Gustavus Health Professions Podcast

This episode features Gustavus American Cancer Society Club co-presidents Natalie Thorson and Jade Anstine discussing their motivations, leadership roles, and impactful events like Relay for Life and Cancer Awareness Week. They highlight how small actions can make a big difference in the fight against cancer and inspire students to get involved. If you are interested in becoming involved in the cl...

Join us as we explore the journey of Stefanie Arndt ('06) and Annika Pasch ('12) through their experiences and personal insights as Athletic Trainers at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Discover how high-performance sports, teamwork, and resilience shape success at the highest levels for athletes and healthcare professionals.

In this insightful interview, Dr. Tufia Haddad shares her journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a leading oncologist at Mayo Clinic. She discusses her work in digital health, precision medicine, remote patient monitoring, and AI applications in oncology, emphasizing how technology is transforming patient care and clinical trials.

Emily Mills shares her journey through Gustavus, her passion for statistics and chemistry, and her path to medical school. Discover insights on balancing multiple interests, gaining clinical experience, and navigating the medical school application process.

In this insightful interview, Dr. Gary Fetzer of TRIA Orthopedics shares his journey to orthopedics, discusses the latest in orthopedic technology, offers valuable advice for aspiring medical professionals and reflects on his role in sports medicine serving both collegiate and professional sports teams. Discover how his passion for sports medicine and dedication to patient care make a difference i...

In this episode of the Gustavus Health Professions podcast, hosts Heather Banks and Melissa Banse have a conversation with Jenny Kortuem, and Brenna Hoisington, co-owners and clinic directors of GO Therapy. GO Therapy is a women-owned clinic focused on collaboration, education and wellness, the goal at GO is to individualize therapy to meet the needs and abilities of each patient. They share their...

This episode of the Gustavus Health Professions podcast features Jolene Young , Senior Admission Representative at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. The focus of the discussion is the Surgical First Assistant Training Program; covering its history, application process, curriculum, and the career opportunities available to graduates. Jolene shares insights into the role of a Surgical Fir...

In this episode of the Gustavus Health Professions podcast, Dr. Lynnea Myers '05 reflects on her inspiring path from Gustavus nursing student to respected researcher and educator; both in the US and in Sweden. She delves into her research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Asthma, her academic journey, and her commitment to guiding emerging healthcare professionals. Dr. Myers underscores the va...

Dr. Virginia Caine, '74, shares her journey from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a prominent figure in public health. She discusses her initial interest in biochemistry, her unexpected path to medicine, and her significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic as the chief medical officer for Marion County. Dr. Caine emphasizes the importance of collaboration in public health, her leadership...

Abby McCready, '25, a first-year physical therapy student at Mayo Clinic, shares her journey into the field of physical therapy. She discusses her very successful application process, the importance of diverse experiences, and the unique aspects of her program at Mayo, including extensive clinical training. Abby also provides insights into interview preparation and the challenges of balancing...

Kiana Poole, an admissions recruiter from the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM), discusses the unique aspects of ICOM, including its commitment to whole-person care, the differences between MD and DO training, and the importance of community engagement. Kiana shares insights into the student experience, the articulation agreement with Gustavus, and the innovative leadership training pro...

Lily Leahy '25, shares her journey into the field of genetic counseling, detailing her experiences from high school career quizzes, Gustavus, to her current studies at the University of Minnesota. She discusses the importance of shadowing, advocacy work, and the competitive application process, as well as her transition to graduate school life and the unique challenges it presents. Lily emphasizes...

Dr. Pamela Conners discusses the new SIGX requirement at Gustavus, emphasizing the importance of justice, discernment, and meaningful experiences in education. The conversation explores the history and purpose of SIGX, the simplification of the registration process, and the value of cohort learning in internships. Dr. Conners also shares her personal definition of success, highlighting the signifi...

Heidi Selzler, Director of Operations and Executive Coach at Mentally Strong Institute, shares insights on resilience, empowering thoughts, and personal growth strategies for pre-health students. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, and offers practical tips for building confidence and self-compassion. The conversation also highlights resources available for students to enhance their me...

Features Melissa Banse, the new Gustavus Health Professions Specialist. During our conversation Melissa shares her background, including her education in therapeutic recreation and her eclectic career journey. She discusses her passion for working with students and her excitement for her new role!

Podcast episode #87: Dr. Heidi Meyer discusses her experiences and insights related to the May Away 2026 course, which focuses on social determinants of health (SDH) in Sweden and the US.  She shares her background, the purpose of the course, and the differences between the healthcare systems of the two countries.  Key organizations that students will visit during the course are highlighted, the i...

Heather Olinger shares her inspiring journey from a promising hockey career to pursuing a Physician Assistant degree after a life-altering injury. She discusses her recovery, the support she received, and the importance of resilience and community in overcoming challenges. Heather emphasizes the value of experience in healthcare and offers advice to future healthcare professionals about staying tr...

In this episode, Heidi and Heather share insights from the CAAHP 2025 Regional Conference, discussing key takeaways related to health professions, including changes in the dental application personal statement prompt, pharmacy opportunities, medical school PREview NEW test requirement for the U of MN, and physical therapy updates to name a few. They also highlight their experiences in Indianapolis...

In this episode, Heather & Heidi hosts Luke Mueller '24 and Claire Brings '25, both Gustavus pre-dental students, as they share their unique journeys towards a career in dentistry. They discuss their early interests in the field, volunteer experiences, shadowing opportunities, and the importance of leadership roles in their development. The conversation also highlights practical advice for asp...

In this episode, Matt Carlson shares his experiences as a recipient of the Jacobson Award, which allowed him to study the healthcare system in Sweden for two weeks. He discusses the Karolinska Institute, the differences in healthcare access and costs between Sweden and the United States, and the innovative research practices in Sweden. Matt also highlights his cultural experiences, networking oppo...

In this #82 episode, Dr. Karl Larson discusses the NEW Public Health major at Gustavus, exploring the definition of public health, the development of the program, and the interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Larson also shares about career opportunities for graduates, pathways to graduate school, and the importance of certification in the field. The conversation highlights the broad scope of public hea...

In this episode, Dr. Bonnie Brueshoff, a public health consultant and former public health director, shares about the AmeriCorps Public Health Corps program in Minnesota. Bonnie shares her background in public health, the inception and growth of the program, the roles and benefits for members, and the impact of their projects in communities. She emphasizes the importance of training and the transi...

Julia Simms, a third-year veterinary medicine student at the University of Minnesota, shares her journey from Gustavus to vet school. She discusses her experiences studying abroad, her path to veterinary medicine, the application process for vet school, and what life is like as a vet student. Julia also highlights her involvement in community service through veterinary initiatives, the challenges...

In this episode of the Gustavus Health Professions podcast, hosts Heather Banks and Heidi Selzler welcome Dr. Jill Amsberry, a pediatrician and medical director at CentraCare, and the newly appointed University of Minnesota Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education for the NEW CentraCare Regional U of MN Campus in St. Cloud. Dr. Amsberry shares her journey into medicine, the unique focus o...

In this episode of the Gustavus Health Professions podcast, Jason Banks, a physical therapist at the Mayo Clinic, shares his journey in physical therapy, discussing his experiences in various settings, the importance of patient motivation, and the evolving techniques in rehabilitation. Banks emphasizes the significance of certifications, the role of innovative therapies like shockwave therapy, and...