Episode #267

#267 Can I Really Build Passive Income If I’m a Full-Time Doctor? ft. Peter Kim, MD

In this episode, Dr. Peter Kim dives into a question many physicians quietly ask themselves: Is it really possible to build passive income while working full-time in a demanding medical career?

As a former OB anesthesiologist, Peter understands what it’s like to juggle back-to-back shifts, 24-hour calls, and barely enough time to eat. He shares how he got started in passive income by making small but intentional use of his limited free time. You’ll learn what passive income actually looks like for doctors, why it’s more about creating freedom than quitting medicine, and how to take your first steps even with a packed schedule.

If you’re looking for more control, more options, and a better work-life balance, this episode is for you. Tune in!

Burning out and looking for a better way forward?

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9.53 Min • June 9

Episode Highlights

Now, let’s look at what we discussed in this episode:

Is Passive Income Even Possible for Busy Doctors?
How Peter Got Started with Almost No Free Time
A Simple Weekly Plan to Start
You Already Have the Skills
Start With This Free Guide

Here’s a breakdown of how this episode unfolds.

Episode Breakdown

[00:00]

Is Passive Income Even Possible for Busy Doctors?

Peter starts by asking a question many physicians have thought about: “Can I really build passive income with my packed schedule?” He shares how hectic life can get as a doctor, especially for surgeons, OBs, or those with call shifts. He personally remembers long 12–24 hour shifts, feeling like there was no time for anything else.

Even with a full schedule, Peter didn’t want to quit medicine. He just wanted more freedom and a better lifestyle. He explains that passive income isn’t about doing nothing. It’s about earning income that continues even when you’re not working.

What most of us want is income that gives us time back. That could mean more time with family or fewer weekend calls. That’s what passive income really means for physicians.

This kind of income gives options. Yes, it takes effort upfront, but it pays off long-term. Peter calls it “smart income” because it helps you live on your terms.

“I wasn’t looking to leave medicine. I was just looking to build more freedom into my life.”

[05:00]

How Peter Got Started with Almost No Free Time

Peter shares exactly how he began building passive income with very little time. He used his commute to listen to podcasts. He read during lunch or between cases. He took online courses on weekends and reached out to others already doing what he wanted.

All of this was done in small moments. Over time, it added up. But the biggest change came when he asked himself what kind of life he actually wanted. Right now, not someday.

This helped him be more intentional with his time. Passive income allowed him to say no to shifts he didn’t want and yes to time with his family. It gave him more control and helped him enjoy medicine again. He didn’t feel trapped anymore.

“It helped me rediscover my love for medicine because I wasn’t trapped by it anymore.”

[06:58]

A Simple Weekly Plan to Start

If you feel overwhelmed, Peter offers a very simple starting point: schedule just 30 minutes a week. Break it up into small blocks if you need to. Use that time to learn, reflect, or take action.

Then, find a community. You don’t have to do this alone. There are other physicians on the same journey. Joining a group or mastermind can keep you motivated.

After that, take one step. It could be attending a webinar, going to a conference, or talking to a friend who’s investing. You don’t need to do everything. Just take one action.

Peter’s roadmap is realistic for busy doctors. Small, steady steps are all it takes.

“Just take one step. That’s the key.”

[08:48]

You Already Have the Skills

Peter reminds you that you’ve already done hard things. Medical school, residency, building a practice — all of that proves you can do this too. Building passive income uses the same qualities: focus, commitment, and consistency.

He says you don’t need to know everything at the start. You just need to begin. With time, things will get easier and clearer.

Imagine where you could be in one year or five years if you start now. The change might be bigger than you expect. This journey is possible, and it starts with a small decision.

“You’ve already done hard things. You’ve got everything you need to build passive income too.”

[07:55]

Start With This Free Guide

To help you get started, Peter shares a free resource: the 7-Day Passive Income Kickstart. It only takes 15 minutes a day and helps you take small, meaningful steps forward.

He reminds you again to connect with others. Being part of a supportive community makes all the difference.

Whether you’re brand new or feeling stuck, this guide is a good place to begin. The important thing is to start, no matter how small. You’re not the only one doing this. Many physicians have already started, and you can too.