Doctors Making A Difference

How does a physician stay engaged after four decades in the exam room? According to Dr. Scott Abramson, the secret lies in one small word: the . Or more precisely, in removing it. Instead of asking “what’s the matter?”, what if we simply asked: what matters ? In today’s episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews Dr. Abramson, a retired neurologist who spent over 40 years at Kaiser Permanente in Northern...

Today’s episode is a field recording from Uganda - complete with birdsong, village sounds, and the unmistakable energy of meaningful work. At the start of June 2025, Dr. Peter Crane joined a medical service team partnering with Child2Youth Foundation, a grassroots Ugandan organization that’s been transforming lives through education, clean water, and healthcare for two decades. Recorded on locatio...

Dr. Shaiba Ansari-Ali had it all dialed in—her dream job in rheumatology, a clinic she loved, and a life she had carefully crafted to balance medicine and motherhood. Then, at just 42 years old, a basilar artery stroke stopped everything. In this gripping and inspiring episode, Dr. Ansari-Ali walks us through the moment her world turned upside down—while wide awake and fully aware. She takes us be...

This episode features Dr. Bart Rademaker , a world-renowned plastic surgeon whose passion for healing spans both borders and disciplines. From his practice in the U.S. to his selfless humanitarian work throughout Central America, Dr. Rademaker is living proof that medicine can be a tool for both transformation and global impact. A former Nobel Peace Prize nominee for his international efforts, Dr....

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Dr. Mary Doherty—an anesthesiologist from Ireland who brings both professional expertise and lived experience as an autistic and ADHD-diagnosed individual. A powerful advocate for neurodiversity, Dr. Doherty challenges the disease-based model of autism and instead embraces a strengths-based, identity-affirming approach. She shares her mission to normali...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Hardeep Phull, a dedicated oncologist whose journey to medicine was anything but traditional. Through academic setbacks, unexpected detours, and powerful mentorships, Dr. Phull carved out a path that led not only to a career in oncology—but to a deeper understanding of what it means to be a healer. He shares how failure shaped his approach to life and medicine...

In this empowering episode,  Dr. Laura Suttin, a family physician, author, physician coach, and speaker, shares her transformative journey from burnout to creating a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. Starting her medical career at a small independent practice, Dr. Suttin later navigated the complexities of a large health system after the practice was acquired. She took on leadership roles...

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Dr. John Winkler, an emergency physician who experienced unimaginable loss when his wife passed away from a severe infection just 10 weeks after giving birth. At the time, he had just begun his medical residency—a chapter that was supposed to be the start of his career and family life. What followed was a journey of deep grief, healing, and...

In this inspiring podcast, I was able to meet with Dr. Leo Damasco, a pediatric emergency physician, devoted family man, and visionary founder of a nationwide telemedicine company. Discover how he transitioned from high-intensity ER shifts to delivering compassionate virtual care to communities across the U.S. Dr. Damasco shares his journey of building a purpose-driven telehealth practice, finding...

In this compelling episode, I was privileged to sit down with Dr. Megan Missanelli, a dedicated OBGYN who brings a multigenerational passion for women’s health to underserved communities. As a mother, a public health advocate, and the daughter of an OBGYN, she’s on a mission to transform maternal and fetal outcomes, especially in rural and underserved settings. Discover how her deep roots in medic...

Dr. Bryan Jepson—ER physician, autism advocate, and certified financial planner—shares a powerful message of hope, purpose, and financial empowerment. Across a 30 year career in emergency medicine and raising autistic children of his own, Dr. Jepson has became a leader in autism advocacy, founding autism clinics across multiple states. Now, he brings his unique perspective as both a physician and...

Dr. Brett Cordes was a successful ENT surgeon with a thriving medical practice, a loving family, and a dark secret—he was addicted to opioids. What started as a way to cope turned into a daily dependence that ultimately destroyed his career and nearly his life. In this powerful and eye-opening interview, Dr. Cordes shares his raw and honest journey through addiction, the devastating consequences,...

Dr. Eric Arzubi’s journey is one of transformation, purpose, and impact. Once a successful bond trader and writer for Bloomberg, Eric’s career was on a fast track to financial success. But as he achieved more in the world of high finance, something profound shifted within him. He realized that true fulfillment wasn’t in the numbers, but in making a real difference in people’s lives. In a bold move...

Krystal Sodaitis, MD is fascinating doctor! She is an academic pediatrician who has transitioned to health insurance plan manager. She maintains a keen interest in helping highly intelligent neurodiverse people, and has a coaching service specifically for physicians with neurodiversity (https://neurodiversedocs.com). Krystal also loves luxury cruising and has a podcast all about luxury cruises @lu...

Dr. Robert Ross is a dedicated private practice physician with over 40 years of experience caring for patients in underserved areas in San Antonio, Texas. He shares his experience of discovering his own personal mission to serve others who needed him. Find the little moments you can control and regain agency by controlling those moments. Find your purpose and let your schedule and priorities serve...

-Your employer based disability insurance is not enough! I wish I had learned this lesson better before being diagnosed with significant illness! -As a physician you have worked for years to develop a valuable skill set. If you suddenly became disabled how would you protect your income? We insure our homes without any question, but our income potential over a career is worth far more than the valu...

Dr. Bradly Block, host of @physiciansguidetodoctoring has been a podcast host for six years, in addition to his clinical duties as a private practice otolaryngologist. He draws inspiration from his conversations with other physicians and he teaches about communication and efficiency. As doctors, we all want to communicate well with our patients but our time is so limited! Learn some of the tricks...

Have you ever wanted to try telemedicine? Or maybe you have a desire to branch out and do more with your medical degree? Do you want to become more involved in mentorship? Phoebe Gutierrez, co-host of @TelemedicineTalksPodcast teaches how to get involved. She emphasizes that physicians must be at the leadership table as telemedicine businesses are developed. Experienced physician mentors are neede...

Dr. Megana Helder is an accomplished cardiothoracic surgeon. She is dedicated to patient care and finds joy in being a mother. Years ago she had the chance to participate in a cardiac surgery as an adolescent, and this piqued her interest in becoming a heart surgeon. Despite obstacles, the desire to become a cardiothoracic surgeon never changed. This tenacity has led her to have the motivation to...

Dr. Todd Otten is a family doctor, an innovator, and an author. After experiencing overwhelming burnout he was able to find a way back to medicine and back to fulfillment. Dr. Otten regained control of his life and was able to overcome the learned helplessness that many physicians encounter. He co-authored a book (Ripple of Change) with one of his patients. He provides insights and tools for docto...

Mr. Ron Richards works to make a meaningful impact on the world. He has invented several medical devices that improve patient outcomes. He hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions relentlessly. In his book "Someday Is Today" he teaches practical steps for physicians to take an idea from concept to reality. This episode is sponsored by: Set For Life Insurance Set For Life Insurance helps do...

Dr. Chelsea Turgeon dropped out of residency. Her unique story of change can serve as a reminder to all of us to find the things of greatest value in life. Time is our most precious resource and we are empowered to choose how to use our time. The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult...

Mahesh Karandikar, MD is a neurosurgeon at the University of Washington @UWMedicineHealth where he specializes in minimally invasive surgery. He has found joy in working with a team of neurosurgeons at a large regional referral center. He enjoys making connections with his patients and has found inspiration from other exemplary physicians. The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for information...

Dr. Dave Moss completed both medical school and residency with the U.S. Military. He has found a fulfilling career, caring for active duty members of the military and their families, incorporating integrative medicine into his practice. The system has allowed him to care for his patients in whatever way they need without the need to deal with insurance coverage limitations. Listen to learn about a...

Miguel Villagra, MD @adoctorsjourney teaches the importance of self care, authenticity, and finding a way forward as a physician. His story of rising from Nicaraguan immigrant to health professional and life coach is inspiring. https://www.standshoes.com/discount/DOCTORS The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or profes...