Knock Knock, Hi! with the Glaucomfleckens

What do 19th-century vampires, corneal scarring, and rampant chlamydia have in common? Possibly more than you'd think. I Nosferatu and spiraled (in a good way) into diagnosing one of film’s creepiest figures using real ophthalmology. Along the way, I breaks down the leading causes of corneal blindness, unpack the wild world of corneal transplants, and imagine what kind of eye care Nosferartu might’ve needed in his castle. Takeaways: He May Be Immortal, But His Corneas Are Not: Nosferatu’s cloudy eyes raise some very real medical questions—and Dr. Flanary can’t let it go. Not All Corneal Scarring Comes from Contact Lenses: What causes corneal blindness around the world might surprise you… and gross you out a little. There’s a Toothpick-Sized Transplant That Can Change Lives: Modern corneal transplant technology has gotten weirdly precise—and impressively effective. PBM Reform Might Finally Be Moving… a Little: A glimpse of progress in the middleman mess, with state-level action heating up. If You Watch Horror with a Doctor… Be Prepared for Diagnoses: Don’t expect a relaxing movie night. Expect theories, pathologies, and a bit of eye-rolling. Literally. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: https://anatomywarehouse.com/?aff=14 Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/17/25 • 40:06

In this episode we welcome back Dr. Kaveh Hoda—gastroenterologist, musician, podcaster, and accidental poop ambassador. We discuss what life is really like as a GI doc (spoiler: it’s not all about poop), how Match Day can go terribly wrong—or surprisingly right—and why some residents get influenced by... ultimate frisbee. Kaveh also opens up about his path into medicine, his Persian music background, and his worst interview story (hint: it involves casual racism and a dental drill). But it wouldn’t be a Glaucomflecken episode without a little absurdity—like when we brainstorm ways for UnitedHealthcare to get even more terrifyingly vertically integrated. Takeaways: A heartfelt moment during CPR left Kristin questioning if med school was even worth it. Will’s proposed test for letting your child go to med school involves a brutal prior auth simulation. The NIH funding freeze isn’t just theoretical—it’s dismantling real labs, careers, and discoveries. Medicaid cuts could gut healthcare access and destabilize emergency departments across the country. Ortho Bro has very strong opinions on which bones are real, fake, or just embarrassing. — Want more Dr. Kaveh Hoda: BlueSky: @kavehmd The House of Pod: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-house-of-pod/id1225096382 To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: https://anatomywarehouse.com/?aff=14 Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/15/25 • 70:12

In this episode, I dive into a mix of strange eye conditions, pop culture moments, and one very public showdown between a doctor and a group of anti-vaxxers on Jubilee’s Surrounded. But beyond the headlines, there’s a deeper conversation here—about what it costs to stay online, stay visible, and speak up. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you might even check your eyelids before bed. Takeaways: A Surprisingly Common Condition You’ve Probably Never Heard Of: It flips, it flops, and it might be the reason you wake up with irritated eyes. A Debate That Left More Than a Mark: What happens when a doctor faces off with misinformation... for hours? The emotional fallout might surprise you. Engaging Online: Heroic or Hopeless? Dr. Flanary asks the uncomfortable question: Is fighting misinformation on social media actually helping—or just draining the people trying to help? Sci-Fi Fails a Real-World Eye Test: Those high-tech retinal scanners in movies? There’s one big flaw they forgot to mention—and it could keep you out of your own evil lair. Trauma, TV, and Why It Might Still Be Worth Watching: One gritty show might be getting people into medicine… but is that a good thing? — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: https://anatomywarehouse.com/?aff=14 Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/10/25 • 50:54

In this episode we ask a deceptively simple question: Would you let your kid become a doctor? What starts as a heartfelt reflection on medicine, sacrifice, and identity quickly unravels into a chaos-filled ride through policy disasters, parenting hypotheticals, and bone-based controversy. We touch on the NIH budget freeze and massive proposed Medicaid cuts—and why they’re not just headlines, but real threats to research, residency programs, and patients. Will also pitches a darkly hilarious “prior auth simulation” to anyone considering med school. And just when things start getting too serious… Ortho Bro shows up. With strong takes and stronger forearms, he’s here to settle the great debate once and for all: What counts as a real bone? (Sorry, teeth.) Healthcare is a mess, bones are controversial, and nobody is safe from Ortho Bro’s tier list. Takeaways: A heartfelt moment during CPR left Kristin questioning if med school was even worth it. Will’s proposed test for letting your child go to med school involves a brutal prior auth simulation. The NIH funding freeze isn’t just theoretical—it’s dismantling real labs, careers, and discoveries. Medicaid cuts could gut healthcare access and destabilize emergency departments across the country. Ortho Bro has very strong opinions on which bones are real, fake, or just embarrassing. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: https://anatomywarehouse.com/?aff=14 Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/8/25 • 49:01

In this episode I share one of the more difficult days in the OR—when a routine cataract surgery didn’t go according to plan. I walk through the moment everything shifted, how I kept my cool, and what came after—both technically and emotionally. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be a surgeon in that moment, this episode is a rare, honest window into it. Takeaways: Sometimes, Even “Routine” Surgeries Aren’t: Dr. Flanary opens up about a recent case that didn’t go as expected—and why even years into practice, there are still moments that test every skill you’ve got. Staying Calm When Things Go Sideways: When a complication unfolds in real time, there’s no time to panic. Dr. Flanary shares how he handled a challenging situation, and what surgeons learn to do when instincts and training have to carry the moment. Confidence Doesn’t Mean Perfection: Through a powerful metaphor, Dr. Flanary reflects on how surgical confidence evolves—not as certainty that nothing will go wrong, but as the ability to keep moving when it does. Conversations After Complications Matter: How do you talk to a patient—and their family—when the procedure didn’t go exactly as planned? Dr. Flanary talks about how he approaches these moments with honesty and trust. The Policies Behind the Pressure: In a classic healthcare rant, Dr. Flanary traces how systems like Medicare Advantage add stress behind the scenes—and why real reform, especially around PBMs, can’t come soon enough. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/3/25 • 48:55

In this episode we are joined by a long-awaited guest—the one, the only, Emergency Medicine Doctor. Known for his mile-a-minute energy, caffeine addiction, and refusal to slow down, he makes his first-ever in-person podcast appearance… and it’s just as chaotic as you’d expect. Takeaways: He’s caffeinated. He’s chaotic. And now he’s got a microphone. What happens when a fictional ER doctor enters a real podcast studio? We tested ChatGPT’s joke-writing abilities… and the results were cringe. Batman might belong in the ER—but not for the reason you think. Some patients say wild things under sedation. One of them proposed. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4/1/25 • 43:53

In this episode I dive deep into the chaotic world of Match Day, exploring the emotional rollercoaster for medical students who match—and those who don’t. I share insights into why family medicine and pediatrics residency spots are going unfilled at alarming rates and what this means for the future of primary care. I also review the medical drama The Pitt, breaking down one of its most realistic emergency eye trauma scenes—complete with a lateral canthotomy and high-pressure eye injuries. Takeaways: Match Day is one of the most stressful times in a medical student’s life, and not matching doesn’t mean your career is over. Family medicine and pediatrics residency spots are going unfilled, raising concerns about the future of primary care. The Pitt is one of the most medically realistic shows, and its portrayal of emergency eye trauma is surprisingly accurate. Medical education is becoming increasingly unaffordable, and debt is pushing students away from lower-paying but essential specialties. ER doctors need to know how to handle emergency eye procedures, including lateral canthotomies and managing high-pressure eye trauma. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/27/25 • 41:05

In this episode we invite Dr. Ryan Marino, a triple-board-certified toxicologist, addiction specialist, and emergency physician known for his relentless battle against medical misinformation—particularly myths about fentanyl and drug policy onto the podcast to share his shocking experience of being targeted by Tucker Carlson, which led to online harassment, real-life threats, and even attempts to get him fired. Takeaways: The fentanyl “touch overdose” myth is still widely believed, despite overwhelming scientific evidence proving it’s impossible. Tucker Carlson’s attack on Dr. Marino led to real-world harassment, job threats, and an online mob—highlighting the risks of fighting misinformation. Social media is both a tool and a trap—it helps spread accurate medical information but also fuels toxic debates and misinformation. Proposed laws targeting fentanyl analogs may actually hurt public health by criminalizing research into safer treatment options. Doctors engaging in online advocacy can make a difference, but they also need support to withstand the backlash. — Want more Dr. Ryan Marino: BlueSky: @ryanmarino.bsky.social Instagram: @drryanmarino YouTube: @RyanMD We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/25/25 • 69:27

In this episode I go on a private equity rant, breaking down how corporate takeovers are ruining healthcare—just like they’ve wrecked other industries, including Southwest Airlines. I explain how profit-driven ownership models are prioritizing revenue over patient care, forcing doctors into impossible situations and leading to worse outcomes for everyone. Takeaways: Private Equity is a Disaster for Healthcare: Dr. Flanary explains how private equity firms take over medical practices, cut costs, reduce patient care quality, and flip them for profit, leaving physicians and patients suffering. Southwest Airlines’ Private Equity Problem is a Warning: The downfall of Southwest’s customer-friendly policies is just another example of how corporate ownership ruins everything it touches—including medicine. Orthopedic Surgeons Really Love Pickleball: While speaking at an ortho conference, Dr. Flanary witnessed a full pickleball tournament happening inside the exhibit hall—which, honestly, makes a lot of sense for ortho docs. How ERs Handle Eye Emergencies: Not every ER has an on-call ophthalmologist, but level 1 and level 2 trauma centers are required to have one available 24/7—so if you have a serious eye emergency, that’s where you should go. The Internet Really Wants to Talk About Spleens: After joking about replacing the spleen with a second liver, Dr. Flanary responds to fan concerns that spleens can “explode”, clearing up how spleen ruptures actually happen. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/20/25 • 46:39

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 start expecting to be paid for everything. Elizabeth Holmes will remain in prison after losing her appeal, marking another chapter in the Theranos fraud case. Doctors love arguing with each other, especially when it comes to medical education policies and resident training. Understanding motivation is tricky, whether you're training a doctor or a fourth-grade basketball player. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/18/25 • 54:28

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 (OOKP) procedure involves implanting a patient’s tooth into their cheek, then using it as a corneal support. It’s used in extreme cases of corneal blindness when traditional transplants won’t work. Goldie Hawn’s Cataract Revelation at the Oscars: A throwaway comment at the Oscars sent cataract searches skyrocketing, highlighting how common cataracts are after age 60—and why most people should consider surgery by their 70s. Should Cataract Surgery Be Delayed? Dr. Flanary breaks down why waiting too long can make cataract surgery riskier, especially when glare, reading issues, or night driving problems start affecting daily life. Australia Wants to Learn from America’s Healthcare Failures: Ahead of his keynote speech in Sydney, Dr. Flanary shares how Australia is facing growing privatization threats—and why they don’t want to end up with a U.S.-style system. Healthcare Comedy as a Teaching Tool: Dr. Flanary floats the idea of a stand-up show explaining U.S. healthcare, mixing satire and real policy breakdowns to educate audiences worldwide on how we got here. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact. For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/13/25 • 49:48

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 exposure therapy, which is as terrifying as it sounds. UnitedHealthcare is being investigated (again), this time for allegedly inflating Medicare Advantage claims to get more federal funding. The Dress debate still messes with people’s heads 10 years later, and your brain is constantly interpreting color in ways you don’t realize. Trying to explain your weird internet job to other parents can get awkward fast. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/11/25 • 51:36

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 were larynx photos from ENT exams. Measles Can Cause Blindness: He explains how measles-related conjunctivitis and keratitis can permanently scar the cornea, making it one of the leading causes of childhood blindness in low-income countries. Spleens, Extra Organs, and Evolution: Responding to fan comments, Dr. Flanary revisits the spleen vs. second liver debate and expands on which organs would be most useful if humans could regenerate them. Do We Really Need Multiple Skins? In a bizarre but hilarious discussion, Dr. Flanary considers the logistical nightmare of humans molting like reptiles, questioning what we’d even do with billions of discarded skins. Get Vaccinated Against Measles: With rising measles cases in the U.S., Dr. Flanary strongly emphasizes the importance of the MMR vaccine to protect against severe illness, eye damage, and preventable deaths. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact. For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/6/25 • 41:19

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 means for patients, physicians, and future healthcare providers. Takeaways: NIH budget cuts could drastically impact medical education, residency funding, and future scientific research. Slashing research funding could open the door for more corporate influence in medicine, raising ethical concerns. Medical advancements rely on publicly funded research, and cutting it could slow innovation for years to come. External motivation works in the short term but can reduce long-term internal motivation—as Will learned the hard way with his basketball incentive plan. The balance between motivation and bribery is tricky, and parenting is one long experiment in figuring it out. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/4/25 • 43:29

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 essential. Reversing Eye Dilation with Rizumvi: A listener introduced Dr. Flanary to Rizumvi, an FDA-approved medication for reversing dilation. He explains why it’s expensive, slow to act, and not widely used, meaning most people still have to wait it out. UV Light Therapy and Eye Safety: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) lamps can help mood regulation, but they must have UV filters to prevent potential eye damage. Without proper filtering, they can increase the risk of photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye). Cataract Surgery and Timing: Not everyone needs cataract surgery at 60—it depends on how much the cataracts affect vision. Dr. Flanary explains how eye doctors determine when surgery is actually necessary. Watching Live Eye Surgery: A listener shared their experience of watching a live cataract surgery through a viewing window in a clinic. Dr. Flanary discusses why some clinics allow this and why most patients prefer NOT to see their own surgery up close. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact. For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/27/25 • 45:36

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 fight for fair wages and safer staffing conditions. Takeaways: Caving is an unnecessary risk—you don’t have to do it, ever, and you’ll probably be just fine. The ocean is objectively terrifying, whether it’s open water, cruise ships, or mysterious creatures lurking below. Work retreats should have limits—no horseback riding, extreme sports, or survivalist adventures required. The Providence Health strike continues, with physicians and nurses standing together for fair wages and safe staffing. Will has cheated death at least four times, including falling off a horse into the ocean during their honeymoon. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/25/25 • 51:33

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 may increase the risk of NAION, a condition that affects the optic nerve. However, the data isn’t conclusive yet, and more research is needed before drawing firm conclusions. Uveitis and the Syphilis Conversation: If you have eye inflammation (uveitis), your doctor may need to test for syphilis—leading to some of the most awkward conversations in ophthalmology. Dr. Flanary explains why this is necessary and how it helps with proper diagnosis. UnitedHealthcare’s PR Nightmare: The insurance giant recently hired a law firm to threaten doctors on social media, proving once again that they’re more focused on silencing criticism than improving patient care. Does Everyone Need Cataract Surgery at 60? Not necessarily! While cataracts affect nearly everyone with age, surgery should only be performed when they significantly impact vision. Dr. Flanary explains how doctors decide when it’s time for surgery. Do We Really Need a Spleen? Dr. Flanary debates whether two livers would be better than one liver and a spleen, adding yet another hilarious (but oddly insightful) take on human anatomy. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact. For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/20/25 • 45:19

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 cats and dogs takes patience (and some very careful planning). Flirting at the grocery store is apparently a thing—especially if you're Kristin. Doctors struggle with balancing documentation and patient interaction, especially when patients expect more eye contact. Patients under light sedation say the funniest things, and sometimes, that includes a marriage proposal. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/18/25 • 52:22

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 nearsighted individuals​. Space Blindness Is a Real Condition: Long-term space travel can cause swelling of the optic nerves and changes in vision due to fluid shifts, leading NASA to study ways to mitigate these effects​. Cataract Surgery Patients Say the Darndest Things: Light sedation during cataract surgery makes patients extra chatty, leading to some hilarious surgery-day stories, including unexpected marriage proposals from patients​. What Causes Ocular Rosacea? This chronic eye condition is linked to facial rosacea, causing redness, irritation, and even corneal inflammation in severe cases​. Amniotic Membrane Transplants Are a Game Changer: Donated placental tissue is being used to heal severe eye injuries and neurotrophic keratopathy, proving that amniotic tissue has powerful regenerative properties​. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/13/25 • 42:43

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 as teamwork, resilience, and handling high-pressure situations. Transitioning from sports to medicine required discipline and adaptability, traits she developed as a professional athlete. Emergency medicine provides flexibility, allowing her to maintain both her passion for hockey and a career in healthcare. The importance of mentorship and role models, especially for women in both sports and medicine, is crucial to success. We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey — Want to Learn About Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser IG: @hchickwick on insta — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/11/25 • 67:48

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 recent claims that doctors are to blame for the high cost of healthcare, explaining how insurance companies and administrative overhead play a much bigger role in skyrocketing prices. Trochleitis: A Rare Cause of Eye Pain – He explains how trochleitis, an inflammation of the superior oblique tendon sheath, can cause localized brow pain and how it’s diagnosed and treated. Macular Wrinkles vs. Macular Holes – Breaking down these retinal conditions, Dr. Flanary explains when they require surgery and how they affect vision over time. Seeing ‘Cracked Glass’ in Vision – A mysterious case where a patient described seeing cracked glass led to a surprising diagnosis of an occipital brain tumor, highlighting how vision symptoms can indicate neurological issues. The TikTok Eyelash Cutting Trend – Reacting to a bizarre viral trend, Dr. Flanary discusses why eyelashes are essential for eye protection and whether they really grow back the same way. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/6/25 • 48:25

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 "Remember that patient you saw?" strikes fear into physicians, as it often signals potential mistakes or complications. Humor in healthcare can be a powerful tool, but it also comes with ethical considerations that doctors must navigate carefully. Public perception of doctors is shaped by narratives from the healthcare industry, which often misrepresents physician compensation and responsibilities. Physician content creators face unique challenges, balancing humor with sensitivity while addressing serious healthcare issues. — We have an active survey going. Hope you participate here: http://glaucomflecken.com/survey To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Join 6,000 physicians nationwide who trust physician-founded PearsonRavitz with their insurance needs. Give yourself peace of mind and go to PearsonRavitz to schedule your free one-on-one consultation with a disability insurance expert. That's http://ww.pearsonravitz.com/knockknock to get more information and take the first step toward protecting your income and future. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2/4/25 • 51:14

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. Takeaways: Ortho-K Lenses for Vision Correction: Dr. Flanary explains how orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses work by gently reshaping the cornea overnight, providing clear vision without glasses or contacts during the day. Contaminated Eye Drops Recall: A recent recall of generic eye drops due to fungal contamination highlights the importance of using reputable brands and practicing good hygiene when applying eye medications. Hospital Strikes and Their Impact: Ongoing strikes by healthcare workers are affecting hospitals nationwide, raising concerns about patient care quality and medical staff burnout. Amniotic Membrane Transplants in Eye Care: Dr. Flanary explains how amniotic tissue is used in ophthalmology to treat severe eye injuries and promote corneal healing in complex cases. The State of Healthcare Today: With his trademark humor, Dr. Flanary reflects on current challenges in the healthcare system, from physician burnout to patient frustrations, and what changes could improve the future of medical care. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/30/25 • 50:14

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 profit-driven practices. The phrase "Remember that patient you saw?" strikes fear into physicians, as it often signals potential mistakes or complications. Humor in healthcare can be a powerful tool, but it also comes with ethical considerations that doctors must navigate carefully. Public perception of doctors is shaped by narratives from the healthcare industry, which often misrepresents physician compensation and responsibilities. Physician content creators face unique challenges, balancing humor with sensitivity while addressing serious healthcare issues. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Join 6,000 physicians nationwide who trust physician-founded PearsonRavitz with their insurance needs. Give yourself peace of mind and go to PearsonRavitz to schedule your free one-on-one consultation with a disability insurance expert. That's http://ww.pearsonravitz.com/knockknock to get more information and take the first step toward protecting your income and future. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/28/25 • 48:50

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. Eye Rubbing Dangers: Chronic eye rubbing can lead to serious conditions like keratoconus, corneal changes, or even optic neuropathy in extreme cases. Gentle rubbing is okay, but moderation is key. Castor Oil Debate: While castor oil is a popular folk remedy for dry eye, Dr. Flanary highlights its lack of conclusive evidence and advises patients to stick with scientifically-backed treatments like artificial tears. Rock-Hard Cataracts: He shares a rare cataract surgery case involving a dense, diamond-like lens that had to be removed intact, highlighting the importance of early intervention for cataract treatment. Exploring Anisocoria: Dr. Flanary breaks down common causes of uneven pupil sizes, from benign physiologic anisocoria to signs of more serious conditions like Horner’s syndrome or third nerve palsy. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/23/25 • 47:13

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 inequities in healthcare. Takeaways: Unionization among residents is gaining momentum across the U.S., with recent large-scale efforts in cities like Boston and Philadelphia. Barriers to unionizing include misinformation, resistance from hospital administration, and the transient nature of residency programs. Generational divides in medicine impact attitudes toward unionization, with younger doctors more focused on systemic change and work-life balance. Social media plays a critical role in building communities and sharing information about healthcare reform and advocacy efforts. Unionized residents are advocating for benefits like fair pay, fertility preservation, and better working conditions, setting the stage for systemic change in medicine. — Want to Learn About Dr. Max Jordan Nguemeni: X: @MaxJordan_N Bluesky: @MaxJordan.bsky.social, IG: @Game.Set.Max — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Join 6,000 physicians nationwide who trust physician-founded PearsonRavitz with their insurance needs. Give yourself peace of mind and go to PearsonRavitz to schedule your free one-on-one consultation with a disability insurance expert. That's http://ww.pearsonravitz.com/knockknock to get more information and take the first step toward protecting your income and future. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/21/25 • 70:55

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 cataract surgery provides better long-term vision improvement with fewer risks. Diagnosing Eye Conditions at a Glance: He lists common conditions ophthalmologists can spot immediately, including ptosis, strabismus, thyroid eye disease, and eyelid cancers, and discusses the potential dangers of ignoring these signs. The Power of Second Opinions: Dr. Flanary emphasizes the importance of getting a second opinion on expensive treatments like LASIK to ensure patients make informed decisions. Advocating for Patients with Disabilities: He highlights the need for ophthalmology practices to accommodate patients with disabilities, from portable slit lamps to alternative testing methods, and stresses that it’s the doctor’s responsibility to make the exam comfortable. Advocacy in Eye Care: Through humorous anecdotes, Dr. Flanary underscores the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, encouraging patients to ask questions and ensure they receive the best possible care. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/16/25 • 41:13

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 intruding on their space. Parenting challenges don’t stop at work, as balancing medical careers and family life requires creativity, humor, and patience. Everyday challenges like internet outages and math homework can be hilariously reframed when imagined through the lens of medical characters. Listening is key to parenting, especially during the preteen years when kids may be reluctant to share openly. Doctors are just as human as anyone else, finding ways to laugh and learn through parenting mishaps and wins. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken  Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi. Join 6,000 physicians nationwide who trust physician-founded PearsonRavitz with their insurance needs. Give yourself peace of mind and go to PearsonRavitz to schedule your free one-on-one consultation with a disability insurance expert. That's http://ww.pearsonravitz.com/knockknock to get more information and take the first step toward protecting your income and future. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/14/25 • 50:42

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 Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/13/25 • 05:46

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, and irritants. The Danger of Overwearing Contacts: Wearing contacts for too long can lead to microabrasions and severe dry eye, which may make it impossible to wear them comfortably in the future. Eye Rubbing Risks: Excessive eye rubbing can cause permanent corneal changes or even optic neuropathy in extreme cases. Gentle rubbing is okay, but moderation is key. Retinal Detachment in High Myopes: People with severe nearsightedness (high myopia) are at a greater risk of retinal detachment and should avoid high-impact activities or seek medical care if experiencing flashes, floaters, or a curtain over their vision. UV Light Protection for Cataracts: While cataracts are inevitable with age, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses can help slow their progression and reduce the risk of other eye conditions like macular degeneration and eyelid cancers. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/9/25 • 41:06