The Interesting MD Podcast

Dr. Mariam Washington on Peace, Parenting, and Healthcare After Leaving the US Part II

In Part 2 of her conversation with Dr. Rob Beck, Dr. Mariam Washington shares the realities of moving from the United States to Canada to continue her medical career. The discussion covers physician licensing, immigration pathways, provincial differences between Alberta and British Columbia, and the financial and emotional challenges of relocating an entire family. Dr. Washington also reflects on the cultural adjustments she experienced and why Canada has provided a greater sense of safety, balance, and stability for her family. The episode explores important differences between practicing medicine in Canada and the U.S., including administrative burdens, physician autonomy, and the role of trust within the healthcare system. A practical and insightful conversation for physicians considering a move to Canada—and anyone interested in the realities of cross-border medical practice.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast [https://theinterestingmd.podbean.com/]  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCup3ppynBN25QCg99gf_tiw]  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ [https://www.interestingmd.com/] Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me: Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

From Texas to Canada: Dr. Mariam Washington on Escaping US Healthcare Part I

In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Dr. Mariam Washington, a physiatrist who transitioned from practicing medicine in the United States to working in Canada. Dr. Washington shares her experience navigating significant student loan debt, building her career in the U.S., and ultimately deciding to make a major professional and personal change. The discussion explores physician compensation, healthcare administration, private practice realities, and the financial myths that often surround medicine on both sides of the border. They also discuss the licensing process for physicians moving to Canada, the differences between the Canadian and American healthcare systems, and why stability and sustainability often matter more than headline salary figures. A thoughtful and informative conversation for physicians, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in the realities of modern medical practice.   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

Startup Strategies in Healthcare: The Inspiring Story of Dr. Teresa Purzner

In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Dr. Teresa Purzner, a neurosurgeon and developmental neurobiologist whose work is transforming how pediatric brain tumor care is delivered. Dr. Purzner shares how she applied startup-style design thinking to identify and solve major inefficiencies in patient care pathways. By engaging patients, families, clinicians, and administrators, her team developed simple, low-cost solutions that significantly improved access to treatment, reduced delays, and enhanced patient outcomes. The conversation also explores innovation in healthcare, the challenges of system change, balancing research and clinical work, and why meaningful improvements don't always require massive new resources. A fascinating episode for anyone interested in healthcare innovation, leadership, and creating better experiences for both patients and providers.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast [https://theinterestingmd.podbean.com/]  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCup3ppynBN25QCg99gf_tiw]  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ [https://www.interestingmd.com/] Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me: Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Navigating Canadian Immigration for Healthcare Professionals with Brooke Finlay

In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Brooke Finlay, a regulated Canadian immigration consultant and founder of Navio Immigration. Brooke shares expert insights into Canada's immigration system and the pathways available to healthcare professionals interested in relocating. The conversation covers Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, work permits, permanent residency, and the importance of building a strong, well-organized application. They also discuss recent changes to citizenship laws, family sponsorship options, and common mistakes that can slow down or complicate the immigration process. A practical and informative episode for physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals considering a move to Canada.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast [https://theinterestingmd.podbean.com/]  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCup3ppynBN25QCg99gf_tiw]  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ [https://www.interestingmd.com/] Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me: Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

Why Physicians Should Consider Cowichan Valley’s State-of-the-Art New Hospital with Mona Kaiser

In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Mona Kaiser, healthcare engagement strategist for the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project on Vancouver Island, BC. They discuss the vision behind one of Canada’s most innovative new hospitals—from physician and nurse involvement in the design process to the hospital’s focus on sustainability, Indigenous inclusivity, staff well-being, and community-centered care. The conversation also highlights the Cowichan Valley lifestyle, major recruitment opportunities for healthcare professionals, and how the project is redefining what a modern hospital can look and feel like. A thoughtful and inspiring episode for anyone interested in the future of healthcare, medical culture, and building better systems for both providers and patients.   Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast [https://theinterestingmd.podbean.com/]  YouTube Link: The Interesting MD [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCup3ppynBN25QCg99gf_tiw]  Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/ [https://www.interestingmd.com/] Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com Contact me: Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com