In this episode of Creative Careers in Medicine, host Dr Elise Putt is joined by Dr Steven Gluckman, a medical doctor, entrepreneur, and director at Toga Health. Dr Gluckman shares insights into his diverse career spanning clinical work, business, and community initiatives. He discusses his journey into medicine, with his early aspirations in the performing arts, and how he was drawn to the intersection of art and science within the medical field.

Dr Gluckman details his journey in medical school at the University of Sydney. He reflects on the turning points in his vocation, and the decision to explore opportunities outside of surgery and into mental health, medical entrepreneurship, and innovation.

He talks about his transition from full-time clinical medicine to work in the startup sector. He shares practical advice on seeking opportunities outside of traditional medical roles, noting the importance of networking, mentorship, and embracing non-linear career paths.

They covered Dr Gluckman’s experience pursuing an MBA at MIT and the skills he gained in understanding healthcare economics, funding structures, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Explaining how these experiences influenced his current work as director and co-founder of Toga Health, an organisation focused on transforming mental health services in Australia. Dr Gluckman outlines Toga Health’s mission to design innovative, collaborative, and community-based models of care, drawing on lessons learned from international best practices and hospitality.

He reflects on the importance of building “identity capital” throughout one’s career, and the value of diverse experiences for clinicians. Along with his candid thoughts on work-life balance, professional uncertainty, and the role of collaboration in achieving large-scale healthcare innovation.

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The CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.