The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast

Today's episode is a powerful conversation about identity, loss, and rediscovery. I'm joined by Dr. John Fondran, a colorectal surgeon whose career ultimately came to an end due to severe arthritis in his hands and feet—a condition he had long been managing, but whose impact he struggled to fully accept. Dr. Fondran takes us through the difficult process of stepping away from surgery—not by choice, but by necessity—and how he confronted the emotional weight of no longer being able to do what he loved. We explore the dark period that followed, the impact on his identity, and how he ultimately found healing and purpose in a new role in clinical informatics. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode223 In this episode we're talking about: What it's like to lose your surgical career due to physical limitations The emotional toll of walking away from a deeply ingrained identity How Dr. Fondran navigated depression, denial, and a major transition The importance of support systems, therapy, and self-care in recovery What clinical informatics is and how it allowed him to stay in medicine How physicians can still see themselves as "healers" after leaving patient care Advice for others facing forced or voluntary career transitions Links for this episode: LinkedIn for Physicians Course - Would you rather clean out your garage or attic than "put yourself out there" and network? No worries! My LinkedIn course is geared to make networking doable and fun. I will show you how to connect with people who can be helpful for your career, what to put in your messages, and how to apply strategically for the job you really want. You can learn more about this course and get a sneak peek inside right HERE. Dr. Fondran LinkedIn Episode #61: Coping with anxiety as a new attending

If you are curious about expert witness work and whether it might be a good fit for you, this episode offers valuable insights. I'm joined by Dr. Amy Fogelman, an internist and founder of High Rock Experts and High Rock Academy. Amy shares her journey into expert witness work and breaks down what it takes to get started, including qualifications, mindset shifts, compensation, and common concerns—like testifying against another physician. We also discuss how her program helps physicians build a rewarding and flexible side gig in the legal space. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode222 In this episode we're talking about: What expert witness work involves and how to get started Whether you need to be board-certified or clinically active The difference between medical malpractice and personal injury cases Why testifying against another physician is not always what it seems Ways to niche down and attract your ideal cases How to avoid common beginner mistakes and stand out to attorneys An overview of Dr. Fogelman's expert witness course and what it includes Links for this episode: https://highrockexperts.com/ https://www.instagram.com/amyfogelmanmd https://www.facebook.com/amyfogelmanmd Thinking about expert witness work? Dr. Amy Fogelman's course is a fantastic way to turn your clinical experience into a new, rewarding opportunity. I've had a chance to review the program and I highly recommend it! 👉 Use the code HEATHER at checkout for 5% off her program: Explore the Course & Enroll Here Want to chat with Dr. Fogelman directly to see if her course is a good fit? Book a Discovery Call with Dr. Fogelman 🎁 Bonus: When you enroll in the course through my link above, you'll also receive access to my LinkedIn for Physicians course—absolutely free! 💻 Just interested in mastering LinkedIn on its own?Check out the LinkedIn for Physicians Course *Please note: I'm an affiliate for Dr. Fogelman's program and 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.

If you are looking for a flexible, meaningful role that does not require board certification or recent clinical practice, you will not want to miss today's episode. Today, I am joined by Dr. Phyllis Nsiah-Kumi, Chief Medical Officer at the Cleveland Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Dr. Nsiah-Kumi shares what it is like to work as a MEPS physician — a rewarding opportunity to assess the medical readiness of military recruits while enjoying flexible hours, no insurance billing, and part-time options. We explore who is qualified for this work, what a typical day looks like, compensation considerations, and how physicians can get started in this unique and impactful role. In this episode we're talking about: What MEPS physicians do and why their role is so important. Who qualifies for MEPS physician roles — including licensing and training details. The day-to-day responsibilities of working at a MEPS station. The flexible, PRN structure for independent contractors. How to find MEPS opportunities and begin the application process. Compensation structure and insurance coverage considerations. Dr. Nsiah-Kumi's personal story of pivoting to this work after burnout. Links for this episode: Phyllis Nsiah-Kumi, MD, MPH - LinkedIn Chenega - Contractor Company for MEPS positions https://www.chenega.com/ Mr. Ronald Knight - Recruiter for Chenega MEPS positions Ronald.Knight@chenega.com Resume Kit with New AI video - 20% for one week. I'm excited to announce a brand-new addition! I've just added a bonus video that shows you how to use ChatGPT and artificial intelligence to enhance your résumé and cover letter. This new lesson gives you practical tips for customizing your materials to job descriptions and using AI as a powerful assistant in your job search. To celebrate this new addition, you can get 20% off the Resume Kit for the next 10 days, until June 10th, 2025 at midnight. Just use the code RESUMEHELP at checkout.

If you're a single physician struggling with dating, you're not alone. The demands of medicine can make finding love feel overwhelming, whether you're hesitant to put yourself out there, dating after divorce, or unsure if a fulfilling relationship is possible. On today's episode, I'm joined once again by relationship and transformation coach Sydney Ashland to dive into the realities of dating as a doctor. Through a Dear Abby-style format, we explore common challenges, including confidence struggles, work-life balance, and the pressure of finding the right partner. In this episode we're talking about: The unique challenges of dating as a busy physician. How to build confidence and step into dating with a positive mindset. Balancing work demands with making space for relationships. Addressing fears, perfectionism, and patterns that may be holding you back. Strategies for dating apps, meeting people organically, and expanding your social circle. Navigating the pressures of wanting children and making relationship decisions on a timeline. Links for this episode: https://sydneyashland.com/ https://sydneyashland.com/physician-business-coaching-and-consulting/ https://www.amyporterfield.com/2025/01/748/ https://kevinmd.com/2018/01/top-10-lies-doctors-tell.html https://doctorscrossing.com/19/ Books: Why Mars and Venus Collide: Improving relationships by Understanding How Men and Women Cope Differently With Stress. By John Gray (also available in audio CD). The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. Attached – The New Science of Attachment – How it Can Help You Find And Keep Love. By Amir Levine and Rachel Heller. Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types by David Keirsey ⭐️ Check out our Free Resources! Under the Freebie tab on our website, you can find free resource guides on a variety of topics including resumes, interviewing, LinkedIn, medical writing, pharma, chart review, time management, and telemedicine. There is also a starter kit to help you move forward when you're feeling stuck at the crossroads. Please help yourself! 🌷Spring Special - Save 25% off our LinkedIn for Physicians Course with code: SPRING25 If you'd like to learn how to customize your LinkedIn profile to make it stand out to recruiters, this course walks you through all the steps with short, actionable videos and cheat sheets for each lesson. This course takes the guesswork out of using LinkedIn! 📩 We'd love to hear from you! Have a podcast topic in mind or a burning question you'd like us to cover? Send us a quick email at team@doctorscrossing.com — we're always open to your ideas and feedback!

This week, we explore what happens when your specialty no longer feels like the right fit. My guest, Dr. Edio Zampaglione, began as an OB-GYN but found the corporate shift in medicine limiting. He shares his transition from private practice to a thriving career in medical affairs, including how he entered pharma without prior industry experience. We discuss key moments that led him to leave patient care and what a medical affairs career entails. If you're considering nonclinical options, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode219 In this episode we're talking about: What to do when your chosen specialty no longer feels right. The challenges of private practice and the shift toward a corporate model. How to break into the pharmaceutical industry without prior experience. The day-to-day responsibilities of a medical affairs physician. Steps to explore opportunities in pharma, including networking and working with recruiters. Insights into compensation, career growth, and job satisfaction in medical affairs. Links for this episode: LinkedIn for Physicians Course This fun course shows you how to create a stand-out profile on LinkedIn and use the powerful features to advance your career goals. The short video lessons guide you step-by-step on how to grow your connections, network successfully, and search for and apply to jobs. Included are cheat sheets for each lesson, examples of physician profiles, and a bonus PDF on how to rock your informational interviews. Pharma Insider's Guide - Get an overview of the different areas for physicians in pharma as well as tips to start building your platform to make a transition. Pharma Podcast Episode List - Curious if a career in pharma is right for you? We've made it easy to explore! Download our free list of all Doctor's Crossing Podcast episodes related to pharma and gain valuable insights from physicians who have successfully made the transition. Learn about different roles, salary expectations, required skills, and how to get started—so you can decide if pharma is the right path for you.

If your medical career is putting a strain on your relationship, you're not alone. Long hours, endless charting, and the emotional toll of medicine can create disconnection and tension at home. Whether your partner feels neglected, you're struggling with financial disparities, or you're facing difficult conversations, these challenges can feel overwhelming. Today we are joined by Sydney Ashland, a highly respected relationship and transformation coach with over 25 years of experience working with physicians. In this episode, we explore real-life scenarios—Dear Abby style—to address the struggles many physician couples face and how to strengthen communication, navigate career shifts, and build a more connected, fulfilling relationship. In this episode we're talking about: The impact of long work hours and career stress on relationships. How financial dynamics can shift power and create tension. Strategies for improving communication and reconnecting with your partner. Navigating career transitions while maintaining a strong relationship. Practical steps to break unhealthy cycles and foster emotional connection. Advice for single physicians seeking meaningful relationships (preview of Episode 220). Links for this episode: ihttps://sydneyashland.com/ https://sydneyashland.com/physician-business-coaching-and-consulting/ https://www.amyporterfield.com/2025/01/748/ https://kevinmd.com/2018/01/top-10-lies-doctors-tell.html https://doctorscrossing.com/19/ Books: Why Mars and Venus Collide: Improving relationships by Understanding How Men and Women Cope Differently With Stress. By John Gray (also available in audio CD). The Seven Principles for Making A Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert. By John Gottman. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. Attached – The New Science of Attachment – How it Can Help You Find And Keep Love. By Amir Levine and Rachel Heller. Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types by David Keirse

Dr. Maanas Samant, the CMIO of a healthcare and fintech company, shares his inspiring journey from medicine to consulting. Initially pursuing medicine to meet family expectations, he pivoted towards technology, spurred by his early interest in computers and a pivotal question from his wife. He discusses networking strategies that landed him roles at Accenture, the fascinating projects he undertook in healthcare consulting, and the importance of presenting transferable skills. Dr. Samant encourages physicians to explore nontraditional paths and take action for fulfilling careers.

Welcome to Episode 216 of the Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem podcast! Today, we're tackling a major concern for physicians considering career changes—finances. Whether you're stepping away from clinical work, reducing shifts, or exploring entrepreneurship, financial uncertainty can be daunting. Joining us is Dr. Jim Dahle, emergency physician and founder of The White Coat Investor, a top financial education platform for doctors. He shares key strategies for financial independence, career transitions, and smart money decisions. Dr. Dahle also reflects on a life-altering climbing accident that shaped his perspective on financial planning and risk-taking. In this episode we're talking about: Why financial freedom is key to making career transitions with confidence. The importance of early financial planning and getting your "financial ducks in a row." How to determine how much money you need to retire. Ways to balance career changes with financial stability. The emotional side of financial decision-making and overcoming limiting beliefs. Tips for discussing financial changes with a spouse or partner. Links for this episode: www.whitecoatinvestor.com Episode #196 What Do Nonclinical Jobs Actually Pay? Hero's Of My Life Part 1 - Dr. Jim Dahle's story of his fall on the Grand Tetons Heros Of My Life Part 2 Physician Transition Starter Kit - A "must have" when you're questioning your career path. This 25-page guide answers many of your questions about career transition, nonclinical options, and how to just get started.

At 60, Dr. Lynette Charity was fired from her job—an event that could have been devastating but instead became the catalyst for reinvention. In this episode, Dr. Charity shares her journey from growing up in the segregated South to becoming an anesthesiologist, speaker, and comedian. She discusses overcoming adversity, shifting from self-doubt to empowerment, and finding new purpose beyond clinical medicine. Drawing from her book, Escape Plan, she offers insights on resilience, career transitions, and embracing new opportunities at any stage of life. If you're facing change or seeking inspiration, this episode is for you! You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode215 In this episode we're talking about: How Dr. Charity overcame adversity growing up in the segregated South. The pivotal moment that led to her decision to become a doctor at age nine. How being fired at 60 became a turning point instead of a setback. Strategies for shifting your mindset from self-doubt to empowerment. How she transitioned into speaking, comedy, and writing after medicine. The importance of mentorship, community, and asking for help. Links for this episode: Website: DrCharitySpeaks.com Website: lynettecharitycomedy.com Instagram: @keynotecharity Book: Escape Plan From FIRED to Public Speaker – An Anesthesiologist's Story: https://doctorscrossing.com/from-fired-to-public-speaker-an-anesthesiologists-story/ Check out our Free Resources! Under the Freebie tab on our website, you can find free resource guides on a variety of topics including resumes, interviewing, LinkedIn, medical writing, pharma, chart review, time management, and telemedicine. There is also a starter kit to help you move forward when you're feeling stuck at the crossroads. Please help yourself! Physician Transition Starter Kit - A "must have" when you're questioning your career path. This 25-page guide answers many of your questions about career transition, nonclinical options, and how to just get started. Thank you for listening!

On today's episode, we're exploring the transformative world of direct care models with the inspiring Dr. Maryal Concepcion. Dr. Concepcion is a family medicine physician, founder of Big Trees MD in rural Northern California, and host of the My DPC Story podcast. We discuss the direct primary care (DPC) and direct specialty care (DSC) models that allow physicians to practice on their terms while fostering deeper patient relationships. Dr. Concepcion shares her journey from fee-for-service medicine to creating a thriving DPC practice, the freedom and flexibility these models offer, and how they empower both physicians and patients. Whether you're a primary care provider or a specialist, this conversation will open your eyes to new possibilities in medical practice. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode214 In this episode we're talking about: What direct primary care and direct specialty care models are and how they differ from traditional practice. The autonomy and flexibility direct care models offer physicians. How DPC allows for smaller patient panels and stronger doctor-patient relationships. Strategies for starting a direct care practice, including financial considerations. The importance of building transparent, patient-focused healthcare systems. Leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance patient engagement in direct care practices. Insights on pricing strategies and communicating value to patients in a cash-based system. Links for this episode: Dr. Concepcion's Links: https://mydpcstory.com https://maryal.me https://bigtreesmd.co https://thedpcdirectory.com Dr. Concepcion's Book Recommendations: "Spark Start Fires" by Dr. Julie Gunther "The Official Guide to Starting Your Own Direct Primary Care Clinic" by Dr. Douglas Farrago "Byja Blueprint" by Dr. Byron Jasper Episode 98 Take Back Control With A Direct Primary Care Practice - Featuring a married couple who share a DPC practice and love their freedom and lifestyle. Episode 150 - Are You Paralyzed By The Siz of Your Goal? Start with a Lemonade Stand. Featuring how a physician started a DPC practice on a shoe-string budget with no prior business experience. Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, Dr. Heather Fork offers one-hour paid Zoom consultations. This one-hour coaching session may be all that you need to gain clarity and have some concrete steps for moving forward. Dr. Fork also has a 5-month coaching program for those physicians wanting additional assistance (subject to availability). For more information including pricing please reach out to Kati at team@doctorscrosing.com.