Brian Goldman Quotes

Powerful Brian Goldman for Daily Growth

About Brian Goldman

Brian Goldman is a renowned Canadian physician, journalist, and public speaker, primarily recognized for his work in emergency medicine and his bestselling memoir, "The Power of Kindness: Why Empathy Matters in Medicine (Or Anywhere)." Born in Montreal, Quebec on October 19, 1960, Goldman's interest in medicine was sparked early when he witnessed the compassionate care provided by doctors during his father's illness. Goldman earned his medical degree from McGill University and completed his residency at North York General Hospital in Toronto. He is currently an attending emergency physician at Mount Sinai Hospital, where he also serves as the director of the Art & Science of Medicine Fellowship program. Throughout his career, Goldman has been deeply influenced by the power of empathy and its impact on healthcare. This theme is central in his work, particularly in "The Power of Kindness," which delves into his personal experiences with patients and colleagues, emphasizing the importance of empathy in medicine. The book was a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into numerous languages. In addition to his literary accomplishments, Goldman is also a regular contributor to CBC Radio's "White Coat, Black Art" and hosts the award-winning podcast "White Coat, Black Art: After Hours." He is also a Distinguished Visiting Scholar at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and has received numerous awards for his work in healthcare, journalism, and advocacy. Goldman's life and work serve as a testament to the power of empathy in medicine and its ability to transform patient care and professional relationships. His writings continue to inspire and provoke thoughtful discussions about the importance of kindness and compassion in healthcare settings and beyond.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Good medicine sometimes involves saying you're sorry."

This quote emphasizes that in the practice of good medicine, acknowledging mistakes or shortcomings is essential. It suggests that humility, compassion, and accountability are key components of effective healthcare. By apologizing when necessary, physicians show empathy towards their patients, fostering a stronger doctor-patient relationship based on trust and mutual respect. This statement underscores the importance of communication and emotional intelligence in providing high-quality care.


"Errors, mistakes, mishaps, incompetence - they happen to all of us."

This quote emphasizes that everyone makes errors, faces mistakes, encounters mishaps, or demonstrates incompetence at some point. It's a reminder that imperfection is an inherent aspect of the human condition. No one is exempt from these experiences. The message encourages understanding, empathy, and patience as we navigate through life, recognizing our shared humanity in these moments of fallibility.


"It's not just about the facts; it's also about understanding people's stories and feelings."

This quote emphasizes the importance of empathy and human connection in understanding and solving problems, beyond simply relying on facts and figures. It suggests that for effective communication and resolution, one must not only grasp the circumstances (facts) but also acknowledge and appreciate people's unique perspectives, emotions, and experiences (stories and feelings). This holistic approach fosters a deeper understanding that can lead to more compassionate and impactful solutions.


"Compassion is the opposite of callous indifference."

This quote by Brian Goldman emphasizes that compassion, which is a deep awareness and sensitivity to others' suffering, stands in stark contrast to callous indifference. When we choose not to care or be unresponsive to another person's pain or struggle, it indicates a lack of empathy and understanding - callous indifference. In the spirit of promoting kindness and unity, compassion is essential for fostering connections, alleviating suffering, and creating a more humane world.


"The most powerful tool I have in my practice as a physician is empathy."

This quote highlights the importance of empathy in the medical profession, as it suggests that empathy serves as a crucial tool for physicians in their practice. Empathy refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which can significantly impact the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals. By demonstrating empathy, doctors not only show compassion towards their patients but also help to build trust and improve communication. This understanding and emotional connection between physician and patient facilitate a more effective treatment process.


The redefined M.D. is able to access the still, small voice that says I'm about to make a mistake - or I've just made one and I need to undo it before it's too late.

- Brian Goldman

Voice, Small, Too Late, Undo

Show me any health professional - great and not so great - who says they don't make mistakes or haven't made one in years, and I'll show you someone who has trouble admitting the truth.

- Brian Goldman

Health, Show, Made, Admitting

Good doctors exercise judgment. They make the call and - right or wrong - live with the consequences and learn from them. The redefined M.D. is flawed, but comfortable inside their own skin.

- Brian Goldman

Learn, Skin, Own, Doctors

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