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  • Episode 08 - Colon Meet Cancer: Side Effects

    Episode 08 - Colon Meet Cancer: Side Effects
    2026/01/03
    Welcome to a new episode of 'Colon, Meet Cancer' from A Shot in the Arm Media. In this first episode of 2026, Ben shares his experiences of treatment side effects while living with stage four colorectal cancer, and how these impact his ability to live as near a normal life as possible. Also covered are unexpected complications like clostridioides difficile and pulmonary embolism, which had Ben hospitalized in December 2025. He also reflects on his interactions with medical staff, including the invaluable support from nurses, and discusses his thoughts on resilience, the future, and living beyond the diagnosis. Join Ben as he candidly narrates his personal cancer journey and hopes for the year ahead. 00:00 Introduction and Diagnosis 01:08 Coping with Chemotherapy 03:06 Maintenance Therapy Explained 06:41 Hospitalization and Complications 09:33 Reflections on Healthcare and Diversity 12:21 Christmas Reflections 14:16 Living with Uncertainty 17:27 Looking Ahead to 2026 Join the Conversation! If you or someone you know is living with cancer, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments! Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.
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    19 分
  • Trans Life: How to Survive Trump’s 2nd Administration | Dr. Tatyana Moaton

    Trans Life: How to Survive Trump’s 2nd Administration | Dr. Tatyana Moaton
    2025/12/10
    In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, host Ben Plumley discusses the state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States under a hostile federal government with Dr. Tatyana Moaton, the Director of Strategic Innovation and Partnership at the San Francisco Community Health Center. Dr. Moaton unpacks the systemic challenges faced by the trans community, healthcare disparities, the significant threats posed by current federal policies, and the urgent need for advocacy and coalition building. Dr. Moaton's insights and lived experiences highlight the relentless fight for trans rights, healthcare equity, and the importance of acknowledging humanity in healthcare decisions. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about innovation, equity, and the resilience required to confront these pressing social issues. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 01:21 Personal Disclosure and Health Update 02:13 Introducing Dr. Tatyana Moaton 03:02 Dr. Moaton's Background and Journey 04:43 San Francisco Community Health Center's Mission 07:13 Trans Thrive Program and Services 10:03 Challenges Faced by Trans Communities 25:27 Violence Against Trans Women 26:42 Systematic Erasure and Advocacy 29:43 Contradictions in Gender Affirming Care 33:06 A Harrowing Story from the Ballroom Community 33:51 The Impact of Federal Policies on Trans Services 36:57 Executive Orders and Community Health Center's Response 37:50 Navigating Federal Funding Restrictions 39:03 The Importance of Gender Affirming Care 40:57 Challenges and Misconceptions Around Trans Rights 53:19 ICE and Immigration Issues 57:09 The Fight for Trans Rights and Community Support 01:02:38 Call to Action and Conclusion Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Visit and Support the San Francisco Community Health Center https://www.sfcommunityhealth.org https://www.facebook.com/SFCommunityHealth https://www.instagram.com/sfcommunityhealth https://youtube.com/@sfcommunityhealth https://bsky.app/profile/sfcommunityhealth.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/company/1387878 Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.
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    1 時間 7 分
  • Why We Need a World AIDS Day More Than Ever - with Emily Bass and Ben Plumley

    Why We Need a World AIDS Day More Than Ever - with Emily Bass and Ben Plumley
    2025/11/30
    In this special World AIDS Day episode, Emily Bass and Ben Plumley delve into the current and future state of the global AIDS response. Join them as they discuss the rise of Emily's influential Substack, the impact of recent US administration policies, and the essential roles played by organizations like UNAIDS. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with a particular focus on country-driven initiatives and the need for sustainable, equitable solutions. With special mentions of groundbreaking biomedical advances, crucial data collection, and the evolving landscape of global health governance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone engaged in or passionate about global health advocacy. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:21 World AIDS Day Podcast Overview 00:51 Emily Bass' Substack and Its Impact 01:47 US Government's Role in AIDS Response 04:51 Challenges and Frustrations with Substack 05:49 Global Health Agreements and Specimen Sharing 10:39 Pan-African Leadership in Health 18:18 US Administration's Health Policies 35:20 America's Prioritization in Vaccine Distribution 36:02 Financial Implications of Vaccine Pricing 36:38 Multilateral vs. Unilateral Approaches 37:33 Concerns Over Bilateral Agreements 40:23 Global Fund Replenishment and Commitments 42:34 Challenges in Global Health Leadership 52:36 The Role of UNAIDS in Global Health 01:06:57 Reflections and Future Directions 01:10:28 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Reflecting on Global Health’s Many Eras with WHO's Andy Seale

    Reflecting on Global Health’s Many Eras with WHO's Andy Seale
    2025/10/14
    In this episode of 'A Shot in The Arm Podcast,' host Ben Plumley reconnects with his longtime friend and colleague, Andy Seale from the World Health Organization. The conversation spans decades of their personal and professional journeys across global health, with a primary focus on HIV, TB, and malaria. Ben and Andy discuss the challenges and triumphs of their work, including Andy's experience with HIV diagnosis and the global fight against pandemics such as Ebola. They also tackle critical issues like WHO’s evolving role in global health, the impacts of reduced funding, and the necessity for integration with broader policy fields like security and economics. The transcript also reveals Andy as an enthusiastic fan of Taylor Swift, humorously contrasting with Ben’s musical preferences. The episode highlights past collaborations, current challenges, and the future of global health in an unpredictable geopolitical landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Update 01:43 A Special Guest: Andy Seale 02:42 The ERAS Tour: Reflecting on the Past 04:08 Growing Up During the HIV Epidemic 05:31 Early Careers and Professional Crossroads 09:48 Community and Personal Impact of HIV 20:53 Transition to Global Health Initiatives 23:54 Responding to Health Emergencies 29:51 The Role of Media and Communication 37:05 The Massive Effort and Global Fund 41:33 A Murder Mystery at the UN 42:29 Golden Era of Epidemic Responses 42:55 Roles and Contributions in UNAIDS and Global Fund 44:21 Challenges and Changes in Global Health 45:36 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Strategy 47:03 Integration and Sustainability in Health Services 51:19 Reflections on Global Health and WHO's Role 56:56 The Future of Global Health and Security 01:17:30 Concluding Thoughts and Optimism Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Ben's Colon, Meet Cancer Podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW7yagTEtywrzqAXsYp8gYw3LJpjcnnSB Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Fair Doses: Towards A Future of Vaccine Equity and Innovation with Dr. Seth Berkley

    Fair Doses: Towards A Future of Vaccine Equity and Innovation with Dr. Seth Berkley
    2025/10/13
    In this episode Ben Plumley catches up with Dr. Seth Berkley, founder of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, former CEO of GAVI and amongst other responsibilities, now a senior advisor at Brown University's School of Public Health's Pandemic Center. Seth has recently published a new book “Fair Doses: An Insider's Story of the Pandemic and the Global Fight for Vaccine Equity” and he and Ben discuss the book’s topics of vaccine equity, misinformation, and the rapid innovations in vaccine development, particularly the success and future potential of mRNA vaccines. Dr. Berkley highlights the challenges posed by misinformation and the political landscape, as well as the importance of global collaboration in addressing pandemics. They also explore his defining role in Covax's efforts to distribute COVID vaccines, the need for local manufacturing, and the impacts of nationalistic policies on global health. Dr. Berkley stresses the critical role of ongoing innovation and funding in preparing for future health crises and ensuring equitable access to health technologies. And he pulls no punches on the current US administration’s failures in supporting global health research and partnerships. https://www.ucpress.edu/books/fair-doses/hardcover 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:05 Current State of Misinformation and Disinformation 03:56 Challenges in Public Health Communication 09:19 Reflections on COVID-19 and Vaccine Equity 12:44 Global Health and Future Pandemics 16:41 Vaccine Nationalism and Local Manufacturing 23:38 Preparedness for Future Health Threats 31:01 The Future of Clinical Research and Innovation 36:03 Seth Berkeley's Current Work and Future Plans 38:13 Conclusion and Closing Remarks Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.
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    42 分
  • Episode 07 - Colon, Meet Cancer: Cos You Gotta Have Faith

    Episode 07 - Colon, Meet Cancer: Cos You Gotta Have Faith
    2025/09/24
    Ben’s journey of battling stage four colorectal cancer with chemotherapy brings him to a fairly predictable pit stop; what significance does faith have in spiritual and physical care? , Whether its unravelling deeper issues of self-acceptance and self-faith., the episode explores faith from various perspectives, including personal conviction and religious doctrine, questioning the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing God amidst the presence of widespread suffering. The psychological and spiritual impacts of cancer treatment are discussed, including the what may be a gradual transition from atheism to an almost agnostic faith as a coping mechanism. The episode concludes with an update on treatment progress and a contemplation on the broader implications of faith, love, and legacy. This wee’s t shirt is from St. Javelin, a Ukrainian-based clothier. Find out more about them at www.saintjavelin.com 00:00 Introduction: The Journey of Faith 00:17 A Lunch With A Pop Star Gone Awry 03:47 Reflections on Faith and Self-Esteem 04:51 Chemotherapy Update 06:23 Exploring the Concept of Faith 08:30 Faith in the Context of Cancer 10:33 Religious Perspectives on Faith 19:30 Personal Reflections and Legacy 22:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 💬 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast
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    25 分
  • Episode 06 – Colon, Meet Cancer: Is it Assez Merdique Yet?

    Episode 06 – Colon, Meet Cancer: Is it Assez Merdique Yet?
    2025/09/04
    In this episode of 'Colon Meet Cancer,' Ben recounts the surprising success story of Henrik Gretzky's Symphony Number Three, how badly it was initially received by the musicology world and draws a surprising parallel to his chemotherapy journey. He shares the complex experience of managing an increasing range of chemo side effects, including white blood cell treatments, pain, and hair loss. Ben candidly discusses his struggles with memory fog, the challenges it brings, and the ensuing emotional toll manifested as depression and self-reflection. Despite the adversities, he highlights the importance of humor, intellectual stimulation, and staying hopeful. One of the tools he has used has been late night reflections on controversial topics, and he closes out the episode with Ben by sharing one of those midnight reflections - the potential risks and benefits of AI in healthcare. This week's t-shirt, gifted by Andy Seale, features the slogan 'Make America Democratic Again.' 00:00 Introduction: A Surprising Symphony 02:53 The Onset of Chemotherapy 04:37 Managing Side Effects 10:13 Chemo Brain and Memory Fog 14:59 Depression and Self-Reflection 18:45 AI and Its Implications 23:35 Humor as a Coping Mechanism 25:32 Conclusion: Gratitude and Hope Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe & Stay Updated! Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast
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    27 分
  • Prescriptions for an American Public Health Revolution: Countering the Trump Administration’s Disastrous Assaults on our Health

    Prescriptions for an American Public Health Revolution: Countering the Trump Administration’s Disastrous Assaults on our Health
    2025/09/01
    It’s a Paul Revere moment, “RFK Junior is coming!” Ben is joined by author and journalist Emily Bass and UCSF Professor Eric Goosby, co-host of the Global Health Diplomats podcast to diagnose and propose solutions to the Trump Administration’s assault on US public health. From the hollowing out of the CDC, to vaccine skepticism at the heart of the federal leadership, and savage, unconstitutional cuts to public health home and abroad, they delve into the broader ramifications of these attacks on scientific integrity, US democracy and security. They round upon what could be profoundly damaging political consequences, particularly for Republicans, if the health of their voters’ children and elderly relatives is put directly at risk by this willful dismantling of US public health services. And in conclusion, Ben, Eric and Emily explore how to support the emerging regional health coalitions of states, cities and professional bodies to fill the gap. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:50 Recent Developments in Global Health 02:08 Legal Challenges and Public Health Implications 03:18 Impact on Democracy and Public Health 12:04 Interview with Eric Goosby 14:27 Concerns About CDC and Public Health Surveillance 19:36 Future of Public Health and Science 34:46 Potential Solutions and Local Efforts 39:09 Coalitions and Surveillance Systems 44:23 Challenges in Public Health Funding 48:24 The Role of Philanthropy in Public Health 50:37 Political Ramifications and Public Health 56:22 Vaccine Misinformation and Public Trust 58:27 Accountability in Public Health Leadership 01:04:33 COVID Variants and Vaccination Strategies 01:10:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast
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    1 時間 15 分