In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Betsy Grunch — neurosurgeon, content creator, and advocate known as Lady Spine Doc — shares her journey of breaking barriers in medicine while staying true to herself. She opens up about resilience, empathy, and how keeping it real both in the operating room and on social media has allowed her to connect with millions. This episode explores what it means to thrive as a physician, a mother, and a human being in a world that often expects perfection.

In this episode of Visionary Doc Podcast, Dr. Shehz sits down with Dr. Michael Ullman, a cornea specialist and passionate technologist, to discuss his unique journey blending ophthalmology with cutting-edge AI and app development. Dr. Ullman shares his insights into creating impactful technology for ophthalmologists, his personal challenges during residency, and his commitment to making healthcare more accessible through innovation. Together, they explore themes of curiosity, problem-solving, and the power of embracing unconventional paths.

In this episode of The Visionary Doc Podcast, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala connects with Dr. Suzy Gokel, a family physician and skincare entrepreneur, to explore the journey of aligning career and personal passions. Dr. Gokel shares her story of blending clinical practice with a thriving beauty business, emphasizing the importance of creativity, intentional living, and finding fulfillment. Together, they discuss breaking free from traditional paths, embracing innovation, and building a joyful life.

In this episode of Visionary Doc, Dr. Shehz sits down with Dr. Amita Kumar, a Canadian internist and coach, to discuss the transformative power of aligning your life with core values. Dr. Kumar shares her journey of self-discovery, from facing the "arrival fallacy" in medicine to redefining success through advocacy, coaching, and collaboration. Together, they explore how vulnerability, curiosity, and connection drive meaningful change in both personal and professional spheres.

In this episode of The Visionary Doc, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala sits down with Dr. Luke Rebenitsch, owner of ClearSight LASIK, to discuss the transformative power of refractive surgery, the mindset of an entrepreneur, and the importance of living a purpose-driven life. Dr. Luke shares his journey from engineering to ophthalmology, his passion for solving unmet needs in eye care, and his lessons in leadership and humility. Together, they explore what it takes to build a legacy in both business and life.

In this episode of The Visionary Doc, Dr. Shehz talks with Amanda Cardwell Carones, a dual citizen, entrepreneur, and the founder of Ophthalpreneurs, a thriving global community for ophthalmologists. Amanda shares her journey from public health to refractive account management to creating a space where ophthalmologists can collaborate, learn, and grow. Together, they explore themes of authenticity, resilience, and building a movement centered on community and personal development.

In this episode of The Visionary Doc Podcast, Dr. Blake Williamson of Williamson Eye Center shares profound insights on living a fulfilling and intentional life. From balancing professional achievements with personal happiness to building meaningful relationships and memories, Dr. Blake emphasizes the importance of staying present and disciplined. He also provides a glimpse into his weekly routine, the transformative power of exercise, and his reflections on legacy and time management.

Dr. Francesco Carones delves into the unique aspects of refractive surgery and how his logical, strategic approach led him to develop a patient-centered practice. He also reflects on his journey from academia to private practice, explaining how entrepreneurship has shaped his professional and personal life. The conversation highlights the importance of autonomy, patient experience, and balancing the demands of business with medical excellence.

Dr. John Berdahl discusses his path to becoming a top ophthalmologist and entrepreneur, touching on the key moments that shaped his career. He shares insights on the importance of grit, the role of self-confidence in overcoming challenges, and the drive to create sustainable solutions in healthcare. The episode explores how Dr. Berdahl balances professional success with personal fulfillment, offering listeners a glimpse into his mindset and philosophy on life.

In this episode, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala talks with Dr. Dagny Zhu, an ophthalmologist, practice owner, and rising star in the field. Dr. Zhu shares her journey from immigrant roots to becoming a trailblazer in a male-dominated profession, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing the demands of work and family. She breaks down the crucial moments where risk, grit, and personal values shaped her path. Dr. Zhu also discusses how entrepreneurship offers freedom and autonomy, but not without sacrifices and challenges. She delves into the role her immigrant background played in instilling resilience, and how mentorship and community involvement have grounded her despite her rapid success.

In this episode of Visionary Doc, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala speaks with Dr. Joaquin De Rojas, a board-certified fellowship-trained cataract, refractive, and corneal surgeon. Dr. Joaquin shares his fascinating journey from starting as a neurosurgery resident to pivoting to ophthalmology. Together, they dive deep into the importance of self-awareness, recognizing limitations, and having the courage to make life-altering decisions when your path no longer aligns with your passion. Dr. Joaquin reflects on how his decision to switch to ophthalmology not only transformed his career but also led him to meet his wife. They discuss how entrepreneurship, resilience, and embracing change have played a role in their lives and careers. The episode touches on mentorship, the role of AI in medicine, and the value of pursuing a mission greater than oneself. Dr. Joaquin’s story highlights the power of introspection and finding purpose through life’s pivotal moments.

In this episode, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala and Dr. Gary Wortz dive into the intersection of medicine, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. They explore the risks and rewards of being a medical entrepreneur, the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries, and how freedom and autonomy can combat burnout in medicine. Dr. Wortz candidly shares his journey of overcoming rejection and using it as fuel for success. The episode highlights the value of internal motivation, grit, and continually striving for progress rather than perfection.

Dr. Shehz addresses the impact of social media on pathological ambition, exploring how its altered realities can fuel feelings of inadequacy and drive unhealthy comparisons. He shares personal insights on how social media influenced his own career decisions and offers strategies for intentional social media use to support genuine self-growth and ambition. Dr. Shehz discusses practical steps to mitigate social media’s negative effects, including setting usage limits and employing virtual assistants to manage online interactions.

What is pathological ambition, and how can you identify it in yourself? Dr. Shehz pulls back the curtain on his journey of self-discovery while navigating burnout as a doctor in residency. He explains how this newfound awareness changed his approach to his career in medicine and his relationship with himself, his family, and his colleagues. If you're feeling the burn of burnout, this podcast is for you.

In this episode, Dr. Shehz Batliwala delves into why he chose a career in ophthalmology. He shares how growing up in financial insecurity and caring for a mother with mental illness influenced his decisions. Dr. Shehz explores his drive for financial stability and societal respect, alongside his deeper need for external validation. He also discusses his broader aspirations, including a fascination with space and the human mind, highlighting the role of self-awareness in understanding personal motives and career paths. This episode provides a reflective look at the intersections of personal history, cultural background, and professional choices.

This episode is an introduction of the host, Dr. Shehzad Batliwala. Before I blab about things, you should probably know a little bit about me. This is me, 100% me. Raw. Genuine. Imperfect. Hope you enjoy!