Healthy Careers

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor welcomes Dr. Mike Behr, a veteran orthopedic surgeon and Executive Vice President at IntraHealth Group, for an in-depth conversation on the PSA (Professional Services Agreement) model and its role in transforming orthopedic practice management.

Dr. Behr shares how OrthoAtlanta's strategic alignment with Piedmont Healthcare under the PSA structure has supported growth, improved autonomy, and enhanced care delivery. From recruitment challenges in a competitive job market to the shifts from fee-for-service to value-based care, this episode provides a masterclass in practice structure, physician alignment, and healthcare economics.

Perfect for CEOs, COOs, physician recruiters, practice administrators, private equity-backed MSOs, and orthopedic leaders, this conversation offers actionable insight on navigating today’s healthcare business landscape while building a sustainable, physician-centered model.

Key Takeaways:

• The PSA model bridges independence and integration, offering stability while preserving physician leadership.

• Recruitment is more competitive than ever, and clarity on compensation, values, and location matters.

• Orthopedic groups must embrace value-based care, transparency, and strategic alignment to grow sustainably.

• Private practice is not dead—but it requires innovative thinking, strong partnerships, and data-driven leadership.

• Dr. Behr’s experience proves that career longevity in orthopedics is possible with adaptability and a strategic mindset.

Episode Highlights:

00:36 Meet Dr. Mike Behr: EVP and Orthopedic Veteran

01:15 Inspiration from Family and Early Career Foundations

03:18 Fellowship Training and the Road to OrthoAtlanta

06:09 OrthoAtlanta’s Growth & the PSA Model Explained

16:06 The Realities of Recruiting in Today’s Orthopedic Market

18:11 Competitive Landscape: New Grads & Contract Negotiations

19:13 Market Dynamics: Location vs Talent Acquisition

21:01 Transparency in Compensation and Retention

22:50 Private Practice Pressures and Hospital Relationships

25:14 Fee-for-Service vs Value-Based: Future of Ortho Payment Models

34:33 Candid Advice for Young Physicians Entering the Field

37:26 Wrap-Up and Reflections on Leadership in Healthcare

Keywords:

PSA model in healthcare,
Professional Services Agreement orthopedics,
Orthopedic group alignment models,
OrthoAtlanta partnership Piedmont,
Physician employment vs independent practice,
Healthcare M&A and orthopedic groups,
Recruiting orthopedic surgeons,
Value-based care in orthopedics,
Private equity vs hospital alignment,
Medical group practice models,
Compensation transparency in healthcare,
Physician recruitment trends,
Ortho practice management podcast,
IntraHealth Group orthopedic leadership,

Connect with Dr. Mike Behr:

• LinkedIn: Michael Behr, MD, MBA
• Visit IntraHealth Group
• Visit OrthoAtlanta

In this dynamic episode of the Healthy Careers Podcast, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Lindsey Perrin, a top-performing sales executive at Veradigm, to explore the crucial role of strategic partnerships in orthopedics and healthcare innovation.

Lindsey shares her unique professional journey—from Disney World to healthcare technology sales—and breaks down how revenue cycle management, client engagement, and personal branding drive growth and impact in the orthopedic space. She also offers real-world sales strategies, tips for building strong healthcare relationships, and actionable insights on succeeding in a competitive medical market.

Whether you're a COO building scalable care delivery models, a sales leader targeting provider networks, or a medical student curious about healthcare business development, this episode delivers key insights on how partnerships and people power progress in medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic partnerships are critical to scaling orthopedic practices in a tech-driven world.
• Revenue cycle optimization is not just backend—it directly impacts the patient journey.
• Sales in healthcare is about relationships, trust, and tailored communication.
• Non-traditional career paths can lead to incredible leadership opportunities when driven by curiosity and connection.
• Personal branding is essential for long-term career growth and visibility in healthcare.

Episode Highlights:

00:39 Meet Lindsey Perrin: From Disney Magic to Medical Sales
02:21 Unconventional Career Path: Lindsey’s Journey into Healthcare
02:46 What Veradigm Does: Supporting Orthopedic and Specialty Practices
03:48 Why Revenue Cycle Management Matters
05:48 How Lindsey Builds Long-Term Client Relationships
09:27 Embracing Career Shifts and Growing into Sales
16:03 Asking Better Questions: A Sales Superpower
16:52 Networking in Healthcare: Beyond Handshakes
20:26 What It’s Really Like Working in Healthcare Sales
26:17 Building High-Performance Sales Teams
28:57 Personal Branding and Standing Out
32:40 Final Thoughts: Own Your Career Path

Keywords:

Orthopedic sales strategies,
Strategic partnerships in healthcare,
Revenue cycle management in orthopedics,
Healthcare technology partnerships,
Medical sales career insights,
Building relationships in healthcare,
Healthcare sales networking tips,
Personal branding for medical professionals,
Veradigm EHR and RCM services,
Women in healthcare leadership,
Healthcare innovation podcast,
Business development in medicine,
Career transitions into medical sales,
Value-based care partnerships,

Connect with Lindsey Perrin:

• LinkedIn: Lindsey Perrin
• Visit Veradigm

In this inspiring episode of the Healthy Careers Podcast, host Maddie Traylor welcomes Korrie Hawkins, Director of Human Resources at Nebraska Spine + Pain Center, to discuss her powerful transition from stay-at-home mom to HR leader in neurosurgery.

Korrie shares how her unique journey—filled with both personal sacrifices and professional resilience—led her to thrive in a high-stakes healthcare environment. With real talk about re-entering the workforce, balancing motherhood, and navigating the evolving demands of HR in private practice, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone balancing family, leadership, and career reinvention.

Whether you're a healthcare executive, practice administrator, HR professional, or a parent exploring a career pivot, this episode highlights the importance of transferable life skills, empathy in leadership, and the human side of healthcare hiring.

Key Takeaways:

• HR is a cornerstone of operational success in modern medical practices.
• Motherhood builds leadership skills—from multitasking to emotional intelligence.
• Career breaks don’t mean career ends—they often provide the resilience needed for leadership.
• Supportive culture and values-based hiring drive patient experience and employee satisfaction.

Episode Highlights:

00:39 Meet Korrie Hawkins: Mother, HR Director & Leader in Neurosurgery

02:13 From Stay-at-Home Mom to Career Professional

04:08 Navigating the Challenges and Wins of Motherhood

07:26 HR’s Role in Patient-Centered Healthcare Operations

10:07 Why HR Is Critical in Private Practice Success

27:26 Korrie’s Advice on Rebuilding Confidence & Reentering the Workforce

30:46 Final Takeaways: Building a Supportive and Resilient Career Path

Keywords:

HR in healthcare,
Private practice human resources,
Neurosurgery operations,
Working moms in medicine,
Career reentry after parenting,
HR leadership in medical practices,
Healthcare administration podcast,
Balancing career and family,
Women in healthcare leadership,
Physician hiring and team building,
Employee retention in private practice,
HR advice for medical groups,
Transferable skills from parenting,
Supportive workplace culture in healthcare,

Connect with Korrie Hawkins:

• LinkedIn: Korrie Hawkins
• Visit Nebraska Spine + Pain Center

In this episode of the Healthy Careers podcast, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Dr. Scott Sigman, renowned orthopedic surgeon and Founder/Chief Medical Officer of OrthoLazer, to explore how opioid-free pain management is reshaping the future of orthopedic care.

Dr. Sigman shares his powerful journey through the opioid crisis, which inspired him to seek innovative and evidence-based solutions through photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) — also known as laser therapy. Discover how OrthoLazer is delivering real, non-invasive pain relief while helping patients, physicians, and payers alike avoid opioid dependence.

Whether you're a healthcare leader, rehab specialist, or a patient seeking drug-free options, this episode provides valuable insights into the future of opioid alternatives, laser innovation, and physician branding in modern medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• Laser therapy is a clinically backed alternative to opioids for orthopedic and musculoskeletal pain.

• Photobiomodulation is gaining traction with surgeons, physical therapists, and patients as a drug-free recovery tool.

• OrthoLazer centers are scaling nationally, offering a cash-pay and insurance-friendly model that complements traditional care.

• Healthcare leaders must evolve—through personal branding, mission work, and embracing next-gen technology.

Episode Highlights:

00:35 Meet Dr. Scott Sigman: OrthoLazer Founder & Pain Management Advocate

02:03 The Opioid Epidemic and Birth of OrthoLazer

13:21 The Science of Photobiomodulation Explained

17:26 Why Laser Therapy Works: Inflammation, Pain, and Recovery

18:06 Real-Life Applications: Athletes, Seniors, Surgical Patients

21:20 Giving Back Through Global Surgery Missions in Honduras

24:10 Sneak Peek: Dr. Sigman's Upcoming Book Physician Brand Rx

25:28 How Personal Branding Empowers Healthcare Providers

34:30 Final Reflections: The Future of Orthopedic Care Without Opioids

Keywords:

Opioid alternatives,
Non-opioid pain management,
Orthopedic laser therapy,
Photobiomodulation in healthcare,
Laser therapy for inflammation,
Post-surgical pain relief,
Value-based orthopedic care,
Chronic pain without opioids,
Healthcare innovation podcast,
Branding for physicians,
OrthoLazer treatment,
Drug-free pain solutions,
Healthcare entrepreneurship,
Reducing opioid use in surgery,
Mission-based medical care,

Connect with Dr. Scott Sigman:

• LinkedIn: Dr. Scott Sigman
• Visit: OrthoLazer.com

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor interviews John DeLucchi, CEO and Co-founder of HURT! Coach, about a game-changing innovation in musculoskeletal (MSK) care. With a background in physical therapy and a passion for performance coaching, John shares how HURT! Coach is redefining injury recovery through personalized, accessible, and tech-driven solutions.

Learn how the HURT! App aims to bridge the gap between injury, rehab, and long-term performance, empowering patients, physicians, physical therapists, and health systems alike. From integrating fitness coaching to navigating payment options outside traditional insurance models, this episode is packed with insight for anyone focused on modern MSK care, digital health innovation, and patient-centered solutions.

Whether you're a CEO, COO, clinician, startup founder, recruiter, or patient, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on how technology can reshape recovery, prevent care gaps, and elevate outcomes.Key Takeaways:

• MSK care is evolving fast. HURT! Coach fills critical gaps in patient support between clinic visits and long-term recovery.
• Technology enhances patient outcomes. The app uses real-time coaching, telehealth, and tailored care plans to optimize results.
• Access is key. With multiple payment options—including cash-based and employer models—HURT! Coach aims to serve more people, faster.
• Provider and patient empowerment. From PTs to surgeons, the app creates a seamless workflow for better patient handoffs and collaboration.
• Entrepreneurship in healthcare is rising. John’s journey shows how clinicians can lead innovation when they combine industry insight with tech-forward thinking.

Episode Highlights:

00:41 Meet John DeLucchi: From Physical Therapist to Health Tech Innovator
01:31 The Origin of HURT! Coach and Market Need
02:58 Key Use Cases: From Acute Injury to Long-Term Coaching
08:00 Personalized Care Paths and Accessible Payment Models
14:37 Vision for Expansion: Scaling Nationwide and Beyond
25:41 John's Career Advice for Healthcare Professionals and Entrepreneurs
28:40 Wrap-Up and Call to ActionKeywords:

MSK-focused healthcare providers,
Private practice owners & administrators,
Insurance professionals & value-based care strategists,
DPC & concierge medicine innovators,
Healthcare recruiters & consultants,
Patients navigating injury & recovery,
MSK coaching,
Musculoskeletal care innovation,
Orthopedic app,
Healthcare technology startup,
Digital health platform,
Physical therapy tech,Connect with John DeLucchi:

• LinkedIn: John DeLucchi
• Follow HURT! Coach on LinkedIn for updates: HURT! Coach

Navigating the complex world of insurance in healthcare can be frustrating for both providers and patients.

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Nikki Hudson, Director of Payor Relations at Emerge Ortho, to discuss declining reimbursement rates, payer negotiations, and value-based care strategies.

With 20 years of experience in healthcare administration, Nikki shares insider knowledge on building strong relationships with insurance companies, advocating for better patient outcomes, and developing solutions that balance profitability with quality care.

Whether you're a healthcare executive, physician, or a patient struggling with insurance challenges, this episode provides valuable insights into the financial side of medicine and how to navigate the payer landscape effectively.

Key Takeaways:

• Declining reimbursement rates require strategic solutions. Learn how healthcare organizations are navigating financial pressures while maintaining high-quality patient care.
• Building relationships with payers is crucial. Advocacy, communication, and understanding insurance contracts can lead to better negotiations and patient outcomes.
• Value-based care is reshaping the industry. Healthcare leaders must adapt to new payment models that emphasize patient outcomes over volume-based billing.
• Private equity is impacting healthcare. Discover the effects of corporate investment in medical practices and how it’s changing the business of healthcare.
• Insurance challenges directly affect patient care. Physicians and administrators must work together to ensure patients receive the treatments they need without financial obstacles.

Episode Highlights:

00:43 Meet Nikki Hudson: Building Relationships in Healthcare
01:46 Challenges in Healthcare: Declining Reimbursement Rates
06:05 The Game of Healthcare Administration
17:14 Personal Experiences with Healthcare Policies
20:00 Patient Struggles and Physician Advocacy
22:23 Personal Experience with PRP and Surgery
23:44 Building Relationships with Insurance Companies
24:32 Value-Based Care and Innovative Solutions
30:23 The Role of Mid-Levels in Healthcare
33:26 Private Equity in Healthcare
35:26 Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Administrators
36:48 ConclusionKeywords:

Healthcare payer negotiations,
Declining reimbursement rates in medicine,
Value-based care in orthopedics,
Private equity in healthcare,
Patient advocacy in insurance claims,

Connect with Nikki Hudson:

• LinkedIn: Nikki Hudson
• Visit Emerge Ortho

How can orthopedic surgeons and healthcare professionals use social media to educate, connect, and grow their influence?

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Dr. Lucius Pomerantz, a San Diego-based orthopedic surgeon, to discuss how he built a successful YouTube channel with 7,000+ subscribers and the impact of digital presence in healthcare.

Dr. Pomerantz shares his unique journey into orthopedic surgery, his background in mixed martial arts, and how lifestyle medicine is shaping his approach to patient care. He also provides insider tips on content creation, branding strategies, and the role of social media in the future of healthcare. Whether you're a surgeon, medical professional, or student, this episode offers actionable steps to establish a strong online presence and maximize patient engagement.

Key Takeaways:

• Social Media is a Powerful Tool for Physicians: Engaging with patients and the medical community online can enhance trust, credibility, and professional growth.
• Content Creation Requires Strategy: Consistency, outsourcing when needed, and understanding your audience are key to building a successful online brand.
• MMA and Medicine Have Similarities: Discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking in sports translate well to a career in orthopedic surgery.
• Lifestyle Medicine is the Future: Preventative healthcare and early interventions can significantly improve patient outcomes and public health.
• Healthcare Professionals Must Adapt: Social media is reshaping patient education and medical outreach, making it essential for modern healthcare leaders.

Episode Highlights:

00:39 Meet Dr. Lucius Pomerantz: Orthopedic Surgeon & Social Media Influencer
02:15 The Journey to Becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon
04:34 Mixed Martial Arts and Medical School: A Unique Combination
09:30 Balancing Surgery and Fighting: Challenges and Rewards
13:28 Lifestyle Medicine: A New Certification and Its Impact
19:04 The Importance of Early Health Interventions
19:51 Making America Healthy Again
21:21 Social Media Success in Healthcare
22:02 Starting a YouTube Channel During COVID
23:11 Combining Orthopedic Surgery and Fighting
24:13 The Learning Curve of Content Creation
26:54 The Value of Outsourcing Content Creation
27:45 Why Physicians Need a Social Media Presence
31:55 Advice for Building an Online Brand
33:16 The Future of Social Media in Healthcare
Keywords:

Healthcare social media strategy,
Orthopedic surgeon digital branding,
Lifestyle medicine and early interventions,
Mixed martial arts and medical career,
Personal branding for physicians,Connect with Dr. Lucius Pomerantz:

• LinkedIn: Lucius Pomerantz
• YouTube: Cut to the Bone
• Instagram: @drlucmd
• Facebook: Dr. Lucius "Fight Doc"
• TikTok: @cut.to.the.bone

Summary

In this masterclass on LinkedIn branding, Madison Loomis emphasizes the importance of personal branding for healthcare professionals. She discusses how to effectively craft a LinkedIn profile, engage with others, and create valuable content to enhance visibility and networking opportunities. The session also covers strategies for analyzing performance on LinkedIn and offers insights into maintaining authenticity while building a professional online presence.

Keywords:

LinkedIn branding, personal brand, professional networking, profile optimization, content sharing, engagement strategies, healthcare professionals, social media presence, career development, online reputation

How does team culture impact patient care in healthcare organizations?

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Matt Crill, Regional VP at OrthoAlliance, to explore the connection between leadership, teamwork, and patient outcomes.

Matt shares his unique career journey from physical therapist to executive leadership, offering insights on taking strategic risks, leveraging technology for patient care, and balancing clinical expertise with business operations. Whether you're a healthcare provider, aspiring leader, or administrator, this episode provides actionable strategies for career growth and fostering a strong team culture in medical organizations.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Starts with Patient-Centric Care: Successful healthcare leaders maintain a balance between business operations and patient well-being.
• Team Culture Drives Success: A collaborative and motivated team is key to providing high-quality patient care and driving organizational growth.
• Embrace Technology: Innovations in healthcare tech are reshaping patient care and operational efficiency, making adaptability a must for modern leaders.
• Take Calculated Risks: Moving from clinical to leadership roles requires stepping outside of comfort zones and embracing new challenges.
• Lifelong Learning & Mentorship Matter: Surrounding yourself with mentors and continuously upskilling can accelerate career growth in healthcare.

Episode Highlights:

00:37 Meet Matt Crill: From PT to VP
01:17 OrthoAlliance: Growth, Challenges & Strategic Expansion
04:43 The Role of Clinical Experience in Leadership
06:16 Balancing Patient Care with Business Operations
20:26 The Power of Technology in Improving Patient Outcomes
29:21 Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Leaders & Mentorship

Keywords:

Healthcare leadership & career growth,
Team culture in healthcare organizations,
Technology in orthopedic private practice,
Balancing patient care & business operations,
Mentorship & career development for healthcare professionals,

Connect with Matt Crill:

• LinkedIn: Matt Crill
• Visit: OrthoAlliance

How can physician associates (PAs) take control of their careers, stand out in the job market, and achieve financial success? 

In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Jeff Brown, Director of Advanced Practice at the Community Neurosciences Institute and Founder of Physician Associate Coaching, to break down the key strategies for career advancement in the PA profession.

Jeff shares his journey from neurosurgery PA to leadership and offers valuable insights on personal branding, interview preparation, contract negotiation, and financial management. Whether you're a new grad PA, a seasoned provider, or considering leadership roles, this episode provides practical advice to help you maximize your career potential.Key Takeaways:

• Your Online Presence Matters: Optimize your LinkedIn profile & social media to showcase your skills and stand out to recruiters.
• Mastering Job Interviews: Prepare thoroughly, ask insightful questions, and avoid common interview mistakes to secure top roles.
• Contract & Salary Negotiation: Learn how to analyze job offers, negotiate contracts, and ensure fair compensation.
• Financial Success for PAs: Managing debt, investments, and salary growth is essential for long-term financial stability.
• Mentorship is a Game-Changer: Seeking career coaching and mentorship can fast-track your professional development.

Episode Highlights:

00:46 Meet Jeff Brown: Director, Founder & PA Career Coach
01:20 Jeff’s Journey in Neurosurgery & Leadership
02:27 The Birth of Physician Associate Coaching
03:44 Challenges & Growth in PA Leadership
11:48 Coaching Services for Pre-PAs & Job Seekers
17:37 Resume Reviews & Professional Branding
25:57 The Power of Social Media & LinkedIn for PAs
29:03 Resume & LinkedIn Consistency: Why It Matters
29:39 Interview Prep: Common Mistakes & How to Stand Out
31:13 Asking the Right Questions in Interviews
35:44 Contract Reviews & Negotiation Strategies
41:26 Salary Negotiation & Wealth-Building Tips for PAs
58:00 Introduction to Financial Success for Healthcare Providers
1:02:28 The Role of Mentorship & Consulting in Career Growth
1:03:46 Navigating Career Decisions as a New Grad PA
1:05:14 Conclusion & Special Offer

Keywords:

Physician Associate career growth,
PA salary negotiation & contract review,
LinkedIn branding for healthcare professionals,
PA job interview tips & mock interviews,
Leadership roles in healthcare for PAs,
Financial success & wealth-building for healthcare providers,Connect with Jeff Brown:

• LinkedIn: Jeff Brown
• Visit Physician Associate Coaching