Succeed in Medicine: Practical Knowledge for Busy Physicians

By Bradley B. Block, MD, Doctor Podcast NetworkBusiness Medicine Health & Fitness Education Self-Improvement Careers

Succeed in Medicine: Practical Knowledge for Busy Physicians episodes

February 03Turning Difficult Patient Experiences into Remarkable Encounters with Shep Hyken | Ep503
How can physicians and their teams deliver exceptional patient experiences, even when things go wrong?
In this episode of Succeed In Medicine Podcast, Dr. Bradley Block interviews Shep Hyken, as he shares practical strategies for elevating patient care, emphasizing that "amazing" service doesn't require grand gestures, it's about being slightly better than average, consistently. Drawing parallels from hospitality giants like the Ritz-Carlton, he explains how using patients' names, setting clear expectations, and leveraging technology like patient portals can reduce friction and build loyalty.
The conversation dives into handling "moments of misery," such as late appointments or scheduling mishaps, with a five-step process: acknowledge the issue, apologize, discuss resolutions, own the problem, and act with urgency. Shep also stresses the importance of creating a patient-focused culture through leadership, training, and hiring for personality fit. He introduces concepts like "destination employment" to foster employee fulfillment and uniqueness, ensuring staff feel empowered to deliver compassionate care. Ultimately, Shep reinforces that patients compare healthcare experiences to top-tier service in any industry, so practices must prioritize convenience, empathy, and proactive communication to stand out.
Three Actionable Takeaways
Define "Amazing" as Consistent Excellence: Aim to be just 10% better than average every time—through friendly interactions, using patients' names, and meeting expectations reliably—to create loyalty without over-the-top efforts.
Turn Complaints into Opportunities: Use a five-step process for moments of misery: acknowledge the issue, apologize, discuss fixes with options, own the resolution personally, and act urgently to rebuild trust.
Build a Patient-Focused Culture: Start with leadership by defining a one-sentence vision for the experience, communicate it repeatedly, train staff ongoingly, role-model behaviors, defend the standards, and celebrate successes to empower your team.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, award-winning keynote speaker, researcher, and New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He has been quoted in hundreds of publications and is the author of eight books, including his most recent, "I'll Be Back: How to Get Customers to Come Back Again and Again." Shep works with companies and organizations that want to build loyal relationships with their customers and employees.
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shephyken
Website: hyken.com
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
34 min
January 27GLP-1 Agonists: Separating Fact from Fiction with Sean Wharton, MD, PharmD, Part 2| Ep502
Could medications originally designed for diabetes actually help treat addiction, eating disorders, and the biology of cravings?
In this part 2 of 2-part episode of Succeed In Medicine Podcast, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Dr. Sean Wharton, to dig deeper into the science, myths, and emerging uses of GLP-1 agonists. Dr. Wharton explains that these medications don’t simply reduce appetite, they calm what he calls “food noise,” the constant mental pull toward eating that many people with obesity experience. This neurological effect has opened the door to exciting possibilities: early research suggests GLP-1 drugs may also reduce cravings for alcohol and other addictive behaviors. Dr. Wharton also clarifies the confusing world of brand names. Ozempic and Wegovy are both semaglutide; Mounjaro and Zepbound are tirzepatide. The differences are largely about FDA indications and insurance coverage, not completely different medications.
The episode tackles common fears patients and clinicians hear every day. Do these medications cause eating disorders? No, in fact, they may help treat them. Are the side effects dangerous? Usually not, and most are manageable with proper dosing. Is “Ozempic face” real? It’s simply normal fat loss, not a drug-specific problem. Most importantly, Dr. Wharton reinforces a compassionate, evidence-based message: obesity is a chronic, biological disease, and GLP-1 medications are tools to treat it, just like medications for blood pressure or diabetes.
Three Actionable Takeaways
GLP-1 Medications Affect the Brain as Much as the Stomach: These drugs reduce “food noise” and cravings, helping patients regain control over eating behaviors. Their impact is neurological, not simply about willpower or restriction.
Side Effects Are Real—but Usually Manageable: Nausea, constipation, and GI symptoms are the most common issues, especially early on. Starting low and increasing doses slowly makes treatment far more tolerable.
Treatment Decisions Should Be Individualized: Not every patient must stay on these medications forever. Conversations about duration, goals, and expectations should be collaborative and tailored to each person.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Dr. Sean Wharton holds doctorates in Pharmacy and Medicine from the University of Toronto. He is the Director of the Wharton Medical Clinic, a community-based weight management and diabetes clinic, and serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and Adjunct Professor at McMaster and York Universities.
Dr. Wharton is the lead author of the 2020 Canadian Obesity Guidelines, recognized worldwide, and has published extensively in major medical journals including the New England Journal of Medicine. He is a passionate advocate for health equity and improving the way obesity is understood and treated in healthcare.
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drseanwharton
Website: whartonmedicalclinic.com
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
24 min
January 20GLP-1 Agonists: Separating Fact from Fiction with Sean Wharton, MD, PharmD, Part 1| Ep501
Are GLP-1 medications truly revolutionizing medicine—or are we just seeing the latest healthcare hype cycle?
In this part 1 of 2- part episode of Succeed In Medicine Podcast, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Dr. Sean Wharton, to explore the real story behind GLP-1 agonists, how they were discovered, how they work, and why they suddenly became cultural blockbusters. Dr. Wharton explains that while the public sees these drugs as new, clinicians in diabetes care have been using them for over a decade. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications revealed an unexpected benefit: meaningful weight loss. What began as a “sleeper drug” for glucose control became a global phenomenon once their impact on appetite and cravings was understood.
A major theme of the discussion is the concept of “food noise”—the relentless mental pull toward food that many patients experience. Dr. Wharton describes how this biological drive makes long-term weight loss extraordinarily difficult and why willpower alone is rarely enough. GLP-1 medications work by quieting this food noise, helping patients regain control over their eating behaviors.
The conversation also tackles tough questions clinicians and patients ask every day:
Why do people need to stay on these medications long-term?

Why do patients with diabetes lose less weight than those without?

Is obesity truly a disease, and how should doctors talk about it?

Are the benefits due to the drug itself or simply the weight loss?

Dr. Wharton breaks down the biology of GLP-1 hormones, their role in insulin regulation and appetite control, and why these drugs have been such rare “unicorns” in medicine, highly effective with relatively few side effects.
This episode sets the stage for Part 2, where they will dive deeper into myths, side effects, and practical prescribing guidance.
Three Actionable Takeaways
Obesity Is a Biological Disease, Not a Willpower Problem: Food noise and cravings are driven by hormones and brain chemistry. GLP-1 medications treat these biological mechanisms, not a character flaw.
Long-Term Treatment Is Often Necessary: Just like medications for blood pressure or cholesterol, GLP-1 drugs address a chronic condition. Stopping treatment usually means the underlying biology—and weight—returns.
Language Matters in Patient Care: Clinicians should approach weight with empathy and humility. Inviting patients into a respectful conversation about options is far more effective than blaming or shaming.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Dr. Sean Wharton holds doctorates in Pharmacy and Medicine from the University of Toronto. He is the Director of the Wharton Medical Clinic, a community-based weight management and diabetes clinic, and serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and Adjunct Professor at McMaster and York Universities.
Dr. Wharton is the lead author of the 2020 Canadian Obesity Guidelines, recognized worldwide, and has published extensively in major medical journals including the New England Journal of Medicine. He is a passionate advocate for health equity and improving the way obesity is understood and treated in healthcare.
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drseanwharton
Website: whartonmedicalclinic.com
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
30 min
January 13How Physicians Survive Medical Mistakes without Losing Themselves, with Danielle Ofri, MD, PhD | Ep500
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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Join us for Doctor PodFest in Florida! Go here to secure your ticket: Here
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What if owning your medical mistakes could rebuild trust and prevent future harm?
In this profound episode, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Dr. Danielle Ofri, to explore the raw realities of errors in medicine. Sharing a vivid story from her residency, Dr. Ofri discusses why mistakes happen, the difference between guilt which drives improvement, and shame which paralyzes, and the power of genuine apologies. Ideal for physicians grappling with perfectionism, this conversation offers strategies for self-compassion, seeking mentors, and creating systems that support clinicians, helping you continue caring without being crushed by uncertainty.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Distinguish Guilt from Shame: Guilt focuses on the error and motivates change e.g., "I forgot the long-acting insulin, next time I'll double-check protocols". Shame attacks your identity "I'm a bad doctor". Dr. Ofri advises recognizing this to avoid paralysis; practice by journaling an error's facts versus your emotional narrative, then discuss with a trusted colleague to reframe it productively.
Bear Witness to Suffering: For patients and peers, simply listening and acknowledging pain builds trust, whether it's a patient's chronic illness story or a colleague's post-error distress. Try this: Next time a teammate struggles, offer a quick check-in like "Need a coffee break?" to foster community and remind them they're valued beyond one mistake.
Deliver Genuine Apologies: Avoid passive language; own your role actively e.g., "I'm sorry my oversight contributed to this outcome, I've been reflecting deeply and changing my process". Patients value transparency and prevention steps; role-play with a mentor before tough talks to ensure honesty while consulting risk management for legal guidance.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Dr. Danielle Ofri is a primary care internist at Bellevue Hospital and clinical professor at NYU. She's a renowned writer on medical emotions for outlets like The New York Times and The New Yorker. Founder of Bellevue Literary Review, she's authored books like "What Doctors Feel" and "When We Do Harm," focusing on errors and humanity in medicine.
Website: danielleofri.com
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
41 min
January 06The Quickest Way to De-escalate a Hostile Patient with Luke Wiesner | Ep499
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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Join us for Doctor PodFest in Florida! Go here to secure your ticket: Here
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What if an angry patient's "eruption" isn't an attack on you, but a desperate attempt to protect something vital, like their health, time, or family?
In this essential episode, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Luke Wiesner, a seasoned conflict specialist who's trained hundreds of healthcare teams, to unpack de-escalation strategies for volatile patient interactions. Drawing from his decade of experience in mediation and coaching, Luke introduces the "volcano" model: eruptions stem from underlying pressures, not malice. He outlines a repeatable framework: regulate yourself, relate to their emotions e.g., frustration over wasted time, seek understanding, and collaboratively solve problems while offering choices. They discuss avoiding defensiveness, acknowledging experiences even if "wrong", empowering staff with boundaries, and knowing when to escalate for safety. Perfect for physicians and teams facing post-COVID edge in offices or hospitals.
If tense encounters leave you or your staff drained, this blueprint empowers you to de-escalate safely, foster trust, and reduce burnout, making you the office hero.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Regulate yourself first to avoid fueling the fire: When facing an eruption, pause for deep breaths or a quick mental reset, remind yourself they're protecting something vital (health, time, money). This prevents defensiveness, decoupling you from being seen as the "threat," and sets the stage for calm rapport-building.
Relate and reflect to build connection: Acknowledge their emotion with muted words like "frustrated" or "concerned", avoid "angry" to prevent pushback. Reflect on their experience: "This probably isn't how you planned to spend your afternoon, I can see how frustrating that is." Genuinely show you care to shift from adversaries to allies, using nonverbal cues like tone for authenticity.
Solve collaboratively and set boundaries: Offer options for control e.g., "We can slot you in two weeks or add you to the waitlist, which works?". If inappropriate (e.g., profanity, threats), give a choice: "I'd like to help, but I can't if you continue speaking that way—let's adjust, or I'll need to involve my manager." Know your office's escalation protocol (e.g., security) for safety.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Luke Wiesner has been a conflict specialist since 2014, offering mediation, coaching, training, and facilitation to workplaces, families, communities, and individuals. He's partnered with hundreds of organizations across industries, including healthcare, where he's helped physicians, surgeons, and teams de-escalate patient conflicts, improve communication, and resolve issues in clinical and office settings.
LinkedIn: Luke Wiesner
Website: https://www.lukewiesner.com
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
31 min
December 30, 2025Most Popular Episode of 2025 | Ep498
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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Join us for Doctor PodFest in Florida! Go here to secure your ticket: Here
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In a world drowning in clutter, how can physicians reclaim their space and sanity?
Host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes Tracy McCubbin, to explore the psychology behind hoarding and practical decluttering strategies. With two decades of helping clients—including many doctors—McCubbin explains how our hunter-gatherer instincts and sentimental attachments fuel a $10 billion storage industry. She addresses Dr. Block’s paper-hoarding habits, the outdated textbooks in his office, and the challenge of managing kids’ toys, offering insights on separating decluttering, organizing, and cleaning. This episode equips physicians with tools to break free from clutter paralysis and foster independence in their families.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Separate decluttering, organizing, and cleaning: Declutter first. Ask: Do I need, like, or use it? Toss sentimental "might-need-it-someday" papers unless reading immediately. Then organize. Where does it live so I can find it fast?. Clean last. Physicians: Ditch printed articles or outdated textbooks, bookmark digitally; info doesn't vanish and evolves quickly.
Personalize systems to your brain: Match organization to how you process e.g., chronological vs. categories. For doctors' "paper people" habits, use bookmark folders over prints. At home/office, ensure stuff supports goals: rest, work, family, not blocks them. Habits like "keys in bowl" prevent morning chaos, especially for neurospicy/ADHD brains.
Curb kid/family clutter at the source: Rotate toys monthly to spark imagination, fewer toys, more play, per child development. Parents and grandparents: Skip guilt buys; teach cleanup for independence ("Know where army guys are? Grab 'em yourself!"). Couples: If space allows. Prioritize shared goals over perfection. Turn old ones into quilts if needed.

About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Tracy McCubbin is the CEO and founder of dClutter Fly, one of America’s top decluttering companies, where she has helped thousands of clients, including physicians, clear clutter over the past 20 years. She is the author of Making Space Clutter-Free and her latest book, Make Space for Happiness. Recently, she transformed dClutter Fly into a franchise, empowering others to join her mission. Known for her practical and empathetic approach, McCubbin addresses the emotional and psychological barriers to decluttering, offering solutions tailored to busy professionals.
Website: https://dclutterfly.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracy_mccubbin/?hl=en
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@tracy_mccubbin

About the host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Physician’s Guide to Doctoring podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
32 min
December 23, 2025My Favorite Episode of 2025 | Ep497
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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What if the search for your “one true purpose” is actually making you miserable and the real path to a regret-free life is simpler than you think?
In this insightful conversation, Dr. Bradley Block reconnects with returning guest Dr. Jordan Grumet to explore the ideas in his new book, The Purpose Code. Building on his first book Taking Stock, Jordan tackles the question he’s asked most: “How do I actually find purpose?” He breaks down why we get purpose wrong, introduces Big P vs. little p purpose, and shares why focusing on process over outcome creates abundance, community, and lasting happiness. From hospice stories to personal examples like podcasting and baseball cards, Jordan shows physicians how to build purpose around what truly fills them up, without needing to quit medicine or chase scarcity-driven goals.
If you’ve ever felt purpose anxiety or wondered whether being a doctor is “enough,” this episode offers a practical, liberating framework to live intentionally and regret-free.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Distinguish Big P from little p purpose: Stop chasing scarce, audacious goals (e.g., curing cancer, becoming a billionaire) that breed anxiety and failure. Instead, identify activities where you love the process itself regardless of outcome or pay. Ask: “Would I do this even if no one paid me or noticed?” These abundant little p purposes bring joy, flow, and surprisingly greater impact.
Build purpose now, not after financial milestones: Don’t wait for financial independence to pursue what lights you up. Use the 5–6 hours of daily free time most people have to fill time slots with purposeful activities. At work, maximize what you enjoy (addition), minimize what you loathe (subtraction), or switch roles or employers to increase joy without blowing up your finances.
Pair purpose with meaning for true happiness: Purpose (present/future actions that fill you up) needs meaning, a heroic narrative of your past, to thrive. Reframe past struggles as a hero’s journey “I am enough” to quiet victim stories that sabotage new purposeful pursuits. Strong relationships and community naturally flow from living your little p purpose, which research shows is the biggest predictor of health and longevity.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:

Dr. Jordan Grumet, known as Doc G, is an associate medical director at Unity Hospice, a Plutus award-winning podcaster for Earn & Invest, and a prominent voice in the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) community. With a background in internal medicine and a shift to hospice care, he authored Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor’s Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life, which reshaped how people align money with values. His second book, The Purpose Code (releasing January 7, 2025), explores creating purpose through process rather than goals, drawing from his hospice insights and personal journey to inspire a fulfilling life.
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jordan-grumet-38a506179
Website: https://jordangrumet.com/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ng/podcast/earn-invest/id1440355498
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
33 min
December 16, 2025Goal Setting and Planning for Busy Doctors with Sarah Hart-Unger, MD | Ep496
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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What if planning wasn’t about rigid to-do lists… but about carving out time for surfing with your kids, date nights, and saying “no” to overwhelm?
In this practical episode, Dr. Bradley Block sits with Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger to explore her simple system for goal-setting and life management. Sarah reveals how she evolved from a time-strapped resident to a mom of three who balances medicine, podcasts, and adventure. Dive into yearly visioning (e.g., “What do I really want?”), quarterly goals, monthly calendars, and daily rituals that prevent fires from derailing your dreams. She shares pitfalls like neglecting partner time, the power of friend spreadsheets, and why spontaneity thrives on structure. Drawing from her book, “Best Laid Plans“ and courses, Sarah proves planning is the “knife-sharpening” for a delicious life—efficient, fun, and regret-free.
If your to-do list runs you instead of the other way around, this is your blueprint to reclaim balance and build memories that matter.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Start with yearly visioning: Dedicate hours annually to brainstorm big dreams (e.g., surfing with kids). List audacious goals, then revisit seasonally. Break into quarterly milestones like booking a trip, to keep them alive. This ensures daily life aligns with what excites you, turning “someday” into reality without overwhelm.
Master task management: Use a “brain dump” to capture everything, then categorize into urgent vs. important. Schedule non-negotiables first (e.g., dates, friends), block deep work, and review weekly. Embrace tools like digital calendars or spreadsheets to track progress, preventing fires while creating space for spontaneity and joy.
Evaluate opportunities thoughtfully: Before saying yes, scan your calendar for fit. Consider energy, family, and fun. Phases matter: Early career? Take more risks. With kids? Be selective. Prioritize relationships (e.g., friend tiers, date nights) to avoid regrets. Planning sharpens life like a chef’s knife—efficient and delicious.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger is a practicing physician, podcaster, and planning expert who honed her methods during residency and motherhood. Creator of Best Laid Plans Academy with over 100 graduates, she hosts the podcasts Best Laid Plans (solo on planning) and Best of Both Worlds (co-hosted with Laura Vanderkam on work-life fit).
Her new book, Best Laid Plans: A Simple Planning System for Living a Life That You Love, offers modern tools for busy lives, balancing medicine, family, and fun.
Connect with Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger:
Book: Best Laid Plans (available mid-December at major retailers)
Podcasts: Best Laid Plans; Best of Both Worlds
Website: theshubox.com (for courses, blog, and more)
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
36 min
December 09, 2025How Physician Leaders Handle Change-Resistant Colleagues, with John Schneider, MD | Ep495
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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What do you do when a colleague needs coaching but resists every step?
In this essential episode for physician leaders, host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes back Dr. John Schneider, as they explore starting productive conversations with those who don't want to hear it: from remediation for below-standard behavior to subtle issues. Dr. Schneider stresses asking questions from their perspective, building psychological safety, and inviting participation to open doors for change, not pushing through them. He warns against "hammer" approaches like HR escalation unless minimum competencies fail, and shares the "challenge plus support" quadrant: challenge without support leads to retreat; support without challenge stalls growth. Drawing from his roles as Assistant Dean for Faculty Coaching and private practice coach, he emphasizes leading with belief in people, connecting to their original "calling" in medicine, and accepting that not everyone will walk through the door. If you're in leadership facing resistance.
This episode offers nuanced, practical strategies to foster trust, inspire evolution, and avoid burnout for you and your team.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Start with Their Perspective, Not Yours: When addressing resistance, ask questions that uncover what they need, not what you think they need. Avoid starting from remediation or "hammer" tactics; build psychological safety by showing you believe in them, inviting participation to make change feel meaningful and voluntary.
Balance Challenge and Support for Growth: Use the quadrants: Challenge without support causes retreat; support without challenge leads to stagnation. As a leader, consciously provide both, holding accountable while being "with them" to open doors for self-reflection and behavior shifts, even if they don't always step through.
Reconnect to Their Original Calling: Remind resistant colleagues of why they chose medicine, the inspiration that's often buried under policies and metrics. Frame changes as ways to rediscover that purpose, making evolution feel like a personal win, not an imposed fix; not everyone changes, but this invites possibility.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Dr. John Schneider is the Division Chief of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery and Associate Professor at Washington University in St. Louis. He serves as the university’s first Assistant Dean for Faculty Coaching and is a Master Certified Physician Development Coach. In addition to his academic and clinical roles, Dr. Schneider runs his own coaching practice called Physicians’ Mind Coaching, focused on helping physicians improve self-awareness, leadership, communication, and professional fulfillment. He is a nationally recognized expert in physician coaching, particularly in having difficult conversations, addressing disruptive behavior, building psychological safety, and guiding reluctant physicians toward personal and professional growth. He trains faculty coaches at Wash U and frequently speaks on topics including conflict resolution, the coach approach in leadership, and burnout prevention.

Email: [email protected]
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
34 min
December 02, 2025The Two-Step Process for Turning Difficult Patients into Raving Fans, with Doug Noll, JD | Ep494
This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.
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When a patient storms in frustrated or scared, what if you could de-escalate in under 90 seconds?
In this eye-opening episode, host Dr Bradley Block chats with Doug Noll, as he explains "affect labeling": simply reflecting emotions ("You’re frustrated, worried, scared") to downshift the brain’s limbic system and reactivate executive function. Backed by UCLA studies, this tool builds instant trust, makes visits efficient, and works on anyone, from ER patients to grocery clerks. Learn the 3-step process: ignore words for 90 seconds, read emotions innately, and reflect without "I understand." Doug shares role-plays, practice tips like labeling TV ads or silent shows, and why this flips arguments by meeting the universal need to be heard. Perfect for physicians facing high-stakes emotions, this episode equips you to listen people "into existence" for calmer, more connected care.
Three Actionable Takeaways:
Master Affect Labeling Basics: Ignore words for 90 seconds, read emotions instinctively (we’re hardwired for it), and reflect with "You" statements like "You’re frustrated, scared, confused." This downshifts the limbic system, calms patients fast, and builds trust by showing deep understanding without saying "I get it."
Practice Everywhere for Real-World Skill: Label emotions in ads, silent TV scenes, or checkout chats to hone listening without words. Start with strangers ("You’re excited your shift’s ending?") to see shoulders drop and rapport build, proving it works beyond medicine, even in prisons or arguments.
Flip Tension into Connection: In visits, label all fears upfront (pain, failure as parents) to deregulate emotions, then hype positively ("You’re loving, doing everything right"). This meets the unmet need to be heard, ends escalations, and makes encounters efficient, enjoyable, and loyalty-building.
About the Show:
Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!
About the Guest:
Doug Noll is a former civil trial lawyer turned award-winning mediator and peacemaker. He left a successful legal career to focus on resolving deep conflict and teaching de-escalation skills that actually work even in maximum-security prisons. Co-founder of the Prison of Peace Project, Doug has trained incarcerated individuals to become certified mediators, proving his methods succeed in the toughest environments.
He is the author of the bestselling book De-Escalate: How to Calm an Angry Person in 90 Seconds or Less, which teaches a neuroscience-backed technique called affect labeling (reflecting emotions to instantly calm the brain), and offers the Advanced Emotional Competency online course.
Website: dougnoll.com
Email: [email protected]
Book on Amazon : De-Escalate
About the Host:
Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians
Want to be a guest?
Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!
Socials:
@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook
@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube
@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter
This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!
Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow!
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
32 min

About Succeed in Medicine: Practical Knowledge for Busy Physicians

From the publisher's feed

Was your medical education enough to handle everything physician life demands? From lawsuits to leadership, career decisions to challenging conversations, balancing the personal with the professional — not enough was addressed in medical school, residency or fellowship.