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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Silo-Free Surgery: Say It, Don’t Delay It: Speaking Up to Prevent Surgical Site Infections
08/17/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: Say It, Don’t Delay It: Speaking Up to Prevent Surgical Site Infections
When something doesn't look right in the OR, do you have the confidence to speak up? In this episode of “Silo-Free Surgery,” Garrett Hollembeak sits down with certified surgical technologist, educator, and infection preventionist Julia Jackson to talk about the role surgical conscience plays in protecting patients and preventing surgical site infections. From protecting the sterile field to slowing down for a meaningful timeout and questioning something that doesn’t look right, Julia shares why doing the right thing in the moment matters, even when it isn't always easy. If you've ever hesitated to speak up in the OR, this episode is a powerful reminder of why your voice matters. Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #PatientSafety #Timeout #SpeakingUp #SurgicalConscience
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Silo-Free Surgery: PATOS Without the Panic: Understanding “Present at Time of Surgery” in SSI Surveillance
08/10/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: PATOS Without the Panic: Understanding “Present at Time of Surgery” in SSI Surveillance
The OR sees one thing. Infection Prevention reports another. So who's right? In this episode of “Silo-Free Surgery,” hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Trey Morrow are joined by infection prevention expert Emily Barnard to tackle one of the trickier parts of SSI surveillance: PATOS, or "present at time of surgery." Emily breaks down the difference between clinical and surveillance definitions, why the right documentation matters, and how seemingly small details in the operative note can make all the difference in accurate SSI reporting. From wound classification to the very specific language behind PATOS criteria, this conversation shows why OR and IP teams need a shared understanding of what they're seeing and documenting. If PATOS has ever caused confusion in your facility, this conversation is for you! Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #PATOS #SurgicalSafety #Documentation #Reporting
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Silo-Free Surgery: Why Are We Talking About IFUs?
08/03/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: Why Are We Talking About IFUs?
Every day, healthcare teams rely on IFUs to get the job done. But how often do we stop to think about how they actually come together? In this week's special season co-release episode, Garrett Hollembeak sits down with Alpa Patel to take a closer look at why manufacturers' instructions for use play such an important role in preventing surgical site infections. Drawing on decades of experience in reprocessing validation, Alpa explains how IFUs are developed, why they don't always fit real clinical workflows, and what manufacturers can learn from the frontline teams using them every day. If you've ever found yourself asking, "Why does the IFU say that?" or "Who writes these things?" this episode has the answers! Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #IFU #SSI #Prevention #Validation #InstrumentReprocessing #Workflows
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Silo-Free Surgery: Are ASC's Really the Wild West?
07/27/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: Are ASC's Really the Wild West?
The pace may be different, but the goal is exactly the same: delivering safe surgical care. In this week's special season co-release episode, we talk with Carlene Smith about what surgical site infection prevention looks like in ambulatory surgery centers. As someone who's worked in Sterile Processing, Infection Prevention, and the OR, Carlene shares her unique perspective on the challenges ASC teams face every day. From balancing limited resources and shared responsibilities to identifying small gaps before they become bigger problems, she discusses how ASC teams can stay proactive while keeping patient safety at the center of every workflow. No matter where surgical care happens, this conversation is a reminder that infection prevention starts with strong teamwork. Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SterileProcessing #Collaboration #AmbulatorySurgeryCenter #ASC
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Silo-Free Surgery: Have We Gone Nose Blind?
07/20/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: Have We Gone Nose Blind?
Could the biggest opportunities to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs) be the ones you've stopped noticing? In this week’s special season co-release episode, Garrett Hollembeak sits down with Crystal Heishman for a conversation about seeing SSI prevention through a different lens. With experience spanning Infection Prevention, Sterile Processing, and the Operating Room, Crystal shares how stronger collaboration can help teams identify risks before they affect patient safety. She explains why spending time in the OR, asking thoughtful questions, and understanding workflows builds trust, uncovers hidden opportunities for improvement, and helps teams focus on process deviations -- not "gotcha" moments. If stronger collaboration starts with stronger conversations, this episode offers practical ideas you can take back to your next huddle. Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SterileProcessing #Collaboration #Trust #ProcessImprovement #Podcast
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Silo-Free Surgery: What SSI Risk Keeps You Up at Night?
07/13/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: What SSI Risk Keeps You Up at Night?
What keeps you up at night when it comes to preventing surgical site infections (SSIs)? In this week’s special season co-release episode, Jeremy Gibson-Roark returns to join hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Lindsey Joyce for a conversation about moving from reactive investigations to proactive prevention. Together, they explore why infection prevention plans should be living documents, how stronger collaboration between OR and IP teams uncovers risks before they become problems, and why some of the best ideas come from simply asking frontline teams the right questions. If preventing SSIs starts with working together, this conversation shows how stronger partnerships can lead to safer patient care! If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, tune in here: Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #Prevention #Education #Podcast
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Silo-Free Surgery: Where Is the Smoking Gun?
07/06/2026
Silo-Free Surgery: Where Is the Smoking Gun?
Why is it so difficult to trace a surgical site infection (SSI) back to one clear cause? On this special season co-release episode of Transmission Control and First Case, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Lindsey Joyce are joined by Jeremy Gibson-Roark for an honest conversation about what really happens when an SSI investigation begins. Together, they explore why infection investigations are rarely straightforward, how OR, IP, and SP departments each hold a piece of the puzzle, and why breaking down silos is essential to finding meaningful answers. As the first episode of this special collaborative season, this conversation lays the foundation for understanding SSI reduction as a shared responsibility, not something one department can tackle alone. Tune in today! Make sure to follow Transmission Control and First Case on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode! #TransmissionControl #FirstCase #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #SSIInvestigation #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: Taking the Lead in SPD
05/05/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Taking the Lead in SPD
You’re doing the work. You’re solving the problems. Now it’s time to take the lead! On this Season 2 finale of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth is joined by Kelly Zabriskie, Lee Smith, Dr. Kevin Bush, and David Jagrosse to take a closer look at what leadership really means in Sterile Processing. From finding your voice and building confidence to forming partnerships and stepping beyond the walls of SPD, this group shares what it takes to grow as a leader at every level. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or leading with years of experience, this episode will challenge you to think bigger about your role and your impact. You won’t want to miss this one, #CleanFreaks! That’s a wrap on Season 2! Thank you for coming along for the ride, and a big shoutout to our incredible host and special guests for making it all possible. All episodes are now streaming—listen wherever you get your podcasts, or you can catch them on the Beyond Clean and Transmission Control websites. #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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On Pathogens & PPE: Assembly Without Disruptions
04/28/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Assembly Without Disruptions
You’re building a tray. The phone rings. Someone needs an update. You step away… and just like that, the process breaks. On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Katie Belski are joined by Art Babiy, Jennifer Greisen, and Ebow Holdbrook-Smith to talk through the real challenges #CleanFreaks are facing in assembly areas. From stepping away mid-tray and chasing down tools to managing constant distractions and pressure from the OR, this conversation calls out the moments where processes can break down and how your team can stay on track. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to move faster while still getting it right, this episode is for you! 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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On Pathogens & PPE: Why Brush Selection Matters
04/21/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Why Brush Selection Matters
Think one brush fits all? Think again! On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” hosts Jill Holdsworth and Trevor Hazen are joined by Nelson Winter, Emily Barnard, and Ron Hunsucker to take a closer look at how brush selection, sizing, and technique impact your manual cleaning process. From choosing the right brush size and type to knowing when a brush has reached the end of its life, this group calls out the habits that can quietly compromise your workflows. They also highlight how training, storage, and daily practices can make or break consistency across your team. Grab your favorite brushes and tune in, #CleanFreaks —chances are, you’ll be taking a second look at them after this one! 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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Beyond the Bundle: The Hidden Risk in Every Foley
04/20/2026
Beyond the Bundle: The Hidden Risk in Every Foley
We’ve built the bundles. We’ve driven compliance. So why are CAUTI rates still plateauing? In the Season Finale of Transmission Control, we challenge one of the most familiar frameworks in infection prevention and expose a critical blind spot hiding in plain sight. Joined by Amy Huser and Dr. Kelly Hyatt, this episode dives into the overlooked risks within the Foley catheter system—specifically the drain and collection “pocket” that may be quietly driving intraluminal contamination. With insights into biofilm formation, patient transport risks, and early data showing promising reductions in CAUTI rates, this episode offers a new lens and a new opportunity for IPs ready to move beyond plateaued outcomes. Because in infection prevention, sometimes the biggest risk… is the one we’ve normalized. 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 #CAUTI #FoleyCatheter #PatientSafety #Compliance #Bundles
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On Pathogens & PPE: What’s Hiding in Your Lumens
04/14/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: What’s Hiding in Your Lumens
You followed the IFU. You brushed. You flushed. So it’s clean… right? On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” hosts Jill Holdsworth and Brandon Gantt are teaming up with Aaron Preston, Cheron Rojo, and Jahan Azizi to take a closer look at what’s hiding inside your lumen instruments. As more departments adopt borescopes, teams are uncovering retained debris, moisture, and internal damage that would have otherwise gone unnoticed, even when reprocessing steps were correctly followed. From understanding what you’re seeing to knowing what to do when something doesn’t look right, these experts highlight the gaps between process and proof and why education, training, and consistency are key to making borescopes part of your everyday workflow. Tune in today! 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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Another Fix in the Wall: Mildew, Moisture, and Mold Remediation
04/13/2026
Another Fix in the Wall: Mildew, Moisture, and Mold Remediation
When it comes to the built environment, what you don’t see can absolutely hurt you. In this episode of Transmission Control, we take on one of the most misunderstood (and often overreacted to) topics in healthcare: mold. Joined by industrial hygienist Nate Sanders and infection preventionist Aaron Preston, we break down what’s really happening behind ceiling tiles, inside walls, and across the water systems that support patient care. From subtle signs like bubbling wall panels to major water intrusion events, this conversation moves beyond panic and into practical action. What actually causes mold to grow? When should you escalate? And how do you respond in a way that protects patients without shutting down operations? This episode breaks it all down and more. 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 #Mold #Moisture #Mildew #IPRiskAssessment #IndustrialHygiene
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On Pathogens & PPE: Getting Sterile Storage Right
04/07/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Getting Sterile Storage Right
Peel pouches hanging from clips, dust collecting in bins, trays stacked just a little too high… sound familiar? When it comes to sterile storage, small shortcuts can lead to big risks. On this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Mark Copeland sit down with Tiffany Reece, Malinda Elammari, and Kendall Ashe to dive into the storage challenges showing up in sterile storage areas right now. From creative (but risky) space solutions to confusion around probe storage and vendor access, this group shares where things are breaking down and where teams can make quick changes. Tune in now and take a fresh look at your storage practices, because if it’s not stored right, it’s not ready for the patient. 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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Re-Orienting the Roadmap: Navigating the IP Orientation Checklist
04/06/2026
Re-Orienting the Roadmap: Navigating the IP Orientation Checklist
What if IP orientation felt less like trial by fire and more like a clear, intentional starting point? In this episode of the Transmission Control, we’re joined by Kelsey Ostergren and Noreen Mollon to explore how APIC transformed the Novice IP Roadmap into a practical Orientation Checklist designed for real-world onboarding. After learning that the roadmap was valuable but underused, APIC reframed the tool to be task-oriented, intentional, and applicable across care settings. Noreen and Kelsey break down how the checklist supports brand-new IPs, seasoned professionals entering new roles, preceptors, and leaders looking to standardize onboarding. Tune in to this week’s episode to see how a structured, confidence-building orientation can shape the future of infection prevention. 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 #APIC #OrientationChecklist #NoviceIPRoadmap #Onboarding
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On Pathogens & PPE: Decontam Under Pressure
03/31/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Decontam Under Pressure
Stacks of vendor trays arriving without warning, stat turnaround instruments soaking in the sink, and techs scrolling through 100+ documents to find the right IFU… welcome to decontam! In this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Michael Matthews are joined by Trevor Hazen, Jake McHugh, and Katie Belski to take a closer look at what’s happening in today’s decontamination workflows. From conflicting IFUs and training gaps to communication breakdowns between SPD and the OR, this crew breaks down what’s impacting your process and how your team can improve it. Tune in today #CleanFreaks, because what happens in decontam doesn’t stay in decontam, it impacts every step that follows. 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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Sequential Solutions: Whole Genome Sequencing and the Future of IP
03/30/2026
Sequential Solutions: Whole Genome Sequencing and the Future of IP
What if you could detect an outbreak before anyone realized one existed? In this episode of Transmission Control, we sit down with Alex Sundermann to explore how genomic surveillance is changing the way we identify and stop healthcare-associated transmission. Through a comprehensive surveillance program, Alex’s team discovered that most suspected outbreaks weren't actually outbreaks, and that dozens of real transmission events were going completely undetected. From C. diff patterns in the same unit to endoscope-related spread, Alex breaks down how DNA-level insight reshapes resource allocation, patient notification, and outbreak control. This episode is all about why early detection matters, even when nothing “looks wrong” yet – 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 #GenomeSequencing #Surveillance #PatientSafety #InfectionOutbreaks
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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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