The Emergency Mind Podcast 13: Stoic Philosophy During Emergencies, with Dan McCollum, MD
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Feb 24, 2020 
Join ER doctor Dan McCollum, an associate program director with a passion for open access medical education and Stoic philosophy. He shares how Stoic principles can guide decision-making and composure during emergencies. The conversation touches on the power of meditation and visualization techniques to build resilience. McCollum emphasizes self-compassion and clear communication as vital tools for maintaining balance in high-pressure scenarios. His insights provide practical strategies for thriving even in the toughest medical situations.
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Dan's Stoic Introduction Journey
- Dan McCollum was first exposed to Stoicism at a conference lecture involving thinking of bad things in advance and meditation.
- After his father's passing, he dove deeply into Stoic texts, especially Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, finding them profoundly helpful.
Micro Skills Build Calm Success
- Staying calm during a chaotic resuscitation is a skill made up of micro elements like communication and breathing.
- These micro skills can be learned and trained, not just luck or natural talent.
Pre-Think Worst-Case Scenarios
- Use premeditatio malorum to mentally prepare for worst-case scenarios before the patient arrives.
- Focus on controlling your readiness and team's preparation rather than outcomes you can't influence.
