Today, I’m joined by Dr. Angelica Dumapit, a medical director and freelance medical writer who used LinkedIn to launch and grow her nonclinical career. Angelica shares how she optimized her profile to land roles without doing residency, networked confidently, and found freelance opportunities. We cover practical tips on writing strong headlines, messaging recruiters, and using LinkedIn’s features strategically. If you’re ready to turn your LinkedIn into a magnet for jobs, connections, and possib...
Aug 06, 2025•34 min•Ep. 226
In this episode, we discuss the importance of stepping back to gain clarity when facing career crossroads in medicine. I’ll share my personal experiences and offer practical strategies for physicians to reflect on their careers, make room for self-discovery, and envision a more fulfilling future. You’ll learn how to get to the root of what’s prompting your desire for change, so you can make decisions from clarity—not fear. This episode encourages you to reconnect with what truly matters and make...
Jul 23, 2025•20 min•Ep. 225
Have you ever dreamed of working in a more holistic, patient-centered way—without having to start your own practice from scratch? If so, you’re going to love today’s episode. We’re diving into the growing field of integrative and functional medicine—especially for those who want the stability of an employed role while practicing in a more meaningful, whole-person way. In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa McDonald, founder of Integrative Connections, a leading job board and recruiting service for ...
Jul 09, 2025•37 min•Ep. 224
Today’s episode is a powerful conversation about identity, loss, and rediscovery. I’m joined by Dr. John Fondran, a colorectal surgeon whose career ultimately came to an end due to severe arthritis in his hands and feet—a condition he had long been managing, but whose impact he struggled to fully accept. Dr. Fondran takes us through the difficult process of stepping away from surgery—not by choice, but by necessity—and how he confronted the emotional weight of no longer being able to do what he ...
Jun 25, 2025•39 min•Ep. 223
If you are curious about expert witness work and whether it might be a good fit for you, this episode offers valuable insights. I’m joined by Dr. Amy Fogelman, an internist and founder of High Rock Experts and High Rock Academy. Amy shares her journey into expert witness work and breaks down what it takes to get started, including qualifications, mindset shifts, compensation, and common concerns—like testifying against another physician. We also discuss how her program helps physicians build a r...
Jun 11, 2025•44 min•Ep. 222
If you are looking for a flexible, meaningful role that does not require board certification or recent clinical practice, you will not want to miss today’s episode. Today, I am joined by Dr. Phyllis Nsiah-Kumi, Chief Medical Officer at the Cleveland Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Dr. Nsiah-Kumi shares what it is like to work as a MEPS physician — a rewarding opportunity to assess the medical readiness of military recruits while enjoying flexible hours, no insurance billing, and par...
May 28, 2025•38 min•Ep. 221
If you’re a single physician struggling with dating, you’re not alone. The demands of medicine can make finding love feel overwhelming, whether you're hesitant to put yourself out there, dating after divorce, or unsure if a fulfilling relationship is possible. On today’s episode, I’m joined once again by relationship and transformation coach Sydney Ashland to dive into the realities of dating as a doctor. Through a Dear Abby-style format, we explore common challenges, including confidence strugg...
May 14, 2025•36 min•Ep. 220
This week, we explore what happens when your specialty no longer feels like the right fit. My guest, Dr. Edio Zampaglione, began as an OB-GYN but found the corporate shift in medicine limiting. He shares his transition from private practice to a thriving career in medical affairs, including how he entered pharma without prior industry experience. We discuss key moments that led him to leave patient care and what a medical affairs career entails. If you're considering nonclinical options, this ep...
Apr 30, 2025•42 min•Ep. 219
If your medical career is putting a strain on your relationship, you’re not alone. Long hours, endless charting, and the emotional toll of medicine can create disconnection and tension at home. Whether your partner feels neglected, you're struggling with financial disparities, or you're facing difficult conversations, these challenges can feel overwhelming. Today we are joined by Sydney Ashland, a highly respected relationship and transformation coach with over 25 years of experience working wit...
Apr 16, 2025•38 min•Ep. 218
Today, we explore what happens when you follow your own path—even if it means leaving medicine. My guest, Dr. Maanas Samant, is now the CMIO of a healthcare and fintech company, but his journey into medicine began as a way to please his family. Growing up in a family of physicians, it was the expected path—yet his real passion was always tech. In this episode, we talk about the question that changed everything, his pivot from internship to consulting at Accenture, the types of projects physician...
Apr 02, 2025•41 min•Ep. 217
Welcome to Episode 216 of the Doctor’s Crossing Carpe Diem podcast! Today, we’re tackling a major concern for physicians considering career changes—finances. Whether you’re stepping away from clinical work, reducing shifts, or exploring entrepreneurship, financial uncertainty can be daunting. Joining us is Dr. Jim Dahle, emergency physician and founder of The White Coat Investor , a top financial education platform for doctors. He shares key strategies for financial independence, career transiti...
Mar 19, 2025•44 min•Ep. 216
At 60, Dr. Lynette Charity was fired from her job—an event that could have been devastating but instead became the catalyst for reinvention. In this episode, Dr. Charity shares her journey from growing up in the segregated South to becoming an anesthesiologist, speaker, and comedian. She discusses overcoming adversity, shifting from self-doubt to empowerment, and finding new purpose beyond clinical medicine. Drawing from her book, Escape Plan, she offers insights on resilience, career transition...
Mar 05, 2025•40 min
On today’s episode, we’re exploring the transformative world of direct care models with the inspiring Dr. Maryal Concepcion. Dr. Concepcion is a family medicine physician, founder of Big Trees MD in rural Northern California, and host of the My DPC Story podcast. We discuss the direct primary care (DPC) and direct specialty care (DSC) models that allow physicians to practice on their terms while fostering deeper patient relationships. Dr. Concepcion shares her journey from fee-for-service medici...
Feb 19, 2025•43 min•Ep. 214
Today we’re tackling the topic of high-stakes exams and board certification—a challenge that many physicians face. Struggling with these exams can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, test-taking anxiety, and even impact career opportunities. To lend their guidance and expertise, I’m joined by two wonderful guests, Dr. Rob Steele and Dr. Charles Bell, founders of Physician Test Prep Professionals. With decades of experience in physician assessment and remediation, they bring a wealth of knowledg...
Feb 05, 2025•41 min•Ep. 213
Today we’re diving into five transformative steps to help you uncover clarity and alignment in your career and life. As physicians, we often feel stuck, unsure of the next best move. Whether you’re questioning your future in clinical medicine, considering nonclinical options, or exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, these steps will help you polish your "crystal ball" and uncover what’s right for you. We’ll explore how to assess your career satisfaction, follow your energy, identify internal ...
Jan 22, 2025•30 min•Ep. 212
Today’s episode is about the profound and sometimes challenging topic of purpose. Have you ever felt unsure about your life’s direction or struggled to define your “why”? In this episode, Dr. Jordan Grumet, a hospice physician, author, and host of the Earn & Invest Podcast , shares insights from his latest book, The Purpose Code: How to Unlock Meaning, Maximize Happiness, and Leave a Lasting Legacy . We discuss how to shift from focusing on lofty "whys" to finding joy in purposeful actions, ...
Jan 08, 2025•31 min•Ep. 211
Today we’re diving back into the exciting and ever-evolving world of telemedicine. If you’ve been curious about exploring telemedicine as a side gig, a way to gain flexibility, or even as a full-time career, this episode is packed with insights and actionable tips. Joining me is Dr. Takashi Nakamura, an emergency medicine physician who transitioned into digital health and now leads in the telemedicine field. From running five national physician groups to coaching others through his AIR Academy, ...
Dec 25, 2024•43 min•Ep. 210
This week’s episode explores how mindfulness can help physicians manage stress, lengthen the pause between trigger and response, and create a sense of calm amidst the chaos. Joining me are two incredible guests, Dr. Jessie Mahoney and Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang, co-hosts of The Mindful Healers Podcast and leaders in mindfulness and physician well-being. We explore practical strategies for incorporating mindfulness into daily life, from clinical settings to home routines to navigating difficult situation...
Dec 11, 2024•38 min•Ep. 209
In this final installment of our four-part retirement series, we're diving deep into the financial planning nuances specific to physicians approaching retirement. Joining us is Dr. Carolyn McClanahan, a former physician-turned-certified financial planner. With her insider's perspective, Dr. McClanahan offers invaluable insights on everything from assessing retirement needs to navigating long-term care and tax strategies. We'll uncover the often-overlooked financial aspects of retirement planning...
Nov 27, 2024•42 min•Ep. 208
Today we’re addressing a common challenge many of us face—comparison. It’s easy to fall into the “compare and despair” cycle, especially in high-achieving professions like medicine, but you don’t have to stay stuck there. I’m joined by Dr. Jessie Mahoney, a pediatrician, coach, and mindfulness expert who co-hosts the Mindful Healers podcast. Together, we dive into practical strategies for recognizing and breaking free from the comparison trap. Dr. Mahoney shares insights on the roots of comparis...
Nov 13, 2024•37 min•Ep. 207
Today we’re diving into the challenges caregivers face and practical advice on how to care for others while also caring for your well-being. Whether you’re caring for an aging parent, an ill spouse, or a child with special needs, being a caregiver often leads to exhaustion and burnout. Joining me is Dr. Delia Chiaramonte, an integrative palliative care physician and host of The Integrative Palliative Podcast . Dr. Chiaramonte shares her personal story and offers strategies for setting boundaries...
Oct 30, 2024•39 min•Ep. 206
We are diving into an incredibly important conversation around mental health and well-being for physicians, a topic that is too often overshadowed by stigma. Breaking through the silence is essential, and I’m honored to have Dr. Jonathan Fisher, a cardiologist, mindfulness meditation teacher, and physician coach, join us for this episode. Dr. Fisher is a leader in organizational well-being and resiliency, with a passion for healing both the heart and mind. We explore practical steps that physici...
Oct 23, 2024•48 min•Ep. 205
Today we continue our series on retirement with Dr. Dike Drummond. Dr. Drummond is a family physician, coach, and CEO of The Happy MD, specializing in helping physicians navigate burnout and retirement with purpose and clarity. In this episode, Dr. Drummond shares his personal experiences and insights on how to approach retirement with a focus on self-identity, purpose, and fulfillment. We’ll discuss the psychological aspects of transitioning away from a medical career, the grief that can come w...
Oct 16, 2024•38 min•Ep. 204
Today we’re discussing the transformative power of changing how you see yourself. If you've ever felt stuck in your career or weighed down by self-doubt and imposter syndrome, this episode is for you. Joining me is Dr. Maria Dominguez, an emergency medicine physician who, through coaching, overcame self-doubt and imposter syndrome to rediscover joy in her work and start a side business. Dr. Dominguez shares her personal journey of overcoming these challenges and how shifting her mindset allowed ...
Oct 09, 2024•30 min•Ep. 203
Today we’re diving into part-time opportunities for physicians who aren’t quite ready to retire but want to slow down. Whether you’re nearing retirement or just looking to diversify your career, these part-time options offer flexibility and fulfillment. Our guest today is Dr. John Jurica, host of the popular Physician NonClinical Careers podcast, who has firsthand experience with many part-time roles, shares insights on how to prepare for a gradual career transition, explore clinical and non-cli...
Oct 02, 2024•40 min•Ep. 202
On today’s episode, we’re exploring an exciting and often overlooked side gig that can bring in significant income, from $10,000 to $20,000 or more per month. Dr. Tom Davis, a family physician who transitioned to working as an independent contractor for the Social Security Administration, shares how this side gig has been rewarding both financially and professionally, how it works, the qualifications required, and how he personally has been able to make over $50,000 in a single month through dis...
Sep 25, 2024•42 min•Ep. 201
Today we’re celebrating a huge milestone—200 episodes! Over the past four years, this podcast has shared countless stories, insights, and lessons from physicians and experts who’ve navigated the challenges of their careers. To commemorate this special episode, I’ll be reflecting on the journey so far by sharing two pearls, two pitfalls, and two surprises that I’ve encountered while podcasting. From unexpected challenges in podcast production to the overwhelming positive feedback from listeners, ...
Sep 20, 2024•26 min•Ep. 200
Today, we're discussing the crucial decision of investing in yourself—whether it’s time, money, or energy. Many physicians feel uncertain or guilty about this, questioning if it's worth the risk. Dr. Bonnie Koo, dermatologist, master certified life coach, and founder of Wealthy Mom MD, joins us to share her journey from clinical practice to entrepreneurship and provide insights on when and how to invest in personal growth and your career. We’ll explore strategies for overcoming fear and making c...
Sep 11, 2024•35 min•Ep. 199
Today we're exploring how you can strategically stand out as a candidate in a competitive nonclinical job market. With increasing numbers of physicians seeking to transition out of clinical roles, the job market has become more challenging. However, there are always opportunities available if you know how to position yourself effectively. In this episode, I’ll share key strategies that can help you enhance your visibility, demonstrate your unique value, and improve your chances of landing a nonc...
Sep 04, 2024•23 min•Ep. 198
In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the incredible world of artificial intelligence with a focus on how ChatGPT can assist you in your career journey. I’ll walk you through practical ways to use ChatGPT to explore career options, craft compelling resumes and cover letters, prepare for interviews, and even tackle challenging conversations. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of starting something new or needed help making a career change, this episode is for you. You can find the...
Aug 26, 2024•23 min•Ep. 197
