The EMJ Podcast: Insights For Healthcare Professionals

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.  

Rohan Jotwani explores how extended reality is reshaping pain management. From nerve retraining therapies to patient responses and clinical applications, this episode reveals how immersive environments are redefining how patients experience and manage pain.  Timestamps:  03:03 – Early career  05:45 – What is XR?  09:03 – Pain management  11:14 – Nerve retraining  14:51 – VR addictions 

In this rapid-fire episode, Rohan Jotwani answers quick questions about extended reality in medicine, from its role in pain relief and rehabilitation to its future in training and patient care. Perfect for listeners who are short on time but eager to understand extended reality's potential in just minutes.

In this inspiring episode of Hema Now, Catherine Glass speaks with Rob Pieters, Professor of Pediatric Oncology at Utrecht University; and co-founder of the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands, the largest dedicated childhood cancer centre in Europe. Pieters shares his personal journey in paediatric oncology, the breakthroughs that have reshaped care, and the vision behind uniting all of the Netherlands' childhood cancer expertise under one roof.  Timestamps   00:00 – Introduction  01:06 – Pieters' start in paediatric oncology  01:29 – Biggest breakthroughs in childhood cancers  02:35 – Parts of Pieters work that bring him the most joy  03:12 - Lessons learnt from patients or their families   04:31 – The vision behind the Princess Máxima Center  08:35 – The impact of the Princess Máxima Center   10:53 – How is research funding divided?  12:55 – Evolution of treatments in paediatric oncology  15:10 – What will it take to achieve 100% cure rate in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia?  18:55 – President Elect of the European Society for Paediatric Oncology (SIOPE)  22:20 – One message of hope to families facing childhood cancer  25:10 – Pieter's three wishes for healthcare 

Pérez Marc discusses complementary RSV prevention strategies, including maternal vaccines and long-acting monoclonals. Learn about health system decision-making, cost-effectiveness, lessons from COVID-19, and the potential for RSV to become a vaccine-preventable disease. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:44 – RSV vaccine in routine antenatal care 04:22 – Dual strategy: vaccine and monoclonals 08:25 – Pandemic versus endemic 13:46 – Will RSV become vaccine-preventable? 15:02 – Final message for healthcare professionals

Maternal vaccination is a key tool in preventing RSV. Perez Marc discusses the BERNI study, its design, findings on safety and neonatal protection, real-world effectiveness, vaccine equity, ethical considerations, and global integration strategies. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:47 – Why maternal immunisation in RSV? 02:02 – The BERNI study 07:24 – The vaccine's real-world impact 11:50 – Vaccine equity: a key challenge 12:57 – Ethical issues in maternal immunisation

In this first deep dive episode, Gonzalo Pérez Marc joins Saranya Ravindran to explore the global burden of RSV. Learn about hospitalisation and mortality rates, myths, seasonal changes, and long-term respiratory consequences. This episode highlights the urgent need for awareness and policy action in paediatric care. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:44 – Pérez Marc's journey into RSV research 03:14 – Why RSV is not just a ‘common cold' 05:47 – Mortality in newborns and infants 06:55 – Why is RSV still underestimated? 09:51 – The impact of climate change 12:37 – RSV and long-term lung disease 15:01 – Pathophysiology of RSV 16:08 – Debunking RSV myths

In this quickfire episode, Gonzalo Pérez Marc answers key questions about RSV in infants, from overlooked risks and seasonality to public health priorities and maternal vaccine insights. Perfect for listeners short on time but eager to boost their RSV knowledge in just a few minutes.

In the final instalment, Stephanie Rutledge explores alcoholic hepatitis and long-term mental wellness. Covering acute clinical crises, experimental therapies, and future treatment guidelines, she highlights how hepatology can better integrate mental health and substance use care to transform patient outcomes.  Timestamps:  0:33 – Acute alcoholic hepatitis  3:08 – Patients with alcohol use disorder  4:32 – Medical advancements  6:25 – Prevention  10:45 – Current research  13:01 – Advice for young clinicians 

What happens when alcohol use and metabolic factors collide? In Part 2, Stephanie Rutledge explains how alcohol-related liver disease develops, the challenges of holistic care, and the evolving role of liver transplantation. A must-listen for clinicians navigating the complexities of metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-related liver disease, and patient-centred management.  Timestamps:  0:21 – Metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-related liver disease (MetALD)  3:45 – Treatments for liver disease  5:49 – Mental health considerations  6:36 – Family support  7:51 – Factors beyond clinical treatment 

Tolaney focuses on advancing breast cancer treatment through innovative clinical research. She has been instrumental in developing novel therapies and leading key clinical trials, particularly for early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer.     Timestamps   00:09 – Introduction  01:12 – What is HER2-positive breast cancer?  03:00 – Key trials Tolaney has led  07:16 – Antibody-drug conjugates  12:00 - Breast Oncology Guidelines  14:51 – Treatment optimisation   18:27 – Equity in healthcare  21:10 – Mentoring the next generation of oncologists  22:52 – Tolaney's wishes for healthcare 

Stephanie Rutledge joins host Saranya Ravindran to unpack the mental health dimensions of alcohol use disorder. From co-occurring conditions and behavioural strategies like motivational interviewing to the role of family and community support, this episode explores how integrated care can strengthen recovery.  Timestamps:  1:44 – Why hepatology  3:25 – Genetic factors  4:18 – Alcohol use disorder interventions  5:58 – Motivational interviewing  7:25 – Motivational interviewing skills  8:34 – Beyond clinical settings  10:49 – Alcohol use disorder therapy 

In this rapid-fire episode, Stephanie Rutledge answers key questions on alcohol in hepatology, from mental health challenges in alcohol use disorder to transplant misconceptions, emerging therapies, and the impact of lifestyle changes like Dry January. It provides a concise, insightful overview in just minutes.  Timestamps:  1:08 – Treating alcohol use disorder  1:33 – Technique for alcohol use disorder recovery  1:50 – Misconceptions  2:14 – Psychosocial factors  2:32 – Alcohol use disorder and liver transplantation  2:50 – Experimental education  3:09 – Dry January and sober October  3:35 – Mental health  3:53 – Halting disease progression  4:14 – Liver transplantation  4:46 – Breakthrough therapies 

This podcast and accompanying promotional content has been created in collaboration with and funded by  Biogen. This information is intended for healthcare professionals. The presented content includes mentions of the Skyclarys▼ (omaveloxolone) EU-approved label. Prescribing information for omaveloxolone can be found here. Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is a rare genetic disease that can affect children and adults and cause progressive neurodegeneration, loss of physical function, multiple comorbidities, and even premature death. In this episode, two well renowned experts, Dr Louise Corben and Dr Wolfgang Nachbauer discuss the diagnostic journey for patients with FA, disease progression and the importance of working with multidisciplinary teams in the development of management strategies.

In the final episode, Debby Bogaert discusses how cutting-edge microbiome science is being translated into practice. From novel vaccine approaches to strategies that support the developing microbiome, this conversation highlights how research can drive new preventive solutions to reduce pneumococcal disease and promote healthier lives for children everywhere.  0:30- Mucosal Vaccines  2:02 - Rotavirus Vaccine  2:49- Microbiome Science Policy  4:22- Ethics in Infant Microbiome  6:35- Final Message 

In part two, Debby Bogaert unpacks her pioneering research on the infant respiratory microbiome. Discover how early microbial communities in the airways influence immunity, infection risk, and long-term respiratory health — and why nurturing the microbiome could play a critical role in disease prevention.  0:38- Microbiome and Resilience Against Infection  1:57- Microbiome in Healthy Infancy  3:00- Respiratory Microbiome and Inflammation  4:31- Benefits of Commensal Bacteria   6:39- Microbiome-Based Diagnostics  7:55- Pre and Post Biotics  10:03- Day-to-Day Practice 

In this episode, host Jonathan Sackier is joined by Andrew Dunbar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Hematopoietic Biology and Malignancy at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA. Dunbar discusses his research into myeloproliferative neoplasms, what drives disease progression and resistance, and promising targets for treatment, while reflecting on the mission of his lab and what lies ahead for the field.  Timestamps  00:00 – Introduction  02:29 – One thing people should know about myeloproliferative neoplasms  05:01 – Dunbar's background and research focus  08:00 – What would Dunbar do if not science and medicine?  10:24 – The basics of myeloproliferative neoplasms  14:30 – Myeloproliferative neoplasm diagnosis and treatment  16:49 – What drives disease progression and resistance?  18:30 – The mission of Dunbar's lab  21:23 – Development of AJ1-11095  22:54 – Balancing the complexity of disease modelling with urgent clinical needs  24:03 – Promising targets and pathways  26:35 – What's on the horizon?  28:40 – Three wishes 

In this first deep dive, Debby Bogaert explores the global burden of pneumococcal disease in young children and compares its impact with RSV and flu. She discusses how pneumococcus colonises the respiratory tract, the role of co-infections, and the importance of vaccination. Listeners will also learn how early life factors and microbiome recovery shape the infant respiratory ecosystem. Timestamps: 0:42- Pneumococcus in Young Children 2:46- Global Burden of Pneumococcal Disease 4:15- Pneumococcus vs RSV and Flu 7:17- Microbiome Recovery 8:29- Pneumococcal Vaccination 9:46- Role of Co-Infections 11:34- Colonisation 13:30- Respiratory Tract As an Ecosystem 15:44- Early Life Factors