Finding the Balance with Loni and Christine

Episode 58: From Imposter Syndrome to Confidence: Understanding the Journey of Skill Acquisition

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2362030/fan_mail/new] Have you ever wondered why the more you learn, the less confident you sometimes feel? In this episode, we explore the fascinating relationship between imposter syndrome, the natural progression of skill acquisition, and the Dunning-Kruger effect. We discuss why beginners often overestimate their abilities, why developing expertise can paradoxically lead to self-doubt, and how growing awareness of complexity is actually a hallmark of advancing competence, not a sign of inadequacy.  Whether you're a student, educator, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers practical insights into navigating self-doubt, embracing lifelong learning, and trusting the process of becoming an expert. Join us as we reframe imposter syndrome, not as proof that you don't belong, but as a common and often healthy stage in the journey toward mastery. Email us! loniandchristine@gmail.com Hosted on:  https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com [https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com]

Episode 57: Behind the Scenes of PA Education: Teaching, Service, Scholarship & What We've Been Up To

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2362030/fan_mail/new]  In this episode, we’re catching up and taking you behind the scenes of what’s been happening since our last release. We share a candid update on the realities of PA education right now, both in the classroom and beyond it, and reflect on the evolving landscape that faculty, students, and clinical educators are navigating. We also dive into the “invisible work” that often goes unnoticed: teaching, service, and scholarship. From curriculum development and learner support to academic service commitments and ongoing scholarly projects, we unpack what these roles actually look like in practice and how they shape our day-to-day work in physician assistant education. Whether you’re a PA student, educator, or just curious about how health professions education is built behind the curtain, this episode offers an honest look at the work that continues even when the microphones are off. Email us! loniandchristine@gmail.com Hosted on:  https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com [https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com]

Episode 56: We’re Back! And Learning to Take Feedback

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2362030/fan_mail/new] We’re back after some time away and reflecting on what it means to grow—personally and professionally. In this episode, we catch up and unpack the art (and discomfort) of giving and receiving feedback, how to navigate self-doubt, and why imposter syndrome tends to show up right when you’re leveling up. A candid conversation about learning to trust yourself in the process. It’s nice to see you again!  Email us! loniandchristine@gmail.com Hosted on:  https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com [https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com]

Episode 55: Menopause: Wellness, Lifestyle, and Informed Choices

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2362030/fan_mail/new] Perimenopause and menopause are often framed as problems to fix, but they are natural life transitions, not diseases. In this episode, we explore how diet, movement, and physical activity can support overall well-being during this transition, while acknowledging that experiences vary widely and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We also take a closer look at how menopause is discussed on social media, including the growing commercialization of wellness messaging and the ways it can oversimplify complex changes. Finally, we discuss the complexities of hormone testing, why results can be difficult to interpret during perimenopause, and why testing is not always the clear answer it is often marketed to be. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on informed decision-making, realistic expectations, and compassionate self-care. Email us! loniandchristine@gmail.com Hosted on:  https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com [https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com]

Episode 54: You're Ready for This: Transitioning to the clinical year

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2362030/fan_mail/new] The transition from didactic coursework to the clinical year is a major milestone in PA training and comes with new expectations, both academic and professional. In this episode, we discuss how learning shifts from memorization to clinical reasoning, what it means to be an active learner in patient care settings, and how to adapt to real-world clinical decision-making. We also explore professionalism during clinical rotations, including communication, role clarity, receiving feedback, and representing yourself as a member of the healthcare team. Whether you’re excited, nervous, or both, this episode offers practical guidance to help you enter the clinical year prepared, confident, and ready to grow. Email us! loniandchristine@gmail.com Hosted on:  https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com [https://findingthebalancewithloniandchristine.buzzsprout.com]