Episode # 666 • 28 Jul 2026
Dear IR Residency - Residency Reflection
What do new interventional radiologists wish they had known before starting residency? On this reflective episode of BackTable, Dr. Neil Jain is joined by chief residents Dr. Aesha Patel and Dr. Gregg Khodorov as they look back on six years of IR/DR training. They share what they wish they’d known as applicants, from the growing emotional weight of complications near graduation to the essential role of co-residents, support networks, and the evolving balance between confidence and competence.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
04:34 - Rapid Fire Reflections
07:20 - Complications and Confidence
12:01 - Applicant Misconceptions
16:54 - Defining a Great Program
26:38 - Lessons Learned Over Time
29:12 - Pearls and Hard-Won Lessons
33:09 - Valuing Bread-and-Butter Cases
35:24 - Complications and Empathy
41:03 - Memorable Attending Phrases
43:06 - Habits for the Future
47:34 - Mentorship and Craftsmanship
52:42 - IR Culture and Professional Pride
57:44 - The Future of IR Training
01:08:34 - Closing Thoughts
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More about this episode
They discuss how their definition of a “good case” has evolved, the importance of mastering bread-and-butter procedures, and the impact of habits like detailed note-taking, patient-centered communication, and taking ownership of complications. The episode highlights ideas for future training improvements and offers advice on valuing patient interactions, embracing growth, and developing sound clinical judgment under pressure. Throughout, the conversation underscores the personal and professional growth that comes from these challenges and the lasting value of camaraderie and mentorship in interventional radiology.
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