The Step

To Post or Not to Post: A Surgeon’s Guide to Social Media

Whether you’re an active poster or a social media skeptic, this conversation is for you. Dr. Pacaccio talks about how he uses social platforms for feedback and growth, the value of second opinions, and what he recommends not to do when you hit “share.”

The Seven-Year Philosophy: Growth in Surgery and Beyond

Change is constant—and for this surgeon, it comes in seven-year cycles. In this episode, he opens up about his evolving philosophy, the milestones that have shaped his journey in foot and ankle surgery, and his vision for the future of the specialty.

From Bunions to Boots: A Rider’s Recovery Story

An avid horseback rider walks us through her bilateral bunion experience—from the timing of each surgery to the milestones of her recovery. Listen in as she shares recovery hacks, lessons learned, and why she’s thrilled with her results both in and out of the saddle.

Nine surgeries. Endless setbacks. And a fight she refused to give up

When Sarah Mossett was in a devastating car accident, doctors weren’t sure her leg could be saved. Facing compartment syndrome, external fixation, and nine surgeries, amputation seemed like the only option. But she refused to stop fighting — for her leg, for her recovery, and for her future. In this episode, Sarah shares her emotional journey of resilience, advocacy, and hope. Hear how she turned her experience as a trauma patient into a platform to advocate for others, giving a voice to patients navigating their own battles.

The Patient Journey: Through the Lens of an Athlete, Patient, and now Surgeon

What happens when your surgeon has been in your shoes — as both a Division I athlete and a patient? In this episode, Dr. Creech shares her journey from recovering from lower extremity injuries, including a Jones fracture, to becoming a foot and ankle surgeon. She reflects on what it was like to fight her way back to the field and how those experiences influence her care philosophy today. Hear how she connects with her patients by remembering what it felt like to be 18 years old, injured, and eager to return to sport — and how that perspective shapes the way she communicates, treats, and supports her patients now.