Dean's Chat - All Things Podiatric Medicine

Dr. Jeffrey Jensen

Welcome to Dean's Chat, where we go inside the world of podiatric medicine. Your hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, highlight the organizations, leaders, and voices in the podiatry profession. Join me each week for discussions on all things podiatry including clinical, academic, research, administrative, and even politics within our great field. We will cover many topics in podiatry, raise some questions, find some answers, dive deep into some challenges, and shine a positive light on Podiatric Medicine's inner workings...and hopefully, get you involved in the podiatry field! Dean's Chat includes conversations with leaders in the podiatric profession including Deans, Residency Directors, Faculty, Researchers, and Entrepreneurs. The conversations include podiatric medical students, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-year residents, and young practitioners. They convey the podiatry educational journey to students entering the field of podiatric medicine where they become physicians and surgeons treating the foot and ankle. So come along for the ride, follow us now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

  1. 23H AGO

    Ep. 329 - Naomi Schmid "Physician Coaching and the Art of Realignment"

    In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Naomi Schmid for an open and personal conversation about medicine, burnout, coaching, and finding alignment in both career and life. Dr. Schmid shares her journey into podiatric medicine after discovering the profession during a gap year following college, and reflects on how meaningful patient relationships became a defining theme throughout her career. The discussion also highlights the influence of mentorship in shaping generations of podiatrists across decades of training.The heart of the episode centers on Dr. Schmid’s transition into physician coaching after experiencing overwhelm herself while balancing clinical practice, leadership responsibilities, and family life. She candidly describes the moment she realized she needed support and how working with a coach transformed her perspective on success, fulfillment, and personal well-being. Together, we explore themes that resonate deeply within medicine: people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, work-life alignment, and the pressure many physicians feel to constantly achieve more while neglecting themselves in the process.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Schmid discusses how coaching helps physicians reconnect with their core values, identify what truly brings them joy, and make small but meaningful shifts that create lasting change. The group reflects on how external definitions of success can leave even highly accomplished professionals feeling unfulfilled, and why self-awareness, boundaries, and intentional decision-making are critical for sustainability in medicine. The episode also dives into differences in how men and women often experience medicine, leadership, and self-expectation, touching on topics like imposter syndrome, societal conditioning, and the challenge of saying “no.” Dr. Schmid emphasizes that coaching is not about “blowing up your life,” but rather making thoughtful, aligned changes that help physicians build careers and lives they genuinely enjoy.Blending humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, this episode offers an honest look at the realities of modern medical practice while reminding listeners that meaningful growth often begins with small shifts, self-reflection, and the willingness to ask for support. We hope you enjoy!Website: naomischmid.comLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-schmid-dpmFacebook: Dr. Naomi Schmid CoachingInstagram: drnaomischmidcoaching

    50 min
  2. 4D AGO

    Ep. 328 - "Inside the Western: Innovation, Education, and Disney Magic" with Christy King & Devon Glazer

    Welcome to Dean’s chat where we discuss all things podiatric medicine and surgery! In this episode, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome back Dr. Christy King and Dr. Devon Glazer for an exciting preview of the upcoming Western Foot and Ankle Conference. The discussion highlights the evolution of the meeting into one of the premier live podiatric education experiences in the country, blending cutting-edge lectures, hands-on innovation, and the unique energy of Disneyland. Dr. King shares insights into the planning process behind building the scientific program, including this year’s highly anticipated “Great Debate” featuring leading experts discussing complex flatfoot reconstruction topics. Dr. Glazer discusses the creative strategy behind the conference layout, sponsor hall, and Innovation Hub, emphasizing the importance of attendee engagement, tactile learning, and peer-to-peer collaboration.The conversation also explores the return and success of fully live conferences post-COVID, with attendance expectations continuing to grow after last year’s sold-out event. Both guests stress the value of networking, mentorship, and providing students, residents, and fellows with opportunities to present research and connect with leaders in the profession. New additions this year include integrated poster presentations within the exhibit hall, expanded debate-style lecture formats, emerging technologies for chronic pain management, and sessions focused on artificial intelligence in podiatry. Throughout the episode, the group reflects on the collaborative spirit, innovation, and sense of community that make the Western Foot and Ankle Conference a standout educational experience for podiatric physicians at every stage of practice. We hope to see you there! https://www.thewestern.org/TheWestern/Register/TheWestern/Registration.aspx?EventKey=2026WFAC&hkey=c8f70f7a-2669-45f3-a9e9-8e954773b824

    29 min
  3. 6D AGO

    Don’t Get Burned: Melanoma in the Lower Extremity - DCLS S1E4

    In this episode of the Dean’s Chat Learning Series, Dr. Johanna Richey welcomes Dr. Bela Pandit for an important discussion on malignant melanoma of the foot and ankle in recognition of Melanoma Awareness Month. Together, they explore why skin cancer deserves far more attention within podiatric medicine and how clinicians can avoid missing potentially life-threatening lesions. While melanoma is often associated with sun-exposed areas like the back or shoulders, the conversation highlights the unique and often overlooked risks involving the feet, soles, nails, and lower extremities—areas podiatrists examine every day.Dr. Pandit shares personal experiences from clinical practice where seemingly routine cases, including chronic wounds and presumed foreign body reactions, ultimately turned out to be melanoma. Join us as we emphasize how critical it is to keep melanoma in the differential diagnosis, especially for wounds or lesions that fail to heal as expected. Tune in, as we discuss the powerful impact of early detection, including moments where timely biopsy and referral likely saved a patient’s life.Listeners are also guided through the major types of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma, and lentigo maligna, along with the classic ABCDE criteria for identifying suspicious lesions: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter changes, and evolution over time. We discuss the importance of taking a thorough history, including prior skin cancer diagnoses, sun exposure, family history, and changes in lesions over time.Throughout the episode, we reinforce that podiatrists are uniquely positioned to detect melanoma early because we routinely evaluate areas patients often cannot see themselves. The conversation serves as both a practical educational review and a reminder that careful observation, thoughtful questioning, and timely biopsy can have life-saving consequences. The episode concludes with a call for clinicians and patients alike to take suspicious skin lesions seriously, practice good sun protection habits, and remember that early detection remains the key to improving outcomes in melanoma care.#podiatry #podiatricmedicine #podiatricdermatology#skincancerawarenessmonth #skincancerawareness #skincancer #melanoma #melanomaawareness#PICA #BakoDx

    35 min
  4. MAY 19

    Ep. 327 - ACFAS - student leadership "what it's like serving in American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons student presidency"

    Dean’s Chat is live on location at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons -Annual Scientific Conference in Las Vegas Nevada! Dr. Richey is joined by the ACFAS student leadership; Lily Cohen from Midwestern University, Fareeha Rafa from Temple University, Madeline Adkins from University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Pierce Burke from Schol College of Podiatric Medicine. Join us as we discuss “all things podiatric medicine and surgery” including what its like to be a part of student leadership in the largest group of Foot and Ankle Surgeons worldwide.At its core, the ACFAS ASC is a large, multi-day conference focused on advancing surgical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional development in foot and ankle surgery. It brings together practicing surgeons, residents, and students from across the country. Listen, as we get the student experience inside the event. The meeting is built around several key components:• Scientific education: Evidence-based lectures, panel discussions, and case reviews covering topics like trauma, deformity correction, sports injuries, and limb salvage. • Research presentation: Surgeons and trainees present original research (posters and podium talks), highlighting new data and evolving techniques. • Hands-on learning: Skills labs and workshops allow attendees to practice surgical techniques and familiarize themselves with new technology. • Networking and mentorship: Opportunities to connect with leaders in the field, residency programs, and peers. • Exhibit hall: Industry partners showcase implants, devices, and surgical innovations. In practical terms, the ASC functions as one of the most important annual touchpoints in podiatric surgery, where new ideas are shared, standards of care are debated, and professional relationships are built. We hope you enjoy!

    27 min
  5. MAY 15

    Ep. 326 - David Sipala, DPM, Residency Director, MPMA

    On this episode of Dean’s Chat, host Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes David Sipala, Residency Director at Boston Medical Center–Brighton and Board Member of the Massachusetts Podiatric Medical Association.This episode is sponsored by the American Podiatric Medical Association!Dr. Sipala shares his perspectives on leadership, residency education, advocacy, and the evolving landscape of podiatric medical training. The conversation explores the critical role residency programs play in shaping future physicians, while also highlighting the importance of mentorship, professionalism, and creating strong clinical experiences for students during the clerkship process.Topics include:• Building and maintaining a high-quality residency training environment• What students should look for during clerkships and residency interviews• The importance of leadership development in podiatric medicine• Advocacy efforts within organized medicine and the Massachusetts Podiatric Medical Association• Preparing the next generation of podiatric physicians for practice and leadership roles• Balancing surgical training, education, and mentorship in today’s healthcare environmentDr. Sipala also discusses the value of engagement within professional organizations and why advocacy remains essential to the future growth and recognition of podiatric medicine.A thoughtful discussion on education, mentorship, and leadership within the profession.#DeansChat #PodiatricMedicine #ResidencyEducation #MedicalLeadership #Clerkships #FACFAS #Podiatry #MedicalEducation #Advocacy

    46 min
  6. MAY 12

    Ep. 325 - Ron Raducanu, DPM, Mission Work and Social Media

    In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Ron Raducanu for a wide-ranging conversation about podiatric medicine, mentorship, mission work, online discourse, and building a meaningful career in the profession. Originally from Montreal, Canada, Dr. Raducanu shares the unexpected story of how he discovered podiatry after literally colliding with a podiatrist on his way to class during his undergraduate studies at Concordia University. That encounter ultimately led him to the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and a lifelong commitment to podiatric education, surgery, and service.The discussion dives into the unique challenges Canadian students face when pursuing podiatric training in the United States, including visa hurdles, residency limitations, and immigration logistics. Dr. Raducanu reflects candidly on his own journey navigating student visas, residency sponsorships, and eventual U.S. citizenship while encouraging transparency and mentorship for future international students entering the profession.Dr. Raducanu also discusses his current private practice model in southern New Jersey, where a collaborative culture allows physicians to focus on their individual strengths while providing comprehensive patient care. The conversation highlights the importance of collegiality, specialization, and professional respect within podiatry, emphasizing how strong teamwork benefits both physicians and patients alike.The episode also explores Dr. Raducanu’s extensive commitment to academics and organized medicine, including his decade-long leadership role with the American College of Foot and Ankle Pediatrics. He reflects on building the organization from the ground up and the lessons learned from leading a national nonprofit largely through volunteer effort and determination.One of the most compelling portions of the interview centers on Dr. Raducanu’s mission work in Nigeria, where he has helped provide foot and ankle care in underserved communities while working to develop podiatric education pathways within the country’s medical system. He shares stories of cultural immersion, resource-limited surgical environments, and his vision for establishing long-term lower extremity care and training programs in West Africa.Finally, the conversation shifts to social media and Dr. Raducanu’s role as a moderator on Reddit’s podiatry forum, which has grown to over one million views annually. The group discusses the challenges of anonymous online discourse, the need for professionalism in digital spaces, and the importance of creating constructive forums for honest conversations about podiatric medicine. Throughout the episode, listeners are reminded of the power of mentorship, service, collaboration, and authentic dialogue in advancing the profession.

    50 min
  7. MAY 8

    Ep. 324 - Kelsey Millonig, DPM - "Pregnancy, Practice, and Professional Growth!"

    In this special Mother’s Day episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Kelsey Millonig, a foot and ankle surgeon specializing in limb reconstruction.  As Kelsey is expecting her first child soon, we wanted to discuss all things podiatric medicine and surgery- while also building a life you love. Join us, for a wide-ranging and personal conversation about career development, mentorship, and motherhood in medicine.  Dr. Millonig shares her unique path into podiatry, which began with shadowing an anesthesiologist during college and discovering a passion for surgery. Through intentional exploration and a focus on both professional fulfillment and lifestyle, she found podiatric medicine to be the right fit.  A central theme of the discussion is the power of mentorship and relationships, with Dr. Millonig emphasizing that opportunities are built through authenticity, connection, and consistent effort rather than chance.The conversation highlights her commitment to pursuing high-level training, including residency in Washington State and fellowship in Maryland, despite the challenges of maintaining a long-distance marriage. She strongly encourages students to “go where the training is,” framing these decisions as short-term trade offs that provide long-term career flexibility and fulfillment. Dr. Millonig also reflects on how her clinical interests evolved over time—from early exposure to limb reconstruction and external fixation to incorporating minimally invasive surgical techniques into her practice—underscoring the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in medicine.In honor of Mother’s Day, the discussion turns to Dr. Millonig’s experience navigating pregnancy while maintaining a demanding surgical career. She candidly shares her initial fears that starting a family might negatively impact her professional trajectory, only to find overwhelming support from colleagues, partners, and patients.  Tune in, as we focus on perspective reframing in pregnancy and motherhood as integral parts of a physician’s journey rather than obstacles to success. We emphasizes that women in medicine can pursue both career excellence and family life, while acknowledging the importance of support systems, tradeoffs and open communication!The episode closes with a message of reassurance and empowerment, particularly for women in medicine facing similar decisions. Dr. Millonig reflects that if she could give advice to her younger self, it would be to trust the process and recognize that career and personal milestones can coexist. Overall, this episode offers an inspiring and thoughtful look at the evolving identity of modern physicians, blending professional ambition with personal fulfillment

    55 min
  8. MAY 5

    Ep. 323 - James Losito, DPM - Sports Medicine at the Highest Level

    Sports Medicine at the Highest Level with Dr. James Losito🔎 Episode OverviewOn this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes James Losito, DPM—Professor at the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine and a leading sports medicine specialist based in Miami.Dr. Losito brings a unique perspective from the intersection of academic medicine and elite athletics, serving as podiatrist for both the Miami Heat and Inter Miami CF. In this conversation, he shares insights into treating high-performance athletes, injury prevention strategies, and the evolving role of podiatric medicine in professional sports.👨‍⚕️ Featured GuestDr. James Losito, DPM• Professor, Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine• Sports Medicine Specialist – Miami, Florida• Team Podiatrist: Miami Heat (NBA)• Team Podiatrist: Inter Miami CF (MLS)• Expertise in lower extremity biomechanics, injury prevention, and return-to-play protocols🏀⚽ Key Topics Discussed• Managing foot and ankle injuries in elite professional athletes• Differences between treating NBA vs. MLS players• The importance of biomechanics in performance and injury prevention• Return-to-play decision making at the highest level• Integrating academic teaching with clinical excellence• The growing role of podiatry in professional sports medicine💡 Takeaways• “Elite performance starts from the ground up.”• Precision in diagnosis and biomechanics is critical at the professional level• Collaboration across medical teams is essential for optimal athlete outcomes📣 About Dean’s ChatDean’s Chat features conversations with leaders in podiatric medicine, education, and innovation—highlighting career pathways, clinical excellence, and the future of the profession.

    46 min
4.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Welcome to Dean's Chat, where we go inside the world of podiatric medicine. Your hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, highlight the organizations, leaders, and voices in the podiatry profession. Join me each week for discussions on all things podiatry including clinical, academic, research, administrative, and even politics within our great field. We will cover many topics in podiatry, raise some questions, find some answers, dive deep into some challenges, and shine a positive light on Podiatric Medicine's inner workings...and hopefully, get you involved in the podiatry field! Dean's Chat includes conversations with leaders in the podiatric profession including Deans, Residency Directors, Faculty, Researchers, and Entrepreneurs. The conversations include podiatric medical students, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-year residents, and young practitioners. They convey the podiatry educational journey to students entering the field of podiatric medicine where they become physicians and surgeons treating the foot and ankle. So come along for the ride, follow us now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

You Might Also Like