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College athletes have a lot to manage, from injuries and recovery to schoolwork and the pressure to perform. But getting the care they need is not always easy. Some schools have more medical resources than others, and when athletes transfer, keeping their medical care consistent can become even more challenging. Taking care of athletes means looking beyond what happens on the field. They need access to reliable medical guidance, support for their mental health, proper nutrition, and time to recover. When athletes have the right information and people to turn to, they can make better decisions about their health and focus on performing at their best. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess introduces Athlete Connect, a platform designed to help address gaps in care for college athletes. He shares what he has seen while working with athletes and explains how the platform will bring together resources for mental health, nutrition, recovery, and performance. He also discusses how better communication and access to guidance can help athletes get the support they need, wherever their athletic careers take them.  "I feel that we can improve our communication across the board, which will allow athletes to make better informed decisions and be able to provide better care for themselves."— Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction to Athlete Connect 00:01:12 – The Importance of Athlete Healthcare  00:02:39 – Gaps in College Sports Medicine Coverage  00:04:02 – Introducing Athlete Connect  00:04:31 – Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path—crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. 00:06:27 – Improving Communication Across Athlete Care Teams  00:07:14 – The Four Pillars of Athlete Wellness  00:09:01 – Building a Personalized Athlete Care Journey  00:09:55 – Becoming 1% Better Every Day  Key Takeaways:   "The game is the same. You put on pads, it's a collision sport, so injuries occur. Many athletes go untreated or are on their own to try to seek out medical care. Is that the right way to provide care for them? I feel we can do better." "Many times trying to hide some of these new injuries and just kind of suffering through them because they're trying to create a new name for themselves." "Not only do they have to perform on the field, they have to perform in the classroom and they have to be able to take care of themselves as a person." "It's time, there's a need for it and we're here to help fill that gap." "I always believe in, not just setting New Year resolutions but everyday trying to improve, everyday trying to continue to become 1% better." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

The road to where we want to be rarely looks the way we imagined it would. Setbacks, unexpected detours, and moments of uncertainty can make us question our direction, but they can also shape our character and prepare us for opportunities we may not yet see. Sometimes, the obstacles we face become the very experiences that help us grow and guide others forward. Growth is not only about reaching a goal. It is also about remembering the people who helped us get there and recognizing the responsibility that comes with having opportunities others are still waiting for. When someone opens a door for us, we can use what we have learned to open doors for others. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess reflects on returning to Washington, DC, reconnecting with Howard University, mentoring aspiring orthopaedic surgeons, and advocating for patients and physicians on Capitol Hill. He discusses setbacks, mentorship, healthcare disparities, diversity in orthopaedic surgery, and the growing role of AI in medicine. "Thank you God for the journey, thank you for keeping me, thank you for helping me overcome all the obstacles to get to where I am now."— Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:46 – The journey to Howard University 00:02:59 – The impact of mentorship 00:04:15 – Diversity in orthopaedics 00:06:50 – Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path—crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. 00:08:39 – Building faith through obstacles 00:09:35 – Advocacy on Capitol Hill 00:10:51 – Healthcare policy and patient care 00:13:13 – What advocacy means 00:14:08 – Closing remarks Key Takeaways:   "God knew what we needed in our lives to help shape our careers and place us under the mentorship of those two giants in orthopaedics." "I go home a better person, being able to see the other side of what the lawmakers are encountering and the things, the obstacles that they face as well." "Advocacy, sometimes you're supporting, pleading for or speaking on behalf of others who do not have the ability to make that presentation for themselves." "Hopefully it'll be able to help somebody else, motivate someone else to continue to push forward in whatever your dream or capacity, in whatever endeavour you're trying to achieve." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Life gets busy. Between work, family, sports, and everything in between, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and put the things that matter most on the back burner. But busy seasons are also opportunities to build better habits, protect your energy, and learn how to keep showing up even when life feels nonstop. Thriving through a busy season is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about knowing when to rest, taking care of your body, creating habits that keep you focused, and communicating before things become overwhelming. Small systems, intentional recovery, and making room for what matters can help you stay grounded and perform at your best. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess gets personal about navigating a demanding season of medicine, family, sports, and building his new Athlete Connect platform. He shares three practical strategies for staying consistent when life gets hectic and gives a preview of Athlete Connect and his vision for helping close healthcare gaps for collegiate athletes. Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that you do not have to wait for life to slow down to keep moving forward.  "Anytime you're starting something new, there can be self-doubt that tries to creep in."— Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:28 – Introducing Athlete Connect 00:03:07 – Addressing healthcare gaps in college sports 00:04:11 – Overcoming self-doubt and taking action 00:04:56 – Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path—crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. 00:07:18 – Tip #1: Rest and recovery 00:08:20 – Listening to your body 00:09:02 – Tip #2: Building effective daily habits 00:10:00 – Tip #3: Communication and family planning 00:11:03 – Finishing the year strong 00:11:46 – Closing remarks Key Takeaways:   "There is healthcare disparity in college sports just like there is healthcare disparity in the community."  "Follow the footsteps and the plan that God has given for you." "I know that this is something that is a need, and when you see a need and you know it's there, many times you have to step up and fill it." "If things are important, we have to continue to make room for them, for our family, for our spouse, for our job, for whatever else you have going on." "If it's not on the calendar, it doesn't exist." "The earlier you talk about it, the more you can plan, the better off it's gonna be."  Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Getting back into sports is exciting, but it also comes with important responsibilities for athletes, parents, and coaches. As the school year begins and sports seasons get underway, student-athletes are facing intense practices, long tournament days, and extreme heat. Knowing how to properly prepare, hydrate, recover, and respond to warning signs can make a major difference in keeping young athletes safe. For student-athletes, staying healthy is about more than simply showing up for practice. Consistent nutrition and hydration, adequate rest, proper strength training, and paying attention to injuries can help the body handle the demands of a long season. Understanding the signs of heat illness, concussion, and overuse injuries is also important, especially when an athlete may be tempted to push through pain or return to play too soon. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess joins registered dietitian Rebecca Turner to talk about staying safe and healthy during the back-to-school and sports season. They discuss heat safety, hydration, nutrition, recognizing serious symptoms, common sports injuries, concussion care, overuse injuries, early sports specialization, cross-training, and preparing the body for competition. Most importantly, they remind parents and athletes to be proactive, listen to the body, and know when an injury or symptom needs to be evaluated. "Just really paying attention to your athlete as a parent, you're gonna know when that child's not themselves, and that's gonna be a sign for you. Trust your gut."— Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:37 – Heat, nutrition, and hydration 00:04:38 – Understanding wet bulb temperature 00:06:16 – Signs of heat illness 00:08:36 – Heat safety for parents and athletes 00:11:09 – Preparing for sports emergencies 00:14:53 – Concussions and early evaluation 00:17:18 – Preventing overuse injuries 00:18:37 – Strength training and cross-training 00:19:10 – Sports specialization 00:20:42 – Staying healthy beyond sports physicals 00:21:27 – Friday night sports medicine clinics Key Takeaways:   "With the heat right now, we know it's intense, so it starts off first with nutrition, hydration." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "Just like with everything else when it comes to hydration, consistency over time matters." — Rebecca Turner "The wet bulb temperature is a better measure of the impact of the temperature on your body." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "If you have somebody who has stopped sweating and cramping really badly, you need to call 911 and you also need to cool that athlete." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "I think you have to be proactive. I think it starts off with education." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "Being able to remove yourself from that exposure to the sun can help the body's core temperature cool down, especially in between games." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "We have to be vigilant for any athlete that's just doing the same thing over and over and over using those same muscle systems over and over without cross-training." — Dr. Derrick Burgess Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Taking care of your body is not just about pushing harder. It is also about understanding how your body heals, recovers, and responds to the tools we use to support it. As red light therapy, infrared treatments, and peptides become more popular, it is important to know what is backed by science and what is simply good marketing. For athletes, active people, and anyone dealing with pain or recovery, the right treatment can make a difference. Light therapy is being explored for everything from muscle recovery and injury healing to skin health and acne. But with so many products available, knowing what you are using, why you are using it, and whether it is actually right for you matters. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess sits down with Alon Lustman of Zero Gravity Skin to explore light therapy, recovery, and emerging wellness treatments. They break down red, infrared, and blue light, discuss how these therapies may support the body's natural healing process, and explore the growing interest in peptides. Most importantly, they emphasize the importance of looking beyond the hype, asking questions, and making informed choices about what you put on and in your body. "Do your due diligence. Make sure you're using the right sources and just verify yourself. Just because you're doing something doesn't mean it's the right thing." — Alon Lustman  Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:32 – Welcoming our guest, Alon Lustman 00:02:07 – The science behind light therapy 00:05:50 – Red, infrared, and blue light 00:08:30 – Light and natural healing 00:09:32 – Light therapy for athletes 00:12:02 – Heat, cold, and contrast therapy 00:15:56 – Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path—crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. 00:19:14 – Avoiding misleading claims 00:21:19 – Light therapy, peptides, and athlete safety 00:25:17 – Know what you put in your body 00:27:55 – About Zero Gravity Skin 00:29:01 – Education is key 00:31:54 – Do your due diligence Key Takeaways:   "You want something effective and you wanna make sure it's in the right dosage as well." — Alon Lustman "It's hard for me to tell you good peptides because it is such an iffy thing right now. There's not a good regulation to it." — Alon Lustman "There are so many different indications for using blue light, red light, infrared, and that's something that you have to really educate yourself more on." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "What goes in your body, you're responsible for it." — Dr. Derrick Burgess "Education is key." — Alon Lustman About Our Guest Alon Lustman is a skincare and longevity specialist at Zero Gravity with over a decade of experience in non-invasive skin rejuvenation. With a background in cognitive science and physics from Israel, he combines science and innovation to help people achieve healthier, youthful skin and support overall well-being.  Connect with Alon: Web: https://beyondconference.com/speakers/alon-lustman/; https://zerogravityskin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zerogravityskin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZeroGravitySkin/ Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Providing quality healthcare for athletes isn't just about having more resources. It's about building stronger systems, creating meaningful partnerships, and making sure every athlete receives the care they deserve. HBCU athletic programs often face significant gaps in funding, staffing, facilities, nutrition, rehabilitation, and access to specialty care. These challenges can shape daily medical operations, but they should never lead to lower standards of care. Meeting these needs requires creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to finding solutions. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess explores the realities of caring for HBCU athletes and what it takes to build a stronger sports medicine system. He highlights the importance of representation and trust, mentorship and career development, coordinated medical care, and partnerships with health systems, specialists, trainers, donors, and communities. The episode offers an important lesson: closing the resource gap isn't about lowering expectations, but about building the networks and systems necessary to help athletes thrive. "Smaller budgets do not mean you have less talented athletes, and it definitely does not mean you have less serious medical needs." – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:18 – HBCU healthcare gaps 00:03:06 – The power of mentorship 00:05:06 – The opportunity that started it all 00:08:19 – The orthopedic surgeon shortage 00:09:37 – The role of a team physician 00:11:17 – How funding affects athlete care 00:13:56 – Community impact 00:14:16 – Partnerships that close the gap 00:16:12 – Partnerships that close the gap 00:17:54 – Building the medical pipeline 00:18:49 – Team physicians as leaders 00:19:52 – Representation builds trust Key Takeaways:   "We have to be able to take good care of our athletes." "We should be doing more protecting our athletes and taking care of our athletes." "Being in the community is very hard to take care of a team by yourself if you do not have these resources." "Representation can improve trust. If they don't trust you, they will never talk to you." "The best team physicians build networks." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Success is rarely the result of one big moment. More often, it comes from the small habits, consistent choices, and support systems that shape who we become over time. Many people focus on goals, but goals alone don't create lasting change. Without systems, it's easy to lose momentum once the excitement fades. Whether you're pursuing better health, growing a business, recovering from injury, or striving for excellence in your career, sustainable progress depends on the routines you build and the people you surround yourself with. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess brings together key lessons from Atomic Habits alongside conversations with athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, and mental health professionals. Together, they explore why small improvements lead to remarkable results, how mental fitness goes beyond mental toughness, the importance of asking for help before reaching a crisis, and practical ways to stay focused, intentional, and resilient while pursuing long-term success. "We need to do a better job of being preventative rather than waiting for a crisis." – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:28 – Breakthroughs take time 00:02:15 – Goals vs. systems: Why systems win 00:04:16 – The power of small routines 00:05:06 – What busyness steals from your life 00:07:08 – The importance of reflection and self-evaluation 00:07:35 – Focus on your trajectory 00:08:50 – Building mental fitness through intentional discipline 00:12:20 – Create Your SOS List 00:15:26 – Healing from burnout and choosing a new path 00:19:44 – Mental toughness vs. mental health 00:21:05 – Prevention is better than crisis intervention 00:21:59 – Looking beyond the athlete 00:22:16 – The power of unconditional support Key Takeaways:   "The most powerful outcomes are usually delayed." "Goals are the results you want to achieve. Systems are the processes that lead to results." "The purpose of a goal is to win the game. Systems help you stay in the game." "Things that suffer when you don't get unbusy are your relationships, your recreation, your rest, and your relationship with God." "Be more concerned about your trajectory than your current location." "A made-up mind and a person with nothing to lose are powerful." "The same workout becomes harder when your mind is challenged." "Sometimes letting someone know they're on your SOS list can be the difference maker." "Mental health is a spectrum, and we're all on that journey." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Some conversations are difficult, but they are also necessary. Moments of tragedy often lead us to reflect on our own experiences, the people we care about, and the realities that still exist in our communities today. For many professionals from underrepresented backgrounds, success can also bring unexpected challenges. As opportunities increase, it is not uncommon to find yourself in spaces where few people share your experiences or understand the weight that comes with being one of the first or one of only a few. Finding support, building community, and creating opportunities for those who come after us becomes just as important as achieving success itself. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess reflects on the tragic death of Nolan Xavier Wells and the conversations it sparked about identity, representation, and belonging. Drawing from his own experiences as one of the few Black orthopedic surgeons in Mississippi, he shares the importance of mentorship, protecting your mental health, staying connected to your community, and using your platform to open doors for others. This is an honest conversation about leadership, resilience, and the responsibility of lifting others as you climb. "We have to continue to make intentional decisions to expose our children, so they can have a true identity." Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Honoring Nolan Xavier Wells 00:02:00 – When success brings isolation 00:03:10 – Growing up and finding identity 00:04:07 – The impact of the HBCU experience 00:05:39 – Representation in medicine matters 00:09:45 – Reflections from the Essence Festival 00:11:18 – Raising children with a strong sense of identity 00:12:38 – The reality of being one of a few 00:13:33 – Finding mentorship and community 00:14:29 – Don't make yourself an island 00:15:03 – Use your platform to lift others 00:16:02 – Share your story, not just your success 00:17:06 – Using your gifts for good Key Takeaways:   "With success, many times comes isolation." "The higher you climb, the more isolated it becomes." "It wasn't just a question, it was, 'How do I survive?'" "Don't make yourself an island." "Continue to lift as you climb." "Don't just share the success, share the failures as well." "Make sure that you are protecting your mental health." "You are chosen for a reason. You're given your talents and abilities for a reason. Make sure you're using them for good." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Many people will never see what life looks like inside an orphanage or in a community where even a simple meal is uncertain. It is easy to hear about poverty from a distance, but being present changes the way you understand both the challenges people face and the resilience they carry every day. Real change rarely begins with a grand plan. More often, it starts with one person responding to a need, one relationship at a time, and choosing to keep showing up year after year. Over time, those small acts of faithfulness can grow into something that changes countless lives. What stands out most is not only the work being done, but the hope it creates. A safe place to live, the opportunity to go to school, access to medical care, and the chance to learn a trade can change the direction of a child's future. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess sits down with Ethlyn Cowan, founder of Ethlyn's Hope Center in Kenya. She shares the remarkable story of how a calling to missionary work grew into a home for orphaned children and a ministry that now serves thousands through education, medical missions, and community outreach. Together, they reflect on the realities of poverty, the power of faithful service, and why investing in people can leave a lasting impact for generations to come. "The Holy Spirit literally spoke to me and told me I need to be doing this kind of work, missionary work, using my skills as a nurse to help those who are disadvantaged." – Ethlyn Cowan Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introducing Ethlyn Cowan and Ethlyn's Hope 00:02:10 – How the mission began 00:03:50 – The story behind Ethlyn's Hope 00:04:34 – How local women inspired the mission 00:06:28 – The $1,000 donation that helped start the center 00:09:01 – The realities of poverty in rural Kenya 00:12:12 – The children of Ethlyn's Hope 00:13:32 – Success stories from the center 00:15:36 – Growing the medical mission 00:16:55 – Partnership with Maseno University 00:18:40 – How to donate and sponsor a child 00:19:21 – Future plans for a vocational center 00:20:42 – Why this work matters 00:21:55 – Closing remarks Key Takeaways:   "These are poor women also, but they didn't just stay home. They were trying to help make sure that these kids go to school." "As poor as they are, these people are rich in spirit." – Ethlyn Cowan "When you engage with them, you can't help but to want to be a part of what's going on and want to help them and see them succeed." – Dr. Derrick Burgess "You don't have to be anything medical. As long as you've got two hands and two feet, we will find something for you to do." – Ethlyn Cowan "This definitely is a trip that's worth spending the money on. You come and you will not go back the same."– Ethlyn Cowan "Even if you don't have a heart, you'll still find one." – Dr. Derrick Burgess About Our Guest Ethlyn Cowan is a registered nurse, missionary, and founder of Ethlyn's Hope Center, a community-based organization serving vulnerable children and families in Marera, Kenya. After earning her master's degree in Global Health, a practicum in Kenya led to a lifelong commitment to the community. Working alongside local women, she helped establish an orphanage and continues to lead annual medical missions that provide healthcare, education, and support to children and families in the surrounding villages. Guided by Matthew 25:40, Ethlyn is passionate about serving others and believes that lasting change begins by making a difference one person at a time.  Connect with Ethlyn Cowan Website: https://www.ethlynshopewomen.org/ Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Five years is a long time to stay committed to anything. Over that time, priorities change, responsibilities grow, and life looks different than it did at the beginning. What starts as an idea often requires far more patience, flexibility, and persistence than expected. Building something consistently also teaches lessons that cannot be learned from a book or a course. Many of those lessons come from trial and error, adjusting when things are not working, and continuing even when progress feels slow. It is easy to focus on downloads, views, and other numbers. But some of the most meaningful impact happens in conversations, connections, and feedback from people whose lives have been influenced in ways that cannot always be measured. In this special 5th anniversary episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess reflects on the journey from launching the podcast in 2021 to producing more than 220 episodes and interviewing over 130 guests. He shares five lessons he has learned along the way, including the importance of consistency, adaptability, adding value to others, and focusing on impact rather than metrics. Through personal reflections and highlights from past episodes, this conversation offers practical encouragement for anyone working toward a long-term goal or building something that matters to them.  "You will never know the extent of your potential until you give it something to do. Your potential needs to be tested." – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: 00:01:02 – Celebrating five years of the podcast 00:03:28 – Lesson #1: Consistency is key 00:05:50 – Lesson #2: Don't take yourself too seriously 00:07:18 – Lesson #3: Be adaptable 00:08:31 – Lesson #4: Add value to others 00:10:21 – Lesson #5: The power of organic growth 00:11:13 – Why impact is bigger than numbers 00:13:19 – Just start and keep going 00:15:22 – Finding value in every experience 00:17:24 – Advice for aspiring podcasters 00:18:48 – The importance of delegation and support 00:19:43 – Why the perfect time never comes 00:21:19 – Focus on your trajectory, not your current position 00:22:00 – Defining success through your values 00:23:11 – Mental toughness and positive self-talk 00:24:57 – Growth requires doing the work 00:25:59 – Reaching your full potential 00:26:54 – Closing Key Takeaways:   "Consistency is key, and from that, you'll continue to grow, continue to refine your processes, and new opportunities will open up." "Always be open to collaborate with others." "Your impact is more than you can measure through those numbers." "If you are adaptable and you're willing to grow and learn as you go, I promise you it will be a blessing more than you can understand where you are right now." "Your most valuable asset is your time." "The time is now. Waiting on the season to be perfect probably will not occur." "Be more concerned about your trajectory than your current location." "Don't worry about the one that you just shot, worry about the next one." "You can't continue to stay on the negative mental side, because it's just gonna take you down." "Disappoint procrastination and commit to releasing your full potential." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Family travel requires intention. In the middle of demanding careers, packed schedules, and the responsibilities of raising children, meaningful time together rarely happens by accident. It is something that must be prioritized. The experiences children have outside of their everyday environment can shape how they view the world. Visiting different countries, interacting with people from different cultures, and seeing life from another perspective often teaches lessons that extend far beyond what can be learned in a classroom. These moments also create opportunities to build values that last. Gratitude, curiosity, compassion, and service are often developed through experiences that challenge assumptions and expand understanding. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess shares from Nairobi, Kenya, where his family is enjoying time together before participating in mission work with Ethlyn's Hope. Through conversations with his wife and children, he reflects on why his family chooses experiences over extravagance, the importance of exposing children to different cultures, and the role travel has played in strengthening family bonds, broadening perspectives, and cultivating a heart for serving others. "The more I travel, the smaller the world feels and the more common qualities I feel that all humans have, no matter your race, your gender, your sexuality. I feel that we are more alike than we are different."  – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: (00:00:44) Celebrating five years of the podcast (00:01:12) Why family travel is a priority (00:03:29) Kenya mission trip and Ethlyn's Hope (00:04:41) Exploring Nairobi and experiencing Kenyan culture (00:05:47) The family's philosophy on travel (00:06:38) A perspective on international travel (00:08:53) Preparing for a first mission trip (00:09:59) The value of firsthand experiences (00:12:50) How travel strengthens family bonds (00:13:08) Broadening perspectives through new cultures (00:14:07) People are more alike than different (00:14:40) Teaching children the importance of serving others (00:15:20) Closing message  Key Takeaways:   "We look at travel as a way of expanding our children's horizons, especially on a global scale." "The truth about how beautiful these countries are and that they're not as bad as everybody makes them seem." "We always focus on our differences, but traveling around the world, you just notice how much the different cultures are alike." "Seeing her heart to give back, that instilled something in me to want to use the gifts and talents that God gave me to help others." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/ This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Entrepreneurship can open doors that a traditional career path may never reveal. Many of us spend years focused on building a career, achieving goals, and becoming experts in our field. But sometimes the opportunities that create the biggest impact are the ones we never expected. What starts as one step of obedience or curiosity can open doors to relationships, partnerships, growth, and purpose far beyond the original plan. Success is not always limited to titles or income. Sometimes growth comes from being willing to step outside of what feels comfortable and explore new opportunities. Through relationships, consistency, and a willingness to learn, unexpected paths can create meaningful impact both personally and professionally. While many careers depend on constant performance and presence, entrepreneurship can create flexibility, stability, and new ways to serve others. More than business, it becomes an opportunity to grow, educate, and build something with purpose. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, I share how launching this podcast became a turning point in my journey and how it led me into entrepreneurship, wellness education, and new business opportunities through Bravenly Global. You'll hear clips and conversations from a special event hosted at my home with healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and company leaders discussing health, faith, resilience, multiple streams of income, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to grow.  "Anytime I'm able to be around someone who has reached the top of their game, I'm always trying to pick up the small nuggets."– Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:00:42) Entrepreneurship beyond medicine (00:02:58) Relationships and partnerships (00:03:28) Wellness and prevention in healthcare (00:05:55) Multiple streams of income (00:06:57) Introduction to Bravenly Global (00:08:30) Entrepreneurial insights and mindset (00:09:32) Sacrifice, commitment, and purpose (00:11:47) Overcoming obstacles and setbacks (00:13:41) Community and collaboration (00:14:23) Entrepreneurship during uncertain seasons (00:16:14) Financial stability and growth (00:17:26) Relationships and long-term success (00:20:05) Faith, leadership, and company values (00:22:02) Wellness and mental clarity (00:23:34) Closing message Key Takeaways:   "I understand what getting paid with podcasting is, because it's not about money. It's about relationships, it's about opportunities." "There are things that we need to supplement because we cannot eat enough to get all the things that we need in our diet." "Income is not always guaranteed." "It doesn't matter if it's life, work, entrepreneurship. You're going to run into an obstacle. Prepare yourself for the obstacle.  "People don't want to have to go to bed at night and wonder how am I gonna pay that credit card off before the interest." "Your relationships are gonna carry you far."  Links Mentioned: https://bravenlyglobal.com/  Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Milestones like graduation highlight years of effort, discipline, and sacrifice. While achievements are often celebrated in the moment, the journey behind them is easily overlooked. Progress can feel invisible when the focus stays on what's next. Many accomplishments are minimized, creating the sense of being behind even when significant growth has already taken place. Taking time to reflect helps bring those moments back into focus. Looking back also strengthens belief during difficult seasons. Past wins and challenges serve as reminders that obstacles have been faced and overcome before, building confidence for what lies ahead. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, we focus on the power of reflection and what it reveals about progress, faith, and perspective. Through personal insights and key takeaways, this episode challenges the tendency to overlook past achievements while emphasizing the importance of gratitude, intentional living, and recognizing that every finish line is simply the beginning of a new chapter.  "Make little small faith deposits into your account. The more that you make these deposits into your faith account, the more your faith grows." – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:00:33) Graduation season recognition (00:01:32) Rediscovering past achievements (00:02:19) You are farther along than you think (00:03:31) The power of first impressions (00:04:36) Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path, crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. (00:06:33) Reflection strengthens faith and confidence (00:08:45) Recognizing alignment, timing, and life moments (00:09:42) Staying consistent even during challenging days (00:10:11) Letting go of what no longer serves you (00:11:31) Congratulations to the Class of 2026 (00:12:00) Closing message  Key Takeaways:   "You are farther along than you think." "You have probably accomplished a lot of things in your life that you've completely forgotten about." "A lot of times it's the little things that really make a difference." "Always show up, always put your best foot forward." "When the challenge presents itself, your mind starts to replay whatever you put into it." "Make sure that you are surrounding yourself with people who will build you up. Make sure that you are putting yourself in positions to be successful." "Every day is not gonna feel like a day of victory." "If you keep moving forward and continue to show up, you will continue to be successful." "Many times you feel like you've made it to the finish line, but it is really just a new start line." "Take some time to appreciate those who have been in the journey along with you." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

The path to becoming a physician is often viewed through a narrow lens, defined by prestige, stability, and financial success. From the outside, it can look like a straightforward journey with a guaranteed reward at the end. Yet behind that perception is a process filled with sacrifice, uncertainty, and years of relentless commitment that many never fully see or understand. Public reactions often lack context. When a physician steps away, it sparks quick opinions, yet far less attention is given to burnout, system pressures, financial strain, and careers that shift despite years of investment. This contrast shows how easily judgment can replace understanding. Medicine is not a perfect practice. It is grounded in science, shaped by constant learning, and limited by human capacity. Even with the best care, outcomes are not always guaranteed. Carrying that responsibility while accepting those limits is one of the most challenging parts of the profession. The journey requires years of training, delayed milestones, financial debt, and time that cannot be regained. The demands continue beyond training through administrative burdens, evolving knowledge, and the emotional weight of patient care that extends beyond the hospital. In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, we take a closer look at the realities behind the profession, challenging common myths about income, lifestyle, and success while unpacking the true cost of becoming and being a physician. This episode highlights the importance of withholding judgment, understanding the unseen sacrifices, and recognizing that medicine is not just a career but a lifelong commitment shaped by purpose, pressure, and continuous growth. "It's hard for people to really grasp the amount of dedication and time that it takes to get through medical school. It's not just deciding you wanna be a doctor, it's grinding it out through the tough times." – Dr. Derrick Burgess Topics Covered: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:37) Public reaction to stepping away from medicine (00:03:38) Job instability and physician burnout realities (00:04:46) Doctors as "saviors" vs the reality of practicing medicine (00:06:29) 13-year orthopedic surgery journey and sacrifices (00:09:21) Advertisement: Struggling with your finances as a young physician? Doc2Doc Lending is here for you. Founded by doctors, we offer loans tailored to your unique career path, crediting your certifications and specialty training. Visit https://www.doc2doclending.com/ today. (00:11:17) Delayed gratification (00:12:45) Reality of medicine vs glamorized perception  (00:16:03) How doctors are trained and keep learning  (00:19:31) Emotional toll, burnout, and loss of personal time (00:20:30) Medicine is a lifelong calling (00:21:45) Closing message  Key Takeaways:   "People do not really know about the practice of medicine and what we go through as physicians to get to the point where we are." "We are upset about someone when they take control of how their life is run, but we're not upset about when lives are being destroyed or altered by systems failures." "I'm the hands and feet of Jesus… I'm not a savior." "No matter what you do, sometimes everyone cannot be saved."  "You don't just work when you're in the hospital, it is a commitment of your life." Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about  This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Real transformation does not begin in moments of certainty, but in spaces where people are willing to confront what has long been unspoken. It starts when silence is broken by honesty, and when struggles that were once hidden are finally acknowledged with care instead of judgment. For many, those unspoken realities live beneath the pressure to perform, achieve, and appear strong at all times. Yet behind every expectation are human experiences that do not disappear when ignored. They surface in stress, exhaustion, and moments where support is most needed but often hardest to ask for. This is why community matters. Environments that value both excellence and well-being create room for people to be fully seen. Mentorship, care, and consistent support remind individuals that they are not meant to carry everything alone. When mental health resources are accessible, awareness becomes action. Support systems help turn silence into language and struggle into something that can be addressed early, not endured in isolation. In the end, transformation is not only about growth, but about being supported in the process of becoming. When people are met with understanding, healing becomes possible and lasting. In this episode with Daniel Gillison Jr., I will reflect on the significance of Easter as a time of faith, family, and renewal, while sharing a powerful conversation recorded live from the HBCU End Zone experience in San Francisco. Together, we explore the impact of the HBCU journey, the importance of mentorship, and how environments rooted in care and belief can shape future leaders. We also discuss the critical role of mental health awareness, breaking stigma, and creating accessible support systems through the work of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Tune in as we unpack the connection between faith, family, HBCU culture, and mental health awareness.  "Mentorship… someone saw something in me and had a suggestion that I go apply for this internship and that internship turned into a job. That would never have happened if someone did not take the time to look at me and see me for who I was." – Daniel Gillison Jr. Topics Covered: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:37) Welcoming our guest, Daniel Gillison Jr. (00:02:45) HBCU experience shaping life's path (00:05:42) Mentorship as a career catalyst (00:07:29) HBCUs: Where challenge builds grit and purpose (00:11:22) NAMI: Making mental health visible and supported early (00:13:19) Mental health: Breaking stigma, embracing strength (00:14:32) Mental health beyond physical recovery (00:16:50) Mental health support through consistency and care (00:17:47) Student-athlete isolation and pressure in HBCUs (00:19:45) HBCUs: A lifelong transformative experience Key Takeaways:   "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."– Daniel Gillison Jr. "It's an area of strength to talk about that I'm not doing OK."– Daniel Gillison Jr. "Our real objective is for every individual living with mental illness to live a full and fulfilling life."– Daniel Gillison Jr. "What's happening above the shoulders is invisible until something occurs." – Dr. Derrick Burgess About the Guest Mr. Daniel Gillison Jr. is the CEO of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization. A Southern University alumnus and former tennis scholar-athlete, he draws from his HBCU experience and upbringing in Washington, D.C. to speak on resilience, mentorship, and the realities students face in high-pressure environments. He leads national efforts to reduce mental health stigma, expand early intervention, and improve access to care, especially within Black communities. Through partnerships with HBCUs and the Divine Nine, including "NAMI on Campus," he champions consistent, judgment-free mental health support and real-time resources for students. Connect with Mr. Daniel Gillison Jr.: Website: https://www.nami.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NAMICommunicate/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-gillison/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NAMIvideo Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243 Email: [email protected] Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.