Supporting Physician Spouses

Supporting Physician Spouses is the go-to podcast for anyone navigating life as the spouse or partner of a physician. Hosted by Kendra, a physician family advocate and coach, and Katie, a resident spouse in the final year of her husband's training, this podcast is all about the transition from residency to practice. Each episode, we dive into candid conversations about the unique challenges, joys, and uncertainties that come with this major life shift—finances, relocations, career changes, family dynamics, and more. Whether you're in the thick of training or looking ahead to the next stage, we’re here to offer support, insight, and real talk from both sides of the journey. Join us as we navigate this transition together!

Episode 26: Holiday Expectations for Physician Spouses: Ditch the Date, Ditch the Pressure, Keep the Magic 11/25/2025

Episode 25: Are You Using Gratitude to Avoid Hard Emotions Without Realizing It? 11/18/2025

Episode 24: The Predictability Problem Series (Part 4) - How Physician Families Build Systems That Bend, Not Break 11/11/2025

Episode 23: The Predictability Problem Series - From Parallel Lives to Connection (Part 3) How Physician Spouses Can Rebuild Connection When Medicine Feels Unpredictable 11/04/2025

Episode 22: The Predictability Problem Series - From Bracing to Anchoring (Part 2) How Physician Partners Can Reclaim Calm Amid Burnout and Uncertainty 10/28/2025

Episode 21: The Predictability Problem Series - Reclaim What's in Your Control (Part 1) Finding Autonomy in Physician Family Life 10/21/2025

Episode 21: The Predictability Problem Series - Reclaim What's in Your Control (Part 1) Finding Autonomy in Physician Family Life If you’ve ever said, “Our calendar is held hostage by the call schedule,” or, “I can’t plan anything until we know the rotation,” this episode is for you. In Part 1 of The Predictability Problem Series, we’re exploring how to reclaim rhythm and calm in a life that’s constantly being reshaped by medicine. We’ll unpack what happens to our nervous systems when life feels unpredictable, the science behind why autonomy matters (thank you, Self-Determination Theory!), and how even tiny “pockets of control” can help restore your sense of balance and peace. You’ll walk away with four practical ways to design micro-rhythms that belong to you — the kind that hold even when medicine doesn’t. In This Episode Why unpredictability keeps your nervous system in “alert mode” The 3 psychological needs that help humans thrive (and how medicine often disrupts them) What autonomy really means — and how to reclaim yours, even in small ways Listen to for a deeper dive into this concept How to create personal and family rituals that anchor you, not overwhelm you The “Four-Step Framework” to design rhythms that last: Choose what’s fully in your control Shrink until it’s doable Name it to make it visible Treat it like a boundary This Week’s Challenge Pick one small rhythm that feels nourishing and realistic for you or your family. Ask yourself: “What helps me feel grounded — and what would it take to protect that?” 📥 Free Resource It’s one thing to listen — it’s another to actually create change. That’s why we made a free companion resource to help you start designing your pockets of predictability in a life that’s anything but predictable. 👉 Get your download : Your link will arrive via email, with a guide to help you turn today’s conversation into practical action. Connect with Us Follow along on Instagram or email us anytime at — we love hearing from you! Sign up for Office Hours at If you found this episode helpful, please rate and review the podcast. Every review helps another physician spouse find this community and feel less alone in the unpredictability of medical life. /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/38722505

Episode 20: Loss, Healing and Hope - with Special Guest Amy Watson 10/14/2025

Episode 20: Loss, Healing and Hope - with Special Guest Amy Watson October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and in this heartfelt conversation, Kendra and Katie sit down with Amy Watson, a certified life coach who helps women navigate the deep grief that follows miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Amy shares her personal story — from losing her daughter Lauren and later her baby River, to transforming that pain into purpose by supporting others walking a similar path. This episode is for everyone — whether you’ve personally experienced loss or want to know how to better support a friend, colleague, or loved one who has. Together, we explore how to show up with compassion, what to say (and what not to say), and how even small gestures can make a big difference. Amy’s story is raw, real, and full of hope. She reminds us that grief and love coexist — and that speaking a baby’s name, showing up, and saying something is always better than silence. You’ll Learn: Amy’s personal story of loss, healing, and becoming an advocate for grieving parents What parents who’ve experienced pregnancy or infant loss most need from friends and family The power of saying a baby’s name and acknowledging both grief and parenthood Why it’s never too late to reach out — even if time has passed How partners may experience grief differently and ways to support them Resources and organizations helping families after loss Additional Resources: by Amy Watson — handmade diapers for stillborn babies — flower ministry for grieving mothers — for fathers after loss —This has info for families and providers — advocacy work politically and and information sharing to lower stillbirth rates — an app for 28 weeks plus. — for loss retreats. Connect with Amy: 🌐 Website: 📸 Instagram: Join the Office Hours Waitlist: Have you signed up yet?! Our first monthly call will be NEXT week! We hope you sign up to join. /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/38574980

Episode 19: How to Embrace the Hard and the Hope for Physician Spouses 10/07/2025

Episode 19: How to Embrace the Hard and the Hope for Physician Spouses Life in medicine can feel like one long stretch of “hard.” Between call schedules, solo parenting, and the constant shifting ground of medical life, it’s easy to believe something must be wrong when things feel heavy. But what if “hard” isn’t something to fix—what if it’s something to honor and even grow through? In this heartfelt conversation, Kendra and Katie get real about what it means to embrace both the hard and the hope in the physician spouse journey. This episode will leave you encouraged, grounded, and equipped with simple steps to hold both gratitude and struggle at once—and to remember that you’re not alone in either. 💡 What You’ll Hear: The importance of acknowledging what’s hard without judgment Why avoiding discomfort can make it worse (and what to do instead) How to recognize the “healing fantasies” we create—and use them as roadmaps for growth Real talk about solo parenting, resentment, and self-compassion Practical ways to use your agency and take imperfect action Why naming your hard moments out loud brings relief and connection 🪞 Key Takeaways: Acknowledge the hard: Naming it doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human. Hold the both/and: Life can be hard and beautiful. You can love your spouse and feel lonely. Use your fantasies as feedback: The ideal scenarios in your head often point to your deepest needs. Take agency: Even small action brings peace faster than waiting for circumstances to change. Speak it out loud: Connection starts when we stop pretending we’re fine. 🌿 New Invitation! We’re opening Supporting Physician Spouses Office Hours — a free, monthly video gathering where you can bring your real questions, pain points, and experiences to the table. It’s a safe, supportive space to say out loud what’s hard—and find clarity, connection, and community as we navigate this medical life together. 🖥️ Join the waitlist at to get notified when the next Office Hour opens. 📬 Stay Connected Website: Instagram: Email: /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/38492835

Episode 18: Finding Peace in Turbulent Times: Grounding, Faith & Community for Physician Families 09/30/2025

Episode 18: Finding Peace in Turbulent Times: Grounding, Faith & Community for Physician Families In this heartfelt episode of Supporting Physician Spouses, Kendra and Katie pause to acknowledge the heaviness in our world right now. With tragic shootings, heartbreaking losses, and ongoing uncertainty, many of us feel shaken and weary. Together, we explore what it means to steady ourselves when the world feels unsteady—and how to cultivate peace that is both grounding and real. We walk through six steps that help us (and can help you) navigate turbulent times: Return to the Basics — Sleep, water, nourishment, and movement aren’t luxuries; they are anchors for your nervous system. Let the Hard Be Hard — Peace doesn’t come from denial. Acknowledging pain allows us to process it without rushing to fix. Lean into Faith and Values — Reconnect with your higher power, your community, or the values that give life meaning. Focus on What You Can Control — Even small actions, like tidying a space or decorating with your kids, help restore calm. Connect with Others — Peace is often carried communally. Don’t isolate; reach out for support or offer it to someone else. Look for Flecks of Gold — Joy and sorrow can coexist. Notice the small, shining mercies and moments of tenderness that remind you of goodness. Along the way, we share personal stories—feeling discombobulated, finding grounding through walks or decorating, the power of a kind text, and the simple healing of connection. Whether you’re a physician spouse navigating the added weight of medicine’s demands or simply someone searching for steadiness right now, this conversation offers both practical tools and gentle reminders: you are not alone, peace is possible, and the small things really do matter. Referenced Episodes: Ep. 3 & 4 — The Basics of Self-Care Ep. 7 — Who’s in Your Corner? Building a Strong Support System as a Physician Spouse Ep. 8 — Spiritual Self-Care When Life is Loud Listen in, take what steadies you, and remember: even in heavy times, flecks of gold can still be found. /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/38400720

Episode 17: Residency, Family, and the Power of Language in Relationships - with Dr. Talon Harris 09/23/2025

Episode 16: Marriage, Residency and Resilience: Katie’s Story of Supporting Physician Spouses 09/16/2025

Episode 15: The Truth About Physician Spouse Burnout & Secondary Trauma with Dr. Sarah Grimmer 09/09/2025

Episode 14: Inside a Neurosurgeon’s Marriage: Dr. Adrian Harvey on Family, Faith, and Medicine 09/02/2025

Episode 13: From Lonely to Leading: Kendra’s Journey as a Physician Spouse 08/26/2025

Episode 12: Fast-Tracking Closeness: How to Reconnect with Your Physician Spouse in Minutes 08/19/2025

Episode 11: The Power of Tiny Habits for Physician Spouses: Identity, Momentum & Lasting Change 08/12/2025

Episode 10: Following Desires, Trusting the Process: How Physician Spouses Can Build Identity Beyond Survival Mode 08/05/2025

Episode 9: Reclaiming Your Identity as a Physician Spouse-You're More Than Support 07/29/2025

Episode 9: Reclaiming Your Identity as a Physician Spouse-You're More Than Support In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, Kendra and Katie dig into the big question: Who are you becoming through the habits you practice? After several episodes focused on self-care habits, this conversation zooms out to explore identity, values, and what it means to become someone you're proud of—not just someone who survives the medical journey alongside your partner. Kendra shares the common experience of “orbiting” a physician’s life and the unintentional way identity can get lost in the role of constant support. Together, they explore how reclaiming identity is not about selfishness, but stewardship—and how building small rituals (called "identity anchors") helps reinforce who you truly are. Through personal stories—including Kendra’s attempt to run a marathon without fully becoming a runner, and Katie’s reflections on gardening and chasing contentment—they walk through the real-life messiness of becoming and belonging. Whether you're early in training or years out, this episode invites you to ask a powerful question: 🌀 What kind of woman are you becoming through the habits you practice? 🔑 Key Takeaways: It’s easy to unintentionally lose your sense of self when your partner’s career demands so much. Identity isn't just what you do—it’s who you are becoming every day through repeated habits. Not every desire needs to be delayed; some small desires can serve as powerful identity anchors. You don’t have to overhaul your life to start reclaiming yourself—just start with one small habit that reconnects you to your values. Pay attention to what shows up more than once in your life—that might be your heart trying to tell you something. 🛠 Reflection Prompt: What kind of woman are you becoming through the habits you practice? Are those habits aligned with someone you're proud to be? 📣 Connect with Us: If this episode resonated with you, share it with another physician spouse who needs this message. Follow us on Instagram or email us at hello@supportingphysicianspouses.com. And if you’ve got a moment, please rate and review the podcast—it helps others find us and grow this supportive community! /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/37590700

Episode 8: Spiritual Self-Care When Life Is Loud: Simple Practices for Physician Spouses 07/22/2025

Episode 7: Who’s In Your Corner? Building a Strong Support System as a Physician Spouse 07/15/2025

Episode 7: Who’s In Your Corner? Building a Strong Support System as a Physician Spouse 🎙️ Episode 6: The Power of Connection — Social Self-Care Podcast: Supporting Physician Spouses Hosts: Kendra Harvey & Katie Harris In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, Kendra and Katie dive into the concept of social self-care—not the kind that fills your calendar, but the kind that fills your soul. Whether you feel isolated or simply want to deepen your friendships, this episode offers practical insights and honest conversation around building the meaningful connections every physician family needs. 💬 In This Episode: What social self-care really looks like for physician spouses Why proximity, timing, and energy all matter—and what to do when you’re short on all three The surprising number of hours it takes to move from acquaintance to close friend The four essential types of social support every physician family needs: Emotional: empathy, care, and safe companionship Instrumental: practical help and tangible support Informational: advice and wisdom from those with experience Appraisal: encouragement, validation, and perspective Why your spouse can’t be everything—and why that’s okay How asking for help is a brave act of connection, not weakness 📚 Resources Mentioned: The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins The Rabbit Effect: Live Longer, Happier, and Healthier with the Groundbreaking Science of Kindness by Kelli Harding 📝 Reflect & Respond: Who in your life fills each of the four types of social support? Is there one area you’d like to strengthen—and how can you take one small step toward doing that this week? 💡 Takeaway Quote: “You are part of a quiet, powerful community—and we're so glad you're here.” 🔔 What’s Next: Stay tuned for the final installment in this three-part self-care series: Spiritual Self-Care. We’ll explore stillness, presence, and practices that ground you in meaning. /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/37327480

Episode 6: Feeling Numb and Overwhelmed? How Physician Spouses Can Reclaim Emotional Self-Care 07/08/2025

Episode 6: Feeling Numb and Overwhelmed? How Physician Spouses Can Reclaim Emotional Self-Care Episode Summary: In this first episode of our 3-part series on soul care, we dive into emotional self-care — not the bubble bath kind, but the messy, sacred work of reconnecting with our own emotions. As physician spouses, it’s easy to become emotionally invisible to ourselves while managing everyone else’s needs. Kendra and Katie share real stories, honest reflections, and practical ways to begin honoring your own emotional needs. Whether you feel emotionally numb, overwhelmed, or simply unsure of how to name what you're feeling — you're not alone. This episode is an invitation to pause, check in, and start small steps toward emotional awareness. What We Cover: Why emotional self-care is not a luxury but a lifeline The unique emotional load carried by physician spouses The pattern of becoming emotionally invisible while staying high-functioning The tension between supporting your spouse and finding your own identity Real stories: from Mother’s Day letdowns to sacred moments of connection Why naming your emotions matters (and how most of us skip this step) The power of allowing yourself to feel instead of suppressing emotions Navigating vulnerability and emotional honesty with others How to create safe spaces for emotional conversations with trusted friends Listener Reflection: 💡 Throughout your day, pause and ask yourself: "How am I really?" And if the answer is, “I’m not sure” — that’s okay. That’s where awareness begins. Mentioned Resources: Dr. Sarah Grimmer — Research on physician family wellness and secondary trauma Free Download: Self-Care Reflection Worksheet → [Insert Link] Podcast Series: Stay tuned for upcoming episodes on Social Self-Care and Spiritual Self-Care Connect with Us: 📩 Email: hello@supportingphysicianspouses.com 📱 Instagram & Facebook: Next Week: We continue our soul care series with Social Self-Care — exploring how meaningful connection with others helps sustain us, and how to intentionally build support systems that nourish instead of drain. /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/37327065

Episode 5: When Lowering Expectations Goes Too Far 07/01/2025

Episode 4: Basics of Physical Self-Care Series [Part 2]: Sleep, Movement & Nutrition 06/24/2025

Episode 3: Basics of Physical Self-Care Series [Part 1]: Hydration and Hygience 06/17/2025

Episode 3: Basics of Physical Self-Care Series [Part 1]: Hydration and Hygience Episode Title: Basics of Physical Self-Care Hosts: Kendra Harvey & Katie Harris Duration: ~18 minutes Episode Type: Part 1 of 2 🎧 Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and practical episode, Kendra and Katie dive into the foundational self-care habits that help physician spouses reconnect with themselves and avoid burnout. Building on Katie’s original coaching email and shared personal stories, the hosts explore how easy it is to slip into survival mode—and what it takes to reclaim your well-being. This is Part 1 of a two-part series focused on physical self-care. Today’s conversation covers hydration and hygiene—two simple, essential practices that can drastically improve your mental clarity, mood, and self-worth when life feels chaotic and you’re running on empty. 📌 In This Episode: Why physician spouses often slip into cycles of over-functioning and burnout The difference between a kid-centered vs. a family-centered household How hydration impacts mood, memory, and energy (with supporting research) Hygiene as a pathway to nervous system regulation and restored dignity The power of modeling good self-care habits for your kids—and yourself 💡 Key Takeaways: You can’t support others well if you’re constantly running on empty. Small shifts like brushing your teeth or drinking water in the morning signal to your brain that you matter. Modeling basic self-care sets the tone for your whole family. Start where you are—and know you’re not alone. 💡 Additional Resources: Free , a science-based habit-building app that helps users start their day with simple self-care routines-like drinking a glass of water. Journal of Nutrition Study: Citation: Armstrong, L. E., et al. (2012). "Mild dehydration affects mood in healthy young women." Journal of Nutrition, 142(2), 382-388. Kendra references a study published in the Journal of Nutrition showing that even 1-2% dehydration can impair memory, mood, and mental clarity in women. 🗓 Coming Next Week: Stay tuned for Part 2 where Kendra and Katie continue the conversation with the remaining three basics: sleep, movement, and nutrition. 📲 Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram @supportingphysicianspouses for more resources and behind-the-scenes content! Email us at hello@supportingphysicianspouses.com /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/37024120

Episode 2.5: Before We Go Further: A Quick Check-In + What’s Coming Next 06/10/2025

Episode 2.5: Before We Go Further: A Quick Check-In + What’s Coming Next 🎙️ Episode 2.5: “Before We Go Further: A Quick Check-In + What’s Coming Next” Before diving into deeper discussions on self-care and well-being, Kendra and Katie hit pause to reflect, reconnect, and set the stage for what's ahead. This short and heartfelt episode is both a life update and a behind-the-scenes peek into the podcast’s creation. You’ll hear: A personal check-in with each host, including a high school graduation and a wild family camping story involving cliffside ropes and toddler acrobatics. The surprising truth: This is their first podcast! They're learning as they go—and inviting you along for the ride. Why this episode exists: Feedback from early listeners showed that a little orientation was needed before diving into the core self-care content. What’s coming up next: A rhythm of episodes that blend coaching insights, real-life stories, and practical strategies to help you stay grounded and whole in the physician spouse journey. 🛠️ What You’ll Take Away A reminder that it’s okay to do things messy and imperfectly—growth happens in the trying. Validation that asking for help early, not just when you’re drowning, can change everything. A preview of the upcoming self-care series: foundational wellness habits like hydration, nutrition, sleep, movement, and hygiene. Encouragement to be an active participant in your own life, even when circumstances are intense. 💬 Reflection Question What is one personal need you’ve been putting off that you want to protect this week? Name it. Write it down. Let it matter. 📬 Have a story to share or a question for the show? We’d love to feature your input in future episodes! 📧 Email: hello@supportingphysicianspouses.com 📱 Instagram: 🔗 Resources The Fabulous App: A habit-building app mentioned in context of hydration routines. Link: Email Contact: hello@supportingphysicianspouses.com Instagram: /episode/index/show/e0334b1d-d2c6-4a45-a553-53d4bb092a97/id/36932985

Episode 2: Ready for Residency: Building a Stronger Mindset 06/05/2025

Episode 1: Why the Podcast and Who we are 06/05/2025

Trailer: Welcome to Supporting Physician Spouses 05/29/2025

Supporting Physician Spouses

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