Alison Curfman, M.D.

Startup Physicians

#117 in Entrepreneurship · 🇮🇳 #180 in Entrepreneurship · 🇵🇭

About the show

StartUp Physicians is the podcast for doctors who dare to think beyond the clinic and hospital walls. Hosted by Dr. Alison Curfman, a practicing pediatric emergency physician and successful healthcare startup founder, this series empowers physicians to explore dynamic career opportunities in the healthcare startup world. Dr. Alison Curfman brings a wealth of experience to the mic, having founded and grown a healthcare company that served over 25,000 patients and achieved a nine-figure valuation in just two years. She has worked as a consultant, advisor, and chief medical officer, helping early-stage companies secure major funding and develop innovative clinical models. Now, she’s passionate about sharing the lessons she’s learned to help other physicians thrive in the startup space. Whether you’re looking to launch your own venture, become a consultant, or join a forward-thinking healthcare team, this podcast is your go-to guide. Each episode is packed with actionable advice on topics like personal branding, creating marketable services, and navigating the startup landscape. You’ll also hear from trailblazing physicians and industry leaders in private equity and venture capital, sharing their insights on why physician voices are essential in shaping the future of healthcare. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and build a career that excites and inspires you, StartUp Physicians will show you the way. New episodes drop every Wednesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. Visit StartupPhysicians.com for resources, transcripts, and to connect with a community of like-minded doctors. It’s time to reimagine what’s possible for your career—and for healthcare.

Newest episodes

How Physicians Can Become Entrepreneurs and Build Startups with Dr. Amir Nasir

Nov 11, 2026 33 min

What does it take to turn your medical expertise into a career in entrepreneurship and healthcare innovation? In Episode 86 of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Amir Nasir, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with backgrounds in optical engineering, public health, healthcare AI, and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Clinical Preflight, co-founder of RunaCall, creator of the Lucentin clinical work-valuation concept, and author of The Last Surgeon, a medical dystopian novel about AI, robotics, expertise, and human purpose. In this episode, the two explore how physicians can use their clinical experience to build businesses, develop innovative solutions, and create impact beyond traditional medical practice. Together, they discuss why physicians bring valuable skills to entrepreneurship, how to approach the unfamiliar world of sales and business development, and why getting started may be simpler than you think. What You'll Learn: -How physicians can translate clinical expertise into entrepreneurship -Why curiosity and problem-solving are valuable skills for startup founders -How to build confidence in pitching, sales, and business development -Practical ways to explore healthcare innovation and test business ideas -Why physician involvement matters in shaping the future of healthcare Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Amir Nasir 00:52 From Engineering and Global Health to Plastic Surgery 04:11 How Curiosity and Diverse Experiences Drive Innovation 05:54 Recognizing the Value of Physician Expertise 11:07 Why Physicians Need a Voice in Healthcare Innovation 13:46 The Mindset of a Physician Entrepreneur 15:16 Building Startups and Solving Real-World Problems 18:09 Why Entrepreneurship Becomes a Repeatable Skill 21:16 Overcoming the Fear of Sales and Pitching 26:17 Building Confidence and Ethical Business Relationships 28:17 Practical Ways to Get Started in Entrepreneurship 31:11 Exploring Opportunities Beyo...

How Physicians Turn Clinical Problems Into Healthcare Startups with our Current Incubator Participants

Nov 4, 2026 38 min

What does it take to turn a problem you see in clinical practice into a healthcare startup? Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with two physician founders from the Startup Physicians Incubator, psychiatrist Dr. Divya Krishnamoorthy and dermatologist Dr. Mason Henehan, to explore how they're transforming everyday challenges in patient care into scalable healthcare solutions. Dr. Krishnamoorthy is building Syntonia Health, a platform designed to better understand medication adherence and treatment effectiveness between mental health appointments. Dr. Henehan is developing Formulary Flow, a tool that helps clinicians navigate insurance requirements and treatment pathways. Together, they share what they've learned about transitioning from physician to founder, developing sustainable business models, pitching their ideas, and finding the right mentorship and community. What You'll Learn: How physicians can identify opportunities for healthcare innovationWhy clinical expertise is valuable when building a startupHow to move from a product idea to a sustainable business modelThe importance of mindset, mentorship, and feedback in entrepreneurshipHow physician founders can create impact beyond their individual practicesWhether you're exploring a healthcare startup idea or already building a company, this conversation offers a look at what it takes to bring a physician-led innovation to life. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Meet Two Physician Founders 01:21 Dr. Divya Krishnamoorthy's Journey and Syntonia Health 03:35 Turning Clinical Problems Into Startup Opportunities 05:03 Dr. Mason Henehan's Journey and Formulary Flow 07:58 Why Physician Expertise Matters in Healthcare Innovation 10:03 The Mindset Shift From Physician to Founder 12:41 Translating Clinical Skills Into Entrepreneurship 14:24 Learning to Build and Scale a Healthcare Business 16:15 Executive Coaching, Feedback, and Founder Growth 19:03 Building a Sustainable Startup Business Model 21:35 Learning to Pitch a Vision 22:...

The Physicians-To-Founder Mindset Shift with the Incubator Coaches

Oct 28, 2026 38 min

Building a startup requires more than learning how to pitch, raise capital, or develop a product. For physicians, it can also require a fundamental shift in how you think, lead, learn, and see yourself. In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Startup Physicians Incubator coaches Ian Maxwell, Amanda Fornal, and Marta Milkowska to talk about the transformation that happens when a physician becomes a founder. They discuss why habits that serve physicians well in medicine, including perfectionism, working until the job is done, and avoiding mistakes, can sometimes become obstacles in entrepreneurship. And explore coachability, learning to seek feedback, recognizing the leadership skills physicians already have, and becoming comfortable with growth, revenue, and building a sustainable business. If you are building a company or even considering becoming a physician founder, this conversation offers a look at the mindset shifts that can make the journey easier and more sustainable. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Why founder development goes beyond business skills 01:44 – Ian Maxwell's background in coaching and health tech 03:48 – Amanda Fornal's work with founders and impact-driven companies 04:55 – Marta Milkowska's journey through health tech and entrepreneurship 06:17 – Why physician founders benefit from coaching 08:06 – When the physician "grind" mindset stops helping 09:39 – Why founders always feel behind 11:11 – Rethinking competitors as potential partners 11:58 – Why even high performers need coaches 13:09 – Technical vs. adaptive challenges 15:00 – Why your MVP does not need to be perfect 15:16 – Learning to seek feedback instead of fear it 17:55 – How coaching supports the founder journey 19:34 – Becoming comfortable with your new identity as CEO 20:46 – Learning the language of business 23:03 – Why coachability matters 24:30 – Turning feedback into a founder advantage 25:49 – The leadership skills physicians often overlook 27:45...

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All episodes

How Physicians Can Become Entrepreneurs and Build Startups with Dr. Amir Nasir

Nov 11, 2026 33 min

How Physicians Turn Clinical Problems Into Healthcare Startups with our Current Incubator Participants

Nov 4, 2026 38 min

The Physicians-To-Founder Mindset Shift with the Incubator Coaches

Oct 28, 2026 38 min

How Physician Founders Can Fund and Grow Their Startups

Oct 21, 2026 22 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman shares lessons from her experience as a healthcare founder and co-founder of Imagine Pediatrics, including the story of her first founder pitch to the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Turning a clinical insight into a successful healthcare startup takes more than a great product. It takes the right connections, a clear funding strategy, and a plan for getting your idea in front of the people who can help bring it to life In this episode, you'll learn: Why talking to the wrong people can slow your startup's growth.How to use your professional network to build credibility and secure valuable introductions.Ways to fund your startup beyond picking up extra clinical shifts.How grants, pitch competitions, early customers, and investors can help extend your runway.Why letters of intent and early traction matter to investors.How experienced guides and strategic partners can shorten your sales and fundraising cycles.How to approach fundraising with clear financial models, milestones, and a plan for growth. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Alison's first pitch to the CEO of UnitedHealthcare 01:15 – The three lessons for physician founders 02:22 – Why a great product isn't enough 04:40 – Getting in front of the right people 06:56 – Building credibility and creating momentum 09:18 – Funding your startup beyond extra shifts 11:39 – Exploring grants and non-dilutive funding 13:56 – Building traction and planning your financial runway 16:18 – How the right partners accelerate growth 18:44 – Key takeaways for physician founders 19:00 – The power of the right connections 20:00 – Finding support through the Startup Physicians Incubator Resources Apply to the Startup Physicians Incubator: https://startupphysicians.com/incubator Explore free resources for physician founders: https://startupphysicians.com/resources Learn more about Startup Physicians: https://startupphysicians.com Connect with Startup Physicians on LinkedIn: https://www.l...

Building a Scalable Healthcare Startup with Venture Advisor Kim Sharp

Oct 14, 2026 49 min

Physicians are trained to solve complex problems, but most are never taught how to turn a clinical insight into a scalable company. In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Startup & Venture Advisor Kim Sharp to talk about the startup playbook physicians don’t learn in medical school. They discuss what physician founders need before they pitch, build, raise capital, or launch — including financial models, MVPs, data rooms, cap tables, product strategy, advisor networks, and venture readiness. If you have a healthcare idea but feel overwhelmed by the startup world, this episode will help you understand what it takes to move from idea to launch with more structure, confidence, and support. CHAPTERS 00:00 — Why Physician Founders Matter 01:59 — Meet Kim Sharp 05:33 — Why Physicians Have a Startup Advantage 06:35 — What Doctors Need to Learn Before Building 09:33 — De-Risking Your Idea Before You Launch 13:08 — Why Investors Bet on the Founder 14:24 — Financial Models, MVPs, and Pitch Decks 22:35 — Data Rooms, Cap Tables, and Venture Readiness 26:00 — Building Advisors, Community, and Support 28:35 — Building for Scale vs. Starting Small 32:43 — Strategic Networks and Warm Introductions 35:16 — Preparing for HLTH and Investor Meetings 39:03 — Who the Startup Physicians Incubator Is For 42:14 — How to Apply to the Incubator 43:53 — Why the Incubator Does Not Take Equity 45:32 — Closing Thoughts Resources Apply to the Startup Physicians Incubator: https://startupphysicians.com/incubator Explore free resources for physician founders: https://startupphysicians.com/resources Learn more about Startup Physicians: https://startupphysicians.com Connect with Startup Physicians on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-physicians/

From Clinical Practice to Founding VirtuCare with Dr. Joe Pazona

Oct 7, 2026 33 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, host Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Joe Pazona, board-certified urologist and founder and CEO of VirtuCare, to explore his unconventional journey from traditional clinical practice to healthcare entrepreneurship. After experiencing burnout, frustrating healthcare systems, and significant gaps in specialty care, Joe decided to take a different path. He founded VirtuCare to rethink how urology services are delivered through telemedicine, team-based care, and hospital partnerships. Joe shares the challenges of building a healthcare company without a business background, why physicians need a seat at the table when designing new care models, and how technology can expand patient access without compromising clinical standards. If you're considering launching a startup, exploring advisory opportunities, or simply looking for ways to make a bigger impact in medicine, this conversation will provide valuable insight into what's possible beyond traditional clinical practice. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Joe Pazona's journey into medicine and urology 02:50 Recognizing opportunities to improve healthcare 03:50 The reality of physician employment and burnout 06:11 When speaking up leads to difficult career decisions 07:33 Finding a new path in Nashville 09:22 How COVID exposed weaknesses in traditional healthcare models 10:42 The idea behind VirtuCare 12:50 From direct-to-consumer telemedicine to a new business model 13:50 Addressing the rural urology access problem 16:20 Rethinking what quality healthcare delivery looks like 18:37 The role of physician leadership in team-based care 22:08 Why doctors need a seat at the table 24:17 Balancing patient continuity with access and scalability 25:16 Exploring different paths into healthcare innovation 26:34 The realities of entrepreneurship and finding your purpose 28:37 Final advice for physicians who want to make a difference Resources: Learn more about Startup Physicia...

Why Physicians Belong in Healthcare Innovation with Dr. Stephen Garber & Dr. Amar Patel

Sep 30, 2026 27 min

Description: Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Stephen Garber, a board-certified anesthesiologist with more than 35 years of clinical experience, and Dr. Amar Patel, an orthopedic surgeon, to explore what it looks like when physicians step beyond traditional clinical roles and become active participants in healthcare innovation. Dr. Garber shares the story of how his experience in anesthesiology and years of seeing airway obstruction, hypoventilation, and airway-management challenges during procedural sedation led him into medical device innovation and his work with the xchange™ System. Stephen and Amar share practical lessons for physicians who are curious about startups, medical devices, entrepreneurship, advisory roles, and physician leadership. They discuss how to recognize opportunities in everyday clinical frustrations, how to evaluate companies that genuinely want physician input, and how doctors can leverage their clinical expertise outside the traditional healthcare system. They also get candid about the uncomfortable parts of the journey: learning the language of business, walking into unfamiliar rooms with investors and entrepreneurs, negotiating equity, building relationships, and finding the confidence to contribute as a physician without assuming you have to know everything about the startup world. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Physicians and healthcare innovation 00:45 – Dr. Stephen Garber’s journey into medical device innovation 02:46 – Why startups need physician leadership, not just physician endorsement 04:03 – Finding opportunities in everyday clinical problems 04:13 – Dr. Amar Patel’s introduction to the xchange™ System 06:23 – The importance of generating early clinical evidence 07:49 – Why physician involvement matters in proving a medical device 08:28 – Balancing clinical practice with innovation 10:44 – Why practicing physicians bring unique insight to product development 11:25 – How physician-to-physician collaboration can create opp...

From Orthopedic Surgeon to VR Startup Founder with Dr. Danny Goel

Sep 9, 2026 32 min

Orthopedic surgeon and physician founder Dr. Danny Goel went from identifying gaps in surgical training to co-founding PrecisionOS, a virtual reality and AI-powered platform designed to help surgeons practice skills and judgment in a risk-free environment. In this conversation, Danny joins Dr. Alison Curfman to talk about what that path looked like: starting with no intention of building a company, finding technical co-founders outside of medicine, validating the idea with other physicians, raising early capital, learning the business side of healthcare, and deciding to remain in clinical practice while building. They also discuss why staying close to clinical practice can strengthen a physician founder, how advisors can shape an early company, and why physicians should pressure-test their ideas instead of keeping them hidden until they feel perfect. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:58 The transition from surgical training to independent practice 03:20 Building a risk-free environment for surgical training 05:07 Why timing matters in medical simulation 07:48 Building from a problem inside clinical practice 09:17 Why physician founders can stay in medicine 11:31 How the company started 13:15 Finding technical co-founders outside of medicine 15:41 Raising early capital and validating the problem 18:27 Learning the business side of healthcare 20:17 Why physicians do not need an MBA to start 22:07 The value of advisors for early-stage founders 23:37 Pressure-testing a startup idea 25:42 Why physicians should not be afraid to share their ideas 29:06 Creating impact beyond individual patient care 30:16 A first step for physicians with startup ideas Resources Explore the Concept Pitch Builder and other free resources for physician founders: https://startupphysicians.com/resources Learn more about PrecisionOS: https://precisionostech.com Learn more about Startup Physicians: https://startupphysicians.com Connect with Startup Physicians on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.co...

Starting, Scaling, and Selling a Healthcare Startup with Dr. Jose Barreau

Sep 2, 2026 24 min

Oncologist and physician founder Dr. Jose Barreau went from identifying a communication problem inside the hospital to building Doc Halo, growing it into Halo Health, raising venture capital, and ultimately selling the company in 2021. In this conversation, Jose joins Dr. Alison Curfman to talk about what that path actually looked like: starting with zero business or development experience, finding the right technical partners, deciding when to reduce clinical work, creating financial runway, navigating venture capital, and learning to become comfortable with feedback and sales. They also discuss why clinical experience can be an advantage for physician founders, and why doctors do not need an MBA, a technical background, or every answer before they begin building. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:37 Solving a communication problem inside the hospital 03:22 Starting a company with zero business or development experience 05:02 Building Doc Halo while practicing medicine 06:40 Finding the right technical partner and avoiding technical debt 07:52 Deciding when to step away from full-time clinical practice 08:49 Creating financial runway before making the leap 10:37 The safety net physicians have when building a startup 12:06 Staying connected to clinical medicine as a founder 14:59 Learning venture capital and evaluating term sheets 17:21 Finding the right advisors, lawyers, and investors 18:20 Growing Halo Health and selling the company 19:10 The mindset shift from physician to founder 20:42 Why founders need to embrace feedback and sales 21:36 Discovery calls, validation, and learning before pitching Resources Explore free resources for physician founders: https://startupphysicians.com/resources Learn more about Startup Physicians: https://startupphysicians.com Connect with Startup Physicians on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-physicians/

From Orthopedic Surgeon to AI Founder: Building Healthcare Software

Aug 19, 2026 25 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with orthopedic surgeon and physician founder Dr. Justin Smith to talk about his path from clinical medicine to entrepreneurship, private practice, and building an AI-powered platform designed to reduce the administrative burden of running a medical practice. Justin shares how his entrepreneurial journey started with Morning Rounds Coffee and expanded into medical products, private practice, and ultimately healthcare software. He also breaks down what he has learned about working with developers, building for healthcare compliance, fundraising from physician investors, creating a strategic product roadmap, and using AI to build AI. If you’re a physician with an idea for a startup, or you’re already building one, this conversation is packed with practical lessons on moving from subject matter expertise to an actual company. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction: Dr. Justin Smith 02:27 – Why AI is empowering physician founders 05:37 – Healthcare security, PHI, and SOC 2 compliance 07:22 – Why physicians still have an edge as subject matter experts 09:49 – Communicating your vision to developers and investors 13:23 – Turning physician investors into aligned beta testers 16:14 – The changing SaaS landscape 18:30 – Prompt engineering, context engineering, and AI agents 21:19 – Using AI internally to build a leaner company 23:28 – Making independent practice more accessible Resources: Startup Physicians Resources: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians: https://www.startupphysicians.com/ Connect with Justin Smith, MD : Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/justin-smith-md-faaos-fa... - https://www.turnkeyaipractice.io @toddwalkermd - toddwalkermd.com @sportssmithmd - sportssmithmd.com

3 Things Physician Founders Must Know Before Launching a Product

Aug 5, 2026 9 min

In this episode, Dr. Alison Curfman shares one of the most common mistakes she sees physician entrepreneurs make: spending months (and sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars) building a product before identifying who will actually buy it. Drawing from conversations with dozens of physician founders, Alison explains why building an MVP is still the right instinct, but why customer discovery and stakeholder validation must happen before you invest heavily in development. She breaks down the difference between building a product and building a successful business, and shares practical questions every founder should ask before launching. Whether you're creating a digital health startup, AI tool, medical device, or healthcare service, this episode will help you avoid expensive mistakes and build with confidence. In this episode, you'll learn: Why building your idea is still the right first stepWhy a product without a buyer is only a hypothesisHow to identify the real decision-makerThe stakeholder conversations every founder needs to haveWhy customer discovery saves time, money, and frustrationThe difference between building a product and building a ventureChapters 00:00 The hidden trend among physician founders 00:43 Three things to know before you fall in love with your product 01:19 Build it 02:20 A product without a buyer is a hypothesis 03:43 Identify the buyer, not just the user 04:43 Have stakeholder conversations that sting 05:46 Discovery before validation before pitching 06:27 How feedback shapes a better product 07:04 A product is only one part of a successful venture 08:29 The three biggest takeaways 09:16 The Concept Pitch Builder framework 10:01 Final thoughts Resources: Concept Pitch Builder:https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians:https://www.startupphysicians.com/

5 Truths Every Visionary Founder Needs to Know

Jul 29, 2026 14 min

Do you constantly see better ways to solve problems? Do new ideas come naturally, but execution sometimes feels overwhelming? In this episode, Alison Curfman explores what it really means to be a visionary entrepreneur. She shares the five biggest lessons she's learned about visionary thinking from recognizing opportunities others miss to understanding why traditional environments can feel limiting. Drawing from her experience building a healthcare startup that reached a nine-figure valuation, Alison explains why vision alone isn't enough, how to avoid the common traps that hold visionaries back, and why storytelling may be your greatest competitive advantage. You'll learn: Why visionaries see solutions while others see problemsHow rigid systems can stifle creative thinkersThe two risk tolerance traps that derail entrepreneursWhy storytelling is one of the most valuable founder skillsHow to build the right team instead of trying to change your natural strengthsWhether you're an entrepreneur, founder, physician, or someone who's always felt like they think differently, this episode will help you recognize your unique wiring. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the superpowers and setbacks of visionaries 00:26 What is a visionary and why they see solutions 01:23 The importance of seeing problems as opportunities 02:16 How environments can starve or support visionaries 03:38 Risks and traps related to a visionary's risk tolerance 04:34 The value of disruptive thinking in industries 07:56 Storytelling as a superpower for early-stage entrepreneurs 09:24 The process of selling a vision before product exists 10:44 The importance of building a team around your vision 13:33 Summary of key insights and encouragement for visionaries Resources: Startup Physicians Resources: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians: https://www.startupphysicians.com/ Who Not How by Dan Sullivan: https://a.co/d/053zCOAJ

Could Your Healthcare Idea Become a $100 Million Startup?

Jul 15, 2026 15 min

Many physicians recognize problems in healthcare that deserve better solutions. But how do you know if an idea has the potential to become a real company? In this solo episode, Dr. Alison Curfman walks through the framework Startup Physicians uses to help physician founders evaluate and expand their ideas into venture-backable businesses. She introduces the free Concept Pitch Builder, an AI-powered resource designed to guide physicians through the key questions investors ask before funding a startup. Alison explains how to assess market size, identify the right buyer, analyze competitors, define an MVP, create a scalable business model, and determine whether your idea has the potential to become a $100 million company. Whether you're exploring your first startup idea or preparing to apply for an incubator program, this episode provides a practical roadmap for moving from clinical insight to entrepreneurial action. Chapters: 00:00 Why great healthcare ideas need more than clinical insight 02:12 Introducing the Concept Pitch Builder 04:14 Defining the problem and why now 05:18 Evaluating market size and venture potential 06:41 Identifying the buyer and go-to-market strategy 08:05 Understanding competitors and market gaps 08:59 Building your minimum viable product (MVP) 10:12 Creating a scalable business model 12:14 Defining your role as a founder 13:53 Turning your idea into a concept pitch 15:20 How to use the Concept Pitch Builder and apply to the incubator Resources: Concept Pitch Builder:https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians:https://www.startupphysicians.com/

Physician Side Hustles in Startup Advisory and Health Tech Consulting with Dr. Mary Parman

Jul 8, 2026 32 min

Dr. Mary Parman spent more than 20 years practicing OB/GYN before building a second path in health tech consulting and startup advisory work. In this episode, she joins Dr. Alison Curfman to talk about how physicians can use their clinical expertise with startups without necessarily leaving medicine or starting a company themselves. They discuss how Mary began meeting health tech founders, how she built a pipeline of advisory opportunities, how physicians can think about compensation, and why the first step is often not selling yourself. It is learning where your experience creates value. This conversation is for physicians who are curious about consulting, advisory work, startup strategy, or building additional income streams while staying connected to clinical practice. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Dr. Mary Parman’s path into health tech consulting 04:29 How physicians can start meeting startups 08:55 Building an advisory pipeline 12:42 Defining your consulting offer 14:41 Compensation, retainers, equity, and project work 21:27 Knowing your value and your buyer 27:16 Practical first steps for physicians Resources: Startup Physicians Resources: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians: https://www.startupphysicians.com/ Connect with Dr. Mary Parman: www.linkedin.com/in/maryparman

Re-release: So You Want to Advise Startups? Here’s Exactly How to Get Started as a Physician Consultant

Jun 24, 2026 23 min

Many physicians know they have valuable clinical insight, but they struggle to name where that value fits outside traditional clinical practice. In this re-release episode, Dr. Alison Curfman walks through five common barriers physicians face when exploring startup advising, consulting, and industry work — from “I don’t have anything unique to offer” to “I’m just a doctor. I don’t know business.” Your clinical experience already opens more doors than you may realize. This episode helps you start seeing where those doors are. Chapters 00:00 Overcoming Mental Barriers in Medicine 02:26 Identifying Unique Offerings and Skills 05:04 Building a Network and Strategic Connections 07:45 Communicating Value Without Being Salesy 10:39 Time Management and Flexibility in Consulting 13:15 Understanding Business Fundamentals for Physicians 16:20 Crafting Your Narrative and Value Proposition 18:50 Design Thinking and Innovation in Healthcare 21:35 The Path Forward: Joining the Startup Ecosystem Resources Startup Physicians: https://startupphysicians.com Free guide: 50 Things Physicians Can Do With Startups https://startupphysicians.com/resources Join the waitlist for Launchpad Cohort: www.startupphysicians.com/launchpad Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-physicians/

Re-release: From Function to Value: Why Startups Pay for Physician Expertise

Jun 10, 2026 24 min

Why would a healthcare startup pay for physician expertise? In this re-release episode of the Startup Physicians podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman breaks down the three ways physicians create measurable business value for startups: helping companies grow revenue, reduce costs, and mitigate risk. This episode is for physicians who know they have value outside of clinical practice but need a clearer way to explain that value in startup language. Chapters: 00:00 Why startups pay for physician expertise 02:17 The three value categories startups care about 06:51 Revenue growth 09:13 Business development and healthcare contracts 10:33 Product design and clinical insight 13:44 Cost optimization 14:36 Clinical validation and outcomes 16:59 Avoiding expensive product mistakes 20:11 Risk mitigation 21:43 Patient safety and clinical guardrails 24:02 Why physicians should engage with healthcare innovation 25:05 Translating clinical expertise into business value Resources: Startup Physicians: https://www.startupphysicians.com Related episodes: The 7 Startup Functions Where Physicians Add Value: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dUM_81ZqwU Doctors as Innovators: How Physicians Can Shape Products, Policy, and Public Health with Dr. Tanya Altmann: https://youtu.be/qYJLssIZxs0?si=5Ccd8cRY9N1qYIiz Rethinking Risk: What Startups Miss Without Physicians at the Table with Isaac Edrah: https://youtu.be/R4CRwfsfxPw?si=NqFBn9iz_fmbWHx6

From Supply Closet Prototype to Medical Device Founder with Dr. Hilary Gallin

Jun 3, 2026 29 min

Dr. Hilary Gallin is an obstetric anesthesiologist, medical device founder, and startup advisor who has built companies from problems she saw in clinical practice. In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Gallin joins Dr. Alison Curfman to talk about the path from physician to founder, including how she started Fastline, a medical device company focused on making central line placement safer and easier. The first version was not polished. It was built from supply closet materials, a glue gun, and the willingness to test whether the idea could work. This conversation is for physicians who have seen a clinical problem and wondered whether they could build something to solve it. Dr. Gallin and Alison talk about design thinking, early feedback, ugly prototypes, medical device development, tech transfer offices, AI as a founder thought partner, and why doctors often underestimate how much they already know how to learn. You do not need a perfect product to begin. You need a real problem, early feedback, and the willingness to ask the next person who can help. Chapters: 00:00 Meet Dr. Hilary Gallin 01:16 From medicine, business, and engineering to startups 02:31 Finding startup ideas in clinical practice 03:33 Design thinking and problem validation 06:22 Why feedback feels different for doctors 10:00 Building the ugly first prototype 15:47 From supply closet materials to medical device 17:25 Navigating medical device development 22:25 Using AI as a founder thought partner 25:51 Why “I’m just a doctor” is the wrong frame 29:08 Outreach, advisors, and asking for help 30:13 Where to find Dr. Gallin Resources: Connect with Dr. Hilary Gallin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-gallin-md-mba-1112b67/ Startup Physicians: https://www.startupphysicians.com/ Startup Physicians Incubator: https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubator Free resources for physician founders: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources

Why Physician Founders Outperform in Healthcare Startups with Dr. David Lortscher

May 27, 2026 30 min

What happens when physicians bring clinical insight into the startup world? In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with dermatologist, founder, and author Dr. David Lortscher, co-founder of a teledermatology company that scaled to hundreds of employees, served 5 million patients, and reached a billion-dollar valuation. They discuss why physicians are uniquely positioned to identify real healthcare problems, what makes doctor-led startups so powerful, and why clinical expertise must be paired with humility, curiosity, and the right co-founder dynamic. Dr. Lortscher also shares insights from his book, Why Doctors Win, including the data behind physician-founded healthcare companies and the common patterns he found among successful physician entrepreneurs. This conversation is for physicians who see problems in healthcare and wonder whether they might be the right person to help solve them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. David Lortscher 00:59 From Dermatology to a Billion-Dollar Startup 03:33 How Physicians Spot Problems Others Miss 07:58 What Successful Physician Founders Have in Common 10:16 The Data Behind Why Doctors Win 13:42 Learning Business Without Losing Clinical Insight 19:19 Finding the Right Co-Founder 24:49 How to Test an Early Startup Idea 26:07 Building a Startup Plan That Creates Leverage 30:08 Where to Find David and Why Doctors Win Resources Connect with Dr. David Lortscher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlortschermd/ Read Why Doctors Win: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Doctors-Win-Creating-High-Impact/dp/B0FXMQF3J6 Want to go deeper? Launchpad: https://www.startupphysicians.com/launchpad Free Resources: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Incubator: https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubator

Why Physicians Belong at the Strategy Table with Dr. Sarah Matt

May 20, 2026 31 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman talks with Dr. Sarah Matt about building a nonlinear physician career and why doctors make powerful startup strategists. Dr. Matt shares her journey from burn surgery to healthcare strategy, startups, Oracle, remote robotic surgery, consulting, and authoring The Borderless Healthcare Revolution. Together, they explore how physicians can bring clinical insight into product development, go-to-market strategy, commercialization, and early-stage innovation. This conversation is for doctors who have ever looked at a broken part of healthcare and thought, “There has to be a better way.” You do not need the perfect plan to begin. You need to write the idea down, talk to the right people, validate the problem, and start learning from real feedback. They also discuss why physicians belong at the strategy table, how AI is changing what solo founders can build, and why iteration matters more than perfection. Chapters 00:00 – Meet Dr. Sarah Matt 01:12 – From burn surgery to business strategy 04:21 – Why physicians belong in startup strategy 07:31 – The nonlinear physician career path 11:41 – Doctors as connectors in healthcare innovation 15:09 – Impact, money, and sustainable business models 19:05 – Advice for physicians with early ideas 22:05 – AI and the solo physician founder 24:58 – Iteration, validation, and stakeholder feedback Resources Connect with Dr. Sarah Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmattmd/ Visit Dr. Sarah Matt’s website: drsarahmatt.com Learn more about Startup Physicians: startup-physicians.com Explore the Startup Physicians Incubator: https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubator

The Growth Strategy Most Physicians Miss with Venture Builder Tomasz Rudolf

May 13, 2026 39 min

How do you know if your healthcare idea could become a scalable startup? In this episode, Dr. Alison Curfman talks with Tomasz Rudolf, entrepreneur, venture builder, digital health founder, and Startup Physicians advisor, about how physicians can validate ideas, identify who will pay, avoid building too soon, and choose between a lifestyle business and a venture-backed startup. They also discuss why physicians are uniquely positioned to build tech-enabled service models that subtract work from healthcare teams instead of adding another tool. Learn more: startupphysicians.com Join the physician founder webinar on May 18 from 7:00–8:30 PM Central Time. Register here: https://startupphysicians.easywebinar.live/founders CHAPTERS: 00:17 — Introductions 02:28 — From entrepreneurship to healthcare innovation 06:35 — How to validate a startup idea early 09:28 — Customer discovery and talking to buyers 16:12 — Testing assumptions before building 17:12 — Who will pay for your solution? 20:48 — AI, service models, and the future of healthcare work 23:28 — Why subtracting work matters 27:11 — Lifestyle business vs. venture-backed startup 29:30 — Why founders need structure and support 33:12 — Why physicians are uniquely positioned to build 36:00 — Startup Physicians webinar invitation 38:29 — Closing advice for physician founders\ RESOURCES: Startup Physicians startupphysicians.com For physicians exploring healthcare innovation, venture-backed startups, and the Startup Physicians Incubator. Physician Founder Webinar Date: May 18 Time: 7:00–8:30 PM Central Time Topic: How physicians can move from an idea to a venture-ready healthcare startup. Register Here: https://startupphysicians.easywebinar.live/founders Startup Physicians Incubator A structured pathway for physicians who have startup ideas and want support validating, modeling, positioning, and building scalable healthcare ventures. Apply here: https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubator

Startup vs. Small Business for Physician Founders

May 6, 2026 13 min

What’s the difference between a healthcare startup and a physician-owned small business? In this solo episode, Alison Curfman breaks down how physician founders can choose the right path before they build. She explains why startups and small businesses differ from day one in their growth strategy, funding needs, ownership structure, scalability, and long-term outcomes. Alison shares lessons from her own founder journey, including how a healthcare concept can move from a small clinical practice idea to a venture-backed startup built for enterprise partnerships, rapid scale, and a multi-nine-figure valuation. This episode also covers why AI, tech-enabled services, financial modeling, product roadmaps, and human-centered care are becoming essential for the next generation of physician-led healthcare companies. For physician entrepreneurs, clinician founders, and healthcare innovators, this episode offers a practical framework for deciding whether you’re building a small business, a scalable startup, or something in between. RESOURCES Additional Resources for Physician Founders: https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Startup Physicians Incubator Program for Scaling Healthcare Startups: https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubator CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 00:15 — Startup vs. small business: the core difference 03:05 — Why startups are built for scale from day one 05:39 — The four things startups do before launch 08:55 — Ownership, funding, and capital decisions 10:35 — Why AI and tech-enabled services matter now 15:15 — Frameworks for building in either lane 19:10 — Choosing the path that matches your goals 22:00 — Startup Physicians resources and incubator invite

The Startup Playbook Physicians Don’t Learn in Medical School with Venture Advisor Kim Sharp

Apr 29, 2026 46 min

Becoming a Founder Without Putting Your Finances at Risk

Apr 22, 2026 24 min

If you’ve ever felt called to build something beyond clinical medicine—but stopped yourself because of financial fear—this episode reframes everything. In this episode, Dr. Alison Curfman breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions holding physicians back: the idea that a W-2 job is the only “safe” path. This conversation walks through a practical, structured approach to transitioning into entrepreneurship without putting your finances at risk. From income diversification to personal financial modeling to pre-selling your startup idea, this is a roadmap for physicians who want to build—responsibly. You don’t have to take a huge leap to become a founder. You can engineer the transition. Resources Startup Physicians Incubator https://www.startupphysicians.com/incubatorFounder Resource Guide https://www.startupphysicians.com/resources Chapters: 00:00 The Illusion of Job Security 04:58 Understanding Personal Finances 10:30 Building a Business Financial Model 15:52 Pre-Selling and Funding Strategies 21:26 Creating a Pathway to Entrepreneurship 24:22 Overcoming Fear in Entrepreneurship

[Re-Release] The 7 Startup Functions Physicians Can Support

Apr 15, 2026 30 min

In this episode, I talk about how physicians can add real value to startups without leaving clinical practice. I break down seven core functions where we already have a competitive edge: product design, marketing, business development, clinical research, user insight, policy advocacy, and strategic advisory. Each of these roles taps into what we already know and do as physicians. You don’t need a new degree. You need a framework to translate your clinical expertise into startup value. This episode is about helping you see the breadth of opportunity in front of you and getting clear on where you fit. If you’ve ever wondered how to contribute meaningfully to innovation while staying grounded in medicine, this is where to begin. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Startup Functions for Physicians [02:17] - Product Design and Development [05:23] - Marketing and Brand Credibility [08:53] - Business Development and Strategic Growth [13:25] - Clinical Research and Validation [17:41] - Customer and User Insight [21:25] - Policy and Advocacy [24:52] - Strategic Advisory and Innovation Leadership Resources 🔗 Website: StartupphysiciansStartUp Physicians | Physician Entrepreneurship, Consulting & Leadership 🔗 LinkedIn: Dr. Alison Curfman Want to Go Deeper? If you're ready to start translating your clinical expertise into real startup opportunities: Launchpad – A structured path to help you turn your skills into clear, actionable offerings Free Resources – Tools, frameworks, and guidance to help you get started Incubator – For physicians ready to build, grow, and scale within the startup ecosystem

Physician Entrepreneurship in Residency: Building a Startup While Training with Dr. Daniella Dennis

Apr 8, 2026 24 min

Many physicians don’t fully understand the contracts they sign when starting their careers. In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman speaks with Dr. Daniella Dennis, an emergency medicine resident at the University of Connecticut and founder of Payscope MD, an AI platform designed to help physicians better understand employment contracts and salary benchmarks. Daniella started building her company during intern year of residency after realizing how complex physician contracts are—and how expensive legal reviews can be for graduating residents. Instead of waiting until the “perfect time,” she leveraged no-code AI tools to build a minimum viable product and start gathering feedback from physicians. In this conversation, we discuss: Why physician contracts are often difficult to understandHow AI may help physicians identify contract red flagsBuilding a startup while still in medical trainingWhy MVPs and user feedback matter more than perfectionHow physicians can leverage their clinical skills in entrepreneurshipWhy early-career doctors may actually have an advantage in innovation Dr. Dennis also shares how posting one TikTok video helped her connect with mentors in health tech—and how simply getting started can open unexpected doors. If you’ve ever wondered whether physicians can become founders—or whether it’s “too early” in your career to start something—this episode will challenge that assumption. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Daniella Dennis 02:00 – The Idea Behind Payscope MD 05:10 – Building an AI Startup Without a Technical Background 08:40 – Why MVPs and Feedback Matter in Startups 12:30 – Why Early Career Physicians Should Build in Health Tech 17:50 – Advice for Doctors Who Want to Start Something RESOURCES: Payscope MDStartup Physicians Connect with Daniella: X: @payscopeMD Linkedln:@GetPayScopeMD Linkedln: @Daniella Dennis www.theresidentfounder.com Instagram: @Daniella_DoubleD

5 Foundations Every Physician Founder Needs to Launch a Healthcare Startup

Apr 1, 2026 30 min

You already know what’s broken in healthcare. The question is—do you know how to build something that actually fixes it? In this solo episode, Dr. Alison Curfman breaks down the 5 foundations every physician founder needs to go from clinical insight → startup launch. After co-founding a company that scaled to 100,000 patients, raising over $100M across ventures, and working inside private equity evaluating healthcare startups, Alison shares the exact frameworks most physicians were never taught—but need to succeed. If you’ve ever felt stuck between having an idea and knowing what to do next, this episode will give you a clear path forward. In this episode, I discuss: How to validate a healthcare problem before you buildWhat “unit economics” actually means (in plain English)How to build operations that scale quicklySmarter ways to fund your startup without risking your savingsHow to pitch, network, and get early traction 📄 Download the free Physician Founder Framework: 👉 https://StartupPhysicians.com/resources 🎧 Listen on our website: https://www.startupphysicians.com/podcast Becoming a founder isn’t about leaving medicine. It’s about expanding your impact. Chapters: 00:00 You know what’s broken in healthcare 02:30 Why most physician founders get stuck 04:00 Foundation 1: Validate the right problem 11:00 Foundation 2: Business model + unit economics 19:30 Foundation 3: Operations that scale 26:00 Foundation 4: Capital strategy 34:00 Foundation 5: Pitch, network, and sell 41:30 What the next 12 months could look like 44:30 Startup Physicians Incubator + next steps

Healthcare Venture Capital for Physicians: Advisory Roles, Investing, and Startup Ecosystems with Dr. Daniel Dow

Mar 25, 2026 26 min

Physicians are increasingly exploring careers beyond traditional clinical practice, and venture capital is one path that allows doctors to help shape the future of healthcare innovation. In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with radiologist and healthcare venture leader Dr. Daniel Dow to discuss how physicians can transition into the startup and venture capital ecosystem. After more than a decade in clinical radiology, Dr. Dow began exploring new ways physicians could influence healthcare innovation. Through startup accelerators, mentorship, and venture investing, he discovered the enormous need for clinical insight within the healthcare startup world. Today, he serves as Chief Innovation Officer at Healthcare Shares, a venture capital community focused on bringing together physicians, healthcare operators, founders, and investors to support healthcare startups with both financial capital and intellectual capital. In this conversation, we explore: • Why physicians are underrepresented in healthcare startups • How doctors can become advisors, mentors, or investors in early-stage companies • The difference between traditional venture capital and community-driven models • Why many healthcare startups fail — and how physician involvement can improve success • How physicians can begin exploring venture capital and startup investing If you’re a physician curious about healthcare startups, venture capital, or non-clinical career paths, this episode offers a practical and inspiring starting point. As Dr. Dow explains, physicians bring unique expertise that startups desperately need — and becoming involved in innovation can help doctors reclaim autonomy, purpose, and impact in healthcare. CHAPTERS: 0:00 Introduction and Meeting at the HLTH Conference 1:15 From Radiologist to Healthcare Innovation 4:20 Discovering Startup Accelerators and New Physician Career Paths 7:45 Why Physicians Are Underrepresented in Healthcare Sta...

From Allergy Practice to Startup Acquisition with Dr. Payel Gupta

Mar 18, 2026 31 min

What happens when a physician decides not to follow the traditional path? In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Payel Gupta, a board-certified allergist and immunologist who took a series of bold, intentional risks — from global health sabbaticals to becoming a health tech co-founder — ultimately leading to a successful startup acquisition. Dr. Gupta shares her journey from traditional clinical training to co-founding a telemedicine company in the allergy space during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as consulting turned into a co-founder role (after she boldly suggested they needed a physician at the table). The company partnered directly with a pharmaceutical manufacturer to deliver FDA-approved allergy immunotherapy via telemedicine — and was later acquired by LifeMD in 2022. This conversation is a masterclass in: Why physicians are uniquely positioned to succeed in startupsHow to take calculated career risks without sacrificing financial securityThe real-world MBA you gain by building a companyWhat value physicians bring to product, marketing, compliance, validation, and payer strategyHow to leverage LinkedIn to land consulting and advisory opportunitiesWe also dive into imposter syndrome, physician risk tolerance, and the two beliefs that can fundamentally change your career trajectory: Physicians are exceptional problem solvers.There are countless ways for doctors to create income and impact.If you've ever wondered whether there’s more beyond traditional clinical practice — this episode will expand what feels possible. Resources & Links: Partners in Health, Dr. Paul Farmer's Social Justice Health Care Organization: https://www.pih.org/Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder: https://www.tracykidder.com/mountains-beyond-mountains.htmlConnect with Dr. Payel Gupta on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/payel-gupta-md-facaai-4b178411Listen to her podcast: The Itch (All About Allergies & Asthma): https://www.itchpodc...

How to Create Opportunity in Health Tech as a Physician Entrepreneur with Dr. Alex Mohseni

Mar 11, 2026 33 min

What if the skills that made you a great physician are the exact skills that can launch your next career? In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with emergency physician turned founder and startup executive, Dr. Alex Mohseni, to unpack how doctors can break into health tech, innovation, and leadership — without waiting for permission and without going back for another degree. Alex shares how he went from exporting EMR data in his emergency department to becoming a Chief Innovation Officer, startup medical director, and founder of ClinX Academy. His journey proves a powerful point: you can just start. Inside this conversation, we cover: Why physicians freeze when the career path isn’t linearHow to create startup opportunities instead of applying onlineThe abundance mindset that unlocks doorsHow to evaluate health tech companies strategicallyWhy community physicians are massively undervalued in innovationHow understanding Medicare Advantage, ACOs, and risk models makes you indispensableThe difference between vanity advisors and real clinical valueWhy you don’t need an MBA to become a healthcare executiveHow to wake up excited about your work againThis episode is for physicians who: Feel stuck in traditional clinical rolesWant to explore startups, health tech, or ventureAre curious about CMO or medical director rolesWant to create impact beyond the bedsideAre ready to think bigger about their careerThe healthcare system is changing rapidly. AI, digital health, and value-based care are reshaping everything. Physicians who understand both clinical care and business strategy will define the future. If you’ve been waiting for permission — this is it. References: Search for Startups: exa.ai Clinx Academy: ClinxacademyNon-Clinical Physician Jobs & Physician Side Gigs | ClinX. Use code ALISON for 10% off. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Alex Mohseni 01:30 – From Emergency Medicine to Innovation 03:40 – Solving Problems Without Formal Tra...

Escaping Burnout and Building SuperDoc Tech with Dr. Marissa Caudill

Mar 4, 2026 29 min

Career transitions are not failures — they’re expansion. In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with child psychiatrist turned tech founder Dr. Marissa Caudill, co-founder of SuperDoc Tech, to talk about career reinvention, physician entrepreneurship, and building scalable systems that actually work. Marissa shares her nonlinear journey: From MD-PhD and academiaTo private practice ownerTo employed psychiatrist at KaiserTo launching a parent-focused brandTo co-founding a HIPAA-compliant tech platform for physiciansAlong the way, she learned a hard truth many physician founders discover: being excellent at medicine doesn’t mean you’re equipped with the backend systems needed to grow a business. We discuss: Why career transitions are normal (and necessary) for physiciansThe “Valley of Despair” in entrepreneurship — and how to push throughWhy most doctors build chaotic tech stacks that don’t talk to each otherHow an all-in-one CRM platform (based on Go High Level) can simplify marketing, scheduling, automation, and patient communicationThe power of community and done-with-you support when learning something newIf you’ve ever: Considered leaving your W-2Felt overwhelmed by tech and marketingWanted to scale beyond 1:1 clinical workStruggled with burnout inside your own businessThis episode is for you. Because you don’t need to abandon medicine to build something bigger — you need better systems, better support, and the willingness to feel like an intern again. 🔗 Learn more about SuperDoc Tech: superdoctech.com/startupphysicians 🎟️ Use code PODCAST50 for 50% off your first 3 months. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – Marissa’s Nonlinear Career Path 03:45 – Burning Out in Private Practice 06:45 – Why She Left Kaiser 09:15 – Normalizing Physician Career Transitions 13:45 – The Emotional Cycle of Change 17:00 – From Course Creator to Tech Founder 21:45 – What SuperDoc Tech Actually Does 25:30 – Why Most Physician Tech Sta...

How a Geriatrician Built a Global Health Tech Startup Without Leaving Medicine with Dr. Michael Fang

Feb 25, 2026 32 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Michael Fang, a practicing geriatrician and serial entrepreneur, to explore how physicians can build impactful healthcare startups—without leaving clinical medicine. Michael shares his journey from traditional medical training to founding multiple healthcare technology companies, beginning with something deceptively simple: an Excel spreadsheet tracking social factors affecting elderly patients. Long before “social determinants of health” became a buzzword, Michael identified how caregiver availability, nutrition access, and home support predicted hospital readmissions with striking accuracy. That insight led to a startup that ultimately scaled to serve over 7 million patients internationally, helping health systems allocate resources more effectively—years before U.S. reimbursement models caught up. Throughout the conversation, Michael breaks down why physicians are uniquely positioned to be entrepreneurs, how curiosity fuels innovation, and why you don’t need to learn to code or get an MBA to build meaningful solutions. He also explains how entrepreneurship can actually reduce burnout, offering physicians a renewed sense of agency and creativity. Finally, Michael introduces Ryze Health, a company designed to support independent medical practices by making healthcare benefits more affordable and accessible—reinforcing his broader mission to democratize healthcare. This episode is a must-listen for physicians who: See broken systems and want to fix themAre curious about entrepreneurship but don’t know where to startWant to build alongside medicine, not abandon it Chapters 00:00 – Physician to Entrepreneur (Without Planning It) 02:51 – Seeing the System Break in Real Practice 03:35 – Predicting Readmissions With an Excel Sheet 05:56 – Social Determinants of Health Before It Had a Name 09:48 – Why Physicians Are Built for Entrepreneurship 12:30 – You Don’t Need to Code (Or Get Another Degree...

Why Doctors Make Exceptional Founders (And How to Start Small) with Dr. Osama Hashmi

Feb 18, 2026 29 min

What does it really take for a physician to build a successful health tech company—without abandoning clinical medicine? In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Osama Hashmi, dermatologist, entrepreneur, and CEO of Empiricus, to unpack his unconventional journey from pre-med student to multi-time founder. Osama shares how early exposure to healthcare policy, liability, and system inefficiencies sparked a deeper curiosity—not just about treating patients, but about changing the systems that shape patient care. In this episode, we explore: Why understanding the problem matters more than understanding technologyHow Osama started his first company before medical school—with no entrepreneurial backgroundThe myth that physicians must quit medicine to build startupsWhy starting with manual solutions often leads to better technology laterThe difference between services-based businesses and tech startupsHow Empiricus is rethinking physician–pharma communicationWhy founders bring optimism to a healthcare system facing rapid changePractical, low-risk ways physicians can explore entrepreneurship todayThis conversation is especially valuable for physicians who feel curious—but unsure—about business, startups, or innovation. Osama breaks down complex ideas into approachable, actionable insights and reminds us that you don’t need to be technical, fearless, or all-in to get started. “Entrepreneurship doesn’t mean leaving medicine. It means using business as a tool to solve real problems.” Chapters: 00:00 – From Med School Dreams to System-Level Questions 02:55 – Why Business & Capital Drive Real Change in Healthcare 04:35 – Starting a Company Before Medical School 06:45 – How Physicians Actually Get Started in Entrepreneurship 08:40 – Physicians Are Closer to the Real Problems Than Anyone Else 10:55 – Start Manual, Then Add Technology 14:55 – Services vs Tech: Choosing the Right Business Model 15:25 – The Vision Behind Empiricus & DocUpdate 17:...

AI, Entrepreneurship & the Physician Advantage with Dr. Daniel Kraft

Feb 11, 2026 30 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with renowned physician-scientist, entrepreneur, and futurist Dr. Daniel Kraft to explore what it truly means to build at the intersection of medicine, technology, and innovation. From launching an online medical bookstore as a resident during the early days of the internet, to co-founding Stanford Biodesign innovations, advising and investing in digital health startups, leading conversations on AI in healthcare, and even serving as a flight surgeon and astronaut finalist—Daniel’s career defies the traditional medical path. Together, Alison and Daniel discuss how physicians can identify real pain points, why beginner’s mind is such a powerful advantage, how AI will reshape clinical care faster than any previous innovation, and what doctors must do now to remain relevant, ethical, and impactful in the next decade of medicine. This conversation is a must-listen for physicians curious about entrepreneurship, digital health, AI, venture, or simply expanding their impact beyond the exam room—without leaving medicine behind. In this episode, we cover: How Daniel became an entrepreneurial physician before it was mainstreamTurning clinical frustration into a million-dollar startup during residencyThe power of identifying real pain points in medicineStanford Biodesign and why structure matters in healthcare innovationWhy early-career physicians often see opportunities others missThe current explosion of AI and digital health tools—and why it’s overwhelmingHow AI will change medicine faster than EMRs or telehealth ever didThe importance of physician voices in AI ethics and guardrailsFeature vs company: how founders should think strategicallyCapital strategy advice for non-technical physician foundersAerospace medicine, flight surgery, NASA work, and astronaut selectionWhy crossing disciplines creates the most meaningful innovationHow physicians can expand impact without abandoning clinical work Chapters: 00:...

Why Healthcare Startups Need Physicians Who Understand the System with Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas

Feb 4, 2026 30 min

Physicians are trained to follow clear pathways—but innovation, advisory work, and startup leadership rarely come with a playbook. In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas, urologic surgeon, former private practice CEO, MIT MBA, and healthcare innovation leader at Northwestern Medicine. Jennifer shares how she navigated the transition from academic medicine to private practice, led a large surgical group through the COVID-19 crisis, and ultimately moved into system-level innovation, incubators, and startup advising. This conversation is a grounded look at how physicians create value outside of patient care—without burning out, giving work away for free, or abandoning medicine altogether. In this episode, we discuss: Why physicians underestimate their value in startups and innovationWhat becoming a CEO during COVID taught Jennifer about leadership and pivotingHow private practice prepares doctors for entrepreneurshipWhy AI and data literacy matter for physicians—without needing a tech backgroundHow to start advisory work without getting taken advantage ofThe role of incubators and health system innovation programsPractical ways physicians can explore non-clinical impact while staying groundedThis episode is especially relevant for physicians who feel ready for more impact, creativity, or system-level influence—but want to move intentionally. Chapters: 00:00 – Why Physicians Belong in Innovation 00:53 – Academic Medicine vs Private Practice Reality 02:59 – Becoming CEO in January 2020 03:43 – Pivoting During COVID 04:55 – Why an MBA (and Why MIT) 06:05 – AI Isn’t Magic—It’s Math 08:25 – Moving Into Health System Innovation 10:45 – The Hidden Value of Physicians in Startups 13:00 – How to Start Advisory Work 17:59 – Avoiding Exploitation in Business 21:56 – Defining and Pricing Your Value 25:23 – Incubators, Accelerators & Health System Opportunities 29:13 – Final Advice for Physicians Exploring What’s Next ...

From Accidental Discovery to Market-Ready Innovation with Adam Friedman

Jan 28, 2026 34 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, host Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with dermatologist, researcher, and inventor Dr. Adam Friedman to explore what happens when physicians lean into curiosity instead of rigid career plans. Dr. Friedman shares how an accidental discovery during medical school—creating nanoparticles in a basic science lab—ultimately reshaped his entire professional trajectory. What began as an effort to strengthen a residency application evolved into a long-term commitment to invention, dermatology, and translational research, culminating in market-ready skincare products and an ongoing clinical pipeline. The conversation explores the reality of physician innovation beyond buzzwords: the role of observation, the importance of teams and mentors, and the nuance of intellectual property when building physical products. Dr. Friedman offers practical insight into how ideas become protected, validated, and scaled—while also emphasizing that sharing ideas thoughtfully is often essential to progress. Together, Dr. Curfman and Dr. Friedman discuss why many physicians remain stuck at the idea stage, how early-career “yes phases” create unexpected opportunities, and why abundance—not scarcity—drives sustainable innovation. The episode also highlights Dr. Friedman’s work with cannabinoid-based dermatologic products and what it means to see something invented in training become part of patients’ daily lives. This episode is a grounded, honest look at physician entrepreneurship—one rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and the courage to follow what’s interesting, even when the path isn’t clear. Takeaways Dr. Friedman describes himself as having 'career ADHD' due to his diverse interests in dermatology.Curiosity is essential for innovation; asking 'why' can lead to discoveries.Accidental discoveries can lead to significant advancements in medicine.Saying yes to opportunities can open doors to new paths in one's career.Building a supportive network is crucial for...

Do You Really Need an MBA to Work in Startups? A Pediatrician’s Path to VC + Founding Grapevyne with Zhen Chan

Jan 21, 2026 32 min

What does it actually take for a physician to break into startups or venture capital—and do you need an MBA to do it? In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman talks with Dr. Zhen Chan, a practicing pediatrician and founder of Grapevyne. Zhen shares how he moved from a traditional training path to venture work, what “due diligence” looks like in the real world, and why clinical insight is often the missing piece in healthcare products. They also discuss why physicians often overvalue credentials, how networking creates opportunities faster than another degree, and how Zhen pivoted Grapevyne from a job marketplace into a community built to help clinicians expand their skills and impact in 2025 and beyond. Takeaways Zhen Chan transitioned from clinical medicine to startups.Networking is crucial for career development in healthcare.Experience can be more valuable than formal education.Venture fellowships provide exposure to the startup ecosystem.Clinical perspectives are essential in evaluating healthcare startups.Grapevyne aims to empower physicians and medical professionals.The importance of adaptability and pivoting in entrepreneurship.Understanding regulatory pathways is vital for healthcare innovation.Building a community can enhance professional growth.Physicians have unique insights that can drive startup success. Connect with Zhen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhenmd) Learn more about Grapevyne: https://grapevyne.health) https://instagram.com/zhen_md https://www.tiktok.com/@zhenmd Chapters 00:00 – Intro + Zhen’s background 01:30 – MBA vs real-world experience 03:10 – Why he pivoted from fellowship plans 05:55 – Networking as the unlock 12:05 – Venture fellowships + due diligence explained 16:10 – Unpaid roles, equity, and value exchange 21:05 – What he learned: how investors think 24:50 – The unique value of physician perspective 28:15 – What Grapevyne is building now 30:45 – Pivot story + closing

Designing a 50-State Telemedicine Career on Your Own Terms with Dr. Takashi Nakamura

Jan 14, 2026 31 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman interviews Dr. Takashi Nakamura, an emergency physician whose search for a simple telemedicine side gig evolved into a fully remote, 50-state clinical career and a leadership role in digital health. Takashi shares how wanting to be more present for his young family in Hawaii led him to explore telemedicine, ultimately becoming licensed in all 50 states plus DC. That national licensure opened unexpected opportunities: medical group ownership, corporate practice of medicine (PC) leadership, compliance roles, and executive positions within rapidly scaling digital health startups. The conversation explores: How telemedicine side work grew into a high-leverage, location-independent physician careerWhat PC ownership and corporate practice of medicine mean for early-stage startupsThe path from clinician to executive without an MBA or formal business trainingWhy an abundance mindset is essential in the physician innovation communityThe lifestyle transformation that telemedicine can offer—holidays off, nights at home, flexibility, and autonomyHow Takashi’s program, All In Remote / ER Physician Academy, helps physicians obtain multi-state licensure and uncover both clinical and non-clinical roles in digital healthHow physicians can transition into advisory roles, administrative positions, executive leadership, or even launch their own companiesThe episode highlights the vast—and often unseen—career landscape available to physicians beyond traditional brick-and-mortar practice, and how telemedicine can serve as both a bridge and a springboard to greater freedom, fulfillment, and impact. Listeners who are contemplating career redesign, craving flexibility, or seeking meaningful work beyond conventional practice will find a roadmap filled with possibility. 00:01 – Welcome & Introduction to Dr. Takashi Nakamura 00:45 – From ER Shifts to Telemedicine as a Side Gig 02:20 – Getting Licensed in All 50 States and DC 03:56 – PC...

How Physicians Become Health Tech Founders with Dr. Jhonatan Bringas Dimitriades

Jan 7, 2026 34 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman interviews Dr. Jhonatan Bringas Dimitriades, a Peruvian physician whose global journey led him from clinical practice in Latin America to recertifying in the Netherlands and ultimately becoming a health tech CEO. Jhonatan shares how he navigated the challenge of learning Dutch, rebuilding his medical career abroad, and entering the world of health tech without a formal business background. His curiosity and clinical expertise propelled him through roles in product management and business development before co-founding Keiku, an AI-powered digital stethoscope and ambient scribe designed to transform how clinicians capture and interpret patient data. Together, they explore the realities of building hardware as a physician founder, the power of partnerships, the importance of embracing imperfect MVPs, and the many translatable skills physicians already possess that prepare them for startup leadership. This episode offers a clear, inspiring look at what’s possible when physicians step into innovation. 00:00 – Introduction & Global Background 01:10 – Training in Latin America & Moving to Europe 03:05 – Recertifying in Dutch 04:55 – Entering Health Tech as a Medical Advisor 07:15 – Physicians’ Translatable Skills 10:20 – Growing into Business & Startup Roles 13:35 – The Origin of Keiku 18:10 – What Keiku Is & What It Does 22:50 – AI, Auscultation, and Documentation 26:15 – How Hardware Gets Built 29:25 – Advice for Physician Innovators 30:50 – Startup Physicians Pathways & Closing Jhonathan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbringasd/ Keikku Smart Stethoscope - https://www.keikku.health/

Inside the CMO Role at a Pediatric Telehealth Startup with Dr. Lyndsey Garbi

Dec 17, 2025 36 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman talks with Dr. Lyndsey Garbi, neonatologist, pediatrician, and co-founder/CMO of Blueberry Pediatrics. Lyndsey shares how she went from new attending to startup founder, why she became the “professional naysayer” to protect pediatric safety, and how Blueberry built a scalable, high-quality virtual care model for kids. Alison and Lyndsey explore what children actually need from care, why telehealth can enhance safety when designed well, and how creativity becomes an antidote to burnout for physicians. They also break down what CMO roles look like inside startups and offer practical paths for doctors who want to get involved in digital health or leadership. Whether you’re a pediatrician, a parent, or a physician curious about the startup world, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible beyond traditional practice. 00:00 — Welcome & Reconnecting 01:48 — Lyndsey’s Path to Pediatrics & Startups 03:37 — Staying Clinical While Founding 05:05 — Founding Blueberry Pediatrics 07:30 — Building Safe Pediatric Telehealth 08:56 — Challenging Traditional Medical Dogma 11:05 — What Families Really Need in Pediatric Care 12:23 — Telehealth Safety & Continuity 14:08 — “Attending… Now What?” 15:34 — Blueberry’s Model & Quality Measures 19:11 — What a CMO Does in a Startup 22:57 — Pathways Into Startup Roles for Physicians 26:01 — Academia vs. Industry Growth 29:04 — Creativity as an Antidote to Burnout 30:59 — Advice to Pediatricians: Ask for What You Need 32:37 — Closing & Where to Find Lyndsey website: www.blueberrypediatrics.com @blueberrypediatrics on socials

Breaking Into Pharma and Biotech as a Physician Leader with Dr. Nerissa Kreher

Dec 10, 2025 35 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Nerissa Kreher, MD, MBA—a pediatric endocrinologist who transitioned into biotech and pharma and went on to serve as a four-time Chief Medical Officer with multiple IPOs. Nerissa shares how an unexpected career setback opened the door to the pharma industry, what medical affairs and clinical development roles actually look like, and how physicians can build the business and regulatory skill sets needed to thrive in biotech. She explains how to communicate across cross-functional teams, design clinical trials, and navigate both the highs (like successful IPOs) and the lows (like program shutdowns). Alison and Nerissa also dig into imposter syndrome, confidence, humility, and why physicians must embrace learning and ask for help—just like they do in clinical practice. Nerissa also highlights her work developing first-in-human transfer RNA therapies and discusses her coaching program, Pharma Industry MD Coach, which supports physicians exploring industry roles. This episode is packed with tactical insights and mindset shifts for any physician curious about biotech, pharma, or leadership roles beyond clinical medicine. 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Nerissa Kreher 01:08 – A Career Pivot That Changed Everything 04:01 – Entering Pharma + Early Mindset Shifts 07:14 – Building New Skills Beyond Medicine 11:23 – Clinical Development & Designing Trials 13:59 – Moving Through Companies & Becoming a CMO 16:18 – Handling Setbacks in Drug Development 18:27 – Mindset, Imposter Syndrome & Asking for Help 23:05 – Inside the IPO Experience 28:04 – What She’s Building Now 29:35 – Supporting Physicians Through Coaching 30:57 – Closing Thoughts Pharma Industry MD Coach Website: www.industryMDCoach.com IG: PharmaindustryMDCoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-industrymdcoach-b501301ba/

From Pediatric ER Doc to FemTech Founder with Dr. Lara Zibners

Dec 3, 2025 36 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, host Dr. Alison Curfman talks with Dr. Lara Zibners, a pediatric emergency physician whose winding career path led her from the chaos of the PEDs ER to the world of women’s health innovation. What starts as light-hearted humor between two ER docs quickly evolves into a powerful conversation about identity, reinvention, and the unexpected paths physicians can take beyond clinical practice. Lara shares her journey from insisting she’d never be a doctor, to practicing in the U.S. and U.K., to ultimately leaving the bedside after a mix of personal, professional, and global circumstances made clinical practice unsustainable. She opens up about her seven failed rounds of IVF, adoption, surrogacy, and the lived experiences that inspired her to co-found a vaginal drug-delivery medtech company—reshaping how women receive progesterone and other therapies. Alison and Lara dive into: The surprising origins of Lara’s medical careerPracticing medicine across two countries and navigating identity as a physicianHow infertility and motherhood shaped her mission in women’s healthThe reality of transitioning out of clinical medicineHow physicians can translate clinical expertise into startup leadershipThe importance of storytelling when raising capital or influencing changeWhy learning, networking, and experimentation matter more than having a perfect planPractical advice for doctors exploring entrepreneurship or seeking a more aligned career pathThis conversation blends humor, vulnerability, and startup strategy—making it essential listening for any physician who’s curious about new career possibilities or the future of women’s health innovation. Connect with Dr. Lara Zibners: Lara's Website: https://www.larazibners.com/Calla Lilly Clinical Care: https://www.callali.ly/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlarazibners/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraz/Podcast: Unstable Vitals - https://www.unstablevitals.com/

[Re-Release] Rethinking Healthcare: Adapting to the Startup Mindset

Nov 26, 2025 19 min

In this episode (a replay from earlier this year), we’re diving into how startups think and what we as physicians can learn from their approach to innovation. If you’ve ever wondered how design thinking, rapid iteration, and minimum viable products (MVPs) could reshape healthcare, this episode is for you. We’ll explore how startups thrive on speed, creativity, and disruption, and why adopting their mindset can empower us to challenge assumptions and drive meaningful change. I’ll break down the key principles of design thinking, share real-world examples from my experience building care models, and explain how MVPs can save time and resources while delivering impactful results. Episode Highlights: [0:00] - Welcome and introduction to the startup mindset: Speed, disruption, and innovation. [2:54] - The five phases of design thinking and why empathy is at the heart of it all. [4:25] - Exploring the concept of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and its value in healthcare. [7:42] - The story of creating a clinical care model as an MVP at Imagine Pediatrics. [9:20] - Challenging assumptions and how questioning “why” can uncover hidden opportunities. [15:57] - Practical takeaways: Applying design thinking, MVPs, and assumption testing in your work. Resources: Check out our services at StartupPhysicians.com If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, rate, and leave a review. Remember to share this episode with fellow physicians who might be interested in startups. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare!

Transforming Pediatric Care Through Innovation with Dr. Janene Fuerch

Nov 19, 2025 33 min

In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Janene Fuerch, neonatologist, entrepreneur, and Director of the Stanford Biodesign Innovation Fellowship. Janene shares how her path in academic medicine unexpectedly led her to become a leader in healthcare innovation, and how she’s helping other physicians make a broader impact beyond the bedside. We talk about how physicians can bring incredible value to startups, even without business or engineering backgrounds. Janene explains what it’s really like to go through the Stanford Biodesign Fellowship, how to identify unmet clinical needs, and why humility and collaboration are essential for success in the startup world. We also dive into her work with Impact One, an organization focused on pediatric and maternal health innovation, and explore how physicians can help shape the future of healthcare technology, instead of just reacting to it. If you’ve ever wondered how to combine your medical expertise with innovation, entrepreneurship, or leadership, this episode will show you what’s possible. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Welcome & Introduction [02:00] – How Janene Found Her Way into Innovation [06:00] – What Physicians Bring to Startups [09:00] – The Importance of Humility and Teamwork [11:30] – Creating Impact Beyond the Bedside [15:00] – Driving Pediatric and Maternal Health Innovation [18:30] – Why Physicians Need to Lead in Tech [22:00] – Building Skills for Startup Success [24:00] – Advice for Physicians Exploring New Career Paths [25:30] – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect

From ER to Innovation: Building New Healthcare Paths with Dr. Kevin Baumlin

Nov 12, 2025 35 min

In this episode of Startup Physicians, Dr. Alison Curfman interviews Kevin Baumlin, an emergency physician and Chief Medical Affairs Officer at the Science Center. They discuss the evolving role of physicians in healthcare startups, the importance of clinical insight in product development, and the various pathways for aspiring founders and advisors in the healthcare space. Kevin shares his career journey, the resources available for startup founders, and the significance of connecting healthcare needs with innovative solutions. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of healthcare innovation and the opportunities for physicians to contribute to this dynamic field. Dr. Kevin Braumlin's LinkedIn Page Science Center NSF I-corps SBIR Funding Episode Highlights [00:00] - Introduction to Startup Physicians and Guest Background [02:39] - Kevin Baumlin's Career Journey and Transition to Startups [05:23] - Opportunities for Aspiring Founders in Healthcare [08:19] - Understanding the Science Center and Its Programs [10:54] - Navigating Grants and Funding for Startups [13:55] - The Role of Physicians in Startups and Advisory Positions [16:57] - Connecting Healthcare Needs with Startup Solutions [19:37] - The Importance of Clinical Insight in Product Development [22:36] - Innovative Approaches in Early Cancer Detection [25:22] - Getting Involved: Pathways for Physicians in Startups [28:19] - Conclusion and Resources for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The Startup Leap: One Doctor’s Path from Medicine to Product Innovation with Dr. Kieran McLeod

Nov 5, 2025 46 min

In this episode on Startup Physicians, I had the chance to sit down with Dr. Kieran McLeod, a former emergency physician who made the leap from clinical work in South Africa to building startups in Australia. We first connected on LinkedIn, and this conversation reminded me just how powerful it is when physicians share their ideas publicly. Kieran walks through his early career, how a failed plan to work on cruise ships turned into field hospital work with Doctors Without Borders, and how the rise of telehealth sparked his interest in startups. He shares what it was like to build his first venture, a smoking cessation app, with no coding experience and a lot of trial and error. We talk about low-code tools, product strategy, and the reality of building something valuable in a crowded space. If you’re a physician wondering whether you can actually contribute in tech or startups, this episode makes the answer pretty clear. You can. And you should. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – How we met on LinkedIn [04:40] – Emergency medicine, field hospitals, and a shift toward tech [08:15] – Starting Baiguai (and learning the hard way) [16:20] – Building without knowing how to code [27:40] – Moving to Australia to go all-in on health tech [33:50] – Why clinicians matter in product, ops, and safety

Beyond the Clinic: Building Impact in Pharmaceutical Startups with Dr. Heather Lampel

Oct 29, 2025 29 min

In this episode on Startup Physicians, I sit down with Dr. Heather Lampel to talk about what it really looks like to move from traditional clinical medicine into the pharmaceutical startup space. Heather shares her story with clarity and honesty. From her roots in clinical genetics to navigating an entirely new industry. We talk about what surprised her, what challenged her, and how she kept learning along the way. One thing that stood out: Heather never stopped investing in relationships. Her network, she says, became her lifeline through the transition. She also makes a powerful case for why physicians are deeply valuable in pharma. From clinical insights to patient advocacy, she shows that our voices matter and that representation isn’t optional if we want to build a better system. This conversation is about possibility, but also about preparation. It’s a must-listen for anyone considering a leap into industry, or simply wondering what else is out there. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Pharmaceutical Startups [00:58] - Heather's Journey from Clinical Practice to Startups [03:52] - Navigating the Learning Curve in Pharma [07:26] - Building Skills and Value in the Pharmaceutical Industry [11:02] - Exploring Different Roles in Pharma [13:14] - Mission and Impact in the Pharmaceutical Field [14:29] - Transitioning into Pharma: Options for Physicians [16:18] - Finding Opportunities in the Pharmaceutical Space [20:08] - Addressing Misconceptions about Pharma [23:34] - The Importance of Physician Representation in Pharma [24:34] - Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Physicians

Physicians Belong in AI: A Founder’s Path from Academia to Impact with Dr. Shakira Grant

Oct 22, 2025 33 min

On this episode of Startup Physicians, I interview Dr. Shakira Grant, who shares her remarkable journey from practicing medicine to influencing healthcare policy and AI development. We talk about the importance of health equity and the role physicians must play in shaping AI tools that serve all populations effectively. Shakira reflects on her time in Congress, the challenges of integrating AI in clinical care, and why diverse voices are essential in the development process. She encourages physicians to embrace innovation and step into roles where we can use our expertise to drive meaningful change in healthcare outcomes. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Shakira Grant's Journey [02:46] - Transitioning from Medicine to Policy [05:39] - The Intersection of AI and Health Equity [08:40] - Challenges and Opportunities in AI Development [11:28] - The Role of Physicians in AI Innovation [14:13] - Founding CROSS: Bridging Healthcare and AI [17:05] - Practical Involvement of Physicians in AI Projects [19:58] - The Importance of Diverse Voices in AI Development [23:05] - Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Innovators

[Re-Release] From Pediatric Cardiologist to Health Tech Innovator with Dr. Bronwyn Harris

Oct 15, 2025 42 min

One of our most requested episodes — revisiting how Dr. Harris translated frontline insight into healthcare innovation at scale. Ever wondered how a physician can transition from clinical care to founding a successful digital health startup? In this episode of Startup Physicians, I sit down with Dr. Bronwyn Harris, a pediatric cardiologist turned healthcare innovator. From her early days in biomedical engineering to pioneering a digital health startup that was later acquired by Apple, Bronwyn shares her incredible journey navigating the intersection of medicine, technology, and entrepreneurship. We talk about the lessons she learned in Stanford Biodesign, the challenges of building a healthcare startup from scratch, and how she leveraged her clinical expertise to create a groundbreaking asthma monitoring tool. Plus, we dive into the evolving world of wearable medical devices and how clinicians can contribute to the future of health tech. If you're curious about blending medicine with innovation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Bronwyn Harris is a pediatric cardiologist who clinically practices part-time at Stanford. She also has a background in biomedical engineering and has been working in the digital health space for the past decade with a range of experiences from starting her own company to working at Apple. She is currently Chief Transformation Officer for CareEvolution, a health software company with a one-stop digital research platform. Bronwyn is passionate about using patient-generated health data to empower patients and overall improve clinical care. Episode Highlights: [1:26] Introduction to Dr. Bronwyn Harris and her unique career path. [5:48] How her background in biomedical engineering shaped her approach to medicine. [9:20] Early experiences with medical device research and home monitoring solutions. [11:30] The power of design thinking in healthcare innovation. [19:16] How Stanford Biodesign changed her perspective on m...

[Re-Release] Startups, Strategy, and Serendipity: Navigating Healthcare Innovation with Dr. Paige Bhansali

Oct 8, 2025 37 min

Originally released in March 2025, this episode with Dr. Paige Bhansali remains one of our most downloaded and discussed conversations and we're bringing it back for anyone who missed it. What if you could break out of the traditional physician career path and create a role that blends clinical care with entrepreneurship and innovation? In this episode, I sit down with my friend and colleague, Dr. Paige Bhansali, a pediatrician with an incredible journey through consulting, healthcare startups, and value-based care. Paige has carved out her own unique path in medicine—balancing residency, an MBA, and a startup career—all while maintaining her passion for improving pediatric healthcare. Dr. Paige Bhansali is the Head of Clinical Strategy and Operations at Playground Pediatrics, a fast-growing value-based pediatric practice focused on delivering the highest quality of care for children. She is a practicing pediatrician and Assistant Professor at Lurie Children’s in Chicago. Prior to medical school, she started her career in strategy consulting at the Boston Consulting Group where she worked with providers transitioning to value-based reimbursement models. She’s had the privilege to work for several value-based care organizations focused on underserved populations including the Commonwealth Care Alliance, Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, and Imagine Pediatrics. She has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Northwestern University, medical degree from the University of Michigan, and a master of business administration from Harvard Business School. Episode Highlights: [0:45] - Welcome to the episode! Meet Dr. Paige Bhansali and hear about her unique background in healthcare startups. [1:39] - From childhood inspiration to pediatrics—Paige’s journey into medicine and her early exposure to healthcare. [5:50] - How Paige took an unconventional approach during her medical training to explore startup opportunities. [9:00] - The power of saying yes—ho...

Say Yes Before You’re Ready: A Physician's Path from Medicine to Tech with Dr. C.K. Wang

Oct 1, 2025 32 min

On this episode of Startup Physicians, I sit down with Dr. CK Wang, a medical oncologist who made the leap from clinical practice into the tech world. We talk about his transition from traditional oncology to leading roles at IBM Watson Health and Coda, where he’s working on some of the most exciting applications of AI in healthcare. CK shares candid reflections on what it really takes to move from the clinic to the boardroom, including the challenges of stepping into unfamiliar territory and the mindset shifts that helped him thrive. We explore how clinical expertise plays a critical role in product development, why more physicians are needed at the table in tech, and how we can bring physician voices into spaces like sales, strategy, and innovation without losing our identity in the process. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible beyond clinical medicine or how to bring your medical lens into startups and AI, this conversation is full of insight, clarity, and real-world advice. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to CK Wang's Journey [02:37] - Transition from Clinical Practice to Innovation [05:20] - The Role of Clinicians in Tech [08:10] - Supporting Sales and Product Development [11:02] - Embracing a Growth Mindset [13:27] - Navigating Financial Discussions in Healthcare [16:08] - The Value of Clinical Knowledge in Business [18:58] - Conclusion and Future Opportunities

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Podcast details

Created by: Alison Curfman, M.D.
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 11, 2026
Episodes: 87
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 31 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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