The WISER Podcast

On this episode of the WISER Podcast, we continue Chief Insights, our mini-series highlighting the experiences of Emory’s female chief general surgery residents. Through these conversations, we explore their paths to surgery, the mentors who shaped them, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. For this installment, WISER co-presidents Julia Burns and Rachel Holstein sat down with Dr. Bernadette Peltier. Dr. Peltier attended UT Southwestern for medical school and completed her general surgery residency at Emory, where she is currently serving as a chief resident. She will be heading to the Cleveland Clinic next year to begin her thoracic surgery fellowship. In this conversation, Dr. Peltier shares her nontraditional path into surgery, from initially considering internal medicine to discovering her passion during trauma rotations. She reflects on how she ultimately found her fit in thoracic surgery, the role of mentorship and advocacy in a competitive match process, and how she approached residency without taking dedicated research years. She also offers thoughtful advice for medical students and interns, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals of patient care, building strong relationships, and growing into your role over time. We also discuss her experience as a woman in surgery, the transition into chief year, and how she has found balance and support throughout training. Editors: Julia Byrnes and Rachel Holstein Producers: Julia Byrnes, Rachel Holstein and Vienna WangHosts: Rachel Holstein and Julia ByrnesArtwork: Lily KamatMusic: Bluedot Sessions The post S7E5: Chief Insights: Dr. Bernadette Peltier first appeared on WISER Podcast.

On this episode of the WISER Podcast, we continue Chief Insights, our mini-series highlighting the experiences of Emory’s female chief general surgery residents. Through these conversations, we explore their paths to surgery, the mentors who shaped them, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. For this installment, WISER co-presidents Julia Byrnes and Rachel Holstein sat down with Dr. Aileen Johnson. Dr. Johnson attended MIT for undergraduate studies before earning her medical degree at Emory University School of Medicine and staying at Emory for general surgery residency. She is one of this year’s chief residents and will be pursuing a fellowship in abdominal transplant surgery at the University of Wisconsin next year. In this conversation, Dr. Johnson reflects on how her early experiences in EMS during college solidified her commitment to patient care, how mentorship shaped her journey into transplant surgery, and what she gained from taking three dedicated research years. She shares thoughtful advice on ownership in training, cultivating autonomy, and preparing for the responsibility of becoming “the surgeon.” We also discuss her experience as a woman in surgery, the culture of chief year, and the importance of showing up prepared, curious, and intentional at every stage of training. Editors: Rachel Holstein and Julia Byrnes Producers: Julia Byrnes, Rachel Holstein and Amelia Fogle Hosts: Rachel Holstein and Julia ByrnesArtwork: Lily KamatMusic: Bluedot Sessions The post S7E4: Chief Insights: Dr. Aileen Johnson first appeared on WISER Podcast.

On this episode of the WISER Podcast, we continue Chief Insights, our mini-series highlighting the experiences of Emory’s female chief general surgery residents. Through these conversations, we explore their journeys in surgery, the mentors who shaped them, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. For this installment of Chief Insights, WISER co-presidents Julia Byrnes and Rachel Holstein sat down with Dr. Courtney Meyer. Dr. Meyer attended Albany Medical College for medical school before coming to Emory for general surgery residency, where she also completed her Master of Public Health. She is one of this year’s chief residents and will be staying at Emory and Grady Memorial Hospital to pursue a Trauma and Critical Care fellowship next year. During our conversation, Dr. Meyer reflected on how her early experiences as a wilderness medic and her passion for public health shaped her interest in trauma surgery. She discusses the pivotal mentorship that guided her research path, her reflections on chief year, and the importance of representation and confidence for women in surgery. Editors: Rachel Holstein and Julia Byrnes Producers: Julia Byrnes, Rachel Holstein and Amelia Fogle Hosts: Rachel Holstein and Julia ByrnesArtwork: Lily KamatMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! The post S7E3: Chief Insights: Dr. Courtney Meyer first appeared on WISER Podcast.

On this episode of the WISER podcast, we’re excited to launch Chief Insights, a new mini-series featuring conversations with female chief general surgery residents at Emory. Through these interviews, we explore their unique journeys in surgery and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. For our first episode of Chief Insights, WISER co-president Julia Byrnes and vice president Harleen Kaur sat down with Dr. Olivia Keane. Dr. Keane went to the Medical University of South Carolina for medical school and came to Emory for general surgery residency. She is one of the chief general surgery residents this year and will be staying at Emory and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for pediatric surgery fellowship next year! Producers: Julia Byrnes and Rachel HolsteinHosts: Julia Byrnes and Harleen KaurEditors: Amelia Fogle, Julia Byrnes, Nicole Semaan, and Rachel Holstein Media: Lily KamatMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! The post S7E2: Chief Insights: Dr. Olivia Keane first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Wendy Greene, the first African American female professor of surgery at Emory University, is a trailblazer in medicine and a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. A founding member of the African American Women’s Collaborative, she has led national conversations on DEI, secured a Level I trauma designation at Howard University Hospital, mentored countless future surgeons, and was recently awarded the Emory Department of Surgery’s Faculty DEI Pioneer Award. Yet, titles alone cannot capture the true essence of Dr. Greene, because what truly defines her is how she leads- with grace, humility, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Guided by her mantra, “A bend in the road is not the end of the road, as long as you make the turn,” Dr. Greene exemplifies resilience, humility, and purpose. Please join us in celebrating this extraordinary leader! Editors: Rachel Holstein and Julia Byrnes Producers: Julia Byrnes, Rachel Holstein and Amelia Fogle Hosts: Rachel Holstein and Cynthia RamazaniArtwork: Lily KamatMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! The post S7E1: Dr. Wendy Greene, on Inclusion, Equity, and Shaping the Future of Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Nicole C. Schmitt, MD, FACS, is an associate professor in the Department of Otolaryngology at Emory University School of Medicine. A board-certified otolaryngologist, Dr. Schmitt’s clinical and research work is focused on head and neck surgical oncology and novel therapeutic combinations. Dr. Schmitt obtained her Medical Degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. She completed her general surgery internship, a research fellowship and her residency in otolaryngology at University of Washington in Seattle, Washington. She also completed a fellowship in head and neck surgery and tumor biology at University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Schmitt’s research interest is in characterizing immune effects of cytotoxic chemotherapy and designing optimal combinations of chemotherapy and immunotherapy for head and neck cancer. Hosts: Megan Wasson and Amelia FogleEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to our GoFundMe. This will help us pay for the editing software necessary to run this podcast. Thank you for your generosity! Hosts: Megan Wasson and Amelia FogleEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions The post Moms in Medicine: Having perspective, with Dr. Schmitt first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Emily Lagergren, MD, RPVI is a board-certified vascular surgeon with Vascular Surgical Associates. She joined VSA in 2018. Dr. Lagergren graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University, in Tallahassee, Florida, with a degree in biology. She obtained her general surgery training at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Her interest to remain in the Southeast brought her to Emory School of Medicine, in Atlanta, Georgia, where she completed her two-year fellowship in Vascular and Endovascular surgery. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and finding the perfect work-life balance. Hosts: Shannon Su and Julia ByrnesEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to our GoFundMe. This will help us pay for the editing software necessary to run this podcast. Thank you for your generosity! Hosts: Shannon Su and Julia ByrnesEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for our final episode of season 6, coming soon! The post Moms in Medicine: Dr. Lagergren’s Journey with IVF first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Hi everyone! Welcome back to the third segment of our Moms in Medicine series. This week, we are talking with Dr. Gabriela García Nores. Dr. García is an esteemed plastic surgery faculty at Emory (and a huge advocate and sponsor of her mentees). Dr. Gabriela Garcia Nores received her MD degree from the Universidad San Martin de Porres, Facultad de Medicina Humana, Lima, Peru, in 2009. She completed general surgery residency at NYU Medical Center, during which she did a two-year research fellowship in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Her plastic surgery residency was done at the Emory and followed by a fellowship in microvascular reconstruction at the University of Pennsylvania. Hosts: Shannon Su and Megan WassonEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to our GoFundMe. This will help us pay for the editing software necessary to run this podcast. Thank you for your generosity! Hosts: Shannon Su and Megan WassonEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for the next part of our series! The post Moms in Medicine: Residency and Pregnancy with Dr. Garcia Nores first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Hi everyone! Welcome back to another episode of WISER. We hope you enjoyed the first part of our series, Moms in Medicine. This week, we bring you Dr. Jacqueline Lee. Dr. Lee received her medical degree from the UNC School of Medicine where she continued on to complete an OB/GYN residency at Northwestern University. Following residency, Dr. Lee completed her Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the Emory Reproductive Center. Jacqueline Lee, a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist at Emory Reproductive Center. This week, we speak with Dr. Lee about her experience with pregnancy and parenthood during her fellowship years, and navigating job negotiations with a family and family planning in mind. Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Hosts: Shannon Su and Megan WassonEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to our GoFundMe. This will help us pay for the editing software necessary to run this podcast. Thank you for your generosity! Hosts: Megan Wasson and Shannon SuEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot SessionsThe post Moms in Medicine: Balance with Dr. Lee first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Hi everyone! Welcome back to The WISER Podcast after our mid-season break. We are super excited to start this new series, called Moms in Medicine, to share with you the stories from our wonderful guests about residency, motherhood, and family as busy surgeons. Our first guest is Dr. Melika Zarei Deaton. Dr. Deaton attended medical school at the Virginia Tech Carillon School of Medicine and has been at Emory for plastic surgery residency. She is currently a PGY5 and shares with us stories about her first pregnancy during residency, navigating a surgical residency as a mother, and her tips and tricks for others who may be in her shoes soon. P.S. Listen to the very end for a surprise! Congrats, Dr. Deaton, and thank you for sharing this exciting news with us. Hosts: Shannon Su and Megan WassonEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to our GoFundMe. This will help us pay for the editing software necessary to run this podcast. Thank you for your generosity! Hosts: Shannon Su and Megan WassonEditors: Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for the rest of the series! The post Moms in Medicine: Kicking it off with Dr. Deaton first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Jennifer Kawwass with us on the podcast. Dr. Kawwass is joined by President and OBGYN hopeful Megan Wasson and Vice-President Rachel Holstein. Dr. Kawwass speaks with our team about the field of REI, the influence of social media on her patients, and her work in advocating for patients and residents. Among her numerous roles and responsibilities, she serves as the division director of Reproductive Endocrinology at Emory University and director of the Emory Reproductive Center. Dr. Kawwass obtained her undergraduate degree at Davidson College where she split her time between studies and a division I sport. She went on to medical school in her home state of Virginia at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and found her way to Atlanta for residency and fellowship training. She has received many accolades along the way including her role as Chief Resident and guest researcher for the CDC as well as her current engagements at the national level with the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Hosts: Megan Wasson and Rachel HolsteinEditors: Grace Nguyen and Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions The post On Family Building & Wearing Hats with Dr. Kawwass first appeared on WISER Podcast.

On this episode, president Shannon Su and president emeritus Elizabeth Rieger are honored to host Dr. Betsy Grunch on the WISER podcast. Dr. Grunch is a neurosurgeon, mom, and “medfluencer” who speaks with us about her insane balancing act of being a mom and a physician, working social media, and what it’s like to be a physician in the spotlight. Dr. Grunch is an esteemed Neurosurgeon and physician shareholder at the Longstreet Clinic, in Gainesville, Georgia, where she operates at both the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, and the Gainesville Surgical Center. She is a Georgia Native and attended the University of Georgia for her undergraduate degree, and the Medical College of Georgia for medical school. She then attended Duke University for her residency in Neurosurgery, and then spine fellowship. Dr. Grunch is also known as “Lady Spine Doc” on social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok, where she has almost 2 million followers! Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Hosts: Shannon Su and Elizabeth RiegerEditors: Julia ByrnesProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Shannon Su and Elizabeth RiegerEditors: Julia ByrnesProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot SessionsThe post S6E4: @ladyspinedoc on The WISER Podcast! first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Welcome to episode 3 of season 6! In this episode, presidents Shannon and Megan speak with Dr. Jennifer Gross about her journey to becoming a head and neck surgeon and the intrigue of head and neck surgery. Dr. Jennifer Gross is an Assistant Professor in Otolaryngology in the division of Head and Neck Surgery at Emory University. She is an Emory University School of Medicine graduate! Before attending medical school, she was awarded a national research scholarship to work at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She also interned as a public health inspector at the Beijing Centers for Disease Control, China. Dr. Gross completed her otolaryngology residency at Washington University in St. Louis and her fellowship in head and neck oncologic surgery at the University of Miami. She has authored multiple research publications and book chapters. Hosts: Megan Wasson, Shannon SuEditors: Grace NguyenProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Megan Wasson, Shannon SuEditors: Grace NguyenProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for our next episode!The post S6E3:On Head & Neck Surgery and Work-Life Balance with Dr. Jennifer Gross first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, our chief editor extraordinaire, Grace, hosts Dr. McKenzie Hollon on the WISER podcast. After many seasons of speaking with surgeons at the table, we figured it was about time to go beyond the drape, and there is no better person than Dr. Hollon to do that with us. She provides a peek into the wonderful world behind the drape, what it’s like to work and train as a cardiac anesthesiologist at a level one trauma center, and her foray into the realm of anesthesia education. Dr. Hollon is an esteemed faculty member in the Department of Anesthesiology at Emory University Hospital who specializes in Cardiac Anesthesia. She is also the vice chair for education in the department of anesthesiology. Dr. Hollon obtained her undergraduate degree at Auburn University, and her medical degree from Louisiana State University. She completed both her residency and cardiac fellowship at Emory, and she currently serves as the Vice Chair of Education of Emory’s Anesthesia department. Hosts: Grace NguyenEditors: Grace Nguyen, Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Grace NguyenEditors: Grace Nguyen, Megan WassonProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Harleen KaurMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for our next episode! The post S6E2: Behind the Drape with Dr. Hollon first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Welcome to season 6! In this episode, newly minted presidents Shannon Su and Megan Wasson interview Dr. Angela Cheng, a Plastic and Reconstructive Microsurgeon at Emory. Dr. Cheng provides insight into her experience as a woman in largely male-dominated fields, the significance of mentorship, and the importance of standing up for yourself and asking for what you deserve. Dr. Cheng is an esteemed faculty in the Plastic Surgery Department at Emory University who specializes in breast reconstruction, microsurgery, lymphedema surgery, and body contouring. She is also Chief of Plastic Surgery at Grady Memorial Hospital and Assistant Program Director for the Plastic Surgery Residency Program at Emory. Dr. Cheng obtained both her undergraduate and medical degree from the University of Florida. She completed her general surgery residency at the University of Texas-Houston, followed by plastic surgery residency at the University of Virginia and a fellowship in breast and microsurgery at UT Southwestern. Click here to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Hosts: Shannon Su, Megan WassonEditors: Grace Nguyen, Jennifer Wang, Julia Byrnes, Shannon SuProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Shannon Su, Megan WassonEditors: Grace Nguyen, Jennifer Wang, Julia Byrnes, Shannon SuProducers: Shannon Su and Megan WassonArtwork: Shannon SuMusic: Bluedot Sessions Stay tuned for our next episode!The post S6E1: Dr. Angela Cheng, on Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (and Asking for What You Deserve) first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, WISER president Lara Schwieger, and co-host Helen O’Leary interview Dr. Kirsten Freeman, a cardiovascular surgeon at the University of Florida. Dr. Freeman discusses her experiences training in hospitals around the country, touches on the pros and cons of integrated vs traditional residency pathways to CT surgery, and describes the transition from surgical trainee to attending. Dr. Freeman completed medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, then went on to do general surgery residency at the University of Colorado Denver and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at the University of Florida. Dr. Freeman is currently an Assistant Professor in the Division of Cardiovascular Surgery at the University of Florida, and the Associate Program Director for the Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Integrated and Traditional Residency Training Programs. Hosts: Lara Schwieger & Helen O’LearyEditors: Grace Nguyen, Lucy Avant, Julia ByrnesProducers: Lizzie Rieger & Lara SchwiegerMusic: Blue Dot Sessions Hosts: Lara Schwieger, Helen O’Leary Editors: Grace Nguyen, Julia Byrnes, Lucy Avant Producers: Lara Schwieger and Lizzie Rieger Artwork: Victoria Mau Music: Bluedot SessionsThe post S5E8: Dr. Kirsten Freeman, on Cardiovascular Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode we interview Dr. Megan Tracci, vascular and endovascular surgeon at the University of Virginia, as well as the founder and co-medical director of the UVA Northridge Vein Clinic. Dr. Tracci is our first surgeon with a JD to be featured on the podcast! WISER president, Lizzie Rieger, and co-host Helen O’Leary team up to ask Dr. Tracci about being a dual MD-JD, health policy including her time as a fellow in the US senate, and vascular surgery. Dr. Tracci graduated from the Medical Scholars Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with both a JD and MD, with an emphasis on health policy and patient safety. She went on to complete a residency in general surgery followed by a fellowship in vascular surgery at the University of Virgina. During her research years as a resident she worked as a legislative fellow for the United States senate. https://wiserpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/S5E7-Megan-Tracci-MD-JD-on-Health-Policy.m4a Hosts: Lizzie Rieger, Helen O’LearyEditors: Grace Nguyen and Julia ByrnesProducers: Lizzie Rieger, Lara SchwiegerMusic: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Lizzie Rieger, Helen O’Leary Editors: Grace Nguyen and Julia Byrnes Producers: Lara Schwieger and Lizzie Rieger Artwork: Victoria Mau Music: Bluedot Sessions The post S5E7: Dr. Megan Tracci, JD, MD, on Health Policy and Vascular Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode we interview Dr. Laura Ramirez-Caban, a Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeon and assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Emory University Hospital. WISER third year medical students Shannon and Megan team up to ask Dr. Ramirez about minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS), a relatively new subspecialty in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Later, Dr. Ramirez discusses her passion for working with underserved populations and her experience as a new mom and surgeon. Dr. Ramirez obtained her undergraduate degree from Drexel University, and her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine. She completed residency at Emory University and a MIGS fellowship at Cleveland Clinic. Hosts: Megan Wasson, Shannon Su Editors: Megan Wasson, Shannon Su, Grace Nguyen Producers: Lizzie Rieger, Lara Schwieger Music: Bluedot Sessions Hosts: Shannon Su, Megan Wasson Editors: Shannon Su, Megan Wasson, Grace Nguyen Producers: Lara Schwieger and Lizzie Rieger Artwork: Victoria Mau Music: Bluedot Sessions The post S5E6: Dr. Laura Ramirez-Caban, on Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, we interview Dr. Olamide Alabi, an assistant professor of surgery in the Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Jessica Keilson, general surgery PGY4, and Dr. Emma Rooney, vascular surgery fellow, teamed up to discuss Dr. Alabi’s experiences in medical school, residency, and as a vascular surgery attending. Later, we discuss Dr. Alabi’s role as a mentor in surgery and her insights into being an effective mentor. Dr. Alabi attended the University of Nebraska College of Medicine for medical school and Loma Linda University Medical Center in Southern California for her general surgery residency. She went on to complete a fellowship in vascular surgery at Oregon Health and Sciences University. Her current interests and research involve the disparities in vascular surgery within the veteran community. Listen Below: Hosts: Dr. Emma Rooney, Dr. Jessica Keilson Editors: Cynthia Ramazani, Grace Nguyen Producers: Lara Schwieger, Lizzie Rieger Hosts: Dr. Emma Rooney & Dr. Jessica Keilson Editors: Cynthia Ramazani & Grace Nguyen Producers: Lara Schwieger & Lizzie Rieger Music: Blue Dot SessionsThe post S5E5: Dr. Olamide Alabi, on Vascular Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Allison Linden, an Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Division of Pediatric Surgery at Children’s Hospital of Atlanta. Katya Van Anderlecht and Sophia Stylianos (M4s) teamed up to discuss Dr. Linden’s experiences as a researcher and global surgeon in Rwanda and Uganda. Later, we talk about her many roles as ECMO director, pediatric surgeon, former critical care fellow, and public health scholar.  Dr. Linden attended Georgetown University for medical school and general surgery residency. During her residency sabbatical, she went on to Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health where she was a Paul Farmer Global Surgery Research Fellow and received her MPH degree with a concentration in global health and population. Dr. Linden has completed 3 fellowships, the first being a Pediatric Surgery critical care fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the second, a Pediatric Surgery ECMO fellowship at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital, and finally a Pediatric Surgery fellowship at Thomas Jefferson Dupont Hospital for Children. Dr. Linden is now a pediatric surgeon here at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Listen below: Dr. Linden with her husband at Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Dr. Linden with her daughter during fellowship. Hosts: Katya Van Anderlecht & Sophia Stylianos Editor: Lizzie Rieger & Cameron Blount Producers: Jessica Keilson, Katya Van Anderlecht, Sophia Stylianos, Cameron Blount, Julia Byrnes, and Francesca Giraudo Music: Blue Dot Sessions Citations: Improving Employment and Working Conditions in Health Services: Report for discussion at the Tripartite Meeting on Improving Employment and Working Conditions in Health Services, Geneva, 24–28 April 2017, International Labour Office, Sectoral Policies Department, Geneva, ILO, 2017. LeBrun DG, Chackungal S, Chao TE, Knowlton LM, Linden AF, Notrica MR, Solis CV, McQueen KA. Prioritizing essential surgery and safe anesthesia for the Post-2015 Development Agenda: operative capacities of 78 district hospitals in 7 low- and middle-income countries. Surgery. 2014 Mar;155(3):365-73. doi: 10.1016/j.surg.2013.10.008. Epub 2013 Oct 11. PMID: 24439745. Leider JP, Plepys CM, Castrucci BC, Burke EM, Blakely CH. Trends in the Conferral of Graduate Public Health Degrees: A Triangulated Approach. Public Health Reports. 2018;133(6):729-737. doi:10.1177/0033354918791542 Linden AF, Maine R, Hedt-Gauthier BL, Kamanzi E, Mody G, Ntakiyiruta G, Kansayisa G, Ntaganda E, Niyonkuru F, Mubiligi J, Mpunga T, Meara JG, Riviello R. Validation of a community-based survey assessing non-obstetric surgical conditions in Burera District, Rwanda. Lancet. 2015 Apr 27;385 Suppl 2:S8. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(15)60803-0. Epub 2015 Apr 26. PMID: 26313110. Linden AF, Sekidde FS, Galukande M, Knowlton LM, Chackungal S, McQueen KA. Challenges of surgery in developing countries: a survey of surgical and anesthesia capacity in Uganda’s public hospitals. World J Surg. 2012 May;36(5):1056-65. doi: 10.1007/s00268-012-1482-7. PMID: 22402968. Maine RG, Linden AF, Riviello R, Kamanzi E, Mody GN, Ntakiyiruta G, Kansayisa G, Ntaganda E, Niyonkuru F, Mubiligi JM, Mpunga T, Meara JG, Hedt-Gauthier BL. Prevalence of Untreated Surgical Conditions in Rural Rwanda: A Population-Based Cross-sectional Study in Burera District. JAMA Surg. 2017 Dec 20;152(12):e174013. doi: 10.1001/jamasurg.2017.4013. Epub 2017 Dec 20. PMID: 29071335; PMCID: PMC5831432. Shrime MG, Sekidde S, Linden A, Cohen JL, Weinstein MC, Salomon JA. Sustainable Development in Surgery: The Health, Poverty, and Equity Impacts of Charitable Surgery in Uganda. PLoS One. 2016 Dec 30;11(12):e0168867. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168867. PMID: 28036357; PMCID: PMC5201287. The post S5E4: Dr. Allison Linden, on Pediatric & Global Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Dr. Priscilla Strom, the first female graduate of the general surgery residency program at Emory University. She completed medical school at Emory in 1976, general surgery residency at Emory in 1981, and a trauma surgery fellowship at Emory University Affiliated Hospitals in 1982. She also holds master’s degrees in both theological studies and bioethics. She is currently the interim Program Director at the general surgery program at Northeast Georgia Medical Center and practices in Gainesville, Georgia.  Lara and Cameron teamed up for this interview to ask about Dr. Strom’s missionary work in India, being the first female trainee at the Emory general surgery residency program, the ACGME implementation of the 80-hour work week, as well as asking advice for residents and fellows going through training now (from a program director!). Hosts: Cameron Blount & Lara SchwiegerEditor: Cameron Blount Producers: Jessica Keilson, Cameron Blount, & Lara SchwiegerMusic: Blue Dot Sessions The post S5E3: On Being the First with Dr. Priscilla Strom first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, Cameron Blount (M4) and Lara Schwieger (M3) interview Dr. Frances (Francie) Jenkins! This episode focuses on advice for 4th-year medical students navigating application season, including ERAS tips, navigating virtual interviews, and formulating rank lists. Dr. Jenkins reflects on her intern year experiences and shares where she imagines herself and her career in the future. Finally, we ask about the best music for the OR, bonding with co-residents, and losing your car in the parking garage! Dr. Frances Jenkins is a current PGY2 in the General Surgery Residency Program at Emory University. She completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University and completed medical school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Hosts: Cameron Blount & Lara SchwiegerEditors: Cynthia RamazaniProducer: Cameron Blount & Lara SchwiegerMusic: Blue Dot SessionsThe post S5E2: Resident Reflections – Dr. Frances Jenkins first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, we take a step back in time and focus on women throughout history that have gone against the grain and pursued their passions for surgery despite obstacles and opposition. These stories highlight how far we’ve come, and remind us that there is still more work to be done. Dr. Wang and Patience discuss Major Barbara Stimson, Dr. Nina Braunwald, and Dr. Margaret Ann Bulkley, among others. Major Barbara Stimson Dr. Nina Braunwald James Barry aka Dr. Margaret Ann Bulkley Hosted & Produced by: Dr. Vivian Wang & Patience Timi Edited by: Samridhi Banskota & Cameron Blount Music by: Blue Dot Sessions The post S5E1: History of Women in Surgery: A Step Back in Time first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Castater followed a unique path to becoming a trauma surgeon. From fine artist, to business school, to an unexpected trauma experience of her own that led her to medical school, Dr. Castater walks us through her journey. This episode offers perspectives on medicine as a second career, family transitions and balance, and how Dr. Castater seeks to find the good in all experiences. Hosts: Jessica Liu & Katya Van AnderlechtEditors: Katya Van AnderlechtProducers: Alex Speak and Patience TimiArt: Erika Ni The post S4E5: Dr. Christine Castater – From Trauma Patient to Trauma Surgeon first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In this episode, co-hosted with Audible Bleeding, Dr. Rockman, the Program Director of vascular surgery residency and fellowship and a professor of surgical research at NYU, walks us through her impressive research career, touching upon finding ways to fit research into a busy surgical lifestyle, her passion for trying to bridge the gap for underrepresented/marginalized populations in clinical trials, and the importance of establishing trust between physicians and patients. As Program Director, she also offers sage advice on the recruitment and application process for medical school and residency. Hosts: Amanda Fobare Jessica Liu and Alex Speak Editor: Katya Van Anderlecht Producer: Alex Speak Artwork: Erika Ni Music: The Zeppelin and Steadfast by Blue Dot Sessions & Ships VIII by Martin FowlerThe post S4E4: Dr. Caron Rockman – On Doing it All, from Research and Leadership, to Motherhood first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Caprice Greenberg is a renowned surgeon scientist and a true visionary in the world of health services research. In this episode, we make reference to two powerful talks of hers that made waves in the world of surgery. The first talk, called “Sticky Floors and Glass Ceilings”, was her 2017 Association for Academic Surgery Presidential Address. Her 2018 follow-up talk, which she gave at the Michigan Medicine Department of Surgery as part of a DEI Lecture Series, is called “Stop Fixing Women”. Both of these talks are available for viewing on YouTube. We cannot recommend them enough and they provide important context for the interview you’re about to listen to. Enjoy! Hosts: Jessica Liu and Alex Speak Editor: Alex Speak Producer: Alex Speak Artwork: Erika Ni Music: Greyleaf Willow, Stately Shadows and Tarte Tatin bye Blue Dot Sessions & Ships VIII by Martin Fowler The post S4E3: Dr. Caprice Greenberg, on Sticky Floors and Glass Ceilings first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we are excited to be joined by Dr. Stephanie Drew, an incredible Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon and breast cancer survivor. Dr. Drew shares her cancer journey, the coincidence that led to her diagnosis, insights gained from being a physician-patient, and her experience living as a cancer survivor. We also talk about the gender inequality in OMFS and the incredible work she is doing to advance women in OMFS. She also shares her love of art and the role of art and humanity in medicine. Overall, an exciting conversation with Dr. Drew: a surgeon, cancer survivor, artists, leader, and advocate! Hosts: Jessica Liu, Samridhi Banskota & Alex SpeakEditors: Samridhi BanskotaProducer: Alex SpeakArt: Erika NiThe post S4E2: Staying Strong with Dr. Stephanie Drew first appeared on WISER Podcast.

It’s that time of year when newly minted graduates of surgical training programs start their first attending jobs! It’s an exciting time, but do you really know what to expect? And how do you go from years of pre-scripted training to finding the right first job?  Left to right: Drs. Maggie Diller, Vivian Wang, and Priya Rajdev So, for our first episode of season 4, we decided to reunite with some of our recent grads who have now completed their first year of their first jobs. Drs. Maggie Diller, Adekemi Egunsola, Priya Rajdev, and Vivian Wang graduated together in the Class of 2019 from the Emory general surgery program. They went on to do one-year fellowships across the country, found a variety of jobs, and transitioned to attendings. Not to mention interviewing and building practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these similarities, they have all started on different career paths: academic, community, and hybrid jobs, venturing out versus returning to their home institution, and more.  Here, they eagerly share what went well, what surprised them, and what they would do if they were to do it all over again. And because recording remotely across time zones with busy surgeons doesn’t always go to plan, our intended “reunion recap” ended up being recorded over a couple different conversations. Our editors Samridhi Banskota and Cameron Blount did fantastic (extra) work splicing them together.  Dr. Adekemi Egunsola & WISER Co-Founder Dr. Vivian Wang We hope this helps the next class of new surgeons navigate the job search and transition to attending life! Hosts: Vivian Wang & Samridhi BanskotaEditors: Samridhi Banskota & Cameron BlountProducer: Alex SpeakArt: Erika NiThe post S4E1: An Emory Grad Reunion – The Transition from Resident to Attending first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This mother-daughter special features Dr. Patricia Bortoluzzi, a craniofacial plastic surgeon in Montreal, and her daughter, Alex Speak, who just so happens to be our Producer here at WISER. In this episode, they discuss their roots in surgery, their mother-daughter dynamic, and the struggles in their respective journeys. Dr. Bortoluzzi, a first-generation Canadian of Italian descent, is past-Program Director of Plastic Surgery at the University of Montreal, past-president of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons, and current Director of the Craniofacial Clinic at the University of Montreal. She is candid in telling her experiences with culture shock, courage, and grief.  While the topic of motherhood is familiar to the WISER Podcast, Alex’s perspective fills a much-needed gap in the discussion, by delving into what it’s like to be the child of a surgeon: “I think it takes understanding on both perspectives, and I think a lot of that understanding comes in hindsight. She followed her dreams, and that – especially in my 20’s – has given me permission to follow mine.” Dr. Bortoluzzi’s story is imbued with both humor and lessons learned, the former of which is apparent in the telling of how her “Uncle Guido” captured the attention of her Plastics interviewers. She leaves listeners with the following guidance: “Enjoy the journey. And whatever you do – do it well. If you do it well, doors open and you’ll be gratified.” Host: Jessica Liu Editor/Producer: Alex SpeakArtwork: Virginia Wang Music: “Magic Scout Cottages” and “Sheep May Safely Graze” by Kevin MacLeodThe post S3E8: Dr. Patricia Bortoluzzi, on Raising a Surgeon – A Mother-Daughter Special first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Before COVID times, one of our #beWISER events was on pregnancy and parenthood during surgical residency. Dr. Rima Rindler (Emory neurosurgery resident) and Dr. Emily Barrow (then Emory ENT resident, now faculty), came up with the idea of sharing their experiences and the many things they both wished they knew about having kids during residency. With Mother’s Day this month, and the inability to gather together for our usual #beWISER events, we dug up the recording from this event and listened to it again. This event is impregnated with a lot of valuable, uncommon knowledge about how to navigate starting or expanding your family while in training, so we wanted to share it here for our listeners to hear – again or for the first time. You’ll hear the perspectives from various residents and faculty, and questions being answered by students in the audience. Dr. Beth Willingham (center), Emory ENT faculty, opened her her beautiful home to host this event, led by Dr. Rima Rindler (left) and Dr. Emily Barrow (right). The papers referenced during the event are included here: JAMA pregnancy and motherhood in surgical training, GME parental leave policies 2017 Hosts: Rima Rindler, Emily Barrow Editor, Artwork: Virginia Wang Producer: Alex Speak Photography: Vienna Wang Music: “Wedding” and “Sleepy Cat” by Blue Dot Sessions The post S3E7: #beWISER on pregnancy and parenthood in residency first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Shipra Arya is seriously impressive – she graduated from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, one of the most prestigious medical schools in India (think: 60,000 applicants for 35 spots a year!), and at that time, was the only female student pursuing surgery. Early on, she knew that she wanted to come to the US for residency training and beyond, and she shares insights into the difficult journey many IMGs have to go through to be successful. Her love of vascular surgery shines through this interview, as well as her bond with research. She discusses how she has come to be one of the foremost researchers on frailty in vascular surgery and her current ongoing clinical trial. She is also passionate about mentoring future vascular surgeons, and promoting diversity and leadership within this male-dominated field. Last but not least, we discuss ways for surgeons to balance their family, clinical work, and research work – even in times when your family dynamic is changing. This episode was recorded in partnership with the Audible Bleeding Podcast, sponsored by the Society for Vascular Surgery. Check out their podcast for more resources and interviews in vascular surgery! Hosts: Amanda Fobare, Vivian WangEditor/Producer: Vivian WangArtwork: Virginia WangMusic: “Borough” and “Plate Glass” by Blue Dot Sessions The post S3E6: Dr. Shipra Arya, on frailty in vascular surgery, and international medical graduates first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Today, we are delighted to be presenting an interview with Dr. Leigh Neumayer. She visited Emory University last year to deliver General Surgery grand rounds, and we caught some of her valuable time to talk to her one-on-one. At this time, she was the University of Arizona College of Medicine, where she became their first female Chair of Surgery in 2014. Now she is the Chair of Surgery at University of Florida – Jacksonville. Dr. Neumayer is internationally recognized for her research contributions, having published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, as well as for her leadership in surgical education. She has held countless esteemed titles such as President of the Association for Surgical Education, the Association of VA Surgeons, the Association of Women Surgeons, and more. We talk to Dr. Neumayer about how she became a pioneer and mentor for women in surgery and leadership, and how you can pave your own unique path in surgery. Hosts: Jessica Liu, Bernadette WhiteEditor: Patience Timi Producer: Alex Speak Art: Virginia Wang The post S3E5: Dr. Leigh Neumayer, on leadership – lessons from a path less traveled first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Velazquez is the Vascular Fellowship Director and a faculty member at Wake Forest Health. She graduated from Universidad de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico, then completed a general surgery residency at Emory University and a vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Florida. Throughout her journey to becoming a vascular surgeon, Dr. Velazquez has demonstrated extraordinary resilience as well as tremendous passion for her field and her family. In this episode, Dr. Velazquez discusses the challenges she faced becoming a vascular surgeon, especially as a woman of color, and subsequently trying to balance her family-life and career. Interviewed by Dr. Amanda Fobare, also a recent Emory graduate and a current Emory vascular fellow, and Jessica Liu, our WISER director and general surgery PGY4, Dr. Velazquez emphasizes the importance of a supportive work environment in regard to improving diversity within vascular surgery as well as starting a family. She also describes how the support of her colleagues was crucial in dealing with a loved ones’ unexpected cancer diagnosis. Hosts: Amanda Fobare, Jessica Liu Editor: Rachel Slappy Producer: Alex Speak Art: Virginia WangThe post S3E4: Dr. Gabriela Velazquez, on vascular surgery + family first appeared on WISER Podcast.

The path to become a practicing surgeon is long and arduous. At the same time, it is also fairly regimented: 4+ years in medical school, 5+ years in residency, and then possibly a couple more in fellowship. Each step comes with a standardized process and timeline that we are used to pressing through. After you are finally done with that training, how do you go about obtaining your first job? It’s unscripted, there’s no Match Day, there’s no single application or website to reference, and new graduates place a lot of pressure on themselves to find and negotiate the “perfect job.” Here to shed some light on the process is Dr. Kimberly Hoang, neurosurgeon at Emory University. Not only does she give a helpful road map for planning your future career, she also shares tips for choosing and navigating the right (there’s no such thing as perfect) first job. She also talks about challenges and opportunities with pursuing an academic position in neurosurgery. Rima Rindler, a chief neurosurgery resident at Emory, questions Dr. Hoang as she is about to embark on her own job search. Vivian Wang, who recently started her job at Kaiser Northwest Permanente, and Razan Faraj, a current Emory medical student, also cohost. Hosts: Rima Rindler, Vivian Wang, Razan FarajEditor: Vivian WangProducer: Alex Speak Art: Virginia WangThe post S3E3: Dr. Kimberly Hoang, on finding your first “real” job first appeared on WISER Podcast.

In today’s episode, we hear from some Buckeyes! Our WISER co-founder, Vivian Wang (she/her/hers) is joined by JC Chen (they/them/theirs), a PGY2 from The Ohio State University, as they interview Dr. Courtney Collins (she/her/hers). In our conversation, we start to scratch the surface on the topic of LGBTQ+ in surgery. Dr. Collins is originally from a small town in Washington state. From there, her training took her all the way to the east coast, until finally settling in the Midwest with her partner. She is currently an Assistant Professor at The Ohio State University, with interests in complex abdominal wall reconstruction and geriatric surgery. Being the oldest of five siblings, family was a major support system for Dr. Collins when she came out at a young age. We explored what it was like to grow up gay in a conservative town, and how being a part of the LGBTQ+ community impacted the way she navigated her career. Diversity and inclusion are often mentioned “buzzwords” in medicine, but active advocacy and allyship from colleagues is often lacking. For those that identify with the experiences in this episode, Dr. Collins gives this advice: “You don’t have to feel ashamed of yourself for not speaking up for everything that you hear… You can’t take on the whole system by yourself and you shouldn’t feel pressured to.” While we celebrate the upwards trajectory with LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusivity in surgery, we still have a ways to go, and we invite you to join us and be an ally. As Dr. Collins aptly notes, “Nobody is perfect, we all have to work together because changing culture takes a long time…but it’s important to have conversations like this..” Hosts: Vivian Wang, JC ChenEditor: Patience TimiProducer: Alex Speak Art: Virginia WangThe post S3E2: Dr. Courtney Collins, on LGBTQ+ in surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

For our first episode of Season 3, we are sharing an insightful conversation with a Burns Boss, Dr. Juvonda Hodge. She is currently the Assistant Medical Director at the Grady Memorial Hospital Burn Center. Dr. Hodge sat down with us to discuss her unexpected path to becoming a burn surgeon, the continued need for mentorship throughout her career, and assimilating versus adapting in academia.  She offers astute words of wisdom and tough love to medical students and interns who wish to reach the high bar they’ve set for themselves. In her own words, “Don’t look for validation from anyone, they’re not going to clap for you because you showed up… Be confident in yourself.” In addition, she always makes sure she’s operating to some good music in the OR. As promised in this episode, we’re sharing some of her favorites in WISER playlist, specially curated by Dr. Hodge herself! Hosts: Jessica Liu and Cameron Blount Editor: Cameron BlountProducer: Alex Speak Art: Virginia WangThe post S3E1: Dr. Juvonda Hodge, a Burns Boss first appeared on WISER Podcast.

For our final episode of Season 2, we are excited to share our conversation with Dr. Maria (Marti) Russell, a surgical oncologist at Emory University and Grady Memorial Hospital. She delves into her unique (though often challenging) practice, as she operates both at Emory Midtown Hospital and at Grady Memorial Hospital.  Dr. Russell shares a lot of practical advice in this episode, especially when it comes to advocating for ourselves as women in the field of surgery, such as during contract negotiations and career advancement. She never wanted to be labeled a “female” surgeon (and neither do we!). Initially not thinking that there was any differential treatment towards men and women in surgery, she discusses her realization for the need for structured mentorship programs and advocacy groups like WISER, to equal the playing field between men and women. She highlights the support systems – both at home and at work – that have allowed her to build her career as it stands now. In her words: “None of us do this by ourselves,” and we think that aptly summarizes why we do what we do, here at WISER. Hosts: Vivian Wang and Caroline ColemanEditor/Producer: Alex SpeakThe post S2E10: Dr. Marti Russell, on being in two places at once first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Jane Hallman is an OR scrub tech who has been working at Emory for over two decades. She was born in Carrolton, GA, and initially became interested in the health field through her grandparents, who started a hospital. She ended up following her mother’s path and became a teacher. Jane taught preschool for many years before transitioning to being a scrub tech. She has now been at Emory for 23 years, having witnessed many a student turn into resident turn into attending. She’s seen it all. The birth of laparoscopic surgery and its growing pains, an era where all surgeons were men, and the shift to a surgical residency of >50% women. With that, there has been changes in culture, which have been mostly for the better. Listen here to join in on our conversation with Jane about the evolution of operating room culture, culprits of disruptive behavior, and how to turn that around to foster an efficient, enjoyable, and inclusive workplace environment. Hosts: Vivian Wang, Caroline ColemanEditor: Patience TimiProducer: Alex SpeakThe post S2E9: Jane Hallman – a scrub tech’s perspective on the evolution of OR culture first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Shaneeta Johnson is a leader in all circles that she occupies. She is an Associate Professor of Surgery, Director of the Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery Program, and the Residency Associate Program Director at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Johnson’s penchant for leadership is both natural and cultivated. In this episode, she talks about her origins from a family of educators, as well as the more deliberate nurturing of her leadership skills, reflected in part in her decision to pursue an MBA when she noticed a lapse in business knowledge in medical education.  Dr. Johnson delves into her passion for bariatric surgery and offers an exciting glimpse into the world of robotic surgery, where she not only touts its medical benefits, but also emphasizes the importance of humility and open-mindedness in adopting new methodology and technology in the medical field. Overall, she approaches her many responsibilities with care, tenacity, and grace, and remembers to pass it on to her mentees. Hosts: Vivian Wang, Caroline ColemanEditor/Producer: Alex SpeakThe post S2E8: Dr. Johnson on Bariatrics and Robotics – the Art of Adaptability first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Victoria Teodorescu (Dr. T) grew up in New Jersey, but really claims Nebraska as her home. Her summers as a child in Nebraska were spent chasing after cows, swimming in the irrigation ditches, and finding snakes in the backyard. Dr. T’s road to medicine definitely wasn’t straight. She knew she loved science and math, but Dr. T remembers that “the girls in my high school hadn’t been expected to do much of anything and even if you really want to do something with your life, there is no guidance.” She attributes her guidance and determination to the women in her family who had the fortunate opportunity to graduate from college back in the 1920s. After graduating from college at NYU, Dr. T took on different jobs including working on Wall Street and even joining the Fashion Institute, before medicine called her home. Dr. T recounts the people that tried to discourage her on her road to medicine, including her own program director who had told her that “women with children don’t belong in surgery.” Despite all the obstacles, Dr T was able to become Chief of Vascular Surgery at Bronx VA Medical Center where she instituted a diabetic foot clinic to combat emergency amputations for foot infections. Dr. T joined Emory School of Medicine in 2016 and is currently an associate professor of surgery in the Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy. Hosts: Amanda Fobare, Deema ElcoufiEditor: Patience TimiProducer: Alex Speak The post S2E7: Dr. Teodorescu, from sewing clothes to sewing vessels first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This is the final episode of our mini-series on Ohio State University’s 4th Annual Women in Surgery Symposium! We hope you have enjoyed this series as much as we have – if so, we encourage you to join in person for their 5th Annual Symposium this fall. Dr. Kevin Pei, Director of Surgical Critical Care (Texas A&M), talks about bullying and microaggressions, and asks some difficult questions to a panel of women surgeons about their experiences: Dr. Mary Dillhoff, Associate Professor (OSU, surgical oncology)Dr. Kristin Huntoon, PGY7 neurosurgery resident (OSU)Dr. Clara Lee, Associate Professor (OSU, plastic surgery)Dr. Carmen Quatman, Assistant Professor (OSU, orthopedics) The post OSU WIS Ep5: Bullying and Microaggressions first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This is episode 4 of 5 featuring the Ohio State University’s 4th Annual Women in Surgery Symposium, #HeforShe and #SheforShe: Redefining Surgical Culture. This panel, led by Dr. Anghela Paredes, a PGY2 general surgery resident, addresses obstacles in career transitions, from medical school to residency, to fellowship, and to your first job as junior faculty. Our panelists sharing stories are: Dr. Lisa Cunningham, Assistant Professor (OSU, colorectal surgery)Dr. Vivian Wang, MIS/bariatric fellow (OSU)Dr. Eliza Beal, admin general surgery chief resident (OSU)Dr. Anahita Jalilvand, PGY3 general surgery resident (OSU)Dr. Ruth Ackah, PGY2 general surgery resident (OSU) The post OSU WIS Ep4: Career Transitions first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This is episode 3 of 5 featuring the Ohio State University’s 4th Annual Women in Surgery Symposium, #HeforShe and #SheforShe: Redefining Surgical Culture. Dr. Andrew Bernard, Chief of Trauma and Acute Surgery at University of Kentucky, speaks about equity, diversity, and inclusion in surgery. Do we still need this? Listen in to hear him give a fantastic summary of current literature, and then pose example cases about equity and diversity to a panel of trainees and faculty. Panelists featured are: Dr. Bradley Needleman, Director of Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery and Medical Director of Comprehensive Weight Management & Bariatric Surgery (OSU)Dr. Carmen Quatman, Assistant Professor (OSU, orthopedics)Dr. Ekene Onwuka, chief general surgery resident (OSU)Dr. Rita Shelby, PGY3 general surgery resident (OSU)Dr. Dahlia Kenawy, PGY2 general surgery resident (OSU)Dr. Steven Scoville, PGY2 general surgery resident (OSU) The post OSU WIS Ep3: Equity in Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This is episode 2 of 5 in our mini-series on Ohio State University’s 4th Annual Women in Surgery Symposium, #HeforShe and #SheforShe: Redefining Surgical Culture. Led by Dr. Chelsea Horwood, a PGY4 general surgery resident at OSU, this episode features panelists who are surgical leaders in their fields: Dr. Gail Besner, Chief of Pediatric Surgery (Nationwide Children’s Hospital)Dr. Ginny Bumgardner, Director of Surgery Research Training (OSU, transplant)Dr. Geri Hewitt, Chief of OBGYN (OSU)Dr. Susan Moffatt-Bruce, Executive Director of University Hospital (OSU, cardiothoracic surgery)Dr. Laura Pheiffer, Chief of Orthopedic Trauma (OSU) The post OSU WIS Ep2: Leadership in Surgery first appeared on WISER Podcast.

This episode is part 1 of 5 in a special mini-series featuring the Ohio State University’s 4th Annual Women in Surgery Symposium! Held in the fall of 2019, Dr. Sabrena Noria (OSU), the founder and director of the symposium, chose the theme of “#HeforShe and #SheforShe: Redefining Surgical Culture.” This episode is an overview of the symposium, with highlights from fantastic talks: “HerStory in the Making,” keynote: Dr. Julie Freischlag, CEO (Wake Forest)Chair’s Perspectives:Dr. Tim Pawlik, Chair, Department of Surgery (OSU)Dr. Cheryl Lee, Chair, Urology (OSU)“We Belong Here: the necessary evolution of surgical culture,” Dr. Amalia Cochran, burn surgery, past president of AWS (OSU) Recorded by: Ozzie Leon (OSU)Editor/Producer: Vivian Wang The post OSU WIS Ep1: Redefining Surgical Culture first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Rachel Medbery, MD, and her husband Duane McLain, RN, share their story about flipping gender norms not only in their careers, but also within their marriage. The couple also discusses working relationships between nurses and doctors, and gives insight on how they respond to stereotypes and implicit biases from patients and coworkers. Dr. Medbery is a recent Emory cardiothoracic surgery graduate and is now working in Austin, TX as a thoracic surgeon in a large group of 16 cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgeons. Duane is also working hard and staying safe during these times. Best of all, they are now expecting a baby! This is our first love story on the WISER podcast – and we love it. Hosts: Vivian Wang and Caroline ColemanEditor: Rachel SlappyProducer: Alex Speak The post S2E5: Swapping Gender Roles in CT Surgery and Nursing: A Wife-Husband Duo first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Tune into this episode of the WISER podcast to hear Dr. Amy Chen, otolaryngologist at Emory University, share her journey into medicine and how she juggles being a leader and innovator of the field of ENT while also being a mentor and supporter both inside and outside of the hospital. Residency Match: The 7 most competitive medical specialties: https://www.ama-assn.org/residents-students/specialty-profiles/residency-match-7-most-competitive-medical-specialties The Successful Match: https://www.thesuccessfulmatch.com/otolaryngology Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery: https://www.facs.org/education/resources/residency-search/specialties/oto O’Connell F, Hu A. Women in Otolaryngology. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2017;157(2):173-174. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28485204 Chen AY, et al. The development and validation of a dysphagia-specific quality-of-life questionnaire for patients with head and neck cancer: the M.D. Anderson dysphagia inventory. Arch Otolarngol Head Neck Surg. 2001;127(7):870-876. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11448365 The post S2E4: Dr. Amy Chen on ENT and Innovation first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Dr. Gabriele Miotto (IG: @drgabrielemiotto) shares her journey through plastic surgery, including an intercontinental move, a masters in education, and a humbling yet rewarding recertification process. She also shares budget-conscious beauty and skin care tips and products–this is an episode that you won’t want to miss! The post S2E3: Dr. Miotto: From Attending to Intern to Attending Again first appeared on WISER Podcast.

Listen in to hear the self-dubbed “Trauma Mama” Dr. Randi Smith discuss the psychiatric impact of retained bullets, how trauma surgeons are at the frontlines of gun violence, and even a love story from Grady’s Trauma Bay One. The post S2E2: The Trauma Mama, Dr. Randi Smith first appeared on WISER Podcast.

For our first episode of Season 2, we are excited to have our first guest from outside of the Emory network, Dr. Rebecca Minter. She is the current Chair of the Dept. of Surgery at the University of Wisconsin and and is renowned in the worlds of HPB surgery and surgical education. We interviewed Dr. Minter when she visited Emory in April 2019 to deliver a Grand Rounds called, “‘Why do I trust you to be my surgeon?’“. Dr. Priya Rajdev, a founding member of WISER and the creative genius behind our WISER logo, is a co-host on this episode. She is also a recent graduate from the Emory General Surgery Residency Program and is now a MIS fellow at Oregon Health and Science University. The post S2E1: The Minterview first appeared on WISER Podcast.