440 - WHY PODIATRY MATTERS with Dr Savannah Santiago, DPM

It’s easy to forget how much difference we make when we’re caught up in the daily routine of podiatry. In this episode with Dr Savannah Santiago, DPM, we discuss taking initiative, backing yourself, and staying connected to the person behind the professional role. If you’ve been questioning your contribution, waiting to feel ready, or wondering whether ambition leaves room for a life outside work, this episode is for you. Dr Savannah Santiago is a third-year podiatric surgical resident and chief resident at Ascension St. Vincent’s in Indianapolis, training under Dr Patrick DeHeer. A former university cross-country and track athlete, Savannah found podiatry through her own foot injuries and saw a career that brought together sports medicine, surgery and her desire to work with the diabetes community. We discuss the power of listening to patients, how lived experience can deepen empathy, and a grocery checkout conversation that reminded Savannah why podiatry matters. She also shares how she began writing a weekly column (Sole Purpose) as a fourth-year student, why she gets involved in professional leadership and student recruitment, and what happened when someone suggested that her interests outside residency made her less serious about her career. Connect with Savannah Find Savannah on Instagram at @drsavsantiago, and look for her Sole Purpose column at https://www.podiatry.com/.  For additional show notes, please visit the Podiatry Legends Podcast Website Check out my Upcoming Events Become an Episode Sponsor - Are you looking for a better way to get noticed by podiatrists? Consider sponsoring the Podiatry Legends Podcast; many sponsorship opportunities are available. Please email me at [email protected] or visit the Podiatry Legends Website to learn more.  Leave a Review - If you've enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you left a review on your favourite podcast platform. Reviews help other podiatrists discover the podcast and let me know you're enjoying what I'm putting together each week. Have you read my book? It's No Secret There's Money in Podiatry