SMART
STRATEGIES FOR PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES
PODCAST FOR PAs
The PA Playbook is a podcast for PAs, by PAs. We focus on your great work daily by discussing relevant topics that influence how you practice medicine in the real world.
We post monthly topics that will inspire, advocate for, and educate you. From the challenges of rural healthcare to international PAs to legislative actions, this podcast is for all PAs, no matter where you practice.
WE INSPIRE, ADVOCATE, AND EDUCATE PAs
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HOSTED BY TWO PRACTICING PAs WITH 50 YEARS OF COMBINED WORK EXPERIENCE
MEET YOUR HOSTS
Passionate healthcare professionals.
EILEEN RAVELLA, PA-C
Eileen’s journey through medicine is nothing short of remarkable. Starting in rural family and emergency care, she spent 20 years as the sole provider in a small town of 2,000, where the nearest specialty care was two hours away. Her experience in rural medicine taught her resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of making a difference where it’s needed most. Eileen didn’t stop there—she became the county medical examiner and even served as mayor.
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When she transitioned to the fast-paced life of an ER PA in a bigger city, she brought her compassion, grit, and wisdom, shaping patient care for another 20 years. Twice elected as president of WAPA, she’s a trusted leader and mentor. As a preceptor, she’s dedicated to teaching PA students the realities of medicine and the importance of doing right by their patients.
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Now, she’s sharing her journey, hard-earned insights, and passion for patient care through her podcast. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or just curious about the life of someone who’s truly made a difference, Eileen’s story will inspire you to listen, learn, and take action. Tune in and discover what it means to create a lasting legacy in medicine.
TROY BENDER, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA
Troy, is a healthcare leader and educator with over 32 years of experience in clinical practice, academic administration, and professional advocacy. His background spans flight paramedicine, emergency medicine, orthopedic spine surgery, and building physician assistant (PA) programs from the ground up.
Dr. Bender is the Founding Dean of Northwest University’s School of PA Medicine and previously led Northeastern State University’s PA program to successful accreditation. He serves as President-Elect of the Washington Academy of Physician Associates, sits on the AAPA Judicial Affairs Commission, chairs WAPA’s CME Committee, and contributes as an NCCPA Emergency Medicine CAQ Item Writer.
Actively practicing emergency medicine across Washington, he combines authentic leadership, engaging storytelling, and deep expertise to inspire healthcare professionals. Dr. Bender holds a Doctor of Medical Science in Education and Leadership from the University of Lynchburg and an MS in Physician Assistant Studies from Missouri State University.
WE UNDERSTAND YOUR WORRIES, CONCERNS, AND HOPES
Producer: Dave Ross
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