Bundle Of Hers

Discovery is not always a bold breakthrough—it is often what quietly emerges after the questions, the challenges, and the moments when you are not sure where the path is leading. In the season seven finale of BUNDLE OF HERS, Alizah, Laurel, and Hạ reflect on what they have uncovered about themselves, their surrounding relationships, and their roles in medicine. As they revisit moments that challenged their perspectives and share what they are still figuring out, they open up about the discomfort of not having it all together—and the strength in embracing that truth. Through vulnerability, curiosity, and connection, this conversation celebrates how the process of discovery shapes who we are becoming.

Intern year is a whirlwind—one filled with overwhelming responsibility, steep learning curves, and moments of deep self-doubt. It is the year new doctors step into roles that test their stamina, skills, and sense of self—all while learning how to care for others and themselves at the same time. Mariam and Lilly open up about the emotional and physical toll of residency's first year. Through honest reflection, they explore the differences and parallels in their experiences, from coping with the stress and anxiety of long hours to confronting the high expectations that do not always match the realities of their knowledge and training. They share hard-earned insights, small victories, and gentle reminders that even when it feels like you are barely keeping up, you are still doing a good job—and that matters.

Not all medical training paths follow a straight line. For some physicians, the journey includes a preliminary year—a one-year position in a specialty like internal medicine or surgery that provides clinical training before transitioning into their chosen field. Lilly is joined by fellow prelims Shima, Jenna, and Lena for a candid conversation about navigating this in-between space in training. Together, they share personal stories from the year and explore what it means to grow, adapt, and discover who you are in a year that is as formative as it is unpredictable.

Medical education is known for its demanding structure, but the toll it takes on students and physicians is rarely addressed with the same intensity. Nearly 30% of medical students experience depression, and rates of suicidal ideation are alarmingly high—three times greater than their same-age peers. Residents and attending physicians face similar challenges, often without access to the care and support they need. Dr. Jenny Wei and third-year medical student Sanila Math join the conversation with Austen to explore the culture of rigidity in medicine—from its historical roots to its present-day consequences—across every stage of training. Together, they reflect on the weight of burnout and the importance of questioning systems that no longer serve doctors' well-being.

Despite Latine individuals making up nearly 20% of the U.S. population, they remain vastly underrepresented in medicine. With the Latine community projected to reach 111.2 million by 2060, the lack of diversity in health care raises concerns about access, language concordance, and culturally competent care. Vida Sandoval and Marisol Solis from La Comunidad en Medicina join Hạ for a conversation to discuss the challenges and triumphs of being Latine in medicine. They explore how representation impacts patient outcomes, the importance of building a supportive community in the medical field, and the steps needed to create a more inclusive and equitable health care system.

Grief is an inevitable part of life, but for physicians, it often exists in tension with the expectation to keep moving forward. While they provide care and comfort to others, how do they make space for their own losses? Medical student Kate Tyler joins Lilly for a raw conversation about the emotional weight of grieving in medicine and the challenges of balancing personal and professional loss. They explore how grief shapes difficult conversations, influences goals of care, and highlights the importance of truly being present with patients and their families at the end of life. This episode is dedicated to Alia Kanishka, Jane Tyler, and all those lost to devastating illnesses like terminal cancer.

Universal health care is a system in which all individuals can have access to essential medical services without financial hardship. While more than 70 countries provide some form of universal health care, the structure and effectiveness of these systems vary. In contrast, millions worldwide still face significant barriers to care due to high costs, lack of coverage, or systemic inequalities. In S7E20, internal medicine resident Siale Teaupa joins Hạ for a conversation exploring the complexities of health systems and the ongoing debate over universal health care. They discuss the pros and cons of health care models, the challenges of ensuring equitable access, and the fundamental question—is health care a human right?

In high-stakes careers like medicine and research, the weight of responsibility can feel all-consuming. However, maintaining a strictly stoic demeanor can unintentionally create distance. Studies show that play and humor are essential for mental well-being, helping to reduce stress, build resilience, and even improve team dynamics. When physicians allow moments of lightness and authenticity, they can break down barriers, making patients feel more comfortable, heard, and willing to share crucial information. Laurel is joined by psychiatry resident Baley Kynaston and bioinformatics grad student Joshua Major-Mincer to explore the importance of staying silly in a serious job. In a lighthearted and candid conversation, they discuss how humor and authenticity can coexist with professionalism, why self-expression is essential for well-being, and how finding the right moments for levity can strengthen personal resilience and patient trust.

The doctor-patient relationship is one of the most critical elements in delivering effective and compassionate care. Research shows trust and communication between doctors and patients can significantly influence treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction, and adherence to medical advice. However, in today's fast-paced health care environment, cultivating meaningful connections can often feel challenging. Psychiatrist Dr. Rana Jawish joins Austen and Alizah to explore the art of fostering genuine relationships in medicine. They discuss the importance of maintaining humanity in the brief but impactful moments shared with patients, navigating the inherent power dynamic between doctor and patient, and the need to validate and respect each individual's experience.

Health policy refers to the decisions, plans, and actions taken to achieve specific health care goals within a society. Globally, health policy plays a pivotal role in addressing issues such as infectious diseases, access to care, and preventive health services. However, disparities persist, particularly in low- and middle-income communities, where funding constraints and misaligned priorities can significantly impact health outcomes. In S7E18, internal medicine resident Siale Teaupa joins Hạ and Alizah to discuss the complex world of health policy and global health. They explore how global health policies shape medical practices, the challenges arising from limited funding and resource allocation, and the changes needed to create more equitable and effective healthcare systems worldwide.

Medical professionals are often so focused on caring for others that they overlook their own well-being. Yet, prioritizing just 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and anxiety. Despite these benefits, many medical students struggle to find time for self-care amidst their demanding studies. In S7E17, medical student Cassidy Nguyen joins Lilly and Hạ to discuss the importance of balancing life outside of medicine, highlighting how physical wellness can reduce burnout and improve overall well-being. They explore self-care as a long-term investment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

Societal pressures often skew our understanding of success toward performance metrics, making it seem almost synonymous with external achievements. However, finding a personal definition of success that goes beyond external validation is essential for personal growth and overall well-being. True success involves aligning your values and passions with your goals. In S7E15, Alizah and Austen engage in a thought-provoking conversation with fellow medical student Jacob Taylor about the evolving concept of success. Together, they reflect on their own goals and consider whether their pursuits genuinely fulfill them—or if they are merely climbing someone else's mountain.

An estimated 1.14% of the U.S. population—around 3 million people—identify as transgender, yet many face significant barriers when accessing health care. The medical field has traditionally been structured without considering the unique needs of trans individuals, resulting in substantial gaps in care and understanding. In S7E14, Laurel and Hạ talk with Jane Hiatt about the challenges trans people encounter while navigating the health care system and emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive provider training in trans health. They discuss how compassionate, informed patient care is essential to building a more inclusive and equitable medical environment that effectively serves all patients.

Diversity of thought should be the foundation for respectful discussions and the broadening of perspectives. In the complex world of medicine, effective collaboration is crucial, yet conflicting opinions and division can often impede progress. In S7E13, Austen is joined by fellow medical students Anna Tidwell and Jade Kho to discuss how opposing viewpoints can lead to conflict, stifle growth, and obstruct the achievement of both personal and patient-focused goals. The conversation explores the importance of engaging in constructive dialogue, knowing when to walk away from unproductive discussions, and the need for mutual respect, clear intent, and open-mindedness in fostering successful teamwork within the medical field.

Approximately 5% of medical students and 3% of practicing physicians report having a chronic illness or disability. For these individuals, balancing being a patient and a health care provider can present unique challenges. In S7E12, Hạ and guest Eunice Bajomo discuss navigating the medical field with a chronic medical condition. Eunice, who is both a patient and a medical student, shares her insights on creating positive health care experiences and highlights the need for improved training in caring for patients with chronic conditions. Understanding these challenges can lead to more compassionate and inclusive health care practices.

This season's fourth and final IDENTITY SERIES episode spotlights Laurel and their journey of self-exploration. Close friends Hạ and Abby Jones join the conversation to describe Laurel's character, highlighting the qualities that make them a cherished friend and individual. The group explores the nuances of identity, friendship, and personal growth, offering a candid look into Laurel's ongoing journey of self-discovery.

In the third episode of this season's IDENTITY SERIES, Lilly and Mariam share a thoughtful and honest conversation about the power and privilege of wearing the white coat that signifies a duty to serve and advocate for patients. The two talk about their lived experiences growing up brown and how it instilled a responsibility to promote change and advocate for their communities and future patients.

The second episode of this season's IDENTITY SERIES spotlights "compassionate ambition," a commitment to excellence that vehemently denies individualism and originates in community betterment. Alizah is joined by her cousin, Kesaia Akau, for a conversation about their families' migrant legacy, and how the values and principles instilled by their ancestors guide them toward success.

Every patient brings a unique narrative when they come into the doctor's office. Patients who feel heard, seen, and valued by their health care providers have better health outcomes and higher levels of satisfaction with their care. Storytelling plays a crucial role in achieving this by preserving cultures, sharing family histories, and connecting us to our roots and identities. Recognizing and valuing each patient's story can lead to more empathetic and effective treatment. In S7E7, Hạ and Mariam discuss the power of storytelling in medicine, fostering shared experiences and providing better patient care. By centering health care around patient stories, storytelling can shift the focus to patient-centered care and help bring back humanity in medicine.

We're excited to bring back and highlight our IDENTITY SERIES—this season, featuring four episodes exploring who we are as human beings. In this special episode, Austen is joined by her sister, Cailin Ivey, to talk about the significance of understanding and embracing our multifaceted identities, and how this journey can shape the communities we build and the connections we make.

1 in 5 U.S. physicians was born and educated abroad, according to the AAMC. Non-U.S. international medical graduates—different from Americans who attend medical school abroad—face various obstacles in getting to and practicing medicine in America. In S7E6, Nina Mercado Garcia, an international medical graduate from Colombia, joins Hạ to talk about her unique journey into medicine. From her initial decision to pursue medicine in Colombia to navigating the complexities of practicing in the U.S., Nina shares insights into the challenges and barriers faced by international medical graduates, shedding light on the disparities in opportunities and recognition. Nina's story highlights the significance of global collaboration and exchange in the medical field, and her aspiration to leverage the skills and knowledge gained in America to contribute to health care initiatives worldwide.

Cultivating a supportive community can enhance your resilience, well-being, and success in medical school and beyond. Explore the power of community in medical school with BUNDLE OF HERS. In a live episode recorded during University of Utah School of Medicine's Second Look Day, Austen and Lilly discuss the essential topic of finding your community amidst the challenges of medical education. The two share firsthand insights and strategies for building meaningful connections, fostering support networks, and navigating the complexities of identity growth and personal narratives on the medical school journey.

Just as patients of color experience unfair treatment in the doctor's office, physicians of color also experience discrimination from patients. As medical trainees, the question of "When can I start implementing meaningful changes and solutions?" is common, yet often met with complex answers. Lilly and Gitanjali Das, chief neurology resident at University of Utah Health, delve into the critical intersection of social determinants of health and anti-racism education. Together, they explore actionable steps to implement change and advocate for practices that prioritize equity and justice throughout the medical field. From students to attending physicians, the two discuss the various stages of medical training where individuals can actively contribute to creating a more equitable health care system.

Just as patients of color experience unfair treatment in the doctor's office, physicians of color also experience discrimination from patients. As medical trainees, the question of "When can I start implementing meaningful changes and solutions?" is common, yet often met with complex answers. Lilly and Gitanjali Das, chief neurology resident at University of Utah Health, delve into the critical intersection of social determinants of health and anti-racism education. Together, they explore actionable steps to implement change and advocate for practices that prioritize equity and justice throughout the medical field. From students to attending physicians, the two discuss the various stages of medical training where individuals can actively contribute to creating a more equitable health care system.

21.2% of medical students identified as legally married, according to a 2023 report from the AAMC. While marriage between two medical students is common, being in a romantic relationship with a partner not in medicine is not rare either. Laurel engages in a conversation with their partner, Peter, alongside fellow medical student Telisha and her partner, Ryland, about the challenges and rewards of balancing a career in medicine while maintaining a long-term relationship with a partner outside the field. The discussion highlights the gendered expectations of medicine, the complexities of work-life balance, and strategies for creating a more supportive environment in the medical field for couples, families, and communities alike.

21.2% of medical students identified as legally married, according to a 2023 report from the AAMC. While marriage between two medical students is common, being in a romantic relationship with a partner not in medicine is not rare either. Laurel engages in a conversation with their partner, Peter, alongside fellow medical student Telisha and her partner, Ryland, about the challenges and rewards of balancing a career in medicine while maintaining a long-term relationship with a partner outside the field. The discussion highlights the gendered expectations of medicine, the complexities of work-life balance, and strategies for creating a more supportive environment in the medical field for couples, families, and communities alike.

In 2023, the Main Residency Match had 42,952 active applicants, yet only offered 40,375 certified positions. Unfortunately, this disparity meant some applicants did not match into a residency program after graduating from medical school. The residency interview season leading up to Match Day can be stressful, to say the least. BUNDLE OF HERS alumni, Margaux Miller, returns for a discussion with Mariam and Lilly on the evolution of medical residency interviews. The three reflect on their different experiences, contrasting between virtual interviews in the current landscape and in-person interviews pre-COVID.

In 2023, the Main Residency Match had 42,952 active applicants, yet only offered 40,375 certified positions. Unfortunately, this disparity meant some applicants did not match into a residency program after graduating from medical school. The residency interview season leading up to Match Day can be stressful, to say the least. BUNDLE OF HERS alumni, Margaux Miller, returns in S7E3 for a discussion with Mariam and Lilly on the evolution of medical residency interviews. The three reflect on their different experiences, contrasting between virtual interviews in the current landscape and in-person interviews pre-COVID.

Between 2021 to 2024, there were 165,326 applicants to U.S. medical schools, with only 69,228—41.9%—successfully gaining admission. While medical school itself presents formidable challenges, the journey to gaining admission is an even greater hurdle. Various obstacles, including socio-economic privileges, and racial and gender biases, contribute to the lack of heterogeneity in matriculating classes. Alizah and Austen engage in a conversation with Daryl Morrison, MD/PhD candidate at University of Utah School of Medicine, focusing on their experiences as first-generation pre-med students and discussing the path to medical school admission.

Between 2021 to 2024, there were 165,326 applicants to U.S. medical schools, with only 69,228—41.9%—successfully gaining admission. While medical school itself presents formidable challenges, the journey to gaining admission is an even greater hurdle. Various obstacles, including socio-economic privileges, and racial and gender biases, contribute to the lack of heterogeneity in matriculating classes. In S7E2, Alizah and Austen engage in a conversation with Daryl Morrison, MD/PhD candidate at University of Utah School of Medicine, focusing on their experiences as first-generation pre-med students and discussing the path to medical school admission.

Exploration is actively seeking to understand ourselves better, pushing beyond comfort zones to discover the complexities of our own identities, and fostering personal growth along the way. Finding the balance between personal exploration and professional identity within the medical field can be complicated. In the premiere episode of season seven, Hạ, Lilly, and Austen share their hopes and anticipations of self-exploration as they continue to navigate their journeys in medicine.

Exploration is actively seeking to understand ourselves better, pushing beyond comfort zones to discover the complexities of our own identities, and fostering personal growth along the way. Finding the balance between personal exploration and professional identity within the medical field can be complicated. In the premiere episode of season seven, Hạ, Lilly, and Austen share their hopes and anticipations of self-exploration as they continue to navigate their journeys in medicine.

Letting go is never an easy decision, but change can be beautiful. In this heartfelt conversation, original cast members Harjit, Margaux, and Leen say their farewells after six seasons of storytelling. The three share their transformative experiences and anecdotes while reflecting on what BUNDLE OF HERS has meant for their personal growth and the unique community built on shared stories, laughter, and empowerment.

Letting go is never an easy decision, but change can be beautiful. In this heartfelt conversation, original cast members Harjit, Margaux, and Leen say their farewells after six seasons of storytelling. The three share their transformative experiences and anecdotes while reflecting on what BUNDLE OF HERS has meant for their personal growth and the unique community built on shared stories, laughter, and empowerment.

BUNDLE OF HERS concludes its sixth season with an exploration into the concept of legacy. Beyond the connection to our parents and ancestors, academic and professional accomplishments, and external validations, what is the legacy you are creating? In the season six finale, we celebrate being you on your terms, and how our authentic selves shape our continual growth and the lasting impact of our legacy.

BUNDLE OF HERS concludes its sixth season with an exploration into the concept of legacy. Beyond the connection to our parents and ancestors, academic and professional accomplishments, and external validations, what is the legacy you are creating? In the season six finale, we celebrate being you on your terms, and how our authentic selves shape our continual growth and the lasting impact of our legacy.

Health at Every Size® (HAES) is a growing framework of care in many health care settings. However, weight discrimination continues to exist, and fatphobia can adversely impact patients. Communities of color, in particular, experience disproportionate effects of fatphobia, with certain cultural foods unfairly labeled as unhealthy. HAES advocates for a holistic perspective on health and challenges the conventional weight-focused approach. Implementing key principles of HAES can promote health equity, eliminate weight discrimination, and improve health care access for everyone, regardless of size. In S6E23, Mariam and Margaux reflect on their medical training as they explore the concept of HAES and its significance in addressing broader justice issues in medicine and patient care.

Health at Every Size® (HAES) is a growing framework of care in many health care settings. However, weight discrimination continues to exist, and fatphobia can adversely impact patients. Communities of color, in particular, experience disproportionate effects of fatphobia, with certain cultural foods unfairly labeled as unhealthy. HAES advocates for a holistic perspective on health and challenges the conventional weight-focused approach. Implementing key principles of HAES can promote health equity, eliminate weight discrimination, and improve health care access for everyone, regardless of size. In S6E23, Mariam and Margaux reflect on their medical training as they explore the concept of HAES and its significance in addressing broader justice issues in medicine and patient care.

For a significant portion of the United States population, the American Dream stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. Defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as "the belief that America offers the opportunity to everyone of a good and successful life achieved through hard work," this dream, however, can be a complex reality for immigrants. The journey towards achieving the American Dream is often marred by barriers and complications. Immigrants face pressures to conform to the idealized image of an "immigrant success" story, which can sometimes contradict the communal values deeply rooted in their cultural backgrounds. In S6E22, Hạ engages in a thoughtful conversation with guests Ludovica Farese and Merry Joseph, exploring the myths and intricacies of the American Dream, and how they navigate these challenges and redefine the American Dream to align with their unique narratives and experiences.

For a significant portion of the United States population, the American Dream stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. Defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as "the belief that America offers the opportunity to everyone of a good and successful life achieved through hard work," this dream, however, can be a complex reality for immigrants. The journey towards achieving the American Dream is often marred by barriers and complications. Immigrants face pressures to conform to the idealized image of an "immigrant success" story, which can sometimes contradict the communal values deeply rooted in their cultural backgrounds. In S6E22, Hạ engages in a thoughtful conversation with guests Ludovica Farese and Merry Joseph, exploring the myths and intricacies of the American Dream, and how they navigate these challenges and redefine the American Dream to align with their unique narratives and experiences.

According to the American Medical Association, less than 10% of U.S. medical school graduates will encounter the setback of not matching into a residency program each year. Despite being labeled as a 'lottery system,' the Match process can feel intensely personal when you're the only one left unmatched. It's difficult to not experience feelings of shame and inadequacy, and struggle with the fear of not being 'good enough.' What happens to your medical career if you don't match? In S6E21, Lina talks with fellow recently graduated MD, Kaitlyn Whitesitt, about her multiple attempts to secure a spot in residency, not matching, and the emotional whirlwind of not having enough time to process the disappointment before diving into the SOAP process—a system designed to match unfilled residency positions with eligible unmatched applicants.

According to the American Medical Association, less than 10% of U.S. medical school graduates will encounter the setback of not matching into a residency program each year. Despite being labeled as a 'lottery system,' the Match process can feel intensely personal when you're the only one left unmatched. It's difficult to not experience feelings of shame and inadequacy, and struggle with the fear of not being 'good enough.' What happens to your medical career if you don't match? In S6E21, Lina talks with fellow recently graduated MD, Kaitlyn Whitesitt, about her multiple attempts to secure a spot in residency, not matching, and the emotional whirlwind of not having enough time to process the disappointment before diving into the SOAP process—a system designed to match unfilled residency positions with eligible unmatched applicants.