The Doctor’s Lounge | BFD Podcast
The Doctor's Lounge | BFD Podcast is a show focused on the business side of medicine for Australian doctors, GPs, and practice owners. Each episode features expert conversations on finance, HR, legal, education, and leadership. The podcast covers practical topics such as building a practice, managing a team, and navigating Medicare changes. It is produced by Business for Doctors.
Episodes
The Lending Advantage Most Doctors Are Leaving on the Table
Banks view doctors as low-risk, meaning access to 95% LVR (Loan-to-Value Ratio) loans with LMI (Lenders Mortgage Insurance) waivers - saving you tens of thousands in Lenders Mortgage Insurance. But most doctors miss this: as your LVR improves over time, you could qualify for significantly better rates but only if you're proactive. In this conversation with Sam Taylor from BFD Finance, we break
Are You Financially Behind? You Might Be Surprised.
In a volatile financial climate, many doctors feel like they're falling behind. In this clip, financial planner Shaun from NOR Financial explains why a holistic view can instantly relieve stress. He also shares a powerful story of helping a client save $40,000 on their annual insurance premiums.
Are Doctors a 'Risk' to Banks?
To a bank, a doctor's career path can look like a red flag. Constant rotations between hospitals, shifting states, and the jump from a PAYG registrar to a self-employed fellow can scream "instability" to a credit assessor.In this segment of The Doctors' Lounge, finance expert Jessica Clausen from BFD Finance explains why that's a flawed perspective. She breaks down how a doctor's complex income (f
Title: Super Fund Insurance: The Hidden Risk for Doctors
Most doctors assume their superannuation provides adequate insurance, but default cover often leaves them dangerously exposed. Financial planner Thomas Rutter reveals why "any occupation" policies can be catastrophic for medical specialists, how benefit periods might be limited to just two years, and why doctors' high earning capacity makes underinsurance a critical risk. Discover the gaps in your
Navigating Practice Sustainability: Medicare Changes, Corporate Challenges, and the Future of Independent Clinics
In this insightful episode of the Doctors' Lounge podcast, Dr. April Armstrong discusses the critical challenges facing Australian medical practices today. She explores how recent Medicare rebate increases fall short of health inflation, the impact of government-funded bulk billing clinics on private practice, and why smaller family-run practices are at risk of corporate acquisition. Dr. Armstrong
Industrial Property: A Hidden Gem for Doctors with Tal Eloss and Rafi Peer
The federal budget has reshaped the property market, leaving many doctors seeking new investment avenues. In this episode, Tal Eloss and Rafi Peer from One Group Property explain why industrial property is a resilient alternative to residential. Learn about its unique advantages and discover the critical mistakes doctors make when leasing their practice. Tune in for expert advice on building a rob
The Critical Skill Missing From Your Medical Training with Young Han
Medical specialist accountant Young-Han from RSM joins the Doctors' Lounge podcast to expose the gap that's holding GPs back: MBS education. From registrars to multi-site practice owners, discover why understanding the Medicare Benefits Schedule transforms "fast medicine" into sustainable holistic care. Learn the audit risks you're unknowingly carrying, and why a two-day work
Lease or Buy? Property Strategies for Doctors Building or Expanding a Practice
We’re joined by Tal Eloss from 1Group Property Advisory to unpack one of the biggest decisions doctors face when starting or growing a practice: should you lease or buy your property?Tal explains why your property strategy should never come before your business strategy, and how staying flexible can open up better opportunities, especially in competitive locations. He walks through the critical du
From the UK to Australia: What Doctors Need to Know About Super, Tax, and Building Wealth
We’re joined by Rich Burton from BFD Financial Planning to explore the major differences between financial planning in the UK and Australia, and what that means for doctors building their careers and wealth here.Rich breaks down how Australia’s superannuation system can be a game-changer for migrant doctors, and why many professionals underestimate the importance of engaging with their super early
From Registrar to Practice Owner: Building a Thriving GP Clinic in Rural Australia
We’re joined by Dr Casey Going, a GP, educator, and new practice owner to explore the journey from registrar to owning a successful medical practice in rural Queensland. Just three months into ownership, Dr Casey shares what the transition has really been like, including the surprises, challenges, and key lessons learned along the way. From rethinking recruitment to recognising the power of person
Competitive Market, Smarter Strategy: A Doctor’s Guide to Beating the Market
We’re joined by Jessica Clauseen from BFD Finance to talk all things property, lending and borrowing strategy for doctors.With intense demand in the housing market and properties selling before open homes, preparation has never been more important. Jessica explains why pre-approvals are critical in a competitive environment and how borrowing capacity can vary significantly depending on the lender.
Behind the Business with CEO April Armstrong
In the final live recording from the Melbourne BFD Conference 2025, we sit down with the woman behind it all, the driving force of Business for Doctors, Dr April Armstrong.April shares what it really takes to build and lead multiple businesses whilst also practising medicine full-time. From launching BFD Financial Planning alongside Oakmont Financial Services to opening a specialist health and wel
Refinancing for Doctors: Smarter Debt, Equity Strategies & Mortgage Health Checks
On this episode at the 2025 Melbourne BFD Conference, we sit down with Fadi Nunu from BFD Finance to break down what refinancing really means for doctors.We candidly discuss the recent rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia and how many homeowners are reassessing their mortgage position. Refinancing is often seen as simply switching to a lower rate, but as this discussion highlights, it’s fa
Netflix for GPs? How Armchair Medical Is Transforming Conference Access
At the 2025 Melbourne BFD Conference, we sit down with Gary Smith, founder of Armchair Medical, to explore how medical conferences are being reimagined for the modern doctor.Armchair Medical has created what many describe as “Netflix for GPs”, a subscription platform giving doctors flexible access to leading-edge education without the time, travel and cost of attending in person.In this episode, w
The AI Revolution in Medicare Billing Dr Casey Going
What does it take to turn a frustration in general practice into a fully launched AI product?In today's episode of the Doctor’s Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors, we welcome back Casey Going from BFD Education to unpack the story behind MBS Pro, an AI-powered platform designed to simplify Medicare billing for GPs.After years of teaching MBS billing weekends, Casey kept hearing the same questi
From Nigeria to Queensland: Building a GP Practice and Future in Property
On this episode of the Doctors’ Lounge, we speak with Dr David Sanni, a GP who journeyed from Nigeria through the Caribbean before settling in Queensland. David shares his story of navigating GP practice in Australia, taking over a thriving practice in Lowood, and mastering billing and business strategies to deliver value to his patients. He also reveals how attending BFD events opened his eyes to
From Navy Pilot to Rural GP
On this episode of the Doctors’ Lounge, we chat with Dr Shannon Welsh, a former Navy helicopter pilot who took an unexpected turn into medicine at age 27. Shannon shares his incredible journey from military service to surviving a life-changing brain injury, and eventually finding his calling as a rural GP and palliative care specialist in northeast Victoria. He also talks about building a thriving
Protecting Your Practice: Legal Insights for Doctors with Dr Rosemary Listing
Welcome back to the Doctor’s Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors, where we share stories, insights, and practical advice to help doctors grow their practices and investments.In this episode, we sit down with a legal expert from Peter Ravens Associates, specialising in healthcare law, to discuss how doctors can protect their practices and themselves. From setting up a new practice and drafting e
Helping Doctors Build Wealth from Day One with Nicole Taylor
Welcome to the Doctor's Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors. In this episode, we chat with Nicole Taylor, founding partner of Medi Fund, about helping doctors at every stage of their careers take control of their finances. From first-home purchases to long-term investment strategies, Nicole shares practical advice and insights from her background in corporate health banking and her new vent
From the UK to Brisbane: Finding Joy in General Practice with Dr Sumera Angus
Join us on the Doctor's Lounge podcast as we chat with Dr. Sumera, a UK-trained GP who recently moved to Brisbane with her family. She shares her journey navigating the complex transition to practicing medicine in Australia, the joys and challenges of general practice, and how balancing clinical work with tech and business roles shaped her career. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and practical a
The Million-Dollar Beard and the Fight Against Melanoma with Scott Maggs
We sit down with Scott Maggs from Skin Check Champions – a man whose work in early detection has reached everyone from everyday Aussies to Richard Branson himself.Scott shares the story behind Beard Season, how a friend’s tragic passing sparked a nationwide movement, and why early detection is still one of our biggest challenges in tackling melanoma. From patient stories to his own journey raising
Podcast: Walking in Two Worlds: Holistic Care, Culture and Country with Dr Kelvin Kong
In this episode of the Doctor’s Lounge podcast, we’re joined by a trailblazing Australian surgeon who blends Western medical training with deep cultural knowledge and a holistic approach to health. From the realities of working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to the importance of keeping passion alive in medicine, he shares practical wisdom on balancing business, family life a
Leading Change in Healthcare: Dr Maria Bolton on Advocacy, Practice Growth, and Innovation
Tune in to the Doctor's Lounge podcast by Business for Doctors. In this episode, we’re joined by award-winning GP and AMA Queensland President, Dr Maria Bolton. From advocacy wins that help clinics stay open, to tackling vaping in schools, to building a successful private practice from scratch, Maria shares her insights on leadership, business planning, and collaboration in healthcare. Whether
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Building Mental Resilience with Dr Cate Howell
We are joined by Dr Cate Howell, GP and mental health expert, at the BFD Brisbane Conference 2023. We explore the importance of mental well-being for doctors, practical strategies to manage imposter syndrome, and how small, consistent steps can help rewire your thinking. Dr Cate also shares her journey from clinical practice to writing books on mental health and well-being, offering insights that
From the UK to Brisbane: Building a Fulfilling GP Career with Dr Bern-Mari Van Der Merwe
In this episode, we chat with Dr Bern-Mari Van Der Merwe, a UK-trained GP who made the big move to Australia with her family. She shares her journey navigating sponsorship, settling into Brisbane, and finding a practice that aligns with her passions in mental health, women's health, and patient-focused care. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about career, family, and building a life you love i
Transitioning from Bulk Billing to Private Billing and Patient Retention by Dr Rene Lazzaro
Join Dr Rene Lazzaro, a GP from New South Wales, as she shares her journey from bulk billing to private practice. Renee discusses valuing her time, navigating patient expectations, and creating a more sustainable, rewarding practice. Tune in for practical insights and real stories from a doctor embracing change.
From Fellow to Practice Owner by Dr Alvin Chua
Hear Dr Alvin Chua share his journey at the BFD Conference. Learn how he transitioned from medical fellow to running a successful practice, with insights on strategy, growth, and building a thriving healthcare business.
Building a Patient Focused Clinic - Dr Antje Theilhaber
In this episode of the Doctors Lounge, we talk with Dr Antje, who has 20 years of experience in healthcare. Frustrated by working in other practices, she decided to open her own. With support from the BFD community and connections with fellow female practice owners in Melbourne, she now leads a thriving clinic with 10 GPs, dedicated to high-quality patient care.Tune in to hear Dr Antje’s journey,
Leading with Purpose in Modern Healthcare - Dr Elaine Sung
In this episode of the Doctors Lounge, Dr Elaine Sung shares her insights on leadership, innovation, and maintaining wellbeing in an ever-changing medical landscape. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration for today’s healthcare professionals.
A Doctors Journey from the UK to Australia - Dr Shree Vaka & Dr Ram Vepuri
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge, we chat with Dr Shree Vaka and Dr Ram Vepuri about their career journeys — from the UK to Australia — and how they’ve navigated transition, practice development and professional growth. A timely conversation for any doctor planning the next move.
Real Health, Real Food – Dr Mary Barson on Lifestyle Medicine & Beating Burnout
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Dr Mary Barson, GP, podcaster, and co-founder of Real Life Medicine.Mary shares her personal journey from burnout in rural general practice to building a thriving online health business focused on lifestyle medicine and weight loss. She explains how real food, mindset, and sustainable lifestyle changes can tran
Virtual GP Care & the Future of Practice Management – Dr Nadine Boyd, Boyd Health
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we speak with Dr Nadine Boyd of Boyd Health about the rise of virtual GP services and the evolving role of practice management in a post-pandemic world.Nadine shares her personal journey of burnout, stepping back to reset, and returning with a renewed perspective on healthcare leadership. She introduces Boyd Health’s innovative
Fashion, Confidence & Authenticity: Kerrie Carrucci on Dressing for Success
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Kerrie Carrucci, Brisbane-based stylist, speaker, and former civil engineer, to explore the powerful connection between style, confidence, and authenticity.Kerrie shares her journey from engineering to fashion, and how her passion for helping people feel like the best version of themselves has shaped her career
Buying Your First Home: Tips for Doctors with Paul Jarvis, BFD Finance
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we’re joined by Paul Jarvis of BFD Finance to unpack one of the biggest milestones many doctors face - buying their first home.Paul shares the common questions he hears from first-time buyers, the mistakes to avoid, and how to prepare financially before you even start looking at properties. From understanding borrowing capacity
Location and Property Strategy For Private Practice
In this episode, we’re joined by Julian Muldoon of 1Group Property Advisory, a specialist in helping doctors and practice owners navigate one of the biggest business decisions they’ll ever face - choosing the right location and property strategy for their private practice.Julian explains the key considerations when deciding whether to buy or lease, from competitor analysis and demographic research
Finance For The Medical Industry with Young Han
In this episode, we’re joined by Young Han from RSM Australia, an accountant with over 15 years’ experience - specialising in finance for medical professionals.Young shares how her work goes beyond compliance and tax returns, offering holistic financial strategies tailored to doctors, GPs, and specialists throughout their careers - from fresh graduates stepping into contracting, to established pro
From Space to Surgery: Dr Newton Campbell on NASA, Innovation & the Medical Industry
In this episode, we sit down with Dr Newton Campbell, consultant to NASA and co-founder of AROSE, to explore the surprising links between space exploration and the medical industry.Dr Campbell shares how Australia’s mining technologies are helping shape lunar and Martian missions, and how NASA’s innovations have spun off into life-saving medical advancements—from imaging algorithms now used in MRI
The Journey to Opening a Medical Practice - Dr Page and Dr Pethen
In this episode of The Doctors Lounge Podcast by Business for Doctors, we sit down with Dr Georgia Page and Dr Sam Pethen, partners at Your Family Doctors on the Central Coast, to hear their story of transitioning from doctors to practice owners.They share the challenges of finding the right site, purchasing and growing an established clinic, and the steep learning curve of managing finances, HR,
From Passion to Purpose: Delivering Outreach Care Where It’s Needed Most with Dr Amanda Roberts
What happens when a medical practice builds community impact into its foundation from day one? In this episode, we speak with a doctor who didn’t wait for funding or permission to act — launching an outreach program for women experiencing homelessness and domestic violence just six months after opening their clinic.We explore the importance of early intervention, the ripple effect on emergency dep
Financial Wisdom in 15 Minutes: Smart Strategies with Noel Whittaker
Straight from the 2GB studio seat to the floor of the BFD Sydney Conference, legendary financial educator Noel Whittaker joins Justin Owen for a punchy and powerful conversation on money, mindset, and making smart decisions.From the timeless success of his best-selling book Making Money Made Simple to practical advice for doctors and business owners, Noel shares his proven approach to building lon
Leading with Care: Dr Mary Lumsden on Women's Health
Dr Mary Lumsden shares her deep passion for women’s health and the realities of providing care in Tasmania — from pregnancy trends and seasonal patterns to the impact of public awareness on reproductive choices.In this conversation, Mary reflects on what drives her work, the moments that shape patient care, and how increased access to information can empower women to make informed decisions. A tho
Opening a Clinic with Confidence: Dr Elaine Sung’s Story
In this episode, Dr Elaine Sung shares her journey of opening her own clinic — from the early planning stages to the practical realities of making it happen. She opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and how the support and resources from Business for Doctors gave her the clarity and confidence to take the leap.Whether you're thinking about opening a clinic or already i
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