In this episode of 'A Shot in The Arm Podcast,' host Ben Plumley reconnects with his longtime friend and colleague, Andy Seale from the World Health Organization. The conversation spans decades of their personal and professional journeys across global health, with a primary focus on HIV, TB, and malaria. Ben and Andy discuss the challenges and triumphs of their work, including Andy's experience with HIV diagnosis and the global fight against pandemics such as Ebola. They also tackle critical issues like WHO’s evolving role in global health, the impacts of reduced funding, and the necessity for integration with broader policy fields like security and economics. The transcript also reveals Andy as an enthusiastic fan of Taylor Swift, humorously contrasting with Ben’s musical preferences. The episode highlights past collaborations, current challenges, and the future of global health in an unpredictable geopolitical landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Update 01:43 A Special Guest: Andy Seale 02:42 The ERAS Tour: Reflecting on the Past 04:08 Growing Up During the HIV Epidemic 05:31 Early Careers and Professional Crossroads 09:48 Community and Personal Impact of HIV 20:53 Transition to Global Health Initiatives 23:54 Responding to Health Emergencies 29:51 The Role of Media and Communication 37:05 The Massive Effort and Global Fund 41:33 A Murder Mystery at the UN 42:29 Golden Era of Epidemic Responses 42:55 Roles and Contributions in UNAIDS and Global Fund 44:21 Challenges and Changes in Global Health 45:36 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Strategy 47:03 Integration and Sustainability in Health Services 51:19 Reflections on Global Health and WHO's Role 56:56 The Future of Global Health and Security 01:17:30 Concluding Thoughts and Optimism Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Ben's Colon, Meet Cancer Podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW7yagTEtywrzqAXsYp8gYw3LJpjcnnSB Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

In this episode Ben Plumley catches up with Dr. Seth Berkley, founder of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, former CEO of GAVI and amongst other responsibilities, now a senior advisor at Brown University's School of Public Health's Pandemic Center. Seth has recently published a new book “Fair Doses: An Insider's Story of the Pandemic and the Global Fight for Vaccine Equity” and he and Ben discuss the book’s topics of vaccine equity, misinformation, and the rapid innovations in vaccine development, particularly the success and future potential of mRNA vaccines. Dr. Berkley highlights the challenges posed by misinformation and the political landscape, as well as the importance of global collaboration in addressing pandemics. They also explore his defining role in Covax's efforts to distribute COVID vaccines, the need for local manufacturing, and the impacts of nationalistic policies on global health. Dr. Berkley stresses the critical role of ongoing innovation and funding in preparing for future health crises and ensuring equitable access to health technologies. And he pulls no punches on the current US administration’s failures in supporting global health research and partnerships. https://www.ucpress.edu/books/fair-doses/hardcover 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:05 Current State of Misinformation and Disinformation 03:56 Challenges in Public Health Communication 09:19 Reflections on COVID-19 and Vaccine Equity 12:44 Global Health and Future Pandemics 16:41 Vaccine Nationalism and Local Manufacturing 23:38 Preparedness for Future Health Threats 31:01 The Future of Clinical Research and Innovation 36:03 Seth Berkeley's Current Work and Future Plans 38:13 Conclusion and Closing Remarks Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

Ben’s journey of battling stage four colorectal cancer with chemotherapy brings him to a fairly predictable pit stop; what significance does faith have in spiritual and physical care? , Whether its unravelling deeper issues of self-acceptance and self-faith., the episode explores faith from various perspectives, including personal conviction and religious doctrine, questioning the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing God amidst the presence of widespread suffering. The psychological and spiritual impacts of cancer treatment are discussed, including the what may be a gradual transition from atheism to an almost agnostic faith as a coping mechanism. The episode concludes with an update on treatment progress and a contemplation on the broader implications of faith, love, and legacy. This wee’s t shirt is from St. Javelin, a Ukrainian-based clothier. Find out more about them at www.saintjavelin.com 00:00 Introduction: The Journey of Faith 00:17 A Lunch With A Pop Star Gone Awry 03:47 Reflections on Faith and Self-Esteem 04:51 Chemotherapy Update 06:23 Exploring the Concept of Faith 08:30 Faith in the Context of Cancer 10:33 Religious Perspectives on Faith 19:30 Personal Reflections and Legacy 22:35 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

In this episode of 'Colon Meet Cancer,' Ben recounts the surprising success story of Henrik Gretzky's Symphony Number Three, how badly it was initially received by the musicology world and draws a surprising parallel to his chemotherapy journey. He shares the complex experience of managing an increasing range of chemo side effects, including white blood cell treatments, pain, and hair loss. Ben candidly discusses his struggles with memory fog, the challenges it brings, and the ensuing emotional toll manifested as depression and self-reflection. Despite the adversities, he highlights the importance of humor, intellectual stimulation, and staying hopeful. One of the tools he has used has been late night reflections on controversial topics, and he closes out the episode with Ben by sharing one of those midnight reflections - the potential risks and benefits of AI in healthcare. This week's t-shirt, gifted by Andy Seale, features the slogan 'Make America Democratic Again.' 00:00 Introduction: A Surprising Symphony 02:53 The Onset of Chemotherapy 04:37 Managing Side Effects 10:13 Chemo Brain and Memory Fog 14:59 Depression and Self-Reflection 18:45 AI and Its Implications 23:35 Humor as a Coping Mechanism 25:32 Conclusion: Gratitude and Hope 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

It’s a Paul Revere moment, “RFK Junior is coming!” Ben is joined by author and journalist Emily Bass and UCSF Professor Eric Goosby, co-host of the Global Health Diplomats podcast to diagnose and propose solutions to the Trump Administration’s assault on US public health. From the hollowing out of the CDC, to vaccine skepticism at the heart of the federal leadership, and savage, unconstitutional cuts to public health home and abroad, they delve into the broader ramifications of these attacks on scientific integrity, US democracy and security. They round upon what could be profoundly damaging political consequences, particularly for Republicans, if the health of their voters’ children and elderly relatives is put directly at risk by this willful dismantling of US public health services. And in conclusion, Ben, Eric and Emily explore how to support the emerging regional health coalitions of states, cities and professional bodies to fill the gap. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:50 Recent Developments in Global Health 02:08 Legal Challenges and Public Health Implications 03:18 Impact on Democracy and Public Health 12:04 Interview with Eric Goosby 14:27 Concerns About CDC and Public Health Surveillance 19:36 Future of Public Health and Science 34:46 Potential Solutions and Local Efforts 39:09 Coalitions and Surveillance Systems 44:23 Challenges in Public Health Funding 48:24 The Role of Philanthropy in Public Health 50:37 Political Ramifications and Public Health 56:22 Vaccine Misinformation and Public Trust 58:27 Accountability in Public Health Leadership 01:04:33 COVID Variants and Vaccination Strategies 01:10:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 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

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley engages in a comprehensive discussion with journalist and author Emily Bass about the current state of global health, specifically focusing on HIV/AIDS. Recorded in sunny Sacramento, they reflect on the extraordinary events of the past few months and assess the alignment of innovation and equity in global health. Their conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of community-based care and accountability, the evolving role of international NGOs, and the critical nature of differentiated service delivery in HIV treatment. They also discuss the geopolitical uncertainties affecting global health funding and the influence of recent political changes in the US on the future of the global HIV response. They touch upon the significant role of entities like PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS, and the necessity for national contributions and regional procurement in sustaining HIV programs. Emily emphasizes the need to preserve community-based accountability and the value of innovative, country-led solutions for delivering healthcare. They conclude with a commitment to delve deeper into HIV prevention in a future episode, recognizing the ongoing challenges and opportunities in achieving global HIV/AIDS objectives. Emily’s book: To End a Plague: America's Fight to Defeat AIDS in Africa https://www.amazon.com/End-Plague-Americas-Defeat-Africa/dp/1541762436 Emily’s recent essay in the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/14/opinion/pepfar-hiv-foreign-aid.html Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:36 Guest Introduction: Emily's Expertise 02:26 Global Health Check-In 03:11 Humanitarian Crises and HIV 05:00 Impact of Global Health Policies 06:44 HIV Treatment Challenges 08:57 Sustainability and Ownership in HIV Response 12:47 Global Health Architecture and Funding 16:33 The Role of PEPFAR and Global Fund 22:25 Future of Global Health Initiatives 38:25 Global Fund's Role in Procurement and National Contributions 40:33 US Congress and Global Health Budget 42:15 Innovation in Global AIDS Response 49:30 The Importance of Differentiated Service Delivery 01:00:58 Community Accountability in Public Health 01:09:38 Challenges and Future of HIV Prevention 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

As Ben starts his first chemotherapy cycle, he explores the controversial yet essential role of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. He looks at its historical roots and tries to understand the scientific mechanisms of various chemotherapies. He shares an intimate look at the highs and lows of his first cycle of treatment, the importance of comprehensive, multidisciplinary care, as well as the physical and emotional aspects of cancer therapy. Ben’s t-shirt this week celebrates the Ukrainian Alliance for Public Health. You can find out more about the Alliance and how you can help at https://aph.org.ua/en/home 00:00 Introduction and Preface 00:45 The Origins of Chemotherapy 02:33 Personal Experience with Chemotherapy 04:30 The Chemotherapy Process 07:25 Side Effects and Challenges 11:15 Living with Chemotherapy 17:25 Understanding Chemotherapy 22:16 The Vagal Response Incident 28:20 Conclusion and Acknowledgements 💬 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

Ben and Yvette catch up with Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, as the joint UN program on HIV and AIDS launched a global AIDS update report entitled “AIDS, crisis and the power to transform”. They explore what levers are left to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, including ending AIDS as a public health crisis by 2030, the continuing relevance of UNAIDS to lead the world’s response to one of the greatest zoonotic infections of the 21st century, and what the real trajectory of an epidemic that even a year ago seemed entering its last mile. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:54 Introducing the Guest: Winnie Byanyima 01:23 UNAIDS Report Highlights 06:37 Community Leadership and Challenges 15:02 Integration and Health Systems 30:18 Decolonizing Health Systems 32:56 Fast Tracking African Market Integration 34:08 UN's Own Story and Decolonization 35:37 Youth Perspectives on Decolonization 38:06 Global Solidarity and Economic Injustices 44:01 Immediate Actions for Health Crisis 47:58 UNAIDS' Future Vision and Challenges 57:30 Call to Action and Closing 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

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, host Ben Plumley discusses the Kigali International AIDS Society Conference with guests Solange Baptiste from ITPC and Rosemary Mburu from WACI Health. They explore the importance of community voices in global health innovations, the challenges of funding cuts, and the significance of long-acting antiretroviral therapies. Additionally, they touch upon the roles of UNAIDS and the Global Fund, advanced HIV disease, and the critical need for prioritizing global health and HIV funding. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:16 Kigali International AIDS Society Conference Overview 00:40 Community Involvement and Clinical Trials 00:51 Introducing the Guests: Solange Baptiste and Rosemary Mburu 02:13 Discussion on the Kigali AIDS Conference 04:48 Challenges and Strategies in Global Health Funding 11:32 Community Leadership and Global Health Architecture 14:54 UNAIDS and Global Fund Presence at the Conference 26:00 Scientific Innovations and Long-Acting Treatments 31:59 Integration and Efficiency in Global Health 35:15 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

Ben delves into the multifaceted experience of pain, beginning with a literary reference from Margaret Atwood. He shares personal anecdotes about blood draws, the insertion of a chemotherapy port, and the challenges of effectively communicating pain levels to healthcare professionals. Ben reflects on his nearly forty years’ experience living with Crohn's disease, exploring different ways to describe pain, and examines various strategies for pain management, including medications like acetaminophen and oxycodone, and the antidepressant duloxetine. The episode also highlights historical and cultural contexts of pain and invites listeners to contribute to a virtual medicine cabinet of motivational and entertaining resources. 00:00 Introduction and Literary Preface 01:34 Personal Anecdotes and Blood Tests 02:08 Chemotherapy Port Installation 05:31 Experiencing and Describing Pain 13:38 Pain Management Strategies 18:25 Upcoming Chemotherapy and Final Thoughts https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/pain 💬 Join the Conversation How should people share their experiences of life-threatening disease? 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

In this special episode of the podcast, host Yvette Raphael and a panel of young female advocates take over the discussion at the IAS 2025 held in Kigali, Rwanda. The episode features insightful conversations with Sinehlanhla Gogela, Sihle Magwentshu, Siviwe Gaika, who are active members of the Young Women's HIV Prevention Council and ground forces with the organization APA. The panel discusses the impact of recent funding cuts on HIV prevention efforts, their experiences in promoting HIV awareness, and the importance of community engagement. They also highlight promising developments in HIV prevention, including the introduction of the long-lasting injectable Lenacapavir and the dual prevention pill (DPP). The advocates express their hopes for the future and the need for continued support and funding to sustain their vital work. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:27 Meet the Guests 01:44 Impact of Funding Cuts 05:50 Conference Highlights and Key Takeaways 09:57 Future of HIV Prevention 16:30 The Role of Ground Forces 20:42 Closing Remarks and Celebrations 💬 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

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley welcomes Dr. mike Reid, Associate Director of Global Health Delivery and Economics at UCSF. The discussion centers on Reid's analysis of the 'seven dead ideas' in global health, criticizing outdated approaches such as the overreliance on donor directives and vertical programs. Reid emphasizes the need for context-sensitive solutions informed by rigorous implementation science and local realities. The conversation also touches on how health, intrinsically political, demands both donor and recipient nations to prioritize equitable solutions. Additional insights include the inefficiencies in current funding models, the dangers of overly technical approaches, and the underutilized role of faith communities and AI in future health strategies. The episode concludes with a call for integrated efforts and sustainable practices as the path forward. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:43 Guest Introduction: Dr. mike Reid 01:23 State of Global Health: Key Issues 02:17 Seven Dead Ideas in Global Health 03:42 Dead Idea #1: We Know What Works 07:19 Dead Idea #2: Health is a Technical Problem 11:27 Dead Idea #3: Donors Know Best 13:07 Dead Idea #4: More Money Means More Impact 15:35 Dead Idea #5: Vertical Programs are Efficient 20:35 Dead Idea #6: Measurement Equals Progress 24:44 Dead Idea #7: We Are on Track to Achieve SDG Goal 3 27:10 The Role of Faith Communities in Global Health 30:18 Artificial Intelligence in Global Health 33:57 Conclusion and Farewell 💬 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

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, host Ben Plumley is joined by Professor Heidi Larson, co-founder of the Global Listening Project, and Dr. Nduku Kilonzo, managing director of Yemaya Health Advisory. Recorded in during IAS 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, the discussion centers on the essential contributions of faith leaders to global health, particularly in engaging communities and influencing public health decisions. The episode explores findings from the Global Listening Project's studies in Kenya and Nigeria, highlighting the deep trust communities place in faith leaders and the necessity of including them in health initiatives. The conversation emphasizes the need for health professionals to rethink their engagement strategies with faith communities, the role of digital technologies, and the importance of co-creating health solutions with faith leaders. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:17 Meet the Guests: Professor Heidi Larson and Dr. Nduku Kilonzo 00:35 The Role of Faith Leaders in Global Health 02:20 Insights from the Global Listening Project 03:54 Challenges and Opportunities in Engaging Faith Leaders 05:17 Deep Listening Techniques and Findings 07:49 Faith Leaders' Perspectives on Health Issues 09:53 The Importance of Trust and Engagement 19:11 Digital Technologies and Faith Communities 24:27 Future Directions and Final Thoughts 28:30 Closing Remarks and Thanks 💬 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

In this episode, host Ben Plumley, along with co-host Yvette Raphael, reports from the International AIDS Society Scientific Conference in Kigali, Rwanda. They discuss significant advancements in HIV prevention, particularly the recent FDA approval of Lenacapavir, with Dr. Alex Kintu from Gilead Sciences. The conversation covers the clinical journey and delivery mechanisms of Lenacapavir, its impact on young people and pregnant women, and the urgency of making this innovation widely accessible amidst funding challenges. The episode also highlights the critical role of community engagement and accountability boards in informing and driving HIV prevention strategies. Tune in for an in-depth look at the latest scientific and policy developments in the fight against HIV/AIDS. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:37 Yvette's Stage Takeover Experience 01:33 Discussion on Gilead Sciences and HIV Prevention 02:15 Dr. Alex Kintu's Background and Role 03:33 FDA Approval and Next Steps for Lenacapavir 04:08 Global Access and Regulatory Processes 11:04 Understanding Lena Kavir and Its Importance 17:36 Challenges and Future of HIV Prevention 27:23 Community Engagement and Youth Involvement 34:33 Closing Remarks and Call to Action 💬 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

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley is joined by Dr. Judy Auerbach, Dr. Jirair Ratevosian, and Dr. Mumbi Chola to discuss the 2025 Kigali Call to Action, a call to action for the global HIV response. The conversation highlights the need for meaningful partnerships, sustained research, prioritization of prevention, protection of human rights, and rejection of science politicization. The guests emphasize the importance of local leadership and community involvement in redesigning and rethinking the HIV response. The episode also addresses the challenges posed by reduced U.S. funding and the shifting roles of northern and southern countries in tackling the epidemic. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:06 HIV Science Conference and Guest Introductions 01:12 Introduction of Guests 04:24 Challenges and Common Purpose in HIV Response 05:23 Call to Action and Building Signatories 06:56 Core Principles for HIV Response 11:32 Emphasizing Prevention and Human Rights 12:23 The Importance of Prevention and Treatment 14:12 Scientific Research and Interdisciplinary Approaches 23:56 National and Regional Leadership in HIV Response 24:03 National and Regional Leadership in HIV Response 25:02 The Role of CEOs and Elected Officials 28:29 African-Led HIV Control Initiatives 39:04 Community Involvement in HIV Research 41:34 Call to Action and Global Collaboration 45:36 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks 47:01 Conclusion and Farewell 💬 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

The sudden termination of US overseas funding jolted AIDS programs in countries hardest hit by the epidemic. Yet the leaders of national AIDS programs had already been preparing for the day when donor funding ended. The HIV Leadership Forum, a community of practice of Directors General of National AIDS Councils from around the world has recently published a report setting out steps on how resilient and sustainable national programs can be achieved.   Ben is joined by Dr Nduku Kilonzo, Chair of the UNAIDS Global HIV Prevention Coalition, and Dr. Thembisile Xulu, CEO of the South African National AIDS Council, to explore the strategies and challenges in the post-donor era for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Key topics include the importance of sustainability, integrating HIV programs into broader health systems, and rethinking donor-country partnerships. Both experts offer valuable insights into how African countries are navigating the reduction in international funding while striving to meet their health goals. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:11 Meet Dr. Nduku Kilonzo 01:38 Key Findings from the International Aid Society Scientific Conference 03:09 The HIV Leadership Forum and Sustainability Report 05:11 Challenges and Lessons in HIV Prevention 17:42 Interview with Dr. Thembisile Xulu 21:16 South Africa's Response to Funding Cuts 32:03 The Future of HIV Programs and Donor Relationships 47:49 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections 53:07 Closing Remarks and Call to Action   💬 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

Ben Plumley is joined by Professor Heidi Larson, Co-founder and Chair of the Global Listening Project (GLP), and Susie Barnes, Senior Vice President of Global Medical Affairs for the Vaccines Division at GSK to discuss the importance of building trust and motivating awareness about new technologies in global health. The conversation covers the collaboration between the GLP and GSK, insights from their research on trust during COVID-19, and how community engagement and innovative communication strategies play a crucial role in vaccine confidence and public health. They emphasize the need for holistic approaches to prevention and the challenges of addressing vaccine hesitancy in an evolving technological landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:45 Episode Topic: Building Trust in New Technologies 01:09 Meet the Guests: Professor Heidi Larson and Susie Barnes 02:31 The Global Listening Project and GSK Partnership 03:44 Impact of COVID-19 on Trust and Vaccine Confidence 07:22 The Role of General Practitioners and Community Health Workers 14:41 Advancements in Vaccine Technology and Prevention 19:16 Communication Strategies in the 21st Century 28:04 AI and the Need for Multiple Listening Strands 28:42 Engaging Communities in Healthcare 29:21 The Future of Therapeutic Relationships 30:58 Challenges in Vaccine Access and Trust 33:27 Communicating Science Effectively 36:06 Global Listening Project Insights 37:38 Understanding Measles and Immune Amnesia 39:39 Balancing Individual Rights and Societal Responsibilities 42:11 Next Steps for the Global Listening Project 46:43 GSK's Commitment to Prevention and Partnership 💬 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

A quick trip to the surgeon reveals that all is not as it seems, and Ben’s colon cancer journey takes a sharp turn almost as immediately as it starts. Multiple tumors during a surgery initially meant to remove a single cancerous mass lead to a diagnosis of metastasized colorectal cancer. And the expensive nuclear diagnosis machine shorts – in much the same way Ben’s Father’s brand new (at the time) Vauxhall Victor broke down on a Sunday afternoon drive. A potential podcast subject that Ben dismissed years ago as not being interesting enough (Italian data on a barrage of combination chemotherapy) reappears as the best first-line treatment option for Ben in 2025. The episode concludes with insights from Ben’s oncologist and preparation for the rigorous chemotherapy regimen ahead: Chemotherapy – it’s a full-time job. 00:00 Introduction: The Vauxhall Victor Story 02:11 Unexpected Medical News 04:12 Understanding the Diagnosis 06:45 The PET Scan Incident 11:04 Meeting the Oncologist 15:15 Preparing for Chemotherapy 16:58 Conclusion: The Journey Ahead https://www.mycrohnsandcolitisteam.com/ https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer.html

Healthcare just got personal for A Shot In The Arm Podcast’s Ben Plumley, who brings his offbeat insights & humor to a surprise advanced colon cancer diagnosis. Join him on an odyssey around cancer treatment and the vagaries of the Californian health system. New episodes weekly… hopefully. https://www.mycrohnsandcolitisteam.com/ https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer.html

Ben has a routine colonoscopy and comes out with an unexpected diagnosis – an ulcerated mass in his ascending colon. The gastroenterologist gives him his first tattoo ever, which is sadly visible only to the surgeon who will remove it. Ben has been living with Crohn’s Disease since he was a teenager, so the news of an intestinal polyp turning cancerous is not shocking. An easy snip-snip excision by the surgeon, and all will be back to normal…. Or will it? 00:00 Introduction & Diagnosis 01:11 Personal Reflections and Stigma 02:58 Living with Crohn’s Disease 05:07 The Experience of Having a Colonoscopy 09:07 Post-Procedure and Results 11:57 Facing Mortality and Future Plans 16:25 A Personal Incident 19:14 Conclusion & Sign Off https://www.mycrohnsandcolitisteam.com/ https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer.html