Part I: Legacy of Learning – A Mother's Influence on Education and Family with Dorothy Burgess

Family shapes identity, values, and aspirations. It’s where love, sacrifice, and resilience take root, shaping who we become.

It’s in the quiet moments—the shared meals, the bedtime stories, the reassuring words after a hard day—that character is built. The lessons aren’t always spoken, but they are lived. A parent’s unwavering support, a grandparent’s wisdom, a sibling’s laughter—these form the foundation that steadies us through life’s challenges.

Family teaches perseverance in the face of setbacks, generosity in times of need, and the importance of standing together. It reminds us that we are never alone, that we carry within us the strength of those who came before us.

The true legacy of a family isn’t measured in wealth or achievements, but in the values passed down—the love that endures, the lessons that guide, and the bonds that remain unbroken through time.

In this special episode, I sit down for a heartfelt fireside chat with my first and most influential teacher—my mother, Dorothy Burgess. We reflect on my early years, from being homeschooled at the kitchen table to the many lessons learned through bumps and bruises. She shares the sacrifices she made to put family first and how her love for education shaped my journey. Join us for a touching conversation about parenting, perseverance, and the power of a strong foundation.

“When one does well and other people can see your example and grow and learn from it, that's what really makes a difference." - Dorothy Burgess

Topics Covered:

(00:00:00) Welcome to TimeOut With The SportsDr. Podcast

(00:01:01) Introducing our very special guest, Dorothy Burgess

(00:02:43) The first college graduate in her family

(00:05:00) An unexpected first-day incident

(00:07:05) The sacrifice of career for family 

(00:08:37) Pushing beyond “good enough”

(00:11:06) Earliest recollection of interest in medicine

(00:13:04) Parent’s hardwork and sacrifice

(00:15:00) Fears about safety and distance

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(00:18:37) Transition from Xavier to medical school

(00:21:29) Support, Competition & Community

(00:25:31) Carrying the torch

(00:27:32) Filled with love despite limited resources

(00:30:21) Closing thoughts

Key Takeaways:  

"I thought it was very important that you had to do a lot to earn your spot, to get your career, to be the first person to graduate—however, you were willing to sacrifice to be home with us."- Dr. Derrick Burgess

"We were all competing but at the same time all trying to get to the same place." - Dr. Derrick Burgess

"Having grandparents that were indentured servants, having parents that integrated public schools—I felt it was my responsibility to go to another level." - Dr. Derrick Burgess

"Growing up in a big family was a blessing. We didn’t have a lot of things, but we had love. And so I’m thankful for that."- Dr. Derrick Burgess

Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:

Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243

Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com

This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.