Description
In this episode, host Dr. Melanie Edwards speaks with Dr. Donna Hicks, associate at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University, conflict resolution expert, and author of Leading with Dignity. Drawing on decades of work in international conflict resolution and healthcare, Dr. Hicks explores how dignity, the inherent value and worth of every person, underpins psychological safety, effective leadership, and stronger teams. As she explains, “We may differ in status, but we’re equal in dignity."
Dr. Hicks discusses the 10 elements of dignity, why dignity violations are so common in hierarchical environments, and how surgeons can recognize and address behaviors that undermine trust and collaboration. She also shares practical strategies for giving feedback without causing harm, taking accountability for mistakes, and cultivating greater awareness of how our actions affect others to create a culture where healthcare professionals can learn, thrive, and deliver better patient care.
