Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Emotional Intelligence and Thriving in Healthcare with Dr. David Fessel
Mar 16, 2026
David Fessel, MD, retired radiologist turned author, coach, and speaker focused on emotional intelligence and wellness. He explains what emotional intelligence is and why it is learnable. He describes practical micro practices for self-awareness and energy tracking. He discusses asking for feedback effectively and coaching approaches that build momentum from small changes.
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From Radiologist To Emotional Intelligence Coach
- David Fessel transitioned from a University of Michigan radiologist to an author, coach, and speaker after benefiting personally from coaching.
- His personal coaching experience inspired him to teach emotional intelligence to clinicians and leaders because he wished he'd learned it decades earlier.
Emotional Intelligence Is Learnable Awareness
- Emotional intelligence is awareness of our own and others' emotions and using that information to guide actions.
- Fessel emphasizes it's simple, intuitive, and importantly a learnable skill rather than an innate trait.
Use Microchecks During Handwashing To Boost Self-Awareness
- Start improving emotional intelligence with self-awareness then self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.
- Use micro practices like handwashing or bathroom breaks as quick self-checks for energy, hunger, sleep, and intention.
