The Doctor’s Lounge | BFD Podcast

We’re joined by Tal Eloss from 1Group Property Advisory to unpack one of the biggest decisions doctors face when starting or growing a practice: should you lease or buy your property?Tal explains why your property strategy should never come before your business strategy, and how staying flexible can open up better opportunities, especially in competitive locations. He walks through the critical due diligence every doctor must undertake, from analysing demographics and competition to ensuring a site is actually fit for purpose through test fits, planning approvals, and building assessments.A key part of the conversation focuses on common (and costly) mistakes. Many doctors assume their solicitor will handle commercial negotiations or overlook approvals required by strata or building management, issues that can delay or completely derail a project. Tal highlights why understanding approval pathways, timelines, and hidden constraints is essential before committing to any site.We also explore evolving trends in healthcare property, including the shift away from traditional street-front clinics, the growing importance of online visibility, and how factors like parking and accessibility can significantly impact patient experience and business success.Whether you're launching your first practice, relocating, or expanding, this episode offers practical, experience-based insights to help you make smarter property decisions and avoid costly pitfalls.

We’re joined by Rich Burton from BFD Financial Planning to explore the major differences between financial planning in the UK and Australia, and what that means for doctors building their careers and wealth here.Rich breaks down how Australia’s superannuation system can be a game-changer for migrant doctors, and why many professionals underestimate the importance of engaging with their super early. He also unpacks key differences in taxation, insurance requirements, and financial structures between the two countries.A major focus of the conversation is on common pitfalls, especially around insurance. Many doctors take out policies early in their careers and never review them again, often leaving themselves underinsured as their income and lifestyle grow. Rich explains why regular reviews and working with a risk specialist is critical to protecting your earning capacity.We also dive into the foundations of building long-term wealth: cash flow management, disciplined investing, diversification beyond property, and why “boring” financial planning is often the most effective. Rich highlights why starting early with super contributions can make retirement planning far simpler down the track.Whether you're an international doctor, a registrar, or a specialist looking to better understand your finances, this episode offers practical, grounded advice on how to take control of your financial future in Australia.

We’re joined by Dr Casey Going, a GP, educator, and new practice owner to explore the journey from registrar to owning a successful medical practice in rural Queensland. Just three months into ownership, Dr Casey shares what the transition has really been like, including the surprises, challenges, and key lessons learned along the way. From rethinking recruitment to recognising the power of personal branding, he explains why marketing yourself and your values can be just as important as traditional hiring strategies. We dive into the advantages of rural practice ownership, including government incentives, lower entry costs, and strong patient demand. Dr Casey also discusses the strategic decisions behind purchasing an existing practice rather than starting from scratch, and why scale can play a crucial role in long-term sustainability. The conversation also highlights the importance of training pipelines, financial backing, and building a supportive team culture, along with how his work in education and MBS billing has helped shape both his practice and reputation within the industry. Whether you're considering practice ownership or looking to better understand the business side of general practice, this episode offers practical insights and real-world experience from someone who’s recently made the leap.

We’re joined by Jessica Clauseen from BFD Finance to talk all things property, lending and borrowing strategy for doctors.With intense demand in the housing market and properties selling before open homes, preparation has never been more important. Jessica explains why pre-approvals are critical in a competitive environment and how borrowing capacity can vary significantly depending on the lender.We dive into lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) waivers available to doctors, how some lenders assess overtime and allowances differently, and why that can dramatically impact borrowing power. For many doctors, understanding these nuances could mean saving tens of thousands of dollars, or securing the property they actually want.We also touch on debt recycling, equity strategies and the broader confidence returning to the market as rates shift. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, this episode highlights why working with someone who understands medical income structures can make a real difference.

In the final live recording from the Melbourne BFD Conference 2025, we sit down with the woman behind it all, the driving force of Business for Doctors, Dr April Armstrong.April shares what it really takes to build and lead multiple businesses whilst also practising medicine full-time. From launching BFD Financial Planning alongside Oakmont Financial Services to opening a specialist health and wellness centre in Western Australia, she reflects on the pressure, risk and responsibility that come with growth.This conversation goes beyond the highlights. April speaks candidly about burnout, forcing herself to prioritise self-care, navigating cash flow challenges in a new practice, and the surprising reality that success often amplifies imposter syndrome rather than silencing it.We also explore the evolution of Business for Doctors, the future of primary healthcare, and why embracing change from technology to new models of care, is essential for doctors moving forward.An honest and insightful conversation about ambition, resilience and what really happens behind the scenes.

On this episode at the 2025 Melbourne BFD Conference, we sit down with Fadi Nunu from BFD Finance to break down what refinancing really means for doctors.We candidly discuss the recent rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia and how many homeowners are reassessing their mortgage position. Refinancing is often seen as simply switching to a lower rate, but as this discussion highlights, it’s far more nuanced than that. For many doctors juggling home loans, car finance, personal loans and credit cards, refinancing can be a way to simplify debt and improve cash flow. But those decisions come with trade-offs. Extending a loan term might reduce repayments in the short term, yet increase the total interest paid over time. Tapping into equity can unlock opportunities for renovations or investment, but it also reshapes your long-term debt strategy.From debt consolidation and equity release to loan term extensions and interest trade-offs, this episode explores the pros and cons of refinancing in today’s market.

At the 2025 Melbourne BFD Conference, we sit down with Gary Smith, founder of Armchair Medical, to explore how medical conferences are being reimagined for the modern doctor.Armchair Medical has created what many describe as “Netflix for GPs”, a subscription platform giving doctors flexible access to leading-edge education without the time, travel and cost of attending in person.In this episode, we discuss:Why practical masterclasses attract the most attentionHow conference content can be available within daysThe unique protocols involved in filming medical eventsWhy rural and metro GPs alike are turning to on-demand educationHow doctors are integrating learning into busy lives, from car commutes to treadmill sessionsIf you’re balancing clinical work, family life and professional development, this conversation highlights a smarter, more flexible way to stay current in a rapidly evolving medical landscape.Tune in for insights on innovation in medical education and how technology is reshaping access for Australian doctors.

What does it take to turn a frustration in general practice into a fully launched AI product?In today's episode of the Doctor’s Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors, we welcome back Casey Going from BFD Education to unpack the story behind MBS Pro, an AI-powered platform designed to simplify Medicare billing for GPs.After years of teaching MBS billing weekends, Casey kept hearing the same question: “Isn’t there a system that can just do this for us?”With the rise of large language models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, the opportunity became clear. But transcription alone wasn’t enough. The real innovation? Adding a Medicare-specific intelligence layer on top of AI to help GPs identify eligible item numbers, avoid common billing mistakes and strengthen compliance.In this conversation, Casey shares:• How MBS Pro evolved from an idea into a live product• Why AI transcription is only the starting point• The complexity of Medicare billing and why so many codes go unused• How the platform fine-tunes contextual billing suggestions• The balance between automation, compliance and GP responsibility• What it’s really like building a startup as a non-technical founderIf you’re curious about AI in healthcare, Medicare reform, startup journeys or simply want to understand how technology is reshaping general practice, this episode is packed with insight.

On this episode of the Doctors’ Lounge, we speak with Dr David Sanni, a GP who journeyed from Nigeria through the Caribbean before settling in Queensland. David shares his story of navigating GP practice in Australia, taking over a thriving practice in Lowood, and mastering billing and business strategies to deliver value to his patients. He also reveals how attending BFD events opened his eyes to smarter ways to work, grow his practice, and explore property investment. Tune in for practical insights, career inspiration, and a story of determination, innovation, and opportunity.

On this episode of the Doctors’ Lounge, we chat with Dr Shannon Welsh, a former Navy helicopter pilot who took an unexpected turn into medicine at age 27. Shannon shares his incredible journey from military service to surviving a life-changing brain injury, and eventually finding his calling as a rural GP and palliative care specialist in northeast Victoria. He also talks about building a thriving career, balancing family life, and connecting with his local community, all while wearing his signature bright shirts. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, career reinvention, and the rewards of general practice.

Welcome back to the Doctor’s Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors, where we share stories, insights, and practical advice to help doctors grow their practices and investments.In this episode, we sit down with a legal expert from Peter Ravens Associates, specialising in healthcare law, to discuss how doctors can protect their practices and themselves. From setting up a new practice and drafting employment contracts to managing complaints, succession planning, and navigating regulatory challenges, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you run a compliant, smooth, and successful practice.Whether you’re a GP, specialist, or practice owner, learn how to safeguard your business, reduce stress, and focus on what matters most, caring for your patients.

Welcome to the Doctor's Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors. In this episode, we chat with Nicole Taylor, founding partner of Medi Fund, about helping doctors at every stage of their careers take control of their finances. From first-home purchases to long-term investment strategies, Nicole shares practical advice and insights from her background in corporate health banking and her new venture focused on financial literacy for medical professionals. Learn how doctors can build wealth, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed financial decisions from the very start of their careers.

Join us on the Doctor's Lounge podcast as we chat with Dr. Sumera, a UK-trained GP who recently moved to Brisbane with her family. She shares her journey navigating the complex transition to practicing medicine in Australia, the joys and challenges of general practice, and how balancing clinical work with tech and business roles shaped her career. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and practical advice for doctors considering international opportunities or seeking more fulfilment in their practice.

We sit down with Scott Maggs from Skin Check Champions – a man whose work in early detection has reached everyone from everyday Aussies to Richard Branson himself.Scott shares the story behind Beard Season, how a friend’s tragic passing sparked a nationwide movement, and why early detection is still one of our biggest challenges in tackling melanoma. From patient stories to his own journey raising a million dollars with “the million-dollar beard,” this conversation is equal parts inspiring and eye-opening.

In this episode of the Doctor’s Lounge podcast, we’re joined by a trailblazing Australian surgeon who blends Western medical training with deep cultural knowledge and a holistic approach to health. From the realities of working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to the importance of keeping passion alive in medicine, he shares practical wisdom on balancing business, family life and patient care.We explore traditional bush medicine, the value of listening, and why true healthcare goes beyond procedures to understanding fears, culture, food security and the social forces shaping health. This conversation shines a light on community, country and creating systems that help all Australians live well.

Tune in to the Doctor's Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors. In this episode, we’re joined by award-winning GP and AMA Queensland President, Dr Maria Bolton. From advocacy wins that help clinics stay open, to tackling vaping in schools, to building a successful private practice from scratch, Maria shares her insights on leadership, business planning, and collaboration in healthcare. Whether you’re a doctor, practice owner, or healthcare professional, get inspired by real stories, practical tips, and strategies to thrive in your career and practice.

We are joined by Dr Cate Howell, GP and mental health expert, at the BFD Brisbane Conference 2023. We explore the importance of mental well-being for doctors, practical strategies to manage imposter syndrome, and how small, consistent steps can help rewire your thinking. Dr Cate also shares her journey from clinical practice to writing books on mental health and well-being, offering insights that go beyond the consulting room. Tune in for expert advice, real stories, and actionable tips to support your personal and professional growth.

In this episode, we chat with Dr Bern-Mari Van Der Merwe, a UK-trained GP who made the big move to Australia with her family. She shares her journey navigating sponsorship, settling into Brisbane, and finding a practice that aligns with her passions in mental health, women's health, and patient-focused care. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about career, family, and building a life you love in medicine.

Join Dr Rene Lazzaro, a GP from New South Wales, as she shares her journey from bulk billing to private practice. Renee discusses valuing her time, navigating patient expectations, and creating a more sustainable, rewarding practice. Tune in for practical insights and real stories from a doctor embracing change.

Hear Dr Alvin Chua share his journey at the BFD Conference. Learn how he transitioned from medical fellow to running a successful practice, with insights on strategy, growth, and building a thriving healthcare business.

In this episode of the Doctors Lounge, we talk with Dr Antje, who has 20 years of experience in healthcare. Frustrated by working in other practices, she decided to open her own. With support from the BFD community and connections with fellow female practice owners in Melbourne, she now leads a thriving clinic with 10 GPs, dedicated to high-quality patient care.Tune in to hear Dr Antje’s journey, key lessons, and practical tips for running a values-driven healthcare practice.

In this episode of the Doctors Lounge, Dr Elaine Sung shares her insights on leadership, innovation, and maintaining wellbeing in an ever-changing medical landscape. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration for today’s healthcare professionals.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge, we chat with Dr Shree Vaka and Dr Ram Vepuri about their career journeys — from the UK to Australia — and how they’ve navigated transition, practice development and professional growth. A timely conversation for any doctor planning the next move.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Dr Mary Barson, GP, podcaster, and co-founder of Real Life Medicine.Mary shares her personal journey from burnout in rural general practice to building a thriving online health business focused on lifestyle medicine and weight loss. She explains how real food, mindset, and sustainable lifestyle changes can transform not only physical health but also mental wellbeing - reducing inflammation, improving mood, and reversing conditions like insulin resistance and PCOS.We also dive into her podcasting journey, the science behind diet and mood, the role of low-carb and keto approaches, and how doctors can empower patients with practical, evidence-based tools for long-term health.This conversation is equal parts personal, practical, and inspiring - offering fresh insights into the power of lifestyle medicine for both patients and clinicians.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we speak with Dr Nadine Boyd of Boyd Health about the rise of virtual GP services and the evolving role of practice management in a post-pandemic world.Nadine shares her personal journey of burnout, stepping back to reset, and returning with a renewed perspective on healthcare leadership. She introduces Boyd Health’s innovative model - a virtual GP service designed to fill gaps in rural and remote areas, improve patient access, and ease workforce shortages by acting as a “locum in the cloud.”We also explore the realities of practice management during COVID-19, from staffing, HR, IT, and compliance, to the pressures of government policy changes and vaccine rollouts. Nadine highlights why networking, mentorship, and peer support are vital for practice managers navigating an increasingly complex environment.This conversation offers both inspiration and practical insights for doctors, practice managers, and health leaders interested in the intersection of technology, care delivery, and sustainable practice models.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Kerrie Carrucci, Brisbane-based stylist, speaker, and former civil engineer, to explore the powerful connection between style, confidence, and authenticity.Kerrie shares her journey from engineering to fashion, and how her passion for helping people feel like the best version of themselves has shaped her career. We dive into the psychology of style, why dressing authentically boosts confidence, and how clothing choices can impact everything from boardroom presence to everyday wellbeing.From wardrobe consultations and personal shopping to understanding colour psychology and lifestyle-driven styling, Kerrie explains how doctors and professionals alike can use fashion as a tool to project confidence and live more authentically.Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role, managing imposter syndrome, or simply wanting to align your personal style with who you truly are, this conversation offers fresh insights and practical inspiration.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we’re joined by Paul Jarvis of BFD Finance to unpack one of the biggest milestones many doctors face - buying their first home.Paul shares the common questions he hears from first-time buyers, the mistakes to avoid, and how to prepare financially before you even start looking at properties. From understanding borrowing capacity and deposit requirements to navigating lenders’ mortgage insurance, parental gifts, and the “Bank of Mum and Dad,” this conversation is full of practical strategies tailored to medical professionals.We also dive into how rising interest rates and lending buffers are affecting borrowing power, and why doctors have unique advantages when it comes to loan structures and deposit waivers.Whether you’re still in hospital training, starting out as a GP, or planning the next stage of your financial journey, this episode will help you approach the property market with confidence.

In this episode, we’re joined by Julian Muldoon of 1Group Property Advisory, a specialist in helping doctors and practice owners navigate one of the biggest business decisions they’ll ever face - choosing the right location and property strategy for their private practice.Julian explains the key considerations when deciding whether to buy or lease, from competitor analysis and demographic research to council regulations, parking, and permitted use requirements. He highlights the risks of rushing into a property purchase, the advantages of strategic leasing, and why due diligence is critical before signing contracts or bidding at auction.We also explore how the healthcare property landscape has changed, with larger practices requiring more space, higher fit-out costs, and longer leases—making every decision more complex and higher stakes. Julian shares insights into national trends, site selection challenges, and how practices can secure locations that support both growth and long-term financial security.Whether you’re starting a clinic, expanding into a new site, or weighing up buy vs lease, Julian’s advice will help you make smarter property decisions for the future of your practice.

In this episode, we’re joined by Young Han from RSM Australia, an accountant with over 15 years’ experience - specialising in finance for medical professionals.Young shares how her work goes beyond compliance and tax returns, offering holistic financial strategies tailored to doctors, GPs, and specialists throughout their careers - from fresh graduates stepping into contracting, to established professionals preparing for retirement.We explore the unique financial challenges facing the medical profession: heavy student debt, delayed income compared to peers, the high stress of clinical work, and limited time to build wealth. Young explains how structures like companies vs sole trading impact doctors’ futures, and why understanding MBS billing is critical not only for compliance, but also for delivering quality patient care while being properly rewarded.As a contributor to the book Business Tips for Health Professionals, Young shares insights from her chapter on the benefits of company ownership and why financial literacy is essential for every medical professional. With lessons drawn from real client journeys, COVID-era pressures, and evolving tax and payroll laws, this conversation highlights why specialist advice matters in the medical industry.Whether you’re just starting out or planning the next stage of your career, Young’s perspective will help you think strategically about your finances and your future.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr Newton Campbell, consultant to NASA and co-founder of AROSE, to explore the surprising links between space exploration and the medical industry.Dr Campbell shares how Australia’s mining technologies are helping shape lunar and Martian missions, and how NASA’s innovations have spun off into life-saving medical advancements—from imaging algorithms now used in MRIs and CT scans, to cardiovascular devices inspired by rocket fuel pumps, and even lighting systems that reduce chemotherapy side effects.We dive into the challenges of radiation in space, the future of DNA sequencing beyond Earth, and why Australia’s role in projects like the Square Kilometre Array telescope and Artemis missions positions it at the forefront of both astronomy and medicine.This conversation reveals how the drive to explore space continues to fuel breakthroughs that transform healthcare here on Earth.

In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Dr Georgia Page and Dr Sam Pethen, partners at Your Family Doctors on the Central Coast, to hear their story of transitioning from doctors to practice owners.They share the challenges of finding the right site, purchasing and growing an established clinic, and the steep learning curve of managing finances, HR, and systems without formal business training. From rebranding and differentiating themselves in a competitive area, to building a boutique-style general practice focused on continuity of care, Dr Page and Dr Pethen open up about the lessons they’ve learned along the way.We also dive into their community involvement, creative use of social media, and how staying true to their values has helped them maintain a loyal patient base while expanding their team.This episode is packed with honest insights for doctors considering ownership and practical advice on balancing medicine, business, and community.

What happens when a medical practice builds community impact into its foundation from day one? In this episode, we speak with a doctor who didn’t wait for funding or permission to act — launching an outreach program for women experiencing homelessness and domestic violence just six months after opening their clinic.We explore the importance of early intervention, the ripple effect on emergency departments, and why providing meaningful care outside of the clinic can actually save the system money. Plus, we unpack the tension many doctors feel when it comes to charging for services — and why valuing your time is essential for sustainable care.A must-listen for anyone blending business with purpose in medicine.

Straight from the 2GB studio seat to the floor of the BFD Sydney Conference, legendary financial educator Noel Whittaker joins Justin Owen for a punchy and powerful conversation on money, mindset, and making smart decisions.From the timeless success of his best-selling book Making Money Made Simple to practical advice for doctors and business owners, Noel shares his proven approach to building long-term wealth—starting with what you’ve got today. This session covers:Why fund managers might be your smartest investing partnerThe difference between income and wealth (and why what you keep matters most)Tax tips, asset protection, and choosing the right ownership structureSuperannuation and compound growth in plain EnglishHow small consistent actions—not big wins—build real successPlus, get a walkthrough of Noel’s free downloadable Action Plan—your roadmap for setting goals, reviewing your current finances, and designing a strategy that actually works.This isn’t financial fluff—it’s clear, practical wisdom from one of Australia’s most trusted voices in money. Whether you’re a doctor, business owner, or just someone trying to get ahead, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action.

Dr Mary Lumsden shares her deep passion for women’s health and the realities of providing care in Tasmania — from pregnancy trends and seasonal patterns to the impact of public awareness on reproductive choices.In this conversation, Mary reflects on what drives her work, the moments that shape patient care, and how increased access to information can empower women to make informed decisions. A thoughtful and powerful discussion for any doctor interested in women’s health, community care, and the difference awareness can make.

In this episode, Dr Elaine Sung shares her journey of opening her own clinic — from the early planning stages to the practical realities of making it happen. She opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and how the support and resources from Business for Doctors gave her the clarity and confidence to take the leap.Whether you're thinking about opening a clinic or already in the thick of it, this honest conversation is packed with insights for every doctor considering the next step.