Episode Highlights: 1. Welcome to Elaborate Topics Podcast! Are you struggling to wake up with energy and excitement for the day ahead? Do you find yourself overwhelmed, stressed, and unfulfilled in your leadership role? You're not alone. Many leaders, especially in high-stress environments like medical laboratories, face similar challenges. Host: …

In this insightful episode of "eLABorate Topics," our co-hosts delve into the mindset required for career success and the courage to pursue personal fulfillment. They share practical tips, personal challenges, and the importance of resilience, self-reflection, and continuous growth. Key Points Courage and Leadership: Making tough decisions with con…

Join us for an insightful episode where we delve into the impactful careers and contributions of two trailblazing doctors in clinical laboratory science, Dr. Lashanta Brice and Dr. Melody Boudreaux Nelson. Explore their journeys, the significance of a DCLS degree, and the crucial role of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Today, we'll c…

In this episode, co-host Stephanie Whitehead interviews Dr. Kathryn Golab, DCLS, MLS(ASCP)^CM, SH^CM, a trailblazer in laboratory medicine and a strong advocate for laboratory professionals. Dr. Golab shares her unique career journey, starting from her high school days through obtaining her doctorate. She explains the importance of laboratory advoc…

In this episode, join Tywauna Wilson and Stephanie Whitehead as they dive into their recent experience at the Lab Manager Leadership Summit. From insightful sessions to engaging workshops, listen as they share their key takeaways, memorable moments, and reflections on how the summit has impacted their approach to laboratory management and leadershi…

In this episode of eLABorate Topics, hosts Tywauna Wilson delve into the critical role of emotional intelligence in the digital era, especially within the high-pressure environment of medical laboratories. Listen in to discover practical tips and insights for enhancing your emotional intelligence, leading to a more harmonious and effective workplac…

In this episode, host Lona Small addresses the top challenge facing medical lab professionals leaders today: work-life balance. Lona introduces the concept of "work-life alignment" and shares seven essential strategies to help professionals achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Key Points: 1. Envision Your Ideal Life: • Imagine your perfect day f…

Join us today for an inspiring episode as Stephanie Whitehead and Aaron Odegard interview Mark Ishaug, a transformative leader and CEO, who shares his philosophy of leading with love and passion. Mark reveals how his compassionate leadership style has fostered a thriving workplace culture and driven remarkable organizational success. Tune in to lea…

In this episode of eLABorate Topics, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of laboratory technology and staffing with our guest, Lee Springer, a seasoned expert in healthcare administration. We explore the critical challenges and innovative solutions that can redefine the future of laboratory operations and personnel development. Today, we'll co…

In this episode, cohost, Stephanie Whitehead, explores the quiet battle of impostor syndrome with our special guest, Marisa James, CEO of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Impostor syndrome, marked by self-doubt and feeling inadequate despite achievements, impacts people in various professions, even CEOs. Ma…

In today’s episode of eLABorate Topics, we delve deep into the intersection of opportunity and growth within the pathology and laboratory medicine arenas, guided by the engaging insights of Dr. Dana Powell Baker, president of the Society of Black Pathology. Get ready to explore the expansive impact of saying "yes," embracing leadership, and fosteri…

In this episode of the eLABorate Topics podcast, host Lona Small delves into the challenge faced by lab leaders in securing support from upper leadership for their initiatives. Drawing from personal experiences and insights, Lona outlines five strategic steps to effectively garner the backing needed for successful lab projects. From knowing your "w…

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Rodney Rohde and delve into the dynamic world of laboratory science and the journey of transformation led at Texas State University. Dr. Rohde shares insights into the pivotal decision to transition the program's name from Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) to Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), reflecting the evolvin…

In this episode, Stephanie Whitehead delves into the fascinating world of leadership with a twist - the introverted leader. Join Stephanie as she sits down with Jennifer "Jeni" Becker, a seasoned clinical laboratory leader whose introverted demeanor belies a wealth of leadership insights and strategies. Introverts often find themselves in leadershi…

**This episode was recorded on March 8, 2024, and references the 2024 Lab Manager Leadership Summit (Denver, CO) In this episode, we dive into the world of laboratory leadership with esteemed guest Dr. Rodney Rohde, as he sheds light on his Clinical Seminar at the April 2024 Lab Manager Leadership Summit. Join us as we explore the challenges and st…

An eLABorate Topics x Today's Clinical Lab & G2 Intelligence Magazine Collaboration! Welcome back to another exciting episode of eLABorate! Today's episode is an epic collaboration with Today's Clinical Lab and G2 Intelligence editors. In this episode, the co-hosts talk with Scott Wallask and Miriam Bergerat about their careers in journalism and ho…

What happens behind the scenes at the CDC and how do all these skilled professionals work to continuously protect the public? From tracking and monitoring disease outbreaks to developing and implementing public health policies, the CDC plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation's health. In today's interview, we will take a closer look at what h…

In this episode of eLABorate Topics, co-host Tywauna Wilson dives into the transformative world of learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. Join us as we explore strategies for medical laboratory professionals to continue their education, enhance personal growth, and achieve professional success. Today, we will cover: - Techniques for int…

In today’s episode, we explore the critical balance that every empathetic leader strives to achieve: supporting their teams effectively while protecting their own well-being and efficiency. Lona Small, a leadership and career success coach, provides actionable insights for lab leaders and executives on steering clear of the pitfalls of the open-doo…

An eLABorate Topics x 2024 Lab Manager Leadership Summit Collaboration! Welcome back to another exciting episode of eLABorate! Today's episode is an epic collaboration with the 2024 Lab Manager Leadership Summit featuring two of the Summit's most influential leaders, Scott Hanton, and Michelle Hoad, joining as our special guests. In today's episode…

In this episode, co-host, Stephanie Whitehead chats with Annamari Dietrichson to explore the importance of well-being in healthcare leaders. Tune in as Annamari discusses the impact of burnout, shares effective self-care practices, and offers insights on how leaders can create a culture that prioritizes well-being, ultimately enhancing performance …

In this episode of eLABorate Topics, co-host Tywauna Wilson shares strategies for effective communication in the laboratory setting, providing practical tips to help medical laboratory professionals improve their communication skills. Today, we will cover: - Understanding Your Audience: Tailoring your message to diverse stakeholders to ensure clari…

Calling all educators and program coordinators!! In his episode, we catch up with the 2023 reigning Cell Bowl champions, the University of Connecticut's Bruce Blanchard (Director of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Assistant Clinical Professor in the Allied Health Sciences Department) and his MLS Student team, after their victory to uncover their pl…

Title: 5 Key Strategies to Successfully Achieve Your Career and Personal Goals in 2024: Overcoming Common Obstacles Season: 4, Episode 1 Host: Lona Small, Laboratory Coach and Consultant - Many people struggle to achieve their goals despite having good intentions. - Goals often get left behind due to life's distractions. - Importance of understandi…

Join us in this episode as we wrap up this season and celebrate Season 3's 50th episode. Today the cohosts take a casual stroll down memory lane and reminisce about the most memorable moments from Season 3. We're excited about what's to come so, be sure to stay tuned and connected for more information about Season 4! Join Team #eLABorate and connec…

Guest: Michael Baron, Executive Director of Clinical Lab Operation at Wisconsin Diagnostic Laboratory The podcast episode focuses on addressing the pressing issue of staffing challenges in medical laboratories. Michael Baron, a visionary with extensive experience in laboratory operations, shares his innovative strategies and collaborative efforts i…

In this episode of eLABorate Topics, host Tywauna Wilson delivers a comprehensive guide to tools that will help you reach your peak performance in 2024. She recaps the 5-step method outlined in the previous episode and dives into practical strategies for being more productive in the new year. Coach Tee shares her favorite productivity tools, includ…

In this episode, cohost Stephanie Whitehead and special guest, Ogechi "Ogee" Ohaeto, provide practical tips and advice on how to create inclusive holiday celebrations that cater to diverse backgrounds and beliefs in your laboratory. Tune in as they discuss ways to ensure everyone feels welcome and valued, fostering a joyful and harmonious atmospher…

In the episode of eLABorate Topics podcast Lona Small brought the audience a “blast from the past” originally recorded by Lona, several years ago before she started eLABorate Topics podcast. Lona discusses effective recognition programs and how leaders can design recognition programs that actually work to motivate employees and improve culture. The…

Struggling with constant staff turnover and openings? As a medical lab leader, you may feel overwhelmed trying to create an engaging environment that makes people want to stay. What if there was a simple method to improve retention by developing your team's mental fitness? Lona Small shares how investing just 15 minutes a day into activities that b…

In this episode, cohost, Stephanie Whitehead chats with Becky Woodford to explore the various accreditation options available for clinical laboratories (i.e. CAP, COLA, and Leading Laboratories). Tune in as Stephanie and Becky discuss the importance of accreditation, and the requirements, benefits, and limitations of each accreditation, helping lis…

In today's episode, we are diving into a simple 5-step method to get 2024 off to an actionable and successful start. This episode provides a practical approach to planning, setting, and accomplishing your professional goals. Learn strategies including using the SMART framework to define ambitious yet achievable objectives, mapping out action steps …

Tune in for Part #2 of Stephanie Whitehead's interview with Mindy Spigel, the author of the best-selling book There’s a Snake on My Head! Strategies for Alleviating Fear and Anxiety in Healthcare for Patients, Families, AND Healthcare Teams. Listen to Part #1 of their interview here: eLABorate Topics | Episode 39: "There's a Snake on My Head!" (fea…

Dr. LaShanda Bryce, Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science, specialist in hematology and coagulation. Experience in management, teaching, quality/compliance. Currently with Diagnostica Stago and Univ. of Cincinnati, focuses on the vital role medical laboratory professionals can play in translational research to help advance healthcare. In this ep…

In today's episode, we're diving into the importance of owning your own narrative and speaking up for yourself. Co-host, Tywauna Wilson shares practical strategies and tips to help you assert yourself with grace and confidence. This episode was inspired by a question sparked during a recent emerging leaders panel discussion, that asked... "What adv…

When it comes to healthcare, fear, and anxiety can be major obstacles to providing optimal care. Patients can feel overwhelmed by the decisions they need to make, and the intense emotions they experience can make understanding the information they receive difficult. This is where effective communication comes in. By engaging in meaningful conversat…

In this episode, the eLABorate Topics co-hosts discuss the importance of preparation before attending a virtual or in-person conference. Tune in as they offer tidbits and tips such as Setting clear goals before attending a conference (which is essential in order to make the most out of the event)! Tailoring the sessions you attend towards your prof…

Are you a medical laboratory professional who feels unfulfilled, burnt out, or stuck in your current role? You're not alone. Many talented lab techs and scientists struggle to find meaning and satisfaction in their daily work. However, there are steps you can take to find or create a lab career that truly aligns with your passions, strengths, and p…

In this episode, co-hosts Stephanie Whitehead and Tywauna Wilson chat and recap their favorite motivational and inspirational eLABorate Topics episodes from Season 3 thus far. Tune in as they: Discuss the impact of healthy connections on professional motivation Share tips for building stronger networking relationships Highlight success stories of e…

In today's episode, "Transforming Job Rejection," we tackle the disheartening and frustrating experience of receiving a job rejection. We've all faced it at some point, but it's crucial to remember that there is always a silver lining. To kick things off, our host, Tywauna Wilson, shares a personal experience of interviewing for a laboratory projec…

In today's episode, we have a thought-provoking roundtable discussion on a topic that is often overlooked in the workplace - grief. We are joined by our guest, Dana Powell Baker, who is the manager for academic partnerships with the Association of Public Health Laboratories. Dana brings a wealth of expertise in higher education, relationship buildi…

-In this episode of eLABorate Topics podcast Lona Small discusses how tech companies like Amazon are expanding into healthcare and clinical labs. There are concerns that these companies don't understand the complex regulations and expertise needed to properly run clinical labs. - However, there are also opportunities for collaboration between tradi…

In this episode, co-host Stephanie Whitehead shares her insights on how feedback can be a powerful tool for employee growth and development. She explains the importance of feedback in understanding an individual's strengths, areas for improvement, and opportunities for learning and personal growth. Stephanie then provides tips on how to have casual…

In this episode, co host Tywauna Wilson sits down with Eve Brunson from Qmedix. They discuss the value of additional degrees and certifications for medical laboratory professionals. They share insights on career pathways, the benefits of specialist certifications, and the importance of exploring opportunities beyond the traditional hospital laborat…

Hosts: - Tywauna Wilson - Stephanie Whitehead - Lona Small In this Roundtable episode, Tywauna Wilson, Lona Small and Stephanie Whitehead discuss strategies for identifying and dealing with difficult people in the workplace. They provide tips on managing emotions, maintaining composure, and having crucial conversations in challenging interpersonal …

In this episode of eLABorate Topics podcast Lona Small provides strategies for lab leaders to rediscover their passion and purpose. Lona shares a 7-step roadmap to help reignite the fire and drive change through purposeful leadership. 1. Uncover Your Calling: Identify your unique purpose and passion within the field of lab medicine. Find the niche …

In this episode, co-host Stephanie Whitehead chats with Life Coach and DEI Advocate, Cherie Hodge, to explore the importance of diversity in the clinical laboratory workplace and how it can positively impact productivity, creativity, and innovation. Cherie shares her tips on promoting acceptance and understanding in the workplace and encourages lab…

Networking is often touted as an essential aspect of professional success, but is it really about who you know? Maybe not. In fact, it may be more crucial to consider who knows you. While having a wide network of connections can open doors, true leadership success lies in building meaningful relationships with individuals who are aware of your capa…

A well-defined career ladder can provide employees with clear goals, opportunities for growth, and increased job satisfaction. In this episode, the co-hosts delve into the process of designing a career ladder framework for your laboratory. Tune in as they discuss the key components to consider, such as defining job roles, establishing competency le…

In this episode of the Elaborate Topics Podcast, Lona discuss how lab leaders can Level up their careers get seen, recognized and promoted. She discussed 1. Importance of Demonstrating Impact: · Lab leaders often feel unrecognized for their work. · Demonstrating impact can help advance careers and open doors to new opportunities 2. ROI methodology …