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In the sixty-one episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Johna Joseph, a fourth-year medical student at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine who is preparing to enter the field of radiology. Originally from Haiti and raised in a military family, Johna’s journey has taken him across the world—from growing up in multiple countries to graduating high school in Italy, and eventually pursuing his undergraduate studies at Colgate University as a chemistry major and track and field athlete.
Johna shares how his path into medicine was deeply influenced by his mother’s experience with chronic illness. Witnessing her health challenges at a young age shaped his desire to help others and highlighted how profoundly health can impact quality of life. That early motivation has since evolved into a broader understanding of the complexities within the healthcare system and the many ways physicians can create meaningful change.
We talk about what keeps Johna grounded and motivated, from his deep appreciation for human connection to the relationships he’s built with patients, peers, and his community. He reflects on the importance of staying curious, embracing the human experience, and recognizing the role we all play in shaping the future of healthcare.
Johna is especially passionate about representation in medicine, emphasizing the importance of diversity within the physician workforce and the impact it has on patient care. He speaks candidly about the challenges and misconceptions surrounding diversity in healthcare, and why increasing representation is not just important—but necessary for improving outcomes in underserved communities.
Throughout our conversation, Johna highlights one of the accomplishments he is most proud of: completing medical school alongside a community of driven, talented peers who have supported and inspired him every step of the way. For him, this shared journey—learning, growing, and ultimately matching into residency together—has been one of the most meaningful parts of his experience.
Beyond medicine, Johna brings a unique perspective as a musician, language enthusiast, and someone who values humor and storytelling, reminding us that being a physician is just one part of a much larger identity.
Johna’s story is a powerful reflection of resilience, representation, and the importance of community—showing that medicine is not just about knowledge, but about connection, perspective, and purpose.
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In the sixtieth episode of Vitals and Voices, we had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with Lindsay Krasna, a Brooklyn-based Registered Dietitian and founder of LK Nutrition, a private practice specializing in eating disorders and complicated relationships with food. Through both counseling and leadership, Lindsay has built a practice centered on compassion, inclusivity, and helping people reconnect with food and their bodies in healthier ways.
Lindsay shares how her interest in nutrition first began as a competitive basketball player fascinated by the connection between food and athletic performance. Over time, that curiosity expanded into a deeper interest in the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of eating—ultimately leading her toward the field of eating disorder nutrition.
We talk about what makes her work so meaningful, from building long-term relationships with clients to creating individualized approaches that support both physical and mental well-being. Lindsay reflects on the privilege of working in a private practice setting, where flexibility and creativity allow her to truly tailor care to each person’s unique needs.
Lindsay is especially passionate about eating disorders within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the ways sexuality, gender identity, body image, and food relationships intersect. As a queer cis woman, she shares how both personal reflection and clinical experience have shaped her understanding of the need for more affirming and inclusive care in this space. She emphasizes that eating disorders disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ individuals and believes healthcare must do more to recognize and address those realities with compassion and nuance.
Throughout our conversation, Lindsay speaks about what keeps her motivated through challenging moments: the resilience of her clients, the collaborative support of her team, and the constant evolution of the field itself. Whether witnessing improvements in someone’s physical and mental health or simply offering a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk about food, she finds deep purpose in helping others heal.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is most proud of—celebrating the 10-year milestone of LK Nutrition. What began in 2014 as a small part-time solo practice has grown into a thriving group practice that has impacted countless lives. For Lindsay, building a career rooted in meaningful work, flexibility, and human connection has been both professionally and personally transformative.
Lindsay’s story is a powerful reminder that healthcare is not only about physical wellness, but also about identity, belonging, and the ways compassionate support can help people rebuild their relationships with themselves.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In the fifty-ninth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Michele Neskey, a Physician Assistant with more than 20 years of experience in adult medical oncology and the founder of The Posh PA, a platform dedicated to mentoring and empowering future healthcare professionals.
Michele shares how her journey into medicine was shaped by a desire for a career that could grow alongside her through different stages of life while still allowing her to make a meaningful impact on patients during some of their most difficult moments. Through years of working in oncology, she developed a deep appreciation for the importance of connection, compassion, and patient-centered care.
We talk about what inspired her to expand beyond clinical medicine and create The Posh PA, where she helps pre-PA students navigate the admissions process with confidence and strategy. Michele reflects on how overwhelming and isolating the path into healthcare can feel—especially for first-generation students or those without mentorship—and why guiding students toward believing in themselves has become one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Michele is especially passionate about education and empowerment, whether supporting patients through cancer treatment or helping students through the emotionally demanding application process. She believes that clarity reduces anxiety, mentorship can change trajectories, and sometimes simply having someone in your corner makes all the difference.
Throughout our conversation, Michele speaks about what keeps her motivated in challenging moments: witnessing transformation. Whether it’s a patient feeling truly heard during a difficult diagnosis or a student receiving an acceptance letter after doubting themselves, those moments reinforce the impact of advocacy, support, and perseverance.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is most proud of—building The Posh PA into a trusted national resource while continuing to work clinically. Through her mentorship, she has helped hundreds of students gain acceptance into PA school, many of whom are reapplicants or first-generation students. Beyond admissions coaching, Michele is also passionate about helping healthcare professionals create careers that combine medicine with flexibility, entrepreneurship, and personal branding.
Michele’s story is a reminder that healthcare extends far beyond the clinic—and that empowering others, whether patients or future providers, can create ripple effects that last for generations.
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In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Maria Jimena Barroso, who goes by Jimena, a medical student from Mexico City currently completing her final year of training through social service in the United States. With a strong focus on women’s health, global health, and health equity, Jimena is building a path toward a future in OB-GYN that combines clinical care, research, and advocacy.
Jimena shares how her journey into medicine was shaped by witnessing firsthand how structural inequalities impact access to care, particularly for women. Growing up and training in Mexico, she saw how factors like geography, socioeconomic status, and education can determine health outcomes—experiences that continue to guide her commitment to improving care for underserved communities.
We talk about her work in women’s health research, including reproductive health, maternal outcomes, and health disparities, as well as her efforts to mentor and support other students pursuing medicine. Jimena reflects on the importance of creating pathways for others and using medicine not just as a profession, but as a platform for impact.
What deeply shapes her perspective as a future physician is her experience as a patient. During medical school, Jimena was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, shifting her role from caregiver to patient. She shares how this experience transformed her understanding of vulnerability, trust, and the emotional weight patients carry. It reinforced the importance of listening, presence, and believing patients—lessons that now define how she approaches medicine.
Jimena is especially passionate about women’s health, including reproductive health, maternal morbidity and mortality, and gynecologic oncology, particularly in underserved populations. She emphasizes that improving outcomes for women is not only a healthcare priority, but a community-wide investment.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is most proud of: being selected as an Anne C. Carter Global Health Fellow, where she is currently developing a project focused on women’s health education and resilience in post-disaster settings. This work reflects her dedication to sustainable, community-based solutions that extend beyond immediate care to long-term empowerment.
Throughout our conversation, Jimena’s perspective highlights the intersection of science, empathy, and lived experience. She reminds us that every patient carries a story—and that truly meaningful care begins with listening.
Jimena’s journey is a powerful reflection of resilience, purpose, and compassion, showing that the most impactful physicians are those who not only understand disease, but deeply understand the people behind it.
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In the fifty-seventh episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Vani Ganesh, a third-year osteopathic medical student whose journey into medicine is rooted in advocacy, health equity, and a deep passion for women’s health education.
As a first-generation American, Vani shares how her path into healthcare was shaped by witnessing the challenges many individuals and families face in accessing quality care. Those experiences sparked her commitment to equitable healthcare and helped shape her growing passion for women’s preventive health, where education and early intervention can have a lasting impact on outcomes.
We talk about what keeps Vani motivated through the challenges of medical training, including the importance of staying hopeful, returning to her “why,” and remembering the long-term purpose behind the work. She reflects on how maintaining perspective and staying grounded in purpose has helped her navigate difficult moments in medicine.
Vani is especially passionate about women’s preventive health and health literacy, sharing how both personal experiences and clinical rotations have reinforced how powerful education can be in improving outcomes for women. She believes empowering patients with knowledge is not separate from healthcare—it is central to it.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is especially proud of: organizing a Period Action Day fundraiser at her medical school using a period cramp simulation to raise awareness about menstrual health. Through the initiative, she raised funds that were donated to a local nonprofit providing menstrual products to individuals in low-income communities, combining advocacy, education, and service in a meaningful way.
Throughout our conversation, Vani’s passion for prevention, access, and patient empowerment shines through. Her story is a reminder that medicine is not only about treating illness, but also about education, advocacy, and creating systems that help people thrive before they ever become patients.
Vani’s journey reflects purpose, compassion, and the power of using medicine as a tool for both healing and change.
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In the fifty-sixth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Helen Dang, a second-year osteopathic medical student, community advocate, and Miss Mesa 2026, whose journey in medicine is rooted in service, equity, and compassionate care.
Helen shares how her path into healthcare was shaped by a desire to serve communities that are too often overlooked and to help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare systems that can feel intimidating or inaccessible. As a first-generation future physician, she brings a perspective grounded in advocacy, trust, and the belief that medicine is not just about treatment, but about presence and partnership.
We talk about her work in street medicine, harm reduction, and student-run clinics, where she helps provide care and resources to individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Through these experiences, Helen has developed a deep passion for meeting patients where they are and delivering care with dignity, respect, and realism.
Helen is especially passionate about harm reduction and health equity, particularly for people affected by housing instability and substance use disorders. She shares why harm reduction is not simply a public health strategy, but a human-centered approach that prioritizes safety, autonomy, and trust—values she sees as deeply aligned with osteopathic medicine.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is most proud of: helping build and coordinate student-run medical and osteopathic manipulative medicine clinics alongside community partners, expanding access to care while also training future physicians in compassionate, community-based medicine. Beyond clinical spaces, Helen has used her platform as Miss Mesa 2026 to amplify conversations around prevention, access, and equity, connecting public health advocacy with medical education and service.
Throughout our conversation, Helen reflects on what motivates her in difficult moments: remembering who this work is for, showing up consistently, and recognizing that progress is often found in small acts of listening, follow-up, and trust.
Helen’s story is a powerful reminder that medicine can be both deeply scientific and deeply human—and that meaningful care begins by meeting people with compassion where they are.
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In the fifty-fifth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Miriam Samekhova, a Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Metro Family Health, a primary care practice in New York built around accessibility, prevention, and patient-centered care.
Miriam shares how her path into healthcare was shaped by a deep interest in people—their stories, struggles, and the ways health influences every part of life. That passion led her to family medicine, where she found purpose in building long-term relationships with patients and caring for individuals and families across the lifespan. From pediatrics to geriatrics, her work centers on thoughtful, compassionate care that meets patients where they are.
We talk about what motivated Miriam to open her own practice and how building Metro Family Health allowed her to practice medicine in a way aligned with her values. By blending insurance-based and cash-pay models, she has created a flexible approach to care that makes healthcare feel more approachable and responsive to patients’ needs.
Miriam is especially passionate about preventive care and patient education, believing that many chronic conditions can be improved—or prevented altogether—when patients understand their health and feel empowered to take an active role in their care. She speaks about the importance of bridging the gap between medical knowledge and everyday life, particularly for women and busy families who often put themselves last.
Throughout our conversation, Miriam reflects on what keeps her motivated in challenging moments: the trust patients place in her, the impact of small but meaningful moments of care, and the desire to model resilience and purpose for her four children. She shares how motherhood has shaped the way she practices medicine and strengthened her empathy for the families she serves.
We also discuss one of the accomplishments she is most proud of—building a practice from the ground up while balancing motherhood and clinical work, and creating a space where patients feel seen, heard, and respected. Beyond traditional care, Miriam is also exploring innovative ways to support patients through digital health tools, wellness services, and care models that extend beyond the exam room.
Miriam’s story is a powerful reminder that healthcare can be both deeply personal and innovative—and that meaningful medicine often begins with listening, education, and relationships built on trust.
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In the fifty-fourth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Ke’Shawna, a Registered Respiratory Therapist currently pursuing training in cardiovascular perfusion, where she is preparing for a highly specialized role in open heart surgery. Her journey reflects a commitment to critical care, innovation, and improving access to healthcare for the communities she cares deeply about.
As a respiratory therapist, Ke’Shawna has cared for patients experiencing some of their most vulnerable moments—supporting breathing through medications, therapies, and mechanical ventilation. Through this work, she developed a strong foundation in critical care and a growing interest in the advanced technologies that sustain life. That interest ultimately led her to perfusion, where she is now training to operate the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery and support patients through complex interventions involving ECMO, Impella devices, intra-aortic balloon pumps, and more.
Her path into perfusion was shaped both by personal and professional experiences. Witnessing a loved one undergo open heart surgery brought the field into focus in a deeply personal way, while working alongside perfusionists as an RT sparked her curiosity and solidified her desire to pursue this specialized area of medicine.
What continues to motivate Ke’Shawna through the challenges of training is staying connected to her “why”—remembering the family and community that inspire her work and the broader impact she hopes to have through her career. For her, healthcare is not just about technical skill, but about showing up for people and helping improve outcomes where it matters most.
Ke’Shawna is especially passionate about social determinants of health and the ways they shape access to care. Having grown up in an underserved community herself, she understands how structural barriers can influence health outcomes and is committed to advancing awareness and equity in the field.
Among her proudest accomplishments are her academic achievements in perfusion school, earning a spot on the Dean’s List multiple times, securing her first perfusion position, and working alongside a research partner toward publication of a scholarly project. Each milestone reflects not only hard work, but a growing commitment to contributing to the future of cardiovascular care.
Ke’Shawna’s story is a powerful reminder that the path to specialized medicine can be built through curiosity, perseverance, and a desire to serve—and that representation and advocacy matter at every level of healthcare.
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In the fifty-third episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Bendu Jackson, a Physician Assistant student at Rosalind Franklin University currently in her clinical year and preparing to graduate this fall. With a unique academic background in Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychology, Bendu’s path into medicine has been anything but linear—shaped by exploration, uncertainty, and ultimately, clarity in her purpose.
Originally planning to pursue a career in psychology and research, Bendu found herself at a crossroads after graduating in 2020, when opportunities in research became limited. Through that period of uncertainty, she rediscovered her passion for patient care, returned to clinical work using her LPN license, and was introduced to the PA profession—a moment she describes as everything finally “falling into place.” Within a year, she completed prerequisites, applied to PA programs, and began her journey in medicine.
Bendu’s commitment to healthcare is deeply rooted in her experiences working with marginalized communities, individuals with disabilities, and patients navigating complex systems with limited support. These experiences shaped her understanding that quality care is not just about clinical knowledge, but about whether patients feel heard, respected, and believed.
Alongside her clinical training, Bendu is a leader and advocate. She founded The imPACt Collective, an organization dedicated to creating community and support for Black-identifying individuals in healthcare spaces. Through her leadership, she works to address gaps in access, representation, and resources while fostering mentorship and belonging for underrepresented students.
What continues to motivate Bendu—especially during the most challenging moments of training—is her commitment to those who are often overlooked in healthcare. She speaks candidly about the importance of showing up consistently with compassion, even when progress feels quiet, and believes that meaningful change happens through persistence and presence.
Bendu is especially passionate about the intersection of psychology, rheumatology, and women’s health, with a focus on how chronic pain and inflammatory conditions are experienced and often misunderstood in women. She advocates for a more holistic, mind–body approach to care—one that validates patients’ experiences and challenges the tendency to dismiss symptoms as simply stress or anxiety.
Among her proudest accomplishments is building a student-led organization that didn’t previously exist, creating a space where Black PA students feel seen, supported, and empowered. For Bendu, this work is just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to advocacy, equity, and patient-centered care.
Bendu’s story is a powerful reminder that the path to medicine is not always straightforward—but when guided by purpose, it can lead to meaningful impact both inside and beyond the clinic.
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In the fifty-second episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Sean Pirkle, a chief resident in orthopedic surgery at the University of Washington, author of Somewhere in Between, and future fellow specializing in adult foot and ankle surgery as well as pediatric orthopedics. With a passion for treating complex limb deformities in children and young adults, Dr. Pirkle’s journey reflects both surgical precision and a deep appreciation for the human stories behind medicine.
Originally from Suwanee, Georgia, Dr. Pirkle completed his undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University and earned his medical degree from the University of Chicago. His interest in medicine began early, sparked by a fascination with science and a formative shadowing experience that revealed the profound responsibility and privilege of caring for patients. That moment shaped not only his career path, but also his understanding of medicine as both a science and a deeply human practice.
During his training, Dr. Pirkle was drawn to orthopedic surgery for its unique ability to restore function and transform lives through hands-on, tangible care. Whether in the operating room or at the bedside, he finds purpose in helping patients heal, guiding them through moments of fear, and ultimately “putting people back together.” For him, medicine is not only about technical skill, but also about connection, compassion, and meaning.
Beyond clinical work, Dr. Pirkle is deeply committed to improving wellness in medical training. From serving on wellness committees to writing opinion editorials, he has consistently advocated for a more sustainable and supportive culture in medicine—one that recognizes the challenges trainees face while fostering resilience and fulfillment.
His passion for storytelling led to the publication of his debut book, Somewhere in Between, which offers an inside look at the realities of medical school and explores broader themes of mortality, burnout, love, and finding purpose. Through writing, Dr. Pirkle seeks to make the hidden aspects of medicine more visible and relatable, bridging the gap between clinical training and the human experience.
Dr. Pirkle’s story is one of purpose, reflection, and dedication—reminding us that medicine is not only about healing the body, but also about understanding the stories that shape each patient, and each physician, along the way.
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In the fifty-first episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Emily Kidder, a first-year medical student in North Louisiana who followed a traditional path straight from undergraduate studies into medical school. Emily’s journey into medicine reflects a blend of curiosity, faith, and a commitment to living a life that is both meaningful and balanced.
Although Emily did not grow up in a medical family, she was inspired early on by hearing stories from friends’ parents who worked in healthcare. As she developed an interest in science and human biology, she began to see medicine as a natural path—one that was further shaped through her undergraduate experiences, including hospital volunteering, research, and medical mission work.
What grounds Emily through the challenges of medical training is her faith and the support system around her. She shares how trusting in God’s plan and leaning on her husband have given her the strength to persevere, even during demanding moments. For Emily, medicine is not just a career—it is a calling that is sustained by purpose, relationships, and belief.
Emily is especially passionate about maintaining balance in medicine, emphasizing that identity should not be defined solely by one’s profession. She believes that cultivating relationships, pursuing hobbies, and staying connected to life outside of medicine ultimately makes someone a more compassionate and well-rounded physician.
One of the accomplishments Emily is most proud of reflects this philosophy. During her undergraduate years, while many of her peers focused exclusively on building their resumes, Emily chose to spend her summers investing in experiences that brought her joy and growth. From performing in musicals and studying abroad in Sweden to participating in a mission trip in Guatemala and traveling with her family, she built a collection of meaningful memories that continue to shape who she is today.
Emily’s story is a reminder that the path to medicine does not have to come at the cost of living fully—and that sometimes, the most impactful journeys are the ones that prioritize both purpose and presence.
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In this milestone episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Ria Mohan — a third-year undergraduate student in the BS/MD program at Virginia Commonwealth University, majoring in Forensic Biology, and the International President of HOSA–Future Health Professionals. As the podcast celebrates 50 episodes so does HOSA-FHP with their 50th anniversary. Ria joins us to reflect on her leadership, advocacy, and the power of supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals.Ria’s journey into healthcare was shaped by personal experience. Watching her aunt navigate years on the kidney transplant waiting list exposed her to the emotional weight, uncertainty, and systemic barriers patients and families often face. That experience sparked her desire to pursue medicine — not just as a science, but as a system rooted in compassion, clarity, and dignity.Through her leadership in HOSA, Ria channels that motivation into action. As International President, she works closely with students across the globe, advocating for meaningful engagement, inclusivity, and leadership development within healthcare education. What motivates her most are the conversations with members who share how feeling supported or seen through HOSA helped them stay on their path during difficult moments.Ria is especially passionate about organ donation and access to care. Inspired by her family’s transplant journey, she believes education and early advocacy — particularly among young people — are key to normalizing these conversations and saving lives.One of her proudest accomplishments is helping to establish a HOSA chapter at VCU, creating a space for students who hadn’t previously seen themselves represented in traditional healthcare pipelines. Watching those students gain confidence, community, and a sense of belonging has been one of the most meaningful parts of her journey.Grounded, driven, and deeply people-centered, Ria’s story highlights how leadership, lived experience, and advocacy can shape a more compassionate future for healthcare — one student at a time.
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In the forty-ninth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Maggie Meade, a certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant with Sleep Wise Consulting who is on a mission to help families move from exhaustion to truly thriving. Through her work, Maggie supports parents and children in building healthy sleep habits—transforming not just nights, but entire family dynamics.
Maggie’s journey into sleep consulting began with her own lived experience as a mother. After the birth of her second daughter, she found herself navigating intense sleep deprivation, anxiety, and the overwhelming challenge of caring for both a newborn and a toddler. Unlike her first child, nothing seemed to work—and like many parents, Maggie found herself searching endlessly for answers. Everything changed when she became a client of Sleep Wise Consulting. The transformation in her daughter’s sleep—and overall mood, behavior, and well-being—was so profound that it inspired Maggie to pursue this path professionally.
Now, Maggie is deeply passionate about helping other families experience that same transformation. She emphasizes that sleep is not just about rest—it impacts emotional well-being, relationships, parenting, and overall quality of life. Through her work, she helps families cut through the noise of conflicting advice and find clear, effective strategies that can restore rest in just a few nights.
Maggie’s perspective is also shaped by her daughter’s early medical challenges, including undiagnosed tongue and lip ties, feeding difficulties, torticollis, and chronic congestion. Navigating multiple specialists—from pediatricians to speech-language pathologists—gave her a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of healthcare and the resources available to support families. As a mother of two children conceived through IVF, she also carries immense gratitude for the advancements in reproductive medicine that made her family possible.
In addition to her work as a sleep consultant, Maggie serves as a corporate Director of Training, Development, and Coaching—bringing her passion for education and empowerment into every space she’s part of. Whether she’s guiding leaders in the workplace or supporting parents at home, her goal remains the same: to help people become the best version of themselves.
Maggie’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most impactful careers are born from personal challenges—and that with the right support, even the most exhausting seasons can turn into something transformative.
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In the forty-eighth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Anu Sidhu, a board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine and the founder of Spring Monarch Primary Care, a direct care practice based in Houston, Texas. Dr. Sidhu’s journey through medicine reflects a deep commitment to patient relationships, whole-person care, and redefining what healthcare can look like when it’s centered around people—not systems.
Originally drawn to medicine through an interest in psychology and the human mind, Dr. Sidhu discovered her passion for family medicine during clinical rotations, where she found fulfillment in caring for patients across all ages and building long-term relationships with individuals and families. For nearly two decades, she practiced within the traditional insurance-based healthcare system, gaining extensive experience but eventually confronting the growing disconnect between how medicine was being practiced and the kind of physician she aspired to be.
As administrative burdens increased and patient interactions became more limited, Dr. Sidhu began to question whether the system allowed her to truly serve her patients in the way they deserved. What initially felt like burnout evolved into a deeper realization—that the structure of modern healthcare was standing in the way of meaningful, patient-centered care.
That realization led her to take one of the most difficult and defining steps of her career: leaving the security of a corporate medical position to build her own practice. Through direct primary care, Dr. Sidhu has created a model that removes the barriers of insurance and restores the focus of medicine to the relationship between doctor and patient. Her practice emphasizes accessibility, time, and trust—allowing her to provide care that is both comprehensive and deeply personal.
We talk about the realities of navigating today’s healthcare system, the courage it takes to step away from stability in pursuit of purpose, and how direct care is reshaping the future of medicine by bringing it back to its roots.
Dr. Sidhu is especially proud of this transition—not only as a professional accomplishment, but as a personal one. Choosing to walk away from comfort and certainty to build something aligned with her values reflects her belief that both patients and physicians deserve better.
Her story is a powerful reminder that meaningful change in healthcare often begins with one bold decision—and the willingness to build something better from the ground up.
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In the forty-seventh episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Christie Kimball, an internal medicine–trained physician and founder of Kimball Cosmetics, a rapidly growing aesthetic medicine practice based in Uptown New Orleans. Dr. Kimball’s journey through medicine is anything but traditional—one shaped by resilience, reinvention, and the courage to pursue a vision that had always lived quietly in the background of her career.
Originally trained as an internist, Dr. Kimball spent years working as a hospitalist in critical care, serving on the front lines during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Treating some of the sickest patients in the country and navigating the intense demands of ICU medicine, she developed extraordinary clinical skills—but also faced the profound burnout that many physicians experienced during that time. While she was proud of the work she did, she knew her heart had always been drawn to another side of medicine.
From a young age, Dr. Kimball had a deep appreciation for aesthetics and artistry. Even throughout her medical career, she found herself naturally drawn to the beauty and creativity of aesthetic medicine. What began as a small side project—hosting concierge cosmetic treatments and learning advanced aesthetic techniques—eventually grew into something much bigger.
After stepping away from hospital medicine in December 2023, Dr. Kimball took a leap of faith and began building her own practice. Starting in a tiny room inside a hair salon with minimal equipment and a curtain instead of a door, she launched Kimball Cosmetics with a simple goal: to create a space where she could practice medicine in a way that felt joyful, empowering, and authentic.
Within months, the practice grew rapidly. Today, just over a year later, Dr. Kimball’s clinic has expanded into a 3,000-square-foot practice serving more than 1,100 patients, offering services including injectables, laser treatments, medical aesthetics, and weight loss programs. Known for her precision and artistry with treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers, she approaches aesthetic medicine as both science and art—combining the analytical mindset of a physician with the creativity of an artist.
Dr. Kimball is especially passionate about helping patients feel confident and empowered in their own skin. For her, aesthetic medicine is not about vanity—it is about transformation, self-confidence, and helping people feel like the best version of themselves.
Today, in addition to running a thriving practice, Dr. Kimball also travels to train other medical professionals in injectables and laser treatments, sharing her expertise with the next generation of aesthetic providers. Reflecting on her journey—from not matching into dermatology to building a seven-figure aesthetic practice—she believes deeply in the power of perseverance and the idea that setbacks can ultimately lead to the life you were meant to build.
Dr. Kimball’s story is a powerful reminder that medicine can take many forms—and that sometimes the most fulfilling careers come from having the courage to follow your passion, even when the path looks different than expected.
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In the forty-sixth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Sehan Adan, a recent Biology graduate on the pre-med track who is currently working in a healthcare coordination role while preparing for the MCAT. Sehan’s journey into medicine is rooted in both lived experience and a deep commitment to health equity, patient advocacy, and creating pathways for students who come from backgrounds historically underrepresented in healthcare.
Sehan has conducted research at institutions such as Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic, focusing on health disparities and patient-centered care. Through these experiences, he has explored how structural factors—including socioeconomic status, language access, and systemic barriers—can shape patient outcomes and influence who receives quality care. His work reflects a strong interest in addressing these gaps through both research and community-centered advocacy.
Growing up as a first-generation, low-income student from a refugee background, Sehan witnessed firsthand how access to information, communication, and healthcare navigation can dramatically affect families and communities. These experiences inspired him to pursue a career in medicine and shaped his passion for systems-level change, particularly in improving how healthcare institutions serve vulnerable populations.
Beyond research and clinical work, Sehan is also committed to mentorship and education. Through digital platforms, he creates educational content designed to help first-generation and low-income students navigate academic pathways, healthcare careers, and opportunities that may otherwise feel out of reach. His goal is to make information more accessible and help students see themselves reflected in spaces where they may not have previously felt they belonged.
Sehan is especially proud of his research and advocacy work focused on underserved communities, including presenting at national conferences and participating in public panels discussing public health and gun violence. For him, the impact of this work lies not only in the outcomes, but also in maintaining a community-centered approach that prioritizes the voices and needs of those most affected.
Through storytelling—whether in research, writing, or digital media—Sehan hopes to continue highlighting the human side of healthcare while building resources that empower future generations of students pursuing medicine.
Sehan’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and purpose, reflecting a commitment to making healthcare more equitable, compassionate, and accessible for all.
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In the forty-fifth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Sharon, a senior at Rutgers University–Newark majoring in Neuroscience on the pre-med track. As she prepares to graduate this May, Sharon reflects on the experiences that have shaped her path toward becoming a physician and her commitment to serving underserved communities.
Sharon currently serves as a Case Manager at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School’s Student Family Health Care Clinic, where she works closely with patients and healthcare providers to help improve access to care. She has also begun shadowing a family medicine physician and is developing a research poster with her principal investigator based on work she has been conducting since September at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. On campus, Sharon is deeply involved in leadership as the President of the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) PLUS chapter, working to establish the organization officially at Rutgers–Newark and build a supportive community for students pursuing careers in medicine.
Sharon’s interest in medicine began during her junior year of high school amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Watching healthcare systems collapse in her home country of Peru, and seeing family members struggle to access care, deeply impacted her perspective on medicine and inspired her to pursue a career where she could provide meaningful support to patients and families during difficult moments.
What continues to motivate Sharon through challenges is her faith, her family, and her sense of purpose in serving her community. As the daughter of immigrants who once navigated the healthcare system without English proficiency, Sharon understands firsthand the barriers many families face when seeking care. These experiences fuel her commitment to becoming a physician who provides compassionate, culturally aware, and equitable care for underserved populations.
Sharon is particularly passionate about improving healthcare access and equity for underserved communities, combining her lived experiences with clinical work, research, and advocacy. Through her leadership, faith, and dedication to service, she hopes to uplift communities that often feel overlooked within the healthcare system.
As she prepares for the next chapter of her journey, Sharon remains grounded in gratitude—for her family, her mentors, and the strong sense of community she has found through her school and her LMSA familia. Her story reflects resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to using medicine as a path to serve others.
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In the forty-fourth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Kevin Nathanael, a first-year physician assistant (PA) student in Southern California who is currently navigating his didactic year of PA school. Before beginning his journey in graduate training, Kevin built a strong foundation in patient care through a variety of clinical roles, including working as an outpatient medical scribe across multiple specialties, serving as an EMT, and assisting in wound care. Outside of medicine, Kevin enjoys filmmaking, photography, hiking, playing pickleball, and exploring national parks.
Kevin first discovered the PA profession while shadowing a physician in the emergency room, where he met a PA who was working closely alongside the care team. That experience sparked his curiosity and led him to further research the profession after graduating from college. Through his work as a medical scribe, Kevin developed a deep appreciation for medicine and the collaborative nature of healthcare. He was especially drawn to the flexibility of the PA profession, the ability to practice across multiple specialties, and the opportunity to be part of a rapidly growing field.
What continues to motivate Kevin is keeping the bigger picture in mind—remembering why he chose this path in the first place. In challenging moments, especially when working with patients during difficult times in their lives, he focuses on empathy and perspective, reminding himself that many patients are seeking care during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Kevin is also passionate about helping other aspiring PA students navigate the path to PA school. He believes that one of the most underutilized tools for students is the internet and social media, which can provide mentorship, community, and access to valuable resources. Through his own social media platform, Kevin documents his PA journey and hopes to inspire and guide others who are considering a career in medicine.
One accomplishment Kevin is especially proud of is gaining acceptance to PA school largely through self-navigation, without extensive advising or guidance after college. His experience reinforced his belief that determination, resourcefulness, and community support can open doors for future healthcare professionals.
Kevin’s story reflects curiosity, perseverance, and a commitment to supporting the next generation of healthcare providers as the PA profession continues to grow.
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In the forty-third episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Monthie, a board-certified family physician and the founder of Heirloom Family Medicine, a direct primary care practice in Albany, New York that opened in September 2025. Beyond her white coat, Dr. Monthie is a wife, mom of two boys, daughter of South Korean immigrants, endurance sports enthusiast, and proud Swiftie — identities that shape how she shows up both in medicine and in life.
After completing her undergraduate studies at Siena College and earning her medical degree and family medicine residency at Albany Medical College, Dr. Monthie began her career in a traditional insurance-based outpatient clinic. While she loved caring for her patients, she quickly became discouraged by a system that prioritized volume over relationships — demanding more patients, less time, and fewer resources. Determined to practice medicine with greater presence and connection, she took a leap into entrepreneurship and launched her own direct primary care (DPC) practice.
Direct primary care is a membership-based model that operates outside the traditional insurance system, allowing physicians to offer longer appointments, same or next-day access, direct communication, and transparent pricing. Dr. Monthie is deeply passionate about DPC because she believes it restores the heart of family medicine — real relationships, accessibility, and affordability. She speaks openly about misconceptions surrounding cash-pay medicine and advocates for its ability to serve uninsured, underinsured, and even traditionally insured patients who are frustrated with rushed, impersonal care.
Motivated by her patients, her family, and her faith, Dr. Monthie continues to build a model of care that prioritizes dignity, transparency, and trust. One accomplishment she is especially proud of is providing high-quality, affordable care to small business owners and uninsured individuals in her community. Through negotiated self-pay rates for labs, imaging, and specialist referrals, she has helped patients access comprehensive care without the financial barriers often associated with traditional insurance systems.
Dr. Monthie’s story is one of courage, conviction, and reimagining what primary care can look like — proof that when physicians step outside the system, they can build something deeply personal, impactful, and rooted in genuine human connection.
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In the forty-second episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Maria Garcia, a second-year medical student whose journey into medicine was shaped by a decade of hands-on patient care. Before entering medical school, Maria worked as a medical assistant for ten years and also was an RN, gaining invaluable experience supporting patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. That time at the bedside solidified her desire to pursue medicine and expand the impact she could have on the lives of others.
Maria is passionate about becoming an emergency medicine physician, drawn to the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of the emergency department. She believes the ER is where many patient journeys begin—where calm decision-making, resilience, and compassionate communication matter most. For Maria, emergency medicine is not just about managing chaos, but about ensuring patients feel cared for and heard during some of the hardest moments of their lives.
As a first-generation student, Maria’s path has required perseverance and self-discipline. Navigating medicine with limited guidance has not been easy, but thinking about her future patients keeps her grounded and motivated. Her experiences are also why she shares her journey on social media—hoping to inspire others who may not see themselves represented in medicine to believe that they belong there too.
Maria is especially proud of how far she has come on her own. Becoming the most educated person in her family represents resilience, sacrifice, and determination. Her story is a powerful reminder that persistence can turn obstacles into stepping stones—and that purpose can carry you through even the most challenging chapters.
Maria’s journey reflects grit, growth, and an unwavering commitment to serving others when they need it most.
- Visa fler
