In this inspiring episode of The Expert APProach, host Joy Maulik, CRNP, sits down with Tricia Zubert, APRN, CNP, one of the nation’s most respected advanced practice providers (APPs) in sexual medicine and male infertility. With nearly 20 years of experience at Park Nicollet Health Services in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Zubert shares the story behind her career, the evolution of her clinic, and the critical role APPs now play in reproductive and sexual health. Zubert recounts how she transitioned from family medicine into sexual health after taking time off to raise her children—and how a forward-thinking urology team encouraged her to join a field that was rapidly evolving. What began as a leap of faith became a deeply fulfilling career centered on high-touch, emotionally sensitive, whole-person care. She describes the unique multidisciplinary model at her clinic, which began 45 years ago with a nurse practitioner and psychologist and has since expanded to include urologists, APPs, therapists, and collaborative genetic counseling. This “village model” allows the team to provide seamless, integrative, and emotionally attuned care to patients and couples navigating infertility, sexual dysfunction, psychological challenges, and complex hormonal changes. Throughout the conversation, Zubert highlights the expanding technological and clinical landscape—from laser therapies and Testopel to emerging female sexual health interventions and menopausal care. She underscores the need for more clinicians (especially APPs) to step into this space, noting the growing demand and the shortage of specialists trained in menopause, sexual dysfunction, and male infertility. Zubert also reflects on the evolving leadership role of APPs in urology. She explains how collaboration, trust, and mutual respect among multidisciplinary teams enable APPs to practice at the top of their licensure—often leading consultations, managing complex care, conducting follow-ups, preparing patients for surgery, and even co-leading educational programs at the national level. She emphasizes that APP leadership begins with advocacy, education, and the confidence to request training opportunities, contribute expertise, and help shape clinic models that optimize access and patient experience. Other topics explored include: • how couples navigate the emotional intensity of infertility • the psychological dimensions of Peyronie disease and sexual dysfunction • the growing visibility of menopause care and the urgent need for trained providers • the impact of cancer treatments on fertility and sexual function • guiding patients through misinformation and digital health content • why APP-led education is essential for the future of urology. With warmth, authenticity, and passion, Zubert offers a masterclass in what empathetic, patient-centered sexual health care looks like—and how APPs can transform the landscape through collaboration, curiosity, and leadership.

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