In this timely episode, The Health Advocates break down the recent Senate hearings for HHS nominee Robert Kennedy Jr.. They discuss the critical role of the HHS Secretary in shaping public health policy and managing key agencies like the FDA and CDC. The hearings exposed Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines, concerns over scientific integrity, and notable missteps in understanding health policies.

Tune in to hear what this means for patients and what happens next in the confirmation process.

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

In this timely episode, The Health Advocates break down the recent Senate hearings for HHS nominee Robert Kennedy Jr.. They discuss the critical role of the HHS Secretary in shaping public health policy and managing key agencies like the FDA and CDC. The hearings exposed Kennedy&rsquo;s controversial views on vaccines, concerns over scientific integrity, and notable missteps in understanding health policies.
Tune in to hear what this means for patients and what happens next in the confirmation process.
Contact Our Hosts
Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: <a href="mailto:snewmark@ghlf.org">snewmark@ghlf.org</a>
Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: <a href="mailto:zrothblatt@ghlf.org">zrothblatt@ghlf.org</a>
A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.
We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to <a href="mailto:podcasts@ghlf.org">podcasts@ghlf.org</a>
Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

A podcast that breaks down major health news of the week to help you make sense of it all. Our goal is to help you understand what’s happening in the healthcare world to help you make informed decisions to live your best life.

A podcast that breaks down major health news of the week to help you make sense of it all. Our goal is to help you understand what&rsquo;s happening in the healthcare world to help you make informed decisions to live your best life.

The Health Advocates

A podcast that breaks down major health news of the week to help you make sense of it all. Our goal is to help you understand what’s happening in the healthcare world to help you make informed decisions to live your best life. The podcast is part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation Podcast Network and hosted by Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, and Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF.

A podcast that breaks down major health news of the week to help you make sense of it all. Our goal is to help you understand what’s happening in the healthcare world to help you make informed decisions to live your best life. The podcast is part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation Podcast Network and hosted by Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, and Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF.

S8, Ep 5- Special Episode: A Heated Debate on Science and Policy with HHS Nominee Robert Kennedy Jr.

In this episode, our hosts break down the latest health care news, from the cancellation of a long-running diabetes study to the rising number of measles cases across the U.S. They also discuss the nomination of Dr. Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), potential Medicaid cuts tied to tax policy changes, and major layoffs at a key health research agency.

Tune in to hear what these developments mean for patients and how they could impact access to care.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:35: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, highlights the Trump administration’s decision to cancel funding for a 30-year diabetes study

01:09: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF emphasizes the importance of long-term studies for chronic disease research

02:10: Steven shifts the conversation to the rising number of measles cases, noting over 300 reported cases so far this year

02:36: Zoe explains why the measles outbreaks are concerning, especially for immunocompromised individuals

03:27: Zoe advises those with chronic illness to monitor outbreaks and adjust travel plans accordingly

03:41: Steven discusses former CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky’s call for a third MMR vaccine dose for certain infants aged 6-11 months traveling to high-risk areas

04:46: Steven transitions to discussing Dr. Oz’s nomination to lead CMS and his past support for Medicare Advantage plans and points out Dr. Oz’s openness to reducing Medicaid spending, which could limit access for low-income and disabled individuals

05:48: Steven discusses how Republican efforts to extend Trump-era tax cuts may lead to Medicaid budget cuts

07:41: Zoe reflects on how much uncertainty exists in health policy, emphasizing the need for advocacy

Join GHLF’s 50 State Network, share your story, and get involved in advocacy to make a difference, email us at advocacy@ghlf.org

08:16: Steven shares news about potential layoffs at AHRQ, a lesser-known but critical health research agency and highlights AHRQ’s research on ultra-processed foods, childhood obesity, and diabetes-related hospitalizations

09:59: Zoe expresses concern that cutting such research undermines broader public health goals

10:11: Steven ends on a positive note, reporting that flu rates are dropping and COVID cases remain low in the U.S.

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

In this episode, our hosts break down the latest health care news, from the cancellation of a long-running diabetes study to the rising number of measles cases across the U.S. They also discuss the nomination of Dr. Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), potential Medicaid cuts tied to tax policy changes, and major layoffs at a key health research agency.
Tune in to hear what these developments mean for patients and how they could impact access to care.
Among the highlights in this episode:
00:35: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, highlights the Trump administration&rsquo;s decision to cancel funding for a 30-year diabetes study
01:09: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF emphasizes the importance of long-term studies for chronic disease research
02:10: Steven shifts the conversation to the rising number of measles cases, noting over 300 reported cases so far this year
02:36: Zoe explains why the measles outbreaks are concerning, especially for immunocompromised individuals
03:27: Zoe advises those with chronic illness to monitor outbreaks and adjust travel plans accordingly
03:41: Steven discusses former CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky&rsquo;s call for a third MMR vaccine dose for certain infants aged 6-11 months traveling to high-risk areas
04:46: Steven transitions to discussing Dr. Oz&rsquo;s nomination to lead CMS and his past support for Medicare Advantage plans and points out Dr. Oz&rsquo;s openness to reducing Medicaid spending, which could limit access for low-income and disabled individuals
05:48: Steven discusses how Republican efforts to extend Trump-era tax cuts may lead to Medicaid budget cuts
07:41: Zoe reflects on how much uncertainty exists in health policy, emphasizing the need for advocacy
Join GHLF&rsquo;s 50 State Network, share your story, and get involved in advocacy to make a difference, email us at <a href="mailto:advocacy@ghlf.org">advocacy@ghlf.org</a>
08:16: Steven shares news about potential layoffs at AHRQ, a lesser-known but critical health research agency and highlights AHRQ&rsquo;s research on ultra-processed foods, childhood obesity, and diabetes-related hospitalizations
09:59: Zoe expresses concern that cutting such research undermines broader public health goals
10:11: Steven ends on a positive note, reporting that flu rates are dropping and COVID cases remain low in the U.S.
Contact Our Hosts
Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: <a href="mailto:snewmark@ghlf.org">snewmark@ghlf.org</a>
Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: <a href="mailto:zrothblatt@ghlf.org">zrothblatt@ghlf.org</a>
A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.
We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to <a href="mailto:podcasts@ghlf.org">podcasts@ghlf.org</a>
Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

S8, Ep 9- Measles Outbreaks, Medicaid Cuts, and More: A Health Policy Update

In this episode our hosts sit down with Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves, a pharmacist-turned-legislator, to discuss his journey from pharmacy to public office. Senator Reeves shares his firsthand insights into the obstacles pharmacists face in patient care and policy, the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and why transparency in health care pricing is crucial for patients. He also breaks down his legislative efforts to support independent pharmacies, improve medication adherence, and advocate for patient-first policies.

Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intersection of health care and policy, and why patients should build strong relationships with their pharmacists.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:14: Sen. Reeves shares how his father’s role as both a pharmacist and public servant inspired his own path into politics

02:07: Sen. Reeves discusses the unique presence of multiple pharmacists in the Tennessee State Senate and how it benefits health care legislation

03:10: Sen. Reeves explains the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in the health care system and how their increasing control has negatively impacted pharmacists and patients

04:39: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss how PBMs evolved from cost controllers to powerful entities influencing patient care decisions

05:34: Sen. Reeves describes his legislative efforts to prevent “patient steering,” ensuring prescriptions are filled at the provider or patient’s preferred pharmacy

07:18: Sen. Reeves emphasizes the lack of price transparency in health care and provides an example from Singapore, explaining how full health care price transparency allows patients to know the costs of medical services upfront in contrast with the U.S. where prices are often hidden until after services are rendered

08:06: Sen. Reeves discusses the impact of PBMs on independent pharmacies and the struggle to keep small, community-based pharmacies in business

09:12: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss the real-life consequences of PBMs interfering in patient care, including delayed access to life-saving medications

09:51: Sen. Reeves shares his advocacy for better medication adherence and the role of pharmacists in helping patients stay on track

12:15: Zoe and Steven reflect on the discussion, emphasizing the importance of having legislators with health care expertise in office

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

In this episode our hosts sit down with Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves, a pharmacist-turned-legislator, to discuss his journey from pharmacy to public office. Senator Reeves shares his firsthand insights into the obstacles pharmacists face in patient care and policy, the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and why transparency in health care pricing is crucial for patients. He also breaks down his legislative efforts to support independent pharmacies, improve medication adherence, and advocate for patient-first policies.
Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intersection of health care and policy, and why patients should build strong relationships with their pharmacists.
Among the highlights in this episode:
01:14: Sen. Reeves shares how his father&rsquo;s role as both a pharmacist and public servant inspired his own path into politics
02:07: Sen. Reeves discusses the unique presence of multiple pharmacists in the Tennessee State Senate and how it benefits health care legislation
03:10: Sen. Reeves explains the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in the health care system and how their increasing control has negatively impacted pharmacists and patients
04:39: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss how PBMs evolved from cost controllers to powerful entities influencing patient care decisions
05:34: Sen. Reeves describes his legislative efforts to prevent &ldquo;patient steering,&rdquo; ensuring prescriptions are filled at the provider or patient&rsquo;s preferred pharmacy
07:18: Sen. Reeves emphasizes the lack of price transparency in health care and provides an example from Singapore, explaining how full health care price transparency allows patients to know the costs of medical services upfront in contrast with the U.S. where prices are often hidden until after services are rendered
08:06: Sen. Reeves discusses the impact of PBMs on independent pharmacies and the struggle to keep small, community-based pharmacies in business
09:12: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss the real-life consequences of PBMs interfering in patient care, including delayed access to life-saving medications
09:51: Sen. Reeves shares his advocacy for better medication adherence and the role of pharmacists in helping patients stay on track
12:15: Zoe and Steven reflect on the discussion, emphasizing the importance of having legislators with health care expertise in office
Contact Our Hosts
Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: <a href="mailto:snewmark@ghlf.org">snewmark@ghlf.org</a>
Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: <a href="mailto:zrothblatt@ghlf.org">zrothblatt@ghlf.org</a>
A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.
We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to <a href="mailto:podcasts@ghlf.org">podcasts@ghlf.org</a>
Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

S8, Ep 8- Legislating for Patients: Sen. Shane Reeves, A Pharmacist in Public Office

In this episode of The Health Advocates, our hosts welcome Brindley Brooks, founder and executive director of HS Connect. Brindley shares her powerful journey living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) since age 10, including her misdiagnosis, the stigma surrounding HS, and how her life-changing decision to undergo surgery led her to become a passionate patient advocate. The conversation highlights the critical role of advocacy in supporting the HS community, including initiatives like GHLF's HS Patient Guide and the impactful work of HS Connect in raising awareness, providing education, and fostering a supportive community for those living with HS.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:23: Brindley introduces herself and shares HS Connect’s mission of providing factual education and promoting shared decision-making

01:53: Brindley recounts her early experience with HS, initial misdiagnosis, and the stigma that discouraged her from seeking care for over a decade

03:57: Brindley describes the pivotal decision to undergo surgery, the transformative impact it had on her life, and finding empowerment through that choice

06:12: Brindley discusses the founding of HS Connect, its rapid growth, and the organization’s focus on correcting misconceptions and reducing stigma in the HS community

08:18: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, talks about GHLF’s HS Patient Guide and highlights Brindley’s role in incorporating patient perspectives into the resource

08:36: Brindley shares why patient-involved educational resources are essential for HS patients and her experience collaborating with GHLF

09:37: Brindley explains the different levels of advocacy, from sharing personal stories to influencing federal policies, including a campaign for insurance coverage of laser hair removal for HS patients

10:46: Steven emphasizes the importance of collaboration between organizations like GHLF and HS Connect in advancing advocacy

11:26: Brindley outlines HS Connect’s 2025 priorities, including mental health initiatives like "Healing Space for HS" and broader advocacy campaigns

12:58: Brindley offers words of encouragement, urging those with HS to seek community support and to know they are not alone

To learn more about HS and access GHLF’s HS Patient Guide, visit: https://ghlf.org/hspatientguide/

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

In this episode of The Health Advocates, our hosts welcome Brindley Brooks, founder and executive director of HS Connect. Brindley shares her powerful journey living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) since age 10, including her misdiagnosis, the stigma surrounding HS, and how her life-changing decision to undergo surgery led her to become a passionate patient advocate. The conversation highlights the critical role of advocacy in supporting the HS community, including initiatives like GHLF's HS Patient Guide and the impactful work of HS Connect in raising awareness, providing education, and fostering a supportive community for those living with HS.
Among the highlights in this episode:
01:23: Brindley introduces herself and shares HS Connect&rsquo;s mission of providing factual education and promoting shared decision-making
01:53: Brindley recounts her early experience with HS, initial misdiagnosis, and the stigma that discouraged her from seeking care for over a decade
03:57: Brindley describes the pivotal decision to undergo surgery, the transformative impact it had on her life, and finding empowerment through that choice
06:12: Brindley discusses the founding of HS Connect, its rapid growth, and the organization&rsquo;s focus on correcting misconceptions and reducing stigma in the HS community
08:18: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, talks about GHLF&rsquo;s HS Patient Guide and highlights Brindley&rsquo;s role in incorporating patient perspectives into the resource
08:36: Brindley shares why patient-involved educational resources are essential for HS patients and her experience collaborating with GHLF
09:37: Brindley explains the different levels of advocacy, from sharing personal stories to influencing federal policies, including a campaign for insurance coverage of laser hair removal for HS patients
10:46: Steven emphasizes the importance of collaboration between organizations like GHLF and HS Connect in advancing advocacy
11:26: Brindley outlines HS Connect&rsquo;s 2025 priorities, including mental health initiatives like "Healing Space for HS" and broader advocacy campaigns
12:58: Brindley offers words of encouragement, urging those with HS to seek community support and to know they are not alone
To learn more about HS and access GHLF&rsquo;s HS Patient Guide, visit: <a href="https://ghlf.org/hspatientguide/">https://ghlf.org/hspatientguide/</a>
Contact Our Hosts
Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: <a href="mailto:snewmark@ghlf.org">snewmark@ghlf.org</a>
Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: <a href="mailto:zrothblatt@ghlf.org">zrothblatt@ghlf.org</a>
A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.
We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to <a href="mailto:podcasts@ghlf.org">podcasts@ghlf.org</a>
Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

S8, Ep 5- Special Episode: A Heated Debate on Science and Policy with HHS Nominee Robert Kennedy Jr.

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