In this episode we dive into one of the most debated topics in medical education—should medical students have to work overnight shifts? We break down both sides of the argument, from whether it builds necessary skills to whether it just reinforces unnecessary suffering. Takeaways: Med students doing night shifts remains a heated debate, with strong opinions on both sides about whether it actually improves training. Bribing kids to try harder in sports works… but it may also backfire when they st...
Mar 18, 2025•54 min
In this episode I unpack the wildest eye surgery you’ve never heard of—a procedure that uses a patient’s tooth to hold an artificial cornea in place. This rare surgery restores vision in people with severe corneal damage. I also react to Goldie Hawn mentioning her cataracts at the Oscars, discussing why cataracts are a normal part of aging and why most people should have them removed by their 70s. Takeaways: Tooth-Based Eye Surgery Sounds Crazy, But It Works: The osteoodontokeratoprosthesis (OOK...
Mar 13, 2025•50 min
In this episode we cover a little bit of everything—from childhood misconceptions about adult life to the latest terrible UnitedHealthcare news. Also, Kristin opens up about her official ARFID diagnosis and they revisit the infamous "The Dress" optical illusion 10 years later—has science finally settled the debate on white and gold vs. blue and black? Takeaways: Some kids believe adults don’t have dreams… except about taxes. Kristin has officially been diagnosed with ARFID and has started exposu...
Mar 11, 2025•52 min
In this episode I share a wild VA investigation story involving misplaced suspicion, misinterpreted medical images, and seven months of wasted time. I also dive into measles-related eye complications, explaining how this highly contagious virus can lead to conjunctivitis, corneal scarring, and even blindness. Takeaways: The VA’s Seven-Month Investigation Fail: Dr. Flanary tells the almost unbelievable story of how VA police spent months investigating "pornographic images"—only to realize they we...
Mar 06, 2025•41 min
In this episode we discuss a controversial topic that could shake the foundations of medicine: NIH budget cuts. With proposed funding reductions for medical research, we explore what this means for scientific innovation, medical education, and residency funding. Could these cuts limit opportunities for new doctors? Will private corporations step in to fill the gap—and at what cost? We break down the potential long-term consequences of slashing government funding for medical research and what it ...
Mar 04, 2025•43 min
In this episode I answer frequently asked eye health questions, tackling topics like why your eyes hurt after removing contacts, whether it’s possible to reverse pupil dilation with Rizumvi, and how UV light therapy for seasonal depression affects eye safety. Takeaways: Why Contact Lenses Should Never Hurt: If your eyes hurt after removing contacts, it’s a sign of severe dryness, poor oxygen flow, or corneal irritation. Overwearing contacts can worsen long-term eye health, so taking breaks is es...
Feb 27, 2025•46 min
In this episode we take a deep dive into fear—caving, the deep ocean, cruise ships, and even horseback riding. We discuss the internet’s obsession with terrifying survival stories and why people voluntarily put themselves in dangerous situations. I also recounts the time I fell off a horse… into the ocean, proving yet again that I have somehow escaped death multiple times. But it's not all fun and fear—we also discuss the ongoing Providence Health strike, where physicians and nurses continue to ...
Feb 25, 2025•52 min
In this episode I break down the latest research on Ozempic and its potential link to NAION (non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy), a rare condition that can lead to sudden vision loss. I also reflects on UnitedHealthcare’s continued public relations missteps, including its latest legal threats against physicians and anybody on social media, speaking out about the company. Takeaways: The Ozempic and Blindness Connection: Dr. Flanary explains a recent observational study that suggests Ozempic ...
Feb 20, 2025•45 min
In this episode we dive into the quirks of daily life and the unexpected moments in medicine. We debate the merits of keeping texts unread—Will's inbox is chaos—before sharing our latest adventures in pet ownership, including the struggle to bond with our new kittens while preventing our dog from eating them. We also discuss the hilarious things patients say under light sedation. Takeaways: Unread texts can be a personality trait—Will has 400+, while Kristin reads every single one. Introducing c...
Feb 18, 2025•52 min
In this episode I explore the science behind eye dilation and whether there’s a way to reverse it (spoiler: there isn’t). I also discuss space blindness, a phenomenon astronauts experience due to fluid shifts in microgravity, and what NASA is doing to combat it. Takeaways: You Can’t Reverse Eye Dilation (Safely): Dr. Flanary explains why pilocarpine, a medication that constricts pupils, isn’t an effective solution for reversing dilation and can even increase the risk of retinal detachment in nea...
Feb 13, 2025•43 min
In this episode, Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser—Olympic gold medalist, NHL executive, and emergency medicine physician talks about how her experience as a professional athlete prepared her for the high-stakes world of medicine and how she balances working in emergency medicine with her role with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Takeaways: Balancing two demanding careers—Dr. Wickenheiser manages a full-time role in the NHL while working shifts in emergency medicine. Sports and medicine share common skills, such...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 8 min
In this episode I break down a congressman’s recent comments blaming physicians for the high cost of healthcare—and why that take is completely misguided. I explain where healthcare dollars actually go and why doctors aren’t the ones driving up costs. In addition I share a fascinating case of trochleitis, a rare but painful eye condition, and explain the difference between macular wrinkles and macular holes. Takeaways: Debunking a Congressman’s Comments About Doctors – Dr. Flanary responds to re...
Feb 06, 2025•48 min
In this episode we tackle the frustrating redundancies in medical paperwork to the historic Providence Health strike in Oregon, where nurses and physicians joined forces to demand safer staffing levels. We then explore the lighter side of healthcare with reflections on my early days as a Gomer Blog writer and how my comedy has evolved. Takeaways: Insurance companies often shift blame to doctors for rising healthcare costs to avoid scrutiny of their own profit-driven practices. The phrase "Rememb...
Feb 04, 2025•51 min
In this episode I dive into the fascinating world of Ortho-K lenses—special contact lenses that reshape the cornea overnight to correct vision without the need for daytime glasses or contacts. I discuss the pros and cons of this vision correction method, who it’s best suited for, and potential risks. I also covers the dangers of contaminated eye drops due to recent recalls, the ongoing hospital strikes impacting healthcare, and the innovative use of amniotic membrane transplants in ophthalmology...
Jan 30, 2025•50 min
In this episode we tackle several hot-button healthcare topics including how insurance companies often shift blame to doctors (and avoid accountability) for rising healthcare costs and dive into the complexities of physician compensation. We also take a deep dive into the ethics of humor in healthcare, reflecting on a viral TikTok video that generated both praise and criticism. Takeaways: Insurance companies often shift blame to doctors for rising healthcare costs to avoid scrutiny of their own ...
Jan 28, 2025•49 min
In this episode I tackle the fascinating eye questions you've had for me. I explore the debate over castor oil for dry eye treatment, share a wild cataract surgery story involving a rock-hard lens, and answers questions about anisocoria and optic disc drusen. Takeaways: The Risks of Nevus of Ota: Dr. Flanary explains how this rare pigmentation condition, seen in Daniela Ruah, increases the risks of glaucoma and uveal melanoma, emphasizing the importance of regular eye exams for those affected. E...
Jan 23, 2025•47 min
In this episode, Dr. Max Jordan Nguemeni, a general internal medicine physician and health policy advocate, joins to discuss the growing wave of physician unionization. Dr. Nguemeni shares his experiences leading union efforts among residents and the challenges they face, from misinformation campaigns to structural barriers within hospitals. We also explore the generational divide among physicians on unionization, the role of social media in fostering communities, and how advocacy can address in...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 11 min
In this episode I answer viewer questions about eye care, including when LASIK is worth it and when to skip it. I also dive into the eye conditions I can diagnose just by looking at someone, from ptosis to third nerve palsy, and reflect on the challenges patients with disabilities face during eye exams. Lastly, I get into all the equipment and machines we use in the eye doctor's office! Takeaways: LASIK Is Not for Everyone: Dr. Flanary advises against LASIK for patients over 50, explaining why c...
Jan 16, 2025•41 min
In this episode we look through the lens of some of my iconic characters. What happens when the Neurologist tries to fix an internet outage or when the Anesthesiologist tackles modern math homework? How would the Internal Medicine Doctor handle a clogged toilet? We explore these hilariously relatable scenarios while sharing their real-life experiences as parents navigating daily chaos. Takeaways: Carpool eavesdropping is a surprising parenting hack that offers insights into preteen lives without...
Jan 14, 2025•51 min
Team Glauc Flock presents: "How to be Patient" a new podcast we're producing hosted by Dr. Preston Roche! New episodes are up now! You can subscribe to "How to Be Patient" wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube. Can’t wait to hear what you think! Apple Podcasts: http://bit.ly/4a9yVTW Spotify: https://bit.ly/4h05RAg YouTube: https://bit.ly/3W3Fp0M Online: www.howtobepatientpod.com Want to join a future live hangout with the G’s on Patreon? www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Produced by Human Co...
Jan 13, 2025•6 min
In this episode I answer some of the most frequently asked—and occasionally bizarre—questions I get as an ophthalmologist. From whether chlamydia can spread from the eyes to the genitals, to why you should never rub your eyes too hard, I dive into everyday eye concerns with humor and expertise. Takeaways: Pink Eye vs. Conjunctivitis: Pink eye is a lay term often used for infectious conjunctivitis, but conjunctivitis encompasses a wide range of causes, including allergies, autoimmune conditions, ...
Jan 09, 2025•41 min
In this episode we delve into the personal and challenging world of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) with guest Andrew Luber, known online as ARFID Andrew. Kristin shares her own experiences living with ARFID, including how it has shaped her relationship with food, social dynamics, and self-perception. Andrew adds his unique perspective, sharing his journey of trying new foods while documenting his struggles and triumphs on social media. Together, we all unpack the stigma surrou...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this episode I talk about the cutting-edge world of bionic eye technology, diving into how devices like the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis are helping patients with retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration regain rudimentary vision. Alongside this futuristic topic, I also reflect on the challenges of practicing in the ICU as a young intern and the complexities of addressing patient needs with innovative surgical techniques. Takeaways: Ophthalmology Subspecialties: Dr. Flanary pr...
Jan 02, 2025•41 min
In this episode we bring another Ophthalmologist into the mix with Dr. Andrew Lam, a retina surgeon, professor, and acclaimed author. We explore the intricate details of retina surgery, including magnets used for extracting metal from the eye and the resilience of the human body in recovering from trauma. Dr. Lam shares his journey from growing up with a cardiologist father to combining his love for history and medicine into bestselling books like Saving Sight and Masters of Medicine. Takeaways:...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 9 min
In this episode I cover a wide range of topics, including a detailed breakdown of the subspecialties in ophthalmology. From the most common fields like cataract and refractive surgery to the rare gems of neuro-ophthalmology and pediatric ophthalmology, I explain what each specialty focuses on and why some are harder to find than others. I also discuss the importance of getting a second opinion for high-cost treatments, share stories about removing foreign bodies like cat hair from patients' eyes...
Dec 26, 2024•42 min
In this episode we welcome Dr. Humie, a dentist and TikTok content creator, to discuss the challenges and humor of dentistry. Dr. Humie shares his approach to creating high-quality, hilarious videos on a smartphone, involving his office staff to showcase the lighter side of dental care. We dive into topics like dental phobias, if the dentist chair should be scary, patient anxieties, and the innovative ways social media can make dentistry more approachable. The conversation also explores unique m...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 3 min
In this episode I a take a look into the systemic issues plaguing U.S. healthcare. Reflecting on the UnitedHealthcare CEO murder and the public backlash, I unpack common misconceptions about physician compensation and healthcare costs. I also highlight why blaming doctors for rising expenses is misguided and sheds light on where the real money is going. Takeaways: Who’s to Blame for Healthcare Costs? Dr. Flannery debunks the myth that physician salaries are the primary driver of high healthcare ...
Dec 19, 2024•46 min
We were thrilled to wrap up our life-changing “Wife & Death” 2024 tour at the Chicago Improv last weekend. That evening in a sold-out room with fans, friends, and family it felt important to talk about some of the feelings and questions so many of us are working through these days. Regardless of how each of us chooses to process the UnitedHealthcare shooting… you, your patients, and your family deserve to have your voices heard and safely advocate for positive change. Thank you everyone for ...
Dec 18, 2024•6 min
In this episode of swim over to a conversation wtih Dr. Andi Murez, an Olympic swimmer and psychiatry resident at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Murez shares her incredible journey from competing in three Olympics to starting her medical career, highlighting how her background in elite sports informs her interest in sports psychiatry and mental health advocacy. She discusses the mental preparation required for Olympic success, the challenges of transitioning into residency, and her vision for advancing me...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this episode I discuss my thoughts the shocking murder of United Healthcare’s CEO, Brian Thompson, and the complex emotions it has sparked on social media. I reflect on the power of advocacy versus violence in addressing systemic healthcare issues and explains the role of public outrage in driving legislative change. Alongside this, I answer engaging questions from fans about sclera discoloration, Bell’s phenomenon, and the difference between private practice and academic medicine. Takeaways:...
Dec 12, 2024•36 min
