Jun 30, 2026
What if one of the most important lessons you'll learn in residency comes from a patient?
As new residents begin their residency training, guest host Lesly Joyce Nkuindja sits down with patient advocate Jennifer Daly-Cyr for a conversation that every incoming PGY1 should hear. After living with an undiagnosed chronic pain condition for more than a decade, Jennifer shares how pain reshaped her career, relationships and sense of self... and what her experiences inside the healthcare system have taught her about compassionate care.
Jennifer and Lesly Joyce explore the power of listening, the importance of curiosity and humility in medicine, and why every patient walks into an appointment carrying what Jennifer calls a "backpack of life." From building trust in brief encounters to recognizing the expertise that patients bring about their own bodies, this episode offers lived advice for new residents preparing for their first days on the wards. Actually - this episode can be for any healthcare team member.
Whether you're starting residency, supporting a medical trainee, or simply interested in the human side of medicine, this conversation is a powerful reminder that medicine begins with seeing the person in front of you.
Specialty Café is the podcast for medical trainees exploring the many paths in medicine... one conversation at a time.
Check out Action on Pain podcast, co-hosted by our guest Jennifer Daly-Cyr.
If you're participating in a Royal College accredited residency, don't forget to join as a Resident Affiliate. It’s free, and you can start claiming MOC credits right away. Click here to learn more.