Global Scalpels: A Global Surgery Podcast

Hosted by Taylor Ottesen and Riana Patel

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Jan 2026

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About the show

Dedicated to the 5 billion without safe and affordable surgery - come explore global surgery heroes in tech, law, war, business, and of course, the OR!

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57 recent

January 5, 20261 hr 9 min

Ep 56: Coleen Sabatini

In this episode of Global Scalpels, we explore the challenges and opportunities in building sustainable, locally led pediatric orthopedic care in low-resource settings. From developing in-country fellowship programs in Uganda to navigating the balance between “do no harm” and providing essential care, we dive into what it takes to train surgeons, improve surgical systems, and expand access to care for millions of children. We also discuss mentorship, global collaboration, and the role of education in creating lasting impact—highlighting strategies that could transform surgical care worldwide. Join us as Dr. Coleen Sabatini discusses these essential topics and even walks us through a medical condition that may be new to you!

December 5, 202543 min

Ep 55: David Spiegel

What happens when a scalpel meets the unexpected? In this episode, we journey into the heart of global orthopedic surgery, where late-presenting cases, resource scarcity, and cultural nuances redefine the art of healing. We are joined by none other than Dr. David Spiegel as he discusses the challenges and triumphs of treating complex musculoskeletal conditions in austere settings over the last several decades - emphasizing the importance of adaptability and collaboration. From crafting a practical textbook for surgeons in the field to navigating the intricacies of low-resource environments, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at orthopaedic care in various settings. From pioneering new surgical techniques to fostering research and education, Dr. Spiegel’s work continues to inspire the next generation of surgeons and advocates for equitable care.

October 5, 20251 hr 3 min

Ep 54: Patrick Miner

Cars are more than just a means of transportation—they’re a hidden driver of global health disparities and surgical needs. In this thought-provoking episode, we speak with urban health expert Patrick to unravel the untold impact of cars on global surgery. From the rise in trauma cases and chronic diseases to the long-lasting effects of pollution, cars are contributing to a global health crisis. As the world shifts to electric vehicles, will it solve these challenges or just shift the problem? Join us as we explore how mobility, infrastructure, and health intersect, and what this means for access to safe, affordable surgery worldwide.

April 5, 20251 hr 10 min

Ep 53: Rowa and Gladys

In this episode of Global Scalpels, we dive into the complexities of delivering surgical care across different healthcare systems. We explore what it truly means to be a surgeon in a world where protocols, resources, and even antibiotics are far from universal. From Malawi to the UK and beyond, our expert guests share eye-opening stories on resourcefulness, teamwork, and cultural adaptation in global surgery. Discover why a Foley catheter is never just a Foley catheter, how surgical hierarchies can hinder progress, why being open-minded is the key to sustainable impact and why the best surgeons aren’t just skilled with their hands—but with their ability to learn, unlearn, and adapt. This episode is packed with insights, humor, and lessons that transcend borders. Tune in now!

January 5, 20251 hr 15 min

Ep 52: Meryl and Lucy

In this episode, we’re joined by two powerhouse storytellers in the global development space, Meryl Westlake and Lucy Taylor. Together, they share their journeys into digital content creation for international development, offering insights into crafting compelling narratives for global health, humanitarian emergencies, and environmental causes. They dive into the ethics of storytelling in global development, exploring the fine line between advocacy and the “commercialization of suffering,” the importance of valid consent, and the power dynamics between creators and subjects. Plus, they discuss social media’s role in global health advocacy, with practical tips on using these platforms “for good.” Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the transformative power—and responsibility—of impactful storytelling. 🌍✨

March 5, 202441 min

Ep 51: Metasebia Abebe

Each surgical subspecialty has unique sets of challenges when performing their specific procedures. In plastic surgery, procedures for complex burns, hand injuries, and congenital deformities can require tissue/skin graft preparation and microscopic reapproximation. These challenges are only exacerbated when resources are limited - both in terms of personnel and materials. Meet Dr. Metasebia Abebe, the first female plastic surgeon in Ethiopia and one of only a few specialists in her country where there are more than 1 million people per plastic surgeon! Join us as we discuss the complex care involved in treating hyena bites, the effects of climate change, and international fellowships for LMIC surgeons. This is one episode to remember!

January 5, 202454 min

Ep 50: Myron Rolle

The dawn of a new year brings new resolutions, new perspectives, and new hope. And what better way to kick off 2024 than with our latest episode – one that explores global surgical topics as well as life lessons. We are proud to present our guest, Dr Myron Rolle, a former American football (NFL) player turned neurosurgeon. In this episode, we will explore the finer nuances of positions of power within hierarchical structures, public health education models, neurosurgical access in the Caribbean, and racial disparities within medicine. Dr Rolle reminds us that each one of us possesses a unique and immeasurable value, and we must not allow anyone to diminish our worth. As we begin our journey into the new year, let us stand our ground, pursue our dreams, and remember that we are all capable of achieving greatness. Join us for our semi-centennial episode, as we celebrate 50 episodes of global surgeryl content! We hope this episode will help start your year the right way!

October 5, 202346 min

Ep 49: Zachary Enumah

Leaving behind everything to escape war, persecution, or even natural disaster poses its own unique challenges. Forced relocation is difficult, creating a unique set of problems including housing, food, finances, and importantly, healthcare. Accessing these resources as a refugee is extremely difficult and uniquely convoluted. Refugee camps seek to be a safe haven for these underserved populations but pose their own unique challenges as well. With limited resources, experts like Dr Zachary Enumah are fighting to help provide essential healthcare in these settings, most recently in Tanzania. With over 500 live births per month, OBGYN services are vital to life, including c-sections and other emergency surgical services. Strategies to allocate funding, work with public health officials, and coordinate with medical boards to expand care are difficult but essential. Join us in this exciting episode with guest host Ashwin Reddy as we discuss the medical ethics behind care delivery in the camp, e-health to facilitate access, referral systems, and preventative strategies currently being deployed by Dr Enumah and his team!

July 5, 20231 hr 5 min

Ep 48: Kiran Agarwal-Harding

As professionals working on a global scale, even the simplest of things must be challenged. Surgeons, lawyers, administrators, and many others, must adapt to become multifaceted individuals in this space. Surgery doesn’t just start and stop with the drapes. It involves supply chain, personnel management, legislation, advocacy, and so much more. In order to tackle these issues, it requires groundbreaking research to act as journalism to paint a picture of the story on the ground - the story of what is really happening. It is this research that helps to identify problems that can then be used to advocate for funding and innovation. Indeed, to challenge the current system. Our guest today exemplifies all of these attributes - a truly multifaceted and forward-thinking global surgeon. Dr Kiran Agarwal-Harding acts as the founder and president of multiple organizations including the Harvard Global Orthopaedics Collaborative and SONA Global, two organizations tackling both research and sustainability on a worldwide scale. Join us as we discuss GPS transportation barriers, shipping of implants, and even the invention process - conception of an idea, patents, and product testing, all the way to large-scale production of life-saving devices. You won’t want to miss it! For more information about these organizations, please see the following: HGOC: https://www.thehcorp.org/havard-global-orthopaedics-collaborative SONA GLOBAL: https://www.sonaglobal.org/

May 5, 202357 min

Ep 47: Shahrzad Joharifard

Delivery of surgical services in low-resource settings is extremely difficult. Supply chain issues, funding, shortages of supplies, and even lack of healthcare professionals are each enormous hurdles in and of themselves. What about when civil conflict arises and a war begins? Increases in different types of injuries start to plague the already fragile system. How does one get life-saving supplies via the already scarce supply chain when roads have been taken out by bombs or blocked by military personnel? Doctors, nurses, and support staff, all risking their lives each day just to show up and provide care. Join us with guest host Ala Magzoub as we talk with Dr. Shahrzad Joharifard about her work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during civil conflict and the unique challenges inherent to surgical delivery in this space. In this robust episode, we also learn about anti-racism and helping people to self-identify racist, sexist, or homophobic actions and comments. As a healthcare team, safe and conscientious spaces are vital to the delivery of surgical services and each of us can do our part to encourage these practices from ourselves and others.