Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast Clinical Challenges in Surgical Education: A Diver, Photographer, and a Chef Walk into an OR
Nov 20, 2025
Dr. Adnan Al-Sadi is a hepatobiliary surgeon, educator, and former U.S. Navy physician with a passion for diving, underwater photography, and cooking. He shares how underwater experiences inspire humility and creativity in his surgical practice. Exploring stunning dive destinations, Dr. Al-Sadi discusses leaving the camera behind to immerse himself in the moment. He also reflects on the connections between culinary arts and surgery, emphasizing the importance of creativity and mentorship in medical education, while encouraging future surgeons to embrace diverse career paths.
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From Diving To Macro Photography
- Dr. Adnan Al-Sadi began underwater photography after diving in the Navy and focusing on tiny macro life like a pygmy seahorse.
- He spent 35 minutes to photograph a single tiny creature and learned how lighting transforms underwater images.
Wreck Diving And History
- Dr. Adnan Al-Sadi learned advanced diving from Navy divers and explored night dives, cave dives, and World War II wrecks across the Pacific.
- He used dives to visit historic battle sites like Saipan and Rota, blending history with exploration.
Ocean Perspective On Human Fragility
- Diving taught Dr. Adnan Al-Sadi about human fragility and how insignificant we are in the ocean's scale and knowledge.
- He reflected on long-lived ecosystems and mysteries like whale sharks following titanic fault lines, highlighting our limited understanding.
