Creative Careers in Medicine Podcast

Hosted by CCIM

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Episodes

117

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Join Drs Amandeep Hansra, Dana Phang and Elise Putt as they interview the most inspiring and creative minds in medicine! Learn all about the many exciting directions a medical degree can take you - from performing arts to technology to entrepreneurship and everything in between. Creative Careers in Medicine is an Australian run community, aiming to equip people with the confidence and skills to forge their own unique and fulfilling career path

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June 8, 202650 min

Silence, Status and Burnout: Inside Medicine's Hidden Culture

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, Dr Amandeep Hansra is joined by Dr Cheryl Martin and Dr Leanne Rowe to discuss the complex and pressing issues surrounding medical culture. They focused on solutions and practical steps that clinicians, leaders, and healthcare organisations can take to address workforce shortages, support wellbeing, and improve workplace environments for all doctors, particularly those in training. Dr Cheryl Martin shares insights drawn from her career in emergency medicine and her involvement with culture change, highlighting the importance of psychological safety and the need for supportive leadership and resources in both clinical and governance roles. Dr Leanne Rowe discusses her diverse career as a rural GP, author, and board director and reflects on the longstanding challenges facing medical professionals, including underreporting and workplace abuses such as bullying, harassment, and wage theft.Unpacking recent legislative changes in work health and safety, the necessity of anonymous and effective 'speak up' mechanisms, and the growing responsibility of boards and senior leaders to ensure compliance and accountability. Both guests emphasise the importance of mentoring, ongoing leadership training, and embedding occupational health expertise within healthcare organisations. They also explored the role of individual clinicians in shaping culture through everyday actions, kindness, and peer support. Practical strategies for both senior and junior doctors are covered, with a strong focus on collective advocacy, evidence-based approaches to managing burnout, and the value of building safe, connected communities within medicine. Encouraging listeners to reflect on their own sphere of influence, seek support, and contribute to positive change in medical culture.—----If you're struggling, please know that support is available and you don't have to navigate it alone. Reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, colleague, GP, or mental health professional can make a real difference.For doctors and medical students, the Drs4Drs Doctors' Health Advisory Service provides confidential support and referral services specifically for members of the medical profession.If you need immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24/7) or text 0477 13 11 14. If you are in crisis or feel at risk of harming yourself, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out, or simply not yourself, support is available and things can get better with the right help. Seeking support early can make all the difference.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter![CCIM Website](https://creativecareersinmedicine.com/)[CCIM Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CreativeCareersInMed/)The CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at [www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network](www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network).

May 25, 202644 min

Fixing the Front Door: Primary Care Gets a Reboot

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, host Dr Amandeep Hansra is joined by Dr Max Mollenkopff, a GP and clinic owner in Newcastle, NSW, and Dr Sean Stevens, a GP and co-owner of Grove Medical in Western Australia. Both guests bring a depth of experience in primary care innovation, leadership, and the integration of technology into general practice.Discussing the evolving landscape of primary care, the increasing consumer-driven approach to healthcare and the rise of telehealth following the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Mollenkopf and Dr Stevens share practical examples from their clinics, describing how they have implemented AI agents for tasks such as phone triage and document processing, as well as patient portals that provide direct access to medical information. They explore the impact of these technologies on workflow, workforce roles, and overall patient experience.They also tackled the ongoing challenges facing general practice, including sustainability, funding models, and the entry of new players such as virtual care providers and corporate ownership. Covering the changing expectations of both patients and clinicians, the need to balance operational efficiency with high-quality care, and ethical considerations around practice business models and patient relationships. They also shared their perspectives on the future of general practice, the potential for greater use of technology to relieve administrative burdens, and the importance of culture, leadership, and adaptability for clinicians considering practice ownership.This is aimed at clinicians interested in the future of primary care, practice ownership, tech adoption in clinical practice, and the possibilities for redefining career paths in medicine.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

May 11, 202649 min

Breaking Ceilings in Scrubs: Women Who Lead in Medicine

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine (CCIM) podcast as part of the Doctors Innovating Series, host Dr Amandeep Hansra is joined by two accomplished female leaders in medicine: Dr Janice Tan and Dr Ramya Raman. Dr Janice Tan is a practising GP in Sydney and General Manager of Clinical Innovation at Bupa Australia. Dr Ramya Raman is Vice President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).Discussing the realities of leadership as women in medicine, including the gradual recognition of workplace bias, the importance of authenticity and values-based leadership, and the unseen labour required to sustain credibility and influence in senior roles.Both guests reflect on their career journeys, insights into how they balance clinical work, advocacy, education, and leadership. The significance of holding onto clinical practice to stay connected to the core purpose of medicine. They address the persistent challenges of gender and cultural bias in both clinical and corporate sectors, revealing that these issues extend beyond medicine into broader organisational settings. Dr Janice Tan and Dr Ramya Raman share practical strategies for overcoming professional isolation, the value of supportive networks and mentors (both male and female), and the necessity of surrounding oneself with peers who share similar values.Listeners will also hear candid accounts of the difficult decisions and advocacy required to create change. Reinforcing the point that confidence in leadership is a skill developed through experience, and encourages clinicians at all stages to get involved in system design, education, or advocacy, and that stepping into these roles provide opportunities to shape better healthcare for future generations.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

October 13, 202543 min

Dr James Somauroo on a Career in Health Tech Media and Podcasting

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, host Dr Elise Putt speaks with Dr James Somauroo, an anaesthetics and intensive care doctor by training who has carved out a path in healthcare innovation, media, and entrepreneurship. Dr Somauroo is the co-founder and CEO of SomX, a communications and creative agency working with healthtech, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies. He also hosts the Healthtech Podcast, is editor-in-chief of Healthtech Pigeon, and previously contributed to Forbes on health technology topics.Dr Somauroo shares his own journey through medical training and clinical practice before moving into leadership, innovation, and startup roles within the NHS, Health Education England, and the British Medical Journal. Discussing the value of understanding healthcare from multiple vantage points, and how this breadth of perspective informs effective communication and marketing in the health sector.He candidly reflects on the challenges and opportunities involved in transitioning from traditional medical roles into entrepreneurial and creative fields, offering practical advice for clinicians considering similar paths.Exploring Dr Somauroo’s forays into media, podcasting, and writing, including the origins of his own Healthtech Podcast and the importance of clinicians having a voice in the public dialogue around medicine and healthcare. Providing thoughtful commentary on the intersection of public health communication, digital content, and the evolving opportunities for doctors to make an impact beyond the bedside.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

October 6, 202537 min

Dr Ariella Heffernan-Marks on a career as founder in women’s health

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, Dr Elise Putt is joined by Dr Ariella Heffernan-Marks, a medical doctor, PhD candidate, and the founder of Ovum AI, a platform dedicated to transforming women’s healthcare through an integrative, lifespan-focused digital solution. Providing insight into her journey from law and reproductive biology, to medicine at Macquarie University, and through to her internship at Prince of Wales Hospital. She shares how her personal challenges with vestibular migraines during medical school revealed significant gaps in women's healthcare and ultimately inspired the concept for Ovum AI.She gives a clear explanation of the Ovum AI platform, how it brings together women’s longitudinal health data, integrates wearable and medical reports, and offers personalized guidance to empower women in clinical settings. Highlighting the importance of addressing gender bias in research and healthcare delivery, as well as her commitment to building the world's largest proprietary women’s health dataset.Dr Heffernan-Marks shares her thoughts on leaving structured clinical training, the impact of her medical background on the success of her startup, and the importance of preparation and resilience when seeking funding and validation from both the healthcare community and investors. She also underscores the value of research, collaboration with clinical experts such as Professor Amanda Henry and Professor Rebecca Deans, and ongoing user-and evidence-based development for lasting impact.Offering actionable insights for clinicians considering alternative or innovative career paths and serves as a testament to how lived experience, clinical expertise, and research can converge to drive positive change in healthcare.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

September 29, 202543 min

Dr Rob Grenfell on a career as a GP-turned-public health leader

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, host Elise Putt speaks with Dr Rob Grenfell, a rural GP turned public health physician whose career has spanned clinical practice, public health leadership, corporate health, and significant roles within government and research. Dr Grenfell shares insights from his early days as a rural GP in Victoria through to becoming the director of the CSIRO’s Health and Biosecurity Unit. Exploring his experience setting up a regional Aboriginal health office, his role as Chair on the board of the West Vic Primary Health Network and Biogrid Australia, and his contributions to shaping public health at both the local and national level.Providing an honest overview of his career path, describing his motivation to enter medicine as a country student, his passion for addressing health inequities, and his ongoing commitment to community-focused care. Delving into the future of general practice, the impact of artificial intelligence in healthcare, and the need for more integrated payment and preventative health models. Dr Grenfell discusses things such as his involvement in pandemic preparedness, vaccine development with CSIRO, and long-term advocacy for improved Indigenous health.Clinicians interested in alternative medical careers, public health, or making a broad impact on patient outcomes will find it inspiring and informative, with Dr Grenfell’s reflections providing valuable guidance for those considering their own career trajectories in medicine.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

September 22, 202520 min

Dr Ruth Mitchell on a career in Nobel Peace Prize-winning advocacy

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine (CCIM) podcast, the hosts share an inspiring session from the recent CCIM25 conference held in Melbourne, featuring Dr Ruth Mitchell. Dr Mitchell is a pediatric and adult neurosurgeon, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, international public speaker, and prominent advocate in the anti-nuclear movement. She’s a leading voice for diversity and inclusion in surgery and science. Reflecting on her advocacy journey, from her early days as a medical student, through her involvement with International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), and her role in founding the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, which was instrumental in securing the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and culminated in being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.She talks about the value of using clinical voices to drive policy and societal change, particularly by telling patients’ stories and bearing witness to the impacts of nuclear weapons. Dr Mitchell also shares her clinical advocacy work in brain tumor research, alongside her fundraising activities for the Children's Cancer Institute.Reflecting on personal experiences, including the loss of her sister following a complex medical journey, Dr Mitchell offers candid insights on the need for more compassionate and equitable health systems. Emphasising the role clinicians can play in creating positive change in listening to patient needs, challenging systemic shortcomings, and supporting colleagues’ mental health. Offering thought-provoking perspectives for clinicians interested in exploring wider career opportunities that combine clinical practice with meaningful advocacy, philanthropy, and leadership.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

September 15, 202526 min

Dr David Corbet, sound doctor and rural GP

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine (CCIM) podcast, Dr Elise Putt welcomes Dr David Corbet, a rural GP based in Anglesea, Victoria, who also works at Wathaurong Health Service, the Aboriginal Health Service in Geelong. Sharing his multifaceted career in general practice. Along with his enthusiasm for lifelong learning and the diverse opportunities presented by general practice, particularly in rural settings.Dr Corbet reflects on his career journey prior to medicine. Spending fifteen years as a professional musician and dancer, performing internationally and working within the performing arts at a high level, before transitioning into medicine as a graduate entrant. Describing the motivations behind his career change and the challenges and rewards of returning to science after an established career in the arts.He is the founder of the Sound Doctor, a not-for-profit music event series bringing acclaimed national and international artists to Anglesea’s town hall for intimate performances. He discusses the inspiration behind the initiative, the challenges of sustaining it within a difficult arts funding landscape, and the impact of arts on individual and community wellbeing.Giving practical advice for clinicians considering a career change or diversification, and reflections on how skills and interests from outside medicine can enhance clinical practice. Dr Corbet also offers personal advice to medical students and early-career doctors in following their interests, being open to uncertainty, and finding balance in a fulfilling career.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

September 8, 202536 min

Dr MaryAnn Ferreux on a career a career in medical leadership

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine podcast, Dr Amandeep Hansra speaks with Dr MaryAnn Ferreux, a medical leader with extensive experience in both Australia and the UK. Dr Ferreux shares her unique journey from her early days as a generalist doctor in Newcastle, Australia, to her current portfolio career in the UK. Her roles include Chief Medical Officer for Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex, NHS non-executive board director positions, public health and policy research, and trustee work at the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.Discussing her non-linear path into medicine, which led to her determination to pursue a medical career despite her challenges. Reflecting on her experiences across a variety of clinical specialties and how these varied roles informed her later transition into health system leadership and management. Highlighting her commitment to addressing health inequities, particularly the impact of social determinants of health and how digital transformation in healthcare can sometimes exacerbate these disparities.The also talked about the differences of the Australian and UK healthcare systems, with Dr Ferreux noting similarities in service delivery and the persistence of challenges such as bias, underrepresentation, and system-wide resistance to large-scale change. They both discuss the global nature of the health workforce movement and the opportunity for sharing insights and innovations across borders, particularly in the digital health sphere.Gaining practical insights into managing a portfolio career as a clinician, balancing leadership roles, academic pursuits, family, and personal wellbeing. Offering candid reflections and advice for doctors considering alternative or expanded career pathways, and the value of a broad base of experience and the importance of purpose-driven work.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

September 1, 202535 min

Dr Paul Eleftheriou on a career as a healthcare consultant

In this episode of the Creative Careers in Medicine (CCIM) podcast, Dr Elise Putt speaks with Dr Paul Eleftheriou, Principal Consultant and Co-Lead of Digital Health at Nous Group. Dr Eleftheriou discusses his professional journey, including a period pursuing neurosurgery and a PhD in neuroscience, before transitioning into medical leadership and consulting. Explaining the role of a management consultant, particularly within the healthcare sector, and how his work at Nous Group spans project management, strategic planning, policy development, evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and leadership facilitation with organizations across Australia and internationally.Dr Eleftheriou also shares practical advice for clinicians considering a move towards leadership and consulting, emphasising the value of clinical experience, formal qualification pathways such as RACMA fellowships, and proactive networking with current medical leaders.Exploring the realities and challenges of transitioning from clinical medicine to consulting, Dr Eleftheriou reflects on the balance of immediate clinical impact versus broader, systemic change, and the need for patience when working within complex healthcare systems. Providing perspective on project choice, ethical alignment, and maintaining job satisfaction in the consulting sector.Dr Eleftheriou’s experiences underline the breadth of opportunities beyond traditional clinical roles and the ways medical training can translate into effective leadership and consultancy positions.To get more CCIM, subscribe so you never miss an episode, join our Facebook community and subscribe to our newsletter!CCIM WebsiteCCIM FacebookThe CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.