S03EP02: Gender, Economics, & the Future of Surgical Equity with Dr. Tanaz Ferzandi

S03EP02: Gender, Economics, & the Future of Surgical Equity with Dr. Tanaz Ferzandi

From The Intentional Surgeon with Sharon L. Stein, MD by Sharon L. Stein, MD

February 2, 2026 · 35 min · Season 3 · Episode 2

About this episode

Dr. Sharon Stein and Dr. Tanaz Ferzandi discuss gender inequities in healthcare and the importance of collaboration across surgical specialties.

In this episode of the Intentional Surgeon, Dr. Sharon Stein welcomes her longtime colleague and friend, Dr. Tanaz Ferzandi , Director of Urogynecology at Keck Hospital of USC and Past President of the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS). Drs. Stein and Ferzandi dive into the power of "cross-pollination" between surgical specialties, the systemic gender inequities built into healthcare reimbursement models, and why surgeons must move from being "cogs in the wheel" to empowered leaders at the decision-making table. What You'll Learn The Power of Cross-Pollination: Stepping outside your surgical "silo" is essential. Dr. Ferzandi explains how collaborating with other specialties (like colorectal and urology) offers fresh perspectives on surgical planes and techniques that improve patient outcomes. The same is equally true outside of the OR, where research projects and quality initiatives can be strengthened through multi-specialty collaboration. Finding Your Tribe: The importance of choosing mentors and allies intentionally. Dr. Ferzandi discusses navigating "girl-on-girl crime" in medicine and the value of both male and female sponsors who champion your growth without feeling…

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