Doctors Making A Difference

Why Plastic Surgery Isn’t About Vanity with Dr. Susan Chobanian | DMD#84

In this heartfelt episode of Doctors Making a Difference, Dr. Peter Crane interviews Dr. Susan Chobanian, a highly experienced facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Glendale, California. Dr. Chobanian discusses her unconventional path from math/chemistry teaching aspirations to medicine, her transition from ENT to facial plastics, and her deep commitment to whole-patient care. She addresses myths about plastic surgery, details her patient-centered approach (especially in rhinoplasty), shares inspiring multi-generational patient stories, and offers wisdom for young physicians on technical excellence, physical fitness, psychology, and sustaining joy in medicine. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * Growing up in Wisconsin, graduating high school at 15, starting college at 15, and becoming one of the youngest licensed physicians in Wisconsin at age 23 * Transition from math/chemistry and teaching aspirations to medicine, inspired by her dentist father and the respect for the profession * Early career in ENT/head & neck in Wisconsin, then a fellowship in facial plastic surgery in sunny California * Plastic surgery as the perfect merger of art and science , improving both appearance and patients’ self-confidence for greater success in life * Common misconceptions: plastic surgery is only for vanity, the wealthy, or women (she notes ~50% male rhinoplasty patients) * The power of closed (scarless) rhinoplasty technique, a “lost art” that delivers better healing and natural results while preserving ethnicity and individuality * Multi-generational patients (2nd and 3rd generations), patient success stories, and receiving ongoing feedback about life-changing outcomes * Importance of physical fitness for surgeons (gym 4x/week, deadlifting 120 lbs, running) to maintain performance in the OR * In-depth consultations, setting realistic expectations, and treating the whole patient, psychological and social aspects matter * Advice for medical students/residents considering plastic surgery and for all physicians on sustaining long, fulfilling careers TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS * Plastic surgery is far more than vanity, it’s about helping patients gain confidence to succeed in life; everyone deserves to feel they belong in the “realm of attractive people.” * Technical excellence + artistic vision + psychological insight = outstanding outcomes. Closed rhinoplasty, preserving ethnic identity, and drawing proposed results on patient photos help deliver natural, personalized results. * To enjoy a long career in surgery, stay physically fit, remain self-critical of your results, follow patients long-term, and never forget you are a physician first who must care for the whole person. ABOUT DR. SUSAN CHOBANIAN Dr. Susan Chobanian is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Glendale, California, with over 25 years of experience. She began her career in ENT before specializing in facial plastics. Known affectionately by patients as the “Queen of Rhinoplasty” for her expertise in closed rhinoplasty techniques, she has cared for multiple generations of patients and is passionate about helping people achieve natural-looking results that boost confidence and life success. She continues to practice with enthusiasm and mentors students and residents. Website: SusanLChobanianMD.com [https://susanchobanianmd.com/]  Instagram: SusanChobanianMD [https://www.instagram.com/drchobanian?igsh=MTZiNW0wejBtbms5dw==] About the Host: Dr. Peter Crane is a board-certified physician, educator, and storyteller with a heart for service and a calling to spotlight doctors who make a difference—in their communities, in medicine, and in the lives they touch. Through Doctors Making a Difference, he brings you into intimate conversations with physicians who have overcome challenges, redefined success, and found purpose in and beyond the clinic. His goal is simple: to help more doctors stay in medicine by showing them what's possible. About the Show: Doctors Making a Difference is more than a podcast—it’s a movement to highlight the good, the gritty, and the deeply human side of medicine. In every episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews physicians whose stories defy the script. From burnout recovery to bold career pivots, health challenges to quiet leadership, this show honors the truth that healing begins with connection—and doctors, too, deserve to be whole. Visit: doctorsmakingadifference.com LMC Series Note: Living with Metastatic Cancer (LMC) explores the science, decisions, and day-to-day realities of life with advanced disease—through candid physician–patient conversations. The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult appropriate experts regarding your unique circumstances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New Hope for SFT Patients: Research, Trials and Breakthroughs  with Dr. Gina D’Amato |  LMC #83

Dr. Peter Crane welcomes Dr. Gina D’Amato, sarcoma medical oncologist and leader of the Horowitz Solitary Fibrous Tumor Initiative at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. They discuss the current state of SFT research, the importance of the global patient registry and biobank, preliminary findings from molecular profiling, and major developments including a rapid oral abstract presentation at ASCO. Dr. D’Amato shares updates on the successful creation of an SFT cell line and organoids, ongoing collaborations, and an imminent clinical trial using FAP-targeted radioligand (alpha particle) therapy. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of patient participation in accelerating progress toward better treatments and ultimately a cure for this rare sarcoma. Episode Highlights: * Dr. Peter Crane introduces Dr. Gina D’Amato and shares the personal importance of this topic as an SFT patient * Overview of solitary fibrous tumor as a rare sarcoma (~2% of sarcomas) with variable behavior and limited treatment options * The Horowitz Solitary Fibrous Tumor Registry & Biobank: now open globally, approaching 100 patients enrolled * Patient questionnaire collecting environmental, occupational, and family history data; plans for blood and tumor specimen collection * NAB2-STAT6 fusion gene variants and their correlation with tumor location and behavior * Retrospective analysis of 50–100 patients, additional mutations (TP53, TERT, CDK), and efforts to improve the D’Amico prognostic tool * Major milestone: Rapid oral abstract presentation at ASCO by medical student Keerthana on NAB2-STAT6 fusion variants and metastatic risk * Successful development of an SFT cell line (“Little Joels”) from Mr. Joel Horowitz and progress with organoid models * Tribute to the late Dr. Heather Hiinga and her significant contributions to SFT research * Exciting new clinical trial: PSV359 (Perspective Therapeutics), FAP-targeted radioligand alpha particle therapy opening soon at University of Miami and other sites * How the trial works: PET scan selection followed by therapeutic injections; potential for future targeted drug delivery Top 3 Takeaways: * Patient participation in the global SFT Registry and Biobank is extremely valuable. Every enrollment helps build the critical data needed to understand this rare disease and develop better treatments. * Molecular profiling (NAB2-STAT6 variants and co-mutations) is improving our ability to predict behavior and personalize care for SFT patients. * Promising new therapies are advancing, particularly FAP-targeted radioligand therapy, which could offer more precise treatment with potentially fewer side effects. About Dr. Gina  D’Amato  Dr. Gina D’Amato is a sarcoma medical oncologist, Professor of Medicine, and Sarcoma Lead at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. She serves as administrator of the Horowitz Solitary Fibrous Tumor Initiative and has over 20 years of experience treating sarcoma patients. Websites: *  solitaryfibroustumor.org [http://solitaryfibroustumor.org] * SFT Patient Registry: https://solitaryfibroustumor.org [https://solitaryfibroustumor.org] * Clinical Trial: Search PSV359 on clinicaltrials.gov [http://clinicaltrials.gov] (opening soon) * Previous episodes with Dr. D’Amato and Joel Horowitz : Joel Horowitz & Dr. Gina D’Amato on Hope, Research, and the Fight Against Solitary [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lmc-58-joel-horowitz-dr-gina-damato-on-hope-research/id1753613285?i=1000737541857]  (November 2025) About the Host: Dr. Peter Crane is a board-certified physician, educator, and storyteller with a heart for service and a calling to spotlight doctors who make a difference—in their communities, in medicine, and in the lives they touch. Through Doctors Making a Difference, he brings you into intimate conversations with physicians who have overcome challenges, redefined success, and found purpose in and beyond the clinic. His goal is simple: to help more doctors stay in medicine by showing them what's possible. About the Show: Doctors Making a Difference is more than a podcast—it’s a movement to highlight the good, the gritty, and the deeply human side of medicine. In every episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews physicians whose stories defy the script. From burnout recovery to bold career pivots, health challenges to quiet leadership, this show honors the truth that healing begins with connection—and doctors, too, deserve to be whole. Visit: doctorsmakingadifference.com LMC Series Note: Living with Metastatic Cancer (LMC) explores the science, decisions, and day-to-day realities of life with advanced disease—through candid physician–patient conversations.   The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult appropriate experts regarding your unique circumstances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Escaping Burnout and Reclaiming Medicine with Dr. Brittney Anderson | DMD #82

In this inspiring episode of Doctors Making a Difference, Dr. Peter Crane interviews Dr. Brittany Anderson, a board-certified family medicine physician, podcaster, author, and advocate. Dr. Anderson opens up about her path through residency, challenging employed positions, severe burnout, and the pivotal decision to resign and open her own private practice. She offers candid, actionable advice on financial planning, marketing, team building, mindset shifts, and why private practice restored her love for medicine while delivering excellent patient care. This conversation is a must-listen for any physician considering independence or frustrated with the current healthcare system. Episode Highlights: * Dr. Anderson’s rural Alabama roots, shadowing private practice family docs, and choosing family medicine * Early career struggles in an FQHC with extreme understaffing and later academic medicine bureaucracy * The burnout breaking point: pep talks before clinic and booking a flight to Honolulu to write her resignation letter and business plan * Transitioning from employed models to launching a lean, insurance-based private practice * Making the math work: revenue, expenses, patient volume, schedule design, and starting lean * The freedom of autonomy,  making real-time changes, flexible patient care, and reduced burnout despite running a business * Marketing through social media (including a viral TikTok presence) and community engagement driving patient growth * Hitting seven figures in revenue while expanding with a PA and another physician * Launching Physicians Hanging a Shingle podcast, coaching, and her book Private Practice On Purpose Top 3 Takeaways: * Private practice is not for everyone, but for physicians who crave autonomy and see better ways to care for patients, the mindset shift from “employee” to “owner” is liberating and can dramatically reduce burnout. * Make the math work upfront: live lean during transition, carefully model revenue/expenses/patient volume, start lean (lease, minimal equipment), and manipulate the variables you control. * You don’t have to figure it out alone, talk to other private practice physicians, build a support team, use social media for marketing/education, and remember that mistakes are fixable when you control the decisions. About Dr. Brittney Anderson Dr. Brittney Anderson is a board-certified family medicine physician practicing in rural Alabama. After experiencing burnout in employed settings, she founded her own independent practice four years ago. She is the host of the Physicians Hanging a Shingle podcast, author of Private Practice On Purpose, and an active advocate for physician autonomy at state and national levels. Through coaching and content, she helps other doctors successfully launch and run their own practices. Website: hangingashingle.com [https://hangingashingle.com] Book: Private Practice On Purpose [https://www.amazon.com/Private-Practice-Purpose-Physicians-Launching/dp/B0GWWM1WNZ] (available on Amazon) Podcast: Physicians Hanging a Shingle [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/physicians-hanging-a-shingle-start-a-private/id1813782456] About the Host: Dr. Peter Crane is a board-certified physician, educator, and storyteller with a heart for service and a calling to spotlight doctors who make a difference—in their communities, in medicine, and in the lives they touch. Through Doctors Making a Difference, he brings you into intimate conversations with physicians who have overcome challenges, redefined success, and found purpose in and beyond the clinic. His goal is simple: to help more doctors stay in medicine by showing them what's possible. About the Show: Doctors Making a Difference is more than a podcast—it’s a movement to highlight the good, the gritty, and the deeply human side of medicine. In every episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews physicians whose stories defy the script. From burnout recovery to bold career pivots, health challenges to quiet leadership, this show honors the truth that healing begins with connection—and doctors, too, deserve to be whole. Visit: doctorsmakingadifference.com [http://doctorsmakingadifference.com] LMC Series Note: Living with Metastatic Cancer (LMC) explores the science, decisions, and day-to-day realities of life with advanced disease—through candid physician–patient conversations. The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult appropriate experts regarding your unique circumstances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Future of Surgery: Robotics, AI, and the Next Generation of Physicians With Dr. Sanjeev Kumar | DMD #81

In this fascinating and forward-looking episode of Doctors Making a Difference, Dr. Peter Crane welcomes Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a double board-certified gynecologic oncologist and leader in robotic surgery. Dr. Kumar shares his journey from a farming background in India to training in the UK and the United States, ultimately developing a highly specialized career in gynecologic oncology and robotic surgery. Guided by mentorship and a commitment to mastering a niche skill, he has positioned himself at the forefront of surgical innovation. The conversation explores how robotic surgery has revolutionized patient care, allowing for greater precision, improved outcomes, and the ability to treat complex cases that were once considered inoperable. Dr. Kumar highlights key advantages, including enhanced visualization, nerve preservation, and dramatically reduced complications, especially in high-risk and obese patients. The discussion then shifts to the future: the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, its integration into surgical systems, and the potential for telesurgery to expand access to care globally. This episode is a powerful look at where medicine is headed and a reminder that embracing innovation is key to shaping the future of healthcare. Episode Highlights: * Dr. Sanjeev Kumar’s journey: from rural India to global surgical training in the UK and US * The importance of developing a niche skill and going deep in your field * How robotic surgery works, and clearing up common misconceptions * Advantages of robotic surgery: precision, magnification, and improved patient outcomes * Performing complex procedures like nerve-sparing cancer surgeries with better functional results * Transforming care for obese and high-risk patients with minimally invasive techniques * The evolution of robotic systems and increasing accessibility worldwide * The future of telesurgery and expanding care to underserved regions * How AI is being integrated into surgical data, training, and decision-making * Why AI will not replace physicians, but will change how they practice * Advice for medical students: embrace technology, adapt, and learn how to learn Top 3 Takeaways: * Technology is a tool, not a replacement: AI and robotics enhance physician capabilities but cannot replace human judgment and care. * Specialization creates impact: Developing a unique skill set allows physicians to push boundaries and truly advance their field. * The future belongs to adaptable physicians: Those who embrace innovation and continuous learning will lead the next era of medicine. About Dr. Sanjeev Kumar: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar is a double board-certified gynecologic oncologist specializing in advanced robotic surgery. With training across India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, including fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. He has developed expertise in complex cancer surgeries and minimally invasive techniques. Passionate about innovation, Dr. Kumar is actively engaged in advancing robotic surgery and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in surgical care. linkedIn: Sanjeev Kumar MD [http://linkedin.com/in/sanjeev-kumar-md-34781a84] Website: https://www.drsanjeevkumarsurgeon.com [https://www.drsanjeevkumarsurgeon.com] About the Host: Dr. Peter Crane is a board-certified physician, educator, and storyteller with a heart for service and a calling to spotlight doctors who make a difference—in their communities, in medicine, and in the lives they touch. Through Doctors Making a Difference, he brings you into intimate conversations with physicians who have overcome challenges, redefined success, and found purpose in and beyond the clinic. His goal is simple: to help more doctors stay in medicine by showing them what's possible. About the Show: Doctors Making a Difference is more than a podcast—it’s a movement to highlight the good, the gritty, and the deeply human side of medicine. In every episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews physicians whose stories defy the script. From burnout recovery to bold career pivots, health challenges to quiet leadership, this show honors the truth that healing begins with connection—and doctors, too, deserve to be whole. Visit: doctorsmakingadifference.com LMC Series Note: Living with Metastatic Cancer (LMC) explores the science, decisions, and day-to-day realities of life with advanced disease—through candid physician–patient conversations. The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult appropriate experts regarding your unique circumstances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Doctors Burn Out, and How to Find Your Way Back With Dr. Michael Hersh | DMD #80

In this insightful and deeply relatable episode of Doctors Making a Difference, Dr. Peter Crane welcomes Dr. Michael Hersh, a gastroenterologist, podcaster, and physician life coach dedicated to helping doctors rediscover fulfillment in medicine. Dr. Hersh shares his journey from always knowing he wanted to be a physician to experiencing burnout years into practice, exacerbated by malpractice litigation and the COVID-19 pandemic. At one point, he found himself searching for a way out of medicine entirely. That turning point led him to physician coaching, where he began reframing his mindset and reconnecting with the parts of medicine he truly loves. The conversation dives into the realities of mid-career burnout, the pressure physicians face daily, and how small but intentional changes like taking a lunch break or reframing your mindset, can transform your experience. Dr. Hersh also discusses the unique challenges male physicians face, including vulnerability, work-life balance, and transitioning from demanding clinical roles to being present at home. Together, Dr. Crane and Dr. Hersh explore practical strategies for staying engaged in medicine, managing emotional exhaustion, and building a life that feels sustainable, not just someday, but right now. They also address the importance of mental health awareness in medicine and the need for stronger community and support among physicians. Episode Highlights: * Dr. Michael Hersh’s journey: 25 years in medicine, from aspiring pediatrician to practicing gastroenterologist and coach * Burnout turning point: malpractice litigation, COVID-19, and the search for an exit from medicine * How mindset shifts helped him rediscover meaning and remain in full-time practice * The power of reframing daily work: from obligation to opportunity * Simple but impactful changes: taking lunch breaks, creating space, and regaining control of your day * The challenge of work-home transition and how to be present with family after demanding shifts * Why balance doesn’t mean equal, it shifts over time * Unique struggles male physicians face, including vulnerability and emotional expression * The danger of “should” thinking and how it fuels guilt and burnout * Recognizing when stress becomes something more serious and when to seek help * The importance of physician community, connection, and supporting colleagues If you or someone you know is in crisis: * Call or text 988 or chat via 988lifeline.org [http://988lifeline.org/] (Free, 24/7, confidential) * Physician Support Line: 1-888-409-0141 * NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264 Top 3 Takeaways: * Mindset matters more than circumstances: Reframing your work and focusing on what you can control can transform your experience in medicine. * Balance is dynamic, not perfect: Some days will be work-heavy, others family-focused. What matters is the overall rhythm over time. * You don’t have to do this alone: Connection, vulnerability, and seeking support are essential to sustaining a long, meaningful career in medicine. About Dr. Michael Hersh:  Dr. Michael Hersh is a practicing gastroenterologist with over 25 years of experience. He is the founder of Better Physician Life Coaching, where he helps physicians reconnect with medicine and build more fulfilling personal and professional lives. A passionate advocate for physician wellness, Dr. Hersh also hosts the Better Physician Life podcast and focuses particularly on supporting male physicians navigating burnout, balance, and identity in medicine.  Connect with Dr. Hersh: Podcast: Better Physician Life [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-physician-life-how-to-get-unstuck-in-your-medical/id1828495724] Website: www.betterphysicianlife.com [https://www.betterphysicianlife.com]   LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michael-hersh-md [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hersh-md/]   Instagram: @betterphysicianlife [https://www.instagram.com/betterphysicianlife/]   YouTube: @betterphysicianlife [https://www.youtube.com/@betterphysicianlife]   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betterphysicianlifecoachingfacebook.com/betterphysicianlifecoaching [http://facebook.com/betterphysicianlifecoaching] About the Host: Dr. Peter Crane is a board-certified physician, educator, and storyteller with a heart for service and a calling to spotlight doctors who make a difference—in their communities, in medicine, and in the lives they touch. Through Doctors Making a Difference, he brings you into intimate conversations with physicians who have overcome challenges, redefined success, and found purpose in and beyond the clinic. His goal is simple: to help more doctors stay in medicine by showing them what's possible. About the Show: Doctors Making a Difference is more than a podcast—it’s a movement to highlight the good, the gritty, and the deeply human side of medicine. In every episode, Dr. Peter Crane interviews physicians whose stories defy the script. From burnout recovery to bold career pivots, health challenges to quiet leadership, this show honors the truth that healing begins with connection—and doctors, too, deserve to be whole. Visit: doctorsmakingadifference.com LMC Series Note: Living with Metastatic Cancer (LMC) explores the science, decisions, and day-to-day realities of life with advanced disease—through candid physician–patient conversations.   The Doctors Making a Difference Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult appropriate experts regarding your unique circumstances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.