Dr. Robert Singleton II
Dr. Singleton is an anesthesiologist and advocate for evidence-based health information. Through social media he shares inspiration and encouragement that reflects his faith. Dr. Singleton is photographed in downtown Chicago by Taylor Glascock.
1. What is the first thing you do when you wake up every morning?
The morning has always been my favorite time of the day- and I am up at 3 am! I start my day lifting weights with my trainer. Mornings are the best time to go to the gym before I have an opportunity to make excuses for not going. Then it's time for work. I'm an anesthesiologist so my first case usually starts at the hospital at 7:30 am. I try to keep my wake-up times consistent even through the weekends which I think really helps with regulating my sleep patterns.
2. Describe your media diet.
Recently, I have been on a quest to avoid negativity of all forms, including media. I try to limit my news consumption and get my news from objective sources. There is a balance for me between staying informed and not obsessing over what's happening in the world. As a social media influencer, I try to keep up with my Instagram and TikTok and support my fellow creators. I'm a “positive thoughts“ kind of guy and I try to meditate on all good things in my life and spread positivity to those around me.
3. What are you currently reading?
My mother, Linda Singleton, recently published her first book, "Parenting Guide: Newborns to Adulthood." My mom worked as a social worker for over 30 years for the state of Louisiana and is passionate about child-rearing and healthy parenting practices. I think she did a really great job raising my younger brother and me and I'm inspired that she is sharing her experiences and advice in a book.
4. What’s the one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Sweaty palms, social anxiety, and low-self esteem sum up my experience as an adolescent and young adult. It was difficult for me to not compare myself to other people around me who seemed to have it all. Once I got into my late twenties and early thirties, I started to gain so much more confidence; maybe I started to be proud of myself as my aspirations of becoming a physician solidified. My goal is to become a better version of myself each day. It's so corny, and I heard it all the time as a kid, but I would tell younger me, "Believe in yourself!"
5. What’s one misconception about being a doctor?
I received the most encouraging direct message from one of my Instagram followers a little while ago. A medical student who had just matched into Anesthesia told me his wife sent him my "Day in the Life" Instagram reels while he was considering going into the specialty. In those reels, I show how it is possible for me to be an Anesthesia doctor and still have a family, go on vacation and have a full life. Our work is demanding but it doesn't have to be all-consuming.
6. What’s one song or album that never gets old?
I can tell that I am getting old because I don't like the music on the radio anymore! I think I am stuck in the early 2000's, my college days. My favorite album was "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below" by Outkast. The music is fun and upbeat and definitely a classic.
7. Outside of healthcare, what is something you’re passionate about?
Two things— without a doubt, I love to spread reliable health information and secondly I enjoy sharing inspiration on my platform. I started posting medical information around the time the COVID-19 vaccine was introduced. There were so many conspiracy theories and false information was rampant. I felt obligated to use my sphere of influence to educate people. As part of that effort, I partner with the American Cancer Society to make content about getting cancer screenings. I am also a social media ambassador for the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation. Every Friday, I make a push-up challenge reel and show that strength training may help in reducing or preventing many diseases and chronic conditions including obesity, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cancer, depression, osteoporosis, lung deficiencies, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis and fibromyalgia. It's a great way to make people more aware of how their health habits affect their overall health. I'm also passionate about sharing my faith. I make posts everyday with Bible verses to encourage people. Life is so stressful, especially for those of us in the healthcare industry.
