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 who do 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
NFID Executive Director and CEO Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, is chief staff officer of NFID, responsible for providing leadership and direction for the organization in furthering its mission to educate the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Dalton is a Certified Association Executive, a registered professional engineer, and the mom of two fully vaccinated twin daughters.
William Schaffner, MD, is a spokesperson and past medical director of NFID. He formerly served as NFID liaison to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). A nationally known expert on infectious diseases, he was honored with the inaugural National Vaccine Program Office UpShot Award for excellence in vaccine communication. A professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, he has worked extensively on the effective use of vaccines in adult populations.
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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 …