From medicine to writing fiction: How one Prime Timer made the leap
This week on the Prime Time Podcast, I’m joined by Professor Jim Nicklin, a semi-retired gynecological oncologist who has taken a bold leap into the world of fiction writing.
This week on the Prime Time Podcast, I’m joined by Professor Jim Nicklin, a semi-retired gynecological oncologist who has taken a bold leap into the world of fiction writing. Jim’s career has been filled with medical research, mentoring, and teaching, but in his Prime Time, he’s chosen to pursue a long-held dream: writing a fiction novel.
His debut book, U, is a Brisbane-based thriller, packed with drama, intrigue, and some debauchery—definitely a departure from medical journals and peer-reviewed papers! In this episode, Jim shares his journey from medicine to storytelling, the challenges of writing fiction, and why midlife is the perfect time to take on creative pursuits.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Highlights of this episode:
From life-saving to storytelling – Jim built a career in medicine, spending decades treating patients and mentoring young doctors. But deep down, he had a creative itch he wanted to scratch. He explains what finally pushed him to take the leap from publishing in medical journals to crafting a thriller novel.
How a screenplay became a novel – Jim first wrote the story behind U as a screenplay nearly 20 years ago. It was even optioned by a production house but never made it to the big screen. He shares how he dusted off the idea, expanded it, and turned it into a full-length novel after stepping back from medicine.
The transition from structured career to creative freedom – In medicine, Jim’s life was dictated by rigid schedules, emergency calls, and high-stakes decision-making. Writing, on the other hand, is a completely different beast. He talks about how he adapted to the lack of structure and the mindset shift that helped him embrace creative freedom.
The wild world of self-publishing – Instead of waiting for a traditional publisher, Jim went the independent route, navigating the challenges of editing, formatting, and marketing his book on his own. He gives a candid look at what worked, what didn’t, and what he’d do differently next time.
Reframing ‘retirement’ as reinvention – Jim doesn’t see himself as retired—he’s in what I call Prime Time, the phase where we redefine work, passion, and purpose. He talks about how he balances writing, mentoring, spending time with his grandchildren, and making sure he stays physically and mentally active.
Why midlife is the perfect time to take creative risks – Jim shares his advice for anyone who has a passion project or creative dream but keeps putting it off. His biggest takeaway? You don’t need permission—just have a crack.
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book or making a big career pivot, this episode is packed with inspiration!
Let me know—what’s the dream you’ve been putting off? Drop me an email or message on the comments and I’ll shout out a few inspiring stories in the next episode! 🚀
Tell me what you’ve always wanted to do? Or what you’ve done! I can’t wait to read about it in the comments!
I left my 'Day Job' in community services in my 50s, after burning out (again) and decided to have a shot at turning my love of singing into a job. Eight years later I'm directing three choirs and teaching singing from my home studio... and taking more holidays with my husband who is already retired :-)
What if it's too late to do what you've always wanted? I mean, physically you just couldn't do your dream job anymore?