The Passive Income MD Podcast #297 Gradual Retirement: Finding Your Happy Place Without Walking Away From Medicine
Jan 5, 2026
Dr. Peter Kim delves into the concept of gradual retirement, emphasizing the desire for time control over simply stepping away from medicine. He discusses flexible clinical seasons and the advantages of reducing shifts to achieve work-life balance. The episode highlights how building passive income allows physicians to make choices that align with their personal goals. Everyone’s vision of happiness is unique, and Kim offers insights on designing a fulfilling life without the pressure of traditional retirement.
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Doctors Want Choice, Not Exit
- Many doctors don't want to quit medicine; they want to keep doing what they love on their own terms.
- They mainly desire more control over time to enjoy family and other passions.
The Problem With 'All-Or-Nothing' Retirement
- The traditional 'all-or-nothing' retirement model creates anxiety for modern physicians.
- Walking away suddenly risks financial, professional, and emotional problems tied to identity.
Practice Gradual Retirement
- Do practice gradual retirement by intentionally reducing clinical dependence over time.
- Experiment with small reversible changes like dropping a shift or shortening call to find your happy place.