Am I doing it wrong? For Doctors by Doctors.

Hosted by Doctor Becc and Kristeen Barker

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Episodes

103

Latest episode

Jun 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

June 9, 2026Episode 10340 min

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 lifeHow exhaustion can make us more vulnerable to negativity and emotional spiralsThe connection between physical depletion, stress, and pessimistic thinkingWhy “pushing through” isn’t always the healthiest answerThe importance of checking in with yourself, especially on hard daysHow coaching, peer support, and trusted humans can help interrupt negative spiralsWhy sleep-deprived days need different expectations and different rulesThe difference between venting, processing, and productive supportHow doctors and healthcare workers often normalize unhealthy levels of exhaustionA reminder that struggling with sleep deprivation does NOT mean there is something wrong with youWe’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 BeccInside 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 KristeenIf 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 achieversHow clinician conditioning and imposter syndrome affect our sense of competenceThe difference between exam performance and actual capability as a doctorWhy failing an exam does not define our worth, identity, or future potentialHow medical culture and comparison with peers can amplify shame and insecurityThe importance of separating our human identity from our professional identityDr. Becc’s “worst case scenario” mindset exercise to reduce anxiety and regain controlHow having a plan for failure can actually help us perform better and feel calmerWhy resilience, adaptability, and getting back up after setbacks are what truly matterLearning to approach exams and challenges from a place of growth rather than fearWe’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 BeccInside 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 KristeenIf 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 areThe deeper standard: being someone others trust with their loved onesHow compassion and care directly impact clinical decisions and outcomesThe importance of “tough soft skills” like honesty, accountability, and speaking upWhy imperfection is inevitable and what matters is how we respond to itChoosing integrity over convenience in everyday clinical momentsThe role of emotional intelligence in building trust with patientsWhy creating time for patients (even in a busy system) mattersRedefining success in medicine beyond performance and perfectionUsing this question as a daily decision-making filter in your practiceIf 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 BeccInside 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 KristeenIf 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 communityMost definitions of success in medicine are inherited, not consciously chosenDoctors often feel “not enough” despite doing incredible workTrue success isn’t your CV, it’s the impact you make, one person at a timeRedefining success helps you filter out external pressure and reclaim your confidenceYour “human” side is your greatest strength, not a weaknessIf 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 BeccInside 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 KristeenIf 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/2R0lhMore study tools coming soon.🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang 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 toolProtect your energy by letting go of draining people and influencesChoose how you engage with the news and external noiseUnsubscribe from imposter syndrome and negative self-talkSmall language shifts can change how you feel (“busy” → “productive”)Filter unsolicited advice, especially in vulnerable momentsSet boundaries with your time, energy, and responsivenessStop shrinking yourself. Unsubscribe from self-deprecating humilityWe’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 tooInside 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/27dxJIf 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/2R0lhMore 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/2FUkzIn this episode, we explore:💜 Work with Dr Becc📚 Study with Kristeen🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎

April 1, 2026Episode 9851 min

98. How to thrive as a Doctor instead of burning out

Hello Doctor Humans,Today we’re diving into a powerful (and slightly controversial) truth: why basic wellness alone isn’t enough to protect you from burnout and what actually helps you move into true thriving. We’re sharing a story that sparked some real outrage (in the best, most clarifying way), and using it as a springboard to explore the deeper energetic drains most doctors aren’t taught to see. If you’ve ever felt “technically fine” but still flat, exhausted, or disconnected… this episode is for you.Basic wellness is essential but it’s only the foundation, not the goalThriving is about feeling alive, not just functioningEnergy isn’t just restored, it’s created or drained moment to momentSelf-awareness helps you identify what gives vs. drains your energyAuthentic self-expression builds energy; masking and suppression drain itBurnout can still happen but you can recover faster and spend less time thereWe’d love to hear from you. What’s one thing that gives you energy, and one thing that drains it? Drop it in the comments (or even just an emoji that reflects how you’re feeling right now) 💛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/27dxJIf 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/2R0lhMore 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/2FUkzIn this episode, we explore:💜 Work with Dr Becc📚 Study with Kristeen🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎

March 18, 2026Episode 9720 min

97. Why High Achievers Are So Exhausted (And How to Fix It)

Hello Doctor Humans,In today’s episode, we’re diving into something that can completely transform your daily experience: the energy behind your actions. We explore how the mindset and emotional state you bring into everyday decisions—from going to the gym to how you talk to yourself—can shape not only your results but also how you feel moment to moment. We share personal stories about perfectionism, self-talk, healing from disordered eating, and learning to move through life from a place of self-kindness rather than self-criticism.In this episode, we explore: • The energy behind an action matters just as much as the action itself—it influences both results and how we feel while doing it. • Everyday activities (exercise, work, social media, how we dress) can come from either self-criticism or self-love, and that difference changes our experience. • Negative self-talk and perfectionism often come from the belief that we are “not enough.” • Choosing actions from a place of self-kindness and self-respect can break cycles of exhaustion, restriction, and emotional burnout. • Our mindset can even affect physical performance, such as strength and energy levels at the gym. • Judging others often reflects the judgments we hold about ourselves—and shifting our perspective can change our mood and energy instantly. • True personal power comes from learning to hold your own emotional state, even when the outside world feels chaotic. • When we intentionally choose our emotional energy—aligned, generous, and authentic—positive behavior flows naturally.We’d love to hear from you! What’s one area of your life where you’ve noticed your energy changing your results?💜 Work with Dr BeccInside Dare, Darling Coaching, Becc makes women in medicine UNSHAMEABLE. Join us for 3 months and be forever changed. 📆 Book in now for a no-cost 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 KristeenIf 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/2R0lhMore study tools coming soon.🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang 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

March 3, 2026Episode 9641 min

96: The Big Break I lost when shame hijacked my decisions

Hello Doctor Humans,In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into something that quietly sabotages so many of us: the belief that we’re not good enough. We share a very personal story about being handed a “big break”… and almost destroying it from the inside out.We unpack how self-sabotage can masquerades as high standards, how opportunities often feel like risk, and why it’s not the lack of opportunity holding us back, it’s our Imposter Syndrome.If you’ve ever felt relief instead of celebration, dread instead of excitement, or like you’re one mistake away from being found out… this one is for you.In this episode, we explore: • Opportunities often feel terrifying because they expose us to possible failure. • External validation doesn’t fix Imposter Syndrome. • Doctors are conditioned to avoid doing “the wrong thing,” which can lead to playing small. • The real skill isn’t confidence, it’s learning how to fail without destroying yourself. • Big opportunities are earned through tiny daily acts of courage. • You build self-trust by practicing risk in low-stakes moments.Where does “not enough” show up in your life? Have you ever sabotaged a beautiful opportunity because you didn’t feel good enough? Drop a comment or send us a DM.💜 Work with Dr BeccInside Dare, Darling Coaching, Becc makes women in medicine UNSHAMEABLE. Join us for 3 months and be forever changed. 📆 Book in now for a no-cost 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 KristeenIf 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/2R0lhMore study tools coming soon.🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang 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

February 18, 2026Episode 9537 min

95: Why Ward Service Feels So Hard (Even When You’re Good at It)

Hello Doctor Humans!Today we’re having one of those honest, slightly spicy conversations that we know so many doctors are quietly having in their own heads. In this episode, we’re unpacking why ward service feels so hard - even when the clinical work itself is going well. We talk openly about dread, burnout, loss of freedom, and the confusing mix of loving our work while feeling completely drained by it. This is a vulnerable, reflective episode about choice, autonomy, and what it really means to thrive (or not) in this season of our lives.In this episode, we explore:Why ward service can feel exhausting even when competence isn’t the issueThe role of dread, restriction, and loss of freedom in doctor burnoutHow self-care alone doesn’t always solve the problemThe difference between feeling “forced” and recognising our choicesRedefining failure, success, and thriving during intense work periodsHow naming the real problem gets us closer to meaningful solutionsWe’d love to hear from you. Does this resonate with your experience of ward service or on-call work? What helps you cope - or what still feels unresolved? Drop a comment, share an emoji if it’s a me too moment, or tell us what’s worked (or hasn’t) for you!Inside Dare, Darling Coaching, Becc makes doctors UNSHAMEABLE so they can stop protecting their potential and start showing up fully in their life.◽️ 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/27dxJIf 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/2R0lhMore 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💜 Work with Dr Becc📚 Study with Kristeen🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎

February 4, 2026Episode 9431 min

94: Doctors: Why You’re Not Taking Action (Even When You Want To)

Hello Doctor Humans!Today, we’re talking about shame, mistakes, and the fear of being seen trying. From sending emails without links to small slip-ups that make us cringe, we’ll share real stories and show you how mindset coaching and practical tools can help you move through shame and keep going. Grab a cuppa, get cozy, and join us as we explore being human, fallible, and unstoppable.In this episode, we explore:Everyone experiences shame, especially when putting yourself out there or trying something new.Small mistakes, like forgetting a link in an important email, can trigger big feelings of embarrassment and perceived incompetence.Mindset coaching teaches us to notice thoughts and feelings in real time and respond instead of reacting.Building a “toolbox” helps us reframe mistakes, shake off shame, and take the next action without being held back.Experiential learning—repeatedly taking action, failing, feeling shame, and recovering—is key to mastering resilience.Simple mantras like “I love and accept myself” can be powerful for navigating shame while continuing to act.The ultimate lesson: failure and discomfort don’t stop progress; learning to sit with these feelings is the secret to becoming untamable.If this episode resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you! Share your stories, thoughts, or even your favorite coping tools for handling shame and mistakes!Inside Dare, Darling Coaching, Becc makes doctors UNSHAMEABLE so they can stop protecting their potential and start showing up fully in their life.◽️ 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/27dxJIf 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/2R0lhMore 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💜 Work with Dr Becc📚 Study with Kristeen🔗 Connect with us & go deeperHang out with Kristeen & Becc on socials 🌎