Share

cover art for Niching Down in Medicine: Beyond Sub-Specialization

The Black Doctors Podcast

Niching Down in Medicine: Beyond Sub-Specialization

Season 11, Ep. 6
•

In this episode of the Black Doctor's Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a medical ethicist and critical care anesthesiologist, discusses the importance of creating a niche within your specialty as a physician. Whether you're a resident deciding your career path or an attending physician looking to expand your expertise, developing a niche can set you apart, enhance job satisfaction, and open new opportunities. Dr. Bradley outlines the significance of having a niche, how to identify and build one, and shares real-life examples and practical steps to overcome challenges along the way.


The episode also honors Dr. Alyce Gullattee during Black History Month, highlighting her contributions to psychiatry, substance abuse treatment, and social justice. Dr. Gullattee, a pioneering psychiatrist and addiction specialist at Howard University, dedicated her career to addressing mental health disparities and advocating for equitable treatment, particularly in underserved Black communities. Her legacy serves as an inspiring example of how targeting a niche can impact and transform medicine and society.


Dr. Bradley shares his own journey of developing niches in health equity research and bioethics, detailing the steps he took to build his brand and authority. He emphasizes assessing interests and strengths, identifying gaps in the field, leveraging past experiences, and seeking mentorship. The episode concludes with tips on how to create unique career opportunities within your niche, balancing it with your general practice, and staying relevant. Dr. Bradley encourages listeners to engage and share their experiences, offering ways to connect with him directly.


Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

 

Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  


Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 45. The CRISPR Conundrum: Sickle Cell, and Health Equity

    13:02||Season 11, Ep. 45
    Welcome to the Black Doctors Podcast with Dr. Steven Bradley, discussing the groundbreaking yet morally challenging first FDA-approved CRISPR therapy for sickle cell disease.Takeaways:1. The CRISPR therapy manipulates a patient's blood forming stem cells to increase fetal hemoglobin, significantly reducing pain crises and organ damage associated with sickle cell disease. However, the therapy costs around $2 million, plus additional hospitalization and treatment expenses.2. Access to this potentially transformative therapy raises ethical issues, including high costs, logistical complexities, and the fact that sickle cell disease disproportionately affects Black Americans. Many patients may not be able to navigate the path to treatment due to geographic and economic disparities.3. Proposed solutions include outcome-based payment models, specialized treatment centers with supporting infrastructure, and the need for transparent, inclusive processes to ensure equitable access. Pricing models must reflect the societal investment in public and charitable funding.Conclusion:Turning this scientific breakthrough into a social one requires moral and financial innovation. Affordable and accessible CRISPR therapy for sickle cell disease is not just beneficial—it’s an ethical necessity.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 44. Future of Medicine: 10 Tech Trends

    17:16||Season 11, Ep. 44
    Welcome back to the Black Doctors podcast with Dr. Steven Bradley, where we delve into the future of medicine. Today, we explore 10 significant trends that are already reshaping healthcare, impacting physicians, residents, medical students, and patients alike.Bullet Points:- Artificial Intelligence & Clinical Decision Support: AI is not replacing physicians but reshaping their roles, making data interpretation and ensuring ethical application crucial.- Precision Medicine & Genomics: Tailoring therapies based on genetic information promises better outcomes but requires addressing privacy and ethical concerns.- Telemedicine & Hybrid Care Models: Post-pandemic, virtual visits have become integral to healthcare, necessitating new skills in digital rapport and remote monitoring.Conclusion:Join Dr. Steven Bradley as he navigates through these transformative trends, underlining the importance of staying curious, adaptable, and grounded in the ever-evolving field of medicine. Tune in next week for more discussions on medical ethics and innovation.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 43. Ace Your Med School Interview: Authenticity and Confidence Hacks

    09:54||Season 11, Ep. 43
    Introduction:In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, an anesthesiologist and medical ethicist, shares valuable insights and strategies to help you prepare for your medical school interviews. From common interview questions to effective answering techniques, this episode is packed with tips to boost your confidence and authenticity.Takeaways:- Learn how to answer common interview questions using structured frameworks like past-present-future, STAR method, and ethical reasoning.- Understand the importance of tailoring your responses to reflect personal experiences and align with the specific mission and values of the medical school you're applying to.- Gain practical preparation tips such as mock interviews, recording and reviewing your performance, and setting up a professional environment for virtual interviews.Conclusion:Medical school interviews can be daunting, but they are also a unique opportunity to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Remember, it's about expressing your true self and demonstrating the empathy, resilience, and purpose that drive you. For more tips, or if you'd like additional practice scenarios, reach out through social media or the podcast website.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 42. Your Roadmap to a Safe Surgery: Key Questions for your Anesthesiologists

    10:22||Season 11, Ep. 42
    In this episode of The Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a double board-certified anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, discusses the importance of communicating with your anesthesiologist before surgery. He outlines key questions to ask to enhance understanding and comfort, covering topics such as types of anesthesia, pain management, and what to expect post-surgery. Dr. Bradley also emphasizes the need for patient transparency to ensure safety and improve outcomes.-Introduction: Dr. Steven Bradley explains the crucial role anesthesiologists play in surgery and the significance of the pre-surgery conversation.-Key Questions: He lists essential questions to ask, including types of anesthesia, pain management plans, and understanding the care team.-Preparation and Transparency: The importance of following preoperative instructions and being honest about health conditions and medications.Conclusion: Knowing what to ask your anesthesiologist can reduce anxiety and improve surgical outcomes. Dr. Bradley encourages patients to be informed and proactive in their healthcare journey.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 41. The Rise of AI in Medical Education: Promise and Predicament

    08:32||Season 11, Ep. 41
    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley explores the transformative yet challenging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical education. The discussion covers the potential benefits of AI, such as personalized learning and improved access to educational resources, as well as the ethical dilemmas it introduces, including bias, privacy concerns, and the erosion of critical thinking. Dr. Bradley emphasizes the need for ethical integration, responsible AI use policies, and the irreplaceable value of human mentorship and empathy in medical training.Key Takeaways:- AI offers personalized, adaptive learning and can democratize access to high-quality medical education worldwide.- Ethical concerns include potential biases in AI, privacy issues, and the risk of diminishing critical thinking and empathy in medical training.- Institutions must develop clear AI use policies, integrate ethics into the curriculum, ensure human oversight, and hold vendors accountable for transparency.Conclusion:AI can significantly enhance medical education by making it faster and broader, but the ultimate focus should remain on human elements like compassion and ethical judgment. Only human educators can truly mentor and instill the wisdom required for exceptional patient care.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 40. Speak Up, Save Lives: Building Safety and Effective Communication in Healthcare

    15:14||Season 11, Ep. 40
    Introduction: In this episode, Dr. Steven Bradley discusses the critical aspects of leadership in medicine, emphasizing the importance of intentional communication, setting clear goals, and fostering psychological safety within medical teams.Takeaways:1. Effective Communication: Leadership is about intentional communication and follow-through. Introduce yourself to the team, set clear expectations, and use closed-loop communication to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.2. Efficient Rounding: Adopt a structured approach to ICU rounds to ensure timely patient care. Spend about 3-5 minutes per stable patient and use micro-teaching moments to provide education without compromising patient care.3. Fostering Psychological Safety: Build an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable speaking up. Use plain language, give credit where it's due, and make sure all team members, including quieter voices, are heard.Conclusion: Leadership in medicine is not about titles but about daily practices that enhance patient safety and team efficiency. Tune in for next week's episode on medical ethics and check the show notes for information on Dr. Bradley's ambient music albums.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 39. Five Steps to Elevate Your Med School Application

    14:50||Season 11, Ep. 39
    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley discusses how pre-medical students can build an extracurricular portfolio that impresses medical school admissions committees, even without relying on GPA or MCAT scores. Dr. Bradley outlines a five-pillar blueprint and offers a 90-day action plan to help students demonstrate their readiness for a career in medicine. Key takeaways include the importance of quality over quantity in activities, the significance of consistent and impactful experiences, and the value of targeted roles in clinical exposure, underserved service, research, leadership, and advocacy. Additionally, practical advice is provided on packaging these experiences for the AMCAS application, securing strong letters of recommendation, and navigating potential pitfalls.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 38. Trust Matters: Navigating Medicine as a Patient in the Age of Misinformation

    14:38||Season 11, Ep. 38
    Trust Matters: Navigating Medicine as a Patient in the Age of MisinformationIntroduction: In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, host Dr. Steven Bradley, a critical care anesthesiologist and medical ethicist, focuses on how patients can find trustworthy physicians amidst the overwhelming and often misleading information prevalent in today's media.- Credentials and Training: Dr. Bradley emphasizes the importance of verifying a physician's credentials and training through board certifications and educational backgrounds to ensure they meet rigorous standards.- Transparency and Communication: A trustworthy physician should provide clear explanations, listen to concerns, and respect the patient's input, fostering a partnership rather than a paternalistic approach.- Recognizing Red Flags: Dr. Bradley explains the warning signs such as miracle cures, fear tactics, reluctance to second opinions, and conflicts of interest that patients should be wary of.Conclusion: By following these guidelines, patients can build a trusting relationship with their physicians, allowing for better healthcare outcomes. Dr. Bradley encourages listeners to be proactive in seeking reliable healthcare guidance and utilizing their physicians as valuable partners in their health journey.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

  • 37. Online Presence, Real-World Consequences: A Doctor's Guide

    13:16||Season 11, Ep. 37
    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley discusses the implications of social media usage for healthcare professionals and others. Highlighting recent cases and guidelines from professional organizations, Dr. Bradley emphasizes the importance of mindful posting and the potential career risks associated with online behavior. He presents actionable strategies to protect oneself online and underscores the fine line between free speech and professional responsibility.- INTRO: Dr. Steven Bradley discusses the dangers of social media for medical professionals, citing recent cases of job loss due to online posts.- TAKEWAYS: 1. Hospitals and healthcare providers may take swift action against posts that are deemed unprofessional or controversial. 2. The American Medical Association and other organizations provide guidelines focusing on confidentiality, professionalism, and avoiding conflicts of interest. 3. Effective strategies include knowing employer policies, using the “headline test” before posting, separating personal and professional accounts, and avoiding posting about patient care or while at work.- CONCLUSION: Social media can enhance or harm your career; being intentional and mindful is crucial for preserving your professional reputation.Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount! If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.