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Physicians, NPs, PAs, and other clinicians are increasingly asking the same question: Can I actually own and run my own medical practice, even if I’m not a physician, or if I want to expand across multiple states? In this repurposed episode of Telemedicine Talks, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Leo Damasco dig deep into the real mechanics of launching a compliant medical practice or telemedicine company. Phoebe shares the practical playbook she’s used to help countless clinicians and entrepreneurs set up PC-MSO (Professional Corporation Management Services Organization) structures, navigate state ownership laws, and avoid expensive compliance mistakes. They cover the critical first step of researching state regulations, how to handle conflicting ownership rules across states, the essential startup checklist (business plan, tech stack, insurance, EHR, VA support), realistic cost estimates, and most importantly, the mindset shift clinicians must make to succeed as entrepreneurs.  Three Actionable Takeaways: Start with state ownership rules, not assumptions: Research who can legally own a medical practice in your target state(s). PC-MSO structures make ownership possible for non-physicians in all 50 states, but the exact entity type and ownership percentages vary widely. Don’t default to California’s strictest model unless risk tolerance demands it.Build a real business plan before the legal paperwork: Patient acquisition is the hardest part of healthcare startups. Define a highly specific target audience, plan marketing channels, and speak in plain language, so patients can actually find and understand you.Budget realistically and get support early: Expect entity formation and optional legal or consulting support. A VA and an accountability partner (colleague or advisor) dramatically increase your odds of success and reduce overwhelm.About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.   Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:   https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/   [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])     The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when a board certified OBGYN who delivered thousands of babies realizes she can no longer be that person and has to reinvent herself from scratch through a computer screen? Host Dr. Leo Damasco welcomes Dr. Kudzai Dombo, a board certified OBGYN and menopause expert with over 20 years of experience in women’s health. Raised between the US and Zimbabwe, she has worked with Doctors Without Borders and NGOs across multiple countries and now serves as Director of Advocacy and Outreach at Alloy Women’s Health while maintaining a boutique private practice. They discuss her move into telemedicine in 2022 as an adjunct that grew into a full career pivot, the identity shift from delivering babies and surgeries to broader impact, personal challenges with perimenopause and moral injury in hospital settings, and the fear of caring for patients through a screen. Dr. Dombo shares how she proactively created an advocacy and outreach role to bridge patient hesitancy, the realities of rejection in the telehealth space versus brick and mortar, learning new skills, becoming a PC owner, and balancing clinical work with education and social media. She ends with advice to her intern day one self: believe in yourself as a unique individual. Top 3 Takeaways: Transitioning to telemedicine often requires a major identity shift, especially for procedural specialists, and can move from “side gig” to full time fulfillment when driven by purpose rather than just volume.Rejection is common in telehealth (unlike traditional medicine) it is rarely personal and requires resilience, patience, and a belief in abundance while mitigating risk.Proactively identifying gaps (e.g patient hesitancy around menopause care) and proposing solutions can create new roles; combining clinical work with advocacy, education, and social media expands impact beyond borders.About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest:Dr. Kudzai Dombo, MD, FACOG, MSCP is a board certified obstetrician gynecologist and menopause expert with more than 20 years dedicated to women’s health. Born in the US and raised partly in Zimbabwe, she brings a cross-cultural perspective shaped by global work with Doctors Without Borders and NGOs in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, El Salvador, South Africa, and Haiti. She is Director of Advocacy and Outreach and a prescribing physician at Alloy Women’s Health, runs a boutique private practice focused on menopause and midlife care, and is a Fellow of ACOG, Diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and member of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (Diversity and Equity Committee). Connect with Dr. Kudzai Dombo Instagram: @dr.kudzai About the Host: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Connect with Leo Damasco:  [email protected] telemedicinetalks.com   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this candid episode of Telemedicine Talks, host Phoebe Gutierrez welcomes healthcare attorney Brigid Maloney for a deep dive into the compliance landmines facing cash-pay telemedicine companies. They discuss the flood of low-barrier platforms launched by marketers and coders who don’t understand clinical or regulatory rules, the marketing of unapproved substances like BPC-157, and the rise of white-label telemedicine companies that obscure physician accountability. Brigid highlights emerging trends such as non-licensed, sometimes offshore, call centers performing triage and the difficulty patients face reaching the original treating clinician. The conversation covers upcoming regulatory shifts like DEA telemedicine registration for controlled substances, California’s private-equity ownership approval requirements, and growing medical-board scrutiny, while debating whether meaningful enforcement will come from federal agencies or the states. They stress the importance of physician involvement in governance, rigorous vendor and influencer due diligence, and building compliant systems from day one rather than trying to retrofit them later. Listeners leave with a clear message: in cash-pay telemedicine, the physician’s license remains the ultimate backstop. Companies that treat doctors as true partners, protect patients, and prioritize compliance from the start are the ones positioned to last. Three Actionable Takeaways: Low barriers to entry have created widespread naiveté: Many cash-pay platforms market unapproved products or rely on white-label clinicians and non-licensed call centers that put patient safety and physician licenses at risk.Enforcement is more likely to come from state medical boards and new state-level guardrails (ownership disclosure, PE approvals, network reporting) than from federal agencies, but the volumes in telemedicine mean fines can escalate rapidly.Build compliance and true physician partnerships into the model from day one, involve PC shareholders in governance, conduct real vendor/influencer due diligence, and remember that everything ultimately falls on the doctor’s license.About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine. About the Guest: Brigid Maloney is a healthcare attorney specializing in digital health, telemedicine, MSOs, and corporate practice of medicine issues. She advises telemedicine platforms and physician groups on compliance, contracting, marketing arrangements, and regulatory risk, and serves as personal counsel to the hosts of Telemedicine Talks. About the Host: Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/ [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])  The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is California About To Block Your Next Investment and Shut Down Your Telemedicine Company? Hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez welcome Shayln Watkins, as they dig into California’s newly released implementing regulations from the Office of Health Care Affordability (effective mid-September), the 90 day pre transaction notice requirement for deals over $25 million, the 10 year look back for serial transactions, and how these rules intersect with California’s recent CPOM statute and ongoing AG enforcement. Shayln and the hosts explain the difference between statutes and regulations, why private equity investment in healthcare is under the microscope, and why most telemedicine and digital health startups still lack real compliance operations. They discuss the practical fallout for cash pay wellness, GLP-1, and peptide models; the dangers of “my lawyer cleared it”; and the critical roles of physician owners, medical directors, and inhouse compliance teams. Top 3 Takeaways: California’s new transaction-reporting rules create a mandatory 90-day notice period (and possible market-impact review) for significant healthcare deals and a 10-year look-back on serial transactions materially lengthening deal timelines.“My lawyer cleared it” is not compliance. Lawyers provide risk analysis; operators must actually implement policies, track changes, and demonstrate good faith diligence.Physician owners and medical directors can no longer treat their roles as passive. Clinical oversight, hiring, and regulatory awareness are now non negotiable, especially as CPOM enforcement and competitor litigation increase.  About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest:Shayln Watkins is Senior Counsel at Holland & Knight LLP. She advises physicians, medical groups, digital health companies, telehealth platforms, wellness and aesthetics clinics, and behavioral health providers on healthcare regulatory compliance, corporate practice of medicine, Stark and anti kickback matters, California privacy law, fraud and abuse, and the evolving framework for virtual and AI driven care. She is licensed in Alabama, California, New York, Ohio, and Texas and is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association.Connect with Shayln Watkins:Email : [email protected] the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.   Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:   https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/   [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this repurposed episode of Telemedicine Talks, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco welcome Dr. Mark Chmiela, as he  describes how COVID turned telemedicine into an essential lifeline, reaching 80–90% of his group’s chronic-pain patients, while also exposing access barriers for elderly and lower-income patients. He walks through the post-2024 shift: insurers stopped or sharply cut reimbursement, credentialing hurdles multiplied, and the practice gradually transitioned patients back to the office, landing at roughly 95% in-person visits. Mark stresses that telemedicine remains valuable for stable medication management, patients with mobility or transportation challenges, and certain follow-ups, but cannot replace hands-on exams when new red-flag symptoms appear. The conversation covers the practical realities of chronic-pain care (opioids, non-opioids, interventional procedures, lifestyle counseling), the risk of fraud that made payers cautious, the human connection that in-person visits still deliver better, and Mark’s optimistic view that technology should augment, not replace, thoughtful medicine when used for the right patients. Top 3 Takeaways: Telemedicine is a powerful tool for continuity and access, especially for wheelchair-bound, transportation-challenged, or stable chronic-pain patients, but reimbursement cuts and regulatory friction can make it financially unsustainable.In-person visits still matter for physical exams, new findings, and the intangible human connection that many patients (and physicians) value.Hybrid models work best: keep the option available, screen carefully, and reserve pure virtual care for the right clinical scenarios rather than treating it as a universal replacement.About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine  About the Guest: Dr. Mark Chmiela is a double board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain-management physician practicing with a multi-physician group in Las Vegas. His practice serves a broad mix of Medicaid, Medicare, commercial, personal-injury, and workers’-compensation patients and focuses on comprehensive chronic-pain care. Website: https://health.usnews.com/doctors/mark-chmiela-1414283 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-chmiela-1a5802194/  About the Hosts: • Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned  telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.     • Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models. Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:        https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/         [email protected]      (mailto:[email protected])   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this repurposed episode of Telemedicine Talks, host Dr. Leo Damasco welcomes Dr. Anne Tsung as she explains how her path from seeking external validation to mastering efficiency and flow crystallized into a practical system for physicians. Anne walks through the five stages of time freedom: Time Prisoner (reactive and depleted), Time Manager (busy but stuck trading time for money), Time Creator (delegating and automating yet overwhelmed by yeses), Time Liberator (energy and purpose filters), and Time Transcender (timeless presence and flow). She ties these stages to nervous-system states and real clinical life. Listeners learn chronotype alignment (lark, third bird, owl), peak-zone deep work, flow meals versus ritual meals, non-negotiables, and simple audits that free cognitive space. Anne closes with advice to her intern self and an invitation to a complimentary strategy call for physicians building sustainable freedom. Top 3 Takeaways: Diagnose your dominant stage and protect peak chronotype hours, most physicians waste high-energy windows on low-value reactivity. Move from “Do I have time?” to “Does this multiply or drain my energy?”; limit major goals and treat most opportunities as a default no unless they are a hell yes. True time freedom is measured in timeless presence and flow, not more empty calendar slots; non-negotiables and space create the conditions for those moments.About the ShowTelemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine  About the GuestDr. Anne Tsung is a NASA flight surgeon triple-boarded in emergency medicine, critical care, and aerospace medicine. She is the founder of Productivity MD, a certified advisor in Performance Neuroscience by the Flow Research Collective, and a former physician at the Antarctica South Pole. Through her clinical and high-stakes experience she developed the five stages of time freedom to help leaders access flow on demand and create lasting presence. Connect with Dr. Anne Tsung:Websites: https://zoomann.com                     https://calendly.com/tsungannmd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-tsung-78541ab2 About the Host:Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Connect with Leo Damasco:[email protected]  https://www.telemedicinetalks.com    The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It was the summer telemedicine stopped getting a pass. In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco recap major telemedicine developments from the summer, focusing on increasing regulatory and enforcement activity. They discuss the DEA’s progress toward final controlled-substance prescribing rules and what greater federal oversight could mean for telemedicine companies operating in this rapidly evolving space. They both examine FTC action against Hims & Hers, including subscription practices and cancellation requirements, while questioning whether traditional healthcare regulations adequately fit cash-pay telemedicine. They also discuss Eli Lilly’s lawsuits involving Retatrutide, emphasizing the potential risks physicians face when prescribing non-FDA-approved treatments and the growing attention from state medical boards. Finally, they explore corporate practice of medicine enforcement, including Carbon Health’s settlement and evolving PC/MSO requirements, before turning to the growth of white-label telemedicine companies. The episode highlights why physicians must understand their responsibilities, review their agreements, stay informed about regulations, build specialized expertise, and find ways to distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive telemedicine market. Three Actionable Takeaways: Regulatory scrutiny is increasing: From controlled-substance prescribing to FTC enforcement and corporate practice of medicine, telemedicine companies should expect more oversight and be prepared to adapt as regulators catch up with the industry. Physicians remain responsible for their clinical decisions: Technology, workflows, businesses, and platforms may support physicians, but ultimately the physician must understand what they are prescribing and ensure they are practicing appropriately and within applicable rules. The telemedicine market is becoming more competitive: The growth of white-label companies and the increasing number of physicians entering telehealth means physicians need to develop relationships, specialized expertise, and other distinguishing skills to stand out. About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine. About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models. Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/  [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. —---------------------------------------------- In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco welcome Dr. Mike Woo-Ming, as he shares his unconventional journey: family-medicine training, a multi-year exit into software, return to medicine to keep his mom happy, and the decision to build his own practice rather than work for someone else. He grew a weight-loss practice into a longevity-focused med spa with three locations, then layered in telemedicine (both for his own patients and as medical director for startups). He discusses the flexibility and patient-connection advantages of telemedicine, the value of hybrid models, and why many established practices leave money on the table. The conversation covers real operational hurdles, getting staff (from Instagram-savvy nurses to flip-phone medical assistants) aligned across locations 50–60 miles apart, competition in the med-spa space, and the ongoing reality of faxes in healthcare. A candid segment explores peptides (BPC-157, TB-500, Semorelin, and emerging compounds), the gray-market risks for licensed physicians versus non-physician sellers, public demand, and state-level regulatory pushback. Mike closes with advice he would give his intern self: trust your gut and bet on yourself. Top 3 Takeaways: Hybrid models reduce friction: many consults (lab reviews, decision-making visits) can be efficient Zoom calls instead of patients driving to multi-story offices, better for both patients and practice economics. The human element is the hardest part of scaling: tech-savvy and non-tech staff, multi-location coordination, and disseminating entrepreneurial energy require deliberate systems and patience. Licensed physicians carry unique risk in the peptide and gray-market space; non-physician sellers face far less regulatory exposure, so doctors must stay informed on state rules (including telemedicine prescribing) and prioritize compliance. About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest: Dr. Mike Woo-Ming is a family-medicine-trained physician entrepreneur, practice coach, telemedicine doctor, and longevity/med-spa owner based in San Diego. He built a multi-location cash-based practice, serves as medical director for startups in the longevity space, and coaches physicians on growing independent practices without sacrificing personal freedom. He also runs a podcast network. Connect with Dr. Mike Woo-Ming: Website: bootstrapmd.com Strategy session:  Book via the website Podcast: BootstrapMD - Physicians Entrepreneurs Podcast About the Hosts:     • Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.     • Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:        https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez        [email protected]      (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. _________________________ Think becoming a medical director means stepping back from clinical chaos? Think again. Phoebe Gutierrez turns the spotlight on Dr. Leo Damasco to unpack his journey from military medicine to leading virtual care teams as a telehealth medical director. Dr. Damasco shares what most don’t see—managing crises across time zones, navigating compliance landmines, and translating executive goals into frontline action. He breaks down the skills every virtual leader needs, how to spot red flags in telehealth companies, and why understanding the full business ecosystem is essential. If you’re a physician thinking about leadership in digital health, this episode is your roadmap—equal parts practical advice and behind-the-scenes truth. Three Actionable Takeaways: Build the Right Relationships – A successful medical director leans on a trusted compliance team and senior staff to navigate complexities and avoid burnout. Don’t go it alone.   Know the Business – Understanding how the gears of telemedicine startups turn—from marketing to multi-state regulations—gives you the edge to lead effectively.   Vet Companies Thoroughly – If a company doesn’t prioritize compliance or can’t support its physicians, that’s a red flag. Leadership starts with protecting your team.    About the Show Telemedicine Talks explores the dynamic world of digital health, offering physicians insights into regulatory changes, compliance, and opportunities in telemedicine to enhance their practice and career. About the Hosts Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine physician turned telemedicine advocate, now a virtual medical director guiding physicians through the complexities of leadership in digital care. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator and telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and building sustainable, scalable virtual care models. Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Leo Damasco Email: [email protected]   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-damasco/   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Steve Kelly discusses his transition from emergency medicine to telehealth and entrepreneurship. After years of ER shifts, locum tenens, and per diem work, Steve eventually went all-in on virtual care. Steve explains how he founded Refill Genie to address a common, high-impact problem: patients losing access to essential chronic medications (especially blood-pressure meds) and ending up in the ER or simply going without. Drawing on experience across video and asynchronous platforms, he focused on “bridge” refills and chronic-care access that many telehealth companies avoid. The conversation covers the mental shift away from the “ER doc” identity, the value of meaning found in preventing unnecessary ER visits, and the practical steps of building a company: using existing HIPAA-compliant tools instead of custom software, hiring freelancers via Upwork, navigating multi-state licensing and corporate structures (PC/MSO), and prioritizing clinical quality amid regulatory gray areas. Steve emphasizes starting small, learning on the fly, and maintaining high standards so that any scrutiny finds good patient care at the core. Listeners will hear honest advice on risk tolerance, compliance realities across 49+ states, and why asking more questions (not fewer) is the advice he would give his intern self. Top 3 Takeaways: Reclaim ownership of time and career: Locums and telehealth offered control that full-time hospital work lacked; the shift from ER identity to telehealth entrepreneur was gradual but ultimately freeing and meaningful. Solve one tangible problem: Refill Genie grew from a recurring ER observation, patients off essential meds due to access barriers,into a focused telehealth service that prevents downstream harm. Bootstrap smart and prioritize quality: Use existing compliant tools, freelancers, and incremental growth instead of waiting for perfect systems or VC money; clinical quality remains the best protection when navigating multi-state rules.   About the Show: Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest: Dr. Steve Kelly is a former emergency medicine physician who trained at Baystate in Massachusetts. After years of full-time ER work, locum tenens, and part-time telehealth, he founded Refill Genie, a multi-state telehealth company focused on medication access and bridge refills for chronic conditions. He now works full-time in telehealth (roughly 60% running Refill Genie) and is actively hiring physicians with multiple state licenses. Connect with Dr. Steve Kelly: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Search “Steve Kelly” / Refill Genie Currently hiring physicians with multiple state licenses About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models. Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:   https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/    [email protected]  (mailto:[email protected])   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this inspiring episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez welcome Dr. Christine Goins, board-certified integrative adult and pediatric psychiatrist, physician coach, and digital nomad. After years of extreme burnout (chest pain, insomnia, muscle spasms) while working in 10 clinics a week, serving as associate program director, and chairing a DEI committee, Dr. Goins realized the problem wasn’t serotonin, it was the lifestyle. She resigned from her academic position, booked a one-way ticket to Colombia, and began designing a career around the life she actually wanted. Today she runs Nomad MD, coaching burned-out physicians on how to create remote, location-independent practices (often cash-pay) so they can work less and live anywhere. The conversation covers the identity shift required to step away from traditional clinical roles, the financial fears that keep doctors stuck, practical realities of practicing medicine while living abroad (taxes, licensing, controlled substances), why owning your own practice gives the greatest autonomy, and how living in 17+ countries has reshaped her view of what a doctor’s life can look like. Top 3 Takeaways: Start with the life you want (where you wake up, how many hours you work, what Tuesdays look like), then design the career to support it, not the other way around. The financial fear is real, but living abroad can dramatically lower expenses while preserving (or increasing) income, accelerating financial freedom rather than jeopardizing it. Full autonomy comes from owning your practice (cash-based or contracted through your own LLC) rather than remaining an employee, especially when practicing across borders. About the Show Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine. About the Guest Dr. Kristine Goins is a board-certified integrative adult and pediatric psychiatrist, physician coach, and digital nomad. After experiencing severe burnout in academic medicine, she founded Nomad MD to help physicians replace their income remotely and build freedom-first careers. She has lived and worked in 17+ countries and currently divides her time between locations such as Guadalajara, Italy, South Africa, and Bocas del Toro, Panama. Connect with Dr.Kristine Goins: Website: thenomadmd.com Instagram: @TheNomadMDs Facebook: The Nomad MDs About the Hosts:     • Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned  telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.     • Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:       https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/        [email protected]      (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this practical episode of Telemedicine Talks, host Phoebe Gutierrez welcomes Ashley Gay as she shares her unique journey from graphic designer to physician marketing expert after supporting her husband through medical school, residency, fellowship, and the launch of his own practice. The conversation focuses on the critical (and often overlooked) marketing foundations that determine whether a private practice or telemedicine venture actually attracts and retains patients. Topics include naming and visual branding decisions that support long-term growth, the power of Google Business Profiles and local SEO, the importance of frictionless online scheduling, dual business-card networking strategies for referrals, realistic approaches to paid ads versus organic social, and the compliance minefield of healthcare marketing (HIPAA, BAAs, Stark, fake testimonials, and more). Ashley and Phoebe emphasize shifting from a physician-centric mindset to a true consumer/patient perspective, reducing friction, building trust, and creating an experience that makes patients choose (and stay with) you. Top 3 Takeaways: Lay the foundation first: correct naming, clear vision, strong visual brand, optimized website content, and a fully worked Google Business Profile before spending money on ads or socials. Patient experience is marketing. Easy online booking, fast responses, legible branding, and frictionless processes convert far better than clever logos or generic social posts. Marketing is not free and is not one-size-fits-all. Choose strategies that fit your personality and bandwidth (networking, local SEO, carefully managed ads) and always prioritize healthcare-specific compliance. About the Show Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest Ashley Gay is a branding and marketing strategist who has worked with both large companies and independent physician practices. With a background in graphic design and a marketing degree, she has supported her physician husband through training and private practice launch. She now helps clinicians build authentic brands, attract patients, and grow sustainable independent practices and telemedicine ventures through Digital Ash Agency. Connect with Ashley Gay: Website: digitalashagency.com Instagram:  @md.brand.pro About the Host:     Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:       https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/        [email protected]     (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this eye-opening episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco welcomes Dr. Gita Pensa as she draws from her personal experience of being sued for 12 years,  including two jury trials, to demystify the litigation process for physicians, especially those practicing telemedicine across multiple state licenses. The conversation covers the critical differences between lawsuits and board actions, why litigation is far more common than most doctors realize, the psychological toll of being sued, and practical strategies for performing well in depositions and trials. Dr. Pensa also discusses the distinction between risk management and litigation performance, why most lawsuits don’t end in license loss or personal financial ruin, and how physicians can move from fear to empowerment through education and preparation. Top 3 Takeaways: Litigation is extremely common: If you practice long enough, especially in high-risk fields like EM or telemedicine, it’s often a matter of “when,” not “if.” Understanding the process reduces catastrophic fear. A lawsuit is not the same as a board action: Most cases are dismissed or result in no payment, but physicians must know how to report and respond appropriately, especially with multiple state licenses. Shift from risk management to litigation performance: Learn how to be an effective witness, articulate your reasoning clearly, and protect your mental health so fear doesn’t rob you of joy in practicing medicine.   About the Show Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest Dr. Gita Penza is a practicing Emergency Physician with extensive experience as a medical malpractice defendant, including two jury trials. After 12 years navigating litigation, she became a coach and educator helping clinicians understand the legal, psychological, and professional realities of malpractice suits. She is the creator and host of the podcast Doctors and Litigation, The L Word, a regular contributor to EMRAP, and co-host of its UCmax program. Connect with Dr. Gita Pensa: Website: https://doctorsandlitigation.com Podcast:  Doctors and Litigation: the L Word Podcast Instagram: @doctors_and_litigation LinkedIn: Gita Pensa, M.D About the Host:   Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemeicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Connect with Leo: 
        [email protected]        Website: telemedicinetalks.com   The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Jeff Sekinger joins hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez to break down financial literacy for high-earning professionals. Drawing from his experience at JP Morgan, building Zero Percent (credit & funding), Orca Capital (hedge fund), and NURP (algorithmic trading platform), Jeff explains modern portfolio theory, the power of alternative investments, and why many physicians face concentration risk by keeping everything in their practice or traditional assets. He details how NURP delivers verified algorithmic trading strategies directly into users’ own brokerage accounts, offering liquidity, transparency, and control. The conversation covers the Medallion Fund’s legendary performance, the role of AI and technology in investing, red flags to watch for, and practical advice on starting small, understanding risk-adjusted returns, and avoiding common pitfalls like over-allocation or illiquid real estate headaches. Listeners will gain actionable insights on diversification, testing strategies risk-free, and empowering their capital to work smarter, especially valuable for busy clinicians seeking financial freedom beyond clinical work. Top 3 Takeaways: Diversify with Alternatives: Traditional stock/bond portfolios benefit from a small allocation (1-10%) to uncorrelated alternatives like algorithmic trading to improve risk-adjusted returns and smooth volatility. Transparency & Testing Matter: Look for third-party verified live track records (e.g., MyFXBook), paper trading demos, and real teams behind the platform before committing capital. Start Small & Control Risk: Begin with modest amounts ($10k+), use adjustable risk settings, and avoid over-allocating to any single strategy or asset, especially when exploring new investment types.   About the show Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest Jeff Sekinger is the founder of NURP (algorithmic trading software), Zero Percent (credit & funding solutions), and Orca Capital (hedge fund focused on alternative investments). With a background at JP Morgan in asset management, Jeff is passionate about financial education and empowering individuals with technology-driven investment tools. Connect with Jeff Sekinger / NURP: Start a free demo: start.nurp.com/doctors Website: nurp.com About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:     https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/    [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Haydee  Dacasar joins hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez to explore the transformation of hormone care through telemedicine. With 25 years as a practicing OBGYN in Las Vegas, Dr. Dacasar specializes in general gynecology, perimenopause, menopause management, and transgender hormone therapy. She discusses how COVID accelerated telemedicine adoption, enabling her to evolve from in-person seminars to virtual ones that now include family members and mixed groups. Dr. Dacasar emphasizes education as the foundation of safe hormone therapy, the dangers of rushed online prescriptions without labs or exams, and her preference for bioidentical hormones. The conversation covers the shared hormonal challenges across men, women, and transgender patients, the power of root-cause care, and her commitment to risk management through mandatory seminars. Listeners will gain practical advice on finding knowledgeable providers, the role of social media in spreading both information and misinformation, and why personalized protocols matter more than ever. Top 3 Takeaways: Education First: Hormones are safe when done properly. Monthly seminars help patients (and families) understand risks, benefits, and monitoring,  Dr. Dacasar requires them as part of responsible care. Avoid Drive-Through Hormones: Quick online prescriptions without physical exams, labs, or medical history review can cause harm. Always seek experienced providers who create individualized plans. Telemedicine Expands Access & Support: Virtual formats allow broader participation (including partners and family), reduce barriers, and enable consistent education in hormone therapy across diverse patient groups. About the Show Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine About the Guest Dr. Haydee Docasar is a board-certified OBGYN with over 25 years of clinical experience, currently practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her focus areas include general gynecology, perimenopause and menopause care, and transgender hormone therapy. She is known for her monthly educational hormone seminars and commitment to safe, informed patient care. Connect with Dr Haydee Docasar: Website: https://haydeedocasarmd.com/ Email: [email protected]  Instagram: @haydeedocasarmd About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez: https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/   [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.