Docs Outside The Box

Dr. Nii Darko

Docs Outside the Box is a fusion of money, medicine, and pop culture. After paying off $662,000 in student loan debt, quitting their jobs, and launching 3 businesses, husband and wife, Drs. Nii and Renée Darko, have a lot to say about earning, saving, and investing your way to the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. These two docs parley about personal finance, careers, and the real world. Tune in for the gems. 💎 Stay for the laughs .😂 Welcome to medicine’s new media!

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Our Editor's Take

For medical professionals, completing training is only one challenge. Doctors also face financial, psychological, and health-related challenges. On the Docs Outside The Box podcast, Dr. Nii Darko interviews a wide range of professionals. His conversations with guests provide valuable insights for medical professionals and other listeners. The podcast helps them plan for financial independence.

In preparing for a career in medicine, no one gets financial training. Everyone's financial journey looks different. Some physicians come from a family history of medicine. Others are the first in their family to become doctors. Either way, Dr. Nii offers advice for the unique problems individuals face. On the Docs Outside The Box podcast, listeners get to hear a variety of success stories. The show provides candid interviews with successful medical professionals. For each topic, the podcast features an expert guest. Guests on the show are doctors and entrepreneurs themselves.

Besides financial success, doctors can have trouble maintaining family life and wellness. Dr. Nii dedicates each episode to one of these specific topics. In today's medical industry, gaining control over one's professional life is a bigger challenge than ever. The Docs Outside The Box podcast offers valuable information for new and aspiring doctors. Every episode provides advice and resources to maintain a balanced life. The show addresses issues like burnout and the rising cost of education.

Fans of the show enjoy the refreshing honesty Dr. Nii brings as the host. His relatable personality makes the show accessible for new and experienced doctors. On top of advice for becoming successful, the podcast is good for staying up to date. Listeners get a real-world perspective on developments in medicine.

Even for listeners outside of medicine, Docs Outside The Box is an interesting look at the life of a doctor. The show dispels myths associated with going into medicine as a career. Anyone interested in the medical profession may find this show interesting.

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Episodes

Everything regarding Disability Insurance for Medical Professionals
Mar 12 2024
Everything regarding Disability Insurance for Medical Professionals
Ever imagine a scenario where, as a medical professional, you find yourself unable to work? Dr. Stephanie Pearson from Pearson and Ravitz joins us to discuss the often-ignored but critical importance of disability insurance, especially for those in the medical field. She sheds light on why securing this insurance early, like during residency, is not just smart but economical, as discounts abound and rates are at their friendliest. Things to expect in this episode:Getting disability insurance as a resident or as an attending doctor even when you have no room and time for it.What specifically does disability insurance protect for physiciansThe likelihood of residents getting injured during residency.Group benefits/Employer policy Vs. Individual disability insurance.The advantages of getting your own disability insurance as a physician.The top 5 companies that provide specialty-specific coverage for individual disability insurance for physicians.As a locums doctor, should you pay for your disability insurance with your business money or with your salary.Difference between brokers Vs. agents who sell insurance and who should you buy insurance from?LINKS MENTIONEDFirst episode with Dr. Stephanie Pearson- https://youtu.be/MmVjitj9MEESIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! https://darkos.lpages.co/newsletter-signup/ WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Pearson-Ravitz: Created by a physician for physicians. We empower physicians to protect their most valuable asset—their incomes—and life’s most important people—their families. Book a consultation today!  Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Medical students take advantage of national student organizations. #405
Feb 27 2024
Medical students take advantage of national student organizations. #405
Unlock the secrets to thriving in medical school as a minority student with insights from Ms. Logan Dean and Ms. Ja'Nia McPhatter. Dr.Renee and the guests navigate securing vital resources, mentorship, and the network necessary to not just survive, but excel in the competitive medical school setup. Logan and Ja'Nia , with their rich personal experiences, reveal how the SNMA's mentorship and initiatives provide a foundation for Black and Brown students embarking on their medical careers.Things to expect in this episode:What is the SNMA doing inorder to provide resources for students who don't follow the "traditional path of medicine".What the SNMA does to ensure students understand that they need resources even after getting into medical school.Resources that SNMA has to offer medical students.Workshops and activities that pre-meds can look forward to at The 2024 Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC).SNMA Chapters The challenges that SNMA has with getting donations from alumni.SNMA requested donations for their 60th anniversary AMEC.LINKS MENTIONEDTo donate to the SNMA 60th anniversary AMEC click ➡ ️ https://snma.org/donations/SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Pearson-Ravitz: Created by a physician for physicians. We empower physicians to protect their most valuable asset—their incomes—and life’s most important people—their families. Book a consultation today!
High Stakes Journey of International Medical Graduates in America #404
Feb 20 2024
High Stakes Journey of International Medical Graduates in America #404
Navigating the path to securing a residency in the U.S. as an International Medical Graduate comes with its set of unique challenges and profound triumphs.Join me as I sit down with Dr. Simrat Gill from Residents Medical to uncover the truth behind the skepticism IMGs face from U.S. residency program directors, and the barriers stemming from the unfamiliarity with medical education systems abroad. Things to expect in this episode:What is Residents Medical, how it works and how long it has been operating.How mentorship with Residents Medical looks like.Why it's so hard for an international medical graduate to practice in the USA.How the financial profile of IMG (international medical graduate) students works.The average time that it takes for Residents Medical clients to get to the USA.How Resident Medical coaches IMG's on everything to expect in the USA to prepare them.If IMG's do rotations as medical students or do they work with the residents as sub-I?Those who Residents Medical is for Vs. who it's not for.What makes the USA not trust the medical educational system in other countries.An IMG's MindsetLINKS MENTIONED To get in contact with Residents Medical visit - residentsmedical.comSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored byLocumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them outHERE! Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Dr. Shivonne asks about locums and investing. #403
Feb 13 2024
Dr. Shivonne asks about locums and investing. #403
Join us as we sit down with Dr. Shivonne Suttles, an insightful family medicine physician with a focus on obesity and weight management who wants to combat burnout by doing Locums.We talk about unrecognized efforts of African American, black, female doctors in primary care, and the unique challenges they face amidst the pressures of insurance and corporate demands. Things to expect in this episode:Dr. Shivonne talks about having burnout and needs guidance on how to become a Locums doctor.Having a well-crafted exit strategy that serves both one's financial stability and professional fulfillment when transitioning to doing locums. Advice on locums contract negotiation with the hospital whether or not to do it by yourself or getting a lawyer.Dr. Nii and Dr. Renee give their opinion on C- Suite doctors.Examples of local places Dr. Shivonne can consider doing locums in.Giving time to the entrepreneurial side of healthcare, as Dr. Suttles discusses her venture, The Luxe MD.SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! 👀 WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! - https://drniidarko.com/contactTwitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.com
Questions for a Trauma Surgeon. #402
Feb 6 2024
Questions for a Trauma Surgeon. #402
Join us for a deep conversation with Dr. Nii Darko, a trauma surgeon whose life ticks to operating rooms and family dinners. Dr. Nii talks about the personal sacrifices and steadfast dedication required to simultaneously excel at saving lives and nurturing a family.  Things to expect in this episode:Dr. Nii packing to go on a Locums Doctor assignment.The difference between trauma surgery vs. general surgery.If Dr.Nii takes home with him the gruesome things he sees at work or if he leaves them at the hospital.What Dr. Nii inspired as a teenager in the 80's to be a Trauma surgeon.How Dr. Nii, a trauma surgeon finds time to spend with his family. He confesses that there is no such thing as balance and as surgeons they have a really big blindspot for divorce.Does Dr. Nii prefers working full time in hospital or traveling as a Locums Doctor.The biggest thing that people don't know about trauma surgery.Dr. Nii thinking he would not get into medical school.What it's like being married to an OBGYN as a trauma surgeon.SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!  WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE! Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Questions for an OB Doctor. #400
Jan 23 2024
Questions for an OB Doctor. #400
Ever find yourself pondering the secret lives of those married to the heroes in white coats? This episode peels back the curtain on the seldom-discussed world of an OB-GYN Doctor married to a surgeon, where the quirks and challenges are as intricate as the surgeries performed. Join us as we weave through tales of unpredictable schedules and the necessity of juggling acts that come with being the other half to a surgeon. Dr. Renée, an OB-GYN, steps into the spotlight to share how she crafted a career that pays homage to her dedication to medicine and motherhood. Her story is a rich tapestry of personal conviction and the art of balancing scrubs with family hugs. Things to expect in this episode:Insights into the Surgeon's Spouse LifeDr. Renée's Personal Journey as a OB-GYN Locums Doctor and a mother.Medical School Triumphs where Dr. Renée reveals how a less-than-stellar MCAT score was just a comma, not a full stop, in her narrative.How Dr. Renée overcame naysayers and academic challenges, fortified by parental support and her unwavering resolve.OB-GYN common Myths.SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!👀 WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!📲Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.com
Failures on the Path to Becoming a Doctor #399
Jan 16 2024
Failures on the Path to Becoming a Doctor #399
Unlock the secrets to a successful medical career with insights from Drs. Love and Uchenna Anani, esteemed Howard University College of Medicine alumni. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for budding medical professionals, shining a light on the importance of self-awareness, adaptability, and mentorship in navigating the winding road to residency. Dr. Uchenna Anani, an assistant program director in a pediatric residency program, joins us to share her priceless advice on how to present the best version of oneself while remaining true to one's personal and professional goals.Ever wonder what it takes to maintain a spark of passion in the grueling world of medical school? This discussion goes beyond textbooks and test scores, emphasizing the pursuit of areas that truly pique your curiosity.  We delve into how organizations like SNMA  are essential in championing underrepresented students. Plus, we add a dash of humor with unlikely hobbies and draw surprising parallels between match day and sports drafts, proving that a medical education can still have its light-hearted moments.The road to a medical residency is fraught with challenges, but our conversation provides a guiding light for those facing setbacks. We tackle recent changes in ERAS, the intricacies of signaling programs, and the tough realities of medical residency, including dismissals. This episode isn't just about professional hurdles; it's a candid look at the personal growth and the interpersonal skills necessary to thrive in the demanding medical field. So join us, and let this episode be your mentor in carving out a fulfilling path in medicine. LINKS MENTIONEDSNMA Annual Medical Education Conference SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!👀 WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE! Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Starting and breaking habits in the New Year #398
Jan 9 2024
Starting and breaking habits in the New Year #398
Kicking off 2024 with our sneakers laced and humor at the ready, Dr. Nii and I, Dr. Renée, are your willing accomplices in setting personal fitness goals that stick. Picture us, stethoscopes to the side, tackling pull-ups in scrubs and sharing our resolutions that range from mastering wide grip pull-ups to making consistent workouts a non-negotiable part of our daily lives. We're not just here to motivate; we're here to get real with our own triumphs and spills in the quest for better health.Embarking on this journey, we unearth the secrets to turning aspirations into tangible realities. Drawing wisdom from "Atomic Habits," we discuss the power of incremental changes that accumulate to create significant leaps forward. Whether you're aiming to crush a fitness plateau, ace your professional endeavors, or simply get your finances in order, we're serving up a hefty dose of inspiration paired with actionable strategies. Plus, we're cracking open the vault to our personal stories of battling procrastination and embracing organization – think Marie Kondo with a medical twist.As we wrap up, we're sharing a toast to the year ahead, reflecting on our theme of 'Family Focus' and inviting you to join us in being more present with our loved ones. From fitness fumbles to family fun, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and a hefty dose of Dr. Nii and Dr. Renée's banter. So tune in, get comfy, and let's make 2024 a year of health, progress, and a whole lot of laughs on Doc's Outside the Box. Here's to a year of peace and progress!LINKS MENTIONEDTo purchase “Atomic Habits” book from Amazon - https://amzn.to/47nOYtWA review on “Atomic Habits” - https://drniidarko.com/episodes/262-this-one-lesson-of-2021-will-be-my-key-to-2022-success/SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Wanna listen instead? Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lPD2QG...Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! - https://drniidarko.com/contactTwitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis e Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Medical Students Financial Implications. #397
Jan 2 2024
Medical Students Financial Implications. #397
As we navigate the tumultuous seas of medical education's financial demands, you'll discover the myriad of ways it shapes decisions, lifestyles, and the future of healthcare. Joined by Dr. Love Anani from the Student National Medical Association (SNMA), we're celebrating 60 years of the organization's incredible support for medical students as we dissect the costs from MCAT to residency. Delve into our candid exchange on how the weight of student loans can alter career paths and delay life’s milestones, and learn why choosing a specialty isn't just about passion but often a calculation tinged with economic considerations.Imagine a world where your student debt doesn't chain down your aspirations but acts as a springboard to your dreams. You'll see that Dr. Love treats student loans like a utility bill—steady, manageable, and non-crippling. Together with his wife, also a physician, they've crafted a repayment strategy that's ambitious yet grounded. Their aim: to clear their loans without letting them eclipse the joy of their profession or life's pleasures. In an era where the price tag on medical education skyrockets without a corresponding leap in resident salaries, we contemplate the ethical quandaries and barriers this creates. The narrative isn't all grim; our discussions on strategic indulgences, the distinction between good and bad debt, and how even the smallest contributions to organizations like the SNMA can ripple into significant impact, will leave you inspired. Join us as we dissect these issues, and more, offering a lifeline of advice and solidarity to those embarking on the noble journey of a medical career.Medical student’s loans statistics- https://images.app.goo.gl/gNk2FSPLJP6JuEit8SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Wanna listen instead? Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lPD2QG...Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: &
Giving back: Is it always a good thing? #396
Dec 26 2023
Giving back: Is it always a good thing? #396
As Dr. Nii and Dr. Renee unravel the tapestry of gender roles in today's workplace, we're confronted by the delicate interplay between professional commitments and personal relationships. Our podcast peels back the layers on how societal expectations can dictate the ebb and flow of decision-making within partnerships, sometimes leading to one partner influencing the career trajectory of the other. We are also prompted to join hands in donating to the SNMA to foster medical education and support to medical students. You can also donate to the SNMA by clicking on the link down below.Turning our gaze towards global health, Dr. Nii and Dr. Renee engage in a profound dialogue on the ethics of surgical care in medical missions. We stress the imperative of leaving a legacy of sustainability, focusing on the ripple effects of our actions long after we've departed. By sharing our own experiences and the lessons learned, we aim to influence the future architects of medical aid to build on a foundation of local empowerment, trust, and most importantly, continuity of care.Our episode then takes a more intimate turn as we navigate the complexities of working while pregnant and how we've applied a 'spousal veto' within our own dynamic. The raw recount of our IVF journey underscores the sacrifices often hidden behind the closed doors of couplehood. We open up about the emotional toll and the intricate ballet of negotiating between career ambitions and the profound yearning to grow a family. Join us for a conversation that doesn't just scratch the surface but seeks to find solace and understanding in the shared struggles that touch so many lives.SNMA Donation Link -  https://darkos.lpages.co/snma-60th-donationSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! 👀 WATCH ON YOUTUBEhttps://youtu.be/hqDr4k8ez8oHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE - www.drniidarko.com/contactTwitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Pearson-Ravitz: Created by a physician for& Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
Is my CPA screwing me over?#395
Dec 19 2023
Is my CPA screwing me over?#395
Ever been blindsided by a mammoth tax bill you didn't see coming? That's the story of a locum surgeon, who found himself owing thousands to the IRS, despite having a CPA. This incident sparked a crucial conversation about the struggles of finding a responsive and reliable CPA, the essence of seeking professional advice, and how to stay proactive and informed about our own financial well-being.Imagine having a CPA who not only takes care of your bookkeeping and taxes but also helps you plan for your future. We share how we've utilized CPAs in our own experience, especially in dealing with financial matters related to locum tenens physicians. Intricate topics like disability insurance, retirement planning, and the benefits of a solo 401k are addressed with real-life examples. Regular check-ins with a CPA can ensure the smooth operation of your financial management and timely correction of any unforeseen glitches.But it doesn't end there. How about incorporating personal expenses into your business to minimize your tax burden? It's all about strategic planning and a bit of creativity. We dive into how we've managed to optimize our taxes by incorporating our home office and personal vehicle as business expenses. However, it's also about not relying solely on a CPA. It's about taking the initiative to educate oneself about tax laws, asking pertinent questions, and always being on the lookout for ways to lower your tax burden. Yes, it might seem daunting, but with the right mindset and information, navigating the tax world and side hustles can be a breeze.SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE! Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.com
🚩🚩Navigating Career, Marriage and Red Flags #394
Dec 12 2023
🚩🚩Navigating Career, Marriage and Red Flags #394
🪽 This episode is dedicated to the late Dr. Jamal Dixon, a previous guest whose relentless spirit and advocacy amidst his cancer battle continue to inspire us. Ep 245 - He beat stomach cancer while in residency As we raise a toast to our 10-year anniversary, we can't help but share the pearls of wisdom we've gathered along the way. Especially, lessons from our own relationship journey that's been punctuated with moments of joy, growth, shared dreams, and yes, a few bumps. We unwrap some of the intricate facets of relationships such as understanding and addressing red flags, striking a balance between career and marriage, and the importance of unconditional love. Get ready to journey with us as we navigate these themes.Life has a funny way of teaching us, doesn't it? As two professionals, we've grappled, compromised, and celebrated the delicate dance between marriage and career. We share our personal anecdotes and how we navigated them. Have you ever encountered a situation where blending marriage, money, and career felt like a tightrope walk? Then this could offer a fresh perspective. We then venture into some often overlooked red flags of relationships: 1) not merging finances when starting a family, 2) missing controlling tendencies, and 3) not understanding each other's family dynamics. It's not always easy, but we believe that open, honest conversations can lay the groundwork for a strong partnership. So, join us for this soulful conversation packed with personal insight, thought-provoking discussions, and a dash of pop culture commentary.👀 WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Send us a message HERE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comPodcasting Course: www.docswhopodcast.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them outHERE!Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insurance at a low cost!! Check them out at www.setforlifeinsurance.com