The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast

Heather Fork, MD
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Mar 25, 2026 • 30min

Episode #243: How a Reluctant "Yes" Led to an Unexpected New Path

Have you ever done everything "right" on paper, matched into your specialty, landed your first attending job, checked all the boxes, only to lie awake wondering why it still feels so hard? If you've felt stretched thin, questioned your identity in medicine, or sensed that your purpose might be unfolding before the path is clear, this episode will truly resonate. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Yuri Shindo, an academic hospitalist at UC San Diego who is board-certified in internal medicine and addiction medicine. Dr. Shindo shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed in primary care to stepping into an unexpected calling that began with a reluctant yes to helping her mother's nonprofit drug and alcohol treatment program. This conversation is about courage, values, experimentation, and trusting the quiet inner voice that guides you forward. In this episode we're talking about: The overwhelm and identity shifts that can come with becoming a new attending What happens when your values feel misaligned with the system you're working in How burnout and self-doubt can become catalysts for growth The power of experimentation and giving yourself permission to pivot Saying yes to unexpected opportunities and discovering a calling Building a mission-driven project inside a hospital system without funding Why following joy can lead to meaningful impact Links for this episode: When you enroll in LinkedIn for Physicians or The Carpe Diem Resume Kit through The Doctors Crossing, you are not only investing in your next career move, you are also earning valuable CME credits. LinkedIn for Physicians – Earn up to 3 Category 1 CME credits while learning how to build a standout profile, network confidently, and attract the right opportunities. The Carpe Diem Resume Kit – Earn up to 2 Category 1 CME credits as you transform your CV into a polished, compelling resume for nonclinical roles. If you would like a sneak peek inside either the course or the kit before enrolling, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com. We're happy to give you a closer look. Thank you for listening!
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Mar 11, 2026 • 36min

Episode #242: Negative Google Reviews: How to Respond and Be Proactive

Have you ever had a negative online review stick with you far longer than it should? Even when you know you provided excellent care, one harsh comment can feel deeply personal and unfair. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jeffrey Segal, a neurosurgeon, attorney, and founder of Medical Justice. Dr. Segal shares practical, real-world guidance on how physicians can respond to negative reviews, protect their online reputation, and avoid letting a few comments undermine their confidence or career satisfaction. In this episode we're talking about: Why negative reviews are inevitable—and how a few can actually strengthen your credibility What you can and cannot say publicly due to HIPAA When it makes sense to respond (and when it doesn't) How to proactively generate authentic positive reviews Using feedback to improve office systems and team dynamics Strategies for protecting your mindset and preventing burnout related to online criticism Links for this episode: Medical Justice VuMedi is a physician-focused video learning platform, and it's where Dr. Jeffrey Segal publishes educational videos on medical justice and medicolegal issues. Thank you for listening!
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Feb 25, 2026 • 36min

Episode #241: Medical Board Investigations: Common Triggers and Smart First Steps

What would you do if you opened your mail and saw a letter from the medical board? For many physicians, that moment triggers fear, shame, and a flood of worst-case scenarios. Even a single patient complaint can feel like your entire career is suddenly on the line. And because most of us were never trained on how medical board investigations actually work, the uncertainty can be overwhelming. In today's episode, I'm joined by Guillermo Beades, Esq., a seasoned healthcare attorney and partner at Friar Levitt, who works closely with physicians facing medical board investigations, licensing issues, audits, and administrative actions. Guillermo pulls back the curtain on a process that often feels mysterious, intimidating, and isolating—and explains what physicians really need to know to protect themselves and their careers. We talk honestly about why board investigations happen, what not to do if you're contacted, and how small missteps early on can snowball into much bigger problems. Most importantly, Guillermo shares a grounded, hopeful message: one investigation does not have to define your career. In this episode we're talking about: Common triggers for medical board investigations, including patient complaints, audits, and reports from other clinicians What different types of board notices mean, and how to "triage" them appropriately Why responding incorrectly (or not responding at all) can escalate a situation fast The risks of surrendering a license or DEA/CDS registration without legal guidance What consent orders are, and why they matter more than many physicians realize How investigations become public and what gets reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank Why fear and shame can push physicians to leave medicine prematurely, and why you don't have to Links for this episode: Frier Levitt - Professional Board Actions: https://www.frierlevitt.com/what-we-do/healthcare-law/professional-board-actions 🌟When you enroll in LinkedIn for Physicians or The Carpe Diem Resume Kit through The Doctors Crossing, you are not only investing in your next career move, you are also earning valuable CME credits. ✔ LinkedIn for Physicians – Earn up to 3 Category 1 CME credits while learning how to build a standout profile, network confidently, and attract the right opportunities. ✔ The Carpe Diem Resume Kit – Earn up to 2 Category 1 CME credits as you transform your CV into a polished, compelling resume for nonclinical roles. If you would like a sneak peek inside either the course or the kit before enrolling, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com. We're happy to give you a closer look. 🌟Because we really want to keep spreading the word and growing the Podcast, we're doing a little something fun! We've created a new contest, and this one's super easy to win. All you need to do is share the podcast with two people you haven't shared it with before. Then just email us the episode you shared and the initials (or another way to identify) the two people you shared it with. That's it! We've got a special prize waiting for you, and you have until the end of 2025 to enter. So if you've been meaning to tell a friend or colleague about the podcast, now's the perfect time. Just send us your email at team@doctorscrossing.com and we'll send you your prize! Thank you for listening!
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Feb 11, 2026 • 30min

Episode #240 - How to Get Paid Consulting for Startups and Venture Firms.

Dr. Alison Curfman, pediatric emergency physician and founder of Startup Physicians who co-founded Imagine Pediatrics, discusses how clinicians translate frontline insight into paid advisory roles for startups and venture firms. She outlines the types of consulting work available. She explains who qualifies and how to find and approach companies. She shares practical onboarding, pricing tips, and why this work feels rewarding.
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Jan 28, 2026 • 32min

Episode #239: Your Career Doesn't Have to Be One Thing. Hello Portfolio Career!

What if your career didn't have to be just one thing? In today's episode of the Doctors Crossing Carpe Diem podcast, we explore the idea of a portfolio career—a professional life made up of multiple aligned roles rather than a single, linear path. Using a powerful real-world example, we talk about how physicians can create more fulfillment, connection, and sustainability by thoughtfully diversifying how they work. I'm joined by Dr. Jess Beachkofsky, a psychiatrist who affectionately calls herself The Sunny Psychiatrist. Jess shares her journey from military medicine to telepsychiatry, private practice, and eventually a portfolio career that blends clinical work, nurse practitioner supervision, disability evaluations, teaching, and speaking. Her story is a beautiful example of how clarity often comes from experimentation—not from having it all figured out upfront. Together, we talk honestly about what wasn't working, what was missing, and how small "yeses" opened doors to a career that now feels deeply aligned. We also discuss the practical considerations of portfolio careers, including time management, income variability, benefits, and insurance—so you can explore your options with eyes wide open. If you're feeling stuck, lonely, under-stimulated, or simply curious about what else might be possible, this episode offers both inspiration and grounded guidance. In this episode we're talking about: What a portfolio career really looks like in real life How to recognize what's missing in your current role The emotional and practical benefits of career diversification Physician-friendly portfolio options inside and outside of medicine Nurse practitioner supervision as a meaningful side role The importance of small experiments instead of big leaps Questions to ask before moving away from a traditional W-2 role Links for this episode: Connect with Jessica Beachkofsky Jessica Beachkofsky's LinkedIn Episode #59: Want to Test Drive Your Career Idea? Episode #186: Earn Extra Income, Fire Up Your Brain, and Find A New Direction With Physician Side Gigs Thank you for listening!
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Jan 14, 2026 • 25min

Episode #238: Finding Your Zone of Genius: A GPS for Career Alignment

Feeling unfulfilled despite career success? Discover your Zone of Genius! This episode explores the intersection of your strengths and passions, revealing how to align your work for true joy. Learn about the four zones—especially why remaining in the Zone of Excellence can stagnate your growth. Hear inspiring stories from physicians who have navigated their journeys toward purpose. Plus, utilize a simple framework and the Enneagram to uncover your unique skills and impact. It's time to reconnect with what truly energizes you!
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Dec 31, 2025 • 16min

Episode #237: The Gratitude Trap - How to Stay Out of It

We're often told that gratitude is the answer, that if we could just appreciate what we have, everything would feel better. And while gratitude can be grounding and healing, there is a side of it that doesn't get talked about enough. In this solo episode, I explore what happens when gratitude turns into pressure, when "I should be grateful" becomes a way of silencing your truth, minimizing your exhaustion, or staying stuck in a situation that no longer fits. This is what I call the gratitude trap, and it's one many physicians encounter, especially at moments of transition. This episode is an invitation to reclaim gratitude as a source of support rather than self-abandonment. If you've ever questioned your career and then talked yourself out of listening to that inner voice, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we're talking about: The difference between gratitude that expands you and gratitude that shuts you down How "I should be grateful" can quietly keep you stuck Why comparison is not a reason to ignore your own truth What authentic gratitude actually sounds like Signs your energy is contracting vs. expanding in your work How listening to discomfort can point you toward a better fit Using gratitude as support rather than pressure You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode237 Links for this episode: We're continuing our podcast-sharing contest through January 🎁 Just share the podcast with two people you haven't shared it with before, then email us: the episode(s) you shared, and the initials (or another identifier) of the two people That's it. Email team@doctorscrossing.com, and we'll send your prize. People are loving it because it's customizable and genuinely useful—this really is a contest you can't lose 🌟
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Dec 17, 2025 • 31min

Episode #236: A Trauma Surgeon's Unexpected Journey Into Patient Advocacy and Navigation

Have you ever found yourself helping a loved one through a confusing medical situation and thought, "I wish I could do this full-time"? You're not alone. Many physicians are naturally drawn to patient advocacy and navigation, even if they don't yet realize it has a name or a career path. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Angie Ingraham, a former trauma surgeon and critical care physician who made a powerful career transition after her father's diagnosis with glioblastoma. Experiencing the healthcare system from the other side opened her eyes to the gaps patients and families face. That journey led her to launch True North Patient Advocates, where she now supports others through complex medical situations with clarity and compassion. Whether you've thought about becoming a patient advocate and navigator — or are simply curious about what this work actually involves — Angie shares the real-life steps she took to create a fulfilling and sustainable new path. In this episode we're talking about: How a personal family crisis led Dr. Ingraham to explore patient navigation The surprising barriers patients face, even with medical connections What professional patient advocates and navigators actually do and how physicians are uniquely qualified How she built her business without formal business training The variety of clients and services in her day-to-day work Financial considerations and typical rates for advocates Steps you can take to explore this path for yourself You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode236 Links for this episode: Dr. Angie Ingram — True North Patient Advocates Greater National Advocates Directory Alliance of Professional Health Advocates - Offers a Boot Camp and 100-day program for business startup Health Advocate X Patient Advocate Certification Board National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Work Episode #68: Being a Patient Advocate is a Real Option Episode #156: How To Start A Side Gig Or Business As A Patient Navigator 🎉Exciting News: Earn CME Credit with Our Career Tools! We're thrilled to share that both the LinkedIn Course for Physicians and the Carpe Diem Resume Kit are now approved for CME credit. If you have funds to use before the end of the year or need additional hours, this is a perfect opportunity to invest in your career growth while fulfilling CME requirements. LinkedIn Course – 3 CME hours Resume Kit – 2 CME hours You can find both resources under the Products tab or click here for direct access. If you have any questions or would like a sneak peek, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com and we'd be happy to help! 🌟Because we really want to keep spreading the word and growing the Podcast, we're doing a little something fun! We've created a new contest, and this one's super easy to win. All you need to do is share the podcast with two people you haven't shared it with before. Then just email us the episode you shared and the initials (or another way to identify) the two people you shared it with. That's it! We've got a special prize waiting for you, and you have until the end of 2025 to enter. So if you've been meaning to tell a friend or colleague about the podcast, now's the perfect time. Just send us your email at team@doctorscrossing.com and we'll send you your prize!
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Dec 3, 2025 • 38min

Episode #235: Taming the Charting Beast: From Overwhelm to Ease with Charting Coach Dr. Sarah Smith

Dr. Sarah Smith, a rural family physician and founder of Charting Coach, reveals her journey from charting chaos to clinical ease. She shares how shifting mindset and auditing daily habits transformed her workflow, allowing her to reclaim personal time. Discover strategies for managing interruptions, finishing notes efficiently, and overcoming perfectionism. Sarah also emphasizes the importance of team support in combating charting guilt and discusses using AI wisely to enhance rather than hinder documentation.
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Nov 19, 2025 • 32min

Episode #234: Taking Back the Reins: How Two OB-GYNs Built a Nationwide Telemedicine Company on Their Own Terms

Have you ever dreamed of practicing medicine in a way that actually fits your life? Where you're not racing through 15-minute visits, drowning in charts, or missing your kid's birthday because of another call weekend? Then this episode is for you. I'm joined by Dr. Diana Kumar and Dr. Teresa Walsh, two board-certified OB-GYNs who opted out of the grind of a big healthcare system to co-found GLISS Wellness, a nationwide telemedicine practice for women's health and menopause care. In just eight months, they turned an idea from their "burn book" into a real, thriving business. No perfect plan. No waiting for permission. They just got to work and made it happen. We're diving into what it really takes to launch your own practice, how they got licensed in all 50 states, and why telemedicine has given them the freedom and flexibility they craved. This is a story about guts, innovation, and rewriting the rules to build a career that finally fits. In this episode we're talking about: How a trip abroad sparked a new business idea Why they chose telemedicine over a brick-and-mortar practice The unexpected perks of telehealth for women's care How AIR (All In Remote) Academy helped them launch fast and legally Why having a partner made all the difference, and what to look for if you're considering teaming up How they stacked multiple income streams to stay financially secure during the transition The emotional and mindset hurdles of leaving traditional medicine, and how they pushed through the fear Links for this episode: GLISS WELLNESS: The Company Founded by Dr. Diana Kumar and Dr. Teresa Walsh Gliss Wellness Newsletter: https://substack.com/@glisswellness @glisswellness and @GlissSpot To learn more about AIR (All-In-Remote) Physician Academy, sign up for one of their information sessions at airphysicianacademy.com. Don't forget to mention that you heard about the program through Doctor's Crossing! *Please note: I'm an affiliate for AIR Physician Academy, which means if you sign up through my link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend programs I truly believe in, and this one is a great fit for physicians exploring non-clinical opportunities. Episode #210: 5 Ways To Increase Your Income and Find Great Opportunities in Telemedicine - with Dr. Takashi Nakamura- cofounder of AIR Academy Telemedicine Companies - If you're interested in using your clinical skills, making money, and being able to work from home, the beach, or a mountain cabin, telemedicine is worth considering. This FREE resource guide includes a list of over 40 telemedicine companies to choose from.

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