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The Black Doctors Podcast
Niching Down in Medicine: Beyond Sub-Specialization
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.
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29. Too Close to Care: Ethical Implications of Doctors Treating Family
22:00||Season 11, Ep. 29This episode of The Black Doctors Podcast explores the ethical challenges and implications of physicians treating their own family members, using various real-life examples and hypothetical scenarios. It discusses the pitfalls of professional objectivity, patient autonomy, and the necessity for proper documentation. The American Medical Association's Code of Ethics is cited, recommending against such practices except in emergencies or minor situations. The episode also emphasizes the importance of advocating for family members without overstepping professional boundaries. The host, Dr. Steven Bradley, concludes by urging physicians to consider the ethical and long-term implications before treating relatives, advocating for finding them independent medical care instead.Dr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.28. Residency Greenbook: Surviving and Thriving as URiM
29:54||Season 11, Ep. 28Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMIn this episode of the Black Doctor's Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a board-certified anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, delves into the systemic obstacles that brilliant and hardworking black doctors often face during their residency. These challenges include being systematically pushed out, gaslit, undermined, and isolated—factors that can deter even the most capable minority physicians. Dr. Bradley discusses the 'minority tax' as well as the problematic nature of 'professionalism' in medical training environments. He highlights the disproportionate dismissal rates of black residents, citing a Stat News investigation revealing that black residents make up only 5% of all residents but represent over 20% of dismissals, with black surgical residents being six times more likely to be dismissed than their white peers in 2015. He also shares his own personal experiences of facing similar issues during his residency at the University of Chicago, underlining the necessity of vigilance, documentation, and finding supportive networks. The episode ends with a call to action for attendees and senior residents to support minority residents and for minority residents to protect their mental health and professional image.Dr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.27. The True Cost of Becoming a Physician
17:24||Season 11, Ep. 27In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley gives an in-depth discussion on the significant costs associated with becoming a physician, targeting pre-medical students. The episode breaks down the financial expenses of medical education, including tuition, hidden fees, and loan interest. It also explores the emotional toll, mentioning stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout that medical students and residents frequently experience. Furthermore, Dr. Bradley discusses the physical strain and the social and relationship sacrifices involved in pursuing a medical career. He provides advice on financial planning, emotional resilience, and maintaining healthy habits. Despite the challenges, the episode emphasizes the meaningful and rewarding aspects of the medical profession, encouraging listeners to evaluate their motivations and prepare adequately for the journey ahead.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.26. The Cost of Being Exceptional: Are You Addicted to Success?
17:24||Season 11, Ep. 26In this episode of The Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley explores the concept of 'success addiction' and its impact on black and minority physicians. He compares the relentless pursuit of success to the harmful effects of substance addiction, highlighting the psychological toll of always striving to be exceptional. Dr. Bradley discusses the societal pressures faced by minority physicians, the concept of the 'hedonic treadmill,' and the cost of prioritizing career milestones over personal happiness and well-being. He reflects on his own journey towards finding fulfillment outside of his medical career and offers practical steps to reclaim happiness, repair relationships, and redefine success. Inspired by Arthur Brooks' article in The Atlantic, this episode is a call to find balance and value in ordinary, meaningful moments.‘Success Addicts’ Choose Being Special Over Being HappyInterested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.25. Pediatric Anesthesia 101: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
16:30||Season 11, Ep. 25In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, an anesthesiologist, critical care medicine physician, and clinical medical ethicist, offers guidance and reassurance to parents whose children are scheduled for surgery requiring anesthesia. Key topics include an overview of pediatric anesthesiology, the qualifications and training of pediatric anesthesiologists, and a detailed explanation of what parents and children can expect before, during, and after surgery. Dr. Bradley emphasizes the importance of preoperative evaluations, NPO guidelines (nothing by mouth), the role of different anesthesia team members, and preparing a child emotionally for surgery. He also addresses common parental concerns about anesthesia safety, pain management, and handling a child’s anxiety or special needs. The episode concludes with practical tips for parents and caregivers to help their child through the surgical process, including honest communication, bringing comfort items, and staying calm.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.24. Political Determinants of Health: Voting Because Your Life Depends on it
14:27||Season 11, Ep. 24In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley delves into the concept of political determinants of health, exploring how political decisions impact health outcomes and perpetuate disparities. The discussion highlights cases including the Trump administration's cuts to public health funding and RFK's recent overhaul of the CDC's Vaccine Advisory Committee. Dr. Bradley also shares a tragic story from Georgia regarding a pregnant nurse kept on life support against her family's wishes due to local abortion laws. The episode emphasizes the intersection of medical ethics and policy, urging clinicians to stay informed, educate others, advocate for science-based policies, and engage in the political process.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.23. Navigating Residency: A Survival Guide for New Physicians
22:40||Season 11, Ep. 23In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley offers guidance and practical advice for new physicians starting their residency. Reflecting on his own experiences, he emphasizes the importance of mindset, practical skills, and emotional resilience. Key highlights include strategies for handling imposter syndrome, the significance of being coachable and cautious, effective documentation practices, timely communication, and the invaluable role of nurses. Dr. Bradley also discusses the necessity of wellness routines, the daunting nature of medical codes, and the importance of mentorship. He concludes with encouraging words and resources to support new physicians, stressing the need to remember their 'why' and to savor the rewarding moments in their medical journey.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.22. A Pre-Medical Student's Guide to Research
16:18||Season 11, Ep. 22In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, an anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, offers insights on the importance of research for pre-med students. He discusses various types of research and their significance, and provides practical advice on how to find research opportunities, even with no prior experience. Dr. Bradley emphasizes the value of persistence and clear communication when reaching out to potential research mentors. He also highlights ways to make the most of your research experience and how to effectively talk about it in medical school applications. Additionally, the episode features a special project collaboration with Dr. Bianca Bush on helping students overcome test-taking anxiety. Dr. Bradley celebrates the podcast's five-year anniversary and thanks listeners for their support.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.21. Everything Need to Know about Dental Anesthesia (as a Patient)
10:36||Season 11, Ep. 21In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a board-certified anesthesiologist, discusses the various types of sedation used in dental procedures. He explains the purposes, benefits, and safety considerations of each type, including minimal, moderate, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. Dr. Bradley emphasizes the importance of proper training, monitoring, and equipment in ensuring patient safety, especially in children and medically complex patients. He also encourages patients to ask questions and be well-informed about their sedation options and care. Dr. Bradley ends by promoting resources for students dealing with test anxiety and highlights his ambient music album designed to aid relaxation.Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FMDr. Bianca Busch, Mindfulness Mantras or Listen on your favorite streaming platform 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.