The Worthy Physician

Dr. Sapna Shah-Haque MD
  • 5.0 (14)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Worthy Physician

"Reigniting your humanity and  passion for medicine." Welcome to The Worthy Physician, a podcast for physicians, other healthcare workers, and high-performing individuals seeking to reconnect with their humanity, rediscover their passion for medicine, and redefine fulfillment. This podcast offers reflection, healing, and authentic storytelling in a world where burnout, imposter syndrome, and overwhelming expectations are shared. Medicine is more than a profession—it's a calling. Yet, modern healthcare often leaves physicians feeling disconnected, chasing milestones that fail to bring lasting satisfaction. The Worthy Physician challenges these narratives, prioritizing well-being, core values, and authenticity. Why Listen? 1. Physician Burnout: Understand its causes and recovery strategies to rediscover joy in medicine. 2. Authentic Self: Explore your identity beyond the white coat and integrate it into all aspects of life. 3. Imposter Syndrome: Overcome doubts, embrace your worth, and value your contributions to medicine. 4. The Arrival Fallacy: Break free from achievement-driven dissatisfaction and find fulfillment in the present. 5. Core Values: Align decisions with what truly matters to live purpose-driven lives. 6. Financial Empowerment: Gain insights on managing debt, creating sustainability, and building financial literacy. 7. Real Stories: Hear physicians' struggles and triumphs, fostering connection and solidarity. 8. Healing Through Storytelling: Share and listen to stories that inspire resilience and growth. What to Expect Each episode blends: Engaging in Conversations with experts in medicine, psychology, and finance.Real-life stories from physicians who've navigated similar challenges.Practical Strategies for addressing burnout, improving balance, and enhancing well-being.A Supportive Community that celebrates your victories and offers encouragement. Why It Matters You are more than your profession—you're a human being with dreams and aspirations. The Worthy Physician reminds you to prioritize your values, honor your well-being, and reignite your passion for medicine. Who Should Listen? This podcast is for physicians seeking clarity, fulfillment, and alignment, whether struggling with burnout, imposter syndrome, or the pressures of the medical field. Join the Movement Redefine what it means to be a physician today. Subscribe to The Worthy Physician and take the first step toward a healthier, more compassionate approach to medicine.

  1. 8H AGO

    What I wish I knew a long time ago, particularly when it comes to medicine: Leading with self-awareness

    Send us a text We explore the essential yet often overlooked foundation of physician leadership: knowing yourself. Dr. Maha Mohamad and Dr. Sapna Shah-Haque dispel the "I was born ready" myth that permeates medicine, discussing how physicians are expected to lead without formal training. • Leadership must begin with self-knowledge about personality type, communication style, and values • Online assessments like Myers-Briggs can provide valuable insights into how you naturally process information  • Medical culture's traditional "do as you're told" hierarchy undermines effective leadership • Creating psychological safety and judgment-free environments leads to richer collaboration • Unlearning ingrained patterns is essential but challenging for physicians • Cultural diversity and exposure to different perspectives expand leadership capabilities • Even 15-20 minutes of self-reflection can significantly improve leadership skills • Leadership expertise extends beyond clinical settings into all aspects of life Your income is your greatest asset, protected with Pattern Life. The easy, stress-free way to find the right disability insurance, with unbiased comparisons and no jargon. Pattern helps you choose the best policy for your needs. Secure your future today at Pattern Life. The link is in the show notes. Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    12 min

  2. JUN 5

    Navigating Change: Dr. Una’s Roadmap for Physician Innovation

    Send us a text Dr. Una, founder of EntreMD, shares her journey from pediatrician to physician entrepreneur, revealing how doctors can rediscover autonomy and fulfillment through business skills. She explains how a moment of clarity in 2016 sparked her mission to help 100,000 physicians transform their professional lives and rewrite the narrative around physician burnout. • EntreMD began with just eight people at a restaurant meeting in 2018 and has grown to reach thousands • The "arrival fallacy" prevents physicians from embracing the beginner's mindset needed for entrepreneurship • Even as an introvert, Dr. Una learned speaking and networking skills through deliberate practice • Physicians can explore numerous paths: private practice, coaching, consulting, writing, art, and more • Start with just 10 minutes daily of focused reflection on what you truly want • Delegation is crucial – leverage your earning capacity to buy time from others • You're already worthy – improve yourself because you're worthy, not to become worthy Get free physician business education through the EntreeMD podcast, explore the "15-dollar MBA" books including The EntreMD Method, or join the EntreeMD Business School at EntreMD.com. Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    39 min

  3. MAY 23

    Empty Cups Don't Pour: Why Self-Compassion Matters

    Send us a text After celebrating Mother's Day, we explore a concept everyone needs regardless of parental status: mothering yourself. Medical training conditions us to abandon our humanity bit by bit, wearing sacrifices like badges of honor while neglecting our own basic needs. • The caregiver trap teaches us to neglect ourselves while caring for others • Even the most brilliant physician cannot pour from an empty cup • Self-care is not selfish but essential for sustainable practice • Mothering yourself means saying no without apology when something doesn't align with your values • Rest and restoration are forms of preservation in a system designed to ignore our limits • When we properly care for ourselves, we reclaim our power and model humanity for others • Challenge 1: Identify what you truly need this week to sustain yourself • Challenge 2: Dare to dream again and reconnect with your authentic desires • Start by asking what one thing would put a genuine smile on your face today You are not just a physician. You are worthy of care as well. Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    7 min

  4. APR 30

    The Art of Healing: How Creativity Shapes Medicine with Dr. Baumgaertel, MD

    Send us a text What happens when a high-producing physician decides to walk away from a successful 25-year medical career? Dr. Susan Baumgaertel shares her transformative journey from traditional internal medicine to patient advocacy and authorship in this candid conversation. Dr. Baumgaertel's story begins with a familiar scenario—working nonstop, taking minimal vacation, and feeling the mounting pressure of productivity demands. In the chaos, she found ways to maintain her humanity by incorporating her passion for art into patient care. The paintings by her late mother that adorned her office walls created unexpected healing connections with patients, illustrating how medicine and creativity can intersect in powerful ways. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Dr. Baumgaertel explains her preference for the term "moral injury" over "burnout." While burnout can affect professionals across various industries, moral injury refers to the violation of a physician's ethical code when corporate interests take precedence over patient care.  Now as an MD Advocate, Dr. Baumgaertel has created a unique model that supports rather than competes with traditional medical care. She helps patients navigate complex systems while providing physicians with the backup they need for thorough discussions that today's time constraints often do not allow. Her book, "The Menopause Menu," further extends this mission, providing accessible, evidence-based information structured like a meal—appetizer, entrée, palate cleanser, and dessert. Perhaps most inspiring is her commitment to daily walking, regardless of weather, where she solves problems and maintains mental clarity. This simple practice embodies her philosophy that self-care is not selfish, but essential for physicians who want to provide compassionate care without sacrificing their well-being. Dr. Baumgaertel's parting wisdom rings true: "Listen to yourself." Your authentic journey in medicine may look different from what you imagined, but that might be precisely what you need. Listen to yourself! Listen to pay attention! CONNECT WITH DR. B: LinkedIn     MD Advocate     The Menopause Menu Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    27 min

  5. APR 16

    Why You Don't Need to Choose Between Being a Doctor and Being Human

    Send us a text What happens when physicians reclaim their humanity after years of medical training that teaches them to ignore their basic needs? Dr. Manju Dawkins joins us to share her fascinating journey from traditional dermatology practice to healthcare entrepreneurship, revealing how creativity and medicine can powerfully intersect. Remember when you were taught that holding your bladder for 12 hours was a badge of honor in medical training? Our conversation dives into how physicians are conditioned to disconnect from their bodies and operate in perpetual "fight or flight" mode. We explore the damaging consequences of this culture—and more importantly, how to break free from it. Dr. Dawkins takes us through her entrepreneurial awakening, sparked by watching her infant daughter receive painful vaccinations. This moment of parental anguish led her to create Thimble Health, a company developing innovative solutions for needle pain. Her story illuminates how physicians can leverage their unique perspectives to solve healthcare problems beyond the exam room. The dialogue challenges the notion that physicians must limit themselves to direct patient care. "The system wants us to just put our heads down, have the blinders on and see patients," Dr. Dawkins notes, "but we shouldn't let the degree limit us—we should let it expand our opportunity." This perspective encourages doctors to explore varied expressions of their talents in entrepreneurship, policy, media, and creative pursuits. Perhaps most thought-provoking is our discussion about purpose and guilt. We unpack how guilt serves no productive function, while authenticity and joy lead to our best work. Dr. Dawkins suggests that purpose need not be narrowly defined as helping others through direct medical care—even simple acts of creation fulfill our human purpose and bring unexpected joy to others. Whether you're questioning your career path or seeking to reconnect with what initially drew you to medicine, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on finding fulfillment while making meaningful contributions to healthcare. Subscribe now and join the movement to redefine what it means to be a worthy physician in today's world. What you'll learn: • Medical training conditions physicians to ignore basic human needs and disconnects us from our bodies • Everything is not "on fire"—we need to break the cycle of Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    26 min

  6. APR 2

    Second Acts: Redesigning Your Medical Career Path

    Send us a text Dr. David Weill shares his journey from transplant pulmonologist to consultant and author, exploring how he recognized the emotional and physical toll of clinical medicine after 20 years and strategically transitioned to his "second act." He provides honest insights into the realities of medical practice, the importance of knowing when to pivot, and the value of pursuing creative outlets that align with your strengths. • After 20 years as a transplant pulmonologist, Dr. Weill transitioned to consulting and writing • He recognized early that clinical medicine had a "shelf life" due to physical demands and emotional toll • Used a methodical approach of listing what he excelled at and enjoyed to guide his next chapter • Now works as a consultant helping transplant programs improve their systems and outcomes • Has published two books: "Exhale" (a memoir) and "All That Really Matters" (a novel) • Emphasizes the challenge of accepting medicine's imperfect outcomes • Recommends "test-driving" potential new career paths while still in your current role • Highlights the importance of the "three Fs": family, friends, and faith (spiritual practice) Visit davidweill.com to learn more about Dr. Weill's books and work. He welcomes emails from medical students, residents, and physicians considering career transitions. Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    22 min

  7. MAR 19

    Philanthropy and Care: Exploring Dr. Sweet's Mission and The Sweet Emergency Fund

    Send us a text Dr. Sweet shares her 43-year journey in HIV/AIDS care, transforming a deadly condition with six-month prognosis into a manageable chronic disease where properly treated patients can expect normal lifespans. • Started practicing in 1982, drawn to medicine by hands-on patient interaction rather than purely diagnostic work • Encountered her first HIV patient in 1983 when stigma and discrimination were severe • Founded the Sweet Emergency Fund approximately 30 years ago to address gaps in care • Hosts annual "Sweet Affair" fundraiser in her backyard to support medication, housing, and transportation needs • Advocates for healthcare as a right, not a privilege, ensuring patients receive care regardless of ability to pay • Teaches medical students the human side of medicine—listening, understanding quality of life, and addressing social determinants of health • Emphasizes that early HIV treatment prevents hospitalizations and costly complications • Modern HIV patients on proper treatment can expect normal life expectancies (82-88 years) To donate to the Sweet Emergency Fund's community-focused support for HIV patients, send a tax-deductible contribution to this 501(c)(3) organization that ensures 100% of funds go directly to patient care needs. This episode is part of the Podcasthon.  What does that mean? This week, in March, several podcasters around the world are asked to release an episode regarding philanthropy.  What a cool way to create a positive impact?! Why does it matter?  We can all strive to leave the world a little better than the way we found it.  Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    16 min

  8. MAR 5

    Navigating Change: A Physician’s Journey to Financial Freedom with Dr. Sabharwal

    Send us a text Dive into an inspiring episode that chronicles the life journey of Dr. Sabharwal, a dedicated physician who broke barriers to shift his career from clinical work to entrepreneurship through real estate investing. Discover the unique challenges international medical graduates face as they adjust to the U.S. healthcare system, while exploring strategies for achieving financial independence.  In this episode, Dr. Sabharwal candidly shares his experiences—from funding his own medical rotations to navigating the complexities of building a real estate portfolio. He highlights essential insights on understanding investment dynamics, the value of continuous education, and finding ways to generate passive income. With a focus on the intersection of personal fulfillment and professional success, Dr. Sabharwal discusses how one can live intentionally and embrace change as a pathway to growth.  As busy professionals, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The episode serves as a reminder to realign your focus and ask questions that cut to the core of your motivations. Join us for an enriching discussion that offers practical advice, thoughtful reflections, and a boost of inspiration for anyone looking to blend passion with purpose.  Don't forget to check out the free resources mentioned in the episode, including Dr. Sabharwal's video series that demystifies real estate investing for busy physicians. Join us on this transformative journey—you won’t want to miss it! What you'll learn: • Dr. Sabharwal’s background and challenges in the U.S. medical system • The pivotal role of education and mentorship in his journey • Transitioning from clinical care to exploring real estate • Insights on the importance of understanding investment opportunities • The intertwined nature of personal happiness, purpose, and financial security • Ways for busy physicians to consider investing and building wealth Connect with Dr. Sabharwal: The Immigrant Doctor LinkedIn DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT FINANCIAL ADVICE! Pattern LifeDiscover unbiased disability insurance with Pattern Life and protect one of your greatest assets.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Though I am a physician, this is not medical advice. This is only a tool that physicians can use to get ideas on how to deal with burnout and/or know they are not alone. If you are in need of medical assistance talk to your physician. Learn more about female physicians' journey through burnout to thriving! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/books Let's connect for speaking opportunities! https://www.theworthyphysician.com/dr-shahhaque-md-as-a-speaker Check out the free resources from The Worthy Physician: https://www.theworthyphysician.com/freebie-downloads Battle of the Boxes 21 Day Self Focus Journal

    24 min
See All (154)

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

"Reigniting your humanity and  passion for medicine." Welcome to The Worthy Physician, a podcast for physicians, other healthcare workers, and high-performing individuals seeking to reconnect with their humanity, rediscover their passion for medicine, and redefine fulfillment. This podcast offers reflection, healing, and authentic storytelling in a world where burnout, imposter syndrome, and overwhelming expectations are shared. Medicine is more than a profession—it's a calling. Yet, modern healthcare often leaves physicians feeling disconnected, chasing milestones that fail to bring lasting satisfaction. The Worthy Physician challenges these narratives, prioritizing well-being, core values, and authenticity. Why Listen? 1. Physician Burnout: Understand its causes and recovery strategies to rediscover joy in medicine. 2. Authentic Self: Explore your identity beyond the white coat and integrate it into all aspects of life. 3. Imposter Syndrome: Overcome doubts, embrace your worth, and value your contributions to medicine. 4. The Arrival Fallacy: Break free from achievement-driven dissatisfaction and find fulfillment in the present. 5. Core Values: Align decisions with what truly matters to live purpose-driven lives. 6. Financial Empowerment: Gain insights on managing debt, creating sustainability, and building financial literacy. 7. Real Stories: Hear physicians' struggles and triumphs, fostering connection and solidarity. 8. Healing Through Storytelling: Share and listen to stories that inspire resilience and growth. What to Expect Each episode blends: Engaging in Conversations with experts in medicine, psychology, and finance.Real-life stories from physicians who've navigated similar challenges.Practical Strategies for addressing burnout, improving balance, and enhancing well-being.A Supportive Community that celebrates your victories and offers encouragement. Why It Matters You are more than your profession—you're a human being with dreams and aspirations. The Worthy Physician reminds you to prioritize your values, honor your well-being, and reignite your passion for medicine. Who Should Listen? This podcast is for physicians seeking clarity, fulfillment, and alignment, whether struggling with burnout, imposter syndrome, or the pressures of the medical field. Join the Movement Redefine what it means to be a physician today. Subscribe to The Worthy Physician and take the first step toward a healthier, more compassionate approach to medicine.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Sapna Shah-Haque MD
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    154
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Worthy Physician
  • Show Website
    The Worthy Physician

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