Focus on Physicians:
Insights, Ideas, and Strategies
Dressing to Inspire Confidence: My Kevin MD Podcast Conversation
Research suggests that physicians, especially women, are often judged by their appearance as much as their expertise. While this reality can feel frustrating, it also highlights an opportunity: by being intentional about how you dress, you can send signals of approachability, credibility, and professionalism before you even say a word.
You don't have to be uncomfortable, feel restricted, or spend a fortune to maintain a professional wardrobe. As a physician, chances are you spend much of your day on your feet, so your comfort truly matters. With a few small, intentional choices, you can elevate your presence without sacrificing personal style or wellbeing.
An earlier version of this post appeared on this website in March, 2024
On my podcast appearance with Kevin Pho, M.D., we explored a topic that often gets overlooked in medicine: how the way you dress shapes the way that you’re perceived. Although we’d all like to believe that it’s only our skills and knowledge that matter, the reality is that patients, colleagues, and staff naturally form impressions based on what you wear and how you wear it.
Think about it: are your administrators walking around in scrubs? Probably not. They understand that clothing and presentation are part of the unspoken language of leadership and professionalism. You don’t have to like it, but it’s important to understand that there is power in dressing the part. My medical school dean emphasized this lesson back in the 1980s, and while it’s not always taught now, it’s just as relevant today. Like your administrators, he knew that the way you present yourself can convey competence and confidence.
It’s not just outdated speculation. Research suggests that physicians, especially women, are often judged by their appearance as much as their expertise. While this reality can feel frustrating, it also highlights an opportunity: by being intentional about how you dress, you can signal approachability, credibility, and professionalism before you even say a word.
At the same time, professionalism doesn’t have to come at the expense of your comfort or authenticity. In fact, when you feel at ease in what you wear, that confidence translates into how you show up in the exam room, with your team, and in every professional interaction.
In my article on the KevinMD website and in the podcast episode, I offer practical, low-stress ways to dress in a way that aligns with who you are, and how you want to show up. And I share the story of the dapper Dean of Students at Vanderbilt whose exhortations on the importance of attire inspired this article.
Curious to learn more? You can listen to my full conversation with Dr. Kevin Pho below, or find it wherever you get your podcasts.
My Podcast Interview with James Nutter of IM Wealth: The Power of Living Your Values
I had such an interesting conversation with James Nutter of IM Wealth on his podcast A Life Well Lived: A Physician's Guide to Wealth. We talked about the power of knowing, and living, your personal values. Your values are your guide to fulfilling goal setting as well as a North Star when planning for a purposeful retirement. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did!
I had such an interesting conversation with James Nutter of IM Wealth on his podcast A Life Well Lived: A Physician's Guide to Wealth. We talked about the power of knowing, and living by, your personal values. And I shared my template for creating your own personal mission statement.
Your values are your guide to fulfilling goal setting as well as a North Star when planning for a purposeful retirement. As a coach, I’ve been inspired by the insight that emerges when my clients are able to give name to their own personal values.
James specializes in holistic financial guidance for physicians. He has a deep understanding of the unique challenges that physicians face, and the potential pitfalls that can get in the way of a life well lived.
We had a wide-ranging discussion, including our shared love of yoga, the power of mindfulness, and how a simple act of taking a pause can create presence and connection. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did!
You can find our conversation anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
Follow Your Bliss: My Podcast Appearance on the Positive Vibes Podcast
It was such a pleasure to be invited to Yasmine S. Ali MD, MSCI, FACC, FACP‘s Positive Vibes podcast!
In our conversation, we touched on our mutual specialty of cardiology, including the mentors who inspired us and our shared alma mater, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
And we explored the ways that art, mindfulness, and mind-mapping can open up exciting and unexpected possibilities that have the power to change our personal and professional trajectories.
It was such a pleasure to be invited to Yasmine S. Ali MD, MSCI, FACC, FACP‘s Positive Vibes podcast!
In our conversation, we touched on our mutual specialty of cardiology, including the mentors who inspired us and our shared alma mater, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
And we explored the ways that art, mindfulness, and mind-mapping can open up exciting and unexpected possibilities that have the power to change our personal and professional trajectories.
Yasmine is an insightful and inspiring interviewer. I hope you enjoy this episode!
My TechLink Health Podcast Interview with Chai-Lin Simmons of LogicMark
I really enjoyed this conversation on the TechLink Health podcast! Chia-Lin Simmons and her team at LogicMark have harnessed the power of tech and AI to develop a practical and impactful range of products that help vulnerable people stay safe in their homes.
What I found especially compelling was the emphasis on maintaining patients' dignity and autonomy. As I shared, I wish this had been available for my mother when she was facing health and mobility challenges.
I really enjoyed this conversation on the TechLink Health podcast! Chia-Lin Simmons and her team at LogicMark have harnessed the power of tech and AI to develop a practical and impactful range of products that help vulnerable people stay safe in their homes.
What I found especially compelling was the emphasis on maintaining a patient's dignity and autonomy. As I shared, I wish this had been available for my mother when she was facing health and mobility challenges.
As a podcast host for the TechLink Health podcast I love having the opportunity to meet with thought leaders, movers, and shakers from across the health tech spectrum.
You can find our conversation anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
Brain-Computer Interfaces and Mental Focus: My Podcast Interview with Ramses Alcaide of Neurable
On a recent episode of the TechLink Health podcast, I had the chance to speak with Ramses Alcaide, CEO and founder of Neurable, a leading company in the brain-computer interface (BCI) space. Our conversation was a deep dive into how neurotechnology is opening up new possibilities in healthcare, productivity, and mental performance.
These advanced EEG wearables are designed to enhance cognitive focus, promote well-timed mental breaks, and minimize distraction—functions that may be especially relevant for physicians and others facing constant demands on their attention
On a recent episode of the TechLink Health podcast, I had the chance to speak with Ramses Alcaide, CEO and founder of Neurable, a leading company in the brain-computer interface (BCI) space. Our conversation was a deep dive into how neurotechnology is opening up new possibilities in healthcare, productivity, and mental performance. This includes EEG-enabled headsets like the MW75 Neuro, which Ramses is sporting in the picture below.
These advanced EEG wearables are designed to enhance cognitive focus, promote well-timed mental breaks, and minimize distraction—functions that may be especially relevant for physicians and others facing constant demands on their attention. Even a couple of years ago, this might have seemed quite futuristic, but the Neurable headset now has real potential to become a practical tool for managing cognitive load and maintaining well-being.
I was fascinated to learn that the company makes it easy for researchers and tech developers to access the technology, opening up the potential for a wide range of applications. Ramses also described Neurable’s commitment to maintaining users’ privacy, which I believe is crucial for companies developing wearables in this space. Tune in to the podcast to learn more about it!
You can find the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms, or take a listen through the link below.
My Podcast Interview with Kristen Jacobsen of RevSpring
The patient's experience after a healthcare encounter is often overlooked, but it can be nearly as emotionally impactful as the office visit, procedure, or hospitalization itself. Physicians often have little influence on the ways that revenue is collected, but from a patient’s perspective, it is part of the same process as the care we provide.
As a podcast host for the TechLink Health podcast I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Kristen Jacobsen of RevSpring. Kristen explained how AI and technology integration can enhance the experience and how her company engages with patients throughout their treatment path.
The patient's experience after a healthcare encounter is often overlooked, but it can be nearly as emotionally impactful as the office visit, procedure, or hospitalization itself. Physicians often have little influence on the ways that revenue is collected, but from a patient’s perspective, it is part of the same process as the care we provide.
As a podcast host for the TechLink Health podcast I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Kristen Jacobsen of RevSpring. Kristen explained how AI and technology integration can enhance the experience, making it clearer and more efficient. She also shared the ways her company compassionately and respectfully engages with patients throughout their treatment path.
You can find our conversation anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
My Podcast Interview with Rick Sherak of Exogenics
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Rick Sherak, co-founder of Exokinetics, Inc., for the TechLink Health podcast. It was one of the most thought-provoking conversations I’ve had in a while. In this wide-ranging chat, we explored the story behind the Zeen—a groundbreaking upright mobility device that’s reshaping what’s possible for individuals with limited mobility.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Rick Sherak, co-founder of Exokinetics, Inc., for the TechLink Health podcast. It was one of the most thought-provoking conversations I’ve had in a while. In this wide-ranging chat, we explored the story behind the Zeen—a groundbreaking upright mobility device that’s reshaping what’s possible for individuals with limited mobility.
The Zeen isn’t just a mobility aid; it’s a beautifully engineered fusion of form and function that allows users to glide, stand, and sit with dignity and ease. It’s unlike anything I’ve encountered—and the inspiration behind its creation is just as compelling as the device itself.
Unlike a wheelchair, the Zeen allows eye-level interactions. As a cardiologist, I’ve seen the harms that isolation can cause. The internet is great, but one of the many lessons we learned from Covid-19 is that the value of in-person human contact cannot be overestimated.
While the Zeen may not be the right fit for everyone, for many who are homebound or reliant on others to get around, it offers the potential for meaningful mobility and a degree of independence that may otherwise be out of reach.
Rick’s passion for innovation and helping others is truly contagious. Tune in to this episode anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
My Podcast Interview with Livia Robic of Withings for BeamO
I recently spoke with Livia Robic of Withings about the BeamO device for the TechLink Health podcast. BeamO is designed to help physicians take better care of their patients remotely, and was named one of Time magazine's "Best Inventions of 2024". This was such an interesting and engaging episode, and I can imagine a number of scenarios where this device could make a difference for patients with chronic disease or those recovering from surgery. I’m excited to see what the future holds for BeamO!
I recently spoke with Livia Robic of Withings about the BeamO device for the TechLink Health podcast. This handheld consumer device includes a pulse oximeter, a thermometer, a mini-ECG and an electronic stethoscope.
BeamO is designed to help physicians take better care of their patients remotely, and was named one of Time magazine's "Best Inventions of 2024". This was such an interesting and engaging episode, and I can imagine a number of scenarios where this device could make a difference for patients with chronic disease or those recovering from surgery. I’m excited to see what the future holds for BeamO!
You can find our conversation anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
My Podcast Interview with Peter Adams for Vielight Inc.
As a podcast host for TechLink Health, I had the opportunity to interview Peter Adams with Vielight Inc. This is a fascinating new technology integrating photobiomodulation for brain health. The device is already being used by athletes, including former NFL players, for brain recovery protocols. Leading medical centers including UCSF and Harvard, have published research on Vielight, as has the Veterans Administration. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation, which you can find anywhere you listen to podcasts.
As a podcast host for TechLink Health, I had the opportunity to interview Peter Adams with Vielight Inc. This is a fascinating new technology integrating photobiomodulation for brain health.
The device is already being used by athletes, including former NFL players, for brain recovery protocols. Leading medical centers including UCSF and Harvard, have published research on Vielight, as has the Veterans Administration.
I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation, which you can find anywhere you listen to podcasts, or through the Spotify link below.
My Podcast Interview with Cyber-Security Expert Anand Naik
We all know that cybersecurity is crucial in healthcare to protect sensitive patient data, ensure the integrity of medical devices, and maintain the overall trust in healthcare systems. Whether in the role of physician or patient, we depend on the people and systems working behind the scenes to keep us safe.
As a host of the recent episode of Techlink Health Podcast, I learned a lot from Anand Naik, including how advancements in IoHT/IoMT security and AI-driven protection are being harnessed to safeguard the future of connected health.
We all know that cybersecurity is crucial in healthcare to protect sensitive patient data, ensure the integrity of medical devices, and maintain the overall trust in healthcare systems. Whether in the role of physician or patient, we depend on the people and systems working behind the scenes to keep us safe.
As a host of the recent episode of Techlink Health Podcast, I learned a lot from Anand Naik, including how advancements in IoHT/IoMT security and AI-driven protection are being harnessed to safeguard the future of connected health.
For tech-savvy physicians looking for alternatives to clinical medicine, or side gigs in the healthcare sphere, cybersecurity might be an area that could use your expertise and insight.
My Podcast Interview with Dr. Kevin Smith
This was such an interesting conversation with facial plastic surgeon and ENT Dr. Kevin Smith for TechLink Health! I was fascinated to learn about the link between migraines and nasal health. Dr. Smith’s journey from college athlete to cutting edge surgeon gives him a unique perspective, which he shares on the podcast.
This was such an interesting conversation with facial plastic surgeon and ENT Dr. Kevin Smith for TechLink Health! I was fascinated to learn about the link between migraines and nasal health. Dr. Smith’s journey from college athlete to cutting edge surgeon gives him a unique perspective, which he shares on the podcast.
Dr. Smith's story shows how the combination of clinical excellence, curiosity, and persistence can impact patients' lives in meaningful ways and spark new innovations.
My Podcast Appearance on Dr. Bill Lombardi’s Journey to Better
It was a thrill to appear on the legendary cardiologist Dr. Bill Lombardi’s podcast The Journey to Better. I was honored to be invited onto the show to discuss mindfulness, goal setting, and combating burnout.
It was a thrill to appear on legendary cardiologist Dr. Bill Lombardi’s podcast The Journey to Better. I was honored to be invited onto the show to discuss mindfulness, goal setting, and combating burnout.
Dr. Lombardi is one of the highest-volume operators for complex PCI and chronic total occlusions in the world. He has been open about his own struggles with well-being in this high stakes and intense field of cardiology. His episodes will resonate for cardiologists, but also for any physician who has experienced the struggles, highs, and lows of caring for patients in today’s world.
My Podcast Interview with Mastek’s Ritwik Batabyal
My podcast interview with Mastek’s Ritwik Batabyal was a great reminder of how integral sophisticated behind-the-scenes technology is to providing optimal health care.
Rightfully, there is a lot of trepidation around the use of AI in healthcare and health technology, but the truth is that it’s already here. By understanding and optimizing the ways that we as physicians use AI, we will ensure that we have a say in the way it changes our landscape and the ways that care is delivered.
I enjoyed this conversation with Mastek's Ritwik Batabyal and David Sanchez, RN. It was a great reminder of how integral sophisticated behind-the-scenes technology is to providing optimal health care.
Rightfully, there is a lot of trepidation around the use of AI in healthcare and health technology, but the truth is that it’s already here. By understanding and optimizing the ways that we as physicians use AI, we will ensure that we have a say in the way it changes our landscape and the ways that care is delivered.
My Podcast Interview with Digital Diagnostic’s John Bertrand
Artificial intelligence is making its way into healthcare at a rapid pace. By harnessing its benefits while at the same time recognizing its limitations, we have an opportunity to improve and expand access to care for a wide range of people.
This was a thought-provoking podcast conversation with John Bertrand of Digital Diagnostics about the practical and potentially life-changing uses of AI for early detection of diabetic retinopathy. The beauty of the process is the fact that it can be used virtually anywhere, and does not require a highly skilled technician to acquire the data.
Artificial intelligence is making its way into healthcare at a rapid pace. By harnessing its benefits while at the same time recognizing its limitations, we have an opportunity to improve and expand access to care for a wide range of people.
This was a thought-provoking podcast conversation with John Bertrand of Digital Diagnostics about the practical and potentially life-changing uses of AI for early detection of diabetic retinopathy. The beauty of the process is the fact that it can be used virtually anywhere, and does not require a highly skilled technician to acquire the data.
My Podcast Interview with AI Pioneer Dennis Cogan of Caresyntax
As a TechLink Insights podcast host, I enjoyed this very forward-thinking and inspiring conversation with Dennis Kogan of Caresyntax about the role of AI in surgical practice.
The future looks bright for innovations in care when AI is applied thoughtfully and collaboratively.
It’s no secret that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a powerful tool in healthcare and medical science.
As a TechLink Insights podcast host, I enjoyed this very forward-thinking and inspiring conversation with Dennis Kogan of Caresyntax, a company pioneering the use of AI in surgical practice.
It’s normal to feel uneasy about these new technologies. But AI is already here, and it’s up to physicians and others in healthcare to guide its implementation and develop reasonable safety rails to protect our patients. Having met with a number of pioneers in this space through the podcast, I believe that the future looks bright for innovations in care when AI is applied thoughtfully and collaboratively.
My Podcast Interview with Tax Expert Alexis Gallati, MBA
I really enjoyed my conversation with tax expert Alexis Gallati, EA, MBA, MS Tax, CTS for TechLink Health. This was such a practical and well explained deep dive into tax strategies for physicians.
I really enjoyed my conversation with Alexis Gallati, EA, MBA, MS Tax, CTS for TechLink Health. This was such a practical and well explained deep dive into tax strategies for physicians.
Alexis is married to a surgeon, so she has seen firsthand how little education most of us have in financial strategies, and how this lack of knowledge can hurt us and leave us vulnerable to bad advice.
This podcast addressed financial strategies related to side gigs, managing independent practices and more. Alexis is an engaging speaker and shares a wealth of practical insight.
My Podcast Interview with Health Tech Expert Shanil Ebrahim
Shanil Ebrahim is on the cutting edge of healthcare technology, with expertise not only as a scientist but also with meaningful experience in the fields of AI and health equity. His insights are timely and thought provoking.
Shanil Ebrahim is on the cutting edge of healthcare technology, with expertise not only as a scientist but also with meaningful experience in the fields of AI and health equity. His insights are timely and thought provoking.
As a frequent host of the TechLink Health podcast, it's always such a pleasure and a privilege to meet with leading innovators in the health and tech space. The industry is moving at warp speed, and it's great to have a front row seat!
You can listen to the podcast at TechLink Health as well as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
My Podcast Appearance with Kevin MD on Meditation and Mindfulness
In my recent conversation with Kevin Pho, M.D we discussed how mindfulness can have far-reaching effects not only for physicians, but for those you we care for. We also discussed the best times for meditation, when you might want to avoid it, and how a brief meditation can impact your sense of well-being.
As a physician coach, I love sharing this story, because it encapsulates how such a simple and brief practice can have a meaningful impact.
Despite often heavy-handed corporate efforts to the contrary, mindfulness is not a bandaid to fix all that is wrong with healthcare. And it’s not a substitute for the meaningful change that is so desperately needed. Instead, it’s a reminder to be present and engage with what is happening right now, without judgement or reactivity.
I enjoyed my recent conversation with Kevin Pho, M.D. We discussed how mindfulness can have far-reaching effects not only for yourself, but for those you care for. We also discussed the best times for meditation, when you might want to avoid it, and how a brief meditation can impact your sense of well-being.
As a physician coach, I love sharing this story, because it encapsulates how such a simple and brief practice can have a meaningful impact.
Despite often heavy-handed corporate efforts to the contrary, mindfulness is not a bandaid to fix all that is wrong with healthcare. And it’s not a substitute for the meaningful change that is so desperately needed. Instead, it’s a reminder to be present and engage with what is happening right now, without judgement or reactivity.
Through mindfulness, you are can find a way to take a moment in the middle of the daily storm to re-center and reset. And for physicians, that can go a long way towards building stronger relationships with patients and staff based on trust and respect.
My Podcast Interview with Grenville Thynne of Neuroflex
I recently had a fascinating conversation with Grenville Thynne for the Techlink Health Podcast. We discussed his work with the trailblazing Neuroflex company. Neuroflex’s portable technology can quickly detect evidence of concussion on site, which makes it especially valuable to athletes of all types. The technology is also being studied in aging, and has the ability to provide objective measurements of brain function that can be tracked over time.
I recently had a fascinating conversation with Grenville Thynne for the Techlink Health Podcast. We discussed his work with the trailblazing Neuroflex company. Neuroflex’s portable technology can quickly detect evidence of concussion on site, which makes it especially valuable to athletes of all types.
The technology is also being studied in aging and neurodevelopmental disorders, and has the ability to provide objective measurements of brain function that can be tracked over time.
This was one of my favorite podcasts of the year. I hope you enjoy it.
My Podcast Interview with Phage Therapy Research Scientist Dr. Jennifer Sacher
It was such a pleasure to interview Dr. Jessica Sacher for the Techlink Health Podcast. We discussed her fascinating work using phage therapy to defeat superbugs, and how she got started in the field. We also had a great conversation about the personal aspects of this work, and how she has adapted her laboratory process to meet the growing need for phage therapy.
It was such a pleasure to interview Dr. Jessica Sacher for the Techlink Health Podcast.
We discussed her fascinating work using phage therapy to defeat superbugs, and how she got started in the field.
We also had a great conversation about the personal aspects of this work, and how she has adapted her laboratory process to meet the growing need for phage therapy.
This interview is a great reminder of all the people whose work contributes to saving lives and furthering the progress of medical science.
Jessica’s passion for her work shines through in this interview. I hope you enjoy it!