• Does it pay to subspecialize in medicine?
    Apr 16 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a critical care anesthesiologist and medical ethicist, delves into the increasingly relevant topic of hyper-specialization in medicine, particularly for medical students and resident physicians on the cusp of significant career decisions. He defines hyper-specialization as the trend of medical professionals focusing on narrower fields of practice, driven by advances in medical technology and expanding knowledge. Dr. Bradley discusses the benefits of hyper-specialization such as improved patient outcomes, innovation in research, and professional advantages, but also highlights the challenges like complexity in patient care navigation, limited geographic job flexibility, and prolonged training with delayed personal milestones. He emphasizes that choosing to pursue a fellowship should be an intentional decision aligned with one's long-term goals and lifestyle preferences rather than just an expectation in academic settings. The podcast advocates for better referral systems, education for patients, and technological tools to efficiently guide patients through the complex maze of sub-specialties. Dr. Bradley concludes by reminding listeners to reflect on their personal and professional aspirations, weigh their options carefully, and proceed with intention in their medical careers.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    17 mins
  • Cracking the MCAT Code: Strategies for Success
    Apr 11 2025

    In this episode of Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, an anesthesiologist and critical care physician, kicks off a new series to guide pre-med students on their journey to becoming physicians. This episode focuses on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), providing a comprehensive overview of what the MCAT entails, including its structure, key subject areas, and scoring system. Dr. Bradley emphasizes that while the MCAT is crucial, it is only one part of the medical school application process and should not define one's future as a physician.


    Dr. Bradley shares his personal experiences studying for the MCAT in 2009, offering practical study strategies and resources. He details his own preparation process, which involved taking practice tests and utilizing various study materials. Listeners are advised to create a realistic study timeline, use active recall techniques, and take full-length practice exams under test conditions. Mental preparedness is also highlighted as an essential component, stressing the importance of rest, nutrition, and maintaining a positive mindset.


    Finally, Dr. Bradley provides additional resources and collaborations, such as ambient music for studying and mantras for relieving test anxiety. Listeners are encouraged to start early, stay flexible, and believe in themselves throughout their preparation. The episode concludes with a personal anecdote about how his path intertwined with a fellow pre-med student, showcasing the importance of community and support in the journey to becoming a physician.


    Dr. Bianca Busch: The College Psychiatrist


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    15 mins
  • A Patient's Guide to Anesthesia for Childbirth
    Mar 25 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a double board-certified anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, delves into the role of anesthesiologists during labor and delivery. He aims to demystify various anesthesia techniques, focusing on epidurals and spinals, which are commonly used to manage pain and support safety during childbirth. Dr. Bradley explains the procedures, potential risks, and common misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's anesthesia options for a more informed and stress-free delivery experience.


    Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Bradley provides a detailed walkthrough of what patients can expect when receiving an epidural or spinal anesthesia. He discusses the process including medical history review, placement techniques, and immediate aftercare. Additionally, Dr. Bradley addresses concerns such as potential side effects, the rarity of complications like nerve damage, and the debunking of myths about anesthesia slowing down labor or affecting a mother’s ability to push.


    The episode also highlights the importance of communication with medical professionals and considerations for different hospital settings. Dr. Bradley encourages expectant parents to ask questions and be proactive in their care. Beyond the technical aspects, he shares his personal experience as a new father and introduces listeners to his ambient music project, which aims to offer calming music for various settings, including childbirth.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    23 mins
  • Ethical Dilemmas of Medicine VS Law Enforcement
    Mar 19 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Stephen Bradley, anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals when interacting with law enforcement in clinical settings. Using a recent case where physicians at Mercy Health Lorraine Hospital in Ohio refused to perform a court-ordered body cavity search on a patient suspected of hiding drugs, Dr. Bradley explores the conflict between law enforcement demands and medical ethics, particularly the duty to do no harm and protect patient safety and dignity.


    Dr. Bradley examines the broader implications of law enforcement's presence in hospitals, citing research from JAMA Surgery that highlights the disruption of medical care, patient privacy violations, and increased patient stress due to police interactions. He stresses the importance of hospitals developing clear policies for handling law enforcement encounters to prevent arbitrary decision-making and ensuring that medical professionals understand and assert their rights to refuse police demands that compromise patient care.


    The episode concludes with practical strategies for physicians to protect patients, such as demanding proper legal documentation, educating staff and themselves on patient rights, and thoroughly documenting all interactions with law enforcement. Dr. Bradley calls on healthcare providers to speak up when patient rights are at risk and emphasizes the importance of advocating for policies that prioritize patient care over police demands. He also encourages listeners to check out additional resources, including his YouTube channel and an online course for physicians navigating job contracts.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    14 mins
  • Mentorship & Master Negotiation: Tools to Transform Your Medical Career
    Mar 10 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a critical care anesthesiologist and medical ethicist, discusses the importance of mentorship in the medical field. He outlines the structure of the podcast for the season, including focused episodes for pre-medical students, resident physicians, medical ethics, and community-awareness topics. Dr. Bradley also introduces a book club segment, recommending 'Never Split the Difference' by Chris Voss, which provides actionable advice on negotiation strategies using empathy and emotional intelligence, applicable to various professional and personal scenarios.


    Dr. Bradley delves into the core aspects of mentorship, defining it as a professional relationship where a more experienced individual provides guidance and support to someone earlier in their career. He explains different types of mentors, such as formal, informal, near-peer, faculty, and virtual mentors, and discusses how to find and approach potential mentors. He emphasizes that mentorship should inspire and guide, helping both the mentor and mentee grow and develop. Key to being a good mentee is taking initiative, being respectful of the mentor's time, and providing value to the relationship by following through on advice and showing appreciation.


    As careers progress, transitioning from mentee to mentor becomes crucial. Dr. Bradley advocates for experienced professionals to give back by mentoring others, highlighting the benefits it brings to both the mentor and mentee in terms of leadership development and community strengthening. The episode wraps up with actionable takeaways for seeking mentorship and gradually becoming a mentor, along with a call to support the Black Doctors Podcast by subscribing, reviewing, and sharing it with colleagues.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    15 mins
  • Unlocking Medicine: A Guide to Effective Shadowing
    Mar 3 2025

    Maximizing Shadowing Experiences for Aspiring Medical Professionals


    In this episode of The Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley dives into the essential role of shadowing in the journey to medical school, offering detailed advice on how to find shadowing opportunities and maximize these invaluable learning experiences. The discussion is part of the 'So You Want to Be a Doctor' series aimed at pre-medical students. Dr. Bradley emphasizes the importance of leveraging personal networks, volunteer programs, and cold emailing to secure shadowing positions, while also stressing the necessity to prepare thoroughly—both professionally and mentally—for these experiences. From understanding the appropriate dress code to preparing insightful questions and maintaining patient confidentiality under HIPAA, listeners receive a comprehensive guide to making the most of shadowing opportunities. The episode also reminds students to follow up and maintain connections with the physicians they shadow for future mentorship and recommendations.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    19 mins
  • Awake, Asleep, or In Between? Understanding Anesthesia
    Feb 24 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors podcast, host Dr. Steven Bradley delves into the world of anesthesiology. He explores the importance and role of anesthesia in healthcare, explaining its different types - general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and monitored anesthesia care or sedation. Dr. Bradley breaks down how each type works, the specific procedures they are used for, and what patients should know before undergoing surgery involving anesthesia. This episode aims to educate patients, family members, and healthcare enthusiasts about the complexities and safety measures of anesthesia, making it more understandable and less intimidating for those affected by it.


    In honor of Black History Month, Dr. Bradley also shares the achievements of contemporary Black physicians who are making significant contributions to the medical field. He highlights the work of transplant surgeons, psychiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, and entrepreneurs, many of whom he knows personally and has worked with throughout his career. These individuals serve as inspiration and represent the impactful presence and accomplishments of Black professionals in medicine.


    Additionally, Dr. Bradley introduces his side projects, including an ambient music album titled 'Twice Daily Until Symptoms Resolve,' created to help reduce anxiety and stress, especially before surgeries. He also encourages listeners to support the podcast by sharing it with others, leaving reviews, and following him on social media. The episode aims to demystify anesthesia and celebrate Black excellence in the medical community.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    24 mins
  • Discharge Against Medical Advice: Reimagining Patient Autonomy and Care
    Feb 18 2025

    In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley delves into the issue of discharging patients against medical advice (AMA). He discusses a viral video capturing the distress of a patient trying to leave the hospital against medical advice, highlighting the tension between patient autonomy and physician responsibility. Dr. Bradley dispels the myth that insurance companies frequently deny payment for AMA discharges, revealing that such misconceptions can coerce patients into staying in the hospital against their wishes, thus undermining their autonomy and informed consent. He provides statistical insights and advocates for a reevaluation of these practices, suggesting alternatives like 'patient-initiated discharge' to better reflect patient-centered care principles.


    Additionally, Dr. Bradley honors Dr. Clive Callender, a pioneer in minority organ donation, highlighting his contributions to addressing healthcare disparities and increasing awareness within minority communities. Dr. Callender's legacy and dedication to equitable healthcare have significantly impacted organ donation rates among minorities, establishing a model for community engagement and education.


    The episode concludes by emphasizing the need for shared decision-making in AMA discharges, proposing harm reduction approaches over legalistic forms, and advocating for more research and standardized guidelines that prioritize patient welfare while supporting clinicians in navigating these complex situations.


    Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

    Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.


    Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


    Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


    In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    18 mins
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