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.
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Building Global Vaccine Confidence Through Diplomacy with Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD
S2, E5: Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD, shares insights from his influential career in vaccine science and diplomacy, from how the field has changed over time to what we can all be doing to help build vaccine confidence …
Operation Warp Speed: Transforming Disease Prevention with Peter Marks, MD, PhD
S2, E4: Peter Marks, MD, PhD, shares insights on the origin of Operation Warp Speed during the COVID-19 pandemic and his thoughts on how AI can improve disease prevention …
A Career Dedicated to Protecting Pregnant Mothers and Infants with Carol J. Baker, MD
S2, E3: Carol J. Baker, MD, shares her perspectives on the most significant changes throughout her career, including the development of vaccines and antivirals as well as the inclusion of pregnant women in clinical trials for vaccines and drugs …
From HIV/AIDs to COVID-19: Insights and Predictions with Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH
S2, E2: Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, shares her perspectives on the most significant changes she has seen throughout her career, the importance of rebuilding trust in government agencies, and predictions for the upcoming respiratory season …
From Early Days Farming to Pandemic Preparedness with Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD
S2, E1: Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD, discusses industry challenges, big scientific changes in recent years, big scientific changes, and his work to improve health equity …
Speaking Up For Science with Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH
S1, E12: Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH, was a source of science-based information about vaccines long before misinformation and disinformation became buzzwords
Achieving the Promise of Health Equity with Richard E. Besser, MD
S1, E11: Richard E. Besser, MD, is now a leading champion for health equity urging the US to embrace its potential and provide opportunities for all to thrive …
Championing Global Health Equity with Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH
S1, E10: Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH, discusses bringing communities around the world up to date on immunizations and creating an accord to improve the global response to the next pandemic …