Med & Me Podcast

** For the first time, Dr. Ben Amberg shares details about a brand new learning resource he’s currently developing, giving listeners an exclusive early look before its official release. **In this episode of M&M, we’re joined by Dr Ben Amberg — an O&G registrar at Monash Women’s, Monash alum, and the mind behind some of the most widely used med school notes.We talk about his journey through med school, BMedSci/PhD and research, how he approached studying and scoring well, and his transition into O&G training

Dr. Shavi Fernando – how to be more than just a doctor. We sit down with Dr. Shavi Fernando (Consultant O&G) for an honest and insightful conversation about what it really means to be a doctor today.We explore how to stay motivated through the long years of medicine, how medical education has evolved from textbooks to hands-on learning, and how society’s expectations shape the doctor–patient relationship.It’s a thoughtful, relatable episode packed with practical advice on becoming not just a good doctor, but a well-rounded one.

We are so excited to introduce you all to M&M 2026! ✨Come meet the committee, learn what we’re all about, and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how our episodes are brought to life. From concept to final cut, we’ll be sharing a sneak peek into the process that makes it all happen 🎬Plus, we’ll be giving you a preview of what’s to come this year… trust us, you don’t want to miss it 💫

In this episode, we, two Monash medical students from different year levels, sit down to reflect on our journeys from high school to medical school. We talk about what it was like navigating VCE, how we approached studying, and the big picture of applying for medicine — from managing expectations to keeping our motivation alive. Whether you’re a student just starting to think about your future, in the middle of exam season, or already planning your med school applications, this episode gives a real and honest look into what the path to medicine actually feels like, and how everyone’s journey can look a little different. Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Want to become a plastic surgeon? 🩺✨ We break down the path from med school to the OR - the specific projects you can do right from the student level :)Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Do you need to do a full BMedSci Honours year—or can you get meaningful research experience during other years?Seiyon, last year’s BMedSci rep and organiser of MRSS and weekly journal clubs, shares his journey from structured coursework to independent research. We dive into his cardiology-related project, the “aha” moments, unexpected challenges, and what makes a research community thrive.Thinking about doing Honours—or just curious if research is necessary? Seiyon covers it all: how to find the right project and supervisor, managing stress, staying motivated, and whether the Honours path is for you.Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

In this episode, we sit down with a fourth-year medical student to talk about neurodivergence in medical school—both in the learning environment and in patient care. We explore the challenges and strengths of students with neurodivergence, how medical education can become more inclusive, and what future doctors need to know when treating neurodivergent patients.Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Curious about what it takes to become an anaesthetist? In this episode, we break down the pathway from med student to specialist, with tips on how to stand out, what experiences to seek, and how to build your CV. Whether you're drawn to the high-stakes theatre environment or the art of pain management, this episode is your starting point.Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

In this episode, we chat about what you can start doing right now as a med student to boost your chances of getting into surgery — from networking and research to hands-on skills and choosing the right placements.Perfect if you're even thinking about scrubs and scalpels.Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Thinking of becoming a cardiologist? We break down the full pathway in Australia — from med school to fellowship — with tips, insights, and real talk on how to stand out in this competitive specialty.Credits:Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Ever wondered what life looks like after medical school? In this episode, we break down the real journey from graduation to specialization. Whether you're confused about internship, residency, or training programs like GP vs hospital-based specialties, we cover it all. Join us as we demystify the pathways doctors take and share tips to navigate the next steps with confidence.Credits: Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Meet the nurse who’s also a beauty pageant model. In this episode, she shares how she balances two worlds, challenges stereotypes, and uses both platforms to empower women and advocate for health.Whether you’re into medicine, fashion, or just love a story about breaking barriers — this one’s for you.Credits: Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

Join us as we explore the fascinating origins of anatomical terms with an anatomy professor. Learn how medical language evolved from Latin and Greek, shaping the way we understand the human body today.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to go through medical school from start to finish? In this episode, we bring together medical students from Year 1 to Year 5 to share their experiences, struggles, and top tips for success.From getting into med school to surviving clinical placements, we cover it all—study strategies, honest advice, imposter syndrome, and the biggest lessons learned along the way.Credits: Isha Shah, Maha Thiagarajan, David Sov, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Tachapong Saeung, Saskia Lantanea, Yuvani Pal, Pooja Singh, Gopesh Kannan, Jiadong Li, Arkash Jayasinghe, Shivi Maheshwari

We’re joined by the amazing Dr. Preeya Alexander—Melbourne GP, medical educator, and the voice behind the podcast "Happy to Health!" 💪✨ Tune in as we dive into her journey in medicine, her fight against health misinformation, and her mission to make wellness simple and accessible for all. 🩺🌱 Get ready for practical tips and inspiring insights to empower healthier lives! 🧠💡 Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Li

In this episode, we compare rural vs. metro placements with Dr. Anita Date, an intern at Bendigo Rural Health 🏥, and Jordan Li, a fourth-year medical student 🎓. Dr. Date highlights the hands-on experience and close-knit community of rural placements 🌳, while Jordan shares the fast-paced, diverse opportunities in metro hospitals 🏙️. Together, they explore the pros and cons of both paths and how each shapes medical careers 🩺. Perfect for students curious about placement options! Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Li

In this episode, we chat with Sam Brown, a fellow med student, about what it’s *really* like to study medicine at uni 🩺📚. We dive into everything from the hectic schedule and hands-on hospital experiences 🏥 to finding a balance between study and having a life 🎓🍕. If you’re thinking about going into medicine and want a real, unfiltered take on what to expect, this one’s for you! 😊 Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Li

In this episode, we chat with the incredible Xenia Zubenko, a medical student who’s taken the fast lane in academia! 🚀 After completing her BMedSci Honours year, she’s now deep into an accelerated PhD program, researching the fascinating and complex cauda equina syndrome. 🧠 We dive into the highs and challenges of balancing med school with groundbreaking research, and Xenia shares her journey of thriving in both worlds. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips.🎧✨ Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

🎓 Meet Michelle D. Lazarus! Director at Monash Uni’s Centre for Human Anatomy Education and winner of the Monash Vice Chancellor’s and Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence. 🌟 Join us as we dive into her book The Uncertainty Effect and explore the future of the medical world. Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

🎓 Meet Dr. Michelle D. Lazarus! Director at Monash Uni’s Centre for Human Anatomy Education and winner of the Monash Vice Chancellor’s and Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence. 🌟 Join us as we dive into her book The Uncertainty Effect and explore the future of the medical world. Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

🌟 Welcome to an empowering episode where we explore mental health in medical school and beyond. 🌟 👩‍⚕️ As future healthcare professionals, understanding and addressing mental health is essential not only for our patients but also for ourselves. Sam Barnett shares practical advice, personal experiences, and evidence-based strategies to help you navigate the challenges of medical school while maintaining a healthy mind. 🧠💪 ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics related to mental health, which may be triggering for some listeners. 🩺 Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

CALLING ALL MED STUDENTS! This is your ultimate guide on how to ace med exams. Check this out for SPECIFIC tips and tricks about studying, exam preparation and anatomy! Filmed with Monash Pre-Clinical Vice-President Lavya Bassi and Academic Representative Zachary Hengel. Special section with our own M&M Committee :) Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

Join us as we unlock the Secrets of Success with a Monash Medical School alum turned surgical resident & anatomy tutor. Get ready for an insider's guide to thriving in medicine—from mastering surgical techniques to navigating the challenges of patient care. Whether you're a wide-eyed med student or a seasoned pro, this episode is your prescription for success in med and beyond. Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

It's here! Join us as we ask your most burning questions to EMIL EDDY - the med school Youtuber with over 1 million views! In this episode, we delve into his top tips for achieving success in med school as well as his perspective about his YouTube journey.Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

Dive into the pulse-pounding world of medical dramas in our latest podcast episode! Join us as we sit down with Dr. Yasith, postdoc and Sri Lankan surgical resident, to dissect the thrilling question: Could medical dramas really happen in real life?  Credits: Maha Thiagarajan, Erin Lin, Yuvani Pal, Serene Ka, Jiadong Li, Harrinish Sathyakumar, Kanupriya Aditya, Henry Zhang, Rui Ann Lim

Got questions about APEX, SPC assignments, or navigating clinical placements? Look no further!   Dive into the ultimate Year 2 guide, with special guest Britney Pham, MUMUS secretary and 4th-year med student.   Don't miss this opportunity to discover how to ace your tasks with efficiency. Let's work smarter, not harder!   

Want a step-by-step guide on how to ACE pre-clin? Well, you are in the perfect place to find out EXACTLY how - from an incredibly successful range of people. 1:55 - PSP Intro 9:15 - Year 2 perspective on acing Year 115:00 - Julie and Exy (o-week coordinators now in Year 3 clinical)31:08 - Meet the team!

Get ready for an exclusive interview featuring none other than Dr. Ben Fox, a general surgeon who's practiced medicine in both the UK and Australia. Join us as he shares his incredible journey from med student to surgeon extraordinaire and dishes out some valuable advice for all you future docs out there!