Pharmacy Podcast Network

In this episode of the NASP Podcast, Sheila Arquette, President & CEO of NASP, speaks with Simone Colgan Dunlap, National Vice Chair of the Quarles Health and Life Sciences Practice Group, and Amy Cotton Peterson, Partner at Quarles. As more automation solutions become available, its vital specialty pharmacy providers strategically approach acquisition of targets that offer technology and AI assets. This discussion explores effective diligence practices, common pitfalls, and risk mitigation strategies for specialty pharmacies navigating mergers and acquisitions and the rapidly evolving use of artificial intelligence.

🎙️ This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx) — January 9, 2026 Welcome to TWIRx — This Week in Pharmacy! I’m your host Todd Eury, and today’s episode is sponsored by YARAL Pharma, a generics company committed to “Doing Things Differently”—with a human-centered, untraditional approach that’s redefining relationships between industry and pharmacy practice.  ✅ Today’s Sponsor: YARAL Pharma YARAL Pharma is committed to innovation, partnership, and supporting pharmacists at the front lines—especially as healthcare continues to restructure and the role of the pharmacist becomes more essential than ever. Their mission to Do Things Differently is more than a slogan—it’s a commitment to reshaping what a generics company can stand for in today’s healthcare marketplace.  📰 This Week in Pharmacy — News 1) Amazon Pharmacy to Offer Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy Pill Nationwide Amazon Pharmacy is now offering Novo Nordisk’s newly FDA-approved Wegovy pill, making the weight-loss medication available nationwide through both insurance coverage and cash-pay options. This move continues Amazon’s expansion into digital healthcare access—bringing blockbuster GLP-1 therapies directly to consumers and increasing competition among major pharmacy providers. https://www.mobihealthnews.com/news/amazon-pharmacy-offer-novo-nordisks-wegovy-pill 2) Dr. David Pope: AI, Online Pharmacies, and Why the Neighborhood Pharmacist Still Wins Trust In a must-read guest column, Dr. David Pope argues that while AI and online pharmacy services are rapidly surging, the community pharmacist remains one of the most trusted healthcare professionals in America. He points to how pharmacy deserts, increasing reimbursement pressure, and policy reform will reshape pharmacy in 2026—and why the profession’s future will depend on protecting and empowering local pharmacy care. https://drugstorenews.com/ai-and-online-pharmacy-surge-neighborhood-pharmacist-remains-most-trusted  3) Pharmacist Leadership Spotlight: Illuminate Rx Names Ritu Malhotra, PharmD, as President Illuminate Rx announced the appointment of Ritu Malhotra, PharmD, as its new President, reinforcing the growing trend of pharmacists stepping into leadership roles across pharmacy benefits and PBM reform. With decades of experience modernizing healthcare and pharmacy benefit strategy, Malhotra’s appointment signals Illuminate Rx’s focus on improving transparency and clarity in pharmacy benefits management. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/illuminate-rx-appoints-industry-veteran-ritu-malhotra-pharmd-as-president-to-advance-clarity-in-pharmacy-benefits-302657441.html 4) Viatris Exec David Marin Named New CEO of PCMA The Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA)—the leading PBM trade group—has named David Marin, previously Head of Global Government Affairs & Public Policy at Viatris, as its next President and CEO effective January 30, 2026. His selection comes at a pivotal time as PBMs face rising scrutiny and intensifying policy pressure nationwide. https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/pcma-names-new-ceo-david-marin/809158/  🎤 Interviews & Segments ⭐ Segment 1 — Special Sponsor Interview Stephen Beckman, CEO of YARAL Pharma We kick off TWIRx with a special conversation featuring Stephen Beckman, CEO of YARAL Pharma, exploring what 2026 has in store for pharmacy and healthcare. We discuss the Pharmacy 50 Awards, the importance of honoring leadership across the profession, and why supporting pharmacists right now—during one of the most fragile and transformative moments in U.S. healthcare—is absolutely critical. ⭐ Featured Interview — Pennsylvania State Representative Rep. Charity Grimm Krupa — 51st Legislative District Today’s featured interview is with State Representative Charity Grimm Krupa, who represents Pennsylvania’s 51st Legislative District in the House of Representatives. We discuss real healthcare issues impacting Pennsylvanians—including medical cannabis, small business healthcare benefit strategies, and why it’s essential for healthcare professionals to stay connected with their state lawmakers. Rep. Krupa also shares why every citizen should aim to communicate with their own representatives at least once per year. ⭐ Segment 2 — Clinical & Policy Spotlight Dr. Sally Rafie, PharmD — “The Birth Control Pharmacist” In our second segment, we welcome Dr. Sally Rafie, PharmD, nationally known as the “Birth Control Pharmacist.” Dr. Rafie is a clinical pharmacist specialist at UC San Diego Health and an assistant clinical professor at the UC San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy, widely recognized for advancing pharmacists’ role in reproductive health care. She is also the founder of Birth Control Pharmacist, an education and training company that equips pharmacists and healthcare teams to prescribe and deliver contraception care through evidence-based resources, clinical updates, and advocacy support—helping expand access to contraception through pharmacies nationwide. 🔔 Closing That wraps up this week’s episode of This Week in Pharmacy. Thanks for tuning in—and thank you again to YARAL Pharma for sponsoring today’s TWIRx. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please share it with a fellow pharmacist, leave a review, and stay connected as we continue to cover the stories shaping the pharmacy profession. See you next week on TWIRx when we celebrate the "50 Most Influential People in Pharmacy" Awards LIVE!!

In this edition of Essential, we’ve got concerns about the FDA’s revolving door, some issues with a new California law that might affects the whole country, and a new accreditation that might save a lot of headache. Then we take a deep dive into the once and future world of compounded peptides — where they are, and where they might be going … and why. Links FDA’s revolving door: https://archive.ph/oxBXP  Join APC today: https://a4pc.org/membership  Coalition for Compounding Excellence (CCE) accreditation: https://414uue.share-na2.hsforms.com/2n_hRAnRSQ4O8VteGTesF0Q?_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9rfyq3GuFFZw6omRa96tq_es549FWmjiw-sP5NU3LKrsL1eump-l18h7xVrvy8G_V1Pi4UFkfhARMnPCLIx7TBOwPClQ&_hsmi=394109070 Pharma Source Direct: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pharma-source-direct/

In Episode 2 of Pharmacist-Prescribed, hosts Mary Kucek, PMP, Founder and CEO of OvaryIt, and Devin Bustin, MD, Chief Medical Officer of OvaryIt, dive into the practical realities of implementing pharmacist-led prescribing services in community pharmacy settings. The conversation explores how pharmacies can navigate state-specific prescribing authority, standing orders, collaborative practice agreements, staffing concerns, and day-to-day workflows without disrupting existing operations. Listeners will gain a clear picture of how the PRISM platform supports safe, compliant, and efficient clinical service delivery, from patient intake and documentation to e-prescribing and team-based care. Learn more about PRISM or request a demo at https://www.getprismrx.com

I was truly inspired by today’s guest and her courage to follow her inner guidance, which served her not only on her personal journey but also led her to found a beautiful company with a sacred mission. Osi Mizrahi is the founder and visionary behind OSI Oils—a wellness brand rooted in slow beauty, Ayurvedic ritual, and the art of coming home to oneself. Born on a farm in Israel, Osi’s connection to the natural world began early, shaping her journey as a medical intuitive, Ayurvedic artisan, and guide in the healing arts. With over 30 years of experience in yoga, Ayurveda, Reiki, Kundalini, and Theta Healing, Osi blends ancient wisdom with feminine embodiment. Her work is inspired by Kabbalah, breathwork, and intuitive practices that support deep transformation. Osi believes in slow beauty and slow aging—practices that honor the body’s rhythms and nourish vitality over time. Oils, for her, are more than skincare—they are vessels of self-love, sensuality, and spiritual healing. Each OSI Oils formula is handcrafted in small batches using traditional Ayurvedic methods, turning everyday routines into sacred rituals. Whether soothing the nervous system with her belly oil or igniting life-force energy with Radiance Hair Oil, her products are designed to restore from the inside out. Osi’s upcoming book shares her own journey through heartbreak, healing, and the power of ancient rituals. Through her storytelling, mentorship, and botanical creations, she helps women around the world reconnect to their spark—and live with more pleasure, purpose, and presence. Connect with Osi via: Email: osi@osioils.com Website: Osi Oils IG: @osioils YT: @OsiMizrahi Linked In: Osi Mizrahi Use My Special Promo Code RAWFORK20 for 20% off orders on osioils.com Visit https://marinabuksov.com for more holistic content. Music from https://www.purple-planet.com. Disclaimer: Statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

This is SureCast -- 3-Part Series recorded LIVE  from Nashville, where pharmacy leaders, innovators, and forward-thinking professionals gathered for SureCost Insights 2025: Embracing Pharmacy Evolution, held November 13–14, 2025.    In this episode we hear from: Jessica Daley Josh Hart - OPTU Consulting Matt Gilbert - RxSafe Mike Salazzo - Capital Drug Paul Shelton - LTC@Home

Happy New Year 2026 | TWIRx    Happy New Year to our listeners, our hosts, our sponsors, and all of our supporters, Happy New Year to a PROSPEROUS 2026. We're joined by CEO of YARAL Pharma, Stephen Beckman to talk about the coming challenges in pharmacy and how pharmaceutical manufacturing can become a stronger ally to the pharmacist and the pharmacy profession. New from Pharmacy Times, Tradipitant Becomes First Treatment Approved for Vomiting Due to Motion Sickness in 4 Decades. News from Drug Topics, Pharmacists Can Use Social Media for Professional, Educational Advancement News from Signal Akron, PPRx: A local pharmacy supporting reproductive health care in Ohio Check out GetPRISMRx.com for more information how to build your own contraception patient treatment program, with this new tech!!  #Pharmacy50 Awards coming to TWIRx January 16th, 2PM LIVE

In this special Rated Rx interview, Robbie sits down with Dr. Zack Meade, an anesthesiologist and major social media presence known for breaking down medical misinformation and educating patients online. They talk about why he started posting, how his content evolved from awkward early videos to confident patient-focused education, and why online medicine feels completely different from practicing in person. Zack opens up about the realities of online backlash, the communities that react the strongest, and the ground rules he follows to stay professional while still being funny. He also shares stories about hospital policies, case report controversies, naturopathic claims, wellness scams, and the strange world of “designer ECMO” at med spas. The conversation closes with the biggest lesson he learned from the comment section: patients need more time, more patience, and more understanding than most clinicians realize. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Rated-Rx-Podcast/61574813907982/ https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast https://www.facebook.com/DrZackMD https://www.youtube.com/@TheWhiteCoatCouple

Independent pharmacists are going beyond the counter to provide exceptional services through community partnerships. In this episode of The Counter Talk™ Podcast host Jason Callori speaks with Kristen Glesman, PharmD, Mandilyn Coffman, PharmD and Emily Rohling, PharmD.  These pharmacists share how they're transforming their pharmacies into vital community health destinations by partnering with local businesses and more . Hear from your peers on identifying opportunities, navigating challenges, and fostering a passionate team to drive innovation and growth.   

In this episode of the MaternalRX podcast on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, Danielle sits down with Dr. Tadeh Vartanian, a Pharmacist and Medical Lead with deep expertise in autoimmune diabetes. Drawing on years of clinical practice and research, Dr. Vartanian explains why early detection and precise diabetes classification can dramatically shift outcomes for people who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or managing complex metabolic risks. This conversation delivers a practical, up-to-date overview of diabetes types, maternal risk considerations, screening strategies, and the emerging science behind autoimmune and genetic diabetes. And if you have never heard of monogenic diabetes, you will want to hear this episode! Understanding this category can immediately change how clinicians diagnose and treat patients. Diabetes types explained - How to differentiate type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and monogenic diabetes - Why type 1 is autoimmune and what loss of 80 to 90 percent of beta cells means for patient management - The phases of type 1 diabetes and the predictive power of autoantibodies - How monogenic diabetes presents differently and when to consider genetic testing - Which diabetes types can improve with targeted lifestyle interventions Diabetes screening and diagnostic testing - Why early screening is the most impactful action clinicians can take - When to use hemoglobin A1C, fasting glucose, and the oral glucose tolerance test - A clear explanation of the 50-gram and 100-gram Glucola tests used in gestational diabetes screening and diagnosis - How to identify autoimmune diabetes using autoantibody testing Autoantibody screening programs - TrialNet: the NIDDK-supported program offering at-home screening for people with a first-degree relative with type 1 diabetes - ASK (Autoimmunity Screening for Kids): now expanded to adults, with nationwide access through the University of Colorado laboratory - How these programs detect autoimmune diabetes before symptoms develop Genetics, autoimmunity, and diabetes research - How new genetic testing is reshaping the identification of monogenic diabetes - What autoimmune activity means in type 1 diabetes and why early detection matters - Current research, evolving guidelines, and clinical trial insights relevant to maternal health and diabetes care Diabetes and pregnancy - How diabetes influences pregnancy outcomes and why classification accuracy is critical - The long-term significance of gestational diabetes and its link to future type 2 diabetes - Clinical considerations for preconception counseling, prenatal care, and postpartum metabolic health - How maternal diabetes affects the long-term health trajectory of both parent and child Key takeaway from Dr. Vartanian: Screen early and use the right tools. Identifying diabetes risk before symptoms appear can change the course of care at every stage of pregnancy. Connect with our guest and host: - Dr. Tadeh Vartanian: www.linkedin.com/in/tadehvartanian/ - Dr. Danielle Plummer: www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

Up first, Inspirogene-by-McKesson with Joe DePinto   InspiroGene" is a dedicated business unit launched by McKesson in October 2024, focused solely on supporting the commercialization of cell and gene therapies (CGTs). It leverages McKesson's expertise in supply chain, logistics, and specialty pharmacy to help manufacturers, payers, and providers navigate the complex CGT landscape. https://www.mckesson.com/business-solutions/our-businesses/inspirogene-by-mckesson/ Our featured interview: Sponsored by MatchRX The TrumpRx Playbook for Independent Pharmacies CEO of MatchRx Johny Kello co-hosts with Todd Eury featuring our guest speaker, Dae Lee, Pharm.D., Esq., CPBS. Dae is a pharmacist-attorney and a Shareholder in the FDA & Biotechnology practice at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney. What makes Dae especially valuable for this conversation is that he’s not just reading policy from 30,000 feet — he represents pharmacies every day in high-stakes fights with PBMs, from audits and reimbursement disputes to network suspensions and terminations. So, when we talk about TrumpRx — how it works, what it could break, and what independents should do next — Dae can translate the legal and contracting reality into real-world consequences behind the counter. Connect with MatchRX: MatchRX.com Special Message from Greg Reybold with APCI, update of the "Pharmacists Fight Back Act" Connect with Greg: https://www.apcinet.com/ Next, we talk with Dr. Jessica Daley PharmD Fractional Supply Chain and Operations Executive, with Pharma Logistics, we dicuss drug shortages and strategies for 2026. Connect with Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaldaley/ Last interview, a suprise message from International Pharmacy 50 Pharmacist & Author Katrina Azer, announcing her new book  https://www.katrinaazer.com/#books   The TrumpRx Playbook for Independent Pharmacies - with MatchRX | TWIRx

Welcome to the Pharmacy Podcast Network's coverage of the NCPA 2025 Post Show! The NCPA annual conference is the trailblazer for community pharmacy, bringing together the pharmacy community. Our host Todd Eury, founder and CEO of the Pharmacy Podcast Network, took the microphone to the action right on the show floor capturing exclusive conversations with attendees, pharmacy students, keynote speakers, vendors, and more!  Thank you NimbleRx for sponsoring this coverage of the NCPA Post Show!  Visit https://www.nimblerx.com/

American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. (APCI) called on Congress on Thursday, December 11, 2025 to pass the reintroduced Pharmacists Fight Back Act, two coordinated pieces of federal legislation designed to reform pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices. The Pharmacy Podcast Network provides exclusive coverage of the event held on Capitol Hill.

Insights Backed by Real Data | SureCast LIVE – Part Two In Part Two of our three-part SureCast LIVE series, we continue the conversation with vendors, pharmacy leaders, and keynote speakers to explore how SureCast is delivering meaningful impact for pharmacy—backed by real data and real-world experience. This episode highlights innovative solutions, operational insights, and collaborative strategies that are helping independent pharmacies adapt, grow, and thrive in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Our guests share how data-driven decision-making, smarter supply chains, and cooperative models are shaping the future of pharmacy. Featured Guests Avi Maidenberg, BluePax Discusses logistics, delivery innovation, and how smarter fulfillment solutions support pharmacy operations. Brittany Young, Independent Pharmacy Distributor Shares perspective on distribution challenges, supply chain efficiency, and the role of trusted partners for independents. Beshir, DiNovo Cleanroom Supplies & Packaging Solutions Explores compliance, cleanroom readiness, and packaging solutions that support sterile and specialty pharmacy services. Jason Dana Costa, Horizon Pharmacy Provides a pharmacy owner’s perspective on leveraging data, vendor partnerships, and technology to improve patient care and business performance. Scott Wittnebel, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) Highlights the power of cooperative models, collective data insights, and collaboration to strengthen independent pharmacy sustainability. About SureCast LIVE SureCast LIVE brings together pharmacy leaders, innovators, and solution providers to deliver actionable insights designed to support the long-term success of independent pharmacy. 🎧 This is Part Two of a three-part series—be sure to listen to Part One and stay tuned for Part Three.

In this episode, Greg Reybold speaks with Jake Auchincloss, U.S. Congressman of Massachusetts 4th District.

Segment 1: The Hidden Lender in America’s Drug Supply Chain Guests: Antonio Ciaccia, President, 3 Axis Advisors Alec Ginsberg, Founder, The Drugstore Cowboy Building on Alec Ginsberg’s investigative article, “The Hidden Lender in America’s Drug Supply Chain,” this discussion exposes how capital flows, credit structures, and opaque financial relationships influence pharmacy viability. Ciaccia and Ginsberg break down what independent pharmacists need to understand about who truly controls leverage in the system—and why transparency matters more than ever. Segment 2: How AI Is Transforming Pharmacy Operations Guests: Harry Travis, BS Pharm, MBA, President, The Travis Group Amanda Awe, PharmD, Clinical Product Consultant, Curatio Advisors Artificial intelligence is no longer theoretical in pharmacy—it’s operational. This segment explores how AI is being deployed today to improve workflow efficiency, clinical decision-making, and patient engagement, while addressing the real-world challenges of adoption. Inside the Forces Reshaping America’s Drug Supply Chain | TWIRx    Thanks to NimbleRx, PRISM by OvaryIT, and Sykes & Company for sponsorsing today's show

This week on the PBM Reform Podcast, Breck L. Rice takes listeners inside a major new software upgrade designed to integrate directly with state-level PBM complaint and reporting systems. Breck also recounts his recent meetings with state Insurance Commissioners—where he presented this breakthrough technology while PBM lobbyists pushed back in real time, leaving community pharmacy with only one voice in the room standing up for them. He underscores a critical issue that often goes unaddressed: while states continue to pass legislation aimed at PBM accountability, the real failures are happening in execution and enforcement. Without meaningful oversight, even the strongest laws fall short, and independent pharmacies continue to bear the consequences.

Major decreases in the price of 15 major brand name drugs will take place over the next few weeks and months. Pharmacies need to look carefully at the affected medications and plan now on how to balance inventory needs to minimize the negative effect lower WAC prices will have on reimbursement.   This podcast explains the issue, outlines possible actions to take and directs listeners to a website (www.compliantrx.com) with more details and timelines.

In this episode of FrameworkFocus, we explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping long-term care pharmacy. Rick Pollick and Kyle Nilson from SoftWriters’ Alpha Labs join us to discuss the industry-wide impact of AI, the benefits and challenges it presents, and how SoftWriters is bringing innovative, AI-driven workflows to life—starting with AI Order Entry Automation.

The Community Leadership Award is a prestigious award recognizing our community pharmacists and their commitment to their patients. Each year at the Retail Business Conference (RBC), this award is presented to an independent pharmacist who demonstrates a commitment to promoting the principles of community pharmacy.                                                                                                                                                                             In this episode, Jason Callori speaks with finalist, Mike Burns, PharmD, AuBurn Pharmacies, on his advocacy efforts at the state and national level. Burns also discusses how his community involvements help him and his staff best serve their patients.