Financially Free Physicians

PODCAST · education

Financially Free Physicians

Join host Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, on a transformative journey for physicians ready to take charge of their financial futures—no prescription needed! Each episode tackles the unique challenges and opportunities of a medical career, offering actionable strategies to boost your financial well-being, all while being mindful of student loans (which can feel like a bad case of indigestion).From navigating student loans to making smart investments, we explore everything from PSLF to practice management. Our mission is to empower you to achieve your financial goals in a relatable way—because financial health should feel like a walk in the park, not a marathon in scrubs.Whether you're a resident figuring out if ramen counts as food or a seasoned physician wondering where your paycheck went, our practical advice and light-hearted banter will guide you. Subscribe now and join us every other week for financial wisdom and a few good laughs—because your money should work as hard as you do!

  1. 19

    Thank You — See You on Financially Free Era

    Tune in to the new show, Financially Free Era by SLP Wealth, discover the biggest misconceptions people have about being "financially free," the various forms of FIRE ("Financial Independence, Retire Early"), and more. We're excited to launch this new podcast and hope you subscribe on your favorite podcast app! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, or Pocket Casts

  2. 18

    Whole Life or Whole Paycheck? When the Math Doesn't Add Up

    Most people don't expect their insurance advisor to also have an IMDb page. But Dennis Hornsby isn't your typical advisor. As Director of Insurance at Student Loan Planner, he helps high-income professionals navigate disability and life insurance to get the right policy. And when he's off the clock, he's been known to appear in films with folks like Jamie Foxx and Tommy Lee Jones. Listen in as Dennis shares what really matters when evaluating coverage, how to avoid common pitfalls, and how to choose the policy that actually fits your life. You'll come away with clarity on term vs. whole life insurance and the confidence to make smarter choices. Key moments: (03:16) Who actually needs life insurance, and how to tell if you're one of them (11:45) Save money with laddered life insurance policies (13:58) Why your employer's life insurance won't go with you, and what to do instead (17:18) When whole life insurance makes sense as part of a larger asset protection strategy (22:26) What it means to surrender a life insurance policy, and when it might be worth it Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  3. 17

    DIS Is It - The DISability Insurance Guide You Need

    You've spent years building your career. What happens if you couldn't work tomorrow? This uncomfortable question highlights why disability insurance carries serious weight despite not being a flashy topic. Financial planner Jared Costigan, CFP®, CSLP®, joins us to talk about what it really means to protect your most valuable asset: your ability to earn an income. Learn what disability insurance actually covers, how short-term and long-term policies work, and why coverage tends to cost more for women. You'll hear why "own-occupation" coverage is worth looking for, how to compare what your employer offers versus buying your own policy, and which add-ons (called riders) are actually useful. Key moments: (04:26) Dual-physician households should still consider disability insurance (11:15) How private coverage stacks up against what your job offers (19:02) Not all riders are worth it — here's how to avoid paying for stuff you don't need (30:31) Why disability insurance costs more than life insurance Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  4. 16

    Married to Medicine

    Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes in a medical household? We're pulling back the curtain on physician family life and dishing the unfiltered truth about riding the med school rollercoaster together and juggling careers while supporting a doctor spouse. Listen in to hear about the late nights, the moved holidays, and the six-figure student loans as we share stories and wisdom you won't find in any textbook. Whether you're dating a med student or married to an attending, this conversation is like finding your people. You'll laugh, maybe tear up, and definitely feel less alone. Key moments: (05:08) Medical couples face tough but important conversations when ranking residency programs (12:26) "Who does what?" Rapid-fire household task division reveals medical family dynamics (19:59) Physician families need to acknowledge, "This is tough, but we're okay." (25:30) Crucial decision point: Pay student loan interest during residency or defer it? (33:03) Don't wait for retirement — bring elements of that dream life into your present Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  5. 15

    From Rounds to Receipts: The Complete Resident's Cashflow Guide

    Residency is a financial tightrope — you've got the education of a doctor but the paycheck of... well, not a doctor. You'll learn how to create a realistic cash flow plan without micromanaging every decision, how single residents navigate differently than couples, and when buying a house during residency makes sense (or doesn't). Listen in for practical advice without the judgment, shame, or complicated spreadsheets Key moments: (07:10) Start your cash flow plan by tracking regular bills first, then variable expenses (13:55) Borrowing extra during residency depends entirely on your repayment strategy (24:31) Credit card interest destroys wealth — always pay statements in full (34:35) Key questions residents should ask when comparing renting vs. buying a house (44:57) Should you save during residency — and if so, pretax or Roth? Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  6. 14

    Just Say No! Boundaries Without Burnout

    Work boundaries might not sound exciting, but they're the secret sauce to a happier, healthier career in medicine. Travis Hornsby of SLP Wealth joins us to share a unique perspective as both a multipreneur and the husband of a physician. You'll get practical tips for managing screen time, saying no without guilt, and protecting your energy in high-stress environments. This isn't just about getting through the workday — it's about reshaping your relationship with medicine so you can build a career that lasts for decades. After all, the best physicians aren't the ones working themselves to exhaustion. They're the ones who've figured out how to protect their time and their peace. Key moments: (03:30) Boundaries are fences — they're not mean, they're protective (09:10) Practical boundary tips any medical professional can start using right now (15:30) Boundaries should flex, not snap (20:34) Why boundaries hit differently when your bills are covered (25:37) You can't self-care your way out of a toxic situation Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  7. 13

    Negotiate Your Physician Contract With Confidence: Your Guide to Contract Negotiation Strategies

    Contracts might not be the most exciting part of starting a new job, but they're one of the most important. It's not just about salary — it's the full picture: benefits, time off, call schedules, and all the details that affect your day-to-day life. We're joined by financial planner Jared Costigan, CFP®, CSLP®, who's had a front-row seat to the physician career journey. His wife's about to be a fellow, and their circle of friends has been navigating these same conversations. Learn about the leverage you may not realize you have, the questions you should be asking, and how to look at an offer with your long-term well-being in mind. We also get into some surprising stats from Medscape that show how physicians across specialties think about money, benefits, and lifestyle. Whether you're signing your first contract or sizing up your next move, we're here to remind you: you're worth negotiating for. Key moments: (03:18) Money talk can feel awkward, but sharing compensation info with peers can give you major clarity and leverage (06:37) Medscape's physician compensation report helps you find average pay by specialty (11:32) These early negotiations give you a glimpse into how future conflict might be handled at your workplace (16:36) The two main types of malpractice insurance, and why occurrence-based is usually the safer bet (25:40) Negotiation strategies — your strongest leverage is knowing your value, and being ready to walk if the offer falls short Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  8. 12

    Childcare Costs Are Wild: Here's How to Manage Them

    Raising kids comes with love, joy — and a hefty price tag. We're peeling back the layers to reveal the often-overwhelming costs of childcare, breaking down what families need to know to stay ahead. Learn practical strategies to make expenses more manageable, from tax credits and dependent care FSAs to navigating nanny payroll and long-term planning. Tune in to learn how to keep more money in your pocket while giving your loved ones the best care possible. Key moments: (04:44) The child tax credit and child and dependent care credit have different age requirements — know the difference (07:34) Even with little income, filing taxes can unlock valuable credits (10:55) The child and dependent care credit isn't a set amount — here's how it's calculated (13:07) Your tax filing status impacts how you use a Dependent Care FSA (19:08) What to know about Schedule H when hiring a nanny (or other household help) Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  9. 11

    From Ramen to Ribeye: Smart Money Moves for New Attendings

    Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians The leap from resident to attending is a defining moment in any physician's career — bringing more income, more responsibility, and new financial decisions. SLP Wealth financial planner Angie Pack, CSLP®, joins us to explore what this transition really looks like, both professionally and personally. We'll discuss managing your first attending salary, avoiding lifestyle creep, and making smart financial moves like Roth IRA contributions - and how to do them right. Angie shares her journey, offering insight into the real-world adjustments she and her husband faced after residency. If you're stepping into this next phase, this episode will help you build a strong foundation for the future — without the financial missteps. Key moments: (07:59) The truth about "living like a resident" as an attending — does it really pay off? (18:28) Why a Roth IRA is one of the smartest financial moves for residents (22:19) The pro-rata tax rule and what it means for your backdoor Roth conversion (29:27) A sneaky way to take advantage of low student loan payments before residency ends (33:25) Imposter syndrome doesn't end with residency

  10. 10

    Can Pediatricians Build Wealth? A Resident Spouse's Inside View

    Pediatricians often earn less than other specialists. Is it financially viable? Get an insider's perspective from financial planner Jared Costigan, CFP®, CSLP®, whose wife is a pediatrician in training. This candid conversation pulls back the curtain on the economic realities of choosing children's medicine, from managing six-figure student loans to understanding the impact of Medicaid reimbursements. You'll discover practical insights for balancing professional fulfillment with prosperity in pediatric medicine. Key moments: (03:48) Medicaid reimbursements lag behind private insurance and Medicare rates (07:17) Job fulfillment matters more than any paycheck (11:59) Student loan forgiveness programs can reshape the ROI calculation for medical school (16:38) The income gap between pediatricians and other specialists (19:33) Choosing pediatrics makes sense even when financial math suggests otherwise Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  11. 9

    Financially Naked and Unashamed: Getting Real About Money and Love

    With Valentine's Day right around the corner, we're exploring the evolving balance of love and money in relationships. We're joined by Maggie Reyes, a double-certified master coach specialist in sex, love, and relationships, and self-proclaimed "relationship nerd," to encourage you to redefine your relationship with money and challenge traditional gender roles. We uncover the pressures that come with financial independence and how to have healthy, productive money conversations with your partner. You'll discover practical strategies to navigate shared finances, balance relationship expectations, and create financial freedom without resentment. Key moments: (04:14) There's no rulebook for love and money — unlearning old beliefs might be the key to a stronger relationship (09:49) When men feel "emasculated" by money, what's really happening — and how to fix it (17:07) The decision-making filter that helps you say "yes" without guilt and "no" without regret (26:32) Why every woman needs financial independence whether she plans alone or with a partner Link mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Maggie Reyes Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  12. 8

    Think You Have to Pay for College? Think Again

    With college costs on the rise, saving for your child's education can feel overwhelming — but it doesn't have to be. We sat down with SLP Wealth partner and financial planner Dan Rooker, CFP®, CSLP®, to share strategies that make college planning simpler and more effective. From choosing the right savings accounts to understanding financial aid, we'll guide you through the options so you can make the best decisions for your family's future. Key moments: (03:25) 529 plans can double as estate planning tools and future Roth IRAs (12:12) High income doesn't always mean no financial aid (13:38) Educational Savings Accounts are like Roth IRAs for education (16:07) UTMAs and UGMAs — who they're for and why they matter (18:54) Taxable accounts offer unmatched control and flexibility (27:06) Where to start if you're overwhelmed by college planning Link mentioned in this episode: Vanguard Tax Alpha Calculator Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow us on YouTube at Financially Free Physicians

  13. 7

    Are Non-Competes Done For?

    Non-compete agreements are a hot topic for physicians, with the FTC's recent ruling sparking debates and potential changes on the horizon. We're joined by financial planner Meredith Jones, DVM, CSLP®, AFC®, to explore what makes up a typical non-compete, why the FTC's decision could reshape the rules, and how the American Medical Association is responding. Most importantly, we'll share actionable steps physicians can take right now to advocate for themselves and protect their professional freedom. Key moments: (02:31) Why the FTC's recent ruling has everyone talking about non-competes (05:58) How the AMA and other major associations are responding to the non-compete debate (08:03) A firsthand story about how non-competes can limit career options (16:08) Steps physicians can take right now to push back against restrictive agreements Link mentioned in this episode: FTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompetes Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  14. 6

    10 Resolutions for 2025 (That Might Surprise You)

    New year, new goals — but these 10 resolutions for 2025 are anything but ordinary. In this episode, we're joined by Meagan McGuire, CFP®, ChFC®, CSLP®, to talk through unexpected ways to improve your financial health, career satisfaction and overall well-being in the coming year. We'll discuss how to define your "enough," build boundaries to combat constant marketing pressures and focus on money neutrality instead of unhealthy comparisons. From philanthropy to honest money conversations, we'll explore practical tips for starting 2025 with clarity, confidence and a mindset that embraces both progress and peace. Key moments: (08:20) Setting boundaries at work even when you can't fully unplug (13:30) Let go of guilt and embrace money neutrality — spend and save without shame (19:53) How giving back through philanthropy can add purpose and break free from the grind (24:59) Raised to avoid money talk? Here's how to have fearless financial conversations Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  15. 5

    Family Planning, Fertility and Finding Balance

    Family planning and fertility touch on some of the most personal and challenging decisions in life — especially for women in medicine, who face unique pressures and demands. Angie Pack, CSLP®, joins me, and we're addressing these sensitive topics head-on. We share our own experiences with infertility, the difficult choices surrounding when to start a family, and the financial implications of treatments like IVF. We also discuss the support available through income-driven repayment plans for student loans, tax deductions for medical expenses, and the value of breaking the silence surrounding fertility and family planning. Key moments: (04:53) Tracking cycles and timing conception while juggling clinical rotation (09:37) Different types of infertility and the emotional impact of pregnancy loss (16:07) Balancing schedules for IVF, IUI, and other treatments while managing costs (19:55) Taking control of your parenthood journey and finding the right support system Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  16. 4

    A Love Letter to Physicians

    We're hitting pause on the noise to reflect on gratitude — specifically, our gratitude for you, the physicians who dedicate your lives to serving others. We'll also explore a year-end checklist of financial tips, like maxing out pre-tax retirement accounts and why working with a tax professional can make a big difference. But by and large, this episode is all about stepping back and recognizing your resilience, your impact, and the immense value you bring to your patients and communities. Consider this our love letter to you, a celebration of the work you do and a reminder that, even in uncertain times, you are appreciated more than you know. Key moments: (02:25) Simple mindfulness strategies for uncertain times, like "nature bathing" and open-eye meditation (07:24) Practical advice for financial moves to make before year-end for a stronger bottom line (11:30) How "bunching" with a donor-advised fund can maximize your charitable giving (19:40) Why now is the perfect time to map out your vision for the next five years Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  17. 3

    5 Tax-Smart Alternatives That Beat High-Yield Savings Accounts

    Tired of watching your hard-earned money lose value to taxes and inflation? We're exploring five powerful investment alternatives beyond a simple high-yield savings account (HYSA). You'll learn clear strategies to maximize your post-tax cash while keeping your money accessible. We break down the benefits of municipal bonds, Treasury bills, and other smart options physicians might overlook. If you're tired of settling for standard savings rates, this episode will help you make smarter choices with your cash. Key moments: (03:13) Money market accounts are a low-risk, low-hassle option to improve your yield (06:02) How no-penalty CDs and short-term bond funds fuel flexibility (15:11) Municipal bonds are a tax-efficient choice tailored for physicians (18:24) Calculate tax-equivalent yield to make smarter investment decisions (23:50) BulletShares and other maturity-focused bonds offer steady growth with a set finish line Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  18. 2

    A New Financial Rx for Physicians

    Holding onto outdated money advice as a physician? It's time for a new perspective. In this first episode, financial planner Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, and special guest Travis Hornsby, CFA®, CFP®, set the stage for the conversations they'll be having: from debt strategies and wealth building to navigating burnout and lifestyle decisions, even what to do when family asks for money. We highlight the often-overlooked perspective of female physicians and expose common financial pitfalls for early and mid-career doctors. Whether you're a first-gen doc or just seeking more balance, this episode introduces the fresh, practical insights you can expect in every show — helping you build a career (and life) that truly fits you. Key moments: (03:35) Physicians face more "investment noise" than any other profession (08:58) Why sometimes it's worth skipping student loan forgiveness for a job that offers a better quality of life now (16:23) One of the pros and cons of being a physician is you're brilliant (21.44) Handling the high-stress demands of being a physician Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

  19. 1

    Welcome to Financially Free Physicians

    Join host Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, on a transformative journey for physicians ready to take charge of their financial futures—no prescription needed! Each episode tackles the unique challenges and opportunities of a medical career, offering actionable strategies to boost your financial well-being, all while being mindful of student loans (which can feel like a bad case of indigestion). From navigating student loans to making smart investments, we explore everything from entrepreneurship to practice management. Our mission is to empower you to achieve your financial goals in a relatable way—because financial health should feel like a walk in the park, not a marathon in scrubs. Whether you're a resident figuring out if ramen counts as food or a seasoned physician wondering where your paycheck went, our practical advice and light-hearted banter will guide you. Subscribe now and join us every other week for financial wisdom and a few good laughs—because making your money work as hard as you do shouldn't feel like a broken leg! Doctors know best... about medicine. Book a free intro call to give your finances a second opinion. Just browsing? Learn more about us at SLP Wealth. Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Join host Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, on a transformative journey for physicians ready to take charge of their financial futures—no prescription needed! Each episode tackles the unique challenges and opportunities of a medical career, offering actionable strategies to boost your financial well-being, all while being mindful of student loans (which can feel like a bad case of indigestion).From navigating student loans to making smart investments, we explore everything from PSLF to practice management. Our mission is to empower you to achieve your financial goals in a relatable way—because financial health should feel like a walk in the park, not a marathon in scrubs.Whether you're a resident figuring out if ramen counts as food or a seasoned physician wondering where your paycheck went, our practical advice and light-hearted banter will guide you. Subscribe now and join us every other week for financial wisdom and a few good laughs—because your money should work as hard as you do!

HOSTED BY

Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®

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