Let's Talk Micro
Clinical microbiology explained in simple terms, suitable for students and microbiologists alike. We discuss organisms, reactions, infectious diseases, and more. Hosted by Luis Plaza, a Medical Laboratory Scientist and microbiologist, who also shares his experiences in the field.
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230: Same Gram Stain, Different Story: Neisseria meningitidis vs gonorrhoeae
04/23/2026
230: Same Gram Stain, Different Story: Neisseria meningitidis vs gonorrhoeae
In this week’s episode, we continue our series on gram-negative cocci and take a closer look at two of the most important organisms: Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. On the Gram stain, they may look the same—but clinically, they represent very different scenarios. We walk through colonization, transmission, and key virulence factors, and connect them to the infections they cause—from meningitis and invasive disease to mucosal and disseminated gonococcal infections. We also bring it back to the bench, discussing specimen source, testing approaches like NAAT and culture, and how to think through these organisms in real-world laboratory settings. Looking to stay up to date with the latest clinical microbiology resources? Check out Wiley’s ClinMicroNow—bringing trusted ASM Press content into one powerful, searchable platform : 🔗 Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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229: Gram-Negative Cocci: Beyond the Plate
04/16/2026
229: Gram-Negative Cocci: Beyond the Plate
In this episode we continue our gram-negative cocci series by moving beyond the plate and into modern identification methods. From traditional systems like VITEK and RapID NH to MALDI-TOF and molecular testing, we explore how these organisms are identified in today’s clinical microbiology lab. We also break down the role of NAATs and syndromic panels in detecting organisms like Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, especially in situations where culture may be delayed or negative. This episode focuses on how these tools fit into real-world workflows—highlighting their advantages, limitations, and how to interpret results at the bench. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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228: Gram-Negative Cocci: What to Do After the Gram Stain
04/09/2026
228: Gram-Negative Cocci: What to Do After the Gram Stain
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, we continue our gram-negative cocci series by focusing on what to do after the Gram stain. You’ve identified gram-negative cocci—now what? We take a practical, bench-focused approach to working these organisms up, covering key culture media like blood agar, chocolate agar, and selective media such as Modified Thayer-Martin and Martin-Lewis. We also review collection and transport considerations, including JEMBEC and CO₂ requirements for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. We then dive into commonly used tests, including ONPG for differentiating Neisseria lactamica and Neisseria meningitidis, the CTA test and its limitations, and the butyrate esterase test for identifying Moraxella catarrhalis. This episode is all about building confidence at the bench—connecting what you see to what you do next. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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227: When Gram-Negative Cocci Show Up: How to Think at the Bench
04/02/2026
227: When Gram-Negative Cocci Show Up: How to Think at the Bench
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, we kick off a new series on gram-negative cocci by starting where it all begins—the Gram stain. Seeing gram-negative diplococci on a smear can feel intimidating, especially when you’re on the bench and need to make the right call. In this episode, we focus on how to approach that moment with confidence. We walk through the key organisms you’ll encounter, including Neisseria, Moraxella, and Veillonella, and discuss how morphology, specimen source, and clinical context all come together to guide your thinking. We also revisit a correction from a previous episode regarding carbohydrate utilization in Neisseria species. This episode is all about building a strong foundation—how to think before jumping to identification. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we’ll dive into the media and tests used to identify these organisms in the lab. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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226: CLSI M100 2026 Updates
03/26/2026
226: CLSI M100 2026 Updates
The CLSI M100 gets updated every year—but what do those changes actually mean for the microbiology lab? In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by Dr. April Bobenchik to break down the latest updates in the CLSI M100 2026 (36th edition) and how they translate into real-world lab practice. They walk through important breakpoint changes, including aztreonam–avibactam and updates for Acinetobacter, along with new additions like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole breakpoints for beta-hemolytic streptococci. Another notable update this year is the updated anaerobic antibiogram and how it can be used to help guide decisions in the lab. The conversation also touches on antimicrobial tiers, why some breakpoints are temporarily removed, and practical ways labs can approach implementing new updates. If you work in clinical microbiology, this episode will help you stay current and confident with the latest M100 changes. 🔗 Resources Access CLSI M100 for free: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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Quick Update from Let’s Talk Micro
03/10/2026
Quick Update from Let’s Talk Micro
Luis here with a quick update! We’re taking a short break and will return the week of March 23rd. During this time, it’s a great opportunity to explore the archive—Let’s Talk Micro has over 200 episodes covering many topics in clinical microbiology. New episodes will be back soon. Thanks for listening and for being part of the Let’s Talk Micro community. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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225: Too Many Bugs, One Culture: A CMPH Guide to Wound Cultures
03/06/2026
225: Too Many Bugs, One Culture: A CMPH Guide to Wound Cultures
Wound cultures are some of the most complex specimens encountered in the clinical microbiology laboratory. Unlike more straightforward cultures, wound specimens often contain multiple organisms, making it challenging to determine which microbes are clinically significant and which represent colonization. In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by Dr. Christopher Doern and Dr. Alexandra Bryson to discuss the wound culture guidelines from the Clinical Microbiology Procedures Handbook (CMPH) and how they can help laboratorians navigate these challenging cultures. Together, they explore practical approaches to interpreting polymicrobial wound cultures, deciding which organisms to work up, and balancing thorough reporting with antimicrobial stewardship. The discussion also covers specimen collection challenges, the role of Gram stains in evaluating specimen quality, guidance on working up common wound pathogens, and strategies to streamline laboratory workflows. Whether you're a student, a new microbiology technologist, or an experienced laboratorian, this episode offers practical insights to help you confidently approach wound cultures and apply CMPH guidance at the bench. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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224: Micro Minutes: Sometimes Gram Stains Lie
02/27/2026
224: Micro Minutes: Sometimes Gram Stains Lie
The Gram stain is one of the most trusted tools in clinical microbiology—but it doesn’t always tell the full story. In this Micro Minutes episode, we break down why Gram stains can sometimes be misleading and how factors like culture age, antibiotic exposure, decolorization, morphology, and arrangement can change what you see under the microscope. We also touch on classic troublemakers like Acinetobacter and tiny coccobacilli such as Pasteurella and Haemophilus, and how careful observation can keep you from jumping to the wrong conclusion. Short, focused, and straight from the bench—this episode is all about learning how to interpret Gram stains beyond just purple and pink. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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223: SuperStat to Storytime: Building the Future of Laboratory Medicine
02/20/2026
223: SuperStat to Storytime: Building the Future of Laboratory Medicine
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, we step beyond the microbiology bench to talk laboratory medicine, advocacy, and storytelling with fellow medical laboratory scientists and podcasters Stephanie Whitehead and Aaron Odegard. We explore how their work on the SuperStat Podcast is helping amplify the voice of the laboratory through conversations on leadership, access, and visibility. The discussion also highlights Little Lab Learners: ABCs of Laboratory Medicine, a children’s book created to introduce laboratory medicine early and inspire future lab professionals. Together, we talk about lab career paths, the impact of automation and the pandemic on lab visibility, and why advocacy doesn’t look the same for everyone—but matters now more than ever. This episode is a reminder that the lab’s story doesn’t end at the bench—it’s one we all help tell. 📘 Learn More About Little Lab Learners Little Lab Learners: ABCs of Laboratory Medicine is a children’s book created to introduce laboratory medicine early and help kids see lab professionals as scientists, problem-solvers, and essential members of healthcare. Learn more about the book and the Little Lab Learners series here: 👉 🎙️ Check Out the SuperStat Podcast Listen to the SuperStat Podcast on Spotify: 👉 Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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222: Parasites, Pediatrics, and the Lab: A Study from Guinea, West Africa
02/13/2026
222: Parasites, Pediatrics, and the Lab: A Study from Guinea, West Africa
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by Dr. Joel Mortensen to discuss a study examining intestinal parasites in pediatric patients in Guinea, West Africa. They dive into the real-world challenges of diagnosing parasitic infections in resource-limited settings, including reliance on stool microscopy, the use of rapid antigen tests, and how seasonal changes influence infection rates. Dr. Mortensen walks us through the study design, key findings, and what the data revealed about protozoal infections, as well as the role of microscopy in identifying helminths in this setting. This conversation highlights the critical role of clinical microbiology in global health, the importance of diagnostic context, and how laboratory data can directly inform patient care and public health strategies in underserved regions. Check out Dr. Joel Mortensen’s previous episodes If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to check out previous episodes featuring Dr. Mortensen, where we dive deeper into his work in Guinea, laboratory capacity building, and global health challenges in resource-limited settings: 🎙️ Episode 107: A Pediatric Hospital in Guinea – Pt. 1 🎙️ Episode 108: A Pediatric Hospital in Guinea – Pt. 2 These episodes provide important background on the hospital, training efforts, and the broader impact of this work. 🔗 Other Links Learn more about Sacre Coeur Hospital and the pediatric care and laboratory work being done in Guinea: 👉 📩 Want to get involved or learn more? If you’re interested in learning more about this work, collaborating, or supporting efforts in Guinea, you can reach out directly to Dr. Joel Mortensen: 📧 joelmortensen@gmail.com You can also contact me at letstalkmicro@gmail.com, and I’m happy to help connect you. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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221: Beyond the Plate: Your Isolates and Genomic Epidemiology
02/06/2026
221: Beyond the Plate: Your Isolates and Genomic Epidemiology
Genomic epidemiology is reshaping how we detect, investigate, and control infectious disease outbreaks—but what does that actually look like from the bench to public health? In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by genomic epidemiologist Krisandra Allen for a practical, case-based conversation on how pathogen sequencing data is generated, analyzed, and paired with epidemiologic information to answer questions traditional methods can’t. They discuss foodborne and hepatitis A outbreaks, geographically dispersed clusters, and how sequencing is being integrated into routine public health workflows, while highlighting the essential role of clinical microbiology labs in specimen submission and data quality. A timely episode for microbiologists, public health professionals, and trainees curious about how their lab work feeds into real-world surveillance and outbreak response. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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220: New Clinical Microbiology Certification Pathway at UF
01/30/2026
220: New Clinical Microbiology Certification Pathway at UF
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by faculty and collaborators from the University of Florida to discuss their new Clinical Laboratory Microbiologist (CLM) program — the first NAACLS-approved, microbiology-only certification pathway in the United States. They share how the program was created to address the growing shortage of clinical microbiologists and provide a direct pathway for microbiology graduates and working professionals to enter the clinical laboratory. The conversation covers: Gaps in the current workforce and training pipeline The hybrid model combining online coursework, hands-on bootcamp labs, and local clinical internships Real-world training with clinical lab technology such as MALDI-TOF, PCR, and blood culture systems Preparation for the ASCP categorical microbiology certification exam The strong nationwide interest in the program The episode closes with a fun discussion on everyone’s favorite microbes. Whether you’re a student, lab professional, or educator, this episode offers insight into the future of clinical microbiology training. Additional resources: ASCP Categorical Certification (Microbiology) University of Florida Clinical Laboratory Microbiologist (CLM) Program GIDEON (Global Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology Network) Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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219: Tick-Borne Diseases: The Lab and Diagnostics
01/23/2026
219: Tick-Borne Diseases: The Lab and Diagnostics
Tick-borne diseases continue to expand across North America, but diagnosing them in the clinical laboratory remains complex—especially when timing between symptom onset and testing isn’t considered. In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by Kyle Rodino, Assistant Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Assistant Director of Microbiology, for a lab-focused discussion on tick-borne disease diagnostics. They cover major bacterial, parasitic, and viral causes of tick-borne disease, and walk through how molecular testing, serology, and microscopy are used at different stages of illness. The conversation highlights why test selection and timing matter, common diagnostic challenges—particularly with Babesia and Lyme disease testing—and how laboratories can support better diagnostic decision-making. A practical episode for microbiologists, laboratorians, and clinicians navigating real-world testing challenges in the lab. Additional resources: Update on North American tick-borne diseases and how to diagnose them Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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218: Metagenomics in Clinical Microbiology
01/16/2026
218: Metagenomics in Clinical Microbiology
In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, we break down metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and how it’s changing the way we diagnose complex infectious diseases. I’m joined by Steve Miller, MD, PhD—Chief Medical Officer at Delve Bio—to discuss how unbiased metagenomics moved from research labs into real-world clinical practice. We cover what metagenomics is, how it differs from targeted PCR and sequencing, and where it adds the most value—especially in meningitis and encephalitis, immunocompromised patients, and cases where routine testing comes back negative. Dr. Miller shares insights from years of clinical experience, including how mNGS can improve diagnostic yield, shorten time to diagnosis, guide targeted therapy, and reduce unnecessary testing and hospital stays. We also touch on challenges like cost, result interpretation, diagnostic stewardship, and where metagenomics is headed next—including its role in public health and emerging infections. Links & Resources Clinical metagenomics for meningitis and encephalitis (Nature Medicine) Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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217: Micro Minutes: Don’t Let PEA Fool You
12/19/2025
217: Micro Minutes: Don’t Let PEA Fool You
PEA agar is often treated as “the gram-positive plate,” but that shortcut can lead to real bench-level mistakes. In this MicroMinutes episode, we break down what phenylethyl alcohol agar actually does, why growth on PEA does not automatically mean an organism is gram-positive, and how selective media can change colony appearance and behavior. You’ll hear about: What PEA inhibits — and what it doesn’t Why Pseudomonas aeruginosa can grow quite well on PEA How colony morphology and hemolysis may differ from blood agar Why Lancefield grouping should never be performed directly from PEA PEA is a powerful recovery tool — but only when you understand its limitations. Short, focused, and straight from the bench, this is your Micro minutes. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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216: AMR Summit 2025: One Health, One Fight
12/12/2025
216: AMR Summit 2025: One Health, One Fight
In this special episode, I’m joined by three leaders who helped shape the conversation at the 2025 Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Summit in Detroit: Dr. Lauren Hunt, Dr. Linoj Samuel, and Dr. Robert Tibbetts. Together, we explore how this intimate, multidisciplinary summit brought together clinical microbiology, infectious diseases, stewardship, public health, policy, and veterinary medicine to tackle the growing challenges of antimicrobial resistance. We break down the key themes that emerged throughout the meeting—shared accountability, One Health collaboration, diagnostic innovation, payer perspectives, and the urgent need for equitable access to testing. You’ll hear about surprising insights, personal stories that brought AMR’s impact into sharp focus, and the collaborative projects already taking root as a result of this year’s summit. Whether you're on the bench, managing stewardship programs, shaping policy, or simply passionate about the future of diagnostics, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the conversations and partnerships driving AMR action forward. Thank you to Lauren, Linoj, and Robert for joining me—and to everyone committed to advancing the fight against AMR. One Health, one fight. Additional Resources from the 2024 AMR Summit If you’d like to explore more background from last year’s summit, here are two excellent resources: 2024 AMR Summit Article Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology (ASHE) ASHE Podcast Episode Recapping the 2024 Summit 🎧 Want to Contribute or Get Involved? If you’re interested in contributing ideas, collaborating on AMR initiatives, or learning more about future AMR Summits, you can reach out directly to: Dr. Lauren Hunt 📧 Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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215: One Health, Many Species: AMR Through a Veterinary Lens
12/05/2025
215: One Health, Many Species: AMR Through a Veterinary Lens
What does antimicrobial resistance look like when your patients range from dogs and cats to cattle, wildlife, and everything in between? And how do we make sense of AST, breakpoints, contamination, and genotypic tools across such a diverse microbiological world? In this episode, Luis is joined by Dr. Kelli Maddock, DrPH (North Dakota State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory) and Dr. Stephen Cole (University of Pennsylvania), two leaders shaping the future of veterinary microbiology, antimicrobial stewardship, and CLSI veterinary standards. Together, they explore AMR and AST through a true One Health lens, showing how animal, human, and environmental health are interconnected in everyday diagnostic work. Drawing from their recent American Journal of Veterinary Research article on AMR challenges in veterinary medicine, the discussion highlights: The biggest challenges in veterinary AST, from species diversity to contamination Phenotypic vs genotypic testing and concerns around WGS-based “treatment predictions” How selective reporting (“nudging”) strengthens antimicrobial stewardship Why every animal result matters in a One Health framework Whether you come from human or veterinary microbiology, this episode reveals the shared challenges across sectors — and the diagnostic, collaborative, and educational steps needed to strengthen AMR response in a One Health world. Link to article: Missed the past episodes on veterinary microbiology? Here they are: TBT: Veterinary Microbiology Episode 166: Pasteurella multocida — capsular groups and more Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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214: Beyond the Bench: Optimization & Stewardship in Action
11/21/2025
214: Beyond the Bench: Optimization & Stewardship in Action
In this final episode of our special four-part series in partnership with bioMérieux, we bring all the pieces together. Throughout the series, we explored the diagnostic pathway from multiple angles: Episode 1: The evolution of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) Episode 2: Molecular diagnostics for bloodstream infections Episode 3: FAST AST and the impact of getting susceptibility data hours sooner Today, in Episode 4, we shift to diagnostic stewardship and lab optimization — the strategies that ensure the right tests are used at the right time, and that workflows support efficient, meaningful, and actionable results. Luis is joined by Alyssa Walker, Infectious Diseases Pharmacist and Medical Advisor, and Jenny Harder, Lab Optimization Consultant with experience in managing a microbiology laboratory. Together, they explore how smarter workflows and better diagnostic decisions amplify the value of every ID and AST result. In This Episode: What diagnostic stewardship really means — right test, right patient, right time How lab optimization streamlines workflow, reduces waste, and improves turnaround times Key challenges labs face today (staffing, training, legacy processes) and how to address them How tools like BioFire Fireworks and Syndromic Trends enhance decision-making and support stewardship By connecting stewardship principles with optimized workflows, labs can turn rapid diagnostics into real clinical impact — faster decisions, smarter therapy, and better patient outcomes. This episode is sponsored by bioMérieux, a global innovator in infectious disease diagnostics. Missed the earlier episodes in this bioMérieux series? Here they are: Episode 198 – Let’s Talk: The Evolution of AST Episode 204 – In the Bloodstream: Diagnosing Infections Faster Episode 211 – At the Speed of AST: Diagnosing Resistance Faster This episode is sponsored by bioMérieux, a global innovator in infectious disease diagnostics. Resources from this episode: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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213: Micro Minutes: When Bacteria Break the Rules
11/14/2025
213: Micro Minutes: When Bacteria Break the Rules
In this Micro Minutes episode, Luis breaks down classic microbiology traits that usually hold true, but not always. From indole-negative E. coli to non-swarming Proteus and oxidase-negative Pseudomonas, this quick episode highlights real-world exceptions that can catch techs and students off guard. Learn how to spot: Indole-negative E. coli (98% rule + inactive biotypes) Lactose-fermenting look-alikes like Citrobacter freundii Proteus species that don’t swarm Pseudomonas species that test oxidase negative A fast, practical reminder that no single biochemical test should stand alone. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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212: Micro Minutes: Sometimes MacConkey Lies
11/07/2025
212: Micro Minutes: Sometimes MacConkey Lies
Welcome to the very first Micro Minutes, a new quick-hit series from Let’s Talk Micro designed for students, techs, and anyone who wants fast, practical microbiology insights in under 10 minutes. In this episode, we tackle a common misconception that microbiologists can make at the bench when interpreting a single plate: MacConkey agar. Many assume: “If it doesn’t grow on MacConkey, it’s not a gram-negative rod.” “If it does grow on MacConkey, it must be a gram-negative rod.” Both are wrong — and today we break down why. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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211: At the Speed of AST: Diagnosing Resistance Faster
10/30/2025
211: At the Speed of AST: Diagnosing Resistance Faster
In the third installment of our special series in partnership with bioMérieux, Luis welcomes back Dr. Sonali Kalathiya, infectious diseases pharmacist and medical advisor at bioMérieux, to explore how innovation is accelerating antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). Together they dive into FAST AST—a phenotypic susceptibility test that delivers actionable results directly from positive blood cultures in hours instead of days. They discuss how this technology works, how it complements molecular testing, and how it’s transforming patient care, antimicrobial stewardship, and laboratory workflows. From implementation and training to real-world clinical impact, this episode uncovers what it truly means to diagnose resistance at the speed of AST. 🎧 Tune in to learn how faster results are helping clinicians act sooner, optimize therapy, and improve patient outcomes. This episode is sponsored by bioMérieux, a global innovator in infectious disease diagnostics. Resources from this episode: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at Interested in being a guest on Let’s Talk Micro? Fill out the form here: Support the podcast:
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210: IDWeek 2025 Highlights: From Bench to Bedside
10/23/2025
210: IDWeek 2025 Highlights: From Bench to Bedside
Just back from IDWeek 2025 in Atlanta, Luis shares the sessions and posters that defined this year’s meeting — from next-generation sequencing and diagnostic stewardship to AI in the microbiology lab and new antimicrobials on the horizon. Tune in for insights on: NGS test utilization and stewardship New β-lactamase inhibitors like nacubactam AI’s growing role in clinical microbiology Tedizolid and the importance of optimizing existing agents 🎧 Whether you were in Atlanta or following from afar, this episode captures the energy and innovation of IDWeek — and what it means for the future of diagnostics, stewardship, and patient care. Resources Learn more about ID Week : Infectious Diseases Society of America: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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209: CLSI y resistencia antimicrobiana (In Spanish)
10/21/2025
209: CLSI y resistencia antimicrobiana (In Spanish)
En este episodio en español de Let 's Talk Micro, el Dr. Germán Esparza Sánchez , microbiólogo clínico, miembro del CLSI y consultor de la OPS/OMS, comparte las actualizaciones más recientes del documento M100 y cómo impactan la práctica microbiológica. Desde la eliminación de puntos de corte para Burkholderia cepacia hasta los nuevos antibióticos como aztreonam-avibactam, durlobactam-sulbactam y cefiderocol, analizamos los retos de aplicar las guías del CLSI en los laboratorios latinoamericanos, las diferencias epidemiológicas regionales y la importancia de la educación continua para combatir la resistencia antimicrobiana (RAM). Además, el Dr. Esparza comenta sobre el trabajo regional que realizan organizaciones como la y COLABIOCLI, que promueven la colaboración científica y la mejora de los laboratorios en América Latina. Enlaces mencionados Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS) Conéctate con Let’s Talk Micro: Página web: ¿Preguntas o comentarios? 📩 Escríbeme a letstalkmicro@outlook.com Apoya el pódcast:
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208: The Microbiome Center of Puerto Rico
10/16/2025
208: The Microbiome Center of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is entering a new era in microbiome research. In this episode, Luis speaks with Dr. Filipa Godoy-Vitorino about the newly established Microbiome Center of Puerto Rico — a hub designed to strengthen research, collaboration, and training across the Caribbean. Dr. Godoy-Vitorino shares how the center is helping scientists access expertise in bioinformatics and data analysis, offering bilingual workshops, and expanding representation of Caribbean populations in global microbiome studies. She also discusses the center’s vision to connect with international partners, support local innovation, and create opportunities for the next generation of researchers. 🎧 Tune in to learn how this center is putting Puerto Rico on the global microbiome map. Resources and articles mentioned: The Microbiota Vault: ISME (International Society for Microbial Ecology): ISALA Project (University of Antwerp): “Solutions to expand microbiome sciences in the Caribbean Region: an insider’s perspective” by Filipa Godoy-Vitorino — Trends in Microbiology, 2025. View PDF / Article: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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207: Micro Lab and Stewardship: Collaboration in Action (Pt.2)
10/09/2025
207: Micro Lab and Stewardship: Collaboration in Action (Pt.2)
In this second half of our discussion with Dr. Erin McCreary and Dr. Hannah Creager, we dive deeper into how microbiology and antimicrobial stewardship teams collaborate to improve patient outcomes. They unpack how to prioritize breakpoint updates, the pros and cons of cascade reporting, and what nudges can do to guide better prescribing. Then we explore a powerful example of collaboration—the transition from MRSA agar to PCR across hospitals—and what it taught both teams about communication, resource sharing, and patient safety. Finally, Erin and Hannah reflect on lessons learned, first steps for building collaboration, and even share their favorite microbes (spoiler: both picked viruses!). 🎧 Tune in to learn how intentional teamwork between the lab and stewardship can transform patient care and lab efficiency. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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206: Micro Lab and Stewardship: Collaboration in Action (Pt.1)
10/02/2025
206: Micro Lab and Stewardship: Collaboration in Action (Pt.1)
Good communication isn’t optional—it’s essential for patient care. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dr. Erin McCreary and Dr. Hannah Creager join Luis to talk about how microbiology labs and antimicrobial stewardship teams can collaborate more effectively. They share real-world examples from their system-wide work—aligning AST panels and breakpoints across multiple platforms, navigating reporting challenges like the clindamycin D-test and rifampin comments, and building consistent communication through monthly micro–stewardship meetings. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how strong collaboration turns into better patient outcomes. Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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205: Complicated UTIs: The New IDSA Guidelines
09/25/2025
205: Complicated UTIs: The New IDSA Guidelines
The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has released new guidelines for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections. In this episode, we break down the key updates: Changes to the definition of complicated UTIs The role of newer antibiotic agents How and when to use antibiograms A four-step framework for guiding therapy When carbapenems are necessary—and when other options may be just as effective Shorter durations of therapy Join Dr. Barbara Trautner, Dr. Nicolas Cortés-Penfield, and Dr. Kalpana Gupta as they discuss what these guidelines mean for clinicians, microbiologists, and patients. 👉 Stay tuned until the end for a special announcement. Resources from this episode: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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204: In the Bloodstream: Diagnosing Infections Faster
09/18/2025
204: In the Bloodstream: Diagnosing Infections Faster
Bloodstream infections can progress rapidly to sepsis—bringing high costs, high mortality, and lasting effects. In the second episode of this series in collaboration with bioMérieux, Luis speaks with Dr. Jeff Cies, Senior Medical Advisor at bioMérieux, about how molecular diagnostics are reshaping bloodstream infection diagnosis. They discuss: Limitations of traditional blood cultures How rapid molecular tests deliver results faster than ever The impact on outcomes, costs, and antimicrobial resistance The role of stewardship programs in maximizing results What the future holds: direct-from-blood testing, nanotechnology, and AI A powerful look at how innovation in microbiology is changing the fight against sepsis and saving lives. This episode is sponsored by bioMérieux, a global innovator in infectious disease diagnostics. Resources from this episode: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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203: What’s New with Brucella?
09/11/2025
203: What’s New with Brucella?
Brucella is a familiar name in the lab—but recent updates to the sentinel guidelines are reshaping how we approach this pathogen. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Laura Filkins and Dr. Paige Larkin to discuss the latest changes: updates in nomenclature, the removal of certain Brucella species from the select agent list, and the renewed emphasis on safety in the lab. We dive into taxonomy controversies, clinical features of brucellosis, and practical steps laboratorians can take to protect themselves while delivering accurate results. Whether you’re a student, laboratorian, or clinician, this conversation highlights what you need to know about the evolving landscape of Brucella diagnostics and safety. Resources from this episode: Stay connected with Let’s Talk Micro: Website: Questions or feedback? Email me at letstalkmicro@outlook.com Support the podcast:
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202: AI vs. Superbugs: Can AI Help?
09/04/2025
202: AI vs. Superbugs: Can AI Help?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to grow as a global health threat, making infections harder to treat and leaving fewer options for patients. The need for new antibiotics is an urgent matter — but traditional discovery methods are slow and limited. In this episode of Let’s Talk Micro, Luis is joined by Dr. James Collins, professor at MIT and researcher at the Broad Institute, who is leading efforts to apply AI to antibiotic discovery. We discuss how his team used deep learning to uncover promising new compounds, including NG1 and DN1, which showed activity against drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Staphylococcus aureus. We also talk about the challenges of bringing discoveries from computer models to the clinic, and what this approach could mean for the future of the fight against superbugs. Link to study: Check out the website: Questions? Feedback? Send those to letstalkmicro@outlook.com Want to support the podcast? Here's how: Venmo: Buy me a Ko-fi:
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