In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, Dr. Tudor Francu welcomes Dr. Ron Fong, family physician, educator, and founder of True North Shepherding, to discuss what it truly means to build a legacy through mentorship. Dr. Fong shares how his journey from clinician to academic leader to entrepreneur was driven by a deep desire to guide others. He reflects on the transition from parent to grandparent, the lessons of mentoring young physicians, and the importance of designing — not just planning — one’s professional and personal life. Through stories from medicine, business, and even marathon running, Dr. Fong illustrates the power of perseverance, reflection, and purpose. He reminds listeners that our legacy is built daily through our words, choices, and relationships — and that mentorship is one of the most lasting gifts we can offer.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this episode of The Stellar Success Podcast with Dr. Tudor Francu, we meet Dr. Kevin Chung, an ICU physician, military veteran, and Chief Medical Officer at SeaStar Medical. His journey from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to the boardroom of a cutting-edge biotech company is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Chung shares how his time caring for critically injured soldiers fueled his passion for medical innovation and led to the development of a life-saving blood purification device. He opens up about the challenges of balancing medicine, leadership, and entrepreneurship—what it means to take professional risks, face setbacks, and stay resilient when the stakes are sky-high.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Tudor Francu sits down with emergency medicine physician and entrepreneur Dr. Nkem Ezeamama, founder of Phoenix Capital Investments. Dr. Ezeamama shares her journey from saving lives in the ER to helping healthcare professionals build wealth and financial freedom through real estate investing. She opens up about the moment that sparked her shift from clinical work to entrepreneurship, the challenges of being a woman of color in both medicine and business, and how grit, consistency, and gratitude have shaped her path. Listeners will learn what it means to be a “passive investor,” why education and community are key to financial growth, and how healthcare professionals can take control of their financial future—without giving up what they love most about medicine   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Dr. Rotroff opens up about his early career plans to become a doctor, only to discover a passion for research during a last-minute internship that changed his life. From data entry at the EPA to leading precision medicine projects, he’s now helping doctors predict which patients will benefit most from certain treatments. He and Dr. Francu explore what it means to be successful in medical research, how to learn from failure, and how innovation can transform healthcare. Daniel also discusses his role in two precision medicine startups and how AI is transforming the way clinicians make decisions. Listeners will gain insights into perseverance, balance, and creativity in science—and why saying “no” is one of the most valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Cristina brings a seasoned administrative lens to one of medicine’s toughest problems: supporting clinicians while running a sustainable organization. She and Dr. Tudor unpack post-pandemic burnout, the human cost of KPI-driven decisions, and what it really takes to care for rural communities where a basic specialist visit can mean hours of travel or months of waiting.They dig into practical ideas—from tele-triage with dermatology to mobile services—and why leadership in healthcare works best when clinicians and administrators share the table. Cristina also opens up about her own path (receptionist → quality & patient safety → COO), learning from difficult career moments, and why persistence, curiosity, and “stepping into discomfort” shaped her voice as a leader. She’s now pursuing a doctorate in leadership psychology and speaking/writing through Change Works Consulting to help teams process trauma, rebuild trust, and do work that lasts. 👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this deeply honest and insightful conversation, Allen recounts the pivotal moments that reshaped his life — from the emotional crash of a failed marriage to discovering his true strengths through therapy and reflection. He went on to earn advanced degrees in psychology and transformed his career from music educator to psychologist, and then again to investor-educator. This episode explores: How empathy and introversion became Allen’s greatest strengths The transformation from pain to passion through internal healing Why so many high-income professionals are financially trapped despite their success How private placements and strategic investing can offer true financial freedom Why the marriage of psychology and finance is essential in today's healthcare system 👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Tudor Francu is joined by Anthony Dispenziere, a seasoned radiology practice manager, to explore the business engine behind a high-functioning medical group. With a background in accounting and a passion for purpose-driven work, Anthony shares how he transitioned into healthcare management and found his calling in helping physicians thrive—without burning out. Together, they dive into key topics including: What it truly means to manage a medical practice The striking differences (and surprising similarities) between radiology and anesthesia practices The challenges physicians face when disconnected from the business side Why communication, trust, and culture are critical for practice success The impact of AI on radiology and the evolving role of the radiologist Retirement planning for physicians—and why it's more than just a financial number The importance of onboarding, mentorship, and educating young doctors about practice dynamics   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Dr. Kapur traces her path from early work in nursing homes to becoming a physician triple-boarded in internal medicine, geriatrics, and hospice & palliative care—and why she later added an MBA to connect “business and clinical.” She unpacks lessons from serving as medical director and CMO in hospice, her current role as Chief Development Officer at Chestnut Health, and how she builds rehab and symptom-management programs while mentoring nurse practitioners. We discuss physician education around medical cannabis, the tension between margins and quality, staffing ratios, and building sustainable models of care. Dr. Kapur also shares candid career hurdles (residency, exams, parenting), frameworks for resilience and self-compassion, and the leadership habits that now guide her: protect your energy, choose mentors wisely, and lead as a collaborative navigator. Finally, she opens up about side projects—from med-tech board work (including an airway device heading to FDA review) to low-risk real-estate plays—and how aligning work with family life powers long-term success.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this powerful episode of Stellar Success, Dr. Tudor Francu sits down with Dr. Jacky Fils, a physician and real estate investor who has made it his mission to educate fellow medical professionals on building wealth beyond the hospital walls. From his humble beginnings in Haiti to his journey through medicine in the U.S., Dr. Fils shares how he discovered real estate as a path to financial freedom—and how the IRS tax code can actually work for you when you know how to use it. Dr. Fils breaks down how he transitioned from a medical career into multifamily real estate, what books and mentors helped shift his mindset, and how a $43,000 investment into real estate education changed his life. He also gives candid advice on avoiding common mistakes, especially with contractors, and offers actionable insights for medical professionals looking to protect their income from taxes and inflation.     👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this conversation, Ryan Thorne shares the surprising world of private EMS—how non-emergency transport keeps the wheels turning, why payer mix matters, and what it actually takes to open your doors. He walks us through licensing, finding a medical director, third-party billing, staffing the first unit (while answering dispatch calls himself), and adding vehicles as demand grew.We also dig into billing realities (insurance vs. self-pay, hospital “payer of last resort” contracts), lessons from the pandemic slump, and the often-overlooked fact that EMS isn’t legally “essential” in many states. Ryan explains rural 911 response, when helicopters get called, and how counties structure subsidies.Having recently exited his company, Ryan now consults with ambulance owners nationwide and still serves as a part-time firefighter/paramedic. His biggest advice to his 22-year-old self? Keep going—it will be worth it.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Stephanie traces her path from front desk to C-suite, explaining why she chose dentistry after a career in sleep medicine and how she learned to advocate for clinicians by understanding the work at ground level. She unpacks her “leading with love” philosophy—retaining people by knowing what matters to them, building trust with doctors, and inspiring movement without dangling dollars. We dig into mentorship, imposter syndrome, faith-driven routines, and practical habits like weekly learning blocks and staying curious in conflict. Stephanie also opens up about being let go from a corporate role—and how radical honesty on social media opened the door to her current COO position. Looking ahead, she’s building a total wellness dental center, adopting 3D printing, expanding sedation services, and planning a “Dent Gala” to celebrate team growth. You’ll Learn Why many dentists lack business support—and how leaders can fill the gap How to align multiple doctors without forcing consensus “Leading with love”: the simple, repeatable mindset that grows people and production The real value of coaches and mentors in leveling up leadership Routines that keep leaders grounded: faith, surrender, and scheduled learning Turning setbacks into springboards (including how honesty can accelerate opportunities) What’s next in her org: 3D printing, expanded sedation, acquisitions, and team-first culture 👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

What happens when a world-renowned urologic oncologist, innovator, and medical educator steps into the podcast studio? You get a deep dive into how technology is transforming prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this episode, Dr. Tudor Francu speaks with Dr. Nelson Stone, a pioneer in prostate cancer care, about everything from PSA screening challenges to cutting-edge biopsy tools, minimally invasive procedures, and wearable tech in surgical education. Dr. Stone shares stories from his 40-year career, the risks of outdated screening guidelines, and his mission to improve patient outcomes through innovation and perseverance. You’ll hear his journey from traditional surgery to revolutionary technologies like brachytherapy, robotic prostatectomy, and even virtual training tools that are shaping the operating rooms of tomorrow. Whether you're a medical professional, patient, or simply curious about how innovation is driving better cancer care, this episode offers insights you won't want to miss.   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Dr. Annie Lent opens up about her winding path into medicine, training at National Jewish, and 15+ years in private practice. She recounts six intense weeks that pushed her to act: workplace misfires using legacy epinephrine pens, a mother’s near miss during a peanut reaction, and a fatal bee-sting allergy the patient couldn’t afford to treat. Annie explains why current auto-injectors are clunky, costly, and not kid-friendly, and why intranasal epinephrine isn’t the answer in a real anaphylaxis.We get the founder story behind Albeta (say it out loud: “all better”)—a dry-needle emergency delivery system concept that could be used for epinephrine, naloxone, and more. Annie shares lessons in resilience, fundraising, assembling the right team, and balancing an 80-hour “day job” with a startup “night job.” She also reflects on purpose, missions to Nicaragua, and the joy of patient connection. Highlights From Boston College philosophy major to allergy/immunology specialist The catalyst: three back-to-back safety/affordability realities around epinephrine Why intranasal isn’t practical during anaphylaxis (kids, congestion, vasodilation) Building Albeta: patents pending (US & EU), non-working prototype, raising next round The team: Cambridge Design Partnership (UK), Cooley (corporate), Billy Smith (patents), Healthcare Deciphered (consulting) Habits that help: structured evenings, high-volume outreach, relentless follow-through Purpose and perspective from global medical missions     👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

What’s it like being the doctor for the President of the United States? In this episode, Dr. Tudor Francu welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Kuhlman—a former White House physician who served five Presidents and spent 30 years in the U.S. Navy. From Air Force One emergencies to protocols for cardiac arrest and presidential assassination attempts, Dr. Kuhlman gives an insider view into high-stakes medicine at the highest level. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Dr. Kuhlman’s journey took him from Tennessee to Loma Linda to the White House The real challenges of providing care to VIPs—and why they may not get the best care Behind-the-scenes stories of medical emergencies on Air Force One The secret to managing care for Presidents under intense public and political scrutiny How he created a standardized care system for U.S. Presidents and staff The surprising risks facing aging leadership in America—and what he thinks should change Why servant leadership matters more than ambition in medicine What he wishes he knew earlier in his career   👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Dr. Bo shares his journey from cardiothoracic surgery and emergency medicine to building Youlify during the pandemic. He breaks down why billing is so hard (legacy rules, denials, misaligned incentives), and how his team pairs AI with human experts to optimize coding, manage denials, and surface clear data for renegotiating payer contracts. We also talk about independence for small practices, using data to drive leverage, and the mindset shifts that pushed him from clinician to entrepreneur. You’ll hear practical ways to use reports, quality metrics, and volume data to strengthen reimbursement and cash flow. What you’ll learn Why billing breaks for most practices—and how AI can help without losing human judgment Coding, modifiers, and denial management explained in plain language How to use your own data to renegotiate payer rates and improve margins The case for empowering independent physicians with transparent dashboards and monthly reports Mindset lessons: curiosity, asking “why,” and learning beyond clinic walls 👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

In this episode of Stellar Success: Leveling Up for Medical Pros, Dr. Tudor Francu sits down with Dr. Bill Vuillemot — dentist, inventor, and the creator of SmileBond, a revolutionary new approach in cosmetic dentistry known as dental injection bonding. Dr. Vuillemot shares the evolution of SmileBond, how it compares to traditional cosmetic procedures and Invisalign, and how it’s providing patients with fast, affordable, and life-changing smile transformations. You’ll learn how his background in art and tool & die manufacturing helped him invent this proprietary technique, why patients love it, and what makes it more accessible than porcelain veneers. Dr. Vuillemot also opens up about the challenges of scaling innovation in dentistry and why mentorship is vital in professional growth. What we cover in this episode: What is dental injection bonding and how it works The invention of SmileBond and how it’s disrupting cosmetic dentistry The patient experience: cost, speed, and painless application Comparison to Invisalign and other cosmetic options Dr. Vuillemot’s background, success, and lessons learned The importance of mentorship and how dentists can get involved with SmileBond 👉 Are you a medical professional with a story, insight, or strategy to share about career, personal, or financial success? We’d love to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast here: https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest #motivation #success #health #business #leadership #education #career #podcast #inspiration #wellness

Michelle Synakowski brings decades of frontline nursing, executive leadership, and coaching experience to this vibrant discussion. From her beginnings at a Catholic nursing school to shaping medical director guidelines in New York State, Michelle shares the highs and hurdles of working in healthcare as a non-physician with physicians—and what it really takes to lead effectively in long-term care settings. She opens up about her bold career pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic, her refusal to receive the vaccine, and how that launched her full-time entrepreneurial journey with her company, Prosync Healthcare Compliance Services. Michelle also shares her work as a transformational life coach, helping professionals rediscover their purpose and overcome mindset barriers. Whether you're a healthcare leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone seeking personal clarity, this episode is packed with wisdom on emotional intelligence, team building, soul-based leadership, and living life on your own terms.

Dr. Edwards shares how her competitive spirit and Type A personality shaped her journey from student-athlete to ER medical director. She reflects on pivotal career moments, including a life-altering patient case and the leadership lessons learned from years of ER practice. Her insights into teamwork with nurses, coping with trauma, and preparing for ER residency are invaluable for current and future medical professionals. We also dive into: The importance of collaboration and trust in emergency medicine What young doctors need to know about ER training and mindset The highs and lows of patient care—and how to keep going New innovations to reduce ER wait times and increase satisfaction Her thoughts on the future of emergency medicine and upcoming changes in residency   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Are you a medical professional looking to share your story, insights, and strategies for achieving career, personal, and financial success? We want to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast and join the conversation with other leaders and innovators in the healthcare field https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest.

In this episode of The Stellar Success Podcast, Dr. Tudor Francu sits down with Paulina Riedler, RN, an inspiring nurse entrepreneur who turned a simple observation into a fast-growing healthcare innovation. Paulina shares how a story in a local newspaper about a nurse administering Botox illegally sparked the idea for a nationwide telehealth network—one that now serves medical spas in over 30 states. From her early days juggling infusion nursing with a fledgling business, to managing a 40-person team and scaling her company with no outside investors, Paulina reflects on the challenges, lessons, and wins that shaped her path. You’ll hear how timing, purpose, and patient safety played pivotal roles in her success—and why reinvesting in yourself, trusting your instincts, and building genuine relationships are keys to long-term growth. Key takeaways: How Spa Connect filled a crucial compliance gap in aesthetic medicine The power of timing and word-of-mouth in building a scalable business Leadership lessons from hiring missteps to joining peer CEO groups Why legacy, people, and patient safety fuel Paulina’s ongoing drive How nurses can transition into entrepreneurship with confidence    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Are you a medical professional looking to share your story, insights, and strategies for achieving career, personal, and financial success? We want to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast and join the conversation with other leaders and innovators in the healthcare field https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest.

What does it take to bring compassionate dental care to the most vulnerable—right in their homes? In this powerful episode, Dr. Joy Poskozim joins Dr. Tudor Francu to share how she turned a personal family moment into a thriving mission to serve the elderly with dignity and expertise. Dr. Joy opens up about how one house call for her grandmother blossomed into a career of in-home dental care for seniors in memory care and assisted living. With over 18 facilities and countless patients relying on her every week, she offers a heartfelt and eye-opening look into the underserved world of geriatric dentistry. We talk about: The touching story behind Dr. Joy’s first house call Why oral care is often overlooked in nursing homes The challenges and rewards of treating elderly patients How she balances mobile dentistry with a brick-and-mortar practice Advice for dentists considering this path What financial success looks like in a fee-for-service mobile care model ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Are you a medical professional looking to share your story, insights, and strategies for achieving career, personal, and financial success? We want to hear from you! Apply to be a guest on our podcast and join the conversation with other leaders and innovators in the healthcare field https://stellarsuccesspodcast.com/guest.