The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast

Have you been thinking about stepping into leadership but aren't sure where to begin? In this episode, Heather is joined by Dr. Leo Spector, an orthopedic spine surgeon and CEO, who shares his journey into physician leadership and what it really takes to grow into these roles. From early experiences and mentorship to navigating challenges and finding your voice, Dr. Spector offers practical insights and encouragement for physicians who want to make a greater impact. Whether you're curious about leadership or ready to take the first step, this conversation will help you see what's possible. In this episode we're talking about: Why physicians need a seat at the table in healthcare leadership How to get started with leadership roles, even without experience or an MBA The importance of mentorship, coaching, and learning how to listen Common challenges physicians face when trying to be heard How to explore different leadership paths and know what's a good fit The value of saying yes while staying aligned with your interests Key mindset shifts to grow into an effective and authentic leader Links for this episode: orthocarolina.com 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! You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode246 Thank you for listening!

Have you ever thought, "If I got sued, I don't think I could survive it?" Malpractice litigation is one of medicine's unspoken fears. We know it's possible — but we rarely talk about the shame, isolation, sleepless nights, and identity-shaking stress that can come with it. In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Dr. Gita Pensa — emergency physician, coach, and podcast host of Doctors and Litigation: The L Word. Dr. Pensa shares her experience enduring a 12-year malpractice lawsuit that included two trials. What began as one of the most traumatic chapters of her life ultimately became the catalyst for meaningful advocacy and support for other physicians facing litigation. If you've ever been sued, fear being sued, or want to better understand this hidden side of medicine, this conversation is essential listening. In this episode we're talking about: What it felt like to be named in a $28 million malpractice lawsuit early in her career The emotional toll of enduring 12 years of litigation — including two trials The moment her verdict was overturned and how she found the strength to keep going Why litigation stress and shame often remain hidden Practical strategies for coping and learning how the legal system works Common mistakes physicians make during the litigation process How Gita is turning her experience into advocacy, coaching, and culture change in medicine Links for this episode: Doctors and Litigation Website Find 'Doctors and Litigation' on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn Doctors and Litigation Podcast ⭐️ If you want to feel more prepared for the realities of medical litigation, this is a powerful resource to have. LEAP: The Litigation Education and Performance Course for Clinicians is a 12-week, self-paced program by Dr. Gita Pensa designed to help physicians, nurses, and APPs understand the legal process, manage litigation stress, and perform confidently in high-stakes situations. It's approved for 16.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ and can be valuable whether you're currently in a case or planning ahead. Get $100 off with code CROSSING100 at checkout, or use this link (code already applied): https://www.doctorsandlitigation.com/offers/C82qyXYE?coupon_code=CROSSING100 Thank you for listening!

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!

If you've ever looked around your workplace and thought, "There has to be a better way to do this," you're not alone. Many physicians see inefficiencies, gaps in care, and systems that don't truly serve patients—but feel powerless to change them from the inside. In today's episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back Dr. Alison Curfman, pediatric emergency medicine physician, co-founder of Imagine Pediatrics, and founder of Startup Physicians. Alison previously shared her remarkable journey from frontline medicine into the startup and venture capital world, and today she's back to help demystify how any physician can use their expertise to consult with startups—without giving up clinical work. We talk about what these roles actually look like, who qualifies (spoiler: almost everyone), and how physicians can begin building meaningful, paid advisory work that creates real impact. Whether you're early in training, mid-career, clinically inactive, or nearing retirement, this conversation will expand your sense of what's possible. And if this topic resonates, be sure to listen through to the end. We're hosting a free live webinar together on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, where we'll go much deeper into the step-by-step process of breaking into startup consulting. In this episode we're talking about: Why physicians are uniquely valuable to startups and venture firms The different ways doctors can consult (advisory, product design, research, policy, and more) Whether you need to be clinically active, board-certified, or mid-career to qualify How residents, fellows, and retirees can all find opportunities in this space Why early roles may involve equity or lower pay—and why that's often worth it How physicians actually find and connect with startup opportunities Why this work feels so energizing and meaningful for many doctors Links for this episode: Alison Curfman MD Startup Physicians Startup Physicians Launchpad – A 12-week physician-only program with self-paced modules, live coaching, and a private community that teaches you how to turn your clinical expertise into paid advisory work. *Disclaimer: I am an affiliate of this program 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 192: Refusing to Take No for an Answer: A PediER Doctor's Journey to Help Kids with Complex Medical Needs with Dr. Alison Curfman Join us for here for a Webinar with Heather Fork and Dr. Alison Curfman! 📅 February 25th | 🕗 5 PM PST / 7 PM CST / 8 PM EST 💡 Topic: How to Get Paid Consulting for Startups and Venture Firms Curious about leveraging your medical expertise beyond clinical practice? Don't miss this engaging session with Dr. Alison Curfman as she shares how physicians can break into paid consulting roles with startups and venture firms. You'll gain insider insights, practical steps, and inspiration to start your consulting journey. Thank you for listening!

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything "right" in your career, but something still feels off? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm diving into one of my favorite topics — your Zone of Genius. This is where your natural strengths, passions, and most meaningful contributions come together, and discovering it can bring a whole new sense of clarity, energy, and joy to your work. I'll walk you through the four zones we typically operate in and explain why the Zone of Excellence, while often rewarding, can also leave you feeling stuck or unfulfilled. I'm also sharing real examples from physicians who found compelling new directions by leaning into their Zone of Genius. If you're at the crossroads, this episode is here to help you start moving toward more purpose and alignment in your next chapter. In this episode we're talking about: What your Zone of Genius is and how to start identifying it The common trap of staying in your Zone of Excellence Why external success doesn't always equal personal fulfillment What intrinsic rewards are and why they matter Inspiring stories from physicians who leaned into their genius A simple framework to help uncover your personality, top skills, and ideal impact Reflective questions to help you reconnect with what energizes you Links for this episode: Book recommendations: The Genius Zone: The Breakthrough Process to End Negative Thinking and Live in True Creativity by Gay Hendricks The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level―A Transformative Guide to Overcoming Fears and False Beliefs for Personal Growth and Success by Gay Hendricks Curious about your Enneagram type? The Enneagram is one of my favorite tools for helping clients better understand their strengths, motivations, and unique patterns — especially when you're exploring your Zone of Genius. I recommend the RHETI test from The Enneagram Institute. It's the most accurate version I've found and the one I use in my own coaching work. The test costs $20 and takes about 40 minutes to complete. If you're ready to gain deeper insight into what truly drives you, you can get started here: www.enneagraminstitute.com/get-started-with-enneagram-tests 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 Thank you for listening!

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!

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.

Have you ever felt the soul of your workplace—the sense of connection, purpose, and community—start to fade? That's exactly what happened to Dr. Sonia Millan, a board-certified family medicine physician with additional certifications in sports and lifestyle medicine. When her autonomy dwindled and joy disappeared, she knew it was time to make a change. Instead of leaping into the unknown with one perfect plan, Sonia earned what she calls her "honorary master's in pivotry." She experimented, explored, and stayed curious—trying everything from chart review and patient advocacy to IRB work and prison-system audits. Some paths fit, others didn't, but each step brought her closer to a career she truly loves. And here's the twist: the job she once thought she'd never enjoy is now her 10-out-of-10 dream role. Her journey is a powerful reminder that clarity doesn't come from waiting for the perfect plan—it comes from moving, experimenting, and letting go of what's not for you. In this episode we're talking about: How losing autonomy in clinical practice led Sonia to explore new possibilities The mindset shift that helped her turn uncertainty into opportunity Unexpected lessons she learned from eight years as a white-water rafting guide How she tested different nonclinical paths (and what she learned from each one) What changed her mind about her current role and why she now loves it How curiosity, intuition, and her "lunch litmus test" helped her find her ideal fit The spiritual practice that keeps her grounded. Links for this episode: 🌟 Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, I offer an hour-long paid consultation via Zoom. This session may be all that you need to gain clarity and have some steps for moving forward. If after this consultation you prefer additional support, there is the option of doing one of my coaching programs (subject to availability). For more information including pricing please reach out to Kati at team@doctorscrossing.com.

When you're exploring nonclinical jobs, one of the very first hurdles is often the recruiter screening call. Many physicians assume this will just be a quick, casual chat but in reality, it can make or break whether you move forward in the process. In this episode, I'll walk you through how to prepare for this important conversation as if I were coaching you one-on-one. You'll learn what recruiters are really looking for, how to connect your story to their needs, and the simple but powerful ways you can build a bridge that sets you apart as a strong candidate. This isn't about rattling off your CV or giving "perfect" answers. It's about understanding the recruiter's perspective, showing authentic interest, and coming across as both capable and collaborative. By the end, you'll feel much more confident heading into that first call and know how to approach it with professionalism and ease. In this episode we're talking about: The "three-legged stool" recruiters use to assess candidates How to build a bridge between your story and the company's mission Tips for answering the classic "Tell me about yourself" opener The most common questions you'll hear—and how to be ready for them How to handle the dreaded salary question with calm confidence Thoughtful questions you can ask to stand out Why a warm, timely follow-up email makes such a difference Links for this episode: 🌟 Want more support? Download my free guide, 10 Steps to Rock Your Interviews here. Following these 10 tips will help you strategically prepare for your nonclinical job interviews. You will be more confident, relaxed, and ready to do your best! And if you'd like personalized prep, you can book a one-off coaching session—just reach out at team@doctorscrossing.com for more

Have you ever fantasized about working from a seaside café in Italy or spending your mornings hiking the Alps before a day of virtual patient care? For many physicians, the dream of living abroad can feel out of reach—especially if continuing to practice medicine is important. But what if you didn't have to choose between your career and your sense of adventure? In this inspiring episode, I'm joined by Dr. Ashwini Bapat, a palliative care physician and co-founder of Hippocratic Adventures, a vibrant community for doctors dreaming of life and work outside the U.S. Dr. Bapat shares her own journey to Portugal, how she and her husband made it work professionally, and the many options available for physicians—from local employment abroad to telemedicine and hybrid models. Whether you're just starting to consider life in another country or actively mapping out your international move, this episode offers stories, strategies, and support to help you navigate the possibilities. In this episode we're talking about: How physicians can continue to work clinically while living outside the U.S. The most straightforward countries for U.S. physicians to work in clinically How telemedicine has opened up global flexibility for non-procedural specialties Common myths around practicing medicine from another country Important legal and licensing considerations for remote work and private practice Resources to help physicians interested in working while abroad The mindset shift that can turn "I can't" into "How can I?" Hippocratic Adventures Telemedicine & Beyond (International): This resource was created by Hippocratic Adventures and Dr. Ashwin Bapat. It includes a curated list of companies that offer telemedicine opportunities outside of the U.S., for physicians interested in practicing remotely from abroad. There is a reasonable fee for this resource. IG: @hippocratic_adventures FB group (physician only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/936658356753142/ The CME-accredited course, Telepsychiatry From Abroad, opens for enrollment on September 23rd, 2025. This will be the final enrollment period in 2025. https://www.hippocraticadventures.com/telepsychiatryfromabroad/ Free Guide: Telemedicine Companies (U.S.): Created by The Doctor's Crossing, this free guide includes a list of over 40 telemedicine companies in the United States. It's designed for physicians based in the U.S. who want to start exploring telemedicine opportunities while using their clinical skills, earning income, and working from home (or anywhere in the U.S.). *Note: This guide is for U.S.-based physicians only. If you're looking for telemedicine roles you can do while living abroad, please see the "Telemedicine & Beyond" resource above.

Today, I'm joined by Dr. Angelica Dumapit, a medical director and freelance medical writer who used LinkedIn to launch and grow her nonclinical career. Angelica shares how she optimized her profile to land roles without doing residency, networked confidently, and found freelance opportunities. We cover practical tips on writing strong headlines, messaging recruiters, and using LinkedIn's features strategically. If you're ready to turn your LinkedIn into a magnet for jobs, connections, and possibilities, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you get there. In this episode we're talking about: How Angelica transitioned from medicine to medical communications without doing residency The power of using LinkedIn to land full-time roles and freelance gigs What medical communications actually involves and common roles in the field How to optimize your LinkedIn profile to get noticed by recruiters Tips for writing a compelling headline that showcases your skills and interests Best practices for networking and messaging on LinkedIn—even as an introvert Strategies for building long-term recruiter relationships and keeping in touch You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode226 Links for this episode: https://www.medcommdoc.com LinkedIN for Physicians Course - 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! Use this link to get 35% off until August 31st, 2025! adumapit@medcommdoc.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/adumapit Land Your Dream Job with LinkedIn: 5 Steps to Get Started - Get your Free Download and use these tips to help you optimize your profile, connect and network with others, and have success applying to jobs on LinkedIn! Thank you for listening!

Have you ever dreamed of working in a more holistic, patient-centered way—without having to start your own practice from scratch? If so, you're going to love today's episode. We're diving into the growing field of integrative and functional medicine—especially for those who want the stability of an employed role while practicing in a more meaningful, whole-person way. In this episode, I'm joined by Lisa McDonald, founder of Integrative Connections, a leading job board and recruiting service for integrative and functional medicine. Lisa is not a physician, but her own healing journey through functional medicine inspired her to help others find their way into this meaningful field. She shares what these roles really look like and how to find your path into one. Whether you're just starting to explore this field or wondering what kind of training might be helpful, Lisa offers practical tips, personal stories, and lots of encouragement for taking that first step—or simply testing the waters. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode224 In this episode we're talking about: What is integrative and functional medicine? Why are more physicians seeking to incorporate these modalities into how they care for patients? What kinds of patients and conditions do these practices typically see? The training and certifications that can increase your knowledge and help you stand out Typical visit length, scheduling, and expectations in integrative jobs How to explore these roles and ask the right questions in interviews Advice for physicians curious about pivoting into integrative or functional care Links for this episode: https://integratedconnects.com https://integratedconnects.com/professional-development/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisapmcdonald/ Andrew Weil Center For Integrative Medicine - 2-year fellowship with several onsite weeks in AZ https://awcim.arizona.edu/education/fellowship Institute for Functional Medicine - can be fully remote, but also in-person conferences. Free 1.5 hour CME course https://ifm.org Episode #23: Curious About Integrative and Functional Medicine? Carpe Diem Resume Kit - Converting your CV to a resume helps recruiters better understand why you are a great match for a specific job. My resume kit will guide you through creating a polished resume for your desired job. Templates are included as well as a bonus on writing your cover letter. Reach out to us at team@doctorscrossing.com for more information!

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.