About me
Hi, I’m Luis Plaza—Medical Laboratory Scientist in Microbiology at a hospital system in Orlando, Florida, and Microbiology Laboratory Instructor for the Medical Laboratory Sciences program at the University of Central Florida.
I started my career in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. While serving, I discovered the field of medical laboratory sciences and went on to earn my Associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. My first job in the Navy as a medical laboratory technician introduced me to clinical microbiology—and I was immediately hooked. That experience ignited a passion that has guided my professional journey ever since.
After the Navy, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Central Florida and recently completed my Master of Science in Microbiology at the University of Florida. Aside from my passion in Microbiology, I love to travel, meet new people, and learn about their culture.
Why I started
Let’s Talk Micro
As a microbiologist and educator, I’ve always been passionate about learning—and just as passionate about sharing what I learn. Working in the clinical microbiology lab, I saw firsthand how vital our work is to patient care. But I also realized how overwhelming it can be to navigate the sheer amount of information out there—textbooks, guidelines, journal articles—especially when the content is complex and hard to digest.
I started Let’s Talk Micro to change that. I wanted to create a space where microbiology could be explained in clear, simple terms—whether you're a student, a fellow medical laboratory scientist, or someone just curious about the microbial world. The podcast allows me to break down topics like organisms, diagnostics, and lab reactions, and to bring in guests who offer valuable insights from different corners of the field.
Ultimately, Let’s Talk Micro is about education, connection, and elevating the work we do every day in the microbiology lab.