The PA Path Podcast

In this episode, hosts Kevin Lohenry, PhD, PA-C, and Stephane VanderMeulen, MA, MPAS, PA-C, look back on five incredible seasons of PA Path as they prepare to hand the mic to a new host. They reflect on the podcast’s journey, revisiting key themes like passion for the PA profession, commitment to diversity, and the importance of service, while sharing highlights from their favorite episodes. Kevin and Stephane introduce the podcast’s new host, Emma Sellers, PAEA’s Chief Diversity Officer, who will carry the mission forward. They also take a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to listeners, contributors, and their programs for the ongoing support that has made PA Path such a success. Join us as we celebrate the past, embrace the future, and continue the journey of advancing the PA profession! https://lnkd.in/gP8SaCD4

Tomorrow is the 102nd and final release of the podcast hosted by Kevin Lohenry, PhD, PA-C and Stephane VanderMeulen, MPAS, MA, PA-C. Here are a few of the interesting outcomes from the past 101 episodes. Downloaded over 40,000 times Listeners from 68 countries Top 10 Episodes by downloads: 1. Episode 11 - Emory University 2. Episode 41 - Northwestern University 3. Episode 1 - The 5 W's for the PA Path Podcast 4. Episode 6 - University of Washington MEDEX PA Program 5. Episode 2 - The 3 Presidents for USC PA 6. Episode 10 - Samuel Merritt University 7. Episode 20 - Rosalind Franklin University 8. Episode 3 - PA Education Association 9. Episode 19 - Duke University 10. Episode 18 - Wake Forest University School of Medicine Most importantly, this has been a resource for multitudes of pre-PA students who are trying to navigate the PA application process. Episode 102 drops tomorrow. Stay tuned for new episodes hosted by PA Education Association and their Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion officer, Emma Sellers.

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Babcock, DHSc, PA-C, Associate Professor and Director of the Creighton University PA Program in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Babcock reflects on her journey from growing up in small-town Wisconsin to becoming a PA and leader in PA education. She shares insights from her career path, including her early passion for medicine, her education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and her PA training at Midwestern University. Dr. Babcock also delves into the Creighton program’s service-oriented mission, rooted in Jesuit principles, and provides valuable advice for future applicants on demonstrating a commitment to service and gaining meaningful healthcare experience. https://lnkd.in/gi_JrVxv

In our 100th episode, we celebrate a milestone with Melanie “MJ” Ellis, MPAS, PA-C, program director for the University of Arizona's developing PA program. Ellis shares her inspiring 36-year journey in the US Air Force and discusses the launch their new program in August 2026, with accreditation review set for March 2026. Designed with a mission to prioritize person-centered primary care, rural health, and medical Spanish, the program will feature cutting-edge facilities, including a new clinical skills lab and the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center. Ellis highlights the program’s focus on resilience, interprofessional collaboration, and aligning with its core mission and values. https://lnkd.in/giwSRgry

Excited to share that our podcast has been ranked in the top 10% globally per the Listen Notes rankings. This is a great way to wind things down as we enter our 100th episode release tomorrow and finish up season five with our final three episodes. The podcast will continue under the faithful leadership of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) and Emma Sellers, Chief Diversity Officer for PAEA. It has been a fantastic ride interviewing all of these leaders across the world these past three years and we are grateful to PAEA for supporting it these past two seasons as well as all of our guests and listeners who have kept us moving ahead. https://lnkd.in/gEJE7BPY

In this episode, we’re joined by Nour Safa, PA-C, Mubashir Ahmed, and Marwha Kayali, three global leaders who have developed the Muslim Association of Physician Associates and Students, now a caucus within the American Academy of Physician Associates. They share the journey of creating this group, inspired by their own paths to becoming PAs and the need for cultural and religious competency in healthcare. Together, they discuss the importance of mentorship, resources, and advocacy for Muslim PAs and students, highlighting how their organization fosters a sense of community, inclusivity, and support for future professionals in the field. https://lnkd.in/gfFpHgC3

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Betsy Schmidt, program director for the Butler University PA program, about her diverse career in emergency medicine and orthopedic surgery, as well as her role in founding a PA-owned surgical assistance program in Indiana. Schmidt shares insights on the importance of thinking creatively and adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape. She also highlights Butler University’s highly regarded 24-month PA program, known for its personalized attention, focus on service, and leadership development. For prospective students, Schmidt encourages embracing unique experiences and non-traditional career paths without hesitation. https://lnkd.in/gQ5FKDeT  

In this episode, Elias Villarreal, Jr., DMSc, PA-C, associate dean and founding program director of the UCSD School of Medicine Atkinson PA Education. He shares his inspiring journey from engineering major to physician assistant, driven by a passion for biology and chemistry. He discusses the challenges and successes of launching a PA program from the ground up and highlights the program’s strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Elias also emphasizes the power of storytelling in applications, offering advice on how applicants can stand out through personal narratives. For new educators, he shares his guidance on following your passion and seeking support from colleagues and mentors. URL: https://lnkd.in/gSsVcVue

In this episode, we chat with Emily WhiteHorse, PhD, PA-C, founder of The PA Faculty Development Academy, about her latest book, Becoming a PA Educator: A Practical Guide for Physician Assistant/Associate Faculty. Dr. WhiteHorse shares her unique journey from high school teacher to practicing PA and now educator. She dives into the challenges clinicians face when transitioning into PA education, including the common misconceptions about teaching and the steep learning curve. With a growing faculty shortage in PA programs, she explains how many new educators leave within three years due to insufficient support. Her book offers practical tools and advice to ease this transition, focusing on curriculum development, assessment strategies, and faculty growth. https://lnkd.in/gmMeJ24Z

Stephane VanderMeulen, MPAS, MA, PA-C did an excellent job of hosting this important episode solo. I've been a member of the AAPA since I was a PA student and the work they do to represent the PA profession throughout the country is important. The laws governing our practice didn't occur by happenstance. It was the hard work and dedication of the volunteers and staff of the American Academy of Physician Associates and the respective state and constituent organizations that made it happen. Thanks to Lisa Gables for taking time out of her schedule to speak with us.