In this episode of Startup Physicians, I sit down with Dr. Hansa Bhargava—pediatrician, writer, and Chief Clinical Strategy and Innovation Officer at Helio—to unpack her journey from clinical burnout to a purpose-driven career in health media, technology, and innovation.

We talk about what it really takes to step away from traditional medicine, why you don’t need another degree to move into industry, and how physicians can leverage their clinical background as a strategic asset in startups and AI development. We also dig into the mindset required to make bold transitions, how to navigate hybrid career paths, and why control over your time may be the most important variable in long-term fulfillment. If you're a physician looking for impact, autonomy, and alignment, this episode will help you see what’s possible—and how to start.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Navigating the Journey of Medicine
[09:08] - The Importance of Work-Life Balance
[17:58] - Transitioning from Clinical to Innovative Roles
[27:06] - Embracing Change and Growth in Medicine