Am I doing it wrong? For Doctors by Doctors.

Hosted by Doctor Becc and Kristeen Barker

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Episodes

107

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-AU

About the show

In "Am I Doing It Wrong?” Doctor Becc & Kristeen Barker have the vulnerable conversations all doctors need to remind us "You're not crazy, life as a doctor is". You'll feel seen & connected again & you'll also get actionable strategies to be able to show up as your favourite version of you as a doctor regardless of the daily challenges. Dr Kristeen Barker, nephrologist at Alfred Health, runs online medical education courses for physicians & trainees. Doctor Becc (Dr Rebecca Nothrop) is coach & host of Dare, Darling—a transformative group coaching program for doctors who are people-pleasers.

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60 recent

August 18, 2026Episode 10821 min

108: The hard that grows you vs. the hard that drains you

Hello, Doctor Humans! 💛 In today's episode, we're talking about something we don't hear often enough: not every hard thing is making us stronger. As doctors, we're taught to believe that struggle is part of growth, but sometimes hard is just... hard. We explore the difference between the challenges that help us grow and the ones that simply drain us, and why recognizing that difference can change the way we care for ourselves and each other. KEY POINTS Why we've been conditioned to believe that harder always means better. The difference between the hard that helps us grow and the hard that simply takes from us. How sleep deprivation, heavy workloads, and service demands can lead to unnecessary suffering rather than meaningful growth. Why struggling doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. How self-recognition and self-validation can help quiet self-judgment during difficult seasons. Why comparing yourself to others or past generations only adds unnecessary pressure. How to challenge unhealthy workplace norms while staying true to your own values. Practical ways to recognize when it's time to protect yourself instead of pushing harder. If this conversation resonated with you, we'd love to hear from you. Share your biggest takeaway in the comments, or tell us about a time you realized that a difficult season wasn't helping you grow, it was simply asking too much of you. If you know another doctor or healthcare professional who needs this reminder, please share this episode with them. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with us. 💛 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

August 4, 2026Episode 10753 min

107: Are you a ‘Cry-er’? Realistic energy management for Doctors.

Hello, Doctor Humans! 💛 Today, we're diving into something so many doctors (and humans) experience but rarely talk about: those moments when stress quietly builds until it spills over into tears, anxiety, or snapping at the people around us. We're sharing a new way to think about emotional overwhelm, why it isn't a sign of weakness, and practical tools to help you regulate your energy before you reach breaking point. KEY POINTS Why crying under pressure isn't a personality flaw or a sign that you're "not coping." How stress quietly accumulates throughout the day until it reaches a tipping point. The difference between compassionate tears and stress-induced emotional overwhelm. Why doctors often ignore early signs of stress in the name of productivity. Using a simple stress scale (0 to 5) to recognize when it's time to pause before reaching burnout. Practical ways to regulate your nervous system during a busy workday, even when you can't step away for long. How movement, laughter, nature, music, and even crying can help complete the stress cycle. Why staying in a regulated state helps us care for our patients, perform under pressure, and show up as the kind of doctor we want to be. Reframing emotional moments with compassion instead of self-judgment. Why monitoring our energy is a skill that gives us more control, not another thing to perfect. We'd love to hear your thoughts after listening. Have you ever experienced stress building up until it came out as tears, frustration, or overwhelm? What helps you reset when you notice you're reaching your limit? Share your experiences in the comments, and if this episode resonates with you, send it to a colleague or friend who could use the reminder that looking after ourselves isn't a luxury, it's part of becoming the best doctor and human we can be. ❤️ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

July 21, 2026Episode 10652 min

106: How to live fully, no matter what life throws at you with Nina Gervase

Hello, Doctor Humans! 💛 In this episode, we're joined by the incredible Nina Gervase for a deeply moving conversation about grief, resilience, mindset, and what it truly means to live life to the fullest. Together, we explore the lessons that come from navigating terminal illness, the doctor-patient relationship, and how we can choose intention, gratitude, and hope, even in life's hardest moments. Whether you're a healthcare professional or simply someone wanting to live more fully, we hope this conversation leaves you inspired. KEY POINTS Nina shares her family's journey after her late husband, Steve, was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour and the extraordinary mindset that helped him live well beyond expectations. We discuss the balance between honest medical conversations and preserving hope for patients and their families. Why planning for the worst while hoping for the best can create space to truly live in the present. How grief and joy can coexist, and why embracing both is an important part of the healing journey. The power of choosing gratitude, intention, and presence in everyday life. Nina explains how simple daily practices, like journaling and reflection, can help us live more intentionally. We talk about overcoming fear, reinventing ourselves, and asking, "Why the hell shouldn't I?" Encouragement for doctors, and all of us, to meet people where they are, recognising that every person's journey through illness and grief is unique. We'd love to hear what resonated with you most from this conversation. Have you experienced a moment that changed the way you see life, gratitude, or purpose? Share your thoughts in the comments, and if you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use this message today. 🩷 Connect with Nina Gervase Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carelifecoaching/ Website: https://carelifecoaching.com/agent-mastermind The Nina Gervase Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nina-gervase-show/id1878126850 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

July 7, 2026Episode 10542 min

105: Why you feel trapped (even in a life you chose)

Hello, Doctor Humans! 💛 In this episode, we're diving into the powerful concept of detachment , not as giving up, but as creating space to reconnect with what truly matters. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck on the hamster wheel, or weighed down by responsibilities, this conversation is for you. Together, we explore how loosening our grip on our roles, goals, identities, and expectations can help us move from obligation to choice, creating a life that feels lighter, more intentional, and deeply aligned. KEY POINTS Why detachment isn't about letting go of what you love. It's about creating freedom to choose it again. How feeling overwhelmed often comes from being attached to identities, expectations, and "shoulds." The difference between fragile confidence and resilient confidence. How detachment can transform your career, relationships, and everyday responsibilities. Why creating a "blank canvas" can help you find fresh solutions to old problems. The role of journaling, coaching, and trusted support when practicing detachment. How shifting from "I have to" to "I choose to" creates more joy and energy. Simple ways to start practicing detachment in your daily life, even with small decisions. We'd love to hear from you! What are you feeling attached to right now, and where could creating a little more space bring you more freedom? Share your thoughts in the comments, and if this episode resonated with you, send it to a friend or colleague who could use this reminder. As always, thank you for being part of our Doctor Humans community. We're so glad you're here. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

June 23, 2026Episode 1041 hr 0 min

104: Why good doctors make mistakes: The truth about human error in medicine

Hello Doctor Humans 💛 I'm so excited to bring you today’s conversation with Dr. Scott Santinon. Scott is an ICU doctor, human factors expert, and founder of Critical Condition. This discussion challenged me to think differently about what it means to be a doctor and what we actually need in order to do our best work. Together, we explore one of the most important and often overlooked topics in medicine: human error. We talk about why mistakes happen, why healthcare places so much responsibility on individual clinicians, and how our culture often rewards things that our brains simply aren't designed to be good at. Scott shares fascinating insights into cognitive load, working memory, patient safety, and the role that both technology and system design can play in helping us care for patients more safely. If you've ever carried the weight of a mistake, questioned yourself after a difficult clinical decision, or felt overwhelmed by the demands of medicine, I think you'll get a lot out of this conversation. KEY POINTS Human error is inevitable and not a personal failing. Clinicians face the same cognitive limitations as everyone else, regardless of experience or seniority. Fatigue, interruptions, stress, and workload can significantly affect performance. Many medical errors are influenced by system design, not just individual decisions. Healthcare often focuses on training and policies while overlooking underlying system issues. Human factors science helps create safer systems that work with, rather than against, human limitations. Technology and decision-support tools can reduce cognitive burden and support better care. Great doctors don't rely on perfect memory—they combine knowledge, experience, judgment, and human connection. Supporting clinicians requires better systems, not just asking individuals to be more resilient. We'd love to hear from you: What's your biggest takeaway from this conversation? Have you ever experienced cognitive overload or carried the weight of a mistake that felt deeply personal? Let us know in the comments, and if this episode spoke to you, please share it with your fellow Doctor Humans. The more openly we talk about these realities, the better we can support each other and the patients who trust us with their care. 💛 Connect with Scott Santinon Follow Scott on LinkedIn for insights on human factors, cognitive load, and safer clinical practice. https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-santinon-09b33339/ Explore Scott’s Innovative Tools Game-changing clinical apps including cardiac arrest support, ABGs, hyponatraemia and more https://criticalcondition.com.au/ 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

June 9, 2026Episode 10340 min

103: What sleep deprivation is really doing to your mind

Hello beautiful Doctor Humans 💛 In today’s episode, we’re having a very real and honest conversation about sleep deprivation, from medical training and on-call life to motherhood, chronic stress, and everything in between. We’re sharing our personal experiences of how exhaustion can impact our mindset, emotions, and overall wellbeing, and why sleep-deprived days require a completely different set of rules than fully rested ones. Most importantly, we’re talking about the power of self-awareness, support systems, and reaching out before you spiral too far down the negativity rabbit hole. If you’ve been feeling tired, overwhelmed, emotionally heavy, or simply not like yourself lately, this episode is for you. KEY POINTS: Why sleep deprivation changes the way we think, feel, and respond to life How exhaustion can make us more vulnerable to negativity and emotional spirals The connection between physical depletion, stress, and pessimistic thinking Why “pushing through” isn’t always the healthiest answer The importance of checking in with yourself, especially on hard days How coaching, peer support, and trusted humans can help interrupt negative spirals Why sleep-deprived days need different expectations and different rules The difference between venting, processing, and productive support How doctors and healthcare workers often normalize unhealthy levels of exhaustion A reminder that struggling with sleep deprivation does NOT mean there is something wrong with you We’d love to hear from you 💛 Have you experienced the mental and emotional effects of sleep deprivation in your own life or career? What helps you feel grounded again when you’re running on empty? Send us a message, share this episode with a fellow Doctor Human who needs to hear it, and come say hello over on social media. We absolutely love hearing your stories and connecting with you. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

May 26, 2026Episode 10223 min

102: The fear of failure no doctor talks about

In today’s episode, we’re having a very honest conversation about the fear of failure, especially when it comes to exams, performance, and the pressure we place on ourselves as doctors. We explore why failure can feel so deeply personal in medicine, how our identity and self-worth often become tangled up in our careers, and practical mindset shifts that can help us approach challenges with more confidence, self-compassion, and resilience. If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by the thought of failing, this episode is for you. In this episode, we explore: Why fear of failure can feel disproportionately intense for doctors and high achievers How clinician conditioning and imposter syndrome affect our sense of competence The difference between exam performance and actual capability as a doctor Why failing an exam does not define our worth, identity, or future potential How medical culture and comparison with peers can amplify shame and insecurity The importance of separating our human identity from our professional identity Dr. Becc’s “worst case scenario” mindset exercise to reduce anxiety and regain control How having a plan for failure can actually help us perform better and feel calmer Why resilience, adaptability, and getting back up after setbacks are what truly matter Learning to approach exams and challenges from a place of growth rather than fear We’d love to hear your thoughts after listening 💬 Have you ever struggled with fear of failure or tied your self-worth to your performance as a doctor? What mindset shifts have helped you most? Come join the conversation with us and if this episode resonated with you, please share it with another Doctor Human who might need to hear it today. 💛 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

May 12, 2026Episode 10129 min

101: What actually makes you a good Doctor?

Hello Doctor Humans, In this episode, we explore a powerful question that completely reframes what it means to be a “good doctor”: Are you the kind of doctor other doctors would trust with their own family? We unpack why technical skill alone isn’t enough, and how qualities like integrity, compassion, and courage shape the way we show up for our patients. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough, or doing it right, this conversation will challenge and ground you in a more meaningful way to measure success in medicine. In this episode, we explore: Why your CV and achievements don’t define the kind of doctor you are The deeper standard: being someone others trust with their loved ones How compassion and care directly impact clinical decisions and outcomes The importance of “tough soft skills” like honesty, accountability, and speaking up Why imperfection is inevitable and what matters is how we respond to it Choosing integrity over convenience in everyday clinical moments The role of emotional intelligence in building trust with patients Why creating time for patients (even in a busy system) matters Redefining success in medicine beyond performance and perfection Using this question as a daily decision-making filter in your practice If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to reflect on the kind of doctor you want to be, and how you’re showing up each day. Share this episode with a colleague who might need this reminder, and let us know what this question brings up for you. 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling, Becc helps doctors become truly UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉Grab Your FREE Tutorials: https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

April 30, 2026Episode 10027 min

100: Doctors, you’ve been lied to about success (let’s redefine it)

Hello Doctor Humans, Today’s episode is incredibly special for us because it’s our 100th episode, and honestly, it’s been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. We’re celebrating this milestone by reflecting on what this podcast has truly become, the community we’ve built with you, and a powerful idea that’s been deeply resonating with us lately: redefining success in medicine. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit the traditional mold of what a “successful doctor” should be, this conversation is for you. We’re diving into what it really means to be a doctor human and how reconnecting with that might just change everything. In this episode, we explore: We’re celebrating 100 episodes and the power of this shared doctor community Most definitions of success in medicine are inherited, not consciously chosen Doctors often feel “not enough” despite doing incredible work True success isn’t your CV, it’s the impact you make, one person at a time Redefining success helps you filter out external pressure and reclaim your confidence Your “human” side is your greatest strength, not a weakness If this resonated, we’d love to hear from you. What does success look like for you right now? Leave a review, share your thoughts, or send this to a fellow doctor who needs this reminder. We’re so grateful you’re part of this journey with us 💛 💜 Work with Dr Becc Inside Dare, Darling , Becc makes doctors UNSHAMEABLE to be UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ 📚 Study with Kristeen If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉 Grab Your FREE Tutorials : https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 🔗 Connect with us & go deeper Hang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz

April 15, 2026Episode 9930 min

99: Doctors, take back control of your energy (unsubscribe from what’s draining you)

Hello Doctor Humans, In today’s episode, we’re diving into something that can genuinely change your day-to-day life. Learning how to unsubscribe from the things that drain your energy. From people, to thoughts, to expectations, to even the words we use, we’re sharing what we’re personally letting go of and how you can start protecting your energy in a more intentional way. This is a fun, honest, and surprisingly powerful conversation that will have you reflecting on what’s no longer serving you and what you’re ready to release. You can unsubscribe from more than just emails—this is a life tool Protect your energy by letting go of draining people and influences Choose how you engage with the news and external noise Unsubscribe from imposter syndrome and negative self-talk Small language shifts can change how you feel (“busy” → “productive”) Filter unsolicited advice, especially in vulnerable moments Set boundaries with your time, energy, and responsiveness Stop shrinking yourself. Unsubscribe from self-deprecating humility We’d love to hear from you. What is one thing you’re ready to unsubscribe from after listening to this episode? Share it with us in the comments, and if this resonated, send it to someone who might need a little permission to let go too Inside Dare, Darling , Becc makes doctors UNSHAMEABLE to be UNSHAKEABLE. ◽️ Apply for a free consult: https://2ly.link/27dxL 💌 Want FREE 1-line mindset upgrades every M/W/F to make you more UNSHAKEABLE? 💌 Just drop your email here: https://2ly.link/27dxJ If you’re preparing for physician exams — or just want to truly understand immunology & renal medicine — start here. Kristeen’s FREE 7-Day GN Kick-Start Challenge gives you the clarity you wish someone handed you years ago. 👉 Grab Your FREE Tutorials : https://linkly.link/2R0lh More study tools coming soon. 📽 Kristeen’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faR 👋 Kristeen’s Instagram: https://2ly.link/27faF 📽 Becc’s YouTube: https://2ly.link/27faP 👋 Becc’s Instagram: https://linkly.link/2FUkz In this episode, we explore: 💜 Work with Dr Becc📚 Study with Kristeen🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎