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LEADERSHIP LADDER
CREATING YOUR PATH
Dr. Amelia Pietropaolo and Prof. Maria Jose Ribal
ΑΡΘΡΟ
66
The podcast “Leadership Ladder: Creating Your Path”, by the European Association of Urology, hosts an inspiring and sincere conversation between Dr. Amelia Pietropaolo and Prof. Maria Jose Ribal on leadership and gender diversity within the field of Urology.
Dr. Amelia Pietropaolo, Consultant Urologist at University Hospital of Southampton and Chairwoman of the Young Academic Urologists Working Group of Endourology & Urolithiasis, represents a dynamic generation of female urologists who evolved and succeeded in a specialty still considered male- dominated. Professor Maria J Ribal, a highly experienced uro-oncologist from the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona and Chairwoman of the EAU Guidelines Office since 2021, embodies the long- term commitment and solidity that labels a true leader. Together, they engage in a forthright discussion that combines experience, mentorship and motivation.
From the beginning of the conversation, Prof. Ribal challenges the outdated impression of urology as “a man’s world.” She argues that gender imbalance in medicine reflects wider patterns seen across society - from politics to business and even sports. Dr. Pietropaolo echoes this belief, adding that the open- minded team culture she worked in multiplied the number of the women professionals, concluding that the real change must begin with social perceptions.
As the discussion progresses, I find myself
increasingly able to relate to it, as both doctors advise the youngest participants on how to construct a professional “leadership ladder”. According to Prof. Ribal, the key lies in a clear vision and in sustained long-term investment. She highlights the importance of believing in oneself and encourages us to invest in a vision through hard work and not to seek immediate rewards and recognition. Dr. Pietropaolo complements this perspective noting that leadership is built “step by step”. She advises us to get out of our comfort zone, broaden our network and cooperate with peers on team projects, sometimes at the expense of our personal time and effort.
The conversation then shifts toward the value of mentorship and support. Both speakers emphasize how guidance and sponsorship can make a momentous difference, especially for young women in academia. The two doctors encourage young urologists to seek mentorship, leadership programs, and training opportunities that foster emotional intelligence. They point out that leadership is about empathy - caring more about giving than taking, understanding others’ needs, and helping them reach their potential.
One of the most interesting moments in the podcast comes when Dr Pietropaolo asks Prof. Ribal whether she has ever felt uncomfortable or out of place in her profession. The Professor’s honest positive response contributes a human perspective to the conversation. She speaks about her perfectionism, her self-