The Physician's Mind

Curtis Wilkerson
  • 5.0 (15)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Get inside the minds of high performers in medicine - students, doctors, and experts who share the strategies, struggles, and mindset behind elite results. From mastering your studies to pushing your limits, this is where driven future physicians come to level up.

  1. Trusting the Process in Medical School | The Physician’s Mind

    FEB 11

    Trusting the Process in Medical School | The Physician’s Mind

    In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I open up about the often-unspoken reality of pursuing long-term goals in medical school—when effort feels invisible and progress comes painfully slow. Medical training is built on delayed gratification. You show up every day, stay disciplined, and put in the work, yet the results don’t always show up right away. In this conversation, I share personal experiences from my own journey through medical training and the mental shifts that helped me stay committed during moments of doubt, burnout, and impatience. I dive into why identity-based habits matter more than short-term outcomes, how to measure progress beyond grades and milestones, and how learning to trust the process can reshape not only your medical journey—but your entire approach to life. If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, or questioning whether the grind is worth it, this episode is a reminder that growth is happening—even when you can’t see it yet. 🎧 Tune in to build resilience, consistency, and a mindset strong enough for the long road ahead. ✅ Key Takeaways: • Progress in medical school often happens before it becomes visible • Identity-based habits create long-term consistency, even without immediate results • Grades and milestones aren’t the only measures of growth • Discipline matters most when motivation fades • Learning to trust the process builds resilience in medicine and in life 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course 📸 ⁠Instagram 📺 ⁠YouTube

    11 min
  2. Using Stem Cells to Build Mini Hearts with Colin O'Hern | The Physician’s Mind

    FEB 6

    Using Stem Cells to Build Mini Hearts with Colin O'Hern | The Physician’s Mind

    In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Colin O'Hern, a DO-PhD student at Michigan State University, to explore the rapidly evolving world of heart organoid research and how it could reshape the future of cardiac medicine. Colin shares his journey as a physician-scientist, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how lab-grown heart organoids are created and used to model complex cardiac conditions like atrial fibrillation. We break down the science in a way that’s accessible, while also diving into the real-world challenges of translational research, from lab limitations to ethical considerations surrounding stem cell science. We also discuss what this research means for the future of personalized medicine, how disease modeling could transform how physicians approach treatment, and why bridging clinical practice with scientific discovery is more critical than ever. Whether you’re a physician, medical student, researcher, or simply curious about where medicine is headed, this conversation offers a powerful glimpse into how innovation is shaping the next generation of cardiac care. Read the Manuscript: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1934590925003674 ✅ Key Takeaways: • What heart organoids are and how they’re created in the lab • How organoids are being used to model atrial fibrillation and other cardiac conditions • The role of the physician-scientist in advancing modern medicine • Ethical considerations surrounding stem cell and organoid research • Why personalized medicine may depend on disease modeling technologies • The challenges of turning lab discoveries into real-world clinical impact • Why integrating research and clinical care is essential for the future of cardiology 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website 📖⁠ Related Blog Post 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram 📺 ⁠YouTube

    36 min
  3. Wealth vs. Income: Why High-Earning Physicians Still Feel Financially Stuck with Scott Jarred | The Physician’s Mind

    JAN 26

    Wealth vs. Income: Why High-Earning Physicians Still Feel Financially Stuck with Scott Jarred | The Physician’s Mind

    Many physicians earn six figures—yet still feel overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck when it comes to money. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Scott Jarred, Founder & CEO of INVST, to break down one of the most misunderstood concepts among high-income professionals: the difference between income and true wealth. Scott shares his journey from financial scarcity to building a successful wealth management firm, revealing the mindset shifts that changed everything. Together, we explore why earning more doesn’t automatically lead to financial freedom—and what actually does. This conversation goes beyond tactics and dives into the psychology of money, decision-making, and execution. Scott explains why many physicians struggle financially despite high income, the common myths that keep them stuck, and how creating clear rules and a long-term vision for money can unlock real prosperity. If you’re a physician who wants clarity, confidence, and control over your financial future—this episode is for you. 🎧 Follow to The Physician’s Mind for conversations on mindset, money, and long-term success for physicians. ✅ Key Takeaways: • High income does not automatically equal wealth or financial freedom • Why many physicians feel financially stuck despite earning more • The mindset shifts that separate earners from true wealth builders • How financial rules and a clear vision create long-term prosperity • The psychology behind money decisions—and how to improve execution • Common wealth myths physicians need to unlearn 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    39 min
  4. Leadership, Service & Purpose in Dermatology with Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi | The Physician’s Mind

    JAN 21

    Leadership, Service & Purpose in Dermatology with Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi | The Physician’s Mind

    What truly defines success in medicine—titles, prestige, or purpose? In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, internationally recognized dermatologist, researcher, and global health leader Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi shares why impact and service matter more than status in building a fulfilling medical career. Dr. Hamzavi reflects on his journey across clinical practice, research, leadership, and global medicine, revealing how chasing prestige can pull physicians away from their deeper mission. He explores the importance of continuity of care, cultural awareness, and addressing stigma—factors that not only improve patient outcomes but also restore meaning and fulfillment for physicians. This conversation also unpacks the evolving balance between business, research, and patient-centered care, along with the leadership principles that guide sustainable, purpose-driven success in healthcare. Whether you’re a medical student, practicing physician, or healthcare leader, this episode offers clarity on how to build a career—and life—rooted in purpose, not just professional achievement. 👉 Follow The Physician’s Mind for conversations on mindset, leadership, fulfillment, and impact in medicine. ✅ Key Takeaways: • Prestige and titles don’t guarantee fulfillment—purpose does • Service, continuity of care, and cultural understanding drive better outcomes • Global experiences reshape how physicians approach leadership and impact • Research plays a critical role in advancing meaningful, long-term care • Balancing business and medicine requires values-based decision-making • True success in healthcare is built on impact, not recognition 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website⁠ 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    33 min
  5. Why Doctors Don’t Get Rich with Dr. Tom Burns | The Physician’s Mind

    JAN 12

    Why Doctors Don’t Get Rich with Dr. Tom Burns | The Physician’s Mind

    Many physicians earn six figures—yet still feel financially stuck. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Dr. Tom Burns to unpack why a high income doesn’t automatically lead to wealth or financial freedom. We explore the high-income trap, the mindset shift doctors must make to move from employee to investor, and why passive income is essential for long-term independence. Dr. Burns shares his personal journey—from early financial mistakes to building wealth through real estate investing, continuous financial education, and surrounding himself with the right people. We also discuss how physicians can intentionally design a life around time, values, and freedom, not just a paycheck. Whether you’re a practicing physician, medical student, or high-income professional, this conversation will challenge how you think about money, work, and what true success actually looks like. ✅ Key Takeaways: • High income does not equal financial freedom • Many doctors fall into the “high-income, low-wealth” trap • Shifting from an employee mindset to an investor mindset is critical • Passive income creates time, flexibility, and control • Real estate can be a powerful wealth-building vehicle for physicians • Financial education should start early—especially for medical students • Designing life around values matters more than maximizing income • Lifelong learning and intentional investing are pillars of wealth 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠ 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    47 min
  6. How I Survived My First Semester of Medical School | The Physician’s Mind

    JAN 6

    How I Survived My First Semester of Medical School | The Physician’s Mind

    In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I share what it really took to survive my first semester of medical school—from managing an intense academic workload to building the mental discipline required to stay focused under pressure. I break down how I structured my study habits, why discipline matters more than motivation, and how distractions—especially social media—can quietly sabotage progress if you’re not intentional. I also discuss how I maintained physical fitness despite long study hours and why protecting your health is essential, not optional. We also dive into imposter syndrome, how it shows up in high-achieving environments like medical school, and the personal growth that comes from pushing through self-doubt. This semester wasn’t just about passing exams—it reshaped my mindset, identity, and approach to becoming a physician. Whether you’re a pre-med, medical student, or anyone pursuing a demanding path, this episode offers honest insight into what it takes to succeed mentally, physically, and emotionally. 🎙️ Listen now and learn how resilience, structure, and self-belief shape long-term success. ✅ Key Takeaways: • Medical school demands discipline, not motivation • Strong study systems matter more than long hours • Fitness supports focus, energy, and long-term performance • Distractions compound quietly if left unchecked • Imposter syndrome is common—and survivable • Personal growth often matters more than grades • Your mindset is as important as your academic ability 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠ 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    14 min
  7. The Side of Medicine No One Talks About with Dr. Bradley Block (ENT Specialist) | The Physician’s Mind

    12/29/2025

    The Side of Medicine No One Talks About with Dr. Bradley Block (ENT Specialist) | The Physician’s Mind

    In this episode of The Physician’s Mind Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Bradley Block, an ENT specialist and host of The Physician’s Guide to Doctrine, for an honest conversation about the realities of medicine that often go unspoken. Dr. Block shares his journey into otolaryngology, how medical residency reshaped both his personal identity and professional mindset, and the emotional weight physicians carry throughout training. From navigating self-doubt and burnout to redefining what success truly means in medicine, this episode pulls back the curtain on the physician experience. With over seven years of podcasting, Dr. Block also discusses why he turned to storytelling and conversation as tools for physician wellness, how communication directly impacts patient care, and why cultivating a life outside of medicine is essential for longevity in the profession. This episode is a powerful listen for medical students, residents, and practicing physicians seeking clarity, balance, and purpose in a demanding career. Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation. ✅ Key Takeaways: - Residency doesn’t just train doctors—it reshapes identity, values, and self-worth - Success in medicine is not a fixed destination, but a constantly evolving definition - Open communication is critical—not just for patient care, but for physician well-being - Podcasting and storytelling can be powerful tools for reflection, healing, and growth - Burnout often stems from losing identity outside of medicine - High-functioning physicians still struggle with self-doubt and inadequacy - Work-life balance is a practice, not a perfect formula - Being present is one of the most underrated skills in both medicine and life 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠ 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    41 min
  8. Why Business Skills Matter for Future Doctors with Paul Clancy | The Physician’s Mind

    12/22/2025

    Why Business Skills Matter for Future Doctors with Paul Clancy | The Physician’s Mind

    In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Paul Clancy, an MD/MBA candidate and mentor, to unpack what it really takes to succeed in medicine—beyond grades and test scores. Paul shares his unconventional journey from aspiring engineer to future physician and explains why systems, strategy, and business thinking are critical for long-term success in medical training. We break down practical approaches to MCAT preparation, building sustainable study habits, and avoiding burnout in one of the most demanding career paths. We also dive into Paul’s work with Admissions Academy, where he helps pre-med and medical students navigate admissions, develop confidence, and build habits that scale—not just survive—through medical school and beyond. Whether you’re a pre-med student, medical student, or future physician, this episode challenges the traditional “grind-only” mindset and introduces a smarter, more sustainable way to perform at a high level in medicine. Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation. ✅ Key Takeaways: - Why systems and strategy matter more than raw intelligence in medical training - How to approach MCAT prep with efficiency instead of burnout - The role of business literacy in shaping successful modern physicians - How mentorship accelerates confidence and clarity in medical school admissions - What high-performing medical students do differently behind the scenes - Why redefining “competitiveness” leads to healthier, longer careers in medicine 🔗 Learn More & Connect: 🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠ 📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠ 🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠ 📸 ⁠Instagram⁠ 📺 ⁠YouTube

    57 min
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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Get inside the minds of high performers in medicine - students, doctors, and experts who share the strategies, struggles, and mindset behind elite results. From mastering your studies to pushing your limits, this is where driven future physicians come to level up.

Information

  • Creator
    Curtis Wilkerson
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Curtis Wilkerson
  • Show Website
    The Physician's Mind