At The White Coat Investor, we often discuss risk and cost. However, my perspective on risk changed dramatically after I became the first woman physician commercial astronaut. Achieving my lifelong dream of going to space was worth the 40 years it took to get there. I had to make a vital choice: the risk of losing my life was preferable to never trying at all. This decision-making process has influenced my career at every turning point.
As a teacher and mentor for physicians looking to build their own expert witness businesses, I see many sharing similar fears. They want to grow, improve their finances, and regain control over their careers, yet often let fear of failure hold them back. The good news? Physicians are already qualified to act as experts due to their clinical training. The real challenge is to take the leap and embrace new opportunities.
My experience has shown me that many skills we overlook are already part of us. For example, in the U.S. legal system, juries—often without medical training—make decisions on complex malpractice cases. Physicians can bridge this gap, not just as advocates but as educators, translating complicated medical information clearly. This is similar to what we already do when explaining diagnoses and treatment options to patients.
I remember my days as a Space Camp Crew Trainer, teaching young students to fly and land the space shuttle. I learned those skills step-by-step through experience and content mastery, which is something physicians excel at. The ability to communicate complex ideas effectively is one of our most valuable skills.
In examining the traits of Blue Origin astronauts, strong leadership stands out. Lately, there’s been a shift toward valuing communication, education, and philanthropy. This transition shows a shift in space exploration itself, from simply reaching outer space to using our experiences for the betterment of Earth. My flight crew, calling ourselves the Pathfinders, brought together people from diverse backgrounds—technology, education, and even rocketry. This diversity enriches our mission and highlights the importance of varied perspectives in achieving common goals.
If we only focus on what we might lose, we overlook what we could gain. Pursuing big dreams, whether in space or business, often brings significant rewards, both personally and for those around us.
Critics of the all-women NS-31 launch missed a crucial point: the mission was diverse not just in gender but in skills and experiences represented. This crew showcased how different backgrounds can unite for a shared purpose, demonstrating the power of collaboration in exploring space.
Since my flight in May 2025, people ask me what it feels like to be in space. The landing was more nerve-wracking than the launch. However, I find joy in mundane tasks like grocery shopping or laundry because I know I’ve pursued my dreams with all my heart. I want others to see that pursuing extraordinary goals is possible, regardless of their background.
During an interview after my flight, I was asked what qualities made me a good astronaut. My response? Love and compassion. Physicians care for anyone who comes to us, a sentiment that resonates with my responsibilities in space when I found myself checking on my crewmates, just as I do with patients. That sense of connection binds us, whether as astronauts or doctors.
Expert witness work has helped me redefine my medical career, allowing for added financial flexibility. I wish more physicians viewed this role as a natural extension of our work—similar to peer review or quality improvement. At its core, it’s about leadership and embracing challenges. Building resilience for tough tasks shapes us into better professionals.
When the engines of the New Shepard rocket ignited, it took seven seconds to lift off. You see flames and feel vibrations but are reassured you’re not on fire. This moment held significance, reinforcing that achieving great goals involves taking calculated risks. In space, I experienced three minutes of weightlessness. Gazing at Earth, I felt that all my years of work had culminated in that extraordinary moment. It was validation like no other.
We all have our unique goals that drive us. It starts with that first step toward something bigger.
Have you ever taken risks in your career to find fulfillment? How did it turn out? What would you do differently if given the chance?
For those interested in learning more about the value of expert witness work for physicians, you can read more about how it enhances your medical practice and brings financial benefits. Check out this resource from [the American Medical Association](https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/role-expert-witness). It’s insightful for those considering this path.
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attending physician,career choice,new attending physician
