The IMG Roadmap Podcast

By Dr. Nina LumBusiness Careers

The IMG Roadmap Podcast episodes

April 14, 2023121. The One Thing IMG's Applying This September Must Consider.
Quick Pause!
The IMG Roadmap Program is back, bigger and better in 2023! Click here to join the 2023 cohort as you build your medical success story.
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As an IMG preparing for the USMLE, you may have concerns about the recent changes to Step 1 scoring, which has shifted from a numeric score to pass/fail. This change has both advantages and disadvantages, especially for IMGs who need to demonstrate their competitiveness in the match process.
Here are the highlights discussed in this episode:
IMGs may have concerns about recent changes to USMLE Step 1 scoring, which has shifted to pass/fail.

Previously, Step 1 scores were used to showcase competitiveness, but now IMGs may lose that opportunity.

Focus on obtaining a high score on Step 2, as it may become a new filtering criteria for program directors.

Other aspects of your application, such as volunteering, research, and observerships, are still important.

Consider enrolling in the six-week coaching course, IMG Roadmap, for expert guidance on mastering the USMLE steps and successful matching.

Benefits of the course include study partners, emphasis on question banks, and manageable time commitment.

Check out a free resource at DrNinaLum.com/webinars for pitfalls to avoid during the match process.

Coaching enrollment is open for April cohort, starting on April 23rd with orientation on April 17th.

Visit DrNinaLum.com/testimonials to hear past student reviews.

With the right strategies and preparation, IMGs can still showcase competitiveness and match into desired residency program despite changes in Step 1 scoring.

As you consider whether to join the upcoming April cohort, I invite you to check out a free resource at DrNinaLum.com/webinar, where you can learn about the worst pitfalls to avoid during the match process. Coaching enrollment is now open, starting on April 23rd with orientation on April 17th. Don't just take my word for it, visit DrNinaLum.com/testimonials to hear what past students have to say about the course. Their reviews may surprise you!
Remember, while the changes to Step 1 scoring may seem daunting, with the right strategies and preparation, you can still showcase your competitiveness and successfully match into your desired residency program.

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Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts and Spotify.
17 min
April 02, 2023 120. From India to the Match: Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya's Journey to Residency at Mount Sinai (IMG Roadmap Series #113)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Transitioning to the US medical system as an international medical graduate (IMG) can be a daunting task. However, with careful planning and preparation, it can be a successful journey. In this blog post, we will share the story of an IMG who accepted apre-match offer at Mount Sinai in pediatrics, and provide tips and recommendations for IMGs who are starting their own journey. Keep listening to find out more!

Here are some of the highlights of this episode:
Guest: Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya, a recent international medical graduate who matched into a pediatrics residency at Mount Sinai.
Overview: In this episode, Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya shares her journey to matching into apediatrics residency in the US. She talks about her experience taking the USMLE exams, preparing for the match process, and dealing with online interviews due
to COVID-19. She also offers tips and advice for other IMGs who are navigating
the same journey.
Key Points:
Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya graduated medical school in March 2021 and was supposed to apply for the match, but due to COVID-19 disrupting the exam process, she had to push her application to the following year.
She used this time to take the USMLE Step 1, 2, and 3 and do more observerships.
She studied usingresources like Uworld, Firstaid, Pathoma, Sketchy, OnlineMedEd, and CCScases.com.
Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya had to deal with time differences for interviews and contact since she is in India while preparing for the match, but it was manageable in the end.
Her program agreed to sponsor an H1B visa for her.
Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya's advice for other IMGs includes starting the journey as early as possible, finding a good mentor to guide them, doing lots of research, volunteering, and gaining relevant clinical experience, and tailoring their application to the specialty of their interest.
She encourages IMGs to have confidence and believe in themselves and not to give up despite
discouraging circumstances.
Closing: Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya's journey is proof that with determination and hard work, IMGs can match into residency programs in the US. Her advice and tips are invaluable to those who are navigating the same journey.

You can reach out to Dr. Chaitanya @Paneer__tikka on Instagram.

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Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts⁠, ⁠Google podcasts⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠.

36 min
March 26, 2023119. Out of the Box: Dr. Toyosi Adeoye's Tips for Securing a Medical Residency with a Non-Traditional Background (IMG Roadmap Series #112)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Are you worried that your non-traditional background would keep you back during your application for US medical residency? Tune in to find out how Dr. Toyosi Adeoye was able to defy the odds and score a medical residency in the competitive field of obstetrics and gynecology!

Here are some of the highlights of the episode:
Introduction to Dr. Toyosi Adeoye, a Nigerian medical doctor who started medical school at the age of 16 with a non-traditional medical background.

Dr. Adeoye's journey through medical school, including relocating due to a hurricane and doing clinical rotations in Chicago.

The challenges Dr. Adeoye faced due to her non-traditional background, and how she worked to overcome them by participating in extracurricular activities and volunteering.

Dr. Adeoye's advice for preparing for medical exams, including studying for exams, doing practice tests, and working on weak points.

Dr. Adeoye's advice for applying for a medical residency, including rotating in the specialty, getting research done, accumulating volunteer experience, and getting a mentor.

Dr. Adeoye's experience applying for a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, including the letters of recommendation she obtained.

Dr. Adeoye's final advice for those with non-traditional medical backgrounds looking to score a residency: don't self-reject, be kind to yourself, and give yourself a fighting chance.
You can reach out to Dr. Toyosi on either of her instagram accounts @Medictey and @Toyosi__a
*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts, ⁠⁠Google podcasts ⁠and ⁠Spotify⁠.
41 min
March 19, 2023118. Crucial Contract Considerations for Physicians: Insights from a Leading Lawyer Michael Johnson esq. (IMG Roadmap series #111)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Introduction: It's important for physicians to understand the legal aspects of their employment contracts.

Guest speaker: Michael Johnson, an experienced lawyer who specializes in physician contracts.

Three crucial things physicians should know before signing a contract:
Residency contracts are typically non-negotiable, but it's important to find out if your contract allows for moonlighting.

For your first attending contract, it's essential to start familiarizing yourself with the kind of contract you're looking for and making the necessary calls from the spring of the previous year.

If you're on a visa, it's important to understand the timeline and how to terminate your contract to avoid complicated litigation.

Compensation: Physicians should carefully review their contracts to prevent employers from exploiting loopholes. A good contract should be easy to understand, and a lawyer can guide physicians to negotiate for a phantom hourly rate for a fixed set of responsibilities.

Johnson advises physicians to reach out to colleagues and ask questions before signing a contract.

Conclusion: Understanding physician contracts is crucial for every physician, and working with a lawyer who specializes in physician contracts can provide valuable insights and guidance. Physicians should carefully review their contracts, ask questions, and seek legal help if needed to protect themselves and their careers.

You can reach out to Michael Johnson esq. via:
His Instagram @physicancontracts
His website physiciancontracts.com.
*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts, ⁠⁠Google podcasts⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠.
43 min
March 12, 2023117. No Age Limit to Success: Journey of a US IMG Family Medicine Resident Dr. Jessica Dauphin (IMG Roadmap series #110)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Are you worried about starting your medical journey or residency because of your age? Don't be! Dr. Jessica Dauphin, a US IMG and family medicine resident, is here to prove that age is just a number when it comes to success.

Here are the highlights of this episode:
Introduce Dr. Jessica Dauphin, a family medicine resident and US IMG

Dr. Dauphin’s background: graduated from Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in 2015 and studied medicine in her late twenties

Dr. Dauphin’s medical school curriculum: 4 years of undergrad, 2 years of basic sciences taught in English, 2 clinical years taught in Spanish, and a final internship year in Mexico or the U.S.

Dr. Dauphin’s match journey: applied three times, used persistence and networking to make herself a better applicant each year, and ultimately matched on her third try

The importance of Step 3 for IMGs: shows programs that you’re capable of passing the boards and being a successful physician

How Dr. Dauphin feels now: thankful to be living her dream despite being older than her colleagues
Get in Touch with Dr. Dauphin: If you're facing a similar situation, you can connect with Dr. Dauphin at [email protected] for advice and tips. You can also visit my website for further guidance.
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Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts and Spotify.
36 min
March 05, 2023116. Building Your Medical Success Story: Tips from US-IMG Dr. Christina Abi Kheir (IMG Roadmap Series #109)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Are you interested in getting into a competitive specialty such as Pediatrics but don't know where to start? Our guest today, US-IMG Dr. Christina Abi Kheir, is here to share her journey and offer tips on how to succeed in the residency match process.
Some highlights from her journey discussed in this episode include:
Hard work in establishing virtual connections to substitute in-person rotations

Taking courses to build her CV and staying in touch with clinical skills

Emailing program directors, searching their social media, and creating a Twitter account to network

Reaching out for coaching and interview practice

Not matching the first time and going through the SOAP process to reach out to program directors with available spots

Seeking feedback and improvement to make herself more marketable as an applicant
For those considering pediatric residency, she suggests:
Applying to community-based programs

Doing a lot of volunteering to show community involvement

Being able to fit in with the residents and the culture of the program

Embracing your diverse background as a strength
Her mantra for success is to not fear failure, always give 200% effort, and not lose focus. Connect with Dr. Kheir on Twitter at @Christinakheir and Instagram @drbabysteps.

*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts⁠, ⁠Google podcasts⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠.
36 min
February 26, 2023115. Breaking the Mold: From Brazil to Johns Hopkins - The Journey of Dr. Rhanderson Cardoso (IMG Roadmap Series #108)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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Have you ever heard that International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can’t secure spots in top programs and competitive specialties? Dr. Rhanderson Cardoso, a successful cardiologist at Harvard Medical School at the Brigham Women's Faulkner Hospital, is here to prove otherwise!
Background:
Currently working at Harvard Medical School

Attended Medical school in Brazil

Completed Internal Medicine residency at University of Miami, where he served as a chief resident

Cardiology Fellowship at Johns Hopkins followed by Imaging Fellowship at Harvard Medical School

Stays on as faculty and performs research and teaches residents
Match Journey:
Dr. Cardoso's dream was always to complete medical residency in the US

ECMFG provided the opportunity for him to do so

Completed Step 1 in his 5th year of medical school and had observerships in the US

Despite the lack of people taking the same path, he applied for residency just after graduation

Mistakes in application: no publications and applied to too few programs

Matched at University of Miami and was able to secure better programs in the future
Challenges:
Matched and completed residency on J1

Long residency (3 years of medicine, 1 year of chief residency, and 3 years of fellowship)

Had to apply for extension for additional training in cardiac imaging

Took on a position in academic institution after residency and now has an O visa
Research Difficulty:
As a 1st-year resident, he had limited time to do research

He learned systematic review and meta-analysis to become more appealing to collaborators and mentors
Barriers for IMGs:
Financial expenses

English language proficiency

Difficulty in getting meaningful research done
Webinar: Dr. Cardoso is hosting a webinar on February 28th on the publication roadmap. You can find more information on his Instagram @rhandersoncardoso.md and @metaanalysis.academy.

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Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts⁠, ⁠Google podcasts⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠.
24 min
February 19, 2023114. From IMG to Residency: Dr. Ifeoma Ogbuka's Journey to Navigating the US Visa Process with Success (IMG Roadmap Series #107)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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In this episode, we delve into the world of medical residency visas in the US and explore the options available to international medical graduates (IMGs). Our guest, Dr. Ifeoma Ogbuka, shares her journey and provides tips and insights to help you navigate the visa process with ease.
Highlights:
How Dr. Ogbuka scored 12 residency interviews

Completing a fellowship on a visa

The Conrad 30 Waiver Program

The role of the Department of State and USCIS in the visa process

Tips for a smoother visa application

The Appalachian Regional Commission and its resources for IMGs

Working with a lawyer for visa issues during your transitioning phase

Available free courses on Dr. Lum’s visa process at imgroadmap.com
Contact Information:
Attorney Vanessa Seckin : [email protected].

Dr. Ifeoma Ogbuka: [email protected]

IMG Roadmap: imgroadmap.com
*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠Apple podcasts⁠, ⁠Google podcasts⁠ and Spotify.
53 min
February 12, 2023113. Balancing Love & Medicine: An Interview with OBGYN & Intimacy Coach Dr. Sadaf Lodhi (IMG Roadmap Series #106)
I am bringing back the IMG Roadmap live program; this is an intensive but fast bootcamp to get you ready for the 2024 match cycle. If you want to be informed once we launch click here https://www.aceyourclinicals.com/2023!
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As a resident, fellow, or attending physician, striking a work-life balance can be challenging. It's not always easy to prioritize our personal relationships, but it's essential for our overall well-being. With Valentine's Day around the corner, I wanted to bring in OBGYN and Intimacy Coach Dr. Sadaf Lodhi to help us maintain that special love in our busy lives.
Here is the outline of this episode:
Introduction of the guest Dr. Sadaf Lodhi, an OBGYN and Intimacy Coach

Discussion of the Biopsychosocial (BPS) model of health, which addresses biological, psychological, and social aspects of health and well-being
Biological aspect includes physical health concerns such as exams, screenings, STI tests, contraception, and prenatal care

Psychological aspect covers mental health, including feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, and the importance of therapy and coaching

Social aspect focuses on maintaining relationships and friendships, finding local communities, and expanding knowledge through reading

Tips to maintain and improve mental health: spending time with self and others, exercise, mindfulness, and outdoor walks

Discussion of the relationship between stress and desire, and how cortisol levels can inhibit desire

How to maintain desire, prioritize the romantic relationship, set aside quality time, and use Sensate Focus techniques to increase arousal and desire

Emphasis on the importance of taking care of oneself during medical training.
Are there any questions that you would like to ask Dr. Lodhi for assistance? To schedule a meeting or group coaching session with her, you can visit drsadaf.com. You can also connect with her through her Instagram and Tiktok accounts @Drsadafobgyn, or listen to her on The Muslim Sex Podcast.
*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts and Spotify.
37 min
January 29, 2023 112. A first generation Haitian-American Doctor determined to make a difference: Dr. Nachelle Aurelien reveals her secrets to success! (IMG Roadmap Series #105)
Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the IMG Roadmap Newsletter so you never miss a beat!

Click here to join the waitlist for the 2023 cohort of the IMG Roadmap course – the boost you need on your IMG journey!
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As an IMG, whether you have realized it or not, you are a pioneer. You’re doing what many others have failed to do and you’re doing it with finesse. Regardless, the journey to residency and post residency life can be complicated, but you have options! Dr. Nachelle Aurelien is here to share some of these options with you so that you can take ownership of your medical success story. Keep listening for the juicy details!
Here is the outline of this episode:
Highlights of Dr. Aurelien's journey.
Why didn’t she match the first time and how she did she do better the second time?
What is Dr. Aurelien’s day-to-day life like now?
What are some pieces of advice for those preparing their rank list?
What’s Dr. Aurelien’s advice for those who did not get interviews and have to SOAP?
What’s Dr. Aurelien’s advice for those preparing to apply in September in 2023?
Rapid fire: Who is Dr. Aurelien?
What is her favorite movie?
What’s her favorite food?
What’s her mantra for success?
Bet on yourself and prove yourself right.
Deal with impostor syndrome – Recognize all of the things that are stacked against you that you succeeded despite. When you get down, don’t stay down. Do not give up on yourself. You are the pioneer you need to make the change for your family. You will always have people cheering you on. You are a phenomenal physician. You are special, you didn’t allow yourself to let go of your dream.

You can reach out to Dr. Aurelien via:
@nachemd on Instagram
@nachemd on tiktok
And Nachelle Aurelien on Linkedin.
*****
Follow us on Instagram for supportive content and download our targeted planner from our website!
Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter and consider joining our program in the spring to kick start your IMG journey in 2023.
As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts and Spotify.
53 min

About The IMG Roadmap Podcast

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The IMG Roadmap is the only podcast dedicated to guiding International Medical Graduates (IMGs) with success blueprints for this unique pathway.

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About The IMG Roadmap Podcast