Behind the Mask: Interviewing Health Professionals

In Episode 3 of Season 2 of Behind The Mask, we explore the world of oncology pharmacy and the important role pharmacists play in caring for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Pharmacists that specialize in oncology work very closely with patients and their teams to ensure medications are safe, effective, and personalized.

In this episode, Mariana shares her journey into oncology pharmacy, including being part of the first graduating class from Fairleigh Dickinson University's PharmD program. We talk about some of the emotional moments she has experienced with patients, the work that happens behind the scenes as she oversees pharmacy operations across 11 infusion centers, including the financial, billing, and administrative responsibilities that are a vital part of keeping cancer care running smoothly.

Whether you're interested in pharmacy, oncology, or exploring the many career paths within healthcare, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the clinical as well as emotional sides of oncology pharmacy and the impact pharmacists can have on patients and the healthcare system.

In Episode 2 of Season 2 of Behind The Mask, we explore the field of geriatric physical therapy and the important role they play in older adults life. Geriatric physical therapists are an imperative component of the medical field, as they assist the elderly to be able to maintain mobility, independence, and happiness. Geriatric physical therapists tend to work with older patients experiencing age-related changes, injuries, surgeries, and conditions, helping them do daily hobbies safely and stay active throughout their stages of aging.

In this episode, Dr. Ariel Stoner shares her journey into physical therapy and what led her to work with older adults. We take a closer look at what a career in geriatric physical therapy actually looks like, the stories of successful patients and what they mean to her, and the schooling paths and options that are available in building a career in the field. Dr. Stoner also offers insight into the importance of patience when working with adults, as well as sharing what the pros and cons are.

Whether you're interested in physical therapy, geriatrics, or exploring any career in healthcare, this episode offers an inside look at the profession and the many ways physical therapists can help patients stay active and confident in their everyday lives.

In Episode 1 of Season 2 of Behind The Mask, we explore the path to becoming a physician assistant and what it really takes to get into PA school. Physician assistants play an important role in healthcare, working alongside physicians and other providers to diagnose and treat patients across a wide range of specialties. For students interested in medicine, becoming a PA can offer a unique pathway into a rewarding healthcare career.

In this episode, Alifiya shares her journey into discovering that medicine was the right path for her and what ultimately led her to pursue physician assistant school. We talk about the PA school application process, what surprised her most along the way, and some of the challenges students may not expect—including just how expensive applications can be. Alifiya also shares her advice on getting involved early and finding meaningful ways to gain exposure to medicine and healthcare.

Whether you're interested in becoming a PA, exploring healthcare careers, or wondering how to get your foot in the door of medicine, this episode offers an honest look at the journey, the application process, and the steps students can take to start building their path toward a career in healthcare.

In Episode 15 of Behind The Mask, we explore the world of healthcare social work to better understand the vital role social workers play in supporting patients and families through some of life's most difficult moments. Healthcare social workers serve as advocates, counselors, and problem-solvers, helping patients navigate emotional, social, and practical challenges while ensuring they receive the care and resources they need.

In this episode, Neshama shares her journey into social work and discusses the experiences that helped her discover her passion for the profession. We talk about what goes through a social worker's mind while speaking with patients and the challenges and rewards of supporting individuals facing serious illness and life-changing circumstances. We also discuss the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, how it may impact the future of social work, and why empathy and human connection remain irreplaceable.

Whether you're interested in social work, healthcare careers, or learning more about the professionals who support patients beyond medical treatment, this episode offers an insightful look at the compassion, advocacy, and human connection at the heart of healthcare.

In Episode 14 of Behind The Mask, we explore the field of radiology with Dr. Paresh Rijsinghani to better understand the specialty that helps physicians diagnose and treat patients through medical imaging. Radiologists play a critical role in healthcare, interpreting scans, collaborating with clinical teams, and helping guide patient care behind the scenes.

In this episode, Dr. Rijsinghani shares his journey into radiology and discusses the training path required to enter the field. We talk a lot about the residency Match process, what it's like to spend a day interpreting imaging studies, and the skills needed to identify important findings that can significantly impact patient outcomes. We also dive into one of the most rapidly evolving topics in medicine—artificial intelligence—and discuss how AI is changing healthcare, what it means for the future of radiology, and why human expertise remains essential. In addition, Dr. Rijsinghani shares how he balances the demands of his work and what he does to unwind after spending hours reading scans.

Whether you're interested in radiology, medical technology, healthcare careers, or the future of AI in medicine, this episode offers an insightful look at a specialty that combines science, technology, and patient care to help physicians see the bigger picture.

In Episode 13 of Behind The Mask, we explore the world of dental hygiene with Tawanna to uncover what the profession is really like beyond routine cleanings. Dental hygienists play a major role in preventive care, patient education, and identifying oral health concerns firsthand, making them an essential part of the dental team and overall patient health.

In this episode, Tawanna shares her unique pathway from accounting to dental assisting and eventually into dental hygiene, discussing the love that she has had for the field. She talks about the realities of working closely with patients every day, the most rewarding and challenging parts of her job, and how dental hygienists often catch issues before they become serious problems. We also discuss her future goal of purchasing a mobile dental vehicle to expand access to care and reach underserved communities.

We also want to apologize for some of the audio quality in this episode and appreciate your patience and support.

Whether you’re interested in dentistry, healthcare careers, or learning more about the people behind patient care, this episode offers an honest look at the dedication, compassion, and impact involved in dental hygiene.

In Episode 12 of Behind The Mask, we dive into the world of orthodontics with Dr. Tony Tyan to uncover what really goes into creating confident, healthy smiles. From braces to clear aligners, orthodontic care is about more than just aesthetics—it plays a critical role in oral health, function, and long-term well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Tyan shares his journey into orthodontics and breaks down the pathway into becoming involved in dentistry, how his day goes as a provider who takes care of mostly children, and what he loves about working with patients over time to transform their smiles. We also talk about common misconceptions, what he does to wind down, and what students should know if they’re interested in pursuing a career in dentistry or orthodontics.

Whether you’ve had braces, are considering them, or are curious about the field, this episode offers an inside look at the precision, patience, and impact behind every smile.

In this episode of Behind The Mask, we explore the complex world of oncology clinical operations with Medical Oncology Clinical Operations Director Bo. From coordinating schedules with multiple locations to managing healthcare teams, oncology operations play a critical role in ensuring patients receive timely, safe, and effective cancer care.

In this episode, Bo shares her journey into oncology operations and discusses her experience in overseeing the systems that support cancer treatment. We talk about the responsibilities of a clinical operations director, the challenges of patient loss, and a day-in-the-life. She also provides insight into her long, interesting path into being where she is today.

This conversation highlights how strong leadership skills behind the scenes can directly impact patient care—and why understanding healthcare operations is essential for future healthcare professionals interested in making a difference beyond the bedside.

In Episode 10 of Behind The Mask, we explore the vital role of vascular health with Nurse Practitioner Carmy Mendoza. From circulation to chronic conditions, vascular care plays a critical role in preventing serious complications and improving patient outcomes.

In this episode, NP Mendoza shares her journey into vascular health and discusses what it takes to care for patients with complex vascular conditions. We talk about the aspects of her job, her job as a traveling NP (going into people's houses), and clinical decision-making involved in managing circulation-related health issues. She also provides insight into the responsibilities of a nurse practitioner and what students should know if they are interested in advanced nursing roles.

This conversation highlights how something as simple as blood flow can have life-changing consequences—and why understanding vascular health is essential for future healthcare professionals.

In Episode 9 of Behind The Mask, we sit down with Dr. Nelia San Jose-Carlson, a psychiatrist and hospital administrator, to explore what it means to balance patient care with system-level decision-making. From treating mental health conditions to leading within a hospital setting, Dr. San Jose-Carlson shares how clinical insight and leadership intersect in high-stakes environments.

We discuss her journey into psychiatry, the responsibilites of being a part of hospital administration, and how decisions made behind the scenes directly impact patient safety and outcomes. This episode offers a powerful look into both the human and operational sides of healthcare—and what future healthcare professionals need to understand before entering the field.

Apologies if there are some audio issues with this episode!