5 - How to handle Conflict in Advocacy with Dr. Nicole Carter

Scalpel and Sword: Conflict and Negotiation in Modern Medicine

In this episode, Dr. Lee Sharma interviews Dr. Nicole Carter who has made advocacy a core part of her medical career. Dr. Carter reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic pushed her to fill an information void in her community, offering clear, compassionate, and science-based updates that blended her expertise as a physician with her roles as a mother and daughter.

Beyond the pandemic, Dr. Carter discusses her continued advocacy through organizations such as the Georgia Chapter of the AAP Legislative Committee, gun control advocacy groups, and her local Indivisible chapter. She shares her experiences speaking at town halls, engaging in public health discussions, and mobilizing community efforts ranging from legislative town halls to food drives. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Carter emphasizes the importance of inner support circles, the value of humility in medical practice, and the need for physicians to step out of their comfort zones to protect patients and democracy.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Build Your Support Network – Develop an inner circle or personal board of directors to provide emotional support, honest feedback, and encouragement as you engage in advocacy.
2. Start Where You Are – Join local or state advocacy organizations that align with your professional values, allowing you to amplify your voice while connecting with like-minded peers.
3. Embrace Humility – Approach patient conversations and advocacy with openness and willingness to say, "I don’t know, but I will find out," which builds trust and fosters productive dialogue.

About the Show:

Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.
About the Guest:

Dr. Nicole Carter is a board-certified pediatrician practicing in LaGrange, Georgia with WellStar Medical Group. Originally from Michigan, she completed her undergraduate studies at Albion College, attended medical school at Northwestern University, and completed her pediatrics residency at Duke University. Over the past 20 years, she has built her career while also raising her family in the Auburn, Alabama area.

In addition to providing compassionate care to her young patients, Dr. Carter has become a passionate advocate on public health, pediatric safety, women's health, gun control legislation, and voting rights. She actively participates in advocacy organizations including the Georgia AAP Legislative Committee, gun control initiatives, and her local Indivisible chapter. Dr. Carter blends her medical expertise with personal experience, community leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advocate for policies that safeguard children and families.

About the Host:

Dr. Lee Sharma – A gynecologist in Auburn, AL, with a Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution and over 30 years of experience in the medical field.. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1993. A physician passionate about helping colleagues address conflicts and thrive in medicine through practical strategies and open conversations.

Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/provider/lee-sharma-md-obstetrics

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.