IMG Roadmap Series #55: Dr. Kristen Scatliffe and MD FEME


In this episode, I am joined by a group of IMGs from the MD FEME podcast.

These successful IMGs share the innate challenges of being an IMG as well as personal challenges and how they overcome them.

You will learn valuable tips on how to overcome your struggles both in the classroom and in the field. You will hear the stories of women who have been right where you are as they offer you encouragement and advice for any season in your own journey as an IMG.

As our guests spoke, one common challenge between a few were learning disorders such as dyslexia and ADHD. For Dr. Kimberly and Dr. Kristen, these challenges are a hurdle that they learned how to overcome. With time management skills, self-confidence, extra practice, and further understanding of themselves, Kristen and Kimberly both overcame the challenges of studying and standardized tests. 

The majority of our guests this week had a “no,” a failure, or an intense struggle along their path as an IMG. It is important to know that no learning ability or disability, nor their school of choice is what set any of these women apart and on the path to success. Instead, it was their confidence, persistence, and determination to fulfill their dreams.

Know that challenges are often a common thread for all IMGs. Know that your struggles don’t define you, but the way you respond in the face of challenge speaks to your character. Don’t give up when you fall or fail. Get up, re-group, define your trouble spots, and seek the help you need to succeed.

Remember that regardless of where you get your start, you will end up right beside your US counterparts doin the same jobs and making the same amount of money.

More than anything, don’t let people discount you just because you are an IMG or have specific challenges. Your story is important and your journey influences who you are. Sharing your experiences help you embrace your full story and encourage others who may have found themselves struggling with the same exact issues.

Here’s a few self-reminders every listener should take note of:

  • DON’T let others discount you because of your struggles or challenges

  • Build up a strong sense of SELF-CONFIDENCE 

  • NEVER give up because you failed the first try

  • ALWAYS pursue your dream with DETERMINATION and RISE ABOVE the nay-sayers

  • Ask for help along the way

  • “NO” is just a doorway to another opportunity



If you would like to connect with MD FEME or any of the guests on the show, you can find their information below.

MD FEME Guests: 

Kristen Scatliffe, MD - Pulmonary Critical Care IMG; IG: @krisdbaby79
Emily Shay, MD - ID Critical Care IM; IG: @idcritmd
Kandice Waul Bennett, MD - Family Medicine IMG; IG: @goodas_waulmd
Lubna Chaudhry, MD -  Family Medicine IMG; IG: @drmomwifeboss
Kimberly Works, MD ; Web: https://www.pediatricworks.co/

Akua Ampadu MD - Internal Medicine IMG; IG: @doctorkukie

Jana McKenzie, MD

MD FEME

Website: https://www.mdfeme.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/md_feme/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsGfaHI1AGJoQv4TQbUJXpA?reload=9

Listen to the full show on your favorite streaming platforms:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap-podcast/id1490731292

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz

Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz

Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast

RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-podcast-GE0MMg