All Things Shunts: Complexities in Pediatric Neurosurgery
In this episode, hosts Dr. Heather Spader, Dr. Carolyn Quincy, and Dr. Vijay Ravindra discuss the complexities of shunt placement and management in pediatric patients. They cover critical decision-making processes for premature infants, examine optimal surgical timing, review the pros and cons of programmable versus non-programmable valves, and discuss the clinical nuances of frontal versus occipital placement. The episode concludes with a discussion on "shunt nightmares,” as they review their most challenging cases and emphasize why a shunt remains one of the most humbling and complex operations in neurosurgery.
This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.
27 Jun 2026
Pediatric Neurosurgery Controversies: The Generalist vs. Subspecialist Dilemma
Join hosts Dr. Vijay Ravindra, Dr. Heather Spader, and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey for a conversation about the realities of modern pediatric neurosurgery practice. While pediatric neurosurgeons are often considered some of the last true generalists in the field, certain rare and high-stakes pathologies demand a team approach.
Through a series of hypothetical scenarios, the hosts explore the delicate balance between managing patients independently and knowing exactly when to call in backup. They break down the logistics, ethics, and ego-checks required to successfully collaborate with adult sub specialists, ensuring the best possible outcomes for children.
We hope you enjoy the episode!
Produced by Parker Chapman
In this episode, Dr. Heather Spader and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey tackle the gray areas and surgical controversies surrounding Chiari malformations. They debate everyday clinical decisions from atypical headaches to bone-only decompressions. Also, they discuss specific surgical techniques like shrinking cerebellar tonsils and selecting the best dural graft materials. Beyond the technical OR details, they share candid advice on patient selection and post-operative care. Join us for an honest, practical look at how to navigate one of pediatric neurosurgery's debated conditions. We hope you enjoy the episode!
This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman
7 Mar 2026
Team Surgery, OR Myths, and Plastic Surgery Secrets with Dr. Thomas Willson
In this episode, Dr. Carolyn Quinsey sits down with pediatric craniofacial surgeon Dr. Thomas Willson to bust common OR myths and discuss the art of team surgery. They debate everyday surgical techniques like skin hooks, surgical markers, and Raney clips. Beyond the technical details, they share advice on insightful communications between specialities in the OR. We hope you enjoy the episode!
This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.
1 Feb 2026
Pediatric Neurosurgery Controversies: An Arachnoid Cyst Case Study
In this episode of Insights in Pediatric Neurosurgery, hosts Dr. Heather Spader (University of Virginia), Dr. Vijay Ravindra (University of Utah), and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey (University of Missouri) are excited to introduce a new monthly format focused on analyzing controversial clinical cases.
The team reviews the case of a 14-month-old female presenting with a large arachnoid cyst in the right middle temporal fossa. Together, they debate the delicate balance between observation and intervention as well as explore what specific symptoms should trigger a trip to the operating room. We hope you enjoy the episode!
This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.
28 Jan 2026
Balancing Pediatric Neurosurgery and Leadership with Dr. Jeff Ojemann
Today we are joined by Dr. Jeff Ojemann, Chief Medical Officer and pediatric neurosurgeon at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Dr. Ojemann shares his unexpected path from the operating room to hospital leadership. He also reflects on how the skills of neurosurgery directly translate into executive leadership. He discusses the challenges of balancing clinical work with administrative responsibilities, the politicization of healthcare, and why physicians should not shy away from leadership roles.
We hope you enjoy the episode!
Produced by Parker Chapman
7 Nov 2025
Pediatric Neurosurgery in Ukraine with Dr. Eisha Christian
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Eisha Christian, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery at SickKids in Toronto, as she shares her experiences working in Ukraine before and during the ongoing war. From operating during air raids to training local surgeons in resource limited settings, Dr. Christian offers a firsthand look at the resilience of Ukrainian healthcare workers and the challenges of delivering care in a conflict zone.
We hope you enjoy the episode!
25 Sept 2025
Navigating Careers in Pediatric Neurosurgery with Dr. Scott Wait
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Scott Wait, Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Wait shares his insights into building a hybrid “private-demic” practice, balancing adult and pediatric neurosurgery, and sustaining a busy surgical career while training future neurosurgeons. From navigating negotiations with hospitals to reflecting on what truly sustains a meaningful career, this conversation offers a practical look into the evolving landscape of pediatric neurosurgery.
We hope you enjoy the episode!
14 Dec 2024
A Neurosurgical Journey with Dr. Oakes
Dr. Johnston and Dr. Barkley delve into the remarkable life and career of Pediatric Neurosurgery trailblazer Dr. Jerry Oakes, gaining a unique glimpse into the world of Pediatric Neurosurgery.
7 Jun 2024
Gender Disparities and Female Neurosurgeons in the Current Workforce and Future Directions
In this episode, Dr. Barkley talks with Dr. Susan Durham about the gender disparities seen in Neurosurgery throughout their time working in the field. From medical school to residency, all up to their current positions. Dr. Durham is Chief of the Division of Neurosurgery and the Co-director of the Neurological Institute of the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. She also holds the position of Director of the Neurosurgery Fellowship Program and the J. Gordon McComb Family Chair in Neurosurgery. As well as the second woman to lead an Academic Neurosurgery Program
30 May 2024
Notes on Global Pediatric Neurosurgery with Dr. Anthony Figaji
Tune into this episode as Drs. Barkley and Johnston discuss with Dr. Anthony Figaji about the impact of Pediatric Neurosurgeons across the globe while at the World Federation of Neurological Societies (WFNS) in Capetown, South Africa. Dr. Figaji is the Division Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the University of Capetown as well as Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Red Cross Hospital.
5 Apr 2024
Work Hard and Be Nice to People: A Conversation with Dr. Howard Weiner
Today’s episode is a discussion of leadership and knowing others in your field with Dr. Howard Weiner. Discussing past normalities within the field and current steps leaders take to make others feel appreciated and heard.
14 Dec 2023
Facets of Leadership in Pediatric Neurosurgery: A Discussion with Dr. Sandi Lam
In this episode we have an in depth discussion with Dr. Sandi Lam, Chief of Neurosurgery at Lurie Children’s Hospital and Professor of Neurosurgery at Northwestern University on the facets of leadership in pediatric neurosurgery.
Tune into this episode to hear Dr. Lam’s journey with Drs. Ravindra and Spader.
30 Oct 2023
Becoming a Pediatric Neurosurgeon: A discussion with Dr. David Limbrick
An in depth discussion with Dr. Dave Limbrick, Chairman of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Virginia and Children's Hospital of Richmond, on the journey that is becoming a Pediatric Neurosurgeon.
Tune in to this episode to hear Dr. Limbrick's story alongside Drs. Ravindra, Barkley and Johnston.
30 Jan 2023
Firearm injuries in America: Freedom, Responsibility and Advocacy Options for Pediatric Neurosurgeons
Tune in for this podcast featuring Dr. Jonathan Martin.
Dr. Martin is a US military veteran, pediatric neurosurgeon and advocate for reducing injuries and death related to firearms. Drs. Martin, Spader, Ravindra and Bollo tackle the issues and challenges we face in America as deaths due to firearms increase in the patients we serve.
27 Sept 2022
Tips for Pediatric Neurosurgery Fellowship
Drs. Spader and Ravindra have a discussion with Dr. Ariana Barkley, Assistant Professor at University of New Mexico and Dr. Robert Bollo, Division Chief Primary Children’s Hospital, University of Utah about fellowship training.
In this episode we discuss the characteristics of training, goals of fellowship, what to look for when applying for fellowship, and what programs are looking for from their pool of applicants. An honest discussion of “what we wished we had done/known” will be useful to anyone applying for pediatric neurosurgery fellowship during this cycle or the near future.
9 Jul 2022
"All That Moves Us." A book discussion with Dr. Jay Wellons
Drs. Bollo, Ravindra, and Spader talk with Dr. Jay Wellons, Professor of Neurosurgery and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University, about his new book All That Moves Us. A Pediatric Neurosurgeon, His Young Patients and their Stories of Grade and Resilience. In addition to discussing this book, we discuss the shared experiences we have as pediatric neurosurgeons.
12 Feb 2022
Pediatric Neurosurgery Through the Years
Drs. Spader and Bollo from the University of New Mexico and University of Utah, respectively, interview Dr. Michael Scott of Boston Children’s Hospital and Dr. Marion Walker of the University of Utah to talk about the history of pediatric neurosurgery and share their experience and insights into what makes a good pediatric neurosurgeon.
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