Finding Financial Freedom with The Frugal Physician - Finance, Wellness, Budget, Student Loans, Wealth, Doctor, Fitness, Money

Welcome back to the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Disha Spath. Today's guest is Dr. Joseph Ryan Smolarz, M.D., M.B.A.—a board-certified surgeon turned social entrepreneur with a powerful story of reinvention. In this episode, Dr. Ryan shares his candid financial journey, from the operating room to business school, and how embracing entrepreneurship led him to a more fulfilling and financially secure life. He unpacks the physician mindset shift that helped him navigate early mistakes, the surprisingly simple logic behind self-storage investing, and how his net worth transformed through calculated risk-taking and education. Key Topics Covered: 1. From Medicine to Money Mastery How Dr. Ryan's physician journey ignited his interest in financial literacy. 2. Why Self-Storage Stands Out in Real Estate Breaking down the complexity of commercial real estate—and why self-storage is the simplest entry point. 3. Learning Personal Finance from Scratch How Dr. Ryan went from financially overwhelmed to confident and capable. 4. How Dr. Ryan Dealt with His Transition from Being a Physician to Entrepreneurship The reactions he received from fellow physicians when he chose the entrepreneurial route. 5. Tracking the Financial Transformation How his net worth shifted as he embraced entrepreneurship, business school, and smart investing. Listener Takeaways: Why commercial real estate—especially self-storage—might be worth exploring How to start your financial education, no matter where you're at What to expect when you pivot from clinical work to entrepreneurship Real talk on the personal and financial growth that follows bold decisions Resources Mentioned: The Medicine and Money Show by Dr. Ryan Smolarz Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Joseph Ryan Smolarz, M.D., M.B.A. This episode is brought to you by: Earned Wealth: Earned's unique Doctor Wealth Playbook includes tax planning, investing, insurance, career advisory, and more. It's a holistic approach from advisors who get the financial pressures of your profession. And for a limited time, Frugal Physician listeners can visit Earned.com/Frugal for exclusive access to this comprehensive planning at a discounted rate.

In this episode of the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast, Dr. Disha Spath is joined by powerhouse physician entrepreneur Dr. Nneka Unachukwu, also known as Dr. Una—board-certified pediatrician, bestselling author, and founder of EntreMD. Dr. Una built a seven-figure business while practicing medicine and raising four children—and now she's on a mission to help 100,000 physicians do the same. Through her groundbreaking EntreMD Business School and top-ranked podcast, she's changing the narrative around what's possible for doctors beyond the clinic. This conversation unpacks the mindset, strategy, and vision behind her journey from overwhelmed clinician to CEO. Dr. Una shares how physicians can build profitable businesses, master leadership, and take ownership of their time, income, and purpose—without sacrificing their calling. Key Topics Covered: 1. From Medicine to Mission How Dr. Una's journey began with a love for medicine—and a desire for more freedom. The financial turning points that opened the door to entrepreneurship. 2. Becoming the CEO of Your Life Why most physicians aren't trained to think like business owners—and how to change that. 3. The Mindset Shift The limiting beliefs physicians carry—and the mental reprogramming needed to succeed in business. 4. Making Success Inevitable Identifying your "why" and the strategy behind building a business that grows with you. What she teaches inside the EntreMD Business School makes results repeatable. 5. The DPC Model Explained What is Direct Primary Care and how does it create freedom for physicians and patients alike? How Dr. Una built her practice around access, care, and boundaries. 6. Creating Boundaries While Building Trust The art of saying "no" and still attracting your dream patients (and clients). How Dr. Una balances business, medicine, and motherhood. 7. Her Personal Practice Story What building her own practice taught her about entrepreneurship—and herself. How her experience shaped EntreMD and its mission to reach 100,000 physician entrepreneurs. Listener Takeaways: Why physicians are uniquely positioned to be entrepreneurs How to create a business aligned with your values and lifestyle goals How to balance purpose, profit, and peace on your journey to financial freedom Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Nneka Unachukwu or Dr. Una

"Can money really buy happiness, or just comfort?" Let's find out in today's episode. Welcome back to the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Disha Spath. In this episode, we're doing something special—a collaborative episode with Dr. Elisa Chiang, host of the Grow Your Wealthy Mindset Podcast. Dr. Elisa is a practicing oculoplastic surgeon, certified life coach, and founder of Grow Your Wealthy Mindset, where she empowers physicians to take control of their finances and live with intention. In this joint episode, we dive deep into the intersection of money, happiness, and intentional living. Together, we explore how financial wellness supports happiness—but why it's not the whole picture. From personal insights on spending habits to reflections on physician burnout and values-driven choices, this conversation unpacks what it truly means to live a wealthy life—and find financial independence as physicians. Key Topics Covered: 1. Does Money Buy Happiness?Why money contributes to happiness—but doesn't guarantee it. 2. Value-Based Spending How aligning your spending with your values brings more satisfaction. When purchases become liabilities—emotionally and financially. 3. Physician Wellness for Doctors The pressure to "upgrade" lifestyle post-training and finding the path to financial wellness. 4. Trading Time for Money (Is It Worth It?) Why more income doesn't always mean more happiness. How to eliminate lifestyle inflation and regain control of your finances. 5. Money and Happiness Why achieving happiness as a physician requires active, ongoing work. How coaching and self-reflection can lead to real balance. Listener Takeaways: How to align money with your definition of a meaningful life. Why physicians often tie self-worth to income—and how to break free. Practical ways to build happiness into your financial journey. How to stop trading time for money and start living intentionally. Resources Mentioned: GrowYourWealthyMindset.com The Grow Your Wealthy Mindset Podcast Follow Dr. Elisa Chiang: Instagram: @GrowYourWealthyMindset instagram Facebook: ElisaChiang About the Co-Host: Dr. Elisa Chiang is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, life coach, and host of the Grow Your Wealthy Mindset Podcast. She helps physicians take charge of their money and mindset to build a life of purpose, balance, and true wealth. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician If you're a physician striving for more than just financial security—if you're seeking joy, alignment, and meaning—this episode is your roadmap.

In this episode of the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast, we sat down with Dr. Alex Schloe, a physician and real estate investor who transitioned from a traditional path in medicine to a life of autonomy and financial freedom. If you're a physician seeking more control over your time, career, and finances—this conversation is for you. Dr. Alex shares how his desire for flexibility and purpose led him to explore real estate, eventually finding success through residential assisted living and syndications. He breaks down how these investments create cash flow and how they can empower physicians to practice medicine on their own terms. Key Topics Covered: 1. Dr. Alex's Background From conventional medical training to pursuing autonomy through financial education and investing. 2. Starting the Real Estate Journey How Dr. Alex began investing in real estate and what sparked his interest. 3. Learning Syndication How he discovered real estate syndications and built confidence to get involved. 4. Residential Assisted Living Explained What it is, how it works, and why it's an opportunity for impact and profit. 5. Four Ways to Invest in Assisted Living Dr. Alex breaks down the different investment models available in this niche. 6. Cash Flow Potential A practical look at the cash flow potential in residential assisted living—and how it compares to traditional rental properties. 7. Practicing Medicine on Your Own Terms How real estate investing has allowed Dr. Alex to design a medical career that aligns with his passions and lifestyle. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Alex Schloe Website Residential Assisted Living Academy Physicians and Properties Podcast Listener Takeaways: You don't need to leave medicine to take control of your time—you need financial freedom. Real estate investing, especially in assisted living, can provide both profit and purpose. Syndications and assisted living are powerful tools for physicians looking to diversify income. Autonomy is achievable with the right education and network. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Alex Schloe, Physician and Real Estate Investor This episode is also sponsored by Set for Life Insurance – Providing more than just insurance policies—they deliver personalized coverage and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for life, disability, or long-term care insurance, their team ensures you get the best protection at the most cost-effective rates. With priority underwriting, special discounts, and access to top-rated insurers, they make securing your future simple and stress-free. Take the next step in protecting what matters most. Visit setforlifeinsurance.com or call 1-888-553-3559 today.

Welcome back to part two of our interview with Dr. Nisha Mehta on the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast! Today, we dive into the financial side of being a physician. Dr. Nisha shares valuable insights on how physicians can build long-term financial security, prepare for economic recessions, and leverage the power of side gigs to overcome adversity. We also discuss how to maximize your W2 income for financial empowerment and what the future holds for physician side gigs. Key Topics Covered: 1. Pain Point on Being and Entrepreneur Building your business and managing it by setting boundaries 2. Getting Comfortable with Your Own Skin Being comfortable with wherever phase you are at in your life 3. Driving Change in Your Industry Learn how to turn your ideas into impactful action that drives change in the healthcare field. 4. Overcoming the Struggles of Entrepreneurship Dr. Nisha opens up about the financial and mental hurdles she faced while building a business. 5. Managing Cash Flow During Economic Uncertainty Practical solutions for physicians to safeguard their finances during times of economic instability. 6. Maximizing Your W2 Income Discover how to leverage your W2 income for greater financial empowerment and stability. 7. The Future of Physician Side Gigs Dr. Nisha shares what's next for the physician side gig community and her ongoing mission. Resources Mentioned: Physician Side Gigs Listener Takeaways: Strategies to overcome financial challenges in uncertain times. How to turn your entrepreneurial ideas into a thriving business. The importance of maximizing your W2 income while diversifying income streams. Practical advice for managing your cash flow and preparing for economic downturns. Insights into the future of physician side gigs and how you can get involved. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Nisha Mehta, Founder, Physician Side Gigs If you're a physician looking for more autonomy and fulfillment, this episode is a must-listen! This episode is also sponsored by Set for Life Insurance – Providing more than just insurance policies—they deliver personalized coverage and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for life, disability, or long-term care insurance, their team ensures you get the best protection at the most cost-effective rates. With priority underwriting, special discounts, and access to top-rated insurers, they make securing your future simple and stress-free. Take the next step in protecting what matters most. Visit setforlifeinsurance.com or call 1-888-553-3559 today.

Defy gravity and take control of your practice! It's time to break free from the corporate track and step into the world of Direct Primary Care. No more restrictions—just you, your patients, and the freedom to practice on your terms. Doctors, are you ready to rise? Today, we sat down with Dr. Marina Capella, an integrated pediatrician based in South Lake City, Utah. In 2021, she launched Healing Arts Pediatrics, a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice designed to bring joy and freedom back into pediatric medicine. Dr. Capella shares her journey of breaking free from the constraints of insurance-based healthcare, the financial realities of launching a DPC, and how she empowers other pediatricians to rediscover their passion for medicine. Key Topics Covered: 1. Leaving Insurance-Based Healthcare Why Dr. Capella made the leap to DPC and never looked back. 2. The Flaws of Insurance-Based Care The frustrations and limitations that led her to seek a better model. 3. Burnout in Medicine Recognizing the signs and taking action to reclaim work-life balance. 4. The Financial Leap into DPC How she prepared financially to start her practice. 5. The Costs of Starting a DPC Breaking down the estimated expenses. 6. Path to Profitability How long it took for her practice to become financially sustainable. 7. Marketing and Community Building The biggest challenges in establishing a DPC practice. 8. Lessons Learned as a Pediatrician What she would do differently if she started over. 9. Empowering Other Pediatricians How she helps others find freedom in their medical careers. Resources Mentioned: DPCPediatrician.com DPC Pediatricians Podcast DPC Healing Arts Pediatrics Defying Healthcare Listener Takeaways: Why insurance-based healthcare may be holding doctors back. The real costs and timeline of starting a DPC practice. How to market and grow a successful DPC in your community. The importance of financial planning before making the leap. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Marina Capella, Co-Founder of Future Minority Doctor, Physician Owner of Healing Arts Pediatrics If you're a physician looking for more autonomy and fulfillment, this episode is a must-listen! This episode is sponsored by Reza & Sharif CPAs - They provide more than just tax returns and financial statements—they deliver strategic financial solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you're a business owner, physician, or investor, they help you navigate complex tax laws, maximize savings, and build long-term wealth. With expert tax planning, accounting, and advisory services, they ensure your finances work for you—not the other way around. Take control of your financial future today. Visit rezasharif.com to see how they can help. This episode is also sponsored by Set for Life Insurance – Providing more than just insurance policies—they deliver personalized coverage and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for life, disability, or long-term care insurance, their team ensures you get the best protection at the most cost-effective rates. With priority underwriting, special discounts, and access to top-rated insurers, they make securing your future simple and stress-free. Take the next step in protecting what matters most. Visit setforlifeinsurance.com or call 1-888-553-3559 today.

In this episode of the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Stephanie Pearson, a former physician turned disability insurance advocate. After experiencing firsthand the financial consequences of inadequate coverage, she now helps medical professionals secure the right disability insurance to protect their future. Stephanie breaks down the evolving landscape of disability insurance, explaining the challenges physicians face when applying for policies and how different carriers classify occupations. She also shares insights on state-specific policy variations and industry changes that could impact your financial security. Key Topics Covered: 1. From Physician to Advocate Dr. Pearson's journey from clinical medicine to educating physicians on disability insurance. 2. Industry Shifts in Disability Insurance How the disability insurance market is evolving and what it means for you. 3. Understanding Occupational Classifications Why physicians often get pigeonholed into specific risk categories. 4. Physician-Friendly Insurance Carriers Are there companies offering better options for doctors? 5. State-by-State Policy Differences How disability insurance coverage and regulations vary depending on where you live. 6. Real-Life Impact of Disability Insurance A case study on how proper coverage changed a physician's financial future. 7. Why Choose Pearson Ravitz? What sets Pearson Ravitz apart in helping physicians secure the right coverage. Resources Mentioned: Pearson Ravitz Listener Takeaways: Not all disability insurance policies are created equal—know your options. Occupational classification can affect your premiums and benefits. Choosing the right insurance carrier can make a significant difference in your coverage. State regulations may impact your policy terms and pricing. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Dr. Stephanie Pearson, CEO and Insurance Advisor This episode is sponsored by: PearsonRavitz – Helping physicians safeguard their most valuable assets.

In this episode of the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast, we interviewed Jamie Fleischner, founder of Set for Life Insurance, who has helped thousands of professionals secure the right disability coverage. If you're a physician or high-earning professional, protecting your financial future is crucial—and disability insurance is a key part of that plan. Jamie breaks down the ins and outs of Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) Policies, explaining how they differ from traditional disability insurance and what you need to consider when choosing the best policy. From pricing and flexibility to common misconceptions, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you make an informed financial decision. Key Topics Covered: 1. What is a Guaranteed Standard Issue Policy? Understanding how GSI policies differ from traditional disability insurance. 2. Who Qualifies for a GSI Policy? Why only certain programs offer them and what it means for you. 3. Own-Occupation Coverage Are GSI policies truly own-occupation, and why does it matter? 4. Premiums & Cost Comparisons How GSI policy premiums stack up against traditional underwritten disability insurance. 5. Exclusive Discounts & Group Benefits Are there special rates available for specific groups or organizations? 6. Gender-Based Rate Differences How disability insurance pricing differs for men and women. 7. Common Misconceptions About GSI Policies Clearing up myths that could impact your financial decisions. 8. Expert Advice on Choosing Disability Insurance Key takeaways for professionals planning to secure coverage. Resources Mentioned: Set For Life Insurance Website Rezasharif Website Listener Takeaways: GSI policies offer unique benefits and limitations. Group discounts and gender-based pricing can significantly impact your premiums. Flexibility matters—ensure your policy can adapt to your career growth. Understanding the fine print can save you from costly mistakes in the future. Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guests: Jamie Fleischner on LinkedIn Tune in now and get the expert insights you need to make the best financial decision for your future! This episode is sponsored by Reza & Sharif CPAs - They provide more than just tax returns and financial statements—they deliver strategic financial solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you're a business owner, physician, or investor, they help you navigate complex tax laws, maximize savings, and build long-term wealth. With expert tax planning, accounting, and advisory services, they ensure your finances work for you—not the other way around. Take control of your financial future today. Visit rezasharif.com to see how they can help. This episode is also sponsored by Set for Life Insurance – Providing more than just insurance policies—they deliver personalized coverage and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for life, disability, or long-term care insurance, their team ensures you get the best protection at the most cost-effective rates. With priority underwriting, special discounts, and access to top-rated insurers, they make securing your future simple and stress-free. Take the next step in protecting what matters most. Visit setforlifeinsurance.com or call 1-888-553-3559 today.