Why Did I Become A Doctor South Africa
Why Did I Become A Doctor - Real Stories from Professionals Who Chose Their Path
Honest conversations about career, calling, and life choices. Unfiltered journeys of doctors, dentists, nurses, engineers, accountants, and professionals across South Africa and beyond.
In-depth interviews exploring professional pressures, burnout, career pivots, mental health, and the moments that made people question their calling.
What You'll Find:
✨ Raw conversations with diverse professionals
🎯 Resilience, burnout & career change stories
💡 Medicine, dentistry, nursing, engineering, finance & more
🔥 Unexpected journeys (doctors → musicians, engineers → car reviewers!)
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by guests on "Why Did I Become A Doctor" are those of the individual guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast, its hosts, or producers. Content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical or professional advice.
Why Did I Become A Doctor South Africa
The Journey to Maxillofacial Surgeon: Training, Family & The Reality of Practice | Dr Zain Dangor
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Dr Zain Dangor is a maxillofacial and oral surgeon practising in Lenasia and Vereeniging. In this conversation, he shares his journey from aspiring cricketer to surgeon, the challenges of balancing a demanding surgical career with family life, and the profound moments that remind him why he chose this path.
We discuss his training journey from dentistry at Wits to specialising in maxillofacial surgery, the realities of running a private maxillofacial practice, dealing with burnout during COVID, and why the "pamphlet moment" with a patient's daughter changed how he thinks about his work. Zain also opens up about his struggles with self-promotion, his dream of doing humanitarian work with his children, and why collaboration matters more than competition.
Topics Covered:
- Growing up in Lenasia and giving up provincial cricket for dentistry
- Why he chose maxillofacial surgery over other dental specialties
- The application process and training journey at Wits
- Running a private practice: the business side of surgery
- Patient stories that shaped his approach to care
- Work-life balance and managing guilt as a surgeon parent
- Burnout, self-reflection, and staying grounded
- The value of mentorship and building a supportive team
- Why he's uncomfortable with social media despite its benefits
- Future goals: humanitarian work and raising compassionate kids
Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It reflects the personal experiences and opinions of the guests and hosts and should not be considered medical, legal, or professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult qualified professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances.
🎙️ Why Did I Become A Doctor shares honest, unscripted conversations with doctors, dentists, healthcare professionals, and other inspiring individuals who are shaping the future of healthcare and beyond.
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