Episodios

  • Life Changing Moments – Why Physicians Seek Coaching (And Why They Don't)

    Life Changing Moments – Why Physicians Seek Coaching (And Why They Don't)
    Mar 9 2026

    Welcome to the evolution of Life Changing Moments! In this debut videocast episode, host Dr. Dael Waxman is joined by his colleague and fellow physician coach at MD Coaches, Dr. Murnal Shah, for a foundational conversation about physician coaching.

    Together, they explore the nuanced landscape of coaching in medicine—why physicians seek it, what holds them back, and how coaching differs from counseling, advising, or simply "getting help." Drawing on decades of combined experience working with physicians at all career stages, Dale and Murnal unpack the myths, misconceptions, and transformative potential of coaching. From the newly minted resident questioning their path to the seasoned leader stepping into a C-suite role, they make a compelling case for investing in oneself—not out of crisis, but out of a commitment to growth.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • The wide spectrum of reasons physicians seek coaching: from leadership transitions to burnout and disillusionment.

    • What "remedial coaching" really looks like—and why fear and anger are often at the root of perceived unprofessionalism.

    • The critical distinction between coaching (future-focused, action-oriented) and counseling (past-focused, healing-oriented).

    • Why physicians are conditioned to neglect self-investment and how the "hero mindset" of training creates barriers.

    • The evidence for coaching: improved communication, retention, and reduced burnout.

    • Why high-performing physicians seek coaching—and why being "right" isn't the same as being effective.

    • The power of curiosity over advice-giving: coaching as a thought partnership where the answers reside within the client.

    • Practical encouragement for anyone hesitating: let that hesitation be the driver to learn more.

    Guest Information:

    • Dr. Dael Waxman, Physician Coach, MD Coaches – Host, Life Changing Moments

    • Dr. Murnal Shah, Physician Coach, MD Coaches

    • Website: mymdcoaches.com

    • Join the MD Coaches community on Facebook

    Relevant Links:

    • MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com

    • Follow Life Changing Moments for more conversations on physician growth and transformation

    • MD Coaches Facebook Community
    Más Menos
    37 m
  • Life Changing Moments 68 - Coaching and Mentoring, with Charles Lowry

    Life Changing Moments 68 - Coaching and Mentoring, with Charles Lowry
    Feb 16 2026
    Residency is one of the most profound life-changing seasons in a physician's journey—a time of rapid growth, deep uncertainty, and one of the biggest decisions of all: what comes next. In this unique collaborative episode, host Dr. Dael Waxman is joined by Charles Lowry, Director of Graduate Medical Education Relations at PracticeLink and host of the Surviving and Thriving in Residency podcast. Rather than a traditional interview, Dr. Waxman and Charlie engage in a shared conversation about the critical inflection points they've witnessed in medical students and residents. They explore the hidden struggles beneath the confident exterior—the loneliness, the imposter syndrome, the career uncertainty—and the powerful role that connection, validation, and intentional support can play. Together, they uncover how coaching and career resources can help residents move from survival mode to intentional choice, and why finding your "people" is essential for a sustainable, fulfilling career in medicine. Key Topics Discussed: Charlie's journey from statewide campus director for medical students to his current role supporting residents nationwide. The vulnerability and openness residents show when given a safe, non-evaluative space to share their struggles. The hidden stressors of residency: loneliness, lack of family support, and the challenge of being an international medical graduate. How PracticeLink serves as a free, comprehensive career resource for residents, from CV reviews to scholarships. The role of coaching in addressing imposter syndrome, leadership challenges, and the transition from training to practice. Why career uncertainty is a major driver of stress and well-being issues. Practical advice for residents: take advantage of free resources, find your community, and remember that residency is just one chapter. What gives both Dr. Waxman and Charlie hope about the next generation of physicians. Guest Information: Mr. Charles Lowry, Director of Graduate Medical Education Relations, PracticeLink. Email: charles.lowry@practicelink.com Website: practicelink.com Podcast: Surviving and Thriving in Residency PracticeLink offers free CV reviews, scholarships, webinars, and a robust job board for physicians at all stages. Relevant Links: MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com Sponsor: PracticeLink – practicelink.com Sponsor: Navigate Student Loans – http://navigate.as.me/MD-Coaches Sponsor: Physician Outlook – physicianoutlook.com MD Coaches Community on Facebook -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    45 m
  • 215. The Guide: Charles Lowry

    215. The Guide: Charles Lowry
    Feb 2 2026
    What if the key to physician career satisfaction and retention lies not in more training, but in better matching? In this insightful episode, Dr. Randy Cook welcomes Mr. Charles Lowry, Director of Provider Engagement for PracticeLink. Coming from a unique background in rural farming and international student services, Charles now dedicates his work to helping medical students, residents, and fellows navigate one of the most critical transitions of their careers: finding the right first job. We explore his journey from a small West Virginia farm to becoming a trusted advisor in the medical community, his role at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, and his current mission with PracticeLink. Charles demystifies the free services available to physicians-in-training, from CV reviews and scholarship programs to the "Surviving and Thriving in Residency" podcast. He shares profound wisdom on the importance of cultural fit, the non-linear path to success, and the energy we bring into every room. Key Topics Discussed: Growing up on a self-sustaining farm in rural West Virginia and the values it instilled. The transformative experience of attending tuition-free Berea College and working with international students. The crucial role of a Statewide Campus Director in guiding medical students through clinical rotations. How PracticeLink serves as a free, comprehensive career resource for physicians at all stages. The importance of the "right fit" between a physician and their first practice for long-term retention and happiness. Charles's three-part "Prescription for Success": staying grounded and calm, understanding that success isn't a straight line, and overcoming your own internal critic. Guest Information: Mr. Charles Lowry, Director of Provider Engagement, PracticeLink. Email: charles.lowry@practicelink.com Website: practicelink.com Podcast: Surviving and Thriving in Residency Relevant Links: MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com Sponsor: PracticeLink – practicelink.com Sponsor: Navigate Student Loans – flipthescript.loan/md-coaches Sponsor: Physician Outlook – physicianoutlook.com -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    33 m
  • 214. The Pilot: Ronen Elefant, MD, MBA, MSEng

    214. The Pilot: Ronen Elefant, MD, MBA, MSEng
    Jan 19 2026
    What does it take to build a revolutionary business in surgery while living a life of high-altitude adventure? In this electrifying episode, Dr. Randy Cook sits down with Dr. Ronen Elefant, a trauma & acute care surgeon, jet pilot, and innovative entrepreneur. Dr. Elefant shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to the U.S. without speaking English to training at the famed Shock Trauma Center, all while pursuing his passion for aviation. We explore his unique engineering mindset applied to surgery, the genesis of his direct-surgical-care company ACES National Surgical Team, and his bold vision to fix a broken healthcare system. Dr. Elefant argues that the root of medicine's problems lies in the misuse of health insurance and offers a compelling alternative: a transparent, bundled-cash model that puts patients and employers back in control. Key Topics Discussed: Immigrating from Israel at age nine and embracing a new life and language. How a biomedical engineering background shapes his surgical problem-solving. The unparalleled training and camaraderie of a 12-person fellowship at Shock Trauma. The parallel journey of becoming a certified Airline Transport Pilot and using aviation as a business tool. The founding philosophy behind ACES: a direct-surgical-care "software solution" for existing surgery centers. Why "health insurance" is a misnomer and how a cash-based model increases quality and lowers costs. Dr. Elefant's two essential "Prescriptions for Success": relentless persistence and achieving "escape velocity." Guest Information: Dr. Ronen Elefant, Trauma & Acute Care Surgeon, Founder of ACES National Surgical Team. Website: acessurgical.com Email: ronen@acessurgical.com Connect on LinkedIn -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    48 m
  • 213. The Faculty: Rick Kellerman, MD

    213. The Faculty: Rick Kellerman, MD
    Dec 22 2025
    What does it mean to live a life in medicine aligned with your deepest calling? In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Randy Cook sits down with Dr. Rick Kellerman, a pillar of family medicine and Professor Emeritus from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Wichita. Dr. Kellerman shares the inspiring story of his lifelong commitment to rural family medicine, tracing his path from being inspired by a small-town doctor as a child to leading one of the nation's top departments for training rural physicians. We explore the pivotal moments that defined his career, including a humbling first anatomy exam, the sudden loss of his mentor that changed his trajectory, and his fulfilling six years in solo rural practice. Dr. Kellerman offers timeless wisdom on medical leadership, the seismic changes in family practice (especially the burden of documentation), and his three essential "Prescriptions for Success" that every physician and leader needs to hear. Key Topics Discussed: The powerful influence of small-town physician role models. Overcoming the shock of academic competition in medical school. The decision to follow a calling to rural family medicine. The transition from rural practitioner to residency program director and department chair. How the University of Kansas-Wichita became #1 in the U.S. for placing doctors in rural areas. The greatest challenges facing family medicine today, including documentation burnout. Dr. Kellerman's three essential leadership principles for a fulfilling career. Guest Information: Dr. Rick Kellerman, Professor Emeritus, Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine - Wichita. Contact: rkellerm@kumc.edu Relevant Links: MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com Sponsor: PracticeLink – practicelink.com Sponsor: Navigate Student Loans – flipthescript.loan/md-coaches Sponsor: Physician Outlook – physicianoutlook.com -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    39 m
  • Life Changing Moments: Healing Healthcare, with Dr. Jonathan Ripp

    Life Changing Moments: Healing Healthcare, with Dr. Jonathan Ripp
    Dec 1 2025
    How do we build a healthcare system where physicians and healthcare professionals can not only survive but truly thrive? In this illuminating episode of Life Changing Moments, host Dr. Dael Waxman sits down with a pioneer in the field, Dr. Jonathan Ripp, Chief Wellness Officer at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and co-founder of CHARM (the Collaborative for Healing and Renewal in Medicine). Dr. Ripp traces his 25-year journey from studying physician identity formation in residency to leading a national movement focused on structural well-being. He provides a masterclass on the evolution of the physician well-being movement, explaining why we've moved beyond individual "resilience" to address systemic issues like work design, clerical burden, and organizational culture. We dive deep into the genesis and mission of CHARM, the professional society for healthcare well-being leaders, and explore its foundational charter that has become a blueprint for institutions nationwide. Discover the most promising interventions today, from the explosive growth of physician coaching to the potential of AI and ambient scribes to reclaim time for meaningful work. In this episode, you'll learn: The story behind the CHARM collaborative and how it creates community for well-being leaders. Why the CHARM charter remains a critical document for defining the principles of systemic well-being. The four key domains of effective well-being programs: mental health, individual strategies, leadership culture, and work design. Why physician coaching and AI tools are among the most exciting advancements for reducing burnout. Practical advice for medical students and early-career physicians on how to choose a workplace that will support their well-being. Dr. Ripp's vision for a future where addressing healthcare worker well-being is a consistent, standardized priority across all health systems. If you are a physician, healthcare leader, medical student, or anyone passionate about healing the healers, this conversation is a source of grounded hope and a clear-eyed look at the path forward. Mentioned in this episode: CHARM: The Collaborative for Healing and Renewal in Medicine Connect with Us: Subscribe to Life Changing Moments for more conversations on finding purpose and success in medicine. What is the most pressing well-being challenge in your organization? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Chapters: 0:00 - Meet a Pioneer in Physician Well-Being 3:22 - Dr. Ripp's 25-Year Journey from Resident to CWO 7:10 - The "Transformation" of Physicians in Training 12:16 - The Birth of the CHARM Collaborative 15:08 - The CHARM Charter: A Blueprint for Well-Being 18:47 - The State of Physician Well-Being Today 25:05 - Most Promising Interventions: Coaching & AI 27:22 - The Future of Healthcare Well-Being in 5 Years 29:47 - Advice for the Next Generation of Physicians 33:58 - Final Thoughts: Perseverance and Community Keywords: Physician Well-Being, Doctor Burnout, CHARM, Collaborative for Healing and Renewal in Medicine, Dr. Jonathan Ripp, Chief Wellness Officer, Mount Sinai, Physician Coaching, Healthcare Leadership, Physician Identity, Medical Resident Burnout, Structural Change, Work Design, Clerical Burden, Electronic Health Record, EHR, AI in Medicine, Ambient Scribing, Physician Retention, Healthcare Culture, Organizational Culture, Mental Health, Resilience, Life Changing Moments, MD Coaches, Dr. Dael Waxman, Joy in Medicine, ACGME, AMA, Lorna Breen Foundation. -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    37 m
  • Life Changing Moments: Listening to the voice inside, Dr. Rebecca Evangelista

    Life Changing Moments: Listening to the voice inside, Dr. Rebecca Evangelista
    Nov 10 2025
    What does a general surgeon know about navigating a career that feels misaligned? Everything. In this profound episode of Life Changing Moments, host Dr. Dael Waxman sits down with Dr. Rebecca Evangelista, a surgeon and academic leader who has masterfully shaped her career through a series of thoughtful and courageous pivots. Dr. Evangelista shares her incredible journey from a gap year working for a surgeon she didn't want to emulate, to a medical student drawn to primary care, and finally to embracing the thriving feeling she found in the operating room. Her story is a powerful lesson in listening to your inner voice and challenging the "shoulds" that can dictate our paths. Discover how to recognize when your work drifts from your core purpose and find the courage to make a change. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify the signs of misalignment in your career and the courage required to stay true to yourself, even when it means letting go of established roles. Why Dr. Evangelista left private practice for academic medicine, prioritizing her passion for medical education and a practice model that fit her values. The strategic process behind her recent "conscious uncoupling" from a 20-year clinical position when her trajectory and the organization's direction diverged. Practical advice on processing the emotions of major career decisions and the importance of trusted confidants or a physician coach to help you see clearly. How embracing non-clinical leadership roles, like her work as an Associate Dean, can open new doors for meaning, impact, and professional growth. If you are a physician, surgeon, or medical professional feeling "stuck," experiencing burnout, or sensing a disconnect between your work and your purpose, this conversation is an essential guide to writing your own success story and living and leading in a way that feels true. Keywords: physician career transition, surgeon pivot, academic medicine, medical education, finding purpose in medicine, physician burnout, aligning career with values, Life Changing Moments, Dr. Dael Waxman, MD Coaches, physician coaching, leaving clinical practice, authentic leadership, career fulfillment, inner voice, conscious uncoupling. -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • 212. The Listener: Nadine Semer, MD, MPH

    212. The Listener: Nadine Semer, MD, MPH
    Oct 27 2025
    What does a plastic and reconstructive surgeon know about end-of-life care? Everything. In this profound episode of Rx for Success, host Dr. Randy Cook sits down with Dr. Nadine Semer, who made the remarkable transition from a successful career in plastic surgery to becoming a palliative medicine physician. Dr. Semer shares her incredible journey and the wisdom that led her to write the essential book, "15 Lessons: Connecting with Patients for More Authentic and Empowering Conversations." This isn't just a book about death and dying; it's a masterclass in the art of communication for every healthcare professional. Discover how to reclaim the human connection at the heart of medicine and why these skills are critical for every clinician, from physical therapists to surgeons. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Dr. Semer believes the rise of palliative care reflects a broken healthcare system and what every clinician can do to fix it. How to become a "medical interpreter"—translating complex diagnoses into clear, compassionate English for your patients. The critical importance of understanding a patient's quality of life goals before recommending invasive procedures like AICDs. Practical lessons from her book that can transform patient interactions, improve adherence, and prevent physician burnout. Why she feels healthier and less burdened as a palliative physician than she did as a surgeon. If you are a physician, nurse, medical student, or any healthcare provider feeling disconnected by EHRs and administrative tasks, this conversation is a powerful reminder of why you entered medicine and how to find deeper fulfillment in your work. Keywords: palliative medicine, end of life care, physician communication, doctor patient relationship, medical career change, plastic surgery, Dr. Nadine Semer, Rx for Success, Dr. Randy Cook, MD Coaches, healthcare burnout, patient communication skills, medical interpreter, advance care planning, goals of care, hospice, empathetic medicine, medical education, clinical empathy. -+=-+=-+=-+= Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Do you have additional thoughts about today's topic? Do you have your own Prescription for Success? Record a message on Speakpipe Unlock Bonus content and get the shows early on our Patreon Follow us or Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon | Spotify --- There's more at https://mymdcoaches.com/podcast Music by Ryan Jones. Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
    Más Menos
    47 m