

The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast
Heather Fork, MD
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!
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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 8, 2023 β’ 31min
Episode #116: Be A Medical-Legal Consultant And Avoid The Courtroom
Are you intrigued by the idea of being an expert witness but concerned about the potential need to appear in court? Enter a deposition-free alternative: the medical-legal case consultant. My guest today, Dr. Armin Feldman, is a psychiatrist with a fascinating story about how he developed a career in this field after working clinically with patients who sustained head injuries. Dr. Feldman has an online course and coaching program that teaches physicians how to establish themselves in this field and he'll discuss the nature of the work, compensation, and how to get started. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/116 In this episode we're talking about: The difference between being an expert witness and a medical-legal consultant How Dr. Feldman developed a niche as a medical-legal consultant Which specialties are a good fit for this role Whether board certification, licensure, and current practice are needed for this work How to develop a medical-legal consulting practice and how long this takes Typical compensation for medical-legal consulting work Armin's program for physicians interested in exploring medical-legal consulting Links for this episode: Dr Armin Feldman's Medical Legal Consulting Program Dr. Armin Feldman's LinkedIn Profile LinkedIn for Physicians Course - This fun course shows you how to create a stand-out profile on LinkedIn and use the powerful features to advance your career goals. The short video lessons guide you step-by-step on how to grow your connections, network successfully, and search for and apply to jobs. Included are cheat sheets for each lesson, examples of physician profiles, and a bonus PDF on how to rock your informational interviews. πππ Get 15% off the LinkedIn Course for a limited time - February 1 - 28th, 2023. Use the code LINKEDIN15 at the checkout. There is a money-back guarantee on this course.

Feb 1, 2023 β’ 30min
Episode #115: Real-Time Transition Story - Dr. Alec Jacobson Part 1
By the time many physicians transition to a nonclinical career, they admit to having a long-time gut feeling that practicing medicine wasn't for them - they just didn't listen. While the reasons for not listening differ, coming to terms with these conflicting feelings is necessary to move forward. Today's guest, 4th year pathology resident Dr. Alec Jacobson, is here to share the story of his difficult decision to leave clinical medicine as it plays out in real time. He'll discuss why he chose medicine, the doubts that followed him through medical school and residency, and how he decided to make a change. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/115 In this episode we're talking about: Why Dr. Jacobson pursued a career in medicine When Alec told his parents he wanted to quit medical school What led Dr. Jacobson to continue despite his doubts How Alec chose to specialize in pathology Why personality traits affect how we approach career struggles Where Dr. Jacobson is now in his career transition process A special deal on my LinkedIn course for the month of February Links for this episode: Dr. Alec Jacobson's Story on LinkedIn - "My Own Accord" LinkedIn for Physicians Course - This fun course shows you how to create a stand-out profile on LinkedIn and use the powerful features to advance your career goals. The short video lessons guide you step-by-step on how to grow your connections, network successfully, and search for and apply to jobs. Included are cheat sheets for each lesson, examples of physician profiles, and a bonus PDF on how to rock your informational interviews. ππ Special for the month of February 2023 - Get 15% off of my LinkedIn course by using the discount code LINKEDIN15 at the checkout page. Discount ends February 28, 2023.

Jan 25, 2023 β’ 36min
Episode #114: Medical Affairs in Pharma - A Great Role For Physicians
While most physicians are aware that there are nonclinical opportunities available in the pharmaceutical industry, many are unclear about the specifics of different roles. My guest today, oncologist Dr. Mary Pinder-Schenck, is here to clear up this confusion by discussing her job in Medical Affairs. Dr. Pinder-Schenck will share why she decided to move to industry, how she made the leap, her day-to-day responsibilities in Medical Affairs, typical compensation, and how you can pursue this type of role. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/114 In this episode we're talking about: Why Dr. Pinder-Schenck decided to leave academic medicine What defines Medical Affairs Mary's typical day in her current role Which physicians make a good fit for Medical Affairs What qualifications are needed for these roles How to build your resume and get started in Medical Affairs Compensation ranges for Medical Affairs roles Links for this episode: Medical Affairs Professional Society - Great resource for those interested in Medical Affairs Episode #101: Demystifying Physician Jobs In Pharma Carpe Diem Resume Kit - Converting your CV to a resume helps recruiters better understand why you are a great match for a specific job. My resume kit will guide you through creating a polished resume for your desired job. Templates are included as well as a bonus on writing your cover letter. Give yourself the best chance of getting that interview!

Jan 18, 2023 β’ 35min
Episode #113: Expert Witness - A Well-Paying Flexible Side Gig
While expert witness work is a popular physician side gig, lots of folks have preconceived notions about this role that might not be accurate and may keep them from exploring something that's a good fit. My guest today, Dr. Gretchen Green, is a radiologist and experienced expert witness who offers an online course about this lucrative side hustle. We'll discuss how Dr. Green got into this line of work, the mindset needed, qualifications, compensation, availability of work by specialty, and how to get started. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/113 In this episode we're talking about: How Dr. Green discovered expert witness work The mindset of becoming and serving as an expert witness What qualifications are needed for this work How to get started working as an expert witness What's involved in reviewing a case Compensation and fee setting for expert witness work Gretchen's online CME course and a special bonus through the Doctor's Crossing Links for this episode: Dr. Gretchen Green's Expert Witness Start-Up School will get you from 'curious' to court room ready. This indepth program has helped hundreds of physicians to build a flexible, profitable side business as an Expert Witness. Learn how satisfying this work can be while also offering you greater work-life balance. Plus, you can expect to recieve a return on your investment by your second case!

Jan 11, 2023 β’ 28min
Episode #112: A Great Area With No Residency Required - Medical Communications
One of the most common questions I get asked about nonclinical careers is, "What are my options if I didn't complete residency?" Luckily, the answer is, "There are lots of options!" Today's guest, Dr. Lauren Weinand, is here to share how and why she chose not to pursue residency and instead took a role that combined her love for both writing and science by working for a medical communications company. We'll discuss how Dr. Weinand knew this was the right path for her, the role of medical communications companies, and how you can get started in this career. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/112 In this episode we're talking about: How Dr. Weinand processed her decision not to pursue residency What medical communications companies do Lauren's day-to-day role at her job Whether an advanced degree is required for these roles The importance of developing a writing portfolio to enter the field Typical compensation for medical communications roles Steps for getting started in medical communications Links for this episode: Episode #111: Revisiting Careers You Can Do Without Residency Episode #16: 5 Steps To Becoming A Medical Writer 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.

Jan 4, 2023 β’ 38min
Episode #111: Revisiting Careers You Can Do Without Residency
Not everyone who attends medical school goes on to do a residency. And for different reasons, not all physicians finish a residency. What kind of opportunities are available if this happens to be you? The short answer is, there are an infinite number of options. Today, we're revisiting a popular past episode where Dr. John Jurica, host of the Physicians Nonclinical Careers Podcast, discussed the wide variety of options for MD and DO graduates. He also offers a simple 3 step approach for moving forward to find a new direction for yourself. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/111 In this episode we're talking about: The credibility that being a medical school graduate gives you in the workforce Reframing how you see yourself and what you bring to the table The importance of finding your own answers instead of being influenced by others A three-step process for moving forward and finding a new direction Potential career areas from medical writing to pharma to FDA or the NIH, finance, start-ups, and more! Links for this episode: The World is Your Oyster - Free Download with links to podcasts and blogs by myself and Dr. John Jurica on career areas and sectors that you can potentially do without residency or a medical license. The Physician Nonclinical Careers Podcast - Dr. John Jurica's fabulous podcast Newscript App - The exciting new app created by Dr.. John Jurica and Dr. Tom Davis. For a small monthly fee, you can join hundreds of other clinicians seeking to find fulfilling and fun nontraditional careers. The app includes a forum, live events, free courses, and a growing panel of expert mentors and coaches.

Dec 28, 2022 β’ 27min
Episode #110: Blast From The Past - How To Keep Your License Active if You Leave Medicine
Do you remember that day when you were granted your license to practice medicine? Whoohoo! It's a big deal to have an active medical license. And once it's been retired or inactive for a period of time, it can be rather arduous, depending on the state, to get it back. Today we're revisiting my second podcast episode with Arnold Lorenzo, a medical licensing expert, to talk about how to keep your license active if you decide to leave practice, whether for a nonclinical job, to take care of family, or for other reasons. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/110 In this episode we're talking about: How to keep your license active if you leave practice Some of the differences between states for license renewal Tips for making it easier to return to practice if you do leave The benefits of the interstate medical licensure compact Links for this episode: Medicallicensing.com Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) KSTAR/UTMB Mini-residency reentry program

Dec 21, 2022 β’ 31min
Episode #109: Do I Need an MBA to Open More Doors?
It's common for physicians embarking on a career change to wonder if another degree is necessary to make this transition. And many physicians do obtain an additional degree, with an MBA being one of the most popular. If you're questioning whether this is the right move for you, I have the perfect guest today to answer your burning questions. Dr. Kate Atchley is the executive director of the healthcare-related MBA at the Haslam School of Business in Tennessee and she's here to discuss all things MBA, including who benefits from this degree, types of programs, and how to decide what's best for you. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/109 In this episode we're talking about: Whether having an MBA is an advantage for a career change The benefits of different types of MBA programs How Dr. Atchley came to lead a healthcare-related MBA program What you can expect to learn in any MBA program How to consider both the benefits and costs of pursuing an MBA The difference between an MBA and an MHA Tactics for approaching the MBA decision-making process Links for this episode: University of Tennessee Physician Executive MBA 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, and telemedicine. There is also a starter kit to help you move forward when you're feeling stuck at the crossroads. Please help yourself!

Dec 14, 2022 β’ 16min
Episode #108: Is This 3-Letter Word Causing A Roadblock For You?
The path to a career change - whether clinical or nonclinical - is not a linear one. There are twists and turns in the road, and getting hung up on certain elements of the process too early can unintentionally derail your plans. In today's solo episode I'm discussing why asking "How?" too early in your career change journey has the potential to shut things down before they really get started. I'll also be talking about how to avoid this common trap by reframing your thought process and using some different three-letter words to keep moving forward. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/108 In this episode we're talking about: Why asking "How?" too soon can be a common problem for physicians How our instinct to stay safe may also keep us stuck The power of changing our mindset around the "how" The power of asking "Why?" to bring clarity to a career transition Writing out your "why" to gain insight The importance of asking yourself "Why not now?" Boosting your confidence by asking "Why not me?" Links for this episode: Carpe Diem Resume Kit - Converting your CV to a resume helps recruiters better understand why you are a great match for a specific job. My resume kit will guide you through creating a polished resume for your desired job. Templates are included as well as a bonus on writing your cover letter. Give yourself the best chance of getting that interview!

Dec 7, 2022 β’ 29min
Episode #107: Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired With Additional Licenses - Here's How!
Having multiple state licenses can be useful when you're working clinically doing telemedicine and locums tenens. For certain nonclinical careers, having a specific state license or multiple licenses can be a critical factor in getting hired. For example, if you're looking to work in utilization management (UM), an ideal background may not be enough to land a job. The state you are licensed in may not be highly sought after by these companies. This is what was happening to today's guest, Dr. April Palmer, who was losing out on UM opportunities because she only had one state license and it was not in high demand. Dr. Palmer is here to discuss how the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) can be a solution. She shares with us the process she went through to obtain multiple licenses, how you can get started on this journey, and the costs involved. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/107 In this episode we're talking about: What the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) is How Dr. Palmer knew she was ready for a career change The time and cost involved in obtaining multiple state licenses April's path to a career in utilization management How the IMLC interfaces with individual states The license renewal process through IMLC How to get started obtaining multiple state licenses Links for this episode: Interstate Medical Licensure Compact 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.


