A Shot in the Arm Podcast

By: Ben Plumley
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  • Summary

  • 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 100 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!
    © 2022 A Shot in the Arm Podcast with Ben Plumley
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Biological Sciences Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease Politics & Government
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Episodes
  • Looking Ahead: Global Health in 2025

    Looking Ahead: Global Health in 2025
    Jan 6 2025
    In this first episode of 2025, A Shot in the Arm Podcast host Ben Plumley explores the major global health challenges and opportunities for the year ahead. He covers topics like politics in global health, innovations in HIV treatment, pandemic preparedness, and strategies for building trust in healthcare systems. Discussion Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction Ben welcomes listeners to the new year, setting the stage for an exciting year of accessible global health content. He encourages viewers to subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel for expanded content. [00:01:00] Policy vs. Politics Ben discusses the growing tension between policy and politics in global health, with examples from HIV denialism in South Africa and the impact of Brexit on healthcare. [00:03:00] Trans Rights and Health Equity A new podcast series will address the challenges faced by the global trans community and explain why trans rights are essential for everyone. [00:04:00] HIV in 2025 Updates on groundbreaking HIV treatments, including capsid inhibitors for long-term injections. Ben also explores the future of PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and the rhetoric around ending AIDS by 2030. [00:06:30] Pandemic Preparedness The risks of avian flu (H5N1) are highlighted, along with lessons learned from COVID-19. Ben discusses the importance of vaccine manufacturing hubs and progress on the WHO pandemic treaty. [00:09:00] Innovations in Healthcare Exciting developments in cancer treatments, viral hepatitis research, and inflammation studies. These advancements offer hope for improving global health outcomes. [00:10:30] Elderly Care Personal reflections on caregiving and a preview of an upcoming episode on the outdated systems of elderly care. [00:11:40] Building Trust in Health Systems Ben reflects on insights from the Global Listening Project, which studied trust in medical institutions and how to combat misinformation. Check out the results of its country survey at https://global-listening.org/societal-preparedness-insights [00:13:00] Social Media and Misinformation A critical look at the role of social media in spreading health misinformation and the need for better communication strategies. [00:17:00] Partnerships for Change Ben explores collaborations with business leaders and religious organizations to address gender norms and promote health equity. [00:18:30] Expanding the Podcast’s Reach Plans to collaborate with other podcasts and bring diverse voices to global health discussions. Check out Devex at https://www.devex.com Key Takeaways: Global health faces immense challenges in 2025, from political polarization to misinformation. Innovations in treatments are promising, but equitable access and building trust in health systems remain top priorities. Listener Engagement: What topics should we explore this year? Share your ideas on BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube. Credits: Hosted by Ben Plumley. Directed and produced by Erik Espera (NewsDoc Media) with production coordination by Y-Isha Raphael. Call to Action: Like, follow, and subscribe to A Shot in the Arm Podcast on your favorite platforms. Join us in tackling the biggest health challenges of 2025 and stay engaged for more episodes!
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    20 mins
  • The Future of the Global HIV Response: A Post-World AIDS Day Reflection

    The Future of the Global HIV Response: A Post-World AIDS Day Reflection
    Dec 9 2024
    A Shot in the Arm Podcast is proud to bring you another installment of Global Health Diplomats! In this compelling episode, co-hosts Ben Plumley and Eric Goosby dive deep into the future trajectory of the global HIV response. Following World AIDS Day, the discussion spans a 38,000-foot view of where the HIV epidemic stands, its critical challenges, and the evolving strategies needed for a sustainable, long-term response. From the impact of geopolitical shifts on access to treatment and care to the integration of HIV programs with broader primary healthcare systems, this episode unpacks the most pressing issues in global health today. Key Highlights: HIV Goals for 2030: Reality Check Are we close to ending AIDS as a public health crisis? Dr. Eric Goosby reflects on the progress made and the significant hurdles ahead. Quote: "We've built breathtaking infrastructure over 25 years, but it’s clear we won’t cross the 2030 finish line without major shifts." (Eric Goosby, 00:01:24) The Role of Targets in the HIV Response Are political targets still relevant in today’s complex world? Ben and Eric debate the pros and cons of target-driven approaches in global health. Quote: "Targets have driven investment and expanded care, but we may need to rethink them in light of new challenges." (Eric Goosby, 00:05:26) Primary Care Integration Why the HIV response must pivot toward integrated primary healthcare to address non-communicable diseases and pandemic preparedness. Quote: "For people living with HIV, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and cancer are now the bigger threats. Primary care is key." (Eric Goosby, 00:07:46) The Geopolitical Impact on HIV Care Rising anti-rights movements and geopolitical challenges make it harder to bring marginalized populations into care. Quote: "The rights-based approach to care is under siege globally, making access for key populations even tougher." (Ben Plumley, 00:10:04) Funding Sustainability Beyond 2030 Exploring innovative funding mechanisms, domestic ownership, and the evolving role of multilateral agencies like the Global Fund. Quote: "Transitioning to country-driven funding is essential. It’s time for governments to take ownership." (Eric Goosby, 00:30:01) HIV Prevention’s Urgent Need for Innovation Despite treatment advancements, global prevention efforts lag behind, especially for at-risk populations. Quote: "Prevention needs to focus on behavior, access, and new technologies like PrEP for real impact." (Eric Goosby, 00:37:26) Upcoming Episodes in the Series: Rights-Based Approaches in HIV Care Funding the Future: Domestic Resource Mobilization for HIV Programs Prevention Innovation: From Behavioral Change to Biomedical Solutions Reimagining Global Health Architecture Post-2030 Acknowledgments: This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the John T. Martin Foundation. Produced by Erik Espera of NewsDoc Media. Subscribe and Share: Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on the future of global health. Subscribe to Global Health Diplomats wherever you download podcasts, and leave us a five-star review to support the conversation! Share your thoughts and join the discussion on social media using #GlobalHealthDiplomats and #WorldAIDSDay2024!
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    57 mins
  • World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV

    World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV
    Dec 1 2024
    Episode Title: World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV Guests: Hon. Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, South Africa Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the HIV and Health Group, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Description: In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley dives deep into the intersection of human rights and global health with two inspiring leaders: Honorable Deputy Minister Steve Letsike from South Africa and Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, head of HIV at the UN Development Programme (UNDP) — Together, they explore the evolving HIV response, challenges in addressing stigma and discrimination, and the critical role of governance and community leadership in achieving the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health crisis by 2030. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Hon. Steve Letsike’s transition from LGBTQ+ and HIV activist to a key governmental leader. Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal’s insights on the UNDP's role in driving global change in HIV policies and human rights advocacy. How human rights are intrinsically linked to HIV prevention and care. The global and local implications of criminalization and stigma on HIV responses, with examples from countries like South Africa and Uganda. The significance of integrating diverse issues like gender-based violence, poverty, and structural inequalities into the fight against HIV. Key Moments: [00:01:08] Hon. Steve Letsike reflects on moving from activism to governance. [00:10:52] Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal discusses how governance and policies shape HIV responses globally. [00:22:22] Connecting human rights to effective HIV prevention and care strategies. [00:27:15] The balance between donor aid reliance and self-sustained national HIV programs. [00:30:22] The path toward achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030 and the obstacles that remain. Notable Quotes: "Governments belong to the people. We all have to contribute differently to achieve a just and equal society." - Hon. Steve Letsike "Without human rights, we won't realize the potential of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030." - Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal Subscribe for more episodes focusing on global health equity and innovation! Follow us on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. #WorldAIDSDay2024 #EndAIDS2030 #HumanRights #GlobalHealth #UNAIDS #HIVAwareness #UNDP
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    32 mins

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