#71 - How Physicians Can Redefine Success and Reclaim Work Life Balance with Dr. Michael Hersh

In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco welcomes Dr. Michael Hersh to discuss the challenges physicians face when transitioning careers, particularly into telemedicine. Dr. Hersh explains how the “physician personality”,  marked by achievement addiction, poor boundaries, and tying self-worth to productivity  often travels with doctors into new practice models, leading to the same burnout they were trying to escape. The conversation dives into the myth of work-life balance, the importance of self-awareness, identity shifts, and the power of physician coaching. Dr. Hersh shares practical insights on noticing unhelpful patterns, clarifying what you truly want, setting boundaries, and building a life where medicine is part of the “chocolate milk” rather than something to be extracted. Top 3 Takeaways: The Physician Personality Travels With You:  Changing your job or switching to telemedicine won’t fix burnout if you bring the same habits, lack of boundaries, and achievement addiction with you. Work-Life Balance is a Myth: Instead of trying to separate work from life, physicians should learn how to integrate medicine into their lives while creating intentional boundaries that protect what matters most. Coaching Helps You See What You Can’t See: Doctors often can’t read the label from inside the jar. Coaching provides an outside mirror, helps uncover true desires, and supports meaningful identity shifts. 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. Michael Hersh is a full-time practicing gastroenterologist, husband, father, podcaster, and physician coach at Better Physician Life Coaching. He helps doctors create better work-life integration, set meaningful goals, reduce overwhelm, manage stress, and feel more present at home. He is the creator and host of the Better Physician Life podcast, focused on helping physicians who feel stuck in their medical careers. Connect with Michael  Hersh: Website: betterphysicianlife.com Podcast: Better physician life 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.