In this gripping episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, former CDC leader and infectious disease expert, about the deepening crisis inside America’s public health institutions. Dr. Daskalakis recounts the CDC shooting tragedy that left Officer David Rose dead and staff traumatized, while exposing how misinformation, ideology, and political control are dismantling scientific integrity from within. He explains how the CDC has lost much of its leadership, credibility, and expertise, and warns of a “dark age” for public health. They discuss the emotional toll on physicians, the parallels to authoritarian regimes, and how doctors can fight back through truth-telling, professional solidarity, and self-care. A sobering yet hopeful call to action for the medical community, and anyone who believes science still matters.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com  

In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, infectious disease physician and former CDC leader, about his decision to resign amid growing concerns over the agency’s politicization and loss of scientific independence.   Dr. Daskalakis describes troubling internal changes at the CDC, from abrupt vaccine policy shifts to the removal of expert committees and replacement by conspiracy voices—and how these moves are crippling public health infrastructure. Together, he and Rob unpack how political interference, mass layoffs, and disinformation are threatening public trust and physician safety alike.   A revealing and urgent conversation about science, policy, and the future of public health in America.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

In the final episode of this two-part series, host Dr. Rob Beck continues his thought-provoking conversation with Stephen Marche, author of The Next Civil War and The Last Election. They explore how political violence, institutional decay, and societal polarization in the United States are beginning to impact physicians and healthcare professionals. Marche outlines how doctors can become targets in unstable societies, while Rob shares his personal reflections on moving to Canada for safety and stability after witnessing crises firsthand. The discussion ends with a powerful call to self-awareness and preparation, for doctors, families, and citizens navigating an uncertain future. A fitting conclusion to a compelling two-part exploration of politics, safety, and the human side of practicing medicine in turbulent times.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

In this powerful episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Stephen Marche, author of The Next Civil War and The Last Election, about America’s growing political and social fractures. They dive into Marche’s research on political violence, institutional decay, and the global warning signs that mirror past societal collapses. From the perspective of a Canadian observer, Marche offers a unique, unsettling view of the U.S.’s trajectory, and what it means for professionals like doctors who are increasingly feeling the impact in their daily lives. Equal parts analysis and reflection, this conversation explores how instability shapes health, safety, and civic life, and asks: what will it take for real change?   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

From small family business to world-class destination, Marina Pasquini has redefined hospitality in Riccione, Italy. I n this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck visits the Hotel Belvedere to talk with Marina about her journey from taking over the hotel at age 19 to building a one-of-a-kind haven for cyclists, families, and wellness seekers. They discuss the evolution of the Belvedere, its cycling programs (ranging from casual to elite-level rides), spa and wellness amenities, and the joy of bringing people together through food, travel, and shared experiences. A heartfelt and inspiring story about entrepreneurship, hospitality, and the magic of creating community, Italian style.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Student loan debt is one of the biggest sources of burnout among doctors, and it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Andrew Paulson, co-founder of studentloanadvice.com, about navigating repayment, forgiveness, and new legislative changes affecting medical professionals.   They unpack the emotional weight of debt, how to qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and what the OBA Act means for future borrowers. Andrew also shares real success stories, including a client who had $500,000 in parent PLUS loans forgiven.   If you’re a physician, dentist, or student struggling under student loan pressure, this episode offers clarity, strategy, and a reminder: you’re not alone, and there’s a way out.   Learn more or get help at https://studentloanadvice.com/   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Preventative health isn’t optional, it’s essential. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, host Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Maryam Zeineddin, family physician and founder of Zili Care, about her mission to close the gaps in mainstream medicine by focusing on holistic, proactive wellness. They explore the CARE Formula, a framework for calming the mind, moving the body, reinforcing healthy habits, and engaging the soul. Dr. Zeineddin shares how her own experiences with burnout inspired this work, the importance of community education, and the small daily steps that create resilience and balance. A heartfelt, practical episode for anyone, especially healthcare professionals, who wants to prevent burnout, set healthier boundaries, and rediscover joy in both work and life.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

What do neurosurgery and Hollywood have in common? For Dr. Oren Gottfried, quite a lot. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, host Dr. Rob Beck sits down with the Duke neurosurgeon who’s consulted on more than 70 medical dramas, including The Good Doctor and Chicago Med.   They explore how Dr. Gottfried helps writers shape stories, reviews scripts line by line, and even steps into occasional acting roles—all while balancing a demanding surgical career. He shares candid insights on accuracy vs. entertainment, the power of medical storytelling, and why this creative work is less about money and more about inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.   A fascinating look at the intersection of medicine, creativity, and culture.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com  

Good news for U.S. doctors: Ontario has made it much easier to practice medicine across the border. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, host Dr. Rob Beck talks with Samantha Tulipano from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) about the updated registration policies. Samantha breaks down: The removal of old supervision and site restrictions New independent license pathways for board-certified U.S. physicians Options for board-eligible doctors still within five years of residency How the CPSO portal streamlines the application process They also cover CME requirements, immigration considerations, and practical advice to help you get started. This episode is a must-listen for U.S. physicians looking for new opportunities in Canada.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com  

After 15 years in academic medicine, Dr. Laurel Fick walked away, burned out and disillusioned with corporate healthcare. Today, she runs Niche Medical, a micro practice in Indianapolis where she provides prevention-focused, highly personalized care, on her own terms. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, host Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Fick about her journey out of the system, what it’s really like to run a solo practice, and how she fell back in love with medicine. She shares insights on burnout, lifestyle medicine, and creating space for innovation, along with advice for doctors considering their own exit from the traditional model. This is a must-listen for any physician searching for balance, freedom, and a reminder that practicing medicine differently is possible.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Family medicine in British Columbia is changing—and it could be the opportunity many U.S. physicians are looking for. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, host Rob Beck speaks with Dr. Maryam Zeineddin, a West Vancouver family physician and clinic co-owner, about her path into medicine and the transformation happening in BC healthcare.   They dive into the new Longitudinal Family Practice (LFP) model, the realities of work-life balance, and how systemic changes are addressing burnout while improving care. Dr. Zeineddin also shares her personal journey from Iran to Canada, the challenges of being a woman physician, and advice for U.S. doctors considering the move north.   A must-listen for anyone curious about physician wellness, health system reform, or practicing medicine in Canada.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

From med school rugby matches to leading telemedicine innovation, Dr. David Guidry has seen it all. In this episode of the Interesting MD Podcast, he joins host Rob Beck to explore the rise of tele-ICU care and how Intermountain Health has pioneered critical care delivery to rural hospitals.   Dr. Guidry explains how telemedicine boosts local provider confidence, reduces mortality, and transforms patient outcomes, all while keeping care close to home. He also shares his own transition into physician leadership, with candid advice on balancing clinical work, administrative roles, and personal growth.   Perfect for physicians exploring telehealth, leadership, or the future of rural care delivery.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Emergency doc. Elite triathlete. Bike-course crusher. Dr. Mallory Pullman wears a lot of hats, and in this episode of the Interesting MD Podcast, she joins Rob Beck to recap their experience racing the T100 Triathlon in Vancouver. They explore how the T100 series is changing the game for triathlon, offering better media coverage, pro-level competition, and a fan-friendly course layout. From strong race results and pro sightings to gear misfires and orca cameos, this episode covers it all. Dr. Pullman also shares what’s next in her racing season and how she balances elite endurance sports with life in the ER. Whether you're an athlete, physician, or both, this one’s for you.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Feeling burned out in the U.S. medical system? Dr. Olga Decker was too, until she made the leap to British Columbia. In this episode of the Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Decker shares her powerful story: from immigrating from Ukraine to practicing medicine during Hurricane Katrina, to finally finding peace and purpose as a physician in Kamloops, BC. She dives into why she left U.S. medicine, citing burnout, long hours, and school safety concerns, and gives an incredibly helpful breakdown of the immigration and licensure process for physicians considering a similar move. Rob Beck and Dr. Decker offer practical advice, encouragement, and reassurance for doctors who are ready for a better work-life balance and a more supportive healthcare system.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

From small-town roots to full-circle service, Dr. Peter Crane shares how he returned to practice medicine in the same Idaho community where he was born. In this heartfelt episode, Rob Beck and Dr. Crane talk rural healthcare, burnout, medical missions in Uganda, and how a rare tumor diagnosis transformed his perspective. Now the host of Doctors Making a Difference, Dr. Crane opens up about the power of personal storytelling, reflection, and setting boundaries to stay grounded. This is an episode about medicine, mission, and meaning, and what it looks like to truly make a difference, even in the most remote places.Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Thinking about moving your medical career to Canada? Rob Beck did it—and in this episode, he shares exactly how. Joined by Todd Maffin, Canada’s unofficial hype man, Rob unpacks what it’s really like to leave the U.S. healthcare system and start fresh in British Columbia. They cover licensing, job hunting, cultural shifts, and the perks of Canadian life—from healthcare to hockey. If you're a physician eyeing a move north (or just curious), this episode offers both a roadmap and a real-world take on making it happen. Warm, honest, and packed with practical tips.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Dr. Erica Howe knows what burnout feels like, and she’s on a mission to help other women physicians avoid it. In this episode of Interesting MD, Rob Beck sits down with the founder of the Women Physicians Wellness Conference to talk about career pivots, entrepreneurship, and why community matters more than ever.   They dive into Dr. Howe’s journey from academic hospitalist to wellness advocate, the hidden pressures facing women in medicine, and the small steps that lead to big changes. Whether you’re a doctor, entrepreneur, or just someone figuring out how to juggle a full life, this episode is full of honesty, insight, and inspiration.   Let’s talk boundaries, burnout, and building something better.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Burnout isn’t always obvious—sometimes it’s quiet, gradual, and devastating. Dr. Brett Cordes, otolaryngologist and founder of The Burnout Doc, joins host Dr. Rob Beck to share his journey through physician burnout, opiate addiction, and recovery.   In this raw, powerful conversation, Dr. Cordes reflects on the early warning signs of burnout, how his professional unhappiness turned into a five-year addiction, and how he ultimately found purpose again by stepping away from clinical work to coach other doctors.   They discuss the cultural and systemic issues in medicine that keep physicians silent, the mental traps that make burnout worse, and how doctors can begin to heal—before it's too late. If you're feeling stuck, questioning your path, or just want a dose of honesty about medicine’s darker side, this episode will resonate.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

From Carnival to the Four Seasons: what’s the real difference in cruise lines—and is luxury cruising actually worth it? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis, board-certified pediatrician and host of the Luxury Cruising podcast, joins Dr. Rob Beck on The Interesting MD to break it all down. They cover everything from cruise affordability and convenience to the VIP perks of luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn. Dr. Sodaitis shares personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips for picking the right cruise based on your travel goals, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re a cruise skeptic or planning your next voyage, this episode will open your eyes to the joy of life at sea—and why travel might be one of the best medicines for burnout.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com

What do mountain rescue, space medicine, and filmmaking have in common? Dr. Howard Donner. In this episode of The Interesting MD, host Dr. Rob Beck talks with the high-altitude physician, pilot, and NASA consultant about his extraordinary path through wilderness medicine and beyond.   Dr. Donner shares how his love for adventure shaped his career, from guiding rivers and flying planes in Telluride to designing medical kits for astronauts. He opens up about imposter syndrome, career pivots, and the value of taking risks outside the traditional clinical path.   Perfect for anyone feeling stuck or burned out in medicine, this episode offers a bold reminder: your career can be as unconventional and exciting as you’re willing to make it.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ Have a content suggestion?Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact meEmail us at Rob@interestingmd.com