
The Doctor’s Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast
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!
Latest episodes

Nov 1, 2023 • 28min
Episode #154: Top Reasons Why You May Not Be Getting Nonclinical Job Interviews - Part 1
How long have you been on the job hunt? I empathize with the frustration that can arise from dedicating time to numerous job applications, only to face silence or rejection. Having guided numerous clients through this journey, I'm here today to offer insights and real-life examples that shed light on the various factors impacting our pursuit of a nonclinical job! Join me as we explore how to overcome these obstacles and increase your odds of landing that coveted interview. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode154 In this episode we’re talking about: The optimal timing for submitting your application Assessing the influence of competition in the job market How your specialty can impact your search The significance of carefully analyzing the job description Talking to those in the know How to expand your network to uncover great opportunities Further ways The Doctor’s Crossing can assist you Links for this episode: Episode #145: 5 Ways a Resume Can Help You Stand Out for Nonclinical Jobs 10 Tips To Rock Your Interviews - Following these 10 tips will help you strategically prepare for your nonclinical job interviews. You will be more confident, relaxed, and ready to do your best! 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! LinkedIn for Physicians - 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.

Oct 25, 2023 • 37min
Episode #153: Surgeon Finds Meaning In His Career in Population Health and Account Management
Utilization management is becoming a popular nonclinical position with high job satisfaction. But what is out there in the insurance sector for someone seeking a new challenge and continued advancement? Joining us for Episode 153 is Population Health specialist, Dr. Ian Hamilton Jr. A vascular surgeon with over 20 years of practice, Dr. Hamilton has found a rewarding career in the health insurance sector. He shares all about his journey and how others can attain this fulfilling position. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode153 In this episode we’re talking about: Ian’s journey, beginning as a vascular surgeon with a private practice The first time our roads crossed in 2011 Leaving practice as a surgeon, and opportunities for reentry How insurance companies decide denials of service High spend, high need areas such as diabetes, musculoskeletal, and behavioral healthcare Who is a good fit for population health, and the necessary qualifications Compensation, work-life balance, and satisfaction for this role Links for this episode: The Physician Transition Starter Kit – A “must have” when you’re questioning your career path. This 25-page guide answers many of your questions about career transition, nonclinical options, and how to just get started. Chart review - Chart review is a great way to use your medical knowledge, earn side income, and develop new skills. This guide includes more than 50 chart review companies and a sample email template for reaching out to recruiters.

Oct 18, 2023 • 26min
Episode #152: 5 Ways To Get Unstuck At The Crossroads
Analysis Paralysis. Hemming and Hawing. Sitting on the fence at the white coat crossroads. If you’re experiencing indecision and uncertainty in your career transition, you are not alone. It is common to feel fear and confusion on an unclear path, but you don’t have to. In this solo episode of the Doctor’s Crossing podcast, I share 5 tips you can use to get unstuck and moving forward on your journey. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode152 In this episode we’re talking about: Steps to getting out of the analysis paralysis How quantifying your feelings can give you a starting point Connecting to your ‘why’ when you’re unsure of the ‘what’ or ‘how' Breaking out of the fear-fed circular thinking The power of the list How an empowered mindset can make all the difference When the wrong step is still a step forward Links for this episode: Private 1:1 Consultations - If you would like some confidential help with your career situation, Dr. Heather Fork offers one-hour Zoom consultations. This one-hour coaching session may be all that you need to gain clarity and have some concrete steps for moving forward. Dr. Fork also has a 5-month coaching program for those physicians wanting additional assistance (subject to availability). For more information please reach out to Kati at team@doctorscrosing.com.

Oct 11, 2023 • 32min
Episode #151: A Family Doctor Who Likes Helping Other Physicians in Their Careers
What would you do with a little more flexibility? Breathing room in your workday is possible with a remote position in Utilization Management. Joining me today is the multi-passionate Dr. Jonathan Vitale, a family medicine physician, team manager, and physician career coach. Together we discuss various career opportunities for physicians in the health insurance industry, and Dr. Vitale shares valuable insights on transition into these roles, as well as working from home. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode151 In this episode we’re talking about: Ethical concerns and the illegality of denial quotas and bonuses The importance of Utilization Management in the medical industry Why job satisfaction is often very high within Utilization Management Insider tips to be a competitive job candidate The application process and ideal times to apply Unexpected opportunities within Utilization Management Advice for physicians beginning to work remotely Links for this episode: Dr. Jonathan Vitale’s website https://www.drjonathan.com/ Remote Careers for Physicians - Dr. Jonathan Vitale’s Facebook group Chart review - Chart review is a great way to use your medical knowledge, earn side income, and develop new skills. This guide includes more than 50 chart review companies and a sample email template for reaching out to recruiters.

Oct 4, 2023 • 28min
Episode #150: Are you paralyzed by the size of your goal? Start with a lemonade stand!
Are you paralyzed by the size of your goals? If so, you are not alone. When we’re thinking of doing something new, we may create a vision that instead of inspiring us, leads to overwhelm and we never get started. I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Nick Jenkins, an internal medicine hospitalist who started with an oversized vision of having his own DPC practice but was able to start instead with more of a lemonade stand version. In today’s episode, Dr. Jenkins shares his story of leaving his teaching hospitalist job, overcoming burnout, and how he creatively started his practice on a shoestring budget. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode150 In this episode we’re talking about: Experiences that helped Dr. Jenkins realize changes were necessary The adjustments he made, personally and professionally, before leaving his position When he knew it was time to make a career change How a mixology certification course was a helpful step in his journey His grassroots approach to building his new practice Advice to get started when a large goal feels overwhelming How Dr. Jenkins feels now, one year into his practice Links for this episode: Evergreen Internal Medicine - Dr. Jenkin’s DPC Practice 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!

Sep 27, 2023 • 36min
Episode #149: What Kind of Real Estate Should I Invest In? Featuring Dr. Ronnie Shalev
Curious about investing in real estate, but unsure where to begin? You may be surprised by the variety of opportunities and accessible options to get you started. Our guest, Dr. Ronnie Shalev, knew she had to expand her horizons after years of burnout as an emergency medicine physician. Today, she is a successful investor, author, and co-founder of Sherwin Properties. Join us for a complete rundown on tapping into this lucrative income stream. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode149 In this episode we’re talking about: Dr. Shalev's transition from burnout to financial freedom through real estate The ER night shift that led Dr. Shalev to make a change Whether single-family rentals are right for you The possibilities in flipping distressed properties The ins and outs of real estate syndications Leveraging retirement funds to jump start your investment journey Where to begin your search for such opportunities Links for this episode: Shalwin Properties - Dr. Ronnie Shalev’s alternative investment company Rich Dad Poor Dad - What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That The Poor And Middle Class Do Not by Robert Kiyosaki - recommend by Dr. Shalev Next Level Your Life - Features story after story of overcoming, growth, and transformation from entrepreneurs, professionals, thought leaders, real estate investors, bestselling authors, speakers, and more! Dr. Shalev’s transition story is included in this book.

Sep 20, 2023 • 31min
Episode #148: How Our Childhood Can Impact Our Career Path As Physicians
Have you ever wondered if how you were raised might secretly influence your career choices as a physician? In this week’s episode, Dr. Pam Pappas and I delve into the influence of childhood experiences on physicians contemplating career changes. We explore how growing up with financial instability, trauma, or in an otherwise dysfunctional family can impact our approach to career decisions. Dr. Pappas, with her extensive background in psychiatry and coaching, sheds light on these dynamics and how to move forward when the past is limiting us in various ways. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode148 In this episode we’re talking about: The link between financial insecurity in childhood and our drivers as adults The myth of a stable career in medicine Unique gifts that may come from a difficult upbringing A reminder that we are more than our patterns How understanding childhood motivations can help us make more informed decisions Examining our essence through the Enneagram, and its benefits as a personal development tool. How to recognize if you are being negatively impacted by your past Links for this episode: https://drpampappas.com/ - Dr. Pappa's website Information about the 9 Enneagram Personality Types Free Enneagram Test Enneagram Personality Test the $12 RHETI

Sep 13, 2023 • 26min
Episode #147: Can Artificial Intelligence (AI) Help You At The White Coat Crossroads?
With the recent evolution of artificial intelligence programs, they have become a popular tool for a variety of tasks. They can be used to write a cover letter, build a resume, or even plan your meals for the week. But can AI assist physicians who find themselves at the white coat crossroads? In this solo episode, I ask AI a variety of questions from physicians at the crossroads and share the responses. I also highlight the benefits and limitations of using AI, specifically ChatGPT, when you’re a physician seeking career transition advice. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode147 In this episode we’re talking about: Some examples of what AI, such as ChatGPT, can be utilized for Questions from physicians at the crossroads and how AI responded The strengths and weaknesses of recommendations from ChatGPT How ChatGPT offers support beyond being a ‘search engine’ Different nonclinical sectors suggested by AI One glaring omission from the AI’s suggestions Steps ChatGPT gave to start a small business from ground zero Links for this episode: ChatGPT - Free online AI site Free Download - This is the copy of all the questions I asked ChatGPT including ones I mentioned as well as a number of other questions.

Sep 6, 2023 • 33min
Episode #146: Public Health - A Rewarding Way To Help
Are you desiring a career change that is both engaging and impactful? If so, you are in the right place! I am so excited to share this episode on a topic we have not explored much on this podcast: public health. Our guest today is Dr. Lynn Sosa, the Director of Infectious Disease and State Epidemiologist for the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Dr. Sosa shares the journey that got her there, her passion for her work, and advice for those interested in joining this sector. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode146 In this episode we’re talking about: Dr. Sosa’s high school experience that shaped her career path The variety of her day-to-day activities as a Director of Infectious Disease Why she finds infectious diseases and public health satisfying and engaging work The broad possibilities of a role in public health What you can expect for compensation A number of options for finding a door into this job sector Do you need an MPH, licensure, or board certification? Links for this episode: USAjob.gov - Job postings CDC - Job postings Emory Health - Includes postings for public health in general and is not exclusive Emory ASTHO - Association of State and Territorial Health Officials CSTE - Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists IDSA - Infectious Disease Society of America If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, unsure of what steps to take, or worry you’ll make the wrong decision, I've got your back. Whether you are interested in a one time consultation or further coaching, I am here to help you carpe that diem. Click here to learn more about my coaching services, or email the team directly at team@doctorscrossing.com.

Aug 30, 2023 • 21min
Episode #145: 5 Ways a Resume Can Help You Stand Out for Nonclinical Jobs
You've done your research and are ready for a new nonclinical role; all that's left is landing the interview. However, you're not quite sure if you should send in a resume or a CV, or even what the difference exactly is. You want to showcase your skills and experience, but you may not be sure how to communicate them. In today’s solo episode, I’ll be sharing 5 reasons why a well designed resume can be the key to getting your foot in the door, and tips on how to get yours to the top of the recruiter's pile. You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode145 In this episode we’re talking about: The difference between a CV and a resume Why a summary section is important How to best arrange your information Why you don’t have to limit yourself to one page What catches a recruiter's eye How to best showcase your skills Advice on incorporating keywords organically Links for this episode: Carpe Diem Resume Kit - Get 20% off with coupon code SAVE20 until Saturday, September 9th - 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! Learn more HERE! Free Preflight CV and Resume Checklist - Download your free checklist to make sure your CV and Resume are polished and ready to impress.