Nights as an FY1 can feel endless but you don’t have to figure it out alone. In this episode, we share practical tips, survival hacks, and honest advice to help you stay safe, look after yourself, and keep your patients well cared for when the hospital goes quiet (but your bleep definitely doesn’t).
Listen now and start your nights with confidence.
In this episode of our So, you're about to be an F1?' mini series, fellow F1 Dr Asano discusses common medical and surgical bleeps we get during on-call shifts.
We share tips to get you through the dreaded bleep!
Check out our other episodes so that you step on to the ward feeling more prepared.
Join me as I sit down with my Educational Supervisor, UGI Consultant Surgeon Miss Owers, for a candid and inspiring conversation about life as a general surgeon. We discuss the real day-to-day of surgical practice, the evolving nature of the specialty, what makes a standout CV, and how aspiring surgeons can navigate training with purpose and resilience. Whether you're considering a surgical career or already in the thick of it, this episode is packed with honest insights and advice you won’t want to miss.
Considering an F3 year abroad? You're not alone! Since 2017, over 50% of UK doctors have taken a break after foundation training, with Australia being a top destination. But is it all it's cracked up to be? Dr. Alexander Dereham joins us to discuss the F3 trend, life as a doctor in Australia, and how to navigate the move. Listen now!
In the fiercely competitive world of UK specialty training, the F3 year has transformed from a simple break to a strategic game-changer for many doctors. But which path should you take? One of the most coveted options? The Clinical Teaching Fellowship.
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Teddy, a doctor who embarked on an F3 year as a Clinical Teaching Fellow in geriatrics. Together, we unravel why so many doctors are turning to this option, how it stacks up against other F3 choices, and if it truly gives you the upper hand in specialty training applications. We dive deep into the realities of salary, workload, and the delicate balance between teaching and clinical duties.
If you’re navigating the uncertainty of your next steps after F2, this episode will change the way you see your future. Don’t miss it!
Making friends as an adult can be tough. Throw in a high-pressure environment like the hospital, professional expectations, and the experience of being an international doctor, and it can feel even harder.
In this episode of Friendship Rx: Making Connections on the Ward, we’re speaking to those who struggle to form friendships, whether you’re naturally introverted, hesitant about workplace dynamics, or adjusting to a new country and culture.
My friend and colleague Eetienne, a doctor who studied in Newcastle but grew up in Malaysia, shares her experience navigating friendships in medicine, the challenges of connecting with colleagues, and what has helped her build meaningful relationships at work.
If you’ve ever found it hard to make friends especially in a professional setting, this one’s for you
Did med school really prepare you for life as a junior doctor? In this episode, we debunk common myths and discuss what actually helps (or doesn’t) when transitioning from medical school to the NHS. From navigating ward rounds to dealing with your first bleep, our guest shares real-life experiences and hard-earned lessons. Whether you're a med student or a newly qualified doctor, this one's for you!
🔔 Don’t forget to follow and leave a review!
Speaking up in the medical profession can be daunting, especially in the early years of training. In this episode, I sit down with Dr Isabelle Wood, an F2 doctor in the Northwest, to discuss the challenges junior doctors face when voicing concerns, advocating for patients, and navigating hierarchical structures. We explore why it feels difficult to speak up, how to overcome these hesitations, and practical advice for making your voice heard in a supportive and effective way.
Whether you're a junior doctor, medical student, or healthcare professional, this conversation will inspire you to find the confidence to speak up when it matters most.
In this episode of A Doctor’s Insight, I’m joined by Dr Ellen Rowe, an F2 in the East Midlands, to discuss the key to not just surviving, but thriving during medical rotations. Whether you’re a new junior doctor or looking to make a lasting impression, we’ll share actionable advice on how to:
✔️ Navigate new environments with confidence
✔️ Build strong relationships with your team 🏥
✔️ Manage your workload without burning out
✔️ Go above and beyond to truly stand out
With real-world tips, relatable stories, and practical insights, this episode will give you the tools to succeed in any rotation.
A Doctor’s Insight is Back!
Welcome to 2025 with a brand-new episode of A Doctor’s Insight!
FY1 Dr. Parmis Vafapour and I dive deep into her first-day experience as a junior doctor, unpacking:
✔️ The nerves and excitement the night before
✔️ “Sink or swim” moments on day one
✔️ Lessons learned and advice for new doctors
From funny stories to stressful challenges, this episode is an honest look at the rollercoaster of emotions that come with stepping into the world of medicine.
In this episode, I chat with the Medical Director of East Anglian Air Ambulance, and PHEM consultant Dr Victor Inyang.
We explore the shift routine of a flight doctor, learn how they manage cognitive bandwidth to avoid overload on scene and delve into some of the most challenging and dramatic cases they've encountered, and the incredible teamwork that makes it all possible. Plus, get insider tips on crafting a standout portfolio to secure a coveted training post.
In this episode, we've compiled the best advice from some of our amazing guests that has shaped their careers as clinicians. Tune in to hear these game-changing tips and get inspired by the wisdom shared by:
Dr Payne - Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Dr Kyle - GP
Mr Carleton-Bland - Neurosurgeon
Dr Aung - Cardiologist
Mr Marsden - Plastic Surgery
Whether you're a seasoned clinician or just starting out, these insights are sure to resonate. Don't miss out on this treasure trove of practical wisdom!
In this episode, the lovely Dr Reema Chawla, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon tells us about what it takes to not only become a plastic surgeon but be successful in the field.
Dr Chawla also gives a handful of tips about how to navigate choosing the specialty most suited to you!
This episode is a bit different from our usual. In Episode 3, our most listened to podcast guest Dr Kyle highlighted the journey to becoming a GP and what the role entailed.
One year later, Dr Kyle is back to talk about the most contentious topics in GP land.
Topics discussed:
- GP appointment waiting times
- Delays in accessing care
- Allied healthcare professionals
- The existing physician associate tension
and more!
We also have our FIRST EVER GIVEAWAY hidden within the episode so listen to carefully to make sure you don't miss out!
In this episode, Dr Mahdi, founder of the educational platform Blood Academy, talks to us about what the life of a Consultant Haematologist is like.
You'll learn about the treatment advances in haematological malignancies, the work/life balance and advice on preparing to apply for a Haematology post.
Visit Blood Academy on Instagram for educational info about all things Haematology
Don't forget to like and leave a review
In this episode, Dr Jeremy Chan, an ST3 in Cardiothoracic Surgery shares his experiences of navigating this notoriously competitive specialty. He shares the challenges of entering a competitive training program, the profound rewards of the profession, insights on crafting a compelling CV, and valuable advice on maintaining a balanced life amidst the demanding field of medicine. Tune in to gain firsthand knowledge and practical tips from a medical expert who continues to navigate the complexities of Cardiothoracic surgery.
In this episode of "A Doctor's Insight," join us as we delve into the world of trauma and orthopaedic surgery with consultant T&O surgeon Mr Kassam who is not only skilled in the operating room but also passionate about leadership. Discover his inspiring journey, the reasons behind choosing this specialty, and gain valuable insights on standing out to secure a training number. Whether you're a student or a medical professional, this episode offers practical advice and a unique perspective on excelling in the field.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into Dr Michelle Ting's journey to becoming an Oculoplastic Surgery. It wasn't always her plan but something inspired her along the way, listen to find out what it was.
Discussion points:
- choosing a surgical vs medical specialty
- optimising your CV
- experiencing medical training abroad
- general advice
Leave us a review or feedback to let us know what we're doing well and what can be improved!
In this episode, Consultant Oncologist Dr Ricky Frazer talks to us about his experiences as an Oncologist and introduces a positive perspective on a specialty traditionally stigmatised as "depressing".
Topics discussed:
- Novel cancer treatments including immunotherapy
- Improvements in patient prognosis
- Continuity of care
- Exploring non-medical interests
- Doctor through a patient lens https://blogs.bmj.com/bmj/2018/08/29/ricky-frazer-doctor-through-the-patient-lens/
Please rate our show
Share with friends and colleagues
Leave your thoughts in the box below
Join our mailing list - https://forms.gle/GfLFaaqeWByxrM9E6
What doesn't Dr Ami Jones MBE do?
In this episode, we talk about her journey to becoming a consultant in each of these specialties and her involvement in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Dr Jones explains how one week is never the same, letting us in the most and least exciting parts of her job plan.
Topics Discussed:
- training pathways for ITU, Anaesthetics and PHEM
- boosting your CV
- common patient presentations
- what personality best suits these jobs
- what she would have done differently on her journey and how you can avoid having those regrets
