Transmission Control
Welcome to Transmission Control – an infection prevention podcast focused on your appetite for trailblazing thought, discussion, and innovations that will help you make informed decisions. Each episode, we speak with public health experts and safety champions from across the globe as they share their experiences, passion and opinions. From investigative journalism to medical publications, we tackle the real world barriers to limiting the spread of disease. Whether you’re tuning in for education, inspiration or to hear the stories that need to be told, thank you for joining us. And now, get ready to blast off with your weekly injection of insight on Transmission Control.
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On Pathogens & PPE: Endoscope Reprocessing Challenges
03/24/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Endoscope Reprocessing Challenges
Ask any #CleanFreak, and they’ll tell you—endoscope reprocessing is one of the most complex processes in Sterile Processing. So how are you setting your team up for success? In this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Kevin Anderson are joined by Jennifer Leitner, Dyan Darga, and Emiley Body to take a closer look at the real challenges impacting endoscope reprocessing. Together, they explore the impact of staffing pressures, evolving standards, and the growing complexity of reprocessing workflows. Tune in to learn how improved training, stronger collaboration, and a shift in culture can help your team #FightDirty with confidence! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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Sticking with It: Biofilm, Surface Disinfection, and C. Auris Adhesion
03/23/2026
Sticking with It: Biofilm, Surface Disinfection, and C. Auris Adhesion
What if the surfaces you think are clean are actually hosting resilient biofilms that standard disinfection can't fully eliminate? In this episode of Transmission Control, Garrett sits down with Jon Otter to explore the hidden world of dry surface biofilm, pathogen adherence, and what that means for your disinfection program. From VRE surviving for years on dry surfaces to Candida auris behaving more like barnacles than yeast, Jon explains why "clean" doesn't always mean safe and challenges assumptions about contact time, coverage, and whether suspension test data reflects real-world conditions. If surfaces are a bigger pathogen reservoir than we thought, how should that change infection prevention practice? This conversation will make you rethink what's really living on your high-touch surfaces and what it takes to actually eliminate it. Tune in today! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season4 #BuiltToHeal #Biofilm #Bioburden #Disinfection #Pathogens
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On Pathogens & PPE: Environmental Emergencies in SPD
03/17/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Environmental Emergencies in SPD
Temperature swings, humidity spikes, HVAC failures, and water emergencies — oh my! In this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Benjamin Galvan are joined by Jonathan Wilder, Chase Elms, and Aaron Preston to explore how environmental emergencies can impact Sterile Processing operations. Together, they tackle real-world scenarios that can quickly disrupt workflows and threaten patient safety. Tune in to learn how risk assessments, strong partnerships with facilities teams, and a clear response plan can help your department stay prepared when the unexpected strikes! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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Check 1, Check 2: The Power of Proactive ICARs
03/16/2026
Check 1, Check 2: The Power of Proactive ICARs
What if a visit from your state's infection prevention team wasn't something to fear, but your strongest prevention tool? In this episode of Transmission Control, Garrett and Jill sit down with Cheri Fast, State HAI Coordinator, to reframe Infection Control Assessment and Response (ICAR) visits as proactive partnerships instead of punitive checklists. From walking facilities and using real-time photos to strengthen EVS practices, to closing gaps in hand hygiene, respiratory equipment, and policy adherence, Cheri explains how proactive ICARs catch risks before they become outbreaks. She’ll also share how tone, collaboration, and follow-through transform assessments into culture change, and why a "check first" mindset can prevent your next crisis. Whether you're conducting ICARs or on the receiving end, this conversation shows you how to turn compliance visits into opportunities for real improvement. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season4 #BuiltToHeal #ICARs #Collaboration #Assessment
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On Pathogens & PPE: Why Water Quality Matters
03/10/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Why Water Quality Matters
Think water is just water? Not in Sterile Processing! In this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Aaron Preston are joined by water quality experts Shane Sullivan and Jeffrey Paquet to break down why water quality matters and what the ST108 standard means for your SPD. Together, they explore key concepts like utility water vs. critical water and dig into what RO, DI, and UV systems actually do behind the scenes of instrument reprocessing. Tune in to learn how to recognize early warning signs of water quality issues and why building a strong water management team can help your facility stay ahead of potential problems. Because when it comes to keeping instruments clean and patients safe, water quality matters more than you think! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves
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Built to Heal? Infrastructure, Construction, and Water Safety
03/09/2026
Built to Heal? Infrastructure, Construction, and Water Safety
What if the next infection risk was built into your walls before the first patient ever arrived? In this episode of Transmission Control, we sit down with Alyson Prince-Byrne, an experienced Built Environment Infection Control Specialist, to explore how infrastructure decisions shape patient safety long before occupancy. From water stagnation and dead legs to ventilation design and commissioning gaps, Alyson explains why "meeting code" doesn't always mean designing for safety. She connects construction missteps to real-world outcomes like Legionella, Pseudomonas, and NTM—infections that often hit the most vulnerable patients hardest. Whether you're involved in new construction, renovation, or water management, this conversation will have you looking at your facility through a completely new lens. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season4 #BuiltToHeal #Infrastructure #Construction #WaterSafety #Renovation
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On Pathogens & PPE: The Challenge of Robotic Instrument Reprocessing
03/03/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: The Challenge of Robotic Instrument Reprocessing
Robotic surgery is a game-changer for patient care — but what does that mean for the teams responsible for safely reprocessing these complex instruments? In this episode of "On Pathogens & PPE," hosts Jill Holdsworth and Rebecca Alvino are joined by Rebecca Peplau, Vanessa Frank, and Tamara Behm to tackle the most common challenges of robotic instrument reprocessing. From sinks that are too small and complex IFUs to flushing challenges and drying dilemmas, these experts break down what it truly takes to safely reprocess these intricate devices. Tune in to learn which quality checks matter most, why OR point-of-use care is critical, and how collaboration can help your team #FightDirty with confidence. Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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Built to Heal: The Nitty Gritty Cleaning Committee: The Fine Points of EVS Excellence
03/02/2026
Built to Heal: The Nitty Gritty Cleaning Committee: The Fine Points of EVS Excellence
Patient safety starts with a clean environment—but how often do gray areas in cleaning responsibilities create confusion between Infection Prevention and Environmental Services? In this Season 4 premiere of Transmission Control, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Trey Morrow sit down with Mike Epperson, Area Vice President at HHS, to explore one of healthcare's most critical partnerships: IP and EVS. From IV pumps and bedside commodes to isolation signage and EVS cart setup, they tackle the gaps that emerge when cleaning responsibilities aren't clearly defined and documented. Mike shares how IPs can round with intention, support proper disinfectant use and dwell times, and use tools like UV markers as education instead of "gotcha" audits. Every patient is impacted by the environment, and this conversation shows why strong IP–EVS collaboration is foundational to keeping it clean, compliant, and survey-ready. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season4 #BuiltToHeal #EVS #IP #Collaboration #EnvironmentalCleaning #Compliance
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On Pathogens & PPE: Hand Hygiene in SPD
02/24/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Hand Hygiene in SPD
Hey #CleanFreaks, pop quiz: When's the last time you washed your hands on the clean side, and should you have? On this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth, co-host Rebecca Alvino, and special guests Ebow Holdbrook-Smith and Ivan Gowe dive into the gray areas of when, where, and how SPD staff should be performing hand hygiene. From identifying the critical transition points where hands need to be cleaned to understanding why your decontam sink is off-limits for handwashing, these IP experts tackle what's missing in current guidance and how to build better hand hygiene practices into your workflow. So grab your hand sanitizer and tune in—because keeping your hands clean keeps everyone safe! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #HandHygiene *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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On Pathogens & PPE: Transporting Contaminated Instruments
02/17/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Transporting Contaminated Instruments
From the OR to SPD, those contaminated instruments are on the move, and so are pathogens! In this Season 2 premiere of "On Pathogens & PPE," host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Nicholas Day are joined by Rebecca Lauber, Kendall Ashe, Adam Okada, and Crystal Heishman to break down what really happens when soiled instruments leave the OR and make their journey to decontam. From point-of-use pre-treatment and biofilm build-up to OSHA requirements and AAMI standards, this crew digs into what it really means to move biohazards safely through your facility. Because soil transport isn’t just about getting instruments from A to B -- it’s about protecting everyone they pass along the way! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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Sustaining Wins Beyond the Hospital Walls
01/26/2026
Sustaining Wins Beyond the Hospital Walls
How do we turn hard-won victories into lasting change, inside hospitals and across our communities? In the Season 3 finale of the Transmission Control Podcast, Garrett and Jill sit down with Allie Piatkowski, Founder and CEO of Piat Public Health. Allie reflects on the personal leap of launching her own public health consultancy and the wins she’s seeing in a field still navigating post-pandemic realities. Our conversation challenges infection preventionists to zoom out beyond the four walls of acute care and rethink how community health, public health, and IP intersect. From collaboration gaps to change fatigue, Allie offers practical insight on sustaining momentum, avoiding burnout, and keeping prevention work visible, even when success means nothing happens at all. This finale is both a celebration and a call to action: victories matter, but sustainment is what truly transforms systems! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #PublicHealth #CommunityHealth #Collaboration #Sustainability
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The Skills You Won’t Find in Textbooks
01/19/2026
The Skills You Won’t Find in Textbooks
What does it really take to succeed in infection prevention when the playbook isn't clear? In this episode of the Transmission Control Podcast, we sit down with Whitney Daum to explore the human skills of IP leadership that matter just as much as the data. Whitney shares how her background in nursing, public health, and education shapes the way she builds trust, navigates uncertainty, and leads with influence rather than authority. From reading the room and asking better questions to knowing when to pivot in construction meetings, outbreak responses, or high-stakes conversations with clinical leaders, Whitney offers practical advice for new and seasoned IPs alike. If you've ever struggled to balance standards, data, and people—or wondered how to communicate without being threatening and lead with humility—this episode shows you how the best IPs connect the technical work with the human impact. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #LeadershipSkills #Communication #IPLeader
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Scope of Innovation: Single-Use Solutions for Surgical Success
01/16/2026
Scope of Innovation: Single-Use Solutions for Surgical Success
Perfect imaging every time. No repairs. No reprocessing. Could single-use arthroscopes be the answer? On this special Beyond Clean, First Case, Power Supply, and Transmission Control Vendor Spotlight™ co-release episode, we're joined by Rich McKillop, CEO of Pristine Surgical, to explore how their Summit™ 4K Single-Use Arthroscope is redefining what efficiency looks like in the OR. Learn how this single-use solution delivers consistent 4K image clarity while eliminating the time, labor, and costs associated with scope reprocessing and repairs. Through smart, cloud-connected technology that delivers real-time data and case analytics, discover how Pristine Surgical can help your department optimize workflows, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes! Learn more about Pristine Surgical’s single-use arthroscopy solutions by visiting . To access the cost savings calculator, schedule a demonstration, or learn more about Pristine Connect®, email or follow them on .
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Building the Next Generation of Infection Preventionists
01/12/2026
Building the Next Generation of Infection Preventionists
Breaking into infection prevention can feel impossible without prior experience. But how do you get that experience if no one will hire you first? In this episode of the Transmission Control Podcast, Garrett and Jill are joined by Infection Preventionist, Paul Gentile, to tackle one of the biggest gaps in the IP workforce: meaningful, hands-on internships. Paul shares his own unconventional path into infection prevention and explains how early shadowing shaped his career. He walks us through a practical internship model built around the APIC competency framework, designed to move beyond observation and into real clinical application. From surveillance and environment of care rounds to working alongside EVS, Sterile Processing, and emergency preparedness, Paul explains how this program teaches interns to think like IPs. If you’re interested in building the next generation of IPs in your department, or trying to become one, this is the episode for you! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #APIC #NextGenIPs #Internships #CareerDevelopment
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Strengthening the Future of Infection Prevention Through APIC Leadership
01/05/2026
Strengthening the Future of Infection Prevention Through APIC Leadership
This week on the Transmission Control podcast, Garrett and Jill sit down with Aaron Woodall, newly elected APIC Board Member and longtime federal IP leader, for an honest conversation about where the IP field is headed—and what it will take to move it forward. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience across the Army, DoD, and VA, Aaron shares why he chose to step into national leadership and what gaps still exist in how infection prevention is supported, resourced, and understood. Along the way, Aaron offers a clear look at the collective responsibility of the IP community—and what meaningful progress will require to strengthen the profession. If you’ve ever wondered how infection prevention can evolve into a fully recognized, well-resourced specialty, this episode brings that vision into focus. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #APIC #Leadership #FutureOfIP #IPCommunity
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One Percent Wins: Building a Strong IP Program in a Critical Access Hospital
12/29/2025
One Percent Wins: Building a Strong IP Program in a Critical Access Hospital
In this episode of the Transmission Control podcast, Garrett and Jill sit down with Emily Barnard, Infection Prevention Manager at Mountains Community Hospital, for a candid look at what it really takes to rebuild an infection prevention (IP) program in a rural, resource-limited setting. Emily shares what it was like stepping into a hospital with no dedicated IP for more than two years—and how she didn’t waste a minute getting to work. From Gemba walks and real-time observation to relationship-building on the front lines, she breaks down the practical moves that helped uncover gaps and kick-start meaningful improvement. Listeners get an inside look at the realities of critical access hospitals, where aging infrastructure, limited resources, and unexpected environmental challenges demand creativity, adaptability, and grit. Through humor, honesty, and hard-earned insight, Emily reminds us that real progress doesn’t come from perfection—it comes from consistent, strategic wins. If you’ve ever felt like you’re facing “mountains beyond mountains,” this episode is proof that the climb is possible. Tune in today! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #CriticalAccessHospital #IPProgram #RuralHealthcare
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Research, Reality, and the DHSc: Dr. Lerenza Howard on Leveling Up in IP
12/22/2025
Research, Reality, and the DHSc: Dr. Lerenza Howard on Leveling Up in IP
What does it look like to become an IP with a terminal degree? In this episode of Transmission Control’s Victory Lap series, Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth sit down with Dr. Lerenza Howard, Manager of Infection Prevention, Employee Health, and Quality Improvement at La Rabida Children’s Hospital. Dr. Lerenza guides us through her journey to earning her doctorate in Health Science while working full-time in IP, raising a family, and staying active in professional organizations. She shares how doctoral training sharpened her research skills, transformed how she approaches evidence-based practice, and led to her dissertation on IP experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation digs into qualitative vs. quantitative research, realistic expectations about what a terminal degree will and won’t do for your career, and how to align advanced education with a clear “why.” If you’re an IP who is curious about a doctorate, this episode offers a candid, encouraging look at what a true professional victory lap can look like. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #HealthScience #Doctorate #CareerDevelopment #Education
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Point Proven: Winning the Race Against Candida auris
12/15/2025
Point Proven: Winning the Race Against Candida auris
If Candida auris can spread silently through your facility, how do you stop it before it spreads too far? In this episode of Transmission Control, Blake Thomas, MPH, joins hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth to break down how point prevalence surveys (PPS) are a critical tool in identifying hidden transmission and containing risk. From setting clear screening criteria—like LTC/SNF exposure or missed isolation—to coordinating with lab, nursing, ID, and EVS teams, Blake shares how his team built a repeatable process for outbreak prevention. You'll hear how they overcame PPE fatigue, earned nursing buy-in, and empowered their “Swab Mob” to protect both patients and staff. Tune in to find out how this proactive approach helped turn a public health challenge into a system-wide win! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #CandidaAuris #PPS #OutbreakPrevention
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From Citations to Celebration: How EVS Tech Transformed Compliance
12/08/2025
From Citations to Celebration: How EVS Tech Transformed Compliance
What does it actually take for EVS to finish on the podium—clean rooms, clean data, and a clean survey? On this Season 3 premiere of Transmission Control, we welcome Allen Cooper and Kyle Piccirello to break down how a frontline culture and the right technology turned chronic pain points into measurable wins at a major medical center. From daily huddles and color-coded bins to real-time documentation and transparent dashboards, they share how standardizing processes improved isolation signage compliance, terminal clean checks, and UVC use—while fueling antimicrobial stewardship meetings and strengthening C-suite accountability. Along the way, they reveal how AI helped prioritize Environment of Care findings and how building staff buy-in created a system so solid it supported launching a new patient tower without starting from scratch. Tune in today to discover how moving from “do the task” to “prove the outcome” can drive faster room turns, infection reductions, and survey success. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season3 #TheVictoryLap #EVS #Compliance #Technology
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The Infection Preventionist’s Playbook for Survey Readiness
10/20/2025
The Infection Preventionist’s Playbook for Survey Readiness
We’re closing out Season 2 of the Transmission Control podcast with Joi A. McMillon, whose bold, visual posts on survey readiness have taken IP social media by storm. In this episode, Joi breaks down her “everyday readiness” playbook—showing how IPs can move from reactive prep to proactive excellence long before surveyors arrive. She shares how just-in-time training, focused micro-audits, and night/weekend coverage can become lasting habits that drive safer outcomes year-round. You’ll hear real tactics for engaging reluctant staff (including turning low performers into “secret shoppers”), building a just culture that encourages reporting, and keeping patient safety front and center. If you’re ready to trade survey stress for steady success, this episode is your roadmap to survey excellence! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #Audit #SurveyReadiness #PatientSafety
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Requirements vs. Recommendations: How Do You Know the Difference?
10/13/2025
Requirements vs. Recommendations: How Do You Know the Difference?
What’s the real difference between a requirement and a recommendation—and why does it matter so much during a survey? In this episode of Transmission Control, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth sit down with Sylvia Garcia-Houchins, former Director of Infection Prevention and Control at The Joint Commission, to decode one of the most misunderstood parts of accreditation. Sylvia breaks down how to tell a law from a guideline, what happens when IFUs cite AAMI standards, and the risk of writing “should” or “shall” into your policies without realizing what it means. She shares practical tips for staying credible under pressure, avoiding self-inflicted citations, and knowing when to stand your ground. If you’ve ever wondered where best practice ends and requirement begins, this episode is your survival guide for survey season. Tune in today! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #Requirements #Recommendations #Accreditation #Standards
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Survey Central: Meeting Accreditation Standards in the OR & SPD
10/06/2025
Survey Central: Meeting Accreditation Standards in the OR & SPD
The OR can feel intimidating for IPs, but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth sit down with Maureen Spencer and Peter Graves to demystify survey readiness where it matters most: behind the red line. They unpack the most common citation magnets like surgical attire, hand hygiene, medication safety, and point-of-use treatment to show how you can replace “we’ve always done it this way” with data, relationships, and practical fixes. You’ll learn how to build comfort in the OR, recruit champions, use tracer methodology, and turn small, consistent actions into safer patients and stronger survey outcomes. If you’re ready to trade clipboard anxiety for continuous readiness, this one’s your playbook. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #Accreditation #Standards #Data #PatientSafety
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Special Release - The AL-CIP Journey: Redefining Leadership in Infection Prevention
09/29/2025
Special Release - The AL-CIP Journey: Redefining Leadership in Infection Prevention
In this special release episode of Transmission Control, we’re breaking down the new Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP™) from CBIC and why it matters for Infection Prevention leaders! Joining us for this conversation are Jessica Dangles, Gail Fraine, Erin (Beck) Wilder, Lisa Hannah, and Kornelija Delibasic, who share what motivated them to pursue this milestone, the challenges they faced, and how the credential has already shaped their careers. Whether you’re preparing to apply this year or simply mapping out your future career goals, this conversation offers a rare inside look at the next big step in IP leadership. If you’re ready to elevate your career and influence as an IP, this episode is a must-listen. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #CBIC #ALCIP #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Certification
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Redefining a Perfect Survey: Great Outcomes from Bad Surveys
09/22/2025
Redefining a Perfect Survey: Great Outcomes from Bad Surveys
What if the real measure of a “perfect survey” wasn’t zero citations, but lasting improvements to patient safety? On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Ericka Kalp—an infection preventionist and epidemiologist with more than 20 years of experience—to explore how even the most challenging survey moments can drive meaningful change. From hallway shortcuts that raise red flags to the culture shifts that transform compliance into continuous improvement, Ericka shares practical strategies for reframing survey outcomes. Whether your team is recent survey wins or recovering from a tough citation, this conversation will help you see surveys not as a minefield, but as an opportunity to strengthen your infection prevention program. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #Survey #Compliance #PatientSafety
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The Curveball Questions: Preparing for Surveyor Interviews
09/15/2025
The Curveball Questions: Preparing for Surveyor Interviews
Preparing for a regulatory survey isn’t just about binders and policies—it’s about building staff confidence. On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Stephen Rusbarsky, who breaks down what really happens when surveyors throw frontline staff those curveball questions— and how the pressure can rattle even experienced teams. From practical strategies to answer with confidence to training tips that replace panic with poise, Stephen shares how IPs can turn high-stakes interviews into opportunities to showcase readiness. If survey interviews have your staff on edge, this conversation will give you the tools to step up with confidence and turn curveballs into wins. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #CurveballQuestions #Surveyor #Confidence #AuditReady
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Survey Survival 101: The Basics of Accreditation Readiness
09/08/2025
Survey Survival 101: The Basics of Accreditation Readiness
Does your team face accreditation surveys with confidence—or with dread? On this week’s episode of ‘Citation Nation,’ we welcome Katie Belski, an Infection Preventionist with a unique blend of experience in Sterile Processing, patient safety coordination, and IP, who shares hard-won lessons from both sides of the survey table. From the do’s and don’ts of answering surveyors’ questions (hint: less is more) to the everyday red flags that trip up even seasoned teams, Katie breaks down practical strategies for staying survey ready year-round. She also explains why competencies, policies, and practice drills are critical to avoiding the “gotcha” moments that challenge teams under pressure. Tune in today to discover how preparation, perspective, and poise can turn survey survival into survey success—and why infection stops where information starts. Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #CitationNation #SurveyReady #PatientSafety #AccreditationReadiness #SurveySuccess
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The Tracer Chase: Mastering Mock Surveys & Tracer Methodology
09/01/2025
The Tracer Chase: Mastering Mock Surveys & Tracer Methodology
How can infection preventionists turn tracer activities from a box-checking exercise into a tool for real culture change? On this Season 2 premiere of Transmission Control, we welcome Euriel Brown, Accreditation Manager at Emory University Hospital Midtown, to explore how tracers can strengthen survey readiness and empower frontline teams. From spotting expired supplies to training staff on the “why” behind compliance, Euriel shares practical strategies to make tracers effective, sustainable, and engaging. Along the way, she reveals how to avoid the dreaded “clipboard warrior” vibe and build buy-in that lasts beyond survey day. Tune in today to discover how sharpening your tracer process can protect patients, prepare your teams, and prove why infection stops where information starts! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season2 #Tracers #SurveyReadiness #Compliance
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StreetClothes: The Surfer
08/24/2025
StreetClothes: The Surfer
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for chasing waves and finding rhythm in the ocean’s tide. From early-morning paddles to the rush of a perfect swell, this surfer blends patience, balance, and energy into every ride. Tune in to hear how Eric Price paddles past the daily grind and chases the thrill of the waves… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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StreetClothes: The Hairdresser
08/10/2025
StreetClothes: The Hairdresser
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates. Tune in to hear how Dr. Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to helping people look and feel their best—one trim, one tone, and one transformation at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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StreetClothes: The Mixologist
07/27/2025
StreetClothes: The Mixologist
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for serving up something smooth, stirred, and served straight up with a twist. From experimenting with unexpected ingredients to selecting the perfect glassware, this mixologist blends flavor and creativity into every cocktail she creates. Tune in to hear how Lindsey Joyce shakes off the day and stirs up something entirely her own—one pour at a time. If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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