361: Turning Expertise Into Authorship | Dr. Amy McMichael

Dr. Amy McMichael’s Advice for Busy Professionals

When I think of someone too busy to write a book, Dr. Amy McMichael immediately comes to mind. She juggles her roles as a professor in the Department of Dermatology at Wake Forest School of Medicine, a practicing dermatologist, and a mentor to countless students. She has every reason not to add “author” to her already full plate.

But in our conversation on the Authors Who Lead podcast, it becomes clear that it’s her deep commitment to mentorship that fuels her decision to write her book, Perfect Match: Secure Your Residency Spot and Achieve Greatness in Dermatology.

“I want to write something people can take to heart,” she tells me, explaining that she’s long seen the need for accessible, heartfelt guidance—especially for students of color navigating the complex, high-stakes world of dermatology residency applications.

From Academic Voice to Personal Storytelling

Dr. McMichael is no stranger to writing—she’s spent her career contributing to clinical trials, case studies, and peer-reviewed journals. But writing a book, especially one written in a personal, mentor-style voice, asks something different. During our coaching together, she shares how she rediscovers her creative voice, a part of herself she hasn’t tapped into since childhood. Slowly, she lets go of the academic lens and leans into humor, candor, and storytelling.

“I have to stop and think. I’m not trying to prove a hypothesis,” she says. “I need to speak directly to that reader who needs help.”

Instead of writing linearly, I encourage her to follow her energy—scribbling down “aha” moments between clinic hours, in airports, late at night, and even on vacation. That flexibility opens the door to creativity and truth.

Straightforward Advice Meets Real-Life Experience

Perfect Match isn’t just a how-to—it’s a heartfelt collection of everything Dr. McMichael learns from mentoring students for decades. The book is short and focused because she knows most medical students are pressed for time. But every page is full of real stories and practical advice: from how to format a CV, to nailing the interview, to understanding the subtle power dynamics during rotations. These are the overlooked details that often determine whether a student matches or not.

One of the things I admire most is her insistence on mentoring others—even when you’re just a step ahead. “You can always reach back,” she says. It’s not just good advice. It’s the heartbeat of her book.

Facing Edits with Grit and Grace

We also talk about the editing process—because let’s be honest, it isn’t easy. While the first round of edits brings encouraging feedback, later ones challenge her thinking. Some suggestions clash with her vision. But instead of getting defensive, she listens. She leans on trusted friends, colleagues, and family—early readers who bring diverse perspectives.

Her advice for others in the editing trenches: “Don’t take it personally—just grit your teeth and get through it. It’ll make your book stronger.”

The Ripple Effect of Mentorship

Dr. McMichael is already dreaming beyond the book. She’s thinking about essays, maybe even fiction. But no matter the format, her motivation stays the same: to help people. To reach those who might not otherwise hear these stories or gain this kind of guidance.

Mentorship, for her, isn’t about prestige. It’s about multiplying impact—going from mentoring one or two students at a time to reaching hundreds, even thousands, through her words.

Final Thoughts: Write It Down, Pay It Forward

Dr. Amy McMichael shows us what’s possible when you commit to turning lived wisdom into a lasting resource. If you’re a professional considering whether to share your story or guidance, let her journey remind you: someone out there needs exactly what you’ve learned.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.