My Journey from Rural Medicine to Passion Projects

After three decades of dedicated service in the field of medicine, particularly in the often challenging and under-resourced setting of rural America, I find myself standing on the precipice of a profound life transition at the age of 59. The journey with my stethoscope—an emblematic tool that has remained by my side throughout countless patient consultations and critical moments—has been both deeply rewarding and increasingly burdensome.

This once indispensable companion now feels like a dual-edged symbol: it is both a reliable friend that has guided me through many years of practice and an anchor weighing down my future aspirations. In earlier years, my income served as a testament to stability and professional success, reflecting years of hard work and commitment to improving community health outcomes. It was a source of pride that sustained me through long hours and difficult cases. However, as time passes, I find that financial security alone no longer captivates my spirit or fulfills my evolving sense of purpose. Instead, there is an emerging desire for change—a yearning to explore new avenues where passion and purpose transcends profit. This pivotal moment in my career compels me to reevaluate what truly brings meaning to my life beyond the confines of traditional medical practice.

Growing up in a working-class family, we lived paycheck to paycheck, always mindful of every penny spent, so my doctor’s earnings often feels surreal, akin to playing with "monopoly money." There have been times when I've earned an upper six-figure income annually—an almost unfathomable sum that would have seemed like a distant dream in my small-town upbringing. It feels peculiar to even speak of such numbers in the context of where I come from.

Despite now achieving financial independence and stability that once seemed out of reach, this newfound reality doesn't quite align with the self-image I've carried all these years. I was once a humble paperboy earning just enough pocket change to buy a comic book or some sweets. That modest beginning shaped my perception of value and success, creating a stark contrast with the lifestyle I lead today. The transformation is not merely financial but also personal—a journey from modest aspirations to realizing ambitions beyond my wildest dreams while still holding onto those formative experiences that keep me grounded.

With financial freedom, my sense of security has grown. Yet, as a new phase of life emerged, I find myself yearning for a deeper sense of fulfillment, of passion, and freedom that extended beyond patient care and financial success.

Seeking Freedom from the Grind

For years, my days as a primary care physician were an intricate blend of routine and unpredictability, with obstetrics work adding layers of complexity to my already demanding schedule. Each day was packed with back-to-back patient visits, each requiring attentive care and detailed documentation. The mountains of paperwork seemed endless, often extending into late hours. Meanwhile, the unpredictable nature of deliveries frequently upended my carefully laid plans, impacting both professional obligations and personal commitments. The pace was not just fast; it was intense and unyielding—a relentless whirlwind that left little room for respite or reflection.

Over time, this constant pressure began to weigh on me heavily, igniting a profound desire for freedom within me—the kind of autonomy where I could dictate the terms of my work life: deciding how to allocate my time efficiently, choosing when to engage deeply with tasks while reserving moments for relaxation or exploration and selecting where I wanted to focus my energies without external constraints. That’s when I made the pivotal decision to downshift from this daily grind—to step back from the ever-accelerating treadmill—and embrace new passions that offered more than just professional satisfaction.

This shift allowed me the opportunity not only to pursue endeavors that truly excited me but also granted me the liberty to align my career path with personal well-being goals. By doing so, I could finally achieve a harmonious balance between work responsibilities and personal desires—a balance many strive for but seldom find amidst such demanding careers.

The Life Adventure List

For me, life is an extraordinary journey waiting to be fully embraced. My wife and I often sip coffee on lazy Saturdays, dreaming together about our Life Adventure List—a bucket list that has become our roadmap for living well. Experiences have become more valuable to us than accumulating assets. Together, we want to make the most of the next 10-20 years, leveraging the financial resources we’ve earned to explore the wonders of our world.

Our list includes three ambitious goals: visiting all seven continents, walking within all 63 U.S. national parks, and witnessing the world’s greatest wonders. Here’s a glimpse into our journey so far.

Visiting All Seven Continents

Just eight months ago, we embarked on an unforgettable journey to the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of Australia and New Zealand. The trip offered us an unparalleled opportunity to immerse ourselves in the unique blend of natural beauty and rich heritage that these regions are renowned for. From Australia's iconic Sydney Opera House standing majestically against the skyline to New Zealand's breathtaking fjords and rolling hills, each moment was a testament to nature's artistry. This extraordinary experience not only broadened our horizons but also left us with cherished memories that continue to inspire and resonate deeply within us.

With our passports stamped across Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America, we have our sights set on the remaining continents. This month we’ll be visiting North Africa and the Middle East with our sites set on the pyramids and the Nile River. Then in January, we’ll experience the icy expanse of Antarctica—a land of penguins, glaciers, and stunning auroras. We imagine standing at the southernmost tip of the world, breathing in crisp, untouched air.

Embarking on a journey to Antarctica through South America, particularly via Chile, promises an array of breathtaking sites and unforgettable experiences that are bound to captivate any travel enthusiast. This extraordinary route offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness that is unparalleled. By choosing this path to Antarctica, you not only open doors to one of the world's most remote frontiers but also embark on a voyage filled with awe-inspiring beauty and cultural discoveries that are sure to leave a lasting impression..

Exploring Every U.S. National Park

From Alaska’s rugged Denali to Utah’s majestic Zion, we are determined to visit each of the 63 U.S. national parks. We’ll hike misty trails in the Smoky Mountains, paddle through the mangroves of the Everglades, and take in Yosemite’s starry skies. Each park has a story—a whisper from ancient trees, the rush of waterfalls, and the rustling wildlife. With every visit, we add another “wildflower” to the scrapbook of our lives.

This year alone, we've embarked on an incredible journey, exploring 7 breathtaking parks across diverse landscapes and regions. Among these awe-inspiring destinations, we've had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the unique beauty of American Samoa, with its lush rainforests and vibrant coral reefs. We've marveled at the scenic vistas of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where rolling hills meet picturesque waterways. Our adventure took us to New River Gorge, famous for its rugged cliffs and exhilarating white-water rafting experiences. We also savored the serene beauty of Shenandoah's vast wilderness and winding trails that offer endless opportunities for reflection amidst nature. The towering ancient giants of Redwoods left us speechless with their sheer size and majesty, while Lassen Volcanic Park's geothermal wonders provided a fascinating glimpse into Earth's volcanic activity. Finally, Crater Lake amazed us with its sapphire-blue waters nestled within a caldera formed by a long-ago collapsed volcano. The thrill of discovery fuels our anticipation as we eagerly look forward to checking off more parks each year. With every new park comes a chance to create unforgettable memories and deepen our appreciation for nature's extraordinary diversity and splendor.

Witnessing the Wonders of the World

There’s an undeniable and timeless allure to the world’s wonders that never fails to inspire a profound sense of reverence and awe in those fortunate enough to witness them firsthand. These extraordinary sites, steeped in rich history and enshrouded in mystery, serve as enduring testaments not only to human ingenuity but also to the unparalleled splendor of the natural world.

Later this month, we will have the incredible opportunity to stand spellbound before the Great Pyramids of Giza—majestic structures that tower over the vast sands of Egypt like sentinels from another era, whispering secrets from ancient times.

Earlier this year, we were graced with an unforgettable opportunity when we immersed ourselves in the vibrant underwater spectacle of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. This breathtaking marine ecosystem dazzles observers with its kaleidoscope of colors teeming with life—from brilliant corals forming intricate patterns like nature’s own mosaic to schools of fish darting about like living jewels—offering a mesmerizing glimpse into one of nature's most magnificent creations.

But our journey does not end here; there are still countless marvels scattered across our planet that beckon for exploration and discovery. In fact, we have meticulously curated a list comprising 50 such wonders that we ardently hope to experience throughout our travels! Each destination promises its own unique blend of beauty and intrigue, inviting us on an ongoing adventure filled with wonder and enlightenment at every turn.

Part-Time Travel Medicine: A Prescription for Adventure

Keeping with the adventure theme, enter locum tenens—the antidote to monotony. I am embracing part-time travel medicine, choosing assignments near US National Park list. My stethoscope essentially becomes my travel compass, guiding me to new clinics, new faces, and new challenges. Locums tenens allows me to practice medicine without the long-term commitment, kind of like tasting different flavors of life.

• The Joy of Variety: Each locums gig will be a mini-adventure. I’ll treat patients and then explore my surroundings through my passions for running and gravel-biking. I’ll adapt to different EHR systems, navigate local customs, and learn from colleagues across the country. My medical travel bag holds not just tools but memories.

• The Pleasure of Travel: My wife and I revel in this newfound freedom. We now have the freedom to choose to explore sun-kissed beaches, hike misty mountains, and savor exotic cuisines. My Range Rover is equipped to travel, and our hearts are filled with gratitude for power to explore this great country.

Passion Projects: SimpliMD and ChatRx

Two of my passion projects, both with medical roots, have also called me into a new direction beyond traditional practice:

• SimpliMD: Through SimpliMD, I’ve created a platform and community that helps empower you, as my physician tribe, to succeed as small business owners. Here, we’re breaking down the mysteries of finance, guiding you through career transitions, and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit that exists within so many of us. At SimpliMD, I believe that doctors deserve to thrive—not just survive—in a marketplace where micro-businesses can offer a fulfilling, independent future.

• ChatRx: ChatRx is my tech-driven telemedicine solution for healthcare access. Informed by years of primary care experience, ChatRx will launch after the first of the year and will offer patients a quick, affordable way to receive treatment for 32 common acute infections. Patients will complete a chat based assessment online and receive prescriptions within minutes, all on demand and available 24/7. ChatRx represents my desire to make quality healthcare affordable and accessible to everyone everywhere and to efficiently leverage both my medical knowledge and love for technology.

Net Worth Beyond Dollars

Reflecting on my journey, I’ve realized that net worth isn’t solely about finances; it’s about the richness of experiences, the bonds with loved ones, and the legacy we create. Although I spend less time with my stethoscope now, my life is still filled with purpose and passion.

As I embrace this new phase, I invite you to embark on a similar journey toward financial freedom and personal fulfillment. If you’re a physician with a passion waiting to be unleashed, here are some opportunities to consider.

Ready to Empower Your Own Path?

1. SimpliMD Personalized Micro-Business Consult: Start your journey toward autonomy with a $99 SimpliMD individualized consult where I get to know you and your unique situation and plans. Get a full year’s membership valued at $2,500, including access to our exclusive products for entrepreneurial doctors.

2. Creating A Practice Without Walls Course: Learn to set up a micro-corporation that gives you agency in the marketplace. In this course, we guide you step-by-step in building a practice that offers freedom, flexibility, and true ownership.

3. SimpliMD Business Plan Bundle: My business plan suite will guide you through the process of organizing and planning your micro-business and includes the SimpliMD Business Plan Template, a Micro-Corporation Budget Template. It will save you time, and a SWOT analysis template that helps you refine your strategic planning for success.

May your journey toward financial independence be filled with purpose, passion, and discovery. Here’s to charting new paths, embracing new adventures, and living fully.