Specialty Café (Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada)

If a doctor isn't happy in their career choice - they simply can't serve their patients properly. Join Dr. Christopher O'Brien, FRCPC as he shares his love of Nuclear Medicine. Even after 27 years of practice, he still looks forward to each and every day. Dr. O'Brien and host Andrew Pauls delve into professional and personal aspects of life in medicine - and in particular about the need to keep an open mind about how medicine is practiced. This episode definitely talks about isotopes - but there is so much more to Nuclear Medicine! You never know - this specialty mind be that hidden gem you never knew about!

Once you hear today’s guest express her deep and unwavering dedication to Pediatric Emergency Medicine, teaching, and advocacy, you’ll understand why her career is perfectly suited to her passion.

Kirstin Weerdenburg, MD, FRCPC, shares her global journey which led her to practice in Halifax, NS. She expected to focus solely on clinical practice but soon discovered there’s a world of opportunity in addition to being a Peds Emerg specialist (such as medial journalism and caring for newcomers to Canada).

Dr. Weerdenburg holds her patients and their families in the highest regard, always attuned to their concerns and worries. For her, earning their trust and seeing a smile on their faces makes it a truly rewarding day. 

Join host Cameron Wong as he discovers that Dr. Weerdenburg is eager to share her knowledge not just with her patients and families, but also with her colleagues, learners, and the public. She finds great joy in seeing her team thrive and grow.

Check out the Specialty Café primary specialty eps on:

Pediatrics (Oct 7, 2022) https://specialtycafe.libsyn.com/pediatrics 

Emergency Medicine (Dec 3, 2021) https://specialtycafe.libsyn.com/emergency-medicine

This is the last episode of Season 6.  We can't wait to bring you more great eps in the fall. Any questions, suggestions, ideas? Reach out to us podcasts@royalcollege.ca. 

Are you drawn to a specialty that bridges the brain and body, builds meaningful relationships, and embraces the unique challenges of adolescence? Do you find teens fascinating - actually do you like teenagers? In this episode, host Cameron Wong hopes to demystify the world of Adolescent Medicine, a field that’s as complex as it is rewarding.

Our guest, Simone Lebeuf, MD, FRCPC, shares her journey into this dynamic subspecialty. Her compassion and passion for her patients are the foundation of her practice. 

Dr. Lebeuf reflects on the privilege of supporting vulnerable teens through life-changing moments. From navigating mental health and eating disorders to providing gender-affirming care and reproductive health support, Adolescent Medicine offers endless opportunities for those with a passion for advocacy, education, and outreach.

It’s never been said that there are too many medical specialists who work with teens. If you have a pull toward trauma-informed care and truly want to impact a young person’s future… Adolescent Medicine just might be for you.

Check out the Specialty Café episode on Pediatrics (published October 7, 2022).

Specialty Café is a new podcast that connects medical students to Royal College specialists and residents. Created and hosted by med students, this series provides a glimpse into the reality of a day in the life of both a specialist and a resident.

#followyourheart... just one of many pearls of wisdom you’ll hear from our passionate panel: Adina Feinberg, MD, FRCSC and Ariel Lefkowitz, MD, FRCPC.

Host Cameron Wong facilitates a truly friendly debate on Surgery vs Medicine (aka Medicine vs Surgery!). What do you love? What sparks and fires your drive? How do you see your relationship with your patients? What inspires you? 

There’s tons of great insight packed into this episode. Dr. Feinberg and Dr. Lefkowitz debunk the notion of ‘thinkers’ and ‘doers’ in the hospital. You’ll learn about the similarities… both are working toward a common goal:  of course, the wellbeing of their patients, but as important is a healthy and respectful (and fun) work environment.

There are loads of takeaways for sure, but one thing that threads through all aspects of this discussion… surgery and medicine are simply collaborative across the board!

00:00-27:55:  Panel (residency, work hours, remuneration, EDI, a day in the life, and more!)

28:10–49:07:  Live Q&A with medical students (culture debunking, generalism, collaboration, advocacy, ‘aha’ moments, exploring a leap of faith, and more!)

This episode was recorded at the Canadian Federation of Medical Students' AGM in Toronto, ON (Sept. 15, 2023).  For more CFMS information, visit their website: https://www.cfms.org/ 

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday for the next few weeks as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Gillian MacMullin, MD, FRCSC knew early on that being a community Obstetrics & Gynecology specialist was for her. Join Emily Wu as she picks Dr. MacMullin's brain not only on what an OBGYN does... but about the realities, challenges, and joys of being personnally and professionally known in your community. Spoiler Alert: practising in a community is mostly joyful and truly fulfilling. A day in the life of this specialty is never ever the same. A huge bonus is the ability to tailor so many aspects of this practice to what works for you - and what really interests you. And apparently babies are rarely born during office hours, so be prepared for some overnight shifts! (Originally published Feb 11, 2022).

Apart from the obvious clinical expertise - an Anesthesiologist needs to be empathetic, calm, a multi-tasker (physically & mentally), and quick on their feet! Join Andrew Pauls, Dr. Richard Alexander, FRCPC, and Dr. Raphael Rivière (PGY 3) as they dive into the joys and challenges of this rewarding specialty. Do you see yourself working with an incredibly broad population? Do you crave diversity and unpredictability in your day? Does the idea of putting people out of pain appeal to you? Not only do our guests share their professional expertise - they impart some words of wisdom for your health care journey. In a nutshell - working in medicine is a privilege. Take the wins and enjoy the journey!

What does a day in the life of a Urologist look like? Who is the patient population? Actually - what is Urology? Join Andrew Pauls as he explores and demystifies this specialty with Dr. Emmanuel Abara, FRCSC (Urologist, Richmond Hill, ON) and Dr. Amanda Hakala (PGY-1 Urology, Ottawa, ON). It's no secret that our guests are hugely passionate about Urology, surgery, their patients, and .....medicine in general! Dr. Abara imparts word of wisdom on his commitment and experiences as a rural Urologist while Dr. Hakala share tips on what makes a good candidate for a Urology residency. What comes through loud and clear is our guests' dedication to their life in medicine. Who knows- this specialty might just be for you!

What distinguishes Radiation Oncology from Medical Oncology? Do you need to be at the top of your class in physics to enter a residency in Radiation Oncology? Are there surgical aspects to this specialty? Is it possible to have a good life/work integration if you pursue this path?

Join host Andrew Pauls as he gets the answers to these questions (and more!) from Colin Brown, MD, FRCPC (Prince Edward Island). Some myths about this specialty are debunked during this truly informative discussion. 

They'll dive into why being an empathetic communicator is a key quality needed to advocate for and empower patients. If you are passionate about research, technology, teaching, innovation - and walking a patient through one of the most vulnerable times in their life - then Radiation Oncology might be for you!

Of course, there are challenging times - but Dr. Brown shares insights into those rewarding moments that make it all worthwhile. And very importantly - finding a passionate mentor in medical school can change your career trajectory in a very positive way.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way. We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

In the meantime, gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday (only a couple more to go) as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Our guests today are quite simply passionate not only about being physicians, but about making sure patients live their best life. If you’re looking for a specialty that incorporates medical and surgical management of skin diseases and concerns, and has vast career opportunities, well… listen on!

Join host Emily Wu as she dives into the diverse world of Dermatology with Laurie Parsons, MD, FRCPC and Emma Heck, MD. They share insights into their rewarding practice and residency.  

This specialty allows you to practice all age groups and all genders. Dermatologists can have a general practice and really be part of their community, or indeed sub-specialize in many areas.  It’s exciting and satisfying to be practicing Dermatology in an era with new therapies and molecules to treat patients’ diseases! Bonus - you can practice this specialty for many, many years! 

In case you’re wondering – no…Dermatologists are not just pimple poppers (they do in fact dissuade this habit!). Stay tuned as our guests debunk a few more myths about this specialty! 

Welcome to the 5^th season of Specialty Café! We’ll finish up the primary specialties and then delve into the many Royal College subspecialties.

Do you believe in visualization? It seems that Talal Al-Atassi, MD, FRCSC did (and maybe still does!). At 5-years-old he crafted his own Cardiac Surgeon business cards and shared them with family and friends.

Dr. Al-Atassi no doubt puts his heart (intended!) and soul into his Cardiac Surgery practice. He uses the word ‘fun’ on more than one occasion! His passion for his patients, residents, and family shines through this discussion.

Host Cameron Wong asks Dr. Al-Atassi about the importance of a hybrid practice; the future of this specialty (there’s always room for passion and excellence); innovation; residency, diversity, and more!

Dr. Al-Atassi shares loads of practical insight into his practice, academic endeavors, and ways to be and stay well. But just as importantly he highlights that collaboration is key. After all, his team is the ‘heart team’ and involves an abundance of health care professionals.

Dr. Jana Taylor, FRCPC and Dr. Joyce Zaftis (PGY-4) demystify this diverse specialty called Diagnostic Radiology. For one thing - these specialists do see patients! Join Christina Toma as she learns about the joys and challenges of this ever-changing, demanding, and extremely satisfying specialty. It's not unusual to tackle trauma, oncology, inflammatory disease, and congenital disease all in one day. To get into this program you don't necessarily need to be a 'techie' or a physics wizard! You'll learn all this. But you do need to be a visual learner, a problem solver, detail-oriented, and of course a good communicator! Who knows - this episode might point you in a whole new career direction!  

"What do you want to do in this world with your life… and how are you going to meld that into medicine?".  Some wise refelctions from today’s guest – Adrian Huang, MD, FRCSC. 

Host Andrew Pauls (now an MD!) asks Dr. Huang to walk us through his experience as he jumped from medical school to his first year of residency in Orthopedic Surgery. What worked? What didn’t? What lessons did he learn? How did he cope with this new level of responsibility? Is a balanced life possible?

Dr. Huang shares answers to these questions and so much more. If you take away any message from this discussion, you might want to put this at the top of your list:              Goals, habits, systems = resilience = crucial steps to avoid burnout. 

Do you want to connect with Dr. Huang? Feel free to email ahuang7@providencehealth.bc.ca

Or check out Dr. Huang's social media:

Instagram: scrubbedout/YouTube: Adrian Huang (theRealScrubbedout)/TikTok: @scrubbedout

Linked In: Adrian Huang/Facebook: scrubbedoutdoc/Website: www.scrubbedout.com

Patience. Wisdom. Grace. Just a few amazing virtues an Internist Geriatrician absorbs on a daily basis from their patients.

Walkers in the corner. Canes in the corner. Patients, med students, residents, and staff dancing and singing as the attending plays the piano. Just a stolen moment of intergenerational happiness! (Of course there are moments of sadness too, but let’s firmly grasp these joyous times).

Dounia Rouabhia, MD, FRCPC shares her deep passion for Geriatric Medicine and the many rewarding and fulfilling moments she experiences each day. Host Emily Wu, MD, guides Dr. Rouabhia through the usual questions about a ‘day in the life of...’, however this discussion goes beyond and  touches on the importance of other aspects of life (such as travel) that simply make you a more rounded clinician and person.

Dr. Rouabhia observes that we are in an era of respect and dignity for our geriatric population. This philosophy is in sync with the mission of an Internist Geriatrician who strives to do their best for their patients… allowing these individuals to live their lives as they feel appropriate. She tries (!) to demystify the definition of frailty and indeed that of geriatrics too!

If you are curious and love puzzles, Internal Medicine, wise people, the globality of a patient, a balanced life... if you are a genuine team player and truly want to make a difference for your patients and their families... then Geriatric Medicine could be your calling! 

(Family Medicine is a specialty of the College of Family Physicians of Canada)

Humanity - emotional beings - connection with patients – beauty in medicine - trust. Do these words, on their own, resonate with you? Listen on to this inspiring episode. Family Medicine might just be for you.

Stephanie Smith, MD, CCFP shares her undeniable love of being a Family Physician in the Canadian Armed Forces. She takes host Emily Wu through a myriad of global experiences that continually validate why she is a doctor. A couple of deployments in Afghanistan have strongly impacted the type of doctor she is today.

Dr. Smith delves into the abundance of career opportunities available in this diverse field, both in the military and civilian environments. She shares insight into what her training looked like through the Military Medical Training Plan, and tips on how to choose a Family Medicine program to ensure a good fit.

A bonus: Dr. Smith imparts words of wisdom on how to not just survive your journey in health care, but indeed how to thrive!

Let’s debunk a few misconceptions about General Pathology – starting with specialists in this field are introverts. It’s just not true!

Join host Cameron Wong (btw – he’s a new host to the show, and this is his first ep!), as he sits down with Deepti Ravi, MD, FRCPC to delve into this enormous specialty and all that it encompasses. They’ll touch on the many opportunities in rural/community practice and academic practice; life/work integration; qualities residency programs look for, and more! Learn about the many leadership and collaborative roles available in this specialty. 

You’ll hear genuine passion as Dr. Ravi shares her undeniable affection for her specialty. She quite simply highlights respect and admiration for her introvert and extrovert colleagues. Let’s just say her humility and patience are true traits of a General Pathologist. 

In this timely episode, Dr. Andrew Pauls (PGY1, Family Medicine & former host) joins Cameron Wong to share his Match Day experience. He reflects on the whirlwind of emotions leading up to the moment he pressed the button to reveal his result and offers perspective on staying grounded during this high-stakes time.

Dr. Pauls emphasizes the importance of recognizing the many achievements medical students have already made and encourages gratitude for the journey so far. He also shares thoughtful advice for those not in the CaRMS process—offering ways to support fourth-year medical students by giving them the space to process their results in their own way.

Interested in learning more about becoming a Resident Affiliate of the Royal College? Click here for more information. 

Here’s the scenario… you get a call in the middle of the night to get out of bed and go to the hospital to view some blood smears. What’s your reaction? If this gets your blood pumping (!), well Hematology might just be for you!

Join Kelsey Uminski, MD, FRCPC (Staff) and Ellen Cusano, MD, FRCPC (Resident) as they easily convince host Cameron Wong that Hematology is exciting, collaborative, constantly evolving, and extremely satisfying.

This specialty is for those individuals who thrive in an environment surrounded by diagnostic puzzles, cutting edge biotechnologies, and frequent new developments.

Dr. Uminski and Dr. Cusano give insight into how the landscape of treatment in this field has radically changed in recent years. Their passion for treating, often curing, and turning around a patient’s life is … infectious!

Of course you’ll learn about routes to Hematology, residency, a day in the life of – but just as important this episode will peak your interest and demystify this specialty (and give you cause to admire your Hematology colleagues).

Our guests today are quite simply passionate not only about being physicians, but about making sure patients live their best life. If you’re looking for a specialty that incorporates medical and surgical management of skin diseases and concerns, and has vast career opportunities, well… listen on!

Join host Emily Wu as she dives into the diverse world of Dermatology with Laurie Parsons, MD, FRCPC and Emma Heck, MD. They share insights into their rewarding practice and residency.  

This specialty allows you to practice all age groups and all genders. Dermatologists can have a general practice and really be part of their community, or indeed sub-specialize in many areas.  It’s exciting and satisfying to be practicing Dermatology in an era with new therapies and molecules to treat patients’ diseases! Bonus - you can practice this specialty for many, many years! 

In case you’re wondering – no…Dermatologists are not just pimple poppers (they do in fact dissuade this habit!). Stay tuned as our guests debunk a few more myths about this specialty! 

There’s a delicate balance between expertise and the profound humility that accompanies caring for patients and their families. Life as a Cardiologist is not just healing patients - it’s a journey in ongoing check-ins with yourself.

Today’s guest, Raja Hatem, MD, FRCPC tells host Cameron Wong that he chose Cardiology because he ‘really cares for other people, and really loves to treat human beings’. This gives you an idea of a fundamental philosophy required in this field. Trust and a solid bond with your patients will make you the best physician you can be.

Dr. Hatem walks us through his route to Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology. He provides a comprehensive glimpse into his extraordinary career. He sets the record straight on ‘big egos’ in this field, and sheds light on the collaborative opportunities with Cardiac Surgery. He shares insight into how your brain will retain the massive amount of information you’re taking in during med school and residency (and throughout your career!). Dr. Hatem’s unwavering passion for medicine and for life drives his every day!

Is Cardiology for you? It could be if you are a full-on adrenaline fan, thrive in the unexpected, enjoy rapidly evolving technology, approach each day as a gift… and maintain a steadfast focus on the ultimate goal of becoming an excellent and compassionate human being (and of course physician too!). Jump in if you think Cardiology is for you… 'you’ll have the time of your life'.

 Are you uncertain about which specialty to pursue, but know you want a career that is public-facing, involves patient and family interaction, and thrives on the dynamic, high-pressure hospital environment with quick results? And most importantly, do you love working with children?! 

Tune-in to this episode as Allen Hayashi, MD, FRCSC tells host Emily Wu, MD why Pediatric Surgery gives him joy and a sense of immediate accomplishment. Dr. Hayashi's journey to this subspecialty wasn't driven by deep philosophical insights, but rather by reflecting on what he enjoys and what he doesn’t.

Dr. Hayashi is one of the rare specialists who still practices both General and Pediatric Surgery, and he wouldn't have it any other way. As a bonus, his dedication to his patients is so well-known that the local police often give him a pass for speeding during late-night emergencies!

If you’re interest has been piqued and you want to learn more about Pediatric Surgery, feel free to contact Dr. Hayashi:     Allen.Hayashi@islandhealth.ca .

Here’s the white paper Dr. Hayashi referred to:  Joy in Work https://www.ihi.org/resources/white-papers/ihi-framework-improving-joy-work

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Anyone. Anytime. Anything. Anywhere. Can you live up to this motto? If yes - then Emergency Medicine just might be the right fit for you. Join Andrew Pauls as he chats with Dr. Kaif Pardhan, FRCPC and Dr. Andrew Chang, PGY2. Our guests provide first hand advice on what makes a good Emergency Medicine candidate with a few 'insider' tips on what the selection committee looks for! It's a privilege to help patients navigate the emergency room during what might be one of the worse days of their lives. Tune in as this episode offers not only valuable insights into emergency medicine, but shares some important life advice for medical students. (Orignally published Dec 3, 2021).

Do you think the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada is just that big exam at the end of residency? Spoiler alert... it's not!

Dr. Guylaine Lefebvre, FRCSC (Executive Director at the Royal College) demystifies the role of the Royal College.

Hosts Andrew Pauls and Emily Wu join forces with a slew of questions for Dr. Lefebvre. They dive into what a Royal College residency program really means and how the Royal College differs from other national medical organizations. Dr. Lefebvre unpacks the process for certification, licensure, and Fellowship at the Royal College. 

Tune in as Dr. Lefebvre gives great insight into the route to becoming a medical specialist in Canada. 

If this episode doesn't answer all your questions about the Royal College, reach out to us fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca .

Are you a fan of puzzles? Do you see yourself as a doctor of rare diseases? Join Andrew Pauls as he delves into the reality of a specialty not all that well known in medical school - Medical Genetics and Genomics. He chats with Dr. Joanna Lazier and Dr. Alison Castle (PGY-4 Medical Genetics & Genomics) about why they chose this specialty; work/life balance possibilities, and what a typical day looks like. Spoiler alert - there is no such thing as a typical day!

Do you see yourself as a surgeon serving patients from the cradle to the grave? Does the idea of working on all parts of the body, including reconstruction and function – appeal to you? Settle into this episode as host Cameron Wong leaves no stone unturned with as he chats with Shane Seal, MD, FRCSC about his life as a Plastic Surgeon.

Dr. Seal’s path to Plastic Surgery wasn't straightforward but was certainly meant to be. He shares insight into his busy and fulfilling life in Newfoundland and Labrador with his wife Melanie (a medical oncologist) and his four children. He delves into the ins and outs of his work day (spoiler alert: no day is ever the same). And takes great measures to ensure we all know that every member of the health care team is valued and integral to successful patient care. Collaboration is key!

Work hard. Persevere. And always know there are options. These are Dr. Seal’s words of lived experience and wisdom.

Choosing Ophthalmology as your specialty offers an abundance of career routes and opportunities. Dr. Colin Mann, FRCSC (Ophthalmologist, Bridgewater, NS) and Dr. Eri Celo, FRCSC, (PGY-4, Ophthalmology, Dalhousie University) share their passion for this specialty. They give insight into the patient population (pediatric through to geriatric) and the incredible satisfaction of improving the lives of their patients. Join host Haley Eckel as she gets tips and advice on life in general, and learns what makes a good candidate for an Ophthalmology residency program. If you love surgery and crave a healthy work/life balance - Ophthalmology just might be for you!

Thanks for tuning into Season 7. We've got loads in store. We'll continue to delve into the many Royal College subspecialties whilst addressing topics of interest identified by you - our Specialty Café community. Enjoy the series! 

Clear, memorable, succinct, and consistent—these qualities should define both your CaRMS application and interview. In this episode, Sarah Klapman MD, a PGY2 in General Surgery, joins host Cameron Wong (who’s embarking on his own CaRMS journey) to share how she crafted an application that truly stood out. Dr. Klapman managed to highlight her passion for both surgery and opera (and how they interrelate!), showing interviewers that she’s not just a skilled candidate but a genuinely interesting one, too.

Dr. Klapman offers insights into key steps like asking for "strong" letters of reference and structuring a compelling narrative in your application. She also shares her frank thoughts on planning for a possible unmatched situation. One of her top tips? Allow yourself double the time you think you’ll need for prep. With careful planning and some self-care along the way, you can tackle the CaRMS process with greater confidence and less stress. 

Check out the CaRMS website for more information, or have a listen to past Specialty Café's episodes on CaRMS: 

• CaRMS Unmatched:  A Resident's Personal Story 
• Let's Demystify CaRMS

Tune-in for a slightly extended episode... we promise it's worth it! While Geriatric Psychiatry takes center stage, our guest consistently brings the focus back to the essence of her medical practice: the patient and their caregiver.

Regardless of the specialty you're pursuing, you won’t want to miss out on the insights shared about humility in medicine, social duties, importance of taking care (and respecting) our elders, great advice whilst you navigate this healthcare path, and so much more!

Join Soojin Chun, MD, FRCPC as she takes host Cameron Wong through her journey to becoming a Geriatric Psychiatrist. Discover the pivotal moments behind the when, why, and how of Dr. Chun’s journey, all while emphasizing her unwavering dedication to her elderly patients who deserve a fulfilling last chapter.  Driven by her sense of duty, she embraces the opportunity to learn from one of the most remarkable patient populations. After all, true wisdom cannot simply be taught—it comes with aging!

When contemplating a career in Geriatric Psychiatry, words like humility, privilege, storytelling, extensive consultations, patience, and embracing challenges might spring to mind!

Do you like to simply figure things out? Is intimate patient and family interaction high on your list of priorities? Do you want to change and improve medicine on the cutting edge? It's no secret that Dr. Penny Smyth and Dr. Nabeela Nathoo (PGY-4, Neurology) are passionate about Neurology. Host Haley Eckel asks these doctors why they chose this growing and exciting specialty. Haley asks for their advice on Neurology, medicine in general, and life! Who knows - a career in Neurology might be for you!

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way. We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

In the meantime, gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday (only a couple more to go) as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Apart from the obvious clinical expertise... an Anesthesiologist needs to be empathetic, calm, a multi-tasker (physically & mentally), and quick on their feet! Join Andrew Pauls, Richard Alexander, MD, FRCPC, and Raphael Rivière, MD (PGY 3) as they dive into the joys and challenges of this rewarding specialty. Do you see yourself working with an incredibly broad population? Do you crave diversity and unpredictability in your day? Does the idea of putting people out of pain appeal to you? Not only do our guests share their professional expertise... they impart some words of wisdom for your healthcare journey. In a nutshell - working in medicine is a privilege. Take the wins and enjoy the journey!

Rhonda Zwingerman, MD, FRCSC recounts why snuggling her first Twiglet baby was so special.  Are you intrigued? Listen on! 

Would you thrive in a specialty that offers an 'awesome and amazing' combination of technology, patient counselling, and patient education? Can you see yourself being emotionally invested in your patients and their journeys? Is relationship building a priority for you? 

Dr. Zwingerman shares why Gynecologic Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (GREI or the fertility specialty!) spoke to her. She tells host Emily Wu, MD how she has been able to flex her entreprenurial muscles to co-found a fertility clinic (Twig Fertility). They delve into what the future of GREI might look like ... no surprise - lots of AI! 

You can hear the passion in Dr. Zwingerman's voice - how she cares deeply for all her patients and is committed to create an inclusive, open, and welcoming environment. And her humility shines through - it's a team effort and she happily touts the expertise of her fellow team members. 

Do you want to know more about OGBYN? Have a listen to a few Specialty Cafe episodes on  Obstetrics & Gynecology published on Feb 11, 2022 / May 3 & May 16 2023. 

Do you see yourself practicing in a specialty that involves cutting edge technology (think along the lines of robotics), with surgical and medical opportunities? Does a diverse patient population (infants, the elderly, opera singers, farmers etc..) appeal to you? Does the anatomy of the head and neck spike your interest? Host Andrew Pauls sits down with Dr. Françoise Chagnon, FRCSC and Dr. Ciarán Lane, PGY-5, to understand their passion and unwavering commitment to this broad specialty called Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery. Not only do our guests share their experience and expertise, but they also impart some words of encouragement to medical students as they navigate their health care journey. 

Specialty Café - Summer Break: Specialty Café is on a short break and will be back in September! Host Andrew Pauls reflects on previous episodes and gives a glimpse into upcoming discussions on the day in the life of Royal College specialists and residents. We look forward to connecting with you soon. Stay safe.

Anyone. Anytime. Anything. Anywhere. Can you live up to this motto? If yes - then Emergency Medicine just might be the right fit for you. Join Andrew Pauls as he chats with Dr. Kaif Pardhan, FRCPC and Dr. Andrew Chang, PGY2. Our guests provide first hand advice on what makes a good Emergency Medicine candidate with a few 'insider' tips on what the selection committee looks for! It's a privilege to help patients navigate the emergency room during what might be one of the worse days of their lives. Tune in as this episode offers not only valuable insights into emergency medicine, but shares some important life advice for medical students.

Why can’t dogs eat grapes?  What does a day look like for a Clinical Pharmacologist & Toxicologist? Is this really one subspecialty? Are there many routes to becoming a Clinical Pharmacologist & Toxicologist? Do you see patients in this fascinating subspecialty? Does being an excellent team member with allied health members really matter? 

Today’s guest, Riley Hartmann, MD, FRCPC, balances four staff roles with life as a father, husband, hiker, skier, cook, and goalie alongside his nurse colleagues. A true enthusiast for all things pharmacology (and coffee!), he enjoys learning about obsure poisonous events. Somehow, he makes balancing work and life look... possible and fulfilling. 

Host Cameron Wong’s fascination shines through, especially as they tackle the complex puzzle of de-prescribing. 

If you want to be an true expert in all aspects of your field, love teaching, are open to unlimited career possibilities... then press play and listen on. You may have found a hidden subspecialty that could change the course of your journey. 

Dr. Gillian MacMullin, FRCSC knew early on that being a community Obstetrics & Gynecology specialist (Cape Breton, NS) was for her. Join Emily Wu as she picks Dr. MacMullin's brain not only on what an OBGYN does... but about the realities, challenges, and joys of being personnally and professionally known in your community. Spoiler Alert - practising in a community is mostly joyful and truly fulfilling. A day in the life of this specialty is never ever the same. A huge bonus is the ability to tailor so many aspects of this practice to what works for you - and what really interests you. Oh - and apparently babies are rarely born during office hours, so be prepared for some overnight shifts! 

Today’s guest is a singer, pianist, science fiction enthusiast, storyteller, listener, and creative writer. And as importantly, he’s a Pediatric Hematology/Oncology specialist. Join us as Kyle Mendonça, MD (PGY6... but not for long!), shares his fascinating journey with host Cameron Wong.

Dr. Mendonça opens up about his residency experiences, his passion for working with children, and why he chose this challenging yet rewarding subspecialty. If you're looking for a career in medicine that offers a variety of experiences, from inpatient to outpatient care, managing both critically ill and healthy patients, and forming long-term relationships with families, this might be the perfect path for you.

Bonus: it's a 2 in 1 specialty (listen on to learn more!). 

You'll need to thrive in a collaborative environment, working closely with a big team of medical specialists and 'lots of' allied health professionals. While the emotional demands can be high, the specialty also offers immense joy and inspiration as you guide patients and their families through what can often be the hardest time of their lives.

You’ve heard this before on Specialty Café… but being a person with interests outside medicine simply makes you a more rounded, healthier, and happier doctor (and person!). 

Check out our episode on Pediatrics (published Oct 7, 2022),   https://specialtycafe.libsyn.com/pediatrics

Thanks for tuning into Panel 2 of Specialty Café Live. The theme of this episode is... flexibility! Host Christina Toma delves into the truly rural, community, urban, and academic aspects of:

·       Obstetrics & Gynecology with Dr. Renée Soucy, FRCSC

·       Internal Medicine with Dr. Umberin Najeeb, FRCPC

·       Family Medicine with Dr. Andrew Thomas, CCFP

Whether you are someone who likes (and needs) to have a huge scope of practice; or if you thrive on being with and learning with learners; or love the idea of many career options (being a coroner or working in a jail, for example) – then this episode is for you. Oh, and if you crave flexibility in your career, you'll want to tune in! 

Check out Specialty Café Live, Panel 1 (Urology, Pediatrics, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation) – published on May 9, 2023.

And look out for Panel 3 (Psychiatry, General Surgery, Anesthesiology) on May 23, 2023.

Thank you to the Canadian Federation of Medical Students for their kind invitation to host this live Specialty Café episode at their Spring General Meeting in Quebec City on April 15, 2023.

This is the last Rewind episode of the season. Thanks for sticking with us while we revisited some of our most popular primary specialties. Look out for Season 6 which drops on March 12, 2024. Spoiler Alert: The first episode shares an honest insight into what it's really like going unmatched during the CaRMS process. 

In the meantime...

Our guests describe Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation as a magical specialty. What could be better than getting up every day with the intention of optimizing the quality of your patients' lives? Join host Haley Eckel as she unpacks the mysteries of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation with two passionate doctors from Alberta: Jaime Yu, MD, FRCPC and Yasmin Chishti, MD. It's no secret that fate has steered our guests toward this fulfilling specialty. A career in medicine can be tough - but Physiatry offers immense joy too. A bonus: it really is possible to have a healthy work/life balance. Who knows - Physiatry just might be your path!

What exactly is the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS)? Why does it exist? How does it work?  It’s daunting… how can I keep on top of the process? How do I rank my preferences? Where do I go for help? Do these questions sound familiar!

Whether you’re a curious first-year med student, or in your final year embarking on your CaRMS path, this episode is for you.

Join Cameron Wong as he chats with CaRMS CEO, John Gallinger, to demystify the CaRMS process. This episode is packed with insight into the underlying rationale of the CaRMS algorithm, what the process looks like, tips to start and stay on track with your CaRMS journey, and heaps of invaluable advice.

Here's a sneak peak... The best and most effective ranking strategy is the simplest:  rank your true preferences in your rank order list. You’ll need to listen to this episode to find out why!

Your CaRMS journey takes place over months. Med students are busy and the application process might not be high on your list. However, you can reduce some of your stress level by ensuring you know well in advance what needs to be done when! 

As John mentions on more than one occasion, the dedicated CaRMS team is there to help. Never hesitate to reach out.  https://www.carms.ca/contact/

Critical Care Medicine can be unpredictable and stressful, but it is also one of the most fulfilling and compassionate areas in medicine. Today's episode features an inspiring conversation with Omar Ahmad, MD, FRCPC, a specialist who not only manages stress well but thrives on it. Join host Andrew Pauls as he explores Dr. Ahmad's journey through medicine, delving into what drew him to this high-pressure yet rewarding specialty.

You'll hear about the delicate balance required to save lives while supporting patients' families during their hardest moments. Dr. Ahmad shares his passion for guiding families through these challenging times, assuring them that their loved ones are in skilled, caring hands.

Discover the many paths to Critical Care, what residency entails, and the diverse ways you can shape your career. This conversation emphasizes the importance of pursuing interests outside of medicine, finding joy in life beyond your career, and the role of humility and continual learning in achieving a fulfilling life in medicine.

Teamwork is key. Being humble enough to know that you are just one team member is equally key! Critical care offers more than collegiality... you gain supportive and lifelong friendships.  

Thanks to you, our Specialty Café community, we're gearing up for the next season. In the meantime - are you interested in winning a $50 gift card? Here's how:

1. Listen to Specialty Café.
2. Rate and review (and enjoy!). 
3. Take a screenshot of your review and email to us at podcasts@royalcollege.ca. Include your name, school, and year. 

Winners will be announced at the Canadian Federation of Medical Students' (CFMS) Annual General Meeting in Moncton, New Brunswick on September 20, 2024.  Specialty Café will be hosting a live podcast with a few Royal College specialists (afternoon Sept 20, details to follow soon). 

Good luck! 

What exactly is Anatomical Pathology? Join host and fellow medical student Andrew Pauls for a discussion with Dr. Corwyn Rowsell (Anatomical Pathologist) and Dr. Nadine Demko (PGY-3 Anatomical Pathology). Our guests share an overview of this fascinating specialty and provide insight in the day in the life of an Anatomical Pathologist. It's not all CSI - but it could be! Does this specialty allow for a good work life balance? What type of person is suited to this type of work? Who knows - Anatomical Pathology might be your chosen specialty!

Welcome to Season 6 of Specialty Café, where we continue delving into  Royal College specialties, subspecialties, and more.

This season, we're delivering on your requests for more special episodes, offering unique insights and journeys. In this timely episode, join host Cameron Wong as he engages in a candid and inspiring conversation with Victoria Turnbull, MD, (PGY2, Urology, University of Western Ontario) who shares her experience of going unmatched in 2021.

Dr. Turnbull's journey is a testament to authenticity. Throughout the discussion, she offers frank insights into her challenges, but also highlights the transformative power of staying true to oneself. Her encounter with a staff member who simply said "me too" shifted her perspective, and was quite simply... freeing. This realization sparked a commitment to advocate for openness and community among those who find themselves in similar situations.

This episode is full of valuable takeaways. Dr. Turnbull's story underscores the message that going unmatched does not diminish your worth. Whether you're navigating the CaRMS journey or supporting peers and future colleagues, there's much to take away from this conversation.

The opinions expressed in this episode are not the views of The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and belong to the individual guest(s).

Holiday Special

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday for the next few weeks as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way in the early new year! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Does a career in Internal Medicine allow you to live a life outside of the hospital? How do community and urban practices differ? What do Internal Medicine sub-specialties look like? Join host Andrew Pauls as he chats with Amy Hendricks, MD, FRCPC and Pooya Dibanjnia, MD, as they discuss the joys and challenges of a day in the life of an Internist. This episode was first published on March 31, 2021. 

Join Christina Toma as she explores the joys and challenges of three very different specialties and three very different specialists too!

Urology, Dr. Mazen Jundi, FRCSC

Pediatrics, Dr. Ryan Giroux, FRCPC

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Dr. Alice Kam, FRCPC 

Do you like expensive toys and lasers… and hammering things too? Or do you prefer to sit on the floor, be goofy and collaborate closely with parents? Or does the idea of a great work/life balance, with amazing opportunities to work alongside many different specialties seem more up your alley?

Tune-in for a frank discussion, laughter, and insight into what it’s really like in the day in the life of a specialist. Who knows – you might be surprised and consider a specialty you never thought of before!

Look out for Specialty Café Live Panels 2 & 3:

• May 16, 2023 – Panel 2: Obstetrics & Gynecology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine
• May 23, 2023 – Panel 3: Psychiatry, General Surgery, Anesthesiology

Thank you to the Canadian Federation of Medical Students for their kind invitation to host the Royal College's live Specialty Café episode at their Spring General Meeting in Quebec City on April 15, 2023.

Although this season focuses mainly on subspecialties, our guest today kindly agreed to take us back to a primary specialty (Plastic Surgery) and share her experience as a resident. Note: this is a new episode. 

Would you describe yourself as an innovator and a patient advocate? Do you often wonder what you can do better for your patients?  Does your creative passion ignite when discussing topics like AI, 3D printing, and the power of teamwork? Listen on... Plastic Surgery might be your calling. 

Xiya Ma, MD (PGY3), candidly shares her journey with host Cameron Wong, delving into topics such as navigating being unmatched, her untraditional decision to take a hiatus during medical school to pursue a master's degree, the importance of self-belief and self-trust, and the need to nurture your life outside of medicine.

Oh yes... and of course Dr. Ma gives excellent insight into the diverse specialty of Plastic Surgery and her life as a resident. 

It’s not always easy, but try not to lose sight of your own happiness (personal and professional).

Check out another episode on Plastic Surgery with Shane Seal, MD, FRCSC (published on February 3, 2023). 

Does a career in Internal Medicine allow you to live a life outside of the hospital? How do community and urban practices differ? What do Internal Medicine sub-specialties look like? Join host and fellow medical student, Andrew Pauls as he chats with Dr. Amy Hendricks (Internist) and Dr. Pooya Dibanjnia (PGY-2 Internal Medicine) as they discuss the joys and challenges of a day in the life of an Internist.

Discover the world of Developmental Pediatrics, one of the best-kept secrets in the field.

Imagine it’s the end of your workday, and you’ve celebrated some unique and special gains with your patients and their families/caregivers. You focused on and applauded their strengths and successes. You reflect on your fortune as you work with (and learn from) a wide range of dedicated and innovative allied health members. Do you think this would fill your cup? 

Tune in as Rhea D’Costa, MD, FRCPC, shares her experiences and insights into this fascinating subspecialty with host Cameron Wong. Learn about the realities of working alongside families and caregivers who ‘move mountains’ to support their loved ones.

Studying for Royal College exams is one thing… but keeping up to date on pop culture for ages 0-21 years old is a pretty sweet form of professional development! If you are torn between Pediatrics, Neurology, Physiatry, and Psychiatry, Dr. D’Costa encourages you to explore the intriguing world of Developmental Pediatrics.

Check out our episode on Pediatrics (dropped on October 7, 2022).

Resource:  F-Word for Child Development https://canchild.ca/en/research-in-practice/f-words-in-childhood-disability

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday for the next few weeks as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Does a rural practice in psychiatry appeal to you? Are you someone who thrives whilst wearing many different hats at work? Is working in a multidiscinplinary environment for you? Join host Emily Wu as she chats with Dr. Evelyn Obosi, FRCPC about her practice in Prince Albert, Saskatchwan. You'll learn about a holistic approach to treating patients... psychological and social factors play a huge part in the treatment plan. The journey to stabilizing a patient not only affects the patient - it also has a great impact on the patient's family and the community as a whole. It's evident that Dr. Obosi reaps an abundance of joy and rewards from her practice. When she says every day is different - she really means that every day is different! And you'll learn that Dr. Obosi's route to Saskatchewan involved a few different countries! 

Emily Wu discovers the ins and outs of this 'under the radar' specialty called Vascular Surgery. Do you see yourself working in a life and limb saving specialty? Dr. Randolph Guzman, FRCSC and Dr. Rikesh Parekh (PGY5) dive into the technical and surgical aspects of their career. They share incredible moments of life-saving procedures, and the sheer pride they have at the end of their work day. If you can deal with vessels and blood (!), this highly technical specialty might just be for you. Throughout this conversation our guests use words such as fun, collaborative, satisfying, elegant, rewarding... oh, and fun!

Hear about the role of art & science in General Surgery in both rural and academic settings! Who would have thought that compassion and humility are amongst the most important qualities of a General Surgeon. Being able to partner with patients as they navigate their health journey is simply a privilege. Join Andrew Pauls as sits down to an enlightening discussion with Dr. Yemi Laosebikan, FRCSC and Dr. Joshua Hefler (PGY-3). We learn how the Hippocratic Oath has steered a life of dedication and gratitude.  Our guests talk about about the professional and clinical side of this specialty. They share the  very human aspects of being a General Surgeon. Every day is different but so gratifying with plenty of joy.

Does a rural practice in psychiatry appeal to you? Are you someone who thrives whilst wearing many different hats at work? Is working in a multidiscinplinary environment for you? Join host Emily Wu as she chats with Dr. Evelyn Obosi, FRCPC about her practice in Prince Albert, Saskatchwan. You'll learn about a holistic approach to treating patients... psychological and social factors play a huge part in the treatment plan. The journey to stabilizing a patient not only affects the patient - it also has a great impact on the patient's family and the community as a whole. It's evident that Dr. Obosi reaps an abundance of joy and rewards from her practice. When she says every day is different - she really means that every day is different! And you'll learn that Dr. Obosi's route to Saskatchewan involved a few different countries! 

Does your confidence translate into courage? Do you have a sense of honesty, tolerance, and patience with a commitment to integrity? Join  Andrew Pauls as he asks Dr. Susan Brien, FRCSC to share her path to becoming a Neurosurgeon. Of course you'll learn about Neurosurgery and what a day in the life looks like. But just as importantly, Dr. Brien delves into the human aspects of being a surgeon and the undeniable importance and privilege of collaborating with families and being with patients throughout their journey. She shares professional and personal advice for med students as they navigate a life in medicine. 

Are you passionate about women’s health? Does the prospect of working in an environment full of exciting, difficult and unpredictable cases appeal to you? Do you see yourself in a specialty that is extremely broad with surgical and medical management?

Danielle Stepnuk, MD (PGY3) can easily convince you that Obstetrics & Gynecology is an amazingly fulfilling specialty. Host Emily Wu and Dr. Stepnuk dive into the joys and worthwhile challenges of residency in this field.

Dr. Stepnuk talks about why it’s important to destigmatize those difficult discussions around women’s health. She shares insight of course into residency, but also provides some valuable tips on how to navigate this journey in healthcare. You should choose a specialty for the right reason. Afterall, residency can be tough and waking up to a career you love makes it that much better!  

Check out Specialty Café’s first episode on Obstetrics & Gynecology with Gillian MacMullin, MD, FRCSC (published February 11, 2022) for a perspective from a staff OBGYN in a community setting in Nova Scotia.

This is the last episode of Season 4 covering most of the Royal College’s primary specialties. Look out for Season 5 where we’ll delve into the remaining primary specialty (Cardiac Surgery), subspecialties, and more! Thanks for tuning-in.

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday for the next few weeks as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Are you fascinated by diagnostic tests and biochemical pathways? Do you find it thrilling to know that your specialty continually changes and will look very different in the not-so-distant future? Tune in… Medical Biochemistry could be your future career path!

Host Emily Wu, MD ticks off a list of questions for Andre Mattman, MD, FRCPC in order to demystify this collaborative specialty.  Dr. Mattman gives great insight into the various residency routes, a day in his life, and a look at the rich and vast patient cases seen by a Medical Biochemist.

Dr. Mattman shares his passion for aligning medical biochemistry practices to climate sustainability. He gives thoughtful insight into his work around assessing appropriateness of certain tests vs other tests, while keeping top of mind how lab tests can have a big impact on our fragile environment... and an impact on limited resources. The health of this planet is, after all, the responsibility of all medical specialists.  

And… as an important by the way… work/life balance is really good is Medical Biochemistry!  

Is Nephrology really just for the 'nerds' of Internal Medicine?  Michael Girsberger, MD, FRCPC, a practicing Nephrologist in Prince Edward Island, is here to embrace the stereotype—but also challenge it. Nephrologists do so much more than dialysis and kidney care; their work spans acute mechanics, intricate puzzle-solving, and a healthy dose of General Internal Medicine.

In this episode, host Cameron Wong dives into the diverse and dynamic life of a Nephrologist. From tackling complex diagnoses over weeks to managing a broad practice in a community/rural setting, Dr. Girsberger reveals how this specialty offers variety, intellectual excitement, and opportunities to make a real difference. And yes, his passion for kidney pathology is contagious!

A word of advice from Dr. Girsberger: ‘Stay open as you plan your career’. He never imagined when he was doing his residency in Switzerland that he’d be one of three Nephrologists in Prince Edward Island.

Check out Specialty Café’s very first episode on Internal Medicine (March 31, 2021) https://specialtycafe.libsyn.com/ep_1_internal_medicine_final_mix_en_feb12021mp3

All roads do lead to Rome – apparently!  Specialty Café Live, Panel 3, delves into the incredibly unique journeys taken by each of these guests as they became Royal College specialists, and then the paths they took throughout their careers. Rural, remote, urban, and academic practices are addressed in detail. 

Anesthesiology, Dr. Marie-Andrée Girard, FRCPC

Psychiatry, Dr. Brian Hodges, FRCPC

General Surgery, Dr. Roy Kirkpatrick, FRCSC

 Join host Christina Toma as she dives into the commonalities, contrasts, and such different environments of how and where (and why) these specialists practice. This conversation is full of honest reflection on social accountability, planetary health, generalism in medicine, and more. You’ll hear exciting insight into the future of these specialties. On the topic of commonalities… it’s obvious our guests have the utmost respect for each other. Very inspiring indeed! 

Check out Panel 1 (Urology, Pediatrics, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation) and Panel 2 (Obstetrics & Gynecology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine).

Look out for Specialty Café Season 5, coming soon!

Thank you to the Canadian Federation of Medical Students for their kind invitation to host this live Specialty Café episode at their Spring General Meeting in Quebec City on April 15, 2023.

Are needles, wires, and tubes your tools of preference? Are you looking for a rapidly expanding, exciting, and cool specialty? Are you a problem solver?  Look no further! Have a listen as our guests enthusiastically share their passion for Interventional Radiology (IR). Actually – they share their passion for the broad scope of radiology (you’ll hear why this is so important).

Sebastien Robert, MD (PGY5) and Jorden (Fu) Lo, MD (PGY2), demystify the route to becoming an IR resident. They provide a comprehensive glimpse into the vast opportunities of this multifaceted discipline. All the technicalities and processes aside… they both agree that you need to be in love with imaging to be an excellent IR.

Host Andrew Pauls learns why being an enthusiastic, curious, and present resident goes a very long way. After all - you want to stand out as a resident. 

This discussion is packed with nuggets of wisdom. Here's one for your CaRMS intereviews:  Be yourself. Be authentic. Be a good human being!

Would you like to get involved with IR? Contact the Canadian Association for Interventional Radiology (CAIR) https://cairweb.ca/en/

Check out Specialty Café’s episode on Diagnostic Radiology (published November 5, 2021).

Protect, promote, and optimize the health of your community. Does this mandate resonate with you? Join host Andrew Pauls as he chats with Medical Officer of Health for Peel, Ontario - Dr. Lawrence Loh, MPH, FCFP, FRCPC, FACPM, and Dr. Samantha Cheuk (PGY-3, Public Health & Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta). Dr. Loh and Dr. Cheuk delve into the core functions of public health and shed light on what community engagement looks like. Not only do they highlight the wide variety of opportunities available with this specialty - they also impart some advice to medical students on seizing moments and what a healthy work/life balance can look like. If you are patient, determined, curious, compassionate, a good communicator, and a natural leader - a career in Public Health & Preventive Medicine just might be for you.

Gear up for a trip down memory lane. Join us every Tuesday for the next few weeks as we hit rewind and release some of our all-time favourite episodes. Let’s dive back into the primary specialties that sparked your interest.

We’re prepping fresh content for the next season of Specialty Café. Stay tuned for exciting new episodes heading your way! We’ll continue delving into subspecialties and beyond!

A huge thanks to our listeners not only in Canada but also around the world! Questions or suggestions for this podcast? Reach out to fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca.

Hear about the role of art & science in General Surgery in both rural and academic settings! Who would have thought that compassion and humility are amongst the most important qualities of a General Surgeon. Being able to partner with patients as they navigate their health journey is simply a privilege. Join Andrew Pauls as sits down to an enlightening discussion with Dr. Yemi Laosebikan, FRCSC and Dr. Joshua Hefler (PGY-3). We learn how the Hippocratic Oath has steered a life of dedication and gratitude.  Our guests talk about about the professional and clinical side of this specialty. They share the  very human aspects of being a General Surgeon. Every day is different but so gratifying with plenty of joy. (This episode originally aired on October 21, 2021).

Our guests describe Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation as a magical specialty. What could be better than getting up every day with the intention of optimizing the quality of your patients' lives? Join host Haley Eckel as she unpacks the mysteries of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation with two passionate doctors from Alberta: Dr. Jaime Yu, FRCPC and Dr. Yasmin Chishti (PGY4…now PGY-5!). It's no secret that fate has steered our guests toward this fulfilling specialty. A career in medicine can be tough - but Physiatry offers immense joy too. A bonus: it really is possible to have a healthy work/life balance. Who knows - Physiatry just might be your path!

A joyous overview of Neuropathology awaits you!

Ever since she was six years old, Laura Schmitt, MD, FRCPC, knew she wanted to go into medicine, work on the brain, and cure epilepsy (for dogs & humans!).

Join host Cameron Wong as he delves into this huge field of medicine with Dr. Schmitt. You’ll learn why Neuropathology is at the cutting edge of change, what residency looks like, what a typical work day looks like; and more!

According to Dr. Schmitt, one of the best things about Neuropathology is sitting at a microscope looking at the brain, neurons, and glia... every… single… day!

Some simple but candid advice for med students on their journey to choosing a specialty: Make sure you love what you do. Not only will you be happier – but you’ll just be a better medical specialist!

Dr. Katie Lines, PGY4, demonstrates why Psychiatry is one of the most intellectually stimulating specialties. Settle in for an in-depth episode about the realities of a Psychiatry residency. Dr. Lines shares her passion (and huge compassion) for treating some of the most challenging presentations with not only medication, but with complimentary therapies such as psychotherapy. Join Emily Wu as she picks Dr. Lines' brain (no pun intended) about why she chose this specialty. Learn all about the different areas of practice. You'll hear some myth-busting around medical skills in Psychiatry! BTW - starting a family in residency is definitely possible.

Let's continue to discover together! Hosts Andrew Pauls and Emily Wu join forces to reminisce about the past three seasons of Specialty Café, and share some highlights of what they’ve learned. Most importantly - they want to ensure they are providing medical students with truly valuable information about the day in the life of  Royal College specialists and residents. Stay tuned for Season 4 (coming soon) to dive into Medical Mirobiology, Pediatrics, Dermatology, and more! Any suggestions or questions? Contact us at fellowshipaffairs@royalcollege.ca. 

What does mentorship mean to you? Join our podcast team Andrew, Emily, and Mark, as they explore the importance of mentors in their educational journeys. Their discussion highlights some of the amazing benefits of learning from a mentor in a rural setting (this includes of course knowing the entire health care team as well as dinner and ‘hanging out’ with your preceptor!).

They reflect on their past podcast hosting and mentor experiences, and look ahead to the future. Who knows where your path may lead. Take risks. Take chances. When one door closes, another opens! And... be present with your learning experiences. It's goes so quickly! 

• A huge thank you to our dedicated (and outgoing) hosts, Andrew Pauls, MD and Emily Wu, MD as they make their way in family medicine! Thanks for being such curious learners.
• Welcome to one of our new podcast hosts, Mark Garabedian. 

In addition to episodes on Royal College subspecialties, we'll present more Spotlight episodes covering topics such as preparing for CaRMS, balancing work and life as a learner, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, MedEd, and much more. If you have suggestions for a topic, feel free to reach out to us at podcasts@royalcollege.ca.