John Launer, educator, writer, and retired family physician and family therapist, joins us from across the pond just outside London, UK to discuss his career and the state of the narrative-based medicine field. John shares examples from his own career where he’s witnessed the power of narrative at work in clinical settings, reminding us about the importance of allowing stories to develop, flow, and breathe in order to see patients as human beings first.

He also shares thoughts on the possibilities offered by AI in general practice and how it might be a narrative tool. John’s recommended reading is Fighting for the Soul of General Practice: The Algorithm Will See You Now by Rupal Shah and Jens Foell.

About Our Guest:

John Launer is a retired family physician and family therapist, now working as a full-time educator and writer. He is also a member of the NBM Lab’s International Advisory Board. John has taught internationally on the application of narrative ideas and skills to medical practice including patient encounters, supervision, and teamwork.

His posts include Honorary Lifetime Consultant at the Tavistock Clinic in London and Honorary Associate Professor at University College London. He is the author or editor of ten books including Narrative-Based Practice in Health and Social Care: Conversations Inviting Change and writes a regular column for the British Medical Journal (BMJ).

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Follow “NBM Talks” for future episodes, where we explore the transformative impact and reach of narrative-based medicine with talented guests. Visit the ⁠Narrative-Based Medicine Lab⁠ to learn about our work and offerings.