Designing Healthcare that Cares Podcast

Dr. Ruth Mannschreck is a dentist, business owner, and founder of Shoreline Strategies LLC, focusing on helping practice owners become more efficient and streamlined. She’s a wealth of experience and expertise on practical things that clinicians and/ or business owners can do to improve their processes and build a healthy culture. Here are my takeaways from this incredible episode-Asking for help and relying on your team are not only possible, but are critical. Dr. Ruth’s personal story magnifies how important it is to realize that you can’t do everything on your own.While we may think we have to improve our time management, the real key is improving our communication, operations, and business processes, which requires an intentional shift in our thinking and behaviors. We actually gain more time in the end when we take these actions.Core values and leadership are at the foundation - when these are aligned and clear, everything flows much more easily.Click here for a resource Dr. Ruth created, complete with a checklist you can use to start using these tips today.For a practical guide to managing your time and energy in a way that brings you joy, click here to purchase my book (available in print, digital, and audio).Connect with Dr. Ruth here-Website:  www.ShorelineStrategies.com LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthmannschreck/  The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this solo episode, I announce a new brand I’m launching - Dr. Laura Suttin: Designing Healthcare that Cares. The new brand reflects an evolution of my work and of my own personal development.This shift isn’t just about a new name or logo. It’s about stepping more fully into the work I’m meant to do, while adding consulting and speaking to my suite of services. I still love coaching, I’m still actively coaching, and that won’t change.💡 In this episode, I’ll walk you through:Why I started as The Purposeful MD and the signs that it was time for something newWhat it means to design healthcare that caresHow consulting and speaking are expanding my impact (and my joy)What this evolution means for you, whether you're a clinician, a leader, or someone craving change in healthcareConnect with me here:https://www.drlaurasuttin.com/https://www.facebook.com/drlaurasuttinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-suttin-md/http://www.youtube.com/@thepurposefulMD The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Dawn Sears is a nationally recognized gastroenterologist, speaker, coach, and fierce advocate for women in medicine. In this heartfelt episode, she shares her inspiring journey from leading wellness initiatives in her hospital (starting with soda machines!) to creating powerful coaching communities that are truly changing the face of leadership in healthcare.Here are my key takeaways from this episode - How Dr. Sears turned a soda machine into a movement for institutional wellnessWhy cohort coaching is a game-changer for physician well-being and retentionThe hidden costs of being a woman in medicine, and how we start shifting the cultureConnect with Dr. Sears here -dawnsears@dawnsearsmd.comgutgirlmdconsulting.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnsearsmd/https://www.facebook.com/dawn.sears.982https://twitter.com/GutGirlMDhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4a1MubzSrKMBaAHwHCe0DQResources mentioned in this episode:Sears DM et al. (2025). Leadership development as a novel strategy to mitigate burnout among female physicians. PLOS ONE, 20(3): e0319895. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0319895 The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

What happens when we realize that fitting into traditional medicine might mean losing touch with who we really are?In this heart-opening conversation, I’m joined by my good friend Dr. Tracey O’Connell. Tracey is a Board Certified radiologist, Professional Certified Coach, and facilitator of Brené Brown’s Shame Resilience Program. Together, we explore the emotional weight of medical training, the myth of resilience, and how expressive writing can reconnect us to our own truth.If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite belong in medicine, or like you’ve had to compartmentalize your humanity just to get through the day, this one’s for you.Here are my takeaways from this episode:The emotional cost of not fitting in within a traditional medical careerHow shame, silence, and systems erode physician well-being (and what we can do about it)The healing power of expressive writing and vulnerabilityHow we can redefine purpose and identity after years of compartmentalizingConnect with Tracey here:Website: www.traceyoconnellmd.comIG: @fertilesoulFB: @tracey holland o'connellLinkedIn: Tracey O'Connell, MD, PCCYouTube: @traceyoconnellmd The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this heartfelt episode of The Purposeful MD Podcast, I am joined by the incomparable Gregory Proctor.Gregory is a Navy veteran, cancer survivor, and award-winning author. He truly is energy in motion. He shares his extraordinary story of transformation, from high-powered executive to cancer patient and now to mission-driven philanthropist and inspiration to so many.Here are the key takeaways from this episode - The emotional turning point that led him to share his journey publicly and the unexpected support that followedThe powerful role of community, hope, and advocacy in survivorshipThe importance of authenticity and vulnerability, especially around asking for help and advocating for yourselfHow walking the Camino de Santiago became a literal and spiritual pilgrimage for healing and purposeThis episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating adversity. In Gregory’s words, “ We have an indomitable human will in our spirit.”Connect with Gregory here:Website(s): www.gregoryoproctor.com, www.reclaiming-life.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gregory-o-proctorInstagram: @gregoryoproctorPodcast: www.kut2thachasepodcast.comEmail: gregory@k2tcpodcast.com The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

One of the most delightful guests I’ve ever had on the podcast!Rachel Pedersen is an online marketing expert, a content creator, and business owner who has scaled to over 3 million followers, and reached over 100 million people annually. Her authentic and warm approach attracts millions to her website and her programs. She’s also a proud mom and wife. Her 2022 book, Unfiltered, is a USA Today bestseller. I’ve been a fan of hers for years. Sitting down with her was like talking to an old friend. My takeaways from this incredible conversation -Show up as yourself, and others will be drawn to you. Authenticity is magical these days.Celebrate your successes! Taking time and space to soak in the wins and the accomplishments will pay off dividends.When you design your life around your values and your priorities, everything flourishes. In Rachel’s words, she now feels “fantastic” after doing so.You’ll also learn how she began to set boundaries in her life, and get a sneak peak at a special project she’s passionate about.This is an episode not to miss! Follow Rachel here:WEBSITE: www.rachelpedersen.com FACEBOOK PROFILE: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=662785087 INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/themrspedersen/ YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/c/RACHELPEDERSENSOCIAL?sub_confirmation=1 THREADS: https://www.threads.net/@themrspedersen  TIKTOK: @themrspedersenhttps://www.tiktok.com/@themrspedersen  FACEBOOK PAGE:https://www.facebook.com/the.mrs.pedersen LINKEDIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelpedersenmarketing/ PINTEREST:https://www.pinterest.com/therachelpedersen/ FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasocialmediamanager/ The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this solo episode, Dr. Laura Suttin shares how she identified her four core values—purpose, connection, empowerment, and joy—and how they became the compass guiding her decisions, boundaries, and energy. You'll hear how to uncover your own values, spot where you’ve drifted, and take one simple step to realign.Inside the episode:The wake-up moment when success felt emptyHow to name your values (and why it’s harder than it sounds)A gentle journaling exercise to reconnect with what mattersHow values lead to better boundaries—with less guiltWhy joy isn’t optional—it’s essential📖 Want the full journal guide? It’s included when you purchase The Purposeful MD, Creating the Life You Love Without Guilt. Learn more at thepurposefulmd.com/bookLink to James Clear Core Values list: https://jamesclear.com/core-values The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this episode of The Purposeful MD Podcast, Dr. Laura Suttin welcomes Alan Utley, a speaker, coach, and culture crafter with 25 years in senior HR leadership. Alan shares his journey from accidental HR beginnings to pioneering the “Fanatical Grace” framework — a powerful approach to transforming workplace culture through humanity, accountability, and kindness.This conversation is filled with laughter, honest reflection, and practical wisdom for any physician or healthcare leader navigating complex teams and high-pressure environments.You’ll learn:Why “being nice” isn’t enough — and what truly compassionate leadership looks likeHow the Fanatical Grace framework helps teams shift from fear and pressure to trust and flowWhat physicians can do — even without formal authority — to influence their workplace cultureHow accountability and grace can coexist to foster high performance and deep connectionA powerful example of parenting (and leadership) through presence instead of pressure🎧 Bonus: Hear Alan and Laura take part in a live sample of his leadership style assessment!Learn more about Alan and take his free leadership assessment: mycoachnextdoor.comConnect with Alan here -LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/AlanDUtley | linkedin.com/company/my-coach-next-door/ | Instagram and TikTok: @MyCoachNextDoor | Email: alan@mycoachnextdoor.com The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with my good friend and colleague, Dr. Lindsey Van Duyn, a family physician and the founder of Immersive Medical Therapy. What started as a personal mission to help teens in her rural Iowa community has grown into a pioneering program that is making a real impact in the lives of adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety.Dr. Van Duyn shares how a single patient’s story became her “why” — and how, despite barriers and setbacks, she followed her passion and built something truly innovative using virtual reality as a powerful tool in mental health care.You’ll hear us talk about:How Lindsay’s own career pivot (and life as a mom of twins!) shaped her missionThe challenges of treating teen depression in rural settings — and why “we can’t wait 6-8 weeks”How virtual reality creates a safe space for teens to calm their nervous systems and learn lasting coping toolsThe power of physicians pursuing passion projects — and how this can improve fulfillment in every aspect of lifeWhy peer support, community, and knowing your “why” matter when taking on big challengesIf you’ve ever felt called to do something new — even when it feels hard — this conversation will leave you inspired and hopeful about what’s possible.Connect with Dr. Van Duyn here:www.ImmersiveMedicalTherapy.comFacebook as Lindsey Van Duyn The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Kara Pepper is a primary care internist, executive coach, and founder of Micropractice Mastermind. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, she’s a passionate advocate for physicians building sustainable, joyful careers—on their own terms. She’s a true example of leadership. In this episode, she dives deep into her own journey through burnout and career reinvention, and provides incredible insights for any physician seeking to reclaim their autonomy, values, and purpose in medicine.Here are my takeaways from this heartfelt conversation-Burnout is not a personal failure. Dr. Pepper shares how she once believed her struggle with burnout meant something was wrong with her, when in fact, it was the system that was misaligned with her needs and values.Rest is not optional—it’s essential. True healing and clarity require extended rest and nervous system downregulation. A two-week break isn’t enough; Dr. Pepper needed months to fully recover and reconnect with her purpose.You’re not “just” anything. Whether you’re a pediatrician, internist, or neurosurgeon, you have deeply transferable skills that can apply far beyond traditional roles in medicine.You are not stuck. If your current role no longer fits, it’s okay to change. So many physicians unnecessarily settle for survival instead of fulfillment. Connect with Dr. Pepper here-www.KaraPepperMDCoaching.com@KaraPepperMD on all socialsIt's Not Just You podcast The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

We all face disappointment — a client backs out, a project falls flat, a dream opportunity slips away. But what if setbacks aren’t signs to stop… but signs to look deeper?In this solo episode, I’m sharing how to reframe disappointment so that it becomes a tool for growth instead of a roadblock. You’ll learn how to normalize discomfort, shift your inner dialogue, and start seeing challenges as invitations — not indictments.You’ll hear:Why disappointment often triggers shame — and how to stop that cycleThe simple 3-step reframe I use when things don’t go as plannedWhat I tell my clients (and myself!) when the inner critic gets loudA powerful reminder: everything is happening for your benefitIf you’ve ever felt discouraged by a setback, this episode will give you a new way forward — with more compassion, clarity, and courage. The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Mrinalini Kulkarni-Date is an Associate Professor and Division Chief of Endocrinology in Austin, Texas. She’s also a tireless advocate for advancing women in medical leadership positions, and serves as a mentor and career coach for women seeking to develop thriving careers in medicine.She’s a true example of leadership. She dives deep into her own journey and the challenges of being a woman in a leadership role, and provides fantastic advice for any physician seeking to thrive in their life and their career.Connect with Dr. Kulkarni-Date here: mdate@peak-md.com The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this episode of The Purposeful MD Podcast, I talk with Dr. Melissa Milanak, licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Mind Impact Consulting, about the critical importance of sleep for optimal performance and wellbeing.Dr. Milanak shares how our society's perspective on sleep is shifting from viewing it as a luxury to recognizing it as essential for peak performance and health.We cover: ✔️ Why sleep deprivation is no longer a badge of honor ✔️ The 15-minute pre-bedtime writing exercise for better sleep ✔️ How to create effective "sleep triggers" for your brain ✔️ Strategic napping (20-30 minutes max) for cognitive performance ✔️ Why the second half of your night's sleep is crucial for cognitive functionDon’t miss this life-changing episode!Connect with Dr. Melissa Milanak here:https://mindimpactconsulting.com/https://mindimpactconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Sleep-Well-Guide.pdfhttps://youtu.be/l2IP0HXtv1k?si=DmiNFDle1jODJHJDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaemilanakphd/https://www.instagram.com/drmelissamilanak/ The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

We’ve been taught to believe that confidence comes first—that we need to feel ready before we take the leap. But the truth? Confidence is built through action, not before it.In this solo episode, I’m unpacking why waiting for confidence is keeping you stuck—and how small, aligned actions are the real catalysts for growth. You’ll hear real stories from my coaching clients who acted before they felt ready—and how that brave action led to deep self-trust, clarity, and yes, confidence.Whether you’re navigating a career shift, setting boundaries, or showing up more fully in your life, this episode is here to remind you: You don’t need more confidence to begin—you just need a little courage to move.Connect with me here -Laura@thepurposefulmd.comwww.thepurposefulmd.com  The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this episode of The Purposeful MD Podcast, I talk with Dr. Stephanie Pearson, former OB-GYN and CEO of Pearson Ravitz, about the critical importance of disability and life insurance for physicians. After a career-ending injury, Dr. Pearson turned her experience into a mission—helping doctors avoid the same mistakes she made.We cover:✔️ Why your employer’s insurance might not be enough✔️ Key policy details every physician should understand✔️ How to truly protect yourself and your familyConnect with Dr. Pearson here -https://pearsonravitz.com/https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.pearson.790https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniepearsonmd/https://www.instagram.com/pearsonravitz/ The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Andrea Austin is a leading emergency physician, simulation educator, author, and advocate for physician well-being. Her book, “Revitalized: A Guidebook to Following Your Healing Heartline,” was published in October 2024.Join this heartfelt and empowering conversation to hear how to create a thriving career and advocate for impactful change in healthcare.Connect with Dr. Austin here:www.andreaaustinmd.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaaustinmd/Instagram @andreaaustinmd The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

In this solocast episode, we dive into the power of letting go and focusing only on what we can control. As physicians, we’re wired to fix problems, but when we try to control the uncontrollable, it leads to frustration, exhaustion, and burnout. I’ll share key insights from my book, The Purposeful MD-Creating the Life You Love Without Guilt, to help you recognize when it’s time to let go and how to shift your energy toward what truly matters. Listen in for practical strategies to reclaim your time, energy, and peace of mind. The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Judith Borger is a mother of three, a wife, a Board Certified physician specializing in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, and a successful business owner of both The Aesthetic Doctor and Concierge Medical Arts. Her mission is to help others create their most authentic and beautiful lives, to include their self-image and relationship to self, relationships with others and their businesses.Join this heartfelt conversation to learn how to become the agent of your own life, and create more joy for yourself and others around you. Connect with Dr. Borger here -Website:  www.theaestheticdoctor.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/doctorborger/FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Aesthetic-Doctor/100078686972092/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-aesthetic-doctor/id1611578378 The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Dr. Michelle Quirk is a Board certified pediatrician, a runner, and an RRCA certified running coach. She is the founder of Mindful Marathon, where she coaches busy professionals to hit their running goals. She shares her journey with running and her approach to running, as well as the importance of starting wherever you are and honoring your own needs.Follow Dr. Quirk here -Website: mindful-marathon.comPodcast: Mindful MarathonYouTube: @mindfulmarathonInstagram: @mindful.marathonEmail: michelle@mindful-marathon.com The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.

Is this the time of year where you are planning for the future?In this episode, I explore a fresh perspective on planning, inspired by Oliver Burkeman’s Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. Learn how to:Embrace uncertainty and focus on what truly matters.Build habits that support the person you want to become.Find the freedom that comes from embracing the reality that we don’t have control over the future.Resources & Mentions:Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanMy book: The Purposeful MD-Creating the Life You Love Without Guilt [https://www.thepurposefulmd.com/book]Purposeful MD Podcast Episode 2 [Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1WmHWU4y1jkubLWRdRPj0n?  si=RoFDz6LGTFqIQQb_2jvryQ][Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-2-make-your-new-years-resolutions-stick/id1723782268?i=1000641648239] The Designing Healthcare That Cares Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding personal or organizational decisions.