In this episode, Julia sits down with Dr. Velazquez, a vascular surgeon at WFUSM, for an inside look at her journey into the field and the day-to-day life of caring for patients with complex vascular disease. She shares how she balances the precision of the OR with the human connection that drives her work, reflecting on mentorship, overcoming adversity, and what continues to inspire her in a rapidly evolving specialty.

Whether you’re exploring surgical subspecialties or drawn to the blend of skill and compassion in patient care, this conversation offers a meaningful window into vascular surgery. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

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In this episode, Julia sits down with Dr. Wylie, a general surgery resident at Wake Forest School of Medicine, for an insightful conversation about training in surgery.
From the learning curve of intern year to the collaborative environment of the operating room, Dr. Wylie shares reflections on skill development, clinical teamwork, and navigating residency. Whether you're exploring a future in surgery or interested in how surgical education unfolds, this episode offers practical insights and helpful perspective from inside the program. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  
Connect with us on Instagram: @wakeforestmed 

In this episode, Julia sits down with two DNP students, Ann Faris and Andrew Blocker to explore the realities of advanced nursing education and practice. From navigating clinical rotations to balancing leadership, advocacy, and personal growth, they share candid reflections on what it means to pursue a doctorate in nursing. Whether you're considering a DNP program or curious about the evolving role of nurse practitioners, this episode is for you. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

Connect with us on Instagram: @wakeforestmed 

In this episode, Julia sits down with Dr. Corey Williams, a third-year Internal Medicine resident at Wake Forest, for a deep dive into IM residency. 
From the steep learning curve of intern year to the confidence and autonomy of PGY-3, Dr. Williams shares candid insights on growth, balance, and becoming the physician you set out to be. Whether you’re preparing for residency or exploring internal medicine, this episode offers grounded advice and real perspective from the heart of training. 
 
Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

Connect with us on Instagram: @wakeforestmed 

In this episode, Julia sits down with Rosemary Colen, a second-year medical student at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, for an open and candid conversation about the transition into medical school. From adapting to the academic rigor to finding balance between volunteering and personal life, Rosemary offers practical, relatable insights.
Whether you’re a premed student or just starting your M1 year, this episode delivers honest reflections and actionable advice. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

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Welcome to Season 4 of Deacon Dialogues! This season, we welcome back Julia Henault and Alex Riddell to the mic as they host a variety of conversations centered around culture, opportunities, community, and academics here at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

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From MBA to motherhood to medicine — Cady’s journey to PA school is anything but traditional.
In this episode, Julia chats with Wake Forest University School of Medicine 2nd-year PA student Cady Elredy to talk about leveraging a business background, balancing parenting, and finding purpose in the unexpected. Tune in for honest advice, insights for prospective PA students, and tips for turning doubt into direction. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

Connect with us on Instagram: @wakeforestmed 

Alex sat down with second year student Pearce Hyatt to discuss his clinical experience in Nepal this past summer. From navigating funding and finding the opportunity, to the clinical challenges and cultural immersion—Pearce shares what made the experience unforgettable. Tune in to find out more about Pearce’s experience! 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

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In this episode, Alex sits down with third year student, Lucy Lawrence, to unpack the DEAC Foot & Ankle Clinic.  What does the clinic do?  How does the clinic operate? What does the future of the clinic look like? All this and more on this week's episode!  


Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.  

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Preparing for residency? We’ve got you covered. In this episode, Julia chats with three 4th-year medical students—Lucas Klever (Anesthesiology), Natalie DeRoche (Family Medicine), and Colton Smith (Diagnostic Radiology)—about navigating 4th year and the residency application process. 

From choosing a specialty and preparing ERAS applications to requesting letters and excelling in rotations, they share candid insights and lessons learned to help you tackle your final year with confidence. 

Want to Participate? Whether you have an episode idea or want to be featured, we want to hear from you! Email [email protected] and send us your pitch.
  
Connect with us on Instagram: @wakeforestmed