Advertise on podcast: Dean's Chat - All Things Podiatric Medicine

Clerkships are one of the most important and, sometimes intimidating, steps in a podiatric medical student's journey toward residency. In this episode of Dean's Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey share candid advice drawn from their experiences working with students, clerks, and residency applicants. They explore what residency programs are really looking for once a student gets their “foot in the door,” and why grades and class rank are only part of the picture.  The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, curiosity, work ethic, communication, and being coachable. While academic performance can open doors, the clerkship provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they know, how they think, and how they work with patients, residents, faculty, and staff. Students are encouraged to prepare for cases, participate in discussions, ask questions, and be willing to acknowledge what they don't know. Receiving feedback without becoming defensive is another essential skill, not only for clerkships and residency, but throughout a career in medicine.  Drs. Jensen and Richey also discuss the anxiety that often accompanies clerkships, particularly when students compare themselves with their peers or feel pressure to perform perfectly. They emphasize that students are still learning and that knowledge and confidence develop throughout the fourth year. A difficult question or challenging day does not define a student's ability or potential. Instead, students can use those experiences to identify gaps, return to the fundamentals, and continue building their clinical knowledge.  Perhaps most importantly, they encourage students to view clerkships as an opportunity rather than simply an audition for residency. Spending a month at a program allows students to experience its clinical environment, culture, location, residents, faculty, and patient population while building relationships within the profession. They encourage students to explore programs they may initially consider a “reach” and to avoid allowing online reviews or comparisons to determine their expectations.  The episode closes with a reminder to embrace the process, use faculty and mentors as resources, give yourself and others grace, and focus on showing up as the best version of yourself each day. Clerkships are not about being perfect; they are an opportunity to learn, grow, build relationships, and discover where you might thrive in residency and beyond.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dean’s Chat: Is Podiatry Facing a Workforce Shortage?  Drs. Andrew Meyr and Jeneen Elagha on the Data! A new workforce study projects a shortage of 1,810 podiatric physicians in 2025—growing to 4,680 by 2035—with the largest projected gaps in Texas, California, Florida, and Georgia. Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome study authors Drs. Andrew Meyr and Jeneen Elagha to discuss how federal workforce projections, CMS data, and podiatric education trends shaped these estimates. They also explore what the findings could mean for patient access, student recruitment, training, and where podiatric physicians choose to practice. Study: Meyr AJ, Elagha J. “2025 podiatric physician workforce analysis based on Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) projections.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Published online September 6, 2026. Read the abstract on PubMed. Topics: Podiatric workforce • Patient access • HRSA projections • Podiatric medical education • Student recruitment See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Dustin Prins, DPM, Director of Clinical Education at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Prins shares the professional journey that ultimately brought him to one of podiatric medicine’s newest academic programs. His path has been anything but linear—beginning with residency training, moving through private practice and military service, taking him to Guam, and eventually leading to his current role at UTRGV. In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Prins reflects on how the lessons gained in each phase of his career have shaped the way he approaches patient care, mentorship, clinical decision-making, and the education of future podiatric physicians. He also discusses the transition from practice to academic medicine and the importance of creating meaningful clinical experiences for students as they develop their professional identity. In This Episode • The early influences that led Dr. Prins into podiatric medicine • Lessons from residency and the transition into private practice • His military experience and how service shaped his leadership and clinical perspective • Practicing in Guam and the unique professional opportunities and challenges of that chapter • Why he made the move into academic medicine • His current role as Director of Clinical Education at UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine • Building strong clinical education experiences and relationships for podiatric students • The value of mentorship, adaptability, and saying yes to unexpected career opportunities • Advice for students, residents, and young physicians considering the many possible paths within podiatry Why This Episode Matters: Dr. Prins’s story is a reminder that there is no single blueprint for a successful career in podiatric medicine. Private practice, military service, work in unique practice environments, and academic leadership can each add perspective and purpose. For students and young physicians, this episode offers an honest look at how varied experiences can prepare someone to educate, lead, and contribute to the future of the profession. About Dean’s Chat Dean’s Chat is a long-form educational podcast hosted by Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey. Conversations feature leaders, educators, clinicians, residents, and students discussing podiatric medicine, medical education, residency training, leadership, research, and the future of the profession. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

APMA Leadership, Advocacy, and the Future of the Profession — Drs. Leslie Campbell and James HannaDean’s Chat hosts Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome APMA Board of Trustees members Dr. Leslie Campbell and Dr. James Hanna for a compelling conversation about leadership, service, and the future of podiatric medicine.Drs. Campbell and Hanna share the experiences, mentors, and defining moments that shaped their professional journeys and ultimately led them to national leadership within the American Podiatric Medical Association. Their stories demonstrate that leadership is rarely a straight path—it develops through involvement, relationships, a willingness to accept responsibility, and the courage to step forward when the profession needs you.The discussion highlights the remarkable work accomplished by APMA during the past two years under the leadership of Executive Director and CEO Meghan McClelland. Through an intensified focus on advocacy, education, communication, and member engagement, APMA has created significant momentum and strengthened its ability to represent podiatric physicians at the national level.The group also explores an exciting vision for the future of APMA meetings: a dynamic LAB format—Leadership, Advocacy, and Business. This model would broaden the traditional meeting experience by combining high-quality clinical education with the leadership skills, advocacy tools, and business knowledge podiatric physicians need to succeed in today’s healthcare environment.Additional topics include:The personal and professional growth that comes through organizational involvementThe importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and creating opportunities for othersHow emerging leaders can begin contributing at the local, state, and national levelsThe responsibility of current leaders to identify and develop the next generationBuilding an APMA culture that encourages engagement, innovation, and meaningful servicePreparing podiatric physicians to lead within their practices, institutions, communities, and professionThis episode is ultimately about more than holding a title. It is about developing people, creating opportunities, and building a sustainable leadership pipeline for podiatric medicine. Drs. Campbell and Hanna offer an honest and inspiring look at what it means to serve—and why the continued growth of the profession depends upon leaders who are willing to learn, engage, advocate, and bring others along with them. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dean’s Chat comes to you from the road! Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey sat down with educators, clinicians, industry leaders, residents, and other influential voices from across the profession for a special series of conversations recorded at the Bako Diagnostics booth.This interview includes: Dr. Warren Joseph, Dr. Madalin Ramil, Dr. Jennifer Skolnik, Dr. Sari Priesand, Lindley Andrews, and Dr. Nicholas Argerikis.These rapid-fire conversations highlight the people, ideas, organizations, and initiatives shaping the future of podiatric medicine. From education and residency training to professional leadership, industry leaders Bako Diagnostics, clinical practice, advocacy, and the evolving opportunities within the profession, this special APMA series provides an inside look at podiatry from the individuals helping move it forward.A special thank-you to Bako Diagnostics for hosting Dean’s Chat and providing the space for these conversations at APMA National.Whether you are a prospective podiatric medical student, current student, resident, educator, or practicing podiatrist, this series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders throughout the profession See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Interdigital web space infections may seem like a routine podiatric complaint, but the underlying diagnosis can be far more complicated—and potentially serious—than it appears. In this episode of the Dean’s Chat Learning Series,  Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey welcome Dr. William Scherer, Senior Podiatric Medical Advisor and clinical consultant for Bako Diagnostics, for an in-depth discussion on the diagnosis and management of interdigital web space infections.  The conversation challenges the common assumption that every macerated, painful web space represents tinea pedis and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing fungal, bacterial, mixed, and noninfectious causes.Dr. Scherer discusses the differential diagnosis, with particular attention given to high-risk patients, including those with diabetes, neuropathy, or compromised vascular status, in whom a seemingly minor web space problem can progress to cellulitis, hospitalization, or even amputation. The discussion highlights how diagnostic testing can help move clinicians away from empiric treatment and toward more precise, evidence-based therapy.The episode explores newer PCR-based diagnostic technology and how a simple superficial skin scraping can help identify bacterial, fungal, or mixed infections and provide organism-specific information. Join us, as we discuss evidence based data to influence treatment decisions and why identifying bacterial infection early is particularly important. Throughout this discussion a common theme arises of “diagnose first, then tailor treatment to the actual pathology.” By applying evidence-based medicine, appropriate diagnostic testing, and a thoughtful decision-tree approach, podiatrists can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes while continuing to advance the role of podiatry in dermatologic and infectious disease care. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Choosing a medical specialty is often portrayed as a straightforward path, but for many learners, discovering the right fit is a process of exploration, unexpected encounters, and self-reflection. In this episode of the Dean’s Chat Learning Series, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Paul Tran, a pediatric gastroenterologist, medical educator, and advocate for improving the culture of medical education. Although Dr. Tran practices in a different specialty, his experiences and philosophy offer lessons that apply across healthcare education and training.Dr. Tran shares his approach to specialty selection, encouraging students to look beyond the “sleek and sexy” aspects of a field and instead consider the everyday work. He reflects on how recognizing that the typical day in pediatrics remained intellectually and emotionally engaging helped him identify the right career path. The conversation also explores the importance of mentorship and the lasting influence of role models who demonstrate humility, service, and a genuine commitment to patients and learners.A central theme of the discussion is Dr. Tran’s commitment to meeting learners where they are. Drawing from his own experiences as a trainee, he emphasizes the promises learners make to themselves about the type of physician and educator they hope to become and the importance of not allowing the healthcare system to make them forget those commitments. His social media platform “Alimentary School,” grew from a desire to reach learners where they actually spend their time, using humor, vulnerability, and storytelling to make educational concepts more accessible and relatable. His message is simple but powerful: “You are lost, but you’re not alone.”The episode takes a deep dive into feedback and coaching. Dr. Tran argues that most learners are not resistant to feedback; they are actively seeking it. The challenge is creating a conversation in which learners feel respected, understand the purpose of the feedback, and have ownership of their development. He describes a practical approach built around establishing expectations, setting meaningful goals, observing performance, and using feedback to facilitate self-reflection. He also encourages educators to replace subjective statements such as “I think” with objective observations such as “I saw,” “I heard,” or “I observed.”The conversation concludes with a discussion of growth mindset, deliberate practice, and the concept of WISE feedback; communicating high expectations while simultaneously demonstrating confidence in a learner’s ability to meet those expectations and offering support along the way. Ultimately, the episode highlights the power of educators who serve not simply as critics or cheerleaders, but as coaches who help learners recognize their potential, reflect on their performance, and deliberately work toward mastery.https://www.alimentaryschool.com/https://coreframework.org/f/wise-feedback-the-science-of-high-standards-high-supporthttps://bigthink.com/series/the-big-think-interview/failure-adam-grant/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes Dr. Shadi Mattar, a 2023 graduate of the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Mattar discusses his journey from AZCPM to residency training at Legacy Health and his current fellowship at The CORE Institute. He reflects on the experiences that shaped his professional development, the transition from student to resident and fellow, and the value of pursuing advanced training. The conversation explores: Dr. Mattar’s experience as a student at AZCPM His transition from podiatric medical school to residency Training and professional growth at Legacy Health His decision to pursue fellowship training Life as a fellow at The CORE Institute The importance of mentorship, preparation, and lifelong learning Advice for students considering residency and fellowship opportunities The relationships and experiences that continue to shape his career This episode offers students and young physicians an excellent look at the commitment, adaptability, and continued growth required to build a successful career in podiatric medicine. Enjoy this conversation with AZCPM alumnus Dr. Shadi Mattar! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dean’s Chat comes to you from the 2026 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee! Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey sat down with leaders, educators, clinicians, industry leaders residents, and other influential voices from across the profession for a special series of conversations recorded at the Bako Diagnostics booth.This interview includes: Meghan McClelland, APMA CEO, Dr. Duane Ehredt Jr., Dr. Jim MacDannald, Dr. Arman Kirakosian, Dr. Gene Pascarella, and Dr. Randy Kaplan! These rapid-fire conversations highlight the people, ideas, organizations, and initiatives shaping the future of podiatric medicine. From education and residency training to professional leadership, industry leaders Bako Diagnostics, clinical practice, advocacy, and the evolving opportunities within the profession, this special APMA series provides an inside look at podiatry from the individuals helping move it forward.A special thank-you to Bako Diagnostics for hosting Dean’s Chat and providing the space for these conversations at APMA National.Whether you are a prospective podiatric medical student, current student, resident, educator, or practicing podiatrist, this series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders throughout the profession. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Dean’s Chat Learning Series, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey welcome back Dr. William Scherer, Senior Podiatric Medical Advisor for Bako Diagnostics and a clinical consultant, for an engaging discussion on the importance of podiatric dermatology. Drawing from his experience in comprehensive podiatric practice, Dr. Scherer discusses why skin and nail disorders deserve the same diagnostic attention as musculoskeletal conditions. He emphasizes that podiatrists frequently encounter dermatologic pathology and have an opportunity to provide meaningful, sometimes same-day, treatment for patients.A major focus of the discussion is the evaluation of abnormal and dystrophic toenails. Dr. Scherer challenges clinicians to avoid automatically diagnosing onychomycosis based solely on appearance, noting that a significant percentage of dystrophic nails are not fungal infections. The conversation explores the role of laboratory testing in improving diagnostic accuracy and guiding individualized treatment. Dr. Scherer reviews the evolution of diagnostic methods, including KOH preparations, fungal cultures, PAS and GMS stains, Fontana-Masson staining, and PCR testing, explaining how each can contribute to the diagnostic process and when different tests may be most useful.The discussion also highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for potentially serious pathology. The hosts and Dr. Scherer discuss concerning nail pigmentation and the evaluation of possible subungual melanoma, including clinical warning signs and the importance of appropriately sampling the nail matrix when malignancy is part of the differential diagnosis. The conversation reinforces a critical principle: removing the nail alone may not adequately sample the pathology responsible for a concerning lesion.Dr. Scherer also explores the relationship between biomechanics, repetitive microtrauma, onychodystrophy, and secondary infection, emphasizing that podiatrists' understanding of gait and mechanical forces provides a unique perspective when evaluating nail disease. The episode concludes with a broader message about comprehensive podiatric care: regardless of whether a patient presents with a complex surgical problem, sports injury, skin condition, or dystrophic toenail, the podiatrist's responsibility is to put the patient first, practice evidence-based medicine, maintain empathy, and strive for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dean’s Chat comes to you from the 2026 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee! Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey sat down with leaders, educators, clinicians, industry leaders residents, and other influential voices from across the profession for a special series of conversations recorded at the Bako Diagnostics booth.This interview includes: Dr. William Scherer, Antoni Gambetta, Jasmine Bakert, Codi Diffie, Dr. Jennifer Bernstein, Dr. Anne Sharkey, and Dr. Brandn Blanken. These rapid-fire conversations highlight the people, ideas, organizations, and initiatives shaping the future of podiatric medicine. From education and residency training to professional leadership, industry leaders Bako Diagnostics, clinical practice, advocacy, and the evolving opportunities within the profession, this special APMA series provides an inside look at podiatry from the individuals helping move it forward.A special thank-you to Bako Diagnostics for hosting Dean’s Chat and providing the space for these conversations at APMA National.Whether you are a prospective podiatric medical student, current student, resident, educator, or practicing podiatrist, this series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders throughout the profession.Topics include:APMA Annual Scientific Meeting • Podiatric Medicine • Podiatric Medical Education • Residency Training • Professional Leadership • Podiatric Surgery • Practice Management • Advocacy • Career Development • The Future of Podiatry#DeansChat #Podiatry #PodiatricMedicine #APMA2026 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dean’s Chat comes to you from the 2026 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee! Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey sat down with leaders, educators, clinicians, residents, and other influential voices from across the profession for a special series of conversations recorded at the Bako Diagnostics booth.Video #1 features: Dr. Patrick DeHeer, Dr. Jeff Nerestant, Dr. Adrianna Strimbu, Dr. Michael Cornelison, Dr. Peter Sorensen, Dr. Bethany Robinson, Student Doctors Gianna Tuitele and Lily Cohen, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy.These rapid-fire conversations highlight the people, ideas, organizations, and initiatives shaping the future of podiatric medicine. From education and residency training to professional leadership, clinical practice, advocacy, and the evolving opportunities within the profession, this special APMA series provides an inside look at podiatry from the individuals helping move it forward.A special thank-you to Bako Diagnostics for hosting Dean’s Chat and providing the space for these conversations at APMA National.Whether you are a prospective podiatric medical student, current student, resident, educator, or practicing podiatrist, this series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders throughout the profession.Topics include:APMA Annual Scientific Meeting • Podiatric Medicine • Podiatric Medical Education • Residency Training • Professional Leadership • Podiatric Surgery • Practice Management • Advocacy • Career Development • The Future of Podiatry#DeansChat #Podiatry #PodiatricMedicine #APMA2026 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey sit down with Joseph Park, DPM, FACFAS, Assistant Professor at the Western University of Health Sciences College of Podiatric Medicine and Program Director of the Riverside University Health System PMSR/RRA Residency.Dr. Park discusses his path through podiatric medicine, from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine to residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital/Washington Hospital Center, followed by fellowship training in foot and ankle trauma and reconstructive surgery.The conversation explores Dr. Park’s transition into academic medicine, his role as an educator and residency program director, and his perspectives on mentorship, surgical training, residency preparation, and the future of podiatric medical education.Board certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery, Dr. Park brings a valuable perspective on combining advanced surgical training with teaching and academic leadership.Join Drs. Jensen and Richey for a conversation about podiatric education, residency training, reconstructive surgery, mentorship, and developing the next generation of podiatric physicians.KeywordsJoseph Park DPM, WesternU College of Podiatric Medicine, Riverside University Health System, podiatry residency, PMSR/RRA, podiatric medical education, foot and ankle surgery, reconstructive rearfoot ankle surgery, ABFAS, ACFAS, Dean’s ChatHashtags#DeansChat #Podiatry #PodiatricMedicine #PodiatricEducation #PodiatricResidency #FootAndAnkleSurgery #WesternU #ABFAS #ACFAS See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey preview the 2026 Scientific Conference of the American Association for Women Podiatrists (AAWP) in Fort Myers, Florida, and sit down with Elizabeth Piselli, DPM, President of AAWP.Dr. Piselli shares the vision for this year’s meeting and discusses AAWP’s commitment to education, leadership, mentorship, professional connection, and wellness within podiatric medicine.The 2026 conference brings together podiatric physicians, fellows, residents, students, educators, and industry partners for a weekend focused on clinical excellence and professional growth. The program includes topics ranging from surgical innovation to nutrition, movement, leadership, and physician well-being.Drs. Jensen and Richey also discuss the importance of AAWP as more than a professional organization—it is a community that supports collaboration, mentorship, and the continued advancement of women throughout the podiatric profession.Join Drs. Jensen, Richey, and Piselli for a preview of the meeting and a look at the people, ideas, and conversations shaping the 2026 AAWP Scientific Conference.KeywordsAAWP, American Association for Women Podiatrists, Elizabeth Piselli DPM, women in podiatry, podiatric medicine, podiatry conference, podiatry leadership, podiatry mentorship, physician wellness, Dean’s ChatHashtags#DeansChat #AAWP #WomenInPodiatry #Podiatry #PodiatricMedicine #WomenInMedicine #Leadership #Mentorship #PhysicianWellness See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen sits down with Rajat Lahiri, DPM, a graduate of the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine at Midwestern University, to discuss his journey into podiatric medicine, his surgical training, and his growing expertise in minimally invasive bunion surgery.Dr. Lahiri brings a distinctive background to foot and ankle medicine. He graduated with honors from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in bioengineering, where he developed an interest in solving complex problems and improving patient care through medical innovation. Wanting to apply that problem-solving mindset directly to patients, he pursued his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at AZCPM, graduating with Pi Delta honors.Following podiatric medical school, Dr. Lahiri completed his residency training at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, one of the country’s highly regarded podiatric surgical training programs. His residency provided extensive experience in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery and helped shape his approach to complex surgical care.A major area of Dr. Lahiri’s professional interest is minimally invasive bunion surgery, an evolving approach designed to correct bunion deformities through smaller incisions. His interest and experience in minimally invasive techniques have led to invitations to lecture at multiple state and national conferences.Originally from Seattle, Dr. Lahiri now serves patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Beyond medicine, he enjoys spending time with his fiancée and family, traveling, trying foods from around the world, and following football and soccer. A devoted supporter of the U.S. Men’s National Team, he had the opportunity to see the team compete live during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.