The Rejected Pre-Med Podcast: For Anyone Who’s Faced Rejection

No matter what stage of life you’re in, chances are you’ve experienced Imposter Syndrome. It often shows up as negative self-talk that leads us to reject ourselves—sometimes so subtly we don’t even notice.Tune into my conversation with Dr. Rebecca Malhi, where she shares her story of rejection (being laid off from the oil and gas sector) and how it ultimately redirected her toward a career as a social psychologist.We’ll also explore evidence-based strategies for managing Imposter Syndrome—and for all the recovering perfectionists out there (I see you, and you are not alone!). Yes, there is a way to remain productive while still prioritizing self-care, and that’s exactly what we’ll talk about.My favourite quote from Rebecca that stuck with me is: “You will be hitting bumps along the road, but those bumps can ultimately help you jump higher.”Additional Links/Resources:Rebecca's Podcast, The Joyful Scholar: https://luminawriting.com/the-joyful-scholar-podcast/Rebecca's Services: https://luminawriting.com/Learn more about Rebecca's current role as a psychologist and adjunct professor at the University of Calgary: https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/rebecca-malhiConnect with Rebecca:📧 Email: [email protected]💼 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/Rebecca-Malhi📢 Connect with Us:📸 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakWould you like to join a community where you can share your rejection stories and support others along the way? We all have those stories—now it’s time we learn from them and maybe help others too: https://www.facebook.com/groups/466124329823199/Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.🎧 Listen Now on Your Favorite Platform: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | RSS

Have you ever felt like the "good one," the "pretty one," or the "smart, put-together one"? You may be even admired on the outside, but quietly crumbling under pressure on the inside?In this solo episode, Valeria returns with an honest update to explore the hidden cost of being placed on a pedestal—by others and by yourself. She opens up about growing up under the "overachiever" label, and how chasing admiration often comes hand-in-hand with self-rejection, burnout, and loneliness.This episode is for you if:You've ever felt pressure to be perfectIf you feel you have to embody a certain role or image within your career or relationshipsYou’ve struggled with rejection after changing your path, setting boundaries, or simply showing your human sideYou’re learning to embrace imperfection, vulnerability, and authenticityValeria also shares updates—including her pivot from medicine to business school—and practical strategies for setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and building a life that feels good instead of just looking good. 💌 Join The Rejections Room Facebook group (safe space to share & heal): https://www.facebook.com/groups/466124329823199/☕ Support Valeria's work by donating: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak📸 Follow along for additional updates and content: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast🙏 Special Thanks:To our generous donors—including Qing and our anonymous supporter—thank you for helping this message reach more people. 💛Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.Listen Now on Your Favorite Platform: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | RSS

In this powerful episode, Valeria sits down with multidisciplinary artist, author, and businessman Karan Wadhwani to talk about how rejection often starts from within—and how embracing intuition, creativity, and spiritual practice can lead to a more fulfilling and resilient life.In This Episode, We Explore:Why “others can only reject you when you reject yourself”The difference between fear and intuitionBuilding resilience through adaptability, self-trust, and self-compassionWhy being your own best friend is the key to overcoming external and internal rejectionWhat it means to be successful—and how to redefine failureTai Chi, spirituality, and how martial arts can teach us how to flow with rejectionThe importance of making the most of every moment and acting despite fearCreative balance, joy, and how to not hold yourself backLessons from The Artist’s Way by Julia CameronUnderstanding that we’re all walking our own paths, but not aloneCareer Advice You’ll Love: Karan shares why liking what you do matters more than titles, and how working across industries made him more resilient. Hear his practical tips on building a path that’s authentic—even when it's unconventional.Karan’s Book: So You Want To Be A... – Order now on AmazonLearn more: karanwadhwani.caConnect with Karan:Instagram: @kwadhwanEmail: [email protected]📢 Connect with Us:📸 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast💼 LinkedIn: Valeria Rusnak📩 Email: [email protected]☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.Listen Now on Your Favorite Platform: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | RSSRemember: "Don’t be fearful of things that are intuitively who you are." Let go of the fear and let yourself become who you're meant to be.

Discover the meaning of resilience with Dr. Michael Ungar, Canada Research Chair at Dalhousie University and the world’s leading social work scholar. In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Ungar unpacks the science of adaptation, the power of community support, and how moments of rejection can spark profound transformation in your life.🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:🌱 Why resilience is not a fixed trait—it’s a skill anyone can develop through adaptation and community support. 💡 How setbacks, rejection, and failure can be stepping stones to transformation and personal growth. 🏘️ The vital role of community support systems in building resilience and helping you thrive, even in uncertain times. 🌍 How cultural differences shape our adaptation strategies and definitions of success, from academic achievement to meaningful social connections. 🎭 Why you’re more than a single career—embrace your multidimensional self for a richer, more satisfying life. ⚠️ How to recognize the difference between healthy resilience, toxic positivity, and knowing when it’s time to persevere, pivot, or let go.📚 Whether you’re a premed, former premed, or anyone facing rejection and questioning your path, this episode will help you harness adaptation, lean on community support, and embrace transformation.🎙️ Bonus: Hear Dr. Ungar’s personal stories, including the teacher who changed his life, plus insights from his groundbreaking books on resilience and adaptation.🔗 Connect with Dr. Michael Ungar 📍 Canada Research Chair in Child, Family and Community Resilience 📍 Director, Resilience Research Centre, Dalhousie University 📬 Email: [email protected] 📞 Phone: (902) 494-3445 (Office) | (902) 229-0434 (Cell) 🌐 Website: www.michaelungar.com 🌐 Resilience Research Centre: www.resilienceresearch.org 📘 Follow on X: @MichaelUngarPhD📚 Explore Dr. Ungar’s Books & Resources: 📖 The Limits of Resilience: Knowing When to Persevere, When to Change, and When to Quit 📖 Change Your World: The Science of Resilience and the True Path to Success 📖 Multisystemic Resilience: Adaptation and Transformation in Contexts of Change (Open Access) 📖 Working with Children and Youth with Complex Needs: 20 Skills to Build Resilience (2nd Ed.) 📘 What Works: A Manual for Designing Programs that Build Resilience (Free Download) 📝 Nurturing Resilience Blog, hosted by Psychology Today📢 Connect with Us:📸 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast💼 LinkedIn: Valeria Rusnak📩 Email: [email protected]☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

What IF rejection could be the spark for your greatest personal growth? In this inspiring episode, Dave Robens, MOT & Coach, shares his raw story of facing rejection from Occupational Therapy school—despite better grades and a stronger application—and how he transformed that setback into a powerful redirection. Learn how Dave used the energy of rejection to silence his inner critic, embrace the STOP technique, and ultimately build a meaningful, resilient career as an Occupational Therapist.We dive deep into how your responses and reactions to negative thoughts can shape your reality, and why the language you use with yourself matters. Discover practical tools like the STOP technique to pause, reflect, and choose your responses, helping you gain control over your mindset and cultivate personal growth. Dave also unpacks how redefining 'failure' and quieting your inner critic can set you on a path toward greater self-compassion and fulfillment.You’ll learn:- How to channel the energy of potential rejection into personal growth- Why the STOP technique is a game-changer for resilience and emotional control- Simple strategies to turn down the volume on your inner critic and rewire your mindset- The power of the stories we tell ourselves—and how to rewrite yours for successPacked with actionable insights and uplifting mindset shifts, this episode will motivate you to see rejection as redirection and inspire you to show up for yourself, no matter what life throws your way.Stay tuned for a special offer from Dave exclusively for our listeners!🎙️ Connect with Dave:🌐 Website: daverobens.com📸 Instagram: @daverobens📘 Facebook: Dave Robens🔗 LinkedIn: Dave Robens📧 Email: [email protected]📢 Connect with Us:📸 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast💼 LinkedIn: Valeria Rusnak📩 Email: [email protected]☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

Feeling rejected or doubting your worth? In this powerful episode, we chat with Arianna Ramsay, Miss Teenage Canada 2024, as she opens up about overcoming self-doubt and building resilience.From her early steps into the pageant world to becoming an advocate for body positivity and anti-bullying, Arianna shares how rejection became her stepping stone toward success and purpose. As a trailblazer and founder of H.E.R.O Canada, she encourages us to redefine success, embrace our unique beauty, and build a strong support system.🌟 Key Takeaways: ✔️ Overcoming rejection and self-doubt ✔️ Redefining success on your own terms ✔️ The power of surrounding yourself with a strong support system ✔️ Why stepping away from things that don’t serve you is essential for growth ✔️ Turning rejection into redirection and embracing "your own kind of beautiful"💬 Arianna's Advice: "You are inherently worthy. Don’t let others define your success. Focus on your journey, not just the outcome."🎧 Listen now for an empowering conversation that proves how rejection can lead to unexpected opportunities and purpose.🔗 Follow Arianna & Her Initiatives: 📸 Instagram: @ari.m37 Facebook: Arianna Ramsay H.E.R.O Canada Instagram: @hero.canada Miss Teenage Canada Instagram: @teenagecanada📢 Connect with Us 📸 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast 💼 LinkedIn: Valeria Rusnak 📩 Email: [email protected] ☕ Donate: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

What do you do when the path you thought was meant for you suddenly shifts? In Episode 8 of The Rejected Pre-Med Podcast, Gurmol Sohi, a former pre-med student turned data scientist, opens up about his unexpected journey after choosing not to pursue medical school. He shares how rejection led him to discover a new, fulfilling career in data science and the lessons he learned along the way.In this episode, we explore:The importance of having faith in yourself and the role it plays in personal growth and resilience.Practical tips for maintaining mental wellness and creating a healthy work-life balance.Gurmol’s insights on moving past rejection and reconnecting with your true self.How to support others who are navigating setbacks and rejection.Gurmol’s story is a reminder that sometimes, rejection is a stepping stone to discovering your true path. Tune in for valuable insights, practical advice, and an uplifting conversation on building resilience and supporting others through tough times.Podcast Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/valeria-rusnak-911043234 Email: [email protected] Donate: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakConnect with Gurmol: Instagram: @prophgurm12 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gurmol-s Gurmol’s blog: medium.com/@gurmolsofly12Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

Feeling overwhelmed by rejection and life’s challenges? In this personal and unscripted episode of The Rejected Pre-Med Podcast, I share my own journey through a tough time in my life, where I’m processing rejection, feelings of uncertainty, and personal struggles. This episode is unplanned, and completely improvised—but I hope it resonates with you.I talk about the importance of embracing rejection as a tool for growth, the power of validating our emotions, and how compassion and forgiveness can strengthen our resilience. Through this episode, I want to remind you that it’s okay not to be okay, and that we are all in this together. You’re not alone in your struggles.If this episode resonates with you, please consider supporting the podcast by visiting buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support truly helps us continue these meaningful conversations.Podcast Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/valeria-rusnak-911043234Email: [email protected]: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

Struggling with rejection and questioning your future in medicine? In this episode of The Rejected Pre-Med Podcast, I chat with Sachi, a former pre-med student who found an unexpected yet fulfilling path after not being accepted into medical school. Sachi's journey led her to the prestigious University of Oxford, where she pursued a Master’s in Translational Health Sciences and created a newsletter for health science students.We dive into the emotional and mental challenges of facing rejection, dealing with burnout, and navigating the uncertainty that comes with reevaluating career paths. Sachi shares practical advice on maintaining wellness during tough times and how to pivot when you realize your original plans might not be the right fit.This episode is a must-listen for pre-med students, former pre-meds, and anyone in the health sciences questioning their next steps. It’s a conversation about embracing rejection as redirection and finding success outside of medical school and graduate programs.Podcast Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/valeria-rusnak-911043234Email: [email protected]: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakShow Notes:Connect with Sachi on LinkedIn: Sachi Chan LinkedInCheck out Sachi's newsletter Invite Health: Invite Health NewsletterFollow Invite Health on Instagram: @readinvitehealthExplore Sachi's photography on Instagram: @photobysachiiFollow Sachi's journey at Oxford: @sachinoxfordDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

Ever felt like rejection hits harder than it should? In this episode, I chat with connection coach and TEDx speaker Richard Lee-Thai about rejection sensitivity and rejection dysphoria—how these emotional responses affect our resilience and growth. Richard shares his experience with rejection, we dive deep into understanding rejection sensitivity, and explore Jia Jiang’s intriguing experiment where he sought rejection over 100 days to overcome his fear. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that can help you reframe how you perceive and handle rejection.Resources mentioned:More on Rejection Sensitivity: HealthyGamerGG YouTube VideoJia Jiang's TED Talk – 100 Days of Rejection: Watch it hereThe Gap and The Gain – Book Link: Available on AmazonRichard Lee-Thai’s Social Media & Website:Website: Excuses to ConnectInstagram: @RICHARDLEETHAILinkedIn: Richard Lee-ThaiEmail: [email protected] this episode resonates with you, please consider supporting the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support means the world and helps us continue sharing these meaningful conversations.Podcast Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: Valeria RusnakEmail: [email protected]: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice

Struggling to bounce back after rejection? In the episode, I dive into how I've built resilience after facing rejection and share practical tips to help you navigate challenges with confidence. Drawing on my experiences and research backed insights from experts like Dr. Kristin Neff, Brene Brown, and Gretchen Rubin, I explore how resilience involves becoming comfortable with uncertainty, mastering emotional regulation, and practicing self-care through self-love and self-compassion. Tune in for actionable advice that can help you strengthen your resilience and embrace life's challenges.Resources mentioned:Dr. Kristin Neff’s WebsiteDr. Kristin Neff TED TalkThe Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown (Available on Amazon)The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin (Available on Amazon)Gretchen Rubin’s WebsiteThe Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (Available on Amazon)If this episode resonates with you, please consider supporting the podcast by visiting buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support means the world and helps us continue sharing these meaningful conversations.Podcast Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/valeria-rusnak-911043234Email: [email protected]: buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnakSchedule a meeting with me: calendly.com/valerusu55Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal, medical, or professional advice.

Ever wondered how persistence and resilience can help you get into medical school after multiple rejections? In this episode, I interview Dr. Alain Gauthier, a doctor who applied to medical school seven times before he finally got in. He shares his inspiring story and offers valuable advice on overcoming rejection, staying hopeful, and pushing forward no matter the obstacles.You’ll hear about his powerful story and how music, particularly U2's "Zoo Station," kept him resilient during tough times. The lyrics of this song helped him stay focused and motivated through his final med school interview.If you're interested in learning more about Dr. Alain’s medical journey, you can email him at [email protected] this episode resonates with you, please consider supporting the podcast by visiting buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support means the world and helps us continue sharing these meaningful conversations.Resources:Lyrics to "Zoo Station" by U2 A song that helped Dr. Alain stay hopeful during his med school journey. Listen to it and reflect on your own perseverance.Lyrics: I'm ready for the laughing gas I'm ready I'm ready for what's next I'm ready to duck I'm ready to dive I'm ready to say I'm glad to be alive I'm ready I'm ready for the push, uh huhIn the cool of the night In the warmth of the breeze I'll be crawling 'round On my hands and knees. Just down the line Zoo Station Got to make it on time, oh Zoo Station. I'm ready I'm ready for the gridlock I'm ready To take it to the street, uh huh I'm ready for the shuffle Ready for the deal Ready to let go of the steering wheel I'm ready Ready for the crush, uh huhZoo Station Zoo StationZoo StationAlright, alright, alright, alright, alright It's alright, it's alright, it's alright, it's alright Hey baby, hey baby, hey baby, hey baby It's alright, it's alright. Time is a train, Makes the future the past Leaves you standing in the station Your face pressed up against the glass. I'm just down the line from your love (Zoo Station) Under the sign of your love (Zoo Station) I'm gonna make it on time, make it on time (Zoo Station)Just a stop down the line (Zoo Station) Just a stop down the lineSocial Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: Valeria RusnakEmail: [email protected]: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice

Feeling stuck after rejection? Wondering how to find happiness again? In this episode, I share practical resources and personal advice on staying happy and navigating life after feeling rejected. Drawing from both research and experience, I’ll guide you through steps to rediscover joy, even after setbacks.If this episode resonates with you, please consider supporting the podcast by visiting buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support helps us continue these important conversations!Resources:The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin: Gretchen Rubin’s WebsiteThe Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – a life-changing book for me.Social Media:Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcastLinkedIn: Valeria RusnakEmail: [email protected]: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.

Rejected from Med School? My Story & Why I Started this PodcastRejection hurts—especially when it’s your dream on the line. In this episode, I open up about my experience being rejected from medical school and writing the MCAT three times. I also share why I started this podcast and how I hope it can be a source of support for anyone struggling with setbacks and figuring out their next steps.☕ Support the Podcast: If this episode resonates with you, consider donating at buymeacoffee.com/valeriarusnak. Your support means the world!🔗 Stay Connected: 📌 Instagram: @the_rejectedpremed_podcast 📌 LinkedIn: Valeria Rusnak 📌 Email: [email protected]: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.