The EMJ Podcast: Insights For Healthcare Professionals

How did the USA build one of the world's most comprehensive cystic fibrosis care systems? In Part 1 of our deep dive, Peter Mogayzel explores the development of national cystic fibrosis centres, the impact of newborn screening, and how a strong foundation in care standards transformed outcomes across generations. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:38 – Care models 02:40 – Early screening 04:20 – CF Foundation 05:33 – What's changed?

In this quickfire introduction, Peter J. Mogayzel answers fast questions about the evolution of cystic fibrosis care in the USA, from early screening and survival milestones to innovation, policy, and equitable access. A perfect primer on where cystic fibrosis care stands today.

In the second episode of this three-part series, we delve into the science behind Refractory Chronic Cough (RCC), focusing on the role of neuronal hypersensitivity and how the cough reflex becomes dysregulated.1 Join leading experts as they explain the neurobiology of RCC, discuss the latest research, and share practical insights for identifying RCC in clinical practice.

Could 'gravity prescriptions' become a new form of therapy? Spiegel explores the concept of bio-gravitational medicine, from flotation tanks to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)-developed rehabilitation technology, and how virtual reality may help patients simulate weightlessness. He also predicts what the next decade of gravity research will bring.Timestamps:01:20 – Bio-gravitational medicine explained04:15 – Gravi-type09:08 – Anti gravity devices11:09 – Virtual reality  

How does gravity shape our internal ecosystems? Spiegel explains the emerging science linking the microbiome, serotonin, and balance. He discusses how microgravity alters gut health in astronauts and why posture could affect digestion and mood on Earth.Timestamps:00:59 – Microbiome and balance03:36 – Microgravity gut effects06:25 – Serotonin and gravity link09:10 – Tools for studying gut-gravity

In this first deep dive, Spiegel unpacks his bold hypothesis: that irritable bowel syndrome and similar disorders could stem from gravity intolerance. He discusses his self-experiment simulating stronger gravity, the role of core strength in symptom relief, and how altitude affects gastrointestinal conditions. Timestamps:01:04 – What is gravity intolerance? 02:55 – Gravity and chronic conditions 06:18 – Gravity and irritable bowel syndrome 09:29 – Self experiment 12:37 – Gravity's effect on pregnancy 16:43 – How should patients and clinicians think about gravity?

Brennan Spiegel answers rapid-fire questions about the effects of gravity on the human body and mind. From fatigue to irritable bowel syndrome to mental health, learn why gravity might be one of medicine's most overlooked forces, and how virtual reality is helping researchers study its effects.

In this final episode, Ghatak and Olivo reflect on leadership, mentorship, and the legacy of innovation in diagnostics. Discover what drives them to keep pushing the boundaries of healthcare technology. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:45 - Good leadership 05:04 - Advice for young professionals 07:34 - Diagnostic gaps 09:34 - Maintaining motivation 10:33 - ImmunoProfile legacy

From lab to clinic, how do diagnostic breakthroughs make a real-world impact? Ghatak and Olivo explore bridging the gap between development and implementation, managing risk, and balancing innovation with ethics in patient care. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:43 – Implementation challenges 02:40 – Strategic risk 03:46 – Trial and error 06:21 – Ethical dilemmas 09:46 – Lessons learned 11:00 – Successful innovation 13:12 – 'Good' diagnostics

In this episode, Jonathan Sackier speaks with Brian Rini, Chief of Clinical Trials at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, and an internationally known leader in genitourinary oncology. The discussion explores the evolution of kidney cancer treatment, highlighting breakthroughs in immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and precision oncology. Rini shares insights from landmark clinical trials, his passion for translational research, and the challenges of broadening trial access. He also reflects on the future of the field, including the role of artificial intelligence, biomarker-driven strategies, and his hopes for advancing patient outcomes worldwide.  Timestamps:    00:00 – Introduction  01:10 – Key insights into kidney cancer  03:50 – Brian's career journey  07:40 – One piece of career advice   10:40 – Diagnosis of kidney cancer   12:04 – Treatment landscape for kidney cancer  17:00 – Landmark trials in renal cell carcinoma   19:18 – Precision-based approach in trial design and selection  23:40 – Translational research  26:35 – Clinical trial recruitment  30:25 – Diversity in kidney cancer research  32:27 – ESMO 2025 highlights  35:00 – Potential of AI in trial design and recruitment  36:43 – Uncovered areas for research  38:12 – Brian's three wishes for healthcare   

In this EMJ podcast, experts discuss challenges within endometriosis care and cryoablation as an emerging treatment option. Navigating disease burden, current management limitations, the promise of precision imaging and minimally invasive techniques, the conversation highlights early clinical experience, ongoing research, and future directions for integrating cryoablation into endometriosis care.

How can clinicians make a difference? Woodruff outlines practical steps, screening tools, and advocacy approaches that can help reduce patients' exposure to harmful chemicals. She also reflects on policy progress and shares trusted resources for environmental health education.   Timestamps: 01:16 – Action and change  06:39 – How to reduce patients' toxic exposure  08:27 – Practical tools and screening  13:46 – Advocacy and policy 

Which communities bear the brunt of pollution during pregnancy and early life? Woodruff explores the links between socioeconomic status, genetics, and environmental exposure, illustrating how 'double jeopardy' and environmental injustice compound health risks for vulnerable families. Timestamps: 01:36 – Pre-term birth 06:07 – Gut microbiome 11:37 – Genetic factors 12:59 – Double jeopardy   14:26 – Environmental injustice  14:54 – Cancer valley 

How is diagnostic innovation evolving across industries and institutions? In Part 1, Sudip Ghatak and Paul Olivo discuss the drivers of innovation, from scientific discovery to clinical need, and reveal the most disruptive changes happening in diagnostics today. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:16 – Unpacking ImmunoProfile 05:50 – Testing for who? 08:03 – Immunity studies 10:31 – Startups 12:00 – Diagnostic innovation 15:00 – Disruptive changes

In this fast-paced episode, host Jonathan Sackier introduces ImmunoProfile's Sudip Ghatak and Paul Olivo. Discover their motivations, myths about diagnostics, and how curiosity fuels innovation in just a few minutes.  

Tracey Woodruff breaks down how pollutants, from pesticides to plastics, affect pregnancy and early development. She discusses evolving research on replacement chemicals, the biological mechanisms behind toxic exposure, and the latest findings that alarm (and motivate) scientists today. 

In this rapid-fire Q&A, Woodruff shares her top environmental health concerns for pregnancy and childhood. From phthalates and plastics to practical tips for clinicians, she highlights why even small exposures matter, and how awareness is the first step to prevention. 

This podcast has been supported by Novartis In this new podcast episode, Lisa Machado, a patient advocate diagnosed with CML in 2008 and clinician and CML expert Jeffrey Lipton, sit down to explore: How patients and physicians can navigate the shock of diagnosis and information overload. Why aligning treatment goals goes beyond molecular milestones to focus on quality of life. Practical ways to foster trust, encourage open conversations, and strengthen shared decisions. Whether you're supporting newly diagnosed patients or reassessing long-term treatment, this conversation offers fresh insights to improve communication, satisfaction, and outcomes in CML.

This promotional podcast has been initiated and funded by Merck, and a Merck product will be discussed. The intended audience is multiple sclerosis healthcare professionals in the UK only. The comments of the speakers in this podcast reflect their own opinions and are not necessarily those of Merck.

What happens after GLP-1s? Holly Wyatt discusses medication exit strategies, physiological adaptation, and future hope in obesity care. Learn how to transition from medication to mastery with purpose and self-efficacy.  Timestamps:  00:40 – GLP-1s  03:36 – Stopping GLP-1s  09:13 – Challenges  09:56 – Exit strategies  11:17 – Looking ahead 

From nutrition to sleep and stress, this episode examines the real-life habits that make or break long-term success. Holly Wyatt explains how to build sustainable routines and redefine relapse without shame or failure.  Timestamps:  00:36 - Diets  04:30 - Physical activity  07:25 - Weight re-gain  09:09 – Sleep/Stress  11:52 – Public health 

The following podcasts were funded by Edgewise Therapeutics. Disclaimers: The views and opinions expressed in these podcasts are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of Edgewise Therapeutics or EMJ. The speakers received honoraria for participating in this recording. This episode offers experts insights from with Dr. Amit Sachdev. It explores Becker muscular dystrophy (Becker) by raising awareness of the main Becker natural history studies that look at NSAA outcomes and other functional assessments, and to discuss how the findings in natural history studies support that functional decline can begin at any age and is irreversible.

Holly Wyatt explores the psychological side of sustained weight loss: mindset, identity shifts, and why willpower isn't enough. Discover patterns from over 10,000 successful weight maintainers, and the first steps toward emotional resilience in obesity care.  Timestamps:  00:45 – Wyatt's Journey  03:48 – Psychological barriers  06:09 – State of Slim  08:06 – Successful losers  11:16 – Advice 

In this rapid-fire episode, Holly Wyatt answers key questions on metabolism, myths, motivation, GLP-1 misconceptions, and daily health habits. Ideal for listeners seeking a fast, insightful overview of modern weight management in under 5 minutes. 

This content was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim, who had no influence or involvement in the development of the content. This material is intended for U.S. healthcare professionals. Pulmonary fibrosis remains one of the most challenging respiratory diseases – often underdiagnosed, undertreated, and misunderstood. In this AMJ podcast, Ayodeji Adegunsoye and Toby Maher share their expert perspectives on how the field is changing, how recent data are shaping clinical decision-making, and why holistic, patient-centered care is critical. Chapters:  03:02 – 15:34 – A Decade Without New Options 15:34 – 27:47 – Understanding the Latest Clinical Trial Data 27:47 – 39:28 – From Hesitancy to Action: Reaching the Community Clinician 39:28 – 54:10 – Psychosocial Support and Patient-Centered Care 54:10 – 01:02:07 – The Role of Primary Care in ILD Diagnosis 01:02:07 – 1:07:48 – Call to Action  Speakers: Ayodeji Adegunsoye, MD, PhD – Assistant Professor of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Illinois, USA Toby Maher, MD, PhD – Professor of Clinical Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, USA

In the final episode of this series, Susanna Esposito explores how vaccine coverage, microbiome preservation, and emerging therapeutics intersect with antimicrobial stewardship. She also discusses innovative strategies, such as bacteriophages, microbiome-targeted therapies, and AI-driven predictive analytics, to prevent infections while optimising antibiotic use in children. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:50 – Vaccine coverage 02:20 – Gut–lung axis 03:23 – Microbiome-targeted therapies 04:37 – Bacteriophages 05:45 – AI analytics 06:30 – Final message

In the second deep dive of the series, Susanna Esposito discusses the latest guidelines for diagnosing and treating bacterial meningitis in children. She highlights balancing urgent empirical therapy with stewardship principles, appropriate use of corticosteroids, emerging resistance patterns, and how hospitals can leverage local data to optimise antibiotic prescribing. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:53 – Tackling meningitis 02:42 – Corticosteroid use 03:37 – Access, Watch, and Reserve (AWaRe) classification 05:49 – Resistance patterns 06:51 – Point prevalence surveys

Susanna Esposito joins Saranya Ravindran to explore how clinicians can distinguish viral from bacterial respiratory infections in children. From bronchiolitis management to targeted testing, stewardship strategies, and the role of vitamin D and point-of-care diagnostics, this episode unpacks evidence-based approaches to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.  Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  02:00 – Respiratory infections  03:30 – Targeted testing  04:12 – Antibiotics in bronchiolitis  05:52 – Stewardship initiatives  07:12 – Vitamin D in prevention  08:21 – Viral point-of-care diagnostics 

In this rapid-fire episode, Susanna Esposito answers key questions about antimicrobial stewardship in children, from identifying viral versus bacterial infections, to emerging diagnostics and best practices for rational antibiotic use. Perfect for listeners short on time. 

In this special World Mental Health Day episode, Jonathan Sackier speaks with Debi Roberts about breaking down barriers to mental health conversations and creating practical pathways for suicide prevention. From developing the Safe Plan and Prescription Safe Plan, to applying the Theory of Constraints in mental health systems, Debi brings clarity and compassion to one of society's most complex challenges. Together, they explore how education, storytelling, and community collaboration can empower individuals to act, connect, and care.     Timestamps  00:00 – Introduction  03:30 – Debi's career path  05:52 – Emotional literacy  08:15 – OLLIE Foundation  11:00 – Debi's current work  13:53 – Unpacking ‘safe plans'  16:55 – The Prescription Safe Plan  21:23 – Theory of Constraints in suicide prevention  26:57 – Theory of Constraints in healthcare  33:00 – Societal views on suicide  39:49 – Reaching younger audiences  42:13 – It takes a village  46:05 – A message on World Mental Health Day 

Description: In the final episode, Sandy Phanor delves into how her background in law helps her to maintain her confidentiality and professionalism in the clinic. She also looks towards the future, discussing technological advancements and the future of holistic care. Timestamps: 01:14 – Law influence 02:15 – Osteopathy evolution 03:26 – Personalised plans 05:19 – Future technologies 7:00 – Holistic future

Description: What role does osteopathy play in sports injury rehab? And how does it differ between an office worker and an athlete? Sandy Phanor answers these questions, as well as explaining the benefits of good patient education in preventing repeat injuries. Timestamps: 01:19 – Sports people 03:18 – Balancing recovery 04:30 – Office versus athletics 05:29 – Interesting case 06:51 – Patient education

In this episode of Hema Now, the authors sit down with Sunil Gupta to explore how advances in haematology are transforming both research and patient care. From breaking down misconceptions about stem cell donation to discussing emerging technologies, such as machine learning, Gupta shares insights into the breakthroughs, challenges, and future directions in the field. The episode also highlights his latest research and key takeaways from EHA2025, offering listeners a unique perspective on where haematology is heading next.  Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:54 – Biggest breakthrough in haematology  02:59 – Biggest challenge persisting  03:50 – Misconceptions about stem cell donation  05:27 – Emerging technologies  05:55 – Overview of Sunil's research  09:30 – AI in haematology  13:01 – Key takeaways from EHA2025  17:56 – Translating research into patient care 

Sandy Phanor reflects on her experiences in the clinic and explains how she harnesses the power of emotional connection with her patients, who now actively seek osteopathic appointments. Additionally, she explains her internal flow chart to assess patients. and how she ensures she uses the right technique in each situation. Timestamps: 01:16 – Emotional connection 03:18 – Emotional manifestations 05:59 – Which technique? 08:28 – Lifestyle effects 11:00 – Patient relationships

In this rapid-fire episode, Sandy Phanor answers quick questions about her craft, discussing misconceptions about osteopathy, common conditions such as back pain, common causes of conditions, such as slouching, and how she enjoys treating spinal issues the most.

This episode provides timely coverage of the 2025 Meeting of the International Myeloma Society (IMS). Claudio Cerchione highlights the most important developments from the Annual Meeting, offers his reflections on the evolving treatment landscape, and discusses the role of research and collaboration in moving closer to a cure for myeloma.  Timestamps   00:00 – Introduction  02:08 – Reflections on his own career  04:20 – Claudio's initial interest in the field  06:46 – Key takeaways from IMS 2025 Meeting  10:09 – Any potential gaps in coverage?  11:50 – How different patient groups are identified  13:30 – Minimal residual disease  16:15 – Impact of medical societies  20:24 – Translating new findings into clinical practice  23:44 – Improving the accessibility of treatments  26:45 – Claudio's key takeaways from IMS 2025 Meeting  Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this episode belong to the speakers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of EMJ. 

This content was funded by AstraZeneca, and is intended for US Healthcare Professionals.   How do urologists, oncologists, and advanced practice providers coordinate care in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC)?   This AMJ podcast brings together three leading experts in each speciality to explore best practices in MDT collaboration, patient transitions, and treatment strategy.    Listen now to strengthen your approach to MIBC care.    Chapters: 00:00 – 02:18 | Introductions 02:18 – 10:15 | MDT Collaboration & Best Practices 10:15 – 16:16 | Patient Pathway & Coordination 16:16 – 25:23 | Treatment Decisions & Strategy 25:23 – 33:38 | Immune-Mediated AR Management 33:38 – 38:52 | Key Takeaways    Speakers:   Chandler Park, MD – Medical Oncologist, Norton Cancer Institute; & Clinical Faculty, University of Louisville School of Medicine   Gautam Jayram, MD – Urologist, Urology Associates, Nashville, TN   Michael White, PA-C – Physician Assistant, Urology Partners of North Texas

In the final episode, Jed Beitler reflects on leadership, mentorship, and the legacy of healthcare communications. From essential leadership qualities to the stories still untold, this conversation looks ahead at innovation, responsibility, and the next chapter in health communication. Timestamps: 01:12 – Leadership qualities 04:03 – Mentoring 09:44 – Public education 13:57 – Legacy

What role does communication play in building health systems and addressing global health challenges? Jed Beitler discusses his work with non-governmental and international organisations, exploring lessons from Sub-Saharan Africa, strategies for fighting major diseases, and the importance of collaboration in global health. Timestamps: 00:56 – Early career 02:37 – Sub-Saharan Africa 06:08 – Tackling HIV 07:53 – Not-for-profit organisations 11:43 – Diagnostics

A recent survey among 2,000 patients in the USA revealed a growing openness to AI in healthcare, especially when it enhances time with physicians. The majority of patients support AI tools if used as ambient listening devices leading to more direct interaction with the HCP allowing more face-to-face time. However, concerns remain, particularly around AI when used for diagnosis. 55% of patients still feel uneasy about AI making clinical decisions. Therefore, there is an increasing request for transparency when AI is used in this case and for follow-ups like lab results. However, it might be recognised that if AI is used automating repetitive tasks and expanding care capacity, it might support healthcare workforce current crisis. Ultimately, the future of AI in healthcare depends on trust, transparency, and collaboration, with both patients and providers at the centre.

Chronic pain, particularly in the context of rheumatic diseases, represents one of the most pervasive global health challenges, affecting over one-quarter of the world's population. In recent decades, the influence of gender on pain perception and management has emerged as a significant focus of both scientific inquiry and clinical practice. Epidemiological data consistently demonstrate that women are disproportionately affected by chronic pain syndromes, including musculoskeletal pain. Compared to men, women tend to exhibit a lower pain threshold and heightened pain sensitivity. These differences are not only quantitative but also qualitative, with phenomena such as allodynia and secondary hyperalgesia appearing more pronounced in female patients. Moreover, psychosocial factors, such as individual pain history and levels of anxiety, may further modulate pain experiences in women. These observations align with the biopsychosocial model of pain, which posits that biological, psychological, and social dimensions collectively shape the pain experience

This podcast explores the important aspects of healthcare professionals' practices in percutaneous coronary intervention treatment. It includes the role of adjunct therapies, a review of the updated guidelines, and real-world challenges in the treatment and management of acute coronary syndrome. The discussion focuses on expert opinions and real-world experiences, focusing on the current evidence and guidelines surrounding the efficacy and safety of antiplatelet agents, as well as the timing of their administration. Disclaimers: This podcast discusses prescription-only medicines and is intended for healthcare professionals only. Please refer to prescribing information and adverse event reporting requirements in your country of practice. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of Chiesi Farmaceutici or EMJ. 

Timestamps: 00:55 – Healthcare evolution 02:40 – Global differences 05:44 – Industry shifts 09:07 – Perceptions of doctors 11:57 – Advice

In this rapid-fire episode, Jed Beitler answers quick questions about healthcare communications, from industry lessons and patient engagement to leadership advice and global health strategies. Perfect for listeners short on time but eager to gain decades of insight in just minutes.

How is extended reality transforming medical education? Rohan Jotwani discusses his work at Extended Reality Anesthesia Immersion Lab (XRAIL) and the role of immersive technology in training anesthesiologists and beyond. This episode highlights new tools, assessment methods, and challenges in scaling extended reality for education.  Timestamps:  00:43 – Education tools  04:55 – Measuring effectiveness  07:40 – Anesthesiology training   10:02 – Current challenges  12:37 – Clinician skepticism  

In the final episode, Rohan Jotwani reflects on extended reality, AI, and other emerging therapies shaping tomorrow's healthcare. From ethics and patient safety to neuromodulation, regenerative medicine, and research gaps, this episode envisions the next frontier in medical innovation.  Timestamps:  00:34 – Ethical considerations  02:34 – Chronic pain  04:40 – XR across medicine  06:44 – Pain management 

In this episode of Onc Now, Luis Paz-Ares, Chair of the Medical Oncology Department at Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre in Madrid, Spain, shares his expert insights on the evolving science of lung cancer. From the critical role of prevention and smoking cessation through to the latest therapeutic breakthroughs, Paz-Ares offers a candid discussion on the progress, challenges, and hopes for the future of lung cancer research and treatment.  Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:09 – Key insights on lung cancers  02:26 – Luis's journey into oncology  04:10 – Highlights and lowlights of his role  08:30 – Delivering bad news to patients  10:30 – Current diagnosis process and treatment landscape  13:20 – Trends in lung cancer prevalence  16:00 – IMforte trial  21:15 – Biggest obstacles researchers and clinicians face today  22:50 – Non-smokers  24:40 – European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2025 predictions  26:00 – Luis's three wishes for cancer research    Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this episode belong to the speakers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of EMJ.