Medical Sales U with Dave Sterrett

Can an ICU nurse or a college mascot land a high-six-figure job at Pfizer or Stryker? In this episode of Medical Sales U, I sit down with three successful alumni to deconstruct the exact "pivot" strategies they used to reinvent their careers and land roles at the world’s top medical companies.Whether you’re a clinician looking for better work-life balance or a recent grad navigating the post-COVID job market, this deep dive reveals the networking secrets and interview "hooks" that actually work in 2026.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The "Network Outer Ring" Strategy: Why the person who hires you is likely already in your phone (and how to reach out without being awkward).From the "Shoe" to Pharma: How Corey leveraged being the Ohio State Mascot to prove his "sales DNA" to Pfizer.The 30-60-90 Day Rule: The specific document Viti used to stand out during the Stryker interview process.OR vs. Diagnostics: Why Ru transitioned from the operating room to Exact Sciences for better consistency and balance.The "3-Minute" Pitch: The exact answer that got a recruiter to say "Be ready for an interview on Tuesday."Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction: Meet the Columbus Crew1:45 – Ru’s Story: From Finance & Fitness to Stryker Trauma3:12 – Why Diagnostics? The shift to Exact Sciences4:30 – The Networking Myth: Your "Who" is already there6:50 – Advice for the First 90 Days in a new role8:15 – Corey’s Pivot: Transitioning from ICU Nursing to Pfizer10:15 – How to use your "Unique Hook" in an interview11:30 – The Pfizer Interview Process: "Why should I hire you?"14:00 – Viti’s Journey: Pivoting from Pre-Med to MedTech16:20 – Mastering the 30-60-90 Day Proposal18:45 – Closing: How to join the Medical Sales U Community Resources Mentioned: The Power of Who by Bob Beaudine.💡 Are you looking to break into Medical Sales? Medical Sales U is dedicated to helping you reinvent your career, find your specialty (Spine, Oncology, Pharma), and provide the innovation patients need. We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #CareerPivot #Pfizer #Stryker #MedicalDeviceSales #JobInterviewTips #NursingToSales #MedicalSalesU

Can a clinician really thrive in the high-stakes world of pharmaceutical sales?In this episode of Medical Sales U, I sit down with Randy Rhodes, a former Nurse Practitioner at the Cleveland Clinic who successfully transitioned into Oncology Sales. Randy pulls back the curtain on why he left the bedside, the "identity crisis" clinicians face when moving to sales, and the exact strategy he used to land a role at a top pharma company.Whether you are a nurse practitioner, RN, or pharmacist looking to break into the industry, this deep dive provides the tactical roadmap you need to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and commercial success.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:* The "Business of Nursing": Why Randy’s business degree and clinical background became his "unfair advantage."* The MSL vs. Sales Debate: Why Randy pivoted from the Medical Science Liaison path to the commercial side.* The 4:54 AM Mindset: How a disciplined routine (and CrossFit!) fuels a successful sales territory.* Overcoming the "Salesperson" Stigma: How to stay patient-centric while hitting your quota.* Interview Secrets: The specific questions Randy wasn’t prepared for and how you can avoid his mistakes. TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro: Meet Randy Rhodes, NP turned Oncology Pro02:15 - The Louisiana Connection: From Business to Nursing05:30 - Life at the Cleveland Clinic: Bone Marrow Transplant Expertise09:45 - Making the Jump: Why Pharma?13:10 - The MSL Interview Nightmare: Learning the Hard Way18:40 - Reframing "Sales": It’s About the Patient22:15 - Landing the Job: The 4-Round Interview Process26:30 - A Day in the Life: Sunday Planning & Territory Hustle32:00 - Staying Motivated When Doctors Say "No"38:45 - Leadership & Advice for Aspiring Reps42:10 - The Power of Feedback: Why Every "No" is a "Not Yet"🌐 Connect with Randy Rhodes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-rhodes-msn-fnp-bc-763433188/💡 Are you looking to break into Medical Sales? Medical Sales U is dedicated to helping you reinvent your career, find your specialty (Spine, Oncology, Pharma), and provide the innovation patients need. We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #PharmaSales #OncologySales #NursePractitioner #CareerTransition #MedicalSalesU #NursingCareer #Pharmaceuticals

How do you go from fashion merchandising to the "cream of the crop" in Oncology sales? Marilu Restrepo, an Executive Sales Specialist in Hematology/Oncology, shares her raw, personal journey—from a Division I athlete to losing her cousin to breast cancer—and how that tragedy transformed into a high-stakes career helping cancer patients.Marilu’s insights on "Selling with Passion," leveraging AI for pre-call planning, and overcoming rejection are essential listening.TOPICS:* Selling with Passion: Why your "Why" helps you overcome any clinical objection.* The Inside Sales Foundation: Developing the confidence to handle high-volume rejection.* The Oncology Shift: How to manage complex territories and collaborate with clinical teams.* AI Productivity: How Marilu uses ChatGPT to brainstorm probing questions and stay organized.CHAPTERS:00:00 – Meet Marilu Restrepo: From D1 Track to Executive Sales.02:15 – The Turning Point: How a family tragedy changed her career path.04:30 – Inside Sales 101: Why the "grind on the phone" is a lost art.06:55 – Overcoming Rejection: Applying to 40+ jobs and winning.09:20 – The "Fire" of the OR: Navigating high-intensity Cardiac Device sales.12:10 – Making the Leap: Breaking into Oncology and Prostate Cancer.15:00 – Working with the Team: Collaborating with MSLs and Nurse Educators.17:45 – The Modern Rep: Using AI & ChatGPT for elite pre-call planning.20:15 – Life Outside the Lab: Balance, Motherhood, and... the best Italian in Ohio?23:10 – Final Advice: Why your "Why" is your greatest sales tool.🌐 Marilu's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilu-restrepo/💡 Are you looking to break into Medical Sales? Medical Sales U is dedicated to helping you reinvent your career, find your specialty (Spine, Oncology, Pharma), and provide the innovation patients need. We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #OncologySales #PharmaceuticalSales #CareerTransition #MedicalDeviceSales #HealthcareAI #SalesTips #MedicalSalesU

Can D1 competitive mindset help you dominate the medical sales industry?In this episode of the Medical Sales U Podcast, I sit down with Justin Kershaw—former Michigan State player turned top-tier Spine Endoscopy Rep for Arthrex. Justin pulls back the curtain on how he transitioned from the locker room to the Operating Room, the reality of working for a $5B company like Arthrex, and why being a "Girl Dad" and a man of faith is what actually fuels his professional drive.In this episode, you’ll learn: * The "3 Gatekeepers" you must win over to close deals in any hospital.* Why Arthrex uses an "Agency" model vs. traditional distributorships. * How to maintain high-level physical and spiritual discipline in a high-stress career. * Tactical advice for career pivots (how Dave broke into sales at age 35!).🌐 Connect with Justin Kershaw: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinkershaw/TIMESTAMP CHAPTERS:0:00 – Meet Justin Kershaw: From the NFL to Medical Sales02:26 – Why Arthrex? Understanding the Sales Agency Model04:05 – Distributorships vs. Agencies: What you need to know05:30 – Career Pivot: Transitioning after pro football08:12 – The "Girl Dad" Mindset: Balancing 5 daughters and a career10:45 – Faith in the O.R.: Bringing "Kavanah" to your work12:06 – A Week in the Life: Cold calls, dinners, and consistency14:12 – Winning over the 3 Pillars: SPD, Gatekeepers, and Admin18:30 – Entrepreneurship: Launching "Mom’s Bars"24:35 – Lead with Prayer: Staying grounded in a digital age29:24 – The Adult Dream: Why you should never stop pushing34:13 – Justin’s 2026 Goals: Growth, Health, and Purpose💡 Are you looking to break into Medical Sales? Medical Sales U is dedicated to helping you reinvent your career, find your specialty (Spine, Oncology, Pharma), and provide the innovation patients need. We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #Arthrex #SpineSurgery #CareerPivot #MedTech #SalesStrategy #Entrepreneurship #MedicalSalesU

Is it time to trade your scrubs for a corporate career? In this episode, we sit down with Sydney Gramuglia, a Registered Nurse who successfully transitioned from bedside burnout to a high-impact, 6-figure role as an Oncology Clinical Educator at Eversana partnering with Sun Pharma. Sydney didn't have prior sales experience, and the job she landed wasn't even listed in her state—but she beat out veteran candidates anyway. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on the "Medical Sales U" blueprint she used to master a grueling 5-round interview process and land her dream job in the pharmaceutical industry.INSIDE THIS EPISODE:*The "Experience" Myth: Why "not enough experience" is usually a cover for "not enough preparation."*The LinkedIn Transformation: How Sydney went from 20 connections to 500+ and got headhunted by hiring managers.*The Mock Presentation: The exact 40-step rehearsal strategy Sydney used to master complex MOA (Mechanism of Action) and PD-L1 pathways.*Clinical Educator vs. Sales: Understanding the different paths for nurses in pharma.*The Contract Partnership: How the Eversana and Sun Pharma collaboration works.CHAPTERS:0:00 – Meet Sydney: From Bedside Nurse to Pharma Pro2:15 – The "Depressing" Reality of Nursing during COVID5:00 – Finding a Passion for Oncology7:30 – Why Your LinkedIn Profile Is Your New Resume9:15 – Breaking Down the Sun Pharma Offer13:45 – Clinical Educator vs. Sales: Which is right for you?16:10 – The Brutal Rejection that changed everything23:50 – Preparing for the 5-Round Interview Gauntlet25:30 – How to Ace a Mock Clinical Presentation31:00 – The Power of the Medical Sales U Community36:45 – Lifestyle Design: The perks of a corporate clinical role39:30 – Exploring Charleston: Best food & dog-friendly spotsCONNECT WITH Sydney Gramuglia - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydney-gramuglia/READY TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #NurseCareerChange #PharmaJobs #ClinicalNurseEducator #MedicalSalesU #NursingBurnout #CareerPivot #SunPharma #Eversana #MedicalDeviceSales #HealthcareInnovation

How do top sales leaders stay on top in 2026? Seasoned National Sales Director Kristy McCracken shares her secrets.About This EpisodeIn this episode of Medical Sales U, I sit down with Kristy McCracken, a veteran leader in medical devices and biologics. From managing multi-million dollar revenues to leading national teams at companies like Essity and Merck, Kristy knows what it takes to win.We dive deep into:The "Always Learning" Mindset: Why high-level executives are returning to the basics to stay competitive.Modern Networking: How to use LinkedIn and AI to find common ground with hiring managers today.Leadership & Coaching: Kristy shares a powerful story of how she coached an underperforming rep back to success.The Future of Med-Tech: Balancing high-tech AI tools with the "human touch" that closes deals.Whether you are trying to break into medical sales or you’re a seasoned pro looking to reinvent your role, Kristy’s insights on persistence and "sharpening the saw" are essential listening. Key Moments (Timestamps)00:00 – Introduction: The greatest winners never stop learning.02:15 – Kristy’s journey: 20 years in Pharma and Medical Devices.04:30 – Why even National Sales Directors need a "Professional Community."07:45 – Breaking in vs. Leveling up: What has changed in 2026?11:10 – Leadership Deep Dive: Coaching a rep through a PIP (Performance Improvement Plan).15:30 – Networking Secrets: How Kristy landed her latest role using Dave’s strategies.19:20 – The Human Element: Asking the "follow-up" question.23:10 – Advice for the next generation of medical sales leaders.Resources & LinksConnect with Kristy McCracken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristy-mccracken/READY TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/Kristy mentioned that "Persistence is Key." What is the biggest rejection you’ve faced in your career, and how did you bounce back? Let us know in the comments!If you found value in this talk, please: SUBSCRIBE for more interviews with industry leaders. LIKE this video to help other medical sales professionals find us. HIT THE BELL so you never miss a coaching session.#MedicalSales #Leadership #CareerGrowth #SalesCoaching #MedTech #MedicalSalesU #Networking2026

Is your medical sales interview strategy falling flat?In this episode of Medical Sales U, I sit down with Nate Yohe, a Regional Sales Director at Boston Scientific with over 20 years of experience in Interventional Cardiology. Nate pulls back the curtain on what hiring managers are actually looking for when they ask about your 5-year plan and how to demonstrate "grit" without sounding rehearsed.Whether you are a nurse looking to transition into a Clinical Specialist role, an associate rep aiming for a Territory Manager position, or an experienced sales pro considering leadership, this deep dive into the culture of one of healthcare’s most innovative companies is a must-watch.What You’ll Learn: * The "Intangible" Factor: Why integrity, motor, and grit beat a perfect resume every time. * The 5-Year Plan Trap: How to answer the "Where do you see yourself?" question to show you’re a high-performer. * Clinical vs. Associate Roles: Breaking down the career paths for nurses, teachers, and sales reps. * Leadership Habits: Nate’s 4:45 AM routine and how he manages a multi-state team of 13. * The Future of Interventional Cardiology: Why innovation in minimally invasive procedures is exploding.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction: Meet Nate Yohe (Boston Scientific)1:41 – The Structure of a High-Performing Sales Team3:24 – Why Great Leaders Want You to Outgrow Your Role4:36 – Interview Secrets: Testing for Integrity and Grit8:53 – Dealing with Adversity: The STAR Response11:42 – Why "The Feel" of an Interview Matters12:51 – Career Paths: From Nursing and Law to MedTech15:47 – Leadership Habits: Productivity and 4:45 AM Wake-Ups19:45 – Should You Move into Management? The "Why" Test22:52 – Innovation in Interventional Cardiology25:04 – Nate’s #1 Advice for Breaking into Medical Sales Resources & Links:Connect with Nate Yohe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-yohe-429b671 READY TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #BostonScientific #InterventionalCardiology #SalesInterview #CareerGrowth #MedicalDeviceSales #HiringInsights #SalesLeadership

How do you go from a 60% pay cut to becoming a VP of Sales in one of the most competitive industries in the world?In this episode, Dave Hazard (Vice President of Sales at Nuo Therapeutics, Inc) breaks down the "unfiltered" reality of medical sales. Whether you are trying to break into the industry, ace the notorious Stryker Gallup interview, or understand the billion-dollar shift in wound care technology, this conversation is your masterclass. Dave reveals why relationships are your only "currency," the science behind the disruptive Aurix PRP platform, and the "white-knuckle" reality of scaling a medical startup from zero to 250+ distributors.In this video, you will learn:• How to survive the "Mule Year" as an Associate Rep.• Tactical tips to pass the Stryker Gallup Interview.• The "loophole" in the $12B skin substitute market.• Why Vitamin C is the missing link in chronic wound healing.• 1099 vs. W2: How to spot a medical sales scam.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Introduction: Meet Dave Hazard2:15 - Taking a 60% Pay Cut: "Why I started at Arthrex"5:30 - How to Ace the Stryker Gallup Interview (Pro Tips)8:45 - The Power of Relationships in Med Device Sales11:20 - Transitioning from Corporate to a Startup15:45 - The $12B Wound Care Market & Medicare Loopholes19:10 - The Science of Aurix: How PRP + Vitamin C Heal Wounds23:00 - 1099 Sales: What to look for (and what to avoid)26:45 - High-Performance Habits & Discipline32:15 - Advice for my 25-Year-Old Self RESOURCES MENTIONED:MiMedx Platform: https://www.mimedx.com/ Connect with Dave Hazard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-hazard-b625615/💡 READY TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/Follow for more deep dives into the business and science of medical sales!#MedicalSales #StrykerGallup #MedicalDevices #PRP #WoundCare #SalesCareer #1099Sales #Biologics #CareerAdvice

How do you go from managing a gym to managing trauma cases in the Operating Room?In this episode, we sit down with Roo Cotter, a former personal trainer who made the incredible leap into the high-stakes world of medical device sales. Roo shares her journey of getting recruited by a gym member to work for Stryker Trauma, navigating the chaos of 14-hour days in the O.R., and her recent pivot into the innovative field of cancer diagnostics with Exact Sciences.If you are an athlete, a trainer, or someone looking to break into medical sales but don't know where to start, this conversation is for you. Roo breaks down how she used grit, networking, and the Medical Sales U program to land her dream job in under two months.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:- The unlikely path: How working hard at a gym led to a "lucky" break in MedTech.- The reality of Trauma: What it’s really like to be on call 24/7 (and why it teaches you resilience).- Ortho vs. Diagnostics: Why Roo transitioned from the "meathead" world of orthopedics to early cancer detection.- Networking Hacks: How to get internal referrals and skip the "ghosting" phase of job applications.- Mental Toughness: Balancing a high-pressure career with the "1000 Hours Outside" challenge.CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro: From Personal Trainer to the O.R. 1:55 - Why a Finance Major chose Fitness2:45 - Building relationships with doctors at the gym5:40 - Getting scouted: The Story of landing the Stryker job8:37 - The harsh reality of Trauma Sales (and 14-hour days)13:25 - Transitioning to Neuromodulation (Nalu Medical)16:00 - The Pivot to Diagnostics: Joining Exact Sciences19:15 - How Medical Sales U helped speed up the process24:00 - Avoiding Burnout: The "1000 Hours Outside" ChallengeREADY TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? If you want to fast-track your career like Roo did, check out our program. We help professionals transition into top-tier medical sales roles: medicalsalesu.com/About the Guest: Roo Cotter is a Medical Sales Professional with experience in Trauma, Neuromodulation, and Diagnostics. A Miami University graduate, she combines her background in finance and fitness to bring a unique, disciplined approach to the O.R.#MedicalSales #Stryker #CareerPivot #PersonalTrainer #MedicalDeviceSales #ExactSciences #SalesCoaching #CareerAdvice #OrthoDisclaimer: The views expressed in this video are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company.

How do you go from being the Ohio State University mascot to an ICU Nurse, and finally to a top-tier Pharmaceutical Sales Rep at Pfizer in just 11 weeks?In this episode of Medical Sales U, I sit down with Corey Stewart to break down his incredible career transition.- The "Hospital Cafeteria" Interview: The insane story of how Corey interviewed for Pfizer while his wife was in labor (and still crushed it).- The STAR Method: Watch a live roleplay of how to answer the "Tell me about a time..." question using courage and clinical experience.- Salary Negotiation: Full transparency on the numbers. See how Corey negotiated a $112k offer up to a $158k total first-year package.-Networking Strategy: Why reaching out to the team is more important than reaching out to the manager.If you are a nurse, teacher, or athlete looking to break into Medical Device or Pharma Sales, this will give you some insight.CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro: Meeting Brutus Buckeye & The "Expert of One" Mindset2:15 - Why Leave Nursing? Burnout, Family, and Income8:45 - The Strategy: Networking with Peers vs. Hiring Managers15:30 - Master Class: Using the STAR Method in Interviews (Live Example)24:10 - The "Courage" Story: Challenging a Surgeon in the ICU32:45 - Must See: Interviewing for Pfizer While His Wife was in Labor!40:20 - The "Re-Close": How to Tell Them You Got the Job45:50 - Money Talk: Negotiating Base Salary, Commission, & Relocation ($158k Total)52:10 - Final Advice: Betting on YourselfWANT TO BREAK INTO MEDICAL SALES? Ready to leave the bedside or the classroom and start a 6-figure career? Apply to Medical Sales U today: medicalsalesu.com/ABOUT THE GUEST: Corey Stewart is a former Ohio State "Brutus" mascot, a Cardiovascular ICU Nurse, and now a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative at Pfizer. He successfully transitioned into the industry in just 11 weeks using the Medical Sales U coaching program.#MedicalSales #Pfizer #NurseToSales #SalaryNegotiation #OhioState #BrutusBuckeye #PharmaSales #CareerTransition #InterviewTips #DaveSterrett #MedicalSalesUDisclaimer: The views expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company.

Start making $150k - $200k+ in your first year of medical sales. Stop chasing crowded "old school" roles like Orthopedics and Spine. The real money—and the life-saving innovation—is in Oncology and Specialty Pharma. Today, I reveal the exact blueprint to reinvent your career and break into the most lucrative sector of healthcare. Whether you’re a nurse, a teacher, or stuck in a "middle-class mindset," this episode breaks down why your background doesn't matter. Only your preparation does.I share my personal journey from a non-profit minister making $70k to a high-level oncology rep, and explain why "casual advice" from friends will get you rejected. If you want to master the interview, crush your clinical knowledge, and build a 6-figure life, this is the masterclass you need.WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:- The "Gold Rush" Shift: Why you should ignore Orthopedics and focus entirely on Oncology, Diagnostics, and Genetic Testing.- The 3 Essential Mindset Shifts: How to move from "winging it" to becoming an obsessively prepared candidate.- Real Success Stories: How Kanika (immigrant to Dallas), Sydney (nurse), and others went from zero experience to $200k roles.- The "Ride-Along" Trap: Why you need a brutal coach, not a nice mentor.- The HEART Framework: The 5 character traits (Humility, Energy, Active Listening, Resilience, Trust) that hiring managers look for.- Confidence vs. Arrogance: How to show "grit" without sounding like a jerk.- Daily Habits of Top 1% Earners: The 5 AM club, the "20 LinkedIn adds" rule, and why your degree (MBA) has a lower ROI than coaching.- The Michael Jordan Rule: Why even the greatest of all time hired coaches for their specific weaknesses.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction: The Program Focus (Oncology vs. Orthopedics)01:34 - Dave’s Story: Reinventing Career from Ministry to Medical Sales03:44 - Success Stories: How Nurses & Immigrants Got Hired (Kanika, Sydney)06:47 - Mindset Shift #1: Be Coachable (Why Friends Can't Help You)09:20 - Mastering Virtual Interviews (Lighting, Camera & Background)10:32 - Mindset Shift #2: Be Curious (Understanding Clinical Trials & FDA)12:32 - Salary Reality: Device Associate ($80k) vs. Oncology ($155k+)13:55 - Mindset Shift #3: Collaboration (Working with MSLs & Nurse Navigators)16:28 - Confidence vs. Arrogance (The "Grit" Trap)18:02 - The H.E.A.R.T. Framework (Humility, Energy, Listening, Resilience, Trust)19:00 - Daily Habits: 5 AM Wake-ups, LinkedIn Strategy & Handling Rejection20:00 - The"Middle Class Mindset" Trap: Why Degrees Have Low ROI22:25 - Using AI for Resumes Without Sounding Like a Robot25:55 - The "Why": Patient Outcomes & Life-Extending Impact29:35 - The 3 Questions You Must Ask Yourself31:01 - The Michael Jordan Analogy: Why Even the Best Hire Coaches.ABOUT MEDICAL SALES U: Medical Sales U is the premier training program for professionals looking to break into high-paying careers in Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, and Genetic Testing sales. We turn "outsiders" into top 1% candidates.CONNECT WITH US: Learn more about coaching and career support at medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #OncologySales #CareerPivot #SalesCoaching #HighIncomeSkills #DaveSterrett #MedicalSalesYou #InterviewTips #SalesJobs #PharmaceuticalSales

Are you a nurse or healthcare professional feeling burned out, underpaid, and stuck in a cycle of bureaucracy?Today, I reveal the 3-3-3 Framework: a blueprint specifically designed for bedside nurses who want to break into the high-paying world of Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Sales.If you are tired of missing holidays and hitting a salary ceiling, this episode explains exactly what you actually need to do to land offers like our student Sydney, who went from $68k to a $138k package.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:The 3 Reasons to Leave: Why burnout and lack of creativity are signs it's time to pivot.The 3 Barriers: Why relying on your degree and "following orders" kills your chances in sales interviews.The 3 Solutions: How to leverage your clinical edge and tap into the 10,000+ open roles in biotech right now.READY TO LAND YOUR DREAM JOB? Apply to Medical Sales University and learn how we help nurses double their income in 12 weeks: medicalsalesu.com/TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Intro: The shift from Bedside to Sales01:38 - The 3 Reasons healthcare workers are leaving (Burnout & Bureaucracy)03:13 - Why your career growth has stalled04:10 - The 3 Barriers: Why you aren't getting hired yet05:00 - The "Middle Class Mindset" trap (Degree vs. Skills)06:12 - Mindset Shift: From Compliance to Ownership09:18 - The 3 Solutions: How to finally break in10:52 - Success Story: How Sydney landed a $138k Oncology role12:50 - Why mentorship beats doing it aloneABOUT THE HOST: Dave Sterrett is the founder of Medical Sales University, the #1 program helping nurses, PTs, and healthcare professionals break into pharmaceutical and oncology sales.ABOUT MEDICAL SALES U: Medical Sales U is the premier training program for professionals looking to break into high-paying careers in Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, and Genetic Testing sales. We turn "outsiders" into top 1% candidates.CONNECT WITH US:Learn more about coaching and career support at medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #NursingCareer #PharmaSales #NurseBurnout #CareerChange #MedicalDeviceSales #HighPayingJobs #Nurselife

Are you trying to break into medical sales but stuck deciding between Pharmaceutical and Medical Device? Or maybe you're curious about the high-growth world of Diagnostics and Genomics?Today, we discuss the differences in pay, lifestyle, and entry-level requirements for each path. Whether you want the adrenaline of the Operating Room or the stability of a $130k+ base salary in Pharma, this episode covers the 12 key distinctions you need to know before applying. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:The Personality Test: Why "Engineers" love Device and "Scientists" love Pharma.The Paycheck: Real breakdown of base salaries vs. uncapped commissions.The Hidden Third Option: Why Oncology Diagnostics/Genomics might be the "Goldilocks" career path.Work-Life Balance: The reality of on-call surgical hours vs. the 9-to-5 pharma life.Success Stories: How a nurse (Sydney) and an immigrant (Kanika) broke in with $150k-$200k packages.READY TO BREAK IN? If you are struggling to get offers or don't know where to start, we help people from all backgrounds (nurses, coaches, teachers) launch their medical sales careers.Apply to Medical Sales U at medicalsalesu.com/TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Intro: The common dilemma (O.R. vs. Samples).01:06 - The 3 Paths: Pharma, Device, and Diagnostics.02:15 - Science vs. Engineering: Which fits your brain?04:35 - Salary Reveal: Entry-level Pharma Pay ($95k-$135k base).06:10 - The "Associate" Role: Why Device base pay starts lower.07:40 - The Top 1%: Earning potential ($300k - $750k).09:15 - Diagnostics Pay: The sweet spot?10:30 - The Sales Process: Who are you actually selling to?13:50 - Lifestyle Check: Early mornings vs. Family flexibility.17:15 - Career Advancement: From Rep to Regional Director.22:15 - Student Success: From $68k to $200k total comp.ABOUT MEDICAL SALES U: Medical Sales U is the premier training program for professionals looking to break into high-paying careers in Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, and Genetic Testing sales. We turn "outsiders" into top 1% candidates.CONNECT WITH US:Learn more about coaching and career support at medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #PharmaceuticalSales #MedDevice #SalesCareer #DaveSterritt #CareerAdvice #HighPayingJobs #SalesTips

If you are making it to the panel interview but still getting those automated "Thanks but no thanks" emails, you are likely making one of these 3 fatal mistakes.In this episode, we reveal why high-achievers like nurses, D1 athletes, and experienced VPs fail to break into Pharma and Medical Device sales. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:- The "Immature Enthusiasm" Trap: Why being a "go-getter" isn't enough and the specific clinical research you MUST do before the first phone call.- The LinkedIn Strategy: Stop using LinkedIn like a digital resume. Learn the "20-Person Rule" and how to message hiring managers without being annoying.- The "Guard Down" Mistake: Why you are failing the field ride and peer interviews (and why you should never relax around potential colleagues).CHAPTERS (Jump to the section you need):0:00 - Intro: Why talented people get rejected01:50 - Mistake #1: You Didn’t Do the Research (FDA, Clinical Trials, Competitors)04:44 - Immature Enthusiasm vs. Professional Readiness05:12 - Mistake #2: You Are Using LinkedIn Wrong (Stop asking to "Pick their brain")06:35 - The "20-Person" LinkedIn Strategy12:33 - Mistake #3: You Are Not Networking Correctly (The "Invisible" Applicant)13:43 - Warning: The "Guard Down" Trap with Peer Reps ABOUT MEDICAL SALES U: Medical Sales U is the premier training program for professionals looking to break into high-paying careers in Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, and Genetic Testing sales. We turn "outsiders" into top 1% candidates.CONNECT WITH US:Learn more about coaching and career support at medicalsalesu.com/#MedicalSales #PharmaceuticalSales #CareerAdvice #SalesInterview #MedicalSalesU #JobSearchTips #LinkedInStrategy

Ready to stop wishing for a bigger role and actually build a massive career? In this episode, I sit down with Brent Lavin (BD Strategic Growth), the leader who took a personal medical scare and turned it into a 20+ product launch dynasty.Forget the generic advice. Brent gives us the raw truth on how he moved from a comfortable engineering role to orchestrating global M&A and strategic growth. He breaks down the one non-negotiable trait he looks for in hires and reveals the counterintuitive moves (like taking a pay cut for an MBA) that jump-started his success.Most people wait for the perfect invitation; Brent made his own seat at the table by being “humble, hungry, and smart.” You’ll learn how to stop waiting for permission and start scaling your own leadership, whether you're fresh out of college or ready for a major mid-career reinvention.Learn more about coaching and career support at medicalsalesu.com/Brent Lavin's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brent-lavin/

Beyond the MD: Why a Johns Hopkins MBA Chose Medical Sales U (ft. Dr. Kevin Maggisano)What does it take to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and business execution? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Maggisano, a professional who embodies the intersection of high-level medical vision and elite business strategy.Despite earning his MD from Western University and completing an MBA from Johns Hopkins, Dr. Maggisano believes that real leadership requires more than just degrees. It requires business clarity and strategic communication. That is exactly why he chose to enroll in Medical Sales U.In this episode, we cover:The Power of Continuous Growth: Why Dr. Maggisano believes leaders at every level, even those with MDs and MBAs, can still sharpen their business strategy and grow.Strategic Communication: How to move beyond clinical knowledge to master the art of communicating value and driving measurable results.Validating the Process: How Dr. Maggisano’s experience reinforces the credibility and direction of Medical Sales U, proving that our focus on leadership and results works for top-tier professionals.Building a Career: Insights on how to build a rewarding career inside the medical sales world by combining medical authority with sales acumen.Dr. Maggisano’s story is a powerful reminder that future leaders can trust the process. His voice amplifies our mission to help professionals identify their strengths and succeed in the competitive world of medical sales.About Dr. Kevin Maggisano: Dr. Maggisano combines deep medical insight with rigorous business training. He holds an MD from Western University and an MBA from Johns Hopkins University. He joined Medical Sales U to further strengthen his leadership skills and refine his approach to business strategy.Learn more about coaching and career support at https://medicalsalesu.com/

Do you have a medical sales interview coming up?Pharma, medical device, diagnostics, or biotech… this video will help you stand out and win the offer. This industry is highly competitive, and the candidates who succeed do more than answer questions. They own the interview. What you will learn in this episode: - How to make a powerful first impression with “Tell me about yourself”- How to walk through your resume like a top performer- How to connect your background to the company’s mission, product, and impact on patients- How to communicate what makes you unique without clichés- How to discuss strengths and weaknesses with strategy and confidence- How to show cultural fit and real motivation- How to navigate the salary question without losing momentum- How to close strong and leave a memorable impressionEverything I teach comes from real hiring experience in medical sales, including pharma and oncology. After this video, you will know exactly how to prepare with purpose, communicate like a professional, and outperform people who may have more experience on paper.If you are serious about getting into or advancing in medical sales, you are in the right place.Subscribe to get coaching, tools, and real interview strategies that help you win the offer.Preparation creates confidence. Confidence wins offers.Learn more about coaching and career support at https://medicalsalesu.com/

Struggling to answer “Tell me about yourself?” in interviews?You’re not alone. Even the most talented candidates often freeze, ramble, or read their resume. In this episode, you’ll learn a proven framework to introduce yourself confidently and make hiring managers remember YOU.What you’ll learn in this video:• The #1 mistake candidates make when answering this question• The PSPT™ framework: Personal – Successful – Professional – Transferable• How to share your story with purpose (without oversharing)• Real examples for nurses, pharmacists, teachers, and IT/sales professionals• Tips to speak with confidence, posture, and presence• How to stay under 3 minutes, and still stand outWhether you're breaking into medical sales, interviewing for a leadership role, or simply growing your career, this strategy works.By the end of this episode, you’ll be able to own your story and deliver it naturally in any interview.If this helped you, hit LIKE and FOLLOW for more career and interview coaching.Turn on notifications so you don’t miss new episodes!Want 1:1 coaching or to join our community?Visit: Medical Sales U — We help you break into the industry with confidence.Drop a comment:What’s one achievement you’ll include in your “Tell me about yourself” answer?CHAPTERS00:00 Why “Tell Me About Yourself” is so hard00:30 Personal — Make it human02:48 Successful — Show the numbers06:20 Professional — Tell your growth story10:57 Transferable — Connect to the job13:53 Avoid these common mistakes15:41 Full PSPT™ recap + next steps

In this episode, Kevin Kelleher (Director of Medical Affairs at Medtronic & founder of the Rural Health Technology Consortium) shares his journey from nurse to sales leader, and why passion, and not just money, must drive your career.Kevin’s story really stuck with me. He went from nursing into sales, but what makes his perspective different is how he ties everything back to passion and purpose. He also opens up about what it’s like serving rural communities, the push for more diversity in clinical research, and even how he balances leadership with family life. Honestly, it’s one of those conversations that leaves you rethinking your life. From breaking into medical sales, building trust in rural healthcare, and tackling diversity in clinical research, to leadership, productivity, and family balance... Kevin brings powerful lessons you can apply today.

From pharmacist to Eli Lilly sales rep in just 5 weeks.In this episode, Francesco Russo shares how he went from burnout in retail pharmacy to landing a high-paying role in pharmaceutical sales thanks to strategy, networking, and a customized plan. His story proves that even highly educated professionals need more than degrees to stand out.Do you want to break into pharma or medical sales? Learn the strategies Francesco used inside this episode.