57: Looks Can Be Deceiving: The Mask of a Perfect Doctor Mom Artwork

Inspired Mom MDs

Inspired Mom MDs is hosted by Cindy Van Praag, MD, wellness advocate for physician moms and proud mom of two teenagers. Episodes will cover how to identify and take back autonomy at work and home to find time for activities that invigorate you. The show will also delve into how to prioritize your own wellbeing without guilt and thrive at work and home. Cindy has over 20 years of experience in medicine and 17 years as a mom. She has extensive training in the integrative mindset and a holistic approach to wellbeing.

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Inspired Mom MDs

57: Looks Can Be Deceiving: The Mask of a Perfect Doctor Mom

April 29, 2025 • Cindy Van Praag, MD • Episode 57

Find the full transcript and more resources for physician moms at inspiredmommds.com/57.

The truth? Most of us are performing.

Polished on the outside.

But inside, quietly wondering: Is this really what I signed up for?

It works for a while. Until the façade starts to crack and “I’m fine” becomes too hard to fake.

I look around and see so many women physicians rocking it.

Brilliant. Accomplished. Respected.

But what we often don’t see is the internal struggle.

These women are also experts in never letting it show.

If you’ve been wearing the mask, smiling, nodding, saying “it’s all good,” this episode is for you.

Because today, we’re not just talking about the problem…

We’re giving it a name.

And when you name the truth, you start to loosen its grip.

It’s also true that comparison steals joy.

And you deserve joy, the real kind.

Check out InspiredMomMDs.com for more information about how I help physician moms!
You can grab a copy of my freebie! Just click here for a quick download: 4 Steps to Take Back Control, Find Time for What Matters Most and Thrive in Your Practice and at Home

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for medical advice or care. I’m a board-certified physician, but this content isn’t connected to my clinical practice, and no doctor-patient relationship is formed here. Please always talk to your own health professional about any mental or physical health concerns. And as always, take what helps and leave the rest. Please see InspiredMomMDs.com for full legal disclaimer.

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I help physician moms take back control and prioritize what matters most so they can thrive in private practice and at home.