In the sixth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Eithan Kotkowski, a neurologist and physician–scientist who serves as General Neurologist and Associate Director of Research & Education at Gonzaba Medical Group in San Antonio. He also holds an adjunct faculty appointment at UT Health San Antonio, where he teaches Medical Spanish and continues his research in neuroimaging, brain health, and clinical education.

Dr. Kotkowski shares how his journey began with global health work in Eswatini, where he cared for mothers living with HIV and filmed their stories—an experience that sparked his passion for blending science, storytelling, and service. In this episode, we discuss his commitment to health equity, his pioneering research on how metabolic conditions affect brain aging, and his dedication to training the next generation of culturally competent physicians.

In the fifth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Hannah Rodriguez, PA-C, Derm PA of the Year and a seasoned dermatology physician assistant with over a decade of experience. She shares her journey practicing medical dermatology and the inspiration behind founding ClinECO Derm, an initiative dedicated to sustainable, patient-centered dermatologic care. This conversation explores her perspective on innovation in dermatology, the importance of mentorship within the PA community, and her vision for advancing access and equity in skin health.

In the fourth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Dr. Brittany Garza, D.O., a first-generation physician and new emergency medicine attending. She reflects on her path through Michigan State University and Central Michigan University, sharing how her love of science and passion for helping others shaped her career in medicine. This conversation highlights her advocacy for female fertility and addiction medicine, her experience delivering the TEDx talk “STEMinism: If you can see her, you can be her,” and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of women in medicine.

Link to her TEDx talk:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6tR7jmVS2A

In the third episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Chelsea, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C), who shares her unique perspective on healthcare through the lens of her Filipino heritage, her work in urgent care, and her commitment to providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ patients. This conversation highlights both the human side of medicine and the vital role providers play in creating inclusive, responsive healthcare spaces for all communities.

In the second episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Sahan, a first-year medical student. He takes us through his path as a pre-med in college, shares his insights into the medical school application process, and reflects on his MCAT experience. From the challenges to the small victories, Sahan offers an honest and realistic look at what it takes to get into med school and the mindset needed to thrive once you’re there.

In our very first episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with a special guest—registered nurse, educator, and current DNP student—to talk about purpose, passion, and palliative care. She shares what led her to pursue nursing, how her DNP journey has deepened her understanding of compassionate care, and why palliative care is more than just end-of-life support.

Whether you're a student interested in healthcare or just someone who values empathy and connection, this episode will leave you inspired to listen more closely—to both vitals and voices.