From Dreams to MD: Becoming "Dr. T."

Imposter Syndrome: Understanding and Conquering It

With Match Day approaching, Dr. T discusses how imposter syndrome can quietly paralyze high performers, especially as competition intensifies in medicine. She explains three common roots: being told you can't succeed, growing up in hypercritical environments that internalize negativity, and entering new spaces without guidance or resources. She reframes "being an imposter" as a necessary stage of growth in training, urges listeners to ground themselves in facts rather than feelings, and shares a painful ICU moment where criticism nearly derailed her until she sought feedback and improved. She recommends imagining the worst-case scenario, committing to learning through questions, and practicing kinder self-talk. Over time, accumulating evidence of competence builds stability that outlasts imposter syndrome.

My Fibroid Journey: From Diagnosis to Discovery

In this emotionally charged episode of 'Dr. T On Call,' Dr. Toiya Turknett, soon to be Dr. Toiya Thomas, shares her personal journey with uterine fibroids. As a board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. T discusses her upcoming myomectomy surgery while providing an educational breakdown of what uterine fibroids are, their disproportionate impact on Black women, and common symptoms. She delves into her diagnosis journey, the range of symptoms she experienced, and emphasizes the importance of early detection and proactive health management. Dr. T also shares insights on balancing a demanding career with personal wellness and offers practical advice on stress reduction, self-care, and the importance of prioritizing one's health and fertility. Don't miss this heartfelt discussion that aims to enlighten and empower women about uterine fibroids. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 01:47 Understanding Uterine Fibroids 04:04 My Personal Journey with Fibroids 04:30 Symptoms and Diagnosis 08:24 Emotional Impact and Realization 15:24 Preparing for Surgery 16:31 Lessons Learned and Health Advice 24:25 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

From Dreams to MD: Becoming "Dr. T."

Welcome to the inaugural episode of 'Dr. T On Call' with Dr. Toiya Turknett. In this debut podcast episode, Dr. T shares her inspiring journey of becoming a board certified Internal Medicine physician. Despite numerous obstacles, lack of guidance, and under-preparation, she pursued her goal with determination. She discusses her academic journey from Hampton University, overcoming a challenging application process to medical school, and her residency experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. T emphasizes the importance of mentorship and preparation, offering advice for aspiring professionals to map out their journeys and seek guidance. Join Dr. T as she delves into lessons learned and aims to inspire others on their paths to achieving their goals. 00:00 Ep 1: From Dreams to MD: Becoming Dr T 00:03 Introduction to Dr. T On Call 00:17 The Origin of Paging Dr. T 02:05 Early Life and Inspiration 04:02 High School Achievements 06:43 College Journey and HBCU Experience 09:45 The Struggle to Get into Medical School 19:35 Medical School Challenges and Success 24:47 Residency and the COVID-19 Pandemic 26:09 Becoming a Practicing Physician 27:31 Final Thoughts and Advice