Join Biddy, Meghana and Alexis as they discuss the complexities of family planning and maintaining a healthy work-life balance within a demanding surgical career. From planning for parental leave and fertility preservation during pivotal career moments to carving out space for family, social connection, and personal renewal, this conversation explores what it means to show up fully in every role. With the recognition that real support matters, we’re also proud to offer on-site childcare at this year’s ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting—part of a growing effort to make our professional spaces more inclusive and sustainable for working parents.

In this episode, we spotlight the ASCRS QI Fistula Collaborative, an initiative dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with complex fistulas. Dr. Julia Saraidaridis and Dr. Bob Hollis share their insights on the importance of data collection and discuss the collaborative's mission to advance fistula care through shared knowledge and research.

They also highlight the critical need for more participants, inviting colorectal surgeons to join the effort and contribute to this project. If you’re interested in joining the project, reach out to Dr. Bob Hollis at rhhollis@uabmc.edu.

In this episode, the hosts sit down with Dr. Wolfgang Gaertner, Chair of the ASCRS Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) Committee, for an insider's look at how the gold standard in colorectal care is set. Dr. Gaertner takes us behind the scenes of the rigorous process of writing and reviewing CPGs, from synthesizing the latest evidence to ensuring recommendations meet the highest standards of clarity and relevance.

From navigating fellowship to the realities of private practice ownership, this episode offers valuable insights for residents, early-career surgeons, and anyone considering a shift in their surgical practice. Whether you're looking for guidance on career decision-making, insights into private practice, or simply reassurance that you're not alone in this process, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration for every stage of the colorectal surgery journey.

In this special episode, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Dr. Alex Ky and Dr. Avery Walker and welcome three dynamic new voices to Gut Check. Tune in as we introduce Dr. Meghana Kashyap from UT Southwestern in Dallas; Dr. Matthew Ng from the George Washington University and Dr. Alexis Plasencia from Riverside University Hospital. Together, they bring diverse perspectives, stories from the OR, and insights that will shape the future of this podcast. Join us for an episode full of memories, hopes for the future, and a sneak peek at what’s to come from our new trio of hosts!

This week, we welcome Dr. Justin Maykel, Professor and Chief of Colorectal Surgery at UMass Memorial Medical Center. Dr. Maykel shares his perspective on revenue generation within medical institutions and discusses how to leverage data to negotiate better compensation. In a candid moment, the hosts pull back the curtain on their own salaries, giving listeners an exclusive look into real-life compensation. Discover practical tips to confidently advocate for the pay and recognition you deserve.