The DIGA Podcast

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Samer Wahood, a graduating medical student from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, who successfully matched into dermatology at Emory University. Samer takes us through his full journey: from community work and a bioethics background that defined his application, to away rotations, mentorship, and what the interview season looked like. He closes with honest reflections on what truly differentiated his application and what he wishes every aspiring dermatologist knew before starting the process. We hope you enjoy! Connect with Samer: Instagram: @skinwithsamer — DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host: Laila Al Rawi @Lailanalrawi — For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com — District Four by KevinMacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini series with a high-yield discussion on Nail Disorders led by Dr. Sophia Anagnostis. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠derminterest⁠ Today's Guest, Dr. Sophia Anagnostis @drsophiaanagnostis Today’s Host, Marissa: @⁠marissamarieruppe --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠ License: ⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license⁠ ---

In this episode, we talk with Caroline Chen, MD, a recently matched dermatology resident. Caroline is graduating from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons this May and successfully matched into dermatology at Columbia, along with a transitional year at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Listen in as Caroline walks us through her journey to dermatology, how she got involved early on, and why she chose to apply without a research year. We also learn more about her experience with social media and how she balanced her interest in educational content creation with her medical career. We hope you enjoy! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with other students interested in dermatology! Connect with Caroline: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarolineChen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/car.xo.line/ Bio Site: https://bio.site/carolinechen https://www.tiktok.com/@car.xo.line --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, Cecile: @cecileschreidah --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode, we talk with DIGA Podcast giant and out-going co-host and chairman, Austin Black, MD. Austin is a graduating 4th year from McGovern Medical School and successfully matched into dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine. Austin walks us through his journey from first realizing that dermatology was the specialty for him to eventually deciding on a research year. He also discusses what he believes made his application successful, how he handled audition rotations and ranking, and even dual applying (tune in to find out with what specialty!). Throughout the episode, Austin provides well thought out advice for all students to consider. We hope you enjoy! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with other students interested in dermatology! Instagram: @austin_black --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini series with a high-yield discussion on Connective Tissue Disorders led by Dr. Michael Fritz. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Stanley Skopit, Program Director of the Larkin South Miami Dermatology Residency Program. He shares insights on the program’s culture, curriculum, and clinical training, along with his perspective on what makes a strong dermatology applicant and how medical students can prepare for a career in the field. We hope you enjoy! --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Larkin South Miami Dermatology Program: @larkindermsm Today’s Host, Marissa: ⁠@marissamarieruppe⁠ --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ License:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on Keratosis Pilaris and Xerosis led by Dr. Valerie Foy. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today's Guest, Dr. Valerie Foy⁠ @derm.dr.val⁠ Today’s Host, Marissa: ⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠marissamarieruppe⁠ --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link:⁠ ⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ License:⁠ ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license⁠

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we sit down with Dr. David Elpern. Dr. Elpern is a longtime dermatologist whose career path took him from family medicine to decades of dermatology practice on the island of Kauaʻi and now in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Dr. Elpern reflects on what first drew him to dermatology, when the specialty truly clicked for him, and why he chose to build a life and career in a rural island community rather than on Oʻahu or the mainland. He shares how practicing dermatology on Kauaʻi differed from working in a large academic center and family practice. We also discuss the skin conditions he saw more often than textbooks would suggest. Finally, Dr. Elpern offers perspective on how dermatology has evolved over the years, from the treatment of psoriasis before biologics to changes in skin cancer patterns in a high-UV environment. He wraps up with honest reflections on work-life balance, patient care, and the lessons that only come from a lifetime in practice. We hope you enjoy! --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today’s Host, Katelyn: @katsteng --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on Seborrheic Dermatitis led by Dr. Valerie Foy. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today's Guest, Dr. Valerie Foy @derm.dr.val Today’s Host, Marissa: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠marissamarieruppe --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license⁠

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Bilal Fawaz. Dr. Fawaz is the associate program director of the Boston University Dermatology Residency Program. He sits down to talk to us about details of the Boston University program including general curriculum, resident experiences and opportunities, program culture and more. We round out the episode with Dr. Fawaz giving valuable insight into what makes a successful dermatology applicant. We hope you enjoy! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with other students interested in dermatology! Learn More: Boston University links: - Email: dermtrng@bu.edu - Instagram: @budermatology - Website: Boston University Dermatology Residency Program - Connect with Dr. Fawaz: b.fawaz@bmc.org, @drbfawaz --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on cutaneous T cell lymphoma and mycosis fungoides led by Dr. Benjamin Cooper. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. Learn More: Educational links: Recommend educational resources by Dr. Cooper - Grenz zone podcast - Fitzpatrick Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode, Dr. Erica Ogwumike shares her inspiring journey from a standout basketball career at Rice University and the 2020 WNBA draft to representing Nigeria at the Olympics. Now a dermatology resident and social media content creator, Dr. Erica talks about residency applications, offers guidance for dermatology applicants, and discusses how she balances her medical training with creating engaging content for her followers. Along the way, she reflects on the role of purpose, discipline, and mentorship in shaping her path. We hope you enjoy this conversation! DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Connect with Dr.Erica: Instagram: @ericaogwumike TikTok: @ericathemd YouTube: @ericatheMD Today's Host: Shan Francis For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on Vitiligo led by Dr.Sharon Albers. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today’s Host: Shan Francis --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license⁠

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Erika Tvedten, current dermatology resident at Cooper University and newly matched Mohs fellow. Dr. Tvedten shares her journey from becoming the first DO to match at her program to building a competitive application that set her apart. She discusses the realities of dermatology residency, what it truly takes to stand out, and why protecting your passions is essential to building strength in every season. Whether you’re preparing to apply or navigating training now, we hope you enjoy! --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Dr. Tvedten: @dr.erikatvedten Today’s Host, Marissa: @marissamarieruppe --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠ License:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on atopic dermatitis led by Dr. Peter Lio. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. Learn More: Educational links: - Dr. Lio’s Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis Presentation - National Eczema Association - Chicago Integrative Eczema Center - peterlio@gmail.com --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Bonnie Lee, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at University of California Irvine Health and Program Director of the UCI Dermatology Residency. Dr. Lee earned her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completed her dermatology residency at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by fellowship training in dermatopathology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Dr. Lee shares how she chose dermatology, what drew her to dermatopathology, and offers thoughtful advice for medical students considering the field. Dr. Lee then provides an in-depth look at the UCI Dermatology Residency Program, including resident schedules, clinical and inpatient experiences, subspecialty exposure, research opportunities, and overall program culture. Dr. Lee discusses what makes an applicant stand out and what qualities she values most when selecting future residents. This episode is especially helpful for students seeking a better understanding of both the application process and life in dermatology residency. We hope you enjoy! --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today’s Host, Katelyn: @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠katsteng⁠ --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on rosacea, folliculitis and intertrigo led by Dr. Michael Fritz. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. Learn More: Educational links: - American Acne and Rosacea Society --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license ---

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kabir Al-Tariq, MD. Dr. Al-Tariq is a graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine and is currently in his transitional year before beginning dermatology residency at the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Al-Tariq gives us a very inspirational story, discussing perseverance from reapplying to medical school 3 times to suffering a near blinding injury during his third-year rotations. Dr. Al-Tariq also discusses his own application to dermatology and why having a love for the field matters most when applying. Listen in for an invigorating story and how to reframe mentality, even in the hardest of times. We hope you enjoy! Connect with Dr. Al-Tariq Instagram: @Thedermresident --- DIGA Instagram: @derminterest Today’s Host, George: @georgepapadeas --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at derminterestpod@gmail.com --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we continue our Dermatology Crash Course mini-series with a high-yield discussion on Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum led by Dr.Sharon Albers. We hope you enjoy! About the Dermatology Crash Course Series The Dermatology Crash Course is a DIGA Podcast mini-series focused on delivering short, high-yield episodes that cover foundational dermatology topics. Each episode features a dermatologist sharing practical insights to help learners develop confidence in recognizing and managing common skin conditions. --- DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today’s Host: Shan Francis --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license⁠

In this episode of the DIGA Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Lindsey Greenfield, the first student from Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine to match into a Dermatology Residency. Dr. Greenfield talks about her path to dermatology, how she approached rotations, and ways to let your personality and story come through during the application process. It’s an honest and insightful look at what it takes to succeed in a competitive specialty. We hope you enjoy! --- Dr. Lindsey Greenfield's Instagram @drlindseycaywood DIGA Instagram: @⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today’s Host: Marissa Ruppe, @marissamarieruppe --- For questions, comments, or future episode suggestions, please reach out to us via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠derminterestpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- District Four by Kevin MacLeod Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3662-district-four⁠⁠ License: ⁠⁠https://filmmusic.io/standard-license