Pearls & Perspectives: Shaping the Future of Urology, With Thomas F. Stringer, MD, FACS

Welcome back to Pearls & Perspectives!

In this episode of Pearls & Perspectives, host Amy Pearlman, MD, is joined by longtime colleague and fellow podcast host Larry Lipshultz, MD, for a conversation with Thomas F. Stringer, MD, FACS, who is president elect of the American Urological Association (AUA). Recorded on-site at the 2026 AUA Annual Meeting, the discussion offers a personal look at Stringer’s professional journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for the future of urology.

Stringer reflects on an unconventional career path that took him from residency and fellowship training to building and leading a large private practice before transitioning into academic medicine. He shares how meaningful interactions with trainees ultimately drew him back to the academic environment. The conversation highlights the unique rewards and challenges of both private practice and academic urology, as well as the importance of developing leadership and business skills within the specialty.

As the discussion turns to Stringer’s upcoming presidency, Pearlman and Lipschultz explore the significance of service within organized medicine and what it means to lead a global professional organization. Stringer discusses priorities that include physician well-being, work-life balance, and sustainability, emphasizing the need to support urologists while also considering the broader impact of health care on patients and communities worldwide.

The episode also delves into the evolving landscape of men’s health. Pearlman raises important questions about how to improve access to care, educate primary care clinicians and advanced practice providers, and better engage men in preventive health practices. The group discusses topics ranging from prostate cancer screening and physician education to the growing role of telemedicine in reaching younger patient populations. Blending leadership insights with practical discussion on the future of men’s health, this conversation offers a thoughtful preview of the issues likely to shape the AUA and the specialty in the years ahead.