The Interesting MD Podcast From Burnout to Renewal: Dr. Michael Antil’s Move from North Carolina to Toronto
Feb 24, 2026
Dr. Michael Antil, a US-trained internist who moved his family from North Carolina to practice primary care in Toronto. He explains why burnout, pandemic-era community tensions, and financial pressures pushed him to leave. He contrasts U.S. administrative burdens with Canada’s simpler system, describes different patient expectations, and reflects on lifestyle and career renewal.
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When Leadership Prioritizes Profit Over Access
- Michael Antil left leadership roles after seeing board decisions prioritize balance sheets over patient access.
- He contrasted his paid practice's healthy finances with the free clinic's struggle to get services approved for vulnerable patients.
Pandemic Tensions Destroyed Patient Trust
- During COVID Michael Antil experienced community divisions, masks disputes, and patients dying from preventable illness.
- Longstanding patients accused clinicians and created unbearable interactions that eroded his ability to care impartially.
Use Coaching To Diagnose Burnout Source
- Seek external perspective: Michael Antil used an executive coach to test whether burnout was personal or systemic.
- The coach helped him conclude the environment, not himself, had changed and prompted his move.