What happens when a physician decides not to follow the traditional path?
In this episode of the Startup Physicians Podcast, Dr. Alison Curfman sits down with Dr. Payel Gupta, a board-certified allergist and immunologist who took a series of bold, intentional risks — from global health sabbaticals to becoming a health tech co-founder — ultimately leading to a successful startup acquisition.
Dr. Gupta shares her journey from traditional clinical training to co-founding a telemedicine company in the allergy space during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as consulting turned into a co-founder role (after she boldly suggested they needed a physician at the table). The company partnered directly with a pharmaceutical manufacturer to deliver FDA-approved allergy immunotherapy via telemedicine — and was later acquired by LifeMD in 2022.
This conversation is a masterclass in:
We also dive into imposter syndrome, physician risk tolerance, and the two beliefs that can fundamentally change your career trajectory:
If you've ever wondered whether there’s more beyond traditional clinical practice — this episode will expand what feels possible.
Resources & Links:
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Payel Gupta
01:30 – Global Health Sabbatical & Meeting Paul Farmer
05:00 – Taking Early Career Risks
07:00 – COVID, Pregnancy & A Career Pivot
09:30 – Becoming a Health Tech Co-Founder
11:30 – Telemedicine + Pharma Direct-to-Consumer Model
13:00 – Startup Acquisition in 2022
14:30 – Why Physicians Struggle with Risk
16:00 – The Two Beliefs That Change Everything
20:30 – The Physician Value in Health Tech
24:30 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
27:00 – How to Use LinkedIn for Consulting Opportunities
29:30 – Launchpad & Incubator Opportunities
