In this episode of The Future of Medicine, host Dr. Euan Ashley sits down with William Flanary, MD—better known to millions as Dr. Glaucomflecken—for a candid, funny, and deeply human conversation about medicine, media, and what it means to be a physician in the digital age. Recorded during a Stanford Department of Medicine Grand Rounds event, the discussion blends clinical reality with storytelling and comedy to reveal how one ophthalmologist built a second career as a creator, educator, and advocate.
What you’ll hear
- The path to ophthalmology and the double life: Will explains growing up as a class clown, choosing ophthalmology for his day job, and building a thriving online presence four days a week with podcasts, newsletters, live shows, and animated content.
- The alter ego and the empire: The origins of Glaucomflecken, how the character became a recognizable voice in medicine, and the role of his wife as CEO of the Glaucomflecken Empire—keeping projects organized from concept to stage.
- The craft of medical humor and education: How Will translates real clinical experiences into accessible, accurate content, balancing humor with medical detail, and the research process behind public-facing material.
- Open science and storytelling in publishing: The collaboration with the New England Journal of Medicine to expand engagement with clinical trials, and why journals are exploring creative formats to reach broader audiences while advancing understanding and participation.
- Medicine, policy, and disruption: A broader look at healthcare systems, costs, reform ideas, and physician-led advocacy—how clinicians can contribute to meaningful change without sacrificing patient care or scientific integrity.
- Personal balance and purpose: Will’s life with his wife and two kids, the sources of motivation—curiosity, community, and the belief that education can be entertaining and empowering.
Why this episode matters The Future of Medicine explores how medicine is evolving beyond clinics, and Will Flanary’s story demonstrates how clinical expertise, storytelling, and digital media can improve health literacy, demystify research, and humanize the physician experience. The conversation offers practical approaches for clinicians who want to engage the public while maintaining rigor and patient trust.
Takeaways for listeners
- A blueprint for blending clinical work with creative ventures, including safeguards for patient care.
- Techniques for clear, accurate health communication using humor, visuals, and storytelling without oversimplifying.
- Insight into modern publishing and multimedia dissemination, including why journals embrace creative formats and how clinicians can participate.
- Perspective on healthcare systems, cost, access, and reform, with thoughtful commentary on responsible advocacy.
- Inspiration for nontraditional career paths in medicine—educational content, policy dialogue, and creative ventures that stay grounded in patient care.
Who should listen
- Clinicians and trainees exploring nontraditional career paths in medicine.
- Medical educators seeking fresh approaches to engage students and the public.
- Researchers and publishers curious about multimedia strategies to broaden scientific reach.
- Healthcare professionals interested in health policy, health literacy, and patient advocacy.
- Anyone who enjoys medicine told through story, humor, and real-world experience.
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