“Over time, I’ve realized that being a happy doctor isn’t just about the science, it is also about having the skills and tools to lead with purpose, to feel fulfilled and to make a real impact.”
LEADderm is a pioneering leadership movement in dermatology, founded in 2024 to inspire, connect and empower professionals across the specialty.
Through an innovative annual conference and a growing community, LEADderm brings together clinicians, academic leaders and industry partners to explore the skills and mindset needed to build meaningful, sustainable careers.
Focusing on leadership development, emotional intelligence, community building, diversity and emerging innovations, LEADderm goes beyond traditional medical education to foster purpose, connection and inclusivity. Its mission is to equip dermatology professionals with practical tools and fresh perspectives, enabling them to lead with intention, contribute positively to their communities and help shape their careers and future in dermatology.
In this interview we sit down with Dr Jennifer Soung, Director of Clinical Research, Southern California Dermatology and Founder and Chair of LEADderm to learn more.
LEADderm is for all members of the dermatology community, from physicians (MDs and DOs) to nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
Honestly, I think we already have plenty of dermatology meetings. What I felt was missing was a dedicated space to explore the aspects of our lives and careers that go beyond the science of medicine. Over time, I’ve realized that being a happy doctor isn’t just about the science, it is also about having the skills and tools to lead with purpose, to feel fulfilled and to make a real impact.
At LEADderm, dermatologists and others working in the field can explore new ideas, hear powerful stories and build meaningful connections that spark fresh ways of thinking and support their professional and personal growth.
Each year, I carefully curate a new agenda, and every faculty member brings powerful stories and messages to share.
This year, we focused on Power in Partnerships, because mentorship, sponsorship and allyship aren’t just nice-to-haves, they are what truly drive change in dermatology. During the meeting, we heard compelling stories from our faculty about how these relationships have shaped their lives, alongside a panel of leaders from academia and industry who explored how partnerships make us stronger together.
There were many highlights, including a workshop and self-assessment designed to help attendees examine their own leadership skills through a fresh approach that not only drives results, but also builds genuine human connection.
Dr Adam Friedman presented From Creativity to Cream, exploring how to bring science to life through inventorship, followed by Dr Sandra Lee, who shared her perspectives on balancing personality with professionalism.
We also heard from Denise Mann, Content Director of Dermatology Digest, who discussed how to build media relationships that educate and empower, and Dr Bonnie Koo, a dermatologist and life coach, who spoke about redefining wealth through peace, purpose and plenty of cash.
LEADderm is not just another conference. We see LEADderm as a movement to create a circle of friends, mentors and future leaders.
Looking ahead, we are developing a brand-new agenda for 2026 and expanding our reach to engage even more dermatologists and residents.
Save the date: 29 August 2026 at the Pendry, Newport Beach, California, USA.
Dermatologists and other healthcare professionals can get involved by signing up for the LEADderm newsletter at www.LEADderm.org and by following LEADderm on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay up to date with news, events and community updates.
Disclosures: This short article was prepared by touchDERMATOLOGY in collaboration with Dr Soung. No fees or funding were associated with its publication.
Dr Jennifer Soung has served as a speaker, consultant and/or investigator for AbbVie, Alumis, Aslan, Amgen, Arcutis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, Dermavant, Eli Lilly, Galderma, Incyte, Johnson & Johnson, KoBio Labs, LEO Pharma, Novartis, Ortho Dermatologics, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi and UCB.
Cite: J Soung. Being a happy doctor goes beyond the science: The LEADderm movement. TouchDERMATOLOGY, 20 January 2026
About Dr Jennifer Soung
Dr Soung is a board-certified dermatologist and Director of Clinical Research at Southern California Dermatology, Santa Ana, CA, USA. Her clinical focus is on medical dermatology and chronic autoimmune skin diseases, with a strong interest in diverse skin tones and improving healthcare access in underserved communities. Dr Soung serves as Clinical Faculty at Harbor–University of California, Los Angeles, and sits on the Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation.
https://www.leadderm.org/about
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