SpineLine Back Page: Behind the Mask
Alex P. Michael, MD
In this month's Behind the Mask, Alex Michael gives us a peek at the habits and preferences that carry him through long clinic and OR days. Whether it's starting the day with a workout, relying on AI to reduce documentation burden, or unwinding with a round of golf, his responses are indicative of a steady, practical approach to work and life. It's a reminder that even in a demanding field, small routines can make all the difference.
What’s your go-to breakfast before a long day in the clinic or OR?
If I’m able to work out before clinic days and start with a protein shake. On OR days I either skip breakfast and eat between surgery or had two eggs over easy with toast.
What’s in your white coat pockets right now?
I carry only the bare minimum. A pen, a pen light and today's patient list.
Do you have any superstitions or rituals before a big case or a busy clinic day?
Before a big surgery, starting the right music playlist is a must.
OR (or commute) playlist: Silence, music, or podcast? What’s playing?
Pandora is typically playing and the station alternates from yacht rock, today’s country, 90s hits, and Christmas jazz depending on the season.
Go-to snack to stay fueled during a long shift?
Dark chocolate chip and peanut butter Perfect Bar
Favorite OR or clinic life hack?
My favorite clinic life hack right now is using Nuance DAX Copilot to generate my clinic notes automatically after patient encounters. It has been a major time-saver. More importantly, it lets me give patients my full attention instead of splitting my focus between the conversation and the computer. I’ve actually noticed better patient reviews as a result, because I can spend more time explaining my thinking and less time typing.
Favorite thing about an early morning start?
Having time to myself to exercise and feeling energized for the rest of the day.
If you had to do a TED Talk on a nonmedical topic, what would it be?
“How to use AI to make your life easier and more productive”
What’s the most surprising skill you have outside of medicine?
I developed a love for scuba diving on my honeymoon and went on to the PADI advanced open water certification.
Coffee, tea, or something else?
Espresso or the cleanest energy drink I can find.
First thing you do when you walk into the hospital or clinic each day?
Round on my patients in the hospital.
Do you collect anything?
I collect books with the hope of one day reading all the classics in retirement.
What book has had the biggest impact on you—medical or otherwise?
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
What’s a TV show or movie you’ve watched more times than you’d like to admit?
Lost is my most rewatched TV show from start to finish. My guilty pleasure movie is Fool’s Gold.
What’s your go-to way to unwind—hobby, sport, guilty pleasure?
Golf – such a peaceful yet frustrating sport wrapped into one
Are you a dog person, cat person, some other type of pet person, or none of the above?
Dog person. Our 11-year-old cockapoo was the best gift we’ve ever received.
If you had an extra hour in your day that wasn’t for work, how would you use it?
I’d use it for reading fiction or history
If you weren’t able to work in medicine, what completely different career would you choose?
Multifamily commercial real estate
What’s a song that always puts you in a good mood?
“Wouldn’t it be Nice” by the Beach Boys. But really, any Beach Boys.
What’s your favorite phone app?
Microsoft To Do List – religiously checked multiple times a day
What’s the best meal you’ve ever had?
Hands down the best meal was a 6-course at Don Geppi in Sorrento, Italy, to celebrate my 10-year wedding anniversary
What’s your favorite place you’ve traveled to?
Rome and the Amalfi coast. The mix of history, beauty, food, faith, and old-world craftsmanship is tough to top. It feels like a place that remembers civilization still matters.