The Setzens: Family, Service, and Private Practice Success

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with brothers Michael Setzen, MD, and Gavin Setzen, MD, two private practice otolaryngologists who have shaped the specialty through decades of leadership and advocacy. Both Hall of Distinction Living Legends, the Setzen brothers share their journey from South Africa to building world-renowned practices in New York.

Dr. Michael Setzen reveals an unconventional approach to work-life balance: never working Fridays and dedicating that time to golf, family, and Academy service. Dr. Gavin Setzen reflects on following his brother's footsteps into otolaryngology and the immigrant work ethic that drove both to become leaders in the Academy, American Rhinologic Society, and state societies—all while prioritizing wellness before it became a buzzword.

The conversation explores how they built successful practices from scratch, knowing nobody when they started, and why they invested in Academy involvement from day one. The episode takes a special turn when Dr. Gavin Setzen's son, Sean Setzen, a PGY-1 ENT resident, joins as the podcast's first-ever guest host, sharing his optimism about the specialty's future and continuing the family legacy of otolaryngology leadership.