In this episode of YEGMDPod, host Jess B explores what the clinical years look like at the University of Alberta. She’s joined by Sam, a fourth-year medical student who completed the Integrated Community Clerkship (ICC) , a unique longitudinal third-year experience based in a rural community. Jess shares her own perspective as a current third-year student navigating the traditional rotation-based clerkship in Edmonton.

Together, they compare the two models of clerkship, reflect on the benefits and challenges of each, and offer insights for students considering their own clinical training path. Whether you’re curious about rural medicine, the ICC program, or what clerkship is really like, this episode provides a candid look at the different ways medical students gain experience on the wards and in the community.

In this episode of YEGMDPod, host Jess B reconnects with her former Physicianship Discussion Group (PDG) preceptor, Dr. Adrian Wagg. Together, they reflect on the PDG program which is a cornerstone of the University of Alberta’s medical curriculum that encourages students to explore the philosophical and humanistic sides of medicine.

The conversation also dives into Dr. Wagg’s clinical specialty, geriatrics. As a practicing geriatrician in Edmonton, he shares insights into caring for older adults, the challenges and rewards of the field, and why geriatrics is such an important, yet often overlooked, specialty.

This episode offers a thoughtful blend of reflection and career exploration, perfect for students curious about both the art and science of medicine.

In this episode of YEGMDPod, host Jess B sits down with fellow third-year medical students Vanessa and Sun to talk about the “choose your own adventure” side of medical training — electives. Together, they share their perspectives on navigating local electives, strategies for elective planning, the ins and outs of visiting electives, and how these experiences shape both learning and career exploration.

Whether you’re gearing up for electives yourself or just curious about how med students map out this pivotal part of training, this conversation offers practical tips, honest reflections, and a behind-the-scenes look at making the most of these opportunities.

In this episode of YEGMDPod, hosts Jess B and Jess C sit down with Dr. Brinda Balachandra, a diagnostic and molecular pathologist, and Dr. David Beyer, a diagnostic and clinical pathologist, to explore the fascinating and often misunderstood world of Lab Medicine and Pathology.

Together, they shed light on these lesser-known specialties, discuss the vital role pathologists play in patient care, and share insights into the diverse career paths within the field. The conversation also highlights opportunities available to medical students at the University of Alberta to get hands-on exposure to Lab Medicine and Pathology, while dispelling some of the most common myths about what pathologists do.

Whether you’re considering your future specialty or just curious about the doctors working behind the scenes, this episode offers an inside look at an essential branch of medicine that keeps the health system running.

In this episode, hosts Jess C and Jess B leave the studio to sit down with Dr. Richard Martin, Assistant Dean for the brand-new Northern Alberta Medical Program satellite site at the University of Alberta.

Together, they explore what this exciting new program means for medical education, rural training, and the future of healthcare delivery in northern communities. Dr. Martin shares the vision behind the site, how it will enhance opportunities for students, and why strengthening medical training outside of major urban centers is key to meeting the needs of Albertans.

Whether you’re a medical student, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about how innovation in medical education can shape the future of care, this conversation offers insight into the opportunities and challenges of building something new from the ground up.

In this episode, hosts Adam and Theo sit down with former Canadian Olympic speed skater Denny Morrison to explore his remarkable journey from the world stage of athletics to the demanding halls of medical school.

Denny shares how the lessons learned as a four-time Olympic medalist continue to shape his resilience, discipline, and approach to the rigorous demands of medicine. The conversation dives into how his experiences as an elite athlete compare to the challenges of medical training, the parallels between sport and medicine, and what it means to redefine success in a new chapter of life.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about perseverance, adaptability, and chasing excellence—on the ice, and now in healthcare.

In this season 2 opener of YEGMDPod, host Adam sits down with fellow first-year medical student, Lin, to unpack a story of perseverance, grit, and resilience. Lin shares his remarkable journey to medicine—a path marked by 21 applications over 7 years before finally receiving his acceptance.

Together, Adam and Lin explore what it means to stay committed in the face of repeated setbacks, how to reframe rejection as growth, and the personal lessons Lin carried with him through each attempt. This honest and inspiring conversation offers valuable insights for anyone navigating challenges in medicine, academics, or life; reminding us that resilience isn’t about never falling, but about continuing to rise again.

Special episode alert! We've collaborated with @behindthelabspod to join forces, as we talked with their hosts Jashan and Arpit about their journeys in medical research, and the trials and tribulations of running a medical podcast. Our host Jess B also gives the inside scoop on Med School life, the Medicine Program and its' benefits here at the University of Alberta, among countless other sub conversations! You won't want to miss this one!