Welcome to the Interesting MD Podcast with Dr. Robert Beck (ft. The Backtable Podcast)

Finding Balance in Medicine: Why The Interesting MD Podcast Exists (and Why Doctors Need Hobbies Too)

Hi, I’m Dr. Rob Beck, and welcome to The Interesting MD—your guide to what doctors do when we’re not treating patients. I created this project to spark conversation, share inspiration, and, most importantly, help physicians rediscover the joy of having a life outside of medicine. Whether you’re early in your career, a seasoned clinician, or somewhere in between, I want to show you that it’s not only possible—but essential—to have fun, find new challenges, and avoid burnout.

So why did I start this podcast? Why should you (or your doctor spouse, colleague, or friend) care? Let me tell you.

Burnout is Real—But So is Balance

If you’re in healthcare, you already know the statistics: physician burnout is at an all-time high. Between stacked schedules, endless patient charts, and the emotional weight of the job, it’s easy to feel like your identity begins and ends with your white coat. I’ve absolutely felt that way. In fact, at one point in my career, I realized I needed a change—not just for myself, but for my family and my well-being. (If you want to hear the whole story, check out our first episode, where I unpack my own career pivots and why making time for yourself is crucial.)

That’s why The Interesting MD is focused on what we do outside of the clinical grind: our hobbies, our side projects, and the personal passions that make us whole. I want to spotlight doctors who have done everything from taking up triathlon, cold plunging, and horseback riding, to side-hustling with start-ups and even geeking out on paintball with their kids.

Every Doctor Deserves a Life Beyond Medicine

Here’s the thing: there are over 1.2 million doctors in North America alone, at all stages of life and practice. I truly believe every one of us deserves to find something that lights us up outside the exam room. The problem? Most of us struggle to find time or permission to just try something for the fun of it. Sometimes, we might even feel guilty for wanting more—or don’t know how to get started on something new.

That’s what this podcast is all about. Not every career path is linear. (Ask me about my stint working as an environmental consultant before medical school; it shaped how I see learning and growth today.) Through candid conversations with colleagues and experts, I hope to show you:

• You don’t have to be perfect before you get started.

• Big changes usually start with small experiments.

• Pursuing a hobby, side project, or passion doesn’t make you less dedicated as a physician—in fact, it often makes you better.

Hobbies Aren’t Optional—They’re Vital

Why do I harp on hobbies and non-clinical passions? Because living a well-rounded life keeps us connected to ourselves, our families, and our patients. And yes, medicine will always demand more: more labs, more calls, more follow-ups. But without something that’s yours, it’s easy to feel hollow and disconnected.

For me and my wife Andrea (also an internist and my greatest supporter-slash-honest-critic), fun outside of work has meant everything from building a start-up to running triathlons together or simply walking the dogs along a chilly, beautiful beach in Victoria, BC. I’ve seen firsthand how sharing these activities with loved ones or colleagues can deepen relationships—plus, let’s be honest, sometimes you need to mute the phone, hop on a bike, and just get your feet moving.

And it’s not just about traditional hobbies. This show is for everyone, whatever your interests or time constraints—especially for women in medicine, who often carry extra responsibilities and haven’t always been encouraged (or allowed) to carve out “me time.” I want to actively celebrate and encourage everyone to pursue outside interests, without guilt.

What To Expect on The Interesting MD Podcast

So, what’s coming up? We’re diving into everything from practical advice on finding your next creative outlet to personal stories from doctors who’ve walked unconventional roads. Upcoming episodes include:

• How to get involved in leadership and professional societies (with Dr. John Anderson, former president of the American Diabetes Association)

• What it’s really like to climb the ranks in hospital administration

• Learning to fly as a doctor-pilot

• Why triathlons are great for decompressing after a long week of call

• Trying out totally random or “old man” hobbies (beekeeping, anyone?)

• And plenty of stories about failing, getting back up, and laughing at ourselves along the way

My aim is to keep this relatable, approachable, and sometimes a little embarrassing (just wait for those old photos to surface…). I want you to walk away from each episode thinking, “Hey, if they can try something new, so can I.”

Your Turn—Let’s Get Interesting (Together!)

I want The Interesting MD to be a community, not just a broadcast. If you’re a physician (or know someone) with a unique hobby, wild side project, or creative idea—please reach out! We’re eager for show ideas, guest suggestions, and stories from listeners who are exploring life outside their practice.

• Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and X (@InterestingMD)

• Email me directly at rob@interestingmd.com or send your ideas to ideas@interestingmd.com

Let’s show the world that doctors are more than our jobs—and that a happier, healthier you leads to better patient care, too.

Thanks for reading (and listening). Here’s to finding your balance, one interesting experiment at a time.

— Dr. Rob Beck