The Brain Food Podcast

How do you stay fit, focused, and healthy when medical school demands everything from you? Join me as I talk to Maggie, an incoming 4th year medical student, (@pump.med on insta) as she shares practical strategies for staying consistent with fitness during clinical rotations and board prep, prioritizing sleep without sacrificing productivity, and studying more efficiently to maximize focus and performance. Whether you're navigating long hospital days or marathon study sessions, you'll walk away with realistic and actionable habits to help you thrive through your busiest seasons.

I’m so excited for you all to hear my conversation with my friend Maggie, a third-year medical student passionate about maintaining physical and mental health as a busy student. Maggie’s energy is so contagious, and I admire how she uses her platform to teach her audience not just how to have a work-life balance but also why it is so important. From Buffalo NY, Maggie grew up with a love of sports and lifting, and turned that drive towards the healthcare field. Her mission is to help other med students and young women in healthcare feel seen when it comes to navigating all the crazy and unique aspects of our 20s, dating, family stuff, self-development, you name it. This convo was so incredible I had to split it into two parts…so you get to hear the iconic @pump.med not just once, but TWICE! You’re welcome;)

Today's episode is unique in that it focuses on the challenges women may face going into a career in medicine (or any demanding career, truly), and how to not just overcome those challenges, but also grow through them. I am SO excited to have Sim, otherwise known as “simmcity” on Instagram, on today. Sim is a student doctor & anatomy fellow who shares her journey along with current mindset & movement tips on Instagram. What made her stand out to me was how she uses her platform to emphasize how embracing femininity doesn’t make you any less powerful. She hopes to help change how we see women in medicine and remind others that they don't need to water themselves down or shrink to lead a beautiful life and meaningful career. As someone who is starting medical school in just a few months, I really thought this was such a profound conversation to have and learned so much about how to truly become confident and not lose yourself in the pursuit of an advanced career, especially as a woman in medicine. Let’s get into it!

My guest today is a long-time friend of mine, Lexi Ascher! We grew up dancing together since we were eight, and this woman is an absolute inspiration. Lexi is a passionate advocate for health and wellness whose personal journey with type 1 diabetes has profoundly shaped her path. Raised in Orange County, she spent her childhood and teen years as a competitive dancer, instilling a deep appreciation for discipline, resilience, and physical well-being. Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 16 marked a pivotal turning point—deepening her empathy and understanding of chronic illness, and ultimately inspiring her to pursue a career in healthcare. Lexi is preparing to begin a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program this fall, with the goal of supporting and empowering children facing the same challenges she has experienced firsthand.

Welcome to episode 26!!! This guest is the most special one I have had yet… my superwoman MOM!! From immigrating to the United States in her 20s to starting her own business in her 50s, she has wisdom that needs to be shared with the world. In this episode, my mom reflects on how she learned work ethic, financial stability, and independence moving to a new country at the age of 23, and why it is so important to continue chasing your dreams throughout your entire life. She has 29 years of leadership experience in the tech industry, and has continued pursuing her dreams as she is now a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Coach, Speaker and Trainer, International Coaching Federation (ICF) member, holds certificate in Personal Development Coaching, and is in the in process of becoming a Certified Personal and Executive Coach! My mom shares why the habits you establish now are so important for not just your future success, but your overall happiness as well. This episode felt like a profound moment, getting to hear about my mom's life at my age now, and I hope you all listening feel the same!