In this episode, we explore the journey of Dr. Danielle Torres, who faced the daunting decision of whether to pursue a traditional residency or forge a new path in a nonclinical role. At a crossroads between the familiar route of residency in psychiatry and the uncharted territories outside of clinical medicine, Dr. Torres shares her introspective choice to follow what truly makes her come alive. This conversation not only sheds light on the alternatives available to medical graduates but also serves those grappling with similar career dilemmas. Dr. Torres' story is a testament to the power of listening to one's inner voice and the courage to embrace the unknown, offering invaluable insights and encouragement to doctors at any stage of their professional journey who yearn for fulfillment beyond the conventional. 

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode178

In this episode we’re talking about:

• The importance of internal alignment over external expectations or traditional career trajectories.
• Dr. Torres' transition to a fulfilling career in the AI radiology space, where she leverages her medical knowledge.
• How the skills and knowledge acquired during medical school can be invaluable in various roles outside of direct patient care.
• The difficulty of departing from the well-defined path of residency and clinical practice and facing the unknown.
• How seeking support from family and mentors can provide encouragement when making unconventional career choices.
• The importance of pursuing career paths that bring a sense of fulfillment, rather than following traditional metrics of success.
• Opportunities for those with and without residency outside of direct patient care, including roles in AI, healthcare startups, and other innovative areas

Links for this episode:

 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!

In medicine, the path to fulfillment and success isn't linear or confined within the walls of traditional practice. This episode highlights the journey of Dr. Lanna Cheuck, who transitioned from a urologic surgeon into the founder of a leading medical aesthetics spa. Dr. Cheuck's story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of passion beyond conventional boundaries. Her transition, fueled by personal challenges and a desire to forge her own path, offers inspiration and practical insights for physicians feeling the sting of burnout and desire for change. As a guide and mentor, Dr. Cheuck is not only a successful entrepreneur; she is a symbol of hope for doctors seeking to rediscover their purpose and find fulfillment beyond established roles. 

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode177

In this episode we’re talking about:

• Dr. Lanna Cheuck's transition from a urologic surgeon to a successful entrepreneur owning a medical aesthetic practice.
• The daily responsibilities of working in aesthetics and how to discern if it's the ideal role for you.
• The profound impact aesthetic medicine can have on patients' lives, enhancing their self-esteem and confidence.
• Ways entrepreneurship offers the potential for greater work-life balance, flexibility, and personal fulfillment.
• The challenges of gender dynamics and pay disparity in medicine, and finding empowerment in establishing a new career path.
• Dr. Cheuck's efforts in creating a supportive community for physicians transitioning into aesthetics and the value of mentorship.
• Overcoming obstacles such as criticism and cyberbullying, and the importance of resilience. 

Links for this episode:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorlanna/

Website: www.doctorlanna.com

If you're a physician dreaming of more flexibility in your career, then you're in for a treat. Today, we embark on a fascinating journey with Dr. Adria Schmedthorst, who traded in her chiropractic practice for a dynamic career in healthcare copywriting. Discover how she cracked the code to work-life balance, transitioning from long hours in healthcare to more time freedom and flexibility with her own thriving business. Tune in now for an eye-opening exploration into the world of copywriting and discover how you, too, can use your writing skills to create more flexibility and income.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode176

In this episode we’re talking about:

• How having a special needs child led Dr. Adria Schmedthorst to build a thriving new career with excellent flexibility as a sought-after copywriter
• How copywriting differs from medical writing - offering an avenue to spark creativity and drive action
• Why copywriting is a promising avenue for physicians seeking greater flexibility and income beyond traditional clinical practice
• The diverse range of clients and industries in copywriting
• Insights into the compensation structure within the copywriting industry
• The role of AI in copywriting and implications for businesses in creating compelling content
• A valuable resource recommended by Dr. Schmedthorst for individuals interested in diving deeper into the field of copywriting

Links for this episode:

AMScopy - Dr. Adria Schmedthorst’s Business 

American Writers and Authors Institute 

Medical Writing Resource Guide - This detailed guide gives you an introduction to medical writing as well as links for courses, books, websites, and tips for exploring this diverse area. Contains steps you can take whether you want to do medical writing as a side gig or work full-time as a freelancer or on staff in a company. This guide includes a new section with resources for copywriting. 

This week we're diving into the second part of our series on toxic work environments. In part one, we discussed the impact of toxicity on professional fulfillment and strategies for identifying toxic environments and leaders. In this week’s episode, we're joined again by Dr. Ann Chinnis to explore strategies for healing and moving forward when faced with toxicity in the workplace. Drawing from her extensive experience as an emergency medicine physician and executive coach, Dr. Chinnis provides valuable insights into the impact of your environment, how to seek support, and take decisive action to protect your well-being.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode175

In this episode we’re talking about:

• The impact a toxic environment has on mental health and professional fulfillment
• Examples of physicians who have experienced toxic work environments
• The value of self-advocacy and weighing the potential impact on one's career.
• Understanding the procedures for lodging complaints about a hostile workplace
• When to consider consulting with an employment attorney
• Approaches to healing from the trauma of a toxic work environment
• Importance of trusting your instincts and seeking help for workplace concerns

Links for this episode:

Matrixexecutivecoaching.com

Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, Dr. Heather Fork offers one-hour Zoom consultations. This one-hour coaching session may be all that you need to gain clarity and have some concrete steps for moving forward. Dr. Fork also has a 5-month coaching program for those physicians wanting additional assistance (subject to availability). For more information please reach out to Kati at [email protected].

Have you ever navigated through the murky waters of a toxic work environment, and felt confused about what to do and how to get help? In today's episode, we welcome Dr. Ann Chinnis, an emergency medicine physician, to explore the dynamics of toxic work environments in medicine. Dr. Chinnis discusses the red flags of toxic workplaces and delves into the traits of four distinct types of toxic leaders, focusing particularly on the behavior of narcissists. Join us as we uncover the impact of toxicity on professional fulfillment and discuss strategies for identifying toxic environments. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode174 In this episode we’re talking about:

• Recognizing the signs that indicate a toxic work environment
• Differentiating between personal performance issues and environmental toxicity
• Understanding the characteristics of the four types of toxic leaders 
• The prevalence of narcissism in medicine and recognizing the traits of a narcissist 
• Navigating power dynamics within hierarchical medical structures
• Subtle forms of harassment and discriminatory behavior
• Various ways toxic environments affect physicians including diminishing confidence and creating self-doubt

Links for this episode:

Matrixexecutivecoaching.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! Physician Transition Starter Kit - A “must have” when you’re questioning your career path. This 25-page guide answers many of your questions about career transition, nonclinical options, and how to just get started.

Ever found yourself at a crossroads, wondering if there's more to your career than meets the eye? Join us this week with our guest, Dr. Leif Lovig, a pediatric cardiologist, as he unveils his journey through career dissatisfaction toward clarity and fulfillment. Dr. Lovig's story reveals the challenges, victories, and transformative insights encountered along the way, showcasing how physicians can redefine success and find professional fulfillment beyond the conventional path.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode173

In this episode we’re talking about:

• Recognizing how personality traits influence career decision-making.
• Embracing uncertainty with resilience and introspection
• How to redefine success and find fulfillment beyond traditional norms
• Importance of negotiating workload, schedule, and compensation
• The role of coaching and mentorship in career transitions
• Leveraging relationships within the medical community for opportunities
• Finding courage to move forward despite uncertainties in career trajectories

Links for this episode: Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, Dr. Heather Fork offers one-hour Zoom consultations. This one-hour coaching session may be all that you need to gain clarity and have some concrete steps for moving forward. Dr. Fork also has a 5-month coaching program for those physicians wanting additional assistance (subject to availability). For more information please reach out to Kati at [email protected].

Are you wondering how you can make a global impact while still leveraging your clinical skills? Join us in this fascinating conversation with Dr. Nick Agathis as he shares insights into his role at the CDC as a medical officer specializing in pediatric TB, HIV, and advanced HIV disease. Dr. Agathis highlights the diverse opportunities available at the CDC for physicians, ranging from data analysis and epidemiology to consulting and service delivery. He shares his own journey from clinical medicine to public health, emphasizing the rewarding impact and fulfillment he finds in his current role.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode172

In this episode we’re talking about:

• Dr. Nick Agathis’ journey from clinical medicine to public health, emphasizing the rewarding impact and fulfillment he finds in his current role.
• Exploring the impactful work Dr. Agathis does for pediatric TB, HIV, and advanced HIV disease, including his role in reducing pediatric mortality.
• Discovering the diverse range of opportunities available at the CDC, regardless of specialty
• The skills that you can leverage to start a career at the CDC or in public health
• The structure and flexibility of working at the CDC
• What the EIS fellowship is and who is eligible
• Learning about how you can contribute to global health initiatives.

Links for this episode:

USAJOBS.gov 

LinkedIn for Physicians Course - Would you rather clean out your garage or attic than “put yourself out there” and network? No worries! My LinkedIn course is geared to make networking doable and fun. I will show you how to connect with people who can be helpful for your career, what to put in your messages, and how to apply strategically for the job you really want. You can learn more about this course and get a sneak peek inside right HERE.  

🍀March Madness Discount on LinkedIn Course For Physicians - for all of March 2024 you can receive a discount up to 25% on this course. Simply reach out to us at [email protected] and let us know what you would like to learn how to do on LinkedIn and my assistant Kati will give you a coupon code for the course. Discount expires March 31st, 2024.

Are you feeling stuck in your medical career, unsure of your next steps, or struggling to find satisfaction in your current role? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Rinku Mehra, a pediatric endocrinologist with a remarkable journey of career exploration and evolution. Dr. Mehra's story serves as a beacon of hope for physicians facing similar challenges, demonstrating that you don’t have to get it right out of the gate when you’re at the crossroads. Medicine is not a one-way street and you can go back and forth and carve your own path to fulfillment. 

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode171

In this episode we’re talking about:

• Dr. Mehra’s journey in overcoming dissatisfaction in clinical practice
• Navigating nonclinical roles from the FDA to utilization management
• Lessons learned from transitioning back to clinical care after a stint in a nonclinical role
• Dr. Mehra's gradual exploration of alternative career paths
• Pursuing further education and its impact on the entrepreneurial mindset
• How Dr. Mehra's MBA experience sparked her entrepreneurial spirit and ultimately led her to launch her own telemedicine practice
• Insights into overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing uncertainty in career transitions
• The importance of self-reflection, mentorship, and perseverance in navigating a nontraditional medical career path

Links for this episode:

Dr. Rinku Mehra’s Practice Website 

https://www.themehraclinic.com/

For information on Dr. Mehra’s Doc Launch Academy for those of you wanting to start your own practice, contact her at [email protected] 

Use this QR code to join the waitlist!

Physician Transition Starter Kit - A “must have” when you’re questioning your career path. This 25-page guide answers many of your questions about career transition, nonclinical options, and how to just get started.

Episode #40: Could Chart Review Be for You? With Dr. Rinku Mehra

Can doctors successfully navigate the world of entrepreneurship while maintaining their medical careers? Is it really true that physicians are not good at business or with money? Dr. Kim,  an anesthesiologist, entrepreneur, and founder of the Passive Income MD group, shares his transformative journey and debunks five myths that all too commonly keep physicians from embracing their entrepreneurial spirit. 

Whether you're contemplating a side venture or dreaming of financial freedom through innovative pathways, this episode will help free you from limiting beliefs that run the risk of holding you back. Join us as we explore how you, too, can carve out a fulfilling career path that transcends traditional boundaries and brings your entrepreneurial vision to life.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode170

In this episode we’re talking about:

• The journey of Dr. Peter Kim from anesthesiology to entrepreneurship
• Debunking common myths that deter physicians from exploring entrepreneurial paths
• Strategies for physicians to gradually transition into business while maintaining their current job
• The importance of a growth mindset and resilience in the face of career challenges
• How physicians can leverage their unique skills and experiences to create value in the marketplace
• Encouragement for physicians to explore entrepreneurship as a means to achieve greater control over their careers and personal lives
• Insights into the Leverage and Growth Summit, a free event designed to inspire physicians with stories of medical professionals who've successfully ventured beyond traditional clinical roles

Links for this episode:

Episode 38 Is There An Entrepreneur Hiding In You? With Dr. Peter Kim

Dr. Peter Kim’s Leverage & Growth Virtual Summit is back and will be starting February 26 - March 1, 2024! This annual summit is geared to help you get inspired with ideas to gain greater control over your time, income, and life in general. 

Peter is featuring inspiring ideas & success secrets from 30+ entrepreneurial docs… this online event will reveal the “insider” info you need to succeed in business.

Find out how to leverage your skills and medical degree for new opportunities - Use this link to save your FREE spot while there’s still time: https://passiveincomemd.com/LGS2024-Heather-Fork

How do you cope and adapt when your own health becomes a barrier to practicing medicine? This week I’m speaking with Dr. Courtney Barrett, an internal medicine physician, who helps us navigate this pivotal question. Dr. Barrett shares her personal journey and provides insight into managing life and a medical career with significant health challenges. Her story is not just one of resilience, but also a guiding light for physicians who find themselves not by choice on a similar path.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode169

In this episode we’re talking about:

• The emotional impact of chronic illness on a physician’s career and identity
• How Dr. Barrett continues to find ways to practice while dealing with multiple medical conditions 
• The complexities of balancing medical practice with personal health challenges
• Enhancing patient relationships despite health challenges
• Career shift: From hands-on care to telemedicine
• Finding strength in physician support networks
• Key resources for physicians facing health barriers

Links for this episode:

Physicians For Physicians Facebook Group - This is a private (nonsearchable) Facebook group for physicians dealing with a chronic illness and/or a disability. To inquire about joining this group, please send an email to [email protected].

Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, Dr. Heather Fork offers one-hour Zoom consultations. This one-hour coaching session may be all you need to gain clarity and have some concrete steps for moving forward. Dr. Fork also has a 5-month coaching program for those physicians wanting additional assistance (subject to availability). For more information please reach out to Kati at [email protected]. 

Episode 77 - A Career-Ending Injury Leads To A New Direction