Gut Check

Since Gut Check launched three years ago, Dr. Jonathan Abelson and Dr. Erin King-Mullins have helped shape its voice—sparking candid conversations, sharing laughs, and building memorable connections with guests and listeners alike. In this special farewell episode, they revisit the interviews that left a lasting mark, the buzz of the 2024 and 2025 live shows, and the surprises that made hosting so rewarding. As they pass the mic to the continuing Gut Check team, Jon and Erin share their hopes for what's ahead—and a reminder that at its core, the show has always been about the community it serves.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

Join our hosts for a candid conversation about one of the hardest—but most powerful—words to say: no. In a world full of opportunities, requests, and expectations, how do professionals protect their time without closing doors? This episode dives into the real-life challenge of setting boundaries, weighing what to say yes to, and recognizing your value when new commitments come your way. The hosts share personal insights and practical tips on how to turn down asks with confidence—and kindness—while staying true to what matters most.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

In this special live-recorded episode of Gut Check, your favorite hosts return to the mic from the ASCRS Annual Meeting in San Diego. Recorded in front of a live audience for the second year in a row, this episode captures unscripted Q&A with attendees, reflections on standout sessions, and personal highlights from this year's meeting. The conversation spans everything from regional society meetings to the complexities of operating on friends and family members. Plus, former Gut Check host Avery Walker drops by and shares a few insights of his own. Enjoy this fun, candid, and content-packed listen straight from the heart of the meeting.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

In this episode, Gut Check hosts sit down with Dr. Moises Jacobs—world-renowned laparoscopic surgery pioneer in Miami, FL. Dr. Jacobs shares his journey from medical school at the University of Miami to becoming a trailblazer in bariatric and colorectal surgery. Dr. Jacobs reflects on the challenges and triumphs of being a minority surgeon, and opens up about challenges of losing a patient.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

In this candid episode, join our hosts as they tackle the critical topic of health, wellness, and burnout in surgery. Drawing from their own personal experiences, they share the practical strategies they use to maintain balance, build resilience, and foster joy both in and out of the operating room. But this conversation goes beyond coping mechanisms. Our hosts dive deep into the root causes of stress in the surgical profession and explore what it means to proactively design healthier, happier workplaces. They discuss how shifting the focus from individual stress management to eliminating systemic stressors can lead to more sustainable change.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

Join Biddy, Meghana and Alexis as they discuss the complexities of family planning and maintaining a healthy work-life balance within a demanding surgical career. From planning for parental leave and fertility preservation during pivotal career moments to carving out space for family, social connection, and personal renewal, this conversation explores what it means to show up fully in every role. With the recognition that real support matters, we're also proud to offer on-site childcare at this year's ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting—part of a growing effort to make our professional spaces more inclusive and sustainable for working parents.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

Get an inside look at the planning of the 2025 ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego! In this episode, the hosts sit down with the Program Committee to discuss how they're shaping an innovative and engaging experience for attendees. From cutting-edge AI-focused sessions to the introduction of on-site child care—a first for ASCRS!—this year's meeting is designed to be more accessible and enriching than ever. San Diego is the perfect backdrop for both professional growth and family fun, with kid-friendly attractions and incredible dining just steps away from the meeting. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

ASCRS Past President and Chair of the 125th Anniversary Campaign Steering Committee, Dr. Matthew Mutch, and ASCRS President, Dr. Sonia Ramamoorthy, join Gut Check for a special episode highlighting how we are paving the way for the future of colorectal surgery. Together, we explore how the 125th Anniversary Campaign will drive growth in education, research, and career development—ensuring the specialty continues to evolve, thrive, and improve patient care. They'll answer your questions about the campaign's purpose, vision, and how every contribution makes a difference. With ongoing support, we can address the evolving needs of members and strengthen the specialty for generations to come. Discover how you can make an impact and be part of this milestone moment: https://fascrs.org/about/125th-anniversary-campaign

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

In this episode, we spotlight the ASCRS QI Fistula Collaborative, an initiative dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with complex fistulas. Dr. Julia Saraidaridis and Dr. Bob Hollis share their insights on the importance of data collection and discuss the collaborative's mission to advance fistula care through shared knowledge and research.

They also highlight the critical need for more participants, inviting colorectal surgeons to join the effort and contribute to this project. If you're interested in joining the project, reach out to Dr. Bob Hollis at [email protected].

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.

In this episode, the hosts sit down with Dr. Wolfgang Gaertner, Chair of the ASCRS Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) Committee, for an insider's look at how the gold standard in colorectal care is set. Dr. Gaertner takes us behind the scenes of the rigorous process of writing and reviewing CPGs, from synthesizing the latest evidence to ensuring recommendations meet the highest standards of clarity and relevance.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on the Gut Check podcast are those of the individual hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or clinical judgment.