The Interesting MD Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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.

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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.

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Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com

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What does it take to build a healthcare startup? Travis Messina went from investment banking to founding Contessa Health and now leads Regent Surgical. In this episode of The Interesting MD, he chats with Dr. Rob Beck about launching a business, securing funding, and why doctors shouldn’t go solo in the startup world.

If you’re curious about stepping into healthcare entrepreneurship—without leaving medicine behind—this episode is for you.

Tune in and get inspired! 🚀

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Medicine by day, flying by… whenever he can. Dr. Jeff Kerrie joins The Interesting MD to share how he became both a physician and a licensed pilot.

He and Dr. Rob Beck dive into what it takes to get a pilot’s license, the cost, the training, and why flying is the ultimate escape from the pressures of medicine. From mountain flights to aviation medical clearances, this episode is all about passion, balance, and chasing adventure.

Buckle up and tune in! 🚀

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Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

How do you go from treating patients to leading a hospital? Dr. Matthew Beuter, a former internist turned Chief Medical Officer, joins The Interesting MD to share how he made the leap into medical leadership.

He and Dr. Rob Beck talk about climbing the ranks, whether an MBA is worth it, and how reducing admin overload can help prevent burnout. If you’ve ever thought about stepping into an executive role—or just want to make your career more sustainable—this one’s for you.

Tune in and take notes! 📌

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com "

Ever wondered how a primary care doc ends up running the American Diabetes Association? Dr. John Anderson did just that. In this episode of The Interesting MD, he chats with Dr. Rob Beck about how getting involved in volunteer work, advisory boards, and industry collaborations helped shape his career.

They break down why stepping outside clinic life—whether through leadership, education, or just saying “yes” to new opportunities—can prevent burnout and bring real career satisfaction. Plus, tips for finding balance along the way.

Tune in and get inspired! 🔥

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Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Welcome to The Interesting MD! In this pilot episode, host Dr. Rob Beck reconnects with his med school buddies, Dr. Aaron Fritts and Dr. Gopi Shah, to talk about why this podcast exists—because life as a doctor isn’t just about patient care.

They dive into Rob’s journey from internal medicine to a fresh start in Victoria, the power of podcasts, and why hobbies matter for preventing burnout. Future episodes will explore everything from medical leadership to flying planes.

Let’s shake things up—because balance isn’t a luxury, it’s a must. 

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com 

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  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com

Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Thinking about practicing medicine in Canada? 🇨🇦 In this episode of The Interesting MD, Dr. Rob Beck talks with B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne about the province’s new initiative to recruit U.S.-trained physicians, especially those certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Osborne explains how B.C. is reducing licensing barriers, expanding medical training programs, and offering streamlined immigration pathways to help doctors and their families settle in Canada. With a focus on family medicine and rural care, this episode outlines everything you need to know about applying, relocating, and thriving in British Columbia.

An eye-opening and encouraging conversation for American physicians ready for change.

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Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com 

Thinking about making the move to Canada? 🍁 In this episode of The Interesting MD, host Rob Beck talks with Dr. Paul Hertz about practicing medicine under Canada's universal healthcare system and how it compares to life as a doctor in the U.S.

They discuss differences in pay, work-life balance, billing, and why British Columbia is an attractive destination for physicians. Dr. Hertz also shares tips on licensing, training, and the high demand for internists in the region.

Whether you’re exploring international opportunities or just curious about how healthcare works across the border, this episode has you covered. 🌎🎧

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com