The PA Path Podcast

Season 5: Episode 100 - Building an Innovative PA Program

In our 100th episode, we celebrate a milestone with Melanie “MJ” Ellis, MPAS, PA-C, program director for the University of Arizona's developing PA program. Ellis shares her inspiring 36-year journey in the US Air Force and discusses the launch their new program in August 2026, with accreditation review set for March 2026. Designed with a mission to prioritize person-centered primary care, rural health, and medical Spanish, the program will feature cutting-edge facilities, including a new clinical skills lab and the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center. Ellis highlights the program’s focus on resilience, interprofessional collaboration, and aligning with its core mission and values.
 
This episode is sponsored by the University of Arizona College of Health Sciences.
 
PA Path is produced by Association Briefings.

Season 5: Episode 99 - Building Community and Empowering Muslim PAs

In this episode, we’re joined by Nour Safa, PA-C, Mubashir Ahmed, and Marwha Kayali, three global leaders who have developed the Muslim Association of Physician Associates and Students, now a caucus within the American Academy of Physician Associates. They share the journey of creating this group, inspired by their own paths to becoming PAs and the need for cultural and religious competency in healthcare. Together, they discuss the importance of mentorship, resources, and advocacy for Muslim PAs and students, highlighting how their organization fosters a sense of community, inclusivity, and support for future professionals in the field.
 
PA Path is produced by Association Briefings. 

Season 5: Episode 98 - Breaking Boundaries and Embracing Creativity

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Betsy Schmidt, program director for the Butler University PA program, about her diverse career in emergency medicine and orthopedic surgery, as well as her role in founding a PA-owned surgical assistance program in Indiana. Schmidt shares insights on the importance of thinking creatively and adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape. She also highlights Butler University’s highly regarded 24-month PA program, known for its personalized attention, focus on service, and leadership development. For prospective students, Schmidt encourages embracing unique experiences and non-traditional career paths without hesitation.
 
PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Season 5: Episode 97 - Building a PA Program and the Power of Storytelling

In this episode, Elias Villarreal, Jr., DMSc, PA-C, associate dean and founding program director of the UCSD School of Medicine Atkinson PA Education, shares his inspiring journey from engineering major to physician assistant, driven by a passion for biology and chemistry. He discusses the challenges and successes of launching a PA program from the ground up and highlights the program’s strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Elias also emphasizes the power of storytelling in applications, offering advice on how applicants can stand out through personal narratives. For new educators, he shares his guidance on following your passion and seeking support from colleagues and mentors.
 
PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Season 5: Episode 96 - Tackling the PA Faculty Shortage with Practical Solutions

In this episode, we chat with Emily WhiteHorse, PhD, PA-C, founder of The PA Faculty Development Academy, about her latest book, Becoming a PA Educator: A Practical Guide for Physician Assistant/Associate Faculty. Dr. WhiteHorse shares her unique journey from high school teacher to practicing PA and now educator. She dives into the challenges clinicians face when transitioning into PA education, including the common misconceptions about teaching and the steep learning curve. With a growing faculty shortage in PA programs, she explains how many new educators leave within three years due to insufficient support. Her book offers practical tools and advice to ease this transition, focusing on curriculum development, assessment strategies, and faculty growth.

Season 5: Episode 95 - Navigating Change in the PA Profession

In this episode, we talk with Lisa Gables, CEO of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). Lisa shares her path into the PA profession and AAPA's mission to advocate for and educate over 178,000 PAs. She also discusses the ongoing transition from the title "Physician Assistant" to "Physician Associate," and emphasizes the importance of engaging pre-PA students, fostering leadership development, and staying connected to the profession.
 
This episode is supported by Southern Illinois University Medicine Doctor of Medical Science Degree.
 
The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Season 5: Episode 94 - Key Factors When Choosing the Right PA Program

In this special episode, our hosts Kevin Lohenry, PhD, PA-C and Stephane Vandermeulen, MA, MPAS, PA-C, discuss key considerations for selecting the right PA program. They highlight the importance of aligning your personal values and career goals with a program’s mission, culture, and curriculum. The discussion also covers critical metrics such as PANCE pass rates, attrition rates, and the program’s approach to remediation. Additionally, they explore how to assess a program’s accreditation history and analyze trends in attrition to gauge its overall quality.
 
The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings. 

Season 5: Episode 93 - Embracing Genetic Education in the PA Profession

In this episode, we chat with Constance Goldgar, MS, PA-C, a professor at the University of Utah Physician Assistant Program. Constance shares her inspiring journey into the PA profession, highlighting the significance of leadership and clinical excellence. We delve into the crucial role of genetic education and research in healthcare, showcasing the contributions of notable geneticists and the necessity for comprehensive genetic education within the PA profession. Constance offers valuable insights on advancing the PA field through leadership and education, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities that align with one’s passions and values.
 
This episode is supported by Southern Illinois University Medicine Doctor of Medical Science Degree.
 
The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Season 5: Episode 92 - The Impact of Personal Experiences and Mentorship

In this episode, we speak with Kristopher Maday, MS, PA-C, DFAAPA, program director and associate professor for University of Tennessee Health Science Center Physician Assistant Program. Kristopher shares his journey to becoming a PA, emphasizing the impact of personal experiences and mentorship on career decisions. He discusses the challenges and rewards of building a program from the ground up, the rising popularity of PA programs, and the essential role of hands-on training and innovative teaching methods. Tune in to discover what sets the UTHSC Physician Assistant Program apart and gain valuable tips on applying to the program.
 
The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings. 

Season 5: Episode 91 - Bridging Combat and Classroom

In this episode, we speak with Edward Williams, DMSc, M.Ed., PA-C, chair of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He shares his unique journey from combat medic to physician assistant, highlighting the differences between these roles and the challenges of practicing medicine in a combat environment. They also discuss the critical importance of professional development opportunities, education, and mentorship. Additionally, they emphasize the need for adaptability, emotional resilience, and cultural diversity in healthcare education. Tune in to learn more about the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences' program and what makes it a top choice for aspiring PAs.
 
This episode is sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences Doctor of Medical Science program. For more information about the doctor of medical science program, visit https://www.lmunet.edu/school-of-medical-sciences/dms/. For more information on the medical education major curriculum, visit https://www.lmunet.edu/school-of-medical-sciences/dms/medical-education-major-curriculum.
 
The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.