The Interesting MD Podcast

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 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 

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In this episode of The Interesting MD, host Dr. Rob Beck chats with Dr. Mark Royer, ENT surgeon, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Specialty Locums. Dr. Royer shares how he and his wife (also an ENT) built a thriving private practice and launched two businesses while raising a family and chasing outdoor adventures.

They dive into the value of MBAs for doctors, avoiding burnout, keeping costs low, and growing methodically—not through social media hype or outside investors. Dr. Royer offers real, no-fluff advice on business, locums, and how to keep life fun along the way.

Whether you're a physician thinking about entrepreneurship or curious about the locums lifestyle, this episode offers insights, laughs, and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast 

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What do surgery and helicopter flying have in common? More than you think. 🛠️🚁 In this episode of The Interesting MD, Dr. Rob Beck catches up with Dr. Patrick Ryan, a surgeon and helicopter pilot, to explore how aviation became his passion—and how it helps him stay grounded (emotionally) while lifting off (literally).

Dr. Ryan walks listeners through the realities of helicopter training, from cost and licensing to emergency maneuvers like autorotation. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of learning to fly, teaching others, and preparing for helicopter tours over Nashville.

More than just a technical deep dive, this episode is a reminder of how powerful hobbies can be in preventing burnout and reconnecting with joy. A great listen for healthcare professionals—or anyone curious about what it takes to get airborne.

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast 

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