In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Avalon Swenson, an internal medicine resident in Minneapolis, about the ripple effects of immigration enforcement on healthcare.

They discuss how fear is changing patient behavior—leading to missed treatments and delayed care—and the ethical challenges physicians face when law enforcement intersects with clinical environments. The conversation also explores the broader impact on communities and the emotional toll on both patients and healthcare workers.

A thoughtful, sobering discussion on the intersection of healthcare, policy, and human dignity—and the role physicians play in navigating complex, real-world challenges.

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Buying a home in Canada as a U.S. physician can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Manpreet Kandola, a Victoria-based realtor, about navigating the Canadian housing market as a relocating doctor.

They discuss mortgage qualification differences, foreign buyer taxes, and how physicians can position themselves for success. Manpreet also shares practical tips on assembling the right team, choosing the right property, and understanding regional market trends.

Beyond the numbers, the episode highlights the lifestyle benefits of living in Canada, safe communities, great schools, and access to outdoor living, making it an appealing option for physicians and their families.

A practical, reassuring episode for any doctor planning a move north and looking to make smart, informed real estate decisions.

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In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck speaks with Dr. Dennis Kim, a trauma surgeon who has practiced in both the United States and Canada.

Dr. Kim reflects on his journey from Toronto to high-volume trauma centers in Southern California and now to Vancouver Island, where he’s helping develop a regional trauma system. The conversation covers the realities of trauma care, the impact of gun violence, and the challenges of working in resource-limited environments.

They also discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped their views on medicine and life priorities, the key differences between the U.S. and Canadian healthcare systems, and Dr. Kim’s unexpected role as a medical educator on TikTok.

A compelling conversation about trauma surgery, healthcare systems, and the evolving paths physicians take in search of meaningful work and balance.

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In the final episode of this three-part series, Dr. Rob Beck concludes his conversation with Dr. Michael Antil, an American internist who moved to Toronto to build a new life in Canada.

This episode dives into the practical side of relocation: taxes, physician incorporation, education costs, and the immigration pathway for U.S. doctors. Dr. Antil shares his experience navigating licensing, work permits, and permanent residency, while addressing common misconceptions about the financial realities of practicing medicine in Canada.

The conversation closes with reflections on mentorship, community, and why Canada can offer physicians a renewed sense of purpose and balance.

A candid and comprehensive look at what it really takes to make the move—and why it can be worth it.

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In Part 2 of this series, Dr. Rob Beck continues his conversation with Dr. Michael Antil, focusing on the lifestyle and practice differences he’s experienced since moving from the U.S. to Toronto.

Dr. Antil describes reduced administrative complexity, lower overhead, predictable reimbursement, and a renewed sense of professional fulfillment. He also reflects on how life outside the hospital has changed, safer communities, more personal time, and a healthier pace.

An honest look at what physicians gain, and what they give up, when choosing balance over burnout.

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In Part 1 of this three-part series, Dr. Rob Beck interviews Dr. Michael Antil, an internist who relocated his family from North Carolina to Toronto.

Dr. Antil shares the professional and personal factors behind his move, including burnout, community tensions during the pandemic, and frustration with financial pressures in U.S. healthcare. He reflects on the contrast he’s experienced in Canada, highlighting simplified administration, collaborative colleagues, and a healthcare culture with different patient expectations.

This episode focuses on the “why” behind the move. In Parts 2 and 3, Dr. Antil will explore lifestyle changes, taxes, and the immigration process in greater detail.

An honest and thoughtful conversation for physicians navigating career crossroads or considering practice abroad.

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

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It’s the one-year anniversary of The Interesting MD Podcast, and Dr. Rob Beck is celebrating with a special longform conversation featuring Dr. Mark Royer as guest host.

They reflect on how the show grew from a small idea into a real community of physicians and healthcare professionals. Rob shares how the podcast shifted from hobbies and side passions into deeper conversations about physician burnout, healthcare system challenges, and the growing interest in relocating from the U.S. to Canada.

With humor, throwbacks, trivia, and honest reflection, this episode highlights what’s worked, what surprised them, and what’s coming next for Interesting MD.

A fun, thoughtful, and grateful anniversary episode, built by physicians, for physicians.

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In this reflective solo episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck tackles the ethical challenges physicians face outside the exam room, particularly when money, fame, or influence are involved.

Rob shares firsthand experiences from his early practice working with musicians in Nashville, explaining how easily professional boundaries can blur and why he chose to push back against unnecessary or ethically questionable requests. He also opens up about walking away from a business opportunity that didn’t align with sound medical practice, despite financial incentives.

This is an honest conversation about integrity, restraint, and staying grounded as a physician in an era of celebrity medicine, social media, and side hustles. A must-listen for any doctor navigating opportunities beyond traditional clinical work.

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

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