Ep. 64 - Is It OK to Say No?
Gut Check
Join our hosts for a candid conversation about one of the hardest—but most powerful—words to say: no. In a world full of opportunities, requests, and expectations, how do professionals protect their time without closing doors? This episode dives into the real-life challenge of setting boundaries, weighing what to say yes to, and recognizing your value when new commitments come your way. The hosts share personal insights and practical tips on how to turn down asks with confidence—and kindness—while staying true to what matters most.
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Ep. 63 - Gut Check Live in San Diego!
Gut Check
In this special live-recorded episode of Gut Check, your favorite hosts return to the mic from the ASCRS Annual Meeting in San Diego. Recorded in front of a live audience for the second year in a row, this episode captures unscripted Q&A with attendees, reflections on standout sessions, and personal highlights from this year’s meeting. The conversation spans everything from regional society meetings to the complexities of operating on friends and family members. Plus, former Gut Check host Avery Walker drops by and shares a few insights of his own. Enjoy this fun, candid, and...
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Ep. 62 - Contributions of Minorities in Colorectal Surgery with Dr. Moises Jacobs
Gut Check
In this episode, Gut Check hosts sit down with Dr. Moises Jacobs—world-renowned laparoscopic surgery pioneer in Miami, FL. Dr. Jacobs shares his journey from medical school at the University of Miami to becoming a trailblazer in bariatric and colorectal surgery. Dr. Jacobs reflects on the challenges and triumphs of being a minority surgeon, and opens up about challenges of losing a patient.
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Ep. 61 - The Health and Wellness of a Colorectal Surgeon
Gut Check
In this candid episode, join our hosts as they tackle the critical topic of health, wellness, and burnout in surgery. Drawing from their own personal experiences, they share the practical strategies they use to maintain balance, build resilience, and foster joy both in and out of the operating room. But this conversation goes beyond coping mechanisms. Our hosts dive deep into the root causes of stress in the surgical profession and explore what it means to proactively design healthier, happier workplaces. They discuss how shifting the focus from individual stress management to...
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Ep. 60 - Family Planning and Work-Life Integration
Gut Check
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...
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Ep. 59 - Behind the Scenes of the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting
Gut Check
Get an inside look at the planning of the 2025 ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego! In this episode, the hosts sit down with the Program Committee to discuss how they’re shaping an innovative and engaging experience for attendees. From cutting-edge AI-focused sessions to the introduction of on-site child care—a first for ASCRS!—this year’s meeting is designed to be more accessible and enriching than ever. San Diego is the perfect backdrop for both professional growth and family fun, with kid-friendly attractions and incredible dining just steps away from the meeting....
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Ep. 58 - The Specialty’s Next Leap Forward
Gut Check
ASCRS Past President and Chair of the 125th Anniversary Campaign Steering Committee, Dr. Matthew Mutch, and ASCRS President, Dr. Sonia Ramamoorthy, join Gut Check for a special episode highlighting how we are paving the way for the future of colorectal surgery. Together, we explore how the 125th Anniversary Campaign will drive growth in education, research, and career development—ensuring the specialty continues to evolve, thrive, and improve patient care. They’ll answer your questions about the campaign’s purpose, vision, and how every contribution makes a difference. ...
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Ep. 57 - ASCRS QI Fistula Collaborative with Dr. Julia Saraidaridis and Dr. Bob Hollis
Gut Check
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 .
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Ep. 56 - Clinical Practice Guidelines with Dr. Wolfgang Gaertner
Gut Check
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.
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Ep. 55 - Navigating Career Transitions
Gut Check
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.
info_outlineIn 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!