• Dr. Shereene Idriss: Skin Health, Lifestyle, Aesthetics, What Actually Works, and Life Reflections (#48)
    Apr 6 2026

    summary

    In this engaging interview, Dr. Shereene Idriss shares her journey from medicine to skincare entrepreneurship, debunks common skincare myths, and discusses the importance of a holistic approach to aging and skin health. Discover expert insights on skincare routines, social media influence, and innovative treatments like nano fat transfers.

    keywords

    dermatology, skincare, anti-aging, skincare myths, social media, skincare line, aesthetic procedures, skin health, skincare ingredients, patient education

    key topics

    • Journey from medicine to skincare entrepreneurship
    • Common skincare myths and misconceptions
    • The role of social media in skincare education
    • Innovative treatments like nano fat transfers
    • Importance of holistic skin health and aging

    guest name

    Shereene Idriss

    key frameworks

    • Holistic Skin Aging Model
    • Timeline-Based Treatment Planning

    action items

    • Wash your face nightly with a gentle cleanser
    • Always wear sunscreen daily, rain or shine
    • Focus on lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, and hydration
    • Plan cosmetic treatments according to your long-term goals


    Send us Fan Mail

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    56 mins
  • Dr. Ines Lin: Penn Hand Fellowship Director, How to Match into Hand Surgery/Fellowship Applications, Surgical Education & Mentorship (#47)
    Mar 18 2026

    Send a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    45 mins
  • Vu Nguyen: Vice Chair of Education, Program Director, Co-Chair, GME WELL Task Force. Career advice, Mentorship, Wellness, Competency Based Training and More (#46)
    Mar 4 2026

    summary

    In this in-depth interview, Dr. Vu Nguyen shares his insights on plastic surgery education, competency-based training, wellness, and career development. Discover practical advice for residents, program directors, and aspiring surgeons navigating the evolving landscape of surgical training.

    keywords

    plastic surgery, medical education, competency-based training, residency, wellness, career development, academic leadership, surgical training, mentorship, residency programs

    key topics

    • Competency-based training in plastic surgery
    • Mentorship and academic leadership
    • Resident wellness and resilience
    • Future of independent vs. integrated residency tracks

    Resources

    • Pitt Plastic Surgery Program
    • Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME)
    • American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)
    • ACEPS Conference
    • Jeff Janis's Plastic Surgery Boot Camp

    Send a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Kevin B. Mahoney: CEO of Penn Medicine on Leadership, Medical Breakthroughs, and Humanity in Healthcare (#45)
    Feb 18 2026

    Guest: Kevin B. Mahoney, Chief Executive Officer, University of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine)

    Hosts: Dr. Hank Davis, Dr. Saïd Azoury

    EPISODE SUMMARY
    Recorded on location inside Pennsylvania Hospital’s historic medical library, this episode of The DIEP End steps beyond the operating room to explore how large academic health systems are led through moments of crisis, growth, and scientific transformation.

    Hank Davis and Dr. Saïd Azoury sit down with Kevin Mahoney, CEO of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, for a candid conversation about leadership grounded in humility, curiosity, and being present. Mahoney reflects on formative experiences—from a near-fatal accident and a life-changing interaction with a nurse, to navigating a hospital strike early in his career—that shaped how he leads today.

    The discussion spans Penn Medicine’s culture of science and dissemination, the realities of healthcare finance, lessons learned during COVID-19, and why Mahoney believes artificial intelligence will reshape medicine while never replacing the human work of being a physician.


    WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

    • Why Mahoney believes you shouldn’t chase titles, but instead chase impact: “Pick your organization first and your job second.”
    • How a wise nurse showed him that insight and compassion can change someone’s path—and why that moment inspired him to work in healthcare.
    • What real-time leadership looked like during COVID-19, including the limits of messaging and the importance of listening.
    • The core elements of the “Penn DNA”: science, dissemination, collaboration, grit, and health equity.
    • How breakthrough ideas like CAR-T therapy and mRNA move from concept to clinical care inside an academic health system.
    • Why embracing AI is essential for healthcare leaders—and how it may democratize scarcity without replacing physicians.



    MEMORABLE MOMENTS
    • “Never do things the way they’ve always been”—the advice that stayed with Mahoney before his career pivoted.
    • An early career experience with frontline workers that taught him what leadership looks like when you stay inside the fence, not outside it.
    • A COVID communication moment that reframed what “six feet apart” meant for frontline staff.
    • Why financial strength is less about margins and more about trust, mission, and sustainability.
    • Mahoney’s clear stance on AI: it will change medicine, but it will never replace doctors.



    ABOUT THE GUEST
    Kevin B. Mahoney is the Chief Executive Officer of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. He joined Penn Medicine in 1996 and was appointed CEO in 2019. Mahoney oversees one of the nation’s leading academic health systems, guiding its clinical operations, research mission, and long-term strategy.


    KEYWORDS (SEO)

    Kevin Mahoney Penn Medicine
    University of Pennsylvania Health System CEO
    Academic medical center leadership
    Healthcare innovation
    Hospital leadership during COVID
    Penn Medicine culture
    CAR-T therapy Penn
    mRNA research Penn Medicine
    Health equity in healthcare
    AI in medicine
    Healthcare administration
    Future of medical education

    Send a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Dr. Lindsey Fitzharris: New York Times Best Selling Author (The Facemaker, The Butchering Art), Medical Historian, TV Host- Personal breast cancer experience, mysteries and drama of medicine's past (#44)
    Feb 5 2026

    In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their guest, Dr. Lindsey Fitzharris, delve into the fascinating world of medical history, exploring the legacies of influential figures like Joseph Lister and the evolution of surgical practices. They share personal anecdotes that shaped their interests in the field, discuss the importance of medical education, and reflect on the ethical implications of modern medicine. The dialogue highlights the balance between nostalgia for the past and appreciation for contemporary advancements in healthcare. In this engaging conversation, Lindsey discusses her book 'The Facemaker' and the life of Harold Gillies, a pioneer in plastic surgery. She reflects on the challenges of writing about medical history, her personal experience with breast cancer, and the importance of empathy in patient care. The discussion also touches on the legacy of Joseph Lister and the evolution of surgical practices, emphasizing the need for a balance between medical innovation and human connection.

    titles

    • Exploring the Depths of Medical History
    • The Legacy of Surgery and Its Pioneers

    Sound Bites

    • "We have to have a reckoning."
    • "No two faces are the same."
    • "Doctors are not gods."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Remembering a Mentor

    02:59
    The Influence of Medical History

    06:00
    Exploring Medical Personalities

    09:03
    The Art of Storytelling in Medicine

    11:49
    The Legacy of Joseph Lister

    17:26
    Growing Up with History

    19:47
    The Mystery of Jack the Ripper

    22:54
    The Role of Baby Farmers in Victorian Times

    23:43
    Pursuing a PhD in Medical History

    30:07
    The Importance of Medical History

    32:30
    Modern Medicine vs. Historical Practices

    36:53
    The Facemaker: Unveiling Harold Gillies

    42:02
    The Challenge of Facial Reconstruction

    47:27
    Personal Journeys: Breast Cancer and Identity

    58:59
    Navigating the Medical Landscape: A Patient's Perspective

    01:08:34
    The Evolution of Plastic Surgery and Its Societal Impact

    01:10:30
    The Human Connection in Medicine

    01:11:46
    The Legacy of Joseph Lister and Antisepsis

    01:14:04
    The Importance of Medical History and Learning from Failure

    01:19:21
    The Future of Medical Storytelling

    01:24:10
    The Role of Humanity in Medicine

    01:30:21
    Remembering a Medical Connector

    Send a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Dr. Paul Cederna: Former Chief of Plastic Surgery University of Michigan, President of American Association of Plastic Surgeons. Leadership, Mentorship, Global Work, Advanced Limb Prosthetics (#43)
    Jan 21 2026

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • Dr. Bauback Safa: President of American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Past Godina Fellow, Buncke Clinic. Success and Efficiency in Microsurgery, Viewpoints on Leadership/Entrepreneurship (#42)
    Jan 5 2026

    keywords

    microsurgery, reconstructive surgery, Buncke Clinic, Godina Fellowship, phalloplasty, ASRM, surgical podcast, hand surgery, medical education, surgeon journey, Godina Fellowship, mentorship, networking, private equity, family priorities, entrepreneurship, medical education, imposter syndrome, career development, microsurgery

    takeaways

    • Dr. Safa emphasizes the importance of mentorship in shaping a medical career.
    • The Buncke Clinic is known for its legacy in microsurgery and its collaborative environment.
    • Dr. Safa's journey into reconstructive surgery was influenced by his father's medical background.
    • The podcast aims to share unedited, authentic conversations about surgery and life.
    • Dr. Safa's experience during COVID led to the creation of the Buncke Podcast.
    • The Godina Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for surgeons in microsurgery.
    • Phalloplasty has evolved significantly, with Dr. Safa contributing to its advancements.
    • The importance of maintaining a broad skill set in surgery is highlighted.
    • Dr. Safa's accidental journey into microsurgery showcases the unpredictability of medical careers.
    • The camaraderie and culture at the Buncke Clinic play a crucial role in its success. Bauback's journey to the Godina Fellowship was unexpected and filled with serendipitous events.
    • Imposter syndrome is common, and it's natural to have doubts about one's work.
    • Networking and mentorship play crucial roles in career development.
    • The importance of community in the ASRM is highlighted, with many talented individuals deserving recognition.
    • Breaking barriers and building bridges is essential for the future of microsurgery.
    • An MBA can provide structured learning and valuable networking opportunities.
    • The corporate practice of medicine has its pros and cons, often affecting physician autonomy.
    • Family priorities should be emphasized, as time with loved ones is limited.
    • Musical passions can provide a creative outlet and balance in a demanding profession.
    • Surgical instruments, like the Micron's razor edge scissors, are vital for precision in microsurgery.

    summary

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Bauback Safa shares his journey through the world of reconstructive microsurgery, highlighting his experiences at the Buncke Clinic and the importance of mentorship in shaping his career. He discusses the genesis of his podcast, the significance of authentic conversations in surgery, and the evolution of phalloplasty. Dr. Safa reflects on the legacy of the Buncke Clinic, the impact of the Godina Fellowship, and the necessity of maintaining a broad skill set in the surgical field. The discussion emphasizes the unpredictability of medical careers and the camaraderie that fosters success in the surgical community. In this engaging conversation, Bauback Safa shares his journey to becoming a Godina Fellow, reflecting on the importance of mentorship, community, and the gradual realization of aspirations. He discusses the value of networking and the impact of an MBA on his career, while also addressing the challenges posed by private equity in medicine. The conversation touches on personal priorities, particularly the significance of family, and concludes with insights into Bauback's musical passions and favorite surgical instruments.

    Sound Bites

    • "It's not about how to do a case."
    • "I think it made me a better surgeon."
    • "All you need is one opportunity."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Podcast Setup and Introduc

    Send a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 33 mins
  • Dr. Tracy Pfeifer- Past President of New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons, President of the Aesthetic Society, Building Your Dream Aesthetic Practice, Lead Your Own Life (#41)
    Dec 8 2025

    keywords

    plastic surgery, aesthetic surgery, leadership, mentorship, women in medicine, practice management, patient care, surgical education, networking, professional development

    summary
    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer shares her journey in plastic surgery, discussing her childhood influences, the path to her specialty, and the importance of leadership and mentorship in the field. She emphasizes the need for business acumen in establishing a successful practice and advocates for fair compensation for surgeons. Dr. Pfeifer also highlights the significance of patient-centric care and the evolving role of women in surgery, offering valuable advice for aspiring surgeons and the importance of networking and professional development.

    takeaways

    • Dr. Pfeifer's childhood was influenced by strong women in her family.
    • She always aspired to be a surgeon from a young age.
    • Plastic surgery appealed to her due to its creative and patient-centered nature.
    • Building a successful practice takes time and effort, often around 10 years.
    • Business acumen is crucial for running a successful practice.
    • Surgeons should advocate for fair compensation and recognize their value.
    • Research is important, but technical excellence should be prioritized.
    • Patient experience is key to a thriving practice.
    • Leadership in surgery requires vision and effective communication.
    • Women in surgery are increasingly supported and have a bright future.


    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Instagram: @thediependpodcast

    Show more Show less
    53 mins