COLA: Talk Lab To Me

What does it really take to grow as a leader in the laboratory — and what happens when the pressure is on? In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Whitehead for an honest and inspiring conversation about laboratory leadership at every level. 

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Melody Nelson, DCLS, MLS,NRCC-CC a high-complexity laboratory director and trailblazer in advanced practice laboratory science. Dr. Nelson shares her journey into the field, what motivated her to pursue the Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science (DCLS), and how this emerging role is reshaping the future of diagnostics and patient care. Listeners will gain an inside look at how DCLS degree differs from traditional advanced degrees—and the unique strengths DCLS professionals bring to laboratory leadership, diagnostic stewardship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Nelson discusses real-world moments where her expertise directly influenced clinical decision-making and improved patient outcomes, offering a powerful look at how laboratory science can transform care when fully integrated into the clinical team. She also shares candid insights on mentorship, leadership philosophy, and the advice she offers early-career laboratorians aspiring to advanced practice roles. Whether you're a laboratory science professional, educator, physician, or healthcare leader, this episode delivers a compelling vision of where laboratory medicine is heading—and the pivotal role the DCLS degree can play in shaping its future.

In this episode, we’re joined by distinguished representatives from the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Physicians (ACP), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) for a thoughtful conversation about the vital connection between physician association involvement and the clinical laboratory. 

Join us on this special onsite episode as we bring you straight to the heart of the action at the 2025 COLA Laboratory Enrichment Forum! We’re sitting down with some leading subject matter experts to unpack the latest trends, breakthroughs, and takeaways from this year’s event. 

Laboratory science professionals salaries vary greatly depending on location, experience and skills. In this episode, we talk laboratory wages and impacting factors with Jon Harol of Lighthouse Lab Services.

This engaging podcast with a discussion with CEO Marisa James about leading the NAACLS and interacting with the next generation of laboratory science professionals.

With COLA's CEO Nancy Stratton we have an informative on-location discussion with Dr.Donna Sweet about the role of laboratory science in the treatment of patients living with HIV. Dr.Sweet has been treating people living with HIV since 1983 and has spent the entirety of her medical career in practice at the University of Kansas, School of Medicine in Wichita.   

A detailed discussion from a regulator and Proficiency Testing provider perspective on how to prepare for the upcoming proficiency testing requirement changes.

In this episode, Daniel H. Hesselgesser, MT (ASCP), will discuss the new regulatory implications and future impact on laboratories.