Sonographers After Dark

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Dr. Anita Moon‑Grady, pediatric cardiologist at UCSF, for a deep dive into the evolving world of fetal echocardiography training and career development. Dr. Moon-Grady shares how fetal echo sonographers are trained within her program, and how additional fetal expertise is built through mentored learning, progressive responsibility, and certification.Together, Lara and Anita unpack what true career progression looks like in fetal cardiology—from senior to principal sonographer roles—and why fetal board certification matters. The conversation explores the cross-training divide between obstetrics and pediatric cardiology, highlighting realistic training timelines, skill transfer, and the unique challenges sonographers face when entering fetal echo from different clinical backgrounds. Dr. Moon-Grady also reflects on her work with the American Society of Echocardiography and the AIUM to harmonize fetal echocardiography guidelines across specialties, helping standardize exams, expectations, and training pathways nationwide.✨ This episode is a must-listen for sonographers curious about fetal echo, leaders shaping training programs, and anyone passionate about advancing fetal heart care through collaboration and education.💙 #SonographersAfterDark #iHeartEcho #AllAboutUltrasound #LoveUltrasound #LoveEcho #FetalEcho #Fetal EchocardiographyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/​

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down to reflect on gratitude, growth, and grace in the face of personal and professional challenges. She shares her journey from hardship and health struggles to becoming a leader, mentor, and advocate for sonographers everywhere.Lara opens up about the losses she’s endured, the resilience it took to continue showing up for patients, and the internal work required to transform her attitude, her relationships, and her career. She dives into the importance of mentorship, positive workplace culture, and the practice of daily gratitude as a tool for personal growth.This heartfelt episode encourages listeners to look for the good, even in difficult seasons, and to invest in becoming the best version of themselves. Drop what you’re grateful for in the comments—then use code “THANKFUL” for 25% off at www.allaboutultrasound.com and iheartecho.com as a token of appreciation for the community.

In this episode, Lara and Lisa dive into the realities of navigating career transitions within the medical imaging world — from shifting roles to redefining what a sustainable, fulfilling path looks like as a sonographer. They talk openly about balancing demanding schedules, managing burnout, and finding your footing when your professional identity begins to evolve. The conversation also explores the newest advancements in ultrasound, including the rise of AI technology, and why it’s more important than ever for sonographers to advocate for their well-being, their workflow, and their voice in shaping the future of the field. This one’s all about growth, resilience, and staying empowered in a rapidly changing industry.🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 5 PM ET.​Listen on your favorite platform:Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Richie — educator, innovator, and program developer — to talk about the evolution of ultrasound education and echocardiography training. Richie shares his journey from launching his first ultrasound program in 2001 to developing the program at Duke University, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. They dive into what it takes to build a strong ultrasound program — from clinical site partnerships and student selection to teaching physics in ways that actually click. Richie opens up about his passion for making learning interactive and engaging for today’s students, while Lara explores how these principles are shaping new programs like her upcoming ECHO initiative in Ohio. The conversation also touches on major shifts in echocardiography technology, the role of AI in the scan room, and Richie’s upcoming physics textbook designed to help sonographers optimize imaging performance. If you’ve ever thought about teaching, building a program, or taking your ultrasound career to the next level — this one’s packed with inspiration, insights, and innovation.🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 5 PM ET.​Watch the fullepisode here or listen on your favorite platform:Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/#allaboutultrasound #iheartecho #sonographersafterdark #ultrasoundeducation #echocardiography

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Lashell Jones, sonographer, educator, and entrepreneur, for a deep and honest conversation about how ultrasound is evolving — from the scan room to the classroom and beyond. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping fetal and obstetric imaging, how education and standardization continue to shape the next generation of sonographers, and how professionals can balance clinical practice, teaching, and entrepreneurship in an ever-changing field.Lashell shares her journey from discovering ultrasound by chance to mastering high-risk fetal imaging and building her own business and educational brand. The two discuss how AI tools are changing workflows, improving efficiency, and redefining what’s possible in maternal-fetal medicine and echocardiography — while still keeping empathy, skill, and human connection at the center of care.Whether you’re a student, educator, or scanning veteran, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about growth, innovation, and purpose in ultrasound.🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 5 PM ET.​Watch the full episode here or listen on your favorite platform:Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioCheck out our other social platforms:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/

Under the Gel: The Scary Truth About Scanning & The Things They Don’t Warn You About in Ultrasound School. Think ultrasound is all clean gel and pretty pictures? Think again. In this episode, we’re spilling (sometimes literally) the real stories from behind the probe — the smells that make your eyes water, the unexpected bodily fluids that weren’t in the job description, and the “did that really just happen?” moments only a sonographer would understand. From sticky situations to unforgettable patient encounters, we’re diving into the messier side of medical imaging that every scanner has experienced but few talk about. Grab your disinfectant wipes… you’re gonna need them.

Ever wonder what it’s like to leave the day-to-day of scanning and step into the world of ultrasound industry and innovation? 💡In this episode, Lara sits down with Clinical Applications Specialist, Risa Schneck, to talk about the real transition from scanning patients to supporting sonographers, training teams, and working alongside cutting-edge tech.We’re talking:⚡ The ups and downs of leaving clinical life🌍 Life on the road and working with new systems🎯 The skills that translate — and the surprises that don’t🚀 Finding freedom, balance, and growth outside the scan roomIf you’ve ever thought about switching gears in your ultrasound career, this episode is for you.🎙️ Catch “From the Scan Room to the Showroom” Fridays at 5 PM ET — only on Sonographers After Dark.#SonographersAfterDark #AllAboutUltrasound #UltrasoundPodcast #UltrasoundLife #Sonography #ClinicalApplications #UltrasoundIndustry #SonographerCareer #IHEARTECHO

We’ve all been there — you walk into a shift expecting the usual, and suddenly you’re handed an exam you’ve never done before. Now what? In this episode, we’re talking about the reality of those unexpected moments in ultrasound — the ones that push you out of your comfort zone and force you to adapt on the spot. We’ll dive into how hybrid learning, cross-training, and continuous education can prepare you for those challenges, and how to navigate the fine line between stepping outside your scope and stepping up to provide care when your patients need it most. It’s not about being reckless — it’s about being ready, resourceful, and resilient when the job throws you something you didn’t see coming.

Ultrasound doesn’t have to mean staying behind the probe forever. In this episode, we’re breaking down the truth about the limitless opportunities your skills can unlock — if you’re willing to think bigger. From building a mobile or 3D/4D business, to stepping into management and leadership roles, to launching your own ultrasound opportunities, the sky is the limit when you stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them. This is a mindset shift. Because the reality is, your career can be so much more than scanning patients day in and day out, if that's your goal. It’s time to step out of the box, bet on yourself, and scan your own path.

In this premiere episode, host Lara Williams shares her personal journey into the world of ultrasound — from how she got started to the experiences that shaped her career. Discover the opportunities sonography has opened for her, from continuous learning and professional growth to traveling and exploring new horizons in healthcare. This candid conversation sets the stage for future episodes, offering inspiration for anyone passionate about a career in ultrasound.

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Carlton Hartwell, ACS, RDCS, FASE and they dive into the evolving role of the Advanced Cardiac Sonographer (ACS) and what it truly means to move beyond scanning into leadership, education, and quality-driven practice.While the ACS credential has been around for years, many healthcare organizations are still trying to define how to fully utilize these highly trained professionals. We explore the real-world responsibilities of the ACS—from protocol development and lab leadership to research involvement and advanced procedures like TEE.They also break down the pathway to credentials like ACS and American Society of Echocardiography fellowship, and why these designations are becoming increasingly important in today’s echo landscape.The conversation expands into:The growing need for leadership—not just technical skill—in echo labsThe role of ACS in quality improvement, accreditation, and appropriate useThe integration of AI in echocardiography and where human expertise still mattersThe future of echocardiography training, including immersive programs and cross-training pathwaysLara highlights innovative tools like the iHeartEcho™ EchoAssist™ app, designed to bring guideline-based clinical intelligence directly to the bedside.If you’ve ever wondered what’s next in your career as a sonographer—or how to elevate your role within your lab—this episode is for you.​Watch the full episode here or listen on your favorite platform: Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/#sonographersafterdark #iheartecho #allaboutultrasound #loveecho #loveultrasound #bettercardiology #echoquality #cardiacultrasound ​

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara Williams dives into the real work behind accreditation, quality improvement, and leadership in the echo lab. While accreditation may be the framework, the true goal is building a culture of quality that improves patient care, strengthens reporting, and creates consistency across the lab.Lara unpacks the common roadblocks teams face when implementing quality programs, from managing different personality types and navigating difficult conversations to gaining physician and administrative buy-in. She also breaks down the importance of structured reporting, IAC standards, ASE guidelines, timeliness requirements, discrepancy policies, and creating meaningful quality review systems that go beyond simply checking boxes.This episode is a practical discussion for sonographers, technical directors, ACS professionals, and lab leaders who want to better understand how to lead change, improve reporting accuracy, support staff growth, and build a quality program that is both sustainable and effective. Lara also shares insight into using objective scoring tools, peer review, and ongoing education to identify growth opportunities and strengthen lab performance over time.If you are stepping into leadership, preparing for accreditation, or trying to elevate quality in your lab, this episode is for you. 💜🩵​ www.sonographersafterdark.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/#sonographersafterdark #iheartecho #allaboutultrasound #loveecho #loveultrasound #bettercardiology #echoquality #cardiacultrasound 

This episode of Sonographers After Dark was sponsored by the American Society for Echocardiography, with support from an unrestricted educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb. In this episode, Lara Williams sits down with Margaret Kurnides, ACS, RDCS, FASE, and Amy Dillenbeck, MS, ACS, RDCS, RCS, FASE to discuss the growing adoption of goal-directed Valsalva in echocardiography and why it is transforming how sonographers evaluate patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).The conversation explores how the traditional Valsalva maneuver often varies between sonographers, leading to inconsistent results. By contrast, the goal-directed approach creates a standardized and reproducible maneuver that can reliably unmask latent LVOT obstruction, which may be present in up to one-third of HCM patients who show no obstruction at rest.Margaret and Amy share practical insights from implementing the technique in clinical labs, including setup tips, infection-control considerations, and strategies for gaining physician and administrative buy-in. They also discuss imaging challenges, differentiating LVOT signals from mitral regurgitation, and the importance of correlating Doppler findings with the broader physiologic picture.The discussion takes on new urgency in the era of myosin inhibitor therapies, where accurate echocardiographic measurements—particularly LVOT gradients and ejection fraction—are critical for diagnosis, treatment selection, and medication titration. The group emphasizes why sonographers must understand the physiology behind HCM, not just the imaging protocol.The episode closes with a look at upcoming ASE micro-lessons on goal-directed Valsalva. If you scan echo—or teach it—this is a conversation about technique, physiology, and the evolving role of the sonographer in modern HCM care. ​YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/#sonographersafterdark #iheartecho #allaboutultrasound #loveecho #loveultrasound #bettercardiology #echoquality #cardiacultrasound  #hocm #hypertrophiccardiomyopathy #hcm #goaldirectedvalsalva

It’s been almost a decade since Lara Williams and Judith Buckland, MBA, RDCS, FASE, last taught together (yes… the legendary “quack like a duck” kinetic learning moment is back). In this Sonographers After Dark episode, they reconnect to unpack how the ultrasound and echo world has transformed since 2016—through COVID-era shifts, remote education becoming the norm, and the rising demand to streamline the nonstop pressure on sonographers and physicians.Judith shares the real story behind her evolution from accreditation consulting to building process-driven quality systems—and why her biggest “aha” was that accreditation isn’t the destination… it’s the leverage that finally gets buy-in for standardization, peer review, and better outcomes. Together, they dig into the grind (and cost) of pursuing ACCME, the vision of bundling accreditation + QI + CME + credential requirements into one workflow, and the entrepreneur brain that keeps dreaming bigger.They also talk AI in echo (including vendor-agnostic automation, real-world “messy” data, and why this tech won’t replace sonographers—but can reduce burnout), plus what’s next: HOCM accreditation changes, goal-directed Valsalva, ICE/4D ICE advances, and the behind-the-scenes work of building platforms that make “better cardiology” possible.#sonographersafterdark #iheartecho #allaboutultrasound #loveecho #loveultrasound #bettercardiology #cardioserv #echoaccreditation #echoquality #cardiacultrasound #hocm #hypertrophiccardiomyopathy #hcm

In this powerful episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Joy Guthrie, PhD., ACS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, FSDMS, FASE, to discuss the evolution of advanced practice sonography and what it truly means to elevate our profession.Joy shares the story behind launching one of the first Advanced Cardiac Sonography programs in 2016—and how it expanded to include Advanced Perinatal Ultrasound and Advanced Vascular tracks. Designed for experienced sonographers with at least three years of clinical practice and a bachelor’s degree, these hybrid programs combine online coursework with immersive on-campus residency. The result? Graduates who return to their institutions with increased responsibility, new job descriptions, and higher compensation.Together, Lara and Joy explore:• The shift toward advanced roles in cardiac, vascular, and perinatal imaging• Why many “advanced” roles aren’t labeled that way—but function at a higher clinical level• How accreditation and positions like Technical Director have reshaped expectations (often requiring ACS-level expertise)• The development of the CAAHEP Pathway program for advanced practice• Gaining physician buy-in and aligning with collaborative, extender-style practice models• Practical application tips for competitive advanced program admission• The unique challenges of pediatric echocardiography training and why hands-on experience is non-negotiableThis episode is more than a conversation—it’s a roadmap for sonographers who are ready to expand their scope, elevate patient care, and help define the next generation of our profession.If you’ve ever wondered what the future of advanced sonography looks like… this is it.#SonographersAfterDark #AllAboutUltrasound #iheartecho #LoveUltrasound #LoveEcho💜​Watch the full episode here or listen on your favorite platform:Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Dr. Judy Hung (Mass General Hospital, Boston) for a candid, sonographer-focused conversation on valvular heart disease—and why high-quality echocardiography drives real clinical decisions in today’s structural heart era. Dr. Hung shares what drew her to valve disease through the lens of physiology and hemodynamics, and why echo is the frontline tool for determining whether stenosis or regurgitation is truly hemodynamically significant. The discussion dives into common valve-assessment pitfalls—like failing to chase the highest aortic stenosis gradients with multiple windows, skipping the non-imaging (Pedoff) probe, and missing key steps in MR quantification (zoom, baseline shift, and PISA setup).They also unpack how echo data influences heart team decisions for TAVR, why sonographer training and career pathways matter for retention, and how the profession may evolve with AI-assisted measurements and improving 3D transthoracic imaging—without replacing the need for skilled sonographers. Plus: a few fun rapid-fire moments (equitherapy “donkeys,” talking to chickens, and an echo myth Dr. Hung is ready to retire for good).If you’re ready to level up your valve game—this one’s for you. 💜💙🩵

What really goes into building an echocardiography training program from scratch?In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara sits down with Daniel Bourque for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about launching and sustaining a hospital-based echocardiography program at Orlando Health.Daniel shares the five-year journey of developing an employer-backed echo program—from navigating state licensing, board reviews, and massive documentation requirements to selecting students, building clinical rigor, and fostering real-world decision-making at the bedside. With over 1,300–1,500 clinical scanning hours, early hands-on exposure, and strong internal recruitment, this program is a powerful example of what’s possible when education stays rooted in clinical reality.Together, Lara and Daniel unpack:What hospital-based ultrasound and echo programs do rightThe challenges of accreditation and why transparency mattersWhy hands-on clinical experience still trumps everythingThe growing need for adult and pediatric echo cross-trainingWhat students often underestimate about becoming a sonographerAnd why perseverance is the quiet superpower behind every successful programWhether you’re a sonographer, educator, administrator, or someone dreaming of building a training program of your own—this episode pulls back the curtain on the long game of sonography education.Because strong programs don’t happen overnight—and the work behind them deserves to be seen. 💜💙Watch the full episode here or listen on your favorite platform:Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonographersAfterDarkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonographersafterdarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sonographersafterdarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonographersafterdark/

In this episode of Sonographers After Dark, Lara Williams sits down with Kelly Thorson, DHSc, MSRS, MS, ACS, RDCS, FASE, to talk about what it takes to build—and sustain—excellence in pediatric and fetal echocardiography.Kelly shares practical insight on recruiting and training pediatric echo sonographers, why mentorship and lifelong learning matter, and how sonographers can grow into research, education, and leadership pathways. They also dive into the real-world integration of 3D echo and strain in pediatric labs—how to train teams, improve consistency, and expand access to advanced imaging even outside academic centers.💜💙 #SonographersAfterDark #iHeartEcho #AllAboutUltrasound #LoveUltrasound #LoveEcho

Travel sonography sounds glamorous—but what’s it actually like? Lara and Lydia keep it real as they talk through the highs, lows, and logistics of life as a travel ultrasound professional.Lydia shares how she made the leap after hospital experience, why flexibility and new environments fueled her growth, and what surprised her most along the way. They dive into negotiating pay and schedules, understanding tax homes, extending contracts, and why adaptability and a good attitude go a long way at new facilities.If you’re considering travel work—or already living out of a suitcase—this candid conversation will help you navigate the road with clarity, confidence, and community. 💜💙

What does it really take to build a hospital-based echocardiography program from scratch—inside one of the busiest labs in the country?In this episode, Lara Williams is joined by Amy Dillenbeck, who leads the echo training program at Cleveland Clinic, for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about launching a sonography school after COVID-era staffing challenges pushed facilities to think differently.Amy walks through the early overwhelm (researching successful programs, navigating Ohio requirements, creating objectives and lesson plans, recruiting, marketing—plus all the unexpected parts like scheduling, payments, and yes… snow days). They discuss why the program intentionally accepts only 8 students per year, how clinical support from staff sonographers makes or breaks the student experience, and how the results have exceeded every expectation—100% graduation, placement, and board pass rates, plus 23 hires in 3 years helping strengthen staffing and elevate lab culture.They also dive deep into HOCM, where Amy shares what she’s seeing shift in evaluation and why sonographers play a critical role in not missing LVOT obstruction. You’ll learn the practical “how-to” behind goal-directed Valsalva—a more standardized, measurable approach that can improve consistency and help unmask gradients without losing your images.Finally, Amy and Lara talk ASE, attending Scientific Sessions, why involvement builds confidence and opportunity, and what the FASE designation can mean for sonographers who want to lead, teach, and level up.