Grossly Speaking

What does it actually take to bring digital pathology and AI into real-world practice?In this episode, we chat with Yosep Chong, MD, PhD, Associate Professor at The Catholic University of Korea, to explore the evolving role of digital cytopathology and artificial intelligence in modern pathology. Dr. Chong explains the shift to digital workflows, what safe and effective AI adoption looks like, and where these tools are most useful today, from screening and triage to quality assurance. We also discuss the challenges of bringing them into everyday pathology practice. Dr. Chong is also the founder of the Cell Detective visual graphic-style series, which uses illustrated, case-based storytelling to teach cytopathologic diagnosis! Check it out here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7434540127915339776/X (Twitter): @CytopatholKorea YouTube: @KoreanSocietyforCytopathology

We’re joined by a very special guest, Dr. Kurt Schaberg, an anatomic pathologist at UC Davis (Sacramento, CA) and the creator of Kurt’s Notes, a resource many medical students and pathology trainees use for clear, high-yield explanations that actually stick. Kurt’s Notes has organ/system guides, IHC/molecular sections, quizzes, and curated links. https://schaberg.faculty.ucdavis.edu/

Dr. Judy Melinek is a board-certified forensic pathologist, former medical examiner, and nationally recognized educator and author. She has performed thousands of autopsies across multiple jurisdictions and is widely known for her bestselling memoir Working Stiff, which offers an honest, human look at life in forensic pathology. Music Credits Intro/Outro: "Sloth" by CROSSTOWN IG: @crosstowntheband⁠https://drworkingstiff.com/

Dr. Schatz-Siemers is a board-certified cytopathologist and gynecologic pathologist who completed her training at NYU Langone and Weill Cornell. In this episode, she joins student doctor Harnoor Galani on Grossly Speaking to explore the world of cytology, women’s health, and the powerful stories hidden in every smear and specimen.

Today’s special guest is Cheryl Germain, MHS, PA (ASCP), a nationally recognized educator and advocate who has created, strengthened, and supported PA programs across the country.We talked about what it takes to train the next generation of Pathologists’ Assistants and how programs are evolving. Such an honor to learn from someone who has dedicated her career to mentorship, workforce development, and expanding opportunities for trainees everywhere!Show Links/Resources:1) Free Biomarker ASCP Certificate Course:https://store.ascp.org/productlisting/productdetail?productId=177541433&_gl=1&_gl=1*fqngsf*_gcl_au*.2) Arizona’s new PA Program:https://www.uj.edu/news/uj-launches-pathologists-assistant-masters-program-in-phoeni3) Join ASCP Today! ⁠https://www.ascp.org/

In this episode, Harnoor Galani interviews Dr. James Goldman, a neuropathologist at Columbia University, for an in-depth conversation about his life and career. Dr. Goldman shares how he first became fascinated by the brain and the pivotal moments that led him into neuropathology. He reflects on decades of studying glial cells, caring for patients, teaching trainees, and watching the field transform over time.

Ever wondered what it’s like to take a year off medical school to work as a first-year pathology resident? Join Taranjit Kaur & Harnoor Galani as they break down what the UCLA Post-Junior Fellowship is! Perfect for any medical student curious about pathology.#GrosslySpeaking #PathologyPodcast #MedicalStudent #UCLAPathology

This episode is close to my heart. My journey into pathology began when my father was diagnosed and treated for liposarcoma at UCLA. This experience showed me how much clarity a pathology report can bring to families facing cancer.I’m joined by Dr. Farres Obeidin, Section Chief of Bone and Soft Tissue Pathology at UCLA, to discuss the work behind sarcoma diagnosis and care.Join us THIS Sunday, November 2nd, at the Race to Cure Sarcoma Los Angeles in Griffith Park, an event uniting patients, families, and clinicians to raise awareness and support sarcoma research. Link to sign up (run or walk): https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/LosAngeles/RaceToCureSarcomaLMore information: https://curesarcoma.org/

Happy Women in Medicine Month!In this episode of Grossly Speaking, founder and medical student Taranjit Kaur sits down with physicians and digital pathology leaders Dr. Marilyn Bui (Senior Member at Moffitt Cancer Center, Chair of CAP’s Digital & Computational Pathology Committee, and former DPA President) and Dr. Meredith Herman (active leader with CAP and a junior member of the DPA Creative Content Committee). They explore how digital workflows are transforming diagnosis, training, collaboration, and regulatory compliance. Listen to this episode to hear about their career journeys, strategies for education and adoption, insights on interoperability and accreditation, and inspiring leadership perspectives… all during Women in Medicine Month!

Taranjit Kaur chats with Dennis Strenk, Pathologist Assistant, AAPA leader, and founder of the People of Pathology Podcast. He shares his path into the PA profession, lessons from 200+ interviews, insights on the future of grossing and digital tools, and what it takes to build a global pathology community. The People of Pathology Podcast is ranked #2 on FeedSpot’s 20 Best Pathology Podcasts in 2025.https://peopleofpathology.com/

Dr. Swikrity Baskota, Assistant Professor at UC Davis and founder of MatchToPath.com, joins student doctors Taranjit Kaur, Noor Galani, and Daryl Traylor to discuss her journey in pathology, the origins of Match to Path, and actionable advice for future applicants navigating the match process.Follow for more insights from the world of pathology.

From contracts to career shifts, Dr. John J. Nelson returns to break down the essentials of pathology practice. We cover leadership growth, malpractice protection, billing pitfalls, and long-term career strategy in this bonus episode of Grossly Speaking.

In this conversation, Dr. Nicole Jackson, Director of Autopsy and After-Death Services at UW Medicine, joins us to discuss her journey into forensic pathology, the role of autopsy in public health, and why it remains essential for every pathology resident! From post-Katrina training to the future of autopsies, this episode offers a powerful look at death, data, and systems change.

In this episode of Grossly Speaking, Pathology Goes Spatial —we sit down with John Manuel, PA(ASCP), Founder of Spatial Bio Hub, to discuss how spatial biology is helping reshape the future of pathology. With over two decades of experience spanning academic, military, federal, and private pathology labs, John shares his path from the grossing bench to leading commercialization efforts in the industry. He speaks on topics like spatial transcriptomics, its growing role in research and diagnostics, and how pathology professionals can engage with this rapidly advancing field. It’s an engaging and insightful conversation at the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and the evolving landscape of pathology!

Dr. John J Nelson shares honest advice on life after pathology residency — from must-have skills to leadership growth and building a lasting career.

Dr. Hannah Cowart shares what she looks for in applicants, how residents are supported and trained, and what life is like in pathology residency.

In this episode, we explore what pathology is, the day-to-day life of a pathologist, common misconceptions about the field, and Dr. Houston’s journey with advice for aspiring students.