Welcome to A Shot In The Arm Podcast, where we take a deep dive into the heart of global health. Since our launch in 2019, we've released over 150 episodes that illuminate the intersection of innovation and equity in healthcare. Join me, your host Ben Plumley—a global infectious disease strategist and passionate HIV advocate, along with our expert team of co-hosts, as we engage in compelling, character-driven conversations with a diverse array of guests from around the world. Together, we explore the intricate connections between everyday lives and biomedical research, tackling pressing issues like pandemic preparedness, climate disruption, and the impact of conflict. Tune in as we uncover the stories and insights that shape our collective health narrative, making complex topics both entertaining and accessible. Let's embark on this journey to improve lives, one episode at a time!
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Welcome to A Shot In The Arm Podcast, where we take a deep dive into the heart of global health. Since our launch in 2019, we've released over 150 episodes that illuminate the intersection of innovation and equity in healthcare. Join me, your host Ben Plumley—a global infectious disease strategist and passionate HIV advocate, along with our expert team of co-hosts, as we engage in compelling, character-driven conversations with a diverse array of guests from around the world. Together, we explore the intricate connections between everyday lives and biomedical research, tackling pressing issues like pandemic preparedness, climate disruption, and the impact of conflict. Tune in as we uncover the stories and insights that shape our collective health narrative, making complex topics both entertaining and accessible. Let's embark on this journey to improve lives, one episode at a time!
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
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on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions:
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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
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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
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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!
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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!
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Welcome to A Shot In The Arm Podcast, where we take a deep dive into the heart of global health. Since our launch in 2019, we've released over 150 episodes that illuminate the intersection of innovation and equity in healthcare. Join me, your host Ben Plumley—a global infectious disease strategist and passionate HIV advocate, along with our expert team of co-hosts, as we engage in compelling, character-driven conversations with a diverse array of guests from around the world. Together, we explore the intricate connections between everyday lives and biomedical research, tackling pressing issues like pandemic preparedness, climate disruption, and the impact of conflict. Tune in as we uncover the stories and insights that shape our collective health narrative, making complex topics both entertaining and accessible. Let's embark on this journey to improve lives, one episode at a time!