SSO Presidential Updates

What’s Brewing with Berman

Stay connected with the latest from the SSO community through What’s Brewing with Berman, a video series hosted by SSO President Dr. Russell Berman. From strategic priorities to emerging issues in surgical oncology, these updates offer an inside look at the work shaping the future of the Society and the specialty.

Watch the latest episodes below and learn what’s percolating at SSO.

Outside the OR with Berman

Outside the OR with Berman is a podcast hosted by SSO President Dr. Russell  Berman, spotlighting conversations with members across all stages and paths in surgical oncology. Each 15–30 minute episode explores the evolving landscape of the specialty—diving into emerging trends, pressing challenges, and the personal experiences that shape surgical oncologists beyond the operating room.

Part of the SurgOnc Today® platform, the podcast brings together voices from across the field to foster connection, curiosity, and continued learning.

In this episode of Outside the OR, we explore how collaboration between the Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) and the American College of Surgeons Cancer Surgery Standards Program (ACS CSSP) is helping raise the bar for cancer care nationwide. Joined by Dr. Matthew H.G. Katz and Dr. Tina J. Hieken, we discuss how shared standards, multidisciplinary alignment, and surgeon leadership translate into better support for surgeons, and better outcomes for patients. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on why collaboration matters and how collective efforts are shaping the future of cancer surgery.

In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey E. Gershenwald discusses the critical role surgical oncologists play in advancing evidence-based public policy. Using the FDA’s black-box warning on indoor tanning for minors as a case study, Dr. Gershenwald highlights the science behind melanoma risk in adolescents and why advocacy is essential to protecting the next generation. Tune in to explore how policy action, prevention, and oncology expertise intersect, and why your voice as an SSO member matters beyond the operating room.

In this episode of Outside the OR, Dr. Russell Berman sits down with Dr. Peter Kingham to talk about the rising global cancer burden and why it matters to every surgical oncologist — and every patient.

Drawing from his extensive work in West Africa and his leadership in global surgery, Dr. Kingham shares what cancer care really looks like in low-resource settings and how individual surgeons can make a meaningful impact.

From groundbreaking research to on-the-ground challenges, this conversation shines a light on global cancer disparities.

Tune in for an eye-opening, inspiring discussion about the future of cancer care worldwide.

In this episode, Dr. Russell Berman sits down with Dr. Sandra Wong, Dean of Emory University School of Medicine, and Dr. David Linehan, Dean of University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Together, they share what it means to step beyond the operating room and into the role of shaping the future of medical education.  From leading surgical oncology programs to leading entire medical schools, Drs. Wong and Linehan discuss their journeys, the challenges of balancing clinical, research, and administrative responsibilities, and how surgical oncologists are uniquely positioned to guide the next generation of physicians.

In the premiere episode of Outside the OR, host Dr. Russell Berman sits down with surgical oncologists Dr. Bridget Fahy and Dr. EeeLN Buckarma for an insightful conversation on the critical role of palliative care in surgical oncology. Whether you’re a surgical oncologist, trainee, or healthcare professional, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on why good palliative care is truly good surgical care.

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