EP123: Overcoming the Fear of Failure: A Conversation with Dr. Yemi Sokumbi

See, Hear, Feel

In this episode of SEE HEAR FEEL, we continue our insightful conversation with Dr. Olayemi 'Yemi' Sokumbi, MD, a dermatologist and dermatopathologist at Mayo Clinic. Dr. Sokumbi discusses her struggles with the fear of failure, especially as an immigrant and a Black woman in a high-stakes profession. She highlights the concept of stereotype threat and its implications on her performance and mental well-being. Dr. Sokumbi shares her journey towards self-compassion, the importance of separating one's identity from professional achievements, and the need to talk openly about failures. This candid discussion offers practical advice for overcoming stereotype threat and emphasizes the significance of vulnerability and humanizing one another in professional settings.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Bio

00:42 Personal Background and Immigrant Experience

01:28 Fear of Failure and Stereotype Threat

03:59 Self-Compassion and Overcoming Challenges

08:28 Mentorship and Vulnerability

10:30 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Dr. Olayemi (Yemi) Sokumbi, MD is a dermatologist and dermatopathologist who is currently working at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida where she also serves as Medical Director for Business Development. Additionally, she is involved with medical student and resident education in addition to her clinical work. She completed dermatopathology fellowship in 2014 at UT Southwestern Medical Center and was chief resident in dermatology at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. She has won numerous awards, including a 2022 Dean’s Recognition Diversity & Inclusion Award from the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, a 2018 Outsanding Medical Student Teacher Award from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and the 2013 Richard K. Winkelmann Excellence in Research Award.