PLAY PODCASTS
You Make Me Sick!

You Make Me Sick!

54 episodes — Page 1 of 2

NURSES WEEK SPECIAL!!! - ICU Nurse Management; Balancing Patients, Staff, and Crisis in Intensive Care - With Special Guest Avital Rech

May 9, 20261h 23m

Emergency Management: Orchestrating a Symphony of Chaos with Special Guest Zania Campos MPA, ABCP

Apr 26, 202658 min

S5 Ep 2Rapid Response Nursing: Prevention and Intervention Before the Code Blue- With Special Guest Rapid Response RN David Ibbitson

In our latest episode, we are joined by Rapid Response Team (RRT) RN David Ibbitson. David is an RRT nurse at Boston Medical Center whose role encompasses preventing critical patient events such as cardiac and respiratory arrest, responding to non-patient incidents where medical intervention may be required, and acting as a resource to all units within the hospital, as well as the many clinics and outpatient areas of Boston Medical Center. David helps explain exactly what an RRT nurse is, while also sharing some of his experiences and thoughts on this extremely important—but often overlooked—role within healthcare.

Mar 23, 202643 min

S5 Ep 1BEACON: Outsmarting Outbreaks by using AI to Detect the Next Global Threat- With Special Guests Dr. Nahid Bhadelia and Dr. Britta Lassmann

In our latest episode we are joined by the Co founders of The Biothreats Emergence, Analysis and Communications Network (BEACON). BEACON is dedicated to the rapid collection, vetting, reporting, and analysis of information on emerging threats affecting humans, domestic animals, wildlife, plants and the environment globally. BEACON combines emerging infectious diseases surveillance, a global network of moderators who are subject matter experts and the power of artificial intelligence and large language models. By using this technology BEACON provides even based informal surveillance coupled with custom tailored AI to aid in risk assessment, and near real time reporting. This technology can help lead to response from healthcare systems, bio preparedness and possibly the prevention of the next pandemic. Dr. Nahid Bhadelia is the founding director of the Boston University Center on Emerging Infectious Diseases and a board-certified infectious diseases physician. She is an Associate Professor at the BU School of Medicine and a national expert in global health security, pandemic preparedness, and emerging infectious threats.From 2022 to 2023, Dr. Bhadelia served as Senior Policy Advisor for Global COVID-19 Response at the White House, where she led U.S. interagency efforts on global vaccine donations and helped direct Project NextGen, a $5 billion initiative to develop next-generation vaccines and treatments for pandemic-prone viruses. Dr. Bhadelia has extensive frontline and research experience responding to outbreaks including Ebola, COVID-19, Zika, and other high-consequence pathogens, She previously led the Special Pathogens Unit at Boston Medical Center, a state-designated Ebola Treatment Center.She currently serves on national and international advisory bodies including the National Academies and the World Health Organization, teaches global health security at Tufts University’s Fletcher School, and has published in Nature, Science, and The New England Journal of Medicine. Her expertise has been featured by NBC and MSNBC, The Atlantic, Time, National Geographic, and NOVA.Dr. Britta Lassmann, MD is an infectious diseases physician, health technology innovator, and expert in disease surveillance, analytics, and digital public health applications. She serves as a Research Associate Professor at Boston University School of Medicine and is Co-Director and Co-Founder of the Biothreats Emergence, Analysis, and Communications Network (BEACON), an open-source global surveillance platform that integrates advanced analytics and technology to detect emerging infectious disease threats in near-real time.Dr. Lassmann trained at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria, completed her residency in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, and her fellowship in Infectious Diseases at Yale University. She went on to serve on the faculty at UCLA’s Division of Infectious Diseases and was Program Director at the International Society for Infectious Diseases. She is American Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases.She is also co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Global Second Opinion, a platform that combines artificial intelligence with expert clinical input to deliver rapid, specialized medical consultations online. Her work bridges clinical care, epidemiology, modeling, analytics, and technology to strengthen how outbreaks are tracked, understood, and responded to globally.Dr. Lassmann has contributed to research on real-time disease surveillance, digital health tools, and infectious disease dynamics, including publications on outbreak risk mapping and data needs for surveillance systems.

Feb 15, 202654 min

S4 Ep 10Holiday Special!!! Deck the Halls with Bowel Woes and a Runny Nose: Norovirus, Salmonella & Holiday Respiratory Illness

In this episode we celebrate this joyous time of year filled with delicious foods, gatherings of family and friends, and all of the pathogens that happen to play Grinch with our holiday plans. We discuss respiratory germs to gut bugs, including salmonella, and the king of all food borne illnesses, norovirus, We also take some time to discuss our favorite Christmas songs, movies, favorite holiday traditions. You might want to stock up on Imodium and toilet paper after listening to this very merry episode!!!!

Dec 24, 202531 min

S4 Ep 9ICU Delirium - Often Missed and Misunderstood - With Special Guest Nursing Educator Allison Kaelblein RN,MSN, CCRN

In our latest episode, we are joined by Allison Kaelblein, RN, MSN, CCRN (and soon to be DNP). Allison is a Nursing Educator in the Medical ICU at Boston Medical Center, in this episode she joins us to discuss her passion for and current work on ICU delirium. Allison explains what ICU delirium is, who is affected, what it looks like, and how it can be treated. She also describes her research on a new delirium assessment tool, which she will soon be defending as she prepares to obtain her Doctorate in Nursing. This is a must listen for anyone who is curious about delirium and all the questions surrounding this often overlooked complication of inpatient care.

Nov 26, 202538 min

S4 Ep 8Treatment on Hold: The Hidden Cost of Prior Authorizations - With Special Guest - Dr. Christopher Kearney

In our latest episode we welcome new Host Mikayla Winn MSN as she speaks with Pulmonologist and Critical Care Attending Dr. Christopher Kearney. They discuss the convoluted and frustrating topic of Prior Authorizations. Prior authorizations were originally designed to be used by insurance entities to ensure high-quality, evidence-based, and cost-effective treatments, but have proven to be a time consuming, and what seems to be purposely difficult process that can lead to denials of treatments and delays in care. Dr. Kearney joins us to discuss his experiences and personal frustrations with the current "prior auth" process, how it works (or doesn't), and who it effects.Dr. Kearney completed his undergraduate studies in Mathematics and Biology at Villanova University before earning both his MD and Master of Public Health from Harvard Medical School.At Boston Medical Center, Dr. Kearney serves as a board-certified pulmonologist and critical care attending physician in the Medical ICU, where he provides expert care in areas such as organ failure, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). He also holds the academic title of Assistant Professor in Pulmonary, Allergy, Sleep & Critical Care Medicine at Boston University’s Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.As a clinician-educator and health services researcher, Dr. Kearney is dedicated to improving outcomes for critically ill patients. He works closely with fellows, residents, and nursing staff, emphasizing patient-centered care and leveraging his expertise in pulmonary and critical care medicine to enhance patient outcomes.Dr. Kearney has also been widely published in leading peer-reviewed journals, contributing important research and insights into treatment trends, asthma management, and critical care interventions.

Sep 17, 202527 min

S4 Ep 7YMMS! Snapshot - The Screwworm!!

In under 10 minutes we delve into this destructive and sometimes deadly parasite, we discuss what it is, what it does and why decades after being eradicated from the US this flesh eating insect is again raising concerns.

Jun 26, 20256 min

S4 Ep 6YMMS! Snapshot - Measles Virus

In our first YMMS! Snapshot, we take a quick look at the Measles virus. In under 10 minutes, we discuss what it is, how it's spread, who it's affecting, the importance of vaccination, and the current state of measles in the U.S.

Jun 19, 20259 min

S4 Ep 5H5N1: History, Virology, Surveillance and the Looming Pandemic Risk - With Special Guest Dr. Louise Moncla

In our latest episode, we’re extremely fortunate to be joined by evolutionary virologist and avian influenza researcher Dr. Louise Moncla to discuss the current H5N1 situation in the U.S. and around the world. We cover the history of H5N1, how the virus might mutate, the current risks to both animal and human populations, and the potential for a future pandemic. Dr. Moncla also shares insight into her work on surveillance, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) tracking, and vaccine development. For anyone looking to better understand H5N1 or curious about what the current outbreak might lead to, this episode is a must-listen.Dr. Louise H. Moncla is an assistant professor of pathobiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where she leads cutting-edge research on the evolution of avian influenza viruses, including highly pathogenic H5N1 strains. Her work focuses on understanding how these viruses adapt across hosts—especially during zoonotic spillover events—by combining computational phylodynamics, population genetics, and experimental virology. Dr. Moncla has contributed to major surveillance efforts, including the development of a Nextstrain dashboard tracking H5N1 evolution in cattle, where her team identified key mutations suggesting mammalian adaptation. She has briefed lawmakers on the current H5N1 crisis and is frequently cited by organizations like the WHO and USDA. Her publications include studies on within-host evolution in humans and poultry, and she is a co-author of the Nature paper on the global H5N1 panzootic. In recognition of her impactful work, Dr. Moncla was named a 2024 Pew Biomedical Scholar. Her research is helping shape how we understand, monitor, and respond to emerging pandemic threats.

Jun 8, 202557 min

S4 Ep 4Nurse's Week Spotlight: A Story of Resilience, Purpose and Dedication - with Special Guest Suzette Bianchi RN

In this episode, we speak with Suzette Bianchi, RN. Suzette is a Charge RN in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Boston Medical Center and has been at the bedside for over 30 years. She has been on the front lines of medical crises from the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s to the COVID-19 pandemic. She holds a permanent Charge RN role and also serves as an instructor for continuous dialysis, or continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). She joins us today to talk about her experiences as an RN, how the field has changed, and how she has managed to remain at the bedside in the ICU without succumbing to burnout or becoming jaded. We are grateful to have Suzette with us for this Nurses Week episode!

May 6, 202556 min

S4 Ep 3Healthcare on the Streets: How Boston’s Healthcare for the Homeless Program Saves Lives - with special guest BHCHP COO April Ramsey

In this episode, we are joined by Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) COO, April Ramsey, to discuss the incredible—and often overlooked—care provided to people experiencing homelessness in Boston. We explore how, over the past 40 years, the program has evolved to not only deliver care on the streets but also offer several unique and life-saving services, including adult and pediatric medical and dental care, as well as programs focused on mental health and addiction.In addition, BHCHP operates facilities that provide 120 respite beds for individuals who are ready to leave the hospital but not yet ready to return to the streets. This is a truly unique and inspiring program that serves those most in need.BHCHP COO April Ramsey joined the organization in 2011 as a clinic staff nurse at shelter partner Pine Street Inn, and later served as a respite staff nurse at The Barbara McInnis House. In 2013, April began coverage as the respite nursing supervisor and subsequently served as interim respite director of case management. She then helped develop the Care Management Program with the Commonwealth Care Alliance One Care Program, where she served as one of the first nurse care managers on that team.In 2016, April was named site director of the Pine Street Inn clinics, and after two years, she became associate director of clinical operations for the program. In August 2024, she was appointed as BHCHP’s chief operating officer.April began her nursing career at CAB Health and Recovery Services in Danvers and Boston. From 2014 to 2022, she also served as a public health clinical instructor for the Northeastern University School of Nursing. April holds a BS in Nursing from Northeastern University, having completed clinical roles at the children’s hospitals in Boston and Philadelphia.

Apr 9, 20251h 14m

S4 Ep 2A.I. in Medicine: Predicting Cancer & Transforming Healthcare – with Dr. Adam Yala

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Adam Yala to explore his groundbreaking research on using A.I. to predict breast cancer with his deep learning model, Mirai. We dive into the potential of A.I. in healthcare, the challenges it faces, and what the future may hold—including whether A.I. could one day take on the roles of nurses and practitioners. This is a fascinating and eye-opening look at how A.I. is transforming medicine today and what’s next on the horizon.Dr. Yala is an assistant professor of Computational Precision Health at UC Berkeley and UCSF. His research focuses on developing machine learning methods for personalized medicine and translating them into clinical care.His previous research has focused on two areas: 1) predicting future cancer risk, and 2) designing personalized screening policies. His breast cancer tool, Mirai, has been tested at 43 hospitals from 14 countries.Adam's tools now underly prospective trials, and his research has been featured in the Washington Post, New York Times, and the Boston Globe. Prof Yala obtained his BS, MEng and PhD in Computer Science from MIT where he was a member of MIT Jameel Clinic and MIT CSAIL.

Mar 12, 20251h 30m

S4 Ep 1Code Blue and Beyond: The Life of an ICU Nurse Practitioner - with Special Guest Taylor Rogerson AGACNP-BC

In this episode we are joined by special guest Taylor Rogerson NP. Taylor works as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in the Medical ICU at Boston Medical Center. Taylor joins us to discuss her very unique role as an NP in an ICU setting and how this differs from most NP roles.. Taylor's ability to perform many of the same interventions typically only granted to physicians makes her position extremely unique, and with the projected shortage of physicians in the coming years, may be a glimpse of the future with regard to ICU providers. From placing centralized IV catheters, to lumbar punctures, to managing multiple complex ICU patients, Taylor helps to explain how the NP in the ICU is utilized, and her experiences in this very busy and challenging environment.

Jan 26, 20251h 12m

S3 Ep 11Food Insecurity - What it is, Who it Effects, and How to Help Those in Need with Special Guest Pastor Abby Henrich

In this episode we are joined by Pastor Abby Henrich to discuss the issue of food insecurity. We discuss what food insecurity is, who it is most likely to effect, why it can be so detrimental to overall health, and how to help those in need, especially at this time of year when so many benefit from the kindness of others. . Abby is a Dual Pastor and Co-Founder of Grace Community in Boston MA as well as Pastor at Stratford Street United Church in West Roxbury MA. She is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary and Colgate University, Abby is also the cohost of “The Progressive Sacred Podcast” where she and her fellow hosts discuss topics ranging from science and religion to women in the clergy to progressive takes on Christianity. Abby has been at the forefront of promoting progressive christianity which is characterized by a willingness to question tradition, accept human diversity, including religious diversity, seeking social justice, care for the poor and oppressed, tending to the environment, and gathering as a community in new ways. Her efforts at Grace Community have helped to feed the homeless, host gun buy backs, allocated goods to help undeserved communities here and abroad, and promote the spirit of inclusion, kindness, love and joy. Abby is also the pastor at Stratford Street United Church, a progressive Protestant church which is home to Rose’s Bounty, a food pantry located in the West Roxbury area of Boston. She is here today to discuss the topic of food insecurity, who it affects, why is it a growing concern, and how we can help to provide nutritious food to those in need, especially at this time of year.

Dec 12, 20241h 3m

S3 Ep 10Bacteriophages, Biofilms, Biofouling and MDROs with Special Guest Phage Researcher and Scientist Atif Khan

In this episode we are joined by Bacteriophage scientist and researcher Atif Khan, we discuss his research in using phages to fight biofouling, biofilms and MRSA. We also discuss the current state of phage therapy in India compared to the United States as well as the possible use of phages in helping to treat SARS CoV2 infections. We also discuss some of the advantages and benefits that phages possess when compared to traditional antibiotics. This is a truly viral episode that you won't want to miss.Atif Khan is currently working as a scientist at the Bhabah Atomic Research Center in Chennai India, He is also pursuing his doctorate degree and has a passion for the use of bacteriophages and their applications in reducing biofilms, biofouling and with regard to treating MDROs.Atif has been awarded multiple grants and fellowships and is a member of several national and international microorganisms societiesAtif Has also been involved as a reviewer for several International scientific journals and has been published in multiple educational texts as well as the academic journal “Current Research in Microbial Sciences”,Atif has also been involved in several conference publications and is currently working on a multitude of mini phage projects.

Oct 29, 202451 min

S3 Ep 9Day Zero Antivirals and Preventing the Next Pandemic - with Special Guest Dr. Brian Wang

In this episode we are joined by Scientist and Researcher Dr. Brian Wang to discuss the work he and his colleagues are pursuing at Panoplia Laboratories in Cambridge MA. Dr. Wang and his team are in pursuit of Broad Spectrum Antivirals that can be available on day zero of the next pandemic. We discuss the methods of bioengineering that Panoplia Labs will be using, including the use of synthetic biology to aid the body's own immune system against viruses. We also discuss the possible routes of administration, as well as the barriers and timelines associated with this innovative and remarkable biotechnology. You won't want to miss this fascinating and informative episode.Our guest Dr. Brian Wang is the co founder and executive director of Panoplia Laboratories in Cambridge MA. Brian was also the prior head of research and development at the biotech company Alvea, Dr. Wang completed his postdoctoral education at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and completed his graduate studies at UC Berkley and received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University. Brian has been published in Nature Communications, The Journal of the American Chemical Society, and Angewandte Chemie International Edition. He is the owner if multiple patents and has been the recipient of the Emergent Ventures Fellowship from The Mercatus Center as well as the National Science Foundation Fellowship from the National Science Foundation.

Oct 12, 20241h 9m

S3 Ep 8Wastewater - Innovative Treatment and Surveillance with Special Guest DIWTP Director David Duest

In this episode we are joined by David Duest, David is the Director of the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant in Boston MA. DIWTP is the 2nd largest wastewater treatment plant in the United States servicing over 2.3 million people and 43 different communities. It boasts several innovative technologies that are used as models around the world and here in the US. In this episode we discuss the amazing capabilities of the plant including innovative methods of waste removal and using the byproducts to create clean energy to fuel the plant and improve the environment. We also discuss the utility of wastewater surveillance, how and when it was introduced to the treatment plant, and current monitoring. From stool to fuel and beyond, you won't want to miss this very informative episode!

Sep 29, 202459 min

S3 Ep 7Arboviruses - Dengue, West Nile and EEE with Special Guest Dr. Davidson Hamer

In this episode we are joined again by Tropical and Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Davidson Hamer. We discuss Arboviruses, what they are, how they are spread, and what kinds of illnesses they can cause. We talk in depth about the current Dengue spread and what may be driving the historic increase in cases and what to expect in the coming months to years. We also discuss West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and the current situation here in the New England area, Dr. Hamer is a Professor of Global Health and Medicine at the Boston University School of Public Health and Chobanian & Avesidian School of Medicine, he is also an Adjunct Professor of Nutrition at the Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. He is a specialist in infectious diseases with a particular interest in tropical infectious diseases and has extensive field experience in neonatal and child survival research including studies of micronutrient interventions, maternal and neonatal health, malaria, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases.For over 20 years, he has supervised and provided technical support to numerous studies in developing countries that evaluated interventions for improving neonatal survival, integrated community case management (iCCM), improving access for pregnant women to emergency obstetrical care, treatment and prevention of malaria, HIV/AIDS, micronutrient deficiencies, diarrheal disease, and pneumonia. Dr. Hamer is also the Surveillance Lead for the GeoSentinel Surveillance Network, a global network of 70 sites in 31 countries that conducts surveillance of emerging infectious diseases using returning travelers, immigrants, and refugees as sentinels of infection (https://geosentinel.org).He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Infectious Diseases Society of America, American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, and the International Society of Travel Medicine and has been published in hundreds of medical journals including; Journal of American Medicine, Journal of travel medicine, Journal of Global Health, International Journal of Infectious Disease, and many, many more.

Sep 7, 202436 min

S3 Ep 6Bacteriophages, New Discoveries and the Fight Against MDROs - With Special Guest Dr. Sian Owen

In this episode we are joined by Microbiologist and phage enthusiast Dr. Sian Owen to discuss exactly what phages are, how they work, and the latest in phage research that may yield new tools in the fight against antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Dr. Owen recently finished her post doctoral research as a Fellow In the department of Biomedical Informatics and the Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology at the Baym Laboratory at Harvard Medical School. and will soon be heading her own lab at the Wadsworth Center in Albany New York. She has also completed research at the Jay Hinton Laboratory in Liverpool England and is an expert in the field of bacteriophages and has been using experimental evolution and computational approaches to study the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Dr. Owen's discoveries have been published in Nature, Nature Microbiology, Science and The Journal of Molecular Science just to name a few. Dr. Owen is a lover of all things phages and is an avid Mushroom hunter when not discovering new ways to aid in the fight against MDROs.

Jul 26, 20241h 15m

S3 Ep 5Police as First Responders - Training, Stress, PTSD and Compassion fatigue - With Special Guest Officer Jake Ballensky

In this episode we are joined by Elko NV police office Jake Ballensky. Officer Ballensky is a US national Guard Veteran having served tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan and has experience as a police officer working for the Las Vegas Metro Police Department and Elko NV police department. Today he joins us to discuss police and their roles as first responders, the stress and burnout that comes with the job, PTSD and how police practice has changed during his time serving the public.

Jul 14, 202444 min

S3 Ep 4From Undergraduate to ICU Attending - The how and why - With special guest Dr. Brandon Pang!

In this episode we are joined by Pulmonologist and Critical Care physician Dr. Brandon Pang. Brandon is a Physician at Boston Medical Center specializing critical care and pulmonology. He takes us through his journey from undergraduate, to medical school, to his Internship, Residency and Fellowship, and exactly what this entails. He also discusses his next role as an Attending of Critical Care Hematology and Oncology at Johns Hopkins University Medical Center. We also discuss A.I. in medicine and what the future may hold, and even get him to sing a verse of his favorite karaoke song. You won't want to miss this informative and in depth conversation about the medical profession, and what it takes to become a physician!

Jun 13, 20241h 55m

S3 Ep 3H5N1 - Current spread and concerns for the next possible pandemic. With special guest Dr. Davidson Hamer

In this episode we speak to Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Davidson Hamer and explore the current H5N1 spread among US cattle and if there is potential for spread to humans, and if so, could this cause the next great pandemic due to such high mortality rates and airborne spread. Dr. Hamer is board certified in infectious diseases and is a Professor at Boston University as well as Tufts University in Boston MA. Dr. Hamer is also the Surveillance Lead for the GeoSentinel Surveillance Network, which is a global network of 70 sites in 31 countries that conducts surveillance of emerging infectious diseases using returning travelers, immigrants, and refugees as sentinels of infection.He has extensive field experience in neonatal and child survival research , maternal and neonatal health, with focuses on studies of micronutrient interventions as well as malaria, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases.

May 30, 202434 min

S3 Ep 2Integrative Nursing with special guest Integrative Nursing Fellow Timothy M. RN

In this episode we have a special guest. Recently published, Integrative Nursing Fellow Timothy Murphy joins us to discuss the role of integrative nursing in medicine. He explains what it is, how it can aid in reduction of pain, anxiety and need for pharmacological interventions, and how it is now being more widely accepted in hospitals due to the evidence based data that supports its use. You won't want to miss this informative and uniquely interesting episode!!!

May 11, 202437 min

S3 Ep 1What is a Nursing Educator? With Special Guest ICU Nursing Educator Allison K. RN

In this episode we welcome Allison K., an ICU Nurse Educator at a level one trauma center in Boston MA. Allison is here to discuss the roles, responsibilities, and future of nursing education. As well as the challenges post pandemic, and possibility of A.I. in nursing. You won't want to miss this very educational episode!!!

May 8, 202443 min

S2 Ep 15Mercy Ships with special guest RN Hannah

In this episode we get a chance to speak with Hannah M., a dear friend and fellow ICU RN who will be taking her second trip to Africa with Mercy Ships, we discuss Mercy Ships, their history, what they do and who they help. We also discuss Hannah's experience onboard the ship and how those who would like to give can contribute. All aboard for this interesting informative episode!!!

Dec 5, 202337 min

S2 Ep 14Ketamine and Depression - (with special guest John P.)!!!

In this episode we have a special guest, John, who discusses his use of Ketamine to treat depression, he shares his story, and we talk a bit about Ketamine, how it works, and its side effects and possible uses. You would have to be stuck in a K-hole not listen to this episode.

Oct 25, 202330 min

S2 Ep 13Colon Cancer (with special guest Gina)!!

In this episode we have a special guest, Gina. Gina is on to share her story about her battle with colon cancer. We will discuss some statistics on colon cancer, then dive into her history with the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. We also get into some KMS podcast talk, which is how Gina discovered us in the first place. You won't want to miss this special episode!!!

Sep 19, 202327 min

S2 Ep 12Hangovers!!!

In this episode we take a look at something that will make you sick that is neither bacteria, fungus, virus or other pathogen, today we discuss, the hangover. We will look at what causes them, and if there is any way to prevent them. You would have to be drunk to miss this episode!!!

Aug 15, 202340 min

S2 Ep 11Bacteriophages - The deadliest organisms on earth!!!

In this episode we deviate from our usual subject matter to look at an organism that might actually make you well, instead of make you sick. The deadliest organism on earth, the Bacteriophage, may help to provide a new alternative using not so new science in the fight against drug resistant bacteria. You won't want to miss this killer episode!!!

Jun 22, 202332 min

S2 Ep 10Rabies virus!!!!

In this episode we discuss the extremely fatal rabies virus, how it is spread, how it can be prevented, and its extremely high mortality rate. You will be foaming at the mouth for this Rhabdovirus.!!!!

May 10, 202342 min

S2 Ep 9Lead Toxicity - Heavy Metals part II !!!

In this episode we take a look at the heavy metal lead, and its toxic effects on the brain and the rest of the body, we also explore where lead is still found in the environment today, and how deadly it can be if untreated. Dio himself would approve of this heavy metal breakdown!!!

Apr 25, 202340 min

S2 Ep 8Arsenic Toxicity - Heavy Metals part I !!!

In this episode we discuss Arsenic and acute and chronic toxic exposures, as well as the sources, pathology and treatments of this heavy metal. Ozzy himself would bang his head to this heavy metal breakdown!!!!!

Apr 11, 202354 min

S2 Ep 7Shigella !!!!

In this episode we explore the enterobacteria Shigella, this nasty gut bug is responsible for close to 200 million infections world wide and one million deaths per year, and with new drug resistant strains becoming more common, it is a pathogen that needs to be watched. You will want to keep an eye on who prepares your food after listening to this episode!!!!

Mar 20, 202339 min

S2 Ep 6Filoviruses - Ebola and Marburg Viruses!!!!

In this episode we take a look at two very deadly and contagious filoviruses, Ebola and Marburg viruses. These two viruses cause hemorrhagic fevers and often result in high mortality rates during outbreaks, similar to the current outbreak in Equatorial Guinea which has already caused 8 deaths.

Feb 28, 202331 min

S2 Ep 5Herpes Series part III - Herpes Simplex Virus 2 - Genital Herpes!!!

In this episode we discuss the ugliest of all the Herpes viruses, HSV 2 which is responsible for genital herpes, we will take a look at how it is transmitted, symptoms, treatments, and some epidemiology. This episode is truly the gift that keeps on giving!!

Feb 27, 202332 min

S2 Ep 4Nipah Virus !!!!

In this episode we take a look at Nipah Virus, a rare but very deadly and possible pandemic causing virus. Though not a very well known virus, the high mortality rate, and routes of transmission give this virus a chance to become the next global pandemic!!!!

Feb 9, 202328 min

S2 Ep 3Herpes series part II, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 !!!

In this episode we take a look at Herpes simplex virus 1, which is most commonly associated with cold sores, but may cause harm to other parts of the body, including the brain, leading to possible death. Better get out the Carmex for this episode!!!

Jan 30, 202331 min

S2 Ep 2Now on Twitter

Just wanted to give a heads up that we are now on Twitter at #MakeMeSickPod, hoping to use this as a way to receive feedback, but also give more up to date information on current infectious disease topics. Thanks for listening!!!

Jan 24, 20233 min

S2 Ep 2Herpes Series Part 1 - Epstein-Barr Virus and Mononucleosis (Herpes Virus 4)!!

In this episode we start our Herpes virus series with a look at Epstein Barr virus and mononucleosis, how it is transmitted, possible complications and possible links to long covid. This is truly the gift that keeps on giving!

Jan 16, 202327 min

S2 Ep 1Mycobacterium Tuberculosis - TB!!!!!

E

In this episode we take a look at the microorganism Mycobacterium Tuberculosis and TB infections. We discuss the types of TB, how you might get infected, treatments, and drug resistance, as well as some notable people who have had the TB bug. You might want to cover your mouth when taking in this episode!

Jan 3, 202345 min

S1 Ep 12RSV!!!

In this episode we discuss the respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, we will talk about the virus, how it effects the airways, how to treat it, and possible reasons for why it is currently pushing pediatric units and hospitals to full capacity. This episode is nothing to sneeze at!!

Nov 28, 202238 min

S1 Ep 11Thanksgiving Thank You!!

In this Episode I just wanted to express my thanks and gratitude to my listeners, and also also provide a few Turkey day tips and recommendations to avoid food poisoning from that nasty bug Salmonella!! Thanks again to all of you for listening, and hope you all have a very happy Thanksgiving!

Nov 22, 202211 min

S1 Ep 10Acute Radiation Syndrome!!!

In this episode we take a break from the world of microorganisms to shed some light on acute radiation syndrome and its causes, the symptoms, related illnesses and treatments, we also discuss the curious case of the Radium Girls. You might be glowing after listening to this episode!

Nov 3, 20221h 9m

S1 Ep 9Poliovirus !!

E

In this episode we discuss the Picornaviridae virus that causes Polio. This virus, though almost completely eradicated from the world, has recently started to make a resurgence in both the US and worldwide. You'll want to make sure your vaccinations are up to date after listening to this episode!!

Oct 6, 202248 min

S1 Ep 8Brain Eating Amoebas!! Naegleria Fowleri

In this episode we dive into the brain eating amoeba N. Fowleri and how it invades the brain and leaves almost no survivors in its wake. You might think twice about diving into that refreshing lake or pond after hearing this episode!!!!

Sep 6, 202229 min

S1 Ep 7Syphilis !!! (Treponema pallidum)

E

In this episode we will start with a Monkey Pox update, followed by a dive into the STI Syphilis, we will discuss the bacteria, it's history, properties, the current treatments, epidemiology and impact on the world today. You might want to use protection when listening to this episode!

Aug 8, 202246 min

S1 Ep 6Legionella !!!!

In this episode we discuss the microorganism Legionella and its unique characteristics and where it lives. You will never look at a hot tub or cooling system the same after this bacteria's story!!!

Jul 5, 202223 min

S1 Ep 5Orthopox viruses part 2 - Small Pox !!!

In this episode we discuss the extremely deadly, though now eradicated Orthopox virus Small Pox. From its unique viral replication; to its long and deadly history, including the decimation of entire civilizations, we take a look at Small Pox, and how it is still considered a threat to this day due to its bioterrorism implications. A Pox upon ye if you don't listen!

Jun 9, 202237 min

S1 Ep 4Orthopox viruses part 1 - Monkey Pox!! -

In this week's episode we discuss the orthopox virus Monkey pox!! We talk about its characteristics, where it comes from, how it is transmitted, and the recent global outbreak in the news. There is no monkey business here when we inspect this nasty virus!

May 31, 202228 min