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 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

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

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

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

Join host Ben Plumley from Phnom Penh Cambodia, in conversation with Thomas Cai, a visionary Chinese-born entrepreneur and CEO of Open Source Technologies. Thomas, a pioneering figure in Asia’s rapidly growing biopharmaceutical industry, shares his journey from HIV advocacy to leading high-impact hepatitis public-private partnerships in Southeast Asia. He offers a critical analysis of the effectiveness of traditional providers of global aid including NGOs and the Global Fund, while also envisioning a self-reliant future led by local health authorities, businesses and communities, calling only on the expertise and funding from northern partners as needed. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:40 Meet Thomas Cai: A Visionary Leader 01:39 Thomas Cai’s Journey and Achievements 03:33 Open Source Technologies: Mission and Focus 04:46 The Hepatitis Crisis in Southeast Asia 08:55 Challenges in Hepatitis Treatment 15:53 Critique of Global Health Funding Models 28:56 Thomas Cai’s Background and Early Work 39:11 The Role of Buyers Clubs in the HIV Epidemic 40:45 Challenges with NGOs and Public Sector in Disease Treatment 43:02 The Risk of Monopolization in Healthcare 43:39 The Importance of Business in Disease Control 51:33 Disruption and Innovation in Healthcare 53:22 Personal Reflections and Influences 01:07:18 The Hepatitis Elimination Alliance in Cambodia 01:09:12 Final Thoughts and Reflections 💬 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

Cohosts Yvette Raphael and Ben Plumley unpick the major news coming out of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva. – from the new pandemic treaty, to WHO budget and staffing cuts, to increases in membership fees and voluntary contributions. They ruminate on how the current seemingly-unstoppable geopolitical chaos is affecting the ability of global health institutions like the World Health Organisation to deliver – and deliver on what exactly? What can the WHO actually do in such a fractured political climate? They reflect on US Secretary of Health and Human Service’s video presentation to the World Health Assembly, which at the very best, can't be called the best example of American power and diplomacy. Which perhaps was the point. They cover a few broader issues Which leads them to a few extra-curricular activities – the diplomatic manner in which South African President Cyril Ramaphosa immediately deflected a bizarre meeting at the US White House, complete with lies, videotape and no offers of jumbo jets. Before hitting Geneva, Yvette was at the European Congress on Obesity and Weight Management in Barcelona delving into the complex interactions between HIV and weight issues. They close out a no holds barred conversation on a recent announcement made by the Global Fund of a new groundbreaking partnership between Mozambique and a Kenyan pharmaceutical company, which they were too coy to name. So Yvette and Ben give the company, United Corporation Ltd of Kenya a big shout out… 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:24 Support and Subscription Reminder 00:56 World Health Assembly Recap Begins 01:23 Yvette's European Trip and Obesity Congress 02:02 HIV and Weight Issues Discussion 04:09 Elon Musk's Controversial Comments 08:19 Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance 14:32 WHO Budget Cuts and Leadership Changes 18:15 Global South's Role in Health Funding 28:45 China's Growing Influence in Global Health 33:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 45:14 Closing Remarks 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 Check out our Youtube channel for more in-depth global health discussions https://www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

While the global health community wrenches its clothes and gnashes its teeth in Switzerland at the 78th World Health Assembly, Dr Mike Reid, Associate Director of the Center for Global Health Diplomacy, UCSF joins Ben in an entertaining and wide ranging exploration of a positive, forward-looking agenda for global health. Topics include global health security, one health, mis- and disinformation in the doctor-patient relationship, health technology and specific future uses and pitfalls of AI to improve access to healthcare in developing countries.  Mike offers a promise of a future episode on channelling philanthropic dollars into sovereign wealth funds for global health investments. And finally they reflect on their upbringing in the UK with its “free at the point of delivery” National Health Service, and argue over which of the modern Cambridge University Colleges they went to most resembles a multi-story car park.  00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:09 World Health Assembly Insights 01:18 Guest Introduction: Dr. Mike Reed 03:40 Mike Reid’s  Background and Career 05:58 Global Health Security and Solidarity 11:28 The One Health Agenda 14:12 Artificial Intelligence in Global Health 37:26 Navigating Healthcare Systems 43:48 Closing Remarks and Future Topics Mike’s Substack:  https://reimaginingglobalhealth.substack.com/ 💬 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

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

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 Mackenzie Copley, Co-Founder & 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. Mackenzie also details the pilot project in Las Vegas and the regulatory challenges faced, ensuring the app's effectiveness and security for participants. 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 Mackenzie Copley 02:21 Mackenzie'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

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

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