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

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

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

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

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

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

Join me on this episode of The Physician’s Mind as I sit down with Dr. Toufic Jildeh, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, to uncover the secrets behind thriving in medicine without succumbing to burnout.Dr. Jildeh dives deep into the mindset, discipline, and daily habits that drive elite performance in both medicine and sports. He shares why medicine is more than a career—it’s a lifestyle—and how grounding techniques, time management, and mentorship are essential for sustainable success.We explore the hidden costs of ambition, the importance of patient-centered care, and the lessons learned from mentorship and feedback. This episode is packed with actionable insights for medical students, residents, physicians, surgeons, and anyone seeking fulfillment and balance in high-performance careers.Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation.✅ Key Takeaways:- Elite performance in medicine requires discipline, consistency, and the right mindset.- Grounding techniques help maintain clarity and presence in high-pressure environments.- Ambition has hidden costs—sustainable success comes from balance and reflection.- Effective time management and feedback accelerate personal and professional growth.- Patient-centered care and meaningful connections are essential for fulfillment.- Mentorship shapes career trajectories and teaches resilience in challenging moments.- Medicine as a lifestyle: purpose, balance, and mental toughness matter as much as technical skill.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, Dr. Micah Lissy shares his powerful journey from starting out as a physical therapist to becoming an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon.He opens up about the struggles he faced in medical school, the mindset it took to push through, and the role that continuous learning plays in becoming a high-level physician. Dr. Lissy also dives into what life is like working in a surgical team—highlighting collaboration, mentorship, and the human side of medicine that many people never see.He talks about the balance of hard work, luck, and strong relationships, and how each contributed to shaping his career. Dr. Lissy also reflects on his day-to-day responsibilities as a surgeon, what motivates him, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind in medicine.If you want insight into the mindset required to grow, lead, and serve in the medical field, this episode is for you.Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation.✅ Key Takeaways:- How Dr. Lissy transitioned from physical therapy to orthopedic surgery- The challenges and breakthroughs he experienced in medical school- Why continuous learning is essential in modern medicine- The importance of teamwork inside the OR- How relationships, mentors, and luck shape a medical career- Dr. Lissy’s long-term goals and the legacy he wants to build🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Dr. Christopher Calandrella to dive into the evolving world of emergency medicine. We talk about why the specialty continues to grow in popularity, the challenges physicians face on the front lines, and how technology and modern practices are reshaping the ER.Dr. Calandrella also opens up about the importance of mentorship, what he looks for in applicants, and the essential role compassion plays in delivering exceptional patient care. From his personal journey to the mentors who shaped his path, he shares the lessons and values he hopes to pass on to the next generation of physicians.Whether you're a medical student exploring career options, a healthcare professional seeking perspective, or simply curious about the dynamics inside emergency medicine, this conversation offers deep insights into a field driven by resilience, purpose, and humanity.Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation.✅ Key Takeaways:- Emergency medicine is appealing due to its excitement and variety.- Lifestyle balance is a significant factor for many in emergency medicine.- The portability of emergency medicine careers attracts many practitioners.- Compensation in emergency medicine is generally favorable.- Emergency medicine faces challenges like high patient acuity and healthcare access issues.- The evolution of technology has transformed emergency medicine practices.- Standardization in emergency medicine has improved patient care.- Personality and teamwork are crucial qualities for emergency medicine applicants.- Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping future physicians.- Compassion and empathy are essential in providing quality healthcare.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

Few careers face the intensity of spine surgery. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Dr. John Flood—a master of motion-preserving spine techniques and decades of leadership in one of medicine’s most demanding fields.We dive deep into the psychology of surgical excellence, high-pressure decision-making in the OR, and what separates a good surgeon from a great one. Dr. Flood also shares why motion preservation mattered long before it became mainstream, how to remain calm when the unexpected happens, and lessons for medical students, residents, and young physicians on mentorship and professional growth.Follow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation.✅ Key Takeaways:- The unique pressures spine surgeons face and how to manage them.- Why most spine patients don’t actually need surgery.- Lessons from Dr. Flood’s most challenging surgeries and high-stress OR moments.- The importance of motion preservation and innovation in spine surgery.- What makes a technically good surgeon truly great.- Leadership, mentorship, and training residents for elite performance.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, I sit down with Dr. Gregory Kolovich, orthopedic surgeon and founder of OXOS Medical, to explore how an engineering mindset shaped his approach to medicine, innovation, and entrepreneurship.Dr. Kolovich reveals his unique path from engineering to orthopedic surgery, the creation of OXOS Medical’s groundbreaking imaging tech, and the lessons learned through leadership, adaptability, and perseverance.Whether you’re a physician, entrepreneur, or innovator, this conversation offers rare insights into how problem-solving, creativity, and consistency drive success at the intersection of medicine and technology.🎯 Key Themes:- Engineering principles in surgical decision-making- Medical innovation and startup challenges- Consistency, adaptability, and leadership- The mindset behind OXOS Medical’s successFollow The Physician’s Mind for more episodes that bridge medicine, mindset, and modern innovation.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, host Curtis Wilkerson sits down with Stanford psychiatrist Dr. Anna Lembke - bestselling author of Dopamine Nation and one of the world’s leading experts on addiction medicine - to uncover how dopamine shapes your motivation, focus, and self-control.You’ll discover:- The neuroscience behind why your brain craves quick pleasure over lasting growth- How modern life hijacks your reward system and traps you in cycles of distraction- Why discipline, not indulgence, leads to true fulfillment- The surprising link between pain, purpose, and happiness- Practical strategies to reset your dopamine baseline and reclaim mental clarityDr. Lembke has been featured on The Joe Rogan Experience, Huberman Lab, and Diary of a CEO. Now she joins The Physician’s Mind to reveal how to rewire your brain for focus and fulfillment in a world built on distraction.🎧 Listen now to learn the science of dopamine—and how to take back control of your mind.👉 Subscribe to The Physician’s Mind for more insights from leading experts in medicine, education, and science innovation._______________________________________________________Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Meet Dr. Anna Lembke: From Stanford to Dopamine Nation03:40 – The Science of Dopamine: Pleasure, Pain, and Motivation07:35 – Why Modern Life Keeps Us Addicted10:25 – The Pleasure-Pain Seesaw Explained14:20 – Addiction Beyond Drugs: Social Media, Vaping & Technology19:00 – Why Abundance Makes Us Unhappy22:00 – How to Reset Your Dopamine Baseline24:45 – The Power of Purpose and Hard Goals27:30 – Avoiding the Trap of Constant Achievement31:00 – Living by Values, Not Just Goals33:00 – Finding Meaning in the Process_______________________________________________________FOLLOW US:Instagram → @thephysiciansmindSpotify → The Physician’s Mind PodcastCourses → thephysiciansmind.com/courseBlog → thephysiciansmind.com/blog🌐 Explore more at ⁠our website⁠: www.thephysiciansmind.com #ThePhysiciansMind #DrAnnaLembke #DopamineNation #AddictionScience #MentalHealth #PurposeDrivenLife #DopamineDetox #Neuroscience

In this episode, Dr. Sean Altman dives into functional medicine and how addressing the root cause of pain can transform patient care. He shares what separates good clinicians from great ones and the systems needed to build a thriving private practice.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

How Storytelling Can Transform Chemistry Education with Dr. Colleen KelleyIn this episode of The Physician’s Mind, Dr. Colleen Kelley reveals how storytelling can revolutionize chemistry education and make molecular concepts click for students. From molecular literacy to rethinking organic chemistry, she shares how narrative-based teaching ignites curiosity, builds confidence, and inspires future scientists.💡 You’ll Learn:What molecular literacy really meansWhy traditional chemistry teaching often fails studentsHow storytelling enhances understanding and retentionStrategies for engaging, multi-sensory science educationHow early learning shapes tomorrow’s physiciansWhether you’re a student, educator, or healthcare professional, this episode will change how you view science education.🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – ⁠https://thephysiciansmind.com⁠📖⁠ Related Blog Post⁠🎓 ⁠Free Networking Mini-Course⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠📺 ⁠YouTube

How do you build a thriving private medical practice while caring for patients from newborns to Olympians?In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, Olympic Doctor Dr. Chris Koutures joins Curtis Wilkerson to reveal how he built his pediatric and sports medicine practice, ActiveKid MD, into one of the most respected independent clinics in the country.Dr. Koutures shares real lessons from 25+ years in medicine — from building a private practice, balancing patient care and entrepreneurship, to mentoring young athletes and future doctors. As a dual board-certified pediatrician and sports medicine physician, his journey from residency to the Olympic Games shows what’s possible when you combine passion, purpose, and persistence.🎯 In This Episode:How to start and grow a private medical practiceLessons from treating Olympians and youth athletesThe philosophy of “medicine as coaching”Building patient trust and brand reputationFounding the Orange County Concussion ConsortiumAdvice for medical students and young physicians🔗 Learn More & Connect:🌐 Website – https://thephysiciansmind.com📖 Related Blog Post🎓 Free Networking Mini-Course📸 Instagram📺 YouTube

LEARN TO NETWORK LIKE A CHAMPION:Free Mini-Course → ⁠White Coat Connections: Networking for Future PhysiciansThis episode features premed advice from a medical student answering 9 real questions about how to study, stay motivated, and get into medical school.Curtis Wilkerson, medical student and founder of The Physician’s Mind, mentors David Mankin, an incoming premed at Arizona State University. Study tips for premeds: Deep work, spaced repetition, active recall, Pomodoro methodMCAT strategy: Best prep resources and test-day mindsetMotivation & discipline: How to push through burnout with a strong “why” Med-school application tips: Clinical hours, shadowing, volunteering, and standing out Mindset habits: Journaling, reflection, and long-term consistencyPremeds, college freshmen, and future doctors who want to learn how to get into medical school and build elite study habits from day one.🌐 Website → thephysiciansmind.com📱 Follow Curtis → Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

What separates an elite surgeon from the rest?Yale orthopedic surgeon Dr. Arianna Gianakos shares her journey from All-American athlete to one of the top voices in foot & ankle sports medicine. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, Curtis Wilkerson uncovers how she uses surgical visualization, builds grit without burning out, and leads through mentorship, women’s leadership, and Speak Up Ortho.👉 If you’re a medical student, resident, or high-performance professional, this episode is packed with the habits, mindset, and strategies you need to reach the next level.What You’ll Learn:- How to visualize surgery step-by-step like a pro- The secrets to grit + resilience in medicine without burning out- Why foot & ankle injuries are the hidden frontier of sports medicine- Leadership lessons from creating Speak Up Ortho- Networking strategies that open real doors in medicine🔗 Full blog recap here🌐 Explore more at our websiteFollow us on Instagram

What does it take to rise from setbacks and self-doubt to leading an entire specialty? In this crossover with DO or Do Not Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Sean McMillan, President of the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (AOAO), to explore the mindset behind becoming elite.In this conversation, you’ll learn:Why orthopedic surgery is one of the most competitive — and rewarding — fields in medicineThe “bulldog mentality” that transforms failure into fuelHow osteopathic training shapes a unique edge in surgery and patient careThe leadership lessons that apply to every physician pursuing excellenceThis isn’t just about orthopedics — it’s about the discipline, resilience, and clarity it takes to become the best in medicine and in life.Explore The Physician's MindExplore D.O. or Do NotOriginal Episode Link This crossover episode of The Physician's Mind was approved for upload by Dr. Ian Storch of the D.O. or Do Not Podcast.

Most doctors and healthcare professionals work harder every year but feel less free. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, Dr. Alex Schloe (physician, Air Force veteran, and host of Physicians & Properties) shares exactly how he turned his physician salary into financial freedom using real estate investing and house hacking strategies—and how you can do it too.What you’ll learn:-Step-by-step plan to buy your first property even as a med student or resident-How to use physician/VA loans to house hack with 0% down-How to beat analysis paralysis and actually take action-Avoiding lifestyle creep and turning your paycheck into a wealth-building engine-How mentorships, masterminds, and networking speed up success-Why building even a small passive income stream can completely change your career and lifeResources & Links:Physicians & Properties Podcast: https://physiciansandproperties.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/physiciansandproperties/Follow The Physician’s Mind:Website: https://thephysiciansmind.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thephysiciansmind/If you want to buy back your time, gain financial freedom, and make medicine fun again—this episode is your blueprint.

Elite racehorses face the same pressures as professional human athletes—and the medicine behind their performance holds powerful lessons for us all. In this episode of The Physician’s Mind, we explore equine sports medicine at the highest level, uncovering what it teaches about resilience, high-pressure decision-making, and long-term performance.We dive into cutting-edge research on osteoarthritis and metabolic disease, the parallels between horse and human health, and the mindset that separates top students and clinicians from the rest. Whether you’re in medicine, athletics, or simply chasing excellence, this conversation will sharpen how you think about performance and success.Key Takeaways:Elite equine sports medicine mirrors the demands of human athletics.Research in horses is advancing precision medicine for humans.Visualization and preparation under pressure drive consistent results.Active learning and grit define student and professional success.Follow TPM On Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thephysiciansmind/Learn More Here:www.thephysiciansmind.com