Welcome to Infectious IDeas, a podcast presented by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), that goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people doing the work. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with inspiring leaders and humble heroes making a powerful impact on public health. Through their experiences, we uncover the human side of infectious disease prevention and treatment—all driven by a shared vision of healthier lives for all.
Meet the Hosts
Rebecca Alvania, PhD, MA, MPH, is executive director and chief executive officer of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). Alvania provides leadership and direction to advance the NFID mission to educate and engage the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. She has extensive experience in scientific communications, strategic planning, and global public health. Alvania began her career in media communications and held leadership roles working with scientific journals and professional societies.
Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, is NFID medical director and chief medical spokesperson. He previously served as chair of the National Vaccine Advisory Committee to the US Department of Health and Human Services and chair of the American College of Physicians Immunization Committee. Hopkins is a professor of internal medicine and pediatrics and past chief of the division of general internal medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). He was recognized as a 2024 Healio Honoree as a strategic, yet humble leader who has shaped US vaccine policy and helped build vaccine confidence.
Search & Filter
Date
Technology Enhancing Humanity with Eric Topol, MD
S3, E9: Eric Topol, MD, discusses the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine and healthcare and how AI can help strengthen the patient-doctor relationship, enhance diagnostics, and reduce medical errors …
Empowering Patients and Caregivers with Elizabeth Cohen
S3, E8: Elizabeth Cohen shares personal insights, including her own journey from the NICU to the newsroom, and reflects on critical healthcare topics including access to care, maternal mortality, the polarization of public health, and the power of storytelling …
A Lifelong Champion of Vaccine Safety—Kathryn M. Edwards, MD
S3, E7: Kathryn M. Edwards, MD, shares her journey from a budding chemist to a trailblazer in the prevention of pediatric infectious diseases and an advocate for ensuring vaccine safety and efficacy in the US …
Voices of Public Health: Concerns and Hopes for the Future
S3, E6: A special compilation featuring compelling conversations with public health thought leaders sharing their concerns, hopes for the future, and strategies for tackling critical public health challenges …
Building Trust and Bridging Gaps with Reed V. Tuckson, MD
S3, E5: Reed V. Tuckson, MD, discusses the urgent need to rebuild trust in science and health, particularly in underserved communities …
Navigating the Politics of Public Health with Michael T. Osterholm, PhD, MPH
S3, E4: Michael T. Osterholm, PhD, MPH, shares his vast experience in pandemic preparedness and voices concerns about the increasing politicization of public health and the potential implications of the 2024 US elections …
Leading with Passion and Purpose—Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH
S3, E3: Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH, shares his journey from HIV clinical practice to public health leadership, demonstrating his relentless passion and commitment to health equity, clear and transparent communication, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines for all children and adults …
Vaccine Visionary, Pastor, and Public Health Provocateur—Gregory A. Poland, MD
S3, E2: Gregory A. Poland, MD, shares his inspiring journey in vaccine research and his unique perspectives as both a scientist and an ordained Presbyterian minister …