In this episode of Ripples: Physician Well-Being, Ajeya P. Joshi, MD, orthopedic spine surgeon and lifestyle medicine specialist, shares a powerful perspective on navigating the constant currents of medicine and life. Drawing on the concept of salutogenesis, Dr. Joshi reframes well-being not as reaching a place of calm, but as learning to thrive within ongoing change—reminding us that we are always “in the river,” and the goal is to learn to swim better.

Through reflections on his parents’ legacy, his journey into lifestyle medicine, and his work with patients and trainees, Dr. Joshi explores how connection, self-care and purpose can anchor physicians during times of transition. He also offers a practical “pebble” for listeners: to define internal measures of success, give and receive grace, and approach each day with intention.

"Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects."

This past year, our "Ripples" podcast has focused on life beyond medicine, which helps our physicians to better themselves and, most importantly, take care of themselves. Each guest has left a pebble for the listener to cast into the water of their own lives, actions that can be taken to improve their wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around them. As a gift this holiday season, we've wrapped all of those pebbles into one episode; take these pebbles and cast ripples into your world.

Texas Medical Association President Jayesh Shah, MD, joins the Ripples: Physician Well-Being podcast to share his perspective on advocacy for patients, for ourselves as physicians, and for a greater sense of purpose. He talks balance, leadership and how advocacy can shape well-being.

Season 4 of "Ripples" focuses on life beyond medicine, which helps our physicians to better themselves, and, most importantly, take care of themselves.