Ep13: Sign Your First Contract Like a Pro Athlete – With Jon Appino

When it comes to your first attending contract, the stakes are high—and the fine print is even higher. In this power-packed episode, James Nutter is joined by two heavy hitters: Jon Appino, founder of Contract Diagnostics, and CFP Jeff McPherson. Together, they dissect the most overlooked clauses, the real cost of skipping a review, and how to avoid turning your dream job into a financial nightmare.

Jon kicks things off with a jaw-dropping horror story: a young OB-GYN blindsided by a six-figure malpractice tail bill—all because she didn’t know what she didn’t know. From there, the episode unfolds like a playbook for new physicians navigating contracts for the first time.

They break down why “non-negotiable” doesn’t mean “no questions allowed,” how to advocate for lifestyle and balance without tanking the deal, and the subtle red flags that can cost you big. Jeff shares real-world wins from clients who walked away with better contracts—and better lives—because they asked the right questions at the right time.

This is part one of a multi-part series to help physicians sign smarter, earn fairly, and protect their futures.

ABOUT THE GUEST

Jon Appino is the founder of Contract Diagnostics, a physician-focused firm that has reviewed thousands of contracts nationwide. He’s the creator of Compensation Rx and a leading expert in physician compensation strategy.

Jeff McPherson, CFP, is a financial advisor who specializes in working with medical professionals to align their career choices with long-term financial wellness.

📝 Action Item
What’s one question you’ve been too afraid (or unsure) to ask about your contract? Write it down. Ask someone who’s been there—or better yet, get a pro to look it over.

 

Top 5 Key Takeaways:

• Always review your contract—especially for tail coverage
• “Non-negotiable” still deserves questions
• Your contract affects your lifestyle as much as your income
• Ask how to exit before you sign
• Proactively surround yourself with a support team—it pays off

 

Resources & Next Steps:

• Download the PSLF Hacks Checklist
• Join the waitlist for a  free financial wellness session with James
• Get access to exclusive physician financial tools at www.imwealth.com
• 1% of IM Wealth’s revenue is dedicated to providing scholarship funds to medical students. Learn more about the Meaningful Journeys Scholarship and how you can join the fight here.
• Learn more about the impact IM Wealth is making in the lives of physicians here.
• Gain FREE immediate access to all of IM Wealth’s exclusive physician financial wellness resources here.

 

About the Show:

This isn’t just another finance podcast—it’s a movement. We’re challenging the status quo, cutting through the noise, and giving physicians real strategies to take control of their money and their future. 

Because true wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about freedom.

Find and follow the show on YouTube. 

 

About James Nutter:

James Nutter is on a mission to help physicians reclaim their financial power. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges doctors face, he provides real-world strategies that cut through the noise and lead to lasting financial freedom.

Follow James on Instagram. 

A Physician’s Guide to Wealth Podcast — Brought to you by IM Wealth: Helping physicians take control of their mone