Subscribe to the MGMA Podcast Network (https://mgma-podcasts.transistor.fm/subscribe) wherever you listen to episodes.

Mindful Medicine: Finding Resilience on Everest with Dr. Mimi Zieman

Download MP3
Welcome to Mindful Medicine, where we explore the intersection of mindfulness, health, and transformative experiences. In this episode, Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA and host of the MGMA Insights Podcast, speaks with Dr. Mimi Zieman—an OB/GYN, adventurer, and author of the memoir Tap Dancing on Everest. Dr. Zieman’s story takes us from her beginnings in New York City to her pivotal role as the expedition doctor on an unaided climb of Everest. She shares profound insights into the healing power of nature, the courage to embrace the unknown, and lessons from her multifaceted career in medicine, writing, and beyond.

Key Discussion Points (with Timestamps):
  • [00:01:00] Introduction to Dr. Mimi Zieman
    Dr. Zieman’s background as an OB/GYN, author, and adventurer, and her unique journey from New York City to the peaks of Everest.
  • [00:02:30] Discovering a Love for Mountains
    How a college field biology lab in Colorado sparked her lifelong passion for the mountains and adventure.
  • [00:05:30] Highlights from Dr. Zieman’s Medical Career
    Her work in academic medicine, leadership at Emory’s family planning program, and transitioning into consulting and creative writing.
  • [00:10:00] Writing Tap Dancing on Everest
    The inspiration behind her memoir, how the title evolved, and the pivotal moment she literally danced on Everest.
  • [00:13:30] Role as Expedition Doctor on Everest
    Reflections on serving as the medical officer during an unaided climb of Everest, supporting the climbers while managing extreme conditions.
  • [00:16:30] Influence of Her Father’s Story
    How her father’s experience as a Holocaust survivor shaped her identity, perspective on resilience, and approach to both medicine and life.
  • [00:18:00] Healing Power of Nature and Solitude
    Insights on how extreme natural environments and mindfulness practices influenced her understanding of health and well-being.
  • [00:20:30] Facing Uncertainty in Life and Leadership
    Dr. Zieman’s advice for medical leaders on embracing challenges and fostering growth through uncertainty.
  • [00:23:00] Outro
    What’s next for Dr. Zieman, including upcoming writing projects and creative endeavors.
Resources and Links:

NotifyMD Podcast Ad
This episode is brought to you by NotifyMD — the patient access solution built for healthcare professionals. You work hard to care for your patients, and NotifyMD helps you do just that. Their communication experts handle calls, schedule appointments, provide nurse triage, and more — all available 24/7. NotifyMD integrates seamlessly with platforms like athenahealth and Epic and meets the industry’s highest security standards, so you can trust that patient information stays private and protected. Learn more at notifymd.com.

U.S. Bank Podcast Ad
Cash flow challenges like delayed insurance payments, unpaid patient bills, and rising administrative costs can weigh heavily on medical practices. U.S. Bank understands. That’s why their Business Card Consultants work with practices to improve payment strategies and maximize rewards.
Stop by booth #222 at the MGMA Leaders Conference to learn more, or visit usbank.com/bankerconnect to schedule an on-site meeting with a consultant.

MGMA Analytics Podcast Ad
Are your decisions driven by gut instinct—or by real data? With MGMA Analytics, you’ll have the benchmarking and business intelligence tools to guide smarter strategies. From provider compensation to operational costs, MGMA Analytics delivers the industry’s most trusted data. So whether you’re adjusting staffing, setting salaries, or planning for growth, you can make your next move with confidence. Learn more at mgma.com/analytics
Mindful Medicine: Finding Resilience on Everest with Dr. Mimi Zieman
Broadcast by