#240 Gratitude for the Journey: Reflecting on the Path to Medicine and Beyond ft. Peter Kim, MD

Gratitude for the Journey

Peter kicks off the podcast with a heartfelt reflection on gratitude, particularly for the journey that has led him from practicing medicine to pursuing entrepreneurship and real estate investing. He talks about the power of looking back on tough times and appreciating how they’ve shaped resilience and personal growth.

Life’s challenges—whether in finances, relationships, or family—can often feel overwhelming, but Peter reminds us that these struggles are temporary. Taking a step back, he notes, can help you see the growth and strength that emerge from those difficult moments.

In a recent conversation, someone suggested that he could have skipped medicine entirely and gone straight into business. He disagrees, emphasizing how pivotal medicine was in building the skills and mindset he relies on today.

“Medicine was an essential part of my journey… It wasn’t just a job; it was a time of growth that prepared me for everything I’ve faced since.” – Peter Kim, MD

Lessons from Medical Training

Peter goes back into his medical school and residency experiences, sharing vivid memories of sleepless nights, endless studying, and the sacrifices required to succeed. Despite the difficulty, he credits this period with teaching him key skills like resilience, discipline, and critical thinking.

These traits, he explains, have been invaluable in his entrepreneurial and investing journey.

“I don’t even know how I did it—with those sleepless nights or those terrible call room beds.” – Peter Kim, MD

These challenges prepared Peter to handle high-pressure situations, something that translates directly into managing businesses and investments. He notes how overcoming intense obstacles during his medical training made other challenges seem more manageable. The grit developed during this time, he argues, is one of his most valuable assets today.

Adapting to the Uncontrollable

A major lesson from medicine, Peter shares, is learning to adapt to situations beyond your control. He recounts a challenging moment with a rental property that caught fire during the pandemic, creating a cascade of problems.

Reflecting on the experience, he says, “All the training I had helped me keep a level head and ultimately get through this, knowing that if I kept pushing, I’d figure a way out.”

This lesson from medicine—staying calm and solution-focused under pressure—has become a cornerstone of his approach to entrepreneurship and investing. Whether it’s managing a crisis or dealing with uncertainty, Peter emphasizes the importance of persistence, creativity, and problem-solving to move forward, no matter how tough the situation.

The Power of Community and Mentorship

Peter talks about the transformative role of community and mentorship in his journey, from his early days in medicine to his current ventures.

He credits mentors and peers with shaping his skills, encouraging him through tough times, and teaching him to navigate challenges.

“When I doubted myself, they helped pick me up and encouraged me,” he recalls.

This support system, he explains, is just as vital in business and investing. Surrounding yourself with people who have experience and insight can minimize mistakes and accelerate success. Peter encourages listeners to actively seek out mentors and communities, emphasizing that the knowledge and encouragement from others can be a game-changer in achieving personal and professional goals.

Using Medicine to Serve Beyond the Field

To end the episode, Peter reflects on how his medical background continues to influence his mission, even though he no longer practices clinically. He sees his work in real estate and financial education as another way of serving others—by helping them achieve financial freedom and balance in their lives.

“If I can help people in some small way to make progress toward their goals, then I know my time in medicine was well spent.” 

Peter closes with a message of gratitude, urging listeners to appreciate their own journeys and find communities that support their aspirations. By doing so, he believes, individuals can not only grow personally but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.