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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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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StreetClothes: The Woodturner
07/13/2025
StreetClothes: The Woodturner
On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional who finds calm, clarity, and a spark of creativity behind the lathe. For him, woodturning is more than just a hobby—it’s a release, a reset, and a reminder that even a simple block of wood can become something beautiful with time, focus, and the right tools. Tune in to hear how Joseph Martin’s passion for woodturning brings a hands-on kind of balance to life beyond the hospital… 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 Hiker
06/29/2025
StreetClothes: The Hiker
On this episode of StreetClothes, we talk to a healthcare professional who spends her time away from the hospital chasing trails and wide-open views. Whether she’s trekking solo through Iceland or tackling steep paths with friends, this adventurer finds peace wherever her hiking boots take her. Tune in to hear how Brenna Doran embraces the calm and clarity of the outdoors—one step, one trail, and one hike 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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Special Podcast Release: Before & After – Episode 2
06/20/2025
Special Podcast Release: Before & After – Episode 2
Join host Hank Balch for this special Episode 2 release of our "Before & After" series on Transmission Control, as we hear about the IP buzz from Phoenix with guest George Cronin from Dri-Scope Aid. Whether you visited Booth #1335 or missed the conference entirely, this episode delivers the essential takeaways from the expo floor and charts the path forward for endoscope drying implementation. Most importantly, we want to make sure you bookmark for your endoscope drying resource hub! In our conversation, George shares the most pressing questions infection preventionists are asking about automated drying solutions, from securing buy-in with end users to navigating the evolving landscape of guidelines and regulations. Discover why Sterile Processing departments are ahead of the curve on drying awareness, while GI departments still need compelling data to drive adoption, and learn how IPs are increasingly becoming the central coordinators for facility-wide endoscope drying strategies. We'd love to hear YOUR feedback if you visited Dri-Scope Aid and George in Phoenix or have your own advice on taking the next step toward endoscope drying protocols. Thanks again for tuning in! "Infection Stops Where Information Starts.™" #TransmissionControl #BeforeAndAfter #DriScopeAid #Conference #InfectionPrevention
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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Engaging the Future: Clinical Implications of Sterile Endoscopes
06/16/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Engaging the Future: Clinical Implications of Sterile Endoscopes
Hey, #CleanFreaks -- are you ready to uncover what’s next in endoscope reprocessing? In this exciting series finale episode of "Safe & Sterile Endoscopes," Dr. Ivan Salgo, Chief Medical Officer & Vice President at ASP, joins us to pull back the curtain on the game-changing technologies reshaping our approach to endoscope sterility! From conquering biofilm challenges to elevating quality standards, this episode is packed with innovations that will transform your approach to scope reprocessing. Whether you're #FightingDirty in decontam or leading from the C-suite, you won't want to miss this glimpse into tomorrow's technology – the future of scope safety starts now! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. This episode is approved for 1 Sterile Processing CE through HSPA & CBPSD. Visit the Beyond Clean CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free SPD CE credits. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast
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StreetClothes: The Motorcyclist
06/15/2025
StreetClothes: The Motorcyclist
On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion for two wheels brings freedom, focus, and a whole lot of fuel to life outside the hospital. From the thrill of the throttle to the quietness of the long ride, this rider has discovered that nothing clears the mind quite like a full tank and the open road. Tune in to hear how Jennifer Barnickel unplugs and reconnects one curve, one gear, and one mile 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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Special Podcast Release: Before & After – Episode 1
06/13/2025
Special Podcast Release: Before & After – Episode 1
What do scopes & Phoenix both have in common? They are best enjoyed...dry! Join host Hank Balch for this special Episode 1 release of our "Before & After" series on Transmission Control, as we go behind the scenes with George Cronin from Dri-Scope Aid (Booth #1335) ahead of this year's infection prevention conference in Phoenix. As the 2025 Endoscope Drying Expert™ for the Transmission Control platform, George shares insider insights about Dri-Scope's innovative solutions for drying internal channels of endoscopes across multiple departments - from GI and urology to bronchoscopes and ENT procedures. Discover why infection preventionists are increasingly becoming central to endoscope drying conversations and how this collaboration is driving standardization across healthcare facilities. George reveals what conference attendees can expect at Booth #1335, including their eye-catching new purple (!) drying cabinet with advanced inventory management features, plus multiple drying solutions designed to meet the unique needs of different cleaning rooms. Whether you're heading to Phoenix this weekend or following along remotely, tune in to learn how Dri-Scope Aid is helping facilities standardize their processes across the board! And make sure to stay tuned for our Episode 2 post-conference follow-up with important takeaways you’ll need to bring the change home to your facility! For more information, visit: #TransmissionControl #BeforeAndAfter #DriScopeAid #InfectionPrevention #Conference
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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - The Next Chapter: The Regulatory & Guideline Shifts Surrounding Endoscopes
06/09/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - The Next Chapter: The Regulatory & Guideline Shifts Surrounding Endoscopes
As industry standards and guidelines evolve, are your department’s workflows keeping up? In this week’s new episode from our “Safe and Sterile Endoscopes” series, Stacy Johnson and Melanie Marshall, Clinical Education Consultants at ASP, join us to break down the latest regulatory requirements, including AAMI ST91, and their impact on endoscope reprocessing workflows. From FDA recommendations to evidence-based standards, these education experts outline what these changes mean for your department. Whether you’re preparing for your next audit or updating outdated processes, this episode provides the clarity and tools you need to stay ahead. Tune in now to take the next step toward safer and smarter reprocessing practices! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. This episode is approved for 1 Sterile Processing CE through HSPA & CBPSD. Visit the Beyond Clean CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free SPD CE credits. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast
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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Together We Win: Clinical Collaboration Driving Best Practices
06/02/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Together We Win: Clinical Collaboration Driving Best Practices
What does it take to build a winning endoscope reprocessing program? Teamwork! In Episode 4 of our “Safe & Sterile Endoscopes” series, Julie Gorog, Clinical Education Consultant at ASP, reveals why bridging departmental gaps is essential for advancing patient safety. From crafting effective competency programs to enhancing quality assurance practices, Julie shares strategies for uniting SPD, OR, and IP teams around shared safety and reprocessing goals. Whether you’re looking to streamline communication or refine training techniques, this episode delivers the tools you need to foster collaboration, best practices, and long-term success. Tune in now and discover how working together makes all the difference – because when it comes to patient safety, we all win together! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. This episode is approved for 1 Sterile Processing CE through HSPA & CBPSD. Visit the Beyond Clean CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free SPD CE credits. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast
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StreetClothes: The Bakers
06/01/2025
StreetClothes: The Bakers
On this episode of our StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who find comfort, creativity, and a little pinch of calm in the art of baking. Whether it’s homemade bagels, a failed bundt cake, or family traditions passed down through generations, these self-taught bakers have each discovered their own flavor of joy in the kitchen. Tune in to hear how Vanessa Frank & Chelsea Wolner are keeping things sweet outside their 9-to-5s—one pie, muffin, and cookie 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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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - The Struggle for Safety: Endoscope Reprocessing Challenges
05/26/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - The Struggle for Safety: Endoscope Reprocessing Challenges
What are the biggest roadblocks for safe and effective endoscope reprocessing? From biofilm buildup to the challenges of cleaning hard-to-reach channels, we’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden obstacles that make endoscopes some of the most complex devices to reprocess! In this week’s new episode from our “Safe & Sterile Endoscopes” series, Benedicta Ampadu, Global Product Manager at ASP, dives into the risks, realities, and strategies that frontline teams need to overcome their toughest reprocessing challenges. Get ready to streamline your reprocessing workflows with Benedicta's frontline insights and expert strategies for patient safety success! So, turn up the volume and join the fight for safer endoscopes -- every patient, every time! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. This episode is approved for 1 Sterile Processing CE through HSPA & CBPSD. Visit the Beyond Clean CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free SPD CE credits. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast
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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Inside the Idea: Endoscope Design, Functionality & Reprocessing
05/19/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - Inside the Idea: Endoscope Design, Functionality & Reprocessing
From the drawing board to the operating room, every detail in endoscope design matters! In Episode 2 of “Safe & Sterile Endoscopes,” ASP’s Khoi Pham and Tamara Beehler join us for an insider’s look at the science behind endoscope design, functionality, and innovation. From cutting-edge materials to automated systems, they reveal how modern endoscope designs are solving complex challenges while prioritizing patient care and safety. With firsthand insights and a glimpse into the prototypes shaping the future, this episode will change how you view these critical devices. Step into the next era of endoscope design – tune in now! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast *This episode is not approved for SPD CE Credit.
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StreetClothes: The Beekeeper
05/18/2025
StreetClothes: The Beekeeper
On this episode of the StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion project is generating some serious buzz in his own backyard! With 31 hives and counting, this busy bee has discovered the joy—minus the occasional sting—and the liquid gold rewards of working with nature’s busiest pollinators. Tune in to hear how Cody Troutt's adventures in beekeeping bring the sweetest kind of work-life balance to life beyond the hospital… 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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Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - In the Beginning: History of Endoscopes
05/12/2025
Safe & Sterile Endoscopes - In the Beginning: History of Endoscopes
Buckle up, #EndoscopeEnthusiasts! We're kicking off this exclusive podcast series, "Safe & Sterile Endoscopes," sponsored by ASP, with an exciting look at the history and innovation of modern endoscopes. This week, Dr. Klaus Mergener, a GI physician and internationally recognized expert in gastroenterology and endoscopy, takes us back to where it all began – exploring the evolution from rigid steel tubes and simple designs to today’s high-tech medical devices that play a critical role in patient care. Tune in to discover how early innovators transformed challenges into breakthroughs – and why understanding the past is key to advancing the future of endoscope reprocessing and patient safety. Press play and join us today! This dynamic 6-part series explores the critical world of endoscope innovation, design, and safety. Each episode will feature insights from industry leaders and clinical experts who are transforming the way we approach scope safety and sterility. From frontline technicians to department leaders, this series will equip your team with powerful strategies to transform your reprocessing workflows! A special thanks to our sponsor, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and quality in endoscope care has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. This episode is approved for 1 Sterile Processing CE through HSPA & CBPSD. Visit the Beyond Clean CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free SPD CE credits. #TransmissionControl #BeyondClean #ASP #Endoscopes #InfectionPrevention #SterileProcessing #ScopeSafety #Podcast
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The Nurse’s Station: Building Trust with Frontline Staff
05/05/2025
The Nurse’s Station: Building Trust with Frontline Staff
What if the success of your infection prevention program depended more on relationships than policies? On this Season 1 finale episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Carole W. Kamangu, CEO of Dumontel Healthcare Consulting, LLC, to explore the art of building meaningful connections between infection preventionists and bedside nurses. Drawing from her diverse experience as a nurse, epidemiologist, and infection preventionist, Carole reveals practical strategies for approaching units, providing feedback, and gaining trust without disrupting critical workflows. Whether you're a new IP or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the relationship-driven nature of infection prevention. Tune in today to discover how frameworks like AIDET, techniques like Gemba Walks, and the strategic power of connecting with charge nurses can transform your approach to unit rounding! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season1 #Nurses #InfectionPreventionProfessionals #BuildingRelationships #Collaboration
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StreetClothes: The Doula
05/04/2025
StreetClothes: The Doula
On this episode 4 of the StreetClothes podcast, we talk to Lindsay Brown, a Minnesota clinician who has a passion project unlike any other! Not only does she know where babies come from (every child's eternal question), she also knows how clinical expertise beautifully combines with nurturing care during life's very first moments. Tune in to hear how Linds's work as a doula brings comfort and advocacy to the birthing experience outside of her 9-5 healthcare role... 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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Navigating the OR as an IP
04/28/2025
Navigating the OR as an IP
Stepping into the operating room can feel like walking onto someone else's playing field, so how can IPs become valued teammates instead of watching from the sidelines? On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Melanie Perry, OR nurse and host of the First Case Podcast, to explore practical strategies for successful IP & OR rounding. From attending 6 a.m. huddles to building relationships with circulators, Melanie reveals how leaving your clipboard behind and asking good questions can transform surgeons and scrub techs into your greatest allies. She also tackles common compliance challenges—explaining why two drapes are needed for back tables, debunking the outdated "two-hour rule" for open trays, and clarifying when waterless hand products are appropriate. Tune in today to discover why infection stops where information starts—and how you can turn your next OR round from stressful to successful! Make sure to follow Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #InfectionPrevention #Podcast #Season1 #OperatingRoom #Relationships #Compliance
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Tracking Your Growth as an IP
04/21/2025
Tracking Your Growth as an IP
On this episode of the Transmission Control Podcast, we welcome Trena Illingworth, an Infection Prevention Program Manager who successfully transitioned from public health to acute care through dedication and certification. From navigating her first day on the job to building meaningful relationships with Sterile Processing teams, Trinette shares how vulnerability and continuous learning helped her overcome the challenges of being a new IP. Whether you're considering a career change or looking to recruit diverse talent to your infection prevention team, this conversation offers valuable insights into breaking down barriers and building confidence in a new role. Tune in today to discover how embracing vulnerability and building relationships with clinical teams can help new IPs thrive 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 #Season1 #Collaboration #SterileProcessing #Certification
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StreetClothes: The Chicken Tenders
04/20/2025
StreetClothes: The Chicken Tenders
On this episode 3 of our brand new StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who have a passion project that's far from fowl play! Not only have they created their own backyard flock of feathered friends, they've also cracked the code for beating those sky-high egg prices! Tune in to hear how Sean Weir & Stacey Gielen became known as the "Chicken Tenders" and how these quirky birds bring sustainable joy to their lives outside the hospital... 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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Empowering New IPs: Skills, Resources, & Community
04/14/2025
Empowering New IPs: Skills, Resources, & Community
What if the secret to infection prevention success isn't just what you know, but how you communicate it? On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Tania Bubb, Senior Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, to explore the critical leadership skills behind effective infection prevention – mastering soft skills. From navigating difficult compliance conversations to building meaningful relationships across departments, Tania shares practical strategies for developing the "hard” soft skills that transform technical knowledge into real-world impact. Whether you're new to the field or looking for ways to approach challenging situations with confidence, this conversation offers valuable insights into finding your authentic leadership style. Tune in today to discover how connecting with mentors or your local APIC chapter can accelerate your professional growth 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 #Season1 #SoftSkills #Communication #ProfessionalGrowth #Leadership
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