BackTable Urology
BackTable
The BackTable Urology Podcast is a resource for practicing urologists to learn tips, techniques, and practical advice from their peers in the field. Listen here or on the streaming platform of your choice.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 3, 2025 • 51min
Ep. 237 Integrative Oncology in Urologic Cancer Care with Dr. Viraj Master
What if the key to better cancer outcomes lies not just in surgery or chemotherapy, but also in mindfulness, movement, and diet? In this episode of the BackTable Tumor Board, host Dr. Aditya Bagrodia interviews urologic oncologist Dr. Viraj Master, Professor of Urology at Emory University, about his role in developing the integrative oncology and survivorship service line at Winship Cancer Institute.
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This podcast is supported by:Ferring Pharmaceuticals
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SYNPOSIS
They discuss the evidence-based use of complementary therapies alongside conventional cancer treatments, touching on various integrative methods including diet, exercise, mindfulness, acupuncture, yoga, and supplements. Dr. Master emphasizes the importance of physicians being open to these practices and understanding their potential benefits for improving patient outcomes and quality of life, even in highly acute cases like muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The conversation covers the importance of honesty and understanding across patient journeys–from initial diagnosis to survivorship–highlighting the value of holistic approaches in cancer care.
---TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Integrative Oncology: Definitions and Basics06:28 - Exercise and Its Impact on Cancer Treatment08:12 - Physician Perspectives on Complementary Medicine20:58 - Acupuncture and Acupressure in Cancer Care25:28 - Practical Implementation of Integrative Approaches31:30 - Supplements and Immuno Nutrition36:25 - Cannabis, CBD, and Ayurveda in Cancer Care44:39 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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RESOURCES
Society of Urologic Oncologyhttps://suonet.org/home.aspx

May 30, 2025 • 57min
Ep. 236 Choosing the Right Urology Fellowship Fit with Dr. Sevann Helo and Dr. Jay Simhan
Are you a resident considering a urology fellowship? How do you choose the right subspecialty, and how can effective mentorship help you make the right decision? In collaboration with the Society of Women in Urology (SWIU), this episode of BackTable Urology features practical fellowship advice from Dr. Sevann Helo of Mayo Clinic, Dr. Jay Simhan of Temple University, and guest host Dr. Helen Bernie of Indiana University.
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SYNPOSIS
The three leaders in academic urology cover essential topics such as choosing the right fellowship program, finding strong mentorship, and balancing personal and professional life. This episode also offers transparency into the application process. The conversation also delves into the nebulous differences between ACGME and non-ACGME fellowships. This episode is an excellent starting point for practical advice for residents considering this pivotal step in their urology careers.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction03:07 - Differences Between Residency and Fellowship07:02 - Building a Competitive Fellowship Application11:09 - Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Fellowship16:08 - Accredited vs. Non-Accredited Fellowships20:30 - Choosing the Right Fellowship Program27:31 - Importance of Fellowship Fit28:46 - Evaluating Candidates Beyond Portfolios30:03 - Letters of Recommendation34:56 - Handling Fellowship Challenges38:28 - Gender Diversity in Urology43:31 - Balancing Family and Fellowship50:09 - Concluding Thoughts
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RESOURCES
Society of Women in Urologyhttps://swiu.org/home.aspx

May 27, 2025 • 1h 3min
Ep. 235 Optimizing Sexual and Metabolic Health Together with Dr. Amy Pearlman and Dr. Michelle Pearlman
Are metabolic and sexual health two sides of the same coin? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Amy Pearlman is joined by gastroenterologist (and twin sister) Dr. Michelle Pearlman to discuss their collaboration at the PRIME Institute. Join us as we explore how two medical specialists combine their expertise to pioneer a comprehensive approach to two of the most important elements of health and wellness.
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SYNPOSIS
Together, they explore their unique, holistic approach to sexual medicine and metabolic health, combining hormone optimization, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications. They pay special attention to the difficult journey of perimenopause and its symptoms. The episode underscores the importance of thinking beyond conventional healthcare models and embracing comprehensive, personalized care. They also cover the successful integration of advanced technology and patient education. Finally, the conversation touches on self-care for healthcare providers to combat burnout and encourages medical professionals to develop a personal brand and diversify their professional activities.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction07:10 - Addressing Hormonal Health in Men08:53 - Nutrition and Weight Management13:21 - Treating Perimenopause and Menopause23:38 - The Importance of Hormone Replacement Therapy30:45 - Weight Loss Beyond the Scale32:05 - Importance of Muscle Maintenance41:09 - Technology in Health Monitoring49:03 - Daily Routines for Optimal Health57:38 - Closing Thoughts on Holistic Health
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RESOURCES
PRIME Institute:https://www.primeinstitute.us/amy-pearlman-md/

May 23, 2025 • 42min
Ep. 234 Building Inclusive Mentorship Across Genders with Dr. Linda Shortliffe
What does it take to break the glass ceiling, lead, and get buy-in from your peers within a traditionally male-dominated field? In collaboration with the Society of Women in Urology (SWIU), guest host Dr. Martha Terris interviews Dr. Linda Shortliffe about her experience as the first woman to chair a major urology program.
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SYNPOSIS
The discussion touches on mentorship, work-life balance, gender bias, and the importance of peer support community in predominantly male specialties. The episode highlights the impact of effective mentorship and the invaluable role of compassion in effective leadership.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction03:00 - Women in Leadership03:51 - The Importance of Mentors and Colleagues05:49 - Challenges in Urology07:57 - Balancing Career and Personal Life29:55 - Navigating Gender Bias and Salary Disparities36:43 - Final Reflections
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RESOURCES
Society of Women in Urologyhttps://swiu.org/home.aspx

May 20, 2025 • 41min
Ep. 233 Multidisciplinary Approaches to Pediatric Urologic Cancer Care with Dr. David Rodeberg and Dr. Patrick Hensley
How can pediatric and adult urologists team up to tackle complex cancer cases? In this episode of the BackTable Urology, host Dr. Amanda Buchanan, Division Chief of Pediatric Urology at the University of Kentucky, is joined by her colleagues Dr. Patrick Hensley, an adult urologic oncologist, and Dave Rodeberg, Division Chief of Pediatric Surgery. Their discussion centers around the importance of professional collaboration in urologic oncology care in order to improve patient outcomes.
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This podcast is supported by:
Ferring Pharmaceuticals
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SYNPOSIS
The urologists discuss topics such as the experiences and benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration in complex cases and the role of pediatric urologists in treating adolescent and young adult patients. They also provide insights into the Children's Oncology Group (COG) studies and their intersections with adult oncology research. The episode concludes with practical advice for other institutions aiming to improve collaborative efforts between pediatric and adult urology departments.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction02:35 - Challenges and Lessons in Multidisciplinary Collaboration08:24 - Pediatric vs. Adult Urologic Oncology11:07- Clinical Trials and Research Collaborations12:49 - Navigating Oncology Groups for Children and Adults19:06 - Collaborative Models in Kidney Cancer Care22:18 - Benefits and Challenges of Collaboration35:24 - Final Thoughts and Recommendations
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RESOURCES
Society of Urologic Oncology:https://suonet.org/home.aspx
Children’s Oncology Grouphttps://www.childrensoncologygroup.org/

May 13, 2025 • 49min
Ep. 232 The Pelvic Floor & Sexual Function: What Every Urologist Should Know with Dr. Victoria Mallow
Dr. Victoria Mallow, a pelvic floor physical therapist from Delray Beach, specializes in treating urological conditions. She discusses crucial moments for referring patients to pelvic floor therapy and shares techniques like biofeedback and manual therapy. The episode highlights the importance of collaboration between urologists and physical therapists for effective treatment. Mallow emphasizes the need for patient education and comfort during examinations, and offers travel tips for maintaining pelvic health while on the go.

May 6, 2025 • 30min
Ep. 231 Reflections on Change and Resilience in Urology with Dr. Carol Bennett
What does it mean to be a trailblazer in urology? In this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Claire Yang interviews Dr. Carol Bennett, Professor of Urology at UCLA, who shares her inspiring journey from her early aspirations to becoming the first African American woman certified by the American Board of Urology.
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SYNPOSIS
Dr. Bennett discusses her impactful career and notable research in neuro-urology, including breakthroughs in electroejaculation for patients with spinal cord injury. Dr. Bennett also reflects on her experiences with mentorship from notable urologists, overcoming barriers, and the importance of perseverance. The discussion highlights her enduring dedication to the field and her role as an inspiration to trainees, colleagues, and patients.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction04:27 - Choosing Urology06:02 - Pioneering Research in Neuro-Urology13:23 - Challenges and Mentorship18:40 - Changes and Trends in Urology23:01 - Work-Life Balance and Personal Insights26:29 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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RESOURCES
Society of Women in Urologyhttps://swiu.org/home.aspx

Apr 29, 2025 • 46min
Ep. 230 Gut Instincts: GI Fundamentals for Urology Providers Who Want to Elevate Care with Dr. Michelle Pearlman
Can a basic understanding of gastroenterology make you a better urologist? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Amy Pearlman is joined by gastroenterologist (and twin sister) Dr. Michelle Pearlman to discuss nutrition, exercise, and the interplay of common gastrointestinal and urinary conditions.
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SYNPOSIS
The discussion begins with an emphasis on the significance of dietary fiber and protein in promoting digestive health, highlighting their role in preventing common gastrointestinal issues. Dr. Michelle then covers GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, delving into their effects on weight management and outlining potential side effects that are relevant across both gastroenterology and urology.
Throughout the conversation, the sisters examine the interrelated nature of gastrointestinal and urinary conditions, emphasizing how thoughtful nutritional choices and regular exercise can support overall patient health. They also advocate for proactive management of constipation, especially after surgery. The episode concludes with practical resources that physicians can integrate into their practice to enhance patient care.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction05:14 - GLP-1 Agonist Overview10:55 - Muscle Mass and Sarcopenia14:14 - Preventing Frailty: Hormones, Nutrition, and Exercise21:23 - High-Quality Protein Options24:42 - Inflammation, Gut Health, and Cancer Risk34:34 - Post-Surgery Nutrition and Recovery42:25 - Final Thoughts
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RESOURCES
Prime Institute Miami:https://www.primeinstitute.us/

Apr 25, 2025 • 56min
Ep. 229 Consideraciones Prácticas en Terapia Hormonal Femenina con Dr. Pamela Silen Rivera
Esta semana en BackTable Urology, el Dr. José Silva entrevista a la obstetra y ginecóloga Dra. Pamela Silén-Rivera sobre la terapia de reemplazo de estrógeno, específicamente disipando mitos y su experiencia en el avance de la salud de la mujer en Puerto Rico.
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SYNPOSIS
La conversación aborda las complejidades y desafíos en el tratamiento de la menopausia y la salud sexual de la mujer, incluyendo el uso de hormonas bioidénticas, testosterona y tratamientos personalizados. La Dra. Silén-Rivera destaca la importancia de la educación tanto para los profesionales médicos como para las pacientes, y habla sobre la necesidad de productos específicos para mujeres aprobados por la FDA. Además, discuten temas como las alternativas al reemplazo hormonal.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Antecedentes y experiencia en salud sexual de la mujer
06:02 - Síntomas de la menopausia y enfoques de tratamiento
17:25 - Tratamiento personalizado y riesgos
29:23 - Terapia de reemplazo hormonal y anticonceptivos
33:00 - Terapia de testosterona en mujeres
43:45 - Educar a las futuras generaciones sobre la terapia hormonal
49:20 - La importancia del estrógeno vaginal
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RESOURCES
Centro de Bienestar para la Mujer
https://www.centrobienestarmujer.com/

Apr 23, 2025 • 40min
Ep. 228 Multidisciplinary Approaches to Renal Cancer Care with Dr. Louis Hinshaw and Dr. Jason Abel
This week we bring together urologists and radiologists to work towards a shared goal of innovating on kidney cancer care. Dr. Jason Abel, Professor of Urology and Radiology at the University of Wisconsin, and Dr. Louis Hinshaw, Section Chief of Abdominal Imaging Intervention at the University of Wisconsin, join our host Dr. Ruchika Talwar for a multidisciplinary conversation regarding the treatment of renal tumors. ---This podcast is supported by:NeuWave Microwave Ablation Systemshttps://www.jnjmedtech.com/en-US/product-family/neuwave-microwave-ablation-systems---SYNPOSISTheir discussion covers the history and benefits of collaboration between urology and interventional radiology (IR), advances in image-guided procedural technologies, and the importance of teamwork in improving patient outcomes. The episode also considers the encouraging, but limited data in IR treatments such as microwave ablation and discusses the lasting role for surgery. Finally, Dr. Abel and Dr. Hinshaw share their experiences in establishing a successful interdisciplinary kidney cancer program. Ultimately, they conclude that the future of renal tumor treatment lies not in silos, but in collaboration.---TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction04:04 - Collaboration Between Urologists and Interventional Radiologists05:58 - Advancements in Ablation10:05 - Patient Selection15:19 - Technical Considerations26:57 - Post-Ablation Surveillance and Recurrence Management33:19 - Conclusion


