Pediatric nephrologist, educator, and “Sheriff of Sodium” Dr. Bryan Carmody joins Dr. Ned Palmer for a candid deep dive into the world of medical education and residency selection. Known for his sharp analysis and willingness to challenge convention, Dr. Carmody offers a four-star review of the medical education system, praising the outcomes, but questioning the inefficiencies baked into the process.

Together, they explore the ripple effects of the USMLE Step 1 exam’s move to pass/fail, the evolving competitiveness of specialties like anesthesiology and pediatrics, and how international medical graduates fit into the shifting landscape. Dr. Carmody also weighs in on the growing presence of AI in residency applications.

As the conversation turns toward the future, Dr. Carmody highlights the urgent need to align medical education with real-world competencies and the expectations of residency programs. How can medical education evolve to meet the needs of both students and patients? And what happens when AI, equity, and efficiency collide in the residency match? This episode unpacks the complexities shaping the next generation of physicians.

Dr. Michael Jerkins and Dr. Ned Palmer tackle the pressing issues facing today’s physicians. From high turnover rates and burnout to the appeal of direct primary care models, they explore how doctors can regain autonomy, protect their well-being, and find balance in an increasingly complex and demanding healthcare landscape. They discuss the realities of hospital medicine, the pressures of episodic care, and the systemic factors driving many physicians to rethink their career paths.

What drives physicians to leave hospital medicine, and how can the next generation avoid the pitfalls of burnout? How can doctors navigate the nuances of job contracts and employment agreements while protecting their time and financial interests? And what lessons can be drawn from the evolving COVID-19 treatment pathways that highlight the need for flexibility and innovation in practice? Dr. Jerkins and Dr. Palmer break down these challenges with candid insights, real-world examples, and a mix of humor and practicality, offering actionable advice for physicians at every stage of their career.

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Pediatric and preventative cardiologist, endurance athlete, and social media influencer Dr. Derek Weyhrauch joins Dr. Michael Jerkins to share how intense physical challenges, like swimming from Alcatraz and competing in Ironman triathlons, have shaped his approach to medicine, stress management, and patient care.

He details his journey from medical school to becoming a leading voice in preventative cardiology, emphasizing the power of lifestyle changes in combating heart disease. He opens up about the art of balancing a demanding professional life with personal passions, and why exercise and being outdoors are like an antidote for the stress of medical training.

How can a physician truly leverage social media to fight a rising tide of health misinformation? And what happens when the conversation shifts from generalized advice to candid talk about topics like cholesterol and vaccines? They dig into the opportunities and challenges of connecting with a broader audience, why human connection and storytelling remain irreplaceable in healthcare, and the enduring value of being a physician who educates through digital platforms.