The Hernia Gods Podcast

Luke Elms, MD
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Medicine

This is a podcast dedicated to the discussion of humanity of the hernia surgeon.  The name "The Hernia Gods Podcast" is not meant to apply to the surgeons or hosts but instead to the etherial hernia gods that we hope are on our side when taking care of our sometimes complex cases.   None of the content on this channel is meant as medical advice for patients.  Please consult with a qualified medical professional as each case varies.Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Orlando Health or any of our employers.

  1. 6d ago

    The Hernia Gods Podcast - E34 - Eric Pauli, MD

    Send us Fan Mail In this first in-person episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms sits down with Dr. Eric Pauli to discuss the realities of hernia surgery, navigating patient challenges, and balancing surgical optimization with individual patient needs. They explore the importance of humility, mentorship, learning from complications, and embracing the imperfections that come with becoming a better surgeon. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of any of our employers.

  2. Oct 20

    The Hernia Gods Podcast - E33 - Marta Wójcik, MD

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Luke Elms speaks with Dr. Marta Bućaj, an abdominal wall surgeon from Poznań, Poland, about her journey into hernia surgery, the challenges of practicing with limited resources and support, and the emotional realities of being a surgeon and a mother. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of any of our employers.

  3. Oct 6

    The Hernia Gods Podcast - E32 - Salvatore Docimo, Jr., DO, MBA, FACS, FASMBS

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms sits down with Dr. Salvatore Docimo to explore what drives a surgeon to take on the cases others won’t. From complex abdominal wall reconstruction and the rise of robotics to the mindset, work ethic, and experiences that shaped his career, this is a candid conversation about pushing boundaries and tackling the toughest hernia cases. If you want to know what it takes to become the surgeon everyone calls when the case gets difficult, you won’t want to miss this episode. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of any of our employers.

  4. Sep 22

    The Hernia Gods Podcast - E31 - Andrea Pakula, MD, MPH, FACS

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Andrea Pakula, a surgeon specializing in robotic surgery, complex hernia repair, and abdominal wall reconstruction. Dr. Pakula shares her journey from trauma and acute care surgery to developing her expertise in hernia surgery and minimally invasive techniques.  We discuss the robotic learning curve, pushing the boundaries of traditional surgical approaches, learning from complications, and the importance of tailoring each repair to the individual patient. Dr. Pakula also shares insights on mentorship, innovation, and the lessons that have shaped her approach to surgery and patient care.  Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of any of our employers.

  5. Sep 11

    The Hernia Gods Podcast - E30 - Philip George, MD

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms sits down with Dr. Philip George, Assistant Professor of Surgery at Columbia University Medical Center, to talk about his unconventional journey into medicine, surgery, and ultimately the world of hernia. From discovering surgery through mentors like Dr. Brian Jacob and Dr. Igor Belyansky, to navigating fellowship during the COVID-19 pandemic and making the leap from private practice to academic surgery — Philip shares the experiences and people that helped shape his career. A great conversation about mentorship, finding your path, and paying it forward. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of any of our employers.

  6. Aug 26

    The Hernia Gods Podcast E29 - Luke Elms, MD

    Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms, takes listeners behind the scenes to share the story of how the podcast began and the purpose behind it. Luke talks about his own experiences with imposter syndrome, the inspiration he found at the American Hernia Society conference, and why he believes even the most respected surgeons are ultimately “mere mortals” facing many of the same challenges. He also discusses the importance of community, mentorship, balancing surgery and family, and creating a space where surgeons can have honest conversations beyond the operating room.  Luke also drops a sneak peek at something new coming to the Hernia Gods Podcast…  You’ll have to listen to find out! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Orlando Health or any of our employers.

  7. Aug 26

    The Hernia Gods Podcast E28 - Sean Orenstein, MD

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms sits down with Sean Ornstein, MD to discuss his journey into hernia and abdominal wall surgery. Sean shares how his early love of fixing things led him to surgery, his research years studying mesh and hernia repair, and his training alongside leaders in the field at Case Western. They also dive into the evolution of hernia surgery as a true subspecialty, the tight-knit hernia community, mentorship, research, and what continues to drive Sean’s passion for the craft. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Orlando Health or any of our employers.

  8. Aug 12

    The Hernia Gods Podcast E27 - Agustin Alvarez, MD

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Hernia Gods Podcast, Dr. Luke Elms sits down with Agustin Alvarez, MD, from Chile, to discuss his unique journey in surgery, overcoming career challenges, and the importance of persistence. They dive into balancing family and career, global collaboration, patient relationships, and the future of AI in medicine—while emphasizing the importance of keeping the human connection at the center of healthcare. Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Orlando Health or any of our employers.

See All (34)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

This is a podcast dedicated to the discussion of humanity of the hernia surgeon.  The name "The Hernia Gods Podcast" is not meant to apply to the surgeons or hosts but instead to the etherial hernia gods that we hope are on our side when taking care of our sometimes complex cases.   None of the content on this channel is meant as medical advice for patients.  Please consult with a qualified medical professional as each case varies.Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests, and do not serve as a representation of or necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Orlando Health or any of our employers.

Information

  • Creator
    Luke Elms, MD
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Hernia Gods Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Hernia Gods Podcast

You Might Also Like