Striving for Better Meetings and Thoughts on the Aging Surgeon.

Marc Swiontkowski

MD, FAOA

Professor, University of Minnesota

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Mohit Bhandari

FRCSC, PhD

Distinguished University Professor, Chair of Surgery, McMaster University

Despite opening with travel chaos and viral airline mishaps, the conversation quickly pivots to the deeper mechanics of effective advisory boards and group decision-making. They argue that meetings work when participants lead with honesty, ground discussion in evidence, listen actively, and remain anchored to a clear purpose. They extend this framework to departmental leadership and highlight research showing the value of engaged attendance, senior experience, and open dissent. The discussion then shifts to aging surgeons, emphasizing structured transitions, mentorship models, and the difficulty many face envisioning life after full-time practice. They close by underscoring the importance of balance, reflection, and sustaining professional meaning as careers evolve.