Episode 16 features a conversation with our Executive Director, Olga Foley. Originally from Moscow, Russia, Olga’s journey to her current role took a unique path—including her job at McDonald’s in Moscow prior to immigrating to the US. Today, she proudly calls Chicago home.

Olga oversees the operations of The Hip Society and The Knee Society, and more recently, has taken on leadership of their educational forums—CCJR® (Current Concepts in Joint Replacement®) and JAMM® (Joint Arthroplasty Mountain Meeting®).

In this episode, Olga shares how she found her place in a new country, what led her to the world of orthopaedics, and how she discovered both a professional niche and a meaningful career.

Ever wondered what it really takes to become a member of The Hip Society or The Knee Society — two of the most prestigious organizations in orthopaedics? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the rigorous selection processes, the criteria that set candidates apart, and the unique privileges and responsibilities that come with membership.

Join us as we chat with current members who share candid stories about their journeys, offer advice for aspiring applicants, and reflect on how these societies continue to shape the future of hip and knee surgery. Whether you’re a young surgeon dreaming of joining, or simply curious about what goes on inside these elite circles, this episode will give you an insider’s look at the pathway to membership.

The SHAK Chat podcast series is proudly presented by The Learning SHAK, an online learning portal of The Hip Society and The Knee Society.

Join us on the SHAK Chat, where today's influencers, thought leaders, and social media moguls conduct exclusive interviews with their heroes, mentors, colleagues, and peers.

The Learning SHAK initiative is an online companion to Current Concepts in Joint Replacement® (CCJR®). CCJR® stands as a premier educational event and a cornerstone in orthopedic education, featuring unique learning formats and showcasing global thought-leaders who have educated tens of thousands of orthopedic surgeons worldwide.