Ep. 286 - Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, CAE - Medical Director, American Podiatric Medical Association

Join Drs. Jensen and Richey on Dean's Chat as we sit down with Cindy Pezza, PMAC — an expert in podiatric practice management with years of real-world success helping clinics scale, streamline operations, and strengthen leadership culture. This episode is sponsored by Bako Diagnostics - tremendous supporters of the dermatopathology needs of podiatric physicians, and educating our students and residents!. In this episode, Cindy breaks down what separates thriving podiatry practices from the rest, including systems that actually work, leadership strategies that build trust, and financial insights every DPM should understand. Whether you're a practice owner, office manager, associate, or resident preparing for leadership, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways you can implement today. 💡 Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways 🎯 1. What Is Effective Practice Management? • Beyond scheduling and billing — it's about building systems that produce predictable results. • Differentiating process vs. personality in staff leadership. 2. Metrics That Matter • Track KPIs like visit cycle time, recall rates, revenue per visit, and staff performance metrics. • Financial fluency for physicians: understand margins, overhead targets, benchmarks. 🧠 3. Leadership & Culture • Culture isn't a poster — it's behaviors & expectations modeled from the top. • Practical strategies for accountability without blame. 🗣 4. Patient Experience Wins • Small process improvements that impact satisfaction and retention. • Communicating value and expectations throughout the patient journey. 🔥 5. Avoiding Burnout • Systemization isn't just efficiency — it protects clinician energy. • Delegation as a discipline, not a luxury. Enjoy this discussion with a leading podiatric management expert in podiatric medicine! https://pinnaclepa.com/about-us/

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, welcome Dr. Dyane Tower to Dean's Chat. This episode is sponsored by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)! Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, CAE is a nationally recognized leader in podiatric medicine and healthcare administration, currently serving as Medical Director and Vice President of Clinical Affairs for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). With a unique blend of clinical training and executive leadership, Dr. Tower plays a pivotal role in shaping national clinical policy, professional standards, and advocacy efforts for the podiatric profession. She holds the degrees of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, and completed her 3 year residency at the North Coloroado Podiatric Medicine Surgery program. Her background highlights advanced expertise in organizational governance, strategy, and healthcare leadership. Her interdisciplinary background allows her to bridge clinical practice, public health, and national-level professional advocacy. At APMA, Dr. Tower oversees: • Clinical policy and professional practice standards • Clinical education and evidence-based guidelines • Regulatory affairs and federal advocacy • Public health integration and interdisciplinary collaboration Dr. Tower is widely respected for her strategic vision, clarity of communication, and deep commitment to advancing podiatric medicine at a national level. As a featured guest on Dean's Chat, she provides expert insight into healthcare policy, clinical governance, professional advocacy, and the future direction of the podiatric profession. Beyond her executive leadership, Dr. Tower is known for her mentorship, national speaking engagements, and ongoing efforts to elevate the voice and visibility of podiatric physicians within the broader healthcare ecosystem. Enjoy!

In this episode of Dean's Chat, Drs. Jensen and Richey sit down with Dr. Lisa Levick, a respected podiatric physician and leader, to discuss professional service, leadership pathways, and what it truly means to advocate for podiatric medicine. Dr. Levick shares her journey in organized medicine, her perspective on leadership development, and why service to the profession remains essential—especially during times of change and uncertainty in healthcare. This episode is sponsored by Bako Diagnostics! 🧠 Key Topics Covered • Leadership in podiatric medicine What effective leadership looks like at the local, state, and national levels. • Why service matters The value of giving back through organized medicine and professional involvement. • Finding your voice as a physician How podiatrists can advocate for themselves, their patients, and the profession. • Mentorship and career development Lessons learned and advice for students, residents, and early-career DPMs. • Navigating change in healthcare Adapting to evolving expectations while staying grounded in purpose. 🔑 Notable Takeaways • Leadership is built through consistency, credibility, and service. • Organized medicine remains a powerful platform for advocacy and impact. • Mentorship is not optional—it's foundational to the profession's future. • Every podiatrist, regardless of career stage, has a role to play. 👣 Why This Episode Matters This conversation highlights the human side of leadership—the commitment, responsibility, and long-term vision required to move podiatric medicine forward. Whether you're considering professional service or already involved, Dr. Levick's insights reinforce why showing up and engaging matters now more than ever. 🎧 Listen / Watch 📺 YouTube: Dean's Chat 🎙️ Podcast Platforms: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Podbean

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey, welcome Dr. Nicholas Igbinigie to the podcast! This podcast is sponsored by the American Association of Podiatric Medicine (APMA)! Dr. Nicholas Igbinigieis is dedicated to advancing foot and ankle care through clinical excellence, patient education, and professional engagement. As a featured guest on Dean's Chat, Dr. Igbinigie shares insight into the evolving landscape of podiatric medicine residency education, his future fellowship aspirations with Dr. Calvin Rushing, and the real-world impact of high-quality foot and ankle care. Dr. Igbinigie earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from Barry University School of [Podiatric Medicine and is a current 3rd year resident at HCA Houston Healthcare, where he is developing a strong foundation in both conservative and surgical management of foot and ankle disorders. His professional interests include: • Foot & ankle pathology and reconstructive surgery • Sports injuries and biomechanics • Diabetic limb preservation and wound care • Practice development and patient-centered care Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Igbinigie maintains an active social media presence, where he shares educational content, clinical insights, professional milestones, and advocacy for the podiatric profession. His digital platforms serve as a space for patient education, mentorship, and engagement with students and colleagues across healthcare. Dr. Igbinigie is known for his thoughtful, evidence-based approach and passion for restoring mobility, function, and quality of life. Through platforms like Dean's Chat and his growing online presence, he remains actively engaged in shaping the future of podiatric medicine through education, mentorship, and collaboration. Enjoy!

In this episode of Dean's Chat, hosts Drs. Jeffrey Jensen and Johanna Richey welcome Arthur Evensen, DPM, a podiatric physician with advanced training in wound care, limb salvage, and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. This episode is sponsored by Bako Diagnostics – who for the past 17 years have supported podiatry at all levels – students, residents, and practicing podiatrists! Dr. Evensen shares his journey into podiatric medicine, his educational pathway, and his experience serving as Chief Resident at a major VA health system. The conversation explores the growing importance of interdisciplinary wound care, the challenges of diabetic limb preservation, and the evolving role of podiatric physicians in complex medical systems. This episode highlights clinical excellence, leadership development, and the impact podiatric medicine has on patient mobility, independence, and quality of life. Arthur Evensen, DPM is a podiatric physician specializing in advanced wound care, diabetic foot management, limb salvage, and reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from Midwestern University – Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine after completing his undergraduate studies at Utah Valley University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Dr. Evensen completed a Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency with Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle (RRA) credential at the Southern Arizona Veterans Affairs Health Care System, where he served as Chief Resident. He is board certified by the American Board of Wound Management and has contributed to peer-reviewed research and national presentations focused on wound care and limb preservation. This episode topics include: • Choosing podiatric medicine as a career path • Training at Midwestern University AZCPM • Residency at the Southern Arizona VA & Chief Resident leadership • Advanced wound care and diabetic limb salvage • The role of podiatrists in multidisciplinary healthcare teams • Research, education, and the future of podiatric medicine Enjoy!

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, welcome Dr. Devon Glazer to the Podcast! This episode is sponsored by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)! Dr. Devon Glazer, DPM, from Los Angeles, is a board-certified podiatric physician specializing in the medical and surgical care of foot and ankle disorders. Known for his strong fellowship program, his patient-centered approach and contemporary use of evidence-based medicine, Dr. Glazer combines precision, compassion, and innovation to help patients regain mobility and improve quality of life. Dr. Glazer completed his doctoral training in podiatric medicine followed by rigorous clinical residency training in foot and ankle surgery. He trained on the East Coast and this benefited his transition to Califonia! His clinical interests include sports injuries, trauma, reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, diabetic limb preservation, and complex forefoot and rearfoot pathology. He is recognized for his ability to translate advanced surgical techniques into practical, real-world outcomes for patients of all ages. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Glazer is deeply committed to education, as he is the Scientific Director of "The Western", a prominant Podiatric Medical Symposium! , mentorship, and the advancement of the podiatric profession. He regularly contributes to professional development through teaching, public education, and collaborative work with peers across multidisciplinary healthcare teams. On this channel, Dr. Glazer shares: • Expert insights on foot & ankle health • Fellowship surgical education • Innovations in podiatric medicine • CME in Podiatry Whether you are a patient, student, or healthcare professional, Dr. Glazer's content is designed to educate, empower, and elevate the standard of foot and ankle care. Enjoy!

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, welcome the American Podiatric Medical Association student representatives from Samuel Merritt University College of Podiatric Medicine. This podcast is sponsored by Bako Diagnostics, a tremendous supporter of podiatric medicine to students, residents, and practitioners alike! Nicholas Vang, Quinton Markett, and Kathryn Maebori, join us to discuss how they discovered podiatric medicine, their shadowing experiences, and things that have surprised them in school. They also discuss things that have inspired them, and a series of "Rapid Fire" questions! They also share "professor shout-outs" and their roles with APMSA! Enjoy this conversation with student leaders! #Podiatry #FootAndAnkle #Residency #MedicalEducation #Surgery #PodiatricMedicine #PreMed #HealthCareCareers #DeansChat

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, welcome the American Podiatric Medical Association student representatives from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. This episode is sponsored by the American Podiatric Medical Association! Join us, as Clauton Kum, and Diana Atar discuss how they discovered podiatric medicine, their shadowing experiences, and things that have surprised them in school. They also discuss things that have inspired them, and a series of "Rapid Fire" questions! They also share "professor shout-outs" and their roles with APMSA! Enjoy this conversation with student leaders! Also, check our Clauton's YouTube Channel - here is a recent video - https://youtube.com/shorts/JN3SdtJHL2I?si=q2n18d9dbKmxvten #Podiatry #FootAndAnkle #Residency #MedicalEducation #Surgery #PodiatricMedicine #PreMed #HealthCareCareers #DeansChat

Dean's Chat host, Dr. Johanna Richey, welcomes the creators of Boards Blast! Drs. Lisa Levick, Jennifer Van, Shital Sharma, and returning guest Maryellen Brucato. Each of these esteemed women share their stories about how they found out about podiatry and how education has been at the center of their careers. This episode is sponsored by Bako Diagnostics! Join us as we hear the story behind the development of Boards Blast - the modern board preparation program to help support candidates sitting for the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Qualification and Certification exam process. Each of these women bring their own talents, strengths and personal experiences to the program cultivating in a unique program designed with the learner in mind. Listen, as these surgeons highlight the importance of lifting each other up, abandoning the scarcity mindset and focusing on a growth mindset. We dive into needs analysis, building a content platform that is adaptable and flexible, delivering relevant and current applications of material all while asking the "who, not how" to build a successful team. Finally, we discuss the various types of learning environments from teaching residents and students daily in the clinic and operating room, teaching in hands-on courses and then lecturing in large Educational conferences. We discuss key tips for learners like asking the "why" behind the technique or procedure, leaning into mentorships and learning someone's techniques and protocols but also the vulnerability and trust necessary to learn and grow both as an early learner but also as a continual learner in medicine. We hope you enjoy this episode!

Dean's Chat hosts, Drs. Jensen and Richey, welcome the American Podiatric Medical Association student representatives from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. This episode is sponsored by the American Podiatric Medical Association! Madison Darnell, Mira Adelstein, and Pooja Patel join us to discuss how they discovered podiatric medicine, their shadowing experiences, and things that have surprised them in school. They also discuss things that have inspired them, and a series of "Rapid Fire" questions! They also share "professor shout-outs" and their roles with APMSA! Enjoy this conversation with student leaders! #Podiatry #FootAndAnkle #Residency #MedicalEducation #Surgery #PodiatricMedicine #PreMed #HealthCareCareers #DeansChat