conflict without becoming someone they’re not. Through her signature CUE Method and evidence-based tools, she helps women dismantle imposter syndrome, embrace their natural strengths, and thrive personally and professionally.

Connect with Dr. Padmanabhan:

• Website: theleadershiprx.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashapadmanabhan
• Email: [email protected]
• FSA: fsahq.org for events and speaking.

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

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