Clinical Research and Drug Discovery Podcasts

Host Ben Plumley is joined by Solange Baptiste of ITPC, an influential non-profit expert in strengthening healthcare access in developing countries, employing the strengths and minimizing the risks of new technology, particularly AI. Its an even more urgent challenge in the wake of massive funding cuts from the US. Solange shares her insights on the state of global health and how communities are adapting to new healthcare realities. They discuss ITPC's efforts in community-led monitoring, the impact of data collection on global health initiatives, and potential global health funding alternatives to donor aid. The conversation also explores how AI can be a powerful tool for communities if managed ethically, and the importance of building a unified African agenda to combat global health challenges. Solange offers a deeply insightful perspective on the future of healthcare, social justice, and the role of technology in transforming health systems.  https://itpcglobal.org/ https://www.gatesnotes.com/work/save-lives/reader/20-years-to-give-away-virtually-all-my-wealth   00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:04 The Role of AI in Global Health 01:16 Guest Introduction: Solange Baptist 01:44 ITPC's Mission and Evolution 06:57 Challenges and Changes in Global Health Funding 09:37 Community-Led Monitoring and Responses 17:00 Global Health Financing and Future Directions 23:43 Ubuntu Principles and Community Contribution 23:53 The Power Dynamics in Africa 25:25 Artificial Intelligence in Global Health 27:42 Challenges and Opportunities of AI 30:40 Digitalization and Data Privacy Concerns 38:53 Future of Global Health and Leadership 42:35 Affordability and Access to Medicines 45:43 Global Solidarity and Systemic Change 50:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments!   🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform   Check out our Youtube channel for more in-depth global health discussions  https://www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

Featuring articles on multiple sclerosis, narcolepsy type 1, antiretroviral therapy in children with HIV, and porcine kidney xenotransplantation; a review article on Ph-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia; a case report of a woman with peritonsillar swelling and bleeding; and Perspectives on the power of physicians in dangerous times, on community health centers, on AI-driven clinical documentation, and on driving Jackson. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 19.

Ben revisits the application of innovation to deliver healthcare transformation – this time the merging technology with social science to reward undetectability in the fight against HIV.  We meet McKinsey Copley, co-founder and CEO of Shine, who shares his journey from a young volunteer to creating a groundbreaking app that incentivizes HIV patients to remain virally suppressed by providing financial rewards. They discuss the economic and ethical implications of this approach and Shine's potential impact on ending the HIV epidemic. McKinsey also details the pilot project in Las Vegas and the regulatory challenges faced, ensuring the app's effectiveness and security. This episode is a compelling look into how innovative incentives can transform global health. Tune in for insights on compassion, technology, and the future of HIV treatment. https://www.shineapp.co/   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:33 Why Focus on HIV? 01:46 Meet McKinsey Copley 02:21 McKinsey's Journey into HIV Advocacy 04:39 Founding One Tent Health 05:36 Achievements and Recognition 06:34 Introduction to Shine 07:00 The 90-90-90 Plan Explained 08:55 The Vision Behind Shine 12:34 Funding and Sustainability 16:14 Challenges and Future Plans 20:39 Choosing Las Vegas for the Pilot 21:39 The Impact of Trump's HIV Program 22:58 Shine: Tech Startup or Program Implementation? 25:01 Mission Statement: Wrapping the World in Love 27:37 Ensuring Data Privacy and HIPAA Compliance 32:35 Future Expansion and Long-Term Strategy 37:04 Call to Action: Join Shine's Journey 37:52 Contact Information and Final Thoughts   💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments!   🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform   Check out our Youtube channel for more in-depth global health discussions  https://www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

2022-06-10 Hosts Craig Lipset and Amir Kalali were joined by Francesca Rinaldo (prev. Sharecare, now SCAN) and Emily Lewis (UCB) around opportunities to impact myasthenia gravis patients and researchers with better digital measurements on a smartphone.You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.

In this special episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, hosts Ben Plumley and Yvette Raphael share the exciting news of Yvette receiving the Mani L. Bhaumik Breakthrough Award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science. They discuss the significance of African women's involvement in clinical trials, particularly the Global Advisory Board’s active participation in the design of trials of new long acting injectables for HIV prevention - particularly the groundbreaking way pregnant women were, for the first time, able to continue to participate in these studies. They also delve into the current challenges faced by global health initiatives, the impact of private and governmental organizations, and the crucial role of mental health and advocacy in combating HIV. The episode addresses the ongoing impact of US funding cuts on global HIV services and the importance of maintaining global solidarity and support for effective HIV prevention and treatment. Yvette emphasizes the need for accessible, affordable HIV prevention methods and the ongoing advocacy required to ensure these advancements reach those who need them most. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:16 Breaking News: The AAAS Breakthrough Award 01:44 Yvette Raphael's Journey and Achievements 03:15 The Purpose and Echo Trials 04:16 Community Involvement and Advocacy 07:46 Challenges and Triumphs in HIV Prevention 10:59 Accountability vs. Advisory Boards 16:58 Ensuring Accessibility and Affordability 22:30 Impact of Funding Disruptions 31:32 Mental Health and Psychosocial Support 33:31 Conclusion and Final Remarks 💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated  Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform 
Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions – www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast 
 
   Episode link on Youtube: https://youtu.be/xiZpnpVScS4

Featuring articles on high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, M. tuberculosis infection, type 2 diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, and lymphoma; a review article on the chemistry of food; a case report of a man with weight loss, weakness, and anorexia; and Perspectives on the dismantling of foreign-assistance efforts, on the crushing weight of nonclinical demands in primary care, and on the last dose. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 18.

Social connection is more than a feel-good concept—it’s a cornerstone of community resilience and public health. In this episode of Aging Fast & Slow, Dr. Thomas Cudjoe of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine discusses the science behind social ties, how isolation undermines both individual and community well-being, and what it takes to build stronger, more connected neighborhoods. Join us for a conversation that sheds light on the power of human connection to foster healthier, more resilient communities. REFERENCES: Cudjoe TKM, Boyd CM, Wolff JL, Roth DL. ⁠Advance care planning: Social isolation matters⁠. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2020 April. Cudjoe TKM, Kotwal AA. ⁠Social distancing amid a crisis in social isolation and loneliness⁠. J Am Geri Soc 2020 May 20. Cudjoe TKM, Roth DL, Szanton SL, Wolff JL, Boyd CM, Thorpe Jr., RJ. ⁠The epidemiology of social isolation: National Health & Aging Trends Study⁠. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. 2020 Jan 1. Cudjoe TKM, Selvakumar S, Chung S, Latkin CA, Roth DL, Thorpe Jr., RJ, Boyd CM. (2021). ⁠Getting under the Skin: Social isolation and biological markers in the National Health and Aging Trends Study⁠. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Golden SH, Cudjoe TKM, Galiatsatos P, Brownlee D, Flanagan E, Crews DC, Maruthur N, Brown M, Ashby A, Hellmann DB, Knox T, Anderson ME. ⁠A perspective on the Baltimore Freddie Gray riots: Turning tragedy into civic engagement and culture change in an academic department of medicine⁠. Acad Med. 2018 December.

Ben Plumley is joined by musician, DJ, and influencer Anto NeoSoul to explore the evolving concept of masculinity in the 21st century. Reflecting on their personal experiences and societal observations from Kenya to the UK, Ben and Anton discuss the impacts of traditional gender roles, the rise of toxic masculinity, and the importance of gender equity. The conversation delves into the influences of matriarchal societies, personal stories involving media and cultural icons, and the significance of positive male mentoring. They also touch on sensitive topics such as the relationship with firearms and the role women play in shaping a positive sense of masculinity. This engaging discussion aims to foster a broader understanding and redefine what it means to be a man today. 00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episodes 01:00 Welcoming Back Anton Soul 02:04 Exploring Modern Masculinity 04:54 Personal Reflections on Masculinity 09:25 Influences and Role Models 18:51 Challenges and Evolving Gender Norms 25:35 Toxic Masculinity and Its Fragility 26:15 Conversations on Masculinity 27:33 The Influence of Media and Generational Gaps 29:36 Man Cave and Gender Roles 31:31 Mental Health and Emotional Expression 34:30 Guns and Masculinity 43:08 The Role of Women in Defining Masculinity 49:58 Conclusion and Future Conversations Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6552OKWsXt4 💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions – www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

Mitchell Warren, AVAC's Executive Director, joins Ben to scope out a forward-looking infectious disease   prevention strategy. It is urgently needed, amidst political and economic turmoil caused by the dismantling of US aid and declines in funding from European donors. With HIV as the poster child of what once was global health solidarity, it is an opportunity for a resurgent and resilient Global South to take the reins and set priorities in how to deploy new biomedical innovations, and protecting the rights of communities affected by HIV and other pandemics. Ben and Mitchell also delve into the various legal actions the public health community is taking against the current US administration's executive orders, asking the question - how to we prep for prevention at home and internationally?  00:00 Introduction and Current Challenges in Global Health  01:09 Welcoming Mitchell Warren and AVAC's Mission  01:43 The Evolution of HIV Prevention and AVAC's Role  03:17 Current Frustrations and Challenges in HIV Prevention  05:15 The Promise and Challenges of Lenacapavir  08:03 The Importance of Choice in HIV Prevention  10:22 Navigating Funding and Policy Obstacles  12:43 The Role of Donors and Ministries in HIV Prevention  14:56 The Urgency of Lenacapavir Approval and Implementation  20:52 Sustainability and Future Planning in Global Health  25:44 Legal Battle Against Government Orders  26:50 Temporary Restraining Order and Its Implications  27:14 Government's Slow Compliance and Ongoing Legal Struggles  28:38 Public Record and Whistleblower Revelations  30:56 Impact on American Influence and Global Health  33:45 Diplomacy and Foreign Assistance  35:04 Consequences of Policy Changes  40:01 Future Strategies and Targets for Global Health  45:51 Music and Reflections on Democracy  48:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  Learn more about AVAC https://avac.org   💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments!    🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions – www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast 

Featuring articles on lipoprotein(a), familial polycythemia, leukocyte adhesion deficiency, COPD, and on policies on reducing alcohol consumption; a review article on addressing alcohol use; a Clinical Problem-Solving on gazing into a crystal ball; and Perspectives on death and taxes, on cancer metastases, and on a good innings. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 17.

2025-04-25 Hosts Craig Lipset and Jane Myles were joined by Greg Dombal and Laura DiAngelo (Agency IQ) to discuss the rapidly changing regulatory environment in the US, particularly in the clinical research sector, and its implications for those operating in this highly regulated space. The participants discussed the impact of recent changes such as reductions in force and reorganizations on the industry, and the evolving policies at the FDA, including the concept of an intermediate clinical endpoint and the interpretation and mapping of these concepts. The team also discussed the potential changes in the FDA's organizational structure, its impact on the agency's role in international collaborations, and the need for a balance between safety and efficacy in drug development.Resources:Subscribe to AgencyIQs FDA Today Newsletter hereMegyn Kelly Show with Dr. Martin Makary, new FDA CommissionerYou can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.

Featuring articles on bronchiectasis, influenza, clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential, and metachromatic leukodystrophy; a review article on biology of the Fc neonatal receptor; a case report of a woman with sore throat and rash; and Perspectives on HIV preexposure prophylaxis, on fossil fuels, and on Medicaid’s mandate for children and adolescents. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 16.

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, Ben Plumley discusses an ongoing potentially highly significant legal challenge to the Affordable Care Act with Eric Waskowicz, Senior Policy Manager at the United States of Care. The case involves a small group of employers in Texas seeking to eliminate mandates for free preventative services, positing both constitutional issues and religious objections. Eric explains the potential widespread impacts on access to healthcare if the Supreme Court rules against the ACA provisions. He emphasizes the importance of no-cost preventative services and the economic and social benefits of maintaining them. The conversation also highlights continued bipartisan support - even from the Trump administration - for these measures and the role of state-level advocacy in preserving access to comprehensive healthcare. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:17 The Curious Case of Legal Action in the US 01:04 Introducing Eric Kovi and United States of Care 04:49 Background on the Affordable Care Act and Preventive Services 06:46 The Impact of the Supreme Court Case 15:39 Mobilizing Support and Advocacy 22:49 Eric Kovi's Career Journey 27:22 Call to Action and Conclusion 💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions – www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast Youtube link https://youtu.be/32VDJese8nY

We discuss the latest in medical research and ideas.

2025-04-11 Hosts Craig Lipset and Jane Myles were joined by our partners TransCelerate BioPharma Inc. and ACRO for a discussion on their tools & solutions that were developed to better understand the ICH E6 R3. We welcomed Christine Goffe (UCB), Paul Slagle (IQVIA), and Hasnaa Likaoui (BMS) to share about the data lifecycle framework tool and the trial design considerations tool that they have worked on to help better support trial planning and design.The tools can be found online at the following websites:Transcelerate ICH E6 Asset Library -- https://www.transceleratebiopharmainc.com/assets/ich-e6-asset-library/Transcelerate ICH E6 R3 Tools & Resources Webinar -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-6vM6hOLcU&feature=youtu.beACRO Interpreting ICH E6 R3 -- https://www.acrohealth.org/initiatives-hub/interpreting-ich-e6r3/You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.

Featuring articles on cancer-associated venous thromboembolism, endovascular treatment for stroke, dapagliflozin in patients undergoing TAVI, screening for prostate cancer, and extrachromosomal DNA; a review article on otitis media in young children; a case report of a woman with flank pain, fever, and hypoxemia; and Perspectives on some efforts toward equity and on breaking the sacred promise. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 14.

2025-04-04 Hosts Craig Lipset and Jane Myles were joined by Kaitlin Morrison from UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. She shared her experiences with the potential of decentralized clinical trials, particularly in oncology, to expand participation beyond academic medical centers. We discussed the challenges of conducting clinical trials, the importance of trust and information sharing in building partnerships with local healthcare providers, and the potential benefits of working with these providers.Episode Resources:Conducting Clinical Trials With Decentralized ElementsIntegrating Randomized Controlled Trials for Drug and Biological Products Into Routine Clinical PracticeYou can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn to see what sessions are coming next and get the link to join. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.

Featuring articles on HIV prevention, left atrial appendage closure after ablation for atrial fibrillation, timing of thrombolysis for stroke, congenital diarrhea and enteropathy, and the association between wealth and mortality in the United States and Europe; a review article on malaria; a Clinical Problem-Solving describing a “hot” cardiomyopathy; and Perspectives on physician shadowing, application overload, medical school grading, and impersonal personal statements. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 13.

In this episode of Aging Fast & Slow, we explore how home- and community-based services—like Meals on Wheels—can enhance the well-being of older adults. Dr. Kali Thomas, Associate Director of Health Services Research at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing’s Center for Equity in Aging, joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of long-term care. From in-home support to assisted living, we examine innovative policies and approaches designed to meet both the medical and non-medical needs of our aging population. References: Home-Delivered Meals Thomas KS, Parikh R, Zullo AR, Dosa D. (2018) Home-Delivered Meals and Risk of Self-Reported Falls: Results From a Randomized Trial. J Appl Gerontol. 2018 Jan;37(1):41-57. PMID: 27798291. Thomas KS, Smego R, Akobundu U, Dosa D. (2017) Characteristics of Older Adults on Waiting Lists for Meals on Wheels: Identifying Areas for Intervention. J Appl Gerontol. 2017 Oct;36(10):1228-1242. PMCID: PMC4877281. Thomas KS, Akobundu U, Dosa D. (2016) More Than A Meal? A Randomized Control Trial Comparing the Effects of Home-Delivered Meals Programs on Participants’ Feelings of Loneliness. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc. Sci. 2016 Nov;71(6):1049-1058. PMID: 26613620 Thomas KS, Mor V. (2013) Providing more home-delivered meals is one way to keep older adults with low care needs out of nursing homes. Health Aff (Millwood). 2013 Oct;32(10):1796-1802. PMCID: PMC4001076. Thomas KS, Gadbois EA, Shield RR, Akobundu U, Morris AM, Dosa DM. (2018) “It’s not just a simple meal. t’s so much more”: Interactions between Meals on Wheels Clients and Divers. J Appl Gerontol. 2018 Dec 20:733464818820226 [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 30569811.

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, Ben Plumley talks with Professor Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Innovation Officer for the Sheba Medical Center in Israel. They discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence in global healthcare, from innovations that reduce mortality rates to AI-driven diagnostic tools. Prof. Zimlichman shares insights on leveraging AI for efficiency, reducing healthcare costs, and driving economic growth by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. The conversation also delves into how developing countries can leapfrog traditional healthcare models using AI technology, and the importance of AI governance and validation across different populations.

Join Eric Goosby and Ben Plumley as they delve into the latest global health news coming out of Washington DC, including funding cuts from the US government to key international health programs, whether the administration will abide by the continuing resolution passed by Congress to fund all global health programs approved by Congress for 2025, and the implications for the UN, Gavi and US academic institutions. They also try to make sense of the significant job cuts announced by the administration to the Department of Health and Human Services today , and the continuing outbreak of measles in the US. These are hectic – if not entirely productive – times in the world of global health. But is a Trump administration strategy emerging from the chaos of executive orders, termination notices and the firing of so many key staff? 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:04 US Government Funding for International Development 01:49 Impact of Funding Cuts on Health and Human Services 02:12 The Growing Measles Crisis 02:36 Debate on Continuing Resolution and Budget Cuts 09:18 Termination of Funding to Gavi 13:25 Public Health Strategy and Administration Tactics 40:58 The Role of Individual Rights in Public Health 47:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions – www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

Featuring articles on intensive blood-pressure control in patients with diabetes, IgG4-related disease, severe chronic rhinosinusitis, advanced breast cancer, and vaccinating against C. difficile infection; a review article on chronic cough in adults; a case report of a man with hepatocellular carcinoma; an editorial on order out of chaos; and Perspectives on health care bridges, on partnerships between pharmaceutical and telehealth companies, and on the definition of failure. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 12.

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, hosts Yvette Raphael and Ben Plumley discuss the resilience of South Africa's healthcare system amidst U.S. aid cuts, particularly through USAID and PEPFAR. They highlight the devastating impacts on HIV treatment, TB care, and broader healthcare services due to the sudden cessation of funding. But the country is markedly more prepared than critics might have feared, to assume full responsibility for its infectious diseases strategies - including procurement and surveillance strategies that the US maintained control over in exchange for the aid. Their conversation extends to cover issues around mental health, future healthcare innovations like long-acting antiretrovirals, and the broader geopolitical implications of donor aid cuts.   00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:33 Impact of US Aid Cuts on South Africa 03:08 Healthcare Challenges and Government Response 07:04 The Role of Civil Society and Future Preparations 10:21 Consequences of Sudden Aid Withdrawal 14:17 Future of HIV Treatment and Advocacy 16:55 The Threat of Drug-Resistant TB 17:35 Government Investment in Healthcare 19:01 Mental Health Crisis Among Youth 19:41 Impact of USAID Funding Cuts 20:57 Soft Power and International Relations 22:37 South Africa's Self-Reliance 26:43 Addressing Racism and Emigration 32:42 Parting Thoughts and Optimism   💬 Join the Conversation How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔 Subscribe & Stay Updated ✅ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform ✅ Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions -  @shotarmpodcast⁩ 

2022-03-18 Host Craig Lipset was joined by Irfan Khan (Circuit Clinical), Kelly McKee (Evinova), and Kerry Hicks (HW Investment Partners) for a conversation around the application of patient experience in clinical research, health ratings for providers, and more.You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.