Tinder, the bad.

As a doctor navigating the crossroads of a medical career and the pull of content creation, I've often found myself torn between the high-stakes world of medicine and the uncharted territory of YouTube and podcasting. This episode is a candid exploration of that very struggle, and an intimate confession about why I've chosen to keep my creative ventures a secret from my colleagues. I'll take you behind the curtain of professional aspirations and personal passions, and how they sometimes clash in the quest for a fulfilling life.

Have you ever felt like taking the road less traveled in your career? I sure have, and in this episode, I share what it's like to manage a fledgling YouTube channel and podcast while still being involved in the medical field. I talk about the appeal of simpler tasks within my practice and how they provide a surprising sense of satisfaction, despite not advancing up the traditional medical hierarchy. It's a reflection on how personal growth and acquiring wisdom can sometimes overshadow the societal benchmarks of success.

Wrapping up, we'll navigate the nuanced discussion of work-life balance, the paradox of perceived laziness, and the pursuit of a career that brings genuine contentment. I ponder the anti-work sentiment that's gaining traction and reflect on the rise of freelancing as a viable career option. Join me as I consider the essence of living a fulfilling life, the importance of simplifying, and finding that delicate balance between freedom and responsibility amidst the complexities of modern work culture and our own fleeting mortality.

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Ever endured the gut-wrenching turmoil of gastroenteritis? My family, including the four-legged members, recently battled this beast, and I'm here to recount the messy, yet enlightening experience. This week's episode peels back the curtain on the very real physical and mental anguish wrought by what's suspected to be a norovirus ambush. We'll compare the lurking dangers of bacterial versus viral gastro, muse over the curious case of our pets’ health mirroring our own, and navigate the choppy waters of restoring gut health after such a disruption.

When your stomach's in knots tighter than a python's squeeze, you know you're in for a rough ride. Picture this: demonic stomach spasms, a phobia of snakes making a surprise cameo, and the looming question of whether to rush to the hospital or ride it out with trusty over-the-counter saviors. Join me as I share the raw and unfiltered journey of sickness and the small victories found in paracetamol and the solace of hydration, alongside the stark reminder to abstain from ibuprofen when your body's running on empty.

Post-gastro grocery runs are an adventure in self-restraint, where fruits wrestle with chocolates for a spot in your cart, and kefir stands defiant against a battalion of Ben & Jerry's. In this episode, I offer up my personal take on the seesaw of healthy eating and comfort food cravings, highlighting the unsung heroes of recovery: dioralite, fermented foods, and prebiotics. We'll explore how to bounce back with your diet and stress management without sacrificing the soul-soothing indulgences that make life just a tad sweeter. So, buckle up for a candid ride through the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of gastroenteritis recovery.

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Ever found yourself in a standoff with your own digestive tract, convinced that the universe had a personal vendetta against your bowels? Well, you're not alone! Our latest episode is a no-holds-barred exploration of constipation, complete with my own tales from the trenches of tricky digestion. We're breaking the silence on this taboo topic, wielding the mighty Bristol Stool Chart as our guide to achieving the perfect poo. From the impact of global diets to understanding your body's 'normal,' we navigate the often-misunderstood journey of what happens after you swallow.

Then, we shift gears and get down to the nitty-gritty of combatting constipation through the power of diet. I spill the beans (high in fiber, naturally) on which foods have helped streamline my digestive process—hello prunes, chia seeds, and the life-changing magic of bran flakes. It's not just about what you eat; it's about weaving these gut-friendly foods into your daily routine for long-term change. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on how certain medications can throw a wrench in your digestive harmony, and we'll serve up some pro-tips to keep you regular.

But wait, there's more! We round out our scatological saga with a spirited discussion on the underestimated allies of digestion—hydration and exercise. Discover why your water bottle might just be your gut's new best friend and how a brisk walk can do more than just boost your mood. I'll even share my personal bathroom acrobatics for optimal elimination (Spoiler: It's all about the angle!). So, lace up those sneakers, fill up that water bottle, and get ready to transform your bathroom experiences—one flush at a time. Join us for a journey through the bowels of bowel health, where we promise more than a few giggles and a ton of actionable advice!

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I never expected that a routine attempt to shed some pounds would evolve into an intimate confrontation with a chest infection. Amidst this health hiccup, a mixture of exhaustion, an unfamiliar cough, and an unsettling chest crackle became my reality. It's a challenge that hits close to home, touching on the delicate balance one must maintain when navigating the path to better health while also being mindful of the body's vulnerabilities. This episode peels back the layers of my life, from the bustling corridors of the hospital where I work to the silent battles fought in the pursuit of wellness. It's a candid reveal of the symptoms that took hold and a reflection on how my surrounding environment and recent lifestyle shifts could be influencing my susceptibility to illness.

Navigating the treacherous waters of illness without medical intervention is a tale as old as time for me, especially reflecting on the scars left from a past eating disorder. As I unpack the reasons behind my decision to steer clear of the gym for now, I emphasize the crucial role of proper nutrition and ample rest in the recovery process. Home remedies have taken center stage in my personal care regimen, and I share the concoctions that have offered me some relief. While I'm no stranger to the occasional unconventional approach, this narrative is not just about making do—it's about making informed, compassionate choices for one's health without a prescription pad in hand. Join me as I open up about the intersection of health, healing, and the human spirit.

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
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Ever found yourself stuck in the automatic responses of daily interactions, yearning for a moment of genuine peace? This episode is a candid exploration of mindfulness and vulnerability, where I share the ups and downs of seeking tranquility in a world that never stops buzzing. From the curious habit of offering socially acceptable responses that don't match our true feelings, to the profound shifts in awareness when traveling to new places, I peel back the layers of our everyday experiences to uncover the art of truly being present.

Mindfulness might seem like an elusive concept, but it's one that can bring us closer to experiencing life in its fullest glory. Join me as I recount personal anecdotes ranging from my partner's playful teasing to the unexpected peace found in 'strong' weather moments. I reflect on how unfiltered communication has become a cornerstone of this podcast, just as it has for a fellow podcaster friend, and how our thoughts and speech flow more freely than we sometimes realize. Then, I offer practical strategies that have helped me stay present, despite a natural inclination towards future thinking.

To wrap things up with a dose of gratitude and excitement, your support has been the driving force behind this podcast's ongoing journey. I hint at the fresh energy coming our way with a friend slated to join me for an upcoming episode, promising dynamic exchanges that elevate our conversations to new heights. So, take a breath, find your moment of mindfulness, and join me in this shared pursuit of serenity amidst the chaos. Until we meet again, here's a kiss and a wish for you to thrive in mindfulness every Monday and Thursday.

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Ever found yourself uttering a phrase you swore you'd never adopt? "My love" slipped into my vocab, and suddenly it's making guest appearances at work, signaling a maturation I hadn't planned on. Yet, here we are, discussing the fascinating twists of language and the podcasting landscape that's evolving before our very ears. Drawing inspiration from Stephen Bartlett's "Diary of a CEO," I explore the reliance on guest stories to weave an engaging narrative, while holding onto my passion for delivering original content. Yes, guests will grace my space in due time, but with careful consideration to ensure our conversations are grounded in reality—even when we're navigating the nebulous science of chakra stones.

As a doctor, I can't help but approach podcasting with a scalpel-sharp eye, dissecting the ethics and the vital need for truth in content creation. With the influence wielded by figures like Joe Rogan and the aforementioned Bartlett, it's imperative that we, as listeners, fine-tune our discernment skills. This is a call to action for anyone tuning in: become a connoisseur of credibility. We'll talk through the tactics to filter through the podcasting noise, and I'll share why sometimes the strongest statement is to simply not engage—letting algorithms learn from our silence. Join me for a journey into responsible media consumption, where authenticity and integrity aren't just buzzwords, but beacons guiding our way.

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Ever found yourself locked in a tantalizing tango with the office snack machine? You're not alone. I'm Dawn, your trusty guide through the labyrinth of workplace cravings, and together we'll explore how to indulge smartly while staying true to your weight loss aspirations. I spill the beans on my own skirmishes with sugary seductions and offer up the promising concept of a healthy workplace snack box service, all while keeping things light and relatable. Whether you're in scrubs or a suit, join me for a candid chat on striking that perfect balance between treating yourself and keeping your diet goals within sight.

Now, imagine hitting the jackpot not once, but thrice at the vending machine—accidentally, of course. In this auditory adventure, I recount my serendipitous triple snack haul and share a thrifty trick for managing chocolate cravings. We'll sample the chocolate spectrum, from nutty delights to the dark chocolate rice cakes revolution, and compare the highs and lows of each. And, because we all crave a good crunch now and then, I'll share my take on whipping up a savory graze box that keeps the munchies at bay without wreaking havoc on your health. Strap in for an episode packed with laughter, revelations, and a heaping spoonful of positivity.

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
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Ever been on a date that felt like a whirlwind romance from a movie, only to be left wondering why it all came crashing down? I've been there, and in this episode, I'm peeling back the curtain on the dating mistakes I made and the advice I wish I'd listened to in my early twenties. It's a revealing look at the impact of not taking breaks and the emotional toll of seeking validation through others. With an honest recount of my pursuit of non-committal relationships, I hope my reflections strike a chord and remind you that dating should be an enriching, not draining, experience.

Remember how it feels when you meet someone who seems just perfect, but then the magic fizzles out all too quickly? I dive into the addictive world of dating apps, sharing tales of skepticism and the guarded heart that comes from one too many 'too good to be true' scenarios. It's a candid discussion on the dizzying highs and lows of initial attraction and the importance of staying grounded. Listen to my personal journey through the emotional rollercoaster of dating, and you might just see your own patterns a little more clearly.

In our final chapter, we turn the spotlight on the authenticity, or lack thereof, in today's swipe-right culture. From empty promises to real connections, I share insights on navigating the tricky waters of modern dating with a focus on recognizing red flags and trusting your instincts. Wrapping up with some personal advice and a sneak peek at an upcoming episode on the benefits of ashwagandha, this conversation is not just a reflection—it's a blueprint for dating with joy and self-respect. Join me, Dawn, and let's talk about navigating the heart's complex journey with a little more wisdom.

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Ever sweat it out in a womb-like cocoon of warmth, wrapped in yoga poses? I'm Dawn, and I've done just that, plunging into the steamy world of Hot Pod Yoga—a journey I'm thrilled to share with you, from the unexpected social nuances to the laugh-out-loud moments of mistaken identity in the dim sanctuary of the studio. Settle in for a tale of self-care that goes beyond the mat, as I spill the details on why moderation is key even with a tempting 10-day unlimited offer, and how our biological quirks make for some pungent discoveries when personal scents turn public.

Navigating the fitness scene isn't just about the workout; it's the whole ambiance that can shift your mood and perception. I shine a light on how a simple change in lighting can transform a space from a high-pressure stage to an intimate nook of personal effort. With stories to make you chuckle, like the time I mistook a stranger for a friend in the dim glow of the yoga pod, I'll reveal how the right instructor can elevate the practice, and why showing up on time means you won't miss out on the soul-soothing escape that a dark, quiet yoga studio offers.

Then, let's talk hygiene—because when your yoga class feels like a sauna session, things can get...ripe. Join me as I bare all about body odor blues and the balance between embracing our natural selves and communal cleanliness. Plus, get the insider scoop on why dragging yourself to a scheduled class might just be the motivational hack you've been searching for. So, hit play, laugh a little, and maybe even find a new self-care obsession. And for all my positive peeps out there, remember to spread the love to everyone—fur babies included!

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I'll admit, the first time I laid eyes on a Lion's Mane mushroom, I couldn't help but chuckle – it looked like a cross between a shaggy dog and a piece of coral reef! But little did I know, this 'hairy cauliflower' would soon become a staple in my quest for wellness. On today's episode, we dig into the world of Lion's Mane mushrooms, their surge in popularity in the Western diet, and how they've gone from being an ancient Chinese medicinal secret to a modern-day superfood. I'll share my journey of turning from a skeptic to a supporter, spicing up my matcha tea with this peculiar fungus, and the delightful surprise of its benefits. 

Ever pondered the cultural phenomena behind our supplement obsessions, or fancied the idea of mushrooms imbued with the power to transform your life? Let's take a humorous look at the idea of mushrooms with extraordinary effects – perhaps turning us into lions – while exploring their culinary versatility from raw consumption to gourmet dishes. We'll also chat about the ease of adding Lion's Mane to your diet and even growing it yourself. It's not just a foodie adventure; it's a glimpse into how the mundane lives of our wild friends might just hold the secret to our next health craze.

Wrapping things up, we step back to appreciate the natural roots of some of our most trusted medications – did you know aspirin came from a tree? Discover the surprising natural sources of common drugs and ponder the promising therapeutic effects of Lion's Mane mushrooms on mental sharpness and stress relief. And because we love a good chuckle, we'll wrap up with a light-hearted analysis of scientific studies – one involving menopausal women, cookies, and our furry fungal friend. Stay tuned for a dose of positivity and engagement, and remember, your likes and comments on Spotify and Apple Podcasts make my day!

Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! <3
https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor