Women in medicine are often undervalued and taken less seriously than their male counterparts. They’re also made to feel less safe at work, and encounter pushback when they make a complaint.

This week’s guest is Professor Dame Jane Dacre, and the episode is recorded in partnership with the Physician Mums Facebook Group (PMGUK). In her discussion with Rachel, Dame Jane lays out what needs to change at structural and interpersonal levels.

She invites members of the industry to shine a light on inappropriate behaviour and develop a zero-tolerance approach towards sexism and misconduct. She also describes ways in which leadership courses, mentoring, and resources can be provided to empower women to advance in their careers. And she encourages men and women to be allies, speak up against inequality, and support each other in challenging situations.

This discussion follows up on the 2020 report into the gender pay gap chaired by Dame Jane, and while progress is happening, women are still undervalued and face barriers to success. But by raising awareness about the gaps in pay and authority, we can create an environment where everyone is valued and has equal opportunities to thrive.

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Listen to this episode to

Learn about the efforts being made to address the gender pay gap in medicine and the progress that has been made so far
Understand the concept of the authority gap and its impact on women in various fields
Gain insights into the importance of supporting and empowering women in the workplace and taking collective action to challenge cultural norms and inequalities

Episode highlights

[00:05:23] Follow-up on the gender pay gap report
[00:08:12] Addressing sexual misconduct in medicine
[00:09:56] Expectations of women in medicine
[00:14:17] The authority gap
[00:16:33] Finding allies
[00:20:42] Systemic failures leading to women not being heard
[00:24:08] Everyday misconduct
[00:26:27] Jane's story
[00:30:07] The benefits of a non-linear career
[00:37:09] The importance of authenticity and kindness
[00:37:51] Sponsorship over mentoring
[00:38:35] Maternal guilt
[00:42:28] A letter to Jane's younger self

About the guest

Professor Dame Jane Dacre is an Emeritus Professor of Medical Education at UCL. She supports women in the medical workplace, and is actively involved in addressing the gender pay gap in medicine. She works with organisations like the Department of Health, the NHS, and the British Medical Association to narrow the gap, and runs a course to help future women leaders develop their skills.

LinkedIn | Twitter

Resources

THRIVE Weekly Planner
Join the Physician Mums Facebook Group (PMGUK)
More episodes of You Are Not a Frog:
How to Be a Professional Woman – Episode 41 with Dame Jane Dacre
The Glass Slipper and Other Challenges for Women in Medicine – Episode 158, with Professor Chloe Orkin and Dr Nuthana Bhayankaram
How to Be a (Happy) Working Parent – Episode 121 with Corrina Gordon Barnes
Download the episode’s workbook and CPD form. You can use them for reflection and to submit for your appraisal.
Medical Women Talking – Jane’s podcast

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