Episode 44: Dr. John L. Tarpley, MD

In this episode of Conversations from Here I am honored and privileged to speak with John L. Tarpley, MD. He is Professor of Surgery, Emeritus at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the former Program Director for General Surgery Residents there. He has also been the Associate Chief of General Surgery at the VA Hospital and is currently the Academic Dean of the Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons. He is a passionate advocate for patients and doctors alike. He has spent a huge portion of his professional life in Africa-- specifically Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and Botswana, training young surgeons and ministering to those most in need. "Tarp"-- as anyone in the hallowed halls of Vanderbilt will attest-- is a legendary character who is as humble as he is funny and as knowledgeable as he is wise. We talk about his life and work, discuss some of the challenges with getting medical care in places far from urban centers, his personal love story and an early obsession with college sports. It's a fascinating talk, indeed. Enjoy!

 

More on Dr. Tarpley:

https://www.vumc.org/surgical-sciences/person/john-l-tarpley-md

https://news.vumc.org/2016/07/26/tarpley-may-be-retiring-but-he-isnt-slowing-down/

https://paacs.net/

 

Books Mentioned:

The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World-- by the His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu & Douglas Abrams

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/533718/the-book-of-joy-by-his-holiness-the-dalai-lama-and-archbishop-desmond-tutu-with-douglas-abrams/

 

Long Walk to Freedom-- by Nelson Mandela

https://www.littlebrown.com/titles/nelson-mandela/long-walk-to-freedom/9780759521049/