The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast

Heather Fork, MD
  • 4.8 (167)
  • CAREERS
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Are you a physician who's questioning your career path? If you're at the white coat crossroads, for whatever reason, this podcast is for you. We're going to help you find your best path forward, whether it's to be happier in patient care, transition to a nonclinical career, or do something completely different. In the weekly podcasts, we're bringing you all the good stuff: -Actionable tools and resources to help you start making positive changes. -Interviews with physicians who've found new and fulfilling ways to practice as well as those who've transitioned into nonclinical careers. -Concrete advice for applying to jobs, using LinkedIn, interviewing, negotiating, and much more. Your host, Dr. Heather Fork, is a former board-certified dermatologist who transitioned into full-time career coaching for physicians over 10 years ago. She is a master certified coach who has been helping hundreds of physicians find ways to be happier both in medicine and beyond. Come visit us at www.doctorscrossing.com to learn more!

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode #246: Exploring Leadership as a Physician: Where to Begin

    Have you been thinking about stepping into leadership but aren't sure where to begin? In this episode, Heather is joined by Dr. Leo Spector, an orthopedic spine surgeon and CEO, who shares his journey into physician leadership and what it really takes to grow into these roles. From early experiences and mentorship to navigating challenges and finding your voice, Dr. Spector offers practical insights and encouragement for physicians who want to make a greater impact. Whether you're curious about leadership or ready to take the first step, this conversation will help you see what's possible. In this episode we're talking about: Why physicians need a seat at the table in healthcare leadership How to get started with leadership roles, even without experience or an MBA The importance of mentorship, coaching, and learning how to listen Common challenges physicians face when trying to be heard How to explore different leadership paths and know what's a good fit The value of saying yes while staying aligned with your interests Key mindset shifts to grow into an effective and authentic leader Links for this episode: orthocarolina.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! You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode246 Thank you for listening!

    36 min

  2. APR 22

    Episode #245: AI Roles for Physicians (No Tech Background Required)

    If you've ever wondered whether physicians can work in artificial intelligence without learning to code, this episode may surprise you. In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Danielle Torres, who stepped away from the traditional residency path to pursue healthcare AI and now serves as Director of Clinical Pathways and Education, helping AI insights translate into real-world patient outcomes. If "AI" makes you think you need years of technical training, think again. Dr. Torres walks through accessible roles where physicians can apply their clinical expertise—from training models to designing products to implementing tools at the point of care. Whether you're exploring a side gig, consulting, or a full career pivot, this is a practical look at how physicians can enter this rapidly growing field without deep technical knowledge. In this episode we're talking about: The three major areas where physicians can work in healthcare AI: model development, product development, and implementation Entry-level roles such as AI annotator and clinical AI trainer How physicians can transition into product manager roles without coding experience Implementation roles that focus on training clinicians and integrating AI into clinical workflows Hybrid leadership opportunities such as medical director, VP of clinical strategy, and startup advisor Typical compensation ranges for part-time consulting and full-time AI roles Practical steps physicians can take to start exploring opportunities in AI today Links for this episode: Episode #178: The hard decision to do residency or not – an MD graduate's success story Dr. Danielle Torres' LinkedIn 🌟When you enroll in LinkedIn for Physicians or The Carpe Diem Resume Kit through The Doctors Crossing, you are not only investing in your next career move, you are also earning valuable CME credits. ✔LinkedIn for Physicians – Earn up to 3 Category 1 CME credits while learning how to build a standout profile, network confidently, and attract the right opportunities. ✔The Carpe Diem Resume Kit – Earn up to 2 Category 1 CME credits as you transform your CV into a polished, compelling resume for nonclinical roles. If you would like a sneak peek inside either the course or the kit before enrolling, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com. We're happy to give you a closer look.   You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode245   Thank you for listening!

    41 min

  3. APR 8

    Episode #244: Thriving After a 12-Year Malpractice Lawsuit: An Emergency Physician's Story

    Have you ever thought, "If I got sued, I don't think I could survive it?" Malpractice litigation is one of medicine's unspoken fears. We know it's possible — but we rarely talk about the shame, isolation, sleepless nights, and identity-shaking stress that can come with it. In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Dr. Gita Pensa — emergency physician, coach, and podcast host of Doctors and Litigation: The L Word. Dr. Pensa shares her experience enduring a 12-year malpractice lawsuit that included two trials. What began as one of the most traumatic chapters of her life ultimately became the catalyst for meaningful advocacy and support for other physicians facing litigation. If you've ever been sued, fear being sued, or want to better understand this hidden side of medicine, this conversation is essential listening. In this episode we're talking about: What it felt like to be named in a $28 million malpractice lawsuit early in her career The emotional toll of enduring 12 years of litigation — including two trials The moment her verdict was overturned and how she found the strength to keep going Why litigation stress and shame often remain hidden Practical strategies for coping and learning how the legal system works Common mistakes physicians make during the litigation process How Gita is turning her experience into advocacy, coaching, and culture change in medicine Links for this episode: Doctors and Litigation Website Find 'Doctors and Litigation' on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn Doctors and Litigation Podcast ⭐️ If you want to feel more prepared for the realities of medical litigation, this is a powerful resource to have. LEAP: The Litigation Education and Performance Course for Clinicians is a 12-week, self-paced program by Dr. Gita Pensa designed to help physicians, nurses, and APPs understand the legal process, manage litigation stress, and perform confidently in high-stakes situations. It's approved for 16.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ and can be valuable whether you're currently in a case or planning ahead. Get $100 off with code CROSSING100 at checkout, or use this link (code already applied): https://www.doctorsandlitigation.com/offers/C82qyXYE?coupon_code=CROSSING100   Thank you for listening!

    35 min

  4. MAR 25

    Episode #243: How a Reluctant "Yes" Led to an Unexpected New Path

    Have you ever done everything "right" on paper, matched into your specialty, landed your first attending job, checked all the boxes, only to lie awake wondering why it still feels so hard? If you've felt stretched thin, questioned your identity in medicine, or sensed that your purpose might be unfolding before the path is clear, this episode will truly resonate. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Yuri Shindo, an academic hospitalist at UC San Diego who is board-certified in internal medicine and addiction medicine. Dr. Shindo shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed in primary care to stepping into an unexpected calling that began with a reluctant yes to helping her mother's nonprofit drug and alcohol treatment program. This conversation is about courage, values, experimentation, and trusting the quiet inner voice that guides you forward. In this episode we're talking about: The overwhelm and identity shifts that can come with becoming a new attending What happens when your values feel misaligned with the system you're working in How burnout and self-doubt can become catalysts for growth The power of experimentation and giving yourself permission to pivot Saying yes to unexpected opportunities and discovering a calling Building a mission-driven project inside a hospital system without funding Why following joy can lead to meaningful impact Links for this episode: When you enroll in LinkedIn for Physicians or The Carpe Diem Resume Kit through The Doctors Crossing, you are not only investing in your next career move, you are also earning valuable CME credits.  LinkedIn for Physicians – Earn up to 3 Category 1 CME credits while learning how to build a standout profile, network confidently, and attract the right opportunities.  The Carpe Diem Resume Kit – Earn up to 2 Category 1 CME credits as you transform your CV into a polished, compelling resume for nonclinical roles. If you would like a sneak peek inside either the course or the kit before enrolling, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com. We're happy to give you a closer look. Thank you for listening!

    30 min

  5. MAR 11

    Episode #242: Negative Google Reviews: How to Respond and Be Proactive

    Have you ever had a negative online review stick with you far longer than it should? Even when you know you provided excellent care, one harsh comment can feel deeply personal and unfair. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jeffrey Segal, a neurosurgeon, attorney, and founder of Medical Justice. Dr. Segal shares practical, real-world guidance on how physicians can respond to negative reviews, protect their online reputation, and avoid letting a few comments undermine their confidence or career satisfaction. In this episode we're talking about: Why negative reviews are inevitable—and how a few can actually strengthen your credibility What you can and cannot say publicly due to HIPAA When it makes sense to respond (and when it doesn't) How to proactively generate authentic positive reviews Using feedback to improve office systems and team dynamics Strategies for protecting your mindset and preventing burnout related to online criticism Links for this episode: Medical Justice VuMedi is a physician-focused video learning platform, and it's where Dr. Jeffrey Segal publishes educational videos on medical justice and medicolegal issues. Thank you for listening!

    36 min

  6. FEB 25

    Episode #241: Medical Board Investigations: Common Triggers and Smart First Steps

    What would you do if you opened your mail and saw a letter from the medical board? For many physicians, that moment triggers fear, shame, and a flood of worst-case scenarios. Even a single patient complaint can feel like your entire career is suddenly on the line. And because most of us were never trained on how medical board investigations actually work, the uncertainty can be overwhelming. In today's episode, I'm joined by Guillermo Beades, Esq., a seasoned healthcare attorney and partner at Friar Levitt, who works closely with physicians facing medical board investigations, licensing issues, audits, and administrative actions. Guillermo pulls back the curtain on a process that often feels mysterious, intimidating, and isolating—and explains what physicians really need to know to protect themselves and their careers. We talk honestly about why board investigations happen, what not to do if you're contacted, and how small missteps early on can snowball into much bigger problems. Most importantly, Guillermo shares a grounded, hopeful message: one investigation does not have to define your career. In this episode we're talking about: Common triggers for medical board investigations, including patient complaints, audits, and reports from other clinicians What different types of board notices mean, and how to "triage" them appropriately Why responding incorrectly (or not responding at all) can escalate a situation fast The risks of surrendering a license or DEA/CDS registration without legal guidance What consent orders are, and why they matter more than many physicians realize How investigations become public and what gets reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank Why fear and shame can push physicians to leave medicine prematurely, and why you don't have to Links for this episode: Frier Levitt - Professional Board Actions: https://www.frierlevitt.com/what-we-do/healthcare-law/professional-board-actions 🌟When you enroll in LinkedIn for Physicians or The Carpe Diem Resume Kit through The Doctors Crossing, you are not only investing in your next career move, you are also earning valuable CME credits. ✔ LinkedIn for Physicians – Earn up to 3 Category 1 CME credits while learning how to build a standout profile, network confidently, and attract the right opportunities. ✔ The Carpe Diem Resume Kit – Earn up to 2 Category 1 CME credits as you transform your CV into a polished, compelling resume for nonclinical roles. If you would like a sneak peek inside either the course or the kit before enrolling, just email us at team@doctorscrossing.com. We're happy to give you a closer look. 🌟Because we really want to keep spreading the word and growing the Podcast, we're doing a little something fun! We've created a new contest, and this one's super easy to win. All you need to do is share the podcast with two people you haven't shared it with before. Then just email us the episode you shared and the initials (or another way to identify) the two people you shared it with. That's it! We've got a special prize waiting for you, and you have until the end of 2025 to enter. So if you've been meaning to tell a friend or colleague about the podcast, now's the perfect time. Just send us your email at team@doctorscrossing.com and we'll send you your prize! Thank you for listening!

    36 min

  7. FEB 11

    Episode #240 - How to Get Paid Consulting for Startups and Venture Firms.

    If you've ever looked around your workplace and thought, "There has to be a better way to do this," you're not alone. Many physicians see inefficiencies, gaps in care, and systems that don't truly serve patients—but feel powerless to change them from the inside. In today's episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back Dr. Alison Curfman, pediatric emergency medicine physician, co-founder of Imagine Pediatrics, and founder of Startup Physicians. Alison previously shared her remarkable journey from frontline medicine into the startup and venture capital world, and today she's back to help demystify how any physician can use their expertise to consult with startups—without giving up clinical work. We talk about what these roles actually look like, who qualifies (spoiler: almost everyone), and how physicians can begin building meaningful, paid advisory work that creates real impact. Whether you're early in training, mid-career, clinically inactive, or nearing retirement, this conversation will expand your sense of what's possible. And if this topic resonates, be sure to listen through to the end. We're hosting a free live webinar together on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, where we'll go much deeper into the step-by-step process of breaking into startup consulting. In this episode we're talking about: Why physicians are uniquely valuable to startups and venture firms The different ways doctors can consult (advisory, product design, research, policy, and more) Whether you need to be clinically active, board-certified, or mid-career to qualify How residents, fellows, and retirees can all find opportunities in this space Why early roles may involve equity or lower pay—and why that's often worth it How physicians actually find and connect with startup opportunities Why this work feels so energizing and meaningful for many doctors Links for this episode: Alison Curfman MD Startup Physicians Startup Physicians Launchpad – A 12-week physician-only program with self-paced modules, live coaching, and a private community that teaches you how to turn your clinical expertise into paid advisory work. *Disclaimer: I am an affiliate of this program which means if you sign up through my link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend programs I truly believe in, and this one is a great fit for physicians exploring non-clinical opportunities. Episode 192: Refusing to Take No for an Answer: A PediER Doctor's Journey to Help Kids with Complex Medical Needs with Dr. Alison Curfman Join us for here for a Webinar with Heather Fork and Dr. Alison Curfman! 📅 February 25th | 🕗 5 PM PST / 7 PM CST / 8 PM EST 💡 Topic: How to Get Paid Consulting for Startups and Venture Firms Curious about leveraging your medical expertise beyond clinical practice? Don't miss this engaging session with Dr. Alison Curfman as she shares how physicians can break into paid consulting roles with startups and venture firms. You'll gain insider insights, practical steps, and inspiration to start your consulting journey. Thank you for listening!

    30 min

  8. JAN 28

    Episode #239: Your Career Doesn't Have to Be One Thing. Hello Portfolio Career!

    What if your career didn't have to be just one thing? In today's episode of the Doctors Crossing Carpe Diem podcast, we explore the idea of a portfolio career—a professional life made up of multiple aligned roles rather than a single, linear path. Using a powerful real-world example, we talk about how physicians can create more fulfillment, connection, and sustainability by thoughtfully diversifying how they work. I'm joined by Dr. Jess Beachkofsky, a psychiatrist who affectionately calls herself The Sunny Psychiatrist. Jess shares her journey from military medicine to telepsychiatry, private practice, and eventually a portfolio career that blends clinical work, nurse practitioner supervision, disability evaluations, teaching, and speaking. Her story is a beautiful example of how clarity often comes from experimentation—not from having it all figured out upfront. Together, we talk honestly about what wasn't working, what was missing, and how small "yeses" opened doors to a career that now feels deeply aligned. We also discuss the practical considerations of portfolio careers, including time management, income variability, benefits, and insurance—so you can explore your options with eyes wide open. If you're feeling stuck, lonely, under-stimulated, or simply curious about what else might be possible, this episode offers both inspiration and grounded guidance. In this episode we're talking about: What a portfolio career really looks like in real life How to recognize what's missing in your current role The emotional and practical benefits of career diversification Physician-friendly portfolio options inside and outside of medicine Nurse practitioner supervision as a meaningful side role The importance of small experiments instead of big leaps Questions to ask before moving away from a traditional W-2 role Links for this episode: Connect with Jessica Beachkofsky Jessica Beachkofsky's LinkedIn Episode #59: Want to Test Drive Your Career Idea? Episode #186: Earn Extra Income, Fire Up Your Brain, and Find A New Direction With Physician Side Gigs Thank you for listening!

    32 min
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Are you a physician who's questioning your career path? If you're at the white coat crossroads, for whatever reason, this podcast is for you. We're going to help you find your best path forward, whether it's to be happier in patient care, transition to a nonclinical career, or do something completely different. In the weekly podcasts, we're bringing you all the good stuff: -Actionable tools and resources to help you start making positive changes. -Interviews with physicians who've found new and fulfilling ways to practice as well as those who've transitioned into nonclinical careers. -Concrete advice for applying to jobs, using LinkedIn, interviewing, negotiating, and much more. Your host, Dr. Heather Fork, is a former board-certified dermatologist who transitioned into full-time career coaching for physicians over 10 years ago. She is a master certified coach who has been helping hundreds of physicians find ways to be happier both in medicine and beyond. Come visit us at www.doctorscrossing.com to learn more!

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