Synopsis
This podcast looks into the minds of cutting-edge and innovative doctors. You won't find these stories in any medical textbook. You're getting real, live insight from men and women pushing the envelope beyond medicine.
Episodes
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REPLAY: She's delivered a baby on almost every continent! #309
29/07/2025 Duration: 38minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Nii brings talks to Dr. Rachael Consoli, an OB/GYN who presently is working in a United States military hospital in South Korea and has the unique distinction of having delivered babies on nearly every continent in the world. Listen in as Nii asks Rachael why she chose to follow this less-than-traveled path in medicine. Things to expect in this episode:Dr. Rachael’s journey from EM residency to OB/GYNThe challenges and rewards of humanitarian and locums workTraveling the world and immersing oneself in the local cultureSaving for retirement and vetting humanitarian organizationsHer experience serving the people of Utqiagvik, Alaska, the most northern city in the worldWE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!!FILL OUT THE DOCS OUTSIDE THE BOX PODCAST SURVEY (in partnership w INCROWD)INCROWDMAKE EXTRA MONEY AS A RESIDENT OR ATTENDING - COMPLETE MEDICAL SURVEYS WITH INCROWDWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our communityText word PODCAST to
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Vitals Check, Rap & The Hidden Burden Of Code Switching In Medicine. #468 Part 3
22/07/2025 Duration: 34minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860We started off by doing a check-in on Dr. Renee's health journey. We then moved on to our controversial takes on rap, and had an insightful discussion on code-switching in medicine and maintaining authenticity in professional settings.We discuss:00:00 Dr. Renee's Vitals check09:43 Our controversial takes on rap and code switchingFREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Instagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comTwitter: @drniidarkoMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE! Locumstory. Learn h
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The P. Diddy trial & how this relates to medicine: Power, Privilege & Accountability. #468 Part 1
22/07/2025 Duration: 52minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860On this episode we talk about the parallels between the entertainment industry scandals like the Sean "Diddy" Combs case and the power imbalances in healthcare. If you've witnessed unethical behavior in medicine that was swept under the rug, we want to hear your story. Did you speak up? If not, why? Leave us a voice message or text us.We discuss:00:00 Introduction.02:55 Shoutout to the new residents out there
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Doctor Who Makes More Money On TikTok Than At Work. #468 Part 2
22/07/2025 Duration: 19minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860In this segment we discussed Dr. Fran who earns more as a TikTok influencer than at her day job.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Dr. Fran who makes more money doing TikTok than she does being a doctor- https://nypost.com/2025/06/04/lifestyle/doctor-with-300k-salary-earns-more-as-tiktok-influencer-than-atn-her-day-job/SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Instagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comTwitter: @drniidarkoMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Locumstory. Learn how locum tenens helps doctors make more and have the lifestyle they deserve!. Check them out HERE!
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How I Stay Sane And Sharp As A Trauma Surgeon. #467
15/07/2025 Duration: 38minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860In this raw, revealing episode, I take you behind the scenes of my journey to reclaim my physical and mental health while working in one of medicine's most demanding specialties. After years of neglecting my physical fitness, I'm now chasing two ambitious goals and I also challenge y’all to set a goal completely unrelated to your title as a doctor. I discuss:0:00 Introduction.02:04 My fitness goals of breaking 20 minutes in a 5K and bench pressing 250 pounds.05:59 My background.08:20 Why these goals?18:56 The importance of being healthy both mentally & physically as a doctor.22:20 How I train.29:45 How I find time to work out as a trauma surgeon.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Future Th
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Actionable Advice On Battling Breast Cancer. The Ananda Lewis's Story. #466 Part 1
08/07/2025 Duration: 22minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860If you or someone you know is battling breast cancer, then this segment is for you. We discussed the heartbreaking story of MTV VJ Ananda Lewis who recently lost her battle with breast cancer and gave actionable steps for dealing with breast cancer.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Article by Ananda lewis on living with breast cancer - https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/ananda-lewis-breast-cancer/Dr. Lakshmi Emory & Kevin Frazier Entertainment Tonight segment on Ananda Lewis's breast cancer and her death - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2IDmhGsJtENational breast cancer organization resources - https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-resources/Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://
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The Vitals Check! How We Stay Fit As Doctors. #466 Part 2
08/07/2025 Duration: 14minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860In this new segment "The Vitals Check" we track our personal fitness journeys. Shoutout to Faith Kipyegon for her historic 4-minute mile attempt. She reminds us of legends like Florence Griffith Joyner and Jackie Joyner-Kersee. On that note, what fitness goals are you chasing? FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For Life Insurance. What the Darkos use for great disability insuran
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How Physicians Can Protect Their Peace and Avoid BURNOUT. #466 Part 3
08/07/2025 Duration: 21minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Whether you're a medical student, resident, or mid-career physician questioning how you can protect your inner peace at work without quitting, this segment offers practical strategies on steps you can take to avoid becoming bitter and burned out. We explored how career choices like locum tenens, can provide the flexibility to practice medicine you love without becoming consumed by it.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.
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Starting A Locums Tenens Agency as a PA Student. #466 Part 4
08/07/2025 Duration: 10minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Send us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxHave a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860If you’re thinking about launching your own locums medical staffing agency while still completing your healthcare education, this episode dives deep into the complexities and realities of starting a locum tenens agency. We offered practical advice drawn from years of experience in both clinical practice and business development.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Past episodes on starting a locums agency.- https://youtu.be/z5W9yQQaizk- https://youtu.be/GDCRSO-dY70- https://youtu.be/Mqb1awTFthE- https://youtu.be/qeH-ztylxHI- https://youtu.be/u3c4J4qSIkg- https://youtu.be/ZfvnDaU1GKE- https://youtu.be/Fkvjnjisz0Q- https://youtu.be/pNOE-xVG3hUSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Twitter
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REPLAY: What You Should Know About Becoming a Part-Time Physician #302
01/07/2025 Duration: 30minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Nii discusses the trend of doctors seeking less than full-time work. Sarah Ledbetter, Physician Recruitment Manager at Provider Solutions & Development, is on to debunk the theory that medical employers are solely seeking full-time doctors.Things to expect in this episode:Defining Full-time workWhich generation is seeking more work/life balanceThe 'Covid Reset' and how doctors look at employment nowThe difference between part-time, per diem, and locums workThe trend of mid-career doctors seeking less than full-time workJournal Articles:https://psdconnect.org/journal/what-you-should-know-about-becoming-a-part-time-physicianMedscape Physician Lifestyle & Happiness Report 2022WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!!FILL OUT THE DOCS OUTSIDE THE BOX PODCAST SURVEY (in partnership w INCROWD)INCROWDMAKE EXTRA MONEY AS A RESIDENT OR ATTENDING - COMPLETE MEDICAL SURVEYS WITH INCROWDWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Join our commu
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Having A Medical Degree Doesn't Make You A Leader. #465 Part 1
24/06/2025 Duration: 28minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Leadership in medicine goes beyond clinical skills because medical education doesn’t automatically create leaders. In this segment, we discuss how toxic behaviors get perpetuated when negative leadership styles like throwing instruments in the OR to berating staff, are modeled for residents and medical students. We then share the non-negotiable days we refuse to work, revealing how our cultural backgrounds and family values inform our decisions.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidark
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Shocking Story Of An Attending On Call Who Takes Melatonin + Lunesta Then Sleeps On The Job
24/06/2025 Duration: 17minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!We discuss a Reddit post from a resident dealing with an attending who takes melatonin and Lunesta during their shared overnight calls, rendering them unavailable and leaving the resident alone to manage all patient care decisions.We discuss various approaches to addressing this dilemma, weighing the merits of speaking with trusted senior residents versus approaching program leadership directly.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-sp
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Our Thoughts On Making Major Life Moves In A Relationship Without Being Engaged. #465 Part 3
24/06/2025 Duration: 21minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Our listener, David, wrote back with an update on their job search near Boston which then led us to a deeper conversation about making major life moves when you're dating but haven't formally committed to through engagement or marriage. We talked about both practical considerations and personal reflections from our own relationship journey.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comThis episode is sponsored by Set For L
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Ananda Lewis, Former MTV VJ, SHOCKING Breast Cancer Decision. #464 Part 1
20/06/2025 Duration: 34minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!We start off by discussing medical myths/traditions we should retire. We then talk about MTV personality Ananda Lewis, who died at age 52 from breast cancer after rejecting medical treatment in favor of detoxification.We dive deep into why patients have lost trust in healthcare providers and how the medical credibility gap has widened dramatically in recent years. We conclude with Nii showing us his running equipment. FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-o
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Trump's Bill's Caps On Grad School Loans Could Worsen Doctor Shortage. #464 Part 2
20/06/2025 Duration: 15minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Is the “One Big Beautiful Bill” really beautiful? We discuss the potential impact of the proposed bill that would cap federal loan amounts for graduate students, particularly affecting medical education. America already faces a severe physician shortage. By creating additional financial barriers to medical education, this legislation threatens to worsen this crisis, potentially leaving more communities without adequate medical care.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED The NewYork Times Article - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/09/health/trump-budget-student-loans-doctors.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShareQ&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WAT
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The REALITY of Balancing Locums Life and Relationships. #463 Part 1
13/06/2025 Duration: 34minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!We share some medical school scholarship opportunities and then answer a listener's question on what happens when your partner has a seasonal job in one location, but the best locum work opportunities are elsewhere. Dr. Love Anani also joined us over the phone and we discussed what we use to track payroll, expenses, deductions and mileage. FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Payroll - http://Gusto.comTracking expenses - http://Quickbooks.comMileage - http://mileiq.comQ&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comM
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Is it Sustainable To Work 24/7 Calls As A Doctor For A Week Every Month? #463 Part 2
13/06/2025 Duration: 34minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Is a 24/7 call one week per month sustainable for an entire career? This question strikes at the heart of physician work-life balance, career longevity, and personal wellbeing. From personal experiences, these schedules cause sleep disruption, cognitive impairment, and physical strain. To be honest, a position paying substantially above market rate usually demands extraordinary sacrifice but as physicians we can create a sustainable medical career. Tune in to hear our practical strategies.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInsta
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REPLAY: What medical leaders need to know about Pre-Meds #282
10/06/2025 Duration: 45minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!Things to expect in this episode:We’re in Denver, CO at the AACOM Educating Leaders Conference! We talk about our responses during the first-ever panel dedicated to Dr. Meta Christy, the first Black Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. We’re partnering with locumstory.com on a special campaign this year. We give you a brief rundown of the common questions that are answered on their platform.Dr. Renée recaps her answer on the panel about what medical school leaders need to know about pre-meds.Dr. Nii rounds it out with his response to “what’s the biggest issue facing docs financially?”WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!! TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR ON FUTURE EPISODES!!!!FILL OUT THE DOCS OUTSIDE THE BOX PODCAST SURVEY (in partnership w INCROWD)WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!https://www.youtube.com/drniidarko Join our communityText text word PODCAST to 833-230-2860 Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @drniidarkoEmail: team@drniidarko.com Pod
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The One, Big, Beautiful Bill Breakdown: After The $100K Student Loan Cap How Will You Pay for College? #462 Part 1
03/06/2025 Duration: 17minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!We unpack the latest news on a controversial bill that could drastically change higher education by capping federal student loans at $20K per year and a total lifetime limit of $100K. While it sounds simple on the surface, the implications are massive and may push students toward private student loans, scholarships, family wealth, and potentially limiting access for those from underrepresented or low-income backgrounds. Tune in to hear why this legislation could reshape who gets to pursue higher education in America and the looming student loan crisis.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question
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How Student Loan Changes Could Reshape Medical Education. #462 Part 2
03/06/2025 Duration: 18minSEND US A TEXT MESSAGE!!! Let Drs. Nii & Renee know what you think about the show!There's a new bill being discussed that aims to cap federal student loans. We discuss how this move could deepen inequality and disproportionately affect students from less privileged backgrounds. Check out the video for more financial education and how proposed student loan changes could dramatically alter the future of healthcare education and what it means for future doctors!.FREE DOWNLOAD - 7 Considerations Before Starting Locum Tenens - https://darkos.lpages.co/7-considerations-before-locumsLINKS MENTIONED Q&A and Suggestions Form - https://forms.clickup.com/9010110533/f/8cgpr25-4614/PEBFZN5LA6FKEIXTWFSend us a Voice Message - https://www.speakpipe.com/docsoutsidetheboxSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE!Have a question for the podcast?Text us at 833-230-2860Twitter: @drniidarkoInstagram: @docsoutsidetheboxEmail: team@drniidarko.comMerch: https://docs-outside-the-box.creator-spring.comT