The PhysiLink Podcast

Follow the journey of Dr. Selina Durukan, a PGY-1 Internal Medicine resident at Aiken Regional Medical Centers with training that spans Turkey, Spain, and the United States. She earned her medical degree from Ege University, completed a one-year Erasmus exchange at Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and later pursued a postdoctoral cardiology research fellowship at the University of Florida in Jacksonville, focusing on antiplatelet therapy and cardiovascular disease before beginning residency in South Carolina. In this episode, she reflects on her international path to U.S. training, her clinical interests in cardiovascular disease and cardiogenetics, and her growing focus on healthcare systems and leadership.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at https://physilink.org/ 

Step into the world of women’s health with Dr. Parker, a board-certified OB-GYN at Lexington Women’s Care who focuses on delivering comprehensive care to patients at every stage of life. After graduating summa cum laude from the University of South Carolina Honors College and being named a Fulbright Scholar in South Korea, she earned her medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and completed her OB-GYN residency at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where she also served on Graduate Medical Education and OB/GYN Critical Care committees. In this episode, she shares her journey into medicine, her approach to personalized patient care, and her experience managing a wide range of clinical needs in women’s health.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at https://physilink.org/ 

Explore the path into obstetrics and gynecology with Dr. Danielle Harpen, an OB-GYN resident at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa. A first-generation college student originally from Kentucky, Dr. Harpen began her academic journey on a pre-veterinary track at the University of Kentucky before discovering a passion for human medicine. After working in neuroscience research in Charleston, she earned her MD from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and went on to pursue residency training in OB-GYN. In this episode, she reflects on the realities of residency, her dedication to reproductive health and patient advocacy, and her goal of practicing as a generalist OB-GYN while continuing to contribute to scholarship and mentorship in medicine.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at https://physilink.org/

Meet Dr. Sankeerth Challagundla, a neurologist and interventional pain specialist with Prisma Health in Columbia, South Carolina. Trained in India, Pennsylvania, and Florida, he completed medical school at Kurnool Medical College, neurology residency at Geisinger Medical Center, and dual fellowships in Headache Medicine and Pain Management at the University of South Florida. Board-certified in Neurology and Pain Medicine, Dr. Challagundla brings a cutting-edge approach to treating neurologic conditions, complex headache disorders, and chronic pain. He is also deeply committed to patient education and advancing non-opioid, evidence-based strategies to empower patients and shape the future of pain care.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Explore pediatric care through the eyes of a physician stepping straight from medical school into residency.Join us for a conversation with Dr. Sreeja K. Varanasi, a first-year pediatric resident at Emory University School of Medicine, who brings fresh insight, focus, and purpose to the start of her clinical career. She completed the Accelerated Undergraduate to MD Program at the University of South Carolina, completing her bachelor’s degree in three years and earning a guaranteed acceptance to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia. Throughout her training, Dr. Varanasi has been deeply committed to community health education and pediatric outreach, presenting nationally on school-based initiatives, such as MedElem. In this episode, she shares her passion for clinical pediatrics, mentorship, and expanding access to meaningful health education for children and their families.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Ty Coleman, an allergy and immunology specialist who shares his journey from early training and medical school to specialization and long-term practice in the Midlands community. A summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of South Carolina Honors College, Dr. Coleman earned his MD at the Medical University of South Carolina, before completing his Internal Medicine residency at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and an Allergy and Immunology fellowship at the University of Iowa. In this episode of PhysiLink, Dr. Coleman offers insight into managing allergies, the evolving science of immune disorders, and the importance of compassion and continuity in patient care.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

How does a neurosurgeon combine precision, innovation, and compassion in patient care?Meet Dr. Erwin Mangubat, a neurosurgeon at Prisma Health and Assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina. Practicing primarily on the Richland Campus since 2015, he specializes in neuromodulation, cerebrovascular, and endovascular neurosurgery. Dr. Mangubat earned his MD and MPH from the University of Illinois at Chicago, completed his residency and endovascular fellowship at Rush University, and a functional and epilepsy fellowship at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle. Outside the OR, he deeply values family and personal wellness as foundations for a balanced and meaningful life.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

How does a physician blend science, precision, and empathy to help patients reclaim their lives from pain?Join us for a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Vidhath Moku, a fellowship-trained pain medicine specialist dedicated to restoring mobility and improving quality of life. A native of upstate New York, Dr. Moku completed his undergraduate and medical training at Gannon University and the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, followed by residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at SUNY Upstate, where he served as chief resident. He went on to complete his Pain Medicine fellowship at the University of Michigan, training extensively in image-guided interventional procedures and advanced neuro-modulation techniques. With a holistic, function-focused approach, Dr. Moku discusses the evolving landscape of pain medicine and the importance of partnership and communication in patient care.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kate Anderson, a second-year general surgery resident at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington.After becoming a mother at 15, Dr. Anderson transformed her challenges into motivation, earning her undergraduate degree in Nutrition from Arizona State University and her medical degree from the University of Arizona in Tucson. With a passion for patient care and commitment to growth in her field, Dr. Anderson shares her inspiring story of perseverance, balance, and purpose. Outside of medicine, she finds joy in hiking, crocheting, knitting, and exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest with her family.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. Shalini Kanneganti, a fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon specializing in the laparoscopic treatment of colon and rectal disease, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy. Dr. Kanneganti’s expertise spans colon and rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, rectal prolapse, and a range of anorectal conditions. With a deep commitment to patient-centered care, she shares insights on advancing surgical outcomes, integrating innovation into practice, and supporting patients through complex treatments with empathy and excellence.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Aniel Rao, Program Director of the Internal Medicine Residency at Prisma Health. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Dr. Rao completed his residency at Vidant Medical Center after earning his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. With a passion for graduate medical education, leadership development, and mentorship, he shares valuable insights into the art of training residents and fostering growth in academic medicine. Beyond his professional life, Dr. Rao is an adventurer, private pilot, and foodie who enjoys exploring new destinations and discovering diverse cuisines.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Curious about the detective work of diagnosing digestive diseases?Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Radhika Sekhri, a physician specializing in gastrointestinal, hepatic, and pancreatobiliary pathology. Currently completing her GI pathology fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Sekhri is board certified in Anatomic Pathology and completed her surgical pathology fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2023. She earned her medical degree and completed her residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. With a passion for high-complexity GI pathology and mentoring future pathologists, Dr. Sekhri offers valuable insights into the art and science of diagnosing disease at the microscopic level.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠⁠

Want to learn the truth behind the practice of nephrology from a kidney science expert?Join us for a deep dive into nephrology with Dr. Manish Kadian, a board-certified nephrologist with Columbia Nephrology Associates in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Kadian earned his medical degree in India from JMF’s A.C.P.M. Medical College, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Ohio’s Wright State University, and trained in Nephrology and Transplantation at the Medical University of South Carolina. An active member of ASN, AST, and AMA, he has a special interest in kidney transplantation and chronic kidney disease management. In this episode, Dr. Kadian reflects on his path from international medical graduate to practicing specialist, shares insights into the field of nephrology, and dispels common myths about kidney health and dialysis.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an insightful episode featuring Dr. Kevin Walker, Medical Director for the Division of Pain Medicine at Prisma Health. A South Carolina native, Dr. Walker completed his undergraduate studies at Wofford College, earned his MD from the Medical University of South Carolina, and completed his anesthesiology residency and pain management fellowship at Vanderbilt University. Now leading a growing pain medicine division, he shares his journey from private practice to academic leadership. Dr. Walker offers valuable perspectives on interventional pain care, medical leadership, and the evolving role of anesthesiologists in multidisciplinary care.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an engaging episode with Dr. Liya Savochka, a first-year general surgery resident at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. She began her academic journey at Washington State University and completed medical school at the University of Washington. Now in her surgical residency, Dr. Savochka shares her passion for global health and mentorship in medicine. Beyond the operating room, she finds fulfillment in cooking, hiking, traveling, and spending quality time with loved ones, which keeps her grounded and energized.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an inspiring episode with Dr. Shraddha Patel, a board-certified vascular neurologist and Clinical Assistant Professor. With specialized training in acute stroke care, she shares insights into emergency neurology and her journey through Clemson University, Windsor University, Prisma Health Hospital, and Duke University. Dr. Patel reflects on what drew her to neurology and how interventions in stroke care can profoundly impact recovery. Outside of medicine, she maintains a rich personal life through travel, cultural exploration, and classical dance—pursuits that bring balance and perspective to her clinical work.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an inspiring episode with Dr. Priyanka Nair, a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellow at Washington University in St. Louis. Pursuing her medical training across two continents, Dr. Nair brings a global lens to pediatric care. She shares her journey through multiple residencies, her passion for high-stakes emergency medicine, and the challenges and triumphs of adapting to new medical systems. Beyond the hospital, Dr. Nair opens up about her creative outlets—from writing to aromatherapy—and how they ground her amidst the demands of medicine. This episode offers a valuable perspective for students curious about pediatrics, global health, or the power of resilience.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us for an engaging episode with Dr. Shayan Mahapatra, an Internal Medicine Hospitalist at Aiken Regional Medical Centers and Clinical Assistant Professor at VCOM. As a hospitalist, Dr. Mahapatra provides comprehensive inpatient care while mentoring the next generation of physicians. He shares his journey into endocrinology and allergy & immunology and the balance of clinical work with research and teaching. From advancing thyroid diagnostics to leading hospital-wide studies, this episode is full of insights for students interested in internal medicine, research, and making an impact in patient care.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us as Dr. Tarun Parvataneni, a dedicated Family Medicine physician at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, shares his passion for medical education, research, and data-driven healthcare innovation. Dr. Parvataneni discusses his role in mentoring residents, integrating clinical databases into training, and advancing evidence-based medicine. Learn about his journey, contributions to medical research, and insights on shaping the future of healthcare.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us with Dr. Catherine Millender, a highly experienced board-certified internal medicine physician, specializing in intensive critical care and pulmonology. Based in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Dr. Millender shares her journey from medical school at the University of South Carolina to over a decade of experience in the field. Learn about the challenges and rewards of critical care medicine, her path to becoming a physician, and her advice for aspiring doctors.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at ⁠https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter⁠

Join us as Dr. Martin Li, a dedicated pediatric resident at Brown University, shares his passion for climate change and sustainability and their impact on healthcare. Dr. Li speaks on how his love for pediatrics grew during medical school and how his work on waste disposal projects and medical curriculum reform is shaping a more sustainable future in medicine. Learn about his journey, advocacy for planetary health, and advice for aspiring doctors looking to make a difference.https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter

Join us as pre-med and medical students share essential insights for high schoolers aspiring to become doctors. From choosing the right courses and gaining clinical experience to navigating college and the medical school application process, this discussion offers firsthand advice to set you up for success. Whether you're just exploring the field or preparing for your next steps, this episode of the PhysiLink Podcast will help you build a strong foundation for your pre-med journey.Subscribe & join the email list for the PhysiLink initiative at https://physilink.azurewebsites.net/Newsletter.

Join us as Dr. Winkler, a board-certified emergency medicine physician in Columbia, SC, shares his journey from medical school to practicing in multiple hospitals across the region. With experience as a former flight surgeon, he brings a wealth of expertise to emergency medicine. Learn how he navigates high-pressure situations, provides critical care, and applies his years of experience to serve patients in emergency settings.

Join us as Dr. Sasya Pradhan, a neurology resident at Prisma Health Hospital in Columbia, SC, shares her journey from medical school in India to residency in the United States. Learn how she provides comprehensive, up-to-date care for adult patients while preparing for a fellowship in EEG and Epilepsy. Discover her insights on navigating medical training, her passion for blogging, and how she balances her love for medicine with her dedication to animals.

Join us as Dr. Fernandes, a pediatric neurologist at Atrium Health in Charlotte, NC, shares her upbringing, her holistic approach to child neurology, and her strategies for overcoming challenges. Learn how she blends medical expertise with mindfulness to care for patients and herself.

Join us as Dr. Ramasamy, a wound care physician in Columbia, SC, shares her empathetic approach to treating patients with long-term wounds. From her medical school days in India to utilizing hyperbaric medicine to save lives, Dr. Ramasamy offers valuable insights, her personal journey, and advice for aspiring healthcare professionals.