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.
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✨ 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
She Turned Down Medicine to Become a Podiatrist | Dr Nikita Sahadew
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Dr Nikita Sahadew got into medical school and turned it down. On the advice of her small-town GP in Verulam, she chose podiatry instead, a profession she says has only around 400 registered practitioners in South Africa, trained at the only university on the continent that offers the degree.
In this episode, she tells Yash and Yak how a teacher's daughter from Mountview Secondary ended up qualifying as one of only two podiatrists in her year, why her very first patient at Joburg Gen involved maggots, and how she built her practice, PodMed South Africa, from one patient in her first month. She talks about completing her PhD in diabetes while running a practice and raising two small children, her role as a podiatry representative on the HPCSA's Professional Board for Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Biokinetics*, and why she believes foot care is life-saving for diabetic patients.
Recorded before her PhD was finalised, this episode releases with Dr Sahadew newly entitled to the title. Congratulations, Doc.
Find her at PodMed South Africa on Instagram and TikTok.
*Note: At the time of recording, Dr Nikita Sahadew was the sole podiatry representative on the relevant HPCSA Professional Board. Since 1 August 2026, podiatry representation on the Board has expanded, and Dr Sahadew continues to serve as a podiatry representative.
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This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily represent those of the podcast or hosts and do not constitute professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for medical, financial, or career decisions.
🎙️ 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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