Docs Outside The Box - Ordinary Doctors Doing Extraordinary Things

While we’re in Ghana for the month of August, we didn’t want to leave you hanging so we will be running replay episodes of our top listened to episodes in the past year with a few new tidbits thrown in. We’ve officially completed our medical mission and are now taking the next week to spend time with family in Ghana before heading back to the States. We’ve really enjoyed having our kids here with us for this trip and Dr. Renee enjoyed being able to spend time with the kids and enjoy Ghana and not worry about working. In today’s episode, Dr. Nii brings on Travis Hornsby, founder of Student Loan Planner, a team of consultants that help people navigate paying off their debt fast while maximizing loan forgiveness opportunities. Student Loan Planner has counseled over 8,000 clients and created plans that cover approximately $1.8 billion in student loan debt.Things to expect in this episode:[08:43] A discussion on FFEL, Direct Loans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness[20:02] The difference between Public Service Lo

While we’re in Ghana for the month of August, we didn’t want to leave you hanging so we will be running replay episodes of our top listened to episodes in the past year with a few new tidbits thrown in. Before we dive into the episode, Dr. Nii gives everyone a behind the scenes look at what’s currently happening on their medical mission in Ghana so make sure to tune in. Julien and Kiersten Saunders are on today's episode. They are creators of the award-winning rich & REGULAR podcast, and hosts of the original series, Money on the Table, a show that blends food with conversations about money. Listen in as Julien and Kiersten talk about the premise of their new book, , including the 15-Year Career concept.Things to expect in this episode:[08:28] Why they decided to write their book, Cashing Out[13:39] When family members don’t understand the FIRE vision[18:35] Julien and Kiersten explain what it means to Cash Out[37:06] What betting on yourself means and looks likeGuest Contact Information:Website: htt

While we’re in Ghana for the month of August, we didn’t want to leave you hanging so we will be running replay episodes of our top listened to episodes in the past year with a few new tidbits thrown in. If you could see your life as a series of time slots, how would you fill each one? Listen in as Nii talks to Jordan Grumet, MD (a.k.a. Doc G and host of the Earn and Invest podcast) about his new book Taking Stock.  It challenges readers to view money and wealth building through the lens of purpose, identity, and passion – with the end goal of living life to the fullest and without regret.Things to expect in this episode:[02:43] 3 shocking things you need to know before joining a medical mission [12:22] The meaning of money as oxygen[12:58] What happens after you have enough money[20:55] What the deathbed teaches about living without regrets[37:56] What investing in your life looks like[38:35] The “one more year” syndrome, golden handcuffs, and “what ifs”Connect with Jordan:Website: www. Jordangrumet.comTwitte

In today’s episode, we discuss the exact steps we took to make our vacation to Ghana a tax write off. We also dive into some common things you can expense in your business to decrease your tax burden, tax deductible travel expenses, health insurance and pregnancy, and so much more. In this episode:[02:22] Keeping up with the Darkos segment [07:10] How our Ghana trip is 100% tax deductible[09:50] What the Darkos business is paying for to decrease their tax burden[14:09] Steps you need to take to make a trip like this tax deductible[19:56] Tax deductible travel expenses[25:42] Health insurance and pregnancy [40:30] Reaction video on Dr. Mike [45:36] Why student loans are so high, especially for those in the medical field[53:21] The reason why we do this show ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEThis episode is sponsored by Set for Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory.  Learn how locum ten

In today’s episode, we discuss several listener questions like “am I too old for medical school” and how to manage personal struggles alongside medical training.In this episode, we discuss: [00:50] Keeping up with the Darkos segment [09:17] Question: Am I too old for medical school? [29:01] What is Medeq?[30:03] Question: How do we manage our personal struggles alongside our medical training?▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBELinks Mentioned: MEdEqArticle: Depression in Premedical GraduatesThis episode is sponsored by Set for Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.comJoin our community:Text word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comOur podcast equipment:Sony ZV E-10: https://amzn.to/3oXXtvVDummy Battery for ZV E-10: https://amzn.to/3J6ycGrNeewer Tripod: https://amzn.to/42FJ0T

In today’s episode, we discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action and how we think it will impact medical school admission going forward. In this episode:[02:47] Keeping up with the Darkos segment [16:50] The recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action [18:20] Dr. Renee’s thoughts on the recent ruling [22:44] Reasons for low diversity numbers in medical school [27:14] A deeper look into the case study [34:19] Dr. Nii’s experience working at Grady [39:32] Is the admissions process part of the problem? [46:00] Dr. Renee’s advice for pre-med students regarding affirmative action[51:43] Final takeaways ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory.  Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!This episode is sponsored by Healthy Conversations by CVS Health hosted by Dr. Daniel Craft. Check it out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts and tell them I sent you!Links Mentioned: Arti

Considering going from a traditional W2 employee to a locum tenens gig? In this episode, we’re dishing the ins and outs of what it’s like to be a locums doctor - both the good and the bad. In this episode:[02:10] Logistics of pursuing locum tenens vs. W2 employment [04:14] Dr. Nii’s experience working as a locum tenens doctor [12:09] Cons of locum tenens work [15:29] Dr. Derrick’s transition from traditional OB Doc to Locum Tenens OB Doc [16:25] When Dr. Barnes made decided to make the transition [17:05] What Dr. Derrick wanted that traditional employment didn’t have [17:58] How Dr. Derrick dealt with being the only OB doctor in his community [21:00] Dr. Derrick’s journey to becoming a doctor [22:10] The timeframe from traditional doc to locum tenens doc [24:43] The process of becoming a locum tenens doctor [27:02] Timeline of interview process to accepting a locum tenens gig [27:27] Short or long term assignments - which is best?[28:50] Who foots the bill for travel assignments? [31:07] How far in advance Dr

In this episode, we’re talking about the slap heard around ACOG and diving into if violence like this is ever really justified and when is the right time to discuss these issues. We also address an article from our good friend over at Physicians on Fire about the Top 5 Reasons Not to Retire Early and why you’re actually leaving millions on the table if you decide to retire early. Press play and tune in to this jam packed episode. In this episode:[04:43] The slap heard around ACOG: Dr. William Burke gets slapped while speaking at a medical conference[13:00] Should everyone be saying “this isn’t the time”? [22:56] Is violence like this ever justified?  [31:54] Top 5 Reasons Not to Retire Early[35:08] Why you’re leaving millions on the table if you retire early[47:51] Mommy Makeovers: Are they worth the risk?▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory.  Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!This episode is sponsored by

In this episode, we address doctor’s student loan debt and if the public should care or not in addition to answering two listener submitted questions about pursuing an MBA while in med school and bullying in residency. In this episode:[03:51] Keeping up with the Darkos segment [13:01] Student loan debt from college, med school, and beyond [16:29] Should the public care about doctors’ student loan debt? [21:10] Q&A: Should I get an MBA or an MHA or a JD?[37:08] Q&A: I feel like I'm being targeted in residency. What should I do?[47:03] Effects of bullying on residents [57:09] The difference between receiving feedback vs. being targeted ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory.  Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!This episode is sponsored by Healthy Conversations by CVS Health hosted by Dr. Daniel Craft. Check it out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts and tell them I sent y

This week we’re covering some topics we’ve seen circulating on the Internet the past couple weeks like Dave Ramsey’s lawsuit, DJ Envy’s partnership with Cesar Piña, and so much more. In this episode:[0:34] Juneteenth commemoration [03:47] Current happenings for the Darkos[02:16] Dave Ramsey being sued for $150 million [06:14] DJ Envy and business partner Cesar Piña deny scamming real estate clients out of millions [08:05] Why this is relevant to podcasters + influencers [15:23] Circling back to the Dave Ramsey lawsuit [20:19] How this is relevant to the medical field [25:57] Our thoughts on the potential outcome of the Dave Ramsey lawsuit [31:01] Burned out doctors turn to temp work[39:34] The benefits of locums [45:44] Last week’s dating question response backfired on social media ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEThis episode is sponsored by Set for Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.comThis episode is sponsored by Healthy

Trigger Warning: If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself, please call 988 or text the word TALK to 741741 Crisis Helpline which are open 24/7. In this episode, we discuss the unfortunate passing of Dr. Nakita Mortimer, the effects of residency on mental health, and so much more. In this episode, we discuss: [04:00] Dr. Nakita Mortimer’s unfortunate passing [06:56] The effects of residency on mental health [10:53] Dr. Nii’s mental health journey during residency [19:55] Dr. Renee’s mental health journey during residency[30:52] Why is this important? [42:18] What Dr. Renee would say to their kids if they decided they wanted to be a doctor [44:21] Dr. Nii’s first experience with applying to med school [45:45] How the pursuit of becoming a doctor affects those in pre-med and beyond [48:44] Why so many doctors avoid seeking help [53:07] Dr. Nii’s second and third year as a resident in the ICU [1:01:09] How medical programs can do better when it comes to prioritizing mental health[1:04:58] A message to

On the verge of graduating from med school and want to get your finances in order from the get go? Tune into today’s episode to learn our top 6 money tips for making your money work for you not just after graduation but for the rest of your life. In this episode, we discuss: [3:37] Elmhurst Hospital strike update [5:31] The inspiration behind this episode [9:58] Make sure you’re aware of the stipulations behind any sign on bonuses[13:26] Money tip #1: Determine your salary, where you’re going to be living, and use ADP Salary Calculator to get your take home pay[16:58] Money tip #2: Figure out how much you’re able to spend on rent [23:59] Money tip #3: Factoring in your student loan debt into your monthly expenses [30:47] Money tip #4: Determine what your expenses are aside from rent + student loans [34:49] Listener question: What challenges do you see yourself or other doctors facing in regards to saving, investing, retirement planning, tax planning, and estate planning?[39:51] Money tip #5: Start protecting

In this episode, we’re diving into your questions about dating while in residency and quitting med school if it’s no longer your passion. In this episode, we discuss: [3:21] Elmhurst Doctors Strike[9:08] Listener question: How should I bring up having to move to another region of the US for residency?[28:34] Listener question: I’m not enjoying medicine. Should I keep going with med school or quit? ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Links Mentioned: Elmhurst Hospitals Doctors Strike35 Jobs for Physicians w/o a License What to Do If You Failed Out of Medical School: Next Steps for Your Career and Student LoansTrends in United States Physician Work Hours and Career Satisfaction Physicians Should Work More, Not LessThe Reply Join our community:Text word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doc

Dr. Nii reviews the popular book - So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion In The Quest For Work You Love.  Authored by Cal Newport in 2012, this book has sold way over 1 million copies. The basic tenets of this book are:1. The idea of “finding your passion” to find a fulfilling career is flawed2. Focus on developing valuable skills to become an expert in your field3. The passion & fulfillment comes from becoming an expert in your fieldCheck out the book HERE! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our communityText word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.com

Dr. Renée finally reveals where she wants to work for her next locum assignment. What will be Dr. Nii’s reaction, and how will her decision impact the family? Will they get to stay put? Will they have to move across the globe? This is the last part of Episode 1 of Doctors for Hire, Dr. Renée’s Locum Story.Things to expect in this episode:How a locum assignment can impact a significant other and familyThe uncertainty than might come with choosing a locum assignmentSign up for LOCUMS AND LUNCH RECAP PARTY on MAY 23 @ 1PM ETSign up before May 20 to be eligible to win a FREE LUNCH!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our communityText word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them outHERE!

The docs read comments from social media on the question of the week about side hustles in residency. Dr. Nii uses ChatGPT to put together a nice list for all the residents listening out there. Then they delve into the impending resident strike at 3 major NYC hospitals. Residents voted to strike and will do so starting May 15 if their grievances aren’t addressed to their satisfaction.Things to expect in this episode:Active and passive income side hustles for residentsHow to make your money work for you while you sleepThe everyday tasks and salary differences that the residents do that led to the vote to strikeWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our communityText word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsu

Previously on Doctors for Hire, Dr. Renée talked with 3 locum recruiters to gauge her options. Today, she narrows down the possibilities of her next locum assignment to 3 VERY different locations. Will she go the practical route so as not to uproot the entire family? Or will she go for it and send the Darko family packing?Things to expect in this episode:There are a number of locations to do locum tenensLocum assignments can vary in obligationChoosing an assignment has other considerations besides work and pay▶️  WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our community

Drs. Nii and Renée do a semi-ok job at explaining the difference between 1099 independent contracting and W2 employment. Dr. Renée runs down the ways in which we give up control of our careers to others. Then the docs meet long-standing listener, Jamar Cromwell, to give him advice as a non-traditional pre-med.Things you'll learn in this episode:The difference between 1099 and W2How to take control over your career so that you can control your lifeHow students and doctors can focus on medicine while still staying true to their identities ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our communityText word PODCAST to 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance a

Previously on Doctors for Hire, Dr. Nii was not ready for Dr. Renée’s announcement about wanting to work internationally. In this episode, Dr. Renée starts the new job process by talking to locum tenens recruiters, including an agency that places doctors in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, and even on cruise ships!Then Dr. Renée does a quick breakdown of how any doctor can get started with locum tenens.Things to expect in this episode:How to get started with locums from beginning to endThe simple process of interviewing locum tenens recruitersBasic questions to ask recruiters before working with an agencyThe different assignment options that agencies have to offerHow to ask about competitive compensation ▶️ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our community

Dr. Nii is salty about having to pay a $40,000 tax payment. Dr. Renée is back from her locum assignment, and the docs run down how  being entrepreneurs allows them to give themselves a raise.  Then the docs chat it up about Dr, Renée's time at the SNMA national conference and if in-person conferences are still necessary.