Neurosurgery Tales

Aureliana Toma

5.0 (1)
MEDICINE
UPDATED WEEKLY

Neurosurgery Tales

Deep conversations with neurosurgeons around the world. Each episode features world-renowned experts sharing groundbreaking insights, personal journeys, and the latest advancements in brain and spine care. Stay ahead in the field with cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques, neurosurgical innovations, and the human side of medicine. Discover the stories shaping the future of neurosurgery—one conversation at a time.

JAN 29

Episode 18 - Russell Lonser

A conversation with Dr. Russell Lonser, Chair of Neurosurgery at The Ohio State University, as we explore his remarkable career—from groundbreaking research at the NIH to leading advancements in neurosurgical oncology, drug delivery, and NFL concussion protocols. In this episode: • How does he sustain passion in neurosurgery over decades? • What leadership lessons did he learn transitioning from NIH to Ohio State? • The role of neurosurgeons in public health, sports medicine, and future gene therapy breakthroughs • How to ask simple yet profound research questions that lead to real impact • The hidden keys to crafting a successful NIH grant proposal. PODCAST INFO: YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma⁠⁠

19 min
JAN 22

Episode 17 - Lukas Rasulic

In this episode, I have the privilege of hosting Professor Dr. Lukas Rasulic, a globally recognized leader in peripheral nerve surgery and neurosurgery innovation. As the Head of the Department of Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Functional Neurosurgery, and Pain Management Surgery at the University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr. Rasulic shares his unparalleled expertise and vision for the future of neurosurgery. In this episode we explore: • The pivotal challenges and breakthroughs that shaped his career. • The transformative impact of peripheral nerve surgery on patient outcomes. • Lifelong learning, innovation, and mentorship in medicine. PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma⁠⁠

54 min
12/18/2024

Episode 16 - Alexander Khalessi

In this episode, Dr. Alexander Khalessi, Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at UC San Diego and President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, shares his extraordinary journey and insights. Dr. Khalessi is a recognized leader in neurosurgery, with groundbreaking contributions to neurovascular surgery, cranial surgery, and neurosurgical education. He has shaped the field by mentoring future leaders and driving innovation. In this episode we explore: • His leadership as President of the CNS and its impact on the neurosurgical community. • The philosophies that drive his approach to education, mentorship, and patient care. • Balancing technical mastery with personalized treatment strategies. • Lessons from key mentors and their influence on his professional path. • His vision for the future of neurosurgery and the evolving role of technology. Dr. Khalessi also reflects on the importance of collaboration, emotional intelligence, and leaving a lasting legacy in neurosurgery. PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma⁠⁠

47 min
12/05/2024

Episode 15 - Grigore Zapuhlîh

In this special episode, I’m joined by Dr. Grigore Zapuhlîh, a pioneer and a leader who has shaped the field in Moldova. We explore his incredible journey, from his early days as a student to his pivotal role in advancing neurosurgery in a transitioning healthcare system. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, progress, and dedication. Tune in for a deep dive into the life and legacy of one of Moldova’s most influential neurosurgeons. We discuss: • The evolution of neurosurgery in Moldova • His fascinating journey to becoming a neurosurgeon • Challenges in bringing modern techniques to a transitioning healthcare system • The mindset shift in neurosurgery over the years • What remains timeless in neurosurgery and his vision for the future PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma⁠

34 min
11/27/2024

Episode 14 - Mustafa Baskaya

In this episode, Dr. Mustafa Baskaya shares his incredible journey, from medical school in Turkey to advanced training in Japan and the United States, highlighting his philosophy, techniques, and contributions to the field of neurosurgery. We explore: - His transition to the U.S. for neurosurgical training. - Advice for residents and international medical graduates pursuing neurosurgery in the U.S. - The future of skull base and cerebrovascular surgery. - The evolution from microsurgery to "ultramicroneurosurgery." - Defining success in neurosurgery and handling high expectations. Dr. Baskaya also discusses the critical importance of understanding anatomy, choosing the right surgical approach, and minimizing harm to patients while maintaining excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned neurosurgeon or an aspiring one, this episode is packed with insights to inspire and inform. PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma⁠

30 min
11/13/2024

Episode 13 - Yoko Kato

In this special episode of Neurosurgery Tales , Prof. Yoko Kato, the first female professor of neurosurgery in Japan and a global advocate for women in the field, shares the journey that led her to neurosurgery, the early mentors who inspired her, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. She discusses the founding of the Women’s Neurosurgical Association of Japan and the Asian Women's Neurosurgical Association, highlighting the importance of community and mentorship for future generations. We also explore her impactful work in bridging neurosurgical education gaps across the world and hear her advice for young women facing cultural challenges in pursuing their dreams. This episode provides a rare glimpse into Prof. Kato’s inspiring career and her dedication to neurosurgery on a global scale. PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠⁠ SOCIAL: - LinkedIn:⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠⁠ - Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠⁠ - Patreon: ⁠⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma

14 min
11/06/2024

Episode 12 - Jorge Mura

In this episode, we’re honored to sit down with Prof. Jorge Mura, a leading neurosurgeon who established Chile’s first cerebrovascular fellowship program, shaping the future of specialized neurosurgical training in Latin America. With over 4,000 brain surgeries and a wealth of experience in complex cerebrovascular and skull base procedures, Prof. Mura shares his journey from a young surgeon to a seasoned mentor who now values internal growth and self-knowledge. Prof. Mura opens up about the immense challenges of neurosurgery, the importance of building a strong foundation in medical practice, and the emotional weight of every surgery. He also reflects on his passion for teaching, offering insight into the lessons he imparts to the next generation and how the field has evolved over time. In this episode: • Prof. Mura’s foundational work in Chilean neurosurgery • The balance of skill, technology, and patience in complex surgeries • The personal and professional growth that comes from experience • Why internal validation is key to sustaining a career in neurosurgery PODCAST INFO: Website: ⁠https://neurosurgerytales.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast ⁠ SOCIAL: -Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/AurelianaToma ⁠ - LinkedIn:⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma ⁠ - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/⁠ - Patreon: ⁠https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma

1h 7m
10/31/2024

Episode 11 - Ricardo J. Komotar

Dr. Ricardo Komotar, one of the world’s highest-volume brain tumor surgeons and a leader in neurosurgery, shares insights on leadership, innovation, and how his philosophy on brain tumor surgery has evolved, especially in balancing aggressive treatment with quality of life for patients. Beyond the OR, Dr. Komotar opens up about his journey, the resilience required for neurosurgery, and even his passion for sneakers as a form of personal expression. In this episode: •Dr. Komotar’s early inspirations and why he chose neurosurgery over becoming an astronaut • How his philosophy on brain tumor surgery has evolved, focusing on patient quality of life • The qualities he values most in residency applicants and his advice for the interview process • Key lessons learned from collaborating with specialists outside neurosurgery • The importance of resilience and grit in neurosurgery • Dr. Komotar’s passion for sneakers and how they bring personality into his daily routine PODCAST INFO: Website: https://neurosurgerytales.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeurosurgeryTalesPodcast SOCIAL: -Twitter: https://x.com/AurelianaToma - LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/aureliana-toma - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurosurgery_tales/ - Patreon: https://patreon.com/AurelianaToma

22 min

Deep conversations with neurosurgeons around the world. Each episode features world-renowned experts sharing groundbreaking insights, personal journeys, and the latest advancements in brain and spine care. Stay ahead in the field with cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques, neurosurgical innovations, and the human side of medicine. Discover the stories shaping the future of neurosurgery—one conversation at a time.

Creator

Aureliana Toma
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

18
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Aureliana Toma
Show Website

Neurosurgery Tales