Dean's Chat - All Things Podiatric Medicine

In this 3-part series: The Human Side of Leadership: Becoming the Physician You Want to Be, we explore the inner work of becoming an effective, authentic, and resilient healthcare professional. Through discussions of self-doubt, feedback, vulnerability, perfectionism, and emotional intelligence, the series examines how the way we understand and manage ourselves shapes the way we practice medicine, connect with others, and lead. Because leadership development is not just about acquiring new skills or earning a title. It is about learning to respond with intention, pursue excellence without losing ourselves, and build the kinds of relationships and professional environments in which both people and teams can thrive.

The central message of the series is simple: leadership begins with how we show up—as people, before we show up as professionals. In Part 1 we explore understanding ourselves, Part 2 we explore becoming ourselves and finally Part 3 we explore how we manage ourselves and connect with others. 

In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Johanna Richey welcomes Dr. Savannah Santiago, third-year chief resident at Ascension St. Vincent in Indianapolis, alongside Lyndley Andrews, president of the Maryland Healthcare Education Institute and leadership consultant to the APMA, for an honest conversation about imposter syndrome, leadership, and the ongoing pursuit of personal and professional excellence.

The discussion begins with how self-doubt and imposter syndrome contribute to the experience of questioning whether we truly belong in the positions we have earned. Savannah shares her experiences navigating self-doubt throughout podiatric medical school and residency, while Lyndley and Johanna reflect on how these feelings can persist even as accomplishments and responsibilities increase. The conversation explores practical strategies for challenging negative self-talk, including keeping a record of positive feedback and accomplishments, revisiting meaningful evaluations, and grounding self-doubt in objective evidence rather than assumptions.

The conversation then turns to the challenges of leadership, particularly when physicians and residents take on roles without formal leadership training. Listen as the panel reflects on learning curve of being a leader, emphasizing the importance of open communication, listening to difficult feedback without becoming defensive, acknowledging mistakes, and working collaboratively to identify solutions. Lyndley highlights the value of trusted mentors, supportive colleagues, and intentional leadership development in helping individuals navigate uncertainty and build confidence.

The group also explores emotional regulation, reframing negative narratives, and recognizing the difference between what we can and cannot control. From pausing before responding to a difficult message to questioning assumptions about others’ intentions, the speakers discuss ways to respond more thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. They emphasize the importance of personal values, self-awareness, and maintaining healthy habits that support resilience during stressful periods.

Ultimately, this episode reminds listeners that confidence and excellence do not require perfection. Growth involves vulnerability, accountability, accepting feedback, and learning to extend grace to ourselves and others while continuing to improve. This conversation is the first in a planned series exploring how we can show up as our best selves, navigate challenges with greater intention, and continue developing throughout our personal and professional lives.

www.apma.org/wellbeing

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Podiatry and Service: The Air Force HPSP with Emery Wright and Dr. Reid Marion

Dean’s Chat host, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen, welcomes Emery Wright, a second-year student at Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine (AZCPM), and Dr. Reid Marion, a 2021 AZCPM graduate, for a conversation about podiatric medicine, military service, and the U.S. Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP).

Both guests received this scholarship, connecting two perspectives: a current student preparing for a career in podiatric medicine and a graduate reflecting on the pathway beyond school. Emery earned a particularly meaningful distinction as the only podiatry student in the country selected for the scholarship in his award year.

The conversation explores their experiences with the application process, the scholarship’s benefits, and the commitment that comes with serving as an Air Force healthcare professional.

A Scholarship with More Than 50 Years of History:

HPSP was established through the Uniformed Services Health Professions Revitalization Act of 1972 to help the armed forces recruit qualified healthcare professionals. The program supports education at civilian institutions in exchange for a commitment to military service, connecting professional training with the healthcare needs of service members. (gao.gov⁠)

What Does the Scholarship Provide?

For the period covered by an award, Air Force HPSP benefits include:

• Full tuition and required academic fees.

• Required textbooks, approved small equipment, and supplies.

• A monthly stipend to help cover living expenses.

• A pathway into service as an Air Force healthcare officer.

These benefits can substantially reduce the financial burden of professional education. In return, recipients accept a military service obligation. The Air Force generally describes this as one year of active-duty service for each scholarship year, with a minimum three-year commitment; applicants should confirm the terms specific to their podiatry award and training pathway. (airforce.com⁠)

Inside the Application Process:

Emery and Dr. Marion discuss pursuing HPSP and navigating the application experience. Topics include:

• Discovering the scholarship and connecting with an Air Force health professions recruiter.

• Preparing an application while managing the demands of podiatric medical school.

• Understanding eligibility, selection, and the responsibilities of becoming a military officer.

• Considering how scholarship support and a service commitment fit long-term professional goals.

• Advice for students interested in following a similar path.

Because scholarship availability and terms depend on the profession and recruiting year, students should contact an Air Force health professions recruiter early to confirm current podiatry opportunities, application requirements, benefits, and obligations.

This episode offers prospective students, current students, and educators a closer look at a distinctive route through podiatric medical education—one that brings together financial support, professional development, and service to the country.

Learn more: U.S. Air Force Healthcare Careers and HPSP⁠

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In this episode of the Dean’s Chat Learning Series, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome back Dr. David Schweibish for an important and candid discussion about the medical-legal implications of biopsy, early diagnosis, clinical decision-making, and documentation in podiatric practice. The conversation explores the balance between conservative observation and timely biopsy, emphasizing the importance of objective diagnostic information when evaluating suspicious skin lesions and nonhealing ulcerations. 

Dr. Schweibish explains how relying solely on clinical observation can delay diagnosis and potentially lead to devastating consequences, particularly when malignancies are missed or identified late. He discusses the evolving legal landscape surrounding lower-extremity pathology and the potential liability physicians face when diagnoses are delayed or appropriate referrals are not made. The discussion also addresses how podiatrists can determine whether a condition falls within their clinical comfort zone and why establishing strong referral relationships with dermatologists, podiatric colleagues, vascular specialists, and other healthcare professionals is essential. 

Beyond clinical decision-making, the conversation highlights the critical role of accurate, individualized documentation and reliable office protocols, particularly for communicating biopsy results and ensuring patients receive appropriate follow-up care. The group also explores the emerging role of artificial intelligence in dermatopathology, clinical assessment, and medical documentation, while underscoring the importance of patient consent, transparency, and maintaining meaningful physician-patient relationships. 

Ultimately, this episode offers practical insights for clinicians seeking to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce preventable delays, protect patients, and mitigate medical-legal risk. Dr. Schweibish closes with a clear recommendation: know your scope of practice and comfort level, and when a lesion or ulceration raises concern, pursue appropriate diagnostic evaluation or timely referral. Early action can make a meaningful difference in patient outcomes and professional accountability.

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Dean’s Chat — Dr. Adrian Rosu: Advancing Podiatric Education Through Adipod24

Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes Dr. Adrian A. Rosu to Dean’s Chat for a conversation highlighting Adipod24, his Instagram educational resource for podiatric medical students, residents, and clinicians. Their discussion showcases a physician’s commitment to sharing knowledge and helping others learn throughout their professional journey.

Dr. Rosu is a chief resident in the Foot and Ankle Surgery Residency at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus in Falls Church, Virginia, with anticipated completion in 2027. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Des Moines University in 2024 after graduating cum laude from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology in 2019.

A central focus of this episode is Adipod24 and the role of social media in podiatric education. Dr. Rosu created AdiPod in 2022, extending his interest in teaching beyond the classroom and clinical setting. His educational work also includes creating DMU’s Journal Article Anki Collaboration, coordinating the university’s journal club with Dr. Gage Caudell, and contributing to the Student Contributions of Podiatric Education (SCOPE) externship and board-review handbook.

During medical school, Dr. Rosu served as a teaching assistant in both surgical skills and clinical medicine. His subsequent educational presentations have addressed ankle fractures, metatarsus adductus, Haglund’s deformity and Achilles tendinosis, and tarsal coalitions. His research experience includes work on a novel surgical approach for posterior distal tibial access in pilon fractures, presented as a poster at ACFAS 2026.

This episode spotlights an emerging podiatric educator whose work connects residency training, academic collaboration, and accessible digital learning. Students, residents, and practicing clinicians can explore Adipod24 as an additional resource in their ongoing education.

Follow Dr. Rosu’s educational content on Instagram: @adipod24

Host: Dr. Jeffrey Jensen

Guest: Dr. Adrian A. Rosu

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In this special episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey -the dynamic duo in podiatric podcasting- celebrate more than 300 episodes together, while reflecting on how the podcast has evolved over the past three years. What began as an effort to introduce prospective students to podiatric medicine has grown into a resource for students, residents, physicians, educators, and leaders across the profession. Along the way, the hosts have had the opportunity to speak with people from every stage of a podiatric career and to capture the stories, experiences, and perspectives that make the profession unique. 

Drs. Jensen and Richey discuss some of the unexpected outcomes of the podcast, including the creation of playlists and resources organized around students, residents, leaders, and storied careers. They reflect on the value of interviewing influential figures in podiatric medicine and preserving their stories for future generations. Beyond a CV or list of accomplishments, these conversations reveal the personal journeys, mentors, challenges, and experiences that shaped the people who have contributed to the profession. The hosts share how meaningful it has been to capture some of the history of podiatry directly from the people who lived it. 

Perhaps most importantly, they reflect on the human side of medicine. They discuss the value of long-form conversations, communication, leadership, teamwork, professional sustainability, and creating opportunities to understand perspectives that may differ from our own. As Dean’s Chat looks toward its next chapter, the hosts remain committed to bringing forward the voices of current and future leaders in podiatric medicine while creating space for the conversations that matter. After 300 episodes together, the message is clear: the stories are worth telling, the conversations are worth having, and there is still much more to explore. 

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Dean’s Chat comes to you from the road! Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey sat down with educators, clinicians, industry leaders, residents, and other influential voices from across the profession for a special series of conversations recorded at the Bako Diagnostics booth.

This interview includes: Brooke Bisbee, Tania Chevalier, Representing the American Association of Podiatric Medical Assistants we are joinded by Cheryl, Michelle, and Karen, Dr. Michael King, Dr. Rachel Gerber, Disal Wickramasinghe (NYCPM student), .

These rapid-fire conversations highlight the people, ideas, organizations, and initiatives shaping the future of podiatric medicine. From education and residency training to professional leadership, industry leaders Bako Diagnostics, clinical practice, advocacy, and the evolving opportunities within the profession, this special APMA series provides an inside look at podiatry from the individuals helping move it forward.

A special thank-you to Bako Diagnostics for hosting Dean’s Chat and providing the space for these conversations at APMA National.

Whether you are a prospective podiatric medical student, current student, resident, educator, or practicing podiatrist, this series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders throughout the profession.

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Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Dr. Marque Allen, fellowship director at Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio and team podiatrist for the San Antonio Spurs. Join us for a wide-ranging discussion about perseverance, professional growth, and the unexpected journey that led him to podiatric medicine. 

This episode is predominently about sports medicine, the patients we treat, and priorities for athletets to get them back on the field!

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Allen emphasizes mentorship, surrounding oneself with excellence, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.

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Dr. William Long, FACFAS joins Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey. Dr. Long is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and a proud graduate of South Carolina State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry.

Dr. Long began his service career as a medical specialist in the United States Army Reserve. During his sophomore year at South Carolina State, he was awarded a full-tuition scholarship from the United States Coast Guard. Upon graduation, he honorably served eight years on active duty as a Marine Safety Officer. While stationed in Charleston, South Carolina, Dr. Long was hand-selected to supervise the newly established Maritime Homeland Security Department in response to the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

He went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Biology Education from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, and later obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in 2009. Dr. Long completed a rigorous four-year Foot and Ankle Surgical Residency at the University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia before returning to his home state of South Carolina.

Dr. Long is double board-certified by both the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He holds the distinction of being the first podiatrist to perform ankle surgery in South Carolina and played an instrumental role in expanding the state’s scope of practice to include ankle surgery in 2018.

He served two years as South Carolina’s delegate to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and was elected to the APMA Board of Trustees in 2019. Dr. Long is the past chair of the following committees to include Development, Legislative, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. He currently serves as the APMA liaison to the Council of Podiatric Medical Education. 

Dr. Long is in private practice, overseeing four office locations with six associate physicians. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Pelham Surgical Center and the South Carolina Quality Radiation Standards Association. Additionally, he is a Board of Visitors member at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, serves on the Executive Board of the South Carolina Podiatric Medical Association.

A devoted husband and father of four, Dr. Long takes pride in knowing that his daughters, Logan and Loren, will be following in his professional footsteps. He lives by the United States Coast Guard motto, Semper Paratus— “Always Ready”—a reflection of his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and excellence.

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Clerkships are one of the most important and, sometimes intimidating, steps in a podiatric medical student's journey toward residency. In this episode of Dean's Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen and Dr. Johanna Richey share candid advice drawn from their experiences working with students, clerks, and residency applicants. They explore what residency programs are really looking for once a student gets their “foot in the door,” and why grades and class rank are only part of the picture. 

The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, curiosity, work ethic, communication, and being coachable. While academic performance can open doors, the clerkship provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they know, how they think, and how they work with patients, residents, faculty, and staff. Students are encouraged to prepare for cases, participate in discussions, ask questions, and be willing to acknowledge what they don't know. Receiving feedback without becoming defensive is another essential skill, not only for clerkships and residency, but throughout a career in medicine. 

Drs. Jensen and Richey also discuss the anxiety that often accompanies clerkships, particularly when students compare themselves with their peers or feel pressure to perform perfectly. They emphasize that students are still learning and that knowledge and confidence develop throughout the fourth year. A difficult question or challenging day does not define a student's ability or potential. Instead, students can use those experiences to identify gaps, return to the fundamentals, and continue building their clinical knowledge. 

Perhaps most importantly, they encourage students to view clerkships as an opportunity rather than simply an audition for residency. Spending a month at a program allows students to experience its clinical environment, culture, location, residents, faculty, and patient population while building relationships within the profession. They encourage students to explore programs they may initially consider a “reach” and to avoid allowing online reviews or comparisons to determine their expectations. 

The episode closes with a reminder to embrace the process, use faculty and mentors as resources, give yourself and others grace, and focus on showing up as the best version of yourself each day. Clerkships are not about being perfect; they are an opportunity to learn, grow, build relationships, and discover where you might thrive in residency and beyond. 

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Dean’s Chat: Is Podiatry Facing a Workforce Shortage? 

Drs. Andrew Meyr and Jeneen Elagha on the Data!

A new workforce study projects a shortage of 1,810 podiatric physicians in 2025—growing to 4,680 by 2035—with the largest projected gaps in Texas, California, Florida, and Georgia.

Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome study authors Drs. Andrew Meyr and Jeneen Elagha to discuss how federal workforce projections, CMS data, and podiatric education trends shaped these estimates. They also explore what the findings could mean for patient access, student recruitment, training, and where podiatric physicians choose to practice.

Study: Meyr AJ, Elagha J. “2025 podiatric physician workforce analysis based on Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) projections.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Published online September 6, 2026. Read the abstract on PubMed.

Topics: Podiatric workforce • Patient access • HRSA projections • Podiatric medical education • Student recruitment

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