AUA Leadership and Business

Welcome to AUA's AWARD WINNING Leadership & Business Podcast where urologic professionals experience the practical application of business acumen essential to successfully navigating today's rapidly changing business environment! Whether you are starting your career, seeking career advancement or professional development, or looking to master the business challenges facing urology practices, the AUA Leadership & Business Podcast is your go-to podcast! 2025 WINNER! The AUA Leadership & Business Podcast was recently awarded the distinguished Gold Circle Award by the American Society of Association Executives. Subscribe today by searching "Leadership & Business" on your favorite podcast app, and get every new episode automatically downloaded right to your device!

Navigating the Urology Team: The APP-Physician Dynamic - Episode 83

Navigating the Urology Team: The APP-Physician Dynamic Host: Leslie Lorbacher, NP Guest: Kaity Colon, DPA, MPAS, PA-C Guest: Pamela Ellsworth, MD A special release brought to you by the Advanced Practice Provider Committee's Member Engagement Team and originally featured on the AUANews Inside Tract Podcast, this episode brings together Leslie Lorbacher, Kaity Colon and Dr. Pamela Ellsworth for an in-depth look at the essential partnership between Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and physicians. This insightful resource highlights how these roles complement one another - strengthening collaboration, improving patient outcomes, and streamlining clinical workflows. Whether you are an APP or a physician, understanding and leveraging each role's uniques strengths is key to building effective, patient-centered teams.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

11-13
42:57

Measuring Interest - The Rise of Digital Men's Health and Direct to Consumer Services - Episode 82

Measuring Interest - The Rise of Digital Men's Health and Direct to Consumer Services Guest: Logan Hubbard, MD Host: Micheal Darson, MD What are digital and Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) services? Join Drs. Logan Hubbard and Micheal Darson as they explore this question as well as the factors driving more men toward digital care. Learn about who the "typical" user might be, current limitations and risks of this model, and get a peek into what the future may hold for the digital men's health sphere. Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

11-06
43:39

The Family Medicine Genitourinary Fellowship: Elevating Care in Family Practice - Episode 81

The Family Medicine Genitourinary Fellowship: Elevating Care in Family Practice Guest: Tavya G. R. Benjamin, MD Guest: Francesco Taormina, DO Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, MBA, URPS Tune in to learn what the Family Medicine Genitourinary Fellowship is, why it was created, and explore the program structure. Hear firsthand what day-to-day practice looks like for fellowship-trained physicians and how this unique training can benefit both patients and the broader urologic community. Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

10-16
27:07

Aligning Cost and Care: Bundled Payments in Prostate Cancer Care - Episode 80

Aligning Cost and Care: Bundled Payments in Prostate Cancer Care Guest: Ruchika Talwar, MD, MHHC Host: Micheal Darson, MD Tune in as Dr. Ruchika Talwar, urologic oncologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Medical Director in the Episode of Care Office, joins host, Dr. Micheal Darson, to unpack the role of bundled payments in prostate cancer care – streamlining care pathways, enhancing coordination, and maintaining high standards of clinical quality. What urologic providers need to know as bundled payment models become more widespread – and why they should take an active role in payment reform as some models begin to become mandatory. Helpful Resources AUA Advocacy Get Involved AUA Summit The Policy and Advocacy Work Group's Fireside Chats AUA Urologic Coding Education AUA CodingPlus (2025) AUA Coding Seminar Webcast (2025)

10-02
28:50

Artificial Intelligence in Urology: What's Here, What's Next - Episode 79

Artificial Intelligence in Urology: What's Here, What's Next Guest: Glenn Werneburg, MD, PhD Host: Stephen Riggs, MD, MBA Explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the field of urology today and what innovations lie ahead. Physician Scientist and Urologist, Dr. Glenn Werneburg, joins our host, Dr. Stephen Riggs, to examine current applications, future possibilities, and what clinicians need to know as AI continues to transform patient care and practice management.  Check out other AI related episodes: How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Healthcare and its Impact on Urology Practices; Monetizing and Incentivizing Artificial Intelligence and Telemedicine in Urology Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL  

09-18
33:41

Urology in the Spotlight: Current Advocacy Trends and Impact - Episode 78

Urology in the Spotlight: Current Advocacy Trends and Impact Guest: Jonathan E. Heinlen, MD Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, MBA, URPS Tune in as Dr. Jonathan Heinlen and Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas explore the current advocacy trends every urologist should know about, why they matter, and how you can engage to ensure your voice is heard. Learn actionable ways to stay involved and make an impact for your practice and your patients. https://www.auanet.org/advocacy Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL  

09-04
37:59

Clean, Reset, Repeat: The Art of Operating Room Turnover Efficiency - Episode 77

Clean Reset, Repeat: The Art of Operating Room Turnover Efficiency Guest: Kathleen Kobashi, MD, MBA, FACS Host: Micheal Darson, MD  Faster, smoother, and more efficient! Join host, Dr. Michael Darson as he taps into the expertise of Dr. Kathleen Kobashi, Chair of the Department of Urology at Houston Methodist Hospital in Texas, to explore challenges and opportunities for improving operating room turnover - unlocking ways to boost efficiency, reduce delays, and keep surgical teams and patients moving smoothly. Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

08-21
31:38

Two Paths, One Calling: MD vs. DO Explained - Episode 76

Two Paths, One Calling: MD vs. DO Explained Guest: Linsday Lombardo, DO Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, MBA, URPS What's the difference between and MD and a DO? Tune in to this episode and find out! Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Lindsay Lombardo, joins our host Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas to explore the key differences in training, philosophy, and clinical approach between allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medicine. They also discuss how these paths converge in practice, residency, and patient care. Whether you are choosing a medical path, collaborating across disciplines, or simply curious, this episode offers clarity on two distinct degrees with one shared purpose: delivering high-quality patient care through the practice of medicine.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

08-07
39:42

The Physician Scientist: Different Paths to Success - Episode 75

The Physician Scientist - Different Paths to Success Moderator Aria Olumi, MD Panelists                                    Christopher Barbieri, MD, PhD       Rose Khavari, MD           Peter Schulam, MD, PhD       Neal Shore, MD, FACS This episode was originally presented as a webinar offered by the American Urological Association's Office of Research. Moderated by Course Director, Dr. Aria Olumi, this dynamic and engaging discussion highlights the diverse experiences of expert panelists, Drs. Christopher Barbieri, Rose Khavari, Peter Schulam, and Neal Shore, while showcasing the multiple career trajectories available to physician-scientists in urology. Tune in for this enlightening conversation as panelists share the challenges, opportunities, and key decision points that have shaped their paths.  For more information on AUA's research education and mentorship programs, please visit https://www.auanet.org/research-and-data/research-education-and-mentorship-programs.      

07-31
01:02:19

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Private Equity Backed Group Practice - Episode 74

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Private Equity Backed Group Practice Guest: Jason M. Hafron, MD Host: Stephen Riggs, MD, MBA How can independent medical groups thrive while delivering high-quality care? In this episode, Dr. Stephen Riggs welcomes Dr. Jason Hafron, CMO at Michigan Institute of Urology, as they explore the private equity based group model and how this model creates and measures quality, monitors adherence, and incorporates research to drive better care. Hear how this model is evloving to meet today's clinical and operational demands. Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL  

07-17
35:41

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Hospital Employed Practice Model - Episode 73

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Hospital Employed Practice Model Guest: Anand Shridharani, MD, FACS Host: Micheal Darson, MD The hospital employed practice is becoming more common - but what does it actually mean for providers? In this episode, Dr. Anand Shridharani joins host, Dr. Micheal Darson, to explore how this practice model functions, it's benefits and drawbacks, and what providers should weigh when considering entering into hospital employment. From compensation structures to clinical autonomy and adminstrative support, Drs. Shridharani and Darson unpack the nuances of this model and what makes it distinct in today's healthcare landscape.    Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL  

07-03
51:54

Dynamic Surgical Leadership - Episode 72

Dynamic Surgical Leadership Guest: Jeffrey Kneisl, MD Host: Stephen Riggs, MD, MBA In this episode our host, Dr. Stephen Riggs, welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Kneisl to explore what is means to be a dynamic leader in surgery - balancing clinical excellence, team management, and innovation. Dr. Kneisl shares real word strategies for leading in fast paced clinical settings, navigating change, and building resilient surgical teams.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

06-19
33:21

The C-Suite: Understanding and Aligning Physician Goals with Health System Priorities - Episode 71

The C-Suite: Understanding and Aligning Physician Goals with Health System Priorities Guest: Don Taylor, MHA Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, MBA, URPS In this episode, our Host, Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas, sits down with Don Taylor, the Director of the Alliance for Physician Leadership and Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Dallas. Together they explore how to bridge the gap between individual physician goals and broader health system priorities. Tune in for practical insights on fostering alignment, improving engagement, and driving shared success in today's evolving healthcare environment.  AUA Leadership & Business is an Award Winning Podcast! Winner of the distinguished 2025  American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Gold Circle Award for podcasts!   Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

06-05
36:14

Innovating for Impact: A Urologist's Journey to Transform Patient Care - Episode 70

Innovating for Impact: A Urologist's Journey to Transform Patient Care Guest: Fenwa Milhouse, MD Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, MBA, URPS In this episode Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas sits down with Dr. Fenwa Milhouse who shares her inspiring journey from working in a traditional medical practice to launching her own private practice and building a powerful social media presence. She talks about what inspired the transition, the challenges of stepping out of her comfort zone and how she uses her voice to educate, advocate, and support urologic patient care in powerful new ways.  AUA Leadership & Business is an Award Winning Podcast! Winner of the distinguished 2025  American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Gold Circle Award for podcasts!    

05-15
32:01

Maximizing Reimbursement: The Critical Role of Accurate Medical Coding and Billing in Revenue Cycle Management - Episode 69

Maximizing Reimbursement: The Critical Role of Accurate Medical Coding and Billing in Revenue Cycle Management Host: Kirsten Anderson, MHA, CMPE, CSC, CASC Guest: Micheal Darson, MD Accurate coding and billing are vital to successful revenue cycle management (RCM). Tune in as Kirsten Anderson, CEO at Atlantic Urology in Myrtle Beach, SC, joins host, Dr. Micheal Darson, to provide valuable insights into this important topic. From the growing challenges facing practices in today's urologic environment to the core components of the RCM cycle, Ms. Anderson shares expert wisdom and guidance on best practices for improving efficiency, reducing errors, and boosting financial performance. Interested in enhancing your knowledge and proficiency in urologic coding and billing? Join us for the AUA Coding Seminar (2025) that offers essential updates and insights on urologic coding and documentation, government payer policies, and the impact of accurate coding and billing on revenue cycle management. This one-day virtual seminar is perfect for coders, practice administrators, and providers! AUA Leadership & Business is an Award Winning Podcast! Winner of the 2025 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Gold Circle Award for podcasts!  

05-01
33:21

Exploring Medical Practice Models - Inside the Academic Healthcare System Model - Episode 68

Exploring Medical Practice Models - Inside the Academic Healthcare System Model Guest: Stephen E. Strup, MD, FACS Host: Micheal Darson, MD How does the academic healthcare system model differ from other medical practice models? Dr. Stephen Strup shares his expertise and firsthand insights into its organization, benefits, and challenges - offering valuable context for urologic professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of this unique practice model.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL  

04-17
35:09

A Physician's Journey Beyond Clinical Practice - Episode 67

A Physician's Journey Beyond Clinical Practice - Episode 67 Guest: Lisa Bailey, MD Host: Stephen Riggs, MD In this episode, our host Dr. Stephen Riggs sits down with Dr. Lisa Bailey, a former urologist who made the difficult decision to leave clinical practice after coming to the ultimate realization that urology wasn't the right fit. Dr. Bailey shares her personal journey of self-reflection, the challenges of stepping away from a medical career, and how she navigated the decision to leave clinical medicine. Her story offers valuable insights for physicians struggling with career satisfaction, burnout, or the fear of making a change. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about rediscovering purpose and taking control of your professional future.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

04-03
35:42

How Coaching Transforms Careers and Well-Being in Urology - Episode 66

How Coaching Transforms Careers and Well-Being In Urology - Episode 66 Guest: Kerri Thurmon, MD Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, URPS, MBA Discover how life coaching empowers physicians to overcome burnout, enhance career satisfaction, and improve overall well-being. In this episode, Dr. Kerri Thurmon joins our host, Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thoams, to explore the transformative impact of coaching on mindset, work-life balance, and professional fulfillment.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

03-20
24:26

Business Leadership (Softer Side Skills) - Episode 65

Business Leadership (Softer Side Skills) - Episode 65 Guest: Mike Salvino Host: Stephen Riggs, MD, FACS Tune in and explore the "softer side" of business leadership - skills that go beyond strategy and decision-making. Mike Salvino joins host, Dr. Stephen Riggs, for this insightful discussion on the importance of communication, change management, confidence, inspiration, and mentoring - the softer side skills - that help leaders connect with their teams and drive success.  Resource - Business Leadership Hard Core and Softer Side Skills Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

03-06
42:26

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Veteran Affairs (VA) Model - Episode 64

Exploring Medical Practice Models: Inside the Veteran Affairs (VA) Model - Episode 64 Guest: Jeffrey A. Jones, MD Host: Jennifer Miles-Thomas, MD, URPS, MBA In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas and Dr. Jeffrey Jones explore the unique Veterans Affairs (VA) medical practice model and its impact on patient care. Dr. Jones, a military veteran and highly accomplished in both urology and aerospace medicine, shares insights from his diverse career journey - from military service to leadership in VA medicine. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the key benefits, growth opportunities, rewards, and innovations within the VA healthcare system.  Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe today by clicking on one of the links below or searching "Leadership and Business" on your favorite podcast app! Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aua-leadership-and-business/id1646701227 YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmlqgyiBVx1HGqaUsLmAErH472CyzBlLF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3jZthzjFAHwRSsV72D4JlL

02-20
28:21

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