How do surgery residents find their first job—and keep it? In this episode, Dr. Amy Vertrees sits down with Dr. Sharon Stein, a colorectal surgeon turned professional development coach, to talk about her new program designed to help residents land jobs that truly fit their goals and values.

Dr. Stein shares eye-opening statistics:

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  15% of surgeons leave their first job within 2 years.

  
  


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  50% leave within 5 years.

  
  

The problem? Training programs teach standardized skills but don’t help surgeons identify their unique strengths—or what they really want in a job.

Together, Dr. Vertrees and Dr. Stein discuss:
✅ Why comparison (not competition) derails job searches
✅ The mid-career slump and how to prevent it
✅ A 4-step framework for assessing, interviewing, evaluating, and negotiating job offers
✅ How institutions (and surgeons) can avoid the high cost of misaligned job placements

Dr. Stein’s new six-month program includes on-demand modules, group coaching, and one-on-one sessions—limited to 30 graduates across all surgical specialties.

🔑 Key Takeaways

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  Clarity comes first: Identify negotiables and non-negotiables before interviewing.

  
  


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  It’s not just salary: Evaluate culture, mentorship, and long-term growth.

  
  


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  Negotiation = relationship building, not confrontation.

  
  


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  Coaching isn’t just for the lost— it’s for creating sustainable, fulfilling careers.

  
  

📌 Resources & Links

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  Learn more about Dr. Sharon Stein: theintentionalsurgeon.com 

  
  


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  Access her free Launch Pad Checklist here:https://sharon-stein.mykajabi.com/opt-in
  

  
  

✨ If you’re a surgical resident—or know one—this episode is a must-listen for setting up a thriving career from the start.