Voices of Otolaryngology

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Tali Lando, MD, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital of Westchester Medical Center and author of Breathless: Surgical Tales from the Brink (and Back), joins host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for a candid conversation about writing honestly about medicine. Dr. Lando discusses the 16-case medical memoir's structure, built around both the technical arc of surgery and its personal aftermath, and how surviving Stage IIIC breast cancer as a practicing surgeon shaped her first book, Hell and Back. She covers the HIPAA and confidentiality questions that come with writing about real patients, the mentors and editors who helped her find the confidence to publish, and why she believes storytelling belongs alongside clinical skill as a tool for teaching the next generation of otolaryngologists.

Dr. Lando's book: https://amzn.to/4f4ZaxG

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Matthew L. Bush, MD, PhD, MBA, Chair of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Kentucky and AAO-HNSF Coordinator for Research and Quality, joins host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for a candid conversation on research funding and career growth. Dr. Bush shares how the AAO-HNSF CORE Grant Program shaped his own path from first-time recipient to program steward and offers a practical playbook for young investigators—Clarity, Originality, Rigor, and Effect—on what it takes to write a grant that gets funded.

Helpful Resources:

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Eben L. Rosenthal, MD, Professor and Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and the Barry and Amy Baker Chair in Laryngeal, Head and Neck Research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for a candid conversation on reinvention, resilience, and discovery. Dr. Rosenthal reflects on building a career across five leading institutions, his "one in ten" philosophy on research and failure, and his pioneering work in fluorescence-guided surgery that lets surgeons see cancer in real time.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rajesh S. Kakani, MD, shares his journey from international training to building a solo private practice in the U.S., offering candid insights for early-career physicians navigating today's consolidating landscape. He covers strategic practice location, calculated risk-taking, hybrid employment models, and the operational discipline needed to thrive independently. Dr. Kakani also reflects on workforce challenges, team culture, and his commitment to funding scholarships for future otolaryngologists.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Soham Roy, MD, MBA, draws on his experience as a mentor to guide early-career surgeons through one of medicine's most pivotal transitions: moving from training into independent practice. Dr. Roy shares the framework he uses when advising residents, fellows, and early-career physicians: define success on your own terms, understand what truly brings fulfillment, and avoid the pressure to find a "perfect" first job. He also offers pragmatic guidance on evaluating today's evolving practice landscape and stresses the importance of building an expert advisory team to protect your future. Ultimately, Dr. Roy reminds young physicians that their legacy won't be defined by any single surgery, but by the lasting, positive impact they leave on their patients, colleagues, and loved ones.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Inna A. Husain, MD, Medical Director of Laryngology at Community Hospital Munster, joins host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for a practical and energizing conversation about how physicians can use social media to educate patients, grow their practice, and elevate the specialty.

Dr. Husain shares how her platform evolved from a pandemic-era hobby into a referral engine that draws patients from across the country for subspecialty laryngology and LPR care, and why physicians who don't help shape the online medical narrative risk ceding that ground to someone less qualified. The discussion covers the do's and don'ts to platform strategy, privacy pitfalls, and the unexpected opportunities that follow when you simply show up and share what you know.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Peter Santa Maria, MBBS, PhD, discusses his approach to innovation in patient care and how physicians can source ideas and inspiration to chart their own ideation course. Dr. Santa Maria shares his global journey with host Rahul K Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO. Starting with his childhood in Australia, then to Stanford University, and now in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he balances a busy otology/neurotology practice while managing an innovation lab to continue creating medical devices to improve the lives of his patients. Dr. Santa Maria outlines how his approach to innovation is needs-driven and structured and focuses on projects that deliver near-term relief for patients.

In this wide-ranging episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Craig Dell, CPFA, Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management (a Bank of America company), joins host and AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for an in-depth and candid discussion about financial planning for physicians at every career stage. Drawing on decades of experience advising doctors, Craig explains why physicians face unique financial challenges, from delayed earning years and significant education debt to lifestyle inflation and tax complexity. The conversation covers the power of compounding, goal-based bucket planning, maximizing tax-advantaged retirement accounts, and managing debt strategically. Whether you are in residency or well into your career or anywhere in between, this episode sponsored by the Young Physicians Section offers actionable steps to start building financial security today.

Cherie-Ann O. Nathan, MD, the Jack Pou Endowed Professor and Chair of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport and a founding member of the AAO-HNS Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section, discusses her journey in translational research, leading with purpose, and building a career at the intersection of clinical medicine and scientific discovery. Dr. Nathan reflects on the perseverance required to sustain NIH funding, the power of collaboration and team science, and how a curiosity rooted in traditional medicine led to a patented curcumin chewing gum with promising applications in oral cancer prevention. The conversation also covers the unique challenges facing HPV-negative head and neck cancer patients, the cultural health risks of betel nut use, and advice for early-career scientists navigating rejection and resilience. This episode is featured as part of celebrating WIO Day every March 8.

Helpful Resources:

Zara M. Patel, MD, Professor of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at Stanford Medicine and Director of the Stanford Initiative to Cure Smell and Taste Loss, discusses her pursuit of a cure for olfactory dysfunction, the science behind smell recovery, and the research milestones that have redefined what is possible for patients with smell and taste loss. Dr. Patel reflects on her cross-country training journey, the curiosity-driven path that led her into an underexplored corner of the specialty, and how olfactory training and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections went from novel ideas to evidence-based treatments. The conversation also covers the biology of olfactory nerve regeneration, the importance of mentorship in building an academic career, and the expanding frontier of neuro-rhinology. This episode is featured as part of celebrating WIO Day every March 8.

Helpful Resources:

Kelly M. Malloy, MD, MBA, Clinical Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Michigan Medical School and the AAO-HNS Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section Financial Officer, discusses leadership, intentional career development, and the many hats and evolutions of her career. Dr. Malloy reflects on the non-linear nature of leadership growth, the value of strategic network building, and why otolaryngologists are uniquely positioned as healthcare executives. The conversation also covers physician resilience, the strategic value of earning an MBA later in one's career, and the important influence of WIO's 15+ year history within AAO-HNS and the specialty. This episode is featured as part of celebrating WIO Day every March 8.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Carol R. Bradford, MD, MS, AAO-HNS/F Past President and the Interim Executive Vice President for Health Affairs and Interim Dean of the Medical School at the University of Minnesota University, joins for an inspiring conversation with host and AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, about leadership, resilience, and building a career rooted in purpose. Dr. Bradford shares her journey as a head and neck cancer surgeon, researcher, and leader — spanning roles as department chair, dean, and Academy leader. She reflects on balancing career and parenthood, building a research career, and navigating leadership setbacks. Key themes include mentorship, patient-centered care, and staying grounded in your "why."

In this in-depth episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Andrew J. Tompkins, MD, and Chair of the AAO-HNS Workforce and Socioeconomic Task Force, unpacks one of the most consequential topics facing the specialty today: workforce data and what it means for patient care, compensation, and access. Dr. Tompkins walks listeners through the origins of the Academy's workforce reports and explains how rigorous methodology, transparency, and member participation have shaped a series of publicly available reports used by otolaryngologists across the country. The discussion highlights trends in practice settings, compensation, gender disparities and call coverage, while emphasizing how these data can be used responsibly to inform decision-making and improve care delivery.

In this in-depth and candid episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, sponsored by the Academy's Young Physicians Section, Miguel Rivera, MD, partner at ENT and Allergy Associates of Florida, unpacks one of the most consequential decisions early-career otolaryngologists will make: choosing a practice environment. Drawing on more than two decades of experience across military medicine, academics, VA practice, and private practice leadership, Dr. Rivera offers practical, unfiltered guidance for residents and fellows navigating today's complex employment landscape. The conversation explores how to evaluate practice settings, understand compensation models, interpret contracts, and weigh long-term tradeoffs between autonomy and stability.

Kara D. Meister, MD, Chair of the AAO-HNSF Pediatric Otolaryngology Education Committee and pediatric ENT at Stanford Children's Health, shares how environmental exposures are shaping the future of pediatric otolaryngology. Learn about emerging evidence linking wildfire smoke to croup presentations, air quality's role in sleep-disordered breathing, and groundbreaking microplastics research in pediatric tonsils. Dr. Meister, whose personal journey includes losing both parents to cancer after growing up near industrial plants, explains why environmental health is firmly "in our lane" as otolaryngologists. Discover practical ways to integrate simple environmental health questions into your clinical workflow, counsel families on exposure reduction, and leverage AI and large datasets to understand population-level impacts. Get actionable strategies for staying current with this rapidly evolving field while meeting modern patients' questions about climate, air quality, and environmental toxins affecting their children's health.

James J. Kearney, MD, Chair of the AAO-HNS History and Archives Committee and the Chair of Otorhinolaryngology at Pennsylvania Hospital, explores how preserving the past shapes the future of otolaryngology. Learn about the Academy's rich historical collections—from Chevalier Jackson's desk and early endoscopic equipment to archival diaries—and discover how the John Q. Adams Center Traveling Museum brings artifacts directly to members at the Annual Meeting. Dr. Kearney shares stories from Pennsylvania Hospital, the nation's oldest hospital founded in 1751, and explains why making history accessible and experiential strengthens professional identity, guides innovation, and preserves the values of the specialty. He also discusses the resident history paper competition, future traveling exhibits focused on otology, and encourages members to document and share their local otolaryngology history with the AAO-HNS Bulletin.

Margo M. McKenna Benoit, MD, Director of Pediatric Otolaryngology at the University of Rochester Medical Center and Chair of the AAO-HNSF Guidelines Task Force, joins Maria Michaels, MBA, PMP, Immediate Past Chair of the Guidelines International Network (GIN) North America, to explore the transformation of clinical practice guidelines from static PDFs into dynamic, real-time clinical tools. Together, they tackle a sobering reality: it takes an average of 17 years for scientific evidence to reach clinical practice. Learn how the Guidelines Task Force evaluates and prioritizes new guideline topics, what makes a guideline truly "digitized" versus a traditional document, and how embedding guideline logic directly into EMR workflows can support clinicians without disrupting practice autonomy. Dr. McKenna Benoit and Michaels discuss strategies for reducing development cycle times, the concept of "living guidelines" that evolve with emerging evidence, and the role of health IT standards and AI in scaling evidence-based recommendations across healthcare systems while maintaining the scientific rigor that makes AAO-HNSF guidelines among the most cited publications in the specialty.

Vince Loffredo, EdD, Chief Learning Officer at the American Society of Anesthesiologists and future president of the Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, returns to discuss the rapid evolution of medical education. Learn about his innovative "launch and learn" methodology that's replacing traditional lectures, the shift to bite-sized video content, and practical strategies for engaging diverse learner audiences. Dr. Loffredo shares actionable insights on reducing PowerPoint dependency, structuring effective presentations, leveraging pre-reading materials, and creating experiential learning environments at annual meetings. Discover how to meet modern learners where they are while maintaining educational rigor and improving knowledge retention across all career stages.

Neil Hockstein, MD, Chair of the Delaware Health Care Commission and co-founder of Parallel ENT, discusses his journey from private practice otolaryngologist to healthcare policy leader. Learn about his COVID-19 response efforts, the formation of Parallel ENT, and his ambitious vision for Delaware's healthcare future, including establishing the state's first four-year medical school. Dr. Hockstein shares valuable insights on practice aggregation, private equity partnerships, and maintaining work-life balance while driving systemic healthcare change.

Helpful Resources:

In this special Voices of Otolaryngology episode, recorded live in Indianapolis at the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with Cecelia E. Schmalbach, MD, MSc, Editor in Chief of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and OTO Open. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of academic publishing, from peer review innovation and global collaboration to the integration of artificial intelligence in research and publishing.

Dr. Schmalbach shares insights into bringing the journals' editorial operations back in-house, maintaining rigorous review standards, fostering merit-based advancement for reviewers, and her vision for global and technological expansion. The discussion offers valuable guidance for current and aspiring contributors, reviewers, and clinician-scientists seeking to publish their work in the AAO-HNSF flagship journals.

In this engaging floor-recorded conversation from the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with R. Peter Manes, MD, associate professor of surgery (otolaryngology) at Yale School of Medicine as well as AAO-HNS/F Board member and Chair of the Academy's Physician Payment Policy (3P) Workgroup. Together they demystify the alphabet soup of CPT, RUC, and RVUs, explaining how every otolaryngologist—academic or private—can influence reimbursement simply by completing the necessary surveys.

Dr. Manes offers a candid look at how procedure codes are valued, why honest data matters, and how these processes directly shape the financial sustainability of ENT practices nationwide. He also discusses his new role as the Academy's Industry Consultant, fostering ethical collaboration between surgeons and device partners to advance innovation and patient care.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, talks with Michael C. Topf, MD, MSCI, a head and neck surgical oncologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Topf shares his groundbreaking work in precision head and neck surgery, including 3D scanning of resected cancer specimens to improve communication among multidisciplinary cancer care teams. The conversation explores his innovative research on specimen-based margin assessment, the development of custom software for annotating 3D models, and his team's pioneering work with intraoperative PET-CT scanning. Dr. Topf also discusses his recent $2.5 million ARPA-H grant for optical lightsheet microscopy, the importance of deep margin assessment in head and neck cancer, and offers invaluable advice to early-career researchers about navigating the competitive funding landscape. A son of an otolaryngologist himself, Dr. Topf reflects on his journey from Rochester to Stanford and Vanderbilt, and the clinical unmet needs that drive his research vision.

Helpful Resources:

In this on-site conversation from the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in Indianapolis, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with Gregory J. Basura, MD, PhD, Chair of the AAO-HNSF Humanitarian Efforts Committee. They explore the intersection of neuroscience, clinical innovation, and global humanitarian outreach—from Dr. Basura's NIH-funded research in tinnitus neuroimaging to his transformative fellowship and capacity-building work across Africa and beyond.

Listeners will hear how early mentorship inspired his lifelong commitment to global otolaryngology, how partnerships in Ghana and Cape Town evolved into the creation of the African Otological Society, and how this collaborative model is now expanding into South America. The episode is both a scientific deep-dive and a call to service, highlighting the power of sustainable global training and mentorship in our specialty

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with brothers Michael Setzen, MD, and Gavin Setzen, MD, two private practice otolaryngologists who have shaped the specialty through decades of leadership and advocacy. Both Hall of Distinction Living Legends, the Setzen brothers share their journey from South Africa to building world-renowned practices in New York.

Dr. Michael Setzen reveals an unconventional approach to work-life balance: never working Fridays and dedicating that time to golf, family, and Academy service. Dr. Gavin Setzen reflects on following his brother's footsteps into otolaryngology and the immigrant work ethic that drove both to become leaders in the Academy, American Rhinologic Society, and state societies—all while prioritizing wellness before it became a buzzword.

The conversation explores how they built successful practices from scratch, knowing nobody when they started, and why they invested in Academy involvement from day one. The episode takes a special turn when Dr. Gavin Setzen's son, Sean Setzen, a PGY-1 ENT resident, joins as the podcast's first-ever guest host, sharing his optimism about the specialty's future and continuing the family legacy of otolaryngology leadership.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, continues the conversation with Amanda Dilger, MD, and Neelima Tummala, MD, from the AAO-HNS Sustainability Task Force. Moving beyond general sustainability practices, this episode focuses on how climate change is directly affecting ENT patients—from air pollution's link to head and neck cancer, to extended pollen seasons causing more severe allergic rhinitis and wildfire smoke impacting chronic rhinosinusitis. The physicians discuss practical ways to integrate environmental health screening into patient care and share insights on protecting vulnerable populations from environmental exposures.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with David Witsell, MD, about the evolution of practice-based research in otolaryngology. Dr. Witsell shares the origins of BEST ENT and the CHEER network, honoring the visionary leadership of Maureen Hannley, MD, which laid the foundation for today's Reg-ent platform. The conversation explores why collaboration and standardized data are critical to advancing research and quality and presents a compelling vision for future partnerships between Reg-ent and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders to accelerate clinical trials and improve patient care.

Join host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS EVP and CEO, for a historic conversation with two pioneers of surgical sleep medicine, Kathleen Yaremchuk, MD, MSA and B. Tucker Woodson, MD. Both were at Henry Ford Health in the early 1980s—the epicenter of American surgical sleep medicine—where they witnessed the birth of modern sleep apnea treatment.

In this episode, discover how sleep apnea went from an unrecognized condition treated only with tracheotomy to a field with multiple treatment modalities. Dr. Yaremchuk and Dr. Woodson share firsthand accounts of working with Dr. Shiro Fujita as he adapted a Japanese snoring procedure into the groundbreaking UPPP surgery, trace the evolution from skeletal and soft tissue surgeries to neuromodulation with Inspire therapy, and discuss the newest frontier: pharmaceutical treatments including GLP-1 medications.

This conversation spans four decades of innovation and offers a rare glimpse into the future of otolaryngology's continued role in sleep medicine.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS EVP and CEO, talks with Matthew D. Scarlett, MD, a private practice otolaryngologist in Charleston, South Carolina, and current Chair of the Academy's ENT Political Action Committee (PAC) Board. Dr. Scarlett breaks down how ENT PAC amplifies the voices of otolaryngologists on Capitol Hill, from securing meetings with lawmakers to advancing bills on prior authorization reform, Medicare reimbursement, and newborn CMV screening. Dr. Scarlett shares his personal journey into advocacy—sparked by frustration with barriers to patient care—and explains how ENT PAC strategically supports bipartisan lawmakers who can make a difference for physicians. The discussion highlights how the PAC Board prioritizes issues, the importance of member participation, and how easy actions like responding to "Act Now" alerts can significantly impact legislative outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned ENT or a trainee new to advocacy, this episode demystifies ENT PAC, encourages engagement, and shows how collective action strengthens the specialty's voice in Washington, DC.

Resources:

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with Douglas D. Reh, MD, a fellowship-trained rhinologist and former academic leader at Johns Hopkins, who now practices as part of ENT Specialty Partners. Dr. Reh reflects on his journey from academia to private practice, exploring how subspecialists can succeed outside academic institutions while still meeting the broad needs of their communities. The conversation covers Dr. Reh's experience building a thriving rhinology-focused practice, the challenges and strategies for balancing general otolaryngology with subspecialty work, and insights from his panel, which was held at the AAO-HNS/F 2025 OTO Forum, on subspecialty care in private practice. They discuss workforce considerations, referral-building strategies, evolving training pathways, and how to ensure new otolaryngologists understand both the clinical and business aspects of community practice. Dr. Reh also shares personal lessons on mentorship, risk-taking, and professional growth, including his advice for early-career otolaryngologists seeking to shape their futures in today's changing healthcare landscape.

Resources:

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, talks with Karen A. Rizzo, MD, a seasoned private practice otolaryngologist and past president of the Pennsylvania Medical Society. Dr. Rizzo, who is also Past Chair of the AAO-HNS Board of Governors, shares her journey from being encouraged by a mentor during residency to representing otolaryngology at the state level and eventually becoming the first otolaryngologist—and only the fifth woman—to lead the nation's oldest state medical society. Dr. Rizzo offers candid insights into why advocacy matters, how to get involved even when it feels intimidating, and the strategies she uses to build relationships with legislators and community leaders. The discussion covers her experiences testifying on scope-of-practice issues, the role of county and state medical societies, and how physicians can start with simple steps like joining local organizations or hosting legislators to make a difference. For otolaryngologists at any career stage, this episode provides an empowering look at how engagement in advocacy not only protects the specialty but also strengthens patient care and professional satisfaction.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul Shah, MD, MBA, talks with Srinivas R. Kaza, MD, a veteran otolaryngologist from Rochester, New York, who leads by example when it comes to creative, resourceful practice growth through marketing and reputation management. Dr. Kaza explains how his group leverages word-of-mouth, Google reviews, patient feedback, and targeted outreach to referring doctors. Dr. Kaza breaks down lessons from his panel presentation at the 2025 AAO-HNS/F OTO Forum on how practices can tailor their marketing strategies based on budget, market size, and local needs. Listeners will also hear tips on handling negative reviews, building loyalty through authentic engagement, and why focusing on the Four A's—affability, availability, accountability, and ability—creates a lasting flywheel of growth.

In this compelling episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul Shah, MD, MBA, talks with G. Lee Bryant, Jr., MD, a veteran private practice otolaryngologist based in Nashville and an innovator in in-office procedures. Dr. Bryant recounts his extraordinary personal journey as a melanoma survivor, including the self-biopsy that saved his life, and how that experience reshaped his approach to patient care. Beyond his survival story, Dr. Bryant shares how he and his colleagues pioneered in-office rhinology and sinus surgery techniques. He explains the clinical, economic, and patient-centered benefits of shifting appropriate surgeries from the hospital to the office, while emphasizing safety, team-based care, and ongoing education for the next generation of ENT specialists. Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of minimally invasive otolaryngology, strategies for building successful office-based surgical programs, and Dr. Bryant's perspective on why this movement represents the future of patient care.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Dr. Rahul Shah sits down with Nora W. Perkins, MD, a private practice otolaryngologist with Albany ENT & Allergy Services, in New York, and liaison for advanced practice providers (APPs) in her group. Dr. Perkins shares how her practice grew from a single APP in the early 2000s to more than 20 today, creating a thriving model for expanding patient access, reducing physician burden, and maintaining high-quality care. Dr. Perkins walks listeners through her group's 24-week onboarding and training program, including eight to ten weeks of shadowing, structured educational resources, and gradual ramp-up to independent practice. She explains how her team balances APP autonomy with strong physician collaboration and fosters a culture where both physicians and APPs thrive without competing for patients. The discussion also highlights strategies for building a collegial culture, retaining providers, and ensuring quality through oversight, education, and procedural training. Whether you're a practice leader, a physician exploring APP integration, or an APP considering otolaryngology, this episode provides a practical, experience-driven roadmap for success.

Voices of Otolaryngology host, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO, talks with David M. Yen, MD, about his practice, Specialty Physician Associates in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has established a fully accredited residency program. The two discuss how the hybrid private-academic model represents the future of the specialty and how their program uniquely prepares residents to provide exceptional ENT care in community settings across the U.S. The conversation also explores the benefits and challenges of balancing education, workforce needs, patient care, and innovation. Whether you're a practicing otolaryngologist, a trainee considering your career path, or a physician leader navigating the business of medicine, this episode offers insights into the evolving landscape of otolaryngology and the power of embracing flexibility in training and practice.

Resources:

2023 Otolaryngology Workforce Report

https://www.entnet.org/business-of-medicine/workforce-survey/

"Privademics," published in the AAO-HNS Bulletin January 2024, authored by Dr. Yen:

https://bulletin.entnet.org/business-of-medicine-practice-management/article/22884170/privademics

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Dr. Rahul Shah sits down with Douglas D. Backous, MD, neurotologist, Immediate Past President of the AAO-HNS/F, and longtime leader in advancing specialty care. Dr. Backous reflects on his diverse career—from academic medicine and private practice to advocacy and international engagement—and how those experiences shape his vision for the future of otolaryngology. He shares lessons learned from leadership roles, including building bridges between clinicians, policymakers, and industry, and his efforts to improve patient access, workforce development, and innovation adoption. The conversation spans everything from Medicare reimbursement challenges to the importance of social trust, the rise of women in the field, and how the Academy can act as a neutral platform for technological advancement and global collaboration. Listeners will gain valuable perspective on the evolving opportunities and challenges facing otolaryngology, and how the Academy is working to ensure the specialty continues to thrive for both practitioners and patients.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect to the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Join host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, as he chats with Maria V. Suurna, MD, AAO-HNSF Coordinator for International Affairs, about her journey from Estonia to leading global ENT initiatives. From quarterly Global Grand Rounds to joint meetings spanning continents, Dr. Suurna reveals how the Academy is strengthening international partnerships and expanding access to otolaryngology education worldwide.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with Amanda Dilger, MD, and Neelima Tummala, MD, about practical sustainability strategies that otolaryngologists can implement to reduce environmental impact while maintaining excellent patient care and achieving significant cost savings.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

Join Kayla Hicks, MD, and Harry DeCabo, AAO-HNS Director for Advocacy, for an essential discussion on advocacy in otolaryngology, exploring why physician and resident engagement in healthcare policy has never been more critical. This episode breaks down the key legislative priorities affecting otolaryngologists and their patients, with a special emphasis on why residents must be active participants in shaping their professional future. Whether you're a resident feeling unsure about advocacy or an established physician wanting to make a difference, this episode demonstrates how otolaryngologists can effectively bridge clinical expertise with legislative decision-making to ensure policies truly serve patients and physicians alike.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO, talks with AJ "Workforce" Tompkins, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Board member from Ohio ENT & Allergy about critical insights from the latest otolaryngology workforce survey. They discuss the dramatic rise in Advanced Practice Provider utilization, growing urban concentration of specialists, and compensation realities across different practice settings. Dr. Tompkins shares how workforce data helps with benchmarking, salary negotiations, and strategic decision-making, while highlighting the disconnect between resident expectations and market conditions. The conversation emphasizes the vital importance of Academy member participation in upcoming surveys planned for 2025 and 2026 to ensure accurate, actionable data that strengthens the specialty's future.

Helpful Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

This episode is sponsored by Inspire Medical Systems - For more information and medical education resources, visit: https://bit.ly/InspireAAO

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Jeffrey S. Weingarten, MD, shares insights on creating a thriving otolaryngology practice that serves as a true "one-stop shop" for ENT care. Learn how his Detroit-area practice successfully integrates 11 physicians, 17 audiologists, and specially trained staff across six locations. Dr. Weingarten discusses the innovative Certificate Program for Otolaryngology Personnel (CPOP), which trains "OTO Techs" to perform hearing tests, maximizing efficiency while allowing audiologists to work at the top of their license. Discover the benefits of team-based care, billing approaches, operational strategies, and how similar models can be implemented in other practices. The conversation with Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, offers valuable insights on enhancing patient care while building a sustainable practice model.

Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Maie St. John, MD, PhD, the Thomas A. Calcaterra, MD Endowed Chair at UCLA's Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, shares her extraordinary journey from a pivotal childhood moment in Egypt to becoming a world-renowned surgeon-scientist. Learn how she developed innovative intraoperative cancer detection systems and polymer delivery technologies that are transforming precision surgery. Discover her strategies for successful grant writing, building multidisciplinary cancer care teams, and leading UCLA's otolaryngology department to its historic #1 national ranking. She reveals insights on the surgeon-scientist model, saying "yes" to opportunities, and her philosophy of "transformational translational impact for patients." The conversation with Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, explores her vision for AI-driven personalized medicine and offers invaluable guidance for trainees and faculty pursuing research careers while maintaining clinical excellence.

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with Willard C. Harrill, MD, and David E. Melon, MD, in a conversation exploring succession planning and private practice evolution in otolaryngology. They share insights on leadership transition, building sustainable practice models, and navigating the shift to value-based care. The discussion covers recruitment strategies, practice diversification, and the unique challenges facing medium-sized ENT groups. They offer valuable guidance on dynamic scheduling, community engagement, and maintaining competitive advantage while transitioning from traditional fee-for-service models to comprehensive, coordinated patient care approaches.

Helpful Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO, talks with Vince Loffredo, EdD, Chief Learning Officer at the American Society for Anesthesiology, about the future of medical education, providing advice to lecturers on how to engage audiences. They discuss how technology has accelerated changes in medical learning, moving from traditional lectures toward micro-learning, interactive formats, and personalized education. Dr. Loffredo shares insights on engaging learners through gamification, virtual reality, social media platforms, and continuous educational experiences, emphasizing collaborative, team-based learning across specialties.

Helpful Resources:

More Ways to Listen:

Connect the AAO-HNS:

Shop AAO-HNS Merchandise: https://www.otostore.org

This episode is sponsored by Inspire Medical Systems - For more information and medical education resources, visit: https://bit.ly/InspireAAO

Help Us Improve Future Episodes: Share your feedback and topic suggestions at https://forms.office.com/r/0XpA83XNBQ

Subscribe to Voices of Otolaryngology for more insights from leading voices in ENT. New episodes released every Tuesday.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Matthew Bush, MD, PhD, MBA, AAO-HNSF Coordinator-Elect, Research and Quality, joins Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, as they explore how interventions are impacting healthcare delivery for vulnerable populations. Dr. Bush shares insights on innovative approaches to hearing healthcare in rural communities from his groundbreaking patient navigation model that dramatically improved follow-up care rates for pediatric hearing patients.

Helpful Resources:

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, join Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO as he interviews Dana M. Thompson, MD, MS, MBA, AAO-HNS 2024 Hall of Distinction inductee and Division Head of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Lauren D. Holinger Professor and Chair of Pediatric Otolaryngology at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, about transforming "pipelines" into "pathways" for diversity in medicine. Discover her five guiding values and learn how her family legacy shaped her commitment to addressing healthcare disparities through mentorship, inclusion, and value-based care reforms. This episode was recorded during The Triological Society 2025 Combined Sections Meeting, January 23-25, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.

In this special episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, developed on behalf of the AAO-HNS Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee, Matthew W. Ryan, MD, talks with Antoine Azar, MD, about how otolaryngologists often see immunodeficiency patients first through recurring infections. Learn about screening techniques, key warning signs, and treatment approaches for conditions affecting up to 23% of chronic sinusitis patients. Discover why collaboration between otolaryngology and immunology specialists is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with Sarah N. Bowe, MD, EdM, current AAO-HNS Nominating Committee member and Otolaryngology Core Curriculum Editorial Board member, in a conversation blending professional wisdom and growth as well as commitment to the Academy and the specialty. Dr. Bowe shares insights on military medicine leadership, her residency director role, and innovations in pediatric otolaryngology. She offers valuable career advice and tips for success on mentorship and opportunities, guided by her principle, "Do good things."

The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Defense Health Agency, the Brooke Army Medical Center, the Department of Defense, nor any agencies under the US Government.

In this special edition of Voices of Otolaryngology, join Cecelia Damask, DO, and Matthew W. Ryan, MD, as they explore the critical differences between subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis treatment. This in-depth discussion covers efficacy comparisons, safety profiles, cost considerations, and practical factors affecting patient adherence. Learn how these immunotherapy approaches can modify disease progression beyond symptom management and discover strategies for individualizing treatment plans for those suffering from allergic rhinitis.

Resources:

Clinical Practice Guideline: Immunotherapy for Inhalant Allergy

https://www.entnet.org/quality-practice/quality-products/clinical-practice-guidelines/cpg-immunotherapy-for-inhalant-allergy/

ENThealth.org Treatment Options for Allergen Immunotherapy

https://www.enthealth.org/be_ent_smart/treatment-options-for-allergen-immunotherapy-scit-vs-slit/

ENThealth.org FAQs about Allergen Immunotherapy

https://www.enthealth.org/be_ent_smart/frequently-asked-questions-faqs-about-allergen-immunotherapy/

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with two leaders in the field of sleep medicine: Ryan J. Soose, MD, Director of the Sleep Division and Associate Professor, and Thomas M. Kaffenberger, MD, Assistant Professor, both from the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The three discuss the importance and scope of sleep fellowship, the pathways to training and fellowship utilizing the resources of the International Surgical Sleep Society (ISSS), the vast possibilities and rewarding nature of sleep medicine, the practical aspects of sleep medicine in both academic and private practice, and more! This episode is sponsored by Inspire. We thank them for their support.

Helpful Resources:

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, visits Eugene G. Brown III, MD, RPh, AAO-HNS/F President-elect at his practice, Charleston ENT & Allergy in Charleston, South Carolina. The two discuss Dr. Brown's unique journey to otolaryngology, the 2023 Otolaryngology Workforce Report, the trajectory of his practice's composition, priorities for his upcoming term as President, and more! Also, in this episode, the interviewer becomes the interviewee as Dr. Brown turns the table, asking Dr. Shah about his experiences thus far as the new EVP/CEO.

Helpful Resource:

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, visits Annette M. Pham, MD, Chair of the AAO-HNS Otolaryngology Private Practice Section, at her practice, The Centers for Advanced ENT Care, in Rockville, Maryland. The two discuss an array of topics from the urgency of greater advocacy participation across the specialty; augmented versus artificial intelligence; the importance of understanding the economics of medicine, including payment and cost containment strategies, and why we should be talking about payment versus reimbursement; balancing life and being involved; 2025 OTO Forum; and more!

Helpful Resources:

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, Executive Vice President and CEO, sits down with Vikas Mehta, MD, MPH, AAO-HNSF Research and Quality Coordinator, to discuss the next level of research and quality in 2025 with modernizing evidence-based research and providing the specialty and house of medicine the resources and tools for advanced clinical and patient care.

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, talks with Jason Acevedo, MD, MBA, Academy member in private practice in Abilene, Texas, and President of West Texas Health. The two discuss the evolution of practice, ecosystems for patient care, and Dr. Acevedo's own journey in practice from military to hospital-based to single specialty and now multispecialty. They discussed how finding space for advocacy and the Academy is an important part of any otolaryngologist's portfolio, as well as finding ways for residents to explore practice options to find what is most fitting for them individually.

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, sits down with Albert L. Merati, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President and current Chair of the Awards Committee, during the November 2024 SUO/AADO/OPDO Meeting to discuss Academy priorities like medical student initiatives, Reg-ent, and specialty unity. Let's jump right in to learn more about Dr. Merati's focused efforts to normalize the path in otolaryngology and respecting all pathways to patient care in the specialty.

Helpful Resource:

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, sits down with Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, leader of the AAO-HNSF Otolaryngology Core Curriculum Editorial Board, Past Board member, Past Coordinator of Education, and Past Women in Otolaryngology Section Chair, during the November 2024 SUO/AADO/OPDO Meeting to discuss Dr. Malekzadeh's multi parallel paths in the Academy and her tenacity to see a need and fill it with engagement and leadership.

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, spent some time in the field with AAO-HNS/F Board member Marc Dubin, MD, at his practice in Baltimore, Maryland, The Centers for Advanced ENT Care, discussing the journey and evolution of private practice and patient care in today's healthcare climate. Dr. Dubin has evolved his practice, those of his 17 colleagues' practices, and since 2023, has been strategically aligned with ENT Specialty Partners. Engage in the discussion, listen/watch now, and look for more on this topic at the 2025 OTO Forum.

Join the conversation on ENT Connect: https://entconnect.entnet.org/home

AAO-HNS/F President Troy D. Woodard, MD, joins AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, for this Voices of Otolaryngology episode, which was recorded during Dr. Woodard's visit to Academy headquarters on December 10, 2024. Dr. Woodard shares his personal journey to otolaryngology; insight into his practice at Cleveland Clinic; his philosophical approach to balance, inclusion, mentorship, and wellness; why the Academy plays an essential role in the success of our specialty; the process for the upcoming strategic plan update; and so much more!

Helpful Resources:

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, is joined by Cristina M. Baldassari, MD, Board of Governors (BOG) Chair, Lance A. Manning, MD, AAO-HNS Advocacy Coordinator, Eileen M. Raynor, MD, BOG Legislative Affairs Committee Chair, and Matthew D. Scarlett, MD, ENT PAC Chair, to discuss the vital role that advocacy plays in the Academy to support members in their practice and patient care. The group also talks about the crucial need for more member involvement in strengthening the voice of otolaryngology and how individuals can get engaged and make a difference.

Helpful Resources:

Note: Contributions to ENT PAC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary, and all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery have the right to refuse to contribution without reprisal. Federal law prohibits ENT PAC from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. By law, if your contributions are made using a personal check or credit card, ENT PAC may use your contribution only to support candidates in federal elections. All corporate contributions to ENT PAC will be used for educational and administrative fees of ENT PAC, and other activities permissible under federal law. Federal law requires ENT PAC use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation, and the name of the employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. ENT PAC is a program of the AAO-HNS which is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO, travels to Albany ENT & Allergy Services in Albany, New York, to visit with AAO-HNS/F Past President Gavin Setzen, MD, and learn more about the unique model of care that serves the patient population in Albany. Dr. Setzen shares pearls and opportunities for practice success and how the Academy plays a role in that at all stages of one's career.

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, talks with Shreya Mandava, MD, PGY1 Resident at the University of Michigan, about how she has found a passion for advocacy in her journey to otolaryngology. Dr. Mandava is the AAO-HNS Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training delegate to the American Medical Association House of Delegates.

The new Voices of Otolaryngology with Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, podcast series is here to bring you exciting conversations and fresh perspectives from the individuals who comprise the depth and breadth of the specialty. Hosted by AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, this dynamic series takes a deep dive into the stories, goals, and innovations that are both impacting the current state of affairs in the house of medicine as well as shaping the future of the global otolaryngology community.

In this first episode, Dr. Shah is joined by the chairs of the Academy Sections: Annette M. Pham, MD, Chair of the Otolaryngology Private Practice Section (OPPS), Valerie A. Flanary, MD, Chair of the Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section, Mark A. Fadel, MD, JD, Chair of the Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training (SRF), and James C. Wang, MD, PhD, Chair of the Young Physicians Section (YPS). Together, they share their bold visions, the challenges they're eager to tackle, and the unique experiences they're bringing to the table.

AAO-HNS/F At-Large Director Gene Brown, MD, RPh, AAO-HNS/F A explains the main elements of the Prior Authorization Final Rule and how it will help physicians handle prior authorization admin faster, provide more transparency, and improve patient care.

What's that nagging cough? Chronic cough is one of the most common reasons for patients to see a physician. Coughing interrupts sleep, producing fatigue and impairing concentration and work performance. In a new podcast commissioned by the Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee, Christine Blanche Franzese, MD, Mark R. Gilbert, MD, and Thomas L. Carroll, MD, discuss the differential diagnosis for chronic cough as well as the work up. They also review various treatments for chronic cough and spend time discussing new treatments on the horizon for chronic cough.

Published literature on allergic rhinitis (AR) has expanded substantially in recent decades. This daunting amount of new literature may be overwhelming for the busy clinician and contribute to inertia. Fortunately, the International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis was published in early 2023 and can help aid otolaryngologists in tackling this formidable mountain of evidence. In this podcast, commissioned by the AAO-HNS Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee, Christopher Brook, MD, one of the ICAR: Allergic Rhinitis 2023 authors, interviews Sarah K. Wise, MD, ICAR: Allergic Rhinitis 2023 editor. Hear more about the new recommendations and topics in comparison to the previous ICAR: Allergic Rhinitis from 2018.

Join Gene Brown, MD, RPh, AAO-HNS/F At-Large Director and general otolaryngologist, and James Lin, MD, the Academy's CPT Advisor and a neurotologist, as they engage in a robust podcast discussion on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implementation of code G2211. This is a new code that went into effect on January 1, 2024. Dr. Brown and Dr. Lin provide clinical examples that indicate when code G2211 may be utilized in an otolaryngology practice.

"The Mid-Career Female Otolaryngologist: Past Perspectives and Future Challenges," is second in a series presented by the Section for Women in Otolaryngology (WIO), and features Sarah K. Rapoport, MD, Minka L. Schofield, MD, Priya D. Krishna, MD, and Margo M. McKenna, MD. Hear women in mid-career discuss their accomplishments, challenges, and their direction for the future.

Commissioned by the Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Committee, Joshua M Levy, MD, MPH and Bruce K. Tan, MD discuss mechanisms and biomarkers of endotypes in chronic rhinosinusitis. Subjects covered by this podcast include identification of types of inflammation, geographic variations in endotypes, and methods utilized to address different endotypes.

Matthew W. Ryan, MD, and Cecelia Damask, DO, share their insights on clinical presentations, laboratory evaluations, and treatment options regarding immunodeficiencies, during the podcast, "Immunodeficiency," which was commissioned by the Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee.

The Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section hosted a podcast on well-being. Moderator, Sarah K. Rapoport, MD, is joined by Katherine L. Fedder, MD, Meha G. Fox, MD, and Samantha J. Hauff, MD, in a discussion among women otolaryngologists on work-life balance in various stages of their careers.

Matthew W. Ryan, MD, and Cecelia Damask, DO, share their insights on nasal polyp inflammation and consider which is more important, IgE or the Eosinophil, during the podcast, "IgE vs. Eosinophil," which was commissioned by the Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee.

Host James G. Naples, MD, interviews Bert W. O'Malley, MD, current President and CEO of the University of Maryland Medical Center, on how he achieved professional success and the factors that contributed to his accomplishments.

James "Whit" Mims, MD, and Joshua M. Levy, MD, MPH, share their insights on the clinical trials of various biologics for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps during the podcast, "What's Important from the CRSwNP Biologics Trials," commissioned by the Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee.

Host James G. Naples, MD, interviews Debara L. Tucci, MD, MS, MBA, Director of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, on how she achieved professional success and the factors that contributed to her accomplishments.

AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting Program Coordinator Daniel C. Chelius, Jr. MD is joined by Dr. Anne Marie Visosky as they look forward to the 125th AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO Experience in Los Angeles, CA, October 3-6, 2021. Learn more and register today at https://www.entannualmeeting.org

Duane J. Taylor, MD, Past President, AAO-HNS/F, and Medical Director of LeVisage ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery in Bethesda, MD.

Stacey T. Gray, MD, Director of the Sinus Center at Mass. Eye and Ear, and Program Director, Harvard Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residence Program in Boston, Massachusetts.

Rodney J. Taylor, MD, MSPH, professor and chair, Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Allison Slijepcevic, MD, (Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis) moderates a case-based discussion of airway management in the setting of pan facial fractures as a cause of upper airway obstruction, direct laryngeal injury, and penetrating neck trauma, a podcast commissioned by the AAO-HNS Trauma Committee. She is joined by otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons from the Washington University School of Medicine: Emily A. Spataro, MD; Joseph P. Bradley, MD; Molly N. Huston, MD; and Patrik Pipkorn, MD. This is the second in a series of trauma-related podcasts coordinated by Sarah Akkina, MD, MS (UW Medicine) and Dr. Slijepcevic.

Susan R. Cordes, MD discusses establishing international research and educational collaborations for the International Young Physicians Forum.

Julie L. Wei, MD discusses wellness strategies during the time of the Covid pandemic for the International Young Physicians Forum.

Leslie R. Kim, MD discusses how to build your brand for the International Young Physicians Forum.

AAO-HNS President, Carol R. Bradford, MD, discusses leadership in the community for the International Young Physicians Forum.

Jeffrey P. Simons, MD, AAO-HNSF Coordinator for Education, is joined by Richard V. Smith, MD, past Coordinator for Education for a discussion on FLEX, AAO-HNSF's new flagship education product. FLEX – Focused Lifelong Education Xperience launching in September, is positioned to enhance otolaryngology education through creative and contemporary learning modalities spanning across the specialty.

Minka L. Schofield, MD, member of the Annual Meeting Program Committee, moderates a podcast discussion with Mark K. Wax, MD, Annual Meeting Program Coordinator, and Daniel C. Chelius, Jr., MD, Coordinator-Elect, to discuss the innovative plans for the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience. Listen for more details about how attendees can engage with colleagues from around the world in this virtual format while having access to 300+ hours of education and science, from ePosters and Oral Scientific Presentations to Panel Presentations, Expert Lectures, the International Symposium, and more! Dr. Schofield aptly noted, "Even though the theme was chosen prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no other theme that would ring more true at this time. As we bring together the word of otolaryngology, now more than ever, We Are One."

Sarah Akkina, MD, MS, otolaryngology resident at University of Washington (UW) Medicine Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, moderates the AAO-HNS Trauma Committee's first podcast to discuss the leading and latest recommendations for the management of craniofacial trauma. She is joined by Allison Slijepcevic, MD, otolaryngology-head and neck surgery resident at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis; Neal D. Futran, MD, DMD, former chair of the Trauma Committee, the Allison T. Wanamaker professor and endowed chair of the UW Medicine Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery and director of Head and Neck Surgery as well as an adjunct professor in the Departments of Plastic Surgery and Neurological Surgery; Kris S. Moe, MD, professor in the UW Medicine Departments of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery and Neurological Surgery and chief of the Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Maya Sardesai, MD, MEd, fellowship trained in laryngology and facial plastics and reconstructive surgery and associate professor of the in the UW Medicine Departments of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery; G. Nina Lu, MD, fellowship trained in facial plastics and reconstructive surgery and assistant professor of the in the UW Medicine Departments of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery; and Nathan Calloway, MD, current member of the Trauma Committee, and in practice at WakeMed in Raleigh, NC, with specializations in General and Oncology, otolaryngology, and head and neck surgery.

Duane J. Taylor, MD, AAO-HNS/F President, and Medical Director of Le Visage ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery, in Bethesda, Maryland, United States, is joined by Gayle E. Woodson, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President, Professor Emeritus and Former Chair of Otolaryngology at Southern Illinois University, and visiting Professor at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center in Tanzania; Titus S. Ibekwe, MBBS, FWACS, Professor and Head of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the University of Abuja and University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in Nigeria, and former Vice Chair to the AAO-HNSF International Advisory Board; Johannes J. Fagan, MBChB, FCS(SA), Leon Goldman Professor and Chair of the Division of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) at the University of Cape Town, in South Africa and former Chair of the AAO-HNSF International Advisory Board; Mohammad A. Gomaa, MD, Professor of Otorhinolaryngology at Minia University in Egypt to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Africa.

Cristina Cabrera-Muffly, MD, AAO-HNS Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair and associate professor, residency program director, Department of OHNS, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, with Erynne Faucett, MD, pediatric otolaryngologist at the Phoenix Children's Hospital; Keith Chadwick, MD, Fellow at the Sean Parker Institute for the Voice; and Scott P. Stringer, MD, MS, professor and chair of the Department of Otolaryngology and Communicative Sciences at the UMMC, to discuss allyship.

Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Residency Program Director and Professor of Otolaryngology at Georgetown University School of Medicine, is joined by Stacey T. Gray, MD, Residency Program Director at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Sinus Center at Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Jeffrey P. Simons, MD, AAO-HNSF Coordinator of Education and Professor of Otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Richard V. Smith, MD, past AAO-HNSF Coordinator of Education and Interim Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine; and Carla V. Valenzuela, MD, a PGY3 Resident at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Chair of the AAO-HNS Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training, to discuss the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident education and how approaches may change moving forward.

Maria V. Suurna, MD, Dr. Hussain Abdulrahman Al Rand, Dubai, UAE; Dr. Med. Clemens Heiser, Munich, Germany; Dr. Marco Aurelia Safadí, São Paulo, Brazil; Professor Yilai Shu, Shanghai, China; Professor Claudio Vicini, Forli, Italy

Gavin Setzen, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President; Albert L. Merati, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President; Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President; Cherie-Ann Nathan, MD, President of the AHNS; Joseph K. Han, MD, President-Elect of the; and Margo K. McKenna, MD, Director, Pediatric Otolaryngology at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

David M. Cognetti, MD, Associate Professor and Co-Director, Thomas Jefferson University Center for Head and Neck Surgery in Philadelphia, PA; Arvind K. Badhey, MD, a PGY-5 ENT Resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai in New York City; Usmaan Basharat, MD, an ENT intern in the same program.

Julie L. Wei, MD, Division Chief of ENT & Audiology at Nemours Children's Health System and Director of Resident & Faculty Wellbeing; Jo A. Shapiro, MD, Associate Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Harvard Medical School; Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Professor of Otolaryngology, and Director of the Residency Program at Georgetown University; and Aviad Haramati, PhD, Professor of Physiology, and co-leader, faculty training program in Mind-Body Medicine at Georgetown Hospital.

James C. Denneny III, MD, AAO-HS/F Executive Vice President and CEO is joined by Gavin Setzen, MD, AAO-HNS/F Past President and partner at Albany ENT & Allergy Services; Ronald B. Kuppersmith, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F Past President, partner at Texas ENT & Allergy; Stacey L. Ishman, MD, MPH, Surgical Director for the Upper Airway Center at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center; and Marc G. Dubin, MD, Chair, Board of Managers, Centers for Advanced ENT Care in Baltimore, MD.

James C. Denneny III, MD, AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO; Eugene G. Brown III, MD, Partner at Charleston ENT & Allergy Associates, and Board, OASIS Clinically Integrated Network; Cecilia E. Schmalbach, MD, Professor & Chair, Department of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Temple University, Director, Temple Head & Neck Institute, and AAO-HNSF Coordinator for Research and Quality; Joel Selanikio, MD, physician, technologist, entrepreneur, emergency responder, TED speaker and medical futurist.