A Novel Mentoring Method Using Podcasting in Otolaryngology

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo describe how podcasts can be used to provide career guidance to medical students and otolaryngology residents. To demonstrate success metrics for a mentorship‐based otolaryngology podcast.Study TypeObservational.CategoryOtolaryngology Status and Trends.MethodsA podcast was developed and launched in 2019 by an otolaryngology academic faculty member. Each episode was assigned a theme, and a guest was invited to allow for an interview format. Audio files were recorded, edited, and uploaded to a free hosting platform for distribution. The impact of the podcast was assessed via multiple methods, including responses to a survey, medical student outreach, and episode analytics.ResultsSince publication of the first podcast episode in June 2019, 40 episodes have been released. Episodes have been listened to 23,308 times with a mean of 568 plays per episode. Plays were mostly within the US (84%). Ratings and comments about the podcast have been positive, and multiple mentorship and networking relationships have resulted from the podcast within the otolaryngology community.ConclusionsPodcasting can be used as an alternative way to provide career guidance within otolaryngology, creating increased medical student awareness and interest in our specialty and filling in mentorship gaps based on a lack of local mentors. Based on the positive reception to this podcast, including total plays and direct communication with the author, it can be concluded that the podcast has completed its objective of providing simulated mentorship for students interested in otolaryngology and otolaryngology residents, with impact.Level of EvidenceNA.