In this first episode of 2025, A Shot in the Arm Podcast host Ben Plumley explores the major global health challenges and opportunities for the year ahead. He covers topics like politics in global health, innovations in HIV treatment, pandemic preparedness, and strategies for building trust in healthcare systems.

Discussion Highlights:

[00:00:00 ] Introduction

Ben welcomes listeners to the new year, setting the stage for an exciting year of accessible global health content. He encourages viewers to subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel for expanded content.

[00:01:00 ] Policy vs. Politics

Ben discusses the growing tension between policy and politics in global health, with examples from HIV denialism in South Africa and the impact of Brexit on healthcare.

[00:03:00 ] Trans Rights and Health Equity

 A new podcast series will address the challenges faced by the global trans community and explain why trans rights are essential for everyone.

[00:04:00 ] HIV in 2025

Updates on groundbreaking HIV treatments, including capsid inhibitors for long-term injections. Ben also explores the future of PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and the rhetoric around ending AIDS by 2030.

[00:06:30 ] Pandemic Preparedness

The risks of avian flu (H5N1) are highlighted, along with lessons learned from COVID-19. Ben discusses the importance of vaccine manufacturing hubs and progress on the WHO pandemic treaty.

[00:09:00 ] Innovations in Healthcare

Exciting developments in cancer treatments, viral hepatitis research, and inflammation studies. These advancements offer hope for improving global health outcomes.

[00:10:30 ] Elderly Care

Personal reflections on caregiving and a preview of an upcoming episode on the outdated systems of elderly care.

[00:11:40 ] Building Trust in Health Systems

Ben reflects on insights from the Global Listening Project, which studied trust in medical institutions and how to combat misinformation. Check out the results of its country survey at https://global-listening.org/societal-preparedness-insights

[00:13:00 ] Social Media and Misinformation

A critical look at the role of social media in spreading health misinformation and the need for better communication strategies.

[00:17:00 ] Partnerships for Change

Ben explores collaborations with business leaders and religious organizations to address gender norms and promote health equity.

[00:18:30 ] Expanding the Podcast’s Reach

Plans to collaborate with other podcasts and bring diverse voices to global health discussions. Check out Devex at https://www.devex.com

Key Takeaways:

Global health faces immense challenges in 2025, from political polarization to misinformation. Innovations in treatments are promising, but equitable access and building trust in health systems remain top priorities.

Listener Engagement:

What topics should we explore this year? Share your ideas on BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube.

Credits:

Hosted by Ben Plumley. Directed and produced by Erik Espera (NewsDoc Media) with production coordination by Y-Isha Raphael.

Call to Action:

Like, follow, and subscribe to A Shot in the Arm Podcast on your favorite platforms. Join us in tackling the biggest health challenges of 2025 and stay engaged for more episodes!