In this empowering episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford explores how self-reflection helps physician and executive moms develop the resilience they need to navigate life’s chaos with confidence. Learn seven powerful benefits of self-reflection—and get real-life tips to practice it, even in the middle of your busy day.
Whether you’re handling hospital politics, parenting pressures, or personal growth, this episode will help you reclaim your strength from the inside out.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
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In this New Year episode, we trade brittle resolutions for sustainable, seasonal goals—with the playful courage of the Fool’s Journey. You’ll learn five beginner-friendly practices (start tiny, bundle habits, focus on “during,” fuel with excitement, and pack lightly), a nervous-system-first toolkit (Doorway Breathing, Triple B, 90-second Thankful Pause), and a simple seasonal map for 2025. Stories include Jenny’s balcony, charting sprints, a pantry win, and a 6-minute lantern loop with kids. We close with a 3-minute guided reset and a 7-day Beginner Sprint you can start today. Mantra for the year: “My worth is inherent. My productivity is a strategy—not my identity.”
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
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In this heartfelt Christmas episode of the Single Mom MD Podcast, Dr. Gail Clifford reflects on the meaning of the season through the lens of parenthood, sacrifice, gratitude, and loss. Christmas celebrates the birth of a child—and the profound love and courage of the parents who made that miracle possible. Today, we explore what that story teaches modern mothers, especially those carrying more than their share.
Dr. Clifford shares the recent loss of her 38-year-old stepdaughter, the grief that surfaced, and the unexpected gratitude that followed. She also opens up about caring for her daughter through two traumatic brain injuries, supporting her recovery, and the sacrifices required to give her stability, safety, and hope for the future. Through stories of faith, overwhelm, and resilience, this episode reminds women that grief and gratitude can coexist—and that caring for yourself is essential when caring for others.
Whether you’re a single mom physician, an executive mom, or a woman navigating a difficult season, this episode offers comfort, companionship, and perspective. You are not alone. You are stronger than you realize. And you have so much still worth living for.
Includes end-of-episode reflection questions.
Dreams are fuel; plans move the car. In this episode, Dr. Gail guides single mom physicians and executive moms through a 90-minute sprint to turn one dream into a Q1 plan you can keep—even during call weeks. You’ll choose a “Big Three” focus, map 12-week milestones, design Base/Standard/Stretch habits, and add If–Then scripts so progress survives real life.
What You’ll Learn
Use If–Then scripts, a friction audit, and tiny rewards to keep momentum
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
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Key Topics
Takeaway:
Don’t label missed goals as “sour grapes.” Recognize resistance, reframe failure, and finish the year with grace and gratitude.
Call to Action:
Subscribe to Single Mom MD wherever you listen to podcasts and leave a review to help other physician moms find calm amid the chaos.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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A warm, story-driven Thanksgiving reflection for physician moms—grounding breathwork, gratitude that doesn’t ignore pain, tiny rituals that build connection, and gentle ways to serve (and receive) without burning out. We borrow steadiness from Sir William Osler’s “equanimity,” remember Dr. King’s call to everyday service, and close with a 2-minute guided Thankful Pause you can do in a kitchen, car, or call room.
Listen for
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
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Key takeaways
Practices mentioned (quick reference)
This episode invites physician and executive moms to trade busy-ness for presence with a “Thankful Pause.” Dr. Gail reframes the issue as a mind habit—not a time deficit—and shares two stories: a 90-second ER (Emergency Room) pause that changed a shift, and “Tammy’s Balcony,” where 15 quiet minutes created more productivity, not less. You’ll learn the P.A.U.S.E. protocol (Permission, Anchor, Unhook, Scan, Exit with intention) and the THANKS plan (Triage traditions, Hand off early, Appointments with yourself, Normalize “no,” Keep fueled, Savor aloud), plus quick tools: the 3-Minute Reset, a 10-10-10 clutter sweep, the “Who Else?” delegation rule, If-Then calm plans, and a five-minute Gratitude Walk. For clinicians on duty, we cover Doorway Breathing, the “Triple B” check (Brain, Belly, Bladder), a Call-Room Calm Kit, and marking TP (Thankful Pause) on your list. We close with two mindset shifts—define three wins a day and remember that rest is fuel, not a prize—and a gentle nudge to share this plan with a colleague heading into the holiday on fumes.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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The Thankful Pause Cheat Sheet (Copy/Paste)
P.A.U.S.E. = Permission • Anchor • Unhook • Scan • Exit (with intention)
THANKS = Triage • Hand off • Appointments (with yourself) • Normalize “no” • Keep fueled • Savor aloud
3-Minute Reset = Box breathe • 5-4-3-2-1 senses • Micro-plan
If–Then Calm Plans = Gravy breaks → breathe + text helper • Hot topic → “Happy to talk later—today I’m savoring.” • Feel behind → P.A.U.S.E. + one next action
Who Else? = Delegate at 70% quality; perfection is pricey
Gratitude Walk = 5 minutes, 1 ordinary thanks per minute
Triple B = Brain, Belly, Bladder (clear, fueled, comfortable)
In this pre-Thanksgiving episode, we reframe gratitude from “frosting” to fuel. Dr. Gail shares a hallway fork story where a 90-second Thankful Micro-Audit changed an entire conversation, then offers concrete tools: a Lights-Me-Up Inventory to anchor energy, a three-ring Support Map to ask for help without guilt, an ALIGN filter to protect November priorities, the 3×3 Gratitude pattern (clinic, home, self), the Brave Five daily check-in, and a guided one-minute practice you can do in a call room or car line. We close with a gentle invitation to pilot collaborations that grow your impact without draining vitality. Gratitude, spoken specifically and paired with support, becomes the most practical resilience tool you own.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford shares how to reframe life’s challenges as opportunities for growth and happiness. Learn actionable tips, inspiring stories, and expert insights to help you face problems with confidence and turn setbacks into stepping stones. Don’t miss this uplifting and empowering episode!
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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Resilience is one of those words we’ve all heard — especially as physicians and mothers — but what does it reallymean when life knocks you down? In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford shares her personal journey with resilience: from being handed a massage chair during the pandemic as “support” while dealing with moral injury, to learning what it actually takes to survive and thrive as a single mom in medicine.
You’ll hear 7 practical ways to build resilience, plus stories from Dr. Clifford’s own life, and wisdom from experts like Brené Brown and Viktor Frankl. From cultivating optimism to setting SMART goals, this episode offers real tools you can use — not just buzzwords.
Whether you’re a single mom physician, an executive, or simply a woman facing tough times, this conversation will help you bounce forward, not just back.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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n this powerful episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford shares how overthinking sabotages our peace, our joy, and even our performance. Learn why staying present is more than just a mindset—it’s a survival strategy for overwhelmed physician and executive moms. With personal anecdotes, real talk, and actionable tips, this episode will help you reclaim your now and finally quiet the noise of what-ifs.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford explores the powerful link between happiness and the people you surround yourself with. Learn how to evaluate your social circle, prioritize positive relationships, and build a habit of meaningful connections that boost your mood and resilience. Tune in for expert insights and inspiring stories!
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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In this episode, Dr. Gail Clifford shares candid stories, practical advice, and hard-earned wisdom about how to avoid financial pitfalls—and save your sanity. From the worst money advice we’ve all heard to the underestimated power of working with a financial advisor, you’ll get insight into how to reclaim your time, make smarter decisions, and stop glorifying burnout. Plus, what in the world are “exercise snacks” and why are they your new best friend?
What You’ll Learn:
Resources Mentioned:
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
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In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail shares personal and professional insights on intentional living—and why it’s critical for overwhelmed physician moms. From her own debate about visiting Disneyland during a conference to helping coaching client Tammy navigate burnout and legal stress, you’ll learn nine powerful ways to live on purpose and reclaim your time, joy, and clarity. Don’t just survive—live intentionally.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford discusses why trying to control the uncontrollable leads to unhappiness. Learn how to focus on what you can influence, let go of stress, and create more joy in your life. Hear expert insights and real-life stories of finding peace in even the most challenging situations.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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Multitasking is a myth—and for busy physician and executive moms, it’s a dangerous one. In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford shares why focus and presence matter more than juggling tasks, how to retrain your brain for single-tasking, and three practical mindset shifts you can use today to boost productivity and reclaim calm.
You’ll learn:
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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Smart women—especially physician moms and executive leaders—often make one major financial mistake: confusing opinions with values. In this episode, Dr. Gail Clifford breaks down the difference between what you think is true and what you know is important, with practical (and hilarious) real-life examples—including a PTA fundraiser and some questionable ex-husband hot sauce.
Learn how this subtle shift in mindset can radically change the way you approach debt, investing, and even spending on joy. Plus, Gail shares three common financial opinions that held her back—and the values that ultimately set her free.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Take Action:
Spend 10 minutes today journaling, texting a friend, or chatting with your kids about what you really value when it comes to money—and what opinions you’re ready to let go of.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to do on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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In this episode of Single Mom MD, Dr. Gail Clifford explores how to hack your happiness hormones for lasting joy. Learn simple, science-backed strategies to boost dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. Hear inspiring stories of how colleagues use these hacks to stay positive and resilient, no matter what life throws their way.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
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In this episode of the Single Mom MD podcast, Dr. Gail Clifford explores what real self-care actually means—and spoiler alert, it’s not bubble baths or green juice. Inspired by a thought-provoking article from Real Simplemagazine and Dr. Pooja Lakshmin’s book Real Self-Care, this episode dives into why setting boundaries is the most powerful skill you can develop as a busy physician or executive mom.
From the emotional weight of saying "no" to the science behind multitasking myths, we’ll explore how redefining care for yourself can protect your energy, your family, and your future. You'll also learn what “extinction bursts” are and how they show up in everyday resistance from those we love—and how to stick with your boundaries anyway.
If you're tired of being the default everything in your household and career, this episode will give you the permission—and the tools—to reclaim your time, energy, and joy.
🔹 Learn why guilt is not your moral compass
🔹 Understand the glass vs. rubber ball metaphor
🔹 Get real-life strategies for reclaiming your power
🔹 And finally, breathe… because help is here.
And you can get started with some Genius Tips for how to set yourself up for a great work week. Here are things to schedule on whatever you consider your "Sunday" to do just that!
Join the Single Mom MD community here and let's talk more for personalized attention to your specific questions. We look forward to welcoming you.
When you think of additional topics you’d like covered on this podcast, contact me through the chat below and via social media @SingleMomMD.
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